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Daily Briefing

- Daily Briefing: BRS leader K Kavitha granted bail by SC; Jay Shah appointed as new ICC chief; BJP’s coalition woes; and more

- Daily Briefing: Malayalam cinema’s MeToo August

Daily Briefing: BRS leader K Kavitha granted bail by SC; Jay Shah appointed as new ICC chief; BJP’s coalition woes; and more

In today’s edition: Churn in Malayalam film industry; Jay Shah is the new ICC chief; Coalition woes for BJP?

Written by Sonal Gupta , Aradhana Kalia

New Delhi | August 28, 2024 09:06 IST

Top news on August 28, 2024.

🚨 Big Story

Over five months after she was arrested, Bharat Rashtra Samiti (BRS) leader K Kavitha is out on bail. The Supreme Court has granted her relief in both the Central Bureau of Investigation’s (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) corruption and money laundering cases linked to the alleged Delhi excise policy scam.

Quick recap: Why was Kavitha arrested? Well, the ED and CBI have alleged that she was part of a ‘South Group’ that gave the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) kickbacks to the tune of Rs 100 crore in exchange of undue favours related to the now-scrapped liquor policy.

So, why bail now? Here’s what the Supreme Court said:

📌 The court noted that Kavitha has been in custody for five months, and stated, “undertrial custody should not turn into a punishment”.

📌 The court has questioned if there was “any independent data” which shows “incriminating evidence” against Kavitha.

📌 The Bench also questioned the “fairness” of probe agencies relying on statements of accused turned approvers.

Law and exception: Kavitha had approached the apex court after the Delhi High Court rejected her bail plea in April. The HC had ignored a key exception for women in the bail provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. It reasoned that Kavitha was a “well-educated” woman and hence, not “vulnerable”. This did not sit well with the Supreme Court.

⚡Only in Express

There’s been a churn in the power corridors of the Malayalam film industry, ever since the Justice Hema Committee report came out. The entire 17-member executive committee of the Association of Malayalam Movies Artistes (AMMA), including its president and superstar actor Mohanlal, resigned from their posts on Tuesday.

This was no mean feat. The AMMA acted as an all-powerful group whose clout extended over everyone from directors to top-rung actors and junior artistes. They could ban artistes who did not toe the line or adopt arm-twisting tactics to get their way.

Interestingly, the entire Hema panel report was typed out by just its three members. They couldn’t hire a stenographer as they wanted to keep the contents secret. That, however, wasn’t the end of their struggles.

Leading South Indian playback singer Chinmayi Sripaada wishes for a similar support system for women in Tamil, Telugu and other industries. “WCC (Women in Cinema Collective) members are my heroes; they demanded the Hema Committee report, and I wish I had been born in Kerala to have that kind of support in the fight against sexual assault,” she says in an interview with The Indian Express.

📰 From the Front Page

India’s balancing act on Russia-Ukraine war: A day after speaking to US President Joe Biden about his Ukraine visit, PM Modi dialed Russian President Vladimir Putin Tuesday and “exchanged perspectives on the Russia-Ukraine conflict and his insights from the recent visit to Ukraine. With Modi assuring Zelenskyy in Kyiv that India is ready to mediate for peace, does this signal an intent to broker peace between the warring sides?

Nabanna Abhijan: Kolkata saw major clashes between students and police on Tuesday as protesters marched to the state secretariat (Nabanna), demanding justice for the junior doctor raped and killed earlier this month at RG Kar Medical College & Hospital. Lathi charges, teargas, and over 100 arrests—we tell you what happened at the rally and why Governor CV Ananda Bose called it the “beginning of the end.”

📌 Must Read

A new sheriff in town: As expected, 35-year-old Jay Shah has been elected as the new chair of the International Cricket Council (ICC), with his term starting on December 1. His elevation comes at a pivotal time for the sport, as cricket prepares for its debut in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Will Shah seize the opportunity to position cricket as a truly global sport? What challenges does he face? We discuss.

“BJP Honeymoon period” with coalition partners ends: Receiving pushback from their allies on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and lateral entry into the bureaucracy, the Modi government seems to be struggling to adapt to ‘coalition culture’. From Chirag Paswan’s call for a caste census to the TDP and JD(U)’s positions on the Waqf Bill, we examine the issues the saffron party is grappling with and how the top leadership is maneuvering through them.

In today’s Opinion section, senior advocate Amit Desai examines the new criminal law, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which has replaced the Indian Penal Code. In the context of the technology revolution, he highlights how the BNS fails to address modern crimes such as cyberbullying, stalking, and email hacking.

👉 And Finally…

Start the count: Hopes are high for our Paralympians, as the largest-ever contingent of 84 athletes will compete at the Paris venues, where India won five medals earlier this month. With stars like Avani Lekhara in shooting and Sumit Antil in javelin, there will be no shortage of inspiration as these athletes, along with many others, showcase their skills in Paris.

Delhi Confidential: The Delhi Police Cyber Crime Unit has filed an FIR against a social media account for pretending to be Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and asking for money. Well, the post generated a lot of laughter in legal circles. Let’s find out why.

🎧In today’s episode of the 3 Things podcast, we discuss the significance of PM Modi’s visit to Ukraine and the case of a two-year-old child from Meghalaya testing positive for vaccine-derived polio. We also cover the major upgrade planned for the IMD, with the government set to allocate thousands of crores to its budget.

Until next time,

Sonal Gupta and Aradhana Kalia

Business As Usual by Unny

Sonal Gupta

Sonal Gupta is a senior sub-editor on the news desk. She runs The Indian Express's weekly climate newsletter, Icebreaker. Apart from this, her interests range from politics and world affairs to art and culture and AI. She also curates the Morning Expresso, a daily briefing of top stories of the day, which won gold in the ‘best newsletter’ category at the WAN-IFRA South Asian Digital Media Awards 2023.   ... Read More

Daily Briefing: Malayalam cinema’s MeToo August

In today's edition: Nabanna Abhiyan march in Kolkata; Centre strikes back at Mamata Banerjee-led government; India's weather system to get a major upgrade

Written by Aradhana Kalia , Vibha B Madhava

New Delhi | Updated: August 27, 2024 09:35 IST

Top news - August 27

Good morning!

🚨Big Story:

Later today, a student body—The Paschim Banga Chhatra Samaj (Society of Students in West Bengal) will  march to the state secretariat in Kolkata’s Nabanna.. The march aims to demand the resignation of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in light of the rape-murder case at the city’s R G Kar Hospital.

Tell me more: This recently-formed student organization has split the movement for justice in the case. The CPI(M) and Congress have distanced themselves from the protest, citing concerns over the alleged RSS connections of some of the organizers.

Keeping at it:  At the hospital, the West Bengal Junior Doctors’ Front, a collective of medical professionals from across the state, is leading the charge. From holding daily strategy meetings and raising funds to coordinating with global supporters through official WhatsApp groups, here’s how they are sustaining the movement.

However: Opposition leaders allege that evidence has been compromised. A purported video has surfaced showing numerous individuals at the crime scene shortly after the victim’s body was discovered on the morning of August 9.

Not doing enough: In response to Banerjee’s call for stricter Central laws on sexual assault, Union Minister Annapurna Devi highlighted that only six Fast Track Special Courts were operational in the state as of June, despite a significant backlog of cases.

________________________________________________________________________________

⚡Only in the Express:

In an exclusive interview with the Indian Express, Congress Working Committee member Abhishek Manu Singhvi discusses his return to the Rajya Sabha, reflects on his recent loss in the Himachal Pradesh election, and addresses his involvement in court cases representing Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

“Call it by any name — political theory, political philosophy, political ideology or political imagination — this form of thinking about politics is necessary for any meaningful political action.”

In this week’s edition of his new column ‘Deshkaal’, Yogendra Yadav responds to interesting questions that have come his way in response to the opening piece on August 18. To that effect, he clarifies what “political thought” is, the decline of which he bemoans.

________________________________________________________________________________

📰From the front page:

More skeletons: On Monday, allegations of sexual misconduct in the Malayalam film industry grew, with new accusations against actors and senior AMMA members, leading the Kerala Police to file its first case.

Further revelations by the report reveal that a powerful, all-male group of 10-15 individuals at the top of Malayalam cinema controls the industry. This group is said to impose bans on actors and allegedly looks the other way when women come to them with complaints of harassment

Dive deeper: In today’s episode of the 3 Things Podcast, we discuss Malayalam actress Minu Muneer’s allegations of sexual misconduct involving several actors, including a two-time CPI(M) legislator.

Fair warning: Ahead of the upcoming Haryana assembly election, the BJP  has dissociated itself from its MP from Mandi Kangana Ranaut. Her latest brush with controversy included remarks on the 2020-21 farmers agitation. The party cracked the whip, saying, she was “neither permitted nor authorised” to make statements on the party policy”. Here’s what she said.

________________________________________________________________________________

👉Must Read:

Meanwhile, in the Valley…The BJP’s first list of candidates is out following a few jerks, while allies Congress and the National Congress (NC) have locked their seat-sharing deal — it’s action time as the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections inch closer. A pre-poll pact may have helped overcome the J&K hitch this time, but the Congress-NC relations have a turbulent history. Our Political Bureau chief Manoj C G helps put it into perspective.

Update incoming: With its recent predictions, particularly around extreme weather events, being way off the mark, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) is set to get a massive upgrade of its forecasting capabilities. A new mission to improve weather forecasting, with a budget of at least Rs 10,000 crore is expected to be launched soon, The Indian Express has learnt.

“She’s not strong or tall like Saina or Sindhu. But she has a spark that makes her different from the rest, like them and Lakshya.”

Clean, smooth strokeplay…These form the framework of 13-year-old badminton player Tanvi Patri’s U15 Asian Championship triumph. Hailing from Odisha, she was the shortest on the podium of 4 medallists at Chengdu on Sunday. Neither that nor the inevitable comparisons stopped her from climbing up to the gold step, her first towards a line-up of bigger achievements to come.

________________________________________________________________________________

📌And Finally:

Have you been introduced to Vyommitra yet? It’s the half-humanoid robot to be sent into space to test spacecraft safety, ahead of sending actual humans as part of ISRO’s Gaganyaan mission scheduled for next year. Weighing 800 grams, the design model of the humanoid skull is now ready for the work-in-progress uncrewed mission.

Delhi Confidential: The rare bonhomie shown by political rivals — BSP supremo Mayawati and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav — continued on social media. Mayawati expressed her “abhaar” to Akhilesh for “acknowledging the truth about her honesty” and reprimanding a BJP MLA for calling her “corrupt”. Yadav thanked the BSP chief for her “gratitude”.

Until tomorrow

Aradhana Kalia and Vibha B Madhava

Business As Usual by E P Unny – August 27

Front Page

- Bail for K Kavitha, Supreme Court questions probe agencies over evidence

- Why Jay Shah’s tenure as ICC chief is critical for cricket’s global leap

- Hema panel report aftermath: AMMA president Mohanlal, others quit actors’ forum; more women file police complaints

- Will take sides, won’t let Miya Muslims take over Assam: Himanta Biswa Sarma

- Ruchir Sharma, global investor and author, is guest at Adda today

- Kerala police file first case, more senior actors accused of sexual misconduct

- Tired of repeating my story, says actor who accused Malayalam cinema veteran of rape

- In 9 years, Govt got 1,084 complaints of fake caste certificates for jobs; 92 sacked

Bail for K Kavitha, Supreme Court questions probe agencies over evidence

Person who incriminates himself is made witness, what is this fairness: Bench on Delhi excise policy case probe

Written by Ananthakrishnan G

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 07:54 IST

BRS leader K. Kavitha (PTI Photo)

Questioning the probe agencies if there was “any independent data” to show “any incriminating evidence” against BRS leader K Kavitha and also on the “fairness” of the investigation by relying on the statements of some accused who had become approvers, the Supreme Court granted her bail Tuesday in the CBI and ED’s cases of alleged corruption and money laundering linked to the Delhi excise policy.

Making clear that it was not saying anything on the merits of the cases, the bench of Justices B R Gavai and K V Viswanathan, while hearing Kavitha’s appeal against the Delhi High Court order denying her bail, said the High Court had “totally misdirected” itself “while denying the benefit of proviso” in section 45(1) of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.

It said “perusal of the proviso shows that it permits certain categories of accused including women to be released on bail without the stringent requirement under Section 45 to be satisfied”.

In its order, the bench said that the investigation has been completed and her custody is not necessary for the purpose of the probe.

Noting that “the appellant is behind bars for the last 5 months”, it said “taking into consideration that there are 493 witnesses to be examined and 50,000 documents to be considered, the likelihood of the trial being concluded in the near future is impossible”.

Referring to its judgment granting bail to former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in the excise policy case, it said “as observed” by it in that matter, “undertrial custody should not turn into a punishment”.

Later, emerging from the Tihar Jail, Kavitha said, “We will fight it out legally. We will fight it out politically. We were always tough. By sending us to jail illegally, they have only made the BRS and KCR’s team unbreakable. Jai Telangana. Jai Hind.”

During the hearing, the bench questioned the “fairness” of probe agencies relying on the statements of some accused turned approvers. “Prosecution has to be fair. A person who incriminates himself has been made a witness. Tomorrow you pick up anyone as you please? You cannot pick and choose any accused. What is this fairness?” Justice Gavai asked.

Justice Viswanathan said “approvers’ statements also need corroboration”.

Opposing Kavitha’s bail plea, Additional Solicitor General S V Raju, appearing for the ED, said that when summoned, it was discovered that her phone had been formatted to erase all call records.

Justice Viswanathan said, “Phone is such a private thing, would anyone share the details with anyone? People delete messages. I have the habit of deleting group messages. These school and college groups post many messages. Let us see normal human conduct. Anyone in this room would do.” But Raju said what was done was formatting of the entire data which amounts to destroying evidence.

Justice Viswanathan wondered whether that alone can lead to infer criminality. Asking if there is “any independent data to show that there was any incriminating evidence”, he said “otherwise this would only show that the cell phone was formatted”.

Raju said, “There are other evidence from other phones which corroborate that she has done this (formatting) to conceal.”

Pointing out that the date of the message with the co-accused was October 27, 2020, Justice Viswanathan asked when did the liquor policy come into effect.

When Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for Kavitha, said the policy was for the year 2021-2022, Raju said the discussions took place in 2020 itself.

Rohatgi said “there is no other evidence apart from these tainted statements of the approvers” to implicate his client.

The bench was critical of the High Court single judge order which refused to extend the benefit of PMLA Section 45 (1) to Kavitha.

It said “the order of the single judge which denies special treatment to the present appellant… comes to a heartening conclusion that the appellant is a highly qualified and well accomplished person having made significant contributions to politics and social work. The court observed that while deciding bail application, it cannot lose sight of the severe allegations levelled by the prosecution and evidence collected during the course of the investigation”.

“The learned single judge goes on to observe that the present applicant cannot be equated to vulnerable women. The single judge observed that the proviso to section 45 is applicable only to vulnerable women,” it said.

The bench said the “single judge totally misapplies the ratio laid down by” it and what has been laid down is that “courts need to be more sensitive and sympathetic towards the category of persons included in the first proviso to Section 45 and similar provisions in the other Acts”.

“This court observed that persons of tender age and women who are likely to be more vulnerable may sometimes be misused by unscrupulous elements and made scapegoats for committing such crimes. No doubt that the court observed that nowadays educated and well placed women in the society engage themselves in commercial ventures and enterprises and advertently or inadvertently engage themselves in illegal activities. The court therefore put a caution that courts while deciding such matters should apply judicial discretion… the court does not say that merely because a woman is highly educated or sophisticated, or an MP or MLA, should be denied the benefit of Section 45 proviso,” the bench said.

Click here to join The Indian Express on WhatsApp and get latest news and updates

Ananthakrishnan G

Ananthakrishnan G. is a Senior Assistant Editor with The Indian Express. He has been in the field for over 23 years, kicking off his journalism career as a freelancer in the late nineties with bylines in The Hindu. A graduate in law, he practised in the District judiciary in Kerala for about two years before switching to journalism. His first permanent assignment was with The Press Trust of India in Delhi where he was assigned to cover the lower courts and various commissions of inquiry. He reported from the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court of India during his first stint with The Indian Express in 2005-2006. Currently, in his second stint with The Indian Express, he reports from the Supreme Court and writes on topics related to law and the administration of justice. Legal reporting is his forte though he has extensive experience in political and community reporting too, having spent a decade as Kerala state correspondent, The Times of India and The Telegraph. He is a stickler for facts and has several impactful stories to his credit. ... Read More

Why Jay Shah’s tenure as ICC chief is critical for cricket’s global leap

He takes key at a time when cricket is set to make its Olympic debut, planning to expand its empire and bolster its finances.

Written by Venkata Krishna B

Updated: August 28, 2024 07:44 IST

Shah’s elevation comes at a significant moment for the sport, which will make its Olympics debut in Los Angeles Olympics 2028. (BCCI on X)

As expected, Jay Shah has been elected as the new chair of International Cricket Council (ICC), with his term set to begin from December 1. As the deadline ended on Tuesday for the directors to file their nominations, Shah was the lonly nominee to replace Greg Barclay. Shah, at 35, will become the youngest to hold office, and will have to step down as the secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), as his new role at the ICC is independent.

Shah’s elevation comes at a significant moment for the sport, which will make its Olympics debut in Los Angeles Olympics 2028. He will hold a term of three years as ICC Chair with an option to continue for three more years. With six years ahead of him, Shah gets an opportunity to position cricket as a truly global sport on the back of a heavy fan following and increasing consumption value.

“I am humbled by the nomination as the Chair of the International Cricket Council,” Shah said. “I am committed to working closely with the ICC team and our member nations to further globalise cricket. With cricket poised to make its historic debut at the Olympics in 2028, we stand at the precipice of a transformative era. This juncture is not merely a milestone, it’s a clarion call for all of us involved in this magnificent sport. It is my privilege to lead the ICC during such an exciting period in our shared journey,” said Shah.

Bridgetown: India’s captain Rohit Sharma with BCCI Secretary Jay Shah after India defeated South Africa in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final cricket match, at Kensington Oval, in Bridgetown, Barbados, Sunday, June 30, 2024. (PTI Photo)

Him assuming charges came after Barclay chose not to seek a third term. It is in sync with his steady and influential raise in cricket administration. Having joined the Gujarat Cricket Association in 2009 as an executive board member, he became its joint-secretary in 2013. In 2019, he was elected as the BCCI secretary, a position he continues till date. He is also the president of the Asian Cricket Council.

Challenges ahead

Shah, who will be the fifth Indian– Jagmohan Dalmiya, Sharad Pawar, N Srinivasan, Shashank Manohar–to hold the highest office, also has plenty of challenges ahead of him as cricket is struggling to hit the right balance between the three formats. Shah said more focus will be given to preserve the health of Test cricket. “While the T20 is a naturally exciting format, it is equally important that Test cricket remains a priority for everyone as it forms the bedrock of our game. We must see to it that cricketers are driven to the longer format and our efforts will be channelised towards this goal,” he said.

Though there are fears that Shah’s election would further strengthen BCCI’s muscle at the ICC, he has already taken initial steps to win over the fraternity with a plan to introduce a dedicated fund to support Test cricket. The initiative from Cricket Australia, and has the support of the BCCI and ECB, will see Test cricketers get $10,000 from the common pool. It is expected to be Shah’s first big decision.

Although setting up a dedicated fund for Test match would be commendable, Shah will also have to address the challenges of keeping the players happy. Recently, the World Cricketers Association formed a separate committee to look into the scheduling aspect with players believing that the bilateral ODIs and T20Is don’t offer any context. The Indian Express understands that once the dedicated Test match fund is available, there is a strong chance that the existing Future Tours Programme will be re-looked as member boards won’t need to rely heavily on bilateral ODIs and T20Is.

Given the commercial challenges that lie ahead, Shah’s experience as the BCCI secretary when it comes to increasing the board coffers would come in handy. As BCCI secretary in the pandemic years, Shah managed to host two successful IPLs away from home and oversaw the board bag a lucrative broadcast deal in an e-auction. He was also at the forefront of starting the Women’s Premier League in 2023, which has brought more funds into the women’s game.

The ICC now finds itself in crosswinds, especially after the last T20 World Cup co-hosted in the US and Caribbean running into several issues. Apart from overshooting the budget, the poor quality of pitches took the shine away from the tournament. It has already resulted in one of ICC’s premier broadcasters, Star, putting in a request to renegotiate the broadcast deal that runs till 2027.

“I eagerly anticipate a tenure rich with collaborative efforts, striving to dismantle the barriers that have hindered cricket’s progress. Every challenge we face is an opportunity in disguise, and together, we will transform adversity into triumph. Let’s embark on this incredible journey, hand in hand, united by our passion for cricket and our belief in its extraordinary potential.”

Hema panel report aftermath: AMMA president Mohanlal, others quit actors’ forum; more women file police complaints

In the wake of the report, which has revealed rampant sexual misconduct in the Malayalam film industry, several actors have come forward to narrate instances of alleged sexual abuse that they suffered at the hands of their industry colleagues.

Written by Shaju Philip

Thiruvananthapuram | Updated: August 28, 2024 06:02 IST

Mohanlal, a Malayalam film industry veteran, quit as the AMMA president on Tuesday. (Photo: Mohanlal/ Facebook)

THE STORM unleashed by the Justice Hema Committee report continued to gain momentum, with the entire 17-member executive committee of the Association of Malayalam Movies Artistes (AMMA), including its president and superstar actor Mohanlal, resigning from their posts on Tuesday.

In the wake of the report, which has revealed rampant sexual misconduct in the Malayalam film industry, several actors have come forward to narrate instances of alleged sexual abuse that they suffered at the hands of their industry colleagues.

In a statement to the media, the AMMA executive committee said: “Following the release of the Hema Committee report and the subsequent sexual allegations faced by certain office-bearers within the executive committee of AMMA in social, visual and print media, the current executive committee of AMMA, taking into consideration its moral responsibility, is stepping down.”

The statement said a general body meeting of the organisation will be held in two months to elect a new governing body. Until then, the existing governing body will continue as an ad-hoc system to ensure distribution of welfare measures to members and coordinate office matters.

“We hope that AMMA will get a new leadership to renew as well as strengthen it. Thanks to everyone for criticising and correcting,” the statement said.

After the Hema Committee report came out, AMMA general secretary Siddique was forced to quit in the wake of sexual assault allegations against him. Its joint general secretary Baburaj is also facing similar allegations. While Siddique has filed a police complaint, Baburaj has threatened legal action against his accuser.

Several prominent actors have openly criticised AMMA on the issue. “There should have been strong interventions on the part of AMMA (on allegations against its members)… Nobody can deny the existence of a power group in the industry (Hema committee had said a power group controls Malayalam cinema),” leading actor Prithviraj said on Monday.

Cracks had appeared within AMMA soon after the report was released last week. Its vice president Jagadish had demanded a probe, and said perpetrators who exploited women in the industry should be exposed.

He also told the media that violence against women in film should not be trivialised by branding them as “stray incidents”. This came soon after Siddique said such “stray incidents” should not lead to the entire film industry being blamed.

More police complaints

Police complaints also continued to pour in against more members of the Malayalam film industry. On Monday, the police had booked veteran filmmaker Ranjith on charges of sexual misconduct; on Tuesday, more women professionals filed similar complaints against multiple actors.

One of the complaints, filed by an actor, names Mukesh, a two-time CPI(M) legislator in the Kerala Assembly; Edavela Babu, a prominent leader of AMMA; and actors Maniyanpilla Raju and Jayasurya.

Another woman actor, who had quit the industry, filed a complaint against actor-producer Baburaj, the joint general secretary of AMMA, and director Sreekumar Menon.

Another actor filed a police complaint against Siddique, days after she alleged that he had sexually abused her after inviting to a hotel room in the state capital in 2016.

A seven-member special investigation team comprising IPS officers, formed to probe the revelations in the wake of the Hema Committee report, met on Tuesday to chart out its future course of action.

An official communication said all complaints registered with the local police will be handed over to the special team and the cases will be probed by women officials.

Meanwhile, actor-turned-politician Suresh Gopi became the first Union minister to weigh in on the issue. The BJP leader was asked about allegations against CPI(M) MLA Mukesh, who is also a part of the Malayalam film industry.

“Did the court say anything on Mukesh? Court will say… This is all food for you (the media), is what I understand. You can use it to make money. (There is) no problem with that. But these issues are before the court, and it has the intelligence to arrive at a decision regarding them. You (media) are not only making people fight each other for your own gains, you are also misleading public perception. The complaints are in the form of allegations at the moment. What are you telling people? Let the court decide,” Gopi said.

Mukesh, in a Facebook post, called for an objective probe into the allegations against film professionals, including himself. Referring to the complaint against him, he said, “They had tried to blackmail me by demanding money. I am not ready to yield to such blackmail tactics. Truth should come out. I will initiate strong legal action against such persons.”

Alleging a conspiracy, Edavela Babu approached the state police chief against the two actors who have levelled allegations against him.

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Will take sides, won’t let Miya Muslims take over Assam: Himanta Biswa Sarma

Sarma made the remarks while responding to adjournment motions moved by four Opposition MLAs over the law and order situation in Assam, particularly over recent incidents of crime against women and the developments in Sivasagar.

Written by Sukrita Baruah

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 06:01 IST

The Chief Minister, in his reply to the motion, said that the crime rate in the state had not increased if the population is taken into account. (File photo)

AMID TENSION in Assam’s Sivasagar district, with some organisations targeting Bengali-Muslims and warning that “Bangladeshis” would have to leave the district within a week, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma declared in the Assembly on Tuesday that he “will take sides” and “will not let Miya Muslims take over all of Assam”.

Sarma made the remarks while responding to adjournment motions moved by four Opposition MLAs over the law and order situation in Assam, particularly over recent incidents of crime against women and the developments in Sivasagar.

Many parts of Assam have been tense since the alleged gangrape of a 14-year-old girl in Nagaon district on August 22. This incident, in which the accused are Bengali-Muslims, and the commentary on it — it has been called an “attack on the indigenous” by Sarma and many of his ministers — has inflamed tension in different parts of the state.

In Sivasagar in particular, some local organisations issued calls for “all Bangladeshis to leave Upper Assam within seven days”, pointing to the Bengali-Muslim identity of the accused. Some groups have even been going to the houses of Bengali-Muslims, saying they were “informing suspected Bangledeshis” to leave the district by the end of the week.

Raising the issue in the House on Tuesday, AIUDF MLA from Jania, Rafiqul Islam, said: “The thousands of people who are there in Upper Assam — ordinary businessmen or people doing small jobs — are all people of Assam. They are bona fide Indian citizens… These Indian citizens are being given ultimatums… their landlords are being threatened.”

“It is the elected government’s prime duty that landless people, those who have lost their homes to river erosion, their settlement should be organised. Today, if this would have been done, these people would not have to go from one district to another in their own state,” Islam said, referring to a frequent cause of migration of Bengali-Muslims who live in riverine areas.

“If we cannot provide security for people to go from one district to another, it will be very difficult. Even our people from Upper Assam work in Dhubri and elsewhere,” said Debabrata Saikia, Leader of the Opposition and Congress MLA from Nazira in Sivasagar district, who also moved an adjournment motion.

CPI(M) MLA from Sorbhog, Manoranjan Talukdar, and Raijor Dol MLA from Sivasagar, Akhil Gogoi, also moved adjournment motions on related issues.

Responding to these, Sarma said the current situation in Sivasagar began with protests against the Marwari community earlier this month by the same local organisations, at the end of which members of the Marwari community knelt in a “public apology” for the alleged assault of a teenager in the district in which the accused were local Marwari businessmen.

He claimed that “minority people from Barpeta and Nagaon” (Muslim majority districts in lower and central Assam) added “fuel” with posts on social media against the Marwari community. Saying “we should not jump” when a community is “vulnerable”, Sarma said: “Many people can be vulnerable. Assam is a multi-ethnic society.”

When Opposition members protested against his remarks and accused him of being partisan, he said: “I will take (sides), this is my ideology.

Amid protests, he said Islam and Saikia had started a “big fire” in the Assembly. As Opposition MLAs continued to protest against his remarks, the CM said: “I have said it, what will you all do to me now… I will take sides, what will you do? I will take sides. Say what you will.”

When Opposition MLAs accused him of “divide and rule”, Sarma responded: “Yes okay, divide and rule.”

He then went on to say: “Today you all have said a big thing. Knowingly or unknowingly, the Jania MLA and the Leader of Opposition have said something big… What did you say? People will definitely go from Lower Assam to Upper Assam. Tell me, why will they go? That means all of you insist on taking all of Assam…You Miya Muslim people will insist on taking all of Assam. We will not let you take.”

Lower Assam refers to districts in Western Assam, which includes districts like Barpeta, Dhubri, South Salmara-Mankachar and Nalbari which have a large concentration of Bengali-Muslim population. Upper Assam refers to Eastern Assam districts of Charaideo, Dhemaji, Dibrugarh, Golaghat, Jorhat, Lakhimpur, Majuli Sivasagar and Tinsukia, which are home to mostly ethnic Assamese communities and considered a heartland of Assamese identity.

As ruling and Opposition MLAs gathered in the well of the House, Speaker Biswajit Daimary adjourned proceedings for 10 minutes.

When the House reconvened, Sarma continued to defend his remarks. “At this sensitive time… Where Assamese people don’t want it, don’t go forcefully. If you go against the will of the people of Upper Assam, there will not be any security given,” he said.

The adjournment motions were not accepted.

Speaking to The Indian Express later, Islam said he feared that Sarma’s comments would lead to further deterioration of the situation in Sivasagar.

“Our adjournment motion was on the matter of providing security to everyone… But it is very unfortunate that when it was brought up in the Assembly, in his reply, he was seen to be in favour of one community against another. He is doing politics of division… Your oath was to ensure security for everyone, development for everyone, to look at everyone through an equal lens, but you are saying wrong things. That too in a sacred place like the Assembly. You are going against the Constitution and taking someone’s side, speaking against someone else… For these people who are being threatened, the CM should have given a positive reply so that the mischievous elements spreading poison there correct themselves. But it is unfortunate that the CM’s statements and body language have caused us to be more worried… With these words, the wrongdoers there will gain more fuel,” he said.

Saikia accused the CM of trying to create a “Manipur-like situation” in the state. “What he said was unconstitutional and he should not have said it. I hope that the Union Home Ministry takes note of this and sees how a Manipur-like situation can be created. Local organisations are being blamed (for the incidents in Sivasagar) but I think they are being charged up by political interests,” he said.

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Ruchir Sharma, global investor and author, is guest at Adda today

Sharma, Chairman of Rockefeller International and Founder and Chief Investment Officer of Breakout Capital, an investment firm focused on emerging markets, is the guest at the Express Adda in Mumbai on Tuesday.

By: ENS Economic Bureau

Mumbai | Updated: August 27, 2024 19:20 IST

Ruchir Sharma (Right), author of “What Went Wrong with Capitalism” interacts with KV Kamath, Chairman of National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development and Anant Goenka, Executive Director of The Indian Express Group, during IE Adda, at Taj President, Mumbai. (Express photo by Narendra Vaskar)

Global investor, analyst, author and an expert, who reveals the big picture on socio-economic and political issues vividly, Ruchir Sharma wrote in his latest book that governments have made capitalism less fair and less efficient and that is slowing economic growth and fuelling popular anger.

Sharma, Chairman of Rockefeller International and Founder and Chief Investment Officer of Breakout Capital, an investment firm focused on emerging markets, is the guest at the Express Adda in Mumbai on Tuesday. He will share his views on capitalism and factors that are going to shape global as well as domestic economies in the near future.

His perspectives are being followed by policy makers and investors across the globe. At the Express Adda, Sharma will be in conversation with Anant Goenka, Executive Director, The Indian Express Group, and K V Kamath, Chairman, National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development (NaBFID) and Chairman, Jio Financial Services.

In his latest book, What Went Wrong with Capitalism, which was released in June, Sharma says progressives are right in part when they mock modern capitalism as “socialism for the rich”.

“Inadvertently, they (governments) have fuelled the rise of monopolies, “zombie” firms, and billionaires. The first step to a cure is a correct diagnose of the problem. Capitalism has been badly distorted by constant government intervention and the relentless spread of a bailout culture. Building an even bigger state will only double down on what ruined capitalism in the first place,” he says in the book.

Sharma has authored four more books — The 10 Rules of Successful Nations; Democracy on the Road; The Rise and Fall of Nations; and Breakout Nations: In Pursuit of the Next Economic Miracles.

Sharma moved to Rockefeller in 2022 after a 25-year career at Morgan Stanley Investment Management, where he was Head of Emerging Markets and Chief Global Strategist. He was responsible for managing nearly $20 billion in assets.

Primarily based in New York and Miami, Sharma travels frequently to different countries, meeting with leading politicians, CEOs, and other local characters, who feature in his writing.

He is passionate about politics and has covered every national election in India, and many major state contests, since 1998. He led the first trip with three journalist friends, and the pack has since grown to 20 regulars and a few guest travellers. They typically travel more than 1,000 miles over a week, and have interviewed everyone from local voters to national leaders, including Narendra Modi and the Gandhis. These travels are captured in his 2019 book, ‘Democracy on the Road’.

Sharma’s other interests include athletics — he continues to train for 100 m and 200 m sprints. No matter where he is, or how hectic his schedule is, he tries not to miss a single day of training. In 2011, he represented India in the World Masters Athletic Championship in Sacramento. He also has a keen interest in wildlife and cinema and attends international film festivals when he finds time.

Sharma is a contributing opinion writer at The Financial Times. His work has also appeared in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Foreign Affairs, The Guardian and Foreign Policy.

In an earlier conversation at Express Adda in 2023, Sharma had said that India was witnessing the fourth wave of foreign inflows since the 1991 economic reforms, with at least 50 per cent of that coming due to the weakness in the Chinese economy.

The Express Adda is a series of informal interactions organised by The Indian Express Group and features those at the centre of change. Previous guests at the Adda include External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran, Union Ministers Mansukh Mandaviya and Hardeep Singh Puri, cricket icons Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, chess legend Viswanathan Anand, Olympic gold medallist javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra and motivational strategist Gaur Gopal Das.

Kerala police file first case, more senior actors accused of sexual misconduct

Speaking to reporters on Monday, actor Minu Muneer alleged that she had faced sexual misconduct from many actors. She named Mukesh, a former two-time CPI(M) MLA; Edavela Babu, a prominent leader of the AMMA; and actors Maniyanpilla Raju and Jayasurya.

Written by Shaju Philip

Thiruvananthapuram | Updated: August 27, 2024 08:44 IST

Kerala State Chalachitra Academy chairman Ranjith

ALLEGATIONS OF sexual misconduct that have gripped the Malayalam film industry continued to spiral on Monday, with more actors as well as senior members of the Association of Malayalam Movies Artistes (AMMA) being named as accused, and Kerala Police filing its first case in this connection.

On Sunday, director and Kerala State Chalachitra Academy chairman Ranjith and actors’ association general secretary Siddique had stepped down from their respective positions over the allegations.

On Monday, the police registered a non-bailable case against Ranjith based on the complaint of a woman actor who accused him of sexual misconduct. Ranjith has said the allegation was an outcome of a “concerted move” against him after he became chairman of the Academy.

In the wake of the release of the Justice Hema Committee report, which had exposed rampant sexual abuse and exploitation of women in the Malayalam film industry, Bengali actor Sreelekha Mitra had told the media last week that Ranjith had allegedly misbehaved with her in 2009, during the pre-production phase of the film ‘Paleri Manikyam’.

She filed a complaint with Kochi city police, which registered a case under IPC Section 354, which deals with criminal force or assault against a woman with the intention to outrage her modesty.

The case will be handed over to the Special Investigation Team set up by the Kerala government to look into the allegations being raised in the aftermath of the Hema Committee report’s release.

Siddique, general secretary of AMMA, meanwhile filed a police complaint in which he denied the allegations against him and said it was part of a “criminal conspiracy”. He has been accused of raping a woman actor in 2016.

“The reputation of the entire Malayalam film industry is being deliberately tarnished by a group of persons and it is essential that the persons behind this criminal conspiracy are brought to light. I request you to take effective action in this matter to bring out the truth, and reveal the perpetrators behind the criminal conspiracy to fabricate and publish false and scandalous allegations through (the woman),” he wrote to the DGP.

More allegations

Speaking to reporters on Monday, actor Minu Muneer alleged that she had faced sexual misconduct from many actors. She named Mukesh, a former two-time CPI(M) MLA; Edavela Babu, a prominent leader of the AMMA; and actors Maniyanpilla Raju and Jayasurya.

While Mukesh, Jayasurya, and Babu did not respond to Muneer’s claims, Raju said he welcomes a probe into the allegations.

“I will file a complaint with the state police team, which was assigned to look into the revelations which came up in the wake of the Hema Committee report,” Muneer said.

She alleged that an actor tried to assault her at a hotel during the shooting of ‘Calender’ (2009) and ‘Nadakame Ulakam’ (2011).

“He entered the room and pulled me on the bed saying that I will have to consider those who have to be considered for getting better chances. Later, I left that place… Before that, while travelling by a car, (another actor) told me that he would come to my room the next night. He too had knocked on my door at night,” she claimed.

She also accused a third actor of misconduct in 2008. “During a shooting in the state capital, when I was returning from a restroom, (this actor) caught me from behind and kissed me. I pushed him down and ran away. He also invited me to his flat. After I rejected the invitation, there was no issue from his side,’’ she claimed.

Muneer also claimed that in 2013, she had applied for membership of AMMA. “A person who acted in three films is eligible for membership in AMMA. When I called him (an actor) over the phone regarding filling the application form, he invited me to his flat. While I was filling up the application form at his flat, he kissed my neck from behind. I ran out of the flat. I did not get the membership either,’’ she said.

The actor said that all this forced her to leave the Malayalam film industry and relocate to Chennai. “I am now seeking justice and accountability for the sufferings and trauma I endured,’’ she said.

AMMA joint general secretary named

Another young woman actor accused actor-producer Baburaj of sexually assaulting her in 2019. Baburaj, the joint general secretary of AMMA, denied the allegation and said he would “initiate legal action”.

“He (Baburaj) offered me a role in an upcoming movie and asked me to come to his house at Aluva (Ernakulam district), saying that the film’s production controller and other technicians were there… When I reached his house, there was nobody.”

She claimed the producer told her that the others were expected soon and that “until then I can rest”.

“He gave me a room. Later, he invited me for food. When I opened the door, he entered the room and locked it from inside. He started talking in a vulgar manner and led me to the cot and sexually assaulted me,” she alleged.

The actor said she was willing to talk to the police. “At any workplace, women should not face this experience. I had informed the police then, but could not file a complaint as they had requested. If Baburaj is challenging me, I’m ready to present the entire episode before the media in his presence. I have no other intention, since I have left the industry and am living with family outside Kerala,’’ she claimed.

Baburaj alleged that there was a conspiracy behind the allegation against him. “The complainant should come in public. I think she had worked in my resort. The motive is to prevent me from becoming the general secretary of AMMA. She has no links with films. People who have a grudge towards me are behind this allegation. I will expose the conspiracy behind this,” he claimed.

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Tired of repeating my story, says actor who accused Malayalam cinema veteran of rape

The woman actor is of the view that Siddique should now be kept out of film sets for a long time. She also said that she has started facing a backlash again online for levelling the allegations.

Written by Nikhila Henry

New Delhi | Updated: August 27, 2024 09:04 IST

Siddique has resigned from the post of general secretary of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) amid allegations of rape. (File Photo/Facebook)

“He called me ‘moley’ (daughter) when he first approached me,” said the young woman on her initial interaction with prominent Malayalam actor Siddique, whom she has accused of raping her in 2016.

The woman, also an actor, had first made the allegation in 2019. Now, in the aftermath of the Justice Hema Committee report’s release, she reiterated the allegation, leading to Siddique’s resignation on Sunday from the post of general secretary of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) — an influential forum in the industry.

Siddique did not respond to the allegations while announcing his resignation. The Indian Express separately reached out to Siddique but he was not available for comment.

“I am tired of explaining again and again what happened to me. I am physically tired. I am mentally tired, too,” the 28-year-old woman told The Indian Express. She claimed that in the years since she first came out with the allegations in a Facebook post in 2019, she did not receive the support of actors’ organisations.

However, with the spotlight now on issues faced by women in the Malayalam film industry, as detailed in the Hema Committee report released last week, she said she is happy to get “some attention” from actors and the media.

The woman claimed that she first met Siddique online, following which they exchanged messages, and he allegedly promised her a role in an upcoming film if she met him in person. They met in 2016 at a hotel in Kerala’s capital, Thiruvananthapuram, where he allegedly asked her if she could make “make some adjustments” for him, she claimed. “I was not sure what he really meant at first,” she said. Siddique then allegedly raped her in the hotel room and masturbated in front of her, she claimed. “I was scared for my life,” she said.

For three years after the alleged incident, the woman did not make the matter public. During this time, she did small roles in Malayalam films. However, it was in the aftermath of the alleged abduction and rape of a leading woman actor of the Malayalam film industry in 2017, and the discussions around the case involving prominent Malayalam film figures in subsequent years, that she decided to post on Facebook about her own experience.

“I was seeing the man who had raped me on screen related to this incident. This was very triggering for me,” she said. “I did not get the support of anyone at that time. Over a period of time, I became bold enough to face all the consequences,” she said, claiming that the Facebook post also led to her being sidelined in the film industry and subject to hate comments online.

On Saturday, she shared her story again with Malayalam TV channels. “I narrated everything that happened to me, because in the light of the Hema Committee report, I felt I should reveal how some people in the film industry assault women,” she said.

The woman actor is of the view that Siddique should now be kept out of film sets for a long time. She also said that she has started facing a backlash again online for levelling the allegations. “I am already under a lot of pressure,” she said, but she added that she won’t back down.

Asked whether she would lodge a police complaint, she said, “I will take my time and think about it. I am not thinking of lodging a complaint as of now.”

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In 9 years, Govt got 1,084 complaints of fake caste certificates for jobs; 92 sacked

In July, the UPSC accused Puja Khedkar of “fraudulently availing attempts beyond the permissible limit under the Examination Rules by faking her identity by way of changing her name, her father’s and mother’s name, her photograph/signature, her email id, mobile number and address”.

Written by Shyamlal Yadav

New Delhi | Updated: August 27, 2024 09:04 IST

UPSC aspirants wait outside the exam hall in Delhi (Express File Photo by Abhinav Saha)

An official scrutiny that lasted nine years till 2019 tracked 1,084 complaints of Government jobs being acquired on fake caste certificates, according to records accessed by The Indian Express under the Right To Information (RTI) Act. From these cases, 92 personnel were dismissed from service, records from the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) show.

These numbers (see chart) assume significance given the high-profile case this year of Puja Khedkar who is in the dock for allegedly presenting dodgy caste and disability certificates to secure a seat in the civil services.

The fake caste certificates menace

The RTI records were made available for 59 of the 93 ministries and departments under the Government. They show that the Railways logged 349 such complaints in this period followed by the Department of Post (259), Ministry of Shipping (202) and Department of Food and Public Distribution (138). Sources in the DoPT said several of these cases are pending in various courts as well.

The RTI response was obtained on an application filed by The Indian Express following the Puja Khedkar controversy in July. It shows the DoPT started collecting data of such complaints in 2010 after a recommendation by the then Parliament Committee on the Welfare of SC/ST headed by the then Lok Sabha BJP MP Ratilal Kalidas Varma.

The Committee “strongly recommended” that the DoPT “obtain information from all Ministries/ Departments, PSUs, banks, autonomous bodies and States/ UTs in regard to cases of false caste certificates regularly with a view to monitoring their progress and disposal, so that necessary plan of action could be taken to tackle the problem for good”.

The first communication in this regard was issued by the DoPT on January 28, 2010, to ministries and departments to “collect information from all organisations under their administrative control about the cases where the candidate got/alleged to have got appointment against vacancies reserved for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes on the basis of false/ fake caste certificate”. The deadline given was March 31, 2010.

The last communication seeking such data, records show, was issued on May 16, 2019. “As on date, no such data is centrally maintained in (these) Departments,” the DoPT said in its RTI response dated August 8, 2024.

“DoPT has issued instructions from time to time to all the State and UT governments to ensure timely verification of caste certificate. It is the responsibility of the concerned State or UT Government to issue and verify caste certificate,” the DoPT said.

The Government’s reservation quota for employment mandates that SC candidates get 15 per cent, STs 7.5 per cent, OBCs 27 per cent, EWS 10 per cent and physically handicapped 3 per cent in each category.

According to the DoPT, an order issued in 1993 states: “If it is found that a Government servant had furnished false information or produced a false certificate in order to secure appointment, he should not be retained in service.”

In July, the UPSC accused Puja Khedkar of “fraudulently availing attempts beyond the permissible limit under the Examination Rules by faking her identity by way of changing her name, her father’s and mother’s name, her photograph/signature, her email id, mobile number and address”.

Khedkar approached the Delhi High Court earlier this month, challenging the UPSC’s declaration to cancel her civil services candidature and bar her from appearing for any future exams.

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Shyamlal Yadav

Shyamlal Yadav is one of the pioneers of the effective use of RTI for investigative reporting. He is a member of the Investigative Team. His reporting on polluted rivers, foreign travel of public servants, MPs appointing relatives as assistants, fake journals, LIC’s lapsed policies, Honorary doctorates conferred to politicians and officials, Bank officials putting their own money into Jan Dhan accounts and more has made a huge impact. He is member of the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ). He has been part of global investigations like Paradise Papers, Fincen Files, Pandora Papers, Uber Files and Hidden Treasures. After his investigation in March 2023 the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York returned 16 antiquities to India. Besides investigative work, he keeps writing on social and political issues. ... Read More

India

- PRCAI to host inaugural edition of ‘PRana 2024’ in Delhi on Sept 4

- Kerala police file rape case against actor and ex-AMMA general secretary Siddique

- Wish I was born in Kerala: Playback singer Chinmayi Sripaada on aftermath of Hema Committee report

- Rajya Sabha bypolls: Ministers Ravneet Bittu, George Kurian, Cong’s Singhvi elected unopposed

- From floods to no stenographer: The journey of Hema committee on Malayalam cinema

- Army places order for 73,000 more SIG716 rifles

- Modi-Biden phone call: US readout silent on Dhaka, officials say issue discussed

- Police say he drowned in a pond while fleeing, but family of Uttarakhand man claims assault before death

- Court nod to shift actor Darshan to Ballari prison

- Focus on ‘polygamy’, ‘consent’, ‘child marriage’ as new Bill for registration of Muslim marriage is tabled in Assam

- Supreme Court stays Ministry of Ayush notification related to drugs, cosmetic rules

- PM’s renewal of party membership to kick off BJP drive on Sept 2

- ‘Ye rishta kya kehlata hai’: Bail to Kavitha sets off BJP, BRS, Congress war of jibes

- PMLA case: Court orders Shabir Shah’s release

- Health concerns in way of Azad’s campaign plans: ‘Will take a call’

- BJP skips 8 Valley seats as nominations for J&K’s first phase see 279 contenders in fray

- National task force holds first meeting; talks with states today

- Internal panel on sexual harassment, control room: Govt issues steps to curb hospital violence

- Ravneet Singh Bittu elected unopposed to Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan in bypoll

- Senior IPS officer B Srinivasan appointed NSG chief

- Caught crossing fence, Bangladeshi national detained in West Tripura

- UPS not U-turn or rollback, it’s a new package, says Sitharaman

- CBI arrests principal commissioner of Income Tax in Rs 10 lakh bribery case

- Schools, colleges reopen in Tripura week after they were shut down due to flood; relief funds pour in from different states

PRCAI to host inaugural edition of ‘PRana 2024’ in Delhi on Sept 4

The convention has introduced a brand-new speech format called ‘300Wise’, where speakers will deliver concise, high-impact visionary speeches in five minutes, inspired by the global trend of shorter speeches, which have been gaining popularity.

By: Express Web Desk

New Delhi | August 28, 2024 11:30 IST

During the story convention, PRCAI will unveil a whitepaper ‘IndiaKiAshaa’ sharing India’s hopes and aspirations.

The Public Relations Consultants Association of India (PRCAI) will host the inaugural edition of ‘PRana 2024: Shaping the Story of India’ on September 4 at The Leela, Chanakya Puri, New Delhi. As many as 20 key opinion leaders, over 100 C-suite leaders and top communicators have been invited to the industry’s first story-telling convention.

The convention underscores the critical importance of compelling narratives for inspiring change, fostering innovation, and contributing to the country’s growth.

Founded in 2001, the PRCAI is Indian PR industry’s flagship trade association.

The convention has introduced a brand new speech format called ‘300Wise’, where speakers will deliver concise, high-impact visionary speeches in five minutes, inspired by the global trend of shorter speeches, which have been gaining popularity. Business leaders such as Nadir Godrej, Chairman & MD of Godrej Industries; Ritesh Agarwal, CEO & Founder of OYO Rooms; Guneet Monga, Academy Award-Winning Filmmaker; Kapil Sibal, lawyer and politician, amongst others, are expected at the event.

During the convention, PRCAI will unveil a whitepaper named ‘IndiaKiAshaa’, sharing the country’s hopes and aspirations. The whitepaper will outline what India can achieve in the next five years, which will positively impact its brand reputation.

“PRana 2024 is a movement aimed at harnessing the power of aspirational narratives to drive our nation’s progress with two significant stakeholders – business leaders and reputation custodians. I am certain that the insights shared amongst these stakeholders will not only shape the future of public relations in India but will also contribute to the global discourse on reputation management and storytelling.” said Deeptie Sethi, CEO of PRCAI.

PRana storytellers

“From our ancient epics to modern narratives of innovation, India has always been the land of storytelling. As we approach India@100, there could be no better way for the PR industry to celebrate our rich heritage and aspirational future. PRana 2024 is more than just an initiative; it’s a celebration of storytelling, our thriving tradition on a global stage. Well-crafted narratives can inspire change, transform mindsets, and drive meaningful change, and this is the power of strategic communication that we will harness through PRana 2024. As our industry continues to grow and gain strategic importance across sectors, we look forward to crafting compelling narratives that will resonate with our global ambitions,” said Kunal Kishore, Vice President, PRCAI.

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Kerala police file rape case against actor and ex-AMMA general secretary Siddique

The complainant, once an aspirant in the Malayalam industry, had come forward after the release of the Hema Committee report

Written by Shaju Philip

Thiruvananthapuram | August 28, 2024 11:14 IST

Siddique was forced to step down as the general secretary of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA) (Facebook)

The Kerala police have registered a rape case against prominent actor Siddique following a complaint by a young actor.

The complainant had earlier this week raised the allegation through the media, following which Siddique was forced to step down as the general secretary of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA), an outfit of actors.

The woman, once an aspirant in the Malayalam industry, had come forward after the release of the Hema Committee report, which has exposed rampant sexual abuse and flagrant gender injustice in the film industry. Since the report came to light, several actors have come forward to raise allegations against their industry colleagues.

The state police on Wednesday said the FIR was registered under sections 376 (rape) and 506 (criminal intimidation) at Thiruvananthapuram city police limits. According to the complaint, the alleged crime happened in 2016 at a hotel in the city.

The probe will be taken up by the special investigation team formed to look into all complaints that are being raised in the aftermath of the Hema committee report.

After the woman raised the complaint, Siddique had approached the police, saying that there is a criminal conspiracy to fabricate and spread false allegations against him.

In his complaint to the state police chief, Siddique had claimed, “The reputation of the entire Malayalam film industry is being deliberately tarnished by a group of persons and it is essential that the persons behind this criminal conspiracy are brought to light. I request you to take effective action in this matter to bring out the truth and the perpetrators behind the criminal conspiracy of fabricating and publishing false and scandalous allegations.”

On Monday, police had also registered a case against director Ranjith, based on a complaint by a Bengali actor that he had misbehaved with her during the pre-production discussion of a 2009 film.

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Wish I was born in Kerala: Playback singer Chinmayi Sripaada on aftermath of Hema Committee report

Says she was "singled out in the industry for questioning the exploitation of women, and no one spoke up for me"

Written by Arun Janardhanan

Chennai | Updated: August 28, 2024 09:53 IST

In Kerala’s case, Chinmayi said she admired how women have come together.

“I feel borderline envious of the women in Kerala as I don’t have a support system like they do,” said leading South Indian playback singer Chinmayi Sripaada, following the resignation of the entire executive committee of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA), including its president, superstar Mohanlal. Chinamayi was talking to The Indian Express in the wake of developments in Kerala’s film industry, highlighting her frustration over the lack of similar support for women in Tamil, Telugu and other industries.

“Being banned and isolated, I was singled out in the industry for questioning the exploitation of women, and no one spoke up for me. While the brutal sexual assault that happened to the Malayalam actress in 2017 was truly shocking, women are being sexually assaulted and exploited in all other industries as well,” she said.

Across all states, Chinmayi said, industry bodies have been the biggest failures. “It seems industry bodies prioritise names over members. Some industry leaders in Tamil are openly abusive, yet they continue to hold positions of power. For instance, in the dubbing unions, women report incidents where they are summoned to the homes of a prominent union leader, and they cannot challenge this because their livelihoods depend on it. Even in states without strong political power, there are overarching groups that speak for molesters,” she said.

In Kerala’s case, Chinmayi said she admired how women have come together. “WCC (Women in Cinema Collective) members are my heroes; they demanded the Hema Committee report, and I wish I had been born in Kerala to have that kind of support in the fight against sexual assault,” she said.

“I even had a respected veteran senior once tell me in a lighter vein that even he wouldn’t miss a chance to molest someone. But the untold story beyond these incidents is the impact of sexual assaults – how they ruin our bodies, spoil chances of intimacy with men even in consensual relationships. It’s literally like a man leaving a living dead body behind after the assault. Women develop physical responses to sexual assaults, responses that last a long time, including involuntary muscle contractions during marriage or consensual sex. The fear – wondering from which direction, from whom, the next assault might come – is a lifelong curse,” she said, adding that “in our system, even parents tell victims to stay silent and not speak out”.

Looking at the “pattern of complaints” emerging now in Kerala, Chinmayi said it reveals a clear trend: “the most vulnerable in the industry coming forward against the middle rung. That has always been the pattern, the lived experience. Who will speak about the superstar molesters who can pick any woman they want from the sets? I am sure the top rung is guilty too, but they are insulated – lower and middle rung members are constantly taken through this painful, traumatic process. There were instances where actors named a big star in Tamil, but the accusations were soon retracted… Such names exist in all industries. I believe WCC can empower the system even more. When women in Malayalam name the men in Kerala, we must remember that Malayalam actresses have also worked in other languages, especially Tamil and Telugu. I don’t expect the WCC will empower other states. How much work will one set of women do?”

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Rajya Sabha bypolls: Ministers Ravneet Bittu, George Kurian, Cong’s Singhvi elected unopposed

Bypolls were announced on 12 seats that fell vacant as the sitting members, including Union ministers Piyush Goyal, Sarbananda Sonowal and Jyotiraditya Scindia, were elected to Lok Sabha recently.

By: PTI

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 11:04 IST

Union Ministers Ravneet Singh Bittu (left) and George Kurian (right). (File photo/ X: @GeorgekurianBjp)

Union ministers Ravneet Singh Bittu and George Kurian were elected unopposed to Rajya Sabha Tuesday along with senior Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi and former minister Upendra Kushwaha.

Other candidates who were declared winner after the deadline for the withdrawal of nomination ended at 3 pm were BJP leaders Kiran Choudhry (Haryana), Mamata Mohanata (Odisha) and Manan Kumar Mishra (Bihar).

Bypolls were announced on 12 seats that fell vacant as the sitting members, including Union ministers Piyush Goyal, Sarbananda Sonowal and Jyotiraditya Scindia, were elected to Lok Sabha recently.

Four candidates — the BJP’s Dhairyasheel Patil and NCP’s Nitin Patil (both from Maharashtra), and Rameswar Teli and Mission Ranjan Das (both of BJP from Assam) — were declared winner on Monday.

Thus, while 11 candidates have been elected unopposed, the winner from the seat in Tripura will be decided by voting on September 3.

Tripura BJP president Rajib Bhattacharjee is up against CPI(M)’s former MLA Sudhan Das from the state.

With the election of eight members from the BJP and two from alliance partners, the NDA strength in the upper house has increased to 112.

The effective strength of the 245-member Rajya Sabha is currently 240 and even with the support of six nominated members, the ruling NDA will fall short of the majority mark.

Four seats are vacant in Jammu and Kashmir, which is yet to elect its assembly and the election to the Tripura seat will be held on September 3.

The BJP’s allies in the Upper House include JD(U), NCP, JD(S), RPI(A), Shiv Sena, RLD, RLM, NPP, PMK, Taamil Manila Congress and UPPL.

Senior Congress leader and Supreme Court lawyer Abhishek Singhvi was declared unopposed from Telangana on Tuesday.

Union Minister of State and BJP leader Ravneet Singh Bittu was elected unopposed as a member of Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan where three candidates had filed nominations.

One of them was a BJP dummy candidate. The nomination paper of independent candidate Babita Wadhwani was cancelled during scrutiny on August 22.

BJP’s dummy candidate Sunil Kothari withdrew his nomination on Friday, making Ravneet Singh Bittu the only candidate in the bye-election.

Rajasthan Legislative Assembly principal secretary and election officer Mahavir Prasad Sharma presented a certificate to Yogendra Singh Tanwar, the authorised election agent of Bittu.

The opposition Congress had decided not to field a candidate in the by-election.

The election was held after Congress’s KC Venugopal resigned as RS MP when he was elected in the Lok Sabha polls.

From Madhya Pradesh, Union minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) nominee George Kurian was declared elected unopposed by the returning officer. The vacancy was created following Union minister Jyotiraditya Scindia’s election to the Lok Sabha in June.

Besides Kurian, two others, including state BJP vice-president Kantdev Singh, had filed their nomination papers. Singh, who hails from Singrauli, had submitted his nomination papers as a dummy candidate for the saffron party.

However, the nomination papers of one of the two other nominees were rejected during scrutiny, while Singh withdrew his candidature on the last day for opting out of the race (August 27), leading to the unopposed election of Kurian as a Rajya Sabha member for the remaining term (lasting till 2026) of the seat vacated by Scindia, an official said.

The BJP’s Kiran Choudhry, who switched over from the Congress, had filed her nomination for the bypolls from Haryana. And being the lone candidate in the contest in the state, she was declared elected unopposed.

The 69-year-old was given a certificate at 4.33 pm by Returning Officer Saket Kumar for the bypolls at the Haryana Vidhan Sabha secretariat here.

Kiran Choudhry, daughter-in-law of former chief minister Bansi Lal, represented the Tosham seat in the Haryana Assembly.

From Odisha, BJP candidate Mamata Mohanata returned to the Rajya Sabha after winning unopposed in the by-election, necessitated by her resignation as a BJD MP and switching sides.

Mohanta was declared elected unopposed as there was no candidate in the fray when the deadline for withdrawal of nominations ended, officials said.

The opposition BJD and Congress did not field any candidates. However, BJP fielded Jagannath Pradhan as a ‘dummy candidate’, but he withdrew his nomination papers before the end of the deadline, paving the way for Mohanta’s re-election.

Dummy candidates are often fielded by political parties to have a cushion in case the nomination of the official candidate gets rejected.

Chief Minister Maohan Charan Majhi congratulated Mohanta in the assembly after the result was declared.

From Bihar, former Union Minister Upendra Kushwaha and Supreme Court lawyer Manan Kumar Mishra were elected unopposed. Kushwaha, who heads Rashtriya Lok Morcha, and BJP leader Mishra were candidates of the ruling NDA.

According to the Vidhan Sabha secretariat, they were declared elected unopposed after the deadline for the withdrawal of nomination papers ended as there were no other candidates for the two seats.

Both of them met Chief Minister Nitish Kumar after the results were declared.

In a post on X, Kushwaha wrote, “After being elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha today, I have once again got the opportunity to enter the prestigious Upper House of Parliament. I have got this opportunity to ensure that me and my party work tirelessly to fulfil the dream of Prime Minister, Narendra Modi Ji and CM, Nitish Kumar Ji, to make the country a developed nation and Bihar a developed state.” The Rajya Sabha seats, for which the by-elections were held, became vacant after Vivek Thakur of the BJP and Misa Bharti of the RJD were elected to the Lok Sabha.

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From floods to no stenographer: The journey of Hema committee on Malayalam cinema

The committee started out by issuing a “public notice” in a Malayalam daily in 2017, inviting people associated with cinema to depose before its members.

Written by Nikhila Henry

New Delhi | August 28, 2024 07:18 IST

The three-member committee wanted a stenographer not just trained in typing but also someone who would maintain the report’s confidentiality because it is based on “direct evidence from individuals working in cinema” and “not based on hearsay”.

The 300-page Justice K Hema Committee report was typed out by its three members. Why? To maintain its confidentiality since it provides a damning indictment of the discrimination and exploitation faced by women in the Malayalam film industry.

The three-member committee wanted a stenographer not just trained in typing but also someone who would maintain the report’s confidentiality because it is based on “direct evidence from individuals working in cinema” and “not based on hearsay”.

To keep its contents a secret — several women had deposed before it with their stories of sexual assault and harassment — the committee members, retired High Court Judge Justice K Hema, former bureaucrat K B Valsalakumari and yesteryear actor T Sarada, ended up typing out the lengthy report themselves in the end.

“Unfortunately, we did not get one (a stenographer) to our satisfaction. Therefore, we are forced to type this report by ourselves, though none of us know professional typing. This, we find a tedious task…We wanted to prevent any information which was disclosed to the committee from being leaked out,” the committee report states.

The committee started out by issuing a “public notice” in a Malayalam daily in 2017, inviting people associated with cinema to depose before its members. The notice barely elicited any response, forcing the committee to contact people personally to invite them for meetings. The task proved to be easier said than done.

Justice Hema writes in the report, “We had to spend considerable time to collect correct details and contact various individuals from cinema. When attempts were made to contact them…mostly they were not available on the phone numbers given to us or they would not answer the calls.”

Then, the committee decided to hire an office assistant to deliver notices to the individuals concerned. Since the post was not sanctioned, the committee ended up hiring a daily-wage office assistant to serve notices — only to discover that the film personalities concerned were unavailable at their home addresses. “There was no guarantee that the individuals would appear before the committee on the date and time required…” the committee report reads.

The 2018 floods in Kerala made moving around difficult for both the committee members and those who were to depose before it. The committee chairperson was based in Kochi, one member in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, and the other in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

The committee still worked day and night in their “anxiety to complete the report at the earliest”. On several occasions, meetings were held late into the night to suit the convenience of those deposing before it, the report notes. “There are days when the sitting commenced at 10 am and concluded only at 9 in the night,” the report says.

Since the Kerala government had set a seven-point “terms of reference” for the committee, the three members were to “study issues faced by women in cinema, service condition and remuneration of women in cinema, measures to enhance the participation of women in all fields connected to cinema, how to bring more women into the technical side of cinema, how to help women in cinema when they have to remain out of work for delivery and childcare, how to ensure gender equality in the content of cinema, (and) how to encourage cinemas in which 30% women are engaged in production activities”.

To ensure effective coverage of these terms of references, the committee decided to interview not just stars and leading film industry personalities, but also junior artists seeing as they form the bulk of the industry. Women junior artistes, however, were scared to appear before the committee in person “fearing that they would lose their jobs”, the report notes. Finally, their problems were reported to the committee via e-mails, which are part of an exhibit in the report.

The Indian Express reached out to Justice Hema for a comment on the report. However, she was unavailable for a comment.

The report states that despite all these teething troubles, the committee was able to get questionnaires filled, group discussions held and individual depositions done to collect statements and evidence. The report was submitted to the Kerala government in 2019. Following the intervention of the Kerala High Court, a redacted version of the report was released five years later in 2024.

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Army places order for 73,000 more SIG716 rifles

The announcement came in the immediate aftermath of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s official visit to the US last week.

By: Express News Service

New Delhi | August 28, 2024 07:00 IST

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh (File Photo)

The Indian Army has placed a follow-on order of additional 73,000 SIG716 rifles from US firm SiG Sauer, it has announced. When completed, 145,400 such rifles will be in service with the Indian Army, the firm said.

The announcement came in the immediate aftermath of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s official visit to the US last week.

The Ministry of Defence first awarded SIG SAUER a contract for the SIG716 in 2019 for 72,400 rifles. The rifles, being used by the Armed Forces of the US and other European countries, were bought under the fast-track procurement procedure.

The Indian Armed Forces have been using the Russian-origin AK-47s and the 5.56×45 mm INSAS Rifle.

The rifles from Sig Sauer were meant to replace the in-service 5.56X45 mm INSAS Rifle with a 7.62X51mm modern Assault Rifle. India and Russia are also jointly producing AK 203 rifles at a factory in UP’s Amethi.

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Modi-Biden phone call: US readout silent on Dhaka, officials say issue discussed

Following the unfolding political developments in Bangladesh, India has been consistently pressing to ensure the safety and security of minorities, especially Hindus, there.

By: Express News Service

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 07:36 IST

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with US President Joe Biden. (File Photo)

A day after the Prime Minister’s Office said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden discussed the ongoing situation in Bangladesh and stressed the need for the early restoration of normalcy and ensuring the safety and security of minorities, especially Hindus, the White House readout of the call had no reference to Bangladesh.

The PMO statement said that Modi and Biden also discussed the ongoing situation in Bangladesh and stressed the need for the early restoration of normalcy and ensuring the safety and security of minorities, especially Hindus.

Following the unfolding political developments in Bangladesh, India has been consistently pressing to ensure the safety and security of minorities, especially Hindus, there.

Government sources said that “we have seen several comments on social media regarding our press release on PM’s conversation with President Biden. These are completely misplaced. It may be noted that all issues mentioned in our Press Release, including the situation in Bangladesh, were discussed. It is an accurate reflection of the conversation.”

“It is a common practice for separate press releases to be issued following conversations, which may or may not reflect all issues discussed. It is only in cases of Joint Press Release or Joint Statement that both sides issue similar press releases,” the sources said.

“In all such cases where separate press releases are issued, focus is to highlight issues of interest to the particular country. This, however, is not evidence to say that any issue that may be missing in either of the press releases was not discussed,” the sources said.

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Police say he drowned in a pond while fleeing, but family of Uttarakhand man claims assault before death

Haridwar police claim 22-year-old Wasim was smuggling cow meat, point to autopsy report to contradict family’s claims.

Written by Avaneesh Mishra

Dehradun | Updated: August 28, 2024 08:44 IST

olice had earlier claimed that after Wasim jumped into the pond, a crowd gathered and held the policemen hostage. (File photo/ Representational)

The family of a 22-year-old man, who police say jumped into a pond in Roorkee while running from an Uttarakhand police team that suspected him of cow meat smuggling, has claimed he was beaten up and thrown into the water body with his legs tied.

The Haridwar Police have denied the family’s claims, and said the autopsy report clearly points to antemortem drowning as the cause of death. According to the police, the cow protection squad in the Kotwali Gangnahar area stopped a “suspicious” scooter rider in Madhopur village early Sunday morning, following reports of cow meat smuggling. The rider, Wasim, allegedly abandoned the vehicle and fled before jumping into a village pond, where he drowned, the police claimed.

In a written complaint, his cousin Allauddin alleged that Wasim had gone to his sister’s home in Madhopur, and was stopped while returning home at night. Allauddin alleged that six police officials assaulted Wasim near a graveyard, without provocation.

“While beating him, they threw him in a pond nearby and did not let him come out. Hearing the noise, several villagers reached the spot and tried to save Wasim, but the policemen threatened them to leave or they would shoot him. During the aforesaid incident, Wasim was killed by the policemen,” claimed Allauddin in the complaint.

Speaking to The Indian Express, Wasim’s cousin Afzal said he was a gym trainer and an AC mechanic. He too claimed policemen had assaulted Wasim before tying his legs and throwing him in a pond.

“We have seen the body. His teeth were broken, his head and face had fractures, and there were marks suggesting his legs were tied… We have submitted a complaint but no action has been taken. The police have also failed to provide any evidence of the alleged cow meat,” claimed Afzal.

The police had earlier claimed that after Wasim jumped into the pond, a crowd gathered and held the policemen hostage. An FIR filed on the basis of a complaint by sub-inspector Sharad Singh claims: “During this, some in the crowd made the recovered meat and the scooter used for transport disappear. The crowd accused us of shooting their man and throwing him into the pond. Around 100-150 people obstructed our work, held us hostage, abused and beat us, threatened to kill us, and removed evidence from the scene.”

Talking to The Indian Express, Haridwar Senior Superintendent of Police Pramendra Dobhal denied the family’s allegations. “The postmortem report confirmed antemortem drowning. It also did not find any injuries on the body… The man was carrying cow meat in his scooter. Our cow protection squad stopped and chased him. He left the scooter and jumped into the pond. He tried to swim to the other side of the lake, but failed. Police officials tried (to save him) but it was very dark and he unfortunately died,” said Dobhal, adding that the postmortem was conducted by a panel under videography.

Haridwar Superintendent of Police (Rural) Swapn Kishore also said the postmortem report contradicts claims that the man had bullet injuries, that his teeth were broken, or that his legs were tied. “The postmortem report did not find any truth in these allegations. People should avoid such rumours so that social harmony is not disrupted. We appeal to people to avoid this, otherwise they will have to face legal action,” said the SP.

He said Wasim and his father Naseem had a case registered against them under the Uttarakhand Protection of Cow Progeny Act. Kishore also said that they have a video showing a scooter with a blue sack with meat in it. During the investigation, he said, the police found that Wasim had used this scooter in the past.

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Court nod to shift actor Darshan to Ballari prison

In the photo, Darshan could be seen hanging out — sitting on a chair in a relaxed mood, and holding a cigarette and a coffee mug — with three others, including a rowdy-sheeter, on the lawns of the jail.

By: Express News Service

Bengaluru | August 28, 2024 05:48 IST

Also, a purported video of Darshan speaking to a person over a video call from the prison had surfaced online. (Fiel Photo)

A local court on Tuesday granted permission to the Bengaluru City Police to shift Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa to Ballari prison. This comes two days after a purported photograph and a video of Darshan — who is currently in judicial custody at Bengaluru’s Parappana Agrahara Central jail in the Renukaswamy murder case — went viral, sparking a row.

In the photo, Darshan could be seen hanging out — sitting on a chair in a relaxed mood, and holding a cigarette and a coffee mug — with three others, including a rowdy-sheeter, on the lawns of the jail.

Also, a purported video of Darshan speaking to a person over a video call from the prison had surfaced online.

He is among the 17 people currently in judicial custody in the murder case.

The court has also permitted the shifting of other co-accused in case to different prisons in the state.

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Focus on ‘polygamy’, ‘consent’, ‘child marriage’ as new Bill for registration of Muslim marriage is tabled in Assam

The Bill states that its provisions “shall be in addition to, and not in derogation of, the provisions of the prevailing Muslim personal laws”.

Written by Sukrita Baruah

Guwahati | Updated: August 28, 2024 08:44 IST

Himanta Biswa Sarma

A new Bill for the registration of Muslim marriages and divorces was tabled in the Assam legislative Assembly on Tuesday, proposed as a replacement for the 1935 Act that had governed these matters in the state so far.

In February, the Assam government had announced its decision to do away with the Assam Muslim Marriage and Divorce Registration Act, 1935, citing a provision that left scope for marriages between minors as the primary reason. Earlier during the ongoing Assembly session, the Assam Repealing Bill 2024 was tabled to repeal this older Act.

On Tuesday, Minister of Revenue and Disaster Management Jogen Mohan tabled the Assam Compulsory Registration of Muslim Marriages and Divorces Bill, 2024. Both the Repealing Bill and this Bill will be debated and considered later this week in the Assembly.

The tabled Bill states amongst its primary objectives the “prevention of child marriages”, “prevention of marriages without the consent of the parties” and to “check polygamy”. Among the other objectives it lists are “enabling women to claim their rights to live in the matrimonial house, maintenance, etc”, “enabling widows to claim their inheritance rights and other benefits and privileges which they are entitled to after the death of their husband”, deterring “men from deserting women after marriage”, and “strengthening the institute of marriage”.

The Bill states that its provisions “shall be in addition to, and not in derogation of, the provisions of the prevailing Muslim personal laws”.

Under the 1935 Act, the state was authorised to grant licences to “any person, being a Muslim” to register such marriages and divorces, and these Muslim registrars were deemed to be public servants.

There have been 95 such Muslim registrars across the state. This position has been done away with in the new Bill, and the registration under the new Bill is to be carried out by the Marriage and Divorce Registrar of the district concerned.

Among the conditions proposed for the registration of a marriage under the Bill is that the woman must have attained 18 years of age and the man 21 years of age before the date of the solemnisation of the marriage. It also requires that the marriage be solemnised “on free consent of both the parties”.

The Bill also proposes that during the scrutiny of documents for the registration of a marriage, if the Registrar finds that one of the parties is a minor, he shall immediately report it to the jurisdictional Child Marriage Prohibition Officers and send them the relevant records to initiate legal action.

The Bill proposes that the intended parties shall be required to give a minimum 30-day notice to the Marriage and Divorce Registrar, which will be published at “some conspicuous place” in his office, and that a person may object to the marriage within the 30-day period on the grounds that any of the conditions laid down in the Bill are violated, which will subsequently have to be inquired into by the Registrar.

If the Registrar, after the inquiry, refuses to solemnise the marriage, the Bill provides for two stages of appeal – first to the District Registrar and then to the Registrar General of Marriages.

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Supreme Court stays Ministry of Ayush notification related to drugs, cosmetic rules

A bench of Justices Hima Kohli and Sandeep Mehta said the notification issued by the ministry flies in the face of its earlier order.

By: Express News Service

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 08:45 IST

The bench took exception to the size of the apology advertisement published by him and gave him one week time to place their physical copies on record.

The Supreme Court Tuesday stayed the July 1, 2024 notification issued by the Ministry of Ayush, omitting Rule 170 of the Drug and Cosmetic Rules, 1945 that deals with prohibition of advertisements of Ayurvedic, Siddha and Unani drugs without licensing authority’s approval.

A bench of Justices Hima Kohli and Sandeep Mehta said the notification issued by the ministry flies in the face of its earlier order. The issue arose in the context of the hearing on a 2022 plea by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) against Patanjali Ayurved Ltd and its officials accusing them of making misleading claims and statements critical of modern medicine.

During the hearing, it came to fore that the Ministry of Ayush by letter dated August 29, 2024, asked all Licensing Authorities and Drug Controllers of AYUSH in all states and UTs not to take action under Rule 170 as the Ayurvedic, Siddha, and Unani Drugs Technical Advisory Board (ASUDTAB) had recommended its omission from the statute book.

“…instead of withdrawing the letter dated 29 August 2023 for reasons best known to the Ministry, a notification dated 1 July 2024 has been issued to omit Rule 170 from the Drugs Rules which runs contrary to the very directions issued by this court. Till further orders, the effect of the notification dated 1 July 2024 omitting Rule 170 shall stand stayed. In other words, till further orders are passed, Rule 170 shall remain in the statute book’, the bench ordered.

‘Excerpt of apology filed illegible’

In a related development, the SC bench also expressed its displeasure about the apology published by IMA president R V Asokan over his remarks allegedly critical of some comments by the court against IMA members in an interview to PTI.

The bench took exception to the size of the apology advertisement published by him and gave him one week time to place their physical copies on record.

“Senior Advocate P S Patwalia (appearing for Asokan) states that an unconditional apology has been published in the print version of The Hindu newspaper in 20 editions on 23.08.2024. The excerpt of the newspaper filed on behalf of Dr Asokan is illegible, inasmuch as the font is miniscule. Learned counsel for Dr Asokan is directed to file a copy of the relevant page of each of the 20 news editions of The Hindu newspaper in which the apology has been published for perusal of the court. Needful shall be done within one week,” the court said.

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PM’s renewal of party membership to kick off BJP drive on Sept 2

BJP national general secretary Vinod Tawde said Tuesday the party has a practice of enrolling fresh members every six years but the exercise was low-profile last time due to pandemic.

By: Express News Service

New Delhi | August 28, 2024 04:24 IST

The BJP’s membership target is 20 crore which it aims to achieve by enrolling 200 members from each of 10 lakh booths. (File Photo)

The BJP’s three-phase membership drive will start on the evening of September 2 with Prime Minister Narendra Modi renewing his membership before its senior leaders including central ministers, MPs, chief ministers and ministers fan out across the country.

BJP national general secretary Vinod Tawde said Tuesday the party has a practice of enrolling fresh members every six years but the exercise was low-profile last time due to pandemic.

After the first phase ends on September 15, the BJP will analyse the patterns to look for regions and social groups which have been relatively underrepresented. This will be the focus of the second phase from October 1-15. From mid-October, the enrolment of active members will start, following which the elections of the mandal, zilla and state presidents will take place.

Once elections to half the states are over, the new national party president will be elected. Of the total 15,000 mandals, 9,000 have already been trained for the drive during workshops. Over 10 lakh party workers will actively participate in the drive, Tawde said.

While many in the RSS were expecting that the BJP would appoint a working president before the Palakkad coordination meeting of the RSS with its affiliated organisations in August-end — there was buzz even within the BJP about this — a party insider said that since the membership drive is a priority, chances that a working president will be announced is diminishing.

“The usual election is just months away, and focus will now be on the membership drive. So, it is very likely a full-time president will take charge around 2024-end, with no working president being announced. Nadda will continue to discharge his duties till then,” the BJP leader said.

The BJP’s membership target is 20 crore which it aims to achieve by enrolling 200 members from each of 10 lakh booths.

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‘Ye rishta kya kehlata hai’: Bail to Kavitha sets off BJP, BRS, Congress war of jibes

BRS working president K T Rama Rao said it was highly unbecoming of an MP and Union Minister to cast aspersions on the Supreme Court

Written by Sreenivas Janyala

Hyderabad | Updated: August 28, 2024 08:42 IST

BRS leader and MLC K Kavitha

Leaders of the Bharat Rashtra Samiti (BRS), the Telangana Congress and the BJP sparred after BRS MLC K Kavitha was granted bail by the Supreme Court in the Delhi excise policy case on Tuesday.

Bandi Sanjay Kumar, the Karimnagar MP and Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, took to X with a cryptic post: “Congratulations to the Congress party and its advocates for securing bail for BRS MLC in the infamous liquor scam. Your untiring efforts finally yielded fruits. This bail is a win for both BRS and Congress – BRS leader is out on bail and the Congressman gets to Rajya Sabha. Remarkable political acumen by KCR in supporting the candidate, who initially argued for the bail, to be nominated to Rajya Sabha unopposed by the ruling Congress. Congratulations to the partners in crime who wine and dine.”

The post ostensibly refers to Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who had initially appeared for Kavitha following her arrest in March, and is the Congress’s Rajya Sabha candidate from Telangana.

BRS MLC Madhusudhan Chary lashed out at Kumar and other BJP leaders, saying that they were ridiculing the ruling of the Supreme Court. “The SC has clearly indicated that there was no need to keep Kavitha behind bars as the investigation is over. BJP leaders are trying to mislead people by making false statements,” he said.

BRS working president K T Rama Rao said it was highly unbecoming of an MP and Union Minister to cast aspersions on the Supreme Court. “I respectfully urge the Chief Justice of India and the respected Supreme Court to take cognizance of these comments and initiate contempt proceedings.”

Speaking to the media, BJP spokesperson N V Subhash also asked if bail for Kavitha and the BRS support for the Congress’s Rajya Sabha candidate were linked. “People will certainly ask ‘ye rishta kya kehlata hai’ after Kavitha got bail today with generous help of ‘experienced Congress lawyers’, and KCR supporting Congress in the Rajya Sabha elections. This is a blatant quid pro quo operation that is out in the open.  The question is, will KCR do ‘shatang dandavat’ in front of Sonia Amma and merge his defeated and deflated BRS into Congress for good?” he said.

“Those who have accused BJP of aligning with BRS can now open their eyes and see what is happening in Telangana politics and ask CM Revanth Reddy’s government why various scams have not been investigated. If this is not deceiving the people’s mandate, what is?” Subhash said.

Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee working president Mahesh Kumar Goud alleged that Kavitha got bail because BRS agreed to merge with the BJP. Goud claimed that BRS chief K Chandrashekar Rao’s son K T Rama Rao and nephew T Harish Rao had camped in New Delhi and held talks with BJP leaders regarding bail to Kavitha.

BRS leader and former minister Talasani Srinivas Yadav dismissed Goud’s claim as bogus. “Congress leaders are talking without reading the bail order and the SC observations that she received unfair treatment,” he said.

BRS leader Dr Sravan Dasoju meanwhile said the observations made by the court vindicate the party’s stand that the allegations against Kavitha are politically motivated. “The bail order is a triumph of truth and justice. The court’s observations during the hearing were crucial in highlighting the unfair treatment meted out to Kavitha,” he said.

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PMLA case: Court orders Shabir Shah’s release

Shabir Shah is directed to be released from judicial custody,” said ADJ Dheeraj Mor of Patiala House Courts

Written by Nirbhay Thakur

New Delhi | August 28, 2024 03:54 IST

Representative Image

A DELHI court Saturday ordered the release of Kashmir separatist leader Shabir Ahmad Shah from jail in a money laundering case. However, Shah is likely to remain in jail as two other terror cases registered by the NIA are pending against him.

“…The maximum substantive sentence prescribed for the said offence is seven years. He is in continuous custody in this case from 26.07.2017 and since then, more than seven years have passed… Therefore, he is directed to be released from judicial custody,” said Additional Sessions Judge Dheeraj Mor of Patiala House Courts in an order dated August 24.

The Enforcement Directorate initiated the money laundering investigation on the basis of an FIR lodged on May 30, 2017 against L-e-T chief Hafiz Muhammad Saeed and others.

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Health concerns in way of Azad’s campaign plans: ‘Will take a call’

Azad's Democratic Progressive Azad Party, which he launched in September 2022 after leaving the Congress a month earlier, is fighting its Assembly elections.

By: Express News Service

New Delhi | August 28, 2024 03:16 IST

Ghulam Nabi Azad (File Photo)

As campaigning picks up pace in J&K, the electioneering plans of senior leader and former chief minister Ghulam Nabi Azad have taken a hit because of a sudden health scare.

Azad’s Democratic Progressive Azad Party, which he launched in September 2022 after leaving the Congress a month earlier, is fighting its Assembly elections.

Sources said Azad, who was in J&K, complained of chest pain Sunday evening and, on the advice of doctors, came to Delhi on Monday morning where he was admitted to AIIMS. The former CM was discharged Tuesday but doctors have advised him to rest, the sources added.

When contacted, Azad told The Indian Express that doctors had advised him to rest and that his campaigning for the Assembly elections now looked unlikely. “I will take a final call tomorrow (Wednesday) but as of now it looks unlikely that I will be able to undertake an arduous campaign,” he said.

The DPAP has so far announced 13 candidates for the Assembly elections.

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BJP skips 8 Valley seats as nominations for J&K’s first phase see 279 contenders in fray

Ghulam Nabi Azad’s DPAP has fielded candidates from five seats in the Valley, and Apni Party in nine Valley seats.

By: Express News Service

Srinagar | Updated: August 28, 2024 07:42 IST

Tuesday was the last day for nominations in the first phase, to be held on September 18. (Representative image)

The first phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections will see a total of 279 candidates contesting from 24 constituencies. Of these, 183 candidates will fight for the 16 seats in the Kashmir Valley, while 96 candidates are vying for the eight seats in the Jammu division.

Tuesday was the last day for filing nominations to contest in the first phase, which will be held on September 18.

While the National Conference-Congress combine and the People’s Democratic Party have fielded candidates in all 16 Valley seats, the BJP has not fielded candidates from eight seats in south Kashmir. Ghulam Nabi Azad’s Democratic Azad Party has fielded candidates from only five seats in the Valley, and Apni Party has fielded candidates in nine Valley seats.

In Jammu region, the NC-Congress combine and the BKP have fielded its candidates on all eight seats, while the PDP has skipped two seats. Azad’s DPAP is contesting in four and Apni Party in two seats.

The biggest surprise in Jammu came from the Inderwal constituency, where Azad loyalist G M Saroori, who was not given a ticket by DPAP, has filed nomination papers as an Independent candidate.

The prominent faces contesting in the first phase include NC’s former parliamentarian Hasanain Masoodi, PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti’s daughter Iltija Mufti, Communist leader M Y Tarigami, Congress’s G A Mir, and BJP’s Sofi Yousuf.

Iltija Mufti and Sofi Yousuf, along with the NC’s Bashir Ahmad Veeri, are the only three candidates contesting from Srigufwara-Bijbehara constituency in south Kashmir. At the same time, Pampore in south Kashmir, as well as Doda and Bhaderwah in the Chenab region, will see 16 candidates each contesting from the seats.

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National task force holds first meeting; talks with states today

The task force — under the chairmanship of Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba — includes Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan and Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra as members.

Written by Anonna Dutt

New Delhi | August 28, 2024 02:36 IST

Ahead of the meeting, the states have been sent a Google sheet for information on security measures that are already in place in medical institutions. (File Photo)

The Supreme Court-constituted National Task Force met for the first time Tuesday and held a discussion regarding the safety of medical professionals and put forth their view.

The task force — under the chairmanship of Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba — includes Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan and Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra as members.

As part of consultations with various stakeholders, Mohan and Chandra will hold a meeting Wednesday with representatives of state governments, which run a majority of health facilities in the country, to discuss short-term measures to ensure the safety of medical professionals.

Ahead of the meeting, the states have been sent a Google sheet for information on security measures that are already in place in medical institutions.

According to people in know of the matter, the task force has already received 300 to 400 suggestions, which can also be submitted through a link on the website of the Union Health Ministry. Suggestions through portal will be collated by Ministry and then considered by task force.

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Anonna Dutt

Anonna Dutt is a Principal Correspondent who writes primarily on health at the Indian Express. She reports on myriad topics ranging from the growing burden of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension to the problems with pervasive infectious conditions. She reported on the government’s management of the Covid-19 pandemic and closely followed the vaccination programme. Her stories have resulted in the city government investing in high-end tests for the poor and acknowledging errors in their official reports. Dutt also takes a keen interest in the country’s space programme and has written on key missions like Chandrayaan 2 and 3, Aditya L1, and Gaganyaan. She was among the first batch of eleven media fellows with RBM Partnership to End Malaria. She was also selected to participate in the short-term programme on early childhood reporting at Columbia University’s Dart Centre. Dutt has a Bachelor’s Degree from the Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication, Pune and a PG Diploma from the Asian College of Journalism, Chennai. She started her reporting career with the Hindustan Times. When not at work, she tries to appease the Duolingo owl with her French skills and sometimes takes to the dance floor. ... Read More

Internal panel on sexual harassment, control room: Govt issues steps to curb hospital violence

Chandra also asked for setting up a 24x7 manned security control room in hospitals.

Written by Mahender Singh Manral

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 09:06 IST

Chandra said some of the immediate steps, which can be considered to enhance security of health workers, have been decided. They include (File Photo)

Constitute internal sexual harassment committee, making provision for safe movement of resident doctors/nurse within different blocks and hostel buildings during night hours and upgrade CCTV cameras on hospital premises — these are some of the key directions issued by Union Health Ministry to all Chief Secretaries and DGPs of States/UTs following the rape and murder of a trainee doctor in RG Kar Medical College.

In his letter sent on August 23, Chandra wrote that he wanted to draw attention to issue of violent incidents in medical institutions and recent protests by resident doctors following the rape-murder incident. “As you are aware, taking suo motu cognizance of the incident, the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India delivered its order on August 20 and 22,” he wrote.

“…In the order dated August 22, Hon’ble Court has inter-alia directed as under ‘the Secretary in the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare shall engage with the CSs and DGPs so as to ensure that the State Governments/UTs put into place certain basic minimum requirements pending receipt of report of National Task Force (NTF)…” It has also directed State Governments shall take remedial and appropriate action given exigencies of situation within 2 weeks thereafter, it stated.

Chandra said some of the immediate steps, which can be considered to enhance security of health workers, have been decided. They include: “Constitution of ‘hospital security committee’ and ‘violence prevention committee’ involving senior doctors and administrative officers to strategise and implement appropriate security measures, regulation of access for general public and patient relatives to key areas of the hospital. Strict visitor pass policy for patient attenders /relatives.”

Chandra also asked for setting up a 24×7 manned security control room in hospitals. “Constitution of internal committee on sexual harassment in hospital and taking stock situation of all CCTV cameras… inside hospital premises,” he wrote. “Provision for safe movement of resident doctors/ nurse within different blocks and hostel buildings and other areas of hospital during night duties, ensuring proper lighting inside all areas of residential, hostel blocks and other hospital premises, and routine security patrolling in hospital premises during night” were among the steps prescribed.

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Mahender Singh Manral

Mahender Singh Manral is an Assistant Editor with the national bureau of The Indian Express. He is known for his impactful and breaking stories. He covers the Ministry of Home Affairs, Investigative Agencies, National Investigative Agency, Central Bureau of Investigation, Law Enforcement Agencies, Paramilitary Forces, and internal security. Prior to this, Manral had extensively reported on city-based crime stories along with that he also covered the anti-corruption branch of the Delhi government for a decade. He is known for his knack for News and a detailed understanding of stories. He also worked with Mail Today as a senior correspondent for eleven months. He has also worked with The Pioneer for two years where he was exclusively covering crime beat. During his initial days of the career he also worked with The Statesman newspaper in the national capital, where he was entrusted with beats like crime, education, and the Delhi Jal Board. A graduate in Mass Communication, Manral is always in search of stories that impact lives. ... Read More

Ravneet Singh Bittu elected unopposed to Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan in bypoll

BJP's dummy candidate Sunil Kothari withdrew his nomination on Friday, making Ravneet Singh Bittu as the only candidate in the bye-election.

By: Express News Service

Jaipur | Updated: August 28, 2024 01:26 IST

Rajasthan Legislative Assembly principal secretary and election officer Mahavir Prasad Sharma on Tuesday presented a certificate to Yogendra Singh Tanwar, the authorised election agent of Bittu. (File)

Union minister and BJP leader Ravneet Singh Bittu, 48, was on Tuesday elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan.

Bittu is the Union Minister of State for Food Processing Industries and the Railways. In a statement, the office of the Chief Electoral Officer said that Rajasthan Legislative Assembly principal secretary and election officer Mahavir Prasad Sharma presented the election certificate to Yogendra Singh Tanwar, the authorised election agent of Bittu.

The nomination paper of independent candidate Babita Vadhwani was rejected during scrutiny on August 22 while BJP’s dummy candidate Sunil Kothari withdrew his nomination on Friday, making Ravneet Singh Bittu as the lone candidate in the race.

The election was necessitated after Congress leader K C Venugopal was elected to the Lok Sabha from Alappuzha. He had served as a RS MP from June 2020 until his resignation following his election as a LS MP.

Taking to X, Bittu thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, party president J P Nadda and Rajasthan CM Bhajan Lal Sharma “for entrusting me with the honour of representing Rajasthan in the Rajya Sabha. This opportunity is a testament to the faith and confidence the party’s top leadership has placed in me, and for that, I am truly humbled.”

“To the people of Rajasthan, I vow to work tirelessly to ensure that your aspirations and ambitions are not just heard but are actively pursued. Together, we will strive to bring even greater progress and prosperity to the beloved state,” he said.

Bittu is the grandson of slain former Punjab chief minister and Congress stalwart Beant Singh who was killed on August 31, 1995, along with 12 others in a suicide attack in Chandigarh.

Bittu had lost the recently concluded Lok Sabha election from Ludhiana. A three-time Congress MP, Bittu was first elected to the Lok Sabha in 2009 from Anandpur Sahib and subsequently won from Ludhiana in 2014 and 2019. Ahead of the latest Lok Sabha election, he switched to the BJP but lost to Punjab Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring by over 20,000 votes.

This will be his first stint in the Rajya Sabha. With Bittu’s election, both Congress and BJP will have five RS MPs in Rajasthan.

His term of membership will be till June 21, 2026.

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Senior IPS officer B Srinivasan appointed NSG chief

Srinivasan is a 1992 batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of Bihar cadre.

By: PTI

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 04:32 IST

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved appointment of Srinivasan as Director General, NSG, from the date of joining the post and up to August 31, 2027 i.e., the date of his superannuation, said a Personnel Ministry order.

Senior IPS officer B Srinivasan was on Tuesday appointed as the Director General of the National Security Guard (NSG).

Srinivasan is a 1992 batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of Bihar cadre.

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved appointment of Srinivasan as Director General, NSG, from the date of joining the post and up to August 31, 2027 i.e., the date of his superannuation, said a Personnel Ministry order.

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Caught crossing fence, Bangladeshi national detained in West Tripura

Three days earlier, five Bangladeshi nationals were arrested for illegal entry into India, along with two Indian touts suspected of facilitating human trafficking.

Written by Debraj Deb

Agartala | August 27, 2024 22:04 IST

Three days earlier, five Bangladeshi nationals were arrested for illegal entry into India, along with two Indian touts suspected of facilitating human trafficking. (Express Archives)

The Border Security Force (BSF) detained a Bangladeshi national at Nischintpur in West Tripura while he attempted to cross the border fence from the Bangladesh side on Monday.

Preliminary interrogation revealed he is a resident of Kishoreganj district, Bangladesh. In related operations in Sepahijala district, the BSF seized 9,800 narcotic tablets from NC Nagar and a vehicle with 11 cartons containing 6,930 mobile displays at Kamalasagar.

Three days earlier, five Bangladeshi nationals were arrested for illegal entry into India, along with two Indian touts suspected of facilitating human trafficking. The BSF has intensified surveillance at sensitive border points and launched operations against smugglers and traffickers.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) previously arrested several Tripura youths linked to human trafficking cases involving Bangladeshi and Rohingya individuals. Tripura shares an 856-km international border with Bangladesh, with some areas still unfenced due to local disputes.

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UPS not U-turn or rollback, it’s a new package, says Sitharaman

On Congress' allegation that the government has taken a U-turn on the pension scheme, she said, the government has improved the pension scheme which is not a U-turn.

By: ENS Economic Bureau

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 07:46 IST

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman (File Photo)

In response to Congress party’s dig that the ‘U’ in Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) stands for ‘U-turn’ by the government, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday said it is not a U-turn as the recently announced pension scheme is not a rollback and has come in response to the feedback received from employees.

“A rollback would have meant going back to the old pension scheme (OPS) then. It’s not a rollback to the OPS. The UPS is an improvement over the NPS (National Pension System). It is different from NPS and OPS, that’s why a new name has been given. It is clearly a new package,” she said.

The Finance Minister said the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) is better and will benefit most government employees, adding that it is designed in such a manner that every calculation fits and even the government is not burdened too much, she said.

“We had to come up with something to improve NPS…in order to see what was hurting people,” she said, adding that most of the states are expected to adopt UPS “as it has a lot of benefits for employees”.

On Sunday, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge had listed out the decisions regarding Long Term Capital Gain Tax and indexation, sending Waqf Bill to Joint Parliamentary Committee, Broadcast Bill and lateral entry as rollbacks by the government.

“The ‘U’ in UPS stands for Modi Govt’s U turns! Post June 4, the power of the people has prevailed over the arrogance of power of the Prime Minister,” he had posted on X.

Sitharaman said “these days Congress makes comments without doing comprehensive study, which was not the case earlier. They have just become a nara-driven or sloganeering-driven party.”

Defending recent decisions like restoration of indexation benefits for LTCG, she said it was not a rollback but tweaking of the Budget announcement after understanding the feedback received from the middle class and responding to it.

On the UPS for 23-lakh Central government employees, she said it will be available for those who are current subscribers of the NPS.

The new Unified Pension Scheme guarantees employees 50 per cent of their average basic pay over the last 12 months before retirement as a pension for a minimum qualifying service of 25 years against a market-returns linked payout under the NPS.

The assured pension will be based on the ‘default mode’ of investment pattern notified by the pension regulator and considering full annuitisation of individual pension corpus. In case, the benchmark annuity is lower than the assured annuity, the shortfall will be made good. In case the individual employee corpus generates higher than assured annuity (based on investment choice exercised by the employee), the employee will be entitled to such higher annuity. In case however, the annuity generated is lower than the default mode, the top up provided by the government through UPS will be limited to the benchmark annuity.

The pension will be proportionate for a lesser service period of up to a minimum of 10 years. Also, assured pension of Rs 10,000 per month on superannuation after a minimum of 10 years of service.

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CBI arrests principal commissioner of Income Tax in Rs 10 lakh bribery case

The CBI booked Kumar in an FIR registered on the basis of a complaint that he was allegedly demanding and accepting bribes from different income tax assessees under his jurisdiction to extend undue benefit to them by abuse of his official position, they said.

By: PTI

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 08:26 IST

The CBI conducted searches at around 21 locations in Patna, Dhanbad and Noida after the arrests which led to the recovery of incriminating documents and articles, officials said. (File)

The CBI on Tuesday arrested the principal commissioner of the Income Tax (Patna and Dhanbad) Department and four others over alleged bribery of Rs 10 lakh from different tax assessees, officials said.

Principal Commissioner of Income Tax Santosh Kumar was arrested along with four private individuals –Gurpal Singh, Rajiv Kumar, Ashok Chaurasia and Pranay — during an alleged exchange of illegal gratification of Rs 10 lakh, they said.

The CBI booked Kumar in an FIR registered on the basis of a complaint that he was allegedly demanding and accepting bribes from different income tax assessees under his jurisdiction to extend undue benefit to them by abuse of his official position, they said.

“It was also alleged that there were several conduits who were working on behalf of the principal commissioner of Income Tax (Patna and Dhanbad),” a CBI spokesperson said in a statement.

The CBI conducted searches at around 21 locations in Patna, Dhanbad and Noida after the arrests which led to the recovery of incriminating documents and articles, officials said.

“All accused will be produced at the Court of Special Judge, CBI Cases, Patna, on August 28, 2024,” the CBI spokesperson said.

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Schools, colleges reopen in Tripura week after they were shut down due to flood; relief funds pour in from different states

Officials said that the infrastructure of nearly 209 schools and a few colleges have been damaged in the flood caused due to heavy rainfall since August 19 in Tripura.

Written by Debraj Deb

Agartala | Updated: August 28, 2024 08:48 IST

Assistance from the Tripura Chief Minister's Relief Fund, MP Local Area Development Fund etc are also being pumped in to help in the rescue and relief efforts. (PTI Photo)

All educational institutes, barring the schools housing relief camps in Tripura, reopened on Tuesday, nearly a week after closure due to the flood situation in the state.

Officials said that the infrastructure of nearly 209 schools and a few colleges have been damaged in the flood caused due to heavy rainfall since August 19.

In their preliminary assessment, the Education department said it has incurred losses to the tune of Rs 11 crore, including properties and infrastructures, to floods and landslides. However, the Amarpur sub-division in Gomati district and South Tripura district have been excluded from the estimation.

The Tripura government had last week announced to keep all educational institutions closed for an indefinite period due to the heavy rain that caused flooding and landslides throughout the state.

Meanwhile, help has flowed in from different states such as Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Assistance from the Tripura Chief Minister’s Relief Fund, MP Local Area Development Fund etc are also being pumped in to help in the rescue and relief efforts.

CM Dr. Manik Saha said Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav announced Rs 10 crore and Rs 20 crore relief, respectively, for Tripura.

Former Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb and Tripura ruling alliance partner TIPRA Motha party founder and royal scion-turned-politician Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma also donated funds for relief.

As an immediate measure, the Central Government had earlier released a Rs 40 crore package to carry out rescue, relief and rehabilitation operations in the flood-hit areas of the state.

Based on preliminary estimates, the Tripura government has calculated around Rs 1,500 crore damage due to the widespread floods which resulted in 26 deaths and over 1.3 lakh people being sheltered in relief camps during the peak of the flood situation. Massive damages to crops, roads, power transmission network and other infrastructural damages have also been recorded.

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Delhi Confidential

- Delhi Confidential: CJI Chandrachud’s imposter with iPad

Delhi Confidential: CJI Chandrachud’s imposter with iPad

THE FIRST Union Council of Ministers meeting in the third term of the Modi government, scheduled for Wednesday evening, will be a special one for outgoing Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba.

By: Express Web Desk

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 09:08 IST

Chief Justice of India Justice DY Chandrachud. (Express photo)

The Cyber crime unit of Delhi police has registered an FIR against a social media handler for impersonating Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and demanding money. The CJI has learned to take note of cyber impersonation after a post shared by a lawyer last week on X went viral. In the post, a person posing as the CJI requested a digital transfer of Rs 500 for taking a cab. While the message seemed fake, the scammer also added that the message was sent from an iPad, a nod to the CJI’s insistence that lawyers in his courtroom use the gadget instead of paper books. The post generated many laughs amongst those in legal circles.

Relief, Expectation

AT A time when many of its top leaders are fighting fierce legal battles to clear their names, the Karnataka Congress received a boost on Tuesday when the Supreme Court quashed an abetment to suicide case against state minister K J George. The senior Congress leader was accused number one, along with two senior police officers, in a case related to the death of former Deputy SP M K Ganapathi in July 2016. Many in the Congress saw the clean chit to George as a good omen and hoped for a similar result in cases against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in the MUDA land “scam” and the corruption charges against Deputy CM D K Shivakumar.

The Send-off

THE FIRST Union Council of Ministers meeting in the third term of the Modi government, scheduled for Wednesday evening, will be a special one for outgoing Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba. The 1982-batch IAS officer will demit office on August 30, completing five years in the post and becoming the longest-serving Cabinet Secretary. The meeting, to be held at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, may also include presentations by some secretaries on their ministry’s plan for ‘Viksit Bharat’ goal.

Opinion

- For me, a first-generation immigrant born in India, anticipating Kamala Harris’s presidency is exciting and cautionary

- Supriya Sule writes: The people’s voice is finally being heard in Parliament

- New Pension Scheme favours a small minority at the expense of majority of uncovered elderly

- Delhi L-G writes: Our Capital is a case study in misgovernance

- PM Jan Dhan Yojana has accelerated financial inclusion, reduced inequalities

- A Roman burglar broke into a home and settled down with a book

- Politics has returned to Jammu and Kashmir — and that is welcome

- To make India more climate-resilient, India Meteorological Department’s upgrade is necessary

- August 28, 1984, Forty Years Ago: PM Gandhi considers a drastic change in the Constitution

- In new criminal codes, a missed opportunity

- ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ on OTT: Indian cinema’s problem lies in its lazy piggybacking on the Ramayana and Mahabharata

- What we don’t talk about when we talk about rape

- As a woman of colour in the US, my hope for Vice President Kamala Harris is greater than my fear

- Remembering Nari Hira the man who built an empire, who Amitabh Bachchan couldn’t say no to

- Unified Pension Scheme is a win-win for states, Centre and people

- Yogendra Yadav writes: The poverty of political imagination needs remedy, not mourning

- I am Indian-American and a first-time voter. Watching Kamala Harris live in Chicago melted my cynicism

For me, a first-generation immigrant born in India, anticipating Kamala Harris’s presidency is exciting and cautionary

It is painful to hear Vice President Harris, a child of immigrants, feel the need to say in her acceptance speech that she will be 'a president for all Americans.

Written by Sayu Bhojwani

Updated: August 28, 2024 11:25 IST

Women of my generation who, like Vice President Harris, are the eldest daughters of immigrant mothers, see in her an essential leader for this moment. (File Photo)

Less than a month ago, the political landscape in America shifted dramatically when Vice President Kamala Harris became the Democratic nominee for President. Especially during the Democratic National Convention (DNC) last week, “electrifying” and “joy” consistently described the campaign and the mood in the hall. For people like me, a first-generation immigrant born in India, watching Kamala Harris accept the nomination and anticipating her presidency is exciting and cautionary.

Women of my generation who, like Vice President Harris, are the eldest daughters of immigrant mothers, see in her an essential leader for this moment. She is what I call a No.1 immigrant daughter – responsible, hard-working and aware. In her convention remarks, describing her mother, “as the eldest child — I saw how the world would sometimes treat her,” she established her awareness of injustice and how it contributes to her commitment to fight “for the people”. Her historic potential to be the first woman, first Black woman, first Caribbean American and Asian American President is especially meaningful at a time when the question of who is American is more contentious than it has been in modern times.

Although the United States is no stranger to racial tension, fear of the “browning” of America, a term used to describe the march toward 2040, when White Americans will no longer be the majority, is at the root of the current divisions. Donald Trump’s Make America Great Again slogan translated to policies that were about fighting this diversification of America, from Muslim bans to border security measures. In his one term, he appointed three conservative Supreme Court justices, thus indirectly contributing to the decision in the 2023 Students for Fair Admissions vs. Harvard case. Plaintiffs argued that the university’s admissions policies discriminated based on race, and the Supreme Court agreed, creating ripple effects on schools, nonprofits, venture capital and foundations, making it harder for these sectors to offer programmes and services targeted at specific groups, including Indian Americans.

Indian Americans are the fastest-growing racial group in the United States and the largest segment of the Asian American population. Although they are touted as a political force and have higher incomes than other minority groups, not all are CEOs and bankers. Shyamala Gopalan, the Vice President’s mother had a modest middle-class lifestyle that made buying her own home a challenge. Today, while many Indians are here on H-1B visas, an increasing number are crossing the border and beginning precarious lives in the United States. And like other immigrants, they are equally subjected to racial discrimination, based on skin colour, religion, gender or caste.

Recognising these challenges in my community led me to start the nonprofit South Asian Youth Action nearly three decades ago. Since then, I have worked on immigrant inclusion in the US, in government and nonprofit organisations. During that time, under Democratic and Republican Presidents, I have observed how immigrants become a scapegoat for economic conditions, increases in crime and threats to national security. Still, it is painful to hear Vice President Harris, a child of immigrants, feel the need to say in her acceptance speech that she will be “a president for all Americans. You can always trust me to put country above party and self.” Her forceful assertion that “we can live up to our proud heritage as a nation of immigrants and reform our broken immigration system” is reminiscent of President Obama’s 2014 speech differentiating between families and felons, children and criminals. These statements are designed to reassure White people that Brown people are a threat that has to be minimised. In her speech, Vice President Harris said, “I refuse to play politics with our security” but called out Trump for his role in killing a Senate bill on border security earlier this year. But she, like all candidates before her, is playing politics with immigration.

Still, having Kamala Devi Harris at the top of the 2024 Democratic ticket is significant not just for America and the world, but also for our own home. My 18-year-old is one of the 41 million potential Gen Z voters who may decide this election and who says, “Kamala feels like how I see America in my future, sharing her cultural background while maintaining a deep love of country and a sense of caring for those around her.”

I see a future Harris presidency with open eyes and a clear understanding that because of the multitudes she contains, many of us see ourselves in her. That is no small thing. But I also see that because of who she is, she will be judged differently. That is the experience of immigrant women and other women of colour. Watching her emerge from backstage is a reminder to us to do the same.

The writer, New York City’s first Commissioner of Immigrant Affairs, is the author of People Like Us: The New Wave of Candidates Knocking at Democracy’s Door and the Substack No. 1 Immigrant Daughter

Supriya Sule writes: The people’s voice is finally being heard in Parliament

This is because the Opposition’s numerical strength has allowed it to wrest the power it is due. The government’s initiatives towards restoring the lost dignity of Parliament are superficial.

Written by Supriya Sule

Updated: August 28, 2024 11:31 IST

In many ways, this new Parliament has, from its very first session, proven to be far different from the two that came before it.

The 2024 Lok Sabha elections stripped the BJP of its majority in a clear display of the people’s dissatisfaction with its governance. Many of us had hoped that the government would recognise this as an opportunity for course correction, turning away from its authoritarian mode of running Parliament — and, by extension, the nation.

In many ways, this new Parliament has, from its very first session, proven to be far different from the two that came before it. The more balanced composition of the Lower House has made it difficult for the government to bulldoze legislation or throttle the voices of the Opposition, which now has a leader whose post and privileges are legally defined. We have seen this play out in recent weeks, as the government was forced to hastily take back decisions it initially hailed as transformative, such as allowing lateral entry into government jobs while bypassing reservation.

Parliamentary committees will also now represent a greater diversity of thought. Perhaps more importantly, the route to amending crucial provisions of the Constitution in furtherance of a political agenda has been firmly closed off.

This session, the trend of spending less and less time debating the Union Budget was reversed, and it was discussed for over 27 hours. Although the majority of the Budget was still passed without discussion, the Demands for Grants of several ministries were taken up individually, a major improvement from the 2023-24 Budget, when not a single one was. Happily, no MP was suspended, though it is unfortunate that several members, particularly in the Upper House, were threatened with the same.

By contrast, the term of the 17th Lok Sabha was marked by the most egregious assaults on parliamentary democracy that India has seen. In the Winter Session of 2023, 146 Opposition MPs were suspended for questioning the government on the security breach in the Lower House and farmer-related issues. Only a few months prior, a Member belonging to the ruling party escaped even the mildest of reproofs for subjecting a fellow MP to communal slurs. With nearly two-thirds of the Opposition absent, several important bills, including the three new criminal laws, were passed with little meaningful debate.

While its penultimate session before the elections saw Parliament’s dysfunction reach its nadir, this was merely a culmination of the deterioration of the legislature in the preceding five years. Of the 172 bills that were passed by both Houses between 2019 and 2024, nearly half were discussed for less than two hours. The proportion of bills referred to Committees decreased from 71 per cent during the 15th Lok Sabha to 16 per cent during the 17th Lok Sabha.

Yet, if this session of Parliament has been far more democratic and conducive to productive debate than the last, it is because the Opposition’s numerical strength has allowed it to wrest the power it is due as the voice of the people of India.

As far as the government’s own initiatives towards restoring the lost dignity of Parliament are concerned, they are as superficial as the Union Budget’s politically-motivated agenda.

Perhaps its most unparliamentary act has been its continued tendency to leak bills, particularly those on contentious issues, for political narrative building, before they are officially made available to MPs themselves. This session, the press got hold of details of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill days before it was circulated among MPs, even though the Budget Session was in full swing at the time. The introduction of the Bill was opposed by myself and dozens of other MPs, including certain allies of the BJP, which resulted in it being referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee. It is sad that the examination of bills by committees, once a routine procedure, is now only conducted when the government believes that it will not be able to bulldoze them through the Parliament. The consultation process for the Broadcasting Regulation Bill, another transformative piece of legislation that would have far-reaching consequences for “broadcasters” — a category that, according to the Bill’s definition, includes everyone from OTT platforms to social media content creators — has been similarly opaque.

The NDA government has also patently ignored the INDIA bloc’s call to reserve one day each week to discuss an agenda proposed by the Opposition and four hours per week for matters of urgent public importance. Many of us have found ourselves unable to raise issues crucial to our constituencies due to a paucity of time. When we have attempted to discuss matters of national importance, such as irregularities in the NEET examination, we have been shut down.

The post of the Deputy Speaker, which has traditionally been occupied by an MP who does not belong to the ruling party, was left vacant during the entirety of the 17th Lok Sabha. It was widely anticipated that this session, the government would make a return to parliamentary tradition and elect a Deputy Speaker. The fact that it has not yet done so, is a sad indication that the government intends to continue to sideline the Opposition’s concerns.

The manner in which Parliament is covered by the media and made accessible to those who elected it is perhaps even more restricted now. The visual of journalists crowded into a glass enclosure away from the business of the Parliament is not one that will be forgotten easily. It all reeks of a larger plan to let go of the tradition of Parliament that allowed the media, and by extension the people of India to be participants in the legislative process, not just distant observers.

Unfortunately, the story outside Parliament is no different; be it suppressing the voice of protesters demanding justice for assault against schoolgirls by mass registering FIRs or by shutting down the internet in violation of personal liberty, the goal remains to curb dissent and information. However, one can hit the snooze button for only so long.

The writer is Member of Parliament, NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar)

New Pension Scheme favours a small minority at the expense of majority of uncovered elderly

The collective voice of those not part of the scheme must be amplified to enable the rewriting of a social contract for enhancing inter- and intra-generational equity attributes of public expenditure on old age income support.

Written by Mukesh Kumar Anand

Updated: August 28, 2024 11:28 IST

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a delegation from Joint Consultative machinery for central government employees, at his residence in New Delhi. (PTI)

In March 2023, a committee was announced to review the New Pension Scheme (NPS) for civilian employees of the Union government. Based on the review report, the government has revised the rules guiding retirement benefits of those mandatorily channelled into the NPS. The revised rules ostensibly reconfirm the intent of a pre-funded system for old age income support (OAIS) out of a corpus grown during work life in individual retirement accounts. These accounts are to be managed professionally under the oversight of the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA). All states, except West Bengal, had also acceded to the NPS. But since the beginning of 2023, governments in at least five other states have either jumped off that bandwagon or declared such an intent.

The revised rules announced as the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) closely harmonise benefits for ceding employees with those flowing from the Old Pension Scheme (OPS). But the UPS raises the co-contribution rate for the government to 18.5 per cent (from currently 14 per cent, and from 10 per cent when first introduced). The co-contribution by the government on account of current employees only ratchets up the trend in expenditure on pension and other retirement benefits (PORB) of the current pensioners from the OPS. This yields little to advance the core objectives for the pension system reform to, one, curtail the ballooning burden of public expenditure on PORB, and, two, serve the as yet unserved/under-served by widening the inclusion of workers and coverage of the elderly with institutional access to OAIS.

The strategy adopted in 2003 minimised the concern with the first objective as one that could be solved merely through financial intermediation. It also underplayed the workers’ concern about the certainty of the pension (deferred compensation) amount or the additional burden due to government co-contribution in the NPS (now UPS). But, the failure to address the second objective is more severe as even under the most liberal assumptions, at least 80 per cent of workers (exceeding 380 million) are yet not included in the institutional OAIS system and at least 60 per cent of the elderly (exceeding 85 million) do not draw OAIS from public expenditure.

The proportion of elderly people in the population hovers around 10 per cent. The expenditure by the general government on the OAIS system (including social pensions) constitutes a similar proportion. While this component of public expenditure is essentially a transfer only to the elderly, they also benefit from other avenues of public expenditure to varying degrees. Aggregate public expenditure (if it could be linked to age-cohorts in some inter-generational accounting framework) in India may therefore be weighing in favour of the elderly.

Of far greater import, however, is the concern with intra-generational equity of public expenditure on OAIS as more than three-fourths of it only benefits less than one-seventh of the elderly constituting ceding workers (or their survivors) from government service.

Inroads to sustainably widen worker participation and elderly coverage in a low-middle-income economy like India entails sustaining incentives with additional and targeted allocation of public resources. Thus, while the two objectives for pension reform are ostensibly disjoint, in India success along the second objective is complementary to success along the first. That in turn implies only reallocation of the extant draught of public resources away from the ceding government workers and targeted towards widening the inclusion of workers and elderly. Yet, the harmonised shrill of the collective voice of barely 3.5 per cent of all workers who are employed by the government at all levels continues to ring loud. And, unfortunately, the voice of the large majority that is excluded from the OAIS system remains muted and therefore has been ignored all along.

In 2020-21, more than 9 per cent of general government expenditure was circumscribed by the ex-workers (or their kin) from the government. It can hardly be justifiable to deny benefits to those already covered, but it also appears immoral if provisions determining retirement benefits constitute an overreach and/or violate basic tenets to reward work contribution under amiable conditions. For example, provision for encashment of earned leaves dilutes the object of mandating earned leaves that is intended to promote work-life balance; lump-sum commutation of pension that, in effect, connotes an advance drawal of a fraction of future stream of income, but should it be admissible if drawing a salary advance is repugnant; the absence of a stipulation on the minimum age for drawing benefits intended for OAIS could start flowing in even before reaching the age of 40 years; considering only peak emoluments as the basis for deferred compensation; and indexation of pensioners benefits to current workers’ emoluments. Graded elimination of the overreach from these provisions should be the core of reform proposals. These not only affect the draught on public resources but also perniciously influence incentives for participation, engagement, and exit from the labour market.

The government’s announcement comes across as aggressive posturing to defend the course of pension reforms initiated in 2003 and restore the relevance of PFRDA that had started to vane with some states resolving to exit the NPS. However, unlike the enthusiasm whipped up about two decades ago that enabled the states to hop on to the bandwagon then, this time around there is likely to be expressed reluctance in some states to repeat that act. Indeed, that can only foment their resolve to revert completely to the OPS. But, the biggest loser in the process would be the vast majority of excluded workers and uncovered elderly. Their collective voice must be amplified to enable the rewriting of a social contract for enhancing inter- and intra-generational equity attributes of public expenditure on OAIS.

The writer is Associate Professor, NIPFP. Views are personal

Delhi L-G writes: Our Capital is a case study in misgovernance

The elected government is hostile towards every other administrative agency. The Chief Minister is in judicial custody. Citizens are held hostage. It is high time for introspection and course correction

Written by Vinai Kumar Saxena

Updated: August 28, 2024 11:23 IST

A view of Kartavya Path following a spell of light rain, in New Delhi. (Express photo Amit Mehra)

Delhi has become the second most populous city in the world after Tokyo. At a staggering 35 million, it has more people than the combined population of Australia and New Zealand. The UN World Urbanisation Prospects Report suggests that, in a decade, Delhi, with a projected population of 43 million, would surpass Tokyo. However, is the city’s infrastructure ready for this overcrowded future?

This monsoon should have been a sobering experience for the political leaders who promised a Parisian makeover for Delhi. The complete collapse of civic infrastructure exposed the maladministration in the city. UPSC aspirants drowned to death in a basement which illegally doubled up as a library. Children died while playing in a flooded ground. A mother died in a valiant attempt to rescue her child from drowning in an open drain. Youngsters were electrocuted after touching live fallen wires. Yet, the political establishment has the audacity to create a myth of dazzling achievements, with full-page advertisements. Angry citizens are now asking: Where has the taxpayer’s money vanished?

Over 40 per cent of Delhi’s residents languish in squalor. Unauthorised colonies and slum clusters have proliferated with active political patronage. Connivance between corrupt officials and the land mafia has made a mockery of the master plan. People are lured into spending a lifetime of savings on fraudulent transactions and illegal construction. Hundreds of cramped multi-storeyed tenements have sprung up without roads, drainage, sewage or sanitation. Sporadic half-hearted attempts of retrofitting have added to the chaos. Colonies in low-lying areas routinely get submerged every monsoon. Drinking water on tap is a trickle and the tanker mafia rules the roost. Garbage is strewn along roads and in housing colonies. At several places, a mesh of power lines hangs dangerously.

Delhi’s rural population, less than 3 per cent, lives on the margins. They are largely ignored as a political vote bank. Two-thirds of the villages do not have piped gas supply. Just over half of the city population lives in the so-called “planned” parts. The situation here is no better. Drains overflow into streets revealing gross neglect of desilting. Choked sewer lines burst open with unfailing regularity. Open drains become death traps for pedestrians and even the heart of the Capital has potholed roads.

The city government is not investing enough to build new roads, drains, water treatment- and storage facilities and sewage treatment plants. Can abject failures of governance be hidden behind mere populist propaganda on the “Delhi model” of governance? A revenue surplus state 10 years ago, Delhi risks getting caught in a debt trap. There is not enough money for routine repairs and maintenance. That is why sewer lines are choked, drains are overflowing, buses routinely break down and roads are potholed.

In the last decade, water treatment capacity grew just over 4 per cent, while Delhi’s population has grown by 15 per cent. In normal circumstances, there is a shortfall of 290 million gallons per day. The unaccounted-for water — theft, leakage and non-paid dues — is as high as 58 per cent. Even if the supply is increased, it would amount to pumping water into a leaking bucket. Over the last decade, the Delhi government has spent Rs 28,000 crore for the water sector — apparently all has gone down the drain. No serious efforts have been made to plug the leaks or build storage capacities. Even the canal which carries water from Haryana was breached this year. The attitude towards neighbouring states is one of open hostility.

The much propagated “Delhi Health Model” is a sham. Mohalla clinics which recruit “walk-in doctors” run on a perverse model of incentives to inflate patient footfall. Over 20 new hospital facilities are being constructed, at a cost of Rs 8,000 crore. The entire focus is on construction, without an iota of effort on the budget, the need for creating 38,000 posts and procuring modern medical equipment. Over the next few months, some of these buildings will be ready and stand out as mausoleums of neglect.

Delhi’s collapse has benefitted neighbouring cities — Gurugram, Noida, and Greater Noida. Corporate houses prefer to establish their offices in these cities even with costlier real estate. High-end apartments, malls, educational institutions and universities have relocated to other parts of NCR.

Delhi has the third worst air quality in the world. The hill-sized mounds of garbage at Gazipur, Okhla and Bhalswa are a blot on the national capital. Solid waste management in most parts of the city, barring the New Delhi area, presents a horrific sight. Yamuna, the lifeline of water supply to the city, has become an open sewer. Twenty-two open drains discharge untreated sewage directly into the river. Thousands of crores of public money have been spent over the last decade in the name of a farcical cleanup.

The elected government shrugs off responsibility and always finds a convenient alibi. If the water supply runs low, Haryana is to blame. If there is excess release in Yamuna due to heavy downpour in the hills, even then Haryana is to blame. Bad air quality is attributed to stubble burning in neighbouring states. If no other excuse comes to mind, the blame is passed on to the Lieutenant Governor for posting bad officers. On other occasions, the bureaucracy is publicly berated.

Delhi, as the national Capital, has a special status in the Indian Constitution. There has always been a degree of tension between the political aspirations of the elected government and the LG, who represents the Centre. In the past, these used to be ironed out through dialogue and discussion. A healthy consensus in the interest of development has defined the relationship between the chief minister and the LG. Somewhere down the line, this democratic compact was broken. Today, the elected government is positively hostile towards every other administrative agency. It routinely knocks on the doors of the High Court and Supreme Court on petty matters.

The Chief Minister is in judicial custody. Citizens are held hostage. Governance is in a free fall as ministers obsess over press conferences while the real aam aadmi suffers in silence. It is high time for introspection and course correction. The national Capital of a global power deserves better.

The writer is Lieutenant Governor of Delhi

PM Jan Dhan Yojana has accelerated financial inclusion, reduced inequalities

PMJDY account holders have entered the formal financial system after a lot of push. Future government programmes must explore interlinking accounts for a holistic approach to economic empowerment

Written by Soumya Kanti Ghosh

Updated: August 28, 2024 11:26 IST

Jan Dhan accounts not only have many positive aspects like insurance coverage, overdraft facility, and impact on saving habits, they also have social implications. Our research has found that UP, Maharashtra and Haryana have witnessed a lagged impact of the usage of PMJDY accounts and thefts have decreased.

Financial inclusion has been a key tool used by policymakers and governments globally to reduce inequalities, strengthen livelihoods of people at the bottom of the pyramid, and spur growth. For more inclusive growth, the government, on August 28, 2014, took a step to include all unbanked households in a time-bound manner, with the help of technology (the JAM trinity), and devised a mass financial inclusion scheme — the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY). The scheme was devised in two phases to provide banking facilities to 7.5 crore unbanked households.

Today, more than 80 per cent of adults have a formal financial account, compared to around 50 per cent in 2011. India has done exceedingly well, anchoring the financial inclusion drive from a global perspective. The gender gap in account ownership has been significantly reduced through the basic savings bank deposit accounts aimed at individuals (rather than the household approach adopted earlier). So far, banks have opened around 53 crore PMJDY accounts with a balance of Rs 2.31 lakh crore, increasing more than three times from 14.7 crore accounts with Rs 15,670 crore deposits in March 2015. This has largely been led by public sector banks who contribute around 78 per cent of these accounts. The average account balance in PMJDY accounts has jumped over four times to Rs 4,352 in August 2024 from Rs 1,065 in March 2015. If we look at the PMJDY data in detail, 81.2 per cent are operative accounts, 55.6 per cent belong to women and 66.6 per cent are in rural and semi-urban areas. UP has opened the highest number of PMJDY accounts (9.4 crore), followed by Bihar (6 crore).

Jan Dhan accounts not only have many positive aspects like insurance coverage, overdraft facility, and impact on saving habits, they also have social implications. Our research has found that UP, Maharashtra and Haryana have witnessed a lagged impact of the usage of PMJDY accounts and thefts have decreased. West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Kerala have seen a continuing impact since the beginning, while Gujarat and Karnataka have also witnessed a favourable impact. Additionally, we also observed that there is both a statistically significant and an economically meaningful drop in consumption of intoxicants such as alcohol and tobacco products in states where more PMJDY accounts were opened.

During the last decade, Rs 38.49 lakh crore has been transferred via DBT, and Rs 3.48 lakh crore of leakages have been plugged. Additionally, it has helped in digitalisation, e-commerce and payment systems. As of July 2024, India has recorded a massive 55.7 billion UPI transactions. Going forward, we have identified four major pillars covering both supply-side and demand-side interventions to address the current barriers to financial inclusion.

First, there is a need to strengthen the ecosystem and enablers that drive financial inclusion. We need to focus on promoting private-sector involvement in financial inclusion through partnerships. We need to enhance the capacities of individuals and small enterprises through incubation and imparting financial literacy, and promote gender-inclusive financial services and programmes.

Second, there is a need to increase penetration of financial products and services like micro-insurance and credit in a cost-effective manner. But, overzealousness to provide credit to new PMJDY entrants should not result in over-indebtedness. In this regard, the recently launched Unified Lending Interface will be a game changer in providing credit-products as it aims to make the lending process more efficient in terms of cost reduction, quicker disbursement, and scalability.

Third, we need to focus on strengthening the consumer protection framework to maintain the trust of consumers in new and complex digital products and devise inclusive regulations and policies that maintain a fine balance between protection and innovation.

Fourth, the people who are part of the PMJDY are those who are new to the financial system. Many of them have seasonal and erratic income streams. Many have only a meagre amount to save and their needs are widely different from those of regular consumers. All these necessitate a customer-centric product design, taking into consideration the lifecycle needs of customers at every stage.

The PMJDY account holders have entered the formal financial system after a lot of push and prod and it is imperative that future government programmes explore the interlinkage of PMJDY accounts with beneficiaries of other government schemes to have a holistic approach to continued economic empowerment at the bottom of the pyramid.

The writer is member, 16th Finance Commission, and group chief economic advisor, SBI. Views are personal

A Roman burglar broke into a home and settled down with a book

In a world riven with sharp inequalities, it speaks of literature’s potential to offer respite and an intellectual interlude that transcends one’s material precarity

By: Editorial

August 28, 2024 07:30 IST

The tome in question that the aged homeowner found the intruder immersed in was Giovanni Nucci’s The Gods at Six O’Clock, a retelling of the Iliad from the perspective of the gods.

In Greek mythology, Hermes packs in quite a punch. He’s the god of thieves, traders and travellers, of language and sleep. In his role as the herald and messenger of the Olympians, he is also the bridge between gods and men. It is unknown if the 38-year-old burglar, apprehended in Rome’s upscale art nouveau Prati district after a botched attempt, knew of Hermes, or of his Roman counterpart, Mercury. There is equally little information about his knowledge of Greek mythology or its Roman equivalent. But what can be inferred is that he wasn’t averse to experiencing for himself the dichotomous pulls of his patron saint. After all, it isn’t every day that a man breaking into a home resists the temptation of larceny and settles down with a book instead.

The tome in question that the aged homeowner found the intruder immersed in was Giovanni Nucci’s The Gods at Six O’Clock, a retelling of the Iliad from the perspective of the gods. Perhaps, it was the Olympians’ repeated emphasis that gods and men are equal parts good and evil that appealed to the burglar. Perhaps, it was curiosity over a world that circumstances had kept out of his reach. Whatever it may have been, his interception after an alarm was raised meant that the book remained unfinished. Nucci has offered to send a copy to the man in custody as a fitting finale to a “surreal story… full of humanity”.

For all those lamenting the death of the written word in a world overtaken by the screen, there is, perhaps, a glimmer of a silver lining in the Roman burglar’s story. In a world riven with sharp inequalities, it speaks of literature’s potential to offer respite and an intellectual interlude that transcends one’s material precarity. It also speaks for a kind of insouciance that the mischief-making Greek gods would have approved of. After all, a moment of quiet, a plan gone wrong and chaos — isn’t that the setting they most thrived in?

Politics has returned to Jammu and Kashmir — and that is welcome

Congress, National Conference alliance in J&K will have to negotiate contradictions, including differences over abrogation of Article 370

By: Editorial

August 28, 2024 07:30 IST

The NC has suggested that, if elected, it may bring a resolution in the Assembly against the abrogation of Article 370 even as it knows that it cannot move the clock back.

After the Election Commission of India announced the dates for elections to the Jammu & Kashmir Assembly on August 16, politics with all its drama has returned to the region. Except for one seat in Kashmir and four in Jammu – where there will be a “friendly contest” between the allies – the National Conference (NC) and Congress have reached a seat-sharing arrangement. The NC will contest 51, Congress 32 and the CPM and J&K Panthers Party one each. On the face of it, Congress seems to have got the better end of the deal. Its political presence in the region has greatly diminished since 2014, exacerbated by the exit of stalwart and former CM, Ghulam Nabi Azad. While most of the seats allotted to it are in Jammu, Congress will work to gain a foothold over a broader swathe of the erstwhile state. For the NC, it is a chance to regain relevance and become the major player in electoral politics in the Valley and beyond. Former CM and NC leader Omar Abdullah told this newspaper earlier this month that “No, I am not contesting… I am not going to sit outside the waiting room of the LG and, ask him, ‘Sir, please sign the file’”. That he is now rethinking this position underlines the exigencies of electoral politics post the abrogation of Article 370.

Still, the NC-Congress alliance, like many others, is marked by contradictions. The NC has suggested that, if elected, it may bring a resolution in the Assembly against the abrogation of Article 370 even as it knows that it cannot move the clock back. The Congress – for the sake of its national politics, if nothing else – does not share this position. Managing such differences will be challenging. Congress’s K C Venugopal has said that a Common Minimum Programme will guide the alliance if it comes to power. And while much water has flown in the Jhelum since 2018, it might be useful to remember that the BJP-PDP government too had an Agenda for the Alliance that promised not to revoke special status.

Both major constituents of the last elected government of the erstwhile state of J&K appear, for the moment, to be on the back foot. The BJP withdrew its first list of candidates hours after its release, reportedly due to protests and objections from within the party over ticket distribution. The PDP, part of the INDIA bloc at the national level, has been isolated in J&K. From a vote share of 22.67 per cent in the 2014 assembly elections, it was down to 8.48 per cent in the 2024 general elections and won no seats. The PDP’s rise owed much to its founder, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed reimagining state politics and its relationship with the broader national picture. In the changed scenario after August 5, 2019, it remains to be seen if his daughter, his political successor, can do the same. All this may add to the uncertainty in the run-up to elections but what is clear is that politics is coming back — and that’s an unambiguous positive.

To make India more climate-resilient, India Meteorological Department’s upgrade is necessary

Mainstreaming information on erratic weather would also require training a cadre of communicators conversant with local economic and cultural idiosyncrasies. The information will need to be disseminated to the most vulnerable

By: Editorial

August 28, 2024 07:15 IST

While the previous improvements in IMD focused primarily on augmenting infrastructure, the latest endeavour will be directed at developing computer simulated models tailored to local specifics.

The weather forecasting upgrade planned by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) is long overdue. In the past 10 years, the IMD’s ability to make long-range predictions over broad regions has improved appreciably. Yet, there are several days when predictions go wrong, especially during the southwest and northeast monsoons. The challenge today is not to predict average rainfall or temperature over the season, month or week. Extreme weather events that usually occurred once in a few decades now threaten people’s lives and livelihoods throughout the year. Weather forecasters need to find ways to alert farmers, municipal authorities, and office and schoolgoers about copious rainfall at hyper-local levels. Climate-induced vagaries have triggered disasters like the recent landslides in Wayanad and lake bursts in Sikkim and Uttarakhand last year. Administrators have often been caught off guard by the fury of the elements. Last year, when Kalyanapattinum in Tamil Nadu’s Thoothukudi district experienced an entire season’s rainfall in a day, Chief Minister M K Stalin blamed the IMD for not issuing advance alerts. The problem is that predicting such intense rainfall is virtually impossible today. States such as Kerala, Odisha and Maharashtra have sought the help of private agencies to augment IMD’s information. However, the fact remains that large gaps in knowledge will have to be plugged to make the country climate-resilient.

While the previous improvements in IMD focused primarily on augmenting infrastructure, the latest endeavour will be directed at developing computer simulated models tailored to local specifics. This would require data collectors to narrow their focus to district, block, panchayat, village or even ward and street-levels. The scientists will also need to be equipped with a denser network of measuring instruments. Recent research has shown that AI can improve the accuracy of weather forecasts. The IMD has reportedly digitised the country’s weather records going back to more than a century. AI could be used to sift through this corpus to generate knowledge and help forecasters issue timely alerts. The met department would also do well to tap into research conducted in universities and institutions. Scientists at IIT Bombay, for example, used cutting-edge computing technologies this year to predict rainfall in the city with greater accuracy than the IMD. Another ongoing project at IIT Mandi hones into soil characteristics to predict landslides.

Mainstreaming information on erratic weather would also require communicators conversant with local economic and cultural idiosyncrasies. The information will need to be disseminated to the most vulnerable. The IMD’s endeavour will be closely watched.

August 28, 1984, Forty Years Ago: PM Gandhi considers a drastic change in the Constitution

August 28, 1984, Forty Years Ago: An eminent lawyer of Calcutta has drafted a presidential form and handed it over to an important Union Minister, to be placed before the Prime Minister.

By: Editorial

August 28, 2024 07:05 IST

This is the front page of The Indian Express published on August 28, 1984, Forty Years Ago.

Mrs Gandhi is seriously thinking of making a drastic change in the country’s Constitution. An eminent lawyer of Calcutta has drafted a presidential form and handed it over to an important Union Minister, to be placed before the Prime Minister. According to sources, a former vice President, a reputed lawyer, met the lawyer during his visits to the city.

Ultimatum In House

The steering committee of opposition parties has given an ultimatum to the new Andhra Pradesh governor S D Sharma for convening the state legislative assembly within 48 hours to enable the deposed chief minister N T Rama Rao to prove his strength on the floor of the House. Rama Rao said all his supporters were prepared to attend the House “voluntarily”.

Possible Amendment

If the debate started by a group of Congress (I) MPs headed by Minister for Fertilisers and Chemicals Vasant Sathe for a presidential form of government meets with a favourable response nationally, there may be an attempt to amend the constitution suitably by calling another session of Parliament before the forthcoming elections.

Pak Role In Hijacking

A government statement and Rajya Sabha members made references to Pakistan’s role in dealing with the hijacked Indian Airlines aircraft. There was no sign of the hijackers having firearms between Chandigarh and Lahore. Pakistan allowed the hijacked aircraft to leave Karachi even though PM Indira Gandhi had asked President Zia to ensure the safety of all.

In new criminal codes, a missed opportunity

The National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal of the Government of India recognises new-age crimes such as cyberbullying, stalking, email hacking etc. Yet, the BNS does not address these aspects.

Written by Amit Desai

Updated: August 28, 2024 11:19 IST

The National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal of the Government of India recognises new-age crimes such as cyber bullying, stalking, sexting, email phishing, email hacking, impersonating profiles, online and social media crimes, online job fraud, online matrimonial fraud, intimidating emails, online gambling, and online trafficking. (Illustration by C R Sasikumar)

At the turn of the millennium, the rise of Gen Z, Millennials, Zillennials, and others marked a significant shift in our cultural consciousness. The youth, driven by substantial economic growth, the internet revolution, and aspirations for start-ups and unicorns, began reshaping India’s economic landscape. This technological surge transformed lifestyles, fuelled the telecom revolution, and triggered an infrastructure boom.

Legislative advancements became essential in this new, borderless world to benefit and protect the people of India. The Aadhaar Act, GST, Companies Act, Food Safety Act, Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, Telecom Act, and the Prevention of Money Laundering Act reflect the evolving governance and economic thought. India’s burgeoning stature in the global economy became a source of national pride. The Digital India initiative and the Covid-19 pandemic revolutionised the judiciary with video conference hearings, e-filings, and AI-driven legal practices. These advancements aimed to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accountability, symbolising a new era of legal empowerment.

However, do all things need to change?

This question looms over the triumvirate of laws impacting India’s criminal justice system. The old laws, recently replaced, were established in the early 19th century, a time of significant transformation, upheaval, and the birth of ideas that shaped our nation’s legal framework. These laws were enacted during a period of intellectual ferment and reform, aiming for codification and uniformity amidst the inconsistencies of penal laws and procedures across British India. The 1st Law Commission of India, led by Jurist Lord Macaulay, undertook the initial work. His approach to legal drafting emphasised “uniformity where you can have it, diversity where you must have it, but in all cases certainty,” a principle that underpins all laws.

Returning to the question of change, the IPC addresses offences against the ordinary rules of morality and human behaviour. Crimes against the human body, women and children, property, or the administration of justice have existed for centuries and will persist for centuries. “Murder” will always be “murder,” regardless of the section number; it is not a colonial offence. Was there a need for change?

Interestingly, the BNS retains large portions of the IPC, introducing only 19 additional offences, none of which are new but drawn from other legislation. The BNSS introduces merely nine new sections, and the BSA has only two new sections. Some amendments have been made to several existing provisions. Consequently, there are no changes relevant to the evolving society and changing behaviours.

The 21st century thrives in a world driven by technology, the internet, readily available knowledge and AI. Geopolitical borders have largely dissolved, prompting governments to redefine their sovereign reach over this medium. We inhabit an environment that is “cyber”, “virtual”, “digital”, “electronic” and “data” driven. The world is now phygital (physical plus digital). A person’s castle includes not just their physical home but also their Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and other social media accounts, containing their most private thoughts and information. Biometrics, once personal, are now stored on servers and susceptible to theft.

The popular Netflix series Jamtara exposes a cybercrime hub in remote rural Jharkhand. The National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal of the Government of India recognises new-age crimes such as cyber bullying, stalking, sexting, email phishing, email hacking, impersonating profiles, online and social media crimes, online job fraud, online matrimonial fraud, intimidating emails, online gambling, and online trafficking. There are also deep fakes, and many more.

Yet, the BNS does not address these cyber aspects of crime. The terms “data” or “virtual” are absent, with “digital” appearing only once in Section 2(8), defining “document”. “Cyber” is mentioned only in the context of “organised crimes” in Section 111, without defining cybercrimes. “Electronic” is referenced only in relation to “electronic records /documents/signatures”.

It is unfortunate that data theft is not yet an offence since “data” may not fall under the definition of “property” within the BNS.

Change is inevitable and necessary, but not everything needs to change. Criminal law, evolved and legislated in the physical world, need not have been re-enacted. It has stood the test of time, evolving as social mores and societal demands required.

What the 21st century needed was a Bharatiya Abashi (virtual)/Digital Dand Sanhita or Bharatiya Abashi Nyaya Sanhita.

The Bangladesh Central Bank $100 million fraud was a technological hack into its computer system, with funds laundered instantly through its banking system to banks outside the country. AI-generated fake vocals of established singers like Drake, or the misuse of deepfake technology to generate fake voices of famous personalities like Amitabh Bachchan, or even videos like those of Rashmika Mandanna, are the crimes of this era. Complainants struggle in courts to ascertain whether intimidating emails fall within the framework of Sections 354 and 509 of the IPC. Companies grapple with defining theft of their data, be it intellectual property like designs or confidential information, under Section 378 of the IPC. We will soon be testing the implications of immoral and illegal behaviour in Meta and on Avatars. But all this is left for another day. This was where change was necessary.

When laws are drafted, especially those with penal consequences, there must be clarity and precision to prevent confusion, uncertainty, and potential misuse. Terrorism and organised crimes, borrowed from Section 15 of UAPA and Section 3 of MCOCA, are incorporated without the protections provided in their primary legislation. The decision to invoke terrorism under BNS is left to the discretion of an officer of the rank of SP and above, without any guidance, leading to arbitrariness and potential misuse. Concepts of “economic security” and “economic offences” are incorporated without definition, risking their application to commercial frauds, which could impact legitimate business and economic activity. The power to invoke these provisions is with local police officers across thousands of police stations. Misuse for extraneous reasons is well known to the judicial system. Unfortunately, there are no checks on any misuse of power in the legislation.

BNS, in its objectives, states that various offences have been made gender-neutral. However, “rape” remains gender-specific despite Section 377 IPC not being re-enacted. Bestiality is now no longer a crime. BNS also creates a new offence of attempting to commit suicide to compel or restrain from applying lawful power, which could be used against political dissent. Hunger strikes, a significant part of our history, could unnecessarily fall under this provision. This will affect political agitation, a fundamental right.

Technology outpaces the drafting of legislation. A quarter century is nearly over and we are yet to articulate a Sanhita for these dramatic changes in criminal behaviour. It is thus necessary to remember Justice Bhagwati’s observation, “…If the bark that protects the tree fails to grow and expand along with the tree, it will either choke the tree or if it is a living tree, it will shed that bark and grow a new living bark for itself… Law must therefore constantly be on the move adapting itself to the fast-changing society and not lag behind.”

The legislative opportunity ought to have embraced these changes.

The writer is a senior advocate

‘Kalki 2898 AD’ on OTT: Indian cinema’s problem lies in its lazy piggybacking on the Ramayana and Mahabharata

The influence of the epics isn’t even about searching for layers of meaning, or different versions of the tale. More often than not, the simplest, most regressive telling of the epics will be the ‘inspiration’

Written by Aakash Joshi

Updated: August 27, 2024 18:43 IST

The “pan-Indian” cast, the passable CGI and the action sequences were held together not by the vision of a director, or even the performances of the actors but by the fact that the Mahabharata has near universal resonance.

The problem with Kalki 2898 AD — a Box Office behemoth that garnered well over Rs 1,000 crore in theatres and is now topping the India chart after its OTT debut last week — is that it does not tell a story. Or, to put it more accurately, it does what so much of Indian cinema, television and media as a whole has done since its inception — and in doing so, loses any hope of originality.

What is the purpose of art? There is the almost mundane, modern aim of “self-expression” and reflection — with all its accompanying self-indulgence. It elevates some, brings down others at galleries with critics and experts. This form of art-as-product, as a commodity, has its nuances and brilliance, but it rarely sets up a world and makes something from nothing. The “greats” apart, it is small, tied off from the world, its effect, even by the most successful, is at best a trickle-down, slowly seeping into the broader society as aesthetics and taste.

“The problem with the play,” goes the joke about what a philistine said after watching Hamlet, “is that it’s too full of clichés”. Great art — works so powerful that societies cannot escape their idioms and is, in fact, shaped by them — has its own set of issues. Indians are lucky that despite efforts by powerful, ideological forces, there are hundreds of Ramayanas and Mahabharatas across the country. That, unlike the Iliad, for example, these stories are not “discovered” and just taught in classrooms, they are a part of who we are.

But we are also trapped by them.

Too much has already been written about Kalki’s blatant “borrowing” from sci-fi films around the world — the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), the Dune films, Mad Max, Bladerunner and much else besides. Enough has been said about the fact that its first half is boring — sinfully so, given the talent and budget involved.

Why, then, was it so successful? How was Amitabh Bachchan’s performance enough to make the second half resonate with viewers? How, without any “world-building” did the film manage a cliffhanger ending, setting up room for the sequel? The answer lies, as it does with so many stories in the Indian subcontinent, with the great epics.

Simply put, the film did not need to tell a story because it piggybacked on the Mahabharata. The “pan-Indian” cast, the passable CGI and the action sequences were held together not by the vision of a director, or even the performances of the actors but by the fact that the Mahabharata has near universal resonance: Bachchan is Ashwathama, cursed to immortality by Krishna, and Prabhas (spoiler alert) ends up being Karna. The “Complex” where evil genius Kamal Haasan (Supreme Yaskin) rules, is clearly a Lanka-like trope from the Ramayana and Yaskin is Raavana. The film — set in the distant future — does not create a new world because it does not need to. It just knows that we, the audience, will know.

The question, of course, is: What’s wrong with relying on and reimagining characters and stories that we know so well? Isn’t the Matrix trilogy just the Jesus story retold, the messianic figure pervasive in Hollywood and beyond? The MC and the comics it is based on repurposed gods, heroes and angels for great profit and entertainment. Are we so Westernised, our mindset so “colonial”, that we must baulk at the Ramayana and Mahabharata (the latter tends to have more dramatic value) being retold?

Hollywood does indeed recycle familiar tropes for profit. But its cinema is all the poorer for it (Martin Scorcese wasn’t completely off the mark when he called superhero films theme-park rides). As Indian cinema evolves, it need not always go backwards and emulate America’s mistakes. Besides, as seen recently with superhero films, in the long run, a lack of originality gives diminishing returns.

The second problem is deeper. The influence of the Mahabharata and Ramayana on saas-bahu serials and Sooraj Barjatya films, sci-fi novels and film series such as Kalki, Baahubali and Brahmastra and so much else isn’t just about making story-telling simpler. Unfortunately, they do not search for layers of meaning or different versions of the tale. More often than not, the simplest, most regressive telling of the epics will be their “inspiration”.

Isn’t it time, then, that we had new archetypes? From politics to business, too many people fancy themselves kings and avenging angels. And cultural products, unable to find an original story or voice, only strengthen these tendencies.

The Ramayana and Mahabharata will always be a part of who we are. But the values they sometimes prop up might not be what the 21st century needs.

Of course, that doesn’t mean that I won’t watch Kalki 2.

aakash.joshi@expressindia.com

What we don’t talk about when we talk about rape

Not the power asymmetries that silence women and are at the heart of all sexual violence, nor the masculine, majoritarian language of the law that puts the burden of guilt back on women

Written by Paromita Chakrabarti

Updated: August 27, 2024 21:05 IST

Women’s rights activists contend that it only serves as a populist knee-jerk reaction that ignores the larger implications of such violence. (Express Photo by Partha Paul)

What is it that we talk about when we talk about rape? Cast your mind to any of the incidents over the last few months, years, decades — to Delhi 2012, Kathua 2018, Hathras 2020, Kolkata 2024 — and a pattern emerges. We speak of the horrors of violation — the laceration counts, the violence of the injuries, the degree of brutalisation. There is a reconstruction of the woman’s, girl’s, child’s last few hours before ignominy — the calls she made, the meal she had, the conversation with a family member or a friend — drawn out with lurid, cinematic flair. There is also, should it not be lost in the frequency of its occurrence, mourning for lost promise. And outrage, perhaps, if the dead or the dehumanised is lucky enough — ironically — to belong to a certain class, caste or society. Or, if it breaches the threshold of tired acceptance of the routineness of such incidents. In that instant, it transforms into a consumerist spectacle, a form of voyeurism that picks and chooses who deserves our moral outrage.

There’s a poem by Pulitzer Prize-winning American poet Kay Ryan that could speak for all the things we don’t talk about when we speak of sexual violence: “The room is/ almost all/ elephant./ Almost none/ of it isn’t./Pretty much/ solid elephant./ So there’s no/ room to talk/ about it.” What is this elephant then, the one that fills up the room, making conversation difficult? Women will tell you that it is the culture of patriarchy that makes perpetrators and enablers of men; that teaches them, women, their place in society, that writes anger and anguish into their stories. The National Crime Records Bureau’s 2022 report puts the number of reported rapes at around 31,000. Statistics about sexual violence is always unnerving but even then, the numbers fail to cover the breadth of harassment that forms the experience of every woman — the acid taste of fear in dark lanes, the frequent looking over one’s shoulders, the precautions of sharing cab routes with family, friend or partner at night; the self-censorship to deflect undue attention, the deception that one has been “luckier” than most; the deadlines that still fail to keep them safe. And this is only speaking for the urban, professional, middle class. Other, worse horrors, lurk for women who fall outside the privileges of this scaffolding.

There is a form of voluntary delusion that makes men who are part of the problem and women who excuse them perform mental calisthenics to ascribe cause and effect to sexual violence. These are the people who believe that women can avoid harassment if only they are less provocative, more submissive, less transgressive of the limits to their freedom. That it is “not all men” but only a handful who exist outside of one’s circles of familiarity. That it is on the woman to do better for her own safety. It is the kind of logic that looks at sexual violence as an inconvenience, a shajano ghotano — made-up story. Remember the initial scepticism from the state government that met Suzette Jordan, the 2012 sexual assault survivor in Kolkata’s Park Street. Or, Mulayam Singh Yadav’s opposition to capital punishment for rape in 2014 because men will be men — bristling with a kind of fragile machismo that finds it difficult to control itself.

This patriarchal discourse permeates all sections of society, typecasting women into adjunct tropes of mother, sister, wife or daughter. A woman is never just enough on her own. There has to be a mould that she fits into, to merit courtesy, to be deserving of respect. In Leslee Udwin’s documentary India’s Daughter (2015), for instance, shot in the aftermath of the December 2012 gang rape and banned in India on release, one of the perpetrators interviewed says, “A decent girl won’t roam around at night. A girl is more responsible for rape than a boy…”

In another form, this kind of belief transforms into the idea of the “ideal victim” — the one whose infraction matters more, is worthier of moral outrage and agitation. This is why a doctor’s rape and murder after a 36-hour duty becomes a flashpoint, while the rape and murder of a nurse in Uttarakhand goes unremarked on. The first calls for justice that is quid pro quo, violence for violence, death penalty for brutal depravity. The second recedes from public memory without effort.

In the aftermath of the R G Kar rape and murder, the West Bengal Chief Minister has written to the Prime Minister asking for stricter rape laws, including capital punishment, and fast-tracking courts for speedy trials. TMC’s general secretary Abhishek Banerjee has spoken of dealing with perpetrators “either through encounter or by hanging”. While timely prosecution of sexual offences is essential, after the December 2012 case, a watershed moment for gender justice in India, the Justice Verma Committee Report had argued that the death penalty’s potential as a deterrent was “a myth”, a regressive idea of retroactive justice. Women’s rights activists contend that it only serves as a populist knee-jerk reaction that ignores the larger implications of such violence. Irrespective, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita has introduced it in rape laws.

The Verma Committee report had also emphasised the need to introspect on the overarching patriarchy that pins women down at every step, beginning with the family and extending up to the state. It brought in crucial police reforms and expansions to the definition of rape. But some of its other recommendations, especially a review of the immunity granted by the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act to soldiers accused of rape in conflict areas, or the criminalisation of marital rape, continue to be ignored, pointing at larger abdications of state and society.

What do we speak of when we speak of rape? Not the power asymmetry that the Hema Committee Report details in the Malayalam film industry, that leaches women of professional opportunities, that silences them into compliance, that sits at the heart of all sexual violence. Not the fact that the language of legal recourse against gendered crimes is essentially masculine and majoritarian, that holds the woman to account even when it is arguing for her. For all the gains made by the MeToo movement, the deadweight of this crushing letdown “is solid elephant”. There is little room to talk about it.

paromita.chakrabarti@expressindia.com

As a woman of colour in the US, my hope for Vice President Kamala Harris is greater than my fear

Come November, I will vote for her with a quiet wistfulness rather than ecstatic pride. I will vote for her wishing that I could witness her presidency without wondering what she’s had to sacrifice, or how her enforced infallibility has, like mine, threatened her survival

Written by Mathangi Subramanian

New Delhi | August 27, 2024 11:03 IST

Kamala Harris is the Democratic nominee for the upcoming US Presidential elections. (File Photo)

On a hot, cloudy July afternoon, my husband’s phone lit up with the news: 137 days before the American Presidential election, President Joe Biden was dropping out of the race. In his resignation letter, he endorsed his Vice President, a Black, South Asian and former senator, Kamala Harris, to be his successor. Following this announcement, she quickly made history as the first BIPOC (Black, indigenous, and people of colour) woman to become the Democratic Party’s presumptive nominee.

When I heard the news, I waited for the jolt of happiness I knew I was supposed to feel — for the first time in history, American not only believed that a person like me could run for President, but also that she could win.

My similarities with Vice President Harris far exceed our nearly identical Tamilian roots. We’ve both been raised by immigrant mothers who were deeply invested in our political education early in our lives. We’ve both obsessively climbed professional ladders, collected accolades, and surpassed expectations that were always laid too low. We’ve both developed an expertise in navigating the very systems designed to keep us down, refusing to give into the expectations that we remain silent, submissive, and scared. To see someone so aligned with who I was and what I believed in should’ve made me ecstatic. Instead, my stomach dropped with dread. Because I knew what was coming, and none of it was good.

Predictably, America responded to Harris’s nominations with a cruelty that was, for me, all too familiar. From President Trump’s insistence that Vice President Harris is “not a smart person” to the Republican party’s unyielding racist, sexist lies about her life and record, the Vice President’s first month of campaigning has been a pageantry of bigotry. That being said, her fans have, at times, not been much better. While covering her, the supposedly liberal press perseveres in their astonishment that a biracial woman like Harris has achieved what she has. USA Today claims that Harris has been “underestimated at every turn”, New York Magazine declares that “Kamala Harris’s biographer says she’s always been underestimated” and Vanity Fair warns “Underestimate Kamala Harris at Your Peril.” In popular culture, Maya Rudolf’s portrayal of Harris as a “cool Aunty” combined with the recent rash of coconut tree and brat memes walk a thin line between celebrating the Vice President and questioning her seriousness, despite the fact that her evisceration of Brett Kavanaugh and sternness with Vice President Mike Pence are clear proof that Harris contains a toughness America has not seen in years. Even at the Democratic convention, delegates yelled out “Kamala” instead of “Vice President Harris,” as though she was a cousin or a neighbour or a drinking buddy rather than the most powerful woman in the United States. Could these people, I wonder, imagine cheering on President Obama by calling out “Barack”? Of course not.

And yet, despite these indignities, Harris shows up day after day, night after night, and event after event, tempering her toughness with congenial smiles, perfectly pressed suits, and faultlessly coiffed hair. No matter what the world throws at her, she responds with firmness, poise, grace, and calm.

I may not be a Vice President, and I may not be Black, but I am a woman of colour, and I know that calm. I know what it takes to grin at an American boss who mandates that you come up with a nickname because he, unlike one billion people in India, is unable to pronounce your real one. I know what it’s like to keep a neutral expression while a supervisor calls you “entitled” for asking for pay commensurate with your White, male colleagues. And I know what it’s like to remain composed when, in response to an opinion expressed in a calm and quiet tone, a stranger, friend, or family member says, “Calm down! Why are you always so angry?”

Like I said, I know that calm. I also know the cost of it.

For most of my life, I grew up being told that being born in the United States was a gift I didn’t deserve. In return for this opportunity, I was expected to keep my head down, work hard, overachieve, and never complain. I wasn’t allowed to make mistakes, nor ask for help. Despite the impossibility of this ask, for four decades, I did what was expected, rocketing through life on a stream of fellowships, awards, and honours, building myself a vibrant social life, and maintaining a thoroughly researched and highly demanding parenting practice. I did it all, never a hair out of place or a crack in my façade, never allowing myself even a hint of a frown.

During the pandemic, I broke. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t keep being everyone’s rock. I couldn’t keep doing it all, and I certainly couldn’t keep overachieving. Exhausted, I watched my career slip through my fingers, my friendships fade, my relationships suffer. When even parenting became too much to bear, I finally sought help – real help – for the first time in my life. I got on medication. I got into therapy. While some of my issues can be attributed to genetics, my therapist tells me, more of them can be attributed to simply living as a BIPOC woman in a country that expects so much more of me than my White, male peers.

A country that, now, expects this of Vice President Harris.

Which is why, come November, I will vote for her with a quiet wistfulness rather than ecstatic pride. I will vote for her wishing that I could witness her presidency without wondering what she’s had to sacrifice, or how her enforced infallibility has, like mine, threatened her survival. I will vote for her wishing that her term could be an opportunity for her to be tender and circumspect and vulnerable and flawed, all while embracing her Blackness and her Brownness with honesty and joy. Because if President Harris could do it, then maybe, just maybe, so could I.

In the end, my hope for Vice President Harris is greater than my fear. But that doesn’t mean that the next few months – and, fingers crossed, the next eight years – will be easy for her or for people like me, who will witness her battle a system whose brutality we know so well. I won’t give up on Harris, just like I won’t give up on my country, or a world where Brown and Black women have never shied away from the battle for our humanity. I just hope that Harris’s presidency is a battle that, at long last, wins the war.

Subramanian is a novelist, essayist, and founder of Moon Rabbit Writing Studio

Remembering Nari Hira the man who built an empire, who Amitabh Bachchan couldn’t say no to

Hira changed the media and publishing game in India, inspired many with his generous spirit

Written by Sunanda Mehta

Updated: August 27, 2024 10:06 IST

Nari Hira, Owner of Magna publishing company limited. (Express Archive)

It was 1993. The Pune magazine, Citadel, owned by Magna Publishing Co Ltd, was celebrating its third anniversary. Despite being a small magazine, the chief guest was Amitabh Bachchan. As Bachchan took the stage, he said, “There are two reasons why I am here . First, I proposed to my wife Jaya in Pune, so the city holds a special significance for me. Second, when someone like Nari Hira calls you requesting to be present at a function, you jolly well be there.” All of this fits in with the many names — media mogul, print baron, man with the Midas touch — by which Nari Hira was known. As he was for his flamboyance, bravado, and classy parties with the who’s who of Mumbai. But there was a lesser-known side to his larger-than-life public persona that only those who worked closely with him knew — which social media is awash with at present following his death on August 23. The oft-heard, hyperbolic phrases have been replaced with those straight from the heart — kind, generous, witty, ideal mentor, best boss. And justifiably so.

Born in Karachi on January 26, 1938, Nari Hira came to India and settled in Bombay, post-Partition. He started his career at an advertising agency called Ranjeet Sales & Publicity, and then moved on to Bensons (Ogilvy and Mather) as a management trainee. But the man with bigger dreams wanted to get a feel for the West. He modelled to earn extra money and reached the UK with £10 in his pocket.

Soon, he chanced upon an advertisement for a job at Jaegers. He reached Oxford Circus well in time, only he thought Jaegers started with a Y, and was delayed by 15 minutes. Dejected, he made his way down where serendipitously he met the assistant to the managing director, who took him to meet the MD and Hira got his first job abroad. Ready to wash dishes in case it did not materialise, there was no looking back. He returned to India in 1962 and started his own advertising agency called Creative Unit and set about converting grand dreams and ideas into reality.

It started with Lana Publishing Company Ltd (later changed to Magna Publishing Company Limited) in October 1971 with the launch of Stardust, which always remained the flagship magazine of the company. Buoyed by its success, he launched a slew of other magazines: Society, Savvy, Showtime, Parade, Island, Health & Nutrition, Savvy Cookbook, Citadel, Society Fashion, Family Life, Society Interiors, Mandate, and StarWeek. He opened offices in New York, London and Los Angeles. And brought a new movie concept with Hiba movies available only on video. If the irreverant Stardust broke all the norms of film journalism, opting to be daring instead of diplomatic, Hiba Videos was unarguably the predecessor of OTT films as we know them today. No one had ever made films not meant for theatres, but for home viewing on the VCR. The themes were bold and provocative, but so close to the realities society routinely brushes under the carpet, that they hit home.

Hira never married but at 46, he adopted a son. Vikram, his daughter-in-law Proneeta and grandson Aryan became his world. To Vikram, he was both the father who was never unavailable and the boss who kept him on his toes. To Proneeta, to whom he happily divested a lot of his responsibilities, his most defining characteristic was his generosity: “He gave and gave and gave his all… without a single expectation in return.”

Anyone who knew him well has no trouble believing that. The day he died, I shared a small story on Facebook of my first encounter with Hira when I walked into his office in 1989 for a job interview. After the preliminary questions, he asked me what salary I was expecting. “Rs 1500 a month,” I replied, only to be told “What? You are asking for the Moon! 1,250 now and after 6 months, if you are confirmed, I will make it 1,500.” Three months later, he came down to the Pune office. As the Pune correspondent, I was by now writing extensively for Savvy, Society, Island, Health & Nutrition and Showtime. “I was talking with my magazine editors, who usually don’t agree on anything. But… they all agreed on one thing — your work is um… not bad. So I am confirming you now and increasing your salary to Rs 1,800,” he said as he pushed towards me a box of visiting cards. One look at my lit-up face and his next line was, “Now don’t let all this go to your head!”. He may not have agreed to give me the Moon that day but he sure was responsible for me finding my small place under the Sun.

I sent a silent prayer of gratitude when Vikram told me of his last moments, “He went the same way that he lived, on his own terms. He watched two movies, had a dinner of stir-fried salmon, fruit, and a glass of cognac before it was lights out for my father, in his true Nari Hira style.”

sunanda.mehta@expressindia.com

Unified Pension Scheme is a win-win for states, Centre and people

Along with providing more certainty to pensioners, UPS gives states a fiscally prudent option.

Written by G Kishan Reddy

Updated: August 27, 2024 10:07 IST

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a delegation from Joint Consultative machinery for central government employees, at his residence in New Delhi. (PTI/File)

Less than 24 hours after the Cabinet decision to implement the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) for 23 lakh Union government employees, the Maharashtra government decided to adopt the UPS framework for its employees. Fostering cooperative federalism has been one of the biggest successes of the Narendra Modi government. Along with measures such as increasing tax devolution to states from 32 per cent to 42 per cent, incentivising states towards capital spending and pushing them to be transparent about their fiscal situation, the changes in the UPS regime is another positive development for cooperative federalism.

Many have already explained the benefit of the UPS: It provides more certainty to pensioners by assuring them 50 per cent of the average drawn basic pay in the last 12 months in service as pension. This has been done without whittling away the two key pillars of the well-thought-out reforms introduced by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee — the contributory character of pensions, wherein employees contribute to their pensions from the salary they receive while they are in service, and its “funded nature” wherein the government sets aside money in advance to pay for future pension provisions.

However, one aspect that has not been discussed in detail is the potential of this reform to become one of the biggest wins for cooperative federalism. Over the past few years, several states such as Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh reverted to the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) of the pre-2003 era — these states had a non-NDA government at the time of taking the decision. This was a cynical move. The OPS is non-contributory and unfunded. Therefore, in the immediate term, the state government did not have to contribute its share of money to the pension fund, thus saving money. At the same time, a future government would have to pay the money in bulk therefore kicking the problem down the road.

The implications for this decision and the risk of more states adopting this became so alarming that the RBI released a paper in its bulletin in September 2023 stating that “the fiscal cost of reverting to OPS will be enormous as the actual pension burden will increase by around 4.5 times than that of the NPS.” The paper concluded by stating that “any reversion to OPS by states would be fiscally unsustainable, though it may result in an immediate fall in their pension outgo”. Other states are likely to follow Maharashtra’s example and adopt the UPS, ensuring that states have the fiscal space to spend on capital infrastructure that results in more employment opportunities and a better quality of life for its people.

Balancing state finances has been a longstanding concern. Meeting people’s aspirations for opportunities and creating an enabling environment to meet their potential needs to be balanced with setting aside funds for welfare measures for disadvantaged and vulnerable groups. To ensure that states give a thrust to large capital expenditure spending in the post-Covid scenario, the Ministry of Finance has increased the special assistance for capital investment eightfold. It has provided state governments Rs 1 lakh crore in the form of 50-year interest-free loans for capital investment projects. The loan was also to be over and above the normal borrowing ceiling allowed for states. In this year’s Budget, this was further increased to Rs 1.3 lakh crore. The rationale for strengthening the scheme was to ensure that states complement their own budgets in capital expenditure spending and not substitute their own spending through this Union government scheme.

At the same time, to bring transparency and sustainability in state finances, borrowings by state public sector companies, corporations and special purpose vehicles (SPVs), serviced by state government budgets, were considered as borrowings made by the state. The previous government in my own home state of Telangana used such off budget borrowings to push the state finances to the brink. The new push on transparency in off budget borrowings will plug the gap that was exploited by the Telangana government.

Tweaks and improvements in government decisions show its willingness to listen to all stakeholders and engage with them. However, Opposition parties have been speaking in contradictory tones on the adoption of the UPS. There is a lack of a coherent response. On matters such as national security, fiscal policy and other key issues that have larger ramifications, national parties in Opposition need to speak more responsibly rather than in binaries or with forked tongues.

The UPS is a win-win — it provides predictability of pension to retired government employees who have contributed a lifetime of service to nation-building. This has been done by retaining the contributory pay and its funding nature. There is, therefore, a continuity in reforms. However, this would mean looking at the policy through a narrow lens. The change should be seen as a part of a range of steps which comprises boosting capital investment in states through complementary schemes and introducing transparency in borrowings giving states an opportunity to strengthen their finances. That’s why the UPS scheme has far-reaching implications. From that perspective, this is a great win for Prime Minister Modi’s push for cooperative federalism.

The writer is Union Minister of Coal and Mines and represents Secunderabad Lok Sabha constituency

Yogendra Yadav writes: The poverty of political imagination needs remedy, not mourning

The rich and grounded debates on the pluriverse of alternatives to ‘development’ have now moved beyond the shadow of Mahatma Gandhi and could guide our thinking not just on ecology but also on the new economic and political order.

Written by Yogendra Yadav

Updated: August 27, 2024 12:56 IST

Though discussions on social justice have yet to move beyond the shadow of Babasaheb Ambedkar, debates on parallels between caste and race, the political economy of caste and issues of pasmanda Muslims and Mahadalits are forcing open new doors. (Illustration by C R Sasikumar)

What is political theory? Who is a political thinker? How can anyone pronounce the death of political thought? These and many other interesting questions have come my way in response to the opening piece in this column (“Where are our political thinkers?”, IE, August 18). The overwhelming response — articles, social media posts and personal communications — confirms that this question was waiting to be asked. These first set of reactions also suggest that the question needs to be spelt out further.

Let me begin by clarifying what is this “political thought” whose decline I bemoan. It refers to a wide range of political reflections that go beyond day-to-day political commentary, ideological polemic or policy prescriptions. This form of thinking begins with here and now, but takes a step back to offer general answers to three large questions.

One, where do we want to go? What kind of political order do we wish to create? This is a normative question that involves political vision. Two, where do we stand today? How close or distant are we from the desired destination? This is an empirical question that requires political analysis, an understanding of the cause-effect relationship. Three, what is to be done? How do we go from where we are to where we wish to reach? This is a prescriptive question that demands political judgement that translates into political strategy and tactics. Political thinkers respond to all these questions for their desh and kaal. Call it by any name — political theory, political philosophy, political ideology or political imagination — this form of thinking about politics is necessary for any meaningful political action.

Modern India had developed a tradition of political thought in this sense. We had a vast range of political thinkers across the ideological spectrum who offered general and interconnected answers to all these three questions in their own ways and thus helped us to make sense of our past, present and future. Unlike Europe, most of our “thinkers” were political activists. Unlike today, most of them were deeply rooted in their languages. They were exposed to, and freely drew upon, modern western ideas, but they filtered these with their regional context and nationalist sensibilities. “Modern Indian Political Thought” is this repository of ideas-in-contest. It laid the basis of our anti-colonial struggle, our Constitution and post-colonial politics. After flourishing for about a century — say, from the 1870s to 1960s — this tradition met with a precipitous decline, if not a sudden death. The poverty of political imagination, understanding and judgement in today’s India is a result of this atrophy.

There are exceptions to this general trend. I had mentioned three “living” strands of modern Indian political thought — feminism, social justice and critiques of “development”. Feminist debates on the Indian specificity of patriarchy and struggles against it, on how gender intersects with caste and class, on the limits of law and state as progressive forces and LGBTQ rights in the Indian context, have opened our political imagination way beyond the “women’s question” in nationalist thought.

Though discussions on social justice have yet to move beyond the shadow of Babasaheb Ambedkar, debates on parallels between caste and race, the political economy of caste and issues of pasmanda Muslims and Mahadalits are forcing open new doors. The rich and grounded debates on the pluriverse of alternatives to “development” have now moved beyond the shadow of Mahatma Gandhi and could guide our thinking not just on ecology but also on the new economic and political order. Yet, all these, even when put together, do not fill the vast vacuum left by the decline of modern Indian political thought.

This basic argument has been generally recognised and accepted by most responses to my article. Nitin Pai (“Why Independent India has not produced great political thinkers?” Mint, August 25) agrees with this assessment and has taken the next step in this dialogue by offering his explanation of why this may have happened. I hope to follow up on this. Professor Ashutosh Varshney (in a personal communication) offers a corrective to my sweeping judgement of political science by pointing out that the analysis of Indian politics has advanced and that the academic discipline must not be burdened with offering a vision for change. That, in a sense, is my point: The science of politics cannot replace the business of making sense of politics and cultivating our political sensibility. Professor Shruti Kapila (in a post on X) offers a sharp disagreement: “Political ideas and thought [are] very much alive and kicking just not in the usual places or by the same old players”. This is an intriguing suggestion and promises a fruitful dialogue as and when it is substantiated.

Much of the first round of responses has focused on the names of thinkers that I had picked up to illustrate my argument. On this count, I plead guilty. Some of the criticism stems from misunderstanding the scope of my examples. I began with those thinkers who were alive in 1947 (hence no Jyotiba Phule or Gopal Krishna Gokhale). And I had deliberately excluded any reference to the many sharp social and political theorists who happen to be my contemporaries (apologies to all scholar and activist friends). The list was ideology neutral and included Hindutva and Islamic thinkers I have little sympathy for.

I had also limited myself to political thought in a more limited sense (hence no social theorist like Andre Beteille, J P S Uberoi, Imtiaz Ahmed or Veena Das, or philosophers like Daya Krishna and Ramchandra Gandhi or writers like Nirmal Verma and Raghuvir Sahay). Yet the criticism (by Professor Nandini Sundar, among others) about the omission of women thinkers like Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay, Aruna Asaf Ali and Sarojini Naidu is a valuable corrective to my list. On second thoughts, I should have also included E M S Namboodiripad in the post-Independence thinkers, D R Nagaraj and Claude Alvares in the next generation and Aruna Roy, Dilip Simeon, Vandana Shiva, Devanoora Mahadeva and Anand Teltumbde as living examples of what I have characterised as political thought. An indictment of political science must make a reference to an earlier generation of professors — Randhir Singh, Rasheeduddin Khan, Ram Bapat, Shanti Swaroop, Raghavendra Rao and Manoranjan Mohanty, who kept a connect between political science and political sense.

I am deeply aware that I must be ignorant of many more thinkers, especially those who write in languages that I don’t read. But I hope such omissions are my limitations, not the limitations of the basic argument that I have put forward. The purpose of initiating this debate is not just to recognise and mourn the “death” of political thought, but to invite collective deliberation on why we reached this place, and what can be done to reinvigorate this lifeline of our republic. May we turn to that now?

Yadav is member, Swaraj India and national convenor of Bharat Jodo Abhiyaan

I am Indian-American and a first-time voter. Watching Kamala Harris live in Chicago melted my cynicism

Harris, despite the formidable efforts of the DNC, is not my idol. However, she gets my vote because, in a twist of fate, she has become the most radical symbol of change I have witnessed in American politics

Updated: August 28, 2024 08:32 IST

Democratic presidential nominee and US Vice President Kamala Harris takes the stage on Day 4 of the DNC. (Reuters file)

Written by Tanvi Chakravarty

“Coco, I want to learn to call you by your real name. Help me pronounce it right!”, said my CNN colleague on the final day of the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago. I immediately noticed the sensitivity to my ethnicity when my co-workers took extra care to pronounce my name, even after I had blithely asked them to address me by my family moniker ‘Coco’ for convenience. I went from being called “Coco” by anchor Anderson Cooper on the first day to “Tanvi” by everyone on the final day. After all, a Black, Indian woman was now the leading contender for the next President of the United States of America.

As a 20-year-old who was born in America, grew up in India, studying in the UK and interning with CNN, I cherished the poignance of my identity as I heard Kamala Harris’ nieces teach the world to pronounce their aunt’s name. This was how I experienced first-hand the transformation in American society, driven by Harris’ confirmation. The DNC marked a historic entry-point in American politics and society, and I had the privilege of experiencing the theatrics of the convention at Chicago’s United Centre in all its frenzied grandiosity.

This November, I will be a first-time voter in America. As a female Gen-Z voter, what struck me instantly was how Kamala explicitly avoided acknowledging the history she could be making as the first female president of the world’s oldest democracy. The move seemed intentional, after Hillary Clinton’s 2016 loss. Kamala didn’t use her female identity as a crutch for votes, instead she appealed to the identity she has built for herself as a prosecutor and a public servant. I watched former President Bill Clinton up close, telling us in his characteristic folksy style that Kamala intends to win this election riding on the back of her personal merits and charisma. As flawed as he was as a political leader, I thought it was a riveting endorsement.

But, Harris didn’t shy away from her racial identity entirely. She beseeched us to “consider”. To consider the explicit intents of Donald Trump broaching the coveted American Dream. There is a key distinction she wants the American people to realise with their presidential candidates, Prosecutor vs Felon. A hardworking public servant vs a self-serving billionaire. And she summed it up saying “he is out of his mind”, a phrase aimed more at my generation than the intellectual elders at the event. I have always valued the importance of voting, but the magnitude of this election still hit me like a truck at the convention. The go-go-go environment of working at the DNC seamlessly coincided with the urgency with which we were being told to vote.

Vice President nominee Tim Walz called Harris the president of “Joy”. Walz’s rousing pep-talk as a “normal” American high school teacher was extremely popular at the convention. I was immediately drawn to his relatability. The VP nominee is a clear indication of what Americans want. Not some “whiny billionaire riding down his golden escalator” as President Barack Obama put it, but a return to good old-fashioned American values. Elitism is out. Excessive wealth taints, rather than trumps (pun fully intended). It’s why the convention echoed with “Amens’ and “Preach” as Kamala Harris revered her mother’s humble beginnings. It’s why Kamala Harris’ husband, Doug Emhoff, was bombarded with cheers when talking about working at McDonalds. And it’s why thousands of people around me were entranced in deafening silence as Michelle Obama spoke on the importance of family and solidarity on Day 2 of the convention. Meritocracy is the forgotten backbone of America that is making a comeback, despite my personal qualms with that idea.

The United Center was brimming with palpable energy. CNN anchor Van Jones described it to me as one of the most emotionally and politically charged democratic conventions out of the four he has witnessed. The surge in joy and excitement reminiscent of Obama’s 2008 campaign, devoid of the fear of choosing America’s first Black president.

The irony is not lost on me. Four days of televised theatrics, the entire stadium echoing with chants of “Yes SHE can”. Some of the most powerful people in the world idolising Harris to the nation. Even the humblest of public servants would fall prey to such a high decibel, boisterous ego boost. But even I, someone admittedly apathetic to American politics (largely fueled by cynicism) was moved to tears.

Undeniably, there has been a huge surge in the momentum of the democratic campaign for this presidency. Whether it was influencers proudly wearing ‘Kamala IS brat’ badges or the fervor with which Gen-Z hero Jack Schlossberg, JFK’s grandson, urged young Americans to vote. For the first time, I felt significant in this historic reshaping of American politics. Hillary Clinton was right, we are all needed to “break the glass ceiling”. Euphoric as the mood was, there was also cognisance among most present there that there was more work to be done, as ‘Coach’ Walz emphasized with the classic “We can sleep when we’re dead” line.

Glitz and glamour aside, a few simple conversations will stay with me. “My son celebrated New Year’s because it’s an election year. He hasn’t turned off the TV since the convention started,” said an officer in the CNN security detail. We laughed at the text chains between her and her 11-year-old son who educated her on all the big names she was escorting to the main stage, dreaming to be one of them some day. A college professor of psychology in Chicago told me she had never been more excited to vote. A heated conversation on gun control with a colleague ended in us realizing we had the same fundamental beliefs, but different visions on how to actualise it. The DNC had seemingly reaffirmed core American values of freedom and individualism, regardless of race, identity or politics. And a Democratic party can help uphold those characteristic American values too.

Despite being a half Tamil American woman deeply interested in public service, my vote for Kamala Harris is not driven by identity commonality. I am not voting for her because of sparkly, albeit meaningless, buzzwords such as the “opportunity economy”. Harris, despite the formidable efforts of the DNC, is not my idol. However, she gets my vote because, in a twist of fate, she has become the most radical symbol of change I have witnessed in American politics. A week of jargon and speeches does not quite encapsulate what her slogan sums up to me.

“America, we are not going back.”

The writer attended the Democratic National Convention in Chicago as part of CNN

UPSC-CSE Key

- Knowledge nugget of the day: PM Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)

- Biodiversity: What is it, and why does it matter?

- UPSC Key | Unified Lending Interface, Gaganyaan mission, Vaccine-derived polio and more

- UPSC Essentials | Daily subject-wise quiz : History, Culture and Social Issues MCQs on British India at the Olympics, Lahore Resolution (Week 73)

- UPSC Essentials | Mains answer practice — GS 3 : Questions on RBI interventions in controlling the Indian rupee and impacts of the oil spill (Week 66)

- UPSC Essentials : Daily subject-wise quiz | Polity and Governance MCQs on Parliamentary sessions, Money Bill, ECI and more (Week 73)

- UPSC Key | Atacama salt flat, New Ramsar sites, Simultaneous elections and more

- Art and Culture with Devdutt Pattanaik | The significance of Vedas and their rituals

- UPSC Current Affairs Pointers of the past week | August 19 to August 25, 2024

- UPSC Key | Unified Pension Scheme, Vigyan Dhara, Naxalism and more

- UPSC Essays Simplified | Themes and content of psychological essays

- UPSC Ethics Simplified | Utilitarianism : The Concept

- UPSC Weekly Current Affairs Quiz | August 18 to August 24, 2024

- International Day for Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Abolition: The memory of Indian indentured labourers

- UPSC Essentials | Daily subject-wise quiz : International Relations MCQs on Nord Stream, Tower of Hercules and more (Week 72)

- UPSC Essentials | Mains answer practice — GS 1 : Questions on Indian freedom struggle and waterspouts (Week 65)

- National Space Day: All you need to know for UPSC Prelims and Mains

- UPSC Issue at a Glance | Mpox outbreak and Public Health Emergency: 5 Key Questions You Must Know for Prelims and Mains

Knowledge nugget of the day: PM Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)

Here are the key takeaways from the government’s flagship financial inclusion programme. Also, go beyond the term and learn what is Financial Inclusion Index.

Written by Manas Srivastava

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 10:40 IST

The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) completes 10 years of implementation today.

What is PMJDY and why it is in news? Take a look at the essential concepts, terms, quotes or phenomena every day and brush up your knowledge. Here’s the nugget for today.

Knowledge Nugget: Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)

Subject: Government Schemes and Economy

Why in news?

The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) completes 10 years of implementation today.

Key takeaways

1. The government’s flagship financial inclusion programme Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi ten years ago on August 28, 2014.

2. It is a National Mission for Financial Inclusion to ensure access to financial services, namely, a basic savings & deposit accounts, remittance, credit, insurance, pension in an affordable manner.

3. The government aims to open more than 3 crore accounts under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) during the current financial year 2024-25, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Tuesday.

4. The Finance Ministry said the PMJDY has been the foundation for people-centric economic initiatives. PMJDY has helped provide adults with a bank account which has helped in direct benefit transfers, COVID-19 financial assistance, PM-KISAN.

5. The JAM Trinity (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile) has given a boost to the Direct Benefit Transfer programme and expanded its coverage from partial to ubiquitous, the Finance Ministry said.

6. Under the PMJDY, there are no account opening charges, no account maintenance charges, and no minimum balance charges. Free RuPay debit card, with in-built accident insurance cover of Rs 2 lakh, and access to overdraft facility of up to Rs 10,000, are other major features of the scheme.

7. PMJDY accounts are eligible for Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), Atal Pension Yojana (APY), Micro Units Development & Refinance Agency Bank (MUDRA) scheme.

Beyond the term

What is FI-Index?

The Financial Inclusion Index (FI-Index), which captures the extent of financial inclusion across the country, stood at 64.2 in March 2024 from 60.1 in March 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said on Wednesday.

The index has been conceptualised as a comprehensive index incorporating details of banking, investments, insurance, postal as well as the pension sector in consultation with government and respective sectoral regulators.

The FI-Index comprises of three broad parameters Access (having a weight of 35 per cent in the index), Usage ( weight 45 per cent), and Quality ( weight 20 per cent) with each of these consisting of various dimensions, which are computed based on a number of indicators. The Index is responsive to ease of access, availability and usage of services, and quality of services, comprising in all 97 indicators.

The FI-Index has been constructed without any ‘base year’ and as such it reflects cumulative efforts of all stakeholders over the years towards financial inclusion.

Point to ponder:

What important interventions are needed to address the current barriers to financial inclusion?

(Refer: PM Jan Dhan Yojana has accelerated financial inclusion, reduced inequalities)

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Manas Srivastava

Manas Srivastava is currently working as Senior Copy Editor with The Indian Express (digital) and leads a unique initiative of IE - UPSC Essentials. He majorly writes on UPSC, other competitive exams and education-related projects. In the past, Manas has represented India at the G-20 Youth Summit in Mexico. He is a former member of the Youth Council, GOI. A two-time topper/gold medallist in History (both in graduation and post-graduation) from Delhi University, he has mentored and taught UPSC aspirants for more than four years. His diverse role in The Indian Express consists of writing, editing, anchoring/ hosting, interviewing experts, and curating and simplifying news for the benefit of students. He hosts the YouTube talk show called ‘Art and Culture with Devdutt Pattanaik’ and a LIVE series on Instagram and YouTube called ‘You Ask We Answer’.His talks on ‘How to read a newspaper’ focus on newspaper reading as an essential habit for students. His articles and videos aim at finding solutions to the general queries of students and hence he believes in being students' editor, preparing them not just for any exam but helping them to become informed citizens. This is where he makes his teaching profession meet journalism. He is also the editor of UPSC Essentials' monthly magazine for the aspirants. He is a recipient of the Dip Chand Memorial Award, the Lala Ram Mohan Prize and Prof. Papiya Ghosh Memorial Prize for academic excellence. He was also awarded the University’s Post-Graduate Scholarship for pursuing M.A. in History where he chose to specialise in Ancient India due to his keen interest in Archaeology. He has also successfully completed a Certificate course on Women’s Studies by the Women’s Studies Development Centre, DU. As a part of N.S.S in the past, Manas has worked with national and international organisations and has shown keen interest and active participation in Social Service. He has led and been a part of projects involving areas such as gender sensitisation, persons with disability, helping slum dwellers, environment, adopting our heritage programme. He has also presented a case study on ‘Psychological stress among students’ at ICSQCC- Sri Lanka. As a compere for seminars and other events he likes to keep his orating hobby alive. His interests also lie in International Relations, Governance, Social issues, Essays and poetry. ... Read More

Biodiversity: What is it, and why does it matter?

Biodiversity tries to measure the variation among organisms in a community or ecosystem. But how is biodiversity measured? Is there a single best way to measure biodiversity?

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 11:26 IST

Species diversity, the number of biological species in a given area or group, has been the most common measure of biodiversity for a long time. (Representational Image)

— Siddharth Bharath

(The Indian Express has launched a new series of articles for UPSC aspirants written by seasoned writers and erudite scholars on issues and concepts spanning History, Polity, International Relations, Art, Culture and Heritage, Environment, Geography, Science and Technology, and so on. Read and reflect with subject experts and boost your chance of cracking the much-coveted UPSC CSE. In the following article, Dr. Siddharth Bharath simplifies biodiversity and discusses its significance by linking the concept to everyday life.)

Imagine this: You look out onto a busy city street, and everyone looks exactly the same. They speak in the same voice. They all have the same actions and mannerisms. They wear the same clothes. This would feel very strange. We intuitively know that this situation cannot happen in a city because no two people are the same.

We live in a world of endless variety. That is true among humans, and among all living things. We use the word biodiversity to describe that variety. Let’s explore biodiversity, its importance, ways to measure it, and, in doing so, celebrate some of the beauty and wonder of our natural world.

What is biodiversity

Understanding how biodiversity sustains us is crucial for our own well being. All of the diversity of the life we see on our planet has evolved over millions of years. We have evolved alongside them – the plants and animals that provide us with food and medicine, the bacteria in our gut that do a lot of our digestion, and the fungi that break down and recycle wastes back into the ecosystem. The rich variety of life makes ecosystems function.

In addition to all the tangible ways that nature contributes to our well being, there are a whole host of intangible contributions – beauty, inspiration, relaxation, culture – that come from biodiversity for us.

The United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity defines biodiversity as: “The variability among living organisms from all sources, including, inter alia, terrestrial, marine and other aquatic ecosystems and the ecological complexes of which they are part: this includes diversity within species, between species and of ecosystems.”

Biodiversity tries to measure such variation among organisms in a community or ecosystem. It can be measured in different ways, using different metrics.

Some measures of biodiversity

We would never expect that class, caste, gender or any single axis of difference in humans would fully explain the diversity of life experiences present in a group of humans. That view would be simplistic and naive, and the same is true for biological life.

In fact, no single way of measuring biodiversity is the best, rather we have to choose which measures to use in each situation. Let us try different ways of measuring and categorising the differences between people in a busy city, and see how that relates to biodiversity.

We can group people by their ancestry – trace parents and children across generations. A century ago this would be done by documenting actual lineages, but today it can be done by analysing DNA. The scientific term for this is phylogeny.

You can analyse certain regions of DNA that change very slowly and are common to nearly all life. This results in a tree of life – with organisms that are closer together having a common ancestor more recently than organisms that are far apart. If we measure the diversity of life in a group by this method, we get phylogenetic diversity (also called genetic diversity). This kind of diversity is intuitive to describe but is quite complex to operationalise into a measure.

We can also group people by occupation – performing different roles within the society. A small village might have fewer occupations present, and many people will be performing multiple roles. A large city will have people who are able to devote their full time to very specialised occupations. This diversity of occupations is called functional diversity (or ecological diversity).

Functional diversity in biology measures how different organisms are in terms of what they are doing in their environment and interacting with other organisms. For example, compare two communities of insects that we find on two different patches of forest floor. Community A has dung beetles, yellow dung flies and two species of millipedes. Community B has dung beetles, a ground nesting bee, crickets and one species of ant.

Community A only has species that are very similar in function, they all eat animal dung and decompose material on the forest floor. Community B consists of insects that perform very different activities. So while both communities have four species each, B is more functionally diverse than A. These two ways of measuring diversity, while easy to define, are not the most commonly used.

Species diversity, the number of biological species in a given area or group, has been the most common measure of biodiversity for a long time. Species are defined in different ways based on which kind of organisms you are dealing with. For animals, one easy definition has been that individuals of two different species cannot mate and produce fertile offspring.

For microorganisms like bacteria, the definition is based on their genetics. When you zoom into it, the borders of definition of a species are not completely clear. It is a categorisation that we make for our convenience. Much like how two states or two nations might seem very different, but when you zoom into the border between them, you realise there is a lot more similarity between the two groups of people living on opposite sides of the border. The border is a negotiated construct, much like species are.

How to measure the diversity of a community

Each of these three ways of measuring diversity detailed above can be expressed by different numbers. For example, species richness is just the count of how many different species are in an area.

Consider a community of 100 plants, where there are 10 plants each of 10 species, it has a species richness of 10 (think of a vegetable patch containing 10 different vegetables and greens). A second community of 100 plants, with 91 of one species, and 1 each of 9 other species, also has a species richness of 10 (think of a field of mostly wheat plants with a couple of weeds growing around the edges).

The second community is far less diverse than the first, but species richness doesn’t capture that difference. Ecologists have developed many metrics that combine both richness and abundance of species to give better measures of the diversity of a community. The same carries over to measures of functional diversity and phylogenetic diversity, though those are a little less intuitive to understand for a beginner.

Most people would find the measures discussed above quite abstract. Popular discourse about biodiversity tends to focus on one or a few species in each ecosystem, using their presence as a proxy for the health of a whole ecosystem. There are a couple of different concepts that do this.

Species shaping ecosystems

Governments, conservation agencies and the media pick a few charismatic species to frame conservation efforts – tigers, elephants, pandas, peacocks, rhinoceros, orangutans etc. These are often called flagship species for biodiversity, using the name of one species to try and support whole ecosystems where they are present.

However, flagship species are essentially the models picked by the marketing department for advertisements about a company, not the actual workers, engineers or scientists who are actually doing the work of the company.

Keystone species are those whose impact on an ecosystem is disproportionately large compared to its abundance. It is named like the small keystone in an arch which is crucial to keeping the arch from falling. For example, pollinators like bees are crucial to the reproduction of many different plant species.

Ecosystem engineers refer to species that significantly change the structure of the ecosystem, and which other species depend on. Termites are ecosystem engineers in savannahs, changing the abundance and regularity of trees that are present.

Indicator species refer to species whose presence shows the health of the ecosystem. Lichen growing on trees are quite sensitive to air pollution, and therefore their presence indicates that the air is relatively clean in an area.

Invasive species are species that are not “originally” from an area but are spreading rapidly and displacing local species. Lantana camara, an ornamental shrub brought by the British to be a garden plant, is invasive in huge areas of the Western Ghats, completely taking over the forest understory.

However, each of the above categories is also a measure of convenience, and is problematic in many ways. The presence of a keystone species doesn’t mean an ecosystem is in good shape, and the presence of invasive species doesn’t automatically mean things are bad. Understanding biodiversity and ecosystem health is complex, and it’s important to know and respect the proxies that we are using to do so.

Post Read Question

Understanding how biodiversity sustains us is crucial for our own well being. Comment.

How would you go about measuring the diversity of plants in a forest, as compared to a nearby agricultural field?

What are some concepts that show species that disproportionately shape ecosystems? Critically analyse with examples.

(Dr. Siddharth Bharath is an ecologist, educator and entrepreneur based in Bengaluru. He works with Swissnex in India.)

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UPSC Key | Unified Lending Interface, Gaganyaan mission, Vaccine-derived polio and more

Exclusive for Subscribers Daily: How are the Unified Lending Interface and vaccine-derived polio relevant to the UPSC Exam? What significance do topics like the Gaganyaan mission and India-US ties have for the preliminary and main exams? You can learn more by reading the Indian Express UPSC Key for August 27, 2024.

Written by Roshni Yadav , Khushboo Kumari

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 11:14 IST

RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das addresses the inaugural session of ‘Global Conference on DPI and Emerging Technologies’, in Bengaluru, Monday, Aug. 26, 2024. Know more in our UPSC Key. (PTI Photo)

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Important topics and their relevance in UPSC CSE exam for August 27, 2024. If you missed the August 26th, 2024 UPSC CSE exam key from the Indian Express, read it here.

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Economy

For ‘frictionless credit’, RBI to launch technology platform; to call it Unified Lending Interface: Das

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance

Mains Examination: GS-III: Economy

What’s the ongoing story-  Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das on Monday said that a nationwide launch of the Unified Lending Interface (ULI) will happen in due course. Similar to Unified Payment Interface (UPI), which has revolutionised the retail payment system in the country, ULI will transform the lending landscape.

Prerequisites:

— What is the Digital Public Infrastructure?

— What is the ‘plug and play’ approach?

— What is the JAM (Jan Dhan, Aadhar, and Mobile) trinity?

Key takeaways:

— The RBI Governor on Monday proposed to call the tech platform for frictionless credit as Unified Lending Interface (ULI). He said just like UPI transformed the payments ecosystem, he expects that ULI will play a similar role in transforming the lending space in the country.

— For digital credit delivery, the data required for credit appraisal are available with different entities like Central and State governments, account aggregators, banks, credit information companies and digital identity authorities. However, these data sets are in separate systems, creating hindrance in frictionless and timely delivery of rule-based lending.

— The RBI Governor said that ULI platform will facilitate a seamless and consent-based flow of digital information, including land records of various states, from multiple data service providers to lenders. It will cut down the time taken for credit appraisal, especially for smaller and rural borrowers.

— He said that the ULI architecture has common and standardised APIs (Application Programming Interface), designed for a ‘plug and play’ approach to ensure digital access to information from diverse sources.

— “The ‘new trinity’ of JAM-UPI-ULI will be a revolutionary step forward in India’s digital infrastructure journey,” he stated.

— The JAM (Jan Dhan, Aadhar and Mobile) trinity is a tool used by the government to transfer cash benefits directly to the bank account of the beneficiary.

For Your Information:

— Unified Payments Interface or UPI is a real-time payment system launched in India in April 2016 by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).

— It is a system that powers multiple bank accounts into a single mobile application (of any participating bank), merging several banking features, seamless fund routing & merchant payments into one hood.

— UPI also caters to the “Peer to Peer” collection request which can be scheduled and paid as per requirement and convenience.

— UPI has played a significant role in the growth of retail digital payments in the country. While initial participants on the UPI platform were banks, non-bank third-party app providers and use of QR (quick-response) codes have all combined in popularising UPI.

Points to Ponder:

— What is the role of JAM in the digital revolution in India?

— What are the challenges of digital public infrastructure?

— What are the steps taken by the government in digitalisation of different sectors of the economy?

Post Read Question:

Prelims

(1) ‘Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana’ has been launched for (UPSC CSE 2015)

(a) providing housing loan to poor people at cheaper interest rates

(b) promoting women’s Self-Help Groups in backward areas

(c) promoting financial inclusion in the country

(d) providing financial help to the marginalized communities

Mains

Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) is necessary for bringing unbanked to the institutional finance fold. Do you agree with this for financial inclusion of the poorer section of the Indian society? Give arguments to justify your opinion. (UPSC CSE 2016)

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

Digital Public Infrastructure: The story of India’s digital revolution

Govt & Politics

Assam cites national interest, allows Vedanta project in Gibbon habitat

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance

Mains Examination: GS-III: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation

What’s the ongoing story- Citing national interest, the Assam wildlife department has recommended to the Centre that forest clearance be granted to a Cairn Oil and Gas proposal for oil and gas exploration in the eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) of the Hollongapar Gibbon wildlife sanctuary, home to the endangered Hoolock Gibbon and wild elephants, official records show.

Prerequisites:

— Read about Hoolock Gibbon- habitate and IUCN status

— What is the eco-sensitive zone (ESZ)?

— What is the role of the Forest Advisory Committee (FAC)?

— Location: Hoollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary

Key takeaways:

— Cairn Oil and Gas, Vedanta’s subsidiary, has sought diversion of 4.49 hectares of forest land for oil and gas exploration drilling in Jorhat, Assam, and is currently pending before the Union Environment Ministry’s Forest Advisory Committee (FAC).

— FAC had last month sought the state Chief Wildlife Warden’s views on the project from a wildlife conservation point of view.

— “As the project is of national interest, it may be recommended for granting Forest Clearance subject to the following conditions,” the Chief Wildlife Warden said.

— Among the four conditions mentioned, the top wildlife officer said that the exploration work should happen with minimal tree felling without causing “adverse impact” to “wild animals and their habitat.”

For Your Information:

— The proposed infra upgrade in the Great Nicobar Project has been opposed on grounds of the threat it poses to the ecology of the islands. The opposition has focused on the potentially devastating impact on the Shompen, a particularly vulnerable tribal group (PVTG) of hunter-gatherers with an estimated population of a few hundred individuals who live in a tribal reserve on the island.

— It has been alleged that the project violates the rights of the tribal population, and will impact the island’s ecology with the felling of nearly a million trees. It is feared that the port project will destroy coral reefs with spinoff effects on the local marine ecosystem, and pose a threat to the terrestrial Nicobar Megapode bird and leatherback turtles who nest in the Galathea Bay area.

Points to Ponder:

— How to create a balance between conservation and development?

— Why ESZ was created?

— What is the significance of the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA)?

Post Read Question:

(2) Consider the following pairs: (UPSC CSE 2010)

Protected area

Well-known for

1. Bhiterkanika, Orissa

Salt Water Crocodile

2. Desert National Park, Rajasthan

Great Indian Bustard

3. Eravikulam, Kerala

Hoolock Gibbon

Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

(a) 1 only

(b) 1 and 2 only

(c) 2 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

Strategic imperative and environment concern in Great Nicobar project

Shah announces 5 new districts for Ladakh; will get more focus: PM

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance

Mains Examination: GS-II: Polity and Constitution

What’s the ongoing story- Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday announced the creation of five new districts in the Union Territory (UT) of Ladakh.

Prerequisites:

— What is the Article 370?

— Why Ladakh was made a Union Territory?

— What is the significance of Ladakh in terms of national security?

Key takeaways:

— “The new districts, namely Zanskar, Drass, Sham, Nubra, and Changthang, will take the benefits meant for the people to their doorsteps by bolstering governance in every nook and cranny,” he added.

— “Ladakh is a very large Union Territory in terms of area. At present, Ladakh has two districts; Leh and Kargil. It is one of the least populated areas of India. Being extremely difficult and inaccessible, at present the district administration was facing many difficulties in reaching the grassroots level….” an MHA spokesperson said in a statement.

— An MHA official said the Ladakh region was left behind in the race for development due to the difference in social fabric and the so-called discrimination of the state governments.

— Ladakh was made a UT after the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir was bifurcated into two UTs on August 5, 2019. The other UT is Jammu and Kashmir.

— The move to create new districts was welcomed in Ladakh but with a reiteration of the demand for greater political representation. “The creation of new districts can be truly beneficial if it is accompanied by the establishment of an Assembly and subsequent democratic processes. Without this, Ladakh faces a risk of more bureaucratic layers rather than enhancing democratic governance,” social activist Sajjad Kargili said.

For Your Information:

— In a meeting with representatives from Ladakh (March 2024), which has been witnessing protests recently, Union Home Minister Amit Shah offered to extend Article 371-like protections to the region.

— Shah is learnt to have told the Leh Apex Body (ABL) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) that their concerns related to jobs, land, and culture would be taken care of, but the government would not go as far as to include Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.

— ABL and KDA, the two socio-political organisations spearheading the movement, are pursuing four main demands: statehood for Ladakh, safeguards under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, reservation of jobs for the youth of Ladakh, and the creation of separate Parliamentary constituencies for the two parts of the region — Leh and Kargil.

Points to Ponder:

— What are the demands of the people of Ladakh?

— Why organisations like the ABL and the KDA have demanded that Ladakh be included under the Sixth Schedule?

— Which states are included in the Sixth Schedule?

Post Read Question:

(3) Consider the following statements:

1. The special status conferred to the state of Jammu and Kashmir was removed by Parliament in 2018.

2. The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 bifurcated the state into three union territories- Leh, Ladakh, and Jammu & Kashmir.

Which of the following statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

Explained: Ladakh, Article 371, and the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution

Despite govt assurance, Ladakh shuts over statehood demand

India, Singapore explore boosting ties on ‘six pillars’ at bilateral meet

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance

Mains Examination: GS-II: Bilateral agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests; Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.

What’s the ongoing story- Senior ministers from India and Singapore held a “productive” round of discussions at the second multi-ministerial roundtable here and explored how the two countries can boost bilateral cooperation in digital, skill development, sustainability, healthcare, connectivity and advanced manufacturing.

Prerequisites:

— What is the history of India-Singapore bilateral ties?

— Map work: Location of Singapore and other south-asian countries, Straits of Malacca.

Key takeaways:

— The four-member Indian delegation comprised Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

— Both sides deliberated upon the six pillars identified under ISMR, which include “digitalisation, skill development, sustainability, healthcare and medicine, and advanced manufacturing and connectivity.

— The leaders also discussed plans for commemorating the 60th Anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Singapore, alongside regional and global cooperation, including ASEAN & G20 developments.

— The four ministers also called on Singapore President Thamman Shanmugaratnam and PM Lawrence Wong. With President Thamman, the leaders discussed “boosting the India-Singapore Strategic Partnership by focusing on key areas like digitalisation, Green Initiatives, Skill Development,” the Finance Ministry said in a post on X.

Points to Ponder:

— What are the areas of cooperation between India and Singapore?

— What are the joint military exercises and defence cooperation agreements between India and Singapore?

— How do cultural exchanges strengthen the relationship between India and Singapore?

— What are the challenges in India-Singapore bilateral relations?

Post Read Question:

(4) What is the correct sequence of occurrence of the following cities in South-East Asia as one proceeds from south to north? (UPSC CSE 2014)

1. Bangkok

2. Hanoi

3. Jakarta

4. Singapore

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 4 – 2 – 1 – 3

(b) 3 – 2 – 4 – 1

(c) 3 – 4 – 1 – 2

(d) 4 – 3 – 2 – 1

Express Network

ISRO finalises design of humanoid skull crucial to Gaganyaan mission next year

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of importance and Science

Mains Examination: GS-III: Science and Technology- Achievements of Indians in science & technology; indigenization of technology and developing new technology; Awareness in the fields of IT and space.

What’s the ongoing story- Before launching astronauts on the Gaganyaan mission next year, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will send a humanoid robot, Vyommitra, into space to test spacecraft safety.

Prerequisites:

— What is the Gaganyaan mission?

— Read about the Indian Space Research Organisation.

— What do preparations for the human space flight include?

Key takeaways:

— The humanoid’s skull, designed at ISRO’s Thiruvananthapuram unit, weighs 800 grams and measures 200 mm x 220 mm, made from a high-strength aluminum alloy to endure pressure and vibration.

— Vyommitra will resemble the upper human body, featuring movable arms, face, and neck equipped with sensors to perform human-like functions and assess the impacts of space travel.

— The Vyommitra will have multiple degrees of freedom, meaning its parts would be able to move in different directions.

— The Gaganyaan mission, India’s first attempt at sending humans into space, is scheduled for next year. But before that two uncrewed preparatory missions, Gaganyaan-1 (G1) and Gaganyaan-2 (G2), would be flown, the first one later this year.

— G1, scheduled for launch in December, will mainly test the safe re-entry of the spacecraft and its orientation upon its dive into the sea. The G2 mission will carry Vyommitra inside the human-rated pressurised crew module, where the astronauts would be seated in the actual flight. The robot will be tasked with recording all parameters that will be used to study the impacts of the flight on humans.

— The Gaganyaan mission will carry three Indian astronauts into space, about 400 km from the Earth’s surface, for three days.

For Your Information:

— The Gaganyaan mission is India’s first manned space flight that is currently scheduled for next year. The space capsule for Gaganyaan has the capacity to carry three astronauts, but it has not yet been finalised whether two or three astronauts would be sent on that mission.

— Only three countries — the United States, Russia and China — have sent human spaceflights till now, though over 600 astronauts, including over 70 women, from close to 50 different countries have gone into space.

— The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) had started planning for a human spaceflight mission way back in 2004 but the real possibilities opened up only after the success of Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan missions, and the development of the GSLV rocket in the last one decade.

— The Gaganyaan mission was originally scheduled for a launch in 2022, to coincide with 75 years of India’s independence, but that schedule got derailed because of the Covid pandemic.

Points to Ponder:

— What are the key features of India’s Manned Mission to Space?

— What is the significance of the Gaganyaan mission?

— What are the other important space missions of ISRO?

Post Read Question:

Prelims

(5) With reference to the LVM-3, consider the following statements:

1. It is capable of placing the 4 tonne class satellites of the GSAT series into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbits.

2. It is a two stage launch vehicle.

3. It uses only solid propellant.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None

Mains

What is the significance of the Gaganyaan Mission? Discuss about the Test Vehicle Abort Mission-1 (TV-D1).

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

Express View on Gaganyaan: Sky’s not the limit

What the success of Gaganyaan could mean for Indian science

Met upgrade in pipeline, focus on extreme weather, local predictions

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance

Mains Examination: GS-II, III: Government policies and interventions, Environment

What’s the ongoing story- A new mission to improve weather forecasting, with a budget of at least Rs 10,000 crore is expected to be launched soon, The Indian Express has learnt. It is likely to be several times bigger than Monsoon Mission, launched in 2012, that has resulted in a noticeable uplift in the capabilities of the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Prerequisites:

— What is the function of IMD?

— What are the extreme weather events?

— What is Monsoon Mission?

Key takeaways:

— Though the IMD’s weather forecasts have increased significantly over the past decade, it has struggled to provide accurate predictions at the local level. A recent report by The Indian Express showed how the IMD’s rainfall forecasts for Mumbai were way off the mark on about 40 per cent of the days in July.

— The science of weather forecasting has uncertainties built into it. The more specific a forecast — either over a small area, or during a small time-window — the greater is the uncertainty. Some of these uncertainties can be offset by installing denser network of measuring instruments, collecting more data, doing more computations and developing better simulation models.

— Extreme weather events are even more difficult to predict. In the last decade or so, extreme events, under the influence of climate change, have become more frequent and intense, and also more erratic. Events expected to occur only once in 50 or 100 years, have been happening with far greater regularity.

— To improve the monitoring of atmospheric parameters over India, the mission is expected to see the deployment of a few more dedicated weather satellites. India already has three satellites in space — INSAT-3D, INSAT-3DR and INSAT-3DS —that are used mainly for meteorological observations… These satellites would be equipped with latest technologies and designed to produce very high-resolution data to feed into weather forecasts.

— The new mission would also focus on greater integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) in weather forecasting.

For Your Information:

— IMD acknowledges that its forecasts, particularly the city-specific forecasts, have not been perfect, but says its accuracy levels are improving. “IMD’s forecasting systems have improved by 40-50 per cent in the last decade compared to previous years.

— But it needs to be understood that weather forecasting is a nonlinear science, which means that unlike other sciences, weather has greater unpredictability,” said Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Director General of Meteorology

Points to Ponder:

— What are the challenges faced by IMD?

— How unpredictability of extreme weather events is a challenge for disaster management?

— How AI can help in better weather prediction?

Post Read Question:

(6) With reference to ‘Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD)’ sometimes mentioned in the news while forecasting Indian monsoon, which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC CSE 2017)

1. IOD phenomenon is characterised by a difference in sea surface temperature between tropical Western Indian Ocean and tropical Eastern Pacific Ocean.

2. An IOD phenomenon can influence an El Nino’s impact on the monsoon.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

IMD rain forecasts for Mumbai wrong by 42% in July. What explains these extreme misses?

Explained

What is vaccine-derived polio, how to prevent it

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national importance and General Science

Mains Examination: GS-III: Science and Health

What’s the ongoing story- A two-year-old child from Meghalaya’s West Garo Hills district reportedly tested positive for polio — a highly infectious, debilitating, and possibly fatal viral disease that once afflicted millions but now has largely been consigned to the history books due to the development of an effective vaccine.

Prerequisites:

— What is polio?

— Read about the Pulse Polio Programme.

— Know about the oral polio vaccine (OPV).

Key takeaways:

— Officials from the Union health ministry said that the case was “vaccine-derived”, and does not jeopardise India’s polio free status. Nonetheless, officials are on high alert to ensure that the infection does not spread.

— A vaccine-derived poliovirus is a strain related to the weakened version of the live poliovirus contained in the oral polio vaccine (OPV). ‘Polio drops’ are by and large safe — they have led to the successful eradication of the infection in most countries — but on rare occasions can trigger the disease in children with weak immune systems.

— Dr T Jacob John, former professor of virology at the Christian Medical College Vellore said that the OPV can lead to vaccine-derived infections in one of two ways.

1. In some cases, the weakened virus can continue circulating from child to child, gaining back its ability to transmit quickly, and then cause severe infection every time it spreads.

2. The virus in the vaccine can also cause chronic infection in children with weakened immune systems, replicating in their gut for years and slowly gaining its ability to cause severe infection. This is what seems to have happened in the Meghalaya case.

— India’s last reported case of wild poliovirus (i.e. the infection caused by the naturally occurring version of the virus) was detected in West Bengal’s Howrah district in 2011. India was declared polio-free in 2014 after successfully preventing any wild polio infections for three years. However, during this period vaccine derived polio cases have continued to be reported.

— These cases do not affect India’s polio-free status — only the detection of the wild poliovirus will change that.

— The OPV is extremely effective in preventing the spread of poliovirus from one individual to another. Moreover, the ease of administering the oral drops, led to the OPV becoming the mainstay of the global polio eradication programme. That said, one of its drawbacks is that in rare cases it can not only trigger the infection, but can also lead to its spread to others.

— To prevent future outbreaks, high levels of immunisation must be maintained. Moreover, the IPV can only extend the protection to the immunised individual, and since it does not contain any live virus, there is no possibility of vaccine-derived polio.

For Your Information:

— According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Polio is a crippling and potentially deadly disease that affects the nervous system… Because the virus lives in the faeces (poop) of an infected person, people infected with the disease can spread it to others when they do not wash their hands well after defecating (pooping). People can also be infected if they drink water or eat food contaminated with infected feces.”

Points to Ponder:

— What are the different strains of polio?

— Why was the oral polio vaccine rolled out in 2016?

— What are the issues and concerns associated with the oral polio vaccine?

— What are the benefits of an inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) regime?

— What are the concerts related to the injectable polio vaccine (IPV)?

Post Read Question:

(7) With reference to the vaccine-derived polio infection, consider the following statements:

1. It is a strain related to the weakened version of the live poliovirus contained in the oral polio vaccine.

2. No cases of vaccine-derived polio infection have been reported in India.

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

Rare polio case reported in Meghalaya: What is it and is this a cause of concern?

Two-new US-India agreements: a short history of growing defence ties

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance

Mains Examination: GS-II, GS-III: Bilateral agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests; Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests

What’s the ongoing story- India and the US have signed a Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA) and Memorandum of Agreement regarding the Assignment of Liaison Officers, the latest in a series of bilateral military agreements that have enhanced defence and security cooperation between the two countries over the past decade.

Prerequisites:

— What is the US-India Roadmap for Defence Industrial Cooperation 2023?

— Read about the various defence agreements between the US and India.

Key takeaways:

— During Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s four-day official visit that concluded on Sunday (August 25), the partner nations agreed to advance priority co-production projects including jet engines, unmanned platforms, munitions, and ground mobility systems under the 2023 US-India Roadmap for Defence Industrial Cooperation.

— Two new agreements

1. SOSA: Under SOSA, the US and India will provide reciprocal priority support to each other for goods and services that promote national defence. It will “enable both countries to acquire the industrial resources they need from one another to resolve unanticipated supply chain disruptions to meet national security needs”, the US Department of Defense (DoD) said in a statement.

— India is the 18th SOSA partner of the US. While SOSA, according to the DoD, are an important mechanism to strengthen interoperability with US defence trade partners, it is legally non-binding. The DoD has been working to conclude another agreement with India, the Reciprocal Defence Procurement (RDP) Agreement, which will be binding.

2. MoU On Liaison Officers: The Memorandum of Agreement regarding the Assignment of Liaison Officers is a progression on a decision taken earlier to increase information-sharing between India and the US, and to post Indian armed forces officers in key strategic US Commands. India will deploy the first Liaison Officer to the US Special Operations Command headquarters in Florida.

— The roadmap for defence industrial cooperation released last year envisioned the conclusion of SOSA and the RDP Agreement. The US endorsed the integration of the Indian defence industry into global supply chains, and extended support to India to develop naval and maritime infrastructure to create an Indo-Pacific regional hub for ship and aircraft repair and maintenance.

— iCET: In January 2023, the US-India initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) was discussed to expand the strategic technology partnership and defence industrial cooperation.

For Your Information:

—  In 2002, India and the US had signed the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) to facilitate sharing of military information. Between 2016 and 2020, the two sides signed four more agreements.

— In 2016, the US designated India as a Major Defence Partner. Commensurate with this designation, in 2018, India was elevated to Strategic Trade Authorisation tier 1 status, which gave it licence-free access to a range of military and dual-use technologies regulated by the US Department of Commerce.

— The Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) of 2016 established the basic terms, conditions, and procedures for reciprocal provision of logistic support, supplies, and services between the two militaries.

— In 2018, COMCASA, an India-specific version of the Communications and Information Security Memorandum of Agreement (CISMOA), was signed to secure military communication between the countries, facilitate access to advanced defence systems, and enable India to optimally utilise its existing US-origin platforms.

— The Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) of 2020 aimed to facilitate the sharing of military information including maps, nautical charts, and other unclassified imagery and data.

Points to Ponder:

— What are the areas of cooperation between India and the US?

— What is the India-US Defence Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X)?

— What are the challenges to India-US bilateral ties?

Post Read Question:

(8) Consider the following statements with regard to the Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA):

1. India is the 18th SOSA partner of the US.

2. It is legally non-binding.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

BECA, and the importance of 3 foundational pacts of India-US defence cooperation

ALSO IN NEWS

What is Ukraine’s homegrown ‘Game-changer’ missile?

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, on Saturday, confirmed the existence of a new homegrown long-range weapon — a missile-drone hybrid — which can strike deep into Russia. The Palianytsia was used for the first time on Saturday to target a Russian military installation, officials said without providing further details. The Palianytsia with a 700-km range, comparable to the ATACMS, will allow Ukraine to bypass western restrictions. The missile has a solid-fuel booster that accelerates it, followed by a jet engine.

Odisha issues alert after bird flu detected

As Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) has been detected in two blocks of Odisha’s Puri district leading to culling of nearly 20,000 chickens, the health department has directed authorities in Puri district to strengthen surveillance for protection of human health.
Also Read How the H5N1 bird flu threatens the very existence of birds and mammals

Prelims Answer Key

1. (c)   2. (b)   3. (d)   4. (c)   5. (a)   6. (b)   7. (a)  8. (c)

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UPSC Essentials | Daily subject-wise quiz : History, Culture and Social Issues MCQs on British India at the Olympics, Lahore Resolution (Week 73)

Are you preparing for UPSC CSE Prelims 2025? Check your progress and revise your topics through this quiz on History and Culture.

Written by Nitendra Pal Singh

New Delhi | August 27, 2024 15:31 IST

Check your progress and revise your topics through this quiz on History and Culture. Find a question on British India at the Olympics in today's quiz. (Personal Collection of Bipinchandra Chaugule)

UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative of daily subject-wise quizzes. These quizzes are designed to help you revise some of the most important topics from the static part of the syllabus.  Attempt today’s subject quiz on History, Culture and Social Issues to check your progress. Come back tomorrow to solve the Environment, Geography, Science and Technology MCQs. Don’t miss checking the answers and explanations.

🚨 The Indian Express UPSC Essentials brings to you the August edition of its monthly magazine. Click Here to read. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at manas.srivastava@indianexpress.com🚨

QUESTION 1

Consider the following statements:

Statement 1: Till the early 1930s, many Muslims had been agitating for better representation and safeguarding of their rights within the Indian Union.

Statement 2: The Lahore Resolution, adopted by the All-India Muslim League in March 1940, marked a significant turning point, seeking to elevate the status of the Indian Muslims from a minority group to a separate nation.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

(a) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are correct and Statement 2 is the correct explanation for Statement 1.

(b) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are correct and Statement 2 is not the correct explanation for Statement 1.

(c) Statement 1 is correct but Statement 2 is incorrect.

(d) Statement 1 is incorrect but Statement 2 is correct.

Explanation

— Pakistan National Day is observed on March 23, the day the Lahore Resolution was adopted in 1940 by the Muslim League.

— The Lahore Resolution, adopted by the All-India Muslim League during its general session in Lahore from March 22 to March 24, 1940, formally called for an independent state for India’s Muslims.

— Till the early 1930s, many Muslims had been agitating for better representation and safeguarding of their rights within the Indian Union. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

— The Lahore Resolution, adopted by the All-India Muslim League in March 1940, marked a significant turning point, seeking to elevate the status of the Indian Muslims from a minority group to a separate nation. It positioned Muhammad Ali Jinnah as the “Sole Spokesman” for Muslims, and the Muslim League’s demands became non-negotiable. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

— The resolution declared that “it is the considered view of this Session of the All India Muslim League that no constitutional plan would be workable in this country or acceptable to Muslims unless it is designed on the following basic principle, namely that geographically contiguous units are demarcated into regions which should be so constituted, with such territorial readjustments as may be necessary, that the areas in which the Muslims are numerically in a majority as in the North-Western and Eastern Zones of India, should be grouped to constitute “Independent States” in which the constituent units shall be autonomous and sovereign.”

— The resolution also demanded that “in other parts of India where the Mussalmans are in a minority, adequate, effective and mandatory safeguards shall be specially provided in the constitution for them and other minorities for the protection of their religious, cultural, economic, political, administrative and other rights and interests in consultation with them.”

Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are correct and Statement 2 is the correct explanation for Statement 1.

Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 2

Leang Karampuang cave was in the news recently. Consider the following statements:

1. It is the world’s oldest known figurative cave.

2. The cave is situated in Meghalaya.

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Explanation

— According to a recent study, researchers have determined that the world’s oldest known figurative cave painting dates back 51,200 years by using a new dating technique. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

— Leang Karampuang cave, located on the Indonesian island of Sulawesi, the painting in red pigment shows a pig with its mouth partially open and three part-human, part-animal stick figures, or therianthrope. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.

— The researchers in the study wrote: “Our findings show that figurative portrayals of anthropomorphic figures and animals have a deeper origin in the history of modern human (Homo sapiens) image-making than recognised to date, as does their representation in composed scenes.”

— The finding is based on dating using uranium series (U-series) analysis of calcite deposits overlying rock art in the limestone caves. Laser beams were used during the process and by comparing the ratio between the parent isotope (uranium) and the daughter isotope (thorium) researchers were able to date the paintings.

Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 3

With reference to the British India at the Olympics, consider the following statements:

1. India’s association with the Olympics started with the 1900 Paris Olympics.

2. Norman Pritchard was the first Indian to participate in the Olympics.

3. The Indian football team won the country’s first gold medal in 1928.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None

Explanation

— Norman Pritchard has taken on an almost mythical quality in the history of Indian sport. Born to two British citizens on June 23, 1875, in Calcutta, Pritchard was a gifted runner. He visited London in 1900, presumably with no forthright knowledge that the relatively unknown Olympic games would be taking place in Paris later that year. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

— India’s Olympic history dates back to the second-ever modern Games, held in Paris in 1900. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

— India first sent a national delegation to the Olympics in 1920 and its first official Olympic association was formed only in 1927.

— The Indian hockey team won the country’s first gold medal in 1928. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.

— Between 1928 and 1960, the Indian hockey team won seven out of eight Olympic gold medals. Apart from K D Jadhav’s bronze in wrestling in 1952, India won its first medal outside of hockey in 1996, when Leander Paes won a bronze in men’s tennis doubles.

Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 4

Consider the following statements:

1. These people live in the jungles of Amazon and Southeast Asia.

2. The people of this tribe are nomadic hunter-gatherers.

3. The Peru government created the Madre de Dios Territorial Reserve to protect the territory of these people.

The above mentioned statements refer to:

(a) Chono people

(b) Puelche people

(c) Mashco Piro tribe

(d) Maasai people

Explanation

— Survival International, an indigenous rights NGO, has released rare images of the Mashco Piro tribespeople, one of the world’s 100-odd uncontacted tribes.

— The Mashco Piro, with a possible population of around 750, are thought to be the largest of such tribes.

— Almost all of them live in the jungles of Amazon and Southeast Asia. These nomadic hunters and gatherers reside in the Amazon jungles of Peru’s Madre de Dios Region, near the border with Brazil and Bolivia.

— Peru’s government has prohibited all contact with the Mashco Piro, fearing the spread of a sickness to which the populace is not immune. The tribe is quite secluded, only communicating with the natives on rare occasions, however they have contacted the Yine people.

— In 2002, the Peruvian government established the Madre de Dios Territorial Reserve to protect the Mashco Piro territory.

Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 5

Which of the following Vedas mostly contains spells for domestic purposes such as health and good fortune?

(a) Rig Veda

(b) Yajur Veda

(c) Sama Veda

(d) Atharva Veda

Explanation

— Vedic poetry, also known as mantra, occurs in the form of compilations called Samhitas. The Rig Samhitas are the earliest collections of Vedic poetry. There are around 1,000 poems organised into ten books, or mandalas. Ninety majority of them are invocations to gods who reside in the sky, inviting them to a dinner in exchange for worldly achievement, such as having children, good health, victory in combat, and so on. Ten percent are associated with various world-related ideas and speculations.

— A component of the Rig Vedic poetry is included into the Sama Veda, which is a musical adaptation of the Rig Veda. There are two sorts of melodies: the first is sung in the town known as Grama Gan, and the second is sung in the forest known as the Aranya Gan.

— The Yajur Veda also includes numerous Rig Vedic poetry. It also features a few original ones. But some poems are specifically about conducting rituals. Yajus are particular poetry or mantras that are intended to be said when conducting specific ritual tasks.

— The Trayi, or basic Vedas, are made up of three parts: the Rig Veda, the Sama Veda, and the Yajur Veda.

— The Atharva Veda is also a collection of poetry, but they were mostly spells used for domestic purposes such as health, good fortune, and warding off malicious spirits, jealousy, and rage.

Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer.

Previous Daily Subject-Wise-Quiz

Daily subject-wise quiz — Polity and Governance (Week 72)

Daily Subject-wise quiz — History, Culture, and Social Issues (Week 72)

Daily subject-wise quiz — Environment, Geography, Science and Technology (Week 72)

Daily subject-wise quiz — Economy (Week 72)

Daily subject-wise quiz – International Relations (Week 71)

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UPSC Essentials | Mains answer practice — GS 3 : Questions on RBI interventions in controlling the Indian rupee and impacts of the oil spill (Week 66)

Are you preparing for UPSC CSE 2024 or CSE 2025? Here are questions from GS paper 3 for this week with essential points as the fodder for your answers. Do not miss points to ponder and answer in the comment box below. Try them out.

Written by Nitendra Pal Singh

New Delhi | August 27, 2024 12:15 IST

Chennai Petroleum Corporation Ltd said the leakage on the pipeline was arrested in the morning hours of Saturday and currently officials were engaged in flushing to make the pipeline hydrocarbon free. Attempt a question on the environmental and socio-economic impacts of the oil spill in today's answer writing practice. (AP/Representational)

UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative for the practice of Mains answer writing. It covers essential topics of static and dynamic parts of the UPSC Civil Services syllabus covered under various GS papers. This answer-writing practice is designed to help you as a value addition to your UPSC CSE Mains. Attempt today’s answer writing on questions related to topics of GS-3 to check your progress.

🚨 The Indian Express UPSC Essentials brings to you the August edition of its monthly magazine. Click Here to read. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at manas.srivastava@indianexpress.com🚨

QUESTION 1

Discuss the potential adverse consequences of the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) interventions in controlling the value of the Indian rupee.

QUESTION 2

Discuss the environmental and socio-economic impacts of the oil spill. Give some recent examples.

General points on the structure of the answers

Introduction

— The introduction of the answer is essential and should be restricted to 3-5 lines. Remember, a one-liner is not a standard introduction.

— It may consist of basic information by giving some definitions from the trusted source and authentic facts.

Body

— It is the central part of the answer and one should understand the demand of the question to provide rich content.

— The answer must be preferably written as a mix of points and short paragraphs rather than using long paragraphs or just points.

— Using facts from authentic government sources makes your answer more comprehensive. Analysis is important based on the demand of the question, but do not over analyse.

QUESTION 1: Discuss the potential adverse consequences of the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) interventions in controlling the value of the Indian rupee.

Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers.

Introduction:

— The Indian rupee has a managed floating exchange rate regime, which implies that the central bank intervenes in the foreign currency market to buy or sell dollars in order to keep the rupee’s value stable.

— In recent times, however, the RBI appears to be using its regulatory authorities to gain more control over the currency.

Body:

You may incorporate some of the following points in the body of your answer:

— Currency volatility is not a market failure, but rather the currency’s movement in reaction to demand and supply dynamics.

— The employment of regulatory authorities for currency management creates uncertainty in the central bank’s currency policy while also raising the cost of doing business in RBI-regulated sectors.

— Rajeswari Sengupta and Bhargavi Zaveri Shah outline three such regulatory approaches and the challenges that come with them.

— Prohibiting speculative trades on exchanges: This exacerbates the difficulties of taking rupee exposure in India. In 2008, the RBI allowed Indian exchanges to launch a currency derivatives segment. At that time, the RBI’s guidelines on currency Futures and Options allowed Indian residents to participate in this market “to hedge an exposure to foreign exchange rate risk or otherwise”. While the RBI continued to prescribe the product design, position limits, and trading hours, the general trend was towards opening up this market.

— These regulations explicitly allowed taking positions in rupee-linked currency derivatives up to $100 million across all exchanges, “without having to establish existence of underlying exposure”.

— Regulating offshore trading platforms: The RBI proposed to regulate offshore electronic trading platforms (ETPs), which facilitate rupee-linked derivative transactions. Published on its website in April 2024, this proposal seeks to empower the RBI to oversee the offshore currency forwards market, commonly called the non-deliverable forwards (NDF) market.

— The NDF market lets anyone deal in the rupee without having to physically deliver the currency, lowering the cost of trading. The rupee NDF market has risen significantly in recent years, and is now estimated to be over three times the size of the onshore market. This has raised fears among the RBI that the offshore market, over which it has no direct jurisdiction or control, may be playing an important role in deciding the rupee’s value. The current regulation plan requires ETPs to register with the RBI and gives very comprehensive authorities on the central bank, such as the ability to refuse registration, collect information, designate “eligible instruments” that Indian residents may trade in, and impose additional terms and conditions.

— RBI’s instructions to banks: Earlier this month, when the rupee-dollar exchange rate depreciated close to the 84 mark in the spot market, the RBI is reported to have orally instructed some large commercial banks to not add to their existing trading positions against the rupee. This step seems to have been taken to stem further rupee depreciation.

— On August 16, the RBI advised banks that conduct commerce with the United Arab Emirates to partially settle their trade payments in rupees rather than dollars. This means that banks should change rupees directly to dirhams and vice versa, without first converting them to dollars. One goal of this action appears to be to lessen dollar dependence in international trade. However, settling transactions in rupees helps buffer the currency from the impact of dollar outflows, reducing the magnitude of rupee depreciation against the dollar.

Conclusion:

— The RBI should not attempt to regulate the rupee’s volatility by indiscriminately expanding its regulatory powers. Regulations define the regulations of the game.

— Unlike market operations in which central banks purchase and sell currency in foreign exchange markets, changes to the rules of the game can have a longer-term, negative impact on the incentives and costs of doing business in the country.

(Source: Why RBI’s attempts to control the Rupee can have adverse consequences by Rajeswari Sengupta and Bhargavi Zaveri Shah)

Points to Ponder

What is foreign exchange?

Role of RBI in monetary policy

Functions of RBI

Related Previous Year Questions

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the defence sector is now set to be liberalized. What influence this is expected to have on Indian defence and economy in the short and long run? (2014)

Justify the need for FDI for the development of the Indian economy. Why there is gap between MoUs signed and actual FDIs? Suggest remedial steps to be taken for increasing actual FDIs in India. (2016)

QUESTION 2: Discuss the environmental and socio-economic impacts of the oil spill. Give some recent examples.

Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers.

Introduction:

— Accidents involving oil tankers, drilling rigs, pipelines, or refineries, can be triggered by natural disasters, human error, or equipment failure.

— The environmental consequences are influenced by factors such as the type of oil, the volume of the spill, weather conditions, and proximity to sensitive ecosystems.

Body:

You may incorporate some of the following points in the body of your answer:

How do oil spills impact the environment?

— The long-term impacts of oil spills are extensive, affecting marine ecosystems, habitats, and local economies. These spills can wipe out animal populations, with toxic substances accumulating in the food chain and posing significant risks to higher-level predators, including humans. This bioaccumulation can result in long-term health problems and a reduction in biodiversity, disrupting entire ecosystems.

— When oil spills into water, it rapidly spreads. Due to its lighter density compared to water, it forms a layer that obstructs sunlight and disrupts photosynthesis in marine plants and phytoplankton, which are crucial for oxygen production. The microscopic algae are consumed by fish and other marine animals, and form the base of multiple food chains.

— Marine animals, especially those near the surface, face immediate dangers from toxic exposure. With oil coating the feathers of birds, they may lose their insulation abilities, leading to hypothermia and drowning.

— Coastal ecosystems: These ecosystems such as mangroves, coral reefs, and marshlands, are especially at risk, as oil can suffocate these habitats and kill vital plants and animals. Recovery can take decades, with some species facing the threat of extinction.

— Effect on economy: The economic fallout is significant for communities dependent on fishing and tourism. The cleanup effort is often costly and lengthy, diverting resources from other critical areas.

Recent examples:

— Philippines: Typhoon Gaemi has wreaked havoc across Taiwan, the Philippines and parts of southeastern China. The resultant heavy rains also led to the sinking of the oil tanker MT Terra Nova, laden with 1.4 million litres of oil, in Manila Bay.

— Peru: In 2022, the government declared a 90-day “environmental emergency” in damaged coastal territories, after an oil spill that saw 6,000 barrels of crude oil pour into the sea.

Conclusion:

— Fur and feathers soaked in oil can negatively impact an animal’s capacity to control their body temperature. Additionally, it may alter an animal’s natural buoyancy, leading to drowning. Moreover, birds are likely to swallow the oil due to their propensity for self-preening, which could harm both their organs and digestive systems.

— Burns, eye irritation, and neurological problems can all result from inhaling fumes from more volatile petroleum products like kerosene or jet fuel.

(Source: Ship carrying 1.4 million litres of oil sinks near Philippines: How oil spills impact the environment, http://www.noaa.gov, http://www.weforum.org)

Points to Ponder

How do oil spill affect marine populations

How do oil spills affect terrestrial populations

Related Previous Year Questions

What is oil pollution? What are its impacts on the marine ecosystem? In what way is oil pollution particularly harmful for a country like India? (2023)

Explain the causes and effects of coastal erosion in India. What are the available coastal management techniques for combating the hazard? (2022)

Previous Mains Answer Practice

UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 65)

UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 64)

UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 64)

UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 65)

UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 65)

UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 64)

Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter and stay updated with the news cues from the past week.

Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X.

UPSC Essentials : Daily subject-wise quiz | Polity and Governance MCQs on Parliamentary sessions, Money Bill, ECI and more (Week 73)

Are you preparing for UPSC CSE Prelims 2025? Check your progress and revise your topics through this quiz on Polity and Governance.

Written by Nitendra Pal Singh

New Delhi | Updated: August 27, 2024 15:13 IST

Check your progress and revise your topics through this quiz on Polity and Governance. Find a question on parliamentary sessions in today's quiz. (File Photo)

UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative of daily subject-wise quizzes. These quizzes are designed to help you revise some of the most important topics from the static part of the syllabus. Attempt today’s subject quiz on Polity and Governance to check your progress. Come back tomorrow to solve the History, Culture, and Social Issues MCQs. Don’t miss checking the answers and explanations.

🚨 The Indian Express UPSC Essentials brings to you the August edition of its monthly magazine. Click Here to read. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at manas.srivastava@indianexpress.com🚨

QUESTION 1

Which of the following statements about the Election Commission of India (ECI) is correct?

1. The President appoints the Chief Election Commissioner and all election commissioners.

2. The chief and the other two election commissioners get the same pay and benefits as judges of the High Court.

3. The ECI is empowered to supervise, oversee, and manage elections to municipalities and panchayats.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 only

(d) 1 and 3 only

Explanation

— The Election Commission of India (ECI) is a permanent, independent, and constitutional authority responsible for conducting free and fair elections in the Union and the States of India.

— The ECI is empowered to supervise, oversee, and manage elections to Parliament, state legislatures, and the offices of President and Vice President of India. Since the ECI does not oversee elections to state-level urban bodies like municipalities and panchayats, there is a separate State Election Commission. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.

— The Chief Election Commissioner and all election commissioners are appointed by the President. The President determines his or her tenure of office and the conditions of service for each commissioner. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

— The chief and the other two election commissioners get the same pay and benefits as judges of the Supreme Court, along with the same authorities. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.

— The President appoints the Election Commissioner and the other Election Commissioners. They serve in that capacity for a certain period of time, not to exceed six years, or until they turn 65. They are on the same level as Indian Supreme Court justices.

Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 2

Which of the following provisions comes under the definition of the Money Bill?

1. the imposition, abolition, remission, alteration or regulation of any tax

2. borrowing of money or the giving of any guarantee by the Government of India

3. the custody of the Contingency Fund of India

4. imposition of fines or other pecuniary penalties

5. payment of fees for licences or fees for services rendered

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1, 2 and 4 only

(b) 2, 3 and 5 only

(c) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

(d) 1, 2 and 3 only

Explanation

— A Bill shall be deemed to be a Money Bill if it contains only provisions dealing with all or any of the following matters, namely:

(a) the imposition, abolition, remission, alteration or regulation of any tax;

(b) the regulation of the borrowing of money or the giving of any guarantee by the Government of India, or the amendment of the law with respect to any financial obligations undertaken or to be undertaken by the Government of India;

(c) the custody of the Consolidated Fund or the Contingency Fund of India, the payment of moneys into or the withdrawal of moneys from any such Fund;

(d) the appropriation of moneys out of the Consolidated Fund of India;

(e) the declaring of any expenditure to be expenditure charged on the Consolidated Fund of India or the increasing of the amount of any such expenditure;

(f) the receipt of money on account of the Consolidated Fund of India or the public account of India or the custody or issue of such money or the audit of the accounts of the Union or of a State; or

(g) any matter incidental to any of the matters specified in sub-clauses (a) to (f).

— A Bill shall not be deemed to be a Money Bill by reason only that it provides for the imposition of fines or other pecuniary penalties, or for the demand or payment of fees for licences or fees for services rendered, or by reason that it provides for the imposition, abolition, remission, alteration or regulation of any tax by any local authority or body for local purposes.

Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer.

(Other Source: Constitution of India)

QUESTION 3

With reference to the parliamentary sessions, consider the following statements:

1. The Constitution specifies that six months should not elapse between two parliamentary sessions.

2. This provision of parliamentary sessions is borrowed by the framers of the Constitution from the Government of India Act of 1919.

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Explanation

— The government determines the date and duration of parliamentary sessions. The Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs takes this decision.

— It currently has ten Ministers, including those for Defence, Home, Finance, Agriculture, Tribal Affairs, Parliamentary Affairs, and Information and Broadcasting.

— The Law Minister and the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs have been invited as special guests to the Committee. The decision of the Committee is communicated to the President, who then convenes Members of Parliament for the session.

— The Constitution specifies that six months should not elapse between two parliamentary sessions. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

— This provision is a colonial legacy. The framers of the Constitution borrowed it from the Government of India Act of 1935. It allowed the British Governor General to call a session of the central legislature at his discretion, requiring that the gap between two sessions should not be more than 12 months. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.

Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 4

With reference to the amendment to the constitution, consider the following statements:

1. Provisions related to Fundamental Rights can be amended by a simple majority.

2. Provisions related to abolition or creation of legislative councils need the amendment Bill to be passed in both Houses of Parliament by a majority of not less than two thirds of the members present and voting.

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Explanation

— The Constitution prescribes three different standards for amending different provisions.

Simple majority

— Several provisions of the Constitution can be amended using the same simple legislative procedure used to pass any ordinary legislation in Parliament. This is accomplished by a simple majority of those present and voting. For example, admission or establishment of new states, formation of new states, abolition or creation of legislative council. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.

— Article 368, interestingly, does not directly make a list of such ‘less significant’ provisions. However, such provisions are excluded from the scope of Article 368 throughout the Constitution, creating a separate category.

Special majority

— For amending provisions that do not fall under the first category, Article 368 requires that the amendment Bill is passed in both Houses of Parliament by a majority of not less than two thirds of the members present and voting. For example, Fundamental Rights and Directive Principle of State Policy. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.

— According to Rule 158 of the Lok Sabha Rules, ‘total membership’ refers to the total number of members of the House, regardless of any current vacancies or absentees.

Ratification by states

— A third category of provisions need not just a special majority to be amended, but also require ratification by the legislatures of at least half of the states. Only after the states’ ratification can such an amendment be presented to the President for assent. For example, Election of the President and its manner, distribution of legislative powers between the Union and the States.

Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 5

Which of the following articles of the Constitution of India provides for the separation of judiciary from executive?

(a) Article 48

(b) Article 49

(c) Article 50

(d) Article 51

Explanation

— Article 50 of the Constitution of India provides for the separation of judiciary from executive.

— The State shall take steps to separate the judiciary from the executive in the public services of the State.

Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer.

(Source: Constitution of India)

Previous Daily Subject-Wise-Quiz

Daily subject-wise quiz — Polity and Governance (Week 72)

Daily Subject-wise quiz — History, Culture, and Social Issues (Week 72)

Daily subject-wise quiz — Environment, Geography, Science and Technology (Week 72)

Daily subject-wise quiz — Economy (Week 72)

Daily subject-wise quiz – International Relations (Week 72)

Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter and stay updated with the news cues from the past week.

Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X.

UPSC Key | Atacama salt flat, New Ramsar sites, Simultaneous elections and more

Exclusive for Subscribers Daily: How are the New Ramsar sites and Atacama salt flat relevant to the UPSC Exam? What significance do topics like the simultaneous elections and Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana have for the preliminary and main exams? You can learn more by reading the Indian Express UPSC Key for August 26, 2024.

Written by Roshni Yadav

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 11:15 IST

A brine pool reflects clouds at a lithium mine in the Atacama salt flat, close to San Pedro de Atacama area, Antofagasta region, Chile May 4, 2023. Know more in our UPSC Key. (REUTERS/Ivan Alvarado)

🚨 Attention: UPSC Key is now all 7 Days a Week!🚨

Important topics and their relevance in UPSC CSE exam for August 26, 2024. If you missed the August 25th, 2024 UPSC CSE exam key from the Indian Express, read it here.

🚨 The Indian Express UPSC Essentials brings to you the August edition of its monthly magazine. Click Here to read. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at manas.srivastava@indianexpress.com🚨

Explained

Chile’s Atacama salt flat sinking due to lithium mining: New study

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national importance and environment

Mains Examination: GS-I, GS-III: Geography and environment

What’s the ongoing story- According to a new study, Chile’s Atacama salt flat is sinking at a rate of 1 to 2 centimetres per year due to lithium brine extraction — a process in which salt-rich water is pumped to the surface and into a series of evaporation ponds to eventually obtain lithium.

Prerequisites:

— Read about the lithium.

— What is lithium brine extraction?

— Read about the Atacama Desert.

Key takeaways:

— Lithium, also known as “white gold”, is one of the most sought-after metals on Earth. It is used in rechargeable batteries, which power not only laptops and mobile phones but also electric vehicles — a crucial part of the world’s plan to tackle climate change. However, over the years, research has shown that lithium mining has had severe environmental fallouts, especially in countries such as Chile which are the leading producers of the metal.

— For their study, the researchers at the University of Chile analysed the satellite data collected between 2020 and 2023 to see deformations in the Earth’s crust of Atacama salt flat — one of the largest sources of lithium in the world. The researchers noted that the worst affected areas are those where mining companies are doing most of their pumping of lithium-rich brine.

— The brine evaporation method used to produce lithium requires massive quantities of fresh water, which is already scarce, especially in the Atacama Desert. In the Atacama, it takes 2,000 tons of water to produce one ton of lithium, according to a 2020 study by Ingrid Garcés, a scientist at Chile’s University of Antofagasta. This leaves indigenous communities and wildlife living in the region parched.

— Chemicals such as sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide that are used for lithium extraction contaminate soil and water, poisoning ecosystems and endangering species.

For Your Information:

— Argentina, Chile, and Bolivia form the “Lithium Triangle” and account for more than half of the world’s total lithium resources.

— India presently imports all of the lithium it requires. The domestic exploration effort extends beyond J&K exploration to include work to extract lithium from brine lakes in Rajasthan and Gujarat, as well as mica belts in Odisha and Chhattisgarh.

Points to Ponder:

— What is the significance of lithium?

— What are the leading lithium-producing countries?

— What are the issues and challenges associated with lithium mining?

Post Read Question:

(1) With reference to Lithium, consider the following statements:

1. The lithium Triangle comprises Argentina along with Brazil and Ecuador.

2. India and Argentina have signed for the first ever lithium exploration and mining project.

3. India is the third highest producer of lithium.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None

Govt announces three new Ramsar sites: Why do wetlands need protection?

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: General issues on Environmental ecology, Bio-diversity and Climate Change

Main Examination: GS-III: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment.

What’s the ongoing story- Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav announced three new Ramsar sites in Tamil Nadu and Madhya Pradesh earlier this month, taking the total of such sites in India to 85.

Prerequisites:

— What are Ramsar Sites?

— What are wetlands?

— What are the different definitions of wetlands?

Key takeaways:

— The new additions are the Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary and the Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu, and the Tawa Reservoir in Madhya Pradesh.

— Ramsar sites are also known as wetlands of international importance. The Ramsar convention, which led to their establishment, has been a landmark in raising awareness around this key ecosystem.

Tamil Nadu has the maximum number of Ramsar sites (14), followed by Uttar Pradesh (10). (Source: Twitter/Supriya Sahu IAS)

— According to the convention, wetlands are defined as “areas of marsh, fen, peatland or water, whether natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with water that is static or flowing, fresh, brackish or salt, including areas of marine water the depth of which at low tide does not exceed six metres”.

— Wetlands help regulate climate conditions through carbon sequestration, that is, carbon storage from the atmosphere. The plant communities and soil in wetlands capture carbon instead of releasing it to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide, one of the major drivers of global warming.

— According to Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, the main threats plaguing wetlands are: Unsustainable development, Pollution, Invasive species, and Climate change.

For Your Information:

— The Ramsar Convention is an intergovernmental treaty signed in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran. It encourages the protection and conservation of wetlands worldwide by designating them as such.

— Organisations like the International Union for Conservation of Nature, the World Wide Fund for Nature, and other environmental agencies are associated with the treaty. It also has 172 signatory countries. They are obligated to create wetland reserves and promote the wise use of wetland habitats. India joined it in 1982, initially designating the Chilika Lake in Orissa and Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan. Today, the country has among the highest number of Ramsar sites in Asia.

Points to Ponder:

— Why are Wetlands important?

— What are the other Ramsar sites in India?

— What is the significance of the Ramsar listing?

— What are the threats to the wetlands?

Post Read Question:

(2) Consider the following pairs:

Ramsar site

Location

Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary

Gujarat

Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary

Tamil Nadu

Tawa Reservoir

Maharashtra

How many of the pairs given above are correctly matched?

(a) Only one pair

(b) Only two pairs

(c) All three pairs

(d) None of the above pairs

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

Explained: Ramsar Sites, and the significance of the listing

UPS vs NPS vs OPS

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national importance

Mains Examination: GS-II: Government policies and interventions

What’s the ongoing story- The Union Cabinet on Saturday (August 24) approved the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS), which will provide government employees with assured pension after retirement. The scheme will be effective from April 1, 2025, according to the government’s announcement.

Prerequisites:

— What is Unified Pension Scheme (UPS)?

— Read about the National Pension Scheme (NPS) and Old Pension Scheme.

— What is Inflation indexation?

Key takeaways:

— The UPS promises retirees a fixed pension, unlike the NPS. This was one of the major criticisms of the NPS. According to the government’s notification, the UPS has five key features:

1. Assured pension

2. Assured minimum pension

3. Assured family pension

4. Inflation indexation

5. Lumpsum payment at superannuation

— The NPS replaced the OPS on January 1, 2004 as part of the Centre’s effort to reform India’s pension policies. Those joining government service after this date were put under the NPS.

— Under the OPS, pension to government employees both at the Centre and the states was fixed at 50% of the last drawn basic pay, like it is in the proposed UPS. In addition, there was Dearness Relief — calculated as a percentage of the basic salary — to adjust for the increase in the cost of living.

— The NPS was introduced by the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government because of a fundamental problem with the OPS — that it was unfunded, i.e., there was no corpus specifically for pension. Over time, this led to the government’s pension liability to balloon to fiscally unhealthy, if not unsustainable, levels. With better healthcare facilities leading to longer average lifespans, the OPS could not have continued in the long run.

— The NPS was different from OPS in two fundamental ways. First, it did away with an assured pension. Second, it would be funded by the employee himself/ herself, along with a matching contribution by the government.

For Your Information:

From The Editorial Page “Reframing Pension”

— While the UPS has incorporated elements from both the old and the new pension scheme, it has partially rolled back some of the more fiscally appealing, hard-won features of the National Pension System.

— Under the unified pension scheme, government employees will receive a “defined benefit” — a pension equivalent to 50 per cent of their average basic pay drawn in the year prior to retirement. To finance this, there will also be a “defined contribution” — the government will now contribute 18.5 per cent of the basic salary of employees, up from 14 per cent, while employees will continue to contribute 10 per cent.

— While this new scheme will be unlike the unfunded OPS, and may also benefit from greater clarity, assuring a “defined benefit”, a key feature of both the old pension scheme and the unified pension scheme raises the possibility of the fiscal burden on the government increasing as it will have to make up for any shortfalls.

— A return to defined benefits, which essentially involves providing generous benefits to only a tiny section of the labour force, runs the risk of not just increasing the burden on the exchequer, but also further constraining the space for spending on other avenues.

Points to Ponder:

— What was the basis for the opposition to NPS ?

— What are the benefits of UPS?

— What can be the impact of UPS on the long-term fiscal sustainability of the Indian economy?

Post Read Question:

(3) Consider the following statements:

(1) Unified Pension Scheme will be available to all those who have completed 25 years of service in the government.

(2) An assured minimum pension of Rs 10,000 per month would be given on superannuation after minimum 10 years of service to employees.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 Nor 2

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

ExplainSpeaking | The need to reform India’s pensions system, beyond the OPS-NPS debate

Front Page

Zelenskyy red-flags ‘balancing’ act on war as he pitches for India to host peace summit

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance

Mains Examination: GS-II: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.

What’s the ongoing story- Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has told Prime Minister Narendra Modi that India can be a possible venue for a peace summit, and New Delhi is examining the offer to bring together the warring parties of Russia and Ukraine, The Indian Express has learnt. This comes even as Zelenskyy said that he needed India on his side and “not balancing between US and Russia”.

Prerequisites:

— Read about the Ukraine-Russia war and its impact.

— What is the history of bilateral ties between India and Ukraine?

— Map work: Location of Ukraine, Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia, Important places in news related to the Ukraine-Russia war.

Key takeaways:

— Whether that summit will be the next one or later is a question that will be something South Block needs to weigh in the pros and cons. The inaugural peace summit was held at a resort near Lucerne in Switzerland in June and was attended by more than 90 countries and global institutions with a sole focus on bringing peace to Ukraine.

For Your Information:

From the Editorial Page- “Momentous in Kyiv”

— Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s talks with the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in Kyiv must be seen as the beginning of a long overdue rebalancing in India’s relations with Russia and Ukraine.

—  Quite clearly, India is no longer self-deterred by a presumed “Russian veto” in expanding engagement with Ukraine. That no Indian Prime Minister travelled to post-Soviet Ukraine, the second-largest nation in Europe, underlines Delhi’s self-imposed restraint in engaging Kyiv.

— The political deference to Russian sensitivities also played a role in limiting India’s engagement with former members of the Warsaw Pact. Modi is the first Indian Prime Minister to travel to Poland since 1979.

— That no Indian PM has travelled to the Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia since the dissolution of the Warsaw Pact in 1991 underlines the long and regrettable political neglect of these countries. In contrast, India’s high-level engagement with these nations was impressive during the Soviet era.

— Delhi’s political emphasis on sustaining the Moscow links and preventing Russia from engaging with Pakistan at the highest level since the turn of the 1990s may provide some context for this neglect. But it does not absolve its decision to abandon high-level engagement with Central Europe even as the region’s global salience grew after it broke away from Soviet Russia and drew closer to the European Union and the United States.

— Delhi’s rebalancing does not mean a downsizing of India’s relationship with Moscow, which will remain a major power in the neighbourhood and an important partner, but an elevation of its engagement with Ukraine and Central Europe. India’s rebalancing sends a clear signal that Delhi will no longer let the ideological inhibitions inherited from the 20th century guide its European policy in the 21st.

Points to Ponder:

— What is the significance of Ukraine for India?

— What is India’s stand on the Ukraine-Russia war?

— How has the global support for Ukraine and what peace efforts have been made so far.

— What are the challenges in the India-Ukraine bilateral ties?

— What is the significance of Central Europe for India?

Post Read Question:

In the evolving global landscape, India needs to reconsider its relationship with Russia and Central Europe. Comment.

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

PM Modi in Kyiv today: Deep concern, offer all cooperation in returning peace via talks

The Editorial Page

On an upward arc

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance

Mains Examination: GS-II, GS-III: Bilateral agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests; Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests

What’s the ongoing story- C. Raja Mohan writes— “India is arguably better placed than most of America’s partners to deal with the incipient political change of guard in Washington. Whether it is the Republican candidate, former President Donald Trump, or the Democratic nominee, Vice President Kamala Harris, who wins the November election, India’s relations are unlikely to face any disruption.”

Prerequisites:

— Read about the history of India-US bilateral ties.

— What are the areas of cooperation between India and the US?

Key takeaways:

— “India has strengthened its relationship with the US under both the Trump and Biden administrations. Delhi, therefore, has reasons to be confident about continuity in its ties with the US.”

— “India’s relations with the US have been on an upward arc since President Bill Clinton visited India in March 2000. Presidents George W Bush (Republican), Barack Obama (Democratic), Trump (Republican), and Joe Biden (Democratic) pushed the relationship forward. In India, Atal Bihari Vajpayee (BJP), Manmohan Singh (Congress), and Narendra Modi (BJP) have also been as committed to the deepening of the partnership.”

— “The US is now the most comprehensive and consequential partner for India. China is a large trading partner but it is also the biggest contributor to India’s trade deficit. Delhi is also locked in a semi-permanent military confrontation with Beijing on its long and contested border.”

— “Russia is a major military partner, but the relationship does not have the economic or technological weight of Delhi’s relationship with Washington.”

— “Europe is a major source of trade, technology and capital, but does not have America’s geopolitical heft that can contribute to India’s national security objectives. Cutting across all this is the hugely successful five million-strong Indian diaspora in the US.”

— “The Russian question will continue to be a complicating factor in India’s relations with the US. PM Modi’s visit to Kyiv last week underlines Delhi’s commitment and capacity to carefully traverse the Ukraine minefield between Russia, Europe, and America.”

— “China’s challenge to Asian security has been a major source of strategic convergence between Delhi and Washington in recent years. The shared interest in building a multipolar Asia became explicit under Trump and acquired greater traction under Biden.”

For Your Information:

— Moving to deepen their defence ties, India and the United States have agreed to advance priority co-production projects, including jet engines, unmanned platforms, munitions and ground mobility systems, under the US-India Roadmap for Defence Industrial Cooperation.

Points to Ponder:

— What are the challenges to India-US bilateral ties?

— What is QUAD?

— What are the key defence agreements signed between India and the US?

(Thought Process: Know about the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement for Geospatial Intelligence (BECA), Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA), Communication Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA), and General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA).

— What steps should be taken to streghten India-US relations?

Post Read Question:

Europe is a major source of trade, technology and capital, but does not have America’s geopolitical heft that can contribute to India’s national security objectives. Considering this statement, analyse the importance of America for India.

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

Jet engines to munitions: India and US to speed up co-production

The Ideas Page

One election, many questions

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Indian Polity

Mains Examination: Parliament and State Legislatures

What’s the ongoing story- S Y Quraishi writes— “The issue of simultaneous elections, which has been hanging fire for over a decade, has now been placed on the precipice of the Red Fort by the Prime Minister in his Independence Day speech this year. He has renewed his resolve to implement the idea as soon as possible, most likely by the 2029 general elections.”

Prerequisites:

— Read the constitutional provisions related to the elections in India.

— What are Simultaneous Elections?

— Know about the Election Commission of India.

Key takeaways:

— “Several committees have gone into the subject and have not been able to find an acceptable solution. The last such effort is a high-level committee headed by the former president of India, Ram Nath Kovind. The mandate of this committee was not to debate the pros and cons of the proposal, but to suggest concrete ways to implement it.”

— “The committee presented a detailed report in record time, as mandated…It suggested a new article in the Constitution, namely 82A, which says, “notwithstanding anything contained in Articles 83 and 172, all the legislative assemblies constituted in any general election held after the appointed date shall come to an end on the expiry of the full term of the house of the people”.

— “In an explanation, the committee clarified that the expression “simultaneous elections” shall mean general election comprising Lok Sabha and all Vidhan Sabha elections together — leaving out Panchayat elections. For the latter, it proposes elections “within hundred days”.”

— “The report also says, “where any state legislative assembly is dissolved on account of no confidence motion, a hung house, or any other event, fresh elections will be held for such new house with tenure ending with that of the house of the people.” This doesn’t obviate a midterm poll. Imagine candidates spending crores of rupees on an election for a truncated term — as low as one to two years. This is certainly not a simultaneous election.”

— “The committee has, however, done well to re-emphasise the need for a single electoral roll, through amendment to Article 325, since the voters for all three tiers are the same. This virtually transfers the local bodies’ electoral rolls to the ECI “in consultation with State Election Commissioners” — certainly not an uncomplicated task.”

— “Those supporting simultaneous elections were of the opinion that separate elections cause a waste of resources. Though the majority of expert opinion held that amendments would need to be made to the Constitution and related laws, they emphasised that such amendments will not be anti-democratic or anti-federal, they will not be opposed to the basic structure of the Constitution, and will not result in a presidential form of government.”

Points to Ponder:

— What are the benefits of simultaneous elections?

— What are the issues and challenges associated with the simultaneous elections?

— What are the recommendations of the High-Level Committee (HLC) on “One Nation, One Election”?

— What electoral reforms have been introduced in India?

Post Read Question:

(4) With reference to the High-level Committee (HLC) on “One Nation, One Election”, consider the following statements:

1. In the event of a hung House, a no-confidence motion, or any such event, fresh elections should be held to constitute the new Lok Sabha or state Assembly.

2. The committee recommended the preparation of single electoral roll and electoral photo identity cards.

3. The Constitution should be amended to enable simultaneous elections.

How many of the above are the recommendations of the High-level Committee (HLC)?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

One Nation, One Election: Highlights of the Kovind panel’s recommendations

The 360° UPSC Debate | Does India Need Simultaneous Elections?

The ease of financing

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Economic and Social Development

Mains Examination: GS-II, GS-III: Government policies and interventions, Economic Development

What’s the ongoing story- Gourav Vallabh writes— “The Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY) was launched in 2015 by the Narendra Modi government. The initiative, which focused on igniting entrepreneurship, provided collateral-free micro-loans up to Rs 10 lakh and supported numerous small and microenterprises. The Union Budget 2024 has increased the loan amount to Rs 20 lakh.”

Prerequisites:

— What is the Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY)?

— What are the main objectivesof PMMY?

— What are the different categories of loans provided under the PMMY?

Key takeaways:

— “The Budget has targeted the scheme’s Tarun category for enhancement, doubling the upper loan limit to Rs 20 lakh. The move is set to benefit those who have already availed of and repaid previous MUDRA loans under this category. It is time to move towards a new version of the scheme – MUDRA 2.0.”

— “Its inclusive approach is a key feature of the scheme. About 69 per cent of the MUDRA loan accounts are held by women, and 51 per cent belong to SC/ST and OBC entrepreneurs.”

— “The initiative has also been crucial in creating jobs, especially in rural and semi-urban areas. It has encouraged self-employment and supported the development of small businesses.”

— “Despite its success, MUDRA 1.0 faced several challenges. One critical issue was ensuring that benefits reached the intended target groups, particularly the smallest and most marginalised entrepreneurs.”

— “Inadequate monitoring and implementation led to leakages and misuse of funds. The higher NPAs under the Shishu and Kishore categories are due to a lack of business knowledge and skills among early-stage entrepreneur…The limited financial literacy of beneficiaries was another significant challenge.”

— “In light of this experience, MUDRA 2.0 should widen its scope, improve its effectiveness, and establish a robust support system for micro-entrepreneurs. For this, a focused outreach and empowerment zone should be set up in rural and semi-urban areas.”

— “MUDRA 2.0 should introduce nationwide financial literacy programmes covering budgeting, savings, credit management, investment strategies, and digital literacy.”

For Your Information:

— Loans are classified as MUDRA loans under PMMY. Commercial Banks, RRBs, Small Finance Banks, MFIs and NBFCs can disburse these MUDRA loans. Three products namely ‘Shishu’, ‘Kishore’ and ‘Tarun’ were created under to signify the stage of development, funding needs of the beneficiary and also provide a reference point for the next phase of growth.

Points to Ponder:

— What are the key features of PMMY?

— What has been the impact of the PMMY on financial inclusion and employment generation in India?

— What are the issues and challenged associated with the PMMY?

— What initiatives have been taken by the Government for the financial inclusion and literacy?

Post Read Question:

(5) Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana is aimed at ( UPSC CSE 2016)

(a) bringing the small entrepreneurs into formal financial system

(b) providing loans to poor farmers for cultivating particular crops

(c) providing pensions to old and destitute persons

(d) funding the voluntary organizations involved in the promotion of skill development and employment generation

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

30 cr MUDRA Yojana loans for women entrepreneurs: What is Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana?

ALSO IN NEWS

SC panel stressed on environmental study for Gangotri route, BRO says not needed

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has told the Uttarakhand forest department and an Environment Ministry panel that the Chardham road project on the Gangotri-Dharasu route does not require either environment impact assessment (EIA) study or environmental clearance (EC), according to official records.The Gangotri-Dharasu route falls in the Bhagirathi Eco-Sensitive Zone (BESZ).

India, Singapore to identify new areas to elevate strategic ties

India and Singapore are going to hold the second round of ministerial roundtable Monday, which will review various aspects of their Strategic Partnership and identify new avenues to further elevate and broaden it.

Financial sector sees Rs 23k-cr pull out by FPIs on credit-deposit gap concerns

The financial services sector witnessed outflows to the tune of Rs 23,000 crore by foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) between July 16 and August 15, according to National Securities Depository Ltd (NSDL) data. Analysts said that selling by FPIs in the financial sector was mainly on concerns over slower deposit growth compared to loan growth, which can affect profitability of banks.

Prelims Answer Key

1. (a)  2. (a)  3. (c)  4. (c)   5. (a)

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Art and Culture with Devdutt Pattanaik | The significance of Vedas and their rituals

The three primary Vedas - Rig Veda, Sama Veda and Yajur Veda - were part of public rituals. Why was the Atharva Veda neither seen as part of the primary Vedic canon nor as part of public rituals?

Written by Devdutt Pattanaik

New Delhi | Updated: August 27, 2024 10:54 IST

Rigveda manuscript page (Source: Ms. Sarah Welch/Wikimedia Commons)

(The Indian Express has launched a new series of articles for UPSC aspirants written by seasoned writers and erudite scholars on issues and concepts spanning History, Polity, International Relations, Art, Culture and Heritage, Environment, Geography, Science and Technology, and so on. Read and reflect with subject experts and boost your chance of cracking the much-coveted UPSC CSE. In the following article, Devdutt Pattanaik, a renowned writer who specialises in mythology and culture, explains Vedic poetry, Vedic prose, and Vedic philosophy.)

When we talk about the Veda, we have to differentiate between Vedic poetry, Vedic prose, and Vedic philosophy. Vedic poetry is the oldest part of the Veda, which is over 3,000 years old. Vedic prose came later and was followed by Vedic philosophy. They were transmitted orally by Brahmin families and put down in writing less than 2,000 years ago.

Vedic poetry, or mantra, exists as collections or Samhitas. The Rig Samhitas are the oldest collection of Vedic poetry. There are about 1,000 poems divided into 10 books or mandalas. Ninety percent of these are invocations to gods who live in the sky, invited to a meal in exchange for which the host asks for success in worldly matters, such as having children, health, victory in battle and so forth. Ten percent are linked to various kinds of philosophies and speculations about the world.

Vedas and rituals

A portion of the Rig Vedic poetry becomes part of the Sama Veda, where words of the Rig Veda are turned into melodies. The melodies are of two types: the first is sung in the settlement called the Grama Gan, and the second is sung in the forest known as the Aranya Gan.

The Yajur Veda also contains many Rig Vedic poems. Additionally, it has a few original ones too. But these poems are specifically linked to performing rituals. There are special poems or mantras, known as yajus, which are meant to be said when performing certain ritual actions.

The Rig Veda can be said to be the lyrics, Sama Veda the music, and Yajur Veda the instructions, all three of which form the Trayi or the primary Vedas.

In many scriptures, it is these three that are considered the Veda. They were part of public rituals.

The Atharva Veda is also a set of poems, but these were primarily spells used for domestic matters such as health, good fortune, and to ward off malevolent spirits and people’s jealousy and anger. There are some speculative hymns here too, but generally, the Atharva Veda was not seen as part of the primary Vedic canon. They were not part of public rituals.

Brahmanas and Aranyakas

Rig Veda was compiled in the Haryana region. The other Vedas were composed in the Ganga-Yamuna basin east of the river Gandak. While Rig Veda refers to a nomadic pastoral people, the Yajur Veda refers to a people establishing farms and living a settled life, moving eastwards.

Over time, prose started being written. These were known as the Brahmanas and Aranyakas, which were meant to perform large congregational ceremonial rituals related to kingship. Aryanakas (forest texts) are for rituals performed outside the village. Brahmanas are prose texts of rituals.

The rituals were performed fortnightly on full moon days and new moon days, or they were performed every four months to mark the end of the pre-monsoon period, the monsoon period, and the post-monsoon period. They were also related to the king’s coronation and annual rituals to increase the king’s power.

These were gradually documented in the Sulba Sutras. However, these started losing value after 500 BCE when Buddhism arose in the eastern part of India. After this period, we find mostly domestic Vedic rituals becoming important, and these were documented in the Grihya Sutras. Another set of prose that emerged around this time was the Shastra literature, such as the Dharmashastras.

Vedic philosophy

After 500 AD, we find both Vedic poetry and Vedic prose losing their value and a gradual rise in Vedic philosophy, which is traced to the Upanishads. Seen from the present lens, we know that there were different Vedic schools across India. Each one focused on one poetry book, either the Rig Veda, Sama Veda, or the Yajur Veda. Each of these has a prose text and a philosophy or Upanishads.

But today, when people talk about the Vedas, they refer to Vedic philosophy or Vedanta. These became popular after 500 AD, especially after 800 AD, thanks to Adi Shankaracharya and those who followed him. In Vedic philosophy, ritualism is downplayed and more importance is given to philosophical ideas like Atma and its relationship with the human body and the world around us. These are concepts like moksha or liberation.

The ritual school or Mimamsa school eventually merged with temple practices. Even today, when people refer to the word Veda, they really refer to Vedic philosophy and very little to Vedic poetry, Vedic chanting, and Vedic rituals.

Post Read Question

Discuss the essence of the Vedas?

What are the salient features of  the Vedic period?

Comment on the significance of Vedic rituals in Hinduism.

What is the difference between the Vedas and the Vedic philosophy?

(Devdutt Pattanaik is a renowned mythologist who writes on art, culture and heritage.)

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UPSC Current Affairs Pointers of the past week | August 19 to August 25, 2024

Are you preparing for the UPSC Prelims 2025? Worried about your Current Affairs preparation? Don't miss out on important current affairs tidbits for your Prelims and Mains preparation. Learn about the Orangutan, recent visits by Prime Minister Modi, Tarang Shakti-2024, the Justice Hema Committee Report, Paris Paralympics and more. You can also test your knowledge by solving MCQs.

Written by Khushboo Kumari

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 11:13 IST

Currently, the orangutan population stands at about 120,000 and is threatened by rapid deforestation primarily due to palm oil plantations, according to a report by the World Wildlife Fund. (Wikipedia Commons)

UPSC Current Affairs Pointers is an initiative of UPSC Essentials to consolidate your prelims exam prep. Every Monday, take a quick look at last week’s current affairs tidbits curated specially for those preparing for UPSC, State PSC, and various other competitive examinations.

If you missed the UPSC Current Affairs Pointers of the past week | August 12 to August 18, 2024, from the Indian Express, read it here.

🚨 The Indian Express UPSC Essentials brings to you the August edition of its monthly magazine. Click Here to read. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at manas.srivastava@indianexpress.com🚨

Polity

- Lateral entry in UPSC

—  Recently the UPSC has invited invitations for 45 posts (director, secretary, and joint secretary) through lateral entry without any provision for reservation however, the notification has now been withdrawn.

— The lateral entry was recommended by NITI Aayog in its three-year Action Agenda and Sectoral Group of Secretaries (SGoS) on Governance in 2017.

A timeline of the MUDA land ‘scam’

- MUDA Land Scam

— Karnataka Governor Thawarchand Gehlot has accorded sanction for prosecution against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah over the allotment of 14 housing sites in Mysuru to his wife in 2021 in exchange for 3.16 acres of land acquired from her by Mysuru authorities.

— It alleged that the CM’s wife was an illegal beneficiary of a controversial land exchange scheme that was devised by the Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA) in 2020 to resolve cases in which the authority had illegally acquired land without informing owners about the acquisition.

— The land was exchanged under the “50:50” Scheme- where land equivalent to half the acquired land is allotted in a developed area.

- Revised Model Foster Care Guidelines

— The Women and Child Development (WCD) Ministry has permitted single individuals-  including those who are unmarried, widowed, divorced, or legally separated — aged 35 to 60 years, to foster a child and adopt after two years.

— A single woman can foster and eventually adopt a child of any gender, a man can only do so for male children.

—  The revised guidelines have specified – to foster a child in the six to 12 years and 12 to 18 years age brackets, the “composite age of the married couple” is to be a minimum of 70 years, while a single foster parent is to be of minimum 35 years.

Environment

- Orangutan diplomacy

— In line with China’s ‘Panda diplomacy,’ Malaysia announced its own ‘Orangutan diplomacy’ in May this year, intending to gift orangutans to palm oil-buying countries. However, after widespread criticism regarding the removal of orangutans from their natural habitat, the policy has been changed.

— According to the latest proposal, importers of Malaysian palm oil will be offered to “sponsor” one or more orangutans.

— Malaysia, the world’s second-largest palm oil producer, has been under immense pressure to make its palm oil industry more sustainable.

— These apes are found in the rainforests of the islands of Borneo and Sumatra — shared by Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei.

Orangutans have an element of yogic gentleness about them (Wikimedia Commons)

- Orangutan Status

— Orangutans are found only in Indonesia and Malaysia.

— IUCN Red List of Threatened Species: Critically Endangered

— Species: Bornean (Pongo pygmaeus), Sumatran (Pongo abelii), and Tapanuli orangutan (Pongo tapanuliensis).

(Source: iucn.org)

Bilateral Relationship

PM Narendra Modi paid respects at the Jam Saheb of Nawanagar Memorial in Warsaw, Poland. (X/@PMOIndia)

- Jamsaheb Memorial Youth Exchange Programme

— Recently, the Prime Minister of India visited Poland. This was the first visit by the Indian Prime Minister after 45 years.

— During the visit, he noted that the Dobry Maharaja, Kolhapur, and Battle of Monte Cassino memorials were shining examples of vibrant people-to-people ties

— He paid tribute to the Dobry Maharaja Memorial in Warsaw, which honors the Jamsaheb of Nawanagar, Digvijaysinhji Ranjitsinhji Jadeja, for sheltering over a thousand Polish children during World War II. The Jamsaheb, from modern-day Jamnagar in Gujarat, is fondly remembered in Poland as the “Dobry (Good) Maharaja.

— PM Modi also paid tributes at the monument dedicated to the Battle of Monte Cassino. This Monument commemorates the sacrifice and valour of soldiers from Poland, India, and other countries who fought alongside each other in the famous Battle of Monte Cassino in Italy during the Second World War.

Ibrahim began his three-day visit to India on Monday night in his first trip to the country as the prime minister. (X/ anwaribrahim)

- India-Malaysia

— Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is on a three-day visit to India. This is Ibrahim’s first visit to India as the Prime Minister.

— Malaysia appreciated India’s initiative in hosting the Voice of the Global South Summit (VOGSS), providing a platform by which countries of the Global South could deliberate and address their concerns, interests, and priorities as well as exchange ideas and solutions.

- India-Japan

— The third Japan-India 2+2 Foreign and Defence Ministerial Meeting was held in New Delhi. The next 2+2 Ministerial Meeting will be held in Japan.

— In defence cooperation, both countries welcomed the first air visit by Japanese fighters and their participation at Tarang Shakti.

— Tarang Shakti-2024 is the Indian Air Force’s first multinational air exercise. The phase-2 of the exercise is scheduled to be held in Jodhpur.

Science and Technology

- Californium

— On August 9, Bihar’s Gopalganj police seized what they suspected was a highly ‘radioactive’ substance Californium.

— Californium is a silvery-white synthetic radioactive metal with the atomic number 98 on the periodic table.

— It was first made in 1950 at Berkeley, California — from where it derives its name — Californium is a very strong neutron emitter and is used in portable metal detectors for identifying gold and silver ores, to help identify water and oil layers in oil wells, and detect metal fatigue and stress in aeroplanes.

— It is highly radioactive and prohibitively expensive, with one gram costing Rs 17 crore in the international market.

- Neffy

— The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved the first-ever nasal spray called Neffy for treating anaphylaxis.

— Anaphylaxis is a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction that demands immediate medical attention and an injection of epinephrine.

— Epinephrine is a hormone medication that relaxes the muscles in the airways and constricts the blood vessels, making it the only life-saving treatment for anaphylaxis.

- Mars Insight Lander

— According to the data from NASA’s Mars Insight Lander, the scientists have discovered liquid water on Mars.

— The Interior Exploration using Seismic Investigations, Geodesy and Heat Transport (InSight) robotic lander was designed to study the deep interior of the red planet. It landed on Mars in 2018 and retired in December 2022. It was the first spacecraft to document a marsquake.

The training will cover monitoring of patients for adverse effects and determining the appropriate line of treatment. (File Photo)

- BPaLM

— India is set to roll out training of healthcare professionals in administering BPaLM, after nearly two years of WHO recommendations to use it for drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB).

—  BPaLM is composed of bedaquiline, pretomanid, linezolid and moxifloxacin (BPaLM) for treating multi-drug-resistant or rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis (MDR/RR-TB).

- Tanager-1

— A coalition of companies and organisations developed tanager-1 which was launched by SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket on August 16.

— The satellite will use imaging spectrometer technology developed at Jet Propulsion Laboratory to track methane and carbon dioxide emissions.

— Methane is an invisible but strong greenhouse gas, and the second largest contributor to global warming after carbon dioxide that’s why researchers want to track it.

- Hayflick limits

— Leonard Hayflick, who discovered that normal somatic cells can divide (and thus reproduce) only a certain number of times, died on August 1 at the age of 98.

— He has discovered that cell division in somatic (non-reproductive) cells stopped after roughly 40-60 times. This cessation causes aging. This means that there is an in-built cellular clock in the human body. This “ultimate Hayflick limit”, as scientists have termed it, is around 125 years for humans.

Report

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan receiving the report of the Hema Commission from Retired Justice K Hema. (Photo: Facebook/File)

- Justice Hema Committee report

— In 2017, the Justice Hema committee was formed by the Kerala government based on the petition filed by the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) to study the challenges faced by women in the industry.

— The report was released on 20th August and it made significant revelations, highlighting extreme discrimination and exploitation faced by women in the Malayalam film industry.

Persons in News

- Maria Branyas

— Maria Branyas, the world’s oldest person, passed away at the age of 117 in a Spanish nursing home.

— Branyas became the world’s oldest person in January 2023 and celebrated her 117th birthday on March 4.

— According to the Guinness World Record, Tomiko Itooka became the world’s oldest living person at age 116.

- Rakesh Pal

— The Director General of the Indian Coast Guard Rakesh Pal dies of cardiac arrest on August 18.

— He had taken charge as the 25th Indian Coast Guard Chief on July 19 last year.

— Dinesh Kumar Tripathi is the Chief of the Naval Staff.

Places in News

(Just FYI: The location of places is important, considering that UPSC has asked several questions about places that were in the news, such as Aleppo and Kirkuk, in the 2018 UPSC Prelims. In 2014, a question was asked about the location of the Chechnya region. Similarly, in 2017, a direct question was asked about the Teesta River. The best way to remember these locations is to plot them on a map.)

- Chechnya

— Russian President Vladimir Putin recently visited Chechnya, a mainly Muslim republic within the Russian Federation. This marked his first visit in nearly 13 years.

— It is situated on the northern flank of the Greater Caucasus range. Grozny is the capital of Chechnya.

- Pokrovsk

— Civilians in Ukraine’s eastern strategic logistics hub of Pokrovsk have no more than two weeks to evacuate as Russian troops press towards it.

— The Pokrovsk front remains the area with the most intense fighting in eastern Ukraine.

— Myrnohrad (Ukraine), less than five kilometres further northeast of Pokrovsk, has also been under Russian artillery fire for three days now.

- Dipu Dara

— A massive landslide at Dipu Dara near Singtam in the Gangtok district of Eastern Sikkim damaged a dam on the Teesta river and affected the hydroelectric project.

— Teesta is a 414 km-long river flowing through the Indian states of Sikkim and West Bengal, before flowing into the river Meghna in Bangladesh. It is the fourth-largest trans-boundary river shared between India and Bangladesh after the Ganges, Brahmaputra and Meghna river systems.

Magic practitioner Xurobh Nath, who completed his BA from Mayang Anchalik College in 2013. (Express photo by Sukrita Baruah)

- Magic Festival – Mayong

— A ‘magic festival’ was organised by the district administration in Assam’s Mayong on 18th August.

— Mayong, a region in Central Assam’s Morigaon district, has long been associated with mysticism and ‘magic’ practices, including ‘magical healing’ and folk medicine.

Sports

(Just FYI: With the unpredictability of the UPSC examinations and questions like the ICC World Test Championship question 2021, you can’t be sure of anything. It is wise to know what it is and not go into too much detail.)

India’s Neeraj Chopra in action during the men’s javelin throw. (Reuters)

- Lausanne Diamond League

— Neeraj Chopra stood second at the Lausanne Diamond League with a javelline thrown of 89.49m.

— The first position was taken by Anderson Peters of Gernada with 90.61m javelline throw. The third position was acquired by  Julian Weber of Germany with a throw of 87.08 metres.

- Paris Paralympics

— Satya Prakash Sangwan has been appointed as the chef de mission (CDM) of the Indian contingent at the upcoming Paris Paralympics.

— The Paris Paralympics is scheduled between 28 August and 8 September 2024.

Terms making buzz

Prime Minister Narendra Modi being welcomed as he arrives at the Kyiv Central Railway Station from Poland to begin his one-day visit to Ukraine on Friday. (ANI Photo)

— Rail Force One: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Ukraine’s capital Kyiv from neighbouring Poland by train on August 23. This train is nicknamed as “Rail Force One.” The Ukrainian airspace has been closed ever since Russia launched its invasion in February 2022. Political leaders have since used trains to visit the country.

— Long-pimple rubber: It is a defensive ploy used in Table tennis. It puts the opposite effect on the spin that the opponent plays. If the opponent plays a backspin shot, when one returns with this rubber, the ball will have topspin and vice-versa.

— Fahrenheit 451: It is a book written by American writer Ray Bradbury which was published in 1953 at the height of the “McCarthy era” of political repression and persecution of left-wing individuals and ideas in the United States. It is about a dystopian society where books are banned, and “firemen” like the protagonist Guy Montag, are hired to burn them.

— Namdharis: This sect was founded by Satguru Ram Singh on Baisakhi in 1857. He challenged the status quo, advocated social reform, and resisted the Raj in various ways. The British inflicted terrible punishments on the Namdharis and deported Ram Singh to Rangoon.

Test Your Knowledge

(Note: The best way to remember facts for UPSC and other competitive exams is to recall them through MCQs. Try to solve the following questions on your own.)

A. With reference to river Teesta, consider the following statements: (UPSC CSE 2017)

1. The source of river Teesta is the same as that of Brahmaputra but it flows through Sikkim,

2. River Rangeet originates in Sikkim and it is a tributary of river Teesta.

3. River Teesta flows into Bay of Bengal on the border of India and Bangladesh.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 3 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

B. Which one of the following makes a tool with a stick to scrape insects from a hole in a tree or a log of wood? (UPSC CSE 2023)

(a) Fishing cat

(b) Orangutan

(c) Otter

(d) Sloth bear

C. Jamsaheb Memorial Youth Exchange Programme is started by India which of the following countries?

(a) Ukraine

(b) Poland

(c) Finland

(d) Italy

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UPSC Key | Unified Pension Scheme, Vigyan Dhara, Naxalism and more

Exclusive for Subscribers Daily: How are the Unified Pension Scheme and Vigyan Dhara relevant to the UPSC Exam? What significance do topics like Naxalism and Mpox have for the preliminary and main exams? You can learn more by reading the Indian Express UPSC Key for August 25, 2024.

Written by Roshni Yadav

New Delhi | Updated: August 27, 2024 10:42 IST

Centre approved the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS), which aims to provide ‘Assured Pension’, ‘Assured Family Pension’ and ‘Assured Minimum Pension’ for government employees. Know more in our UPSC Key. (PTI)

🚨 Attention: UPSC Key is now all 7 Days a Week!🚨

Important topics and their relevance in UPSC CSE exam for August 25, 2024. If you missed the August 24th, 2024 UPSC CSE exam key from the Indian Express, read it here.

🚨 The Indian Express UPSC Essentials brings to you the August edition of its monthly magazine. Click Here to read. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at manas.srivastava@indianexpress.com🚨

Front Page

Increasing its share, Centre rolls out new plan, guarantees 50% of salary as pension

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national importance

Mains Examination: GS-II: Government policies and interventions

What’s the ongoing story- The Union Cabinet on Saturday approved a new Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) for Central government employees which assures 50 per cent of the average salary drawn over the last 12 months of their service as pension.

Prerequisites:

— Read about the National Pension Scheme (NPS) and Old Pension Scheme.

— What is Inflation indexation?

— Read about the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA)

Key takeaways:

— To ensure this, the government has decided to raise its contribution towards the pension corpus to 18.5 per cent of the basic pay and dearness allowance of employees from 14 per cent now. This is estimated to entail an additional cost of Rs 6,250 crore in the first year. The employees’ contribution will, however, remain unchanged at 10 per cent of basic pay plus dearness allowance.

— To be effective April 1, 2025, the UPS will be available to all those who have completed 25 years of service in the government. Its other key features include a family pension to the spouse equal to 60 per cent of an employee’s pension income after death, a minimum pension of Rs 10,000 for those who have completed a minimum 10 years of service, inflation indexation to take care of price rise of goods and services, and a facility to withdraw a lump sum amount at retirement.

— The Cabinet announcement comes more than a year after the government had announced the formation of a four-member committee under the then Finance Secretary and now Cabinet Secretary TV Somanathan in April 2023 to review the pension system for government employees.

For Your Information:

—- Under UPS, the pension corpus would be divided into two parts and separately invested. The first part equal to 10 per cent of the contribution of the employee and the government towards the corpus will be invested as per the choice of investment made by the individual employee. The second part equal to 8.5 per cent of the government’s contribution towards the pension will be pooled and invested separately.

— Other features of the UPS include minimum pension of Rs 10,000 to employees whose service tenure is less and sufficient amount would not be there for pension for central government employees or those associated with the existing National Pension System (NPS). An assured minimum pension of Rs 10,000 per month would be given on superannuation after minimum 10 years of service to employees, an official statement said.

Points to Ponder:

— How is UPS different from the Old Pension Scheme and NPS?

— What are the benefits of UPS?

— What can be the impact of UPS on the long-term fiscal sustainability of the Indian economy?

Post Read Question:

(1) Who among the following can join the National Pension System (NPS)? (UPSC CSE 2017)

(a) Resident Indian citizens only

(b) Persons of age from 21 to 55 only

(c) All State Government employees joining the services after the date of notification by the respective State Governments

(d) All Central Government employees including those of Armed Forces joining the services on or after 1st April, 2004

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

Explained: In Unified Pension Scheme, extra burden on govt but no pushing back on reforms

Jet engines to munitions: India and US to speed up co-production

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance

Mains Examination: GS-II, GS-III: Bilateral agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests; Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests

What’s the ongoing story- Moving to deepen their defence ties, India and the United States have agreed to advance priority co-production projects, including jet engines, unmanned platforms, munitions and ground mobility systems, under the US-India Roadmap for Defence Industrial Cooperation.

Prerequisites:

— What is the history of India-US bilateral ties?

— Read about the US-India Roadmap for Defence Industrial Cooperation.

— What are Sonobuoys?

— Read about the MH-60R Seahawk helicopters.

Key takeaways:

— The US government also approved Friday the proposed sale of $ 52.8 million anti-submarine warfare (ASW) sonobuoys and related equipment to India for the multi-role MH-60R Seahawk helicopters being inducted by the Indian Navy to hunt submarines.

— Sonobuoys help naval ASW forces to track hostile submarines and subsequently hunt them with air-launched weapons. The ASW helicopters usually drop sonobuoys, which transmit information back via radio link, to track the locations of hostile submarines.

— On Thursday, India and the US signed two key pacts: a non-binding Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA) and a Memorandum of Agreement regarding Assignment of Liaison Officers.

For Your Information:

— The progress made in defence co-production projects comes at a time when the US is headed to polls, reflecting the bipartisan consensus there on the ties with India, especially in Indo-Pacific. Incidentally, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh was holding talks in the Pentagon the day PM Modi was in Kyiv, asking President Zelenskyy to sit at the table with President Putin and find a way out of the crisis over the war.

Points to Ponder:

— What are the areas of cooperation between India and the US?

— What are the key defence agreements signed between India and the US?

(Thought Process: Know about the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement for Geospatial Intelligence (BECA), Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA), Communication Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA), and General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA).

— What are the challenges to India-US bilateral ties?

Post Read Question:

Prelims

(2) With reference to the Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA), consider the following statements:

1. It is signed between India and Ukraine.

2. It is a binding agreement.

3. The arrangement will enable both countries to acquire the industrial resources to meet national security needs.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 2 only

(b) 1 and 3 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Mains

‘What introduces friction into the ties between India and the United States is that Washington is still unable to find for India a position in its global strategy, which would satisfy India’s National self-esteem and ambitions’. Explain with suitable examples. ( UPSC CSE 2019)

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

India-US together can ensure global peace, prosperity, stability: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh

After year in enclosures, Kuno cheetahs set to be freed into the wild

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance

Mains Examination: GS-III: Environment

What’s the ongoing story- After spending a year inside enclosures, the African cheetahs brought to India as part of the world’s first intercontinental translocation of the wild cats will soon be released into the wild again at Kuno National Park.

Prerequisites:

— What is the Cheetah Reintroduction Project?

— What is the IUCN status of Cheetah?

— Location on Map: Kuno National Park.

Key takeaways:

— The cheetahs were brought to the enclosures on August 13, 2023 after three adult cheetahs “died due to septicaemia after wounds beneath their dense winter coat on the back and neck regions became infested with maggots” in July. It was a major setback to the translocation project that began in September 2022.

— Currently, there are 25 cheetahs at Kuno — 13 adults and 12 cubs, born at the national park. Under the translocation project, 20 cheetahs were brought to India in two batches — eight from Namibia in September 2022 and 12 from South Africa last February — of which seven have died until this January. The adult cheetahs gave birth to 17 cubs, of which 12 survived.

For Your Information:

— Cheetahs are the fastest land animals and can, in short sprints on open ground, reach speeds in excess of 100 kph. Asiatic Cheetahs were once abundant in India but their numbers dwindled over the centuries due to loss of habitat and widespread hunting. The last cheetah in the country died in 1952.

Points to Ponder:

— What is the significance of the Project Cheetah?

— What are the challenges of the cheetah reintroduction project?

Post Read Question:

(3) Consider the following: (UPSC CSE 2012)

1. Black-necked crane

2. Cheetah

3. Flying squirrel

4. Snow leopard

Which of the above are naturally found in India?

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only

(b) 1, 3 and 4 only

(c) 2 and 4 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

One year of Project Cheetah: Hits, misses and paradigm shift ahead

The 360° UPSC Debate: Project Cheetah — Is it problematic, or is it too early to judge?

Govt & Politics

To boost research, Cabinet clears Vigyan Dhara, biotech initiatives

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance

Mains Examination: GS-II, GS-III: Government policies and interventions, Science and Technology

What’s the ongoing story- The Centre Saturday approved two key science initiatives to strengthen the research base and accelerate search for science and technology solutions to some of the country’s pressing needs in sectors like clean energy.

Prerequisites:

— What is biotechnology and its applications?

— What is Vigyan Dhara?

— Read about the INSPIRE program.

Key takeaways:

— The Union Cabinet decided to merge several existing science promotion programmes being run by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) under a new initiative called Vigyan Dhara that, it hopes, would result in better fund utilisation, and improve efficiency. It also approved a biotechnology initiative that will push for research and development, industrialisation and manufacturing in the biotechnology sector.

— Vigyan Dhara merges several existing DST schemes including the INSPIRE programme that works to attract young talent to science research. It has three broad components — human and institutional capacity building, research and development, innovation and technology development, and also deployment.

— On the biotechnology side, the new initiative aims to support innovation-driven research and development across six thematic areas.

1. The first will focus on bio-chemicals, bio-enzymes, and bio-polymers, which will mainly have industrial, consumer, and scientific applications.

2. The second pillar will focus on smart proteins and functional foods.

3. The third will focus on bio-therapeutics. Targeted therapy is emerging as the cutting-edge treatment for several genetic conditions and cancers.

4. The fourth will focus on agriculture, supporting development of bio-fertilizers and bio-pesticides.

5. The fifth will focus on developing bio-fuels and bio-chemicals, especially those that are developed from captured carbon emissions.

6. The last area was marine and space application to focus on developing products from marine ecosystems.

Points to Ponder:

— What are the benefits of Vigyan Dhara?

— What is the status of the biotechnology sector in India?

— What are the ethical and regulatory challenges associated with biotechnology in India?

— What measures have been taken by the government for promoting R&D in biotechnology?

Post Read Question:

Examine the Assess role of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in propelling the development of the biotechnology sector in India.

Ruthless strategy to deal final blow, will end Naxalism by March 2026: Shah

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national importance

Mains Examination: GS-II, GS-III: Government policies and interventions, Linkages between development and spread of extremism, role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security.

What’s the ongoing story- Declaring that the last fight with Maoists is near and it will be “ruthless”, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said the country will be free of the Left Wing Extremism (LWE) by March 2026.

Prerequisites:

— What is naxalism?

— What is Left-wing Extremism?

— Read about the Origin of Naxalism in India.

— Know about the Maoist-affected areas in Chhattisgarh.

Key takeaways:

— Shah said his two-day visit to Chhattisgarh is aimed at reviewing the implementation of all Central and state government-funded schemes and projects in LWE-affected areas and finding out ways to deal with the obstructions coming in the way.

— Shah said nearly 17,000 people, including Maoists, security forces and civilians, have died in LWE-related incidents in the country.

— Shah said a special drive will be carried out in LWE-affected areas to make all people literate, regardless of their age. He also said a new surrender policy will be brought in Chhattisgarh very soon and appealed to the youth to quit violence and take the path of development.

For Your Information:

— LWE in Chhattisgarh: Chhatisgarh is the only state in which Maoists continue to have a significant presence, and retain the capability to mount big attacks. According to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) website, there are 70 LWE-affected districts in the country. Of these, 15 are in Chhattisgarh alone. Of the 25 “Most LWE affected Districts”, seven are in Chhattisgarh, while eight are in Jharkhand

— Chhattisgarh, and to a lesser extent Jharkhand, is a part of the government’s “final push” against LWE. This has seen central forces such as CRPF setting up bases deeper inside Maoist strongholds such as the jungles of Abujhmad. In the past few years, more than two dozen bases have been set up in Abujhmad, with Kanker’s Rowghat jungles too seeing new camps.

Points to Ponder:

— What is the difference between terrorism and naxalism?

— What is a Red Corridor region?

— What are the determinants of left-wing extremism in the Eastern part of India?

— What initiatives have been taken by the government to counter Naxalism?

— What strategy should be adopted to counter the Naxalism in the affected areas?

Post Read Question:

Naxalism is a social, economic and developmental issue manifesting as a violent internal security threat. In this context, discuss the emerging issues gets a multilayered strategy to tackle the menace of Naxalism. (UPSC CSE 2022)

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

Anti-Maoist operations status report

Express Network

‘Tribals will be protected’: Govt defends Nicobar Infra Project

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance.

Mains Examination: GS-II, GS-III: Government policies and interventions, Infrastructure and environment

What’s the ongoing story- The Great Nicobar infrastructure project was granted statutory environmental, forest and coastal clearances after observing “meticulous due diligence” and after adhering to all rules and regulations, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav has said.

Prerequisites:

— What is the Great Nicobar Island Project?

— Know about the Island Coastal Zone Regulation (ICRZ), 2019

— Organisation to look for: National Green Tribunal.

— Know the Location, Extent and Major Islands in the Andaman and Nicobar groups.

Key takeaways:

— The project, which involves the construction of a transhipment port, an international airport, a power plant, a township and allied infrastructure in the Greater Nicobar island, was given a green signal by the environment ministry in 2022. The move invited criticism from the Opposition that said the mega project posed grave threat to indigenous tribal groups and flora and fauna.

— “It is only after due deliberations and after incorporating exemplary mitigation measures that the decision on the project was taken by the Central Government keeping the strategic, national and defence interests in mind and without compromising with the environmental and social aspects,” Yadav stated.

— The minister then went on to point out that the green clearances granted have withstood legal scrutiny before the National Green Tribunal (NGT).

— Yadav also reiterated the stand of an NGT-appointed high-powered committee and said that no part of the project fell in the Coastal Regulation Zone – IA (CRZ-IA) classification, where ports are prohibited.

For Your Information:

— The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a cluster of 836 islands, split into two groups — the Andaman Islands to the north and the Nicobar Islands to the south — by the 150-km wide Ten Degree Channel. Great Nicobar is the southernmost and largest of the Nicobar Islands, a sparsely inhabited 910-sq-km patch of mainly tropical rainforest in southeastern Bay of Bengal.

— Reasons for the Slow Pace of Infrastructural Development in the A&N Islands:

1. Distance from the mainland and difficulties in developing infrastructure.

2. Complex procedures for obtaining environmental clearances.

3. Significant coordination challenges among ministries, departments, and agencies.

— The Great Nicobar ‘Holistic Development’ Project was conceived by the NITI Aayog and the key plan includes construction of an international container transshipment terminal; township and area development, a 450 MVA gas and solar-based power plant, an airport for civilian and defence use.

Points to Ponder:

— What are the tribes found in Andaman and Nicobar?

— What are the issues and concerns related to the Great Nicobar Project?

— What is the significance of Andaman and Nicobar?

— What initiatives have been taken by the government for the development of Andaman and Nicobar Islands?

Post Read Question:

(4) Consider the following places:

1. Sabang (Indonesia)

2. Coco Island (Myanmar)

3. Hope Island (India)

Arrange these places in decreasing order of their distance from Andaman and Nicobar Islands

(a) 1—2—3

(b) 2—1—3

(c) 3—2—1

(d) 3—1—2

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

Explained: Legal challenges to the Great Nicobar infrastructure project

The World

WHO’s slow process under fire as mpox vaccines not reaching hard-hit Africa

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance

Mains Examination: GS-II, GS-III: Health, Science and Technology and important international institutions

What’s the ongoing story- There are no vaccines for mpox available in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the epicentre of a global health emergency declared last week, even though the country first asked for the shots two years ago and the manufacturers say they have supplies.

Prerequisites:

— What is Mpox and how is it transmitted?

— What is the history of Mpox outbreaks?

— Organisations to look for: World Health Organisation (WHO), UNICEF and Gavi,

Key takeaways:

— Three years after the last worldwide mpox outbreak, the W.H.O. still has neither officially approved the vaccines — although the United States and Europe have — nor has it issued an emergency use license that would speed access.

— One of these two approvals is necessary for UNICEF and Gavi, the organization that helps facilitate immunizations in developing nations, to buy and distribute mpox vaccines in low-income countries like Congo.

— While high-income nations rely on their own drug regulators, such as the Food and Drug Administration in the United States, many low- and middle-income countries depend on the W.H.O. to judge what vaccines and treatments are safe and effective, a process called prequalification.

— A new variant of the virus, spread by close intimate contact, has now crossed Congo’s eastern border into 13 countries, prompting the W.H.O. to declare a global health emergency on Aug. 14.

For Your Information:

— Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a self-limiting viral infection caused by mpox virus (MPXV). The most common symptoms of mpox include fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes, along with pox-like rashes that last for two to three weeks. It is a self-limiting disease but can lead to death, especially among children and those with weak immune systems.

— This is the second time that mpox has been declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). The global outbreak of mpox was first declared a PHEIC on July 23, 2022.

Points to Ponder:

— What are the powers and responsibilities of WHO?

— What does the WHO’s declaration of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) mean?

— What are the different virus clades of Mpox and how do they differ in impact?

Post Read Question:

(5) With reference to the Mpox, consider the following statements:

1. It was first discovered in humans in Nigeria.

2. It is not transmitted from animals to humans.

3. The vaccines developed for smallpox are up to 80% effective against mpox.

4. The World Health Organization (WHO) classified mpox as a global public health emergency.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) Only three

(d) All four

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

UPSC Issue at a Glance | Mpox and Public Health Emergency: 5 Key Questions You Must Know for Prelims and Mains

ALSO IN NEWS

Adani, Birla keen to tap Mongolian copper, but face logistics challenge

Two large companies Adani Enterprises Ltd and Aditya Birla group-owned Hindalco Industries Ltd are keen to source raw material from copper-rich Mongolia, but are concerned about the logistics of transporting copper concentrate from the landlocked Central Asian country to India.
Copper concentrates is a key input for refined copper, and India relies on imports for nearly 90 per cent of its supply due to limited domestic mining of this critical mineral. India imports its requirements almost entirely from Indonesia, Chile and Australia.

Mongolia exported copper ore worth $2.7 billion in 2022 and was the world’s 10th largest exporter of the commodity. Much of its exports go exclusively to China.

Prelims Answer Key

1. (c)   2. (c)   3. (b)   4. (d)   5. (b)

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UPSC Essays Simplified | Themes and content of psychological essays

In recent years, UPSC essay topics incorporating elements of psychology have become increasingly relevant. From Emotional Intelligence to motivation and more — here's how to structure and what to write in essays with psychological dimension.

Written by Manas Srivastava

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 10:52 IST

By exploring the themes and content ideas in detail, candidates can craft essays that are not only insightful but also demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between psychological principles and everyday life. (Source: Freepik)

UPSC Mains is approaching. One of the most popular questions in the aspirants’ minds for the mains preparation is: How to write essays for UPSC Civil Services Exams? We have an answer for you in the form of our this series.

In UPSC Essentials’ special series UPSC Essays Simplified, we take you through various steps of writing a good essay. While there is no set formula or fixed criteria prescribed, Manas Srivastava talks to Ravi Kapoor, our expert, in this new series who guides the aspirants with a simplified framework on how to write a good essay. Don’t miss ‘The Essay Exercise’ towards the end of the article.

About our Expert: Ravi Kapoor (Ex-IRS) offers free quality mentorship to UPSC aspirants, drawing upon his ten years of experience to create customised and productive curriculum. Through a free mentorship programme, he integrates tailored educational materials, psychological principles, visual learning techniques, and a strong emphasis on mental well-being into his teaching skills granting aspirants a chance to learn from his expertise.

From last 3 weeks, we have started to devote one article to each of the dimensions of essay topics and go into the details of the themes, so that you never run out of content while writing an essay on any topic. In past we have discussed spiritual essays ,  temporal Essays and ethical essays. Today, let’s talk about essays with psychological  dimensions.

Q. Why is it important to prepare Essays with psychological dimensions for UPSC?

In recent years, UPSC essay topics incorporating elements of psychology—such as intelligence, creativity, and emotional well-being—have become increasingly relevant. These topics require an understanding of psychological concepts, their application in everyday life, and their broader societal implications.

Drawing from previous UPSC essay topics, we can anticipate how these themes might be explored in the examination.

Q. What are the key themes and content ideas for essays with psychological dimensions?

1. The Concept of Emotional Intelligence:

“Emotional Intelligence is the Key to Success in Life”

Theme: Emotional intelligence (EI) involves the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our own emotions and the emotions of others. It is increasingly recognized as critical to personal and professional success.

Content Ideas:

Discuss the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership, particularly in public service. Use examples like Mahatma Gandhi, whose ability to connect emotionally with the masses played a significant role in India’s independence movement.

Analyze the role of EI in conflict resolution, both in personal relationships and in larger social contexts, such as peace negotiations or community mediation.

Reflect on the integration of emotional intelligence into the education system, with initiatives like the introduction of life skills education in Indian schools, which emphasize the development of social and emotional learning.

2. The Power of Creativity:

“Creativity is the Greatest Rebellion in Existence”

Theme: Creativity is often seen as a form of rebellion against conventional thinking, leading to innovation and progress. This theme invites exploration of how creativity drives societal change.

Content Ideas:

Discuss the role of creativity in innovation and entrepreneurship, using examples like India’s tech industry, where creative problem-solving has led to the emergence of successful startups.

Reflect on the role of creativity in the arts and culture, such as the Indian film industry (Bollywood), which blends traditional narratives with innovative storytelling techniques to reach a global audience.

Analyze the importance of fostering creativity in education, where a balance between rote learning and creative thinking is necessary to prepare students for the challenges of the future.

3. The Psychology of Motivation:

“Success is 99% Perspiration and 1% Inspiration” (UPSC 2017)

Theme: This theme explores the balance between hard work and inspiration in achieving success, emphasizing the psychological aspects of motivation and perseverance.

Content Ideas:

Discuss the role of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation in achieving personal and professional goals, using examples of Indian sports personalities like P.V. Sindhu, who has demonstrated extraordinary perseverance and dedication.

Reflect on how motivation influences productivity in the workplace, drawing on examples from the Indian corporate sector where employee engagement initiatives have been used to boost morale and performance.

Analyze the impact of societal expectations on motivation, particularly in the context of India’s competitive examination culture, where students face immense pressure to succeed, sometimes at the cost of their mental well-being.

4. Intelligence and its Various Forms:

“The True Measure of Intelligence is Not Knowledge but Imagination” (UPSC 2016)

Theme: This theme challenges the conventional understanding of intelligence as merely the ability to acquire knowledge, emphasizing instead the role of imagination and creativity.

Content Ideas:

Discuss the multiple intelligences theory proposed by Howard Gardner, highlighting how different types of intelligence, such as linguistic, logical-mathematical, and interpersonal intelligence, contribute to success in various fields.

Reflect on the role of imagination in scientific discoveries and technological innovations, using examples like Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s contributions to India’s space and missile programs, where imaginative thinking played a key role.

Analyze the limitations of standardized testing in measuring intelligence, and discuss the need for a more holistic approach to assessing cognitive abilities in India’s education system.

5. The Role of Mindfulness and Mental Health:

“Mindfulness is the Art of Living in the Present Moment”

Theme: Mindfulness, or the practice of being fully present and engaged in the current moment, is increasingly recognized as vital for mental health and overall well-being.

Content Ideas:

Discuss the growing importance of mindfulness in managing stress and anxiety, particularly in high-pressure environments like the civil services or corporate sector in India.

Reflect on the integration of mindfulness practices into Indian schools and workplaces, where programs like yoga and meditation are being used to enhance mental well-being and productivity.

Analyze the impact of mindfulness on personal growth and self-awareness, using examples of Indian spiritual leaders like Swami Vivekananda, who emphasized the importance of inner peace and self-realization.

6. The Psychology of Success and Failure: “Failure is the Stepping Stone to Success” (UPSC 2017)

Theme: This theme explores the psychological aspects of dealing with failure and how it can be a catalyst for growth and eventual success.

Content Ideas:

Discuss the role of resilience in overcoming failure, using examples from Indian entrepreneurs like Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, who faced numerous setbacks before building Biocon into a global biotech company.

Reflect on the societal attitudes towards failure in India, particularly in the context of education and career choices, and how these attitudes can either motivate or discourage individuals.

Analyze the importance of a growth mindset, where failure is viewed as a learning opportunity rather than a setback, and how this perspective is being promoted in Indian schools and universities.

Q. How to structure the psychological dimensional essays?

To effectively address these themes in an essay, it is essential to maintain a well-organized structure:

1. Introduction: Begin by introducing the concept of pop psychology and its relevance in understanding human behavior and societal dynamics. Briefly outline the specific theme or topic of the essay and its importance in the modern world.

2. Main Body:

Psychological Insights: Incorporate key psychological theories and concepts, presented in a way that is accessible to the layperson, to provide depth to the discussion.

Practical Examples: Use relevant Indian examples to illustrate key points, demonstrating how psychological principles are applied in various contexts.

Contemporary Relevance: Connect psychological principles to contemporary issues, showing how they continue to be relevant in addressing the challenges of modern society.

Conclusion: Summarize the key arguments made in the essay, reflecting on the broader implications of pop psychology in shaping individual and collective behaviour. Emphasize the importance of understanding psychological concepts in personal and public life and suggest areas for further exploration or action.

By exploring these themes and content ideas in detail, candidates can craft essays that are not only insightful but also demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between psychological principles and everyday life. The use of previous UPSC essay topics as a reference enriches the content, making the essay more compelling and relevant for the examination.

The UPSC Essay Exercise

STEPS

ESSAY TOPIC
Smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities

ESSAY TOPIC FOR PRACTICE
The Process of Self-discovery has Now Been Technologically Outsourced

Identify the core themes (refer to ‘Deconstruction’ article: Click here)

Smile, ambiguities

Which idea from the psychological dimension can be used

non-verbal communication, manipulation, body language, empathy, emotional intelligence, mirror neurons, diplomacy, social protocol

Write an introduction as suggested in the previous article on ‘introductions’. (Click here)

Out of the many ways humans communicate, smile is the most ambiguous – it can mean malice or friendliness. We all learn to smile regardless of how we truly feel.
This underscores the ability of humans to fake their true emotions and the persistent necessity of social protocol to do so.

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Manas Srivastava

Manas Srivastava is currently working as Senior Copy Editor with The Indian Express (digital) and leads a unique initiative of IE - UPSC Essentials. He majorly writes on UPSC, other competitive exams and education-related projects. In the past, Manas has represented India at the G-20 Youth Summit in Mexico. He is a former member of the Youth Council, GOI. A two-time topper/gold medallist in History (both in graduation and post-graduation) from Delhi University, he has mentored and taught UPSC aspirants for more than four years. His diverse role in The Indian Express consists of writing, editing, anchoring/ hosting, interviewing experts, and curating and simplifying news for the benefit of students. He hosts the YouTube talk show called ‘Art and Culture with Devdutt Pattanaik’ and a LIVE series on Instagram and YouTube called ‘You Ask We Answer’.His talks on ‘How to read a newspaper’ focus on newspaper reading as an essential habit for students. His articles and videos aim at finding solutions to the general queries of students and hence he believes in being students' editor, preparing them not just for any exam but helping them to become informed citizens. This is where he makes his teaching profession meet journalism. He is also the editor of UPSC Essentials' monthly magazine for the aspirants. He is a recipient of the Dip Chand Memorial Award, the Lala Ram Mohan Prize and Prof. Papiya Ghosh Memorial Prize for academic excellence. He was also awarded the University’s Post-Graduate Scholarship for pursuing M.A. in History where he chose to specialise in Ancient India due to his keen interest in Archaeology. He has also successfully completed a Certificate course on Women’s Studies by the Women’s Studies Development Centre, DU. As a part of N.S.S in the past, Manas has worked with national and international organisations and has shown keen interest and active participation in Social Service. He has led and been a part of projects involving areas such as gender sensitisation, persons with disability, helping slum dwellers, environment, adopting our heritage programme. He has also presented a case study on ‘Psychological stress among students’ at ICSQCC- Sri Lanka. As a compere for seminars and other events he likes to keep his orating hobby alive. His interests also lie in International Relations, Governance, Social issues, Essays and poetry. ... Read More

UPSC Ethics Simplified | Utilitarianism : The Concept

In this series we begin with ethical theories from today. Let's start with the theory of Utilitarianism. From current events to the world of cricket – here's how the theory is applied.

Written by Nanditesh Nilay

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 10:53 IST

The theory of utilitarianism gives a chance to decision-makers to create a proper framework based on the beneficial and harmful consequences of that decision or policy.

Relevance: The topic is a part of UPSC CSE General Studies Paper-IV Ethics syllabus. Concepts are particularly relevant in the theory section. Aspirants will also find the article useful for their Essay paper and situation-based questions in personality tests. Moreover, the article’s essence will help aspirants professionally and in life.

Nanditesh Nilay writes for UPSC Ethics Simplified fortnightly. The first article will be a concept while the second article will be a caselet, based on the concept. Don’t miss the ‘Post Read Question’ below.

In the data-driven world, the term ‘ theory’ sounds heavy and mostly something which is otiose and of little use in our practical lives. In this context do you think that knowledge of ethical theories, apart from qualifying the examination, is still relevant for individuals and saves one from veering off from righteousness? Especially in governance where sometimes decision-making and ethical dilemmas are surrounded by an impregnable wall of past decisions.

Many experiences tell us that there is a huge significance of ethical theories in our day-to-day life and certainly in legislative, executive and judicial spheres. This is simply because the intent and meaning of all theories guide us in the direction of decision-making. Hence, in this series of Ethics Simplified we begin with ethical theories from today. Let’s start first by defining and explaining the theory of Utilitarianism.

Who were Utilitarian thinkers…

An English philosopher at the age of three began learning Latin. He was an economist and a legal scholar. He was also referred to as the Father of Utilitarianism. His name was Jeremy Bentham(1748-1832). Bentham with another English philosopher, John Stuart Mill( 1806-1873) worked hard to understand, explore and determine the best course of moral action in any form of decision making. They believed that the right choice of moral action is nothing but maximising the utility factor of that action.

But what is Utilitarianism…

Let’s first define utility. It is an inclusive term which is used to address net benefits produced by an action. This leads us to define utilitarianism. Utilitarianism as a principle advocates that from an ethical point of view, an action is right if the sum total of the utilities produced by a particular act emerges greater than the sum total of utilities generated by any other act. So here Bentham meant to express that any action can be evaluated through the moral lens of utility.

If the action is maximising happiness or pleasure and minimising suffering or pain among stakeholders who are affected by that decision, then that action or decision of the agent is the morally right decision.

In other words, all policies and distribution of benefits must carry the greatest measure of utility for people. Hence, a famous slogan coined by Bentham reads: “The greatest good for the greatest number.”

Examples…

Vaccination drive during COVID 19

Let’s discuss a few examples. The whole drive for vaccination at the time of the pandemic was certainly maximising happiness as it was seen as a ray of hope. However, there was also resentment as people were not sure about the effect of vaccination. But the more dominating question was the survival of the community. And it was indispensable.

Lockdown can be another example. One can debate on its time, magnitude and restrictions, still, no one can deny that the decision maximised utility.

Recent incident in UPSC coaching hub and Utilitarianism…

Three students lost their lives at a UPSC coaching centre in Delhi’s Old Rajinder Nagar due to flooding in its basement. (Express photo)

Interestingly utilitarianism itself guides us with the rationale of explaining why some decisions or actions are simply wrong or generally right. For example, cheating, apathy or negligence of duty is morally wrong. Recently we have seen that though UPSC coaching institutes were making a lot of money and providing benefits to the aspirants too, the death of students and their pathetic condition of living can be assessed and evaluated in terms of utilitarianism. Even utility in economics, influences the cost-benefit factor and defines efficiency where the desired output can be achieved by putting in the lowest resource.

Policy makers and Utilitarianism…

The theory of utilitarianism gives a chance to decision-makers to create a proper framework based on the beneficial and harmful consequences of that decision or policy. John Stuart Mill wrote, “The happiness which forms the utilitarian standard of what is right in conduct, is not the agent’s own happiness, but that of all concerned.” Here Mill shared wisdom for policy makers too who are involved in the policy formulation in the democratic form of government which promises the canvass of a welfare state. He further writes by quoting Jesus of Nazareth’s golden rule: “To do as you would be done by,” and “to love your neighbour as yourself” constitute the ideal perfection of utilitarian morality.”

Rahul Dravid and Utilitarianism…

Rahul Dravid (File image)

If you follow cricket you would remember that in a world where several zeroes in your salary determine your status and achievements, Rahul Dravid’s refusal of a cheque of seven zeroes was a jaw-dropping renouncement. Dravid insisted on pay parity with his assistants as a coach after the Indian men’s cricket team won the T20 World Cup title . Of the Rs 125 crore BCCI windfall to the team, the head coach was to get Rs 5 crore but Dravid reportedly wanted exactly what other coaches were getting — Rs 2.5 crore. This was a great gesture of maximising happiness among team members and others who heard about it. He defined the utility of an act, so beautifully. Also, he resuscitated utilitarianism from being understood only in terms of economics rather than ethically guided moral action.

So what…

It is apposite to read and explain utilitarianism more in terms of desired output or maximising happiness rather than just the cost. Ultimately, policies and benefits are for the betterment of the community. And that maximises happiness or serves as the greatest good for the greatest number.

Post Read Question for UPSC Mains:

“Society between equals can only exist on the understanding that the interests of all are to be regarded equally.” Discuss.

(The writer is the author of ‘Being Good and Aaiye, Insaan Banaen’ and ‘Ethikos: Stories Searching Happiness’. He teaches courses on and offers training in ethics, values and behaviour. He has been the expert/consultant to UPSC, SAARC countries, Civil services Academy, National Centre for Good Governance, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Competition Commission of India (CCI), etc. He has PhD in two disciplines and has been a Doctoral Fellow in Gandhian Studies from ICSSR. His second PhD is from IIT Delhi on Ethical Decision Making among Indian Bureaucrats. He writes for the UPSC Ethics Simplified (Concepts and Caselets) fortnightly.)

The Indian Express UPSC Essentials brings to you the August edition of its monthly magazine. Click Here to read.

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For your queries and suggestions write at manas.srivastava@indianexpress.com.

UPSC Weekly Current Affairs Quiz | August 18 to August 24, 2024

Brush up your current affairs knowledge with this week's top 15 questions and consolidate your UPSC-CSE preparation. Find answers along with explanations at the end of the quiz.

Written by Manas Srivastava , Nitendra Pal Singh

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 10:54 IST

Tamil Nadu has the maximum number of Ramsar sites (18), followed by Uttar Pradesh (10). Find a question on news Ramsar sites in India in today's quiz. (Source: Twitter/Supriya Sahu IAS)

UPSC Weekly Quiz is a current affairs-based quiz on relevant topics from the past week, curated for the aspirants of competitive examinations. Attempt the weekly quiz every Saturday and find answers to the MCQs with explanations.

🚨 The Indian Express UPSC Essentials brings to you the August edition of its monthly magazine. Click Here to read. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at manas.srivastava@indianexpress.com🚨

QUESTION 1

Which of the following statements are not correct about mpox?

1. It is spread primarily through close skin-to-skin contact with infected people.

2. It causes visible skin lesions.

3. It spreads faster than coronavirus.

4. There are no vaccines and treatments available for mpox.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 3 and 4 only

(d) 2 and 4 only

Explanation

— The World Health Organization has declared the ongoing outbreaks of mpox in Congo and elsewhere in Africa to be a global emergency, requiring urgent action to curb the virus’ transmission.

— Mpox, also known as monkeypox, is spread primarily through close skin-to-skin contact with infected people or their soiled clothes or bedsheets. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

— It often causes visible skin lesions that could make people less likely to be in close contact with others. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

— Mpox spreads very slowly unlike the coronavirus. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.

— There are vaccines and treatments available for mpox unlike in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Hence, statement 4 is not correct.

Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 2

With reference to the vaccine-derived polio infection, consider the following statements:

1. It is a strain related to the weakened version of the live poliovirus contained in the oral polio vaccine.

2. No cases of vaccine-derived polio infection have been reported in India.

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Explanation

— A two-year-old child from Meghalaya’s West Garo Hills district reportedly tested positive for polio — a highly infectious, debilitating, and possibly fatal viral disease that once afflicted millions but now has largely been consigned to the history books due to the development of an effective vaccine. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.

— A vaccine-derived poliovirus is a strain related to the weakened version of the live poliovirus contained in the oral polio vaccine (OPV). Hence, statement 1 is correct.

— ‘Polio drops’ are by and large safe — they have led to the successful eradication of the infection in most countries — but on rare occasions can trigger the disease in children with weak immune systems.

— The OPV is extremely effective in preventing the spread of poliovirus from one individual to another. Moreover, the ease of administering the oral drops, led to the OPV becoming the mainstay of the global polio eradication programme. That said, one of its drawbacks is that in rare cases it can not only trigger the infection, but can also lead to its spread to others.

Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 3

Consider the following pairs:

Ramsar site

Location

Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary

Gujarat

Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary

Tamil Nadu

Tawa Reservoir

Maharashtra

How many of the pairs given above are correctly matched?

(a) Only one pair

(b) Only two pairs

(c) All three pairs

(d) None of the above pairs

Explanation

— Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav announced three new Ramsar sites in Tamil Nadu and Madhya Pradesh, taking the total of such sites in India to 85.

— The new additions are the Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary and the Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu, and the Tawa Reservoir in Madhya Pradesh.

What are wetlands?

— According to the convention, wetlands are defined as “areas of marsh, fen, peatland or water, whether natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with water that is static or flowing, fresh, brackish or salt, including areas of marine water the depth of which at low tide does not exceed six metres”.

Ramsar site

Location

Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary

Tamil Nadu

Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary

Tamil Nadu

Tawa Reservoir

Madhya Pradesh

Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 4

Which of the following is/are the findings of the Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS), a payload of the Chandrayan-3?

1. The terrain around Chandrayaan 3’s landing sight is uniform.

2. The Moon’s crust was formed layer by layer.

3. The topsoil around the lunar south pole has a lesser-than-expected sprinkling of minerals.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Explanation

— Almost a year after Chandrayaan 3 landed on the Moon, Indian scientists have disclosed the results of a study conducted by one of the rover module’s equipment.

— The findings are the first to examine the composition of topsoil in the Moon’s southern latitudes, and they support the widely accepted idea that the lunar surface was covered by a sea of molten material shortly after the Moon formed.

— The data gathered by the Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS) also offer fresh information about the lunar surface’s elemental makeup, which can aid in understanding the Moon’s evolution.

— Scientists have reported three key findings:

(i) The terrain around Chandrayaan 3’s landing sight is fairly uniform; Hence, statement 1 is correct.

(ii) The Moon’s crust was formed layer by layer, which adds weight to the lunar magma ocean (LMO) hypothesis; and Hence, statement 2 is correct.

(iii) The topsoil around the lunar south pole has a greater-than-expected sprinkling of minerals which compose the lower layers of the lunar crust. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.

Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 5

The Malacca Strait lies in the territorial waters of:

1. Philippines

2. Malaysia

3. Singapore

4. Thailand

5. Indonesia

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 2, 3 and 4 only

(b) 1, 2, 4 and 5 only

(c) 1, 3 and 5 only

(d) 2, 3 and 5 only

Explanation

— The South China Sea sits between southern China, Taiwan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia and Malaysia.

— About a third of global maritime trade passes through the 3.5 million square kilometre (1.4 million square mile) seaway annually, according to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

— The South China Sea is a vital crossroads for both intra-Asian trade as well as for commerce with the rest of the world, especially Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

— The South China Sea is estimated to hold about 5.38 trillion cubic metres (190 trillion cubic feet) of proven and probable natural gas and 11 billion barrels of oil reserves, according to the US Energy Information Administration.

— The main current tensions are between China, the Philippines and Taiwan, the real threat to trade in the South China Sea could come in the Malacca Strait, which lies further south between Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore.

— The Malacca Strait is just 64 kilometres wide at its narrowest point and is already vulnerable to congestion and collisions. Over the years, the waterway has seen many incidents of robbery and piracy.

Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 6

With reference to the Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA), consider the following statements:

1. It is signed between India and Ukraine.

2. It is a binding agreement.

3. The arrangement will enable both countries to acquire the industrial resources to meet national security needs.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 2 only

(b) 1 and 3 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Explanation

— As Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reached Washington DC on a four-day official visit, India and US on Thursday signed two key pacts — a non-binding Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA) and a Memorandum of Agreement regarding Assignment of Liaison Officers. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.

— The SOSA will mandate the US and India to provide reciprocal priority support for goods and services that promote national defence. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.

— “The arrangement will enable both countries to acquire the industrial resources they need from one another to resolve unanticipated supply chain disruptions to meet national security needs,” said a statement issued by the US Department of Defence. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

— The SOSA arrangement encourages the defence industrial ecosystems of both countries to work together, and enhances the supply chain resilience.

— India is the 18th SOSA partner of the US after Australia, Canada, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, and the UK.

Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 7

Which of the following medicines comes under the fixed-dose combinations (FDC) medicines category?

1. Anti-allergic medicines with nasal decongestant

2. Painkillers

3. Combination of burn medicine silver sulfadiazine with an antiseptic agent

4. Combination of migraine medicine

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only

(b) 1, 3 and 4 only

(c) 3 and 4 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Explanation

— The Union Health Ministry has banned 156 “irrational” fixed dose combinations (FDC) drugs, including commonly used antibiotics, painkillers, and multivitamins used to treat fever, cough, and infections, with immediate effect.

— According to a gazette notice filed under Section 26 A of the products and Cosmetics Act 1940, the Ministry has forbidden the production, marketing, and distribution of these products due to associated health hazards.

— An expert committee constituted by the central government and the DTAB looked into the situation, and both agencies concluded that the chemicals in the FDCs have no clinical purpose.

— Fixed-dose combinations (FDCs), also called ‘cocktail’ drugs, are medicines that combine more than one drug in a single pill.

— The 156 restricted drugs include common combinations of anti-allergic medications with nasal decongestants, mucus-breaking syrups, and paracetamol. The list also contains antibiotics combined with acne cream and iodine solution. Some of the banned combinations include combining migraine medicine with one to reduce nausea, combining supplements such as menthol with aloe vera, and combining burn medicine silver sulfadiazine with an antiseptic agent, aloe extract, and vitamin.

Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 8

With reference to the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, consider the following statements:

1. The act was enacted as a special legislation to address incidents of sexual abuse of children.

2. The Act gives the well-being of the child paramount importance at every stage.

3. The Act makes it obligatory for anyone who has an apprehension that a child is being abused, to report the matter to the authorities.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None

Explanation

— The Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the alleged sexual assault of two four-year-olds at a private school in Badlapur, Mumbai Metropolitan Region, has named the school management in the first information report (FIR) for failing to report the incident, as required by the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.

— The two children were abused on August 12 and 13, allegedly by a member of the school’s janitorial staff. According to investigators, the father of one of the children contacted school officials after the youngster confided in her parents, but the school did not notify the police.

— The POCSO Act was enacted as a unique piece of legislation to combat child sexual abuse cases. The Act expanded the definition of abuse beyond the provisions provided under criminal law, which applied equally to adults and children. The Act prioritises the child’s well-being at all stages in its wording and substance. Hence, statements 1 and 2 are correct.

— The Act, therefore, makes it obligatory for anyone who has an apprehension that a child is being abused, to report the matter to the authorities. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

— The Act includes a provision outlining the procedure for reporting cases. Anyone who believes an offence has been committed against a child must report it to the Special Juvenile Police Unit or the local police.

— Section 21(1) states that “any person who fails to report the commission of an offence” or who “fails to record such offence…shall be punished with imprisonment of either description which may extend to six months or with fine or with both”.

— Section 21(2) prescribes a punishment of up to one year in jail, with fine, for “any person, being in-charge of any company or an institution (by whatever name called) who fails to report the commission of an offence…in respect of a subordinate under his control”.

Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 9

Which of the following pairs is not correctly matched?

(Person in news)

(Field)

Paetongtarn Shinawatra

Politics

Jerome Powell

Entertainment

Barry Wilmore

Space exploration

Shakib- Al-Hasan

Sports

Explanation

— At the annual Jackson Hole symposium, Jerome Powell said the ‘time has come’ to lower interest rates. While he did not furnish further details, the impacts of Powell’s observations will be felt the world over.

— Jerome Powell, the head of the US central bank, on Friday said that “the time has come for [monetary] policy to adjust”, setting the stage for interest rate cuts in the near future.

Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 10

With reference to Van Allen Belts, consider the following statements:

1. They consist of charged particles locked in place by Earth’s magnetosphere, which includes its magnetic field.

2. They are considered dangerous for humans.

3. “Challenger” mission will be the first non-government mission to perform a spacewalk and orbit Earth through these regions.

Which of the above statements given above is/are not corrcet?

(a) 1 only

(b) 1 and 2 only

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 3 only

Explanation

Why are the Van Allen Belts dangerous for humans?

— The Van Allen Belts consist of charged particles locked in place by Earth’s magnetosphere, which includes its magnetic field. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

— Earth’s magnetosphere traps high-energy radiation particles and protects our planet from solar storms and other threats to daily life from space. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

— While the outer belt holds high-energy particles from the sun, the inner belt is formed by cosmic rays that interact with Earth’s atmosphere.

— They were discovered by American physicist James Van Allen in 1958.

— The Van Allen Belts range from about 680 kilometres above Earth’s surface to what some estimates suggest is about 40,000 kilometres from the surface of the planet. And there’s a gap between the first and second belt.

— The inner “proton” zone is centred at about 3,000 kilometres from Earth’s surface and the outer “electron” zone is centred about 15-20,000 kilometres from Earth’s surface.

Polaris Dawn

— If it succeeds, Polaris Dawn will be the first non-government mission to perform a spacewalk. But not only that — it’ll do that about 700 kilometres (435 miles) above Earth. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.

— To compare: the International Space Station (ISS) orbits Earth at about 400 kilometres, where the radiation is less intense.

— It will also orbit Earth through regions of a highly-charged belt of radiation. There are two of these “Van Allen Belts”, an inner and an outer one.

Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 11

‘Hayflick limit’ is related to:

(a) cognitive theory

(b) boundaries of galaxy

(c) understanding of aging

(d) periodic warming of the ocean waters

Explanation

— Biomedical researcher Leonard Hayflick, who discovered that normal somatic cells can divide (and thus reproduce) only a certain number of times, died on August 1 at the age of 98. Hayflick’s discovery fundamentally changed the understanding of aging — especially the thesis that cells are capable of being immortal, and aging is simply a factor of externalities such as disease, diet, and solar radiation.

What is the Hayflick limit?

— In the early 1960s, Hayflick, at the time a researcher at the University of Pennsylvania, discovered that cell division in somatic (non-reproductive) cells stopped after roughly 40-60 times. This cessation in cell division is what Hayflick posited causes aging — as senescent cells (those that have stopped dividing) accumulate, one’s body begins to age and decline.

— This means that there is an in-built cellular clock in the human body (and that of other organisms) which determines how long one can live. This “ultimate Hayflick limit”, as scientists have termed it, is around 125 years for humans, beyond which no amount of diet, exercise, or even genetic tweaking against diseases can extend the human lifespan.

Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 12

Who are Dhangars, recently seen in news?

(a) they are a community of shepherds with populations in several states like Maharashtra, Gujarat and Karnataka.

(b) they belong to Meghalaya and follow a matrilineal system where lineage and inheritance are traced through women.

(c) they are tribes of Tamil Nadu recognised by barrel-shaped huts.

(d) they live primarily in the Raipur and Rewa districts of Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh and mostly earn their living by making bamboo handicrafts.

Explanation

— A large group of Dhangars recently marched to the office of the sub divisional officer in Khamgaon of Maharashtra’s Buldhana district, demanding a “grazing corridor” for their sheep and goats.

What is the Dhangar community?

— The Dhangars are a community of shepherds with populations in several states. Besides Maharashtra, they live in Gujarat, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, as well, and are known by other names such as Golla and Kuruba elsewhere.

— The Dhangars are on Maharashtra’s list of Vimukta Jati and Nomadic Tribes (VJNT), but have been demanding Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for decades. According to Dhangar leaders, the community is identified as “Dhangad” elsewhere in the country, and gets reservation as an ST.

Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 13

‘BlackGEM’ recently seen in news is related to:

(a) AI Piracy

(b) Carbonado or ‘black diamond’

(c) Black Hole

(d) Black Sea

Explanation

— The Dutch Black Hole Consortium, a group of scientists working on finding new black holes, recently unveiled a new app called Black Hole Finder that lets you aid astronomers identify new black holes.

— The app is free-to-use and is available on Android and iOS and can also be accessed from a web browser. According to the Black Hole Finder’s Google Play Store listing, the app lets you “explore the universe and learn more about these mysterious and fascinating objects” by using real data from telescopes and other astronomical sources to help scientists identify potential black holes.

— Black Hole Finder shows you images captured by the Chilean telescope array BlackGEM that is tasked with searching the skies for cosmic events called ‘kilonovas’.

Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 14

With reference to ‘Tanager-1’, consider the following statements:

1. It is a satellite developed by a coalition of companies and organisations, including NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

2. It can detect major emitters of carbon dioxide and methane.

3. It will measure hundreds of wavelengths of light that are reflected by Earth’s surface.

Which of the above given statement/s is are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 1 and 2 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Explanation

— Last week, a satellite developed by a coalition of companies and organisations, including NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, was launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

— Tanager-1, the satellite can detect major emitters of carbon dioxide and methane. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

— Notably, the launch has come just months after MethaneSAT — a satellite which tracks and measures methane emissions — was launched in March.

How will the Tanager-1 satellite track emissions?

— The satellite will use imaging spectrometer technology developed at Jet Propulsion Laboratory to track methane and carbon dioxide emissions. It will do so by measuring hundreds of wavelengths of light that are reflected by Earth’s surface. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 15

Which of the following committee’s report provides a damning indictment of the discrimination and exploitation faced by women in the Malayalam film industry?

(a) Kadiyam Srihari Committee

(b) Pam Rajput Committee

(c) Justice Verma Committee

(d) Justice Hema Committee

Explanation

— Acting upon a PIL, the Kerala High Court on Thursday directed the government to furnish before it in a sealed cover the full, unredacted report of the Justice Hema Committee, which looked into the problems faced by women working in the Malayalam film industry.

Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer.

Previous Weekly Quiz

UPSC Weekly Current Affairs Quiz | August 11 to August 17, 2024

UPSC Weekly Current Affairs Quiz | August 04 to August 10, 2024

UPSC Weekly Current Affairs Quiz | July 28 to August 03, 2024

UPSC Weekly Current Affairs Quiz | July 21 to July 27, 2024

UPSC Weekly Current Affairs Quiz | July 14 to July 20, 2024

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Manas Srivastava

Manas Srivastava is currently working as Senior Copy Editor with The Indian Express (digital) and leads a unique initiative of IE - UPSC Essentials. He majorly writes on UPSC, other competitive exams and education-related projects. In the past, Manas has represented India at the G-20 Youth Summit in Mexico. He is a former member of the Youth Council, GOI. A two-time topper/gold medallist in History (both in graduation and post-graduation) from Delhi University, he has mentored and taught UPSC aspirants for more than four years. His diverse role in The Indian Express consists of writing, editing, anchoring/ hosting, interviewing experts, and curating and simplifying news for the benefit of students. He hosts the YouTube talk show called ‘Art and Culture with Devdutt Pattanaik’ and a LIVE series on Instagram and YouTube called ‘You Ask We Answer’.His talks on ‘How to read a newspaper’ focus on newspaper reading as an essential habit for students. His articles and videos aim at finding solutions to the general queries of students and hence he believes in being students' editor, preparing them not just for any exam but helping them to become informed citizens. This is where he makes his teaching profession meet journalism. He is also the editor of UPSC Essentials' monthly magazine for the aspirants. He is a recipient of the Dip Chand Memorial Award, the Lala Ram Mohan Prize and Prof. Papiya Ghosh Memorial Prize for academic excellence. He was also awarded the University’s Post-Graduate Scholarship for pursuing M.A. in History where he chose to specialise in Ancient India due to his keen interest in Archaeology. He has also successfully completed a Certificate course on Women’s Studies by the Women’s Studies Development Centre, DU. As a part of N.S.S in the past, Manas has worked with national and international organisations and has shown keen interest and active participation in Social Service. He has led and been a part of projects involving areas such as gender sensitisation, persons with disability, helping slum dwellers, environment, adopting our heritage programme. He has also presented a case study on ‘Psychological stress among students’ at ICSQCC- Sri Lanka. As a compere for seminars and other events he likes to keep his orating hobby alive. His interests also lie in International Relations, Governance, Social issues, Essays and poetry. ... Read More

International Day for Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Abolition: The memory of Indian indentured labourers

Movements to end slavery around the world led to a surge in demand for labourers in plantation economies. Why and how did India and other south Asian colonies fill this gap by supplying a new version of ‘indentured labourers’ around the world?

New Delhi | Updated: August 27, 2024 10:57 IST

Girmitiyas in Trinidad. (Source: Wikimedia Commons)

— Aakanksha Jha

(The Indian Express has launched a new series of articles for UPSC aspirants written by seasoned writers and erudite scholars on issues and concepts spanning History, Polity, International Relations, Art, Culture and Heritage, Environment, Geography, Science and Technology, and so on. Read and reflect with subject experts and boost your chance of cracking the much-coveted UPSC CSE. In the following article, Aakanksha Jha recalls the history of slavery and Indian indentured labourers.)

Ever since the first sails were lifted on Nina, Pinta and Santa Maria (Ships of Christopher Columbus) in the last decade of the 15th century, the political map of the world underwent significant changes. Conquistadors and explorers like Ferdinand Magellan, Bartolomeu Diaz, Christopher Columbus, Vasco da Gama showed to their Portuguese and Spanish masters that the world was much more than the continent of Europe.

Routes to the ‘Orient’ (Eastern) world were searched with the clarion call of ‘God, Gold and Glory’. Within the next century, European colonisers occupied and divided the landmasses of newly discovered America, Caribbeans, Africa and Spice islands in South Asia.

This period in the 15th century was called the Age of Discovery, and slavery was a direct result of the same. A huge number of native men and women in the colonised and ‘discovered’ land were employed to do the plantation job of the colonisers. Thousands of hectares of native lands of the American mainland and the Caribbean were used for the plantation of sugar, cotton and tobacco.

Slavery and the plantation economy

This needed cheap labour round the clock. The colonisers used brute force to enslave the native unsuspecting population of Africa to fuel this plantation economy thereby giving birth to transatlantic slave trade. According to the Heritage collections of the UK Parliament, roughly 12 million slaves were shipped between 1500-1800, with Britishers alone accounting for 3 million.

Any version of modern American history cannot be written without mentioning slavery and the subsequent struggle for the emancipation of slaves. It was the Haitian Revolution of 1791- 1804 that led to the first struggle of slaves against their colonisers. Haiti was colonised after its discovery by Columbus in 1492. He called it La Isla Española. The Spanish colonisers literally mined gold from the Caribbean Island and after exhaustion passed it onto the French. It was from here that French colonisers took the reins of Saint-Domingue and Port de Paix (new trading stations in Haiti).

At the time of the French Revolution in 1789, the population of Saint Domingue was 5,56,000 with 5,00,000 slaves of African origin, 32,000 European colonisers and 24,000 affranchis (people of mixed European and African descent). Revolt started during the night of August 22-23, 1791 in Saint Domingue which lasted till 1804.

It was the joint revolution of affranchis and slaves working in the Haitian plantation economy that resulted in the birth of the first slavery free country in the world.

By 1804, the world had its first slavery-free country, i.e. Haiti (a native origin Arawak name) under Jean Jacques Dessalines, a former slave of African origin.

Therefore, August 23 is commemorated as the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave trade and its Abolition.

Abolitionist movements

The saga of slave emancipation did not end here but next unfolded in the isles of British dominions. In the 1830s, the abolitionists started gaining weight in British politics. These were the group of politicians and merchants in Britain who wanted to end the slave-led plantation economy in the American and tropical British colonies. This was very unusual on the surface but if looked deeper within, had reasons in decolonisation politics.

Ever since the birth of the USA in 1776, Britain lost a big colony and its slave led plantation economy. It was not on amicable terms with the independent US and hence wanted to end the monopoly of big plantation economies like the US. British politicians with their new age Victorian liberalism and protestant ethics started talking against forced labour and instead supported ‘Laissez Faire’ or free trade policy.

This was coupled with abolition movements like ‘Baptist War’ in Jamaica in 1831 and anti-slavery movements in Upper Canada. All these led to the passing of the Slavery Abolition Act in 1833 by the British Parliament freeing roughly 8,00,000 slaves in Caribbean, South Africa and Canada. It received royal assent on August 1, 1834.

The American civil war

The biggest saga of slave emancipation was however starting to take shape in the courtroom of St Louis Circuit Court, Wisconsin in the US. A person named Dread Scott and his wife Harriet pleaded to the court to grant them freedom from bondage and servitude because they now lived in a ‘free state’ Wisconsin in 1846. Back then the US was divided in free and non-free states (slave state) as far as slave trade was concerned. Slavery was largely prevalent in the South American plantation economy.

The Supreme Court finally in the judgement to Scott vs. Sandford in 1857, opined that slaves were not part of the citizenry of the US and hence could not get protection of civil liberty from the Federal Government. This led to deep anguish and fissures in the political and social circles of the US. Abolition question in the US also snowballed into a constitutional crisis. Slavery and plantation fuelled southern states under Jefferson Davis started talking about the right to secede from the Union.

All these developments led to the American Civil War starting in 1861. The 13th and 14th Amendments to the US constitution argued for giving equal citizenship rights to all the men and women born on American soil thereby ending slavery and the overturning of the Scott judgement. President Abraham Lincoln emerged as the leader and biggest advocate of the abolition movement around the world.

In December 1865, slavery was abolished in the US. However, as the former slaves in the US and Caribbean began to breathe in free air, the air started choking for the cheap labour available in countries like India, Burma, Malaysia, Indonesia etc. Abolition movements around the world led to sudden huge demand for labourers in plantation economies around the world. India and other south Asian colonies filled this gap by supplying a new version of ‘indentured labourers’ around the world.

Indian ‘indentured labourers’

These labourers originating from mostly northern India, coastal Burma and South East Asia were made to sign an agreement by their employers. The agreement stipulated the wages for the period of employment, which ran into several years. The wage was not enough to secure a good earning, not the least for their return journey to their native land. The labourers who signed these agreements were new age slaves – bound by economic hardship in an alien land. Today as we see Indian origin diaspora in the Caribbeans or in Mauritius – they all bear an imprint of the indentured labour system.

Historian Brij Lal in his seminal book, Chalo Jahaji: On a Journey through Indenture in Fiji (2012), talks about his personal and community history of 60,000 Indians who travelled to Fiji during this time period. It is worth noting how these indentured labourers used to call themselves as ‘girmitiyas’ – the one who has signed the agreement or Girmit. The National Archives of India holds these agreements which sent Indians to places like Mauritius, British Guiana, Ceylon, Cape Colony, St Kitts, Windward Islands, Grenada, Kenya, Uganda, Trinidad and Jamaica – roughly accounting for 1.6 million labourers.

The National Archives summary notes that most of these labourers were mostly young, active, able-bodied people. They demanded agricultural jobs but were often ignorant of the places they agreed to go to or the challenges they were going to face. Before 1840, a large proportion of the labourers were so-called ‘Hill coolies’, aboriginal people from the plains of the Ganga. Later many others signed indentured labour contracts, including Hindus, Brahmins, high castes, agriculturists, artisans, Muslims, low castes (untouchables) and Christians.

Over 41,000 Bengali labourers were sent to Mauritius in 1834, but the Indian government banned ‘coolie’ shipments in 1838 because there were reports of repression and abuse. In 1842 the British Prime Minister Robert Peel directed the Indian government to re-open these lines of emigration under proper safeguards. A Protector of Emigrants was appointed to ensure that the labourers had adequate space, food, water and ventilation on the journey.

Emigration to Jamaica, British Guiana and Trinidad was legalised in 1844. Emigration to Grenada and St Lucia was legalised in 1856 and 1858 respectively. The last indentured labourers went to the West Indies in 1916. Repatriation continued for many years after the time limit. The last ship carrying returning emigrants left the West Indies for India in 1954.

Breaking silence on the history of slavery

In 1994, the UNESCO “Routes of Enslaved Peoples: Resistance, Liberty and Heritage” Project contributed to the production of innovative knowledge, the development of high-level scientific networks and the support of memory initiatives on the theme of slavery, its abolition and the resistance it generated. At the international level, the project has thus played a major role in “breaking” the silence surrounding the history of slavery and placing this tragedy that has shaped the modern world in the universal memory.

But for India, the memory of indentured labourers and emigration pain came alive when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau apologised in Canadian Parliament for the Komagata Maru incident in May of 2016. Komagata Maru was a Japanese ship carrying Indian emigrants to Canada in April of 1913. The Canadian authorities denied entry of the ship in Canada, starving the passengers of food and water, involved them in litigations and ultimately forced the ship to return to India by Sept of 1914.

This created a huge uproar in the Budge Budge port of Calcutta (Kolkata), leading to firing and death of 16 passengers. Incidents like these led to the Ghadar Movement in India against British imperialism. On the one hand, the Indian cheap labourers were sent to plantation colonies for rigorous work, on the other hand, educated Indians were never encouraged to travel to and work in other prosperous British dominions. Thus, the hypocrisy of British emancipation was long exposed and emigration became an important issue in Indian nationalism.

In recent years, memorials such as the Apravasi Ghat in Mauritius unveiled by the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in 2005, the Kolkata Memorial inaugurated in 2011 at the Kidderpore Depot and the Mai-Baap Memorial at the Suriname Ghat unveiled by former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in 2015 symbolise the tragedies of indentured slavery and the resilience of human spirit. They celebrate the momentous contributions of the diaspora originating from the indentured system in their adopted countries as well as the Indian spirit that these communities have kept alive all these years.

Post Read Question

Why is the International Day for the Remembrance of Slave Trade and its Abolition celebrated on August 23 every year?

Why were indentured labourers taken by the British from India to their colonies? Have they been able to preserve their cultural identity over there?

Discuss the role of Mahatma Gandhi in the abolition of Indentured servitude from India.

(Aakanksha Jha teaches at the Delhi University.)

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UPSC Essentials | Daily subject-wise quiz : International Relations MCQs on Nord Stream, Tower of Hercules and more (Week 72)

Are you preparing for UPSC CSE Prelims 2025? Check your progress and revise your topics through this quiz on International Relations.

Written by Nitendra Pal Singh

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 10:55 IST

At least 150 civilians from Rohingya minority may have been killed this week in an artillery and drone attack in the western state of Rakhine that is being blamed on the Arakan Army, a major force in the resistance to military rule. Find a question on Rakhine State in today's quiz. (AP Photo/Bernat Armangue)

UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative of subject-wise quizzes. These quizzes are designed to help you revise some of the most important topics from the static part of the syllabus. Attempt today’s subject quiz on the International Relations Quiz to check your progress. Come back tomorrow to solve the MCQs on Weekly Current Affairs.

🚨 The Indian Express UPSC Essentials brings to you the August edition of its monthly magazine. Click Here to read. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at manas.srivastava@indianexpress.com🚨

QUESTION 1

The Nord Stream route passes through:

1. Sweden

2. Russia

3. Netherlands

4. Germany

5. Norway

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only

(b) 3, 4 and 5 only

(c) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only

(d) 1, 2 and 4 only

Explanation

— Almost two years after the September 2022 bombing of the Nord Stream pipelines under the Baltic Sea, it is still unknown who damaged the pipes. The devastation of pipelines carrying natural gas from Russia to Germany aggravated Europe’s energy crisis following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

— The Nord Stream twin pipeline system spans the Baltic Sea, connecting Vyborg, Russia, to Lubmin near Greifswald, Germany.

— The Nord Stream route crosses Russia, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, and Germany’s Exclusive Economic Zones, as well as the territorial waters of Russia, Denmark, and Germany.

Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 2

The Tower of Hercules has recently been added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. It is situated in:

(a) Austria

(b) Germany

(c) Spain

(d) France

Explanation

— During the 46th session, the World Heritage Committee (WHC) decided to add the Tower of Hercules to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.

— The Tower of Hercules (Spain) has been a lighthouse and landmark at the entrance of La Coruña harbour in north-western Spain since the late 1st century A.D.

— It is divided into three smaller levels, with the first corresponding to the lighthouse’s Roman structure. A modest rectangular Roman structure stands just adjacent to the Tower’s base. The property also includes a sculpture park, Iron Age rock engravings called Monte dos Bicos, and a Muslim cemetery.

Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer.

(Source: whc.unesco.org)

QUESTION 3

Consider the following pairs:

Place in News

Description

Botswana

World’s second largest diamond with 2,492-carat discovered

Abu Dhabi

90-foot tall bronze statue of Lord Hanuman

Malaysia

First Mpox case reported in Asian country

How many of the pairs given above are correctly matched?

(a) Only one pair

(b) Only two pairs

(c) All three pairs

(d) None of the above pairs

Explanation

Place in News

Description

Botswana

World’s second largest diamond with 2,492-carat discovered

Texas (U.S.)

90-foot tall bronze statue of Lord Hanuman

Thailand

First Mpox case reported in Asian country

Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 4

Rakhine State was in the news due to civil war among various religious groups. It is located in:

(a) Bangladesh

(b) Thailand

(c) Myanmar

(d) Sri Lanka

Explanation

— Many religious groups in Myanmar are caught between opposing forces who want to use ethnic tensions for their own purposes as the country’s civil war becomes increasingly complicated.

— This is the case in Myanmar’s Rakhine State, where fighting has been ongoing for months, centred on the townships of Maungdaw and Buthidaung. The majority of the population in the townships is Muslim, primarily Rohingya, however Buddhist Rakhine also dwell there.

— The Arakan Army (AA) is a rebel army that opposes Myanmar’s ruling military junta. It is the military wing of the United League of Arakan (ULA), the political organisation of the Buddhist Rakhine people.

— Human Rights Watch has published a comprehensive analysis detailing how Rohingya networks forcefully recruited up to 1,800 Rohingya in Bangladesh refugee camps and transported them into Myanmar to fight for the State Administrative Council (SAC) against the Arakan Army.

Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer.

QUESTION 5

Which of the following countries are part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC)?

1. Malawi

2. Mozambique

3. Niger

4. Mali

5. Seychelles

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2, 3 and 4 only

(c) 1, 2, 4 and 5 only

(d) 1, 2 and 5 only

Explanation

— African leaders met in Zimbabwe for a scheduled meeting of the 16-nation Southern African Development Community to examine the continent’s escalating mpox outbreaks, but it is unlikely that it would address international worries about its host’s human rights record.

— The Southern African Development Community (SADC) is a Regional Economic Community made up of 16 member countries: Angola, Botswana, the Comoros, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, the United Republic of Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Zambia.

— SADC’s mission is to promote sustainable and equitable economic growth and socioeconomic development through efficient, productive systems, deeper cooperation and integration, good governance, and long-term peace and security, thereby positioning the region as a competitive and effective player in international relations and the global economy.

— Congo accounts for more than 90% of all mpox cases in the SADC area.

— Only a few cases have been reported in South Africa and other southern African countries, but the Democratic Alliance said Congo’s massive outbreak “shows just how fast the situation can change”.

Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer.

(Other Source: http://www.sadc.int)

Previous Daily Subject-Wise-Quiz

Daily subject-wise quiz — Polity and Governance (Week 72)

Daily Subject-wise quiz — History, Culture, and Social Issues (Week 72)

Daily subject-wise quiz — Environment, Geography, Science and Technology (Week 72)

Daily subject-wise quiz — Economy (Week 72)

Daily subject-wise quiz – International Relations (Week 71)

Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter and stay updated with the news cues from the past week.

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UPSC Essentials | Mains answer practice — GS 1 : Questions on Indian freedom struggle and waterspouts (Week 65)

Are you preparing for UPSC CSE 2024 or CSE 2025? Here are questions from GS paper 1 for this week with essential points as the fodder for your answers. Do not miss points to ponder and answer in the comment box below. Try them out!

Written by Nitendra Pal Singh

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 10:56 IST

Freedom like a whiff of fresh air engulfs the Raisina Hill. Men, women and children try to absorb the long awaited moment. Attempt a question on how Calcutta became a significant centre for revolutionary activities during the Indian freedom struggle. (Image Source: PIB)

UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative for the practice of Mains answer writing. It covers essential topics of static and dynamic parts of the UPSC Civil Services syllabus covered under various GS papers. This answer-writing practice is designed to help you as a value addition to your UPSC CSE Mains. Attempt today’s answer writing on questions related to topics of GS-1 to check your progress.

🚨 The Indian Express UPSC Essentials brings to you the August edition of its monthly magazine. Click Here to read. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at manas.srivastava@indianexpress.com🚨

QUESTION 1

Discuss the factors that contributed to Calcutta (now Kolkata) becoming a significant centre for revolutionary activities during the Indian freedom struggle.

QUESTION 2

Discuss the phenomenon of waterspouts, including their formation, characteristics, and potential impacts.

General points on the structure of the answers

Introduction

— The introduction of the answer is essential and should be restricted to 3-5 lines. Remember, a one-liner is not a standard introduction.

— It may consist of basic information by giving some definitions from the trusted source and authentic facts.

Body

— It is the central part of the answer and one should understand the demand of the question to provide rich content.

— The answer must be preferably written as a mix of points and short paragraphs rather than using long paragraphs or just points.

— Using facts from authentic government sources makes your answer more comprehensive. Analysis is important based on the demand of the question, but do not over analyse.

QUESTION 1: Discuss the factors that contributed to Calcutta (now Kolkata) becoming a significant centre for revolutionary activities during the Indian freedom struggle.

Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers.

Introduction:

— In 1690, Job Charnock arrived at the Hooghly River, which is a branch of the Ganges. He leased three sizable settlements along the river’s east bank: Sutanuti, Govindapur, and Kolikata (Calcutta), serving as a trading post for the British East India Company.

— By the end of the 1800s, India’s political climate was changing quickly. A section of the Indian National Congress turned radical after becoming disenchanted with the moderates’ slow progress and with Lord Curzon’s increasingly dictatorial authority.

— The 1905 Partition of Bengal, which aimed to weaken Bengali nationalism, fuelled the emergence of radical tactics headed by figures such as Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal. Secret organisations such as the Atmonnati Samiti and Anushilan Samiti paved the way for more radical resistance to colonial control.

Body:

You may incorporate some of the following points in the body of your answer:

Factors that contributed to Calcutta (now Kolkata) becoming a significant centre for revolutionary activities

Eden Hindu Hostel, Lower Circular Road

— Presidency College, located in the centre of Kolkata, was founded in 1817 as Hindoo College and rapidly became a centre of student agitation, with students extending their screams for independence from the campus to Eden Hindu Hostel on Lower Circular Road. The hostel served as a fortress of resistance, with students storing stolen British weapons and ammunition in a steel trunk.

Laboratory of Acharya Ray, Upper Circular Road

— Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray, a prominent chemist and industrialist, had a particularly impressive laboratory. Its humble appearance belied the reality that it was a hub of revolutionary activity. Sister Nivedita, an Irishwoman who rose to prominence in the Indian independence struggle, frequently helped young revolutionaries gain entry to this den.

Saraswati Press, 32 Upper Circular Road

— The location, with its wrought iron gate and garage tucked away in the courtyard, is depicted by Bhattacharyya. Prominent individuals such as Jayaprakash Narayan, Subhas Chandra Bose, and Ram Manohar Lohia were frequent attendees at this press, producing publications and top-secret secrets. The Saraswati Library was located next door, and although it appeared to be a typical bookshop, it was actually a secret meeting place for rebels.

Paramount Sherbet, College Square

— It was founded in 1918 by Nihar Ranjan Majumder of Barisal (now Bangladesh). Inside the shop, there are black-and-white pictures of Bengal’s luminaries, including Rabindranath Tagore and Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray, who were previously regulars.

Parks

— Among them were Greer Park on Upper Circular Road, St. James Square at the intersection of Upper and Lower Circular Roads, and Sradhananda Park on Hedua Road. The parks, which once resonated with the passionate speeches of revolutionaries such as Barin Ghosh, have now become historical phantoms, barely discernible in Kolkata’s shifting tangle of street names and numbers since independence.

Conclusion:

— Calcutta became the epicentre of all cultural and political movements throughout India. This metropolis paved the way for India’s 19th-century Renaissance and Reformation. Raja Rammohan Roy, Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa, Swami Vivekananda, Rabindra Nath Tagore, Jagadish Chandra Bose, Satyendra Nath Bose (co-author of the Bose-Einstein Theory), and many more prominent figures contributed to Calcutta’s cultural history.

— Despite the growing popularity and passionate engagement of women in revolutionary activities, mobilising the masses proved difficult. With growing police crackdowns and the capital moving to Delhi, Bengali influence in national politics began to dwindle.

(Source: How Calcutta became a hotbed for revolutionary activities during the freedom movement by Nikita Mohta)

Points to Ponder

When was the capital shifted to Delhi?

Role of important leaders in freedom struggle

Important historical events related to Calcutta

Related Previous Year Questions

To what extent did the role of the moderates prepare a base for the wider freedom movement? Comment. (2021)

Examine critically the various facets of economic policies of the British in India from mid-eighteenth century till independence. (2014)

QUESTION 2: Discuss the phenomenon of waterspouts, including their formation, characteristics, and potential impacts.

Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers.

Introduction:

— A waterspout is a massive column of air and mist that rotates above a body of water. It is a smaller cousin of tornadoes and normally lasts about five minutes, though it can sometimes last up to ten.

— The average waterspout has a diameter of about 165 feet and winds of 100 miles per hour.

— Although waterspouts are more common in tropical environments, they can occur worldwide. They form when there is a high level of humidity and relatively warm water temperatures compared to the surrounding air.

Body:

You may incorporate some of the following points in the body of your answer:

Waterspout formation

— According to the National Weather Service, Dr. Joseph Golden distinguishes five stages of waterspout formation:

— Dark spot: A distinct round, light-coloured disc forms on the water’s surface, surrounded by a bigger dark region with unclear shape and diffused borders.

— Spiral pattern: A pattern of light and dark-coloured surface bands spiralling out from a black spot that forms on the water surface.

— Spray ring: A dense spinning annulus (ring) of sea spray, known as a cascade, forms around the black area, which resembles a hurricane’s eye.

— Mature vortex: The waterspout, which is now visible from the water’s surface to the cloud mass above, reaches peak organisation and intensity. Its funnel frequently seems hollow, surrounded by a swirling condensate shell. The spray vortex can reach a height of several hundred feet or more and frequently generates a visible wake and associated wave train as it advances.

— Decay: The funnel and spray vortex begin to disappear as the intake of warm air into the vortex decreases.

Impact of waterspout

— According to experts, the frequency of waterspouts is increasing as ocean temperatures rise.

— They are capable of overturning boats, damaging huge ships, and endangering workers at offshore wind farms.

— Waterspouts can cause strong winds, hail, and deadly lightning.

— Waterspouts can be life-threatening if they catch individuals off guard, such as employees at offshore wind turbines or passengers on a yacht.

Conclusion:

— Dr. Peter Inness, a meteorologist at the University of Reading, stated in an interview, “A research by scientists from the University of Barcelona, looking at waterspouts in the Balearic Islands, discovered that they are more common when the sea surface is quite warm. Currently, the sea surface in Sicily is 2.5 to 3 degrees Celsius warmer than the 1990-2020 average.

— However, waterspouts that make landfall are often weaker than tornadoes and dissipate fast, causing little to no harm. In these circumstances, they rarely travel far inland and pose little risk to life or property.

(Source: What is a waterspout, which may have sunk the luxury yacht off Sicily?, oceanservice.noaa.gov)

Points to Ponder

What is the difference between Tornadic waterspouts and Fair-weather waterspouts

What is the link between waterspouts and rise in ocean temperatures?

Related Previous Year Questions

How are the fjords formed? Why do they constitute some of the most picturesque areas of the world? (2023)

Discuss the meaning of colour-coded weather warnings for cyclone prone areas given by India Meteorological Department. (2022)

Previous Mains Answer Practice

UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 63)

UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 64)

UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 64)

UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 65)

UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 65)

UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 64)

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National Space Day: All you need to know for UPSC Prelims and Mains

What is the significance of the Chandrayaan-3 Mission? After a successful moonshot, what are the other important space missions of ISRO?

Written by Roshni Yadav

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 11:07 IST

India's first National Space Day theme is "Touching Lives while Touching the Moon: India's Space Saga." (Source: ISRO/X)

National Space Day commemorates the groundbreaking success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission, which achieved the safe landing of the Vikram Lander on the lunar surface on August 23, 2023. With this achievement, India proudly became the fourth country to successfully land on the moon, making history as the first to land near the southern polar region. India’s first National Space Day theme is “Touching Lives while Touching the Moon: India’s Space Saga.”

(Source: ISRO)

National Science Day

On February 28th every year, we celebrate National Science Day to honour the remarkable discovery of the “Raman Effect” by Bharat Ratna Dr. C.V. Raman in 1928. On this day, Dr C V Raman announced the discovery of the ‘Raman Effect’ for which he was awarded the Nobel Prize in physics in 1930.

Chandrayaan-3 Mission

The Chandrayaan-3 mission was India’s third lunar mission and second attempt to make a soft landing on the surface of the Moon. It was launched by Launch Vehicle Mark-III (LVM3).

The propulsion module carried the lander and rover configuration to a 100 km lunar orbit. The propulsion module had a Spectro-polarimetry of Habitable Planet Earth (SHAPE) payload to study the spectral and Polari metric measurements of Earth from the lunar orbit.

Launch Vehicle Mark-III (LVM3)

LVM3 is India’s heaviest rocket, with a gross lift-off weight of 640 tonnes, an overall length of 43.5m and 5m-diameter payload fairing (nose-shaped equipment to protect the rocket from aerodynamic forces). The launch vehicle can carry up to 8 tonnes of payload to the lower earth orbit (LEO), which is about 200 km from the Earth’s surface. But when it comes to the geostationary transfer orbits (GTO), which lie much further ahead, up to about 35,000 km from the Earth, it can carry much less, only about four tonnes. LVM3 made its first journey into space in 2014 and also carried the Chandrayaan-2 in 2019.

According to Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the Chandrayaan-3 mission’s three objectives were to demonstrate a safe and soft landing on the lunar surface, to demonstrate a Rover roving on the Moon and to conduct in-situ scientific experiments.

Characteristics of Chandrayaan-3

Chandrayaan-3 consisted of an Indigenous Lander module (LM), Propulsion module (PM) and a Rover to develop and demonstrate new technologies required for Interplanetary missions.

Payloads of Chandrayaan-3 and their objectives

Lander Payloads

1. Chandra’s Surface Thermophysical Experiment (ChaSTE): To measure the thermal properties of lunar surface near polar region.

2. Instrument for Lunar Seismic Activity (ILSA): For measuring the seismicity around the landing site and delineating the structure of the lunar crust and mantle.

3. Radio Anatomy of Moon Bound Hypersensitive ionosphere and Atmosphere (RAMBHA): To estimate the plasma density and its variations.

4. Laser Retroreflector Array (LRA): A passive experiment to understand the dynamics of Moon system.

Rover Payloads

1. Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS): To determine the elemental composition of Lunar soil and rocks around the lunar landing site.

2. Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscope (LIBS): For deriving the elemental composition in the vicinity of the landing site.

Propulsion Module Payload

Spectro-polarimetry of HAbitable Planet Earth (SHAPE): Future discoveries of smaller planets in reflected light would allow us to probe into a variety of Exo-planets that would qualify for habitability (or for presence of life).

What makes the Moon’s Polar Regions Special?

The polar regions of the Moon are distinct, as they are completely dark without sunlight, and temperatures can drop below 230 degrees Celsius, making equipment operation challenging. As a result, the Moon’s polar regions have remained untouched. Notably, the Chandrayaan-2 mission of India intended to land in this region in 2019, but it was unable to achieve a smooth landing and lost contact after impacting the surface.

Significance of Chandrayaan-3 Mission

The success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission is of great significance to India, as it established India’s reputation as a serious player in planetary exploration. It consolidated India’s position as a space power.

Compared to other countries, India has a comparatively low-budget aero-space programme. But the efficiency and cost-effectiveness with which ISRO carries out its projects have helped in building a formidable brand name for the space agency. Chandrayaan-3 was accomplished at a cost of Rs 615 crore (a fraction of the cost of an Airbus).

Amitabh Sinha writes—

“It is a landmark event, no doubt. But if you look beyond the event, it gives us a very important capability. It gives us physical access to another planetary body. The fact that we are only among a handful of countries with this capability means we are at the forefront of this technology. And therefore, we will be part of all decision-making related to future planetary explorations and even extraction of resources from space. We are naturally part of the club that formulates these policies.

Space capabilities will occupy a central place in deciding the equations between countries in the 21st century, and the influence they have in the international community. The important thing is that we should be able to participate and contribute on equal terms. And we should be able to play a more decisive role in space-related international decision-making processes. Chandrayaan-3 gives us that confidence and capability.”

Findings of Chandrayaan-3 Mission

After one year since Chandrayaan-3 landed on the lunar surface, Indian scientists have revealed the findings from studies carried out by one of the rover module’s instruments.

Sohini Ghosh writes—

“The findings comprise the first analysis of the composition of the topsoil in the Moon’s southern latitudes, and support the widely-accepted hypothesis that the lunar surface in the immediate aftermath of the Moon’s formation was covered by a sea of molten material.

The data collected by the Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS) also contain new information about the elemental composition of the lunar surface that can help to better understand the evolution of the Moon. The findings were published in the journal Nature on Wednesday. Scientists have reported three key findings.

1. The terrain around Chandrayaan 3’s landing sight is fairly uniform;

2. The Moon’s crust was formed layer by layer, which adds weight to the lunar magma ocean (LMO) hypothesis; and

3. The topsoil around the lunar south pole has a greater-than-expected sprinkling of minerals which compose the lower layers of the lunar crust.”

Artemis Accords

India is now a signatory to the Artemis Accords, an agreement with the other leading Space Agencies of the world – NASA (US), ESA (Europe), JAXA (Japan) and the CSA (Canada) — for moon exploration.

What are the Chandrayaan missions?

India’s Chandrayaan missions are aimed at lunar exploration.

Chandrayaan-1

Launched on October 22, 2008, Chandrayaan-1 was India’s first Lunar mission that took off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR, Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh. The Chandrayaan-1 gave a major fillip to the Indian space program as it was the country’s indigenously developed technology to explore the Moon.

A huge victory was achieved on November 14, 2008, when the MIP (Moon Impact Probe) was separated and it struck the lunar South Pole in a controlled manner. And with that, India became the fourth country in the world to hoist its national flag on the lunar surface. Chandrayaan-1’s biggest discovery was to find traces of water on the Moon, which was in itself a path-breaking achievement in international space science. This discovery gave the ISRO renewed interest in pursuing the Chandrayaan-2 for the mission to Moon. Besides this, the spacecraft also found water ice in the North polar region of the Moon as well as detected Magnesium, Aluminium and Silicon on its surface.

Why don’t some parts of the lunar polar regions receive any sunlight?

Unlike the Earth, whose spin axis is tilted with respect to the plane of the Earth’s solar orbit by 23.5 degrees, the Moon’s axis tilts only 1.5 degrees. Because of this unique geometry, sunlight never shines on the floors of a number of craters near the lunar north and south poles. These areas are known as Permanently Shadowed Regions, or PSRs.

Chandrayaan-2

Chandrayaan-2 consisted of an Orbiter (to orbit the planetary body), a Lander (intended to land on the Moon’s surface), and a Rover (designed to move on the Moon’s surface). The mission aimed to explore the south pole of the Moon. Launched in July 2019, the mission was only partially successful, as its lander, Vikram, and rover, Pragyaan, crashed on the Moon’s surface on September 7 of the same year.

Chandrayaan-4

The designs of India’s next mission to the Moon, Chandrayaan-4 — which will bring rock and soil samples back to the Earth — has been finalised, and will most likely happen in 2027, said ISRO chairman S Somanath said on the occasion of National Space Day.

After a successful moonshot, ISRO aimed for the Sun Through Aditya-L1

It was launched with the mission of observing and helping us better understand the Sun. Aditya-L1 is placed outside of the Earth’s atmosphere, and its instruments can study ultraviolet radiation from the corona, allowing scientists to better understand how it works.  Aditya-L1 consists of seven instruments to observe all radiation and charged particles. Its location is 1.5 million kilometres away from Earth, towards the Sun.

ISRO’s Next Goal: Gaganyaan

Announced in 2018, Gaganyaan is one of India’s most ambitious space programmes. Gaganyaan project aims to demonstrate human spaceflight capability by sending a crew of 3 members to a 400 km orbit for a 3-day mission and safely returning them to Earth by landing in the Indian sea waters. Just three countries – the United States, Russia and China – have executed human spaceflight missions till now.

The task of sending humans into the vast unknown and bringing them back safely is more expensive and challenging than the Mars and Moon missions. A successful execution would put India in the company of the US, Russia and China.

As stated on the ISRO website, the short-term goal of Gaganyaan is to demonstrate human spaceflight to Low Earth Orbit, while the long-term goal is to lay the foundation for a “sustained Indian human space exploration programme”. Success in its ultimate objective — proving that India is capable of indigenously developing this complex technology — would be a huge boost for ISRO.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hands over wings to astronauts-designate Shubanshu Shukla, Prashanth Balakrishnan Nair, Angad Prathap and Ajit Krishnan who have been selected to be the astronauts on India’s first crewed mission to space ‘Gaganyaan Mission’, at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), in Thiruvananthapuram. (PTI Photo)

The Gaganyaan mission is scheduled for next year. But before that two uncrewed preparatory missions, Gaganyaan-1 (G1) and Gaganyaan-2 (G2), would be flown, the first one later this year.

G1, scheduled for launch in December, will mainly test the safe re-entry of the spacecraft and its orientation upon its dive into the sea. The G2 mission will carry Vyommitra inside the human-rated pressurised crew module, where the astronauts would be seated in the actual flight. The robot will be tasked with recording all parameters that will be used to study the impacts of the flight on humans.

In February this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had introduced the four Indian Air Force pilots — Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair, Group Captain Ajit Krishnan, Group Captain Angad Pratap and Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla — selected for the Gaganyaan mission who have been undergoing training for the last few years.

POST READ QUESTIONS

(1) With reference to the following lines, answer the question below:

It is India’s heaviest rocket, with a gross lift-off weight of 640 tonnes, an overall length of 43.5m and 5m-diameter payload fairing (nose-shaped equipment to protect the rocket from aerodynamic forces). It made its first journey into space in 2014 and also carried the Chandrayaan-2 in 2019. Most recently, in March this year, it placed 36 OneWeb satellites, weighing about 6,000kg, in LEO, showing its capabilities to deliver multiple satellites into space. This was the second time that it made a commercial launch — the first one came in October 2022 when it delivered the OneWeb India-1 mission.

It refers to:

(a) LVM3

(b) GSLV

(c) PSLV

(d) None of the above

(2) With reference to the LVM-3, consider the following statements:

1. It is capable of placing the 4 tonne class satellites of the GSAT series into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbits.

2. It is a two stage launch vehicle.

3. It uses only solid propellant.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None

Mains

What is the significance of the Gaganyaan Mission? Discuss about the Test Vehicle Abort Mission-1 (TV-D1).

Prelims Answer Key

1. (a)   2. (a)

(Sources: isro.gov.in, Chandrayaan-1, What Chandrayaan-3 means for India as a space exploration player,  Chandrayaan-3 Mission , What the first findings from ISRO’s Chandrayaan 3 mission tell us about the Moon,Important Space Mission)

For your queries and suggestions write at roshni.yadav@indianexpress.com

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UPSC Issue at a Glance | Mpox outbreak and Public Health Emergency: 5 Key Questions You Must Know for Prelims and Mains

Recently, the World Health Organization declared Mpox a global health emergency. With the increasing cases of various viral diseases, it becomes crucial to understand Mpox and the significance of WHO’s declaration of a public health emergency.

Written by Roshni Yadav

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 11:02 IST

A nurse tends to a child suspected of having contracted mpox in DRC. (Reuters)

UPSC Issue at a Glance is a new initiative of UPSC Essentials to focus your prelims and mains exam preparation on an issue that has been in the news. Every Thursday, cover a new topic in Q&A format and don’t miss MCQs, Points to Ponder and key takeaways. Also, don’t forget to check the answers of MCQs towards the end of the article. This week’s topic is Mpox outbreak and Public Health Emergency. Let’s get started!

If you missed the UPSC Issue at a Glance | Bangladesh Crisis and India: 4 Key Questions You Must Know for Prelims and Mains from the Indian Express, read it here.

What is the issue?

The World Health Organization (WHO) has once again classified Mpox as a global public health emergency, following a surge in cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the spread of the virus to neighboring countries. With the growing cases of viral diseases and the threats presented by them to mankind, it becomes crucial to understand Mpox and the significance of a public health emergency from a broader perspective.

UPSC Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance; General Science

Mains Examination: GS-II, GS-III: Government policies and interventions, Health, Science and Technology

Other areas of relevance:  UPSC Aspirants will find it useful in Essays, and Current affairs for their Personality tests.

What will you learn from this article?

1. What is Mpox and how is it transmitted?

2. What is the history of Mpox outbreaks?

3. How is Mpox different from COVID-19?

4. What does the WHO’s declaration of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) mean?

5. Which diseases have been declared PHEICS by WHO?

Question 1: What is Mpox and how is it transmitted?

Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a self-limiting viral infection caused by mpox virus (MPXV). The most common symptoms of mpox include fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes, along with pox-like rashes that last for two to three weeks. It is a self-limiting disease but can lead to death, especially among children and those with weak immune systems.

Mpox is caused by the monkeypox virus, a species of the genus Orthopoxvirus. Two different clades exist: clade I and clade II. (Source: WHO)

What are the different virus clades of Mpox and how do they differ in impact?

According to WHO, there are two broad clades of the Mpox virus: clade I and II. Clade I leads to more severe disease and death than clade II in the populations where it is endemic. Clade II was behind the global mpox outbreak that began in 2022. At least 99,176 cases and 208 deaths due to monkeypox have been reported from 116 countries since 2022, according to WHO data.

In 2022–2023 a global outbreak of mpox was caused by a strain known as clade IIb. (Source: WHO)

A new offshoot of clade I virus, called clade Ib, was first reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 2023, and has been spreading through sex and other types of close contact.

How mpox is transmitted?

From person to person: Mpox spreads from person to person mainly through close contact with someone who has mpox. Close contact includes skin-to-skin and mouth-to-mouth, or mouth-to-skin contact, and can also include being face-to-face with someone who has mpox (such as talking or breathing close to one another, which can generate infectious respiratory particles).

It is also possible for the virus to persist for some time on clothing, bedding, towels, objects, electronics and surfaces that a person with mpox has touched. Someone else who touches these items may become infected. The virus can also spread during pregnancy to the fetus, during or after birth through skin-to-skin contact, or from a parent with mpox to an infant or child during close contact.

From animals to humans: Someone who comes into physical contact with an animal that carries the virus, such as some species of monkeys or a terrestrial rodent (such as the tree squirrel) may also develop mpox.

From humans to animal: According to WHO, Since many species of animals are known to be susceptible to the virus, there is the potential for spillback of the virus from humans to animals in different settings. People who have confirmed or suspected mpox should avoid close physical contact with animals, including pets (such as cats, dogs, hamsters, gerbils), livestock and wildlife.

Symptoms of mpox

Points to Ponder:

— Why does stigma related to Mpox matter?

Question 2:  What is the history of Mpox outbreaks?

On 14th August WHO declared Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern but this is not the first time we have seen the mpox outbreak. The history of mpox outbreaks dates back to the 1970s.

According to the WHO,

Caused by an Orthopoxvirus, mpox was first detected in humans in 1970, in the DRC. The disease is considered endemic to countries in central and west Africa.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that mpox has occurred sporadically in Central and East Africa (clade I) and West Africa (clade II) since 1970. In 2003, an outbreak in the United States of America was linked to imported wild animals (clade II). Since 2005, thousands of suspected cases have been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) every year.

In 2017, mpox re-emerged in Nigeria and has since spread within the country and to other destinations. In May 2022, an outbreak of mpox appeared suddenly and rapidly spread across Europe, the Americas, and then all six WHO regions. In 2022, outbreaks of mpox due to Clade I MPXV occurred in refugee camps in the Republic of the Sudan. A zoonotic origin has not been found.

Do you know?

This is the second time that mpox has been declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). The global outbreak of mpox was first declared a PHEIC on July 23, 2022. However, the current threat is more severe. The number of cases has skyrocketed this year, with the Democratic Republic of Congo alone reporting over 14,000 mpox cases and 524 deaths.

Question 3: How is Mpox different from COVID-19?

With the WHO declaration of Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), concerns have emerged regarding the severity of the disease. In this context, understanding the differences between Mpox and COVID-19 is crucial for better preparedness in controlling the viral infection.

Maria Cheng writes—

“Mpox spreads very slowly unlike the coronavirus. Shortly after the coronavirus was identified in China, the number of cases jumped exponentially from several hundred to several thousand; in a single week in January, the case count increased more than tenfold.

By March 2020, when WHO described COVID-19 as a pandemic, there were more than 126,000 infections and 4,600 deaths — about three months after the coronavirus was first identified.

In contrast, it’s taken since 2022 for mpox cases to hit nearly 100,000 infections globally, with about 200 deaths, according to WHO.

Are there vaccines for Mpox?

There are at least two vaccines currently in use for mpox, which have been recommended by the WHO’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization.
Last week, an Emergency Use Listing for mpox vaccines was triggered by the WHO, which will accelerate vaccine access for lower-income countries which have not yet issued their own national regulatory approval. This listing also enables bodies such as GAVI and UNICEF to procure vaccines for distribution in these countries.

There are vaccines and treatments available for mpox unlike in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. “We have what we need to stop mpox,” said Dr. Chris Beyrer, director of Duke University’s Global Health Institute. “This is not the same situation we faced during COVID when there was no vaccine and no antivirals.”

Points to Ponder:

— What is the difference between Pandemic, Epidemic, and Endemic?

Question 4: What does the WHO’s declaration of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) mean?

The WHO’s declaration of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) is its highest level of alert. A PHEIC is defined in the  International Health Regulations(IHR) (2005) as, “an extraordinary event which is determined to constitute a public health risk to other States through the international spread of disease and to potentially require a coordinated international response”. This definition implies a situation that is serious, sudden, unusual or unexpected; carries implications for public health beyond the affected State’s national border; and may require immediate international action.

Under the IHR — a legally-binding agreement that commits governments to certain actions when responding to the international spread of disease — the declaration of a PHEIC permits the WHO to issue temporary recommendations to national governments to support a coordinated and effective global response to such events.

By designating a disease outbreak as a PHEIC, the WHO can expedite research, funding, and global public health efforts to control and contain the disease.

Points to Ponder:

— Is PHEIC only confined to infectious diseases and may it cover events caused by chemical agents or radioactive materials?

— What are the criteria for declaring PHEIC?

Question 5: Which diseases have been declared PHEICS by WHO?

Since the IHR took effect in 2007, the following diseases have been declared PHEICS:  H1N1,  Ebola, Polio,  a second Ebola outbreak, Zika,  COVID-19, Mpox (Declared PHEICS twice . i.e., 2022 and 2024)

1. H1N1 Influenza: According to WHO, before the H1N1 pandemic in 2009, the influenza A(H1N1) virus had never been identified as a cause of infections in people. Genetic analyses of this virus have shown that it originated from animal influenza viruses and is unrelated to the human seasonal H1N1 viruses that have been in general circulation among people since 1977. The H1N1 (2009) virus continues to circulate as a seasonal virus and is included in the vaccines against seasonal influenza.

2. Ebola: It is a virus that can spread quickly and can be fatal in up to 90% of cases. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle pain and at times internal and external bleeding and can start to occur between two and 21 days from infection, according to WHO.  The virus is most often spread by close contact with bodily fluids of people exhibiting symptoms and with contaminated objects such as sheets.

3. Polio: According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Polio is a crippling and potentially deadly disease that affects the nervous system… Because the virus lives in the faeces (poop) of an infected person, people infected with the disease can spread it to others when they do not wash their hands well after defecating (pooping). People can also be infected if they drink water or eat food contaminated with infected feces.

The virus multiplies in the intestine, from where it can invade the nervous system and can cause paralysis. Once that happens, the patient is crippled for life because there is no treatment for the affliction. Polio infection, however, can be easily prevented by a vaccine.

4. Zika: A mosquito-borne disease—Zika virus—has gained global attention in recent years due to its potential to cause serious health complications, particularly in pregnant women and their unborn children. It mainly occurs in tropical and subtropical areas of Africa, the Americas, Southern Asia, and the Western Pacific.

It is infected by Aedes species mosquitoes, which are the same ones that spread dengue and chikungunya viruses, and bite during the first week of infection. It is primarily transmitted through mosquito bites, sex, and breastfeeding.

5. COVID-19: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever chills, sore throat.

Points to Ponder:

— What are the different strains of polio?

POST READ QUESTIONS

Prelims

(1) With reference to the Mpox, consider the following statements:

1. It was first discovered in humans in Nigeria.

2. It is not transmitted from animals to humans.

3. The vaccines developed for smallpox are up to 80% effective against mpox.

4. The World Health Organization (WHO) classified mpox as a global public health emergency.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) Only three

(d) All four

(2) Among the following, which were frequently mentioned in the news for the outbreak of Ebola virus recently? (UPSC CSE 2015)

(a) Syria and Jordan

(b) Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia

(c) Philippines and Papua New Guinea

(d) Jamaica, Haiti and Surinam

(3) H1N1 virus is sometimes mentioned in the news with reference to which one of the following diseases? (UPSC CSE 2015)

(a) AIDS

(b) Bird flu

(c) Dengue

(d) Swine flu

(4) With reference to the vaccine-derived polio infection, consider the following statements:

1. It is a strain related to the weakened version of the live poliovirus contained in the oral polio vaccine.

2. No cases of vaccine-derived polio infection have been reported in India.

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Mains

(1) COVID-19 pandemic accelerated class inequalities and poverty in India. Comment. (UPSC CSE 2020)

PRELIMS ANSWER KEY

1. (b)   2. (b)   3. (d)  4. (a)

(Source: http://www.who.int, Why WHO has called the latest mpox outbreak an ‘emergency of international concern’,  WHO declares Mpox a global health emergency again, Mpox declared a global health emergency: will it trigger another pandemic?)

PREVIOUS UPSC ISSUE AT A GLANCE

UPSC Issue at a Glance | Landslides : 5 Key Questions You Must Know for Prelims and Mains

UPSC Issue at a Glance | Economic Survey 2023-24: 4 Key Questions You Must Know for Prelims and Mains

For your queries and suggestions write at roshni.yadav@indianexpress.com

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What are combination drugs; why have 156 of them been banned?

The ban is the most sweeping crackdown on FDCs — which are combinations of two or more known drugs in single-dosage form — since 2018, when 328 such drugs were banned.

Written by Anonna Dutt

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 11:33 IST

In its notification issued last week, the central government termed these FDCs irrational, and said they do not have any therapeutic benefit. (Representational Image)

The government has banned 156 fixed-dose combination (FDC) drugs, including popular medicines such as Cheston Cold and Foracet, used for cold and fever and pain respectively.

The ban is the most sweeping crackdown on FDCs — which are combinations of two or more known drugs in single-dosage form — since 2018, when 328 such drugs were banned. A total 499 FDCs have been banned since 2014, officials said.

In its notification issued last week, the central government termed these FDCs irrational, and said they do not have any therapeutic benefit.

What are FDCs; whom do they help?

FDCs are medicines that have more than one active ingredient — chemical compounds in medicines that have an effect on the body — in a single pill, capsule, or shot. FDCs are meant for patients with conditions such as tuberculosis and diabetes for which they need to take multiple medicines regularly. FDCs reduce the number of pills the patient needs to take each day, and help improve adherence to the treatment.

Sometimes, however, an FDC could mean that a patient ends up taking a drug that they may not need. Cheston Cold, for instance, contains paracetamol for fever, cetirizine for allergy relief, and phenylephrine for nasal decongestion. So while this drug will help people who have these symptoms because of allergies, it is not really required for a bacterial infection.

Which FDCs have been banned?

Among the banned drugs are:

Several combinations of enzymes used for treatment of gastrointestinal problems;

Combinations of anti-allergic medicines such as levocetirizine with nasal decongestant, syrups that break down mucus, and paracetamol;

Combinations used for the treatment of skin conditions, including menthol with aloe vera; aloe vera with vitamin E in the form of medicated soap; silver sulfadiazine (used for burns) with an antiseptic agent, aloe extract and vitamin; calamine lotion with aloe and a natural substance (for skin irritation);

Combination of a migraine medicine with one to prevent nausea;

Combination of the drug mefenamic acid — usually used for menstrual cramps — with anti-fibrotic medicine tranexamic acid;

Combination of sildenafil, the active ingredient in the erectile dysfunction drug Viagra, with a drug that relaxes blood vessels and muscles.

Are these drugs still available?

Manufacturers have been told to immediately stop producing, stocking, and selling these drugs, says the government notification. However, they are likely to remain available in the market for some time. “We have seen that the companies usually go to court after such an order, and the courts allow them to sell the stock that is already in the market,” a senior Health Ministry official told The Indian Express.

So what can happen if you consume one of these banned FDCs?

These medicines may have been in the market for years, and thousands of people may have consumed them already. Having one now is unlikely to cause any harm.

What was the need to ban them, then?

These “irrational” combinations have been banned because they contain ingredients that either do not work well together or have ingredients that are not needed by patients to be taken together.

A major reason is to take combinations of antibiotics out of circulation, because the unnecessary consumption of antibiotics can lead to increase in antibiotic resistance — which means increasingly higher doses or stronger antibiotics are needed for the treatment of even simple infections.

Despite the earlier bans, a 2023 study found that FDCs as a proportion of total antibiotics sold in India had actually increased from 32.9% in 2008 to 37.3% in 2020.

The study noted that India has among the highest number of FDCs in the market anywhere in the world, many of which were potentially inappropriate. “In India, of the 4.5 billion standard units of antibiotic FDCs sold in 2020, 41.5% were attributed to combinations listed as ‘not recommended’ by WHO,” the study said.

n Another reason for the ban is the pricing control on essential medicines. The government decides ceiling prices for these medicines based on average market prices. Companies are known to create FDCs to escape the pricing control mechanism.

Why has the government acted now?

The action is in line with the government’s effort to weed out irrational medicine combinations that have entered the market over the years. These banned drugs were initially approved by various state licensing authorities without any trials for combinations because the ingredients were individually approved, the senior ministry official said.

“The new drugs and clinical trial rules of 2019 make it clear that fixed dose combinations are to be considered as new drugs, and as such have to be approved by the central drug regulator. This has helped in bringing down the number of these irrational combinations available in the market,” the official said.

In 2012, a parliamentary panel first highlighted the problem of irrational drug combinations receiving such approvals. The government set up a committee in 2014 to examine 3,450 FDCs approved for manufacture and sale in the country after 1988. The committee found 963 drugs to be irrational, and suggested an immediate ban. It also identified a set of FDCs which needed to be studied further. Of these, 499 have been banned so far.

Anonna Dutt

Anonna Dutt is a Principal Correspondent who writes primarily on health at the Indian Express. She reports on myriad topics ranging from the growing burden of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension to the problems with pervasive infectious conditions. She reported on the government’s management of the Covid-19 pandemic and closely followed the vaccination programme. Her stories have resulted in the city government investing in high-end tests for the poor and acknowledging errors in their official reports. Dutt also takes a keen interest in the country’s space programme and has written on key missions like Chandrayaan 2 and 3, Aditya L1, and Gaganyaan. She was among the first batch of eleven media fellows with RBM Partnership to End Malaria. She was also selected to participate in the short-term programme on early childhood reporting at Columbia University’s Dart Centre. Dutt has a Bachelor’s Degree from the Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication, Pune and a PG Diploma from the Asian College of Journalism, Chennai. She started her reporting career with the Hindustan Times. When not at work, she tries to appease the Duolingo owl with her French skills and sometimes takes to the dance floor. ... Read More

Why India’s weather forecasting needs an upgrade

The government is learnt to be planning a major upgrade of the IMD’s existing capabilities. Take a look at the science behind weather forecasting, and why there is a need for more precision in the wake of climate change-induced unpredictability.

Written by Amitabh Sinha

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 11:33 IST

IMD forecasting tools, THEN & NOW: Vintage meteorological instruments, some dating back to the 1850s, at IMD, Pune; Doppler radar at Colaba, Mumbai. (Express Archive)

Until not very long ago, India’s Met department seemed to exist mainly to provide rainfall forecasts during the monsoon season, or to tell the maximum and minimum temperatures in the four metropolises.

While the department was doing a lot of other valuable work as well, that did not seem to be of much relevance to the general public. Weather services were not a sought-after commodity — and even when available, were not taken very seriously.

This situation has changed dramatically over the last decade or so — on both the demand and the supply sides. There is huge demand for, and interest in, weather-related information, even among the general public. And the amount of information that the India Meteorological Department (IMD) puts out every day about not just rainfall but all kinds of weather events, is enormous.

The trust in weather forecasts has increased significantly, thanks to improvements in accuracy. But the demand for even more accurate and specific predictions continues to grow, particularly in light of the increasing instances of extreme weather events being triggered by climate change, and the disasters that they sometimes turn into.

To serve this growing need, the government is learnt to be planning a major upgrade of the IMD’s existing capabilities.

Steady improvement

Upgradation of weather forecasting infrastructure, technologies, and skills is an ongoing exercise. A major push came in the form of the Monsoon Mission in 2012, aimed at improving the long-range monsoon forecasts that are crucial for the government’s economic planning. Thereafter, several other initiatives were launched to improve the observation network, install high-performance computing systems, deploy sophisticated instruments like Doppler radars, and develop better computer simulation models.

As a result, IMD now has a vastly improved monitoring and observation network, much more data and enhanced computing power (see Table). This has enabled IMD to provide significantly better weather forecasts, and offer much more public-oriented information — such as near-real-time forecasts and heat wave warnings.

The current capacity of India’s weather forecasting system

The big turnaround in the public perception of weather forecasts came with IMD’s successes in predicting cyclones. Timely and accurate forecasts of cyclones, starting with Phailin in October 2013, led to the establishment of a reliable response and evacuation mechanism, because of which the loss of human lives, earlier in the hundreds, came down to very few or none at all.

The success of the cyclone early warning system brought a lot of credibility to the IMD. Its long-range monsoon forecasts too, have also been right almost every time over the last decade. However, making precise forecasts for hyper-local events, like a short burst of heavy rain in a particular part of a city, have been a challenge, and so have predictions of extreme events, which are increasing due to climate change. It is here that the IMD needs to further improve its capabilities.

An uncertain science

Over the last decade, even as the IMD has enhanced its forecasting skills and capabilities, climate change has made weather patterns more erratic. In general, forecasting weather in the tropics is more challenging than in areas that are farther from the equator, because of greater variability in weather phenomena. Also, it is relatively easy to predict large systems like the monsoon or a cyclone that are spread over large geographical areas. A spread-out heat wave is easier to forecast than a localised cloudburst event. Similarly, routine cyclic events are relatively easier to forecast than sudden, unexpected events.

The science of weather forecasting has inherent uncertainties. The more precise a forecast — in terms of the spatial spread or time-window for the event — the greater the uncertainty. Also, the earlier the forecast, the less precise it is likely to be.

It is for this reason that while the forecast for the four-month monsoon season over the country as a whole has been generally correct over the last decade, regional and monthly predictions have been far less accurate.

As another example, IMD has a 97-99 per cent probability of detecting a heat wave at least 24 hours in advance; this probability for a heavy rainfall event is less than 80 per cent.

Extreme weather events are even more difficult to predict. Events expected to happen only once in 50 or 100 years do not get captured easily by the models. Such events are now happening with alarming regularity, often triggering disasters like the deadly landslides in Kerala last month.

Need for precision

IMD currently has the ability to forecast weather events over a 12 km x 12 km area. This grid is larger than most Indian cities — which means that the likelihood of rainfall in a city can be forecast, but it cannot be specified where in the city it would rain.

The IMD has been trying out experimental forecasts for 3 km x 3 km grids, but the eventual objective is to get hyper-local forecasts for 1 km x 1 km areas. Such forecasts can be extremely helpful — not just for people to plan their activities but also in creating early warning systems for disasters.

Previous upgrades at the IMD have focused mainly on infrastructure enhancement. Some infrastructure upgradation is required even now — for example, in the installation of ocean observation systems and in high-resolution earth observation satellites. Also, the eastern and northeastern regions of the country do not have optimum coverage of Doppler radars.

But the big breakthrough is required in developing India-specific weather models that are able to understand and simulate Indian conditions more accurately.

With the climate change-induced unpredictability in weather systems, global models like the ones in use currently have their limitations. Developing such customised models is one of the main objectives of the planned upgrade, for which intensive research and development and regional assessments of climate change would be required.

How AMMA lorded over Kerala cinema, its writ running from stars to junior artistes

With the Justice Hema Committee report revealing rampant sexual misconduct in the Malayalam film industry, the entire 17-member executive committee of AMMA, including its president and superstar actor Mohanlal, resigned from their posts on Tuesday.

Written by Nikhila Henry

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 11:45 IST

AMMA President Mohanlal.

From handing out bans to artistes who did not toe the line to adopting arm-twisting tactics, the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA) — the Kerala film industry body — acted as an all-powerful group whose clout extended over everyone from directors to top-rung actors and junior artistes.

With the Justice Hema Committee report revealing rampant sexual misconduct in the Malayalam film industry, the entire 17-member executive committee of AMMA, including its president and superstar actor Mohanlal, resigned from their posts on Tuesday.

Founded in 1994, the association has 498 members — 253 men and 245 women. AMMA limits its membership to established actors and doesn’t take junior artistes on board. Among its life-time members are several senior and retired actors, for whom the association holds charity events. Its website states, “AMMA stands as a powerful collective in the Malayalam film industry…with deep roots and broad reach”. However, with the resignations of several of its stars on Tuesday, the body now stands largely diminished.

Speaking of the association’s clout, an AMMA member told The Indian Express that their “diktats” could change fortunes “overnight” in the film industry.

The report of the Justice K Hema Committee on the issues faced by women in the Kerala film industry, too, sheds light on the clout wielded by the body – from denying toilets to women artistes on the sets to arguing against the setting up of an Internal Complaints Committee on sexual harassment to illegally banning people, both men and women.

On the “illegal” and “unconstitutional” bans, the commission notes that AMMA was, ironically, founded to tackle illegal bans that actors used to face in the industry at a certain point in time. However, the report says, some members of AMMA later formed “a lobby” which then started handing out bans to people.

In 2017, after the abduction and sexual assault of a leading woman actor in Kochi, fingers were pointed at AMMA for not ousting a male actor who was accused of “conspiring and orchestrating the rape”.

The commission notes that members of Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) – which was set up in protest against AMMA’s alleged inaction in the 2017 rape case – had to face the brunt after it took on the association. “None of them are given any chance to work in cinema. They are practically kept away by those who were offended by what members of WCC stated openly against atrocities in cinema and from AMMA,” the report reads.

The report also says that AMMA resisted the formation of an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) to address sexual harassment charges levelled against its members. According to the report, in response to a petition by WCC, AMMA had argued in the Kerala High Court that it is not legally obliged to set up an ICC since it is only an association and “not an employer”.

“It was contented that…the activities of AMMA will not fall under the definition of workplace and there is no employer-employee relationship between AMMA and its members…” the report notes.

The report adds that though AMMA has one forum which is similar to ICC, “no woman has approached such a forum with allegations of sexual harassment. It is not because they have no grievance but, they are not willing to go to such a forum with the grievances for various reasons”.

The report also notes that ICC will not be a solution for issues faced by women in the industry because a “power group” in AMMA controls the industry and they can directly influence the ICC.

One of the AMMA members told The Indian Express, “AMMA had too much power over its members and the dissenters were always sidelined.”

“AMMA has been at the forefront of illegal bans of people and it is only poetic justice that the body is now being disbanded,” said a director who faced an “unofficial” ban for 12 years.

On the turmoil that followed the release of the Hema Committee report and the series of allegations of sexual misconduct, an AMMA member had told the Indian Express on Monday that “the body is seeing unprecedented dissent from a section of its members”.

No penalties for refusing office calls or messages after hours: What is Australia’s ‘right to disconnect’?

What are the arguments in favour and against the right to disconnect, and which countries have it? Has it ever been suggested in India? We explain.

Written by Rishika Singh

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 11:31 IST

The right to disconnect means employees will not be penalised for not responding to "unreasonable" calls or messages after hours. (Via Canva)

Australia’s new “right to disconnect” came into force on Monday (August 26), allowing employees “the right to refuse employer or third-party contact outside of working hours.”

Advocating for the right, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese earlier said, “Someone who’s not paid 24 hours a day shouldn’t be penalised if they’re not online and available 24 hours a day.”

Countries like France, Italy and Belgium have similar laws, while others have also toyed with the idea.

What is the ‘right to disconnect’?

It comes from a belief that with technology enabling work from home, many people no longer have definite working hours. A lot of communication and work also happens when workers are not in the office.

In 2022, Belgium’s Public Administration Minister Petra De Sutter told the BBC that the pandemic further blurred the distinction between work and home life. “The result will be stress and burnout and this is the real disease of today,” she said.

Have other countries, or India, experimented with ‘right to disconnect’ laws?

France was the first country to introduce a ‘right to disconnect’ in 2017. “Employees are more and more connected during hours outside of the office,” Myriam El Khomri, then France’s Minister of Labour, said on the need for such a law.

According to a BBC report, it required that companies with more than 50 workers were obliged to draw up a charter of good conduct, setting out the hours when staff are not supposed to send or answer emails.

In India, Baramati MP Supriya Sule drafted a Private Member’s Bill for such a right, through the Right to Disconnect Bill of 2018, which was never taken up for discussion in the House.

It proposed that every registered company and society shall constitute Employees’ Welfare Committees consisting of its employees to assist employees in the negotiation of terms and conditions of out-of-work hours with employers.

Sireesha Vinnakota, a consultant who worked with Sule to draft the Bill as part of her team, said the draft was inspired by existing provisions globally: “In Germany, there was no formal legislation in place at the time, but the private automobile manufacturing companies (such as Volkswagen) were imposing such policies.” For instance, company servers paused emails and other communications from reaching employees after-hours.

The draft Bill also mentions a penalty “at the rate of one per cent of total employees’ remuneration” to be paid by companies for noncompliance with its provisions. If an employee works beyond work hours, they will be entitled to overtime wages. “Without holding a person accountable, you can’t expect things to be implemented,” Vinnakota said.

However, one line of criticism says that employees who point out the need to disconnect from work might be passed over for promotions and crucial tasks. Vinnakota says these arguments were also advanced in debates over menstrual leaves and maternity leaves. The possible exclusion of women workers from the workforce was anticipated for availing of such policies.

“I think the best solution lies in the method of implementation of the right to disconnect in a particular workplace. Say an aggrieved employee has to fight his case, alleging they are being overlooked not because of their inefficiency but because they asked for this right. If they have to appeal this decision, there should be mechanisms existing to independently review employees’ performance. This allows for them to have proof of performance, perhaps. So, I don’t think it’s impossible,” she added.

What is Australia’s ‘right to disconnect’?

According to the Australian government’s Fair Work Ombudsman, it means, “Employees will have the right to refuse contact outside their working hours unless that refusal is unreasonable. This means an employee can refuse to monitor, read or respond to contact from an employer or a third party.”

What does “unreasonable” mean here? Tony Burke, Australia’s Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, earlier said that it was understood bosses may have to contact employees even after work hours, at times.

“But if you’re in a job where you’re only paid for the exact hours that you’re working, some people are now constantly in a situation of getting in trouble if they’re not checking their emails, it is expected to be working for a whole lot of time that they’re not being paid. That’s just unreasonable,” he said.

For companies having more than 15 employees, the right came into effect on Monday. For smaller firms, it will be applicable from August 26, 2025. It is part of other changes introduced to industrial relations laws, through the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Closing Loopholes No. 2) Bill, 2023.

Factors like the extent to which the employee is compensated for overtime work, the reason for the contact or attempted contact, and the level of disruption it causes to the employee will all be considered to judge whether the contact was reasonable.

In case an employee-employer dispute over such contact happens, they must first attempt to resolve it at the workplace through discussions between the parties. If that attempt fails, they may move to the Fair Work Commission, the country’s industrial relations tribunal. Refusing to follow an FWC order could mean potential fines for the employer.

What is the criticism of ‘right to disconnect’?

Australia’s Chambers of Commerce criticised the provision when the Bill passed the Senate in 2024. It said in a statement: “We cannot allow industrial relations laws to make it harder for hard-working business owners to generate the wealth we enjoy as a nation.”

Andrew McKellar, chief executive officer of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, told The Guardian that the amendment could impact women’s participation in the workforce.

“This sort of heavy-handed legislation risks taking Australia back to a rigid working environment that is undesirable for parents, especially women,” McKellar said, adding “This rigidity also undermines the case for working from home, which appeals to many employees with family responsibilities.”

Others called it confusing, muddling the norms on what kind of work-related messages are acceptable. Anna Booth, head of Australia’s Fair Work Ombudsman, said, “We encourage workplace participants to educate themselves on the right to disconnect and take a commonsense approach to applying it within their workplace.”

An article in The Conversation on the subject offered an alternative view, moving away from having all hours strictly accounted for. It said the right to disconnect can be the “catalyst” for better policies on work-life balance. More broadly, a “cultural shift that destigmatizes a less frenetic pace of work and allows employees more control over their work boundaries will more directly address the problem of overwork,” it added.

This is an updated version of an explainer first published in February 2024.

What is SpaceX’s Crew Dragon, which will bring back Sunita Williams from space?

SpaceX developed Crew Dragon as part of NASA’s plan to hand over space station flights to American companies after the space agency retired its space shuttle in 2011. Here is a look at its features.

By: Explained Desk

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 11:31 IST

The SpaceX Crew Dragon is pictured during its approach to the International Space Station in 2021. (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) last week said the two astronauts — Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore — who have been stuck at the International Space Station (ISS) would return to the Earth in February 2025 on a SpaceX Crew Dragon flight.

Williams and Wilmore travelled to the ISS on Boeing’s Starliner in June and were supposed to return in a week. However, due to technical glitches, the spacecraft could not leave for its journey back to Earth. Starliner is now scheduled to return “uncrewed” to avoid unnecessary risks to the astronauts, according to NASA.

Currently, NASA and SpaceX are working on several items before the launch of Crew Dragon. For instance, they are reconfiguring seats and adjusting the manifest to carry additional cargo. Here is a look at Crew Dragon and its features.

What is Crew Dragon?

Crew Dragon is one of the two variants of SpaceX’s Dragon 2 spacecraft, which is partially reusable. The other variant is Cargo Dragon. As their names suggest, Crew Dragon primarily ferries astronauts to the ISS and Cargo Dragon supplies cargo to the space station.

SpaceX developed Crew Dragon as part of NASA’s plan to hand over space station flights to American companies after the space agency retired its space shuttle in 2011. Crew Dragon’s first mission to the ISS took place in 2020 when it transported four American and Japanese astronauts to the destination. So far, the spacecraft has done eight crew rotation missions to the space station for NASA.

What are the features of Crew Dragon?

Crew Dragon consists of two parts: a reusable space capsule and an expandable trunk module.

The capsule is “equipped with 16 Draco thrusters that manoeuvre the vehicle in orbit. Each Draco is capable of producing 90 pounds of force in the vacuum of space,” according to a report by the BBC. The report said the trunk features solar panels, heat-removal radiators, space for cargo, and fins to provide stability during emergency aborts.

The spacecraft is launched into space atop a Falcon 9 — a reusable, two-stage rocket developed by SpaceX — and docks automatically to the ISS.

Jessica Jensen, director of Starship mission hardware and operation at SpaceX, told the BBC: “We have GPS sensors on Dragon, but also cameras and imaging sensors such as Lidar (laser ranging) on the nose cone as it’s approaching the space station… All these sensors are feeding data back to our flight computer to say: ‘Hey, how far away am I from the space station? What’s my relative velocity to the space station?’”

When the astronauts need to return to the Earth, the spacecraft undocks from the ISS. Then, its trunk gets detached from the capsule and burns up in the atmosphere. The capsule subsequently performs a de-orbit burn — when thrusters are used to reduce the velocity of the spacecraft, allowing it to reenter the Earth’s atmosphere.

After reentry, the capsule deploys four parachutes to slow its descent. Ultimately, the spacecraft splashes down into the ocean, where it is recovered by a ship.

Supreme Court overrules Delhi court verdict to grant bail to Kavitha: Why it criticised the HC’s reasoning

The SC criticised the Delhi High Court’s decision to not apply a key exception for women in the bail provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) when it rejected her bail plea in April.

Written by Apurva Vishwanath

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 05:59 IST

In this April 9, 2024 file photo, BRS leader K. Kavitha being produced at the Rouse Avenue court in the Delhi excise policy-related money laundering case, in New Delhi. (PTI Photo)

The Supreme Court on Tuesday (August 27) granted bail to Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavitha in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED) cases against her in the Delhi Excise policy case.

The bench comprising Justices B R Gavai and K V Viswanathan criticised the Delhi High Court’s decision to deny the application of a key exception for women in the bail provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) when it rejected Kavitha’s bail plea in April.

The Delhi HC on July 1 had denied bail to Kavitha. Among other grounds, Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma held that Kavitha was a “well-educated” woman who could not be considered “vulnerable”, so the exception would not apply to her. A trial court order by Judge Kaveri Baweja had interpreted the provision on the same lines to deny bail to Kavita.

The SC bench reportedly stated “If this Delhi HC order is allowed to become law, this perverse observations would mean no educated woman can get bail”, according to Bar & Bench.

What does the law state? And why did the Delhi HC refuse to apply the exception for women?

Law and exception

Section 45 of the PMLA provides for bail on money laundering charges. This provision in the law, like the stringent bail standard in the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA), puts the onus on the accused to prove that there is no prima facie case against them while seeking bail.

Section 45(1) reads: “No person accused of an offence under this Act shall be released on bail or on his own bond unless (i) the Public Prosecutor has been given an opportunity to oppose the application for such release; and (ii) where the Public Prosecutor opposes the application, the Court is satisfied that there are reasonable grounds for believing that he is not guilty of such offence and that he is not likely to commit any offence while on bail.”

However, there is a crucial exception to the bail standard. “Provided that a person, who is under the age of sixteen years or is a woman or is sick or infirm, may be released on bail, if the Special Court so directs,” the law says. This exception is similar to exemptions under the Indian Penal Code for women and minors.

What is the legal precedent?

In 2023, Delhi High Court granted bail to 49-year-old Preeti Chandra, wife of Sanjay Chandra, who was the Director of M/s Unitech Group, underlining the exception for women.

The ED, like in Kavitha’s case, had made an argument that the accused was not a “household lady”. However, the HC said that the PMLA or the Constitution does not make a distinction between a household lady, a businesswoman, or a political figure.

“Thus to argue what kind of woman is entitled to fall within the proviso to section 45(1) PMLA by creating an ad-hoc illusionary sub-classification of educated women, business women, women belonging to high social strata, within the broader classification of “woman”, as sought to be done by the respondent, is misconceived,” the court said.

However, the court added a qualifier that the accused cannot be a “flight risk” or “tamper witnesses” to be eligible for bail. (Preeti Chandra vs Directorate of Enforcement, June 14, 2023)

The case of Kavitha

Kavitha’s lawyers had relied on the Delhi HC ruling and argued that his client was entitled to interim bail.

Judge Baweja had observed that Kavitha is “well-educated” and a “well-placed woman in the society”, and could not be considered a “vulnerable” woman for the purposes of the exception under the PMLA.

The judge relied on the qualifiers mentioned in the Preeti Chandra case — the three conditions when bail can be denied to women even when Section 45 itself provides for it. The “triple test” requires the accused to not be a flight risk, likely to tamper with evidence, or likely to influence witnesses.

Baweja observed that according to the material before the court, Kavitha “not only engaged in destruction of material evidence by formatting her phones before joining the investigation”, but also “has been instrumental in influencing witnesses and there is every likelihood of her continuing to do so” if she is granted bail.

Explained: Supreme Court ruling on relaxing bail provision for first-time offenders to apply retrospectively

The order could have a major impact on India’s undertrial prisoners. According to the latest available data from the NCRB’s 2022 report on prison statistics, India’s 1,330 prisons have a 131.4% occupancy. Of the 5,73,200 prisoners, around 75% are undertrials.

Written by Ajoy Sinha Karpuram

New Delhi | August 27, 2024 15:16 IST

Prisoners at the Yerwada Central Jail in Pune. (Express photo by Pavan Khengre)

A Supreme Court ruling on Friday (August 23) said that relaxed bail provisions for first-time offenders under the new criminal law Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) will have a “retrospective effect”.

It means that even if the offence predates the BNSS, which came into force on July 1 this year, first-time offenders detained in pending criminal cases can take advantage of BNSS provisions and be released on bail. An undertrial prisoner is in prison or judicial custody while the charges against them are tried in court.

The order could have a major impact on India’s undertrial prisoners. According to the latest available data from the National Crime Records Bureau’s 2022 report on prison statistics, India’s 1,330 prisons have a 131.4% occupancy — a 0.8% increase from the previous year. Of the 5,73,200 prisoners, around 75% are undertrials.

What the law says on bail for undertrial prisoners

Both the BNSS (Section 479) and the now-replaced Criminal Procedure Code, 1973, (Section 436A) contain provisions on the “Maximum period for which undertrial prisoner can be detained”.

Under both, if an investigation or trial is pending, an undertrial prisoner shall be released on bail if they have already undergone detention for up to half the maximum period of imprisonment specified for that offence under the law. The sole exception is if they are alleged to have committed an offence punishable with death or life imprisonment.

The BNSS introduces a new provision that reduces the detention period for undertrials before they can be released if they are ‘first-time offenders’ — those who have never been convicted of any offence in the past.

It states that such a person “shall be released on bond by the Court, if he has undergone detention for the period extending up to one-third of the maximum period of imprisonment specified for such offence under that law”.

What did the Supreme Court rule?

Since 2013, the Supreme Court has been monitoring issues related to prison conditions in the case Re Inhuman Conditions in 1382 Prisons. It began as a PIL after former Chief Justice of India R.C. Lahoti sent a letter to the court, highlighting issues such as overcrowding in prisons, unnatural deaths of prisoners, and the inadequacy of trained prison staff.

The court then appointed Senior Advocate Gaurav Agrawal as amicus curiae (friend of the court) to assist the court by identifying important issues and providing updates on whether the court’s directions have been complied with.

According to the court’s order dated August 13, 2024, Agrawal submitted that Section 479 of the BNSS “needs to be implemented at the earliest and it will help in addressing over-crowding in prisons”. In response, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati informed the court that she would need time to obtain instructions from the Centre, clarifying its position.

On August 23, ASG Bhati reportedly stated, “I am happy to report that Union of India is also of the view that the provisions has to be given full effect to…It has to apply to any undertrial who has completed up to one-third of the imprisonment and must be considered accordingly”.

The bench comprising Justices Hima Kohli and Sandeep Mehta directed jail superintendents to begin processing applications for all eligible undertrial prisoners within three months.

Explained: The two new US-India agreements, signed as part of growing defence ties

Under SOSA, the US and India will provide reciprocal priority support for goods and services that promote national defence. The Memorandum of Agreement on the Assignment of Liaison Officers will post Indian armed forces officers in key strategic US Commands.

Written by Amrita Nayak Dutta

New Delhi | Updated: August 27, 2024 16:54 IST

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh with US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin in Washington. (PTI Photo)

India and the US have signed a Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA) and Memorandum of Agreement regarding the Assignment of Liaison Officers, the latest in a series of bilateral military agreements that have enhanced defence and security cooperation between the two countries over the past decade.

During Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s four-day official visit that concluded on Sunday (August 25), the partner nations agreed to advance priority co-production projects including jet engines, unmanned platforms, munitions, and ground mobility systems under the 2023 US-India Roadmap for Defence Industrial Cooperation.

Two new agreements

SOSA: Under SOSA, the US and India will provide reciprocal priority support to each other for goods and services that promote national defence. It will “enable both countries to acquire the industrial resources they need from one another to resolve unanticipated supply chain disruptions to meet national security needs”, the US Department of Defense (DoD) said in a statement.

India is the 18th SOSA partner of the US. While SOSA, according to the DoD, are an important mechanism to strengthen interoperability with US defence trade partners, it is legally non-binding. The DoD has been working to conclude another agreement with India, the Reciprocal Defence Procurement (RDP) Agreement, which will be binding.

RDP Agreements are intended to promote rationalisation, standardisation, interchangeability, and interoperability of conventional defence equipment with US allies and other friendly governments. The US has signed RDP Agreements with 28 countries so far.

MOU ON LIAISON OFFICERS: The Memorandum of Agreement regarding the Assignment of Liaison Officers is a progression on a decision taken earlier to increase information-sharing between India and the US, and to post Indian armed forces officers in key strategic US Commands. India will deploy the first Liaison Officer to the US Special Operations Command headquarters in Florida.

India-US cooperation milestones on defence

The vision for bilateral defence cooperation was encapsulated in the September 2013 Joint US-India Declaration on Defence Cooperation and the 2015 Framework for the US-India Defence Relationship, in which the two countries committed themselves to increasing cooperation in the sector.

2023 ROADMAP: The roadmap for defence industrial cooperation released last year envisioned the conclusion of SOSA and the RDP Agreement. The US endorsed the integration of the Indian defence industry into global supply chains, and extended support to India to develop naval and maritime infrastructure to create an Indo-Pacific regional hub for ship and aircraft repair and maintenance.

Priority areas of cooperation identified in the roadmap included Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR), Undersea Domain Awareness, Air Combat and Support, including Aero engines, munitions systems, and mobility.

iCET: In January 2023, the US-India initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) was discussed to expand the strategic technology partnership and defence industrial cooperation. National Security Advisors Ajit Doval and Jake Sullivan discussed opportunities for greater cooperation in critical and emerging technologies, including co-development and co-production, and ways to deepen connectivity across our innovation ecosystems.

INDUS-X: In June 2023, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official state visit to the US, the DoD and Ministry of Defence launched the India-US Defence Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X), which took forward the commitment to build a defence innovation bridge under iCET.

FOUNDATIONAL AGREEMENTS: In 2002, India and the US had signed the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) to facilitate sharing of military information. Between 2016 and 2020, the two sides signed four more agreements.

The Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) of 2016 established the basic terms, conditions, and procedures for reciprocal provision of logistic support, supplies, and services between the two militaries.

In 2018, the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA), an India-specific version of the Communications and Information Security Memorandum of Agreement (CISMOA), was signed to secure military communication between the countries, facilitate access to advanced defence systems, and enable India to optimally utilise its existing US-origin platforms.

The Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) of 2020 aimed to facilitate the sharing of military information including maps, nautical charts, and other unclassified imagery and data.

Additionally, in 2019, the Industrial Security Annex (ISA) to the GSOMIA was signed to facilitate the exchange of classified information between the defence industries of the two countries.

Other deals and sales

In 2016, the US designated India as a Major Defence Partner. Commensurate with this designation, in 2018, India was elevated to Strategic Trade Authorisation tier 1 status, which gave it licence-free access to a range of military and dual-use technologies regulated by the US Department of Commerce.

Earlier in 2012, the Defence Trade and Technology Initiative (DTTI) agreement was signed to promote industrial cooperation and defence trade between the two countries.

There is also a Memorandum of Intent between the US Defence Innovation Unit (DIU) and the Indian Defence Innovation Organization-Innovation for Defence Excellence (DIO-iDEX).

Big-ticket Indian military procurements from the US include MH-60R Seahawk multirole helicopters, Sig Sauer Rifles, and M777 ultra light howitzers.

Negotiations are underway to manufacture GE F-414 jet engines in India for the LCA MK 2 fighters, and to procure 31 MQ-9B High-Altitude Long-Endurance (HALE) UAVs. Deliveries of the GE-F404 engines for the LCA Tejas Mark-1A are underway.

Why a new homegrown missile can be a game-changer for Ukraine’s fight against Russia

Ukraine already has access to comparable Western-supplied long-range missiles. This development can nonetheless be a game-changer. Here is why.

By: AP

Updated: August 27, 2024 12:32 IST

"Our enemy will know what the Ukrainian way for retaliation is. Worthy, symmetrical, long-ranged," Zelenskyy said on Saturday. (AP)

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, on Saturday, confirmed the existence of a new homegrown long-range weapon — a missile-drone hybrid — which can strike deep into Russia. The Palianytsia was used for the first time on Saturday to target a Russian military installation, officials said without providing further details.

What is the Palianytsia?

The Palianytsia was born out of necessity, with its development starting some 18 months ago. Currently, the United States and other Western allies provide long-range weapons to Ukraine but restrict their usage deep into Russian territory out of fears of further escalation.

The Institute for the Study of War said that Russia was “leveraging sanctuary space in deep rear areas” for military infrastructure. It estimated at least 250 militarily significant targets in Russia were within range of the ATACMS missiles, but current restrictions allow Ukraine to strike only 20 of them.

Possibly, a game-changer

The Palianytsia with a 700-km range, comparable to the ATACMS, will allow Ukraine to bypass western restrictions.

Ukraine’s technology minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, told The Associated Press that “this will be a game changer” because Ukraine will be able to “strike where Russia doesn’t expect it today”. He added: “It’s impossible to produce enough air defense systems to protect such a large territory [Russia]… [the Palianytsia] opens up the possibility of operating deep behind enemy lines.

The missile has a solid-fuel booster that accelerates it, followed by a jet engine, a specialist told The AP. Each missile costs less than $1 million, and the military is turning to the private sector to bring down production costs further.

Who is Telegram co-founder Pavel Durov, and why did French authorities arrest him?

France and Telegram are the latest in cases of governments and tech companies clashing over the regulation of content posted online. French President Emmanuel Macron also commented on the issue.

Written by Rishika Singh

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 08:26 IST

Pavel Durov, co-founder and CEO of Telegram, delivers a keynote speech during the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, in 2016. (REUTERS/Albert Gea/File Photo)

French authorities arrested Pavel Durov, co-founder and CEO of the secure messaging app Telegram, at the Le Bourget airport near Paris on Saturday (August 24).

A source told Reuters that Durov was arrested as part of a preliminary police investigation into “allegedly allowing a wide range of crimes due to a lack of moderators on Telegram and a lack of cooperation with police”. In a post on X, Telegram’s official account said that it was “absurd” to claim that a platform or its owner was responsible for the abuse of that platform.

French President Emmanuel Macron also commented on the issue on Monday in a post on X, saying Durov’s arrest was not a “political decision”. While France was “deeply committed to freedom of expression and communication”, he added, “In a state governed by the rule of law, freedoms are upheld within a legal framework, both on social media and in real life, to protect citizens and respect their fundamental rights.”

France and Telegram are the latest in cases of governments and tech companies clashing over the regulation of content posted on social media apps and websites.

Who is Pavel Durov?

Durov, 39, was born in the former Soviet Union and went on to study at the St Petersburg University in Russia. He then co-founded a social media app called VKontakte, which became popular in the country.

According to a Time Magazine profile, Durov left Russia after authorities told him to provide users’ encrypted data. Encryption is a method for safeguarding information and making it accessible only to users exchanging said information, rather than to telecom providers or app owners.

“It was a bit painful because my first company was my baby,” Durov said in a 2024 interview. “But, at the same time, I understood that I would rather be free; I wouldn’t want to take orders from anyone,” he added.

On August 14, 2013, Pavel and his brother founded Telegram, an app billed as centring users’ privacy. Nikolai designed its encryption. The app also allowed large groups, allowing one group to have up to 2,00,000 members. Telegram also syncs with multiple devices. These features gave it an edge over apps like WhatsApp.

Telegram has since become one of the most-used social media apps globally, with over 900 million users as of early 2024. Thanks to its success, Durov is now a billionaire. He also holds citizenships of France and the UAE. A recent Associated Press article stated he still has his Russian citizenship.

What is France’s case against Telegram and Durov?

According to the French newspaper Le Monde, Durov’s arrest at the Le Bourget airport was linked to “proceedings accusing Telegram of complicity in numerous cases linked to drug trafficking, support for terrorism and cyberstalking.” Telegram’s high degree of user privacy has helped some users sell drugs, dupe people through online scams, and engage in other illegal activities through the app across the world.

The AP reported that 12 alleged violations have occurred and an investigation was opened last month.

Telegram’s FAQ section lays down its policy on taking down content. It says, “We have to process legitimate requests to take down illegal public content (e.g., sticker sets, bots, and channels) within the app.”

However, there are exceptions. “Please note that this does not apply to local restrictions on freedom of speech. For example, if criticizing the government is illegal in some country, Telegram won’t be a part of such politically motivated censorship. This goes against our founders’ principles. While we do block terrorist (e.g. ISIS-related) bots and channels, we will not block anybody who peacefully expresses alternative opinions.”

Durov also allegedly did not cooperate in the investigation, leading to an arrest warrant against him. Le Monde reported, “The OFMIN, an office responsible for combating violence against minors, had discreetly launched an investigation into the dissemination of child pornography on Telegram”. Other offences were later added to the investigation.

What has been the response to these events?

Durov’s Russian origins have added the layer of deteriorating relations between Russia and the West to the issue. “Russian government officials have expressed outrage at his detention, with some calling it politically motivated and proof of the West’s double standard on freedom of speech,” the AP report said. The Kremlin was denied consular access to Durov, according to the Russian Embassy in Paris.

Moreover, conflicts between governments have tech companies have arisen of late, over the need for balancing protections of speech and regulating hate speech and illegal activities. Durov’s arrest has led to some criticism of the French government for an “overreach”.

Former US National Security Agency contractor-turned-whistleblower Edward Snowden said in a post on X, “The arrest of @Durov is an assault on the basic human rights of speech and association. I am surprised and deeply saddened that Macron has descended to the level of taking hostages as a means for gaining access to private communications. It lowers not only France, but the world.”

Earlier in April, Durov said some governments had sought to pressure him, but said the app should remain a neutral platform and not a “player in geopolitics”, Reuters reported.

Telegram’s case has similarities with government actions against Meta (which owns Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram), X and other tech giants. Earlier this year, a judge of the Brazilian Supreme Court ordered X to comply with its orders against accounts spreading false information deliberately. X owner Elon Musk criticised the order for not being transparent and cited his commitment to free speech for not following the order. Finally, X shut down its operations in Brazil.

In India too, the Central government has engaged with WhatsApp to combat fake news. While WhatsApp introduced some changes, such as labels showing forwarded messages, it declined to reveal the source of messages citing security concerns.

China-Philippines clash: What is the South China Sea dispute?

The countries have bickered over territorial control in the South China Sea for centuries, but in recent years tensions have soared to new heights. That is mainly due to China’s rise as a global power. Here is a look at the dispute.

Written by Alind Chauhan

New Delhi | Updated: August 27, 2024 12:32 IST

Chinese Coast Guard vessels fire water cannons towards a Philippine resupply vessel Unaizah May 4 on its way to a resupply mission at Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea, March 5, 2024. REUTERS/Adrian Portugal/File Photo

On Monday (August 26), the Philippine government accused China of carrying out “repeated aggressive, unprofessional and illegal” actions in the South China Sea. The statement came after the two countries got involved in a series of clashes and incidents on air and at sea over the past week.

The development once again brought the South China Sea dispute to the forefront. What is the dispute? When and why did it emerge? What countries are involved? Here is a look.

What is the South China Sea dispute?

The South China Sea is situated just south of the Chinese mainland and is bordered by the countries of Brunei, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam. The countries have bickered over territorial control in the sea for centuries, but in recent years tensions have soared to new heights. That is mainly due to China’s rise as a global power. The South China Sea is one of the most strategically critical maritime areas and China eyes its control to assert more power over the region.

Map of the South China Sea, with “nine-dash line” highlighted in green. (Source: Wikimedia Commons/US Central Intelligence Agency)

In 1947, the country, under the rule of the nationalist Kuomintang party, issued a map with the so-called “nine-dash line” (for a detailed explanation, scroll down). The line essentially encircles Beijing’s claimed waters and islands of the South China Sea — as much as 90% of the sea has been claimed by China. The line continued to appear in the official maps even after the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) came to power.

In the past few years, the country has also tried to stop other nations from conducting any military or economic operation without its consent, saying the sea falls under its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

China’s sweeping claims, however, have been widely contested by other countries. In response, China has physically increased the size of islands or created new islands altogether in the sea, according to the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR).

“In addition to piling sand onto existing reefs, China has constructed ports, military installations, and airstrips—particularly in the Paracel and Spratly Islands, where it has twenty and seven outposts, respectively. China has militarised Woody Island by deploying fighter jets, cruise missiles, and a radar system,” it added.

To challenge China’s assertive territorial claims and protect its own political and economic interests, the US has intervened in the matters. It has not only increased its military activity and naval presence in South Asia but also provided weapons and aid to China’s opponents.

What’s the importance of the South China Sea?

There are 11 billion barrels of oil and 190 trillion cubic feet of natural gas in deposits under the South China Sea, according to the estimates of the United States Energy Information Agency.

Moreover, the sea is home to rich fishing grounds — a major source of income for millions of people across the region. The BBC reported that more than half of the world’s fishing vessels operate in this area.

Most significantly, the sea is a crucial trade route. “The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development estimates that over 21% of global trade, amounting to $3.37 trillion, transited through these waters in 2016,” the news outlet added.

What is the ‘nine-dash line’?

As mentioned before, the nine-dash line demarcates China’s territorial claims in the sea on Chinese maps. It was initially the “eleven-dash line” but in 1953, the CCP-led government removed “the portion encompassing the Gulf of Tonkin, simplifying the border to nine dashes,” CFR said.

The line runs as far as 2,000 km from the Chinese mainland to within a few hundred kilometres of the Philippines, Malaysia and Vietnam.

But on what parameters the line has been drawn? China’s claim on the waters and islands within the boundary is based on its “historical maritime rights”. However, the country has never clearly stated the line coordinates and the line runs many miles beyond what is allowed under the United Nations treaty on maritime territorial issues, which China has signed.

Take the example of the Scarborough Shoal, also known as Huangyan Island. While it comes under the Philippines’ EEZ, Beijing claims that the records show “China’s sailors discovered Huangyan Island 2,000 years ago and cite extensive records of visits, mapping expeditions and habitation of the shoal from the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD) right through to the modern period,” a report published by The Indian Express noted.

Similarly, China says it has centuries-old ties with the Paracel and Spratly island chains as they were once an integral part of the Chinese nation. But Vietnam disputes the claim, saying it has actively ruled over both the Paracels and the Spratlys since the 17th Century — and has the documents to prove it, the BBC report said.

In 2016, after the Philippines took China to an international tribunal pertaining to the dispute over the Scarborough Shoal, the tribunal in its ruling largely rejected the nine-dash line and said, “China had broken international law by endangering Philippine ships and damaging the marine environment,” The New York Times reported.

Although the tribunal’s judgement was binding, there was no enforcement mechanism. China boycotted the proceedings, claiming the tribunal had no jurisdiction and that it would ignore any decision.

How can the dispute be resolved?

It’s hard to say. A quick solution to the dispute seems quite impossible, especially after China refused to abide by the international tribunal’s ruling.

Some believed that ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations) — a 10-member regional grouping that comprises Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Brunei, Laos, Vietnam, Myanmar and Cambodia — might find a way to tackle the issue.  Due to internal conflicts, the group has largely failed to do so.

Therefore, there is a palpable fear that the South China Sea dispute can soon become the next global conflict, with grave consequences.

“The failure of Chinese and Southeast Asian leaders to resolve the disputes by diplomatic means could also undermine international laws governing maritime disputes and encourage destabilising arms buildups,” CFR noted.

Why Baloch militants targeted Punjabi travellers in recent attack which killed 23

Gunmen offloaded passengers from trucks and buses early on Monday in Balochistan’s Musakhail district, and shot them after checking their identities, an official said

Written by Arjun Sengupta

New Delhi | Updated: August 27, 2024 12:32 IST

A charred vehicle, after separatist militants conducted deadly attacks, according to officials, in Balochistan province, Pakistan, August 26, 2024 (REUTERS)

Armed men stopped buses and trucks early Monday (August 26) morning in Balochistan’s Musakhail district, offloaded passengers and shot dead 23 people after checking their identities.

“Vehicles travelling to and from Punjab were inspected, and individuals from Punjab were identified and shot,” Musakhail Assistant Commissioner Najeeb Kakar said, according to Dawn. The militants also set fire to 10 vehicles, he said.

This is not the first such attack reported in Balochistan. In April this year, militants offloaded and shot dead nine Punjabi travellers near Balochistan’s Noshki city after checking their IDs. In October last year, six Punjabi labourers were shot dead in Balochistan’s Kech district in what authorities described as “targeted killings”. In 2015, gunmen killed 20 construction workers — all from Sindh and Punjab — in an attack on a labour camp near Turbat.

Why do Baloch militants target Punjabis? The answer to this question lies in the nature of the Pakistani state, and Balochistan’s complicated history with it.

Baloch insurgencies, and repression by Pakistani state

Since the birth of Pakistan, Balochistan has witnessed a series of bloody insurgencies, brutal state repression, and an enduring nationalist movement. The first insurgency began in 1948, after the forced accession to Pakistan of the chiefdom of Kalat, the largest and strongest of four chiefdoms that made up what would become the province of Balochistan.

The ‘Khan’ of Kalat had long advocated for an independent Baloch state. But British fears of Soviet expansion in the region, and Pakistan’s eagerness to consolidate as much territory as possible post the “losses” of the Partition spilt water on his dreams. The Khan signed the instrument of accession on March 27, 1948, a day after the Pakistan Army entered Baloch land to force his hand.

Soon, protests broke out against the accession. By July, Prince Abdul Karim, the Khan’s brother, had launched the first of five Baloch “wars of independence” — fought in 1948, 1958–59, 1962–63 and 1973–1977, and currently ongoing since 2003. These bloody insurgencies have perhaps been the biggest challenge to Pakistani sovereignty apart from the Bangladesh liberation movement.

They have thus been brutally repressed by the Pakistani state, with Pakistani forces accused of committing numerous atrocities, including abductions, torture, arbitrary arrests, and extra-judicial executions. While exact numbers are not available, conservative estimates suggest that tens of thousands of Baloch nationalists and innocent civilians have been killed by Pakistani forces since 1948. According to NGO Voice for Baloch Missing Persons, around 5,228 Baloch people have gone missing (presumed dead) in the period between 2001 and 2017 alone.

Baloch nationalist groups too have resorted to violence. They have been accused of various human rights violations including the attempted ethnic cleansing of non-Baloch people living in the province.

According to the ‘Pakistan Security Report 2023’ by the Pakistan Institute for Peace Studies, an Islamabad-based NGO, “Baloch insurgent groups, mainly the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) and Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF), perpetrated 78 attacks in Balochistan killing 86 people and wounding 137 others” in 2023. These attacks were “spread over 19 districts, mainly in central, southern and southwestern parts of the province, and largely targeted security forces”.

The BLA has claimed responsibility for Monday’s attack, and warned of more such attacks, Reuters reported.

Behind targeting of Punjabis

What lies behind Baloch nationalism? And what has fuelled the insurgency for the past 75 years? Two factors stand out.

First is ethnic differences. This was the basis of Baloch nationalism at the time of Independence, and remains a crucial driver today. The Baloch people share a common history, language and culture, all central features of the birth of a national consciousness.

It does not help matters that since its very creation, the province of Punjab has dominated Pakistani politics, with Punjabis having a near unchallenged hold over the country’s bureaucracy and institutions. Even Pakistan’s cricket team has historically been dominated by Punjabis. For a country created solely on the basis of religion, ethnic differences have historically fuelled division and disunity, leading to the East Pakistan breaking away in 1971, and driving Baloch nationalism till date.

Second is a feeling of economic alienation and injustice held by the Baloch people. Balochistan is the largest — albeit most sparsely populated — province of Pakistan, abundant in natural resources (including oil), and strategically located on the country’s western border with Iran and Afghanistan. Yet its people remain relatively impoverished compared to the rest of the country.

This adds to the Baloch people’s sense of political disenfranchisement. Baloch nationalists argue that the Punjabi-dominated Pakistani state appropriates the fruits of Balochistan’s abundant natural resources. Take for instance the construction of the China-backed Gwadar port, a project which has garnered billions of dollars in investment but passed on little benefit to the local economy. Instead of educated and unemployed Balochi youth, Punjabi and Sindhi engineers and technical specialists, as well as Chinese experts, were hired en masse for the project.

The targeting of Punjabis in Balochistan takes place in this context. The dominance of Punjabis in the Pakistani state, the Baloch people’s continuing sense of injustice and alienation due to actions of this Punjab-dominated state, make people from Punjab prime targets for insurgents.

RBI to launch Unified Lending Interface: What is it and how will it benefit borrowers

According to the RBI Governor, the ULI platform will facilitate a seamless and consent-based flow of digital information, and reduce the time taken for credit appraisal, especially for smaller and rural borrowers.

Written by Hitesh Vyas

Mumbai | Updated: August 27, 2024 17:47 IST

RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das addresses the inaugural session of ‘Global Conference on DPI and Emerging Technologies’, in Bengaluru, Monday, Aug. 26, 2024. (PTI Photo)

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das on Monday said that a nationwide launch of the Unified Lending Interface (ULI) will happen in due course. Similar to Unified Payment Interface (UPI), which has revolutionised the retail payment system in the country, ULI will transform the lending landscape.

What has RBI Governor announced?

In August last year, the RBI launched a pilot project for a public tech platform for frictionless credit, as announced It is aimed to bring about efficiency in the lending process in terms of reduction of costs, quicker disbursement, and scalability.

The RBI Governor on Monday proposed to call the tech platform for frictionless credit as Unified Lending Interface (ULI). He said just like UPI transformed the payments ecosystem, he expects that ULI will play a similar role in transforming the lending space in the country.

What is Unified Lending Interface?

With rapid progress in digitalisation, India has embraced the concept of digital public infrastructure which encourages banks, NBFCs, fintech companies and start-ups to create and provide innovative solutions in payments, credit, and other financial activities.

For digital credit delivery, the data required for credit appraisal are available with different entities like Central and State governments, account aggregators, banks, credit information companies and digital identity authorities. However, these data sets are in separate systems, creating hindrance in frictionless and timely delivery of rule-based lending.

The RBI Governor said that ULI platform will facilitate a seamless and consent-based flow of digital information, including land records of various states, from multiple data service providers to lenders. It will cut down the time taken for credit appraisal, especially for smaller and rural borrowers.

He said that the ULI architecture has common and standardised APIs (Application Programming Interface), designed for a ‘plug and play’ approach to ensure digital access to information from diverse sources.

The platform will reduce the complexity of multiple technical integrations, and will enable borrowers to get the benefit of seamless delivery of credit, and quicker turnaround time without requiring extensive documentation.

“In sum, by digitising access to customer’s financial and non-financial data that otherwise resided in disparate silos, ULI is expected to cater to large unmet demand for credit across various sectors, particularly for agricultural and MSME borrowers,” Das emphasised.

“The ‘new trinity’ of JAM-UPI-ULI will be a revolutionary step forward in India’s digital infrastructure journey,” he stated.

The JAM (Jan Dhan, Aadhar and Mobile) trinity is a tool used by the government to transfer cash benefits directly to the bank account of the beneficiary.

What is Unified Payment Interface?

Unified Payments Interface or UPI is a real-time payment system launched in India in April 2016 by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). It is a system that powers multiple bank accounts into a single mobile application (of any participating bank), merging several banking features, seamless fund routing & merchant payments into one hood.

UPI also caters to the “Peer to Peer” collect request which can be scheduled and paid as per requirement and convenience. It helps in immediate money transfer through mobile device round the clock. It allows a single mobile application for accessing different bank accounts.

UPI has played a significant role in the growth of retail digital payments in the country. While initial participants on the UPI platform were banks, non-bank third-party app providers and use of QR (quick-response) codes have all combined in popularising UPI.

It has emerged as a robust, cost effective and portable retail payment system and is attracting active interest across the globe.

RHFL fraud: Why has Sebi fined Anil Ambani and banned him from the market?

SEBI has also slapped a Rs 25 crore fine on Ambani for orchestrating a fraudulent scheme that adversely affected RHFL’s stakeholders, as well as confidence in the integrity of governance structures in regulated financial sector entities.

Written by Hitesh Vyas

Mumbai | Updated: August 27, 2024 12:32 IST

Anil Ambani, ADAG Chairman, in 2017. (Express Photo)

Securities markets regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has banned ADAG chairman Anil Ambani and 24 other entities, including former key managerial personnel (KMPs) of Reliance Home Finance Ltd (RHFL), from the securities market for five years for diversion of funds from the company.

Sebi has also slapped a Rs 25 crore fine on Ambani for orchestrating a fraudulent scheme that adversely affected RHFL’s stakeholders, as well as confidence in the integrity of governance structures in regulated financial sector entities. The total penalty imposed on Ambani and the other 24 entities works out to more than Rs 625 crore.

The RHFL case

Sebi opened an investigation into RHFL, a non-banking finance company (NBFC) focused on housing loans, loans against property, and construction finance after receiving multiple complaints/ reports of alleged diversion or siphoning of funds within the company.

The major promoter of RHFL was Reliance Capital Ltd (RCL), with a shareholding of 47.91%. Ambani was the promoter and non-executive and non-independent director of RCL during FY2018-19.

Sebi found that loans extended by RHFL to corporates increased from Rs 3,742.60 crore in 2017-18 to Rs 8,670.80 crore in 2018-19. It found that through FY2018-19, RHFL disbursed a series of large general purpose working capital (GPC) loans to nondescript borrowers with extremely weak financials.

These borrowers had negative or negligible net worth, profits, assets, cash flows, and businesses. Inexplicably, no collateral or security or assurance was recorded while disbursing these loans, Sebi has said in its detailed, 222-page order.

The order has noted that as per information submitted by RHFL, the company had disbursed 97 GPC loans amounting to Rs 8,470.65 crore to 45 borrower entities during FY2018-19. An analysis of 70 loan applications for GPC loans worth Rs 6,187 crore showed that as many as 62 applications were approved on the same date and, in 27 cases, the loan too, was disbursed to the account of the borrower entity on the date of application.

On February 11, 2019, the RHFL board explicitly instructed the company to desist from disbursing any more GPC loans. However, RHFL continued to disburse such loans with the approval of Ambani in his capacity as Group Head, even though he was an outsider to RHFL.

“…Noticee No. 2 (Anil Ambani) approved 14 loan applications involving an amount of Rs 1,472.16 crore in his capacity as Chairman of Reliance ADA Group during a period of just over 1.5 months (between February 11, 2019 – March 31, 2019),” the regulator has said.

Sebi’s observations

Even though around half the assets of RHFL as of March 31, 2019 were in the form of GPC loans disbursed to dubious and credit-unworthy entities, RHFL’s FY18-19 financials projected a very low Expected Credit Loss (ECL), the Sebi order says. ECL is a bank’s internal estimate of anticipated future losses on a loan exposure due to default, which is expected to occur during the normal course of business.

In approving the GPC loans, in many cases, RHFL inexplicably, repeatedly, and widely deviated from standard credit due diligence and processes, Sebi has found.

“Investigation in the matter has concluded that the Noticees (Ambani and 24 other entities) were involved in perpetrating a fraudulent scheme by disbursing GPC ‘loans’ resulting in erosion of the company’s finances due to such loans eventually being declared NPA,” the order says.

The transfer of monies, structured as GPC loans, were directly or indirectly made to entities that were related to the Reliance ADA Group, the order says.

“The abrupt and thoroughly irregular manner in which ‘loans’ were disbursed, the evidence of senior officials having canvassed for disbursing loans to such entities, the absolute lack of interest in recovering the dues, and Anil Ambani’s own involvement in approving such ‘loans’ all point to the pressing desire on their part to transfer funds one way or another,” it says.

“Coupled with this, the ownership and management pattern of these companies (both lender and borrowers) leads to the conclusion that the ‘loans’ were motivated by Noticee No. 2’s (Anil Ambani) direct or indirect benefit through fund transfers to these companies,” it says.

Anil Ambani’s response

Anil Ambani is exploring legal options after Sebi banned him from the stock market for five years and imposed a fine of Rs 25 crore, according to a statement from his spokesperson.

Ambani’s spokesperson stated that he had resigned from the boards of Reliance Infrastructure and Reliance Power in the wake of Sebi’s interim order dated February 11, 2022 and “is in compliance with the said interim order for the last two and a half years”.

He is now reviewing the final order dated August 22, 2024 and will take appropriate action as advised, the statement from the spokesperson said.

Business

- Bikaji says ‘not for sale’ amid investor interest in Indian snacks market

- Apple eyes bigger slice of India’s streaming market with Airtel deal

- After Shipping Ministry assures wage revision, port workers defer strike

- Over 3 crore PM Jan Dhan accounts to be opened in FY25: FM Sitharaman

- GST Council to discuss rate rationalisation on September 9, final decision later: FM Sitharaman

- Electronic components subsidy policy: Centre, industry disagree over job creation

- ZEE Entertainment Ltd, Sony settle dispute

- Zee and Sony amicably settle disputes over their failed merger, to withdraw claims

- Over 40% consumers use digital payment every day in Tier 3-6 cities: Report

- To catch the IPO boom, law firms race to scale up capital markets practices

- Gas demand uptick driven by power sector bumps up India’s LNG imports in April-July

- For ‘frictionless credit’, RBI to launch technology platform; to call it Unified Lending Interface: Governor Shaktikanta Das

Bikaji says ‘not for sale’ amid investor interest in Indian snacks market

The snacks maker, which brokerage Anand Rathi said is the third biggest Indian snacks brand behind Haldiram's and Balaji, is more focused on expanding its market share by 50 basis points every year from 9% currently.

By: Reuters

Chennai | Updated: August 28, 2024 11:48 IST

"Bikaji is not for sale. Whatever price someone offers, there are certain things that are not for sale," Chief Operating Officer Manoj Verma said earlier this month, without disclosing whether the company has received buyout offers. (File Photo)

Indian snacks maker Bikaji Foods is “not for sale” and is instead on the prowl itself, aiming to cash in on the growing appetite for savoury brands in the world’s most populous country, a top executive told Reuters.

The Indian savoury snacks sector has ballooned in recent years as consumers splurge on packaged foods.

“Bikaji is not for sale. Whatever price someone offers, there are certain things that are not for sale,” Chief Operating Officer Manoj Verma said earlier this month, without disclosing whether the company has received buyout offers.

His comments came after India’s Tata Group and a consortium including Blackstone and Singapore’s GIC held acquisition talks with market leader Haldiram’s.

Shares in Bikaji, which is majority-owned by founder Shiv Ratan Agarwal and his family, have gained around 67% to value the company at $2.55 billion since Reuters reported on investor interest in Haldiram’s last September.

Haldiram’s itself was in talks to acquire a majority stake in peer Prataap Snacks in January.

“Suddenly, this has become a hot space,” Verma said, adding that he expects the entry of heavyweight investors to make the market more competitive and fuel further growth.

Reuters reported in May that talks between Tata and Haldiram’s had ended, while it is not immediately clear if other deal talks are still ongoing.

Bikaji, which recently bought stakes in Bhujialalji and Ariba Foods, aims to make more acquisitions only if they could help expand distribution or boost its presence in the frozen-food market, he said, adding that it has a budget of 1 billion rupees to 1.5 billion rupees (around $12 million-$18 million) for the right target.

The snacks maker, which brokerage Anand Rathi said is the third biggest Indian snacks brand behind Haldiram’s and Balaji, is more focused on expanding its market share by 50 basis points every year from 9% currently.

Verma expects Bikaji’s revenue to rise 16%-17% in the current fiscal year from 23.29 billion rupees in the year ended March 31. ($1 = 83.9330 Indian rupees)

Apple eyes bigger slice of India’s streaming market with Airtel deal

With mostly English-language content, Apple TV+ is a small player in the Indian market, where its rivals include Netflix , Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar and billionaire Mukesh Ambani's JioCinema.

By: Reuters

Bengaluru | Updated: August 28, 2024 11:36 IST

Premium users of Airtel's broadband and postpaid services can access Apple TV+ and Apple Music later this year as part of their plans.

Apple is tying up with India’s Airtel to offer the telecom firm’s premium customers its music and video streaming services for free, potentially giving the US firm access to thousands of consumers in a price-sensitive market.

The move comes as competition tightens in India’s $28-billion entertainment market and an $8.5-billion merger of the Indian media assets of Reliance and Walt Disney faces close scrutiny from regulators.

“Apple TV+ will come bundled with premium Airtel WiFi and Postpaid plans,” Airtel said in a statement on Tuesday, though the companies did not disclose a deal value for the partnership or information on costs.

With mostly English-language content, Apple TV+ is a small player in the Indian market, where its rivals include Netflix , Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar and billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s JioCinema.

Apple is following competitors in bundling streaming services with telecom plans to grow its audience more quickly.

Premium users of Airtel’s broadband and postpaid services can access Apple TV+ and Apple Music later this year as part of their plans.

Airtel will shut its music app Wynk in this process, two sources with direct knowledge of the matter said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Airtel has about 281 million subscribers for its India telecom offerings, while its top rival, Ambani’s Reliance Jio, has about 489 million.

After Shipping Ministry assures wage revision, port workers defer strike

The workers’ unions are affiliated with five federations: All India Port and Dock Workers’ Federation, All India Port and Dock Workers Federation (Workers), Water Transport Workers Federation of India, Indian National Port and Dock Workers Federation, and Port, Dock and Waterfront Workers Federation of India.

Written by Ravi Dutta Mishra

New Delhi | August 28, 2024 04:45 IST

India exported goods worth $437 billion, with imports estimated at $677 billion in FY24. (File Photo)

Port workers on Tuesday deferred their strike, which was set to begin on August 28, after reaching an agreement with the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways following a two-day-long negotiation over a wage revision that has been pending for the last two years.

As per a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed on Tuesday, a settlement will be prepared within a period of ten days by a drafting committee consisting of various stakeholders, including a representative from all workers’ federations involved in the negotiations.

The MoU said that the workers would receive a fitment benefit of 8.5 per cent on the aggregate amount of basic pay as of 31 December 2021, plus 30 per cent of Variable Dearness Allowance (VDA) as of 1 January 2022. The periodicity of the settlement shall be five years, from 1 January 2022 to 31 December 2026, MoU stated.

“The suggestion of management that the periodicity of the next wage revision from 1 January 2027 should coincide with the periodicity of officers’ pay revision, with a view to avoid future anomalies, has been duly considered. The federations agreed that both management and federations will consider this at the time of the next wage revision, effective from 1 January 2027, to bring parity in the periodicity of settlement for officers and employees,” the MoU stated. Notably, the shipping ministry had formed a bipartite wage negotiation committee in March 2021, and the workers submitted their demands six months later, ahead of the expiration of the previous agreement in December 2021. Although the wage negotiation committee met seven times, it failed to meet the port workers’ demands.

The workers’ unions are affiliated with five federations: All India Port and Dock Workers’ Federation, All India Port and Dock Workers Federation (Workers), Water Transport Workers Federation of India, Indian National Port and Dock Workers Federation, and Port, Dock and Waterfront Workers Federation of India.

The annual cargo handling capacity of major Indian ports such as Chennai, Cochin, and Mumbai is about 1.62 billion metric tonnes, according to official figures. India exported goods worth $437 billion, with imports estimated at $677 billion in FY24.

While the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways led the negotiations, exporters had reached out to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry seeking help in resolving the issue. Exporters were concerned about the potential loss of Christmas orders from the West, which typically begins around this time. Additionally, they were worried about disruptions amid already strained maritime routes due to the Red Sea crisis.

Over 3 crore PM Jan Dhan accounts to be opened in FY25: FM Sitharaman

The government’s flagship financial inclusion programme Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi ten years ago on August 28, 2014.

Written by Aanchal Magazine

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 06:02 IST

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman (File Photo)

The government aims to open more than 3 crore accounts under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) during the current financial year 2024-25, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Tuesday. On the eve of the PMJDY completing ten years, Sitharaman said the scheme has helped the government to reach out to people, especially in identifying people who are in need of money.

The government’s flagship financial inclusion programme Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi ten years ago on August 28, 2014.

The number of bank accounts under PMJDY has risen nearly four-fold to 53.13 crore as on August 16, 2024 from 14.72 crore in March 2015. Total deposits under PMJDY have increased to over Rs 2.31 lakh crore as of August 2024 from Rs 15,670 crore as of March 2015, the Finance Ministry said. The government’s target is to open “more than 3 crore PMJDY accounts during the current financial year”, Sitharaman said.

“We believe that most of the adults in the country have been covered with bank accounts and our focus is to cover leftover adults and neo-adults,” she added. As on August 14, 2024, there were more than 173 crore operative CASA accounts in the country out of which over 53 crore are operative PMJDY accounts. The average balance in PMJDY accounts has increased to Rs 4,352 as on August 16 this year from Rs 1,065 in March 2015. Around 80 per cent of PMJDY accounts are operative and 20 per cent inoperative.

The Finance Ministry said the PMJDY has been the foundation for people-centric economic initiatives. PMJDY has helped provide adults with a bank account which has helped in direct benefit transfers, COVID-19 financial assistance, PM-KISAN.

The JAM Trinity (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile) has given a boost to the Direct Benefit Transfer programme and expanded its coverage from partial to ubiquitous, the Finance Ministry said. Of the total accounts opened under the scheme, about 66.6 per cent accounts are opened in rural and semi-urban areas. Of the total 53.13 crore PMJDY accounts, 29.56 crore (55.6 per cent) belong to women account holders.

“Today, 99.95 per cent of all inhabited villages have access to banking facilities within a 5-km radius through banking touch points (including bank branches, ATMs, banking correspondents (BCs), and Indian Post Payment Banks),” the Ministry said.

Under the PMJDY, there are no account opening charges, no account maintenance charges, and no minimum balance charges. Free RuPay debit card, with in-built accident insurance cover of Rs 2 lakh, and access to overdraft facility of up to Rs 10,000, are other major features of the scheme.

Aanchal Magazine

Aanchal Magazine is Senior Assistant Editor with The Indian Express and reports on the macro economy and fiscal policy, with a special focus on economic science, labour trends, taxation and revenue metrics. With over 12 years of newsroom experience, she has also reported in detail on macroeconomic data such as trends and policy actions related to inflation, GDP growth and fiscal arithmetic. Interested in the history of her homeland, Kashmir, she likes to read about its culture and tradition in her spare time, along with trying to map the journeys of displacement from there.   ... Read More

GST Council to discuss rate rationalisation on September 9, final decision later: FM Sitharaman

Last week, the reconstituted GoM on rate rationalisation, headed by Bihar’s Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary, had met for the first time and broadly agreed to not make any changes with the existing slabs in the indirect tax regime.

Written by Aanchal Magazine

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 06:02 IST

Union Finance Sitharaman said some states had raised the need to discuss this in previous GST Council meetings as the loan repayment is likely to be completed before March 2026. (Photo-Twitter/@FinMinIndia)

The upcoming Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council meeting on September 9 will discuss rationalisation of rates on several items but a decision regarding any rate change will be taken in subsequent meetings, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Tuesday. A committee of officers will make a presentation on the current status of rates under GST in the Council meeting next month, which would then be shared with the Group of Ministers (GoM) on rate rationalisation for their consideration, Sitharaman said.

“A committee of officers will make a presentation on the current status of rates on items under GST. The discussions will be held in the GST Council meeting, no decision will be taken in this meeting. After this Council meeting, the GoM will meet and discuss further, after which the Council will meet again on this issue,” she said.

Both rationalisation of rates and tweaking of slabs under GST are on the discussion table, the Finance Minister said, adding that the discussions will go item-by-item and make a comparison of the current rates with the revenue neutral rate. The concern of maintaining revenue neutrality has weighed on such discussions of rate changes earlier as any major rate change for items or tax slabs under GST would imply loss of revenue for both states and the Centre. Revenue neutrality is seen as a crucial factor as a study by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had earlier shown that while the Chief Economic Advisor’s report had pegged the revenue neutral rate at 15.3 per cent, the weighted average GST rate stood at 14.4 per cent in May 2017, and subsequently dropped to 11.6 per cent by September 2019. Government officials said that now this weighted average GST rate has dropped even lower than the 11.6 per cent level seen earlier.

The GST has five key tax slabs: zero, 5 per cent, 12 per cent, 18 per cent and 28 per cent. A compensation cess, ranging between 1 per cent to 290 per cent, is levied on demerit and luxury goods over and above the topmost rate of 28 per cent. A merger of 5 per cent and 12 per cent slabs or 12 per cent and 18 per cent slabs has been deliberated upon earlier as well but has not been taken up formally for a decision.

The GST Council may also discuss the issue of compensation cess levy, which is at present proposed to be levied till March 2026 for payment of back-to-back loans taken earlier to compensate states under the indirect tax regime. Sitharaman said some states had raised the need to discuss this in previous GST Council meetings as the loan repayment is likely to be completed before March 2026. The future course of the compensation cess levy may be discussed in the GST Council in the upcoming meeting or later, she said.

Last week, the reconstituted GoM on rate rationalisation, headed by Bihar’s Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary, had met for the first time and broadly agreed to not make any changes with the existing slabs in the indirect tax regime.

State finance ministers, who participated in the meeting, had also said that the issue of reduction of GST rate for health and life insurance premiums was raised in the meeting of the GoM and it is being reviewed by the fitment committee. GoM members have sought more data on various items after which it will make a detailed presentation on rate rationalisation proposals at the GST Council meeting slated for September 9. The GoM is then expected to meet again at the end of September.

Aanchal Magazine

Aanchal Magazine is Senior Assistant Editor with The Indian Express and reports on the macro economy and fiscal policy, with a special focus on economic science, labour trends, taxation and revenue metrics. With over 12 years of newsroom experience, she has also reported in detail on macroeconomic data such as trends and policy actions related to inflation, GDP growth and fiscal arithmetic. Interested in the history of her homeland, Kashmir, she likes to read about its culture and tradition in her spare time, along with trying to map the journeys of displacement from there.   ... Read More

Electronic components subsidy policy: Centre, industry disagree over job creation

Incentivising electronic components manufacturing is the next key frontier for India, after it successfully managed to localise assembly of finished electronics products such as smartphones.

Written by Soumyarendra Barik

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 08:42 IST

An employee works at the television assembly production line of a factory belonging to Hanel electronic company in Hanoi March 1, 2011. (Reuters Image)

There is a standoff between the electronics industry and the Centre over employment numbers in a new electronic components manufacturing incentive policy currently being drafted — with the industry pushing back on the government’s job creation demands, saying that the numbers don’t reflect the level of mechanisation available, The Indian Express has learnt.

Faced with the employment issue, the government is keen on linking jobs creation to subsidies that companies could avail under the electronic components manufacturing incentive policy, which the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) is working on. As part of deliberations on the policy last week, the industry said that the government was estimating job creation under the scheme to be higher than by at least 50-60 per cent. This tussle has delayed the formulation of the policy.

“Take printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) for instance. The government is asking that we employ 3-4 people per PCBA unit produced locally. But, we are telling that the process is highly mechanised, and only needs 1-2 people per unit. There are many other components on which there has been a lot of back and forth as far as employment is concerned,” an industry executive said.

The IT Ministry did not respond to a request for comment.

Incentivising electronic components manufacturing is the next key frontier for India, after it successfully managed to localise assembly of finished electronics products such as smartphones. However, as smartphone companies like Apple and Samsung ramped up their assembly processes, it has resulted in a surge in import of component imports given that India has very little footprint in the domain, which is largely dominated by China.

The incentive policy for electronic components could have a government subsidy component to the tune of Rs 40,000 crore, with the expected investments in the space to the tune of Rs 82,000 crore. The government is exploring various incentive models, including subsidising either operational or capital expenditure or a combination of the two, depending on the type of component.

In an internal assessment, the government has also identified a “huge” demand-supply gap in the electronic components sector – to the tune of $100 billion for domestic consumption alone, and $140 billion if India wants to export some components. That would be almost ten times of what India’s current domestic capacity is. In 2022-23, electronic components production in the country stood at $10.75 billion accounting for only about 10 per cent of total electronics production.

In a deck prepared by the IT Ministry, the government has identified three key challenges facing India in terms of electronic components manufacturing. First is the current lack of domestic scale in the country. Second is a high investment to turnover ratio – in terms of finished products such as smartphones, which is what India is currently focusing on, every rupee of investment can bring it around Rs 20.

However, in case of electronic components, every rupee worth of investment will bring in between Rs 2- Rs 4. And third is that because India has big domestic demand, a large chunk of components are being imported: electronics imports is the second largest import commodity after oil, and account for nearly 75 per cent of the total electronics production in India.

Going by this trend, component demand is expected to reach $160 billion by 2028-29. “As component imports continue to grow at around 12 per cent, our component production with exports would have to grow by a CAGR of more than 53 per cent to meet demand,” the deck prepared by the IT Ministry said. This is why it is critical for the country to work out a domestic manufacturing scheme in the components sector.

The deck acknowledges that while post the production linked incentive (PLI) scheme for smartphones has resulted in a near tapering of imports of finished products, import of key components and sub-assemblies, including integrated circuits (ICs) increased from $29 billion in FY21 to $46.5 billion in FY23. Under the incentive policy, the government could offer an opex subsidy for non-solder mask passive components, flex PCBA, and sub-assembly display and camera modules. Mechanics, capital goods used in electronics manufacturing, and Lithium cells for electronics may receive capex subsidy. PCBs with more than eight layers, flex PCBs, and solder mask defined passive components could qualify for both an opex and capex subsidy.

Soumyarendra Barik

Soumyarendra Barik is Special Correspondent with The Indian Express and reports on the intersection of technology, policy and society. With over five years of newsroom experience, he has reported on issues of gig workers’ rights, privacy, India’s prevalent digital divide and a range of other policy interventions that impact big tech companies. He once also tailed a food delivery worker for over 12 hours to quantify the amount of money they make, and the pain they go through while doing so. In his free time, he likes to nerd about watches, Formula 1 and football. ... Read More

ZEE Entertainment Ltd, Sony settle dispute

Earlier in January, two days after Sony Corporation called off the merger plan, ZEEL said it approached the National Company Law Tribunal, Mumbai bench, seeking directions to implement the merger scheme.

Written by George Mathew

Mumbai | August 28, 2024 04:15 IST

The companies will also withdraw the respective composite schemes of arrangement from the NCLT and inform the relevant regulatory authorities, ZEEL said. (File Photo)

ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (ZEEL), Sony Corporation-owned Culver Max Entertainment Pvt. Ltd. (CMEPL) — formerly Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) — together with its group company Bangla Entertainment Pvt Ltd. (BEPL) on Tuesday said they have arrived at a comprehensive non-cash settlement, amicably resolving all disputes related to the merger co-operation agreement and the composite scheme of arrangement.

As part of the settlement, the companies have mutually agreed to withdraw all respective claims against each other in the ongoing arbitration at the Singapore International Arbitration Centre, and all related legal proceedings initiated in the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) and other forums.

Earlier in January, two days after Sony Corporation called off the merger plan, ZEEL said it approached the National Company Law Tribunal, Mumbai bench, seeking directions to implement the merger scheme. Culver Max and BEPL made claims in the arbitration proceedings before Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC).

The companies will also withdraw the respective composite schemes of arrangement from the NCLT and inform the relevant regulatory authorities, ZEEL said. “Under the terms of the settlement, none of the parties will have any outstanding or continuing obligations or liabilities to the other,” it said.

The settlement stems from a mutual understanding between the companies to independently pursue future growth opportunities with a renewed purpose and focus on the evolving media & entertainment landscape, signifying the definitive conclusion of all disputes, ZEEL said in a statement.

In January 2024, more than two years after announcing a merger proposal, Sony Corporation said its Indian arm, Culver Max Entertainment called off the $ 10 billion merger plan with Zee Entertainment that could have combined their linear networks, digital assets, production operations and programme libraries to create a mega entertainment firm.

Zee and Sony amicably settle disputes over their failed merger, to withdraw claims

Both ZEE and Sony had claimed a termination fee of USD 90 million (around Rs 748.7 crore) from each other for not complying to the Merger Cooperation agreement signed in December 2021.

By: PTI

New Delhi | Updated: August 27, 2024 19:44 IST

Two years after that Sony Corporation announced the termination of the agreement on January 22, 2024. (File photo)

ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEEL) and Sony Pictures Networks India on Tuesday said they have settled their six-month-long dispute related to the failed USD 10-billion merger and have agreed to withdraw all claims against each other.

As part of the “comprehensive non-cash settlement” between ZEEL and Culver Max Entertainment Pvt Ltd (CMEPL), both “have mutually agreed to withdraw all respective claims against each other, in the ongoing arbitration at the SIAC and all related legal proceedings initiated in the NCLT and other forums,” said a joint statement.

“The companies will also withdraw the respective Composite Schemes of Arrangement from the NCLT and inform the relevant regulatory authorities,” it said.

Both ZEE and Sony had claimed a termination fee of USD 90 million (around Rs 748.7 crore) from each other for not complying to the Merger Cooperation agreement (MCA) signed in December 2021.

Sony had moved before the Singapore International Arbitration Center (SIAC) immediately two days after the termination of the deal, saying ZEEL did not satisfy the merger conditions, initiated arbitration proceedings and claimed a termination fee of USD 90 million.

This was contested by ZEEL before the SIAC, which denied any interim relief to the Sony group against the Indian broadcaster.

ZEEL also moved the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) seeking implementation of the proposed merger and later withdrew its plea.

Later in May, ZEEL terminated the MCA by issuing a letter dated May 23, 2024, and it also sought a termination fee of USD 90 million from two Sony Group entities — Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), now known as Culver Max Entertainment, and Bangla Entertainment (BEPL).

Sony Pictures Networks India is the consumer-facing identity of CMEPL, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sony Group Corporation, Japan.

Under the settlement terms, none of the parties will have any “outstanding or continuing obligations or liabilities” to the other, the joint statement said.

“The settlement stems from a mutual understanding between the companies to independently pursue future growth opportunities with a renewed purpose and focus on the evolving media & entertainment landscape, signifying the definitive conclusion of all disputes,” it said.

In January this year, Sony had pulled out from the proposed USD 10.5-billion merger with ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Ltd citing failure to meet certain “closing conditions” by the Indian firm.

ZEEL and SPNI have agreed to merge on December 22, 2021.

The Mumbai bench of NCLT had on August 10, 2023, approved the scheme of merger of ZEEL with Sony group entities Culver Max Entertainment and BEPL, which could have created a USD 10 billion media entity.

However, two years after that Sony Corporation announced the termination of the agreement on January 22, 2024.

After the termination of the deal, both companies are pursuing their independent course. ZEEL is facing financial hurdles, which it is trying to handle through several initiatives. It has reported a net profit of Rs 118 crore in the first quarter of this fiscal.

Over 40% consumers use digital payment every day in Tier 3-6 cities: Report

According to the report, nearly half of the merchants who are not using digital payments in rural India are unaware of the service.

New Delhi | August 27, 2024 18:48 IST

Most merchants process digital payment transactions of less than Rs 15,000 every month. (Express Archives)

More than 40 per cent of consumers in Tier 3 to 6 cities use digital payment on a daily basis, while 45 per cent claimed to use it once in two days, a new survey report has said.

“This reflects the frequent usage of digital payments by consumers, even in Tier 3 to 6 locations of the country,” said a report by Chase India on The State of Digital Payments in India. The report identifies the key challenges faced by merchants and consumers in the adoption of digital payment services at the grassroots level.

According to the report, nearly half of the merchants who are not using digital payments in rural India are unaware of the service.

In contrast, a staggering 94 per cent of consumers who are not using digital payments are aware of it but still don’t use it, as they face issues like lack of internet connectivity, limited knowledge, mistrust in online payments and service-related problems. The report added that around 74 per cent of consumers claimed to be using digital payment services for a transaction a family member made.

The report said around 41 per cent of merchants claimed to receive less than 25 per cent of their sales through digital payments, around 15 per cent of merchants claimed to receive over 50 per cent of their sales through digital payments.

“This shows the potential left to be tapped with respect to increasing the usage of digital payments at the grassroots level,” the report said.

A total of 2,240 respondents were surveyed for the report, including 1,184 consumers and 1,056 merchants, spread across 16 districts, covering eight states in different geographic zones of the country. The report also said that lack of awareness about digital payments was a crucial finding. Around 46 per cent of merchants had never used digital payments because they were unaware of it.

The survey revealed that, on average, around 36 per cent of merchants claimed to be processing over 50 digital payment transactions every month. Also, around 23 per cent of merchants claimed to be processing not more than 1 digital payment transaction every alternate day.

Most merchants process digital payment transactions of less than Rs 15,000 every month. Only a handful of merchants claimed to process digital payments of over Rs 1 lakh. The main challenges that hinder the adoption of digital payments were inadequate infrastructure, service-related issues, capacity constraints and lack of trust in digital Payments, it said.

“KYC is a vital step in onboarding merchants for using digital payments services. However, the survey discovered that nearly one in three merchants faced difficulties in completing the KYC process due to a lack of requisite documents, capacity constraints and the time taken for onboarding, among other reasons,” the report said.

To catch the IPO boom, law firms race to scale up capital markets practices

This is where capital markets teams come in — to draft offer documents to be submitted to the Sebi and any other transaction agreements that may be required.

Written by Ajoy Sinha Karpuram

New Delhi | Updated: August 27, 2024 13:49 IST

The level of due diligence required to get approval for a public listing from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) is quite high. (File Photo)

On August 9, Ola Electric Mobility became the first purely electric vehicle company in India to list its shares on the stock exchange after floating an initial public offering (IPO). Spearheading the process behind the scenes were two Indian corporate law firms, Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas (CAM) and Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas (SAM) — who advised Ola Electric and the bankers, respectively.

“Right now, the market is booming. It’s on an upward trend,” says Sayantan Dutta, a partner from the capital markets team at SAM. The number of companies launching IPOs has surged in the last couple of years. According to the Economic Survey 2023-24 released by the Ministry of Finance, “The number of initial public offers (IPOs) increased by 66 per cent in FY24 from 164 in FY23 to 272 in FY24, while the amount raised grew by 24 per cent (from Rs 54,773 crore in FY23 to Rs 67,995 crore in FY24)”.

The level of due diligence required to get approval for a public listing from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) is quite high. This is where capital markets teams come in — to draft offer documents to be submitted to the Sebi and any other transaction agreements that may be required.

“It’s important for you to be able to tell the public what your company is about and what are the risks involved in investing in your company. What is your business model and its potential? How experienced is your board? What sort of cases do you have against you? What are your financial liabilities?” says Debanjan Mandal, managing partner at Fox & Mandal.

These are some of the questions that companies have to address in their draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) that is sent to Sebi before it allows the company to list its shares. “Which brings me to the key point of all this…capital markets, unlike other practices, is a very labour intensive practice,” Mandal states. To meet the demands of the booming IPO market, law firms have been expanding their capital markets practices.

In July, rebounding from the loss of key partners from the capital markets team, CAM hired former IndusLaw Capital Markets partner Manan Lahoty, along with his team of nearly 50 lawyers (including 8 partners). Though this was perhaps the most notable exodus in recent times, CAM is far from being the only firm strengthening its capital markets practice. Large firms like SAM and Trilegal have also made key hires in 2024 at the partner level and mid-sized firms, such as Fox & Mandal and Crawford Bayley, have been building or expanding their capital markets practices.

According to Dutta, part of the reason that the market has been so robust is the decreased reliance on foreign portfolio investors due to the rise of Indian mutual funds. Dutta details how this directly affects the market for Indian lawyers, stating, “the moment you draft the full book (the necessary agreements for listing shares), you can charge a much higher fee compared to if you have to share the drafting of a prospectus with an international legal counsel…At the same time, it’s also straining the bandwidth.”

This strain on the bandwidth also has a role to play in firms’ active hiring practices. “So four people on a transaction could do the deal last time, but now you need five to six people on the transaction,” Dutta adds.

Further, it is not just established companies like Ola that are getting on the IPO boom. Apart from larger ‘Main Board’ listings, there is the small and medium enterprises board (SME). Smaller companies which don’t see the the benefit of going for a oversight heavy Main Board listing — where the IPO process could go on for six months to a year — will list its shares on the SME board.

This opens the door for mid-sized firms to get in on the action, says Mandal.

However, the optimism about the IPO boom comes with a note of caution from lawyers — the market is cyclical, and what goes up must come down.“Every law firm with capital markets practice is trying to scale up right now. But at the same time, they have to scale up in a very sustainable way because we all know capital market is a cyclical practice. So markets are up today and consequently, you make a large team, but God forbid, markets will see a correction tomorrow or day after tomorrow, and then you will be left with a team which won’t be efficient or sustainable,” says Dutta. Or, as Sanjay Asher, senior partner at Crawford Bayley & Co (a mid-sized firm) states, “Once the market goes down it could be as dry as a desert”.

Some firms indicate that they have evolved practices to deal with the ebb and flow of the market. Abhinav Maker, partner at Trilegal, says “Larger firms such as Trilegal understand the practice needs to be incubated and diversified. There will be times where the capital markets activity is high and times where the market is down”.

Lawyers from these teams often take up tasks in other areas of corporate law which see an increase in business when the market is lean.

Some mid-sized firms also indicate they have plans in place for these situations. “We don’t fire lawyers…we deploy them in other corporate law and securities law assignments,” adds Asher.

Gas demand uptick driven by power sector bumps up India’s LNG imports in April-July

The rise in LNG imports pushed up India’s reliance on imported gas to 48.9 per cent in April-July from 46.9 per cent on the year-ago period.

Written by Sukalp Sharma

New Delhi | Updated: August 27, 2024 10:16 IST

The rise in LNG imports pushed up India’s reliance on imported gas to 48.9 per cent in April-July from 46.9 per cent on the year-ago period. (File Photo)

Growth in domestic demand for natural gas amid reasonable prices and ample availability of liquefied natural gas (LNG), or super-chilled gas, in the international market led to a double-digit growth in India’s LNG imports in the first four months of the current financial year (FY25). Notably, the uptick in imports came amid a growth in domestic gas production as well.

The consumption growth was primarily driven by the power sector, given that the government’s thrust on raising power production to meet high summer demand led to higher-than-usual electricity generation by gas-based units.

The country’s LNG imports rose 13.1 per cent year-on-year in April-July to 11,423 million standard cubic metres (mscm), while natural gas consumption was higher by 8.6 per cent at 23,364 mscm, per latest provisional data available with the Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell (PPAC) of the oil ministry. Net domestic natural gas production for the four-month period was 11,941 mscm, up 4.6 per cent year-on-year.

The rise in LNG imports pushed up India’s reliance on imported gas to 48.9 per cent in April-July from 46.9 per cent on the year-ago period. For the full FY24, India’s natural gas import dependency was 47.1 per cent, the PPAC data shows.

For the April-June quarter (Q1)—the peak summer quarter in most parts of India—power generation by gas-based plants jumped 62.5 per cent year-on-year to 13.49 billion units (1 unit is 1 kilowatt hour), per data from the Central Electricity Authority (CEA). The overall plant load factor (PLF)—capacity utilisation of power generation units—for gas-based plants in Q1 was almost 25 per cent, up from 15.3 per cent in the year-ago quarter. PLF for gas-based power plants in June this year was 25.8 per cent, up from 17 per cent in June 2023.

For April-July, the PLF for gas-based power plants was 22.2 per cent, against 15 per cent a year ago. Power generation from these units in April-July jumped to 16.17 billion units from 10.54 billion units in the corresponding four months of last year.

According to ship tracking data from commodity markets analytics firm Kpler, India’s LNG imports touched a near four-year high in June as gas-based power plants operated at notably higher run rates than their usually subdued capacity utilisation levels amid a surge in electricity demand due to the severe heatwave. With the monsoon covering most parts of the country in July, the power demand has evidently softened from the supernormal levels during the peak summer months.

To be sure, gas-based power plants use domestic natural gas as well as imported LNG as feedstock. As domestic natural gas production is able to meet just around half of India’s total gas consumption, the cheaper local gas is allocated as per a priority list in which city gas distribution and fertiliser sectors have a higher priority than the power sector. As imported LNG is usually costlier than domestic gas, gas-based power plants have been operating at very low capacity use levels mainly due to unfavourable economics.

In anticipation of a severe summer, the Power Ministry had invoked the Section 11 of the Electricity Act, 2003, on April 12, issuing a set of instructions to the power generation companies to ensure that electricity demand is met. As part of the instructions, idling gas-based power plants were asked to operate from May till the end of June. At almost 25 gigawatts, India’s gas-based power generation capacity accounts for 5.6 per cent of the country’s overall installed generation capacity, per Power Ministry data.

In May, S&P Global Commodity Insights had said that with subdued prices of LNG in the spot market and growing demand for the fuel in India, there was a ramp-up in India’s spot LNG purchases.

The government has been pushing for higher consumption of natural gas in India, with an aim to increase the share of the fuel in the country’s primary energy mix to 15 per cent by 2030 from over 6 per cent at present. The push for higher natural gas consumption, even if it leads to higher imports, is not without reason. Natural gas is far less polluting than conventional hydrocarbons like crude oil and coal, and is usually cheaper than oil, for which India depends on imports to meet over 85 per cent of its requirement.

As the country moves towards green energy and future fuels, natural gas is seen as a key transition fuel in that journey. Various sectors, including the likes of city gas distribution, fertilizer, power generation, and refineries and petrochemicals, are seen as major growth areas for natural gas demand in India.

Sukalp Sharma

Sukalp Sharma is a Senior Assistant Editor with The Indian Express and writes on a host of subjects and sectors, notably energy and aviation. He has over 13 years of experience in journalism with a body of work spanning areas like politics, development, equity markets, corporates, trade, and economic policy. Before joining The Indian Express, Sukalp had long and enriching stints at financial newswire Informist and the Express Group’s pink paper The Financial Express. He considers himself an above-average photographer, which goes well with his love for travel. ... Read More

For ‘frictionless credit’, RBI to launch technology platform; to call it Unified Lending Interface: Governor Shaktikanta Das

Going beyond understanding the risks posed by AI, financial institutions should clearly outline the liabilities and ensure a calibrated and responsible adoption.

Written by Hitesh Vyas

Mumbai | Updated: August 27, 2024 09:35 IST

Shaktikanta Das, Governor, Reserve Bank of India. (File Photo)

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das on Monday said the Unified Lending Interface (ULI), to enable frictionless credit, will soon be introduced.

The pilot project for a public tech platform for frictionless credit was already announced in August last year.

Speaking at the Global Conference on Digital Public Infrastructure and Emerging Technologies, Das highlighted that ULI will play a similar role in transforming the lending space in the country, just as United Payment Interface (UPI) revolutionized the payment ecosystem.

“Continuing on the journey of digitalisation of banking services, last year we launched the pilot of a technology platform which enables frictionless credit. From now on, we propose to call it the Unified Lending Interface (ULI),” Das said.

While announcing the pilot project for frictionless credit in August last year, the RBI had said that for digital credit delivery, the data required for credit appraisal are available with different entities like Central and State governments, account aggregators, banks, credit information companies and digital identity authorities. However, they are in separate systems, creating hindrance in frictionless and timely delivery of rule-based lending, it has said.

Das noted that ULI facilitates seamless and consent-based flow of digital information, including even land records of various states, from multiple data service providers to lenders thereby cutting down the time taken for credit appraisal, especially for smaller and rural borrowers.

The ULI architecture has common and standardised APIs (Application Programming Interface), designed for a ‘plug and play’ approach to ensure digital access to information from diverse sources, which reduces the complexity of multiple technical integrations. It will also enable borrowers to get the benefit of seamless delivery of credit, quicker turnaround time without requiring extensive documentation, he said.

“In sum, by digitising access to customer’s financial and non-financial data that otherwise resided in disparate silos, ULI is expected to cater to large unmet demand for credit across various sectors, particularly for agricultural and MSME borrowers,” Das explained.

He further said that while the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) can make processes simpler and more efficient, lenders need to be mindful of adopting such new-age technologies in critical decision-making segments such as loan sanctioning.

“AI promises to make processes simpler and efficient. It can also emulate decision making to a great extent. However, when it comes to regulated financial institutions, there should be careful adoption of AI in critical decision-making segments, for example, in loan sanctioning,” he said.

He said since AI is a data-driven science, the authenticity of data being used in training the models, the possibility of biases and concerns about data privacy need to be carefully examined.

Going beyond understanding the risks posed by AI, financial institutions should clearly outline the liabilities and ensure a calibrated and responsible adoption.

“It is important to be proactive to leverage the capabilities of new technologies, but at the same time it is essential to be abundantly mindful of the associated risks and challenges,” he said.

The Governor said that the AI technology poses various challenges such as data privacy concerns arising from handling fast volumes of personal information and spreading misinformation, which can potentially cause severe damage and disruption to Digital Public Infrastructure (DPIs), as well as other digital systems.

“Ethical AI governance is essential to ensure fairness and prevention of bias. Financial institutions must ensure that AI models are explainable, that is, the ability to explain why certain results are produced,” he said.

Digital Public Infrastructure refers to basic technology systems, created mainly in the public sector, that are openly available to users and other developers. DPIs are scalable, and thus can support systems that operate on a population-wide scale; they are interoperable, and therefore spur innovation by being accessible to innovators; and they are also cost efficient by virtue of their economies of scale.

shal He noted that there should not be any rush to roll out system-wide CBDC before one acquires a comprehensive understanding of its impact on users, on monetary policy, on the financial system and on the economy.

“Such understanding would emerge from generation of user data in pilots. Actual introduction of CBDC can be phased in gradually,” he said.

On cross-border payments, Das said while much efficiency has been achieved in case of wholesale markets, the retail cross-border space is still fraught with multiple layers that add to the cost and delays in cross-border remittances.

Commenting on the development, BankBazaar.com’s CEO Adhil Shetty said that the ULI platform not only promises a more streamlined credit ecosystem but also bolsters the capabilities of lenders and fintechs to innovate and expand their offerings effectively. By providing access to a diverse range of data sources, including land records, ULI empowers these entities to craft more precise lending solutions that cater to the unique needs of consumers.

“The full potential of ULI will be realised by integrating fintech loan service providers alongside traditional regulated entities within its robust ecosystem,” he said.

Tech Review

- Google Pixel 9 Pro XL review: It’s all about the AI

- I used the Clicks keyboard case for my iPhone 15 Pro, and it’s a love letter to BlackBerry

- Vivo V40 Pro review: An all-weather smartphone with flagship cameras

I used the Clicks keyboard case for my iPhone 15 Pro, and it’s a love letter to BlackBerry

The Clicks Creator keyboard, a case and a keyboard combo that transforms your iPhone into a BlackBerry-like device.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Rs. 11900 ($139)

Written by Anuj Bhatia

New Delhi | Updated: August 28, 2024 11:24 IST

The Clicks has a command key, which you can use to trigger shortcuts. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/Indian Express)

In the early 2010s, when I began my career as a tech journalist, BlackBerry was at its prime. As a young journalist, I was always curious and would often ask our editors about the newly launched BlackBerry phones. Fortunately for me, and as a newbie, I was able to attend many BlackBerry launch events—contrary to the norms of the time—which gave me access to the last of the iconic BlackBerry devices with physical keyboards. I still remember the time I spent with the BlackBerry Priv and Passport, two of my favourite BlackBerries.

After years—although many have forgotten BlackBerry, I haven’t—a startup company named Clicks Technology, founded by veteran tech journalists Michael Fisher (MrMobile) and Kevin Michaluk (CrackBerry Kevin), aims to bring back the BlackBerry we remember and love with Clicks, a keyboard case for the iPhone. This isn’t just a separate keyboard attachment or a replication of the physical keyboard BlackBerry was known for, but a genuine keyboard with real buttons for the iPhone.

I have been using the Clicks keyboard case for my iPhone 15 Pro (the company shipped the unit straight from London to Delhi) daily for a few days, and here’s what I think of it.

Clicks keyboard case for iPhone 15 Pro (as reviewed): Rs 11,900 ($139)

Why a physical keyboard for the iPhone

The Clicks is a case with a BlackBerry-style keyboard you can drop your iPhone 14 or 15 into. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/Indian Express)

I’d be lying if I said I had always wanted a physical keyboard for my iPhone. As a long-time iPhone user, and as many others might feel, I am accustomed to typing on a virtual keyboard. In fact, even when I was using the iPhone 13 mini, I never had major issues typing on its smaller screen. However, there were times when I wished for a physical keyboard, especially while typing on a busy Delhi metro, sitting in an auto, or standing in a queue at a grocery store.

Truth be told, I come from a generation that used physical keyboards on phones for a long time and has since adapted to all-virtual keyboards on modern smartphones. So I have experienced both phases—phones with and without physical keyboards. I can imagine how a user born after the 2000s might react to a smartphone with a built-in physical keyboard. They might not be accustomed to typing on a physical keyboard and may lack the emotional connection and fond memories associated with BlackBerry. You might question the need for the Clicks keyboard case, but I believe the makers are trying to reach two types of audiences: those who were once huge fans of BlackBerry and those who are new to the physical keyboard experience. The common thread is the iPhone, perhaps the most popular smartphone on the market, which, ironically, was designed to free users from the BlackBerry-style physical keyboard.

It makes your iPhone distinct

The Clicks doesn’t require a Bluetooth connection for pairing to happen. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/Indian Express)

A banana yellow. That’s the first thing that comes to mind when I look at the Clicks keyboard case for the iPhone. It’s hard to ignore Clicks. I received so many queries about the case when I posted a picture of it on LinkedIn. In fact, my office colleagues were under the impression that Apple had secretly introduced a limited-edition iPhone in bright yellow with a physical keyboard. Everyone wanted to hold the device, touch and feel it, and take pictures—without realizing that it was just an iPhone case. Now, after days of using the Clicks keyboard case for my iPhone 15 Pro, I’m used to the extra attention I get when I enter a room full of new people. I can’t hide it, even if I wanted to. The bright yellow colour makes Clicks distinctive, though it still feels very much like itself. At one point, I even forgot it was just a phone case and thought I was using a new device.

Maybe the reason is that the iPhone looks longer when it’s inside the Clicks case. The case is about 1.5 inches longer than the iPhone alone and also adds a little more weight. That being said, I can easily carry my iPhone 15 Pro in my cargo pants; the case actually feels lighter in daily use. However, if you’re using the iPhone 15 Pro Max with Clicks, it might be a bit bulky.

I must say the build quality and design of Clicks are fantastic. The silicone material of the case is of premium quality, and there’s a small rectangle vegan leather patch on the back that adds a nice touch for your fingers to rest. Clicks also include a protective layer for the iPhone cameras, and two small cutouts above the keyboard that allow the sound to pass through from the iPhone microphone and speaker. The Clicks feels both retro and new, bringing me a lot of joy, and I think it might do the same for you too.

Easy to use and no charging required

The keyboard case does make a huge difference when using social media apps. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/Indian Express)

Perhaps the best part is how easy it is to slip the case onto my iPhone 15 Pro. Just press gently on the back to pop the top of the phone forward, then slide it into place. It’s that simple. When you insert your iPhone into the case, it connects via the port on the bottom—USB-C, in the case of my iPhone 15 Pro—so the case doesn’t require a Bluetooth connection or a battery. There’s also a matching USB-C port on the bottom of the case for passthrough charging—that’s the port you use to charge your iPhone. I wish support for MagSafe could have been there but it’s not. I wouldn’t be surprised if MagSafe would be added in the next version of Clicks. Though wireless charging support is there, I find it very slow.

During my testing, I found that the case drew minimal power; I didn’t notice a significant drain on my iPhone 15 Pro’s battery. The only part of the keyboard that needs power is the backlight, which can be easily turned on and off. I preferred to use the Clicks keyboard case as it is, but a companion app from the App Store allows you to adjust the backlight brightness and timeout, change the behaviour of the Caps Lock, Alt Lock (123 key), and Return keys, enable battery saving, and update the firmware.

The keys have tactile feedback and customisability won me over

The keys are reminiscent of the best BlackBerry keyboard. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/Indian Express)

It was a dream to use a physical keyboard with the iPhone, but my initial experience with the keys wasn’t great. I made a lot of mistakes while typing. However, after more than a week with the physical keyboard, I’ve grown accustomed to the typing experience, making fewer typos and typing faster. So yes, I’d say it takes some time to get used to a physical keyboard—perhaps more than a week. But once you adjust, it’s a joy to type on, even though the keys are small. They are tiny but still fantastic to use. Each key covers a nickel-plated dome that provides the right amount of travel. The keys are clicky and offer tactile feedback, reminding me of using a BlackBerry keyboard all over again—this time on the iPhone.

As I mentioned, even after spending time with the physical keyboard, I still make typos and sometimes end up with incomplete texts. The good thing is that the iPhone’s keyboard features, such as auto-correct, are still there to help if I mistype something. Of course, I can’t write an article on the iPhone with a physical keyboard at the same speed as I can on a virtual keyboard. However, there are times—often throughout the day—when typing a message on a physical keyboard is deeply satisfying. Nothing beats the satisfying typing experience you get from physical keys. I wish the company would find a way to make the keys a little larger while keeping the overall dimensions the same, especially for a phone the size of the iPhone 15 Pro.

But more than the charm of using physical keys on the iPhone, one significant benefit of the Clicks case is the change in screen size while typing. Since the case includes a keyboard, the digital keyboard no longer appears on your screen, giving you far more space. This difference is particularly noticeable when using social media apps like Instagram and LinkedIn. I could see how a draft post looked, and with the digital keyboard no longer occupying screen space, I had more real estate for viewing and editing.

Another advantage of the Clicks keyboard case is access to several preprogrammed keyboard shortcuts and the ability to customize additional shortcuts of your own. The command key functions similarly to that on a Mac or iPad, giving me access to all my favourite shortcuts, like copy and paste. This is a great productivity feature, I’d say.

After using physical keys for typing, I didn’t stop going back to the virtual keyboard whenever I felt the need. The good part is that you can easily switch between the iPhone’s virtual keyboard and the Clicks keyboard anytime.

Should you buy the Clicks keyboard case?

The Clicks connects directly to the iPhone through Lightning or USB-C. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/Indian Express)

It depends. If you ask me, the Clicks keyboard case has its shortcomings but also strengths, especially if you are the right audience for a niche product like this. This is a first-generation device, and the company did a lot of things right to make the keyboard case shine. I love the idea of a physical keyboard case for the iPhone. It really seems like an opportunity the company seized to do something special, despite having some rough edges. Not everyone needs a physical keyboard, and that’s okay. Clicks is a homage to the golden days of BlackBerry, and the attempt is to bring the best of BlackBerry to the iPhone. It is a premium product priced at Rs 11,900 for the iPhone 15 Pro (Clicks can be purchased from the company’s website for the iPhone 14 and other iPhone series; the price varies by model). I can’t wait to see what Michael Fisher and the team do next with the second-generation Clicks.

Clicks keyboard case for iPhone

Feature

Pros

Cons

Keyboard

Fans of BlackBerry keyboards will love it

N/A

Design

Designed for creative users who want additional screen real estate

Adds extra bulk to iPhone

Display

Bright and well-designed

N/A

Functionality

Fantastic keyboard shortcuts

No MagSafe

Durability

N/A

Missing waterproofing

Price

N/A

Expensive

Anuj Bhatia

Anuj Bhatia is a personal technology writer at Indianexpress.com who has spent a decade covering gadgets, apps, and gaming. He specialises in writing longer-form feature articles and explainers on trending tech topics. His unique interests encompass delving into vintage tech and composing in-depth narratives on the intersection of history, technology, and popular culture. Prior to joining The Indian Express in late 2016, he served as a senior tech writer at My Mobile magazine and previously held roles as a reviewer and tech writer at Gizbot. Anuj holds a postgraduate degree from Banaras Hindu University. You can find Anuj on Linkedin. ... Read More

Vivo V40 Pro review: An all-weather smartphone with flagship cameras

I tried the Vivo V40 Pro, which has built on its predecessor the V30 Pro with some notable improvements.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Rs. 49,999

Written by Bijin Jose

New Delhi | Updated: August 27, 2024 13:47 IST

The Ganges Blue Vivo V40 Pro glistening under a canopy of trees on a cloudy day in New Delhi. (Image: Bijin Jose/The Indian Express)

Along with being functional, a modern-day smartphone must survive rain, hail, and storms. I have been toying with numerous phones in the past year, but I haven’t come across a device that packs almost everything — a stellar camera, sturdy build, and a refreshing design.

For the last two weeks, I have been using the Vivo V40 Pro, which the brand claims stands out in an ocean of smartphones with its focus on superior imaging capabilities. In this review, I will explore what sets the smartphone, launched earlier in August, apart from its competitors and help you make an informed decision.

Slim and sleek

The first thing that caught my attention was the slim profile, and I feel housing a large battery makes it an engineering marvel. More so, I feel Vivo has done a great job, especially at reaching out to the segment of users who are averse to bulkier smartphones. With the V40 Pro, Vivo has managed to come out with a slim device despite packing a 5500 mAh battery. It is 7.58 mm thick, has a great design, and does not compromise on the battery life.

The Vivo V40 Pro’s camera island is huge. However, it is in no way obstructing the design element of the device. (Image: Bijin Jose/The Indian Express)

The review device I got was in the Ganges Blue shade, which the brand claims to pay homage to the holy river. The glass back is iridescent and under direct light, gives the illusion of the wavy movements of the river. The device comes with an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, which should come as peace of mind for many users.

Another striking aspect is the comprehensive cushioning structure that enhances the drop resistance of the device. The Vivo V 40 Pro sports a high-performance Schlott glass for the screen. Overall, I feel that this is an ideal device for someone who is on the move and is more likely to drop their phones.

What a display

Essentially, the Vivo V 40 Pro builds on its predecessor the V30 Pro — a device that I thoroughly enjoyed using. However, there are some notable improvements. At the heart of all this is the 6.78-inch curved AMOLED display with minimal bezels. The screen offers a resolution of 2800 x 1260 pixels and a super smooth 120 Hz refresh rate.

The 6.78-inch curved AMOLED display on the Vivo V40 Pro offers the best viewing even on a bright sunny day. (Image: Bijin Jose/The Indian Express)

Besides, it supports HDR10+, making it ideal for your Netflix binge sessions. The standout feature here is the claimed peak brightness of 4500 nits, and during my usage I found the device to be significantly visible even on bright sunny days. I liked the vibrant colours and sharp details that the display showcased, especially while watching the 4K content.

Lights, camera, action

The camera system on the device is its main highlight. On the rear, it sports triple 50 MP cameras with the main featuring a Sony IMX921 sensor with Optical Image Stabilisation. Another highlight is the 50 MP ZEISS Telephoto Portrait Camera which offers 2x optical and 50x digital zoom, with OIS support. This lens is tailored for portrait photography, featuring the ZEISS Multifocal Portrait function, which provides multiple focal lengths (24 mm to 100 mm) with corresponding ZEISS lens effects, allowing for some cool artistic portraits.

Colours pop out in natural lighting. (Image: Bijin Jose/The Indian Express)

With the Vivo V40 Pro almost any setting can be a wallpaper-worthy click (Image: Bijin Jose/The Indian Express)

The camera module on the Vivo V40 Pro can be a delight for amature photographers. I am a novice, yet I could see the possibilities this device has to offer. (Image: Bijin Jose/The Indian Express)

Perhaps, the most interesting aspect of the cameras is how efficiently it captures the details. (Image: Bijin Jose/The Indian Express)

A towering building under the sprawling sky. (Image: Bijin Jose/The Indian Express)

The Vivo V40 Pro can be your perfect travel companion. (Image: Bijin Jose/The Indian Express)

The phone excels in portrait photography, offering multiple focal length options for versatile shots. Video capabilities are impressive too, with 4K recording at 60 fps available on both the rear and front cameras. Low-light performance is commendable, though some motion blur can occur in challenging conditions. Moreover, the ZEISS Style Bokeh features seven background blur styles, essentially mimicking high-end cameras. For selfies, the 50 MP front camera supports wide-angle shots with a 92° field of view, making it ideal for group selfies.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the Vivo V40 Pro is powered by MediaTek’s Dimensity 9200+ chipset paired with 12 GB of RAM. I found it to excel at both everyday tasks and some demanding games. While this cannot be called a gaming smartphone, one can easily play most games like Call of Duty, PubG, or racing games. The phone comes with a vapour chamber cooling system which helps it to manage heat during intensive use. During the review period, I never experienced any heating issues with the device.

The Vivo V40 Pro runs on Android 14 with Vivo’s FunTouch OS. While this may not appeal to all, I must tell you that it comes with an array of customisations. The device comes with three years of OS upgrades and four years of security updates, and this should keep the device running smoothly for a good long time.

Verdict on Vivo V40 Pro

The Vivo V40 Pro comes with some noticeable improvements over its predecessor, particularly in terms of performance and battery life. The versatile camera system makes it a solid choice among its peers. The device is the most durable in the segment, even though some may find the plastic frame uninspiring. Despite these minor issues, the Vivo V40 Pro can be a worthy investment.

Bijin Jose

Bijin Jose, an Assistant Editor at Indian Express Online in New Delhi, is a technology journalist with a portfolio spanning various prestigious publications. Starting as a citizen journalist with The Times of India in 2013, he transitioned through roles at India Today Digital and The Economic Times, before finding his niche at The Indian Express. With a BA in English from Maharaja Sayajirao University, Vadodara, and an MA in English Literature, Bijin's expertise extends from crime reporting to cultural features. With a keen interest in closely covering developments in artificial intelligence, Bijin provides nuanced perspectives on its implications for society and beyond. ... Read More

Science

- NASA’s Mars explorer begins challenging journey to Crater summit

- SpaceX’s 1st commercial spacewalk mission, Polaris Dawn, pushed by a day due to helium leak

NASA’s Mars explorer begins challenging journey to Crater summit

The six-wheeled Perseverance rover, which has been operating on Mars since 2021, initiated its ascent on Tuesday, with the objective of reaching the summit of a 1,000-foot crater.

By: Express Web Desk

August 28, 2024 06:01 IST

This image provided by NASA, shows a selfie of their Perseverance Mars rover. (AP)

NASA’s Perseverance rover has embarked on a challenging new mission on Mars, beginning its ascent to the rim of Jezero Crater after spending 3 1/2 years exploring its floor.

The six-wheeled Perseverance rover, which has been operating on Mars since 2021, initiated its ascent on Tuesday, with the objective of reaching the summit of a 1,000-foot (305-meter) crater.

During its exploration of the crater’s floor, an area formerly submerged in water, the rover has collected 22 rock core samples.

These samples have the potential to provide crucial insights into Mars’ ancient climate and possibly reveal evidence of past life on the planet. Currently, NASA is exploring methods to transport these samples back to Earth, as reported by AP.

Steven Lee of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California noted that the bedrock at the crater’s rim could offer insights into the formation of rocky planets like Mars and Earth.

However, the journey is expected to be arduous, with the rover facing rocky terrain and slopes as steep as 23 degrees over the coming months.

“Perseverance has demonstrated remarkable resilience,” Lee observed, noting the rover’s impressive endurance as it has traversed approximately 29 kilometers throughout its mission, according to a report by the Associated Press.

The rock formations at the top of the crater may have originated from ancient hydrothermal vents, where heated water and dissolved minerals once emerged after circulating beneath the planet’s surface.

On Earth, similar environments, such as those found in Yellowstone National Park, are considered potential cradles of life.

(With AP inputs)

SpaceX’s 1st commercial spacewalk mission, Polaris Dawn, pushed by a day due to helium leak

Polaris Dawn will launch from Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on August 28.

By: Science Desk

Bengaluru | Updated: August 28, 2024 08:28 IST

Falcon 9 carrying Polaris Dawn. (Image credit: SpaceX)

A few months ago, Elon Musk-owned SpaceX introduced its latest innovation – Extravehicular Activity (EVA) suits that allow astronauts to spacewalk at ~700 km above Earth. The private space tech company has now confirmed that it is all set to launch the Polaris Dawn flight, featuring billionaire crew members, making it the first commercial spacewalk mission in the world.

The mission was supposed to commence on August 27 at 3:38 a.m. EDT (1:08 PM IST) from Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida but has been postponed by at least 24 hours due to a technical issue that led to a “ground-side helium leak on the Quick Disconnect umbilical.”

Teams are taking a closer look at a ground-side helium leak on the Quick Disconnect umbilical. Falcon and Dragon remain healthy and the crew continues to be ready for their multi-day mission to low-Earth orbit.

Next launch opportunity is no earlier than Wednesday, August 28 →…

— SpaceX (@SpaceX) August 27, 2024

Musk took to his X account to claim it to be the first spacewalk by a commercial company and the furthest from Earth anyone has travelled ever.

Preparing for historic first commercial spacewalk and being the furthest from Earth of any humans in over half a century! https://t.co/4TEwupwldQ

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 25, 2024

The Polaris Dawn flight, the first civilian spacewalk mission, includes four crew members including Jared Isaacman, a billionaire who was also a part of SpaceX’s first commercial space travel mission on Crew Dragon back in 2021.

With the new EVA suits, space travellers including Isaacman along with the crew trainer Sarah Gillis will spend at least 15 minutes outside the Crew Dragon, while F-16 pilot Kidd Poteet and Anna Menon, a SpaceX Crew Dragon mission director, will remain inside the pod.

The objectives of this mission include “the first-ever extravehicular activity (EVA) by commercial astronauts wearing SpaceX-developed EVA suits,” and to “Conduct 36 research studies and experiments from 31 partner institutions designed to advance both human health on Earth and during long-duration spaceflight, and test Starlink laser-based communications in space.”

This comes just a few days after Boeing’s Starliner crew test mission, which also suffered from a helium leak and thruster failure, which has made NASA to use SpaceX’s dragon capsule instead of Starliner to bring Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore back to Earth in February 2025.

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