 Explain with relevant examples how the Election Commission of india decides on

party symbol disputes?

The Election Commission of India (ECI) is responsible for resolving disputes related to the
allocation of party symbols in the country. In order to decide on such disputes, the ECI follows a
set of rules and guidelines laid out in the Symbols Order, which was issued by the
Commission in 1968.

The Symbols Order states that any political party that wishes to contest elections in India must
be allotted a symbol, which is to be used by the party's candidates during elections. The
symbols are usually chosen from a list of "free symbols" that have been approved by the ECI. If
a new party is formed, it can apply to the ECI for a unique symbol.

In case of disputes, the ECI conducts a hearing, where the parties involved are given an
opportunity to present their case. The ECI then takes into consideration various factors such as
the party's popularity, its organizational structure, the number of its members, and its
electoral performance, before making a decision.

For example, In 2018, ECI allotted the 'two leaves' symbol to the AIADMK faction led by
Edappadi K Palaniswami, which had the support of the majority of the party MLAs and MPs, after
a prolonged legal battle between two factions of the party. Similarly, in 2019, ECI allotted the
'cycle' symbol to the Samajwadi Party led by Akhilesh Yadav after a dispute with his father
Mulayam Singh Yadav over the party symbol.

In conclusion, the ECI decides on party symbol disputes by following the Symbols Order and
taking into account various factors such as the party's popularity, its organizational structure, the
number of its members, and its electoral performance.

 The problem of illegal immigration from Bangladesh to india has existed for
decades. Discuss concrete steps to tackle the problem in a holistic and transparent
manner
As per govt Data, “there are around 20 million illegal Bangladeshi migrants staying in India”.
Illegal immigration from Bangladesh to India has been a long-standing issue that has various
economic, social, and political implications. Tackling this problem in a holistic and
transparent manner requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the root causes of
immigration and the challenges that arise as a result.

1. Border security: One of the most crucial steps in tackling illegal immigration is to strengthen
border security. This can be done by increasing the deployment of border security personnel,
setting up border fencing and implementing technology-based surveillance systems such as
CCTV cameras, drones, and thermal imaging devices.
2. Economic development: Another key step is to address the economic and social factors that
drive people to migrate. This can be done through economic development programs such as
 job creation, poverty reduction, and skill development in the border regions of Bangladesh and
India. This will create economic opportunities and reduce the push factors that drive people to
migrate.
3. Cooperation with Bangladesh: India needs to work closely with Bangladesh in order to address
the issue of illegal immigration. This can be done through joint border management,
intelligence-sharing, and the implementation of a biometric registration system for people living
near the border.
4. Regular monitoring and evaluation: Regular monitoring and evaluation of the steps taken to
tackle illegal immigration is necessary to understand their effectiveness and make any necessary
adjustments.

According to the data of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), India has built about 3,326 km
of fencing along the Indo-Bangladesh border till December 2020. The MHA has also initiated the
construction of smart fencing along the Indo-Bangladesh border to check illegal infiltration.
Additionally, India and Bangladesh have been cooperating on border management issues and
have signed several agreements in this regard, including the Memorandum of Understanding on
the Sharing of White Shipping Information, and the Agreement on Coastal Shipping.

In conclusion, tackling illegal immigration from Bangladesh to India requires a multi-faceted

approach that addresses the root causes of immigration and the challenges that arise as a result.
This includes strengthening border security, addressing economic and social factors,
cooperation with Bangladesh and regular monitoring and evaluation of the steps taken.

 What is the Graded Response Action Plan? What are the main principles in its
attempt to mitigate pollution? give exams and data
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a comprehensive action plan to combat air
pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR) of India, which includes the city of Delhi and its
surrounding areas. The plan was first introduced by the Central Pollution Control Board
(CPCB) in 2016, and has been subsequently updated to include new measures and stricter
targets.

The main principles of GRAP are:

1. Real-time monitoring of air quality: GRAP requires the CPCB to continuously monitor air
quality levels in the NCR and issue alerts when pollution levels exceed a certain threshold.
2. Graded response: Depending on the level of air pollution, GRAP calls for different levels of
action to be taken, ranging from "moderate" to "emergency" measures. For example, if air
quality is "poor", measures such as increasing public transportation and shutting down brick
kilns may be implemented. If air quality is "severe", more drastic measures such as shutting
down schools and construction activities may be taken.
3. Stakeholder participation: GRAP encourages the participation of various stakeholders such as
government agencies, local authorities, and the general public in the fight against air pollution.
4. Long-term and short-term measures: GRAP includes both long-term and short-term measures
to address the problem of air pollution. Long-term measures include the implementation of
stricter emission standards for vehicles and industries, while short-term measures include
measures such as increasing public transportation and shutting down brick kilns.
5. Regular review and update: GRAP is reviewed and updated regularly to include new measures
and stricter targets.

GRAP has been implemented in the NCR region, including Delhi, since 2016, with measures such
as shutting down of schools and construction activities, increasing public transportation and
shutting down of industries and brick kilns.

According to the data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the average PM2.5
levels in the NCR region decreased from 97 micrograms per cubic meter in 2016 to 85
micrograms per cubic meter in 2019.

In conclusion, the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a comprehensive action plan to
combat air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR) of India, which includes the city of
Delhi and its surrounding areas. It is based on principles of real-time monitoring, graded
response, stakeholder participation, long-term and short-term measures and regular review and
update. The implementation of GRAP has led to a decrease in average PM2.5 levels in the
region.

“The Chip shortage in the world can paralyze the world economy”. Discuss with examples
The chip shortage, also known as the semiconductor shortage, refers to the current global
shortage of microchips, which are essential components in a wide range of consumer and
industrial products such as smartphones, laptops, cars, and household appliances. The
shortage has been caused by a combination of factors including the COVID-19 pandemic,
increased demand for technology products, and supply chain disruptions.

The chip shortage has the potential to paralyze the world economy in several ways:

1. Supply Chain Disruptions: The shortage of chips has caused disruptions in the supply chain of
many industries, leading to delays in the production and delivery of finished goods. For
example, car manufacturers such as Ford, General Motors, and Volkswagen have had to
temporarily shut down production lines due to the shortage of chips.
2. Increased Prices: The chip shortage has led to an increase in the prices of microchips, which in
turn has led to an increase in the prices of finished goods such as smartphones and laptops. This
can lead to inflation, which can negatively impact the global economy.
3. Slowdown of Innovation: The chip shortage can also slow down innovation as companies may
not be able to access the latest technology needed to improve their products.
4. Impact on Employment: The chip shortage can also affect employment as companies may have
to lay off employees or not hire new ones due to the inability to produce products.
 For example, The chip shortage that began in late 2020 has hit the global auto industry hard,
leading to production cuts, factory closures and lost sales. Additionally, The chip shortage has
also led to delays and increased prices for consumer electronics such as smartphones, laptops,
and tablets.

In conclusion, the chip shortage has the potential to paralyze the world economy by causing
supply chain disruptions, increased prices, slowdown of innovation, and impacts on
employment. It is a pressing issue that requires a collaborative effort from governments,
industries and suppliers to address the root causes of the shortage and to mitigate its effects.

 Despite adequate constitutional safeguards, local governments in India continue to

face existential threats. Elaborate with examples
Despite the constitutional safeguards provided for local governments in India, such as the 73rd
and 74th Constitutional Amendments which establish Panchayats and Municipalities as
institutions of self-government, local governments continue to face existential threats.

1. Lack of Financial Autonomy: Local governments in India continue to face financial constraints, as
a significant portion of their budgets is dependent on grants from the state and central
governments. This lack of financial autonomy limits their ability to undertake development
projects and provide essential services to their constituents.
2. Political Interference: Local governments in India are often subject to political interference from
state and central government officials, which can lead to delays in decision-making and
implementation of development projects.
3. Lack of Skilled Staff: Local governments in India often lack the skilled staff and resources to
effectively carry out their responsibilities, which can lead to inefficiencies and lack of
accountability.
4. Limited Powers: The constitutional safeguards provided to local governments in India are often
limited in their scope and implementation, which can lead to a lack of effective representation
and participation of citizens in the decision-making process.

For example, In the state of Tamil Nadu, local government bodies such as Panchayats and
Municipalities have been facing financial constraints as they are dependent on grants from the
state government, which has led to delays in the implementation of development projects. Also,
In the state of Gujarat, local government bodies have been facing political interference from
state government officials, which has led to delays in decision-making and implementation of
development projects.

In conclusion, despite the constitutional safeguards provided for local governments in India,
they continue to face existential threats such as lack of financial autonomy, political interference,
lack of skilled staff and limited powers. These challenges need to be addressed through effective
implementation of the constitutional safeguards, decentralization of power and resources, and
capacity building of local government bodies.
  What are rare earth metals? How significant are they in India’s plans of achieving
self reliance in terms of clean energy? Give examples and recent data
Rare earth metals are a group of 17 chemically similar elements that are found in the earth's
crust. They have unique magnetic, optical, and electronic properties and are used in a wide
range of high-tech products such as smartphones, wind turbines, electric vehicles, and
defense systems.

In India's plans of achieving self-reliance in terms of clean energy, rare earth metals are
significant as they are used in the production of wind turbines, electric vehicles, and other clean
energy technologies. They are particularly important for the production of Permanent Magnet
Synchronous Generators (PMSG) which are widely used in wind turbines.

For example, India imports a significant amount of Neodymium and Dysprosium, two rare
earth metals used in the production of PMSG. In 2020-21 India imported around 3,500 metric
tons of Neodymium and Dysprosium. The country's domestic production of these metals is
limited, and it is heavily dependent on imports from countries like China.

The Indian government has recognized the importance of rare earth metals in achieving self-
reliance in the clean energy sector and has taken steps to increase domestic production. The
Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) has identified rare earth minerals as a key area for
research and development and has set up a Rare Earths Division to explore ways to increase
domestic production. Additionally, The government of India also announced a National Policy
on Critical Minerals in 2019, which aims to reduce India's dependence on imports of critical
minerals, including rare earths.

In conclusion, They are significant in India's plans of achieving self-reliance in terms of clean
energy as they are used in the production of wind turbines, electric vehicles and other clean
energy technologies. The Indian government has recognized the importance of rare earth
metals and has taken steps to increase domestic production and reduce dependence on
imports.

 “Rising pendency in RTIs undercuts transparency and accountability in a

democracy.” Analyze and give examples and data
The Right to Information (RTI) Act, passed in India in 2005, is a powerful tool for transparency
and accountability in a democracy. It gives citizens the right to access information held by the
government and helps to promote accountability and transparency in government decision-
making. However, rising pendency in RTIs, or a backlog of pending RTI requests, can undermine
the effectiveness of the RTI Act and undermine transparency and accountability in a democracy.
 One of the main reasons for rising pendency in RTIs is the lack of sufficient resources and staff
to process the large number of RTI requests received by government departments. This leads to
delays in the processing of RTI requests and can result in a backlog of pending requests. This
undermines the intent of RTI as citizens are unable to access the information they require in a
timely manner, which can lead to lack of accountability, transparency and citizens' rights
being denied so reduced citizen engagement & Reduced trust in government

For example, According to the data from the Central Information Commission (CIC), the number
of pending RTI requests in India has been steadily increasing over the years, with over 3.5 lakh
pending requests in the year 2020. Also, According to data from the Ministry of Personnel,
Public Grievances and Pensions, the pendency rate of RTI requests in central government
departments increased from 15% in 2019-20 to 20% in 2020-21.

In conclusion, rising pendency in RTIs undercuts transparency and accountability in a

democracy, as it limits citizens' ability to access information held by the government in a timely
manner. This undermines the intent of RTI Act, which is to promote accountability and
transparency in government decision-making. This issue needs to be addressed by increasing
resources and staff to process the large number of RTI requests received by government
departments, as well as implementing measures to improve the efficiency of the RTI process.

 “With regards to mental health and suicides, technology is a double-edged sword.”

Elucidate with examples and recent data
Technology can have both positive and negative impacts on mental health and suicides. On one
hand, technology can provide access to information and resources that can help individuals
manage their mental health and reduce the risk of suicide. On the other hand, technology can
also contribute to the development and exacerbation of mental health problems and increase
the risk of suicide.

1. Positive Impact: Technology can provide access to information and resources that can help
individuals manage their mental health. For example, through the use of smartphones, people
can access mental health apps and online therapy services, which can provide support and
guidance in managing mental health concerns. Also, social media platforms can provide a sense
of community and connection, which can be beneficial for mental health.
2. Negative Impact: Technology can also contribute to the development and exacerbation of
mental health problems and increase the risk of suicide. For example, social media can
contribute to feelings of isolation, depression, and anxiety, particularly among young people.
Additionally, excessive use of technology, particularly smartphones, can lead to sleep
disturbances, which can have a negative impact on mental health.

According to recent data from the World Health Organization (WHO), the suicide rate in
India is among the highest in the world, with over 200,000 suicides reported annually.
Additionally, a study conducted in 2020 by the Centre for Mental Health Law and Policy found
 that India has a high burden of mental disorders, with one in 20 Indians suffering from some
form of mental disorder.

In conclusion, technology can have both positive and negative impacts on mental health and
suicides. On one hand, technology can provide access to information and resources that can
help individuals manage their mental health and reduce the risk of suicide. On the other hand,
technology can also contribute to the development and exacerbation of mental health problems
and increase the risk of suicide. It is important to use technology in a balanced and responsible
way, and to be aware of the potential negative impacts it can have

 Smuggling and counterfeiting are normally seen from the prism of the loss of
revenue to the exchequer. In the light of the statement, suggest the necessary
steps the Indian Government needs to take. Give examples and data
Smuggling and counterfeiting are major issues that can result in significant losses of revenue to
the exchequer and can also have a negative impact on legitimate businesses and consumers. In
order to address these issues, the Indian government needs to take several steps, such as:

1. Strengthening border security: The government needs to strengthen border security in order
to prevent the illegal import and export of goods. This can include measures such as increasing
the number of border security personnel, implementing advanced technology to detect
smuggling, and increasing cooperation with other countries to combat smuggling.
2. Increasing enforcement: The government needs to increase enforcement efforts to detect and
prevent smuggling and counterfeiting. This can include measures such as increasing the number
of enforcement personnel, increasing fines and penalties for smuggling and counterfeiting, and
implementing stricter laws to deter smuggling and counterfeiting.
3. Raising awareness: The government needs to raise awareness about the risks and harms
associated with smuggling and counterfeiting. This can include measures such as educating
consumers about how to identify and avoid counterfeit goods, and providing information to
businesses about how to protect their intellectual property rights.
4. Coordination with other agencies: The Indian government needs to improve coordination
between different agencies such as Customs, Police, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence and
other law enforcement agencies to combat smuggling and counterfeiting.

For example, The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has been taking various measures
to curb smuggling activities in India, including increasing the number of enforcement personnel
and implementing stricter laws to deter smuggling. Additionally, The government has also
introduced the Customs (Amendment) Bill, 2019 which proposes to increase the penalties for
smuggling and counterfeiting.

According to the data from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), in the financial year
2019-20, the DRI arrested 2,404 persons and seized smuggled goods worth INR 4,854 crore.
 Similarly, in the financial year 2020-21, the DRI arrested 1,838 persons and seized smuggled
goods worth INR 5,851 crore.

In conclusion, smuggling and counterfeiting are major issues that can result in significant losses
of revenue to the exchequer and can also have a negative impact on legitimate businesses and
consumers. The Indian government needs to take several steps such as strengthening border
security, increasing enforcement, raising awareness, and coordination with other agencies to
combat

 “Pellet Plants and torrefaction could be the answer to Delhi’s Pollution”. Elucidate.
with examples data and schemes
Pellet plants and torrefaction are technologies that have the potential to help address the
problem of air pollution in Delhi and other cities in India.

1. Pellet Plants: Pellet plants are facilities that convert agricultural and forestry waste into pellets,
which can be used as a source of fuel for power generation. These facilities can help to reduce
air pollution by reducing the use of fossil fuels and promoting the use of renewable energy
sources.
2. Torrefaction: Torrefaction is a process that can be used to convert agricultural and forestry waste
into a more energy-dense and stable form of fuel. This process can help to reduce air pollution
by reducing the use of fossil fuels and promoting the use of renewable energy sources.

For example, The Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) has launched a
scheme for the promotion of pellet plants in India. The scheme provides financial assistance for
the setting up of pellet plants and also aims to promote the use of pellets as a source of fuel for
power generation.

Additionally, The National Biomass Cookstoves Initiative (NBCI) is an initiative of the

Government of India which aims to promote the use of clean and efficient cookstoves in rural
India. The initiative also aims to promote the use of torrefied biomass as a source of fuel.

According to the data from the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, the installed capacity of
pellet plants in India was around 2.5 million tons per annum (mtpa) in 2020. Additionally, the
scheme of NBCI has been able to provide more than 100 million improved cookstoves to
households in India till now.

In conclusion, Pellet Plants and torrefaction are technologies that have the potential to help
address the problem of air pollution in Delhi and other cities in India. These technologies can
help to reduce air pollution by reducing the use of fossil fuels and promoting the use of
renewable energy sources. The Indian government has already implemented some schemes and
initiatives to promote the use of these technologies and with the right policies and support,
these technologies could play a significant role in reducing air pollution in Delhi and other cities
in India.

 MGNREGA during and after the pandemic was both a failure and a success”.
Critically analyze. (250 words .
The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) is a welfare
scheme implemented by the Indian government to provide a minimum level of employment and
income security to rural households. The program has been both a failure and a success during
and after the pandemic.

On one hand, MGNREGA has been a success in providing employment and income security to
vulnerable households during the pandemic. For example, during the lockdown, many rural
households were left without work and income due to the disruption of the rural economy.
MGNREGA provided a safety net for these households by providing them with work and income.

Additionally, the scheme has been successful in creating assets and infrastructure in rural areas,
which is important for the long-term development of these areas.

On the other hand, MGNREGA has also been a failure in several aspects. For example, the
government has failed to increase the budgetary allocation for the scheme, leaving it
underfunded and unable to meet the increased demand for employment during the pandemic.
This has resulted in delays in the payment of wages, which has caused financial hardships for
many workers.

Additionally, the scheme has been criticized for its poor implementation and lack of
transparency in the allocation of funds and the identification of beneficiaries. This has led to
instances of corruption and mismanagement, which has reduced the effectiveness of the
scheme.

For example, In 2020, many states including Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh have
reported delays in the payment of wages under MGNREGA due to the lack of funds.
Additionally, In 2021, the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has reported the
mismanagement of funds under MGNREGA in several states, including Bihar, Odisha, and Uttar
Pradesh.

In conclusion, MGNREGA has been both a failure and a success during and after the pandemic.
The scheme has been successful in providing employment and income security to vulnerable
households, but has also been criticized for its poor implementation, lack of transparency and

 With the lax standards of drug regulations in place in India, the Gambia medical
syrup tragedy after taking a paracetamol syrup was waiting to happen. Comment.
The Gambia medical syrup tragedy refers to an incident in which at least 70 children in Gambia
died after consuming a Cough syrup. The fact that these cough syrups were manufactured and
exported by Maiden Pharmaceuticals Ltd, a company based in Sonepat, Haryana, India, and that
the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that they may have been contaminated with
toxic chemicals such as Diethylene glycol or Ethylene glycol, is a serious concern.

The use of these chemicals in cough syrups can have serious health consequences for patients,
including kidney damage and even death. The fact that these syrups were exported to other
countries, including Gambia, means that the problem of contaminated drugs is not limited to
India but has a global impact.

In India, the lack of strict drug regulations has allowed for the production and distribution of
counterfeit and substandard drugs. This can lead to serious health risks for patients and can also
have a negative impact on the reputation of Indian pharmaceutical companies.

For example, in recent years, there have been several instances of counterfeit drugs being found
in the Indian market, including fake versions of life-saving drugs such as cancer medicines.
Additionally, there have been instances of substandard drugs being produced and distributed in
India, which can have serious health consequences for patients

Furthermore, lax standards in drug regulations in India can also contribute to the global
problem of counterfeit and substandard drugs, as India is a major producer and exporter of
pharmaceutical products. This can have a negative impact on the reputation of Indian
pharmaceutical companies and can also put patients in other countries at risk, as it was in the
Gambia case.

In conclusion, with lax standards of drug regulations in place in India, the Gambia medical syrup
tragedy was waiting to happen. It highlights the importance of strict drug regulations in
ensuring the safety and quality of pharmaceutical products, both in India and globally. It is
necessary for the Indian Government to take steps to improve its standards in this area, in order
to protect the health and safety of patients, and to maintain the reputation of the

 Despite multiple efforts by the government in the past few years, India’s ranking in
the Global Hunger Index has remained disappointing. What can be the possible
reasons for this?

The GHI is a measure of hunger and malnutrition and is based on four indicators:
undernourishment, child wasting, child stunting, and child mortality.
India's ranking in the Global Hunger Index (GHI) has remained disappointing despite
multiple efforts by the government in recent years.
 According to the latest data from the Global Hunger Index 2022, India ranked 107 th out
of 121 countries and has been classified as a "serious" hunger situation. The report also
highlights that India has the highest level of child wasting in the world, with 19.3 % of
children under 5 years old suffering from wasting. Additionally, the report also highlights
that India has one of the highest levels of child stunting in the world, with 35 % of
children under 5 years old suffering from stunting.
This performance can be attributed to various reasons such as :

1. Poverty and Income Inequality: One of the main reasons for India's poor ranking in the GHI is
poverty and income inequality. A large proportion of the population in India lives below the
poverty line and does not have access to adequate food and nutrition.
2. Lack of access to healthcare and sanitation: Poor access to healthcare and sanitation in India
also contributes to the country's poor ranking in the GHI. Malnutrition and hunger are closely
linked to poor health and a lack of access to clean water and sanitation.
3. Climate change and its impact on agriculture: Climate change has a significant impact on
agriculture and food security in India. Droughts, floods, and extreme weather events can lead to
crop failures and food shortages, which can exacerbate hunger and malnutrition.
4. Political instability and lack of governance : Political instability and lack of governance in certain
regions of India can also contribute to the country's poor ranking in the GHI. This can lead to a
lack of investment in infrastructure and social services, which can further exacerbates hunger
and malnutrition.

 Critically examine the factors that gave birth to insurgency in Manipur and shed
light on its current internal security situation.
Manipur, a state in northeastern India, has been facing an insurgency problem for several
decades. According to the data from the Ministry of Home Affairs, the number of insurgency-
related incidents in Manipur has decreased significantly over the years. In 2020, there were a
total of 47 insurgency-related incidents in the state, compared to 113 incidents in 2016.
Similarly, in 2021, till June the number of incidents was 12. The number of fatalities has also
decreased, with 18 deaths

The insurgency in Manipur has its roots in a number of factors, including:

1. Ethnic and linguistic tensions: The state of Manipur has a diverse population with a number of
ethnic and linguistic groups, and tensions between these groups have been a major factor in the
insurgency.
2. Economic marginalization: Many of the ethnic and linguistic groups in Manipur are economically
marginalized and have been left behind in the state's development.
3. Political and administrative corruption: Corruption in the political and administrative systems in
Manipur has been a major factor in the insurgency.
4. Lack of representation in government: Many of the ethnic and linguistic groups in Manipur feel
that they are not adequately represented in the state's government and have taken up arms to
demand greater autonomy and representation.
5. Human rights violations: Manipur has a long history of human rights violations by the security
forces, including extrajudicial killings, torture, and forced disappearances.

Currently, the internal security situation in Manipur is relatively stable. However, there are still
sporadic incidents of violence and clashes between the security forces and militant groups. The
Government of India has been engaged in peace talks with some of the militant groups, and
there have been some positive developments in recent years.