One Nation, One Registration Platform

Context:
The National Medical Commission (NMC) is all set to launch its “one nation, one registration
platform” for doctors across India.

One Nation, One Registration Platform:

 The NMC (National Medical Commission) plans to introduce a preliminary pilot of

the National Medical Register (NMR) in the coming six months, which will assign a
unique identification number to doctors.
 Doctors will have the flexibility to apply for a license to practice medicine in any state
of their choice.
 The NMC had earlier published a gazette notification titled “Registration of Medical
Practitioners and License to Practice Medicine Regulations” this year.
Objectives and Features:

 The primary goal is to provide undergraduate students with a masked ID within the
NMR, with the unmasking and allocation of this ID being based on their course
completion date.
 This ID will serve as a means for updating additional qualifications, and it will be
linked to all state registers for licenses, allowing doctors to work anywhere in the
country.
 The key aim is to streamline processes, eliminate duplication, reduce bureaucratic
hurdles, and provide the public with easy access to information about any practicing
physician in India.
About National Medical Commission (NMC):

 The National Medical Commission (NMC) is a regulatory body responsible for

overseeing medical education and profession in India.
 The NMC was established in 2019 under the National Medical Commission Act,
replacing the erstwhile Medical Council of India (MCI).
Composition:

 The NMC consists of a Chairperson, members, and ex-officio members appointed by

the Central Government.
 The Chairperson and members include eminent medical professionals, academicians,
and experts from various fields related to medical education and practice.
Autonomous Boards:

 The NMC comprises autonomous boards responsible for specific areas such as
undergraduate education, postgraduate education, medical assessment and rating,
ethics and medical registration, and continuing professional development.
Reforms and Objectives:

 The NMC was established to bring about significant reforms in the medical education
sector, promote transparency, improve the quality of education, and ensure the
availability of competent medical professionals.
 It aims to address challenges in medical education, bridge gaps, and align education
with evolving healthcare needs.
Functions and Responsibilities:

 Regulating Medical Education: The NMC sets standards, guidelines, and

regulations for undergraduate and postgraduate medical education in India.
 Assessing Medical Institutions: It conducts inspections and assessments of medical
colleges and institutions to ensure compliance with prescribed standards.
 Granting Recognition: The NMC grants recognition to medical qualifications and
degrees obtained from Indian and foreign institutions.
 Promoting Ethical Practices: It establishes and enforces ethical standards and
guidelines for medical professionals.
 Conducting Common Entrance Examinations: The NMC conducts a common
entrance examination called the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) for
admission to undergraduate medical courses in India.
 Oversight and Quality Assurance: The NMC monitors the quality of medical
education, training, and research to maintain high standards in the healthcare sector.
-Source: The Hindu
 Awaous Motla
Context:
Recently, a group of scientists discovered an edible freshwater fish available in the markets
of western Odisha.

About Awaous Motla:

 Awaous Motla is a fish species characterized by its vibrant yellow-colored body and
distinctive fleshy upper lip.
 This species was discovered in the Mahanadi River.
 The discovery of Awaous Motla is a result of ongoing research efforts that are being
funded by the Department of Science and Technology of the Odisha government.
 Taxonomically, Awaous Motla belongs to the family ‘Awaous’ (Oxudercidae), hence
its name ‘Awaous Motla.’
Mahanadi River:

 The Mahanadi River is one of the prominent east-flowing peninsular rivers in India.
 It originates in the Sihawa range of hills located in the Dhamtari district of
Chhattisgarh state.
 The river’s course takes it in a southeastern direction through the states of
Chhattisgarh and Odisha.
 The Mahanadi River’s basin covers significant areas in Chhattisgarh and Odisha,
along with smaller portions in Jharkhand, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh.
 Geographically, the river is bounded by the Central India hills to the north, the
Eastern Ghats to the south and east, and the Maikal hill range to the west.
 Notable tributaries of the Mahanadi include the Seonath River, Jonk River, Hasdeo
River, Mand River, Ib River, Ong River, and Telen River.
-Source: The Hindu
 Worker Productivity

Context
Infosys founder N.R. Narayana Murthy has stirred debate by encouraging young Indians to
work 70 hours per week, drawing comparisons with Japan and Germany’s post-World War II
efforts to rebuild. Murthy expressed concern over India’s low worker productivity levels,
emphasizing the need for increased work hours to boost the nation’s growth prospects.

Worker Productivity and Labour Productivity

 Productivity measures the output value per unit of labor cost at a micro level.
 At the macro level, it’s assessed as the labor-output ratio or change in Net Domestic
Product (NDP) per worker, assuming 8 hours of work per day.
 Worker productivity focuses on mental activities, while labor productivity relates
mainly to manual tasks.
Challenges in Measuring Output Value:

 Intellectual labor services make it difficult to independently measure output value.

 Worker income is often used as a proxy for productivity.
 Mr. Murthy’s assertion that additional work with no corresponding pay leads to
increased profits at the expense of workers is debated.
Role of Skill, Technology, and Innovation:

 Productivity is not tied to time but skill, encompassing education, training, nutrition,
and health.
 Reducing working hours can enhance leisure and quality of life without
compromising output value.
 Technological advancements and innovations can increase productivity without
extended work hours.
Relationship Between Worker Productivity and Economic Growth
Overall Impact on Economy:

 Increased productivity in any sector can contribute to economic growth by raising the
value added and overall accumulation in the economy.
Complex Relationship:

 The link between worker productivity and economic growth is intricate, as it’s
influenced by various factors.
Challenges in Measuring Productivity:

 Issues related to measuring nominal output, output prices, labor input, capital stock,
and capital stock prices can impact the accuracy of productivity measurements.
Prosperity of Workers:

 The connection between productivity and prosperity, especially for workers, is not
straightforward.
 Worker prosperity may not solely depend on hard work or productivity.
 Super-rich individuals’ prosperity can be attributed to factors like inherited wealth
(patrimonial capitalism) or high salaries determined by a select group, regardless of
actual contributions.
 This disconnect between effort and earnings raises concerns about the fairness of the
capitalist system.
India’s Worker Productivity and Global Comparisons

Challenging Productivity Inference:

 Using income as a proxy for productivity can lead to a misleading inference about
India’s worker productivity being low.
Income and Productivity Trends:

 Trends in India show decreasing wages and salaries alongside increasing profits since
the 1980s.
 Factors contributing to this trend include the rise of informal jobs, changes in labor
laws, and rules that may not favor workers.
Hardworking Indian Employees:

 India has a reputation for having some of the hardest working employees globally.
Low Average Wages:

 Despite being hardworking, India ranks among the lowest in terms of average
monthly wages on a global scale.
Comparing India to Japan and Germany:

 Drawing comparisons between India’s economy and those of countries like Japan and
Germany may not be particularly insightful.
 These countries differ significantly in terms of their workforce, technology, culture,
and political systems.
 India’s uniqueness requires avoiding random comparisons that could lead to incorrect
conclusions and ineffective policies.
 Instead, the focus should be on investing in society, boosting domestic spending, and
prioritizing development that places people’s welfare at the forefront, leading to more
favorable and sustainable outcomes.
-Source: The Hindu
 UPSC Issues Amended Guidelines for State DGP
Appointments
Context:
Recently, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has issued amended guidelines
emphasizing specific criteria for the appointment of State Directors General of Police
(DGPs).
Amendments in UPSC Guidelines for DGP Selection

 Transparent Selection Criteria:

o The amendments aim to bring transparency to the selection process.
o Prevent favoritism and unfair appointments.
 Service Tenure Requirement:
o Officers with at least six months of service left before retirement can be
considered for the DGP position.
o Discouraging the extension of tenures for officers on the verge of retirement.
 Eligibility Criteria:
o Officers with 25 years of experience can now qualify for the DGP position,
reduced from the previous requirement of 30 years.
 Limited Shortlisting:
o The guidelines limit the shortlisted candidates to a maximum of three, with
exceptions only in specific cases.
o Emphasizes voluntary participation, requiring officers to express their
willingness.
 Relevant Experience:
o The guidelines outline essential areas of experience, including a minimum of
ten years in domains such as law and order, crime branch, economic offenses
wing, or intelligence wing.
o Emphasizes deputation to central bodies like the Intelligence Bureau, Research
and Analysis Wing, or Central Bureau of Investigation.
 Central Deputation Exception:
o The Empanelment Committee will not assess IPS officers on central
deputation for the DGP position if the Union Ministry of Home Affairs
informs the State government that releasing the officers is not feasible.
Supreme Court’s Directives on Police Reforms

In the Prakash Singh Case of 2006, the Supreme Court of India issued a set of directives to
address various issues affecting police performance and reform the police system in the
country. These directives are as follows:
Establish a State Security Commission (SSC):
  The SSC aims to prevent undue government influence on the police.
 It outlines policy guidelines for the police and assesses state police performance.
Transparent Appointment of DGP:

 The appointment of the Director General of Police (DGP) should follow a transparent,
merit-based process.
 The DGP must have a minimum tenure of two years.
Committee for Appointing State DGP:

 The committee to appoint the State DGP is headed by the UPSC Chairman.
 It includes the Union Home Secretary, the State’s Chief Secretary, DGP, and one of
the heads of the Central Armed Police Forces nominated by the Ministry of Home
Affairs from a different State cadre.
 The selection process involves the State governments sending UPSC the names of
potential DGPs three months before the incumbent DGPs retire.
 The UPSC prepares a panel of three officers fit for the DGP role.
 The State appoints one of the shortlisted individuals.
Minimum Tenure for Operational Police Officers:
Ensure a minimum two-year tenure for other operational police officers, including District
Superintendents and Station House Officers.
Segregation of Duties:

 Implement the separation of investigative and law enforcement duties within the
police force.
Police Establishment Board (PEB):

 Create a PEB to handle transfers, postings, promotions, and other service-related

matters for officers below the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police.
 The PEB also makes recommendations for higher-ranking transfers.
State-level and District-level Police Complaints Authorities (PCA):

 Establish a State-level PCA to investigate public complaints against senior police

officers for serious misconduct.
 Create district-level PCAs to address complaints against lower-ranking officers
involved in significant misconduct.
National Security Commission (NSC):

 Form a NSC at the union level to select and place Chiefs of Central Police
Organizations (CPO).
 Ensure a minimum tenure of two years for CPO Chiefs.
-Source: The Hindu
 International Day for Biosphere Reserves

Context:
The second anniversary of International Biosphere Reserve Day, celebrated on November 3,
annually highlights the critical importance of biosphere reserves(BR) in safeguarding our
environment and promoting sustainability.

World Biosphere Reserve Day 2023

 World Biosphere Reserve Day is a day dedicated to celebrating the significant role of
biosphere reserves in conserving biodiversity and advancing sustainable development.
 It was established by UNESCO in 2022, with the intention of observing it annually on
November 3.
Objectives:

 The primary goals of World Biosphere Reserve Day are to raise awareness about the
importance of biosphere reserves, share best practices in conservation and
sustainability, and highlight the achievements of the World Network of Biosphere
Reserves (WNBR).
Significance:

 This day serves as a platform to recognize and promote the valuable work of
biosphere reserves around the world, fostering a deeper understanding of their
contributions to environmental protection and sustainable living.
UNESCO Collaborates for Environmental Sustainability in South and Central Asia

In collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change and the
National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management, UNESCO concluded the 10th South
and Central Asian Biosphere Reserve Network Meeting (SACAM) in Chennai, India.
Theme – “Ridge to Reef”:

 The SACAM event was themed “Ridge to Reef,” emphasizing the importance of
holistic and integrated environmental practices in the regions of South and Central
Asia.
Facilitating Collaboration:

 The event provided a platform for fostering collaboration among nations in South and
Central Asia, with a focus on promoting sustainable environmental practices.
  The collaboration aimed to address challenges related to environmental conservation,
biodiversity protection, and the sustainable management of natural resources in these
regions.
What are Biosphere Reserves?

 Biosphere reserves are ‘learning places for sustainable development’.

 They are sites for testing interdisciplinary approaches to understanding and managing
changes and inters between social and ecological systems, including conflict
prevention and management of biodiversity.
 They are places that provide local solutions to global challenges.
 Biosphere reserves include terrestrial, marine and coastal ecosystems. Each site
promotes solutions reconciling the conservation of biodiversity with its sustainable
use.
 Biosphere reserves are nominated by national governments and remain under the
sovereign jurisdiction of the states where they are located.
 Biosphere Reserves are designated under the intergovernmental MAB Programme by
the Director-General of UNESCO following the decisions of the MAB International
Coordinating Council (MAB ICC).
 Biosphere Reserves involve local communities and all interested stakeholders in
planning and management.
Main functions of Biosphere reserves:

 Conservation of biodiversity and cultural diversity

 Economic development that is socio-culturally and environmentally sustainable
 Logistic support, underpinning development through research, monitoring, education
and training
Three main zones
  Core Areas
o It comprises a strictly protected zone that contributes to the conservation of
landscapes, ecosystems, species and genetic variation
 Buffer Zones
o It surrounds or adjoins the core area(s), and is used for activities compatible
with sound ecological practices that can reinforce scientific research,
monitoring, training and education.
 Transition Area
o The transition area is where communities foster socio-culturally and
ecologically sustainable economic and human activities.
Status of Biosphere Reserves in India

 India now has 18 designated biosphere reserves totaling 60,000 square kilometres.
 The blue mountains of the Nilgiris, which span Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala,
were India’s first biosphere reserve.
 Dibru-Saikhowa (Assam) is the smallest while the Gulf of Kachchh (in Gujarat) is the
largest biosphere reserve .
18 biosphere reserves in India:

1. Cold Desert, Himachal Pradesh

2. Nanda Devi, Uttarakhand
3. Khangchendzonga, Sikkim
4. Dehang-Debang, Arunachal Pradesh
5. Manas, Assam
6. Dibru-Saikhowa, Assam
7. Nokrek, Meghalaya
8. Panna, Madhya Pradesh
9. Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh
10. Achanakmar-Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh-Chhattisgarh
11. Kachchh, Gujarat (Largest Area)
12. Similipal, Odisha
13. Sundarban, West Bengal
14. Seshachalam, Andhra Pradesh
15. Agasthyamala, Karnataka-Tamil Nadu-Kerala
16. Nilgiri, Tamil Nadu-Kerala (First to be Included)
17. Gulf of Mannar, Tamil Nadu
18. Great Nicobar, Andaman & Nicobar Island
International Status of Biosphere Reserve

 For natural areas, UNESCO has established the term “Biosphere Reserve” to reduce
conflicts between development and preservation.
 Under the Man and Biosphere Reserve Program of UNESCO, national governments
that meet a minimal set of requirements can nominate biosphere reserves.
 There are currently 738 biosphere reserves in 134 countries, including 22
transboundary sites.
 There are 738 biosphere reserves in 134 countries, including 22 transboundary sites,
according to UNESCO.
 The highest number of such sites are in Spain, Russia and Mexico.
Man and Biosphere Programme

 The MAB programme is an intergovernmental scientific programme that aims to

establish a scientific basis for enhancing the relationship between people and their
environments.
 It combines the natural and social sciences with a view to improving human
livelihoods and safeguarding natural and managed ecosystems, thus promoting
innovative approaches to economic development that are socially and culturally
appropriate and environmentally sustainable.
 There are total 12 biosphere reserves of India which have been recognized
internationally under Man and Biosphere Reserve program
-Source: The Hindu
 Deepfake Technology
Context:
In a recent turn of events, popular actress Rashmika Mandanna has found herself at the center
of a controversy involving a deepfake video.

What is a deepfake?

 Deepfakes are a compilation of artificial images and audio put together with machine-
learning algorithms to spread misinformation and replace a real person’s appearance,
voice, or both with similar artificial likenesses or voices.
 It can create people who do not exist and it can fake real people saying and doing
things they did not say or do.
Background:

 The term deepfake originated in 2017, when an anonymous Reddit user called himself
“Deepfakes.”
 This user manipulated Google’s open-source, deep-learning technology to create and
post pornographic videos.
 The videos were doctored with a technique known as face-swapping.
 The user “Deepfakes” replaced real faces with celebrity faces.
Where can it be used?

 It is used to generate celebrity porn videos, produce fake news, and commit financial
fraud among other wrongdoings.
 It is now being used for nefarious purposes like scams and hoaxes,election
manipulation, social engineering, automated disinformation attacks, identity theft and
financial fraud.
o Deepfake technology has been used to impersonate former U.S. Presidents
Barack Obama and Donald Trump, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi,
Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg and Hollywood celebrity Tom Cruise.
Measures to address the threats related to deepfakes:

Collaborative actions and collective techniques across legislative regulations, platform

policies, technology intervention, and media literacy can provide effective and ethical
countermeasures to mitigate the threat of malicious deepfakes.
Media literacy:

 Media literacy for consumers and journalists is the most effective tool to combat
disinformation and deepfakes.
 Media literacy efforts must be enhanced to cultivate a discerning public. As
consumers of media, we must have the ability to decipher, understand, translate, and
use the information we encounter.
  Even a short intervention with media understanding, learning the motivations and
context, can lessen the damage. Improving media literacy is a precursor to addressing
the challenges presented by deepfakes
Legislative regulations:

 Meaningful regulations with a collaborative discussion with the technology industry,

civil society, and policymakers can facilitate disincentivising the creation and
distribution of malicious deepfakes.
Technological solutions:

 We also need easy-to-use and accessible technology solutions to detect deepfakes,

authenticate media, and amplify authoritative sources.
Way forward:

Deepfakes can create possibilities for all people irrespective of their limitations by
augmenting their agency. However, as access to synthetic media technology increases, so
does the risk of exploitation. Deepfakes can be used to damage reputations, fabricate
evidence, defraud the public, and undermine trust in democratic institutions. To counter
the menace of deepfakes, we all must take the responsibility to be a critical consumer of
media on the Internet, think and pause before we share on social media, and be part of the
solution to this infodemic.
-Source: Indian Express
 Central Information Commission

Context:
Recently, the Information Commissioner, Heeralal Samariya, was sworn in as the chief of the
Central Information Commission (CIC) by the President Of India.
Central Information Commission:

The Central Information Commission (CIC) was established under the Right to Information
Act, 2005. It holds jurisdiction over all Central Public Authorities.
Objectives:

 To exercise the powers conferred on them under the RTI Act, 2005.
 To receive and investigate complaints from any citizen (as per Section 18 of the RTI
Act, 2005).
 To receive and make decisions on the second appeal filed by any citizen (according to
Section 19 of the RTI Act, 2005).
 To fulfill the duty of “Monitoring and Reporting” as stated in Section 25 of the RTI
Act, 2005.
Composition:

 The CIC comprises a Chief Information Commissioner and up to ten Information

Commissioners.
 Appointment:
 The President of India appoints members of the CIC on the recommendation of a
committee, which includes the Prime Minister as Chairperson, the Leader of the
Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and a Union Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime
Minister.
Eligibility:

 Members of the CIC and State Information Commissions (SIC) should be individuals
of eminence in public life with substantial knowledge and experience in law, science
and technology, social service, management, journalism, mass media, or
administration and governance.
 They should not be Members of Parliament or Members of the Legislature of any
State or Union Territory. Additionally, they should not hold any other office of profit,
be associated with any political party, or engage in any business or profession.
Tenure:

 The Chief Information Commissioner and Information Commissioners hold office for
a term of three years from the date they assume their positions.
-Source: Indian Express
 India Bhutan Relations

Context:
Recently, India and Bhutan agreed to discuss new routes of Regional Connectivity, and
upgrade border and immigration posts, in order to enhance trade and Partnership during
Bhutan King’s India visit.

Key Highlights of the Discussion between India and Bhutan:

Regional Connectivity:

 Agreement to explore new routes of regional connectivity, including a 58 km cross-

border rail link between Gelephu (Bhutan) and Kokrajhar (Assam).
 Plans to investigate a second 18 km rail link between Samtse (Bhutan) and Banarhat
(West Bengal).
 Discussions on upgrading border and immigration posts to support these projects.
Trade Facilitation:

 Facilitating trade by extending Bhutanese trade items from Haldibari (West Bengal)
to Chilahati (Bangladesh) through Indian territory.
 Designation of the Darranga-Samdrup Jongkhar border crossing as an immigration
check post to promote tourism and enhance connectivity.
Trade Infrastructure:

 Plans to upgrade the Dadgiri land customs station (Assam) to a modernized

“Integrated Check Post.”
 Support for Bhutan’s Special Economic Zone (SEZ) project, with development efforts
on the Bhutanese side at Gelephu.
Socio-economic Development:

 India’s commitment to continue supporting Bhutan’s socio-economic development,

with a focus on the 13th Five-Year Plan.
  Recognition of India’s substantial contribution to Bhutan’s 12th Five-Year Plan,
constituting 73% of the external grant component.
G20 Summit and Global South Priorities:

 Bhutan’s commendation of India’s successful organization of the G20 Summit and its
role in fostering consensus and constructive decisions, as outlined in the Delhi
Declaration.
 Acknowledgment of India’s dedication to integrating the interests and priorities of
Global South countries in G20 deliberations.
Hydropower and Energy Partnership:

 Progress noted on the 1020 MW Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project, expected to

commission in 2024.
 Agreement to expand the India-Bhutan Energy Partnership to include non-hydro
renewables, solar energy, green initiatives related to hydrogen, and e-mobility.
 India’s assurance of technical and financial support for projects in these areas.
Operation All Clear:

 Recollection of Operation All Clear, a military operation conducted by the Royal

Bhutan Army in 2003 against Assam separatist insurgent groups in southern Bhutan.
Significance of Bhutan for India:

 Strategic Buffer State: Bhutan’s location between India and China serves as a
strategic buffer state, enhancing India’s security interests.
 Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity: India’s assistance in defense, infrastructure,
and communication has contributed to maintaining Bhutan’s sovereignty and
territorial integrity.
 Border Infrastructure Development: India’s support in building border
infrastructure, including roads and bridges, has strengthened Bhutan’s defense
capabilities and ensured territorial integrity.
 Doklam Standoff Support: During the Doklam standoff with China in 2017, Bhutan
played a crucial role by allowing Indian troops to enter its territory to resist Chinese
incursions.
 Trading Partner: India is Bhutan’s largest trading partner and primary export
destination.
 Hydropower Development: Bhutan’s hydropower potential is a significant revenue
source, with India’s assistance in developing hydropower projects.
 Financial Assistance: India provides financial assistance for Bhutan’s development
projects.
 Cultural Ties: Strong cultural ties exist due to shared Buddhist traditions, with India
helping preserve Bhutan’s cultural heritage, and Bhutanese students studying in India.
  Environmental Stewardship: Bhutan’s commitment to being carbon-neutral aligns
with India’s efforts to promote environmental sustainability. India supports Bhutan in
renewable energy, forest conservation, and sustainable tourism, contributing to
Bhutan’s carbon-neutral goals.
Challenges in India-Bhutan Relations:

China’s Increasing Presence:

 China’s growing economic and military influence in Bhutan, particularly along the
disputed border, poses a challenge to India’s strategic interests in Bhutan.
Border Incursions:

 Incidents of border incursions by Chinese forces along the India-Bhutan border have
raised concerns.
 The Doklam standoff in 2017 was a significant flashpoint that could strain India-
Bhutan relations if similar disputes escalate.
Hydropower Projects Concerns:

 While India has been a major partner in Bhutan’s hydropower sector, there have been
concerns in Bhutan regarding the terms of some hydropower projects, seen as too
favorable to India.
 Public opposition in Bhutan to Indian involvement in the sector has arisen.
Trade Imbalance:

 India is Bhutan’s largest trading partner, but Bhutan faces a trade imbalance,
importing more from India than it exports.
 Bhutan seeks greater access to the Indian market to reduce the trade deficit.
-Source: The Hindu
 Central Bureau of Investigation
Context:
The Central Government recently told the Supreme Court that the CBI is an “independent
body” and the Centre has “no superintendence or control over it.
Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)

 The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) was set up in 1963 after the
recommendation of Santhanam committee under Ministry of Home affairs and was
later transferred to the Ministry of Personnel and now it enjoys the status of an
attached office.
 Now, the CBI comes under the administrative control of the Department of Personnel
and Training (DoPT) of the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions.
 The CBI derives its powers from the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946,
however, it is NOT a Statutory Body.
 CBI is the apex anti-corruption body in the country – Along with being the main
investigating agency of the Central Government it also provides assistance to the
Central Vigilance Commission and Lokpal.
 The CBI is required to obtain the prior approval of the Central Government before
conducting any inquiry or investigation.
 The CBI is also the nodal police agency in India which coordinates investigations on
behalf of Interpol Member countries.
 The CBI’s conviction rate is as high as 65 to 70% and it is comparable to the best
investigation agencies in the world.
 The CBI is headed by a Director and he is assisted by a special director or an
additional director. It has joint directors, deputy inspector generals, superintendents of
police.
CBI has following divisions

 Anti-Corruption Division
 Economic Offences Division
 Special Crimes Division
 Policy and International Police Cooperation Division
 Administration Division
 Directorate of Prosecution
 Central Forensic Science Laboratory
How does the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) function in India?
Provision of Prior Permission:

 The CBI is required to obtain prior approval from the Central Government before
conducting an inquiry or investigation into an offense committed by officers of the
rank of joint secretary and above in the Central Government and its authorities.
 The Supreme Court, in 2014, declared Section 6A of the Delhi Special Police
Establishment Act, which provided protection to joint secretary and above officers
from facing preliminary inquiries by the CBI in corruption cases, as invalid and
violative of Article 14.
General Consent Principle for CBI:

 The state government can grant consent to the CBI on a case-specific basis or through
a “general” consent.
 General consent is usually given by states to facilitate seamless investigation of
corruption cases involving central government employees within their states.
 This consent is considered implicit, allowing the CBI to initiate investigations
assuming consent has already been given.
 Without general consent, the CBI would need to seek permission from the state
government for each individual case, even for minor actions.
Challenges of CBI

 The CBI has been dubbed a “caged parrot speaking in its master’s voice” by the
Supreme Court of India due to excessive political influence in its operations. It has
frequently been utilised by the government to conceal misdeeds, keep coalition allies
in line, and keep political opponents at away. It has been accused of massive delays in
concluding investigations, such as in its investigation into high-ranking Jain
dignitaries in the Jain hawala diaries case [in the 1990s].
 Loss of Credibility: Improving the agency’s image has been one of the most difficult
challenges so far, as the agency has been chastised for its mishandling of several high-
profile cases, including the Bofors scandal, the Hawala scandal, the Sant Singh
Chatwal case, the Bhopal gas tragedy, and the 2008 Noida double murder case
(Aarushi Talwar).
 Lack of Accountability: CBI is exempt from the Right to Information Act, which
means it is not accountable to the public.
 Acute staff shortage: One of the key causes of the shortfall is the government’s
mishandling of the CBI’s employees, which includes an inefficient and inexplicably
biased recruitment policy that was utilised to bring in favoured officials, possibly to
the organization’s damage.
 Limited Authority: Members of the CBI’s investigative powers and jurisdiction are
subject to the consent of the State Government, restricting the scope of the CBI’s
inquiry.
  Restricted Access: Obtaining prior authorisation from the Central Government to
initiate an inquiry or probe into Central Government workers at the level of Joint
Secretary and above is a major impediment to tackling corruption at the highest levels
of government.
-Source: The Hindu
 Model Prison Act 2023
Context:
The Union Home Secretary had sent a letter to all states and Union territories in May, 2023
which consisted of the ‘Model Prisons Act, 2023’. The letter was uploaded recently on the
Union Ministry of Home Affair’s website.
Prisons Act, 1894

 Prisons Act, 1894: A pre-independence era Act, nearly 130 years old.
 Focus: Primarily centred on the custody of criminals and maintaining discipline in
prisons.
 Lack of Rehabilitation Provisions: No provisions for the reform and rehabilitation
of prisoners.
Changing Perspective on Prisons:

 Global Evolution: In recent decades, a global shift in perspective views prisons as

reformative and correctional institutions.
 Transformational Approach: Focus on transforming prisoners into law-abiding
citizens.
Constitutional Framework:

 State Subject: Constitutionally, ‘prisons’ and ‘persons detained therein’ fall under
the jurisdiction of the State.
 Legislative Competence: States have the exclusive authority to legislate on prison
management and prisoners’ administration.
Need for a New Law:

 Rehabilitation Emphasis: Modern understanding sees prisons as institutions

emphasizing rehabilitation.
 Role in Criminal Justice: Efficient prison management’s critical role in the criminal
justice system.
 Government Support: The Government of India recognizes the importance of
supporting States/UTs in ensuring effective prison management.
Emphasis on Reform and Rehabilitation:

 Shift in Purpose: From retributive deterrence to reformative and correctional

objectives.
 Transformation into Law-Abiding Citizens: Prisons seen as places for transforming
inmates into law-abiding members of society.
Supporting States/UTs:

 Government Role: Acknowledging the State’s competence, the central government

underscores the significance of supporting States/UTs in prison management.
  Collaborative Approach: Recognizing the collaborative effort required for effective
prison reform and rehabilitation.
Model Prisons Act, 2023
Background and Revision Process

 Need for Revision: Recognizing the outdated nature of the colonial-era Prison Act, a
decision was made to revise it.
 Central Government Initiative: The Central government tasked the Bureau of
Police Research and Development with the revision of the Prisons Act, 1894.
 Collaborative Approach: Wide-ranging discussions with state prison authorities and
correctional experts were held to inform the revision.
Integration of Relevant Acts

 The Ministry of Home Affairs reviewed not only the Prisons Act, 1894 but also ‘The
Prisoners Act, 1900’ and ‘The Transfer of Prisoners Act, 1950.’
 Assimilation in Model Prisons Act: Relevant provisions from these acts were
assimilated into the new ‘Model Prisons Act, 2023.’
Adoption by States and Union Territories

 Adoption Flexibility: State Governments and Union Territory Administrations can

adopt the Model Prisons Act, 2023 with necessary modifications.
 Repeal of Existing Acts: The existing three Acts can be repealed in favor of the new
model legislation.
Salient Features of Model Prisons Act, 2023

 Security Assessment and Segregation:

o Individual sentence planning for prisoners.
 Grievance Redressal and Attitudinal Change:
o Establishment of a prison development board.
o Fostering an attitudinal change towards prisoners.
 Accommodation for Special Groups:
o Separate housing for women prisoners, transgender individuals, etc.
 Technology Integration:
o Use of technology for transparent prison administration.
o Video conferencing with courts and technological interventions.
 Prohibition Measures:
o Provision for punishment for the use of prohibited items like mobile phones.
 Different Types of Jails:
 o Establishment and management of high-security jails, open jails, etc.
 Crime Prevention Measures:
o Focus on protecting society from hardened criminals and habitual offenders.
 Legal Aid and Incentives:
o Provision for legal aid to prisoners.
o Incentives for good conduct through parole, furlough, and premature release.
 Rehabilitation and Reintegration:
o Emphasis on vocational training, skill development, and reintegration into
society.
-Source: Indian Express
 GPS Tracker Anklets
Context:
Recently, a prisoner in Jammu and Kashmir was released on bail after he was tagged with
a Global Positioning System (GPS) tracker anklet on his foot to monitor his movements. This
is the first time in the country that a GPS tracker has been put to such use.
GPS Tracker Anklets: Monitoring Legal Supervision

 Wearable Devices: Small devices attached to the ankles of individuals under legal
supervision (parole, probation, house arrest, or bail).
 Types: GPS anklets for the ankle and GPS bracelets for the arm.
 Tamper-Proof: Designed to be tamper-proof; any attempt to remove or damage
triggers an alarm.
 Battery Life: Several days of battery life; rechargeable by the wearer.
Supervision and Enforcement

 Curfews and Restrictions: Enforce curfews, travel restrictions, and other court or
agency-imposed conditions.
 Real-time Monitoring: Utilizes GPS technology for real-time monitoring of the
wearer’s exact location.
Criminal Justice Benefits

 Cost Alleviation: Alleviates criminal justice costs by addressing prison overcrowding

and redirecting resources to serious offenses.
 Public Safety and Rehabilitation: Balances public safety and rehabilitation,
deterring crime, ensuring law compliance, and fostering offender well-being.
Global Legal Position

 Precondition for Bail: GPS trackers are a precondition for bail in several countries,
including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Malaysia.
Concerns in India

 Rights Activists’ Perspective: Viewed as a violation of the fundamental right to

privacy and dignity of offenders by rights activists.
 Supreme Court Ruling: In the case of ‘Maneka Gandhi vs Union of India’ (1978),
the Supreme Court ruled that the right to life includes the right to human dignity.
 Legal and Ethical Issues: Raises legal and ethical concerns due to the absence of
clear laws and regulations governing their usage in India.
Global Positioning System (GPS)

Satellite Navigation Technology: GPS, a satellite-powered navigation system, is designed

for the accurate determination of ground positions.
Ownership and Service Offerings
  Owned by the United States: The system is under the ownership of the United States
government.
 Positioning, Navigation, and Timing Services: Users benefit from Positioning,
Navigation, and Timing (PNT) services provided by GPS.
User Demographics

 Utilized by Civilians and the Military: GPS serves both civilian and military users.
 Global Civilian Access: Civilian users enjoy free and continuous global access to
GPS services.
 Exclusive Military Access: Military services are available to the US and allied armed
forces, along with approved Government agencies.
Operational Mechanism

Satellite-Based Navigation System:

 GPS operates as a navigation system based on a network of satellites.

Primary Objective

Precision in Ground Positioning:

 The primary purpose of GPS is to provide accurate ground positioning for various
applications.
Global Availability

Continuous Accessibility Worldwide:

 Civilian users can access GPS services continuously on a worldwide basis.

Military Implementation

Dedicated Military Service:

 Exclusive GPS services cater to the navigation needs of the US and allied armed
forces, as well as approved Government agencies.
-Source: Indian Express
 One Station One Product scheme

Context:
The “One Station One Product” initiative by the Indian Railways, which provides uniquely
designed sale outlets for locals to sell indigenous products, is now operational at 1,037
stations nationwide.
One Station One Product Scheme

 Initiative by Indian Railways: Launched under the Ministry of Railways, this

initiative aims to promote ‘Vocal for Local.’
 Vision: To create uniquely designed sale outlets at railway stations for locals to sell
indigenous products nationwide.
 Design Source: Developed by the National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad.
Objectives

 Promotional Hub: Transform each railway station into a promotional hub

showcasing local and indigenous manufacturing products.
 Welfare Focus: Focuses on the welfare of local artisans, potters, weavers, tribals, etc.
Implementation

 Rotational Allotment: Allotment to eligible applicants is done on a rotational basis.

 Pilot Launch: The scheme’s pilot phase began on March 25, 2022.
 Temporary Stalls/Kiosks: Eligible applicants are allotted temporary stalls or kiosks
for a 15-day period on depositing Rs 1,000 with Railways.
 Nationwide Outlets: Sale outlets are established at railway stations nationwide,
allocated through a tendering process.
 Zonal Railways’ Role: Zonal railways identify stations, eligible products, and
vendors for the scheme.
-Source: Times of India
 Sub-Categorization of Scheduled Castes (SCs)

Context:
In an election rally in Telangana, Prime Minister promised to look into the sub-categorisation
of Scheduled Castes (SCs) to identify and help the most backward among them — a move
that has been read as an attempt by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to woo the Madiga
community.
Legal Aspects of Sub-Categorization of Scheduled Castes: A Judicial Journey
Attempts by States:

 Over the past two decades, States like Punjab, Bihar, and Tamil Nadu have sought to
implement reservation laws at the State level for sub-categorization of Scheduled
Castes (SCs).
 The aim is to determine a separate quantum of reservation for these subcategories
within the broader category of SCs.
Judicial Intervention:

 Legal challenges arose when the Andhra Pradesh government, in 1996, recommended
sub-categorization based on backwardness and representation disparities among SC
communities.
 The Supreme Court, in 2004, ruled that States lacked the unilateral power to sub-
categorize SCs or Scheduled Tribes (STs).
Contradictory Judgments:

 In 2020, a five-judge Bench, led by Justice Arun Mishra, suggested that determining
benefits within the already-notified lists of SCs/STs would not constitute interference
and States could proceed.
 This apparent contradiction led to the 2020 judgment being referred to a larger Bench.
Union Government’s Involvement:

 Despite the pending Supreme Court decision, the Union government explored legal
avenues in 2005.
 The Attorney-General of India (AGI) opined that sub-categorization was possible
with “unimpeachable evidence,” suggesting a constitutional amendment.
National Commission and Constitutional Amendment Proposal:

 The Union government formed a National Commission to investigate sub-

categorization in Andhra Pradesh.
 The Cabinet recommended amending Article 341 of the Constitution, but the National
Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) and the National Commission for
Scheduled Tribes (NCST) argued against the need for a constitutional amendment.
 They pointed to Article 16(4), stating it already empowered States to create special
laws for under-represented backward classes.
Arguments for and Against Sub-Categorization of SCs:
Arguments in Favor:

 Graded Inequalities: The primary argument for sub-categorization stems from the
perceived graded inequalities among Scheduled Caste (SC) communities.
 Access Disparities: The contention is that even within marginalized communities,
some have lesser access to basic facilities, leading to more forward communities
consistently availing benefits while overshadowing the more backward ones.
 Need for Separate Reservation: Advocates argue that sub-categorizing communities
and providing separate reservations for the more backward groups within the SC
category is the solution.
Arguments Against:

 Root Cause Addressal: Both the SC and ST Commissions counter that separate
reservations within categories do not address the root cause of the problem.
 Representation at All Levels: The commissions emphasize the need for
representation at all levels and contend that the most backward SCs are significantly
behind more forward SC communities.
 Insufficient Candidates: Even with reserved posts at higher levels, the most
backward SCs may lack enough candidates to be considered, perpetuating the existing
disparity.
 Prioritizing Existing Schemes: Both commissions recommend that existing schemes
and government benefits should reach these sections before considering sub-
categorization to ensure comprehensive upliftment.
-Source: The Hindu
Parliamentary Committee’s Recommendation on Adultery
Context:
The Parliamentary Committee on Home Affairs has suggested that adultery should be re-
instituted as a crime in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.
Legal Position on Adultery: Before and After 2018
Before SC Judgement of 2018:

 Adultery as a Criminal Offence: Section 497 of IPC considered adultery a criminal

offense before 2018, with penalties of up to five years in prison, a fine, or both.
 Gender-Specific Punishment: Only men could be prosecuted under Section 497;
women were exempt from punishment as abettors.
 Contradiction to Common Understanding: This contradicted common
understanding and dictionary definitions of adultery, which include both men and
women engaging in voluntary sexual intercourse outside marriage.
SC Judgement of 2018: Joseph Shine vs Union Of India (September 2018)

Key Takeaways:

 Discrimination in Section 497: The Supreme Court unanimously struck down

Section 497, citing its discriminatory nature, violating Articles 14, 15, and 21 of the
Constitution.
 Autonomy of Women: The court emphasized women’s autonomy, stating that a
husband is not the master of his wife, challenging the legal sovereignty over her.
 Adultery as a Non-Crime: Treating adultery as a crime would intrude into extreme
privacy within the marital sphere, conflicting with Article 21’s facets of dignity and
privacy.
 Anomalies in Section 497: The court highlighted anomalies in Section 497, where
adultery was not an offense if the married woman had her husband’s consent.
Additionally, a wife could not prosecute her husband or his lover for adultery.
House Committee Recommendations on Adultery and Legal Implications
Recommendations of the House Committee:

 Reinstating Adultery as a Criminal Offense: The Committee, in its report on the

BNS 2023, recommended reinstating adultery as a criminal offense.
 Gender-Neutral Approach: The report proposed making adultery a gender-neutral
offense, advocating for the punishment of both men and women.
 Critique of Section 497: The Committee criticized Section 497 of the IPC, asserting
that it only penalized married men, reducing married women to the status of property
owned by their husbands.
 Preserving the Sanctity of Marriage: The Committee emphasized the sacred nature
of the institution of marriage in Indian society, stating a need to safeguard its sanctity.
Legal Implications and Possibility of Supreme Court’s Decision Being Undone:

 Limitations on Parliament: The report acknowledged that a ruling of the Supreme

Court is the law of the land, and Parliament cannot directly contradict it with a new
law.
 Retrospective and Prospective Legislation: While Parliament cannot directly
override a Supreme Court decision, it can pass a law that addresses the basis of the
court’s judgment. Such a law can be both retrospective and prospective.
 Precedent in Madras Bar Association vs. Union of India (2021): The Committee
cited the Madras Bar Association vs. Union of India case in 2021, where the Supreme
Court held that a law fixing a problem is valid if it would have resulted in the same
decision had the corrected situation existed when the judgment was made.
 Addressing the Basis of Court’s Decision: In essence, if a new law fixes the issue
raised in court, the basis of the court’s decision may no longer be valid, providing a
legal avenue for change.
-Source: The Hindu