ForumIAS Mains Marathon September 2016 The Journey of a Thousand Miles begins with the first step
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INDEX Questions Q.1) India is the home to large no. of child labourers in the age group of 0–18 years. Critically examine how far the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Bill 2016 will be able to deal with the problem of child labor and suggest some alternative policy measures for improvement. Q.2) National Crime Records Bureau latest reports cites increase in crimes against Children. Critically examine the reasons for it. What steps has the government taken towards increasing the safety of children? Q.3) Despite two decades of existence of PCPNDT (Preconception and Prenatal Diagnostic Techniques) Act 1994, why has child sex ratio fallen in India? Has better income levels and education helped the cause of gender ratio? What steps can be taken to counter this? Q.4) It is said that present epoch, described so far as the Holocene, has given rise to the Anthropocene. Elaborate. Q.5) Building toilets not enough, India need behavioral change for becoming Swachh Bharat. Critically Examine. Q.6) Despite Costitution provisions of right to equality and right against discrimination as fundamental rights , why has Caste-based discrimination continued to remain a predominant social practices in India? How can we get rid of caste based discrimination effectively? Discuss with reference to Mahatma Gandhi’s and Amedbakar’s views on the same.
Q.7) Recently western Indian coastline has been called as a potential tsunami-prone area by some experts. Discuss the phenomenon of tsunami and also highlight major tsunami prone areas in India and measures to protect them from major damages by tsunami. Q.8) Cauvery water dispute has influenced the politics of the region for long, but could not be solved even after several arbitration attempts. Elaborate.
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Q.9) Discuss the key recommendations of Mihir Shah Report on reorganization of river water management in the country. How far will setting up a unified National Water Commission solve the problem of turf wars between states sharing the same river water resources. Q10.What is ailing India’s urban governance? Suggest measures to improve urban governance in India.
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Questions 1) Examine the effectiveness of recommendations of Lodha Committee on reforms in BCCI. And also discuss the usefulness of these recommendations in other sports of India. 2) The classification of the states into general and special categories is not a Constitutional directive, but an executive imperative. Discuss.
3) Inter-state disparity in India is on rise, discuss the reasons and implications of interstate disparities and also suggest some measures to deal with the problem effectively.
4) NGOs and Governments need to compliment each for for inclusive and sustainable growth; they cannot be in tension with each other. Discuss in the light of recent events of tightening government scrutiny of NGOs. What steps would you suggest to resolve this tension? 5) The Foreign Contribution Regulation Act does more to regulate NGOs that dissent with the state than curb financial impropriety and bringing in transparency in functioning of charitable institutes. Critically Examine.
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Defamation is both a civil wrong and a criminal wrong in Indian law. In the light of some recent events, critically analyze why defamation needs to be a criminal wrong at all.
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7) Critically examine why every matter of public interest cannot be a matter of public interest litigation and how PIL system has been misused to serve the private interests?
8) Although the standoff between judiciary and executive over judicial appointments is a major reason behind vacancies in the courts, but not the only reason. How far do you agree with this statement? Discuss it’s effects over judicial system and suggest measures to solve the problem of vacancies in judiciary
9) How far is the use of money bill route for passing key legislations justified? Discuss with examples.
10) Despite the appointment of multiple commissions to reform the governance of police forces across the country, both lack of political will, and federal structure of Indian Polity has led to their non implementation. Discuss.
11) Is lack of autonomy in policy matters in Higher education institutions the only reason for poor quality of education in India? What other challenges does Higher education in India face? 12) Children are too often relegated to the fringes of the world’s debates about migration and displacement. Critically Examine in the light of recent reports on child migrants and refugees. 13) Copyright is a statutory right and not a natural right, and hence any right that is granted to owners is also limited by exceptions carved out by law. Examine in the light of implications of recent judgment of Delhi High Court on copyright.
14) Is piracy a consequence of lack of respect for copyright laws and Intellectual property or a consequence of global pricing problem. Discuss this in the light of light of recent legislations to curb digital piracy in India.
15) What constitutes sedition against the nation? In the light of recent events, critically examine the importance of law against the sedition in the present times. 4
16) Write a short note on Sustainable Development Goals. What challenges does India face in meeting these goals? 17) What do you understand by Good Governance. How effective have the internet been in improving governance in India? What challenges does exist in digitization of governance in rural areas?
18) SansadAdarsh Gram Yojana’ (SAGY) was launched with the aim to translate Gandhi’s vision of an ideal Indian village into reality. Discuss the provisions and implementation challenges in realizing the goals of this scheme. 19) Mere increase in the social sector expenditure would not be enough, unless it is linked with outcomes directed to the socially excluded groups and effectively monitored. Elaborate.
20) Strict regulation and enforcement, and not complete ban on commercial surrogacy, can solve the problem of exploitation of surrogate mothers. In this context, discuss the lacunae in the Surrogacy Bill. Also highlight its impact on various stakeholders. 21) Why does Healthcare elude India? What reforms are needed in Healthcare before India can have a fundamental Right to Health for all Citizens? 22) What challenges does Tuberculosis pose to public policy on Health? Discuss measures to control and curb the spread of Tuberculosis in a developing country like India.
23) Medicines remain overpriced and unaffordable in India. In a country mired in poverty, medical debt remains the second biggest factor for keeping millions in poverty’. In this context discuss what steps has the government taken to make medicines affordable. How far has it been successful? 24) Critically analyze why the government has failed to control vector borne diseases in India? What measures government should adopt to better manage them? 25) Write a short note on Fixed Combination Drugs. Bring out the rationale behind putting ban on fixed dose combination drugs. Do we have alternatives to it?
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26) Critically analyze how effective has been the government’s universal immunization programme in reducing child mortality rate in India. Also highlight the benefits of immunization in India.
27)What is compulsory drugs license. Discuss the importance of issuing compulsory drugs licenses in India. Also bring out it’s implications over drugs industry of India. 28) Strengthening of private healthcare at the cost of the public sector has had disastrous consequences. Elaborate.
29) The widening rift between Pakistan and Afghanistan is an opportunity, which India must tap. Critically examine in the light of India-Afghanistan relations.
30) In the light of the recent attack on Indian Army’s base camp by Pakistan based terrorists, what diplomatic , political and military measures , in your opinion, should India take?
31) How effective has the BRICS grouping been in achieving it’s objectives so far? What challenges does BRICS face in meeting it objectives? What role can BRICS play in creation of a more equitable, multi polar world order?
32) How effective has India’s interventionist policy in Nepal been? Critically examine.
33) Despite being India’s old and strong ally, Russia is seen to be getting closer to Pakistan. Discuss the reasons India has not been able to keep it’s old ally closer. What steps India need to take to tackle it?
34) The recently concluded Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement between India and USA signifies a new point in India USA defence cooperation. In this light discuss the evolution of India – US Defence cooperation over the past decade. Also list areas of convergence between India and United States.
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35) How does India’s interests in Africa differ from China’s? Discuss key areas of cooperation between India and the African subcontinent? 36) Trace the development of the political crisis in Maldives in the past decade. Highlight the strategic significance of Maldives in India’s geopolitical setup in the Indian Ocean.
37)Critically evaluate India’s current refugee policy, and also discuss why India needs a uniform asylum law.
38) What are the challenges and opportunities in the economic integration of SAARC? Discuss briefly.
39) Discuss the factors that are turning SAARC ineffective and dysfunctional. What steps should be taken to make it relevant and workable in the present conditions? 40) Critically analyze how justified is World Trade Organization’s (WTO) objection against Domestic Content Requirements (DCRs) under Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM) of India? What should be India’s course of action in this situation?
41) Discuss the rationale behind pushing for United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reforms. How helpful have been the multilateral groupings for India for reforming UNSC? Also suggest some alternative policy measures that India should consider in this objective. 42) What are the hurdles India is facing in becoming an APEC member? Also highlight the significance of joining it for India.
43) Highlight the structural reforms adopted by IMF. What are the significances of these reforms and discuss how significant are global financial institutions for India. 44) Write a short note on the Brexit. And discuss it’s implications on India and global economies.
45) What are the challenges facing European Union today? What would be the implications of BREXIT on EU and India. 7
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Questions 1) Increasing antibiotic resistance across all ages is a man made problem. In this context, discuss the reasons for the same and suggest measures to check it. 2) Write a note on Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV)? What are it’s significance for India and how is it different from Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)? 3) Union Cabinet has approved a proposal for improving telecom connectivity in Andaman & Nicobar Islands with Chennai via an undersea optical fibre cable. What are the benefits of using undersea cables over satellite medium ? How will Andaman & Nicobar Islands benefit from this connectivity? 4) Write short notes on a) Cryogenic Engine b) Floatovoltaics c) Lifi d) OLED 5) Write a short note on Li-Fi technology. How can it be beneficial for rural connectivity and also highlight how it is different to Wi-Fi technology? 6) Why use of GM crops have always been a contentious issue in India. Also discuss the potential of use of GM crops in India and suggest the ways that can make GM crops usable in India. 7) Expanding the Protected Area networks for protection of animals may not be of much use if the existing ones do not serve the purpose for which they were created. Discuss critically the management of protected areas in India. 8) Man-made forest fires have become common in much of the Central Himalaya. Discuss the major causes and effects of wildfires in India and also suggest some steps to tackle it. 9) It is ironic that the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 is the most neglected of India’s environmental laws, and one of the least implemented, despite the 8
fact that the act has immense potential to safeguard India’s threatened biodiversity. Critically comment.
10) Discuss the criterion and significance of demarcating eco-sensitive zones (ESZs). Also highlight the impact of ESZ notification on hydroelectricity projects. 11) Critically analyze the provisions of the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Bill. Do you think they dilute the provisions of the Forest Rights Act?
12) Bioremediation is evolving as a safer, environment-friendly mechanism to clean up the contamination caused by leaks and accidental spills. Write a short note on bioremediation. Highlight its applications and some recent developments in the field of bioremediation in India. 13) What is the Paris Agreement? How is it an improvement on the Kyoto Protocol? What challenges does India face in implementing the Paris Agreement? 14) How is the Paris Climate Change Agreement an improvement upon the previous agreements on Climate change? Critically analyse the need to balance development goals with climate change and global warming imperatives for a developing country like India.
15) India’s decision to ratify the Paris Agreement is hasty and ill-times. Examine. Also discuss what implementation challenges could India face in adopting the Paris agreement. 16) A global economy powered by Solar Power cannot be achieved in isolation, it has to be achieved by International Cooperation in Science, technology and finance. In this context, discuss the role that the International Solar Alliance can play in creating a more sustainable global economy.
17) Discuss the challenges India may face in directly shifting from Bharat Stage IV to Bharat Stage VI. Why are Bharat stage norms diluted compared to it’s European counterpart? 18)Critically analyze how helpful will the creation of National Agricultural Market be in providing renumerative prices to farmers as well as consumers. Also discuss the challenges in the working of NAM. 19) Agriculture subsidies, especially on inputs other than fertilisers, have largely escaped attention in the DBT debate. Critically analyze the needs of bringing agricultural subsidy under direct benefits transfer scheme.
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20) System set up in colonial times to establish tea plantations has remained surprisingly intact throughout India’s post-Independence development. Elaborate and also highlight the challenges faced by tea industry of India.
21) Discuss the factors influencing the locations of Iron and steel industries in India and also highlight how dumping has effected India’s domestic steel industry and the steps taken by government to tackle it. 22) What policy reforms have been introduced by the government through the introduction of the new tariff policy? How it will help achieving the objectives of Ujwal DISCOM Assurance Yojana (UDAY)?
23) India is a global IT powerhouse but a huge majority of the Indian population remains locked out of the benefits brought by the digital economy. Substantiate. 24) Rural connectivity is the key to Digital India. In this context, discuss the initiatives taken by the government to provide affordable broadband connectivity to all rural households. What challenges does it face? 25) Critically analyze the need for transforming rural areas into urban areas. Also discuss the government initiatives to transform rural areas.
26) Turning brain drain into brain gain requires creation of appropriate opportunities at certain critical stages. Critically examine. 27)What are the challenges faced by startups in India? Also highlight some important government initiatives to boost the startup ecosystem of India. 28) How will Startup India initiative be helpful in bringing out financial inclusion in India? Highlight the challenges faced by startups in India. 29) Highlight the factors that led to the rapid development of media and entertainment industry. What challenges does the Media and entertainment industry face today?
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30) Recently government has raised FDI limits in many sectors. Critically analyze how this decision would affect the Indian economy.
31) Critically analyze the effectiveness of government’s recent financial inclusion initiatives. What alternative policy measures should government consider for financial inclusion? 32) The agreement between government of India and RBI to keep inflation under check has been praised by many commentators and economists. However to make sure that the gains of a successful battle against inflation reach the poor as well, the battle would have to be fought on multiple fronts. Elucidate. 33) Bailing out public-sector banks from the NPA crisis will either increase the fiscal deficit or lead to cuts in welfare and capital expenditures. Elucidate and also highlight the banking reforms proposed under ‘Mission Indradhanush’.
34) The Union government is contemplating unveiling the union budget a month or more ahead. This may appear to be a superfluous shift to some, but it could significantly alter governance outcomes if managed well. Elaborate. 35)
Is the falling oil price in global market boon or bane for India. Discuss.
36) Insolvency process in India is plagued by wide range of problems. How Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2015 will be helpful in resolving these problems? Critically examine 37)Government has introduced Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) to rejuvenate PPP. How Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) will be helpful in rejuvenating PPP. Also highlight the challenges faced by PPP projects in India. 38) How far is the Chinese slowdown responsible for slow global economic recovery ? What implications does it have over India. How can Indian economy be insulated from such downturns? 39) In an emerging market economy like India’s where the main objective of macro policy is economic welfare; the central bank cannot work independently of the government. Highlight the distinction in the functioning of central banks in advanced and emerging market economies (EMEs).
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40) Critically analyze how helpful can be the Universal Basic income in fulfilling the basic needs of poor population of India and what could be it’s possible implications over India’s economy?
41) Unemployment is one of the greatest economic challenges facing India. Critically evaluate why despite several measures taken by government unemployment still persist in India? Suggest some alternative policy measures to tackle it.
42) Despite taking several measures to deals with the problem of bad loans, why are they still haunting banking industry? What more should be done? 43) What are Masala Bonds? How can Masala bonds help in meeting goals of infrastructure development and housing for all? Explain briefly.
44) There is need not only to fix minimum wages, but also to extend the coverage of minimum wages to the unorganized sector of the economy to secure welfare for all. Critically Examine. 45) What was the need to merge the rail budget with general budget. What are the constitutional hurdles ahead to give it effect? What more can be done to make this merger fruitful? 46) The process of reforms in the Railways is complex and can disrupt a reasonably well-functioning system, with serious consequences for the economy. Critically examine in the light of need for reforms in railways. 47) Discuss the benefits and concerns associated with proliferation of drones in India. How draft guidelines for operation of civil Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) will be able to tackle the concerns associated with drones.
48) Discuss the maritime challenges faced by India. How will India’s Maritime Security Strategy (IMSS-2015) be helpful in handling new and growing challenges?
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Questions Q.1 Does the Use of Performance Enhancing Drugs Violate the “Spirit of Sport”? Also bring out the ethical concerns associated with doping in sports in the light of some recent events.
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Q.1) India is the home to large no. of child laborers in the age group of 0–18 years. Critically examine how far the Child Labor (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Bill 2016 will be able to deal with the problem of child labor and suggest some alternative policy measures for improvement.
As per Census 2011, India houses 33 million (one in every eleven) child laborers in the age group of 0-18 yrs. In such an appalling situation on lines of Directive Principles of State Policy- Article 24, 44 (prohibits employment of children below 14 yrs in hazardous industries and prevents exploitation of children respectively), Child Labor (Prohibition and Regulation) Act 1986 was amended.
Recently amended bill:
Under 14 yrs: Are allowed to help in family enterprises after school hours and during holidays. Adolescents (14-18 yrs): Prohibits their employment in hazardous occupations. Central government has the power to review the list of hazardous occupations as & when required. Punishment & penal provisions: Graded punishments based on number of times they have offended and penal provisions for parent offenders have been relaxed. Though the bill has been passed with intention to help family based enterprises with the resources of the children and also aid children to get learn basics of occupations, the above amendments on institutionalizing child labor in family based occupations and limiting the list of hazardous occupations has invited much criticism:
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Reducing the list of hazardous occupations to only mines, explosives & those under factories act 1948: It would effect the children’s right to learn. Also, factories act 1948 list was went for only adults not children, thus leading to contradiction. Allowing children in family enterprise: District information system 2014-15 shows that children who combine school with economic roles would ultimately drop out, thus leading to inter-generational cycle of poverty and deprivation. There are chances that it tends to perpetuate occupation based caste system, maintaining status quo among socially disadvantaged groups. Also chances are high that contractors would disguise child laborers as assistant to adult family members might misuse this provision. Thus leading to huge challenge in regulation. Adolescent workers: Provisions of RTE act allows for free elementary education even after 14 yrs. But adolescents to work in non-hazardous it would push school drop out to start working. Thus defeating the actual purpose. Enforcement: Though the enforcement agencies are primarily based in urban regions analysis from Census and Child rights and You (CRY) reveals that child labour (5-14yrs) in the past decade has increased by 53% and the bill doesn’t seem to pay much attention it. Lack of focus on rural areas where majority of child labour is based. Contravenes ILO’s Minimum Age Convention and UNICEF’s convention on Rights of child to which India is a signatory Alternative measures:
Best way to eradicate child labour is to ensure that every child goes to schoolsmaking going to school interesting, happy, learning experience. This could be through implementing passionately the laws related child rights and education as RTE, mid day meal scheme Need for adequate, easily enforceable regulation Strengthening institutional capacity for child welfare Regular policing to industries that traditionally employ child labours and prompt prosecution of child labour Strong nation requires investments in child education and there is urgent need to end the endemic of child labour. Though revising the bill after three decades is positive thing but much needs to be done to protect the rights of children who are the future force of economic progress.
Q.2) National Crime Records Bureau latest reports cites increase in crimes against Children. Critically examine the reasons for it. What steps has the government taken towards increasing the safety of children?
Child is any person below the age of 18 years. National Crime Records Bureau report cites a sharp increase in the number of reported crimes against children, situation seems worrying. 14
PROBLEM: Increased child trafficking:
There are very high incidence of child trafficking in West Bengal, Assam and Bihar. Bihar had seen an unprecedented surge in child trafficking from Nepal, in the aftermath of Nepal Earthquake. More than 50% cases of human trafficking involve children and close Sexual offences against children:
90% of them were girls trafficked to be forced into prostitution in 2015.
Reasons: Social issues:
Children are poor and poorly educated Both parents are working and they have no time to look after children, Wife works abroad leaving drunken husband home with children
Systemic issues:
At times adult women are listed as juveniles in order to secure arrest for the male partner. Eg: The Hindu investigation in Delhi, revealed the same Increased people’s awareness of legal remedies and media attention as well. Government’s directive on mandatory registration of offences with regard to crimes against children
Government steps: The Ministry of Home Affairs in collaboration with the Ministry of Women and Child Development are working on several areas concerning children.
Laws
Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, is a special law to protect children from sexual abuse and exploitation. Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act 1986 Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act 1976
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Others:
Nirbhaya Fund to implement emergency response system to attend calls from women/girls in distress and provide them immediate assistance. Anti-Human Trafficking Units (AHTUs) at districts. ‘Track Child ’portal: For tracking ‘missing’ and ‘found’ children. Though government has taken several steps, a serious look into implantation and instillation of fear in the eyes of those committing crimes is needed.
Q.3) Despite two decades of existence of PCPNDT (Preconception and Prenatal Diagnostic Techniques) Act 1994, why has child sex ratio fallen in India? Has better income levels and education helped the cause of gender ratio? What steps can be taken to counter this?
Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, 1994 is an Act enacted to stop female feticide and arrest the declining sex ratio in India. The act banned prenatal sex determination.
Child sex ratio, is the number of girls per 1000 boys between the ages 0-6. It was 927 in 2001, came down to 918 for India in 2011. All except two religious communities (Sikhs, Jains) saw a decline in their child sex ratio between 2001-2011. But the silver lining is rural areas has greater child sex ratio compared to urban.
Reasons for falling child sex ratio: Social reasons-girl seen as liability:
Patriarchy: Inherent male preference due to socio-religious and cultural practices. Also, with growing interest in nuclear families, parents want their first child to be a boy. Also mostly, females have almost no say in decisions of sex based abortions Dowry system: Girls are considered more as a liability due to dowry system Gender stereotypes: Due to less education imparted to females, they are forced to economically depend on male members Rising atrocities against women: There are increasing cases of forced prostitution, rape etc. cements the faith that girls are a liability
Syatemic:
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Misuse of technology for fetal sex determination and poor monitoring of ultrasound clinics. Improper implementation of the PCPNDT and MTP act Systemic failure to implement the various girl-child based schemes at grassroot level
As the imbalance that has set in at this early age group is difficult to be removed and will remain to haunt the population for a long time to come, government has initiated various steps which needs greater enforcement:
Stricter implementation of PCPNDT Act: Increasing convictions under PCPNDT Act, 1994 so that it acts as a deterrent to doctors. +CCTV cameras a must be incorporated at ultrasound centres to prevent illegal sex detection Awareness: Attitude towards girl child must be changed. Govt.'s 'BetiBachao, BetiPadao' is a step in right direction Promoting educational opportunities for girls in higher education. Steps like even registering vehicles with ultrasound machines under PCPNDT Act will help weed out the aberrations. Enforcing Supreme Court suggestion that social media houses should block and report the sex-selective advertisements.
Overall a change in the mindset is needed. Success of programs like Betibachao, BetiPadao,Sukhanyasamridhiyojana, gender neutral texbooks and media/cinema would raise awareness and bring change where girl child would be seen as a asset instead of liability.
Q.4) It is said that present epoch, described so far as the Holocene, has given rise to the Anthropocene. Elaborate. A range of human-induced changes suggests that the Earth has transitioned from present Holocene to whole new geological epoch, Anthropocene.
Geological epochs are units of time defined by stratigraphic layers that are chemically or biologically distinct and are officially recognized by International commission on stratigraphy.
Naming:
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Anthropocene (Anthropo means humankind and cene means new in Greek), or “new age of man” if accepted would start from mid of 20th century, thus halting Holocene. Its named so because mankind’s impact on Earth has been so profound. Its referred to as the “great acceleration” - as lot of chemical and socio-economic changes- concentration of carbon dioxide in air, surface temperature, ocean acidification, population growth, construction of large dams has all taken off.
Features:
Exact date is yet to be arrived to define the beginning of this epoch Physical alteration of planet - Ice cap melt leading to more floods on regular basis Climate change - Projected estimate of increase in mean surface temperature by 2100 is 6.7F-8.6F Significance:
It highlights the scale of human impact on Earth and means that impact is irreversible too. It helps reexamine the relationship between humans & nature.
Changing climate isn’t unique to Anthropocene. But human evolution through all these evolutionary epochs was simultaneously paralleled with number of traits that allowed living organisms adapt to different environmental conditions. Altering the environments is fundamental survival. With growing awareness on how human actions impact the world, collective solutions have to be developed for the present epoch, Anthrpocene.
Q.5) Building toilets not enough, India need behavioral change for becoming Swachh Bharat. Critically Examine. Swachh Bharat Mission is a national campaign that aims at cleaner India by elimination of Open Defecation by Oct 2, 2019. One of the major issue effecting the transition from current 45% (census 2011) open defecation to 0% open defecation is behavior change, as access alone doesn’t translate into usage. The pattern of toilet usage indicates that socio-cultural, allied factors connected to sanitation have a greater impact on sanitation behavior rather than presence or absence of toilet. Various studies substantiate it:
UNICEF’s study on eliminating OD: It analyses – construction of toilets should be made a priority for households and that the challenge lies in motivating people to see toilet as fundamental to their social standing, status & well being.
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Sanitation Quality, Use, Access and Trends (SQUAT) survey in few states of North India: It shows people has revealed preference for OD.
Reasons sighted are:
Comfortable & convenient
It provides opportunity to take morning walk, socialization, see their fields, have fresh air
Non-availability of water in toilets constructed
Toliets build privately are twice likely to be used than those build by govt.
NSSO 72nd round: There has been increase in usage of toilets in the recent past after launch of SBM. Access to toilets is 45% in and 85% in rural and urban areas respectively and those using toilets have increased to 46% and 50% in rural and urban areas respectively (Economic times report)
Success stories:
Nadia district, WB – first ODF district: Under Dabar Shouchagar movement: Decentralized institutional capacity for sanitation - it mobilized people elected representatives and made bylaws making OD punishable. Increased awareness by taking pledges in schools, roping Anganwadi workers under catchment area approach, community based activities.
International experiences: SE Asian countries like Bangladesh, SL, Vietnam achieved 3%, 0%, 2% OD. They focused on intense behavior change communication (BCC) by community support resulting in more demand generation than subsidy linked support. B’desh – 25 % funds to promotional activities; SL – innovative funding to community based organizations.
Way forward:
Engage people emotionally: Campaign should tell people that it improves health (information), reduce barrier to adoption (problem solving), create social support, provide materials for adoption (water etc.), wide visibility by increasing budgets for awareness related activities(media)
Swachh India is integral to the developed society that the country aspires to become. Providing access to toilets and changing the habits are therefore equally important. The challenge is to design effective strategy which will change old practices and that message has to reach nook and corner of the country. Q.6) Despite Constitution provisions of right to equality and right against discrimination as fundamental rights, why has Caste-based discrimination continued to remain a predominant social practices in India? How can we get rid of caste based discrimination effectively? Discuss with reference to Mahatma Gandhi’s and Amedbakar’s views on the same. 19
Caste system is system of social stratification characterized by endogamy, hereditary occupation, religious disability, group hierarchy. It enforces discrimination against some people belongs to lower caste. Even though Article 15 of the Constitution bars discrimination on the basis of caste and laws are in place to penalize it but still persists. The discrimination continues right from classroom to eating food of choice. Reasons for continuance of caste based discrimination
Kind of convenience in the creation and perpetuation of social hierarchies because of the privileges they render to sections of society. Imbalance in power relations, especially as it is manifested in the distribution of material resources like land. Lack of institutional vigilance and intervention. State endorsing social hierarchy through system of caste based reservations
Views of Ambedkar on caste based discrimination: “Turn in any direction you like, caste is the monster that crosses your path. You cannot have political reform, you cannot have economic reform, unless you kill this monster (caste)”. Views of Mahatma Gandhi on caste based discrimination:
Though MK Gandhi believed in caste system as a product of Varnashramadharma, he was against any discrimination. He tried to remove the remove the blot of untouchability from Hinduism. He even said to remove untouchability is the penance that a caste Hindu owes to himself. In Gandhi’s view, the social structure in India had become so diseased that hypocritical and anomalous attitudes were to be found everywhere.
Transformation towards caste free India:
First India must stop to accept caste as a social norm. The need is for an all-embracing, inclusive pan-India social movement of social and cultural transformation. Integrating social and cultural transformation with an economic alternative.
In order to zero down caste based discrimination state must proactively enforce the law in letter and spirit and act to protect the citizen’s fundamental right to equality.
Q.7) Recently western Indian coastline has been called as a potential tsunami-prone area by some experts. Discuss the phenomenon of tsunami and also highlight major 20
tsunami prone areas in India and measures to protect them from major damages by tsunami. Tsunami, a Japanese word meaning "harbor wave, are a series of very long waves generated by any rapid, large-scale disturbance of the sea, displacing large volumes of water. Phenomena of Tsunami:
They are produced impulsively by an undersea earthquake, and rarely by volcanic eruptions, (e.g, asteroid, meteor, comet) impacts or underwater/terrestrial landslides Tsunamis, are caused by submarine earthquakes that set off waves with long wavelengths in water and the most destructive tsunamis are caused by subduction zone earthquakes. At the subduction zone, the lower plate drags and flexes the top one slightly downward. When the flexing exceeds the frictional strength of the inter-plate contact, the upper plate rebounds to its original position causing sea-floor displacement. The potential energy of displacement is converted into the kinetic energy of horizontal motion. This disturbance propagates outward as a tsunami. As the waves hit against the slope of the coastline, the long waves pile on one another and the wavelength is reduced while the amplitude increases. As the waves travel over the near-shore region, a tsunami run-up occurs. After run-up, part of the tsunami energy is reflected back to the open ocean.
A tsunami moves silently but rapidly across the ocean and rises unexpectedly as destructive high waves along shallow coastal waters, causing widespread devastation over land along the coastline.
Distribution in India:
The phenomenon of tsunami that usually occurs near seismically active spots in the Pacific Ocean was uncommon in India till it hit the east and west coast in December 2004 Mostly along the eastern coastline (coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Pondicherry, Kerala and Andaman and Nicobar Islands) and the extreme southern reaches of Kerala. But recently there are reports of tsunami occurring along the Western coast – around Gujarat and Mumbai
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Disaster management – Tsunami:
Pre-tsunami-Preparedness: Tsunami early warning systems - Use of seismic gauges, Buoys for detection, The Deep-ocean Assessment and Reporting of Tsunami (Dart) system and finally its dissemination to people Coastal forests and mangroves helps in minimizing the damage During-Emergency response: Evacuation, search and rescue, followed by provision of basic needs such as food, clothing, shelter, medicines and other basic essentials Post tsunami: Recovery, rehabilitation, and reconstruction of lost infrastructure and habitat.
The traditional intelligence of local communities needs to be tapped for devising approaches to management of disasters. Further, policies and laws for disaster management need to provide space for such intelligence to be counted.
PS: For Reference: World distribution - products of undersea earthquakes around the subduction zones of the Pacific Rim. (You can represent it in a diagram like the below one/As a flow chart)
Q.8) Cauvery water dispute has influenced the politics of the region for long, but could not be solved even after several arbitration attempts. Elaborate. River Cauvery which originates in Karnataka flows through Tamil Nadu, Kerala,Pondicherry before reaching Bay of Bengal. The bone of contention between the
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Cauvery basin states is over distribution of the river water.
The dispute: (Just for Reference)
1892- agreement was filed between Madras Presidency and Princely state of Mysore for arbitration 1924 agreement -directives of the Krishnarajsagar dam (Mysore) was signed. Madras objected it, so it was allowed to build mettur dam. Both Madras & Mysore were given right to use the Cauvery water ie 75% to TN, 23% to Karnataka, and other to Kerala & Pondicherry. 1974-Karnataka asserted that 1924 agreement is for only 50 yrs and it would discontinue water supply to TN or set distribution as per international rules ie in equal portion. But TN wanted to stick to 1924 agreement. 1986-TN appealed to GoI. Cauvery Waters Tribunal was established in 1990. 2007- Tribunal announced its final order. It allocated water TN 56%, Karnataka 36%, rest to Kerala and Pondicherry. Both TN, Karnataka disagreed and filed review petition 2012 –Tribunal directed Karnataka to release water to TN. Karnataka started releasing water, violent protests started in Karnataka. Present – The issue still persists and protests increasing when the monsoon fails. Karnataka says it cannot release water to TN for agriculture as it needs it for drinking water purposes.
The reasons for this endless cycle of sporadic litigation and ad hoc adjudications:
The two States continue to avoid any mutual engagement to share the shortfall during distress years There is no permanent, independent mechanism to ensure the mutual engagement of the concerned states. Absence of Cauvery Management Board and Regulatory Authority, which the Tribunal had wanted created to look into technical aspects water sharing and oversee implementation. Instead, the Cauvery Supervisory Committee was constitiuted, that is a temporary arrangement has a fairly limited operational scope The media has presented and blown this issue out of proportion has also led to escalation of emotions. Way out:
Both the states should agree to a distress formula in a season of deficit rainfall Permanent bodyi.e Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal, Cauvery Management Board that are recommended by tribunal has to be set up.
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Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puduchery need to shed their present regional approach and plan collectively for the whole river basin. Initiatives like Cauvery Family, an inter-state collective of farmer groups in the two states, could facilitate this process. In the longer term, experts will have to devise a sustainable agricultural solution for the Cauvery basin
Q.9Discuss the key recommendations of Mihir Shah Report on reorganization of river water management in the country. How far will setting up a unified National Water Commission solve the problem of turf wars between states sharing the same river water resources? Mihir shah’s committee proposed establishment of NWC- National Water Commission & other functional, structural changes for efficient water management. Recommendation: 1. Institutional restructuring : CREATION OF NATIONAL WATER COMMISSION: Subsumes Central water commission (CWC), Central Ground Water Board (CGWB). CWC&CGWB were created in 1945 & 1971 resp. to face the then challenges before India like creating irrigation capacity to ensure food supply. But, now India faces totally different kind of challenges. As of now, we created irrigation potential of 113 nn ha. Of huge cost of 4, 00,000 crores. But, the challenges are to take this water to fields. CGWB promoted ground water use which aggravated the India’s ground water crisis. Water tables fall & Water quality declines with Arsenic, fluoride & uranium entering drinking water. ‘8’ DIVISION OF NWC:
Irrigation Reform River Rejuvenation Participatory ground water management. Urban, Industrial Water Water Quality Water security- Drought, Floods, Climate change.
2. Change in Management approach: Multidisciplinary approach: Experts & Professional from various disciplines social scientist, agronomists, engineers, hydro geologists. Participatory & User-Friendly approach: Tried successfully in M.P., Guj, AP.
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Integrated Holistic approach: Ground Water & surface water should be managed in integrated manner. They can’t be isolated, separated. Evident from the fact thatOver extraction of ground water is the most important cause of drying of peninsular rivers. ‘River Basin’ as fundamental unit of river water management: NWC to be present in all major river basins in India.
3. Federal Approach: NWC will function as knowledge institution offering to water problems & disputes faced by state govt. & other stake holders. Decisions, policy formulation & implementation with consensus of states. 4. Shift of focus from Interlinking of Rivers & big Dams to taking water from dams to fields: This will increase irrigated area by mn of ha. That too at much low cost & time than ILR-project. This will avoid: Interstate conflicts, Land Acquisition problems, Corruption. Problem with ILR project: Some scientist claim the river surface flow to sea is not wasteful. Its absence can endanger the integrity of India’s monsoon. NWC help in inter-state river water disputes:
It being a autonomous, permanent body and country wide body would help provide solutions to inter-state water disputes. As the Commission is entrusted with the general responsibilities of initiating, coordinating and furthering in consultation of the State Governments concerned it would help in fastening the process of resolving interstate disputes where it would act on consultation and mediation on a regular basis. With administrative restructuring and bringing in experts from all the related fields as engineers, hydrologists, economists, ecology, industry, agriculture etc would help in effective planning of water management. Also as NWC would take holistic approach towards water management and conservation the issue of water crisis during periods of low monsoon would be better addressed. Leaving less scope for aggrieved states to approach courts over river water disputes
As of today, States must get a technical clearance from the CWC before they can go ahead with constructing dams and other reservoirs. But after NWC to come into being, this power would devolve to the States.
Q10.What is ailing India’s urban governance? Suggest measures to improve urban governance in India.
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Urban governance consists of a set of institutions, guidelines, regulatory and management mechanisms in which local governments are key, but not exclusive, components.
Incidents like Chennai not managing flood situation effectively, Delhi not effectively responding to serious health crises in the recent times testify that all is not well with our urban governance.
Ailing urban governance: Structural:
Overlapping institutional arrangements: There are multiple agencies with overlapping roles. It reduces efficiency of governance. For example, a development authority, 3 municipal bodies and many more govern Delhi. Lack of devolution of powers to ULBs: 74th amendment is not faithfully implemented. State governments have been reluctant to devolve all the powers mentioned in Article 243W of the 12th schedule. Untimely elections to ULBs: In most of the cities elections to ULB are not conducted regularly, mostly due to delimitation and other issues. Functional:
Weak institution of Mayor: Unlike world’s major cities, like London, New York, Paris, and Shanghai which are all run by powerful mayors, in India Though on paper Mayors are termed accountable for cities but in spirit they are controlled by bureaucrats and the chief minister Parastatal agencies infringing on ULBs: Eg: City development authorities as Bangalore developmental authority (BDA) Lack of human resources: Number of employees are insufficient to meet the current demand and also absence of incentives and promotions on basis of efficiency.
Social:
Unplanned growth: There is huge increase in urban population due to migration and increased economic opportunities, which the infrastructure isn’t equipped for. Increase of slums & unauthorized colonies: ~20% of urban population lives in slums. This makes delivery of services difficult.
Economical:
Lack of finances: Dependance on states for finances, and lack of progress in revenue generation reforms. Also, after GST comes into effect, octroi, which has been a major
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source of income to cities, will be subsumed. Thus, making financial position of cities precarious.
Measures to improve: Structural:
Framework for local government: As recommended in 2nd ARC Municipal Planning committee: It needs to b established under Article 243ZE Empowering mayor: This can be done either by providing for direct election of mayor or devolving, transferring more powers to him. Capacity building of institutions to better cope with changing demands.
Procedural:
Delimitation regularized: Procedure for delimitation be given to State Election Commission Greater convergence: As recommended in Punchi commission there needs to be convergence of Centre and State finance commission terms with regard to urban bodies. Consolidation of agencies: This avoids overlapping of functions and brings accountability in cases of need. Citizens' charters : For Improving service delivery and transparency. Strengthening coffers: Better accounting procedures need to be followed so that cities improve their credit rating. Then, they can raise finances through 'Municipal bonds'. Cities also need to leverage its most valuable resource: land. Others:
Greater awareness of urban problems Smart citizens: Involvement of citizens and all the stakeholders who can make use of government initiatives. Amsterdam has devised a ‘smart citizen kit’ for greater awareness and participation. One of the unique features of the project, is that the citizens are involved in the measurement of air quality
As we embark on a path to build 'smart cities', urban governance needs an immediate overhaul. It’s not just about infrastructure but it’s about how cities are managed and how people are involved in the process to build healthy and vibrant living spaces.
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Note: Ref: Components of good urban governance: Democratic and inclusive-include all stakeholders in the development of city; Comprehensive long-term integrated public policy; coordination between different levels of government; embedded territories-urban and rural areas operating as an urban ecosystem; institutions and individuals should be proficient & have the necessary skills to implement relevant public policies; Digitally conscious – digital governance.
GS-2
Q.1) Examine the effectiveness of recommendations of Lodha Committee on reforms in BCCI. And also discuss the usefulness of these recommendations in other sports of India. BCCI which administers cricket, a game that connects people of India in a unique has been mired under controversies for a long time. In this backdrop Supreme court of India appointed a committee under chairmanship of Justice Lodha to make recommendations for reforms in BCCI. Major recommendations of Lodha committee:
Bring BCCI under RTI
Institution of ethics officer to resolving issues related to conflict of interest, ombudsman and electoral officer to conduct board elections
Restructuring BCCI to run it like CEO headed organization, BCCI office bearer can’t be a minister or government servant, cap on age (70yrs) & tenure(3 yr term with max 3 terms)
Each state be represented by one body which would be given one vote. Also members of North East would get representation
Legalizing betting, monitoring grants provided to BCCI(by CAG nominee) as well as state associations.
Restructuring of IPL governing council, establishing players associations.
Effectiveness of recommendations: These recommendations if implemented in spirit would further the interest of public in sports, improve ethical standards and discipline, streamlines creative efficiency in sports 28
management, provides accessibility and transparency, prevents conflict of interest and eradicate political and commercial interference. Thus, improving sporting culture in India. But many of these recommendations have been resisted by legislators and those running the sports federations. Taking all the stakeholders into confidence steps need to be taken so that the recommendation are implemented in reforming and restricting BCCI. Application of these recommendation to other sports-far fetched goal:
What ails BCCI is similar to any other sports association/federation. But there is lot of anonymity on how the boards/federations of different sports are run. Regionalism prevails at large scale
Recommendations like monitoring grants, institutionalization of ethics officer, ombudsman, CEO run organization etc would go a long way in professionalizing the way the sports are administered
Nevertheless, measures need to be taken so that bodies that administer sports have members from sporting fraternity who would also take into account the sports community. Also, lots of private investments needs to pulled into less followed sports as well. There is a need for change in the way sports are administered right from central level to local sports bodies. For past many years India isn’t realizing its full potential at international events. With huge success of Kabadi leagues, silver medal in badminton at Rio Olympics, youth is leaning towards sports other than cricket. Inorder to sustain the interest and realise to the full potential of the sporting youth, coaches who nurture the upcoming talent should also be offered the needed supports by the governments.
Q.2) The classification of the states into general and special categories is not a Constitutional directive, but an executive imperative. Discuss.
Special category’ status is a classification given by Centre to states inorder to assist in development of those states that face geographical & socio-economic disadvantages like hilly terrains, low population density and/or sizeable share of tribal population, strategic international borders, economic & infrastructural backwardness and non-viable state finances.
In India, distribution of finances from centre to state is undertaken by Finance commission and then planning communion.
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Inception:
There is no mention of Special category status in the constitution. SCS were first introduced in 1969, based on Gadgil formula and adopted for the distribution of plan assistance during 4th& 5thFYP
Executive imperative:
Inorder to have a for a transparent and objective formula-based horizontal sharing of resources between the States Also states lacking behind in development due to hilly terrain, international borders, low finacesetc and were deprived of robust infrastructure needed special assistance. Inorder to provide certain disadvantaged states with preferential treatment in the form of central assistance and tax breaks By providing preferential treatment in federal assistance and tax breaks, it would facilitate the growth and development of improvement social indicators, tax effort and fiscal mechanism. Thus, catalyzes the inflow of private investments and generates employment and additional revenue to state But as the situation has changed since the time of inception of SCS concept, 14th finance commission recommended that states would be better off with special economic package
Though SCS isn’t a panacea as suggested by Dr.Raghuram Rajan committee, 2013 States needed special attention and funds could seek them in form of special package. Q.3) Inter-state disparity in India is on rise, discuss the reasons and implications of interstate disparities and also suggest some measures to deal with the problem effectively.
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Regional inequalities, both between States and within States, present a serious development challenge to the Indian economy.
Average resident of the richest state now has an income four times higher than that of the average resident of the poorest state.
Some of the factors responsible for such differences are enumerated below : Geographical factors
Difficult terrain surrounded by hills, rivers, and dense forests leads to increase in the cost of administration, cost of developmental projects. Adverse climate and flood are also responsible factors for poor rate of economic development of different states of the country as reflected by low agricultural productivity and lack of industrialization. Regional imbalances arise due to locational advantages attached to some regions and the locational disadvantages attached to some other backward regions.
Inadequacy of Economic Overheads
Economic overheads like transport and communication facilities, power, technology, banking and insurance are considered very important for the development of a particular region.
Limited access that the poor have to health, education and financial services, increases income disparity in the future. Implications
Migration of population from low income states to high income states. It results in low quality of life in the poorer states. Extremism – naxalism, problems of law and order which can spread across borders. High inequality can lead to less than optimal investment in important areas like education and health which impacts on long term growth. Higher inequality can reduce support for reforms that are critical for sustaining the pace of growth. Private sector investment tends to move to places where the enabling environment, that is, investment climate is better, hence not many companies are moving into already poor states. Quality of human capital gets affected, which in turn depends on the level of education and health of the population. Lower incomes lead to law, order and governance problems. States with weaker institutions and poorer infrastructure did worse in terms of industrial and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth.
Way ahead
More financial and political devolution to backward states. There should be more infrastructure development in backward states. Government should provide more tax concessions and subsidies for setting up industrial units in backward states. 31
Corruption in the implementation of schemes should be checked through strict measures. Efforts should be made to develop agriculture in backward states by providing qualityseeds and fertilizers at subsidized measures. Government should promote cottage and SSI in backward areas.
People centric and participatory approach for development should be adopted to formulate locally suited and acceptable reforms.
Q.4) NGOs and Governments need to compliment each for for inclusive and sustainable growth; they cannot be in tension with each other. Discuss in the light of recent events of tightening government scrutiny of NGOs. What steps would you suggest to resolve this tension? NGOs are non profit making agencies constituted by group of like minded people, committed for humanitarian or cooperative objectives and pursues activities of common interest for the public. Democarcy and civil society are twins, integrally related to each other. In the recent past there has been tussle between NGO and governments. Instances like NGO’s non compliance with FCRA, tax evasion by non-filing of annual returns (Eg: Greenpeace india in 2015), seeking foreign funds for development work with hidden political agenda led to govt’s cancelling registration of NGO, blacklisting of activists, freezing bank accounts. For instance NGOs like Ford foundation have played active role in social development but lately its funding advocacy projects, involving more in sensitive societal issues. It has led to government tightening its scrutiny over NGO, leading to recent steps like inclusion of NGOs into the ambit of Lokpal. Way ahead:
Focus should be on specific trouble makers who have suspicious agendas.
The present law needs to be changed to more democratic law – laying simple rules that create transparent system for grant givers and receivers.
Regulatory framework work for civil society that is as good as the one for corporate world and brings the NGOs on board by creating a new regime.
NGOs are vital cog in the wheel of participatory governance and to uphold trust of public they need to evolve regulatory mechanisms for better operational and financial accountability.
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Q.5) Critically examine why every matter of public interest cannot be a matter of public interest litigation and how PIL system has been misused to serve the private interests?
Public interest litigation, or PIL, is defined as the use of litigation, or legal action, which seeks to advance the cause of minority or disadvantaged groups or individuals, or which raises issues of broad public concern. It is a way of using the law strategically to effect social change. The main objective of PILs is to protect the fundamental rights of people who themselves cannot approach the court. PIL can be used to:
Provide access to justice Reform the law Hold government to account End denials of justice Address corruption Empower the disadvantaged, etc.
Why every PI matter cannot become PIL
The Supreme Court’s jurisdiction under Article 32 is not a panacea for all ills but a remedy for violation of fundamental rights. The phrase ‘public interest’ is completely open-ended. It is too wide that it contains every aspect of civilian’s lives. No activity of the State and its instrumentalities is seemingly exempted from being a subject matter of PIL to the extent public interest/fundamental rights is/are at stake. Supreme Court has emphasized that judicial process provides remedies for constitutional or legal infractions only and that on issues of governance and every other good that the society aspires to achieve cannot be achieved through the instrumentality of Courts. Motive behind PIL is providing a tool in hands of public spirited citizens who have a good motive behind filing the PIL and it should be prevented from becoming a weapon of litigants who want either commercial gain or publicity. As the constitution has put certain limits on judicial reach, Courts, while dealing with PILs must be aware of the increasing thinning line between justice delivery and possible encroachment on executive and legislative domains. Policy making and implementation of policy are conventionally regarded as the exclusive domain of the executive and the legislature. The power of judicial review cannot be used by the court to usurp or abdicate the powers of other organs.
Private misuse
The abuse of PIL has become quite rampant and genuine causes have either receded to the background or begun to be viewed with the suspicion because of certain spurious causes mooted by privately motivated interests. In the absence of any framework of PILs, approach to PILs is a measure, dimension and reflection of the value system of the chief justice or presiding judge. 33
The only criterion for accepting a PIL has been receptivity and sympathy of the presiding judge, hence it has left much scope for acceptance of PILs with vested private interests. Many of the PIL activists in the country have found the PIL as a handy tool of harassment since frivolous cases could be filed without investment of heavy court fees as required in private civil litigation. PIL as a judicial recourse leaves enough room for its abuse and indiscriminate filing to serve vested interests or gain easy publicity. PILs have been used to target political rivals, hassle public authorities and settle personal scores.
Q.6) Defamation is both a civil wrong and a criminal wrong in Indian law. In the light of some recent events, critically analyze why defamation needs to be a criminal wrong at all.
Defamation refers to the act of publication of defamatory content that lowers the reputation of an individual or an entity when observed through the perspective of an ordinary man. Defamation in India is both a civil and a criminal offence.
In Civil Law, defamation falls under the Law of Torts, where the offender should pay fine and under Criminal Law, Defamation is bailable, non-cognizable and compoundable offence. Recently, the Supreme Court in Subramanian Swamyvs Union of India judgement, upheld the constitutionality of criminal defamation.
Defamation should be a criminal offence:
As there is no mechanism to censor the Internet from within, online defamation could only be adequately countered by retaining defamation as a criminal offence In some cases, defamer may be too poor to compensate the victim Unlike in the U. S, defamation in India cannot be treated only as civil liability as there is always a possibility of the defamer being judgment free, i.e., not having the adequate financial capability to compensate the victim. Critical Analysis:
Defamation law impinges upon the fundamental right to freedom of speech and expression and that civil defamation is an adequate remedy against such wrongs Defamatory acts that may harm public order are covered by Sections 124, 153 and 153A, and so criminal defamation does not serve any overarching public interest.
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Criminal defamation has a pernicious effect on society: for instance, the state uses it as a means to coerce the media and political opponents into adopting self-censorship and unwarranted self-restraint. Even though Section 499 provides safeguards by means of exceptions, the threat of criminal prosecution is in itself unreasonable and excessive.
As enshrined in the constitution, every citizen has freedom of speech and expression. But the key is creating an equilibrium between protecting freedom of speech, criticism and malicious defamation of a person.
Q.7) The Foreign Contribution Regulation Act does more to regulate NGOs that dissent with the state than curb financial impropriety and bringing in transparency in functioning of charitable institutes. Critically Examine.
Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act FCRA has been enacted by government to allow organizations to avail funds from foreign donors but this allowance comes with some conditionality. It is these conditions, NGOs claim, that hinders their working and public welfare at large. The recent amendment to FCRA raises suspicion on multiple accounts because of the dubious nature of certain new provisions which are:
Equating the economic security clause with the definition of economic security in UAP Act, thus rendering NGO dysfunctional. Prior approval clause to take prior permission for foreign originated contributions. Sharing personal details, account details and details of trustees with Home ministry and IB. Mandatory submission of travel plan and its intention of foreigners associated with NGO and visiting India.
These amendments, though claimed to bring transparency in NGO functioning, appear more intrusive than needed. They definitely fail the test of reasonableness proposed under Article 19 of Constitution of India. Their very nature appears to gag the NGO. This will be a major blow to NGO independence and neutrality. Many of the criticisms are also centered on implementation of FCRA Act:
Govt using FCRAto arm-twist NGO to work according to whims of govt. Scarcity of funds is primary challenge to NGOs thus they depend hugely on flexibility on financial mobility and spending but FCRA curbs this. It is used to silence voice of dissent. Such gagging is detrimental not only to the NGO but also the people whom they serve. Ill-defined conditions like NGO should not function prejudicial to "public interest" leaves room for misuse
But such conditions imposed are not all in vain because: 35
Lack of accountability in functioning of NGOs as very few of them have filed returns.
There are allegations on certain NGOs working mostly to stall development projects Unregulated foreign flow is a big source of money laundering , tax evasion They are very potent in inciting public opinion which is dangerous for democracy. Since these are powerful tools of development, especially in India, govt needs to ensure that they are not influenced by their parent nation/source of funds to act detrimental to national interest They need to follow the law of the land
We should not forget that NGO are not just another organisation but have emerged as the fourth organ of the state to mouth the voice of poor and vulnerable. They serve to create epistemologies that help formulate public policies. RTI, RTE, Electoral reforms etc are cases in point. Hence instead of stifle their freedom to bring them down to knees a facilitation model with elements of transparency be developed so that a right balance between national security and citizens right is established
Q.8) Although the standoff between judiciary and executive over judicial appointments is a major reason behind vacancies in the courts, but not the only reason. How far do you agree with this statement? Discuss it’s effects over judicial system and suggest measures to solve the problem of vacancies in judiciary Vacancies are a product of a systemic lack of incentives for persons of high quality and integrity to take up judgeships. They cannot solely be attributed to executive-judiciary standoff over judicial appointments. They are endemic in higher judiciary
Reasons for huge vacancies in courts:
Recent standoff on NJAC and collegium between Executive and Judiciary Systemic lack of incentives for persons of high quality and integrity to take up judgeships. Bar exam through which new recruits enter into the judicial system, is not transparent and has also led to inefficient work force Effect of huge vacancies in higher courts:
It is one of the reasons for debilitating judicial delays. It effects the disposal of cases, thus leading to people loosing trust in the judiciary It leads to inefficient and over burdened system. Also those looking up for profession would be disheartened to join the Indian courts. Thus talented people are moved out of fray. 36
Way Forward:
Use of technology in order to harness the true potential of judicial system Setting up a transparent judicial appointment system with objective criteria. And systems should be put in place so that recruitments and promotions happen on a regular basis. A better understanding between the executive and judiciary on the judicial appointment procedure based on consensus approach.
Q.9) How far is the use of money bill route for passing key legislations justified? Discuss with example.
Indian system of governance has a series of checks and balances. Legislative scrutiny by both houses and the role of Rajya Sabha to check hasty legislation is one of them. But in the recent times, governments are passing few ordinary bills as money bills.
Under Article 110, for a bill to be qualified as money bill, it must only contain provisions related to taxation, borrowing of money by the government, expenditure from or receipt to the Consolidated Fund of India, and matters that are incidental to such taxation, expenditure and related subjects. The Speaker certifies a Bill as a Money Bill, and his decision is final. RajyaSabha can only make recommendations; it cannot amend the money bill. Lok Sabha may or may not accept those recommendations.
Recent examples:
Aadhar Bill: Passing of aadhar bill as money raised concerns about the functioning of the parliamentary system. This course was taken as the government of the day doesn’t have a majority in RS. As RS proposed amendments regarding bill containing a blanket national security clause. Later the matter was taken unto supreme Court which held that deciding if the bill is a money bill or not the discretion of speaker and it cannot be ground to challenged in the court Black Money Bill: As it sought impose a higher tax and penalty on undisclosed foreign income, and was certified as a Money Bill. Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2015: Though it proposes to consolidate and amend laws relating to reorganisation and insolvency resolution of corporate persons it was introduced as money bill.
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This sets a bad precedent because once the Rajya Sabha's position is subverted and laws which do not qualify to be treated as money bills are passed.
Need to follow the ordinary route:
This ensures that laws passed by parliament does receive adequate scrutiny. It would also have the added advantage of buy in from all political parties to ensure effective implementation on the ground.
Q.10) Despite the appointment of multiple commissions to reform the governance of police forces across the country, both lack of political will, and federal structure of Indian Polity has led to their non implementation. Discuss. Economic progress requires safe and secure environment, for which police a major role. In order to reform governance in Police, several police commissions/committees have been formed, to name a few - State Police Commissions, National Police Commission, Gore Committee, Ribeiro Committee, Padmanabhaiah Committee, Malimath Committee.
They have made various recommendations – on augment the institutional capacity of the Police, updating police manuals, functional autonomy to police. Except for few cosmetic changes most of their recommendations were not implemented.
There is general agreement that Police Reforms will free up the police from the whims of politicians, and lead to better policing. But still they are yet to take shape.
Reasons for non-implementation of police reforms:
Lack of Political will: Political class who has been yielding has an intoxicating effect where there is overwhelming misuse of the police by politicians for narrow selfish ends. As the recommendations perturbed the entrenched elite at the prospect of losing control over an organization, political class doesn’t seem willing to implement them. Bureaucracy the bigger problem: Politicians and bureaucrats have developed a great vested interest in retaining control and superintendence over the police organization and in letting the status quo continue Federal structure: Though police is a state subject, many states are averse to having state security commissions which was recommended by various commissions as well as in SC directive 38
Absence of any mechanism to constantly monitor the implementation of the courts’ judgments and take the defaulting government or other parties back to the courts. Lack of sufficient powers to NHRC: Though the human rights commissions have acted as a check. There is no provision in law which empowers the Commission to force the government to implement its advice.
PM himself stressed the need for SMART police (Sensitive, Mobile, Accountable, Responsive and Tech-Savvy).Once the police are given functional independence, they must be held accountable for the wrongs they do. The existing mechanisms of accountability must be strengthened and improved. In addition, new mechanisms, working independently to monitor the functioning of the police and to inquire into public complaints against the police, must be established.
Q.11) Is lack of autonomy in policy matters in Higher education institutions the only reason for poor quality of education in India? What other challenges does Higher education in India face? The higher education is a prime mover of knowledge and plays a key role in social welfare and overall growth of the society. It has grown leaps and bounds since independence, however we are unable to provide world-class education.
Draft IIM bill, highhandedness of the Ministry of Human Resource and Development (MHRD) in the autonomous functions of IIMs and IITs, resignations or sacking of heads of the country’s best known institutions is indicative of the fact that educational institutions lack autonomy both in policy matters and every day decision making. But there are also other challenges effecting the quality of higher education:
Over Regulation: All major stakeholders, be it at governance, leadership, teacher and student levels in the traditional university are politicized. Pedagogy:Academic job focuses more on administrative side rather than on the research and innovation. Commercialization of education: Rich and political class look at higher education as a profit making business. Eg: Sprawling private medical colleges owned by politicians Remunerations are not in tune to international standards: Thus failing to attract quality teaching professional. Few of the private institutions don’t pay salary regularly. Entrance exam: In the rat the student community too doesn’t pay much attention knowledge aspect of education, thus institutions not being able to attract actual talent.
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Also, the system of paying capitation fee attracts the wealthy leaving out the common middle class student Outdated course structure: There seems to be lack of regular upgradtaion of syllabus in tune with changing technological advancements. Irregularities in accreditation: It has become common practice that faculty are hired only for accreditation purpose on a temporary basis. Also there is serious lack of advancements in laboratories where most of them are outdated. Biased towards the needs of art and social science discipline: Focus is mostly on engineering and medical sciences Mismatch of demand and supply: Which is evident from teacher student ratio and funds allocated.
Way Forward:
Granting academic autonomy to institutions, which gives the freedom to the institutions to design the course, syllabus, examination time tables etc Allocation of the needed resources to cash stripped institutions along with increased accountability Regular revision of course structure in tune with socio-technological developments Foundations of primary and secondary educations have to be improved
Q.12) Children are too often relegated to the fringes of the world’s debates about migration and displacement. Critically Examine in the light of recent reports on child migrants and refugees. Refugees are those who owing to fear of violence are outside their country of nationality and are unable to avail protection of that country also. Its been observed child migrants and refugees is a global problem, and much needed attention is not being paid to children who are displaced and residing as refugees. The probable reasons are:
Lack of global estimates that could provide whole picture
Lack of comprehensive and comparable indications on nature of child refugees & migrants.
The recent UNICEF report, “Uprooted: The growing crisis for refugee and migrant children” brings the data. Its findings are:
One in three children living outside their country is a refugee, children accounting for half of world’s refugees 40
In the past decade child refugees doubled
Syria, Afghanistan accounts for half of world’s child refugees, highlighting the brutal impact of war on society
Positive developments like halving the infant mortality rates under MDG, increasing child trafficking and refugees overshadow rise in school enrolment under global universal primary education. Refugee child face host of risks like malnourishment, drowning during sea crossing, rape & murder, discrimination and xenophobia. Addressing their concerns requires a with sympathetic humanitarian & perspective.
Way forward As recommended by UNICEF:
Address the root cause of violence and extreme poverty in country of origin
Increased collective efforts by governments & civil society in providing education, health, shelter, psychological support
Establish fast procedures to unite children with their extended families
Strengthening child protection system
Practical alternatives to detention like dispensing off the reporting of child refugees, foster care etc.
Compiling comprehensive data on child refugees and asylum seekers would help in evidence based policy making but effectively addressing the rights and needs of children requires a concerted action.
Q.13) Copyright is a statutory right and not a natural right, and hence any right that is granted to owners is also limited by exceptions carved out by law. Examine in the light of implications of recent judgment of Delhi High Court on copyright. Copyright (or author’s right) is the legal right that creators have over their literary and artistic works. In the recent judgment passed by Delhi high court, in The Chancellor Masters and Scholars of the University of Oxford v. Rameshwari Photocopy Services) case, Justice Rajiv SahaiEndlaw, concluded that copyright is a statutory right and not a natural right, and hence any right that is granted to owners is also limited by exceptions carved out by law. Not a natural right but statutory right:
Copyright, especially in literary works, is not an inevitable natural right that confers on authors the absolute ownership of their creations. It is designed rather to stimulate activity and progress in the arts for the intellectual enrichment of the public.
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It is in line with Berne Convention and the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights, which allow for legislations that permits reproduction for specific purpose is allowed In India, it is governed under Indian copyright act, 1957. It brings to the point that reproduction of any work for academic purposes (in the course of instruction) isn’t against the copyright of the creators.
Implications:
The judgment sent out a clear mandate for future, that the end goal of technology is the improvement of our lives Also, even with respect to other laws-no law can be interpreted so as to result in any regression of the evolvement of the human being for the better It is a bold articulation of the principles of equitable access to knowledge In the era of technological advancements, this judgment would further promote photocopying. It stimulates activity and progress in the arts for the intellectual enrichment of the public Increase access and harvest the knowledge Negative fall outs: Terrible blow to the publishers It might drive reputed publishers out of the field of education If reputed publishers feel that there is insufficient copyright protection and back out of educational publishing, it will be injurious to the public interest. It would undermine the availability of original content for the benefit of students and teachers If students are used to photocopy books, it would reduce the culture of reading in library.
Copyright is always about maintaining a balance between competing ideas of private and public interests. The present Indian copyright act is line with international rules and the the court has, in this case, recognized that the protection of intellectual property needs to be balanced with social need.
Q.14) Is piracy a consequence of lack of respect for copyright laws and Intellectual property or a consequence of global pricing problem. Discuss this in the light of light of recent legislations to curb digital piracy in India.
Piracy basically refers to the unauthorized duplication of a copyright or original work of a person or organization without their knowledge and distribution or use of the same. 42
Digital piracy is the illegal trade in software, videos, digital video devices (DVDs), music, research papers etc which are available online. Rather than just seeing media piracy as a legal or a moral problem, it would be more accurate to see it as a global pricing problem.
High prices for media goods, low incomes, and cheap digital technologies are the main ingredients of global media piracy. Media piracy arises when market failures meet increasingly cheap and improved infrastructures (bandwidth, hardware) of information transmission. This media piracy affects the owners. In order to protect their copyright govt has introduced following amendments to the legislations: Government steps to prevent piracy:
Copyright Act: o Sec. 63: deals with the offence of infringement, provides that any person who ‘knowingly’ infringes copyright would be imprisoned Recent amendments in the act: o Sec. 65A: deals with digital rights management. These include technological protections measures (TPM) o Sec. 65B: It makes removal of right management information without authority and distribution a criminal offence. The introduction of Sections 65A and 65B is expected to help the film, music and publishing industry in fighting piracy. But just enforcing legislations won’t provide the solution, there needs to be following considerations:
It is mostly the accessibility of the media product in a legal manner that comes out as a problem The lack of the understanding as on time limit upto which it should be priced which are the products and data which should not be priced at all if the world has to move forward in direction of disseminating information to the last person.
As the demand for entertainments keeps increasing and the ever growing need for accessible information there is a need for comprehensive understanding of the issue of piracy.
Q.15) What constitutes sedition against the nation? In the light of recent events, critically examine the importance of law against the sedition in the present times. Sedition against the nation constitutes speech, which is intended to promote disaffection against it, and has an ulterior motive of delegitimizing the government. 43
There is very thin border present between the freedom of expression and the law of sedition.
At one side, The Indian Constitution provides the fundamental right of expression and on the other hand, Section 124A of IPC is there to curb over it. If the right of expression causes violence which disturbs the public order then it crosses its border making the individual or group guilty under the law. But in the present time it becomes heavy over the right and its misuse is at its heights depriving the individual its right. Recent actions based on sedition have been taken against the human right activist BinayakSen, AseemTrivedi(a cartoonist), folk singer Kovan of TN, for their criticism against the government policies which nor create the hatred and violence in the mob neither disrupt the public order.
Right of expression is very critical for the human development as it develops the critical ability to think and criticism of the government actions and policies is very much required for the better structural formulation of the government policies. Many European and North American countries have already done away with the law.
Inorder to prevent misuse of law:
The Supreme Court has made it clear that sedition provision cannot be invoked unless there is actual incitement to violence and intention to cause disorder, and that merely using words that indicate disaffection against the government cannot be termed sedition.
A correct balance between the freedom of expression and public order as suggested by the Supreme Court in 1962 and there must be clarity in the law so to protect the fundamental right, maintain the public order, to prevent the misuse of the law and the fundamental right too. Repealing the law would not be the solution as it would take the public order at the vulnerable stage.
Note: (For Ref) Sedition as defined in Section 124A of the IPC, is, “Whoever, by words, either spoken or written, or by signs, or by visible representation, or otherwise, brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt, or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards the government established by law in India, shall be punished with imprisonment for life, to which fine may be added, or with imprisonment which may extend to three years, to which fine may be added, or with fine.” Sedition is a non-bailable crime and maximum punishment is life imprisonment.
Q.16) Write a short note on Sustainable Development Goals. What challenges does India face in meeting these goals? The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are universal set of goals, targets and indicators that UN member states will use to frame their agendas and political policies over the next 15 years. 44
They follow & expand on the millennium development goals (MDGs). They are 17 goals and their associated 169 targets.
Need for SDGs:
Though MDGs provided a focal point but they were bit narrow As per World bank report -about 1 billion people still live on less than $1.25 a day – the World Bank measure on poverty – and more than 800 million people do not have enough food to eat. Women are still fighting hard for their rights, and millions of women still die in childbirth.
Challenges to India in attaining SDGs:
The sheer size and scale of India means that achieving SDGs depends on overall progress. Defining Indicators: Relevant targets to measure outcomes. Eg: Quality education has not successfully been defined Financing: unless states devote a significant portion of their resources on the social sector, there is likely to be a significant funding gap. According to the UN MDG report, despite high economic growth, in 2010, one-third of the world’s 1.2 billion extreme poor lived in India alone. Given these constraints, it is likely that domestic revenues aside, private finance could be a crucial source for financing the SDGs Monitoring and Ownership: NITIAayog will play a significant role in tracking progress. But states are expected to play a pivotal role, it will require ownership not just nationally, but also at the state and local level. Measuring Progress: non-availability of data, periodicity issues and incomplete coverage of administrative data, poor capacity of at various levels has made accurate measuring progress tough.
Way forward:
While attaining all the SDGs on time may be near impossible, there are several crosscutting tasks that can be addressed. Identifying what data we already have used or could use, 45
Setting up new institutions (policies, rules and regulations), Improving centre-state coordination to reach the goals, Building capacity.
While SDGs provide broad goals and targets, it will be up to the national, and state governments to identify priorities, decide appropriate locally relevant policies, harness innovation and ensure that an implementation and monitoring plan is in place.
Q.17) What do you understand by Good Governance. How effective have the internet been in improving governance in India? What challenges does exist in digitization of governance in rural areas? Governance means, the process of decision-making and the process by which decisions are implemented (or not implemented). Good governance has following eight components:
Good governance in Indian context:
It involves horizontal deployment of good governance techniques across states. Quick delivery of public services Also, take into consideration absolute numbers on performance as well as public perception.
e-governance: e-Governance is the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) at all the level of the Government in order to provide services to the citizens, interaction with business enterprises and communication and exchange of information between different agencies of the Government in a speedy, convenient efficient and transparent manner. Effectiveness in improving governance:
Improve efficiency, consistency and effectiveness of government responses. Eg: Digitalization of land records, have improved the management of land revenue.
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It has provided means for faster and better communication, retrieval of data and utilization of information to its users. Eg: RTI where citizens can get the required information in the stipulated time. Better entitlements. Eg: Seeding AADHAR with NREGA has resulted in beneficiaries receiving the entitlements with minimum loses.
Challenges for digitalization of governance in rural areas: Environmental and Social Challenges:
Different Languages: It makes difficult to write e-Governance applications which are to be implemented for the whole nation. Low literacy and IT Literacy: Illiterate people are not able to access the eGovernance applications; hence the projects do not get much success. Services are not accessible easily: Due to very limited usage of internet in rural areas, affecting the availability of services
Economical Challenges :
Cost: A huge amount of money is involved in implementation, operational and evolutionary maintenance tasks, especially in rural areas. Limited financial resources
Technical challenges:
Scale of applications is difficult in rural areas. Lack of reliable and controlled networks.
Growing governance and development complexities require innovative ideas. E-governance and use of artificial intelligence looks promising. The participation of people can play a vital role in implementation of e-Governance in India. Q.18) Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana’ (SAGY ) was launched with the aim to translate Gandhi’s vision of an ideal Indian village into reality. Discuss the provisions and implementation challenges in realizing the goals of this scheme. Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana, is a initiative of government of India for holistic development of villages. Goal:
The development of model villages, called Adarsh Grams, through the implementation of existing schemes, and certain new initiatives to be designed for the local context, which may vary from village to village. Ie 3 adarsh grams per district Creating models of local development which can be replicated in other villages. Provisions: 47
Integrated development of the selected village across multiple areas such as agriculture, health, education, sanitation, environment, livelihoods etc Instilling certain values, such as people’s participation, Antyodaya, gender equality, dignity of women, social justice, spirit of community service, eco-friendliness, maintaining ecological balance, peace and harmony, mutual cooperation, local self-government, transparency and accountability in public life, etc., in the villages and their people so that they get transformed into models for others. Implementation: MPs would identify a GP and develop it as adarsh gram. Participatory planning process coordinated by district collector. Gram Panchayat (GP)would be the basic unit for development and would be funded by MPLADS Adoption and adaptation of technology and introduction of innovations Monitoring: At the national level, real time web based monitoring system would cover all aspects and components. Evaluation of SAGY:
Only 50 MPs have identified GPs Succesful in Chikhli (Gujarat) and Pedamainavanilanka (AP), Smart Village-Smart Ward programme of AP. It was due to strong team people working on the ground on behalf of the MP to ensure that the planned interventions are completed on time
The success is dependent on proper and comprehensive planning, community participation in the development process, consistent monitoring of the different interventions and impact assessment vis-a -vis the baseline situation.
Challenges in implementation:
Difficult for MPs to monitor the on-ground development on a regular basis Preparing village development plan (VDP) in accordance with the guidelines of the programme. Where most the time ails to encapsulate the key requirements of the GP and the need for subsequent action to address the issues. Converging of various schemes: It would be challenging to know about the provisions under each scheme and the structure and framework for its implementation on the ground. As there is no separate fund for the scheme funding would be a cause of concern Way forward:
Using CSR funds and tapping in people from corporate as well as civil society/NGOs Focusing on village based on the idea of ‘islands of excellence’ where a village would be developed as a sustainable economic model.
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Q.19) Mere increase in the social sector expenditure would not be enough, unless it is linked with outcomes directed to the socially excluded groups and effectively monitored. Elaborate.
Low level of social sector spending cannot be blamed for all the challenges India is facing. There are problems like mismanagement or underutilization of allocated funds. Loopholes in spending:
MGNREGA budget of Tamilnadu was 4 times of Bihar’s budget, while number of rural poor’s in Bihar are six times of Tamilnadu. Government spend a large amount on Public Distribution system but problems like faulty inclusions, ghost cards, large scale leakages and diversion of subsidized grains led to failure of system. ICDS has placed priority on food implementation rather than on nutrition and health education interventions. Whereas many wings of government are overstaffed, key public services like education, healthcare services, police and judiciary are starved of regular employees. Due to colonial influence, administrative accountability in India has always been internal and upwards and accountability to the people has always been very limited. Inflated reporting has make it difficult to identify the real no. of needed person in a category, for ex GOI received data of only 2% malnourished children of 0-3 yrs age, compared to 9.4% reported by UNICEF. Bulk of the expenditure in education and health typically flows to the salaries of teachers and health workers, yet rampant absenteeism means that services are not effectively provided in many cases. There are huge shortages of staff at all levels affect implementation and supervision of program.
Way forward for government:
Outward accountability to the public is essential for greater responsiveness and improved social quality Setting up a mechanism to collect accurate data on intended beneficiaries. Powers of transfers of class should be with head of department not with the government. Efforts should be made to identify surplus support staff, set-up an effective redeployment plan and devise system for exit. At least for the higher ranks of the civil services e.g. chief secretary and DGP, postings may be made contractual for a fixed period of at least 2 years
Q.20) Strict regulation and enforcement, and not complete ban on commercial surrogacy, can solve the problem of exploitation of surrogate mothers. In this context, discuss the lacunae in the Surrogacy Bill. Also highlight its impact on various stakeholders. 49
Surrogacy is defined as a practice wherein women bears the child for another woman who is either not able to or willing to do so. Provisions of bill:
Eligibility to opt for surrogacy: To allow altruistic ethical surrogacy to intending infertile Indian couple (legally married) between the age of 23- 50 years and 26-55 years for female and male respectively. Live-in parents, single parents, homosexuals, foreigners, NRIs, PIOs are not allowed.
Surrogate mothers: The surrogate mother should be a close relative of the intending couple and should be between the age of 25-35 years. She can act as surrogate mother only once. An insurance coverage of reasonable and adequate amount shall be ensured in favour of the surrogate mother. Commercial surrogacy is not allowed and the surrogacy clinics shall have to maintain all records for a period of 25 years Regulation of surrogacy: The National Surrogacy board and State Surrogacy board shall be the Policy making body Lacunae in the bill:
Contradictions with other related laws: The Assisted Reproductive Technology Regulation Bill, 2014 experts pointed to contradictions in Indian laws and regulations with respect to foreigners seeking adoptions here and those seeking surrogacy services. The proposed provisions in the Bill might act as a ground that breeds underground surrogacy. It is not necessary that all the medical clinics will adhere to law. There will be corruption and unethical practices and exploitation of poor women. There are chances that, altruistic surrogacy will lead them to look for other means of living to sustain themselves. Given the nature of Indian society i.e. patriarchy, inheritance of property by the male child, a close relative might be forced by the family to become a surrogate mother. The effectiveness of the proposed Bill will be questioned given the fact that there are laws in India which prohibit sex determination, female foeticide and organ donation with little achievement so far. Bill fails to understand the motivations of commissioning parents:
Implication for stakeholders
Surrogate mothers: As surrogacy is limited only to altruistic purpose, the bill reduces the psychological trauma to surrogate mother. Because only relatives are allowed, many those going for multiple surrogacies, though because of economic hardship, won’t be allowed. Further, economic hardship, underground market may flourish which will make surrogate mother more vulnerable with less healthcare and less money.
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Surrogate child: With clear definition of commissioning parents there would Less or no cases were there are no claimants for surrogate child with birth defects. Couple: Those seeking second child or other barred people won’t have a chance to have a child.
Doctors: Doctors with established business in IVF clinics and surrogacy, during unregulated time, will face the brunt as there will be drastic fall in demand.
Foreigner: Foreign share in existing market is very high which will reduce to zero
Surrogacy clinics: The bill clearly regulates clinics and places responsibility on them to provide dignity to surrogate mother.
Other Implication Protection of vulnerable sections: prevent exploitation of women, trafficking especially those in rural and tribal areas e.g. least one child of her own can be a surrogate mother only once in her lifetime. Strengthening social and moral values: Baring single parents, homosexuals, live-in couples would save child from future social and emotional embarrassment which is in line with in line with the Supreme Court’s order upholding Section 377 criminalising gay sex . Prevent Dangerous fashionable trend: In high society surrogacy as a way to avoid painful 9 month womb and labour pain which eliminates emotional natural bonding between child& parent. Rights Violation: It would lead to violation of the reproductive right of the surrogate mother Openness: Child will aware about both biological mother and relative surrogacy mother but Indian society is still under social evolution stage may create social issue for child and parent. Hence the bill is in positive direction protecting the rights of surrogate mother and child , and it has to more tweaked by addressing some grey areas (close relative, divorces) to achieve the objectives, truly balancing the need of childless parents and of surrogate mother.
Q.21) Why does Healthcare elude India? What reforms are needed in Healthcare before India can have a fundamental Right to Health for all Citizens? Health care is providing services for promoting, maintaining, monitoring or restoring health. Health care is not only important to the well-being of citizens, it also enhances the productive capacity of its population thereby enhancing economic growth of the country.
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Its importance is acknowledged in Article 47 under DPSP -Duty of the State to raise the level of nutrition and the standard of living and to improve public health. Keeping in line several govt schemes as National Health Mission, Mission Indradhanush for universal immunization, and National programs for control of blindness, for elderly, reproductive & child health services etc are being implemented, but there exists lacuna in the health care system. Reasons behind health care deficits in India:
Inadequate health-care infrastructure - latest KPMG report, around 80 per cent of all doctors and 75 per cent of dispensaries serve 28 per cent of the population. Lack of adequate focus on preventive health care – Though efforts are being put to improve hygiene and environmental concerns to prevent the spread of diseases, they are yet to match the demand. Hygiene plays a important role in limiting the spread of communicable diseases whereas lifestyle plays a role in non-communicable diseases. Though awareness is being improved much needs to be done. Dismal health-care expenditure – low at 4.1 per cent of GDP. The way these funds are disbursed to the States and utilised adds to the problem, considerable delay of funds disbursed for utilisation in critical government schemes rendering them ineffective. Governance deficit - widespread corruption that ails both the public and the private sector. Lack of awareness and monitoring of diseases – Holistic approach as followed for polio eradication- awareness campaigns and active participation of all stakeholders from healthcare providers to the beneficiaries, supplemented by strict monitoring by the government need to be followed for other proliferating diseases.
Reforms needed:
Universal primary health care so that it acts as gatekeeper Build trust in public health care Effective regulation & monitoring of private health care Address supply-side inefficiencies- like improving the availability of health care professionals, increasing funding and infrastructure Develop a holistic system health care where all systems of medicines can be appropriately used Learn from international best practices as UK’s National health service (NHS) model.
Moving from delivery of health care services through govt schemes like NHM, PradhanMantriSwasthiyaBhimaYojana, Universal health insurance scheme etc to making health care a fundamental rights needs change in the way we look at public health as national priority. It requires restructuring the working of public health care along with putting in place systems for health reporting, financing and the way these finances are spend. A robust & vibrant public private partnership would help in setting a affordable, accessible, effective health care system.
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Q.22) What challenges does Tuberculosis pose to public policy on Health? Discuss measures to control and curb the spread of Tuberculosis in a developing country like India. Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by a bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis that most often affect the lungs. It is curable and preventable, but still millions suffer from it.
Health policy-TB
Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme (RNTCP): Diagnosis and treatment facilities including anti-TB drugs are provided free of cost to all TB patients. Under it administers short course chemotherapy under direct supervision (DOTS) Programmatic Management of Drug Resistant TB (PMDT)service:These services are provided for services for the management of multidrug resistant tuberculosis (MDRTB) Under the universal immunization programme, BCG vaccine is administered for prevention of serious forms of childhood TB, like tubercular meningitis Standards for TB Care in India which lay down standards for social inclusion for TB, providing information to vulnerable groups and developing synergies with the social welfare schemes. Challenges: Measures:
Mutli drug resistance: In contrast to conventional short course chemotherapy, in drug resistant cases the treatment is prolonged requiring the use of several anti TB drugs Co-infection with HIV: Mostly HIV patients suffer with TB, is really challenging as it requires implementation of robust diagnostic and therapeutic measures Bacterial latency: developing the disease when the body conditions are favorable for the dormant infection to flare up. Patients stop medication irregularly due to hi costs or lack of monitoring Use of inappropriate tests, leading to incorrect diagnosis Inappropriate prescription by few private practitioners, raising patient cost and resistance. Just it considered a clinical issue n doesn't look at community n public health perspective of patient care, early diagnosis, infection control, prevention of transmission, social , psychological support , patient centric care. Management of drug resistant tuberculosis is complex requiring access to quality laboratory for carrying out tuberculosis culture and drug susceptibility testing, steady availability of quality anti TB drugs and specialised TB treatment centres.
Proper nutrition: It would help maintain the immunity theus reducing the susceptibility. Improving sanitation: It helps reduce the spread of disease. Improved awareness: So that person approaches doctor if coughing persists for a week or two 53
Improved monitoring: Would help in adhering to course regime Accountability: The medical hospital needs to keep record of progress of the patient Improved availability of medicines: Procedures for procurement n disti b streamlined PPP Model: As more patients go to private hospitals collaboration with public sector, private hospitals and NGOs working in the health domain need to be collaborated. Strict regulations for sale of anti TB drugs: It would help To reduce MDRTB
Its not just a health issue but a social issue, throwing millions of people into poverty. Thus affecting national developments. Though lot of steps are taken, Uniform, equitable implementation of diagnostic, treatment guidelines are to be followed. Novel methods to monitor patient compliance and massive public awareness would help in achieving TB-Mission 2020
Q.23) Medicines remain overpriced and unaffordable in India. In a country mired in poverty, medical debt remains the second biggest factor for keeping millions in poverty’. In this context discuss what steps has the government taken to make medicines affordable. How far has it been successful? It is estimated that out-of-pocket expenditure on health is pushing ~65 million people into poverty every year. Cost of medicines comprises a significant part of it. Government initiatives:
Drug Price Control Order, 2013:DPCO has instituted National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) to prepare a National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM). NLEM consists of >900 drug formulations whose prices are capped. Jan Aushadi stores: It makes the available quality generic medicines at affordable prices to all, especially the poor, throughout the country, Compulsory License (CL): Government also used provisions under WTO to issue a CL. Eg: for Bayer's cancer drug Nexavar. Pharma Sahi Daam Mobile App: It shows the MRP fixed by NPPA for various scheduled drugs on real time basis A separate ministry for pharmaceuticals is set up which will be operational zed soon. Pharma parks: Government setting up 'Pharma parks' to encourage pharma industry. Alternative medicine: Government pushing 'alternative medicine' in the form of AYUSH and with focus on Yoga to reduce costs of healthcare.
Evaluation: Even with these, it seems that affordable medicines still don't reach everyone.
Jan aushadi stores aren’t present pan India. Also there is reluctance among some medical practitioners to prescribe generic medicines 54
Issues with supply chain management from production level to the Jan Aushadi facility persists Even the Tamil Nadu Medical Services Corporation’s model, with warehouses across the State and a meticulous system in place, has certain unaddressed concerns. Challenges:
Perception of people: Many people don't prefer alternative medicine because of their lack of belief in it. Govt. is not able to get through the nexus between pharmaceutical distributors and district medical officers. Weak supply chain: leads to non-availability of medicines in the stores. Boomerang effect: Drug pricing control can discourage investment in R&D in pharmacy sector which in turn will not lead to fall in prices.
Availability, Affordability and Accessibility of medicines to the common man is prerequisite. Overpricing of medicines in India: the imperative for price regulation. Q.24) Critically analyze why the government has failed to control vector borne diseases in India? What measures government should adopt to better manage them? In the past one to two years, there has been an increase in the number of persons affected by vector borne diseases (Dengue, malaria, chickengunya, Japanese Encephalitis etc.) in the country. Even though, India has comprehensive National Vector Borne Diseases Control Programme (NVBCP), but much of it remains to be operational zed. The main reasons for the failure are
Non-utilization of funds: The state governments, failed to spend amount allocated by the National Vector Borne Diseases Control Programme (NVBDCP). Lack of holistic approach: States mostly focused on fumigation, while little efforts were paid for public health facilities with limited awareness programs Lack of adequate infrastructure in public health system: Poor patient-bed ratio, and patient to doctor ration, lack of personnel at PHC are further aggravating the severity Unclean habitats: Unclean habitation and drinking water facilities leads to the spread of Vector Borne Diseases (VBD’s) Lack of waste disposal systems: Rapid and unplanned urbanisation leads to failure of solid waste management system , which boosts the spread of diseases. Lack of sufficient water supply: Deficiency in water supply, encourages people to store water leading to possibility of stagnant water in which mosquitoes breed. Lack of monitoring and effective utilization and computerized Management Information System from the state government. Lack of health management resources and inability to deal with emergency situations
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Lack of empowerment of local bodies and having shortage of resources to manage sanitation and fogging etc . Lack of preventive planning and action. Presently focus is paid after outbreak. Lack of enough research on vector-borne diseases For India to achieve its goal of eliminating malaria by 2030, and curb other vector-borne diseases, there has to be sustained effort and political will.
Measures needed:
Stepping up public healthcare facilities: It includes stepped up surveillance, mosquito control (as regular fumigation drive) and early diagnosis. Improved awareness: Community engagement and awareness programs along with targeted fumigation. Learning from international best-practices: Technical and strategic guidance from WHO. Models followed in Sri lanka (two way strategy of targeting both the parasite and undertaking active detection and treatment of parasite carriers), Maldives can also be replicated. Brazil devised a forecasting model to predict incidences ahead of World Cup football and then carried City specific targeted drive to eliminate it. Bioenvironmental strategy: Vietnam developed crustaceans that feed on such larva’s. Focus on rural India: Provide all VBD facilities through PHC in village areas. Mobile Van clinic facilities in rural and remote areas. Each district and state needs to ensure availability of all surveillance tools, guidelines, standard operating procedures and requisite health and technical professionals in place (Eg: Andhra Pradesh SMS-based outbreak alert system). ISRO’sEduSat and Satellite Interactive Terminals (SIT) potential must be fully harnessed. Expand collaboration between public and private healthcare institutes and university and medical students for complete understanding of new strains of diseases. Regular field monitoring and forecasting for timely policy correction.
Q.25) Write a short note on Fixed Combination Drugs. Bring out the rationale behind putting ban on fixed dose combination drugs. Do we have alternatives to it? A fixed dose combination drug is: 1. Medicines containing two or more active components (Active pharmaceutical ingredients) in fixed proportions in a single dosage form 2. Several medications in fixed combination to be taken together, presented in composite packaging (co-pack) It facilitating the general advantages of combination therapy,
Improved medication compliance by reducing the pill burden of patients.
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It solves the problem of keeping track of several medications, understanding their various instructions, etc. It is popular in India because of its increased efficacy, better compliance, reduced cost and simpler logistics.
But a combination is considered rational, only if it fulfills the following criteria:
The combination has a proven advantage over single compounds administered separately in therapeutic effect, safety or compliance
The drugs in the combination should act by different mechanisms.
The combination should not have any additive toxicity
The pharmacokinetics (the absorption, metabolism, distribution, elimination of drug in the body) must not be widely different.
Recently the government banned 300 FDCs. The rationale is:
Not following the criteria:Eg: A combination of Nimesulide + paracetamol is banned as it has no therapeutic justification, combination may produce increased hepatotoxicity. So as it does not the meet the criteria of FDC it is banned Irrational production: FDCs containing drugs combined together for the first time are treated as New Drugs and they require the permission of concerned authroities for manufacture and sale. State Licensing Authorities had issued manufacturing licences for a very large number of FDCs without prior clearance from Central authorities and this had resulted in the availability of many FDCs in the market which have not been tested for efficacy and safety. These unauthorized FDCs pose risk to patients and communities FDCs if not regulated has pose risks:
FDCs side effects range from dizziness, nausea, hallucinations and are addictive. Moreover, Indian patients have the habit of “self-medication” which can be very harmful. (e.g. Cough syrups). They also have abuse potential; or could lead to antibiotic resistance in the population
At present alternative to FDC is limited. Hence government has banned mostly those FDCs that comprise of drugs which are not significantly more efficacious when given as FDCs than when they are when given as monotherapy. But the gap can be filled by using generic versions of the medicines after detailed studies are undertaken. India push for AYUSH as an alternative system of medicine could also be helpful.
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Q.26) Critically analyze how effective has been the government’s universal immunization program in reducing child mortality rate in India. Also highlight the benefits of immunization in India. India's Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) launched in 1985 is one of the largest immunization programmes in the world and a major public health intervention in the country. It aims to give maximum protection to the children against Vaccine Preventable Diseases (VPDs).
UIP in India includes four vaccines - rotavirus vaccine-Rotavac, Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV), Measles, Rubella (MR) vaccine, and Adult Japanese Encephalitis (JE) vaccine.
Evaluation of UIP:
Biggest achievement is the eradication of small pox Polio free nation Earlier in 2011, a vaccine against Haemophilus influenza type B (Hib) was introduced as part of the pentavalent vaccine to contain diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, hepatitis B and Hib. Since its inception, under five child mortality has significantly dropped down to 48 deaths per 1000 childbirths; infant mortality to 42/1000;MMR to 167/1000 in 2015. The UIP is now a much strengthened programme, supported by a transparent system of taking decisions to introduce new vaccines, being sensitive to adverse events following immunisation and with the capacity to add additional vaccines.
Despite the positives, certain aspect need attention with respect to immunization drive in India:
The pace of expansion of coverage is very slow with mere 1% increase per year (from 61% in 2009 to 65% in 2013)
Out of the all the children covered, one third do not get vaccinated on time, which defeats the purpose of vaccine especially in ones like rotavirus.
Parents do not keep records of children and also there are certain misconceptions about the vaccines
More funds need to be allocated for timely and adequate coverage
Benefits of immunization:
With these new vaccines, India’s UIP will provide free vaccines against 13 life threatening diseases, to 27 million children annually, the largest birth cohort in the world.
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Saving children from death and disability adds to social value of life, producing a healthy individual, who shall add to economic productivity of the nation. Thus in reaping demographic divident.
Healthy children avert the burden of medical treatment along with prevention of loss of wages in taking care of the child. This is important especially in case of poor families.
Since 2014, government has accelerated the efforts of coverage under mission Indradhanush (vaccinated against diphtheria, whooping cough, tetanus, polio, tuberculosis, measles and hepatitis B). India is also getting funding from international vaccine alliance GAVI. With proper implementation of Mission indradanush and by making small changes to National Vaccine policy, 2011, effective surveillance system, proper monitoring, integrated focus on nutrition and sanitation day is not far when India achieve 100% immunization.
Q.27) What is compulsory drugs license. Discuss the importance of issuing compulsory drugs licenses in India. Also bring out it’s implications over drugs industry of India.
Compulsory licensing(CL) is the grant of permission by the government to entities to use, manufacture, import or sell a patented invention without the patent-owner’s consent. It is granted by the government and is usually done so in public interest. It is an exception to the TRIPs agreement of the WTO. Under the Doha Declaration on the TRIPS Agreement Public Health, each member has the right to grant compulsory licenses and the freedom to determine the grounds upon which such licenses are granted.
Section 84 of Indian Patents Act assures patent holders that CL will only be used in times of national emergency or for non commercial uses.
Importance to india:
Affordable medicine: As the patented drug is not available at a reasonable price, it is important considering the large number of poor unable to afford essential medicine. Eg: India issued a 'CL' to a cancer drug 'Nexavar'. Its prices came down from ~3 lakh/month to ~9000/month. Relieving patent pressure: CL helps in breaking cartles, monopolies who abuse patent rights Delay in development of important technology may occur due to deadlocks between the “improver” and the “patentee”. CL can ensure brisk agreement between the two. 59
Development of generics: CL can go a long way in developing the generic pharmaceutical industry in India. Patent protection favors advanced nations but not countries like India which have fewer patents to protect. Implications on drug industry:
Discourage investments: Frequently making use of this provision is likely to discourage investments into this sector. Affects innovation: Without patents, the inventors and innovators can neither be adequately compensated for their costs of research nor be encouraged or motivated for further research to develop new and improved products Fosters generics: Indian drug industry is reputed as 'pharmacy of the world'. But, Indian govt. made use of this provision only once till date. It even rejected many appeals to issue CL. Ex: in Lee pharma case. Compulsory licensing is therefore yet another necessary evil. It is a violation of the rights of the patent holder. But this violation sometimes becomes necessary in order to avoid misuse of monopoly right and to protect human right to health.
Q.28) Strengthening of private healthcare at the cost of the public sector has had disastrous consequences. Elaborate. The private sector’s share in healthcare in India is an astonishing 78 per cent in urban areas and 71 per cent in rural areas. Also, public-funded healthcare insurance schemes in India, like the Rashtriya Swasth BeemaYojana, give more than 80 per cent of their reimbursements to the private sector. This has led to disastrous consequences. They are:
Pushing those in the margins into BPL: There are cases where health expenditure is the major cause of pushing a family into povety Not impressive health indicators: Despite lot of efforts IMR is worse than low income countries as Nepal, Bangladesh Cartelization of hospitals: It has become a common practice that a medical practitioner at PHC would refer to private hospital due to lack of facilities and for the commission they earn for referral services High out of pocket expenditure: 80% of out patients and 60% of in patients in India are served by private sector, leading to huge out of pocket expenditure. Commercialization of health services: Though its concerned with life of person, sprawling private hospitals has lead to commercialization of health. Also due to lack of public infrastructure money from various govt schemes gets misued. Eg; Arogya Sri of Andhra Pradesh, where govt funded the specified health services at private hospitals were hugely misused. Lack of focus of preventive health: Only public sector has the infrastructure and span to cater to preventive health mainly nutrition related disorders and vector borne diseases. Due to lack of enough public health care presence preventive health is taking a back seat. 60
Uneven health care services: Private sector mostly focusing on secondary and tertiary health, primary healthcare services which act as gatekeeper for secondary and tertiary is failing badly Way forward The diversity of the Indian population demands a right mix of both public and private health sector which compliment each other.
Public sector should cater mostly the primary health services and should be at the reach of all. For which appropriate infrastructure and right motivation for health personnel are needed. Eg: TN health service system can act as a model Private sector needs to be regulated and enough space is provided so that it caters to sophisticated health problems Art. 47 of the Indian Constitution, states that it is the duty of the State to promote improvement of public health. It is high time that appropriate and comprehensive health system is put in place.
Q.29) The widening rift between Pakistan and Afghanistan is an opportunity, which India must tap. Critically examine in the light of India-Afghanistan relations. India has enjoyed friendly relations and deep cultural connections with the people of Afghanistan since ancient times. Indo-Afghan relation’s bilateral ties include elements of civilizational, emotional and strategic imperatives and bonds. But, in the recent past there has been realignment in Afghanistan’s policy which India took to maintaining a distance in its peace process. Recent developments in Afghan vis a vis Pakistan: Withering peace talks (failed negotiations with Taliban) and rise in insurgent attacks in Kabul. In April, this year Afghan president Ghani warned Pakistan that if it continues to block trade with India, Kabul would consider blocking Pakistan’s own access to Central Asia. Widening rift an opportunity for India - new life into the strategic partnership: Afghanistan itself is embracing India after loosing faith in Pakistan as an interlocutor of peace process. India could build on this wrtagreements on extradition, mutual legal assistance, and even space cooperation. Building of Iran’s Chabahar port, with a promised access to Afgan would counter Pakistan monopoly in the region as the India’s line of access to Central Asia. Apart from the broader strategic implications of Indian access to Afghanistan and a deeper alignment between all three of Pakistan’s neighbours, Chabahar will generate Indian opportunities for intelligence collection and activity.
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Defence cooperation in recent past has been lukewarm, with the recent supply of attack helicopters to Afghan, India could further benefit from Make in India initiative in defence sector. Befriending Afghan would not help India in being a regional power but also countering China’s extra influence in the region.
India-Afghanistan relations:
Need for bold and dynamic role for India in Afghan: Strategic interests : Afghanistan provides connectivity and a trade corridor for India into the Central Asian region of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, which has been blocked due to Pakistan’s refusal to grant transit rights. Security concerns: Islamic fundamentalists and terrorist groups operating from PakAfghan border region have links with terrorist groups in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and in India. Cautious and balanced approach: Indian activities might largely benefit the Afghan people but increasing Indian influence in Afghanistan is likely to exacerbate regional tensions and encourage Pakistani countermeasures. India could use the opportunity but cannot directly balance for rift in Af-Pak relations as it has direct connection with the insurgent groups in Pakistan.
Pak-Afghan relations’ bilateral ties are a complex combination of cooperation, mistrust and divergence. Now after post 2014 NATO troops withdrawal and recent rifts in Pak-Afghan relation along Afghan which is openely seeking India’s help – opportunity should not be let gone. India should play a leading role in articulating global consensus and building a regional mechanism on terrorism as well as strengthening regional connectivity.
Q.30) In the light of the recent attack on Indian Army’s base camp by Pakistan based terrorists, what diplomatic, political and military measures , in your opinion, should India take?
Terrorists attack on India/Indo-Pak border-Pathankot attack on army’s airbase, Gurudaspur incident or recent attack on Indian Army camp in Uri in Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan seems to continue proxy war against Indian state and tensions seems to remain high on both sides.
Indian response has to be both diplomatic and military but we should weigh each option carefully and not get caught in Pakistan's trap.
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Diplomatic:
The effort to thwart the diplomatic blitzkrieg that Pakistan had launched in a bid to focus world attention on the trouble in Kashmir. As India weighs its options in punishing Pakistan, a looming consideration in its calculus is China, with Beijing playing an increasingly prominent role in backing its 'all-weather ally' to the hilt
Economic:
Economic sanctions, which usually top the list of any country's 'options other than war' list, are also unlikely to work against Pakistan. The last time India attempted to squeeze Pakistan economically was after the 2001 attack on Parliament, by halting air and land trade. the indirect trade-via third countries such as Dubai-has shot up. The trade will merely shift to other channels, like sea channels or via Dubai, which is a free port
Military:
War is only a means to an end, not an end in itself. If India decides to use force against Pakistan, there has to be a clear objective in what it hopes to achieve and an assessment of whether using force is the best way to get there. A mature nation like India could hardly afford to function like a rogue state viz. Pakistan. India could consider limited air and special forces strikes on known terrorist facilities and Pakistani military installations in the part of Kashmir that Pakistan controls. A restrained use of force could signal lack of Indian resolve, thereby emboldening the Pakistani military and providing it with little incentive to crack down on anti-Indian groups. India could, and probably will, increase the intensity of covert operations to foment disorder in Pakistan, particularly in the restive province of Balochistan. Such activities would certainly harm the interests of the Pakistani military. But they would also bolster Pakistan’s effort to portray India as morally and politically equivalent to Pakistan in the use of terrorism, a label India has long sought to avoid. India will also justifiably seek to mobilize the world against Pakistan as a state-sponsor of terrorism,
Beyond small-scale tit-for-tat action against targets in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir, India’s best recourse is to persuade the rest of the world to exert sufficient political and economic pressure to punish Pakistan for its toleration—if not outright support—of violence against India.
Rational choice
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Kautilya asserted: "The attacker should know the comparative strengths and weaknesses of himself and of the enemy, and having ascertained the time of marching, the consequences, the loss of men and money, and profits and danger, he should march with his full force; otherwise he should keep quiet."
The objective of dismembering Pakistan and wresting PoK by force is likely to escalate into a nuclear war, making the cost extremely high for India as pakistan is a nuclear state India could focus on economic reform as part of a grand strategy The other way of taming Pakistan is to build an effective homeland security structure
India has to take steps as a responsible nation in a responsible manner.
Q.31) How effective has the BRICS grouping been in achieving it’s objectives so far? What challenges does BRICS face in meeting it objectives? What role can BRICS play in creation of a more equitable, multi polar world order?
BRICS is a pan continental informal grouping of -Brazil, Russia, India, China & South Africa. On the premise of greater need for flexibility mechanisms to achieve larger geo-economic goals BRICS was set up. Objectives of BRICS:
Initially: it was found to enhance the representation of emerging economies in global financial institutions. Later: it expanded its activities to coordination in meetings and international organization; and the development of an agenda for multisectorial cooperation among its members.
Effectiveness of BRICS:
BRICS helps create new instruments for global relevance and influence for each of its members. Successful developments: a. Setting up of BRICS development bank or New Development Bank (NDB) – aimed at the financing of infrastructure projects and sustainable development in emerging economies and developing countries b. Contingent Reserves Arrangement (CRA) –for promoting mutual support amongst the BRICS members in situations of instability in the balance of payment Political coordination too hasn’t seen a element of coordination 64
It has collectively raised voices against human rights violations in war ridden Libya, Syria. CRITICS: Just “anti-Western” sentiment is not enough to hold together an organization when the BRICS countries do not share a deeper common interest.
India &BRICS:
BRICS is an integral part of India’s grand strategy, and a vehicle in India’s journey from being a norm taker to a norm shaper. It offers greater bargaining space as India seeks to gain more prominence in institutions of global governance, and shape them in the liberal international tradition with a southern ethos.
Challenges to BRICS:
BRICS internal challenges: Russia and Brazil have both fallen into recession, while China, has seen a sharp contraction in overall economic activity as well as institutional weakness and politicoeconomic crisis in Brazil and South Africa India is endeavouring to accelerate economic reform, and competitiveness but suffers from having systems in place to have a say in the international arena.
Role of BRICS in multi-polar world:
BRICS needs to acquire weight in the international space so as to respond to contemporary realities. It needs the engagement of all the stakeholders The economic-financial sphere stands out as one of the most promising areas of activity for the BRICS. High growth rate, economic potential and demographic development are putting the BRICS increasingly in a leading position in setting the global agenda and having a greater say in the global governance. Also, BRICS as a group are expected to step up their role and extend to pressing peace and security challenges, from terrorism, piracy and nuclear non-proliferation to regional security in North Africa and the Middle East. In areas of Climate change BRICS as a grouping works on common agreed principles. Hearing voices of 40% of world is a step towards equality.
To make rightful place in the 21st century, the BRICS countries must create more open, accountable, and trustworthy systems of governance. Inorder to promote multipolarity, it should go beyond economic cooperation and have common goals.
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Q.32) How effective has India’s interventionist policy in Nepal been? Critically examine. India pursues a policy that encourages democracy, pluralism, stability and socio-economic progress of Nepal. But oflate, it India-Nepal relation is seen as Patron-client relationship due to economic and security reasons and interventionist due to ongoing political crisis in Nepal. India’s Nepal Policy - Interventionist: Though Right since Independence, India supported Nepal’s polity. But during elections in the recent that India being perceived as anti-Madhesi has brought downturn in the relations During the recent constitutional crisis, its been observed by independent interlocutors that India is micro-meddling with Nepal’s polity. Though Indian intentions seems fair in advising to consensus-driven rather than a numbers-determined approach to finalise the Constitution it was ignored leading to political turmoil Nepal’s government seems to be perceiving India as a big bother who is trying to control their natural ressources as well as using Nepal to countennace China The high-handedness of India’s intervention and the rigid posturing of Nepal’s ruling parties equations of relations are turning to low point With the changed geo-political situation and Geophysical sensitivity of Nepal there needs to be a eveloved doctrine of engagement. Fallouts due to this policy: Constitutional amendments: Indian interlocutors pushing for amendments on demarcation of few of its provinces is being viewed as a narrowed approach Cross border disputes: Recent disruption of goods during Madheshi agitation and India being blamed for the disruption inorder to achieve political mileage Trust deficit: India in 1952 sent a military mission to Nepal when attempt was made by leftists in Nepal to overthrow Rana of Nepal. This memory stills torments nepalese who saw it as interference in domestic affairs and patronizing government rooted in monarchy. Perception as big brother: Instead of taking the spirit of Indian advice to arrive based constitution, blamed India for acting like a big brother. Polarizing effect on Nepalese: Taking sides in Nepali politics has further led to destabilsing influence and sense of alienation by hill people. Way forward
Instead of going with interventionist policy with Nepal’s politics India needs to focus on more deliverables like linking budhhist tourist spots, improving connectivity along the borders. India’s effort should be to nudge both sides of the polarized debate through quiet and sustained diplomacy so as to find a amicable resolution.
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Though China factor can be a deterrent there needs to build up of mutual trust. At official & diplomatic level more straight forward approach that could prevent creating ambiguities that give ruse conspiracy theories for its media
Q.33) Despite being India’s old and strong ally, Russia is seen to be getting closer to Pakistan. Discuss the reasons India has not been able to keep it’s old ally closer. What steps India need to take to tackle it. Russia has shared a special relationship with India and has been India’s most reliable partner post-Independence. Relations between India and Russia were up-graded from "strategic partnership" to "special and privileged strategic partnership" in 2010. But some issues of dissonance have appeared between the two countries over the last few years. Concerns:
Rapidly expanding defence and strategic ties between India and USA Growing defence relationship between India and USA: India recent;y signing defence agreements as, Logistics Support Agreement (LSA), Communications Interoperability and Security Memorandum of Agreement (CISMOA) and Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) has surfaced as a cause of serious concern for Russia Decreasing defence imports from Russia: In the past India has been heavily dependent on Russian armaments with more than 70 per cent of its weapons being sourced from Russia. Although in absolute terms Russia is still the largest supplier of defence equipment to India, its share in overall imports has progressively declined. Russian economy in doldrums: With pressure on its economy with lowering of commodity prices, Russia is looking to diversify it arms market and have signed military cooperation agreement with Pakistan. Russia increased its engagement with China.
In spite of this new irritant in our ties, Russia remains a traditional ally of India. India can take steps like:
Increased attention to strengthening the India-Russia partnership by engaging regularly. Faster conclusion of pending defence deals. PM Modi has to sensitize Russia about the damage their deal with Pakistan could cause to India Increasing economic cooperation by concentrating on trade and achieving target of $30 billion trade by 2025. Momentum in oil, gas, nuclear energy sector has to be sustained. Actively pursuing International North-South Transport Corridor which connects Mumbai with St. Petersburg of Russia. Taking forward FTA negotiations between India and Eurasian Economic Union. In this multipolar world, India cannot be seen to be tilting towards any one power. India and Russia are natural allies. It is in the interest of both countries to have vibrant relations.
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Q.34) The recently concluded Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement between India and USA signifies a new point in India USA defence cooperation. In this light discuss the evolution of India – US Defence cooperation over the past decade. Also list areas of convergence between India and United States. Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA), is a Indo-US agreement where both the militaries can share logistical support, supplies, and services on a reimbursable basis, and provides a framework to govern them.
The agreement is a strategic binding between India and the US.
New point in bilateral defence co-operation:
US Asia Pivot: It makes India a critical link in the US’s plans for a larger pivot to Asia. India can have access to widely spread US military and Air bases which will enhance it operational capability and can help in "balance of power" in the region. Enhance defence cooperation: The signing of LEMOA opens up door for signing of another agreements like CISMOA(communications Interoperability and security memorandum of agreement) and BECA(Basic exchange and cooperation agreement) which leads to increased strategic cooperation and when signed would significantly raise defense cooperation between the two countries. Geostrategic importance: This agreement might help in curbing Chinese influence and India can have access to US air bases in South China Sea, South East Asia or Asia Pacific Humanitarian missions: This will also help in significantly enhancing Indian armed forces capabilities including their response to humanitarian missions Evolution of Indo-US defence relations:
Relations between India and the United States have dramatically improved since the end of the Cold War. 1995 Agreed Minute on Defense Relations: It provided for military-to-military exercises between the countries. This agreement was an important step leading to the signing of the "Vision Document" in 2000, which provided a roadmap for future relations In 2005, ten-year defense framework: In which both the countries committed to increasing defense trade, the transfer of technology, and counterterrorism collaboration. 68
The Defense Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) is the centerpiece of the newly signed ten-year defense framework between the countries 2006, Civil nuclear deal: The deal distinguished between India's civil nuclear facilities, which were put under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspections, and military facilities. In 2015, U.S. President Barack Obama became the first U.S. president to visit India twice during his presidency when he was the chief guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations Despite the fighter deal falling through and minor scuttles over technology, India has generally looked to the United States for military procurements over the past decade Recent times, maritime collaboration between India and the United States has been increasing
Common concerns on security front:
Both India and the United States have concerns about Beijing’s growing aggressiveness in the South China Sea and beyond. Fight on terrorism: India offered its bases to help in the invasion of Afghanistan This is a prime example of the converging strategic interests that are driving advancements in U.S-India defense relations Others are on issues on anti-piracy and counter-narcotics
The relationship has evolved from one of relative indifference, to one of occasional annoyance, to a cooperative, exercise-based partnership
Note: Answer, is written in length as so to make it a comprehensive piece of information on IndoUS defence relation. You may pick points from it to write your answers
Q.35) How does India’s interests in Africa differ from China’s? Discuss key areas of cooperation between India and the African subcontinent? Once called the dark continent is now considered a hopeful continent. World powers are clamouring to have their shares in the rising. India and China both rising global powers are also trying to grab the opportunity. When it comes to the interests of both nations there are similarities likeLooking for economic opportunity: market, raw material, oil, cheap labour availability Strategic interests like- increasing goodwill and influence over African nation Differences in interests
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There is a basic differences in the ‘way’ India and china engage with Africa
Unlike the state-centric Chinese model largely focused on resource extraction and necessary infrastructure, India’s economic presence in Africa is marked by the predominance of its private sector, including a significant number of small and medium enterprises. Beyond resources and infrastructure, India has carved out niches such as information and telecommunication technologies, education and health services. While China is accused of being a “mercantilist mandarins” China’s Africa strategy can certainly be viewed as calculated for its own strategic interest, India has the potential to offer a relationship to African nations based on mutual benefit. Key areas of cooperation Key areas of cooperation between India and Africa range from:
Socio-economic and techonological: Health care, sanitation, finding low cost solutions to infectious diseases , facing climate change, water crisis, poverty, illiteracy to increase investment and effort in science n tech research, finding solutions to dealing with conflicts in a diverse population and a way to positively direct the young demographic dividend of both India and Africa.
While the language of the new engagement with Africa should build on the foundations of the past — Gandhi, Mandela and Afro-Asian solidarity India must capitalise on the goodwill in Africa and present a common front when it comes to issues like UNSC reform, low cost medicines, IPR issues, taxation and terrorism and not let the issues of delay in project completions, racial issues faced by students of African origin in India and the china factor dictate our bond.
India must create a new edifice defined by aspirational Africa’s quest for a good life. The opportunity that presents itself to India requires careful nurturing and much investment at all levels. For an aspiring global power, the India story will mean more if “Make in India” is extended to “Make with Africa”.
Q.36) Trace the development of the political crisis in Maldives in the past decade. Highlight the strategic significance of Maldives in India’s geo-political setup in the Indian Ocean. After the democratically elected government of Mohamed Nasheed was replaced in an alleged coup, Maldives has been facing political uncertainty. Maldives timeline-
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Before 2008: Maldives was under autocratic rule of President Abdul Gayoom, during which country went through major political crisis. 2008: Elections held and Mohammed Nasheed became the first democratically elected President. He ratified a new constitution. Also he maintained good relations with India. 2010: Cabinet resigns en masse in protest at alleged efforts by the opposition-controlled parliament to block government business. 2012: Row erupts over arrest of the chief justice, who ordered the release of a government critic. President Nasheed was forced to resign, following a police mutiny. Vice-president Mohamed WaheedHussainManik is sworn in as president. 2013: Fresh elections were held and Nasheed lost to Abdulla Yameen, half-brother of former President Gayoom. 2015: Former president Mohammed Nasheed is jailed for 13 years after being found guilty on terrorism charges. He later he went in exile in Britain. 2016 June: Former vice-president Ahmed Adeeb is convicted of plotting to assassinate President Abdulla Yameen and jailed for 15 years. 2016 August: Government issues arrest warrant for former president Mohamed Nasheed for failing to return to the country to complete a jail sentence after receiving medical treatment in Britain. The political crisis continues. Strategic significance of Maldives:
Maldives is key littoral country in Arabian sea to which India has a cordial relationship in form of various aids in form of soft loans, maritime security in form of Operations Cactus. Maldives acquired greater strategic significance post 9/11 particularly after Mumbai 26/11 as seaborne terrorism was the new reality. The turmoil as expected has allured inimical powers to India to make a fresh bid to gain foothold in this part of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) located strategically astride key maritime routes. India has various Military assets in Maldives to enhance its surveillance capabilities and ability to respond swiftly to threats. This makes Maldives a part of our Security Grid. There was also move by extra regional powers like China to seek naval presence in the country, as part of its strategic stretch in the Indian Ocean. Maldives is an important member of SAARC It is strategically located along major sea lanes in the Indian Ocean. A significant portion of world trade takes place through the Indian Ocean. All the energy supplies coming from Gulf nations pass through this area. 71
Cooperation between both countries will be win-win situation for both as Maldives occupies an important place in India’s security architecture and Maldives need India’s assistance in its development and stability. However recent maritime geopolitics led by Chinese activism has made Maldives a hot point especially when China is banking Maldives to be part of Maritime Silk route Project. Maldives is also very relevant considering the Chinese String of Pearls theory.
Q.37) Critically evaluate India’s current refugee policy, and also discuss why India needs a uniform asylum law. India is one of the largest hub of migrant from all around the world. Although India is not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention and does not have coherent and uniform law addressing the issue of asylum, yet India has historically been humane and generous in its treatment of refugees.
India’s asylum practices in line with her own democratic, constitutional and cultural values.
India currently hosts around 32,000 refugees fleeing war, violence and severe persecution in countries such as Afghanistan, Myanmar, Somalia, Iraq, etc. This is in addition to the around 175,000 long-staying refugees from Tibet and Sri Lanka who have been given asylum over decades.
Presently government is ready to accept those who are facing religious atrocities in neighboring countries.
In absence of any legislation the policy on refugees is based on executive policies and judicial pronouncements.
The process of deciding who qualifies as a refugee is not clear.
While the Indian government determines refugee status for asylum-seekers from neighboring regions like Tibet and Sri Lanka, asylum-seekers from other regions approach the UNHCR office in New Delhi. This has given rise to an inconsistent approach towards different nationalities.
Hence need for a uniform asylum law arises which will serve the following purpose:
Rights and duties of refugees will be codified which will bring equality and parity among migrants. For instance presently while Sri Lankans and Tibetans have 72
government-issued IDs, the vast majority of Afghan and Burmese refugees have only the documentation given to them by the UN, which is not widely recognised.
Rules can be framed in manner that is contextual to India’s history, capacity and security concerns.
Putting in place a system where all refugees are given an opportunity for a fair hearing, will encourage them to present themselves at the earliest for the determination of their claims rather than forcing them to go underground where they are vulnerable to exploitation.
It will also give clear guidance to law enforcement authorities, with the result that fewer refugees will be unlawfully detained for “illegal entry” even though the entry in question was to escape persecution in their home country.
Emerging issues like grating asylum to migrants for Bloch region can be handled objectively.
With conflicts around the world having intensified, fresh arrivals of refugees are only expected to increase. Experience form Europe indicate preparedness is required to help both the host country and refugees. Q.38) What are the challenges and opportunities in the economic integration of SAARC? Discuss briefly.
The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is the regional intergovernmental organization and economic, geopolitical union of South Asian nations. Recently SAARC has completed 30 years since its established.
It is no secret that SAARC has been a hostage of difficulties in Indo-Pak bilateral relations that has consequently inhibited progress in many SAARC initiatives
Challenges:
SAFTA, in many ways the biggest achievement of SAARC, is yet to become fully operational.
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National reforms need to be continued: South Asia remains the most highly protected region in the world, especially India, Pakistan, and particularly in Bangladesh. Providing infrastructure, economic governance, finance to SMEs are limiting the potential Trade & Investment liberalisation: It has become a major challenge because of concerns of how these reforms will affect employment, income distribution, poverty and vulnerability, as these have low level of economic development. Low regional trade: While South Asian countries have made significant progress in integrating with the rest of the world, intra-regional trade remains very low. Intra-SAARC trade suffers from complex non-tariff barriers, poor infrastructure, lack of connectivity and bureaucratic red tape at borders. Currently, the total intra-SAARC trade stands only at US$ 28 billion Inter-state disputes: One of the major hurdles in the way of cooperation among the SAARC members is the mistrust, mutual security perceptions and hostility. Eg: Indo-Pak disputes Unstable Financial Positions: The SAARC members are financially and economically not very much developed. This weak financial position is reflected in the trade imbalances among the member countries. Asymmetry between India and Member Countries: There is economic, technological and demographic imbalance between India and other member countries of SAARC. Resulting in mistrust, misperceptions and Fear of Indian Domination Lack of People to People Contacts
All these are posing a major challenge for the success of SAARC. Challenges also create scope for new opportunities, new ideas and ways for getting past the challenges.
Opportunities/prospects: SAARC countries have vast potentials. It is a huge market of about 1.7 billion people, with fast growing middle class, sustained above average economic growth over many years, substantial reserves of natural resources, large coastline and geographical proximity. India can take the lead.
Blue economy: Setting upmodern maritime Silk Road connectivity Dynamic trade gains:There is huge scope for regional trade, due to proximity of markets and burgeoning economic progress. Cooperation in agriculture, rural, biotechnology, culture, energy, environment, economy and trade, finance, funding mechanism, human resource development, poverty alleviation, people to people contact, security aspects, social development, science and technology, communications, and tourism look promising.
Everything with SAARC is not gloomy. In fact, the establishment of this important organization is the proof that the regional neighbors want to achieve progress. It is, therefore, time to re-invent
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the wheel of South Asian identity through increased citizen activism, which will lead to a better environment for confidence-building.
Q.39) Discuss the factors that are turning SAARC ineffective and dysfunctional. What steps should be taken to make it relevant and workable in the present conditions? The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is the regional intergovernmental organization and economic, geopolitical union of South Asian nations. However, as a regional grouping, it has failed to succeed its mission.
Impediments for success of SAARC:
India’s visible lack of enthusiasm: Though India is central to SAARC, sharing its border will the all the member, India made its skepticism clear from the very early days, because India feared that a regional grouping would turn out to be a forum for all neighboring countries to ventilate bilateral grievances Structural causes:
The SAARC Charter: It primarily focused on cultural, economic and social sectors, but there were no means to institutionalize them Agreements and Conventions: There are no agreements to promote mutual trust and resolve mutual disputes SAARC Bodies: Almost all SAARC bodies and subsidiary bodies and offices are working in the social fields Geographical distance: Most of the SAARC memebers are neither neighbors nor enjoy close ties among themselves. Functional Causes:
Demographic structure of the region: Poor economic system, backwardness in education and economic system is a major reasons for the failure of SAARC Mutual Conflicts of Members: Strained Indo-Pak realtions, India-SL on Kachatheevu island, Indo-Bangladesh on water sharing & illegal immigrants, Pakistan-Afghanistan political strain, B'desh and Pak historical strains, political instability in Afghanistan, military rule in Pakistan, India-Nepal on issue of transit. Weak cultural ties- Failure to maintain the distinct cultural heritage and bringing togetherness on cultural lines Trade and non trade barriers-SAFTA-no major trade happening due to sensitive list, lack of export capabilities, lack of awareness of each other tradable products Unresolved border and maritime issue have led to problems of Terrorism, Refugee Crisis, Smuggling, Narco-Trade. 75
Way Forward:
Resolving the bilateral Issues among member nations. Improving infrastructure and regional connectivity. Collaboration in scientific research, universities exchange programs, tourism etc will have positive effect in relations among countries Taking strategic support in forums like WTO, UNSC, SAARC should follow an imaginative, proactive, creative policy taking lessons from world's event like iran nuclear deal, Americacuba relations and columbia -FARC
India, being a major economy in SAARC grouping should play a major role in bringing the countries together to foster peace and harmony and implementation on Gujral doctrine should be considered balancing the efforts to countervail the major like terrorism and border issues.
Q.40) Critically analyze how justified is World Trade Organisation’s (WTO) objection against Domestic Content Requirements (DCRs) under Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM) of India? What should be India’s course of action in this situation? The World Trade Organisation’s (WTO) Appellate Body has declared certain domestic content requirements (DCRs) in India’s Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM) illegal.
Reason:
Government would make contracts with eligible solar power developers (SPDs), assuring them guaranteed prices for 25 years. It makes 30% of domestic solar panels mandatory This is then sold to distribution companies who, in turn, sell it to consumers. This compulsory 30% domestic content procurement is challenged by USA and WTO ruled that it is violation of GATT principles.
Justification:
WTO: Violation of National treatment principle ( general prohibition against discrimination between imported and domestic products). India: GATT principles have exception to National treatment which includes government procurement WTO: Doesn’t come under short supply. As supply should include all sources and not just domestic India: India reasoned that solar panels are in short supply WTO: As per GATT principles allow countries to adopt measures ‘necessary to secure compliance with laws or regulations’ that are not inconsistent with GATT India: Doesn’t have any such law in place 76
India needs to strengthen its case as GATT principles clearly recognizes a country’s sovereign right to regulate not just for environmental objectives but also for health, public morals etc.
India’s further course of action:
India can appeal against this WTO's highest adjudicatory body 'Appellate tribunal'.
India can highlight the fact that many of the US' states have such provision.
Since US is a major trade partner, without escalating this further, India can resolve it by having a bilateral arrangement.
Before pursuing these, India needs to analyze if it really wants DCR policy because: i) Domestic panels are 10% costly which makes solar power expensive. ii) It is a capitalintensive industry. So, no huge employment is generated.
Based on the above options, India needs to choose wisely, to promote its interests.
Q.41) Discuss the rationale behind pushing for United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reforms. How helpful have been the multilateral groupings for India for reforming UNSC? Also suggest some alternative policy measures that India should consider in this objective.
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) set up in the aftermath of the world war II with five powerful countries (US, UK, France, Russia, and China) as permanent members, brought in a new ray of hope w.r.t the maintenance of peace and stability in the world. However it is under constant criticism for its plans and actions. It is said to be performing in unilateral way with unquestioned authority, working only for vested interests and not making non-permanent members inclusive in their decision making.
Rationale behind pushing for reforms:
Existential requirement: Established to meet the challenges of the post-War world II, it has struggled to cope with the dynamics of the new world. If it resists all proposals for change in the years to come, there is a real risk of the UN being sidelined or rival organisations taking over its agenda. To reflect global dynamics: New emergent powers need a say. As its working more in a unilateral way there is need for inclusive decision making. 77
Equitable representation: As the membership has increased there is need for equitable representation of different geographical regions. No African nation is represented in UNSC where most of its work is focused. Failed to deal global crisis: Geo political rivalry among the P5 has prevented the UNSC to come up with effective solutions for dealing with global crisis UNSC failed to play decisively to stop many of the conflicts. Its delayed actions and consequences had worsened Rwandan crisis. Eg: Syria. Ban Ki Moon, has said that UNSC has failed Syria. Multilateral groups for reforming UNSC:
G4: The G4 nations -- India, Japan, Germany and Brazil -- are seeking permanent membership in the UNSC. It is needed that these unite efforts of reform-oriented member states to join efforts and finally bring about meaningful reform. Eg: G20, BRICS There is need for the efforts to be intensified to build further momentum and to arrive at real textbased negotiations.
India should adopt a multipronged and more aggressive strategy to get UNSC permanent seat. India can take following steps: Diplomatic effort
Make G4 more representative by including an African nation to garner the support of all developing nation. Aggressive persuasion on various global platforms to make the world accept the growing role of India in a multipolar world. Use soft power diplomacy to influence the global opinion in India’s favor . Multimedia and widespread propaganda can be used for this. Convincing P5 about the preeminent role India can play in the emerging security scenario in Middle East and South China Sea dispute. Using various diplomatic channels during global negotiation.
Internal efforts
Enhancing global faith and confidence in India’s nuclear program by adhering to IAEA protocol and greater transparency in its nuclear program. India should also improve its own record of human rights especially in naxal area, North East and Jammu & kashmir. This will leverage its claim to play a role in global security.
Other efforts India can utilize its arm deals and opening up of economy as attractive offers to P5 to get their support in its demand for permanent seat in UNSC.
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Note: (Ref): The reforms in UN security council encompasses the following • Categories of Membership • Veto power yielded by permanent members • Regional Membership • Its working methods and size of enlarged Council • UNSC and UN General Assembly relationship
Q.42) What are the hurdles India is facing in becoming an APEC member? Also highlight the significance of joining it for India.
Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) is a forum for 21 Pacific Rim member countries that facilitates economic growth and prosperity in the region, with the vision of creating a seamless regional economy. India is seeking a membership in it. Though among the APEC member states there hasn’t been any fundamental objection to India becoming a member, but still India is not been able to enter it because of following hurdles:
Geography: India doesn’t come under Asia-Pacific, the criterion on which the group is based. US concern that India might slow down APEC Process: As APEC is about free trade, some of India’s protectionist policies and low quality of bureaucratic departments, acts as a deterrent. Many of our tariff and non-tariff barriers and our stand at WTO add to this cynicism Domestic policies and norms - India levies high custom duties on imports and its rules on foreign direct investment (FDI) are overly elaborate. Also subsidies are over regulated due to which free trade criteria is violated. Also, the group put a 10-year moratorium on admitting new members. This is expired now. India is the fastest growing economy in the world. Its addition to any regional group in general and to APEC in particular would greatly benefit the group's members as they would gain access to India's vast market.
APEC's significance to India: Manufacturing hub: India's present growth strategy is to attract investment and thereby provide domestic employment. This will be fulfilled by APEC membership as it helps in our 'Make in India'. Act East policy: Membership will help in realization of ACT EAST POLICY.and facilitates development of north-eastern parts of our country Regional growth: It will complete India's integration with 'Asia-Pacific' region, thus realizing full potential of its economy APEC will help identify India the areas requiring regulatory change with flexibility of pace and timing of implementation of reforms. 79
APEC's membership is likely to offset losses suffered by India because of Trans-Pacific Partnership deal.
In order to comply with higher standards of APEC, India needs to undertake economic reforms which will help 'ease of doing business'. Therefore, it is in India's interests to actively pursue APEC's membership.
Q.43) Highlight the structural reforms adopted by IMF. What are the significances of these reforms and discuss how significant are global financial institutions for India. Structural reforms are measures that make the institutional and regulatory framework more supportive of economic growth—can help boost productivity. The long pending reforms has been finally implemented:
By increasing voting shares of emerging economies such as Brazil, Russia, India and China From now, the IMF’s Executive Board will consist entirely of elected Executive Directors, ending the category of appointed Executive Directors.
Significance of these reforms:
Emerging and developing economies gained more influence in the governance architecture of IMF Resource enhancement to developing countries will fortify the IMF’s ability to respond to crises more effectively. These reforms will reinforce the credibility, effectiveness, and legitimacy of the IMF The reforms bring India into the list of the top 10 members of IMF
Significance of global financial institutions for India:
Globalisation of Indian economy: By increase in foreign trade and capital flows Helped India to relook at the growth model from static one to a more liberalized economy All these led to increased private investments that led to faster growth in the GDP since 90s. Shock architecture: Providers of finance in times of crisis so as to not compromise on the welfare of people
These reforms mean a move from the dominance of global financial system by West and highlights the importance of growing share of developing countries in the global GDP. Thus moving towards democratization of global financial institutions
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Q.44) Write a short note on the Brexit. And discuss it’s implications on India and global economies.
he people of Britain voted for a British exit, or Brexit, from the EU in a historic referendum in June this year. Some of the reasons behind Brexit were:
European Union rules permitting free movement of labour into Britain led to increased flow of immigrants, which many didn’t want. 60% of laws in Britain come from EU in Brussels rather than from Parliament in London. According to EU law, Brits cannot work for more than 48 hours a week, averaged over 17 weeks. People who do work more have to sign a form saying that they agree to opt out of the 48-hour week. Numerous automobile directives imposed by EU. Keeping their national identity alive.
Implications on India
As the UK and European Union account for 23.7% of the rupee’s effective exchange rate, Brexit affects the rupee through both trade and the financial channels. UK’s exit could spark foreign portfolio investor outflows as investors may try risk aversion and add to the rupee’s weakness. Brexit has driven away fears of a US Fed rate hike and could lead to lower commodity prices. A heightened level of financial market volatility and uncertainty over the outlook for currencies and global macro will undermine global equity markets – including India Given the possibility of disturbances in currencies and UK facing a further slowdown in growth, there are heightened chances of slowdown in Indian exports to UK and EU. The companies that have operations in the UK and the EU will have to face significant translation losses with the probability of volatility in currencies remaining high Britain’s exit from the EU is expected to open up significant business and economic opportunities for the Indian Education Sector.
Implications on global countries:
Free movement is going to become a major issue in Europe after the exit of the UK. Exit might prompt other nations to go ahead with shifting the power back to national governments in areas like immigration, while maintaining the trading union. The EU will have a tough fight to keep its relevance at world forums. Relative appreciation of the euro with pound will drive inflation rate even further below its goal. Direct global economic consequences of Brexit are likely to be limited, as its bilateral trading relationships are mostly regionally diversified and limited in scope. 81
Q.45) What are the challenges facing European Union today? What would be the implications of BREXIT on EU and India. The European Union (EU) is a unique partnership in which member states have pooled sovereignty in certain policy areas and harmonized laws on a wide range of economic, social, and political issues. The EU is largely viewed as a success story and as a cornerstone of European stability and prosperity. Currently, however, the EU faces a range of political and economic pressures, including slow growth and persistently high unemployment in many EU countries, as well as the rise of populist political parties, some of which harbor anti-EU sentiments. Challenges before European Union:
Ongoing Economic Difficulties:EU is crippling with financial crisis followed by Euro zone crisis and recent Greece Default. Some EU governments imposed unpopular austerity measures, to rein in budget deficits and public debt. Despite some signs of recovery, many EU countries continue to struggle with sluggish growth, high unemployment (especially among young people), and dissatisfied publics Rise of Anti-EU or “Euroskeptic” Political Parties:Euroskeptic parties could pose challenges to the generally pro-European establishment parties in a number of EU countries and have put pressure on mainstream leaders to embrace some of their positions (such as curtailing EU integration or tightening immigration policies). No Common Political consensus: EU do not have any clear immigration policy which has led to no common consensus on the immigration process. Germany has decided to rehabilitate the refugees whereas others are still reluctant due to domestic political atmosphere. Increased Acrimony and Decreased Solidarity: Thecrises over Greece and migration, in particular, have produced a high degree of acrimony and a lack of trust among EU member states. Moreover, these crises threaten the core EU principle of solidarity. Threat to national identity and deep sense of insecurity in drastic demographic change in the population structure of the country is also a factor that usually keeps the concerned government to act tactfully with the immigration process The Greece Crisis: The onset of the Greek debt crisis in late 2009 and its subsequent contagion to other Eurozone members sparked concerns about the fundamental structure and viability of the Eurozone, the EU’s flagship integration project Migratory Pressures: Over the last year and a half, Europe has experienced a significant migration and refugee crisis as increasing numbers of people have fled conflict and poverty in Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Africa, South Asia, and elsewhere. There is much debate about over the economic impact of the migration and refugee flows and their rehabilitation
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Countering Terrorism: Since 2014, Europe has experienced a number of terrorist incidents. The recent Paris attacks, shows the weakness in the European intelligence agencies. It challenges their ability to fight the foreign fighter threat and those inspired by Islamist extremism. A resurgent Russia: Along with the United States, the EU has sought to support Ukraine’s political transition, condemned Russia’s annexation of Crimea in March 2014. Although the EU currently appears to support maintaining sectoral sanctions on Russia in the short term, but challenge arise in how long this consensus will hold as some member states begin to call for a rethink of the EU’s sanctions policy.
Implications of BREXIT on EU:
Idea of EU is challenged: With the exit of UK, there is a possibility of other countries such as Greece etc to follow suit. It would favour forces of disintegration. Managing security threats in Europe requires countries to act in concert and not independently Strengthening of a trend which favors erection of barriers undermining free trade Increased tensions between Germany and France over leadership of Europe Brexit makes handling of refugee crisis still difficult as it gives voice to 'right' which opposes accepting refugees
Implications of BREXIT on India: Possible positive impacts
Investments: Britain on a lookout for partner countries after the exit, would find India a bright spot in the slowing world economy- thus India could receive slew of investments in Make in India, Smart Cities Initiative amongst others. Possibility of Bilateral Free Trade Agreement: The EU- India FTA is stuck for years and with the Brexit a possibility of entering into Bilateral FTA with the country will open up. Leveraging increased Britain independence in economic sphere: modernization of Britain can be capitalized for attracting investments in Make in India and other domestic initiatives. Favorable climate for Indian Diaspora: India can negotiate for policies which will favor ex-patriots like social security etc.
Possible negative impact1. Indian Business In UK - Many thriving existing Indian Businesses as well as future Indian investments depend heavily on free trade in European market. Brexit may dull this attractiveness. Also, it may create scarcity of skilled labour. 83
2.
3.
4. 5. 6.
However, the pro-Exit supporters argue that EU trade rules act as hindrances for a much more extensive trade with India. Import of Indian mango banned in Europe is one glaring example. Indian students and workers - Unlike other countries Britain classify overseas students as immigrants. With strict immigration rules supported by pro- Exit campaigners it would become a difficult destination. Agreements and commitments that have been made in the area of trade and investment as well as science and technology would carry on regardless of whether Britain stayed or left the EU. In the near term, it will heighten global volatility thereby impacting capital flows. In the medium term, we will most likely be impacted by currency exchange. India has a substantial trading corridor with EU. Any depreciation of the Euro/Pound could lead to increased headaches for India in a sluggish export environment. Indian businesses have a material presence in both the UK & Europe. There are more than 800 Indian-owned businesses in the UK, with more than 110,000 employees. Slowdown of UK's economy can hurt these businesses.
However, Brexit in long term will result in disruption in global cooperation in exchange of info on terrorism, doubling of efforts to engage with EU and Britain separately, loss of market for pharma, skilled labor workforce due internal difference.
GS-3
Q.1) Increasing antibiotic resistance across all ages is a man made problem. In this context, discuss the reasons for the same and suggest measures to check it.
Antibiotic resistance is the ability of a microorganism to withstand the effects of an antibiotic. A recent WHO report made a clear case that resistance of common bacteria to antibiotics has reached alarming levels in many parts of the world. Causes for increasing antibiotic resistance:
Using antibiotics when they are not needed Not taking antibiotics at the doses and times that a doctor prescribes — this allows time for the bacteria in our body system to become resistant. Too frequent use of broad spectrum antibiotics
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Poor sanitation conditions aided spread and small health- care budgets prevented access to new effective but more expensive Increasing use of antibiotics in livestock and agriculture.
Matter of global concern:
Increases the cost of health care Present in every country and there is high rise in antibiotic resistance against malaria, TB, HIV and influenza. Endangers achievement of the health targets of Sustainable Development Goals. Without effective antimicrobials for treatment of infections, medical procedures such as organ transplantation, major surgery becomes very high risk. Measures to check:
Optimal use of antibiotics in both humans and animals Reducing gaps in surveillance of antibiotic resistance Setting up systems to monitor antibiotic resistance and to implement efficient actions, Public awareness campaigns in order to induce behavioral change in use of antibiotics Prudent use of available antibiotics and, when possible, infection prevention through appropriate vaccination. Hygienic precautions for the control of cross transmission of resistant strains Development of antibiotics with a novel mechanism of action.
The role of antibiotics in the treatment of infectious diseases is essential. By improving antibiotic use and decreasing resistance gene frequency at the local levels, we can move towards reversing the resistance problem globally.
Q.2) Write a note on Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV)? What are it’s significance for India and how is it different from Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)?
Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) are launch vehicles indigenously developed by ISRO to place satellites into orbit. Thus demonstrating India’s increasing space capabilities.
GSLV is a launch vehicle used to launch INSAT class of satellites (GSAT series) into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbits. It’s a three-stage launcher with one solid rocket motor stage, 85
liquid stage and one cryogenic stage. With its efficient cryogenic engine it could lift greater loads into space.
Significance of GSLV:
Mastering space technology: Despite restrictions on dual use technologies, India has built & validated fully working highly complex cryogenic rocket propulsion system. Eg: GSLV-MkII can launch much heavier satellites which weigh around 5000 kg. Space Research: Enables to launch space stations to much higher altitudes Commercial launch market: Compared to launch vehicles from different countries, its around twice cheaper to launch satellites with GSLV Self reliant in vehicle launch: With successful launch of GSLV-MKIII India could achieve complete self-reliance and with cheaper launches helps save Indian exchequer. Good governance: Tele-education, tele-medicine,village resource centre, remote banking disaster management system etc. would help in providing efficient basic services to the nook and corner of the country Strategic significance: Insulates India from whims & uncertainties global space launch market which is changing with shifting geo-political priorities. Difference between GSLV&PSLV GSLV Delivers/Launches
PSLV
Communication satellites Higher lift off mass (2500kg) & higher altitudes (36000 km)
Orbit
Earth observation or remotesensing satellites. Satellites of lower lift off mass to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbits Low lift off mass (upto1750kg), lesser altitude(600900km)
Initially to Sun synchronous Geosynchronous Transfer circular polar orbits Orbits (GTO) and further (Low Earth orbits) raised to Geosynchronous Earth Orbits (GEO) 86
Stages
Three: 1: solid 2: liquid 3: cryogenic
Four: 1&3 stages: solid propellant 2&4 stages: liquid propellant
Recent developments
GSLV-MkII (indigenous Work horse of ISRO, has cryogenic upper stage) better industry participation and launched many successful missions like Mars orbitor Mission (MOM), IRNSS.
ISRO with the recent launch of INSAT-3DR weathers satellite along with pursuing advances in space research; planetary exploration is also harnessing space technology and space applications for national development
Q.3) Union Cabinet has approved a proposal for improving telecom connectivity in Andaman & Nicobar Islands with Chennai via an undersea optical fibre cable. What are the benefits of using undersea cables over satellite medium ? How will Andaman & Nicobar Islands benefit from this connectivity?
Paving the way for a direct communication link between mainland and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, govt approved for undersea optical fibre cables.
It is essential to have submarine OFC connectivity between the Mainland India and Andaman & Nicobar Islands, being the only option for catering to projected future bandwidth requirements.
Benefits of using undersea cables over satellite medium
Economical: Satellite bandwidth is very costly compared to undersea cables Greater bandwidth availability &telcom connectivity: The bandwidth available using a single fiber optic cable and a laser beam is much much greater than you can get from a single satellite radio channel. Easy: The uplinks and downlinks cost and putting the satellite in space is a huge huge ask and far more risky. 87
Better operability: It is easy to fix a broken cable. Once you launch the satellite you don’t get a chance to fix it if it gets broke. Benefit to Andaman & Nicobar Islands:
Strategic importance: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are of immense strategic significance for India. Provision of secure, reliable, robust, and affordable telecom facilities in these islands is of importance from a strategic point of view Improved connectivity: It would improve the connectivity unlike current situation where limited bandwidth is available for communication between mainland and island Socio-economic development: It will enable the provision of adequate support to educational institutes for knowledge sharing, telemedicine, availability of job opportunities and fulfil the vision of Digital India. E-governance: Connectivity improves the service delivery, implementation of eGovernance initiative During emergency: It acts asalternate media is available in case of any emergency Increase economic activity: It will fasten establishment of enterprises & e-commerce facilities. Thus submarine optical fibre cables would boost bandwidth and telecom connectivity with these islands while bringing it on par with connectivity of the mainland.
Q4).Write short notes on a) Cryogenic Engine b) Floatovoltaics c) Lifi d) OLED
A cryogenic engine/ cryogenic stage is the last stage of space launch vehicles which makes use of Cryogenics ie use of materials materials at extremely low temperatures below -150 degree Centigrade to lift and place the heavier objects in space.
Principle: Cryogenic engine makes use of Liquid Oxygen (LOX) and Liquid Hydrogen (LH2) as propellants, which are stored in respective tanks. From there they are pumped in to turbo pump by individual booster pumps to ensure a high flow rate of propellants inside the combustion/thrust chamber. Thus, increases the quantity of fuel available during the flight, as compared to the gaseous form of fuel, and provides more lifting capacity to the rocket.
Advantages:
A cryogenic engine provides more force with each kilogram of cryogenic propellant it uses compared to other propellants
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Cryogenic engines are a critical requirement for the success of India’s GSLVprogramme as it seeks to place about 2500-3000 kg communication geo-synchronous satellites in geostationary orbit
Floatovoltaics
Floatovoltaics refers to solar panel arrays that are designed to float on water.
They can achieve better efficiency in converting solar energy into electricity than traditional equipment. Because they’re constantly being cooled by the water beneath, floatovoltaic setups aren’t subject to overheating as ground-based solar arrays are.
Advantages
Employing currently-unused watery areas to collect solar ray Covering bodies of water, they counteract evaporation. Thus useful for drought-stricken areas
China, Japan, USA has started working on floating solar power plants. Thus it seems to be the next big thing in energy production
Lifi
Light Fidelity or Li-Fi is a Visible Light Communications (VLC) system running wireless communications which transmits data at very high speeds.
Li-Fi uses common household LED (light emitting diodes) lightbulbs to enable data transfer
Advantages
Li-Fi is more secure than Wi-Fi It could make a huge impact on the internet of things, green technology for device-todevice communication in the Internet of Things Limitations
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Requires the lightbulb is on at all times to provide connectivity Initial high installation costs Applications
Can be used in street and traffic lights Li-Fi can easily work underwater transmit power wirelessly Vehicles having LED-based headlights and tail lamps can communicate with each other and prevent accidents
OLED
An organic light-emitting diode (OLED) is a light-emitting diode (LED) in which the emissive electroluminescent layer is a film of organic compound that emits light in response to an electric current.
It is a flat light emitting technology, made by placing a series of organic thin films between two conductors. As OLEDs emit light they do not require a backlight and so are thinner and more efficient than LCD displays OLEDs are organic because they are made from carbon and hydrogen. As they do not contain any bad metals - it's a real green technology.
Uses:
OLEDs can be used to make displays and lighting. Can be used to create flexible and transparent displays
Q.4) Write a short note on Li-Fi technology. How can it be beneficial for rural connectivity and also highlight how it is different to Wi-Fi technology? Li-Fi, or light fidelity, is a wireless technology that makes use of visible light in place of radio waves to transmit data at terabits per second speeds Working:
Lifi, accommodates a photo-detector to receive light signals and a signal processing element to convert the data into ‘stream-able’ content. Unlike Wi-Fi, which uses radio waves, Li-Fi runs on visible light. Here light waves are continuously switched on & off to create data bits of O&I which are the building blocks of data transfer. The switch on & off takes place so fast that light source is constant always.
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Benefits to rural connectivity:
It would be cheaper thus helps in achieving digital India Lifi enabled solar lights could provide connectivity even in areas with no availability of electricity. Due to its minimal power connection the digital connectivity would help in furthering the reach of government initiatives. Different from wifi:
Unlike Wi-Fi, which uses radio waves, Li-Fi runs on visible light. Range of Li-fi is very large compared to Wi-Fi Feature Lifi Wifi Operation
LiFi transmits data using light with the help of LED bulbs.
WiFi transmits data using radio waves with the help of WiFi router
Interference
Do not have any intereference issues similar to radio frequency waves.
Will have intereference issues from nearby access points(routers)
Merits(advantages)
Interference is less, can pass through salty sea water, works in densy region
Interference is more, can not pass through sea water, works in less densy region
Data density
Works in high dense environment
Works in less dense environment due to interference related issues
Applications
Used in airlines, undersea explorations, operation theaters in the hospitals, office and home premises for data transfer and internet browsing
Used for internet browsing with the help of wifi kiosks or wifi hotspots
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Q.5) Why use of GM crops have always been a contentious issue in India. Also discuss the potential of use of GM crops in India and suggest the ways that can make GM crops usable in India.
Genetically modified crops (GM crops) are plants used in agriculture, the DNA of which has been modified using genetic engineering techniques. The use of genetically modified crops have come under the scanner again and again due to the following issues:
Foods produced using biotechnologies have not been established as safe and are also not regulated properly at the places of production. Crops produced using biotechnology can negatively impact the environment (contamination) The production of crops resistant to certain pests and weeds may lead to “Superbugs” and/or “Superweeds” that are immune to existing methods of pest and weed management. GM crops may force the farmers to continually buy the premium-priced GM seeds every growing season due to the usage of terminator seeds. Preventing farmers from harvesting seeds means big businesses could eventually have total control over the world’s seed supply and prices. Methods GMO companies use to pest-proof their crops is also suspected to kill vital beneficial bugs, like bees and butterflies – e.g. Genetically modified corn can kills Monarch butterflies which are very useful for environment.
Steps government must take:
Government should take up the proposed Biotechnology Regulatory Authority of India Bill at the earliest. Resolving IPR issues Regulating the prices of GM seeds Setting up an expert committee to analyze the data related to GM crops. Only crops which are suitable for India’s environment and social conditions must be approved. Government must focus on research on GM crops, to clear all the confusion or doubts about the usability of these crops in India. Making the approval process more transparent and error free. Ensure that there is no conflict of interest in the regulatory and approval bodies like GEAC and RCGM.
Q.6) Expanding the Protected Area networks for protection of animals may not be of much use if the existing ones do not serve the purpose for which they were created. Discuss critically the management of protected areas in India.
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Protected areas (PA) are clearly defined geographical spaces, recognized and managed through legal or other means to achieve long term conservation of nature along with associated ecological services and cultural values.
Management of Protected areas (PA):
PAs are the centre piece of the government's biodiversity conservation efforts. They include network Pas comprises of National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves and Community Reserves. In line with Aichi target 11 strengthening of PAs have been undertaken The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) takes care of PAs notified as Tiger Reserves Priority is given to Conservation of threatened species and their habitats; control of poaching; research and ecological monitoring; and ensuring people’s participation in wildlife conservation
‘Management Effectiveness Evaluation’ (MEE) conducted by World wildlife institute says the management effectiveness of the Indian PAs comes to about 61% which is much higher as compared to the global average (56%). There has been increase in number of PAs by 25% since 2000 Lacuna in the management of Protected areas (PA):
Boundary trenches: Hampering the movement of few species due to boundary trenches. Eg: Declining Indian Bustard in states of AP is due to trenches built around sanctuary to prevent the entry of cattle for grazing. Loosing uniformity & integrity of habitat: Presence of agricultural lands, villages, towns, roads and a railway line, which are spread across the PAs are changing the natural habitat Fortress approach to conservation: Separates wildlife from animals. Seems to be outdated due to increasing human population Elitist tag: Where indigenous people are not given required importance in conservation and special concern only to few species like Tigers, Elephants etc Low average size of PA: Affecting the carrying capacity of large populations of large mammals Concerns in capacity building: Lack of well trained and spirited wild life work force. PAs created on the basis of one or two large mammals or birds: It disprivilages smaller creatures Lack of recognition of grasslands as PAs
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The Way Forward:
Periodic review of the existing PA network in the country.
Implementation of the recommendations given in the Wildlife Institute of India’s (WII) PA network report Completion of legal procedures for final notification of existing and new PAs Readjustments of boundaries of PAs, where required, in accordance with ecological and natural features Preparation of scientific and ecologically sound management plans for all PAs Expedite the process of settlement of rights in the existing or proposed PAs Involve local communities in protection and management of PAs Complete the process of rationalisation and demarcation of boundaries and zonation for effective management of PAs. Prepare Integrated and Adaptive Management Plans for all the PAs. Promote use of modern tools for monitoring and surveillance of highly sensitive PAs. Assess, monitor and manage the alien invasive species inside PAs and TRs Secure wildlife corridors and also draw appropriate plans for their management. Improve the capacity of frontline staff for better monitoring and management of PAs. Better financial allocations, sound intelligence network, good infrastructure including weapons and communication devices, skill development and overall capacity development State level coordination, as well as interstate coordination especially between line agencies.
The pressures of economic development on ecologically sensitive areas such as PAs are becoming even more evident than before. All the PAs in the country would need to follow multi-pronged approach for effective management which includes anti-poaching activities, habitat management, outreach programs, human resources development (HRD), research and monitoring, mitigation of human-wildlife conflict (HWC), eco- development programme (EDP) for ensuring local support for conservation and adequate financial support.
Q.7) Man-made forest fires have become common in much of the Central Himalaya. Discuss the major causes and effects of wildfires in India and also suggest some steps to tackle it.
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A forest fire is an uncontrolled fire occurring in nature. As per Forest Survey of India, around 50% of the forest areas as fire prone.
Mostly forest fires in India are due to anthropogenic activity:
Causes: Before monsoon small patches set to fire so that fresh grass grows for grazing Commercial interests - As has happened in 90s mysterious timber Mafia have sparked it - profit from selling wood, clearing land for real estate. Shifting cultivation – clearing lands for agriculture purpose Natural causes: High atmospheric temperatures and dryness caused due to low humidity Lightening due to thunderstorms In dry windy seasons, rubbing together of leaves Accidental causes: Careless throwing of bidi stubs, cigarettes Ignition of fire to collect non-timber products Unattented Camp fires during winters Wild fires causes adverse ecological, economic and social effects:
Ecological: Climate change: Due to production of large amount of trace gases and aerosols Vegetation: Fires disrupts the ecological succession Biological activity like animals, plants takes a hit Economic: Huge air pollution causes health problems Loss of traditional income from timber as well as Minor forest produces Social: Displacements of families who depend on forest for livelihood Management of forest fires – way forward:
Active forest fire monitoring using satellite data – its been done by ISRO Special trainings to National Disaster Response Force and State Disaster Response Force in combating fire disasters. National action plan for forest fires Coordination among various agencies like forest department, NDRF, state government, and Environment ministry to put off the fire at early stage itself. Learn from international best practices of counter firing technique used in Yellow stone park, USA Introduction of Modern Forest Fire control Project assisted by UNDP.
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Thus, Management of wild fires focus on mitigation, response as well as preparedeness and prevention levargingon sendai framework on Disaster risk reduction - recognition of community members as first responders in disaster management process would help tackle the forest fires with minimal damage to ecology.
Q.8) It is ironic that the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 is the most neglected of India’s environmental laws, and one of the least implemented, despite the fact that the act has immense potential to safeguard India’s threatened biodiversity. Critically comment. The Biological Diversity Act, 2002 is an act of the Parliament for preservation of biodiversity in India, and provides mechanism for equitable sharing of benefits arising out of the use of traditional biological resources and knowledge.
Though India is in the midst of an unacknowledged biodiversity crisis, it is ironic that the Biodiversity act is the most neglected of India’s environmental laws, and one of the least implemented.
Challenges in implementation of the Act:
Species centric conservation efforts: While noteworthy efforts have been made in increasing the tigers but many of critically endangered species are on the verge of extinction. This is due to species centric approach in conservation Lack of funds funds and expertise to BMCs: The act provides for decentralized institutional mechanism for for conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity. The Biodiversity Management committees (BMCs) has been given diverse responsibilities which include conservation, promoting sustainable use and chronicling of knowledge related to biodiversity. But they lack the expertise and funds. Rarely updated PBRs:BMCs are mandated to prepare peoples’ biodiversity registers (PBR), which are comprehensive records of biodiversity in the district. Absence of such records makes it difficult to counter the False and misleading statements in Environment Impact Assessments (EIA) Access and Benefit sharing: Lack of involvement of local communities in sharing of locally available natural resources and increasing commercial interests has led to increased incidents of biopiracy.
Thus the law made on the lines UN convention on biological diversity in 1992, needs systems to be put in a place as well as better understanding the concerns of biodiversity so that provisions in the law are implemented both in letter and spirit
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Q.9) Discuss the criterion and significance of demarcating eco-sensitive zones (ESZs). Also highlight the impact of ESZ notification on hydroelectricity projects. Eco-sensitive zones (ESZs) are ecologically important areas around Protected areas like National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries and other areas, that are to be protected from industrial pollution and unregulated development. ESZs are notified under Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The basic aim is to regulate certain activities around PA so as to minimise the negative impacts of such activities on the fragile ecosystem encompassing the protected areas. Criteria:
The PronabSen Committee was the first to come up with criteria. Its foremost criterion for identification of ESA is endemism. There is no explicit mention of ESZs in EPA, 1986 but govt. uses powers allotted to it under the act to prohibit or restrict location of industries on the basis of considerations like biological diversity of an area, environmentally compatible land use, proximity to protected areas. MoEF notified ESZ notification, 2012 and a set of guidelines. According to it, criteria based on which ESZs can be declared include: i) Species based (Endemism, rarity etc.). ii) Ecosystem based (Sacred groves etc.). iii) Geomorphologic feature based (origin of rivers etc.). The notification also asked all states to notify 10 km. area around protected areas as an ESZ.
Significance:
The purpose of an ESZ around a protected area is to act as a 'Shock absorber' by regulating and managing the activities around such areas
ESZ acts as a transition zone from areas of high protection to areas of low protection.
ESZ notification also recognizes the need for preserving flow of rivers, streams; preserving natural heritage like confluence of rivers, waterfalls etc.
It also highlights methods for protecting villages settled in sensitive areas like mountain slopes.
Impact on HEPs:
Many expert committees have presented that the reason behind Uttarakhand floods disaster was the state's unrestricted construction of dams.
After this disaster, states were forced to declare many areas as ESZs where developmental activities like HEPs are restricted.
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Because of ESZ declaration, many HEPs which were planned in those areas were stalled.
As we have enough evidence of worst consequences of unmitigated construction of projects, we need to tread with caution. Q.10_) Critically analyze the provisions of the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Bill. Do you think they dilute the provisions of the Forest Rights Act? Compensatory afforestation is afforestation done in lieu of the the diversion of forest land for nonforest use under Forests (Conservation) Act, 1980. The user pays 10% for this purpose to the govt. Recently, Compensatory Afforestation fund Bill, 2016 is enacted to fulfill this.
Provisions:
The Bill establishes the National Compensatory Afforestation Fund under the Public Account of India, and a State Compensatory Afforestation Fund under the Public Account of each state. These Funds will receive payments for: (i) compensatory afforestation, (ii) net present value of forest (NPV), and (iii) other project specific payments. The National Fund will receive 10% of these funds, and the State Funds will receive the remaining 90%. Funds under it will be primarily spent on afforestation to compensate for loss of forest cover, regeneration of forest ecosystem, wildlife protection and infrastructure development. The Bill also establishes the National and State Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authorities (CAMPA)to manage the National and State Funds. Afforestation vs forest rights: Generally afforestration efforts should go along with tribal rights ie Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006. But the bill ignores this Act, which could be extremely detrimental to the interests of tribals, since the lands may now be acquired very easily for compensatory afforestation purposes without consulting the forest dwellers and addressing their concerns.
Act does not include the role of gram sabhas before finalising any project of afforestation of forest land where the predominant inhabitants were tribal people and other forest dwellers Diverted land could be misused for commercial plantation, for which the bill doesn’t pay any mention.
Critical Analysis of the bill:
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Institutional mechanism: for utilization of fund, which were hitherto managed by adhoc body called CAMPA Decentralisation: Devolution of funds to states (hitherto it was 10% but now 90%). But as CAG 2013 reported state forest departments lack the planning and implementation capacity to carry out compensatory afforestation activities, effective utilisation of these funds will depend on the capacity of state forest departments. Productive assets in the rural areas: As well helps in employment generation Funds project specific payments: It will put responsibility on the promoters to make judicious use of forest resources. Also, funds could be under various schemes. But there are no provisions for funds being used for enhancement of the livelihood of tribal people, the land rights of tribal people and role of gram sabha. Artificial afforestation through plantations: It might lead to poor quality of forest cover. It also poses threat to long term Biodiversity conservation. Also it may end up planting trees which are non-native and having zero biodiversity values. Ex: As happened with Kudremukh mines. Procuring land: Would be challenging. This would be compounded by unclear land titles, and difficulties in complying with procedures for land use. All this will cause implementation hurdles. Development of infrastructure: It being a provision of the current Bill, the Infrastructure should be clearly spelt out else it may lead to diversion of funds No adequate representation of tribals: No adequate representation of the tribal people, environmentalists, subject experts and academics in CAMPA
Way ahead:
Area specific approach Were additional land is not available, encouraging densification and revitalization of available forest. Also, degraded land can be used for the same. Bill needs to be expanded to include rights of tribals and other forest dwellers, taking into account the legal provisions of the FRA Adequate safegurads to prevent diversion of land in guise of afforestration
Note: NPV is the amount that someone has to pay for diverting forest land for non-forest purposes. This amount will be determined by an expert committee appointed by the Centre.
Q.11)Bioremediation is evolving as a safer, environment-friendly mechanism to clean up the contamination caused by leaks and accidental spills. Write a short 99
note on bioremediation. Highlight its applications and some recent developments in the field of bioremediation in India.
Bioremediation is the use of naturally occurring microorganisms to break down hazardous substances into less toxic or nontoxic substances. Microorganisms destroy organic contaminants and in the course they use these chemicals for their own growth and reproduction. The capability of microorganisms to degrade organic matters can be enhanced by provision of additional growth substrates like sugar, other nutrients and oxygen. Bacteria with degrading capabilities like cellulolytic, ligninolytic bacteria are commonly used in bioremediation processes. Types of bioremediation:
Phytoremediation: use of plants to remove contaminants. Bioleaching: removing metals from soil using living organisms. Bioreactor: the use of specially designed containers to hold the waste while bioremediation occurs Bioaugmentation: adding microbes and organisms to strengthen the same in waste to allow them to take over and decontaminate the area Biostimulation – the use of microbes designed to remove contamination applied in a medium to the waste.
Across the world, bioremediation is evolving as a safer, environment-friendly mechanism to clean up the contamination caused by leaks and accidental spills during the exploration, refining, transport, and storage of petroleum products. Bioremediation can be done genetically engineered microorganisms as well.
Oil spills - Marine oil spills generate a lot of hydrocarbon pollutants which cannot be easily dispersed and degraded. Addition of hydro-carbon soluble nutrients and hydrocarbon degrading bacteria like Pseudomonas sp., Corynebacteriaetc enhance the bioremediation of oil spills. Hazardous waste – Agrobacterium tumefaciens, a bacterium, is used to transfer microbial genes into plants to enhance their capability for biodegradation of mercury. Pesticide degradation – Bacteria can also degrade pesticides like nitrophenols, organophosphates etc. Pseudomonas diminuta, Flavobacterium are the most potent bacteria involved in pesticide degradation. Phytoremediation via tobacco plants - Genes coding for tetra nitrate reductase, an enzyme which can transform nitrate esters and nitroaromatic compounds into less toxic molecules have been transferred from bacteria into tobacco plants.
New interest and sincere effort has been seen in India in the field of bioremediation.
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Recently Malabar Botanical Garden and Institute of Plant Sciences, Kozhikode, has joined hands with Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) for field trials to establish the oil-degrading properties of three new strains of bacteria. Government is also very serious in using bioremediation in cleaning Ganga River. It has invited scientists and companies to showcase technologies for cleaning drains before they empty into Ganga River.
Bioremediation is still an emerging technology. It needs to utilized with care to harness it benefits before applying on large scale.
Q.12) What is the Paris Agreement? How is it an improvement on the Kyoto Protocol? What challenges does India face in implementing the Paris Agreement?
Paris Agreement, is a global treaty to limit climate change. It was adopted as an agreement within the UNFCCC framework, that will replace the Kyoto Protocol after its second commitment period which ends on 31 January 2020. Objective of Paris agreement:
Keeping the emissions in control so that either the rise in global temperature remains below 2°C by the turn of 21st century or as low as 1.5°C Strengthen the ability of countries to deal with the impacts of climate change
Mechanism:
Emission Reduction Action Plan: Every country has to voluntarily submit its Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) emission reduction targets Technology Mechanism: For transfer of clean technologies Market Mechanism: global carbon-trade where countries can get credit for emission reduction by making payments for the same in the countries where reduction is cheaper to achieve. Climate Finance: There hasn’t been consensus on this Review mechanism: Every 5 years assessment of emission reduction
Improvement over Kyoto Protocol: Paris
Kyoto
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Who contribute?
All countries (On voluntary Developed countries (On principle nationally determined of common but differentiated contributions, (NDC)). responsibilities (CBDR))
Involvement It takes on board many countries. Developed countries as US, Canada US took the initiative didn’t ratify Of countries Approach
Bottom up approach, where Set defined emission reduction countries decide on their emission target reduction targets. But it doesn’t not include build in flexibility, taking into account different capacities of countries
Cooperation on mitigation
Before 2025, provision of finance Clean Development mechanism from the USD 100 billion floor, where lower income countries and an enhanced capacity would be helped building framework, including an Initiative for Capacity Building, will be put in place
Review mechanism
A detailed 5 yr review mechanism
Not specified but reviewed by adhoccommittes
If target not Committee set up would look into Imposition of penalty the reasons. No penalty, its met morally binding Recently, India ratify the Paris Agreement. But challenges arise in meeting the INDCs (175GWs of renewables ie 100 GW of solar energy, 60 GW of wind energy and by 2022 we would have about 40% of our energy needs to be met from non-fossil fuel energy sources.) Challenges for India:
As India is now required to periodically report on its targets and performance under the Agreement, this will need the active involvement of all States and wide consultations Creation of a strong climate change law that harmonises policies nationally, beginning with energy, buildings, transport, water, agriculture and urban development India needs finance, technology and capacity building support. The question of adaptation to climate change and addressing loss and damage looms large for India, given the regular cycles of crippling droughts, devastating flooding and lost livelihoods.
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Paris Agreement is not THE solution to climate change, but is a is a framework for progress. Q.13) How is the Paris Climate Change Agreement an improvement upon the previous agreements on Climate change? Critically analyse the need to balance development goals with climate change and global warming imperatives for a developing country like India. Refer above for first part of the answer. Need for balance of environmental sustainability and economic development:
Poverty eradication is an overarching goal for developing nation. For the economic growth India, the key lies in providing jobs to the burgeoning youth. This needs development manufacturing sector which is hugely dependent on coal as a source of energy. Identifying the importance of sustainable development, India has ratified the Paris agreement and commitment of 100 GW of solar energy, 60 GW of wind energy and by 2022. This would meet 40% of India’s energy needs from non-fossil fuel energy sources. All this requires clean technologies which needs finance as well as technology transfer. As the industrialized nations, have used up carbon space, have secured the support of vulnerable and poor nations in Paris, there is a need for inter generational equity and liberally sharing of their prosperity and technology
Thus there is a need for integrating ecological considerations into economic development in order to have sustainable development.
Q.14) India’s decision to ratify the Paris Agreement is hasty and ill-times. Examine. Also discuss what implementation challenges could India face in adopting the Paris agreement.
India ratified the Paris Agreement on Climate Change by depositing the instrument of ratification with the United Nations.
Ratification of this agreement implies that our previously submitted 'Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs)' at the Paris climate change conference, 2015 will now be confirmed as 'Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)'. Ratifying shows India’s commitment towards climate change. Challenges in implementation: 103
Lack of innovation for business model to pursue the objectives of International Solar Alliance, unwillingness of developed countries for technology transfer regarding the same High cost for solar equipments and necessity of double land for same amount of power production as a coal fired plant The demand for fossil fuel seems to rise in coming years and we don’t seem in any position to pursue research for hybrid or electric vehicles at large scale. Require huge investments, infusion of new technology, availability of nuclear fuel and domestic and international support Technology gap between rich and poor countries remains enormous Preliminary domestic requirements to implement national climate plans add uptomore than USD 2.5 trillion between 2015 and 2030. Substantial scaling up these plans would require greater resources. Responsibility of lifting around 360 million people out of poverty and raising the standard of living Create facilitative IPR regime and to create global framework for Research & Development on clean coal and other technologies. All the commitments under INDC without any further commitments on technology transfer and climate funding is really challenging for India.
Note: Ref: India’s INDC –
Reduce emission intensity by 33 to 35 per cent by 2030 compared to 2005 levels Produce 40 per cent of electricity from non-fossil fuel based energy resources by 2030, if international community helps with technology transfer and low cost finance. Create an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent by 2030 through additional forest and tree cover. Develop robust adaptation strategies for agriculture, water and health sectors
Q.15) A global economy powered by Solar Power cannot be achieved in isolation, it has to be achieved by International Cooperation in Science, technology and finance. In this context, discuss the role that the International Solar Alliance can play in creating a more sustainable global economy. The International Solar Alliance (ISA) was jointly announced by India and France at the UN Paris Climate Change Conference. The alliance brings together developed and developing countries, governments and industries, laboratories and institutions with a aim of reducing financial risk across a larger global market, encouraging cooperation on technology, building capacity, and increasing energy access. A global economy powered by solar power needs a cumulative effort by the world because-
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Financing is still too costly for developers: The cost of finance for solar projects in many developing countries is often prohibitively high. ISA envisions that collective measures can facilitate the flow of over $1 trillion into solar projects, by aggregating demand within countries, standardized asset-structuring across countries, and establishing an ecosystem of financial instruments to mitigate some of the investment risks. Risks involved: Solar-related plans and policies are often incoherent and increase risks for developers and investors Lack of R&D: In order to avoid the trap of getting locked into existing technologies, there needs to be collaborative, cross-country R&D, which ISA hopes to facilitate Technologies need business models: There are commercially viable technologies, if promoted through innovative business models can go a long way. Scaling up:Decentralised energy businesses might not scale in the traditional sense, but could be replicated across many geographies. Large-scale solar projects would benefit from better coordination among member countries Global responsibility: Climate change is a global issue and to mitigate it is a global responsibility. One nation can’t work in isolation to achieve concerted efforts. Many nations facing energy issues: Developing nations are mostly the ones using primitive ways as coal and need technologies to spread the electricity to every home Training for new technologies: ISA has plans to address related market-limiting factors, by launching standardised skill training programmes and reducing information asymmetries through a 24x7 knowledge hub.
Despite its promise, ISA faces following challenges:
The longer-term one is whether it devolves into a bloated bureaucracy. A tight budget and a direct link to the private sector would hold ISA accountable to real action on the ground. A proximate challenge is that 121 potential member countries get caught up in a battle over legal form, membership rights, and giving precedence to procedure over pragmatism.
If concerted efforts are put in, the dream of universal access to clean energy is would come true in the very near future.
Q.16) Discuss the challenges India may face in directly shifting from Bharat Stage IV to Bharat Stage VI. Why are Bharat stage norms diluted compared to it’s European counterpart? Bharat Stage emission standards, introduced in 2000, are emission standards that have been set up by the Central government to regulate the output of air pollutants from internal combustion engine equipment, including motor vehicles. BS norms compared to Euro norms:
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Earlier, environment used to be defined as a 'full-stomach phenomenon'. So, the developed countries were able to concentrate on vehicle emission standards and Euro norms were introduced as early as in 1990. India adopted BS-I norms from 2000 on the advice of Supreme Court. Also, higher standards mean higher prices which can't be afforded in India by all. Though we lag behind, India is steadily catching up with international standards. The recent decision of the Govt. to skip BS-V and implement BS-VI norms is a step in this direction.
Challenges:
To industry: The oil refineries that will need a substantial investment to upgrade Automobile manufacturers also need to progress gradually and skipping a step like BS-V might put extra pressure on the manufacturers to produce compliant vehicles The shift of technology from BS-IV to BS-VI costs heavily. To the Government: Availability of BS6 compliant fuel, both petrol and diesel. In case of unavailability of the requisite fuel, it might damage the engine, which will be tuned for BS IV fuel also the higher emission norms cannot be met. Technology providers have already expressed their inability to provide fully validated BS VI solutions for all types and models of four-wheelers. Introducing technologies without proper validation and testing on the Indian roads will raise questions on several safety issues. More challenging is the task of getting the automakers to make the leap
Shifting from BS IV to BS VI requires new adaptable technologies, innovations relating to manufacturing, and, more importantly, testing and validation to the new standards had to be performed. Government need to take a holistic view keeping in mind the imperatives of both, emissions as well as safety.
Q.17) Critically analyze how helpful will the creation of National Agricultural Market be in providing renumerative prices to farmers as well as consumers. Also discuss the challenges in the working of NAM. National Agriculture Market (NAM) is a pan-India electronic trading portal which networks the existing APMCmandis to create a unified national market for agricultural commodities.
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This single window system will provide information and services - commodity arrivals & prices, buy & sell trade offers, provision to respond to trade offers, which would be of great help to the farming community.
NAM benefits both the producer as well as consumer, through higher returns to farmers, lower transaction costs for buyers, and stable prices and availability to consumers. Producers will get better price realisation, while consumers can expect benefit from the lower price spread.
Benefits to farmers:
NAM increases the choice for a farmer after they bring the produce to a mandi. Elimination of traders’ cartels and price manipulations by local trading group Local traders can bid for the produce, as also traders on the electronic platform sitting in other states. Thus helping in smooth transaction of produce from farm to market It would facilitate the emergence of integrated value chains in major agricultural commodities across the country and help promote scientific storage and movement of agricultural goods Better price realization for farmers will serve as an important incentive for raising productivity and production, and in turn lead to higher growth of output e-NAM is expected to promote market driven diversification and reduce dependence of farmers in these states on MSP and public procurement.Eg: Punjab and Haryana desperately need diversification in crop pattern away from paddy– wheat rotation
Benefits to consumers:
NAM e-platform would ensure common procedures for issue of licenses, levy of fee and movement of produce. With more mandis coming onto the NAM platform, the volume of business will significantly increase, as there will be greater competition for specific produce. Thus reducing demand-supply mismatches Provides the commodities at reasonable prices as middleman would be minimized.
Challenges
Assaying facilities created in various markets to ascertain quality traits as quality variations are quite large in agricultural commodities 107
Obtaining forwarding agents to handle the produce for buyers from outside the mandi. Need for cooperation from all the states as agriculture is a state subject Building huge network infrastructures, logistics and creating awareness among all stakeholders, especially the farmers who are not digitally literate. Though e-NAM will improve competitiveness in market through larger participation of buyers and more transparent system of bidding, but it isn’t a a panacea for all deficiencies in agricultural markets. Q.18) Agriculture subsidies, especially on inputs other than fertilisers, have largely escaped attention in the DBT debate. Critically analyze the needs of bringing agricultural subsidy under direct benefits transfer scheme.
India has long been employing the use of price supports i.e., subsidies in various sectors. Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme identifies the need to move from price supports (subsidies) to income supports. Significant benefits have accrued from the use of DBT in schemes like LPG etc. Recently, there has been a clamour to employ DBT in agriculture sector too.
Government sheds >30,000 crore every year in the form of agricultural subsidies for seeds, fertilizers, farm machinery and other inputs. But, much of these benefits are being cornered by big and resource rich farmers. Some are even transferring land in the names of minors, workers so as to make use of benefits intended for small scale farmers. Government introduced an Interest Subvention Scheme (ISS) to make farm credit available to farmers at rates as low as 4%. Because of this, farm credit increased. But, studies suggest that much of its is being used as fixed deposits, credit to poor farmers etc. No proper evaluation of the efficacy of these input subsidies has been undertaken. Patronage-driven politics have completely subverted the intended objectives of these schemes. Present system of fertilizer subsidy is skewed in favor of poorly performing plants because they receive more support from govt. Govt. also regulates prices of fertilizers, because of which there is no new investment in this sector for the past 15 years. Fertilizer subsidy is also encouraging excessive use of nitrogen fertilizers without taking into account the soil needs. If DBT scheme is employed using JAM trinity, much of the above ills can be rectified. This is proved in the recent pilot project by Uttar Pradesh where DBT is used in place of seed subsidy. It ensured that only genuine cultivators were benefited.
Thus, the case for using DBT in agriculture sector is strong. It is even recommended by the recent 'Deepak Mohanty committee'. Benefits accrued can be used to improve poor farmers or for improving irrigation infrastructure using PMKSY. 108
Q.19) System set up in colonial times to establish tea plantations has remained surprisingly intact throughout India’s post-Independence development. Elaborate and also highlight the challenges faced by tea industry of India. Tea is a plantation crop, mostly grown in foothills of Eastern Himalayas and hilly slopes of Nilgiris. India is not only second largest exporter of Tea but also has a significant role in domestic market. India Tea industry from colonial to present times:
The birth of Indian tea industry was marked by the discovery of indigenous teas plant in Assam in the early 19th century During second half of 19th century Indian Tea association was set up. Later Indian Tea act 1933 with further amendments,Plantation Labour Act 1955 has been passed.
Archiac laws-Plantation Labour Act 1955
predicated on a low-paid, stringently managed manual labour, health and education are firmly controlled by their employers continue to be in force. With passing times Tea industry management is unable to meet the growing expenditure to raise in labour costs and workers continue to keep demanding better wages and living conditions. Archaic laws have resulted in continuous violation of workers right to association It doesn’t address the fluctuating Tea prices There is demand for exemption of tea from export cess and import subsidy to tea plantation machinery
Challenges to Indian Tea industry:
Management concerns: Labour issues: Being labour-intensive, there are repeated demands for better pay and working conditions. 50% of the workforce comprising women there is need to pay heed to women health issues. Only 1% of plantation is organized plantation Quality concerns: Deteriorating quality due to increased use of pesticides
Market: Fluctuation in demand: Eg: Britain, once India’s biggest tea buyer, has acquired a taste for stronger for African tea. Governance:
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Structural constraints in management by tea board Lack of proper pricing regime Way forward:
Humanitarian aid is needed for malnourished workers on failed estates. Companies must be held accountable for the non-implementation of the Plantations Labour Act Single act replacing multiple central and state level acts governing the plantation industry "Tea Development & Promotion Scheme" through the Tea Board as in 12 FYP
A closer look is required if the Indian Tea industry is to be revived so that it regains its pre-eminent position. Worker-owned company model where workers have a stake in the progress of the industry is needed. Companies would need to take more innovative ways so as to make the industry profitable.
Q20). Discuss the factors influencing the locations of Iron and steel industries in India and also highlight how dumping has effected India’s domestic steel industry and the steps taken by government to tackle it. Iron and steel industry forms the base of all other industries, therefore its called basic industry. It is one of the most complex and captical intensive industry. Though Iron and steel industry started in India from ancient times testified by Iron Pillar near QutibMinar, and later Tata steel Ltd before independence but the growth of modern Iron and steel industry public sector companies played a major role. Factors influencing the locations of Iron and steel industries:
Raw material: Mostly large integrated steel plants are located close to source of raw materials, as they use large quantity of heavy and weight losing raw materials. Eg: Concentration of Iron and steel industry in Chota Nagpur region-Presence of Iron ore in this region. TISCO at Jamshedpur.
Markets: As its heavy & bulky transportation cost is high. Therefore nearness to market is important especially for mini steel plants access to nearby markets is most important inorder to minimize transportation cost. Also as mini steel steel plants rely on scrap metal they mostly present in Maharashtra. Visakhapatnam steel plant located near the coast has excellent import-export facility
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Labour: Availability of cheap labour is also important. Eg: Rourkhela plant, Orisa; Bhilai steel plant in Chattisgarh, mostly in Chota Nagpur region
Availability of electricity mostly hydro and water for cooling.Eg: Bokaro steel plant on banks of river Damodar, Visheshwarya steel plant, Kar near river Bhadra.
Dumping has effected India’s domestic steel industry:
Low priced steel imports have been drastically increased in the recent past which has taken a toll on Indian steel industry
Domestic steel companies are reeling under losses and even large firms have seen squeezing profitability. Eg: SAIL, Essar Steel complained the same
It has also affected the banking industry as they account for big chunk of bad loans
Lead to deterioration of performance of domestic industry
Steps taken by govt to tackle it:
Impostition of anti dumping duty (5.3%-57%): Recently govt imposed five yr antidumping duties on stainless steel imports from China, EU, USA, South Africa etc
Import tax: Import tax on few steel products have been imposed to contain losses of Indian steel companies. Safeguard duty on sheets of steel alloy was imposed recently.
Govt in talks at WTO to increase freedom to raise tariffs to deal with import surges.
Iron & steel being basic industry that provides raw materials for other industries, inorder to avoid the spiraling effect and ensure fair trade, provide level playing field to domestic industry govt has taken steps to make big the Make in India initiative.
Q21). What policy reforms have been introduced by the government through the introduction of the new tariff policy? How it will help achieving the objectives of UjwalDISCOM Assurance Yojana (UDAY)?
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New tariff policy 2006, aims to achieve the objectives of UjwalDISCOM Assurance Yojana (UDAY) with the focus on 4 Es: Electricity for all, Efficiency to ensure affordable tariffs, Environment for a sustainable future, Ease of doing business to attract investments and ensure financial viability. UjwalDISCOM Assurance Yojna (UDAY) provides for the financial turnaround and revival of Power Distribution companies (DISCOMs), and ensures a sustainable permanent solution to the problem. This is through four initiatives (i) Improving operational efficiencies of DISCOMs; (ii) Reduction of cost of power; (iii) Reduction in interest cost of DISCOMs; (iv) Enforcing financial discipline on DISCOMs through alignment with State finances.
Policy reforms introduced through new tariff policy: Electricity:
24X7 supply will be ensured to all consumers - via micro grids to remote unconnected villages and affordable power for people near coal mine from coal washery based plants Adopting UDAY is optional for States, but provides the fastest, most efficient and financially most feasible way for providing 24X7 Power for All.
Efficiency:
Reduce power cost- through expansion of existing power plants, sale of unrequisitioned power, competitive bidding, and transmission capacity for accessing power from across India. Improving operational efficiencies- installation of smart meters, nergy efficiency measures like efficient LED bulbs This would reduce AT&C losses making DISCOMS more financially viable
Environment:
Promotion of renewable energy and energy security: Renewable Power Obligation (RPO) – 8% power consumption from solar by 2022, Renewable Generation Obligation (RGO) by moving to RE by newly established thermal power plants, No interState transmission charges solar and wind power, procurement of 100% power produced from Waste-to-Energy plants. Its mandatory for state DISCOMs to be compliant with RPO, RGO
Ease of Doing Business:
States allowed to set-up plants, with up to 35% of power procured by DSICOMs on regulated tariff. Remove market uncertainty & clarity on tariff setting authority for multi-State sales 112
These measures would improve the competitive health of DISCOM market
Thus these amendments complement schemes like UDAY by improvements operational efficiency, increased supply of cheaper domestic coal, bettering the financial position of DISCOM by fixed tariff and procurement policy. UDAY truly heralds the uday (rise), of a ‘Power’ful India
Q22). India is a global IT powerhouse but a huge majority of the Indian population remains locked out of the benefits brought by the digital economy. Substantiate. Digital divide means inequalities in access to and utilization of information. Access to ICT gains more relevance in the newly adopted Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). World Development Report 2016, Digital Dividends talks of digital paradox. Paradox - IT powerhouse and huge digital divide:
Higher cost for residential broadband connection is a impending factor Apart from digital divide there also exists a gap in adoption of digital technology across different demographic groups within the country. Digital capability gap - The capability gap arising out of the overall business climate and the quality of human capital Also though use of internet has increased in urban areas but there lies huge gaps in Digital dividends - broader development benefits from using digital technologies The slow pace of improvement of the quality of basic infrastructure — India has made considerable strides in improving its human capital, but a vast majority of its population still lacks the skills to meaningfully participate in the digital economy.
Govt Initiatives:
India scored highly on the government's use of technology and following are the major initiatives taken to bridge the gap. The government of India has declared IT as one of the thrust areas for the country’s development and has recognized it as an essential service. States like Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharastra, West Bengal and Tamil Naidu have been playing a significant role in introducing IT for industrial and economic development. Digital india: Provides an ‘enabling’ platform -broadband highways (NOFN), 100% mobile density, electronic manufacturing. Kisan call centres: Provides agriculture extension services all over India
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Start-up India; and innovative applications of Aadhaar such as JAM and Digital Lockers. Bhoomi project of Karnataka: Digitalisation of land records Gyandhoot of Maharshtra: means “Knowledge Messenger,” is the first ever project in India for a rural information network
Challenges:
Illiteracy and school education system Many regional language users finds tough to use internet Lack of models to train vast human capital necessary for making optimal use of the technology
Way forward:
Development of Telcomm and IT infrastructureinorder to provide universal affordable Internet access Training workers in new skills Beefing up regulations to ensure competition
Digital revolution is fundamental inclusive growth. But greater digital adoption will not be enough, there needs to be progress in the way these technologies are put to use for the socio-economic progress.
Q23).Rural connectivity is the key to Digital India. In this context, discuss the initiatives taken by the government to provide affordable broadband connectivity to all rural households. What challenges does it face? Digital India, is a flagship program of government of India with a vision to transform the country into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy. It ensures broad band connectivity at village level, improved access to services through IT enabled platforms, greater transparency in Government processes and increased indigenous production of IT hardware and software for exports and improved domestic availability.
Digital India initiative places equal stress on digital infrastructure, governance and service delivery and digital empowerment of citizens.
Government Initiatives:
Bharatnet: It aims towards providing affordable broadband connectivity of 2 Mbps to 20 Mbps to all rural households and institutions. This project has evolved from the earlier 114
National Optical Fibre Network (NOFN) project of providing 100 Mbps to all gram panchayats (GPs). Universal Services Obligation (USO): 5% tax is levied on all telecom service providers, which would be used for rural connectivity. National Rural Internet and Technology Mission: It provides services in villages and schools, training in IT skills and E-Kranti for government service delivery. Common service centres: One stop to get all govt schemes electronically Online platforms: Like My gov etc. Other initiatives:
Project LOON:Govt permitted Google, with the mission of providing Internet access to rural and remote areas. Govt. permitted Microsoft to utilize television 'White Spaces' to provide rural connectivity Challenges Systemic:
In BharatNet states are to be given the choice of having BBNL drive the implementation or drive it themselves. It requires efficient PPP model and regular monitoring of the implementation and ensured of quality services. The key issue is with governmental ownership. Content provisioning for the end user Quality broadband to every citizen is essential infrastructure requires building a sustainable framework. Lack of rural infrastructure connectivity: Eg. lack of availability of 24*7 electricity Integrated digital services effectively withdevolving functions, finances etc. to the third tier.
Others:
Digital literacy: Most of the rural population isn’t aware of internet operation. Mindset of people: Mostly the elderly in village find it not so convenient to adapt to new technologies. Right-of-way issue: Local population not allowing fiber to be laid through their lands. Security challenges in areas infested with insurgents, Naxals etc.
By, overcoming these challenges India could largely bridge the digital gap. It will not only help in penetration of education, financial inclusion but also helps in efficient public service delivery
Q24). Critically analyze the need for transforming rural areas into urban areas. Also discuss the government initiatives to transform rural areas.
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With a majority of its population living in villages, rural poverty is a major problem in India. The disparity between the urban and rural incomes is also on the rise. This leads to migration to urban areas resulting in urban blight as well. Therefore, following necessities transforming of rural areas:
Over capacity in agriculture: 49% of population depends on agriculture which contributes only 13% of India's GDP. This leads to over capacity in agriculture and disguised unemployment. Not many economic opportunities in rural: There is a need to expand available options to rural people. This can be done only by improving infrastructure of rural areas on par with urban areas and using technical innovations, as digital improving digital connectivity and local items as handlooms etc can be sold online. Basic amenities: If the basic amenities are provided in the rural areas push factors to urban migration can be minimized. Eg: Educational and health facilities Stress on urban areas: There is need to develop peri-urban areas which would act to accommodate the extra stress on the cities These reasons signify the need to transform our rural areas.
Government initiatives:
PURA: Based on Dr. Kalam's vision, govt. in the past designed 'Provision of Urban Amenities in Rural Areas' (PURA). PURA is now redesigned as 'Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rurban Mission' (SPMRM). It aims to develop 300 clusters of smart villages in 3 years. To develop economic, social infrastructure in rural areas. It also involves skill development, providing piped water supply, upgrading education, digital literacy etc. National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) was launched to address rural poverty in a time bound manner. It aims to mobilize all people into SHGs. Govt. is also planning to relocate industries like textile which are labor intensive to rural areas. India's inability to attract people away from agriculture need to be corrected soon so as to move on higher trajectory of growth.
Q25). Turning brain drain into brain gain requires creation of appropriate opportunities at certain critical stages. Critically examine. Brain drain – human capital flight is the migration of skilled human resources to other country where they can work in better conditions and earn more money. The UNDP estimates that India loses $2 billion a year because of the emigration of computer experts to the U.S.
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Converting brain drain to brain gain:
Providing enough work opportunities and living facilities. Empowering educational institutions Change the work culture of institutions into more professionally administered system. Win-win situation: like Banglorecluster which turned to hub of IT similar initiates in other cities would promote innovation.
Recent reports of brain gain:
Though there are claims for two way flow of talent to and from India but the current rate of brain gain is not significant in terms of numbers and/or impact to negate the large outflow of skilled Indians to Western countries and elsewhere. Even those returned to India stay for long: Reasons could be – Not very promising overall academic environment The much required willingness to accept the foreign returned academician is not found in most of the institutions
Government efforts for brain gain:
The National Post Doctoral Fellowship would fund around 1000 scholars this year. Government allowing with paying monthly would provide fixed research also.
Are we prepared for brain gain:
Overall culture of mediocracy has become the norm in the present day institutions Deficiencies in administration of universities like poor infrastructure or incessant delays in processing all kinds of research-related administrative decisions and financial transactions – creates working conditions that are quite frustrating for outsiders and prompt them to seek other options in the country or abroad. Also those returned from abroad develop unrealistic expectations about life and work at India’s academic institutions. Subsequently, they fail to adjust or readjust to working under ‘Indian conditions’.
For the balance of power and for the staggered development of India, it is very important to stop the phenomena of brain-drain. Recent government has called it brain deposit and conditions await for realizing their potential for national development. But it needs proper policies in place taking into account all stakeholders-those from country of origin and country of destination.
Q26). What are the challenges faced by startups in India? Also highlight some important government initiatives to boost the startup ecosystem of India. Startups are nothing but an idea that manifests into a commercial undertaking. In India start-up ecosystem is developing at pace. 117
Challenges faced by start ups: Refer the answer below. Government initiatives to boost the startup ecosystem of India:
Startup India Action plan: Under this policy it allows for self certification, easier patent filings, Rs 10,000 crore fund, Startup hub, tax exemption for three years etc. Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) and Self Employment and Talent Utilisation (SETU) in NITIAayog: AIM is the mission, with two sub-components - i) Innovation; and ii) SETU, wherein the innovators would be supported and mentored as successful entrepreneurs. ‘Tinkering Labs’ to promote entrepreneurship, provide pre-incubation training and a seed fund for high-growth startups RBI: The RBI is trying to make regulations simpler by issuing master circulars aggregating scattered rules, and removing old regulations which have become redundant. It has also created help start ups make cross border transactions. SEBI: Eased listing norms for start ups. That would help in crowd funding.
Start-ups would be great source of job creation and self-employment thus helping India gain from demography. But level playing field with easy entry and exit, access to input and output markets and protection of property rights are needed for free enterprise. Ref: Details of Startup India Action plan:
Rs. 10,000 crore fund for startups which will be managed by a board with expert private professionals; A single point website, mobile app for registration of startups; self-certification: To reduce the regulatory burden for startups; fast-track mechanism filing patent applications where initially Central Government shall bear the cost of patents, trademarks and designs for a startup; A credit guarantee fund managed through National Credit Guarantee Trust Company (NCGTC)/SIDBI, tax exemption for three years and capital gains A Startup India Hub for collaboration-will function in a hub and spoke model with governments, Indian and foreign VCs, angel networks, banks, incubators, legal partners, consultants, R&D institutions etc to assist, Relaxed norms of public-procurement Faster exits for startups-within 90 days from making of an application for winding up, An annual incubator grand challenge, where govt would identify top 10 incubators.
Q27). How will Startup India initiative be helpful in bringing out financial inclusion in India? Highlight the challenges faced by startups in India. Financial inclusion is the delivery of financial services at affordable costs to vast sections of disadvantaged and low-income groups.
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Startup India is a flagship initiative launched by the Government of India on to build a strong ecosystem for nurturing innovation and startups in the country which will drive economic growth and generate large scale employment opportunities. Start-up India and financial Inclusion:
Financial tools & innovation: Start-ups could innovate tools for crowd-funding and peer-peer lending. Increase reach:With increased use of smart phones and telecommunications, financial products could be made more accessible. Eg: App based money transfer Smoothen the process:By providing technological solutions to traditional financial systems as banks, post offices, payment banks, Non-banking financial institutions would help in quick and eefficient money tarsnfer Innovative local solutions:As the initiative focuses on students would help in creating innovative solutions to grass root problems and includes then in the process of financial inclusion. Boost net banking: As the initiative provides online services and support it would boost the e-commerce and thus increased net banking.
Challenges faced by start-ups:
Capital: generation enough seed capital as well as finances to support in expansion and sustenance and maintenance. Also there is failure to mitigate the gap between burn rate and revenue Right talent acquisition: Hiring right talent would be more challenging due to low salaries that they offer in comparison to corporates. Procedural complexities: Patent and intellectual property related and other procedural complexities are hurdles to entrepreneurship Exit problems: exits for investors, especially through the initial public offering route is due to difficult listing rules. Lack of Mentorship: A brilliant idea works only if executed promptly. As young entrepreneurs usually have unique ideas however they lack experience. Fragmented Market and the Dearth of Domain Knowledge: The largely unorganized and fragmented market in India stands as one of the biggest hurdles for startups on their way to success. Lack of a Good Branding Strategy: Absence of an effective branding strategy is yet another issue that bars startups from flourishing speedily Cultural views: There is little tolerance for failure and mostly youth are oriented to taking up a risk free corporate job Lack of infrastructural support: Prevalence of corruption, lack of electricity and broadband connectivity hinder the growth of start-ups Getting listed: It is very difficult to get start-ups listed in India. Struggle to Reinvent Constantly: There is the need to constantly reinvent and come up with a service to be able to match up customer, which is a major challenge. 119
Inorder to reep the demographic dividend and financial inclusion, Start-up India initiative is a step in the direction. But the challenges of funding and streghtening regulatory framework needs some attention.
Q28). Highlight the factors that led to the rapid development of media and entertainment industry. What challenges does the Media and entertainment industry face today? In India, traditional media like newspaper publishing and cinema has always shown strong growth. With the advent of digital revolution, the digital sector is leading the growth trajectory. The Indian media and entertainment sector grew 12% to reach $25.13 billion in 2015, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC)’s Global Entertainment and Media Outlook 2016-20. Factors that led to the rapid development of media and entertainment industry: Digital media: Digital revolution
Emergence of mobile and convergence with rise in use of the Internet User-driven and content is available on-demand. The new generation is very pro-digital and open to these sorts of things Rise of e-commerce: social media, in terms of promotions Increased FDI that the sector is getting. Increase in Paid-search Internet advertising revenue Strong growth in online spending on display ads
Television/Cinema:
Growth in television audience reach had resulted in a shift in overall advertising budgets towards television India currently rules the roost as the largest cinema market in the world Expanding base of India’s young workforce and a growing middle class
Indian print industry: Indian publishing remained one of the fastest growing the world. Demographics Increasing literacy rates, educational needs A strong desire to consume news Content in local languages, combined with nascent digital/broadband penetration. Challenges:
Traditional media is finding it hard to remain relevant, and the digital sector is leading the growth trajectory and consequently bringing in continuous disruptions. 120
Disappearing single-screen cinemas and underserved multiplexes High tax structure, exorbitant real estate prices impede the growth of entertainment industry.
Way forward:
Quick maturation Indian digital ecosystem. Quality, relevant content, where consumption of data is mostly by under 35 population. Hybrid business models - entertainment and media market teaming up with technology companies.
Young audience, increasing ad revenue, and digitization has driven the Indian media and entertainment industry. With increasing digitalization and second screen users, India’s media industry is blooming. Effective regulations need to be put in place so that the right information reaches the users.
Q29). Recently government has raised FDI limits in many sectors. Critically analyze how this decision would affect the Indian economy. Foreign direct investment (FDI) is an investment made by a company or individual in one country in business interests in another country, in the form of either establishing business operations or acquiring business assets in the other country, such as ownership or controlling interest in a foreign company.
To attract more foreign investment, govt. recently eased FDI limits in many sectors. It allowed 100% FDI in airlines, defense, animal husbandry and other sectors under Govt. approval and 74% in pharmaceutical projects. Positives:
Defence: Helps in establishing private defence manufacturing atking advantage of technology transfer that could come in through FDI. The removal of 'state-of-art' requirement in defense was very much needed because lack of clarity on 'state-of-art' definition stalled investment in defense
E-commerce: Already booming in India, with this it encourages start-ups to enter into service delivery.
These are expected to bring in substantial investment into these sectors and boost 'Make in India'
These decisions further facilitate 'ease of doing' business in India
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Also, single brand retailers are now allowed without any 'local sourcing' requirements. This allows companies like Apple to set up here and generate employment.
It would also reduce fiscal deficit and use the same leverage for social issue.
More FDI means better credit rating, thus boosting investments in the economy.
Negatives:
There is a possibility of investment being routed through tax havens and thereby evading tax.
In FDI, only 10% of investment comes as equity and the rest as loans. Also, half of inflows are balanced by outflows which include dividend payments for IPR etc.
Easing of norms in defense may not facilitate growth of indigenous capabilities through transfer of technology
100% FDI in animal husbandry may result in monopoly by large firms and can be detrimental to small farmers.
Also, the focus of FDI has been to purchase existing assets to make quick profits and not on long-term investments.
While FDI is an important instrument to promote business in India, we can't entirely depend on it because of associated negative effects. It is important to encourage domestic private investment. Q30). Critically analyze the effectiveness of government’s recent financial inclusion initiatives. What alternative policy measures should government consider for financial inclusion? Financial inclusion as defined buGoI is the process of ensuring access to financial services and timely and adequate credit where needed by vulnerable groups such as weaker sections and low income groups at an affordable cost. Dimensions of financial inclusion are bank penetration, credit penetration, deposit penetration, of which credit penetration is the key problem in the country. Therefore, for increasing the level of financial inclusion, the GOI and RBI have taken few actions which include the following:
Nationalization of banks (1969, 1980) Priority Sector Lending requirements 122
Establishment of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) (1975, 1976) Self-help group-bank linkage program (1989,1990) Recent measures:
No frill accounts or basic accounts MUDRA bank. JAM-Jan Dhan, AADHAR, mobile Bussiness correspondents Payment banks
Effectiveness of government’s recent financial inclusion initiatives:
Though a number of measures have been initiated by the GOI, RBI and NABARD, the status of financial inclusion in the country still needs more support Official data shows that only 27 per cent of villages in India have a bank within a five km radius and the number of those without a basic bank account is still huge. After a major push towards financial inclusion, around 24 cr bank accounts have been opened. But, a recent investigative report by the Indian Express newspaper found that bank officials were putting in Rs 1 or Rs 5 to keep some inactive accounts alive.
Alternative measures:
Granular schemes: different schemes for rural and urban areas. Methods of financial literacy need to be changed from distributing printed literature to audio and visual media especially in local languages. An improved BC role by rebranding their image as a banker Fully operationalizing the use of post offices as banks Encouraging banking habits amongst the unbanked masses by installing audio-video enabled ATMs Clubbing of ATM and deposit taking machines that can offer features like document scanning, finger print reader/ iris detector and camera then it can offer all the banking services automatically
The government and Reserve Bank of India have been making concerted efforts since mid1950’s and with renewed vigor since 2005 but success has been rather slow, due to lack of a strong network, and financial instruments not suited to rural residents. Improving financial and competitive push for the private banks towards financial inclusion would help creating a big difference to the economy and people.
Q31). The agreement between government of India and RBI to keep inflation under check has been praised by many commentators and economists. However to make
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sure that the gains of a successful battle against inflation reach the poor as well, the battle would have to be fought on multiple fronts. Elucidate. Inflation targeting emphasizes on the primacy of price stability as the objective of monetary policy. It means that when inflation exceeds the threshold level, the primary focus of monetary policy must be to bring it back to the desired level Benefits of inflation are not reaching the poor substantially:
In fiscal 2016, rural core inflation was 6.7 percent compared with 4.8 percent in urban. Sub-categories such as health, education, household goods and services, recreation and amusement have all recorded higher inflation in the hinterland last fiscal. High prices have been impacting low-income population with no commensurate increase in their wages.
As poorer people spend a larger amount of their earnings on food, while the rich would spend more on things like consumer durables and services, the poor would be hurt more if prices of items like pulses or vegetables go up. So inflation must be fought at multiple fonts Multiple fonts to fight inflation, so that its benefits reach the poor:
Systemic changes: There needs to be close coordination between monetary policy and regulation of financial system CPI as index: Since the objective of inflation targeting is to minimise the impact of price rise on people, the appropriate index will be retail inflation. Address supply side constraints: RBI cannot effectively deal with all types of inflation. Supply side concerns should be taken care by the government with institutionalizing the price delivery mechanism, proper infrastructure and effective use of technology. GDP and inflation balance: Balance between GDP growth numbers and inflation targeting.
It has been agreed both by the government and central bank that inflation should be kept under check so that fruits of economic growth would be distributed equally among all sections of society. Systems need to be put in place in order to synchronize the efforts of RBI and government on inflation targeting.
Q32). Bailing out public-sector banks from the NPA crisis will either increase the fiscal deficit or lead to cuts in welfare and capital expenditures. Elucidate and also highlight the banking reforms proposed under ‘Mission Indradhanush’. A non performing asset (NPA) is a loan or advance for which the principal or interest payment remained overdue for a period of 90 days. There has been increasing NPAs in Public Sector Banks (PSBs). Such a situation is detrimental to the economy. So, government decided to infuse money onto the banking system. 124
Fiscal deficit target for 2015-16 is 3.9% and govt plans to further reduce it in 2016-17. But this infusion of money into banks would lead to further fiscal strain on the state. If government is recapitalizing banks and sticking fiscal deficit reduction, it means there would be curtailing subsidies and welfare expenditure, and by slashing capital expenditure. So, government needs to look for alternatives to raise revenue through various means Bailing out PSBs is part of Mission Indradhanush. Reforms under Mission Indradhanush are:
Appointments: separation of the post of Chairman and Managing Director Bank Board Bureau (BBB): It will be a body of ’eminent’ professionals. Capitalisation: Govt to Infuse 25,000 crore rupees of capital into debt-laden banks in this fiscal in phased manner. De-stressing PSBs: To develop vibrant debt market for PSBs in order to reduce lending pressure on banks. Strengthen asset reconstruction of companies. Empowerment: Provide greater flexibility in hiring of manpower in PSBs. Framework of accountability: It will seek to streamline vigilance process for quick action in case major frauds and also include connivance of staff. Governance reforms: Would be proposed based on deliberations. The increasing NPAs clearly makes a point for reforms and infusion of capital into PSBs. But a viable means for capitalization should be look into.
Q33). The Union government is contemplating unveiling the union budget a month or more ahead. This may appear to be a superfluous shift to some, but it could significantly alter governance outcomes if managed well. Elaborate.
Budget, also referred to as the annual financial statement (Article 112), is a statement of the estimated receipts and expenditure of the government for that particular year. Presently, the budget of the Indian govt is presented in the last week of February, the associated Financial Bill becomes law by May and funds are disbursed sometime in June. However, the idea of advancing Budget presentation a few months ahead will ensure that these proceedings are hopefully done by March
Significance
Due to March Rushthere is spike in expenditure by government department as the onset of monsoon would make execution of infrastructure project difficult. This would stop and expenditures are more timely spaced. Ensures that ministries and departments do not rely on Vote on Account but on actual budget allocation from beginning of Financial Year.
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Avoids the wastage of precious Parliamentary time in promulgating and approving the Vote on Account needed for functioning for initial months Provides more time in deliberation of budget proposals rather than rushing through the same. This will enrich the budget discussion process Challenges
The government may lack enough data about the state of the economy by January, be it tax collections or GDP numbers, monsoon forecasts. With tighter deadlines to put together the Economic Survey with less data at its disposal, problem related to estimates etc
In spite of above challenges, this initiative seems to be a great move in order to avoid delays, faster implementation of schemes which foster the growth of our economy. RK Merton said "Functionality of an institution depends on how it changes with time" so it becomes necessary for any institution to bring certain with changing time.
Q34). Is the falling of oil price in global market boon or bane for India. Discuss
The global fall in oil process, owing primarily to the shale gas discovery by the U.S., decreasing import of crude oil by China and non-cooperation between OPEC countries to control crude oil prices, carries with it many advantages and concerns to India.
A boon: Economic Impact:
Macroeconomic stability: Being the fourth largest importer of oil, the fallen prices give us macro stability in terms of : a. Reduced Current Account Deficit with lower import costs. Eg: since the crash of prices import bill of crude oil come down from 7.5 lakh cr. to 4.5 lakh cr. b. Reduced price levels/inflation, thus benefiting the average consumer c. Reduced fiscal deficit. Eg: Fiscal deficit target for 2015-16 of 3.9% was met Economic growth: a. Lower costs of production, due to lowering transportation charges and hence higher production (thus higher GDP) b. Keeps the growth alive. Eg: Increase in takers for automobiles and hence boost to manufacturing sector. 126
c. It reduces the cost of agriculture production as cost of farm inputs come down such as diesel, thus increase profitability of farmers. Social Impact:
Lower cost of production have led to more employment, higher incomes, more expenditure on health and education thereby inviting more players to these fields and this an overall growth of the country. Additionally, it has also reduced the subsidy burden on the Government.
A Bane: Economic Impact:
Reduced remittances: Fall in oil prices would result in lower remittances especially from Gulf regions. Unemployment: Gulf region is great hub for Indian workers and depressed middle east may have convulsion on political and economic terms leading to stricter rules forcing out migration. when these unemployed came back to India ,it may create socio-economic concerns for country. Eg: Libya during political turmoil. Oil companies: India is 6th largest exporter of petroleum products, tumbling prices will have a affect on downstream processing industries. Indian investors and companies hold a lot of stakes in countries like Nigeria, Russia and the Gulf, which are facing the downside of this oil price decrease, whose income would be adversely effected. Domestic investment in petroleum sector would face a setback due to competition from lower imports with high input cost.
Environmental Impact:
Increasing Pollution: It is due in increase vehicular traffic Set back to renewable: Lower price of fuel might shift the focus away from renewable green technologies
Although the monetary benefits are far stronger in the immediate future than the concerns, India must strategically plan with a future vision in mind and not on the basis of immediate trends.
Q35). Insolvency process in India is plagued by wide range of problems. How Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2015 will be helpful in resolving these problems? Critically examine.
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Insolvency refers to, when an individual or organization, can no longer meet its financial obligations with its lender or when their liabilities are greater than assets.
Recent surveys have shown that there are systemic problems in the way stressed assets are relieved and the long duration for resolving insolvency. Challenges faced in the revival of stressed assets:
Had to do with all three parties involved: the companies themselves, the banks, and the government’s regulatory structure. Numerous execution difficulties In building consensus among creditors Lack of adequate legal rights/infrastructure
Inorder to address these challenges on the recommendations of Vishwanathan Committee, Bankruptcy and Insolvency Code has been enacted, with an aim to time-bound process to resolve insolvency. Its major provisions are:
It provides for creation various institutions: Adjudicating authorities, Insolvency Professional Agencies, Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board. It proposes the steps to resolve insolvency: Initiation- Decision to resolve insolvency Liquidation Recently government as per the code, government has established the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India, to oversee insolvency resolution in the country.
Advantages:
If properly implemented, it will cut the resolution time when a borrowing entity fails to pay up on time. Faster resolution of insolvency process will improve ease of doing business and attract investments in wake of Make in India Deepening the corporate bond market in India because of increased confidence of getting money back in case of insolvency With higher recovery chances, institutional investors will start betting on lower-rated corporate bonds Fixing up the loopholes in existing laws and providing a uniform framework will boost entrepreneurship in wake of ‘Stand Up’ India scheme Reduction in Non-Performing Assets of banks will release resources to be used for socio-economic development
Few issues in the code need consideration:
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The order of priority to distribute assets during liquidation isn’t clear Creation multiple institutions as mentioned might lead to conflict of interest between the regulatory and institutions
Thus, it can be said that the new insolvency code is expected to expedite the process of debt recovery and will help improve the overall business environment in the country. Q36). Government has introduced Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) to rejuvenate PPP. How Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) will be helpful in rejuvenating PPP. Also highlight the challenges faced by PPP projects in India. Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) is a mix of Build Operate and Transfer (BOT) Annuity and Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) Models. Under this the government will contribute to 40% of the project cost in the first five years through annual payments (annuity). The remaining payment will be made on the basis of the assets created and the performance of the developer.
The government has introduced HAM model to revive PPP (Public Private Partnership) in highway construction. It would used for stalled projects where other models are not applicable.
Advantages:
It gives enough liquidity to the developer and the financial risk is shared by the government. Though the private partner continues to bear the construction and maintenance risks, but it will only to partly bear the financing risk. The developer is insulated from revenue/traffic risk and the inflation risk, which are not within its control Given the certainty of cash flow developers can obtain more leverage from banks Reduced debt requirement and cost of borrowing for private sector compared to BOT annuity model Compared to EPC model it would ease the cash flow pressure to NHAI. With these above advantages, it is a win-win situation for both developers as well as the government. As it involves a rational approach for allocation of risks between the PPP partners the Government and the private partner, it would attract more private sector participation.
Challenges faced by PPP projects in India:
Regulatory environment: There is no independent PPP regulator in India currently 129
Lack of information: The PPP program lacks a comprehensive database regarding the projects/studies to be awarded under PPP. Project development: The project development activities such as, detailed feasibility study, land acquisition, environmental/forest clearances etc., are not given adequate importance by the concessioning authorities. Eg: pullout of Reliance Infrastructure-led concessionaire from the Airport Express Line of Delhi Metro was due to inflated traffic projection made in the beginning Lack of institutional capacity: The limited institutional capacity to undertake large and complex projects at various levels of govt. Financing availability: As commercial banks have reached their exposure limits the need has arisen for government to pump in money initially.
Thus, HAM seems to circumvent some of challenges on financial front, making it favorable for private parties and is expected to fast track road infrastructure projects.
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Q37). How far is the Chinese slowdown responsible for slow global economic recovery? What implications does it have over India. How can Indian economy be insulated from such downturns?
Chinese economy is described as ‘too big to ignore’.
Yes it affected but only to a certain extent:
China has seen double-digit growth rates for the past 30 years and has been a manufacturing base of the world. But, in the recent times, China's growth has been at sub-7 levels and its export led growth is being replaced by domestic consumption and services. Because of this, China uses less commodities, petroleum which led to fall in their prices.
In Europe, the Middle East, and Africa in particular, there are three ways in which a China slowdown will substantially impact global economic growth - A fading export market, a pullback in foreign direct investment, a trigger of financial-market instability
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But, slow global recovery can't be entirely attributed to China. Developed economies have reached saturation in growth and policies like easy money policies are not helping for global growth. Recently, IMF reduced global growth forecast because of Brexit.
Implications to Indian economy:
In the short run: China’s slowdown may slightly erode India’s export competitiveness and fuel currency-market volatility The Indian companies in which Chinese invest are battling several fallouts: Poor demand for their products in China due to slow growth and a weaker yuan, the prospect of dumping of Chinese goods in India, and higher costs of servicing dollar debt due to downward pressure on the rupee. Decrease in Indian exports: On the rupee: Rupee, recently breached the 68-to-the-dollar mark, likely driven by heavy selling of Indian shares by foreign investors. A weak rupee will make imports costlier and is not having the usual tonic impact on exports because our key markets are slowing down. It will also make the Reserve Bank of India think long and hard about further interest rate cuts and could eat into our dollar reserves.
How to insulate/way ahead:
A chance: India can more favorable destination for manufacturing and investments for Chinese players. India's big push for infrastructure development Govt.'s initiatives like Make in India could get boost from cheaper Chinese funds Also, fall in commodity prices, petroleum prices are beneficial to India. Strong macro economic stability: diverse trade, export competitiveness, maintainingforex reserves would be beneficial. Driving economy on domestic consumption,
India should cushion itself to reduce the negative impact of a Chinese slowdown. At the same time, it should also explore the positive side of a Chinese slowdown.
Q38).In an emerging market economy like India’s where the main objective of macro policy is economic welfare, the central bank cannot work independently of 131
the government. Highlight the distinction in the functioning of central banks in advanced and emerging market economies (EMEs).
While it is widely accepted that Reserve Bank of India (RBI) should be autonomous and free of political machinations but it raises questions of what sort of independence is required and to whom would RBI be accountable to.
The concept of an independent central bank evolved in advanced economies, there is a clear distinction in the functioning of Central banks of AEs and EMEs.
Emerging (EMEs)
Advanced economies (AEs) Financial markets seamlessly integrated
developed
market
economies
and Underdeveloped financial markets
Financial institutions are established a Government ownership of financial long time ago and are mature, which institutions and inefficient transmission ensures that the transmission mechanism mechanism. is efficient. The government-owned banks lend extensively to other government-owned companies, compromising standard commercial viability criteria.
Smooth functioning of monetary policy
Consequent to ineffective transmission of monetary signals, central banks of EMEs have to intervene in different isolated markets.
Central banks can focus on a single Central banks of EMEs have to pursue objective to be pursued by a single very diverse activities to ensure instrument, and hence the quick adoption development of financial markets and carry out financial sector reforms
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of inflation targeting by many central bank
Mostly people are financially literate and Not many are financially literate, so banking penetration is extensive, have access to financial products financial inclusion becomes an important objective for banks.
If the central bank has a single objective, independence is understandable for a focussed approach. But if the central bank has multiple objectives, then there is an increased need for coordination with the government to jointly face challenges.
In India, the objective of macro policy is enhancing economic welfare, and any one wing of macro policy, monetary or fiscal, cannot independently work without active support of another
Conclusion: The concept of an independent central bank has different implications for different EMEs and advanced economies, depending on the level of development of the economy and markets. Thus a holistic view is needed.
Q39). Critically analyze how helpful can be the Universal Basic income in fulfilling the basic needs of poor population of India and what could be it’s possible implications over India’s economy? Universal basic income (UBI)is an income unconditionally granted to all on an individual basis, without means test or work requirement. Pros:
Basic needs of poor: As it is paid to individuals rather than households and less-thansatisfactory experience with targeting welfare services, UBI will benefit all those who are in need with zero exclusion error Moreover as cash transfers are not tied to exhibiting certain behaviours and the people are free to spend the cash as per their needs. 133
It will enhance people's purchasing power hence leads to more consumption and economic growth. It will reduce poverty, forced labour, child labour, prostitution and malnutrition and hence will provide a dignified life and help achieve SDG goals. It will enhance bargaining power against traders, middlemen, contractors, creditors and landlords
It will partly reduce the rising inequality between rich and poor in recent years. Cons:
It would reduce the motivation for work and might encourage people to live off assured cash transfers. It would be unaffordable in long run People may spend the money for non food items and hence threat to food security and nutrition security.
Implications for Indian economy:
Huge pressure on government exchequer: As it is estimated paying a basic income equivalent to the poverty line, to each and every adult in India, would entail a cost of 11% of GDP, which is way above the 4.2% of GDP that the government currently spends on explicit subsidies. It may lead to inflation: As it might raise wages due to the decline in the supply of casual laborers.
Hence in Indian context the adoption of UBI should involve wide ranging debates and discussions. Any future step should take care of the state's fiscal affordability and desired outcomes of UBI. Just UBI would not reduce poverty-it needs-Broad based economic reforms that would strengthen job creation and specific reforms to allow the poor to gain better education and health
Q40). Unemployment is one of the greatest economic challenges facing India. Critically evaluate why despite several measures taken by government unemployment still persist in India? Suggest some alternative policy measures to tackle it. Unemployed are those who were not currently working but are seeking for work. As per Census 2011, India has unemployment of 9.6%. Reasons for high rate of unemployment:
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Stressed agriculture: Unfinished agenda of land reforms, huge dependence on rain fed agriculture lack of affordable inputs, institutional credit, extension services, exploitation by middlemen, lack of integration with other sectors are affecting growth of sector. Nature of manufacturing: Not much growth in MSME sector, not so employment friendly labour laws, regulatory environment make Indian goods less competitive and lack of adequate skills, hence not so employment-friendly. Skewed service sector: Service sector requires highly educated people. The people out of college are not employable as per sectors requirement. Risk averse attitude: Indians are generally risk-averse and hence not inclined to encourage entrepreneurship, often a more workable alternative to a salaried job. Worry about the quality of employment being created ducation system needs to be revamped to create the desired skill-sets. At present, the education system is failing miserably in delivering even whatever it is designed to. It's because of poor industrial and agricultural policies that are not creating infrastructure development, manufacturing and services jobs
Way Forward:
Mechanisation and agri-biotech are key to raising agricultural productivity and prosperity. We need to formulate policies that incentivize private sector to invest in mega infrastructure projects. Focus on universal healthcare and education for all that will create a large number of jobs. More focus on manufacturing sector as it holds potential to absorb unskilled and semiskilled workers in larger proportion than the Service sector. Bridge courses as per National Skill Qualification Framework (NSQF) may be given a holistic focus to make the workforce more competent and productive. Education system needs to be re-oriented towards vocational and practical teachings. Participation of women in workforce, that is meager one fifth (about 22%), needs to be improved for higher productivity, equitable and inclusive growth. Greater encouragement for entrepreneurship, through systems in place to promote the same. Government has taken initiatives to improve Ease of doing business so as to attract greater investments. In tune with focus on growth, initiatives as Start up India, Stand up India, Skill India efforts are being made to increase the employment opportunities. Various vocational and skill development initiatives have also been taken. Some amount of public funding is made through MGNREGA, pushing infrastructure through PPP mode. A lot more remains to be done. Q41). Despite taking several measures to deals with the problem of bad loans, why are they still haunting banking industry? What more should be done?
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Bad loan, is a loan where repayments are not being made as originally agreed between the borrower and the lender, and which may never be repaid
Recently, RBI introduced Scheme for Sustainable Structuring of Stressed Assets, or S4A and several other measures to deal with rising bad loans, but the problem is so deep at the aggregate level that RBI’s measures are not making much of a difference.
Reason for rise of bad loans: In the last two years, especially, the bank bad loans have gone up dramatically mainly due to following reasons.
The market failure coupled with bad debts often not reflected properly by the banks. Improper management of these loans by the banks. Unutilised assets: Many of the assets created utilizing these loans remain unutilized or partially utilized because of the ineffective management. Inefficient borrower screening, poor credit appraisal and inadequate post disbursement supervision Prolonged judicial process: Even the courts take many years for the resolution of these cases. Crony capitalism: Under political pressure banks are compelled to provide loans for certain sectors which are mostly stressed. Excessively leveraged corporate sector Stressed public sector: In the case of sectors like electricity, the poor financial condition of most SEBs is the problem; in areas like steel, the collapse in global prices suggests that a lot more loans will get stressed in the months ahead.Other stressed sectors include infrastructure, textiles and mining. PSBs’ has more bad loans:It is because public sector banks provide loans under various compulsions including social banking. Often, these loans are not paid back.
Way forward:
Giving more flexibility, structural and operational independence to banks to deal with the issue of bad loans. Revamp the existing management in all the stressed banks. Some banks would have to merge to optimize their use of resources. RBI and government both should together form an ARC. This ARC may purchase these bad loans and can effectively handle them. The government should also come up with appropriate policies aimed at improving the health of these banks. 136
RBI also needs to move fast to put in place its proposed ceiling on bank exposures to large groups. The government might also consider abolishing the department of banking. Having enough debt recovery tribunals, A bank holding company as recommended by the P J Nayak Committee should not be long delayed, even though it would require legislative assent. Recently, a new idea is mooted to create a 'Bad Banks' to tackle all the bad loans or NPAs of PSBs by taking over the NPAs of weaker PSBs and thereby proving its worth for the bigger projects, is a noteworthy initiative.
Q42). What are Masala Bonds? How can Masala bonds help in meeting goals of infrastructure development and housing for all? Explain briefly. Masala bonds are rupee denominated debt instruments issued in overseas markets where the settlement happens in dollars. The exchange rate volatility risk is borne by the investor and not the issuer.
These bonds were first issued by International Finance Corporation (IFC), the investment branch of World bank group for investment in India. Benefits:
It will direct international savings for domestic investment. Larger investor base to tap in the infrastructure sector which is very capital intensive. Will propel foreign investment and thus will propel the idea of ease of doing business. This investment will propel housing for all by 2022 under PM Awas Yojana. This can rejuvenate the hitherto NPA laden, bottleneck laden and low investment infrastructure sector. Help in meeting housing and infrastructure development
Indian construction companies have big problems in getting domestic capital and it is a big challenge for getting foreign investor to come to India. Therefore, funders can buy bonds in their own stock exchange ( London stock exchange , in this case ) without facing hassle to register here first Good response to Masala bonds will boost investor rating, further increase in inflows thus boosting private investments. Since denomination ensures good profit to Indian companies, this would create a healthy environment for other infrastructure companies to follow suit too and provide for necessary capital for Housing for all. Also brings in Long term investments which is key to success of major infra projects
Though Real estate bill, prevention of corruption act and black market bill will help in suspicious money to be reduced to large extent, much more needs to be done to boost 137
consumers and investors' confidence. Thus Reserve Bank of India recently allowed commercial banks to issue rupee denominated Masala bonds in overseas markets both for their capital requirement and for financing infrastructure and affordable housing.
Q43). There is need not only to fix minimum wages, but also to extend the coverage of minimum wages to the unorganized sector of the economy to secure welfare for all. Critically Examine.
Minimum wage refers to the lowest remuneration that employers may legally pay to the workers. About 90 percent plus working population in india is working in unorganised sector facing vulnerabilities like no job security, benefits, minimum working hours, leaves , minimum wages etc The motto of providing minimum wage in a country is to ensure a decent minimum pay for survival. Benefits
Responsibility of employer: Many workers, especially in private sector unorganized sector are underpaid or are treated as cheap labor. This results in exploitation as the workers put in high number of hours but get not so satisfactory wages in return. Minimum wage would reduce it. It will help to bring unorganized sector into organised one This will also please the trade unions, leading to lesser strikes and shutdowns Greater wage will in turn promote consumption, and could give a fillip to the economy Raise standards of living: Minimum wage lift people out of poverty, promotes education among the poor and narrows the gap between rich and poor. Minimum wages would raise their standard of living. Decreases the cost of government social welfare programs by increasing incomes for the lowest-paid. It encourages people to join main stream of the economy. Hence increased job growth
Although there are many benefits of minimum wage law there exists certain drawbacks such as
Consumers hurt- Greater price of labor input will aggravate the inflation burden on the common man. Unemployment- Economics shows us that with limited funds available with the owners, rise in wage will only mean decrease in the number of people employed. i.e., having a minimum wage will affect the poor whom it is supposed to help by discouraging businesses from hiring more employees
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It is against the common belief of liberalization which dictates market and not the government should determine prices so as to preserve efficiency and competitiveness. Economy hurt- Inflation would increase the burden of employer and might look towards automation. Exports hurt- The Chinese spectacular export led growth was made feasible by artificially containing the price rise of labour. That allowed it to keep its export cheap, grow and finally cull poverty to only marginal limit. One size fits all for the entire country does not incorporate the variations between the various states. Affects investments- For foreign capital to make in India, Indian labour has to remain cheaper than other developing countries as Chinese, Vietnamese, and Bangladeshi labour Worse still, once the wage is indexed, the problems stemming from this autopilot law will only grow over time However looking at the socioeconomic condition of the country and the inability of the state to take care of the welfare of the citizens it becomes mandatory for India to pass a law favoring minimum wages. But minimum wages are not a cure for poverty. In consumer economies and capitalistic societies, businesses tend to react to minimum wage increases by raising the prices of the goods and services they provide.
Q44). What was the need to merge the rail budget with general budget. What are the constitutional hurdles ahead to give it effect? What more can be done to make this merger fruitful?
The cabinet has recently taken decision to merge railway budget with general budget. Following considerations necessitates this decision:
Changed situation: When a separate rail budget was introduced in 1924, it constituted 5/6 th of the overall budget, thus a greatest asset of govt. Now railway budget is just 6% of total budget. Fiscal state of the Indian Railways:There is fall in revenues, raising interest burden on borrowings, high operational cost, an annual outgo of Rs 32,000 crore on subsidies and added burden due to implementation recommendations of the Seventh Pay Commission there is hardly any money to carry out modernisation and upgradation of technology, or invest in new assets and focus on safety. By subsuming it within the Union budget, it will be better equipped to raise funds To deglamorize: It has been asserted the railway budget, is time and again used as a vote bank politics. Projects were allotted based on political considerations but not on economic calculations. Common budget will reduce this possibility. BibekDebroy Committee’s Recommendation: The commitee has recommended a separate budget for the Railways. 139
The current system of accounting of the railways is non-transparent.
Constitutional hurdles:
Our constitution doesn't provide for a separate railway budget.
This practice was started based on a resolution made by a parliament on the recommendations of Acworth Committee in 1921.
Therefore, parliament may have to be consulted for this decision. Also, railways, as a govt. monopoly, shall have to be scrutinized by parliament.
Way ahead:
Autonomy and structure of railway boards needs to be maintained
There is a need to operate railways on commercial principles without resorting to populism, political considerations.
Railway Development Authority of India (RDAI) has been proposed as an independent regulator. It needs to be quickly setup.
Railway zones can be allowed to become corporation and allow them to adopt commercial accounting procedures and attract investments.
The other recommendations of Bibek Debroy Committee needs to be implemented.
If the merger leads to a structural transformation over the long haul in terms of accounting and operating on commercial principles like corporate bodies, higher revenues, productivity and internal generation of funds and better project implementation based on economic logic rather than political considerations, only then, railways would retain pride of its place: as an engine of Indian economy.
Q45). The process of reforms in the Railways is complex and can disrupt a reasonably well-functioning system, with serious consequences for the economy. Critically examine in the light of need for reforms in railways. Link
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It is widely known that the Indian Railways, a mammoth organisation - the lifeline of millions in India, is a grossly inefficient.
Need for reforms: Major problems confronting it are slowed revenue growth, safety concerns, inefficient organization.
Present railway network is overburdened and inadequate to meet the new challenges of a fast developing economy. Some regions are beyond the reach of railways due to unfavourable geographical conditions. These areas need to be opened to railways for removing regional inequalities in economic growth. Most of the equipment used by the railways are now obsolete and need immediate replacements. Railways has huge staff as well as is forced to take uneconomical projects. Thus increasing financial burden Railways are overburdened with surplus staff on its regular pay roles. This burden hinders the further development of railways. Railways are the largest consumer of diesel, State Electricity Boards and NTPC increase the tariffs arbitrarily and thus adds to the burden of railways Cross subsidization of freight and passenger traffic With the rapid increase in passenger and goods traffic, the frequency of train accidents is increasing very fast. In the light if these, BibekDebroy Committee was constituted for mobilization of resources for major Railway Projects and restructuring of Railway Ministry and railway Board Reforms suggested by Bibek Debroy Committee :
Establishment of Independent Regulator-Railway Regulatory Authority of India (RRAI) Transition to commercial accounting and streamline recruitment &HR processes Focus on only core areas ieSeperation from activities as running schools & hospitals Decentralisation Indian Railway Manufacturing Company Encouraging private entry Joint Venture with State governments Changing relationship between government Railways Raising resources
Rakesh Mohan committee suggested conversion of railways into govt owned enterprise, with functional autonomy and attracting private sector
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Railways can be the engine for high speed growth of the country. According to the Economic Survey, an increase in the output of the railways by Rs 1 will increase output of the economy by Rs 3.3 due to its forward and backward linkages. Thus, there is urgent need for reforms.
Q46). Discuss the benefits and concerns associated with proliferation of drones in India. How draft guidelines for operation of civil Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) will be able to tackle the concerns associated with drones.
Drone is a unmanned aircraft, essentially a flying robot. Benefits of drones:
Security and surveillance: Armed forces use drones to counter insurgency in areas where human monitoring is a huge challenge due to rough weather conditions. They can also be used in border areas. Delivery of goods: In urban areas it can be used to make deliveries, as announced by Amazon. Urban planning:It can be done better by using the aerial images taken by drones as they can take accurate aerial shots of any region, along with the precise data. Enhance vigilance in urban sectors: They provide 360 degree view to the law enforcements that can help them fight crime better. Rural areas: Precision agriculture - aiding agricultural activities such as sowing seeds on vast tracts of land, spraying pesticides etc Disaster management: Aerial images taken by drones can pinpoint rain intensity, provide flood warning data and help generate alerts for impending natural disasters. These can also help in relief distribution to areas cut off by floods or snow. Eg: Used in Uttarkhand floods Cloud seeding: drones can be deployed for cloud sowing and also for crop monitoring, thus contributing to the overall food security system of the country. Biodiversity conservation: Can be used in protection of endangered species. Eg: Used in South Africa and Indonesia Others: mining-related 3D mapping of stockpiles, firefighting and monitoring weather patterns
Concerns on proliferation of drones: The increased momentum for advocating restrictions and bans on the use of drones recently became evident when the U.N. Human Rights Council called for a global freeze on the use of drones.
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Misuse by terrorist elements When other countries its use violates sovereignty, Over-using in military would make it more difficult to identify violations of constraints against targeting noncombatants. With the technological advancements in unmanned flying devices over the years and their increased use in everyday life, it has become necessary to develop guidance material to regulate this activity
Guidelines for operation of UAV:
Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) would register all civil unmanned aircraft and issue permits for operating for them. UAVs would be issued Unique Identification Number (UIN) International operations of UAVs would be strictly prohibited. They issued only to Indian citizens. Also, UA (unmanned aircraft) shall not be flown over other RashtrapatiBhavan, sensitive locations viz. nuclear stations, military facilities and strategic locations Thus, these guidelines would look into security concerns of UAVs are step in the right direction and would help commercialize the use of UAVs for the betterment of humankind.
Q47). Discuss the maritime challenges faced by India. How will India’s Maritime Security Strategy (IMSS-2015) be helpful in handling new and growing challenges? India possess a unique maritime geography with a central location in the IORand long coastline of approx. 7500km. While this represents a great opportunity, it makes India vulnerable to attacks from the sea.
Maritime challenges to India:
China’s growing role in the Indian Ocean: China’s string of Pearls, growing SinoPak alliance, PLA navy’s nuclear submarines is on the major traditional threat to India’s maritime security Lack of coordination in the related ministries: Many ministries or departments are concerned with ocean related matters, there seems to be lack of coordination. And moreover, generalist bureaucrats are placed where specialist with maritime expertise are needed. Dependence on foreign shipping: It results in not just loss of revenue but also, represents strategic vulnerability Rampant piracy and maritime terrorism
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Not so efficient defence shipyards: India lacks indigenously built sophisticated warships. Natural disaster and impact of climate change Replacement of ageing platforms and obsolescent equipment To overcome these challenges and emerge as a maritime power, India recently adopted India's Maritime Security Strategy (IMSS-2015).
India’s Maritime Security Strategy (IMSS-2015) IMSS is a comprehensive account of India’s nautical imperatives, challenges, strengths and opportunities. By providing deep insights into India’s contemporary nautical precepts, it will be helping in handling India’s growing maritime challenges as is described below:
Securing seas: The title of IMSS is 'Securing the seas'. Thus, India is moving from using seas to securing seas. Strong security role in maritime neighbourhood and safeguarding economic interest: It also recognizes the need to coordinate with those countries who have divergent interests with us. This is important to successfully face China's challenge Maritime security operations: It recognizes the need to bringing out contemporary assessments of maritime terrorism, piracy, armed robbery, humanitarian crises, peace support operations and non-combatant evacuation missions.Eg:disaster management hudhudcyclone,evacuation in yemen ‘Net maritime security' in primary and secondary areas of interest ('IndoPacific'): India is willing to broaden its focus which extend from west coast of Africa to South East Asia. This increases India's responsibilities and reflects India's growing international stature. Coastal and offshore security: The Navy has been pursuing an “information networking and management project”, which involves greater coastal community participation Maritime force and capability development: Capability-building, human resource development and force-structure planning to high technology acquisition, the stratery explores myriad measures to improve the Navy’s strategic potential and pitches for make in india For its successful implementation and enhancing maritime security, it needs to be coordinated with other initiatives like Project Mausam, SAGAR etc.
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Does the Use of Performance Enhancing Drugs Violate the “Spirit of Sport”? Also bring out the ethical concerns associated with doping in sports in the light of some recent events. Spirit of sport is the intrinsic value about sport. The spirit of sport is the celebration of the human spirit, body and mind, and is characterized by the following values:
Ethics, fair play and honesty. Health. Excellence in performance. Character and education. Fun and joy. Teamwork. Dedication and commitment. Respect for rules and laws. Respect for self and other participants. Courage. Community and solidarity.
Doping refers to illicit use of performance enhancing substances. Doping in sport is cheating. It is fundamentally contrary to the spirit of sport and is detrimental to the positive impact of sport in society.
The usage of doping is widespread in sports, especially athletic events, has been proved by the famous Le Tour de France cyclist Lance Armstrong and a recent two year ban for taking meldonium by Maria Sharapovaa famous tennis players brings to focus various ethical issues involved with doping.
Its taking part in sports that count, not winning: Allowing drugs would focus more on winning, not taking part It is against the spirit of the sport: As it doesn’t use fair means to win It is like harming oneself unnecessarily: Many performance-enhancing drugs pose severe health risks and there long term health effects are severe Dangerous behavior: If professional players take it even amateurs would be inspired to use them and would be facing dangerous repercussions It would increase drug advertising and sponsorship: This poses similar ethical problems to the debate about tobacco advertising in sports like Formula One
Sports today are more than a game. It has social, political, economic and cultural values attached to it. Hence “spirit of sports” needs to be preserved. This would need a commitment by all for ethical practice and upholding standards of fair play. It requires consistent and accountable decision-making.
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