SAMACHAR

WEEK 02
29 - 04 June
2023

MANTHAN
Table of Content

Economics UAE withdraws from Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) 38

Light weight and Portable Payment India-Maldives Relations 38
System (LPSS) for emergencies 3 In news: Helmand Water Conflict 40
India’s Toy Industry: Unravelling the Recent Export Surge 4 Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM):
India’s GDP expanded 6.1% in 2022-23’s last quarter 6 Balancing Trade and Environment 41
Highlights of the Global Slavery Index, 2023 7
Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) reaches 31-month high 8 Security Issues
[Very Important]: India’s Railway Safety Pakistan’s State-Sponsored Terrorism Threatens
Crisis: A Grim Reality Unveiled 9 SCO’s Regional Security Efforts 44
RBI issues draft on Cybersafety for PSOs 12
Oil Reserves in Salt Caverns: The Potential in India 13
Enviro & Biodiversity
Slowing of Overturning Circulation in Antarctic 46
Governance Mainstreaming Biodiversity: A Pivotal Step
Highlights of the Joint Malnutrition Estimates (JME) 15 Towards a Sustainable Future 47
Menstrual Health in India 16
City Investments to Innovate, Integrate
and Sustain (CITIIS) Project 17
Science Tech
What is Foucault Pendulum? 49
Mandatory Anti-Tobacco Warnings on OTT Platforms 18
ISRO successfully deploys NavIC NVS-1 Satellite 50
Very Important: Evidence-Based Policymaking (EBP) 19
Shenzhou-16 successfully launches with
NCERT drops Periodic Table from Class X book 22
3 Astronauts to Space 51
Revised Guidelines for Deemed University Status 23
Devastating Frog Disease: Chytridiomycosis 52
The Need for Fact-Checking Units to Combat Fake News 25
India discovers TOI 4603b Exoplanet 52
India joins Centralised Laboratory Network (CLN) 53
Polity VERY IMPORTANT: Harnessing the Potential of
Live streaming of Court Proceedings 27 Graphene: India’s Path to Leadership 53
[VERY IMPORTANT]: Performance of 17th Lok
Sabha: Challenges and Concerns 28
Row over Mekedatu Project 30
In news: Telangana Statehood Day 31

International Relations
India’s Initiative for ASEAN Women in UN Peacekeeping 34
Shifting US Policy: From Decoupling to De-
risking in China Relations 35
Cambodian King’s state visit to India 36

www.civilsdaily.com 1
29 - 04 June 2023
THIS WEEK’S HOTTEST STORIES
Innovations in Sciences, IT, Computers, Robotics and Nanotechnology

Climate Change Impact on India and World - International Reports, Key Observations, etc.

Cashless Society – Digital Payments, Demonetization, etc.

Economic Indicators and Various Reports On It- GDP, FD, EODB, WIR etc

Parliament - Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc

Higher Education – RUSA, NIRF, HEFA, etc.

ISRO Missions and Discoveries

Foreign Policy Watch: India-Pakistan

Judicial Appointments Conundrum Post-NJAC Verdict

Urban Transformation – Smart Cities, AMRUT, etc.

2 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02

ECONOMICS
CASHLESS SOCIETY - DIGITAL PAYMENTS, DEMONETIZATION, ETC.
Light weight and Portable Payment System (LPSS) for
emergencies
Economics | GS3: Inclusive Growth & Issues 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : Utkarsh 2.0 initiative, LPPS
Mains level : Cashless payments
Central Idea
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed the development
of a Light weight and Portable Payment System (LPSS).
Light weight and Portable Payment System (LPSS)
• L PSS is referred to as a “bunker” equivalent, to ensure uninterrupted
digital payments during exigencies such as natural calamities
or war.
• This system will operate independently of existing payment
technologies likeUPI, NEFT, and RTGShttps://www.civilsdaily.
com/story/cashless-society/.
• It can be operated from anywhere by a minimal staff during
exigencies.
• It will process critical transactions, such as bulk payments and
interbank payments, during extreme and volatile situations.
• The system operates on minimalistic hardware and software
and is activated only when needed.
Why such move?
• A
 s part of the Utkarsh 2.0 initiative, the RBI is working on
strengthening the oversight framework for Centralised Payment
Systems, including NEFT and RTGS.
• The initiative aims to enhance the existing payment systems
and introduce new functionalities to improve efficiency and
reliability.
Importance of an LPSS
• Near-zero downtime: The RBI aims to create a payment system
that can operate on minimalistic hardware and software,
ensuring near-zero downtime of the payment and settlement
system in the country.
• Continuous liquidity pipeline: The lightweight system will
facilitate uninterrupted functioning of essential payment
services like bulk payments, interbank payments, and provision
of cash to participant institutions, thereby keeping the liquidity
pipeline of the economy alive and intact.
• Stability of the economy: It is expected to process critical
transactions, including government and market-related
transactions that are crucial for maintaining the stability of
the economy.
• Enhancing public confidence: The resilient nature of the system
will act as a bunker equivalent in payment systems, enhancing
public confidence in digital payments and financial market
infrastructure, even during extreme conditions.
Differences between LPSS and UPI
• E xisting payment systems: The RBI acknowledges the
availability of various payment systems in India for individuals
and institutions, each with its distinct character and application.
• H
 andling large transaction volumes: Conventional systems
like RTGS, NEFT, and UPI are designed to handle large volumes
of transactions while ensuring sustained availability, relying
on complex wired networks and advanced IT infrastructure.
• V
 ulnerability to catastrophic events: However, catastrophic
events such as natural calamities and war can temporarily
render these payment systems unavailable by disrupting the
underlying information and communication infrastructure.
• Preparedness for extreme situations: To address this vulnerability,
the RBI believes it is prudent to be prepared with a lightweight
payment system capable of functioning in extreme and volatile
situations.
Conclusion
• T he RBI has not provided a specific timeline for the launch of
the lightweight payment and settlements system.
• However, the concept serves as a crucial step towards ensuring
the resilience of the payment ecosystem during emergencies.
• Further research and development efforts are necessary to
bring this system to fruition and enhance the overall stability
and confidence in digital payments in India.
www.civilsdaily.com 3
TRADE SECTOR UPDATES - FALLING EXPORTS, TIES, MEIS, FOREIGN TRADE POLICY, ETC.
India’s Toy Industry: Unravelling the Recent Export Surge
Economics | GS3: Indian Economy 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : Tradition toys industry
Mains level : India’s transition to a net exporter in the toy industry, reforms,
challenges and way ahead
Central Idea
• India has turned into a net toy exporter lately-claimed
as evidence of the success of “Make in India” and related
promotional policies.
• Between 2018-19 and 2021-22, toy exports reportedly rose
from $109 million (`812 crore) to $177 million (`1,237 crore);
the imports declined from $371 million (`2,593 crore) to $110
million (`819 crore).
• The call to raise toy production and exports is in line with
Make in India-the government’s flagship initiative launched
in October 2014.
Toy Industry in India
• P resently, the Indian toy industry is only 5% of the global
industry size indicating a large potential growth opportunity.
• The domestic toy demand forecasted to grow at 10-15%
against the global average of 5%.
• The report ‘State of play: India’s toy story- Unboxing fun
and beyond’ said India could also target a 2% share of global
exports by 2025.
4 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02
• T
 here is high growth potential for India in exports of plastic
toys and board games in the US, EU, and the Middle East
among other markets.
Factors driving growth of India’s Toy Industry
• H uge consumer base: Â India’s population stands at around
1.4 billion, with approximately 26.62% of the population falling
into the 0-14 age category.
• Rising disposable income: Â India has experienced strong GDP
growth rates for the last several years, and the middle-class
population has experienced strong growth.
• R ise in online purchases: Â Online sales channels have witnessed
a boom in India with the evolution of smartphones and other
digital media.
• Shifting preferences: Â According to the Toy Association
report in 2018, parents believe in STEM-focussed toys as their
primary way to encourage science and math development in
young children.
• D isincentivising imported toys: Â The Indian government has
increased the basic customs duty on toys from 20% to 60%,
reduced availability of imported toys and enhanced demand
for the domestic toy industry.
Significance of Toy Industries
• C hild development:Â Toys are not just a source of entertainment
but also play a critical role in the cognitive, emotional, and
physical development of children.
• Cultural preservation: Â Toys can be an important way to
preserve cultural traditions and heritage.
• Women centric: Â India’s toy industry employs 3 million workers,
of which 70% are women. This indicates the significant role
of women in the industry.
• Lesser skill intensive: Â Employment in the toy manufacturing
sector offers avenues for socio-economic empowerment,
financial security, and skill development for women.
• P romotes gender equality at workplace: Â Toy manufacturing
promotes equal task division and partnerships between men
and women artisans, promoting gender equality in the industry.
• Import potential: Â The toy industry has the potential to
reduce imports and fulfill domestic demand, contributing to
India’s economic growth.
• Local branding:Â The promotion of indigenous toy manufacturing
can preserve local cultural forms and traditions.
• Allied industries: Â The industry can contribute to the growth
of related sectors such as plastics, textiles, and packaging.
• E nvironmental impact: Â The industry can also provide
opportunities for social and environmental impact, such as
creating sustainable and eco-friendly toys that contribute to
the overall sustainability agenda.
Toy Industries & Women Empowerment
• E mployment in the toy manufacturing sector offers its female-
majority workforce avenues for socio-economic empowerment,
financial security, and skill development.
• It also offers opportunities for women to act as agents of
change by preserving local toy forms, intrinsic to their regions.
• T oy manufacturing also creates possibilities for men and • D
 edicated legislation: Â The government can provide incentives
women artisans to work together, thereby promoting equal to encourage local manufacturing of toys and promote the
task division and partnerships. use of locally-sourced raw materials.
• For instance, in Tamil Nadu, the manufacturing processes of • Promote skill development and training: Â The government
‘Vilachary’ clay toys are divided between men and women. can focus on providing skill development and training programs
to support the growth of the toy industry.
• Enhance export competitiveness: Â The government can
Various Challenges to this sector support the growth of toy exports by promoting and facilitating
• Unorganized and fragmented: Â It continues to be significantly the development of export infrastructure, such as logistics and
fragmented, with 90 per cent of the market being unorganized. distribution networks.
• Small scale: Â 75 percent of domestic manufacturing originates • Foster collaboration between industry and academia: Â The
in micro-industries, while 22 percent comes from MSMEs. Less government can encourage collaboration between the toy
than 3 percent of the domestic toy manufacturing processes industry and academic institutions to promote research and
come from large units. development in the industry.
• L ess competitive: Â The retail value of the Indian toy market is • S
 trengthen quality standards and certification: Â The
INR 16, 000 crores of which close to three-fourths are Chinese government can work with industry stakeholders to strengthen
imports. quality standards and certification for toys.
• Foreign dependence for sourcing raw materials: Â Indian
manufacturers specialize in board games, soft and plastic toys,
and puzzles, etc. Companies have to import materials from Conclusion
South Korea and Japan to manufacture these toys. • In order to take the benefits to these segments, we need to
• Cheap Chinese alternatives: Â Consumers are habituated for be vocal for local toys.
long to cheap Chinese toys. • There is a need for new ideas to be incubated, new start-ups
promoted, taking new technology to traditional toy makers
and creating new market demand.
Govt initiatives • The 75th anniversary of India’s Independence is a huge
• Toycathon:  In January 2021, it launched ‘Toycathon’, a opportunity for the innovators and creators of the toy industry.
hackathon to develop toys and games based on Indian culture
and ethos.
• Atmanirbhar Bharat: Â To promote the indigenous toy Facts for prelims
manufacturing industry, this multi-Ministerial effort sought to Traditional Region Materials Unique
create an ‘Aatmanirbhar’ eco-system for local manufacturers Toys Features
by exploring their untapped potential.
• F ormal recognition in years: Â Toy manufacturing clusters Channapatna Karnataka Wood Colorful,
across the country have come to be formally recognized and Toys organic
supported by the govt. vegetable
• Cluster-based production: Â State govt. are in the process of dyes, smooth
allocating spaces for toy parks. For instance, Koppal District in finish
Karnataka has recently been recognized as the country’s first Kondapalli Andhra Wood Carved,
toy manufacturing cluster. Toys Pradesh vibrant
• Tax incentives: Â Basic Custom Duty (BCD) on Toys-HS Code- colors,
9503 has been increased from 20% to 60% in February 2020. rural and
• G
 I tags: Â The Toys bearing GI tags such as Chennapatna, mythological
Varanasi, etc. are also being exported. themes
Thanjavur Tamil Nadu Terracotta Intricate
Other policy initiatives Dolls details,
• S tart-ups push: Â The government has called upon start-up decorative,
entrepreneurs to explore the toy sector. used in
• Import dis-incentivization: Â The government has increased ceremonies
basic customs duty from 20% to 60%. It is likely to result in toy Terracotta Various Clay Earthy tones,
importing brands to explore manufacturing in India. Toys regions rustic charm
• Q uality assurance: Â The government has made toy quality Dokra Crafts Odisha and Metal Intricate
certification mandatory to revive the indigenous industry. West Bengal (Dokra) figurines,
• Incubation centres: Â The government has chalked out a plan tribal-
to promote traditional toys manufactured in the country by inspired
creating Toy Labs. A plan to establish networks of toy labs such designs
as Atal Tinkering Labs is also in loop.
• Make in India: Â The government is gradually introducing a
new norm in the minds of consumers to purchase safe and Mains Value Addition: Successful case studies
good-quality ‘Made in India’ toys as against cheap and Koppal Toy Cluster:
poor-quality imported toys. • The Koppal Toy Cluster is the first toy manufacturing cluster.
It is to operate from March 2022.
• I t is to be established in 400 acres of land.
Way forward • It will hold the entire chain of capabilities of toy making. This
• D
 evelop an India-centric toy line: Â The government can includes toy making, tool making, production of packaging,
encourage the development of a distinct Indian toy line that developing electronics, paint making, and all other accessories.
reflects Indian culture and values.

www.civilsdaily.com 5
• T
 he cluster is to manufacture different types of toys. This
includes electronic toys, plush toys, preschool toys, outdoor
toys, infant toys, dolls, and educational toys. The toys such as
remote-controlled cars, electronic vehicles, and ride - on toys
have huge markets.
ECONOMIC INDICATORS AND VARIOUS REPORTS ON IT- GDP, FD, EODB, WIR ETC
India’s GDP expanded 6.1% in 2022-23’s last quarter
Economics | GS3: Indian Economy 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : Trends in India’s GDP Growth
Mains level : Read the attached story
Central Idea
• T he National Statistical Office (NSO) has released provisional
national income data revealing thatIndia’s GDP in the January
to March 2023 quarter reached 6.1%.
• This growth in the fourth quarter is the fastest among major
economies, indicating better prospects for the current year
compared to previous expectations.
Key Highlights
(1) Manufacturing Sector Growth Slows, Despite
Q4 Rebound
• G ross Value Added (GVA) in the economy rose by 7% in 2022-
23, compared to 8.8% in the previous fiscal year.
• Manufacturing GVA growth declined significantly, reaching
only 1.3% compared to 11.1% a year ago.
• The sector experienced a rebound of 4.5% in the final quarter
after six months of contraction, but overall growth remained
subdued.
6 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02
WinMagic success story:
India has traditionally been a risk-averse market, and most toy
distributors focused on traditional categories like dolls, vehicles,
and guns. Then came WinMagic Toys, which was launched by
Mukesh Jagwani and the senior management team in 2017,
which  disrupted in the toy industry by launching new trendy
categories and global brands into the market.
(2) Agri and Services Sectors Propel Economic Growth
• T he agricultural GVA grew by 4% in 2022-23, an increase from
3.5% in the previous year.
• Financial, real estate, and professional services sectors experienced
a 7.1% growth in GVA, compared to 4.7% in 2021-22.
• Trade, hotels, transport, and communication sectors, along
with services related to broadcasting, witnessed a marginal
increase of 14% in GVA.
(3) Revised GDP and GVA Figures Reflect Changes
in Economic Performance
• T
 he NSO revised GDP and GVA numbers for the first half of
2022-23, with slight decreases, but the third-quarter figures
were slightly increased.
• The first quarter’s GDP growth in 2022-23 is now pegged
at 13.1%, followed by 6.2% in the second quarter and 4.5%
growth in the third quarter.
• GVA growth estimates for the first and second quarters were
revised to 11.9% and 5.4% respectively, while the third quarter
GVA growth increased to 4.7% from the earlier estimate of 4.6%.
(4) Consumer Sentiment and Consumption Growth
• D espite a slight uptick in private final consumption expenditure
to 2.8% in Q4 from 2.2% in Q3, consumption growth remained
muted.
• This contradicted the uptick in consumer sentiments as per the
RBI’s consumer confidence survey, highlighting the disparity
between sentiment and actual spending.
(5) Outlook and Challenges for Future Growth
• M
 aintaining growth above 6% will be challenging amid a
global economic slowdown, according to economists.
• Higher-than-expected GDP growth in the previous year may
temper growth expectations for the current year, with the
government and central bank projecting around 6.5% growth.
• Pent-up demand that supported growth previously may not be
as strong, and private sector investment needs to pick up since
exports are not expected to contribute significantly to growth.
What can we as an Aspirant infer?
• T he resilience of the Indian economy and its promising trajectory
despite global challenges is often highlighted in news.
• This article justifies this perception about better performance
of Indian Economy.
Conclusion • E
 fforts to diversify and promote exports should be prioritized
• T o sustain and enhance economic growth, focus on stimulating to contribute to future growth and reduce dependence on
private sector investment to complement the performance of domestic consumption.
agriculture and services sectors.
• Addressing the challenges in the manufacturing sector and
Tap to read more about:
boosting consumer confidence can lead to increased consumption
https://www.civilsdaily.com/static-revision-national-income-
and overall economic expansion.
determination-gdp-gnp-ndp-nnp-personal-income/

LABOUR, JOBS AND EMPLOYMENT - HARMONIZATION OF LABOUR LAWS, GENDER GAP, UNEMPLOYMENT, ETC.

Highlights of the Global Slavery Index, 2023

Economics | GS2:  •  ebt bondage

D
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important : • Commercial sexual exploitation
Prelims level : Global Slavery Index, 2023 • Human trafficking
Mains level : Forced labour • Slavery-like practices (ex. coercion to do certain work)
• Sale and exploitation of children.
Central Idea • It involves situations where threats, violence and deception
• I ndia tops the list of Global Slavery Index, 2023 with 11 million prevent individuals from refusing or leaving.
people working as forced laborers.

Factors contributing to the increase

Global Slavery Index, 2023 • T
 he rise of modern slavery is influenced by climate change,
Publisher Walk Free Foundation armed conflict, weak governance, and health emergencies
like COVID-19.
Purpose Assess modern slavery conditions
• Imports of at-risk products worth $468 billion, including
worldwide
electronics, textiles, palm oil, and solar panels, worsen forced
Data Sources International Labour Organization labor conditions by coming from countries with weak worker
(ILO), International Organization for protection.
Migration (IOM).
Indicators Forced labor, forced marriage, human
Manifestations of modern slavery in Global Supply
trafficking, exploitation
Chains
Rankings Countries ranked based on estimated • T
 he report highlights the prevalence of forced labor across
number of people in modern slavery different points in the global supply chain, particularly in
Index Score Reflects vulnerability and response to industries such as textiles.
modern slavery • Exploitative conditions, unpaid work, low wages, debt bondage,
and health and safety risks are common in industries like
Recommendations Calls for action to combat modern
spinning mills.
slavery and protect rights
• G20 countries collectively import billions of dollars’ worth of
Target Audience Policymakers, activists, researchers, goods produced by forced labor every year.
organizations
Impact Raises awareness, informs strategies,
promotes human rights
India’s measures against on modern slavery
• India has passed laws like the Bonded Labour Abolition Act
of 1976 to address modern slavery.
Key highlights • However, implementation challenges, corruption, legal
• T he number of people living in conditions of modern slavery loopholes, and lack of political hinder effective enforcement
has increased by 25% over the last 5 years, reaching 50 million of these laws.
people. • Moreover, there are lacunas in proper identification and
• G20 nations, including India, China, Russia, Indonesia, Turkey, enumeration of people trapped in modern slavery conditions.
and the US, are contributing to this increase through their
trade operations and global supply chains.
Way forward
• S
 trengthen Measures and Legislation: Enact stronger laws
Definition and scope of modern slavery to prevent the sourcing of goods and services associated with
• M
 odern slavery encompasses various practices such as-Forced modern slavery.
labor • E
 mbed Anti-Slavery Measures in Climate Change Plans: Integrate
• Forced marriage anti-slavery efforts into sustainability plans, acknowledging the
link between climate change and vulnerability to modern slavery.

www.civilsdaily.com 7
• E nhance Education and Tighten Regulations: Provide accessible
education while tightening regulations on forced labor, child
marriage, and exploitative practices.
• Prioritize Rehabilitation and Support: Prioritize comprehensive
support systems for the rehabilitation of bonded laborers,
including financial aid, education, job security, and fair
compensation.
INDUSTRIAL SECTOR UPDATES - INDUSTRIAL POLICY, EASE OF DOING BUSINESS, ETC.
Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) reaches 31-month high
Economics | GS3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In
Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI)
Mains level : NA
Central Idea
• S
 urge in PMI to 31-month high: The S&P Global India
ManufacturingPMI soared to 58.7 in May, the highest level
in 31 months.
Service Sector
The service sector, also known as the tertiary sector, includes a
wide range of economic activities that are focused on providing
intangible goods and services to customers. Some examples of
activities that fall under the service sector include:
• H ospitality and tourism: This includes activities such as hotels,
restaurants, travel agencies, and tour operators.
• R
 etail and wholesale trade: This includes businesses that buy
and sell goods, such as supermarkets, department stores, and
online retailers.
• Financial services: This includes banks, insurance companies,
and investment firms.
• Professional and business services: This includes activities
such as legal services, accounting, consulting, and advertising.
• Information and communication technology: This includes
activities such as software development, telecommunications,
and data processing.
• Healthcare and social assistance: This includes activities such
as hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and social services.
• E ducation and training: This includes activities such as schools,
colleges, universities, and vocational training.
8 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02
• Hold G20 Nations Accountable and Foster Cooperation: Ensure
accountability among G20 nations and promote collaborative
efforts to eliminate modern slavery.
• T
 ransportation and logistics: This includes activities such as
shipping, warehousing, and distribution.
Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI)
• P
 MI is an indicator of business activity - both in the manufacturing
and services sectors.
• The S&P Global India Services PMI is compiled by S&P Global
from responses to questionnaires sent to a panel of around
400 service sector companies.
• It is a survey-based measure that asks the respondents about
changes in their perception of some key business variables
from the month before.
• It is calculated separately for the manufacturing and services
sectors and then a composite index is constructed.
How is the PMI derived?
• T
 he PMI is derived from a series of qualitative questions.
• Executives from a reasonably big sample, running into hundreds
of firms, are asked whether key indicators such as output, new
orders, business expectations and employment were stronger
than the month before and are asked to rate them.
How does one read the PMI?
• A figure above 50 denotes expansion in business activity.
Anything below 50 denotes contraction.
• Higher the difference from this mid-point greater the expansion
or contraction. The rate of expansion can also be judged by
comparing the PMI with that of the previous month data.
• If the figure is higher than the previous month’s then the
economy is expanding at a faster rate. If it is lower than the
previous month then it is growing at a lower rate.
Key insights of recent trend
• F
 astest factory order growth: Factory orders rose at the fastest
pace since January 2021.
• U nprecedented accumulation of inputs: Producers accumulated
inputs at an unprecedented pace due to lower costs.
• Improvement in operating conditions: The index reflects
a substantial improvement in operating conditions, with a
significant increase from 57.2 in April.
• S trong growth in order books and exports: Order books
grew for the 23rd consecutive month, supported by a rise in
export deals.
• Highest output levels in 28 months: Output levels reached
the highest point in 28 months.
• I ncreased hiring: Pressure on capacities led firms to increase
hiring, reaching a six-month high.
Reasons behind this rise
• Rise in selling prices: Producers raised selling prices at a solid
and quicker rate in May, the highest in a year.
[VERY IMPORTANT]: INDIA’S RAILWAY SAFETY CRISIS: A GRIM REALITY UNVEILED
[Very Important]: India’s Railway Safety Crisis: A Grim
Reality Unveiled
Economics | GS3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.
Central Idea
• W
 ith over 280 people dead and more than 900 injured, the
triple train crash in Odisha’s Balasore is one of India’s worst
train tragedies.
• Two express passenger trains and a freight train were involved
in a “three-way accident” near a small station.
• One train collided into a stationary freight train, causing its
coaches to flip over to a third track and derailing an incoming
train.
• Preliminary reports indicate that signal failure was the cause
of the accident.
Causes of the accident
• Mild input costs but adjusted charges: Input costs remained
historically mild, but producers adjusted their charges due to
sustained cost increases and a supportive demand environment.
• Improved business confidence: Business confidence about
growth improved, reaching a five-month high.
• Public faith in economy: Factors such as publicity and demand
resilience contributed to the optimistic outlook.
There are four major causes of train accidents in India:
• D erailment
• L evel crossing accidents
• C ollisions
• F ire
There are many unanswered questions on what exactly led to
this deadly multiple-train collision. We however try to ascertain
some legacy issues in Indian Railways safety.
• Signal Failure: Â Preliminary reports indicate that the accident
was caused by signal failure. This suggests that there may have
been a failure or malfunction in the signalling system, leading
to a breakdown in communication or incorrect signals given
to the trains involved.
• Colliding into Stationary Freight Train: Â One of the trains
involved in the accident collided into a stationary freight train.
The cause of this collision could be attributed to factors such
as failure to adhere to signal instructions, human error, or a
failure in braking systems.
• C oaches Flipping Over to Third Track: Â Due to the collision,
the coaches of the train that collided with the stationary freight
train flipped over and moved onto a third track. This suggests
a significant impact and force exerted during the collision,
potentially indicating excessive speed, braking failures, or
structural vulnerabilities.
• Derailment of Coming Train: Â The collision and subsequent
flipping of coaches onto a third track caused an incoming train
to derail. The derailment could be attributed to the obstruction
on the tracks, leading to loss of control and the train veering
off its intended path.
Key stats
www.civilsdaily.com 9
[A] Train Collisions and Other Incidents Long Rail Manufacture of long rail panels of 260
• C
 ollisions accidents are rare: Â On average, train collisions Panels M/130M length to minimize the number
have accounted for approximately 4.7% of all train accidents of Aluminothermic joints in the track,
in the past two decades. reducing the chances of rail-related
• Derailments are frequent: Â Other incidents such as derailments, accidents.
level crossing accidents, fires, and miscellaneous events occur
Provision of Equipping important routes of Indian
at a significantly higher frequency than train collisions.
Thick Web Railways with Thick Web Switches (TWS)
Switches (TWS) to expedite their provision and enhance
[B] Declining Trend in Total Train Accidents safety.
• Steady decline: Â Â In the year 2001-02, there were 415 train Ultrasonic Conducting USFD testing on rails to
accidents, which has significantly decreased to 34 incidents by Flaw Detection detect flaws and ensure timely removal of
the year 2021-22. (USFD) Testing defective rails, thereby enhancing safety.
• Pandemic impact: Â The number of accidents further decreased
Train Installation of TPWS based on European
to 59 in 2018-19 and 21 in 2020-21 due to the COVID-19
Protection Technology ETCS Level-1 in specific
pandemic but has since risen again in 2021-22, although
and Warning sections to prevent accidents caused by
remaining below pre-pandemic levels.
System (TPWS) human errors like Signal Passing at Danger
(SPAD) or over speeding.
[C] Passenger Fatalities and Injuries Auxiliary Implementation of AWS, an ATP system, in
• L esser fatalities: Â The highest recorded figures occurred in Warning the Mumbai suburban section of Central
the year 2005-06, with 315 passengers losing their lives and System (AWS) Railway and Western Railway covering a
627 sustaining injuries. Â In 2018-19, 16 passengers were killed, total of 413 RKMs.
and 86 were injured in train accidents.
Train Collision Development of TCAS, an ATP system,
• Zero deaths during COVID: Â In the consecutive years of
Avoidance in association with three Indian
2019-20 and 2020-21, no passenger deaths were recorded,
System (TCAS) manufacturers, with extensive field
although 73 passengers sustained injuries.
trials and safety validation completed.
• C ost to exchequer: Â The cumulative compensation payout
The system has been approved for
from 2017-18 to 2021-22 stands at less than Rs 14 crore.
developmental order in specific sections.

Measures to Prevent Railway Accidents

KAVACH: Achieving Zero Incidents
Rashtriya Rail Introduced in 2017-18 with a corpus of
Sanraksha ₹1 lakh crore for five years, RRSK aims to
Kosh (RRSK) replace, renew, and upgrade critical safety
assets, with an annual outlay of ₹20,000
crore.
Advanced Adoption of technological advancements
sensors in safety aspects of coaches and wagons,
upgradation including Modified Centre Buffer Couplers,
Bogie Mounted Air Brake System (BMBS),
improved suspension design, and
Automatic fire & smoke detection system
in coaches.
• K AVACH is an Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system developed
Transition to Replacement of conventional ICF design
to enhance safety in Indian Railways.
LHB Coaches coaches with LHB (Linke Hofmann Busch)
• It is designed to prevent accidents and ensure the smooth
design coaches for Mail/Express trains in a
operation of trains.
phased manner, offering enhanced safety
• It is a Safety Integrity Level 4 (SIL-4) certified technology with
features.
the probability of error being one in 10,000 years.
GPS-based Fog Provision of GPS-based Fog Pass devices to • On March 4, 2022, a successful trial was conducted between the
Pass Device loco pilots in fog-affected areas, enabling Gullaguda-Chitgidda Railway stations of South Central Railway.
them to know the exact distance of • It initiated the automatic braking system and halted the
approaching landmarks like signals and locomotives 380 metres apart.
level crossing gates, enhancing safety
during foggy conditions.
Modern Track Utilization of modern track structures,
Some of the highlighted features of KAVACH include:
• P
 revention of Signal Passing at Danger (SPAD): Â KAVACH
Structure including Prestressed Concrete Sleepers
helps prevent trains from crossing red signals and ensures
(PSC), 60 KG or higher Ultimate Tensile
adherence to signal instructions.
Strength (UTS) rails, fanshaped layout
• Continuous Movement Authority Update: Â The system
turnout on PSC sleepers, and Steel
provides real-time updates on movement authority, displaying
Channel Sleepers on girder bridges during
signal aspects in the Driver Machine Interface (DMI) or Loco
primary track renewals.
Pilot Operation cum Indication Panel (LPOCIP).

10 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02

• A utomatic Braking for Prevention of Overspeeding: Â KAVACH
automatically initiates the braking system if the train exceeds
the prescribed speed limits, preventing accidents caused by
overspeeding.
• Auto Whistling at Level Crossing Gates: Â The system activates
automatic whistle sounds when approaching level crossing
gates, ensuring timely alerts to pedestrians and road users.
• Prevention of Collision between Locomotives: Â KAVACH
helps prevent collisions between two locomotives equipped
with the system, adding an extra layer of safety.
• SoS Messages in Emergency Situations: Â In case of emergencies,
KAVACH facilitates the sending of distress messages or SoS
signals, enabling prompt response and assistance.
• Centralized Live Monitoring: Â The system allows for centralized
live monitoring of train movements through a Network Monitor
System, providing real-time information on train positions and
ensuring effective management.
Could KAVACH have prevented the Odisha accident?
• K
 AVACH could have potentially prevented the Odisha accident,
but it’s important to note that KAVACH was not available on
the route where the accident occurred.
• KAVACH, with its automatic braking, signal adherence, and
collision prevention capabilities, could have detected the
situation and initiated appropriate actions to prevent or
minimize the impact of the accident.
• However, since it was not implemented on that particular
route at the time, it was not able to play a role in preventing
the incident.
A matter of Deliberate Ignorance: Says CAG
The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) highlighted several
issues regarding various train incidents in its 2022 report titled
Derailment in Indian Railways
Here are some key points from the report:
• I nstitutional Problems: Â The CAG’s analysis of railway accidents
between 2017 and 2021 suggests that the problem lies within
the railway institution itself rather than individual errors. The
report states that maintenance activities were managed with
staffing vacancies and minimal outsourcing, impacting the
quality of maintenance.
• R ashtriya Rail Sanraksha Kosh (RRSK): Â The report mentions
the railway safety fund introduced in 2017-18, but it states that
funds allocated for track renewals were not effectively utilized.
Non-priority areas received a significant portion of the funds,
while the allotment for track renewal declined over the years,
leading to a decline in safety-related works.
• N eed for technical overhaul: Â The report attributes derailments
to factors like defects in wheel diameter and defects in coaches/
wagons. It also mentions accidents caused by the incorrect
setting of points and other mistakes in shunting operations.
• Basic maintenance: Â As the government focused on the high-
profile launches of Vande Bharat trainshttps://www.civilsdaily.
com/news/beyond-vande-bharat-indian-railways/, railway
infrastructure was crying out for funds for basic maintenance,
said the CAG report.
• I ssues with goods train: Â More than 3.30 lakh wagons were
passed without approval after repairs in workshops and terminal
yards compromising with rail safety. According to railway
data from 2016-17 to 2020-21, the average speed of goods
trains has halved due to excessive unnecessary stoppages at
loading-unloading points.
Key recommendations by Anil Kakodkar Committee
The Ministry of Railways had appointed a High-LevelÂ
Safety Review Committee under the chairmanship of Dr
Anil Kakodkar to review the safety of the Indian Railways
and recommend improvements. The report was submitted in
February 2012.
• Creation of a Railway Safety Authority: Â The Committee
suggests the establishment of a statutory Railway Safety
Authority with sufficient powers to oversee and regulate safety
on the railways, independent of the Railway Board.
• Restructuring of RDSO: Â The Research Design and Standards
Organization (RDSO) should be restructured for greater
empowerment, enabling it to embrace emerging technologies
effectively. Additionally, the Committee proposes the creation
of a Railway Research and Development Council (RRDC) directly
under the government.
• A doption of Advanced Signalling System: Â The entire
trunk route length of 19,000 km should be equipped with an
Advanced Signalling System, similar to the European Train
Control System, within five years. The estimated cost for this
implementation is Rs 20,000 crore.
• E limination of Level Crossings: Â All Level Crossings, both
manned and unmanned, should be eliminated within five
years. This target would require an estimated expenditure of Rs
50,000 crore. The Committee expects that this investment will
be recovered within 7-8 years through savings in maintenance
costs and improved train operations.
• S
 witch to LHB Design Coaches: Â The Committee recommends
switching from the ICF design coaches to the safer LHB design
coaches. This transition is expected to cost Rs 10,000 crore over
the next five years.
• Safety Infrastructure Maintenance: Â The Committee suggests
investing approximately Rs 20,000 crore in the maintenance
of safety-related infrastructure.
• F inancial Investment: Â The Committee recommends a total
financial investment of Rs 1,00,000 crore over a five-year period
to address the current safety and infrastructure challenges.
Way forward
• I mplement recommendations: Â Act on the recommendations
of the Anil Kakodkar Committee, including creating a Railway
Safety Authority, restructuring RDSO, adopting advanced
signalling systems, eliminating level crossings, and transitioning
to safer LHB coaches.
• Strengthen maintenance: Â Focus on regular inspection and
maintenance of tracks, coaches, and infrastructure, addressing
backlogs and improving overall conditions.
• Embrace technology: Â Invest in advanced sensors, GPS-based
systems, and automatic fire detection to enhance safety features
in coaches and wagons.
• E nsure safety oversight: Â Establish an independent regulatory
body to monitor and enforce safety standards, ensuring
accountability and adherence to protocols.
• A
 llocate adequate funds: Â Prioritize safety expenditure,
effectively utilize funds like the Rashtriya Rail Sanraksha
Kosh, and regularly review funding to meet evolving safety
requirements.
• L earn from international best practices: Â Collaborate with
experts and organizations to gain insights and expertise from
countries with exemplary railway safety records.
• Promote a safety culture: Â Foster a safety-first mindset
through awareness campaigns, training programs, and public
outreach initiatives.
www.civilsdaily.com 11
Mains value addition
Improving safety management system:
East Japan Railway Company has formulated the new five-year
safety plan “JR East Group Safety Plan 2018” (fiscal year 2014
to 2018), poised to take on the challenge of “ultimate safety”
CASHLESS SOCIETY - DIGITAL PAYMENTS, DEMONETIZATION, ETC.
RBI issues draft on Cybersafety for PSOs
Economics | GS3: Indian Economy 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : Payment System Operators (PSOs)
Mains level : Not Much
The Reserve Bank of India has released the draft Master Directions
on Cyber Resilience and Digital Payment Security Controls for
Payment System Operators (PSOs).
What are Payment System Operators (PSOs)?
• A payment system operator means a legal entity responsible
for operating a payment system.
• The PSO provides services by operating on certain models.
• They largely outsource their payment and settlement-related
activities to various other entities.
• Examples of PSOs include: Google Pay (and other apps), Clearing
Corporation of India, National Payments Corporation of India,
Cards Payment Networks, Cross border Money Transfer, ATM
networks, Prepaid Payment Instruments, White Label ATM
Operators, Instant Money Transfer, and Trade Receivables
Discounting System, Bharat Bill Payment System etc.
12 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02
by using four principles- `Ingraining the culture of safety‘,
`Improving safety management`, `Steadily reducing risk, and
`Priority improvement plan for safety equipment`.
Key points from the draft
(1) Governance Mechanisms:
• T he draft emphasizes the need for robust governance mechanisms
to manage cybersecurity risks effectively.
• It covers information security risks and vulnerabilities that
PSOs should address.
• PSOs are expected to establish and maintain a comprehensive
cybersecurity framework.
(2) Baseline Security Measures:
• T he draft specifies baseline security measures to be implemented
by PSOs.
• These measures are designed to protect digital payment systems
from cybersecurity threats.
• PSOs must implement controls related to data security, access
controls, incident response, and business continuity planning.
(3) Resilience to Cybersecurity Risks:
• T
 he directions aim to ensure that PSOs are resilient to both
traditional and emerging information systems and cybersecurity
risks.
• PSOs are required to conduct periodic risk assessments and
implement appropriate controls to mitigate identified risks.
• The draft emphasizes the importance of continuous monitoring
and review of cybersecurity measures.
(4) Safeguarding Digital Payment Transactions:
• T he focus of the directions is to enhance the security of digital
payment transactions.
• PSOs must implement strong authentication mechanisms,
encryption standards, and secure communication protocols.
• The draft highlights the need for robust fraud monitoring and
reporting mechanisms.
OIL AND GAS SECTOR - HELP, OPEN ACREAGE POLICY, ETC.

Oil Reserves in Salt Caverns: The Potential in India

Economics | GS3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc. India’s Current Strategic Oil Reserves
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : Salt Cavern-Based Reserves
Mains level : Strategic Oil Reserves in India

Central Idea
• E ngineers India (EIL) is conducting a feasibility study for
developing salt cavern-based strategic oil reserves in Rajasthan,
India, to increase the country’s storage capacity.
• If successful, it would be India’s first oil storage facility using
salt caverns, different from the existing rock cavern-based
strategic storage facilities. • E
 xisting strategic oil storage facilities: India’s three current
strategic oil storage facilities are located in Mangaluru, Padur,
and Visakhapatnam, consisting of excavated rock caverns.
Cavern-based Oil Storage • C
 urrent capacity and days of demand met: India’s current
• C avern-based strategic oil storage facilities are storage facilities
strategic oil reserves have a capacity of 5.33 million tonnes,
for crude oil or petroleum products that utilize naturally
equivalent to around 39 million barrels, meeting approximately
occurring underground caverns for storage purposes.
9.5 days of demand.
• These caverns are typically formed in salt formations or other
• E
 xpansion plans: India is in the process of expanding its
geological formations through processes such as solution
strategic oil reserves by 6.5 million tonnes at Chandikhol in
mining or excavation.
Odisha and Padur.
• In the case of salt cavern-based storage facilities, the storage
space is created by dissolving salt deposits with water.
• The process involves pumping water into the geological Salt Cavern-Based Reserves vs. Rock Cavern-Based
formations with large salt deposits, which dissolves the salt Reserves
and creates caverns.
• Once the brine (water with dissolved salt) is pumped out, the Salt Cavern Rock Cavern
space can be used to store crude oil or other petroleum products. Development Developed through Excavated from solid rock
Process solution mining formations
Dissolving salt
Advantages offered deposits with water
• S ecure and safe: They are naturally well-sealed, providing a to create storage
secure and impermeable barrier against liquid and gaseous space
hydrocarbons.
• I mpermeable: This inherent sealing property makes them Advantages Naturally well-sealed Excavation process
suitable for long-term storage of oil, minimizing the risk of Suitable for certain
leaks or environmental contamination. Rapid injection and geological formations
• Efficient pumping: Furthermore, cavern-based storage facilities extraction of oil
often have high injection and extraction rates, allowing for Less labour-intensive
rapid and efficient operations. and cost-intensive
• Huge capacity: The large volume capacity of caverns enables compared to rock
significant storage capacity, making them ideal for strategic oil caverns
reserves intended to address supply disruptions or emergencies. Suitability for Low oil absorbency Depends on specific
• Strategic asset: Countries build strategic crude oil reserves to Oil Storage Impermeable barrier geological formations
mitigate supply disruptions and ensure energy security during Suitable for storing May have varying degrees
global supply shocks and emergencies. crude oil of oil absorbency and
permeability

www.civilsdaily.com 13
Examples of Salt Cavern-Based Storage
• U S Strategic Petroleum Reserve: The US has the world’s
largest emergency oil storage, with storage caverns created
in salt domes along the Gulf of Mexico coast. It has a capacity
of around 727 million barrels.
• Salt caverns for other purposes: Salt caverns are also used for
storing liquid fuels, natural gas, compressed air, and hydrogen
in various parts of the world.
Potential for such storage in Rajasthan
• R ajasthan’s conducive conditions: Rajasthan, with abundant
salt formations, is seen as a favorable location for developing
salt cavern-based strategic storage facilities.
• P revious plans and current renewal: Earlier plans for a strategic
oil reserve in Bikaner did not materialize, but the exploration
of salt cavern-based storage in Rajasthan can be seen as a
renewed proposal.
• Infrastructure suitability: The presence of a refinery in Barmer
and existing crude pipelines in Rajasthan make the infrastructure
conducive for building strategic oil reserves.
• Importance of technology access: Previously, no Indian company
possessed the necessary technical expertise for building salt
cavern-based strategic hydrocarbon storage.
Challenges
• N
 o Indian company, including EIL, had the requisite technical
know-how to build salt cavern-based strategic hydrocarbon
storage.
14 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02
• T his gap in access to technology has been bridged by EIL’s recent
partnership with Germany’s DEEP.KBB GmbH - a company that
specialises in cavern storage and solution mining technology
- Shukla said.
• However, it is still too early to identify a specific site or make
an estimate of the project cost.
Future plans in India
• E
 mergency stockpiles: India’s strategic oil reserves are intended
to provide emergency stockpiles and are managed by the
Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserve (ISPRL).
• C ommercialization plans and partnerships: India plans to
commercialize its strategic petroleum reserves through public-
private partnerships, reducing government spending and
leveraging the commercial potential of the reserves.
• Recent actions and releases: India took advantage of low
crude oil prices to fill its reserves, leading to cost savings. It also
released oil from its strategic reserves as part of coordinated
actions with other major oil-consuming countries.
Conclusion
• C
 ompared to rock cavern-based reserves, salt caverns offer
unique benefits that align with India’s goals of increasing
storage capacity and ensuring energy security.
GOVERNANCE

MOTHER AND CHILD HEALTH - IMMUNIZATION PROGRAM, BPBB, PMJSY, PMMSY, ETC.

Highlights of the Joint Malnutrition Estimates (JME)

Governance | GS2: Health & Education  Overall Reflects chronic Represents acute
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important : Nutritional malnutrition malnutrition
Prelims level : JME Report Status
Mains level : Malnutrition status in India Focus Impacts growth Impacts weight
and development and muscle mass
Central Idea
• A
 ccording to the Joint Malnutrition Estimates (JME) by UNICEF,
WHO, and the World Bank, India has shown a reduction in Decline in Child Stunting in India
stunting among children under five. • T he prevalence of stunting in India dropped from 41.6% in
2012 to 31.7% in 2022, with 1.6 crore fewer stunted children
recorded.
Such reports (including NFHS) are credible sources of information • India’s share of the global burden of stunting declined from
to substantiate your answers in Mains answer writing.... 30% to 25% in the past decade.

What is Stunting and Wasting? Concerns over Wasting

Stunting Wasting • W
 asting remains a concern in India, with an overall prevalence
of 18.7% in 2022.
Definition Impaired growth Rapid weight • India contributes 49% to the global burden of wasting, reflecting
and development loss and muscle the severity of this malnutrition indicator.
due to chronic wasting in a short • Two-thirds of wasting cases in India may be attributed to
malnutrition. period. maternal malnutrition, leading to low birth weight for height.
Measurement Height-for-age Weight-for-height
comparison comparison
against against Rise in Obesity
standardized standardized • T he prevalence of obesity in India increased marginally from
growth reference. growth reference. 2.2% in 2012 to 2.8% in 2022.
• India’s obesity classification remains low compared to the
Causes Insufficient intake Inadequate caloric global prevalence of 5.6%.
of essential intake, poor • Obesity contributes to 8.8% of the global burden, with 31.8
nutrients, frequent feeding practices, lakh obese children in India.
infections, poor infectious
maternal health. diseases.
Effects Irreversible Increased Way Forward
consequences, morbidity and • T he JME report highlights the need for accelerated efforts to
reduced cognitive mortality, severe achieve global nutrition targets.
development, malnutrition. • India’s progress aligns with the National Family Health Survey
increased disease (NFHS) data, indicating a reduction in stunting.
vulnerability. • More research is needed to understand the complexities of
wasting, particularly its links to maternal malnutrition.
Time Frame Long-term Short-term • Continued focus on addressing malnutrition, access to health
condition condition services, and maternal nutrition is crucial for further improvement.
• Learning more about wasting and its determinants will be
essential for tailored interventions in India and Asia.

www.civilsdaily.com 15
WOMEN EMPOWERMENT ISSUES - JOBS,RESERVATION AND EDUCATION
Menstrual Health in India
Governance | GS2: Health & Education 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : Menstruation
Mains level : Menstrual health and Hygiene, Importance, challenges and way ahead
Central Idea
• I n a recent incident in Maharashtra, a man mistakenly perceived
period stains on his sister’s clothes as a sign of a sexual
relationship, highlighting the prevalence of misinformation
about menstruation in urban India. Despite living in the public
domain, girls and women face challenges related to periods
due to shame, stigma, and discrimination.
What is Menstruation?
• M enstruation, or period, is normal vaginal bleeding that occurs
as part of a woman’s monthly cycle.
• It is a normal process for girls and women who have reached
puberty.
• Every month, girl or women’s body prepares for pregnancy.
• If no pregnancy occurs, body gets rid of the lining in the uterus.
• The menstrual blood is partly blood and partly tissue from
inside the uterus.
• The length of a period can be different for each person, but
usually lasts for 3-7 days.
What are the impacts of Inadequate Menstrual
Hygiene?
• Impact on Health:Â The unsanitary use of menstrual products
increases the susceptibility of young girls and women to fungal,
urinary, and reproductive-tract infections, impacting their
overall health and well-being.
• Impact on education:Â Around 23 million girls in India drop
out of school every year due to a lack of menstrual hygiene
management (MHM) facilities which include access to sanitary
napkins, awareness of menstruation and access to clean toilets
with running water and disposal facilities.
• Marriage : Poor menstrual health can affect the sexual and
reproductive health and rights of women, girl students drop
out of school, are pushed into child marriage, and are more
like to experience domestic violence, infections, reproductive
illnesses, malnourishment, and poor mental health.
• Work: Â Poor menstrual health can affect the productivity,
income, and career opportunities of women and transgender
workers due to absenteeism, discomfort, discrimination, and
harassment. It can also limit their access to decent work and
social protection.
Barriers to Menstrual Hygiene in Urban Areas
• L ack of Awareness: Low-income groups in urban areas have
limited understanding of periods and menstrual health, leading
to poor practices and hygiene management.
• L imited Access to Menstrual Products: While period products
are more easily available in urban areas, they are often wrapped
in paper or black plastic bags, contributing to the associated
shame and stigma.
• I nadequate Toilet Facilities: Low-income slums, pavement
dwellers, educational institutions, and workplaces lack easily
accessible, safe, clean, and convenient toilet facilities.
16 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02
• P
 oor Waste Management: Improper disposal of menstrual
waste poses health risks to sanitation workers who are forced
to sort through waste without proper protection, undermining
their health and dignity.
Did you know?
• T he menstrual cycle can be affected by external factors such as
stress, changes in temperature and altitude, and even exposure
to certain chemicals and toxins.
• This can cause changes in the length of the cycle, the intensity
of bleeding, and the severity of symptoms.
• There is also a small percentage of women who experience
menorrhagia, which is an excessive bleeding during menstruation.
This can be caused by hormonal imbalances, fibroids, endometriosis,
and other underlying medical conditions.
Steps Taken by Government
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has introduced
aMenstrual Hygiene Scheme (MHS)for the promotion of
menstrual hygiene among adolescent girls in the age group of
10-19 years in rural areas.
The major objectives of the scheme are:
• T o increase awareness among adolescent girls on Menstrual
Hygiene
• To increase access to and use of high-quality sanitary napkins
for adolescent girls in rural areas.
• To ensure safe disposal of Sanitary Napkins in an environmentally
friendly manner.
MAINS VALUE ADDITION: State-level best practices
Different states have their schemes, but the primary focus of
service delivery remains on the distribution of sanitary napkins.
• Maharashtra’s ‘Asmita Yojana’, Rajasthan’s ‘Udaan’,
Andhra Pradesh’s ‘Swechcha’, Kerala’s ‘She Pad’, Odisha’s
‘Khusi’, Chhattisgarh’s ‘Suchita’, and Sikkim’s ‘Bahini’
all have provisions to distribute subsidized or free sanitary
napkins to adolescent girls.
• Kerala and Karnataka governments have been distributing
menstrual cups as a sustainable alternative to sanitary napkins.
Way ahead: Addressing Remaining Gaps
• A wareness and Education: Continuous efforts should be made
to raise awareness about periods, address harmful social norms,
and challenge gender stereotypes related to menstruation.
• A vailability of Menstrual Products: Reusable and disposable
menstrual products should be made more accessible through
retail outlets, government schemes, social enterprises, and
NGOs, ensuring people have the freedom to choose the
products they prefer.
• Female-Friendly Toilets: Initiatives such as ‘She Toilets’ and
‘Pink Toilets’ that provide safe, private, and clean facilities with
essential amenities for managing periods should be expanded.
• Menstrual Waste Management: Innovative solutions like
providing dustbins and incinerators in female toilets, along with
waste segregation initiatives like the ‘Red Dot Campaign’ and
‘PadCare Labs,’ can contribute to proper waste management.
• Reaching Marginalized Groups: Efforts should be made to
reach people living in unregistered slums, pavements, refugee
camps, and other vulnerable conditions in urban areas. Outreach
programs, community engagement, and partnerships with local
organizations can help provide access to accurate information,
menstrual products, and improved facilities.
• Worksites Support: Both formal and informal worksites need
to cater to the menstrual needs of women who work. This can
include providing clean and private toilet facilities, ensuring
access to menstrual products, and promoting supportive
workplace policies that address menstrual health needs.
• Innovations in Menstrual Waste Management: Continued
support for innovative solutions in menstrual waste management
is essential. This includes safe and effective methods for disposal,
such as incineration or environmentally friendly alternatives,
as well as scalable approaches that can be adopted in different
urban contexts.
• Engaging Men and Boys: Promoting gender equality and
breaking menstrual taboos require engaging men and boys as
allies and advocates. Educating them about menstrual health,
addressing gender stereotypes, and fostering supportive attitudes
can help create an environment of acceptance and inclusion.
• Research and Data Collection: Robust research and data
collection on menstrual health in urban areas are crucial for
evidence-based interventions and policy formulation. Collecting
data on access to facilities, product usage, hygiene practices,
and health outcomes can guide targeted efforts and measure
progress.
URBAN TRANSFORMATION - SMART CITIES, AMRUT, ETC.
City Investments to Innovate, Integrate and Sustain (CITIIS)
Project
Governance | GS2: Government Scheme/Policies 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : CITIIS 2.0, Smart Cities Mission
Mains level : Not Much
Central Idea
• T
 he Union government has approved the second phase of the
City Investments to Innovate, Integrate, and Sustain (CITIIS)
project.
• S trengthening Partnerships: Collaboration among government
agencies, NGOs, private sector entities, and community-based
organizations is vital for comprehensive and sustainable
interventions.
• E
 ducation and Awareness: Continuously raising awareness
about menstrual health is pivotal. This includes comprehensive
menstrual health education in schools, community workshops,
and media campaigns to dispel myths, challenge social norms,
and promote positive attitudes towards menstruation.
• Policy Advocacy: Advocating for supportive policies at the
local, regional, and national levels can help address systemic
gaps. This involves advocating for menstrual health as a public
health priority, ensuring budget allocations for menstrual health
initiatives, and integrating menstrual health into broader policies
related to health, education, sanitation, and gender equality.
Conclusion
• A
 s the world observes Menstrual Hygiene Day (28 May), it is
essential to recognize menstrual health as vital to personal
health, public health, and human rights for all. Urban India
must overcome taboos, improve awareness, enhance access to
products and facilities, and promote proper waste management.
By addressing these issues, we can empower girls and women
to navigate public spaces with dignity and ensure their overall
well-being.
What is CITIIS 2.0?
• It is a part of theSmart Cities Mission and aims to promote
integrated waste management and climate-oriented reform
actions.
• The project will be implemented in 18 cities selected through
a competition process.
• The project will span over a period of four years, from 2023
to 2027.
Objectives of the project
• C
 ITIIS 2.0 supports competitively selected projects focusing
on circular economy and integrated waste management at
the city level.
• It also emphasizes climate-oriented reform actions at the State
level and aims to strengthen institutions and disseminate
knowledge at the national level.
Implementation Partners
• T
 he project is implemented in partnership with the French
Development Agency (AFD), Kreditanstalt fur Wiederaufbau
(KfW), the European Union (EU), and the National Institute of
Urban Affairs (NIUA).
www.civilsdaily.com 17
Components
The project consists of three major components:
• Financial and technical support for developing climate-resilient
projects in up to 18 smart cities.
• Interventions at the center, state, and city levels to enhance
climate governance.
• Promotion of climate adaptation and mitigation measures.
Back2Basics: Smart Cities Mission
• T he Smart Cities Mission is an initiative of the Union Housing
and Urban Affairs Ministry that was launched in 2015.
• Cities across the country were asked to submit proposals for
projects to improve municipal services and to make their
jurisdictions more liveable.
• B
 etween January 2016 and June 2018 (when the last city,
Shillong, was chosen), the Ministry selected 100 cities for the
Mission over five rounds.
• The projects were supposed to be completed within five years
of the selection of the city, but in 2021 the Ministry changed
the deadline for all cities to June 2023, which was earlier the
deadline for Shillong alone.
• With an increase on urban population and rapid expansion
of areas, government is looking at smarter ways to manage
complexities, increase efficiencies and improve quality of life.
• The mission will cover 100 cities that have been distributed
among the States /Union Territories (UT) on the basis of an
equitable criteria.
• The formula gives equal weightage (50:50) to urban population
of the State/UT and the number of statutory towns in the
State/UT.

TOBACCO: THE SILENT KILLER

Mandatory Anti-Tobacco Warnings on OTT Platforms

Governance | GS2: Health & Education  Health Warnings on Mandatory display of health
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important : Tobacco Products warnings on cigarette packages and
Prelims level : NA other tobacco products
Mains level : Tobacco consumption and issues Ban on Prohibition on direct and indirect
Advertisement and advertising of tobacco products
Promotion
Prohibition on Sale to Selling tobacco products to
Minors individuals below 18 years of age is
strictly prohibited
Packaging Health warnings and pictorial
and Labelling representations of harmful effects
Requirements on cigarette packages
Powers of Authorities empowered to enforce
Enforcement the act, conduct inspections, and
seize contraband products

New requirements for Anti-Tobacco Warnings

• P
 ublishers of online curated content displaying tobacco
products or their use must show anti-tobacco health spots at
Central Idea
the beginning and middle of the program.
• O ver-the-top (OTT) streaming platforms must displayanti-
• When tobacco products or their use are displayed during the
tobacco warningshttps://www.civilsdaily.com/story/tobacco-
program, an anti-tobacco health warning must be prominently
the-silent-killer/similar to those seen in movies screened in
displayed as a static message at the bottom of the screen.
theatres and on TV.
• The warning message should be legible and readable, with
• The requirement is based on a Union Health Ministry notification
black font on a white background.
that amends the rules under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco
• The specified warnings are ‘Tobacco causes cancer’ or ‘Tobacco
Products Act (COTPA), 2004.
kills.’
• Health spots, warnings, and audio-visual disclaimers should
What is COTPA, 2004? be in the same language as used in the show.
Purpose Regulate production, sale,
distribution, and consumption of Negative health impacts of tobacco
tobacco products • C
 ancer: Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable cancer.
Prohibition of Smoking prohibited in public areas It can cause cancer of the lungs, mouth, throat, larynx, pancreas,
Smoking in Public like offices, restaurants, parks, bladder, kidney, and cervix.
Places public transport, etc.

18 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02

• R espiratory diseases: It may cause chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis
and emphysema. It can also worsen asthma symptoms.
• Cardiovascular diseases: Consumption increases the risk
of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. It
damages blood vessels and increases the risk of blood clots.
• R eproductive health: Tobacco use can lead to infertility,
premature birth, and low birth weight in babies.
Socio-economic impact
(1) On an individual level:
• D ecreased productivity: Smoking-related illnesses can result
in absenteeism from work, decreased work performance, and
increased medical expenses.
• Decreased life expectancy: Tobacco consumption can lead to
decreased life expectancy, which reduces the overall productive
years of an individual.
(2) On a societal level:
• Healthcare cost: Tobacco consumption can lead to decreased
economic development due to the increased burden of
healthcare costs and decreased productivity.
• Increased social expenditure: According to a study conducted
by the World Health Organization (WHO), tobacco-related
illnesses cost India about $22.4 billion in healthcare costs and
lost productivity annually
Why tobacco isn’t completely banned?
• R evenue loss: The industry contributes a significant amount
of tax revenue to the government. Banning tobacco would
result in the loss of these tax revenues, which are used for
various public welfare programs and initiatives.
• E conomic Impact: The tobacco industry provides employment
to a large number of people, especially in the agricultural
sector, where tobacco farming is prevalent.
• Not a psychotropic substance: While the harmful effects of
tobacco are well-documented, banning a legal product entirely
requires careful consideration and legal processes.
VERY IMPORTANT: EVIDENCE-BASED POLICYMAKING (EBP)
Very Important: Evidence-Based Policymaking (EBP)
Governance | GS2: Governance, Transparency & Accountability, Citizens Charters
Central Idea
• T
 he unavailability of Census and Household Consumer Expenditure
(HCE) survey data is causing difficulties in policymaking in India.
• The census enumeration, originally scheduled for 2021, has
been postponed to 2024-25.
• Furthermore, the results of the National Statistical Office’s HCE
survey for 2022-23, expected to be released by December this
year, might be delayed until after the general elections in 2024.
• R
 egulatory approach: Instead of a complete ban, the Indian
government has adopted a regulatory approach to control
tobacco use.
Way forward
• S trengthen tobacco control laws: Review and enhance existing
laws to effectively reduce tobacco consumption.
• C onduct public awareness campaigns: Educate the public about
the health risks of tobacco use and the benefits of quitting.
• Expand access to tobacco cessation programs : Increase
availability of affordable and effective programs to support
individuals who want to quit tobacco.
• Implement sin taxes on tobacco products: Increase taxes
to discourage consumption, especially among price-sensitive
populations.
• Enforce smoke-free environments: Strictly implement smoke-
free laws in public places, workplaces, and public transport.
• Support tobacco farmers: Provide alternative livelihood
options and assistance for farmers transitioning away from
tobacco farming.
• Conduct research and surveillance: Invest in data collection and
analysis to inform evidence-based policies and interventions.
• C ollaborate with international organizations: Partner with
global entities like WHO to leverage expertise and resources
in tobacco control.
Mains value addition
WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC)
is the first international treaty negotiated under the auspices of
WHO. It was adopted by the World Health Assembly on 21 May
2003 and entered into force on 27 February 2005. It has since
become one of the most rapidly and widely embraced treaties
in United Nations history. The WHO FCTC was developed in
response to the globalization of the tobacco epidemic and is
an evidence-based treaty that reaffirms the right of all people
to the highest standard of health. The Convention represents a
milestone for the promotion of public health and provides new
legal dimensions for international health cooperation.
What is Evidence-Based Policymaking (EBP)?
• E vidence-based policymaking, also known as data-based
policymaking, involves using factual information and credible
evidence to make policy decisions rather than relying on political
opinions or theories.
• This approach relies on relevant data and evidence to develop
policies, such as using reliable healthcare data to inform
healthcare policy decisions.
• Evidence-based policymaking is widely considered as a
fundamental aspect of good governance.
www.civilsdaily.com 19

Why rely on EBP?
There are several reasons why evidence-based policymaking
(EBP) is essential and beneficial:
• Facts and Credible Evidence: Â Making decisions based on
reliable data ensure that policymaking is grounded in objective
information and not influenced by personal beliefs or opinions.
• S upplementing Political Opinion or Theory: Â Evidence-based
approaches prioritize empirical evidence and research findings
over subjective political opinions or unproven theories.
• Informed Decision-Making: Â Utilizing accurate and reliable
information enables policymakers to make well-informed
decisions with a comprehensive understanding of issues.
• Better Policy Outcomes: Â Evidence helps identify effective
strategies and interventions, leading to policies that are more
likely to achieve their intended goals and produce positive
outcomes.
• T argeted Resource Allocation: Â By considering evidence
of effectiveness, policymakers can allocate limited resources
strategically. They have focus on interventions that have a
proven track record of success.
• Accountability and Transparency: Â EBP fosters transparency
and accountability by providing a clear rationale for policy
decisions based on objective information. This earns public
trust and allowing for scrutiny and evaluation.
• Continuous Learning: Â Evaluating policies based on evidence
promotes a culture of learning. It allows for the identification
of what works well and areas that require improvement. This
leads to iterative policy development.
• P ublic Health and Safety: Â EBP in public health and safety
ensure that decisions are informed by scientific evidence,
helping to protect and improve the well-being of the public
by preventing harm and mitigating risks.
Impact on Electoral Politics
• Prevention of decisions based on vested interests: Â Evidence-
based policymaking holds policymakers accountable and prevents
decisions driven by ideology, opinions, or political interests.
20 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02
• E nhanced public trust: Â Evidence-based policymaking
increases trust by using rigorous analysis and data, enhancing
the legitimacy of government actions and policies.
• E vidence-Based Campaigning: Â Candidates use evidence-
based research for effective campaign strategies, addressing
voter concerns and tailoring policies for electoral success.
• Voter Engagement and Education: Â EBP informs voters
with evidence-based information, empowering them to make
informed choices based on data and research.
• Policy Evaluation and Improvement: Â EBP promotes regular
evaluation of policies based on evidence, appealing to voters
prioritizing evidence-driven decision-making and policy
effectiveness.
Challenges and Concerns
There are several challenges and concerns related
to evidence-based policymaking in India:
• Delay in the release of data: Â Despite adopting advanced
data processing technologies, there has been a growing
delay, sometimes spanning years, in releasing collected data.
This renders the data less useful for timely policy intervention
and reduces public scrutiny, undermining accountability.
For example, the government refrained from releasing data
collected through the Socio-Economic and Caste Census in
an extreme case.
• I ssue of comparability: Â Changes in the estimation of GDP
over recent years have made it impossible to compare data over
time. While adjustments to computation and survey methods
aimed at improving accuracy are welcome, in this case, the
revisions were seen as driven more by political considerations
than the need for accuracy.
• R eliance on multiple surveys and datasets: Â In the absence of
surveys like the HCE survey, policymakers rely on other datasets
that often provide contradictory signals. This lack of consensus
hampers understanding of poverty and inequality trends over
 the past decade. Different studies present conflicting findings, Digital Digital India, Enhance service
such as varying estimates of rural poverty during the strict Governance e-Governance delivery, ensure
lockdown of April-June 2020. initiatives, data security
Aadhaar and privacy,
Where can India utilize EBP? and leverage
technology
Sector Government How EBP can be
for effective
Schemes used
governance
Healthcare Ayushman Bharat, Utilize
Financial Inclusion Jan Dhan Yojana, Expand access to
National Health evidence-based
PM Suraksha Bima financial services,
Mission, Swachh interventions,
Yojana, PM Jeevan promote inclusive
Bharat Mission allocate resources
Jyoti Bima Yojana growth, and
effectively, and
reduce financial
monitor health
vulnerability
outcomes
Employment Make in India, Identify growth
Education and Sarva Shiksha Inform curriculum
Generation Stand-Up India, sectors, target
HRD Abhiyan, Mid-Day development,
Mudra Yojana job creation,
Meal Scheme, teacher training,
and support
Digital India for and interventions
entrepreneurship
Education for improved
based on market
learning outcomes
demand and skill
Agriculture PM Kisan Samman Enhance gaps
upliftment Nidhi, Soil Health productivity,
Card Scheme, PM promote
Fasal Bima Yojana sustainable Way forward
farming practices, • E stablish a National Evidence-Based Policy Institute: Â
and address Create an institute to promote research, evaluation, and
farmer challenges capacity-building in EBP, collaborating with universities and
organizations to generate and disseminate rigorous evidence
Social Welfare PM Jan Dhan Ensure effective
for policymaking.
Yojana, PM Awas targeting,
• D evelop a National Evidence Bank: Â Create a centralized
Yojana, National equitable
platform to store and share research findings, evaluations,
Rural Employment distribution,
and data, ensuring policymakers have easy access to credible
Guarantee Act and improved
evidence for informed decision-making.
(NREGA) outcomes for
• E ncourage Collaborative Research Partnerships: Â Foster
marginalized
collaborations between researchers, policymakers, and practitioners
communities
to conduct joint studies, facilitating the integration of research
Infrastructure Smart Cities Prioritize findings into policy processes and enhancing relevance.
Mission, investments based • Implement Mandatory Evidence Assessments: Â Require major
Bharatmala on data-driven policy proposals to undergo systematic evidence assessments,
Pariyojana, PM assessments of evaluating existing evidence, identifying gaps, and enhancing
Gram Sadak infrastructure proposed initiatives’ quality and effectiveness.
Yojana needs and urban • I nvest in Research and Evaluation Capacity: Â Allocate
planning resources to strengthen research and evaluation capabilities
Environmental National Clean Address within government agencies, providing training programs to
Protection and Air Program, environmental build evidence use skills among policymakers and civil servants.
governance National Mission challenges, • Foster Collaboration with International EBP Networks: Â
for Sustainable mitigate pollution, Engage with global networks like J-PAL and the Campbell
Agriculture, and promote Collaboration, leveraging their expertise and best practices
Swachh Bharat sustainable to enhance EBP in India.
Mission development • P romote Open Data and Transparency: Â Encourage transparency
through open data initiatives and mandatory publication
Skill Development Skill India Mission, Align training
of evaluation reports, enabling scrutiny, replication, and
PM Kaushal Vikas programs
accountability in decision-making.
Yojana, National with industry
• E
 mbed EBP in Policy Education: Â Integrate evidence-based
Apprenticeship requirements,
approaches into policy school curricula and training programs,
Promotion improve
equipping policymakers with skills to critically evaluate evidence
Scheme employability,
and apply it in policy formulation.
and meet skill
• E ncourage Public Engagement: Â Facilitate public participation
demands
in policy-making through consultations and forums, incorporating
diverse perspectives and local knowledge in evidence synthesis
and policy development.
• C ontinuous Monitoring and Evaluation: Â Establish robust
monitoring and evaluation frameworks for policies and programs,
enabling regular reviews to assess effectiveness, make evidence-
informed adjustments, and learn from successes and failures.

www.civilsdaily.com 21
Conclusion
• E vidence-based policymaking holds significant potential for
bringing about high-impact changes in people’s lives.
• To eradicate poverty and improve economic performance, education,
healthcare, and social assistance, systemic institutionalization
of evidence-based policymaking is imperative.
• T
 imely and accurate data form the foundation of effective
policymaking, enabling policymakers to make well-informed
choices.
• Measures must be taken to strengthen the statistical system,
ensuring its independence and safeguarding against external
influence.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION - RTE, EDUCATION POLICY, SEQI, RMSA, COMMITTEE REPORTS, ETC.

NCERT drops Periodic Table from Class X book

Governance | GS2: Health & Education  Lanthanides The first row of the f-block contains the
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important : 15 lanthanide elements.
Prelims level : Periodic Table Actinides The second row of the f-block contains
Mains level : Read the attached story the 15 actinide elements.
Periodic Trends Various trends exist across the table, such
as atomic radius, ionization energy, and
electronegativity.
Periodic Law The chemical and physical properties of
elements repeat in a periodic manner
based on their atomic numbers.
Modern Modern versions incorporate atomic
Versions numbers and reflect our understanding
of atomic structure.
International IUPAC is the international organization
Union of Pure responsible for the standardization of
and Applied chemical nomenclature, symbols, and the
Chemistry Periodic Table.
(IUPAC)
Central Idea
• C
 hanges notified by NCERT: TheNCERT notified changes in its Database Several organizations and databases
June 2022 circular, omitted the Periodic Table from 10thclass Management manage and maintain comprehensive
books. This has been widely debated in academic circles. information about the elements, their
• N
 ew textbooks hit the market: The textbooks with the properties, and the Periodic Table.
deletions and changes have now been released in the market. Examples include the IUPAC, the National
Institute of Standards and Technology
(NIST), and the Royal Society of Chemistry
What is Periodic Table? (RSC).
History Developed by Dmitri Mendeleev in
1869. He arranged elements based on
Why this matters?
their atomic masses and predicted the
• NCERT textbooks as a cornerstone: NCERT textbooks are
existence of undiscovered elements.
considered a cornerstone for guiding the publication of State
Organization Elements are arranged based on their board textbooks, affecting nearly 60 State boards.
atomic numbers, electron configurations, • Concerns for non-science stream students: With a significant
and properties. number of students opting for Arts and Commerce streams,
Periods There are seven periods (rows) in the they may lose the opportunity to learn crucial basic Chemistry
table, representing different principal concepts now only accessible in Class XI.
energy levels.
Groups The table has 18 groups (columns), with Controversial Deletions and Omissions by NCERT
elements in the same group sharing • F
 undamental knowledge of chemistry: Experts argue that
similar properties. leaving out the periodic table and logical organization of
Main Groups Elements in groups 1, 2, and 13 to 18 are elements from the textbooks hinders students’ understanding
referred to as main group elements. of fundamental chemistry concepts.
• R
 ationalization of contents due to the pandemic: The
Transition Groups 3 to 12 consist of transition
NCERT claims that the exercise of reducing the content load
Metals metals, known for their variable oxidation
on students is carried out across all classes in response to the
states.
COVID-19 pandemic.

22 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02

• Previous controversial deletions: Earlier, NCERT dropped
Darwin’s theory of evolution from Class X textbooks and
deleted chapters from Political Science textbooks, including
Democracy and Diversity, Popular Struggles and Movements,
Political Parties, and Challenges to Democracy.
Additional controversial omissions
• E xclusion of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad: Any mention of
Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, a freedom fighter and India’s first
Education Minister, has been deleted from the textbooks.
• Omission of J&K’s accession to India: The fact that Jammu
and Kashmir acceded to India on the basis of autonomy has
been removed from the revised Class XI textbook.
• F urther omissions in the CBSE syllabus: The history of Mughal
courts, references to the 2002 communal riots in Gujarat, the
Naxalite movement, and mention of Dalit writers were also
omitted from the CBSE syllabus.
Reasons cited for curriculum revamp
• Multiple sets of authors: Textbooks have undergone changes
over the years, written by different sets of historians. There
have been no controversies regarding these changes.
• Celebration of diversity and assimilation: Exclusively holding
on to one set of textbooks is contrary to the spirit of a civilization
that celebrates diversity and assimilation.
• N CF’s efforts for inclusive representations: The National
Curriculum Framework (NCF) aims to bring a plurality of
voices and more inclusive representations of marginalized
and previously excluded history.
HIGHER EDUCATION - RUSA, NIRF, HEFA, ETC.
Revised Guidelines for Deemed University Status
Governance | GS2: Health & Education 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : UGC, Accredition of Universities
Mains level : Read the attached story
Central Idea
• T
 he University Grants Commission (UGC) has released revised
guidelines allowing higher education institutions to apply for
deemed university status.
Allegations of Distortions in history textbooks
• D eliberate distortions: Some sections of the media allege that
the corrections and improvements made in the NCERT history
textbooks are deliberate distortions or rewriting of history.
• S ense of entitlement: The charge of rewriting history under
a specific ideology betrays a sense of entitlement, suggesting
that only one set of historians had the knowledge to determine
what should be taught.
• Autonomy breach: While autonomy in academic and intellectual
activities is crucial, the notion that institutional autonomy has
been undermined and academic freedom is under stress is a
one-sided and pointless exercise.
Way forward
• L ogical revision: There is an urgent need for a comprehensive
revision of NCERT textbooks, not only in history but in all subjects,
to incorporate new knowledge and discoveries.
• P rudent use of existing textbooks: Until a detailed plan and
advice for a comprehensive revision of books and syllabi is
formulated, NCERT has chosen to use the existing textbooks.
• Presenting facts lucidly: Textbooks should present facts lucidly,
allowing students to acquire the knowledge they seek.
• Avoid politicizing: Academics and politicians should refrain
from politicizing school textbooks and instead focus on telling
students the stories of the past without weaving in half-truths
or erasing vast chunks of history.
• A ddressing gaps and inclusivity: Continuous revision of
the curriculum is necessary to address gaps, make textbooks
relevant, and ensure inclusivity.
• T
 he new guidelines aim to establish more quality-focused
deemed universities by simplifying the eligibility criteria.
University Grants Commission (UGC)
• U GC is a statutory body under the University Grants Commission
Act, of 1956.
• It is charged with the task of coordinating and maintaining
standards of higher education in India.
• It provides recognition to universities and also allocates funds
to universities and colleges.
• It is headquartered are in New Delhi, and it also has 6 regional
centres.
• All grants to universities and higher learning institutions are
handled by the UGC.
• In 2015-16, the Union government initiated a National
Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) under UGC to rank
all educational institutes.
Why in the news?
• L ight but tight regulatory framework: The guidelines are based
on the principle of a “light but tight” regulatory framework
envisioned in the National Education Policy 2020.
www.civilsdaily.com 23
What is Deemed University? Cluster of Institutions and Distinct Institution Category
A Deemed University is a status granted to higher educational • C luster of institutions: A cluster of institutions managed by
institutions in India by the Department of Higher Education (DHE) multiple sponsoring bodies or a society can also apply for
under the Ministry of Education based on the recommendation deemed university status.
of the University Grants Commission (UGC). • Distinct Institution category: The guidelines introduce the
“Distinct Institution” category, exempting institutions focusing
State University Deemed University on unique disciplines, addressing strategic needs, preserving
Indian cultural heritage or the environment, dedicated to skill
Establishment Created by state Granted development, sports, languages, or other disciplines determined
government autonomy by the by the Expert Committee.
through legislative UGC based on
assembly act academic and
research merits Changes in Faculty Strength and Corpus Fund
Funding Fully funded Self-funded • I ncreased faculty strength: The revised guidelines increase
by the state the required faculty strength from 100 to 150.
government • Increased corpus fund for private institutions: The corpus
fund requirement for private institutions has been increased
Fee Structure Regulated and Freedom to set from Rs 10 crore to Rs 25 crore.
streamlined their own fee
according to structure
government Executive Councils and Academic Bank of Credits
guidelines • C
 reation of executive councils: Private universities seeking
Curriculum Regulated and Autonomy to deemed university status will be required to create executive
aligned with UGC design their councils, similar to central universities.
guidelines own courses and • M
 andatory registration on Academic Bank of Credits:
curriculum Deemed universities must register on the Academic Bank of
Credits (ABC) and can offer twinning programs, joint degree
Research Research Emphasis on programs, and dual degree programs.
programs and research with
activities aligned credible research
with government output Off-Campus Centers and Future Plans
norms • O ff-campus centers eligibility: Deemed universities with a
minimum ‘A’ grade or ranked from 1 to 100 in the “universities”
Infrastructure Facilities and State-of-the-art
category of NIRF rankings are eligible to establish off-campus
infrastructure as infrastructure
centers.
per government
• F uture removal of “deemed to be university” term: The UGC
provisions
chairperson stated that the term “deemed to be university”
Affiliated Can have affiliated Generally have a will be removed once the Higher Education Commission of
Institutes colleges and single institution India is established through an act of Parliament.
institutes • Current number of deemed institutions: Currently, there are
Admission Process Follows state Can set their own around 170 deemed institutions in the country.
government admission policies
guidelines for and criteria
admissions
Back2Basics:
Degree Granting Authorized to Authorized to NAAC NIRF NBA
award degrees award degrees Full Form National National National
and diplomas and diplomas Assessment Institutional Board of
Flexibility Governed by UGC Autonomy in and Ranking Accreditation
regulations and decision-making Accreditation Framework
guidelines and flexibility in Council
operations Governing University Ministry of All India
Body Grants Education, Council for
Commission Government Technical
New changes introduced- (UGC) of India Education
(AICTE)
Eligibility Criteria and Changes Purpose Assessing Ranking Accrediting
• Previous eligibility criteria: Under the 2019 guidelines, and higher technical
institutions with an existence of at least 20 years were eligible accrediting education education
to apply for deemed university status. higher institutions programs in
• Revised eligibility criteria: The revised guidelines replace the education engineering
previous criteria with requirements such as multi-disciplinarity, Assessment Quality Teaching, Criteria and
NAAC grading, NIRF ranking, and NBA grading. Criteria parameters learning, standards
• Criteria for application: Institutions with valid accreditation and research, for quality
by NAAC, NBA accreditation for eligible programs, or ranking predefined graduation technical
in the top 50 of specific categories in NIRF for the last three criteria outcomes, education
years can apply for deemed university status. etc.

24 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02

 Accreditation A, A+, B, - - Scope All higher All higher Technical
Grades B+, C education education education
Focus Evaluating Ranking Accrediting institutions institutions programs in
institution’s institutions engineering in India in India the field of
quality and based on programs engineering
performance various for quality
parameters technical
education

SOCIAL MEDIA: PROSPECT AND CHALLENGES

The Need for Fact-Checking Units to Combat Fake News

Governance | GS3: S&T - Applications In Everyday Life,Social Media Networks • S

& Internal Security 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : IT rules, 2021 and other such provisions
Mains level : Menace fake news, deepfakes, government’s efforts for fact checking
units and criticism associated with it
Central Idea
• T
 he IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code)
Amendment Rules, 2023 aim to tackle the dissemination of false
or misleading information through the introduction of fact-
checking units. In light of the detrimental impact of fake news,
particularly during the Covid-19 crisis, governments worldwide
have recognized the urgency to combat this menace. India, in
particular, has experienced a surge in fake news related to the
pandemic, making it crucial for the government to proactively
address the issue.
What is mean by Fake news?
• F ake news refers to intentionally fabricated or misleading
information presented as if it were real news. It can be spread
through traditional media sources like newspapers or television,
but it is more commonly associated with social media platforms
and other online sources.
• Fake news can range from completely made-up stories to
misleading headlines and selectively edited or out-of-context
information designed to deceive readers.
• It is often used for political purposes, to manipulate public
opinion or to spread misinformation about individuals,
organizations or events
 cholars at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology even
found that falsified content spreads six times faster than factual
content on online platforms.
What are the causes of Fake news?
• P
 olitical:India’s political landscape is highly polarised, and this
has contributed to the spread of fake news that reinforces
people’s preconceived beliefs and biases.
• Religious:India has a history of religious and communal tensions
and fake news that fuels these tensions can quickly go viral.
• Economic: Some people and organizations spread fake news
for financial gain. For example, Social media platforms pay
content creators based on views, and divisive content can
garner significant attention. Therefore, there will always be
a possibility that content creators may attempt such mischief
again.
• Social:Many people in India have limited media literacy skills,
which makes them more susceptible to believing and sharing
fake news. For example, according to the India Inequality Report
2022, among the poorest 20% of households, only 2.7% have
access to a computer and 8.9% to internet facilities.
• Administrative: There are currently no strict penalties for the
spread of fake news in India, which makes it difficult to deter
people from creating and disseminating fake news. India has
limited fact-checking infrastructure, and many of the available
fact-checking organizations (PIB fact check units) are small
and poorly funded.
Consequences of Fake News
• D issemination of misinformation: Fake news spreads false
or misleading information, leading to a distortion of facts and
events. This can misguide individuals and the public, leading
to incorrect beliefs and actions.
• Violence and Hate: Â Fake news has the potential to incite
violence and hatred towards individuals or groups. This can
lead to discrimination, intolerance, and even physical harm.
For example, the Muzaffarnagar Riots of 2013 are said to be
triggered by fake news regarding extremist instances.
• Erosion of trust : Fake news undermines trust in media
organizations, journalism, and sources of information. When
people encounter fake news repeatedly, it becomes challenging
to distinguish between reliable and unreliable sources, eroding
trust in the media landscape.

www.civilsdaily.com 25
• M anipulation of public opinion: Fake news is often created
with the intent to manipulate public sentiment and shape
public opinion on specific issues, individuals, or events. This
manipulation can have far-reaching effects on public discourse
and decision-making processes.
• P olarization and division : Fake news can contribute to the
polarization of society by promoting extreme viewpoints,
fostering animosity, and deepening existing divisions. It can
exacerbate social, political, and cultural conflicts.
• Personal and reputational harm: Individuals, public figures,
and organizations can suffer reputational damage due to false
information circulated through fake news. Innocent people
may be targeted, leading to personal, professional, and social
repercussions.
• Public safety concerns: Fake news related to public safety issues,
such as health emergencies or natural disasters, can spread
panic, hinder effective response efforts, and jeopardize public
safety. It can impede the dissemination of accurate information
and guidance. For example, Â Fake news of COVID Vaccines
causing infertility led to panic and anxiety.
• Recruitment and promotion of extremist ideologies: Â Social
media platforms have been used to spread extremist ideologies,
including white supremacist and far-right ideologies, among
susceptible audiences. This can lead to the radicalization of
individuals  and promote violent behavior. For example,
Fake propaganda is spread through Fake news by organizations
like ISIS to recruit terrorists.
Initiatives taken to deal with Fake news
• F act-checking websites: Â There are many fact-checking
websites that perform independent verification of news stories
and other online content. Some popular examples includeÂ
FactCheck.org, PolitiFact, and Snopes. These websites often
reference government sources and provide links to official
statements and data to back up their claims.
• Official government sources: Â Another way to check the
authenticity of online content is to verify it against official
government sources. For example, if there is a news story
claiming that a new law has been passed, you can check
the website of the relevant government agency to see if the
information is accurate.
• Social media monitoring: Â Many government agencies and
law enforcement organizations monitor social media for fake
content that could be harmful or misleading. If you come
across suspicious content, you can report it to the relevant
authorities for investigation.
• Collaborative efforts: Â Governments can collaborate with
tech companies, fact-checking organizations and news outlets
to develop standards and protocols for detecting and verifying
fake content. One example of such collaboration is the Trusted
News Initiative, a group of major news and tech companies
working together to combat disinformation online.
• The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and
Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2023, amending
the IT Rules, 2021:Â New I-T rules according to which the
Press Information Bureau has got the power to flag any fake
news about the Central government. PIB also gets the power
to order social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, or YouTube
to take down what is flagged as fake news.
• The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and
Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021: Â This new set of
rules was introduced in February 2021 and applies to social
media intermediaries and OTT platforms operating  in
26 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02
India. These rules require social media platforms to remove
any content that is deemed to be defamatory, obscene, or
fake within 24 hours of receiving a complaint.
•  he Indian Penal Code : Several sections of the Indian Penal
T
Code (IPC) can be used to prosecute individuals spreading
fake news and misinformation. These include Section 153
 (provocation with intent to cause riot), Section 505 Â
(statements conducing to public mischief), and Section 500
 (defamation).
• T  he Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995: Â
This act regulates the content of television channels in India.
The government can take action against TV channels that
broadcast fake news or misinformation under this act.
• The Press Council Act, 1978 : This act governs the functioning of
the Press Council of India, which is responsible for maintaining
the standards of newspapers, news agencies, and journalists.
The council can act against journalists and media houses that
publish fake news and misinformation.
• The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2015: Â This act
deals with cybercrimes  such as hacking, identity theft,
and the spread of viruses.  It can also be used to prosecute
individuals spreading fake news  and misinformation
through electronic means.
Importance of Fact-Checking Units
• Ensuring accuracy : Fact-checking units play a crucial role
in verifying the accuracy of information circulating in the
media and online platforms. They employ rigorous research
and investigation techniques to assess the credibility and
truthfulness of claims, helping to distinguish between reliable
information and misinformation.
• C ountering fake news : Fact-checking units are instrumental
in combating the spread of fake news and misinformation. By
systematically debunking false claims, identifying misleading
narratives, and providing accurate information, they help to
minimize the impact of false information on public perception
and decision-making.
• Promoting media literacy : Fact-checking units contribute to
promoting media literacy and critical thinking skills among
the general public. Their work serves as a valuable resource
for individuals seeking accurate information, encouraging
them to question and verify claims rather than relying solely
on unsubstantiated sources.
• E nhancing transparency: Fact-checking units operate with
transparency, providing detailed explanations and evidence-
based assessments of their findings. This transparency helps
to build trust with the audience, fostering credibility and
accountability in the information ecosystem.
• Holding accountable those spreading misinformation: Fact-
checking units contribute to holding accountable those who
deliberately spread misinformation or engage in disinformation
campaigns. By publicly exposing false claims and identifying the
sources of misinformation, they discourage the dissemination
of false information and promote ethical standards in media
and public discourse.
Conclusion
• W
 ith over 80 million Indian citizens online, the challenge of
combating false information cannot be underestimated. The
Indian government’s initiative to introduce fact-checking
units reflects an understanding of the urgent need to tackle
the spread of fake news. Jonathan Swift’s timeless quote,
“Falsehood flies, and the truth comes limping after,” captures
the essence of the problem we face today.
Mains value addition Domestic best practices

International best practices Kerela’s Satyamev Jayate:

IFCN code of principles:
The code of principles of the International Fact-Checking Network
at Poynter is a series of commitments organizations abide by to
promote excellence in fact-checking. It believes that nonpartisan
and transparent fact-checking can be a powerful instrument of
accountability journalism.
It empowers people, especially the youth, with essential fact-
checking tools and methods of combatting fake news. Under
the initiative, the government would encourage several schools
and colleges to equip their curriculum with digital media literacy
rules. The youth would be trained to understand digital media
and engage with the world around them

POLITY

JUDICIAL REFORMS

Live streaming of Court Proceedings

Polity | GS2: Executive & Judiciary  • L ive streaming technology is how videos are streamed over the
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important : internet, live, in real-time, as they are being recorded.
Prelims level : NA • Live streaming technology is the internet’s response to live
Mains level : Live Streaming of Court television broadcasts, with the most popular being news
shows and sports.

Why discuss this?

• T
 he Supreme Court emphasized the need for live streaming in
district courts and High Courts as these are the courts where
most citizens seek justice.
• Time and resource constraints, as well as the inability to travel
long distances, limit public access to court hearings.
• Videoconferencing became essential since the COVID-19
pandemic, as physical hearings were not possible.

Central Idea
• T
 he significance of live-streaming court proceedings as an
extension of the ‘open justice’ and ‘open courts’ principle
remains largely unrealized in India.
• Only nine out of the 25 High Courts in the country have
implementedlive streaminghttps://www.civilsdaily.com/news/
live-streaming-of-court/, while the Supreme Court restricts it
to Constitutional cases.
What is live-streaming technology?
• A
 t its core, streaming content is meant to help people attend
events, expos, and experiences they cannot attend in person.
Early Adopters
• T he Gujarat HC pioneered live streaming in October 2020,
streaming proceedings on YouTube as an experiment.
• Other HCs, such as Karnataka and Meghalaya, followed with
varying degrees of success.
• The Gujarat HC’s YouTube channel gained 1.24 lakh subscribers
and 1.9 crore views.
Existing Restrictions
• M
 odel Rules for Live Streaming and Recording of Court
Proceedings: These exclude certain case categories from live
streaming, including matrimonial matters, child adoption and
custody, sexual offences, child sexual abuse, and juvenile cases.
• B
 roadcasting rights issue: The Delhi High Court notified rules
for live streaming proceedings but imposed restrictions such as
a ban on reproducing or transmitting audio-visual recordings.

www.civilsdaily.com 27
Significance of live streaming
• I nstilling Faith in the Judiciary: Allowing ordinary people to
view the workings of the highest court without barriers builds
faith in the judiciary.
• Empowering the Masses: Live streaming enables the legal
system to empower the masses and develop an informed
citizenry.
• Respect for Rule of Law: Understanding the importance of
the rule of law and how the judiciary protects the rights of
marginalized sections of society.
• Living up to Constitutional Expectations: Live streaming aligns
with public interest and the preservation of constitutional
Article 19 and 21.
• Increased Transparency: Encourages the principle of open
court, reduces reliance on second-hand information, and
allows the public’s right to know.
• E levating Legal Standards: Lawyers become better prepared,
refrain from irresponsible remarks, and take justice delivery
more seriously.
• Level Playing Field: Provides equal opportunities for younger
lawyers to showcase their skills and competence.
• A cademic Advancement: Inspires law students and encourages
legal research on the functioning of the judiciary and the legal
profession.
• Easy Accessibility: Eliminates the need for physical presence,
allowing litigants to access proceedings from anywhere.
Issues with such policy
• C ontempt of Court: Existing video clips of court proceedings
on social media platforms often lack context and sensationalize
events, potentially undermining the dignity of the court.
• Disinformation and Sensationalism: There are concerns that
misuse or selective use of live streaming content may contribute
to the spread of disinformation among the public.
PARLIAMENT - SESSIONS, PROCEDURES, MOTIONS, COMMITTEES ETC
[VERY IMPORTANT]: Performance of 17th Lok Sabha:
Challenges and Concerns
Polity | GS2: Parliament & State Legislatures 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : 17th Lok Sabha performance and related facts
Mains level : Low performance of 17th Lok Sabha, concerns and way forward
28 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02
• U nnecessary Activism: Increased visibility through live streaming
could lead to justices behaving like politicians, seeking individual
exposure rather than focusing solely on justice.
• Internet Connectivity: Issues related to internet connectivity
may hinder seamless live streaming, requiring attention for
reliable access to court proceedings.
• A dequate Infrastructure: Provision of well-equipped spaces
where lawyers can effectively present their cases is crucial for
a smooth transition to live-streamed proceedings.
• Awareness and Training: Judges, court staff, and lawyers may
lack familiarity with digital technology and its benefits. Efforts
should be made to raise awareness and provide comprehensive
training to ensure their proficiency.
MAINS VALUE ADDITION: Global examples
• S everal countries, including the United States, Brazil, the United
Kingdom, Canada, and China, have implemented live streaming
of court proceedings in various formats.
• Live streaming formats include audio recordings (US), video
recordings streamed on television (Brazil), video streaming
on court websites (UK, Canada), and live streaming from trial
courts up to the supreme court (China).
Way Forward
To promote open justice and improve access to justice, the
following steps are recommended:
• Implementation of live streaming in all courtrooms of the
Supreme Court and across all High Courts and district courts.
• Ensuring adequate infrastructure for videoconferencing and
live streaming beyond the pandemic.
• Reviewing and revising restrictions on live streaming to strike
a balance between transparency and privacy concerns.
• Conducting awareness campaigns to educate the public about
the availability and benefits of live-streamed court proceedings.
Central Idea
• I ndia’s new Parliament building, inaugurated by Prime Minister
Narendra Modi, symbolizes the aspirations of 140 crore Indians.
However, as the 17th Lok Sabha nears its final year, it faces
scrutiny over its performance.
Performance of 17th Lok Sabha
• S
 itting Days: The 17th Lok Sabha has functioned for 230
sitting days so far. However, if it falls short of surpassing the
lowest recorded full-term Lok Sabha (331 sitting days in the
16th Lok Sabha), it would become the shortest full-term Lok
Sabha since 1952.
• R
 eferral of Bills to Committees: There has been a decline in
the referral of bills to Parliamentary Standing Committees.
Since 2004, only 45% of the total bills introduced in Parliament
 have been referred to committees. This suggests a potential
decrease in comprehensive scrutiny and review of proposed
legislation.
• L
 egislative Output: The number of bills introduced and passed
in the 17th Lok Sabha has seen a decline. Out of the 150 bills
introduced, 131 have been passed so far (excluding Finance
and Appropriation Bills). The decreasing trend raises questions
about the legislative productivity of the Lok Sabha.
• Budget Discussions: The latest Budget session of the 17th
Lok Sabha was one of the shortest since 1952. The limited
time dedicated to discussing financial matters, particularly
the Budget, raises concerns about the depth of analysis and
deliberation on critical fiscal issues.
Value addition box from Civilsdaily
Lok Sabha Term Total Sitting Bills Introduced
Days
15th 2009-2014 357 244
16th 2014-2019 331 247
17th 2019-2024 Less than 331 150 (as of April
(projected) 2023)
Why the 17th Lok Sabha’s productivity has been low?
• D
 isruptions and Protests: The 17th Lok Sabha witnessed
frequent disruptions and protests from opposition parties,
leading to a significant loss of time and decreased productivity.
Some of the major issues that led to disruptions include the
Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), National Register of Citizens
(NRC), and farm laws.
• Lack of Consensus : The ruling party enjoyed a clear majority
in the Lok Sabha, but there was still a lack of consensus on
many key issues, resulting in a delay in passing important bills
and legislation.
• COVID-19 Pandemic: The COVID-19 pandemic also contributed
to the low productivity of the Lok Sabha as many sessions were
delayed or cancelled due to safety concerns.
• S peaker’s Decision : The decision of the Speaker of the Lok
Sabha to disallow opposition MPs from raising certain issues
also resulted in protests and disruptions, further reducing the
productivity of the house.
• S horter Sessions: The 17th Lok Sabha had shorter sessions
compared to previous Lok Sabhas, which also contributed to
lower productivity. Many important bills and issues were left
pending as there was not enough time to discuss and debate
them thoroughly.
Reasons behind the diminishing role of Parliament
• M inimal Deliberation: Â Bills are often passed with minimal
or no deliberation, resulting in a lack of in-depth scrutiny and
discussion on important legislative matters. This reduces the
effectiveness of Parliament as a deliberative body.
• Adjournment of Sessions: Â Parliamentary sessions are
frequently adjourned, further limiting the time available for
legislative business and impeding the functioning of Parliament.
• Dominance of Presidential Ordinances : Presidential ordinances
have become a parallel, and at times dominant, form of law-
making. This bypasses the traditional legislative process and
diminishes the role of Parliament in shaping and scrutinizing
laws.
• D
 ebates on Matters of Public Importance : The number of
debates conducted in the Lok Sabha during the tenure of the
17th Lok Sabha has been limited. There have been only 11
short duration discussions and one half-an-hour discussion,
indicating a restricted avenue for robust parliamentary discourse
on matters of public importance.
• Delayed Election of Deputy Speaker : Despite the constitutional
provision mandating the election of a Deputy Speaker, the
17th Lok Sabha has not elected one, even as it enters its final
year of the five-year term. This delay raises concerns about
adherence to constitutional norms and the effective functioning
of parliamentary proceedings.
Bills Passed Average Sitting Days per
Year
181 71
156 66
131 (as of April 58 (projected)
2023)
• L imited Role of Backbenchers : Backbenchers, who are ruling
party parliamentarians not part of the cabinet, play a crucial
role in exercising checks over the executive. However, their
influence and ability to dissent within Parliament have been
curtailed.
• A bsence of Prime Minister’s Questions : Unlike other
parliamentary democracies, the Indian Constitution does
not provide for a dedicated session where the Prime Minister
faces direct questioning from the Leader of the Opposition
and other politicians. This diminishes the opposition’s ability
to hold the executive accountable.
• Lack of Impartial Speakers: Â The Speaker, who should act
as a neutral and independent authority, often maintains
party membership and lacks constitutional obligations to act
impartially. This has resulted in partisan behavior, affecting
the quality of deliberations in the lower house and impeding
effective scrutiny by the Upper House.
• Undermining the Role of the Upper House: Â The Upper
House, specifically the Rajya Sabha, acts as a revising chamber
where diverse interests beyond the majority are represented.
However, misclassification of bills as “money bills” and the use
of ordinance-making power bypass the scrutiny and revision
processes in the Upper House.
New Parliament Building: An Opportunity for Efficiency
• Responsible Parliamentary Conduct: Members of Parliament
should prioritize constructive and meaningful debates, fostering
a culture of respect, collaboration, and consensus-building. It
is essential to move away from disruptive tactics and focus on
substantive discussions that address the complex governance
challenges of our time.
• R educing Disruptions: Long periods of deadlock and disruptions
hinder the smooth functioning of Parliament. Efforts should
be made to minimize disruptions and ensure that discussions
remain focused on key issues. Rules and procedures can be
reviewed to encourage more disciplined and productive
parliamentary conduct.
• Enhancing Communication and Participation: The new
Parliament building, equipped with modern facilities, offers
opportunities for better communication and engagement.
www.civilsdaily.com 29
 Members should utilize these resources effectively to engage
with constituents, share information, and seek feedback,
fostering a more inclusive and participatory democracy.
Way Forward
1. Legislative Impact Assessment
• A detailed framework for pre and post Legislative Impact
Assessment was needed.
• Every legislative proposal must incorporate a detailed account
of social, economic, environmental, and administrative impact
for wider awareness and subsequent legal assessment.
• A new Legislation Committee of Parliament to oversee and
coordinate legislative planning should be constituted.
2. Parliamentary committee reforms
• M
 easures for the effective functioning of Department Related
Standing Committees like longer tenure (instead of the present
one year), promoting specialization, etc,are needed.
3. Review of the Anti-Defection Law
• I n order to revive debate and deliberations in the Parliament,
the use of whip can be restricted to no-confidence motions only.
• The adjudicating power of the speaker vis-Ã -vis anti-defection
law can be transferred to the Election Commission of India.
4. Curbing Criminalization of Politics
• T
 he Supreme Court in 2017 asked the Central government to
have the 12 promised special courts up and running by March
2018 to try criminal politicians in a time-bound manner within
the maximum period of a year.
INTERSTATE RIVER WATER DISPUTE
Row over Mekedatu Project
Polity | GS2: Federalism 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : Mekedatu Project
Mains level : Interstate water disputes
Central Idea
• Announcement of dam and reservoir: The Deputy CM of
Karnataka announced plans for the construction of a dam and
reservoir calledMekedatuhttps://www.civilsdaily.com/news/
mekedatu-dam-project/near the state’s border with Tamil Nadu.
• Objections raised by Tamil Nadu: Tamil Nadu expressed
strong objections to the project, arguing that it goes against
the rulings of both the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal and
the Supreme Court.
• W
 arning of protests: Political parties in Tamil Nadu have warned
of potential protests and opposition if the construction of the
Mekedatu dam proceeds.
30 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02
• H owever, till now only 7 such courts are operational.
• Therefore, the government should make efforts to establish
more such fast-track courts.
5.Strengthen the Role of the Opposition (British
Model)
• I n order to strengthen the role of the opposition, the institution
of shadow cabinet can be formed in India.
• ‘Shadow Cabinet’  is a unique institution of the British
cabinet system.
• It is formed by the opposition party to balance the ruling
cabinet and to prepare its members for future ministerial office.
• In such a system each action of Cabinet Minister must be
countersigned by the minister in the shadow cabinet.
6. NCRWC Recommendations
• T
 he State Legislatures with less than 70 members should meet
for at least 50 days in a year and other State Legislatures for
at least 90 days. Similarly, the minimum number of days for
sittings of Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha should be fixed at 100
and 120 days respectively.
Conclusion
• T
 he performance of MPs in the 17th Lok Sabha is pivotal in
driving effective governance and representing the aspirations
of the Indian people. It is crucial for MPs to embrace their
roles as custodians of democracy, remaining accountable to
their constituents and working collectively to shape a brighter
future for India.
What is Mekedatu Project?
• Location and purpose: The Mekedatu dam project is planned
to be constructed in Ramanagaram district, approximately 100
km south of Bengaluru. Its primary purpose is to address the
drinking water needs of Bengaluru and replenish the regional
groundwater table.
• Proposed capacity and estimated cost of the dam: The dam
is proposed to have a capacity of 48 TMC (thousand million
cubic) feet and is estimated to cost Rs 6,000 crore.
• Background and previous developments of the project:
The idea of the Mekedatu dam has been under consideration
for several years. In 2014, the Karnataka government invited
expressions of interest for the project and allocated funds for
a detailed project report in the following year.
Arguments against the Project
• Concerns over modification of river flow: Critics of the
Mekedatu project argue that constructing reservoirs on the
Cauvery River would modify its natural flow, potentially leading
to adverse effects downstream.
• V iolation of the final award of the water disputes tribunal:
Tamil Nadu contends that the proposed dam violates the
final award of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal, which
determined the water-sharing arrangements between the
two states.
• Impact on water flow in catchment areas: Tamil Nadu raises
concerns that the project’s implementation would impound
the flow in catchment areas, affecting the availability of water
downstream and potentially leading to water scarcity in the state.
IN NEWS: TELANGANA STATEHOOD DAY
In news: Telangana Statehood Day
Polity | GS2: India & Its Neighborhood - Relations 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : Telangana, States Reorganization
Mains level : Read the attached story
Justifications and proposals
• E nsuring adequate flow to TN: Karnataka argues that the
construction of the Mekedatu dam will not hinder the stipulated
quantum of water release to Tamil Nadu nor be utilized for
irrigation purposes.
• Allocation of funds and willingness to negotiate: The
Karnataka government has earmarked Rs 1,000 crore for the
project, indicating its commitment. It also expresses willingness
to engage in discussions and negotiations with Tamil Nadu to
address concerns and find a resolution.
• Clearance of feasibility study: The Central Water Commission
cleared a feasibility study for the Mekedatu project in 2018,
providing additional support for Karnataka’s justifications and
indicating the project’s viability.
Environmental and Economic considerations
• P otential benefits of the dam for water supply: Proponents
of the Mekedatu project argue that it will address the pressing
drinking water needs of Bengaluru, ensuring a stable water
supply for the growing city.
• Concerns about environmental impact and ecosystem disruption:
Critics raise concerns about the potential environmental impact
of constructing the dam and reservoir. They highlight potential
disruptions to local ecosystems and the natural flow of the river.
• E valuating the economic viability of the project: Given the
significant estimated cost of the Mekedatu project, there is a
need to evaluate its cost-effectiveness and long-term economic
viability, considering factors such as funding sources, returns
on investment, and sustainable utilization of resources.
Way forward
• I mportance of negotiation and finding common ground:
The conflict surrounding the Mekedatu project emphasizes the
importance of dialogue, negotiations, and finding mutually
acceptable solutions that address the concerns of both Karnataka
and Tamil Nadu.
• Role of the Supreme Court and other mediators in resolving
conflicts: The involvement of the Supreme Court and other
mediators can play a crucial role in facilitating discussions,
mediating conflicts, and reaching a resolution that adheres
to legal frameworks and considers the interests of both states.
• Promoting inter-state cooperation for sustainable water
management: The dispute underscores the need for robust
inter-state cooperation and collaboration on water management
issues. It is crucial to ensure sustainable and equitable utilization
of shared water resources, respect legal frameworks, and
address the concerns of all stakeholders involved.
www.civilsdaily.com 31

Central Idea
• W
 ith assembly elections just months away, political parties across
the board are celebrating the 9th anniversary of Telangana’s
statehood today (June 2).
Formation of Telangana
• T
 he article discusses the historical background and the struggle
for statehood that led to the formation of Telangana, the
newest state in India.
• It provides a chronological account of the significant events
and factors that shaped Telangana’s journey towards becoming
an independent state.
Why was Telangana separated from Andhra Pradesh?
Telangana was separated from Andhra Pradesh primarily due
to historical, cultural, and developmental reasons, as well as
demands from the people of the region. Here are the key reasons
behind the separation:
• H
 istorical and Cultural Differences: Telangana and Andhra
Pradesh have distinct historical and cultural identities. Telangana
had its own language, Telugu, but with a distinct dialect and
cultural practices. The people of Telangana felt that their unique
identity was not adequately recognized or represented within
the larger Andhra Pradesh state.
• S ocio-economic Disparities: Telangana region, despite its
rich natural resources, had been relatively underdeveloped
compared to the coastal Andhra region. People in Telangana
felt that their region’s development needs were neglected,
resulting in socio-economic disparities and unequal distribution
of resources and opportunities.
• Demand for Local Control: The demand for separate statehood
gained momentum due to the belief that local control and
governance would be more effective in addressing the specific
needs and aspirations of Telangana. The people of Telangana
sought greater autonomy and decision-making power over
their own affairs.
• Political Representation: Some leaders and groups within
Telangana felt marginalized in the political landscape of united
Andhra Pradesh. They believed that a separate state would
provide better opportunities for political representation and
participation.
• Water and Resource Sharing: Disputes over the sharing of
water resources, particularly the Krishna and Godavari rivers,
further strained the relationship between Telangana and
Andhra Pradesh. The perceived inequitable distribution of
water resources added to the demand for a separate state.
These factors, along with sustained movements and protests led
by various political and social groups, culminated in the bifurcation
of Andhra Pradesh and the formation of the separate state of
Telangana on June 2, 2014.
32 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02
Here is a complete timeline of the formation
of the modern Telangana State
PART I: Pre-Independence and Formation of Andhra
Pradesh
• P
 ost-independence Hyderabad State (1948-1951): Hyderabad’s
significance as a part of the Princely State and its dominance
by the Urdu-speaking Muslim elite.
• Brutalities under Nizam’s rule and the Razakars (1945-1948):
The communist-supported rebellion and the violent response
of the Nizam’s local militia, the Razakars, leading to atrocities
on Telangana’s population.
• S tandstill Agreement and its violation (1947-1948): The signing
of the Standstill Agreement with Hyderabad, the subsequent
violation of its terms by the Nizam, and the intervention of
India through “Operation Polo.”
• Hyderabad’s status as a Part-B state (1951-1956): The inclusion
of Hyderabad as a Part-B state with an elected chief minister
after India’s independence and the end of Nizam’s rule.
PART II: Linguistic Reorganisation and Creation of AP
• P otti Sriramalu’s demand for a separate Telugu state (1952):
The fasting protest by Potti Sriramalu, leading to unrest and
eventually the formation of Andhra State.
• F ormation of Andhra State out of Madras state (1953): The
division of the Madras state and the creation of Andhra State,
comprising the north and north-eastern regions, in response
to the demand for a separate Telugu state.
• F ormation of the States Reorganisation Committee (1953-
1955): The establishment of the committee to address the issue
of linguistic reorganisation and its subsequent recommendations.
• Status of Telangana region in linguistic reorganisation
(1955-1956): The debate over the merging of Telangana with
Andhra or having it as a separate state, conflicting with the
SRC’s recommendations.
• Merging of Andhra State and Telangana (1956): The decision
to merge Andhra State and Telangana against the SRC’s
recommendation, resulting in the formation of Andhra Pradesh
with Hyderabad as its capital.
PART III: Struggle for Telangana and Creation of
Telangana State
• P re-Independence protests for Mulki Rules (1952-1947): The
protests demanding the enforcement of Mulki Rules, which
ensured job reservations for Telangana domiciles, even before
India’s independence.
• Protests and birth of Telangana Praja Samiti in 1969: The
widespread protests in 1969, leading to the establishment of
the TPS and the call for a separate Telangana state.
• R epeal of Mulki Rules Act in 1973: The introduction of the 32nd
Amendment to the Constitution by Indira Gandhi, repealing
the Mulki Rules Act and impacting the Telangana movement.
• R evival of the Telangana movement by KCR in 2001: KCR’s
resignation from the Telugu Desam Party and the formation
of the Telangana Rashtra Samithi, rejuvenating the demand
for a separate Telangana state.
• K CR’s fast-unto-death and the promise of Telangana statehood
(2009): KCR’s fast-unto-death in 2009 following the death of
Andhra Pradesh’s Chief Minister, Y S Rajsekhara Reddy, leading
to the Congress party’s promise of creating Telangana.
• F ormation of Telangana state in 2014: The culmination of
the struggle with the formation of Telangana as a separate
state in 2014, with Hyderabad serving as the capital for a
period of ten years.
Back2Basics: States Reorganization in India
Background and The States Reorganisation Act, 1956 reformed India’s state boundaries based on linguistic lines.
Introduction It is the most extensive change in state boundaries after India’s independence.
The act came into effect along with the Constitution (Seventh Amendment) Act, 1956.
Pre-Independence British India was divided into Provinces of British India and Indian States.
Political Princely states were encouraged to accede to either India or Pakistan after independence.
Integration Bhutan remained independent, Hyderabad was annexed by India, and Kashmir became a subject of
conflict between India and Pakistan.
Integration of Between 1947 and 1950, the princely states were politically integrated into the Indian Union.
Princely States Some states were merged into existing provinces, while others formed unions or remained separate
states.
Government of India Act 1935 served as the constitutional law until the adoption of a new Constitution.
Classification The Constitution of India, effective from 1950, classified states and territories into Part A, Part B, Part C,
of States and and Part D categories. Part A states were former governors’ provinces, Part B states were former princely
Territories states, and Part C states included chief commissioners’ provinces and some princely states.
Part D consisted of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Creation of Andhra Pradesh in 1953 marked a significant development in organizing states based on
language.
Linguistic The demand for linguistic states began before independence, with the first movement in Odisha in
Movements and 1895.
Demands Political movements for linguistic states gained momentum after independence.
States Linguistic Provinces Commission was set up in 1948 but rejected language as a basis for dividing states.
Reorganisation States Reorganisation Commission was established in 1953 to reorganize Indian states.
Commission Headed by Fazal Ali and had recommendations overseen by Govind Ballabh Pant.
Enactment and States Reorganisation Act was enacted on 31 August 1956.
Changes Constitution underwent an amendment, and the terminology of Part A and Part B states was changed
to simply “states.”
Also introduced the classification of Union Territories.
Effects and States Reorganisation Act of 1956 resulted in the reorganization of states and territories.
Reorganization Took effect on 1 November 1956.
Had a significant impact on dividing India into states and Union Territories.

www.civilsdaily.com 33
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
FOREIGN POLICY WATCH: UNITED NATIONS
India’s Initiative for ASEAN Women in UN Peacekeeping
International Relations | GS2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings
and agreements involving India 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : ASEAN, UNPKF
Mains level : UN Peacekeeping and its significance
Central Idea
• I ndia, as one of the largest troop-contributing nations toUnited
Nations Peacekeeping (UNPK) operationshttps://www.civilsdaily.
com/sansad-tv-diplomatic-dispatch-un-peacekeeping-India’s-
role/, is taking steps to empower and support women personnel
from Southeast Asia in peacekeeping efforts.
India-ASEAN Initiative for Women in UNPK Operations
• D efence Minister proposed this initiative last year to strengthen
India-ASEAN defence cooperation.
• Tailor-made courses for women peacekeepers from ASEAN
member-states will be conducted at the Centre for United
Nations Peacekeeping (CUNPK) in India.
• Twenty peacekeepers, two from each country, will receive
training in various aspects of peacekeeping.
• A “Table Top Exercise” focusing on UNPK challenges will be
held in December, specifically designed for women officers
from ASEAN.
India’s Training and Capacity Building
• T he Indian Army has established the Centre for United Nations
Peacekeeping (CUNPK) in New Delhi, which trains over 12,000
troops annually in peacekeeping operations.
• The CUNPK hosts foreign delegations, shares best practices,
and dispatches mobile training teams to Friendly Foreign
Countries for capacity building in UNPK.
34 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02
• India has deployed Female Engagement Teams, Women
Military Police, and women staff officers and military observers
in various UN missions.
• India has the second-largest women contingent in the United
Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic
Republic of the Congo and UN Interim Security Force for Abyei.
What is United Nations Peacekeeping?
• U N Peacekeeping helps countries navigate the difficult path
from conflict to peace.
• UN peacekeepers are often referred to as Blue Berets or Blue
Helmets because of their light blue berets or helmets) can
include soldiers, police officers, and civilian personnel.
UN Peacekeeping is guided by three basic principles:
Consent of the parties
• I mpartiality
• Non-use of force except in self-defence and defence of the
mandate
UNPKF in operation
• S ince 1948, UN Peacekeepers have undertaken 71 Field Missions.
• There are approximately 81,820 personnel serving on 13 peace
operations led by UNDPO, in four continents currently.
• T his represents a nine-fold increase since 1999.
• A total of 119 countries have contributed military and police
personnel to UN peacekeeping.
• Currently, 72,930 of those serving are troops and military
observers, and about 8,890 are police personnel.
Why UN Peacekeeping is needed?
• C onflict resolution: UN peacekeeping missions play a crucial
role in assisting host countries in transitioning from conflict
to peace.
• B urden sharing: UN peacekeeping utilizes a global coalition
of troops and police to share the responsibility of maintaining
peace and stability worldwide.
• Democratization: Peacekeepers provide security and political
support to facilitate the early transition to peace and support
democratic processes in post-conflict countries.
India’s Contribution to UN Peacekeeping
• L
 argest troop contributor: India has a long-standing history
of contributing personnel to UN peacekeeping missions, with
over 253,000 Indians serving in 49 out of 71 missions.
• Current deployments: Approximately 5,500 Indian troops and
police are deployed in UN peacekeeping missions, ranking India
as the fifth-highest troop-contributing country.
• Women in Indian Peacekeeping: India has played a pioneering
role in deploying women peacekeepers, starting with an all-
women contingent to Liberia in 2007.
• Humanitarian services: Indian peacekeepers also provide
medical care, veterinary support, and engineering services to
communities in need.
Issues with UN Peacekeeping
[A] Issues for India
• K
 ashmir interference: India has expressed discontent with the
UN Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP)
operating in Kashmir, considering it irrelevant after the Shimla
Agreement.
• Disregard for India-Pak ceasefire: UNMOGIP continues to
observe hostilities and ceasefire violations along the Line of
Control, which India believes is unnecessary.
[B] Global Challenges
• D
 iverse security challenges: UN peacekeeping operations
need to adapt to rapidly evolving security dynamics.
FOREIGN POLICY WATCH: INDIA-CHINA
Shifting US Policy: From Decoupling to De-risking in China
Relations
International Relations | GS2: India & Its Neighborhood - Relations 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : G7
Mains level : US delinking from China, Implications for India
Central Idea
• T
 he US is transitioning its policy on China from decoupling to
de-risking, signalling a new approach.
• R
 esource allocation: Mandates of peacekeeping missions
should align with available resources.
• G reater involvement of troop-contributing countries: Countries
providing troops and police should have a meaningful role in
mission planning.
• I nvestment in peacebuilding: Adequate financial and human
resources are required for post-conflict peacebuilding.
Way Forward
• U NSC reform: Reform the UN Security Council to reflect the
changing global landscape.
• M ulti-partner collaboration: Enhance effectiveness by involving
actors beyond the UNSC in counterterrorism efforts.
• Modernization of peacekeeping: Strengthen UN Peacekeeping
Forces through modernization and inclusivity.
• Human-centric decision-making: Promote accountability
and transparency in the UNSC’s decision-making processes.
Conclusion
• India’s commitment to promoting women’s participation in
UNPK operations underscores its dedication to global peace
and security.
• These initiatives aim to enhance the capabilities and representation
of women in peacekeeping, recognizing their valuable
contributions to maintaining peace and stability worldwide.
• T
 he EU has already adopted a de-risking approach in its China
policy, and theG-7 summithttps://www.civilsdaily.com/news/g-
7-japan-summit/also expressed consensus on de-risking.
Understanding the De-risking
• A fter establishing diplomatic ties in 1979, the US and China
developed a deep economic interdependence, benefiting
China’s global engagement.
• China’s rise challenged US global clout and impacted its
domestic industries.
• The Trump administration initiated a “decoupling” strategy to
address the techno-economic challenge from China.
• The Biden administration continues with a modified approach,
shifting from decoupling to de-risking.
• De-risking focuses on resilient supply chains to ensure the US
is not subjected to coercion from other countries.
Rationale behind De-risking
• Geopolitical Competition: China’s rise as a strategic competitor
challenges US global influence, prompting de-risking to reduce
vulnerabilities and maintain an advantage.
• N ational Security: Concerns about risks like intellectual property
theft and cyber threats lead to de-risking to safeguard sensitive
technologies and protect national security interests.
www.civilsdaily.com 35
• Resilient Supply Chains: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed
vulnerabilities in supply chains, driving the need for de-risking
to ensure diversified and resilient networks.
• F
 air Trade Practices: De-risking addresses concerns over China’s
trade practices, such as intellectual property infringement
and forced technology transfers, aiming for fairer trade by
diversifying partners.
• A
 lliance Building: De-risking aligns with allies’ interests,
promoting collaboration and a united front against China’s rise.
Geopolitical Ramifications
• D
 e-risking for Stronger Alliances: The US adopts de-risking
to strengthen alliances in its rivalry with China, as seen in the
G-7 summit declaration.
• C
 hina’s Skepticism: China views de-risking as disguised
decoupling, shifting blame for risks to China.
• Aligning with Decoupling and United Front: De-risking aligns
with decoupling by diversifying supply chains, while fostering
a united front among allies.
FOREIGN POLICY WATCH: INDIA-ASEAN
Cambodian King’s state visit to India
International Relations | GS2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings
and agreements involving India 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : Angkor Wat
Mains level : India-Cambodia Relations
Central Idea
• C
 ambodian King Norodom Sihamoni is on his maiden state
visit to India to mark the culmination of 70th anniversary of
diplomatic relations with India.
36 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02
• U
 ncertain Effectiveness: The effectiveness of de-risking is
uncertain, influenced by China’s response and challenges in
diversifying supply chains.
• S
 hort-Term Indo-Pacific Impact: De-risking may temporarily
divert focus from the Indo-Pacific, necessitating a balance with
maintaining a robust strategy in the region.
Way forward
• T he de-risking approach should be further developed and
coordinated with allies to effectively counter China’s rise.
• Balancing the benefits of de-risking with the need to maintain
a robust Indo-Pacific strategy is crucial.
• Engaging in strategic dialogues and strengthening alliances
can help shape a cohesive approach in addressing China’s
influence while minimizing risks.
Marking 70th Anniversary of Diplomatic Ties
• T his visit holds special significance as it is the first state visit by a
Cambodian King in nearly six decades, with the last visit being
made by King Norodom Sihamoni’s father in 1963.
• India and Cambodia share warm and friendly relations,
characterized by deep-rooted people-to-people ties, cultural
connections, and a commitment to mutual economic growth.
India-Cambodia Diplomatic Ties: A Backgrounder
[A] Historical Background
Indianization of Spread of Indian religions, cultural
Southeast Asia practices, art, architecture, and
literature across Southeast Asia
 Funan Kingdom (1st Indian traders establishing (2) Defense and Security Cooperation
to 6th century CE) commercial links with Funan, • T raining and Capacity Building: Defense cooperation through
leading to the exchange of goods, training programs for Cambodian armed forces personnel.
ideas, and cultural practices • Defense Dialogues and Exchanges: Regular engagement
in discussions on maritime security, counter-terrorism, and
Chenla Kingdom (6th Emergence of Chenla as an
defense industry collaboration.
to 9th century CE) Indianized kingdom with continued
Indian cultural and religious
influence (3) Cultural and Educational Exchanges
Khmer Empire (9th to Peak of Indian influence, adoption • A rt, Music, Dance, and Literature: Fostering cultural ties through
15th century CE) of Hinduism and later Buddhism, exchanges and appreciation of each other’s cultural heritage.
construction of monumental • S cholarships and Education: ICCR scholarships facilitate
temples and structures like Angkor Cambodian students’ higher education in India.
Wat • People-to-People Connections: Cultural festivals, events, and
tourism enhance mutual understanding and interactions.
Sanskrit Inscriptions Adoption of Sanskrit as court
and Literature language, creation of inscriptions
and literary works in Sanskrit Strategic significance of Cambodia for India
Cultural Exchange Indian art, architecture, and • G eostrategic Location: Cambodia’s position in Southeast Asia
and Artistic Influence performing arts influencing provides India with access to crucial sea routes and enhances
Cambodian temples, sculptures, and its engagement in the Indo-Pacific region.
dance forms • Regional Connectivity: Cambodia’s connectivity with other ASEAN
countries allows India to strengthen regional partnerships and
Royal Ties Close connections between ruling
facilitate trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges
and Religious elites of the Khmer Empire and
as part of its Act East Policy.
Connections Indian kingdoms, the transmission
• B alancing China’s Influence: Strengthening relations with
of Buddhist teachings and scriptures
Cambodia enables India to maintain a balanced approach
from India
and counterbalance China’s growing influence in the region.
• Maritime Security: Cambodia’s coastal geography and access
[B] Diplomatic Relations to the Gulf of Thailand are strategically important for India’s
• Establishment of Diplomatic Ties: India and Cambodia maritime security concerns. Cooperation with Cambodia supports
established diplomatic relations in 1952 after Cambodia’s regional stability and ensures the safety of vital sea routes.
independence from French colonial rule. • Economic Engagement: Cambodia’s growing economy and
• H igh-Level Visits: Frequent visits by Indian Prime Ministers and investment potential offer opportunities for India to enhance
Presidents to Cambodia and vice versa to strengthen bilateral economic cooperation, boosting trade, investments, and joint
relations and political dialogue. ventures for mutual benefit.
• Bilateral Agreements: Signing of agreements covering areas • Cultural Diplomacy: Cambodia’s historical and cultural linkages
such as economic cooperation, cultural exchanges, defense, with India provide a foundation for strong cultural and people-
and tourism. to-people ties, enhancing India’s soft power in the region.
• R esident Diplomatic Missions: Indian Embassy in Phnom Penh • Defense and Security Cooperation: Collaborating with Cambodia
and Cambodian Embassy in New Delhi facilitating regular in defence and security areas contributes to regional security,
communication and coordination. including capacity building, joint exercises, and information
• Regional and Multilateral Engagement: Collaboration within sharing.
organizations likeASEAN and East Asia Summithttps://www.
civilsdaily.com/news/east-asia-summit/, providing platforms
Way Forward
for regional cooperation and addressing challenges.
• S trengthen Economic Ties: Expand bilateral trade and investment,
explore new sectors, and foster business partnerships.
Various facets of India-Cambodia Relations • Enhance Defense Cooperation: Continue training and capacity-
building programs, and deepen discussions on shared security
challenges.
(1) Economic Cooperation • Cultural Exchanges and Tourism: Promote greater cultural
• G rowing Bilateral Trade: Focus on sectors like textiles, understanding, organize more cultural events, and facilitate
pharmaceuticals, automobiles, agriculture, and information tourism exchanges.
technology. • P eople-to-People Contacts: Encourage more interactions
• Development Assistance: India’s support in sectors like between citizens, foster academic collaborations, and promote
agriculture, irrigation, human resource development, and tourism.
capacity building. • Regional Cooperation: Engage actively within ASEAN and
• Investment and Joint Ventures: Exploring opportunities for other regional forums to address common challenges and
investment and collaborative projects. pursue shared interests.

www.civilsdaily.com 37
FOREIGN POLICY WATCH: INDIA-UNITED STATES

UAE withdraws from Combined Maritime Forces (CMF)

International Relations | GS2: India & Its Neighborhood - Relations  Contributions Naval assets including warships, aircraft,
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important : and maritime patrol vessels
Prelims level : Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) Focus Areas Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of
Mains level : Not Much Aden, Red Sea, Indian Ocean, Arabian
Gulf, and surrounding areas
Central Idea
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced its withdrawal
from the U.S.-led Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), a maritime Reasons for UAE’s withdrawal
coalition responsible for securing Gulf waterways crucial to • U
 AE has not provided specific reasons for its withdrawal from
global oil trade. the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) in the official statement.
• One potential factor could be a desire to distance themselves
from perceived dependencies or entanglements with the US.
What is Combined Maritime Forces (CMF)? • This could be part of a broader strategy by the UAE to assert its
Establishment 2002 own regional influence, pursue independent foreign policies,
Location Bahrain or rebalance its relationships with China and Iran.
Objective Promoting security, stability, and
prosperity across maritime regions Recent incidents and tensions in Gulf Waters
Member Nations Over 30 member nations • In late April and early May, Iran seized two tankers, one of
which was empty and travelling between the UAE ports of
Primary Task Forces Combined Task Force 150 (CTF 150),
Dubai and Fujairah.
Combined Task Force 151 (CTF 151),
• Iran was also accused of launching a drone attack on an
Combined Task Force 152 (CTF 152)
Israeli-owned tanker in November 2022, escalating tensions
Operations Counter-terrorism, counter-piracy, with the United States.
maritime security, and cooperation • As a response to increasing harassment by Iran, the US announced
Collaborations United Nations, European Union, the deployment of reinforcements to the Gulf, a vital route for
NATO, and regional partners a significant portion of the world’s sea-borne oil.

INDIA-MALDIVES RELATIONS

India-Maldives Relations

International Relations | GS2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings
and agreements involving India
Central idea:
 The article discusses the recent commissioning of the Indian
grant-in-aid UTF (Uthuru Thila Falhu- Island) Harbour Project, the
coastal surveillance radar system, in the Maldives. The project
is a significant milestone in the growing defence ties between
the two countries.

What is the UTF Project?

Purpose To strengthen the capability of the
Maldivian Coast Guard and facilitate
regional humanitarian assistance and
disaster relief efforts
Significance The project is among the biggest
Indian grant-in-aid projects in the
Maldives; a major step in growing
defence cooperation between India and
Maldives

38 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02

 Other India gifted an additional landing craft
Developments to the Maldives National Defence Force
(MNDF); India had gifted a Dornier
aircraft, patrol vessel, and coastal radar
system to the Maldives in previous years
Controversy Allegations that the project was a cover
for Indian military presence in Maldives;
led to an “India Out” campaign backed
by opposition leader Abdulla Yameen
Controversy Surrounding the Project
• T here were allegations that the project was a cover for Indian
military presence  in the Maldives.
• A n “India Out” campaign https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/
maldives-bans-india-out-campaign/Â was launched in the
island nation backed by its opposition leader Abdulla Yameen.
• Maldives President Ibrahim Solih banned anti-India protests
as a threat to national security.
India-Maldives Relations: A backgrounder
• I ndia and Maldives are neighbors sharing a maritime border.
• Both nations established diplomatic relations after the
independence of Maldives from British rule in 1966.
• India was one of the first nations to recognize Maldives’
independence.
• Since then, India and Maldives have developed close strategic,
military, economic and cultural relations.
• Maldivians generally regard Indians and India as a friend and
trusted neighbor in the field economic, social and political.
Areas of Cooperation:Â India-Maldives Relations:
Dimension Example
Historical The Maldives has a history
intertwined with India, including
conquest by Rajaraja Chola’s Chola
dynasty (Maldives’ northern atolls). It
became a British colony and gained
independence in 1965, leading to
political unrest.
Security Joint Exercises – “Ekuverin”, “Dosti”,
Partnership “Ekatha” and “Operation Shield” (begun
in 2021). India provides the largest
number of training opportunities for
the Maldivian National Defence Force
(MNDF), meeting around 70% of their
defence training requirements.
Maldives occupy an important position
in India’s vision of ‘SAGAR’ (Security
and Growth for All in the
Region) and ‘Neighbourhood First’.
Economic India is Maldives’ 2nd largest trading
Cooperation partner. Afcons, an Indian company,
signed a contract for the Greater Male
Connectivity Project (GMCP)
Infrastructure Hanimaadhoo International Airport
Projects Development project under an Indian
credit line. National College for Policing
and Law Enforcement (NCPLE) was
inaugurated by India’s External Affairs
Minister (2022)
Grant Assistance Grant assistance of 100 million Rufiyaa
(currency of Maldives) for the High
Impact Community Development
Project (HICDP) scheme.
Sports and Development of a sports complex in
Education Gahdhoo, and academic collaboration
between Maldives National University
and Cochin University of Science and
Technology.
Rehabilitation A drug detoxification and rehabilitation
Centre centre in Addu was built with Indian
assistance.
China Factor China’s strategic footprint in India’s
neighbourhood has increased. The
Maldives has emerged as an important
‘pearl’ in China’s “String of Pearls”
construct in South Asia. Given the
uncertain dynamics of Sino-Indian
relations, China’s strategic presence in
the Maldives remains a concern.
Causes for the anti-India sentiments
• P olitical instability: Â The anti-India sentiment is nearly a
decade old and can be traced back to when Abdulla Gayoom
became president in 2013. He used anti-India sentiments for
his political mobilization and started tilting China.
• Controversy over helicopter gift: Â Two Dhruv Advanced
Light Helicopters (ALF) that were given by India to the Maldives
for ocean search-and-rescue operations. Opposition tried to
portray this as military presence in the country.
• C onfidential agreements: Â Most agreements being signed
between the Ibrahim Solih government and India are backdoor
and has not been publicly discussed in the Maldives Parliament.
• Alleged interference in domestic politics: Â India being a big
neighbour, there are unsubstantiated perceptions & allegations
on Indian Diplomats stationed in Maldives interfering in
Domestic affairs.
Restoration of ties
Ibrahim Mohamed Solih who became President in 2018 has
restored Maldives close ties with India.
Major irritants in ties
• P olitical Instability: Â India’s major concern has been the
impact of political instability in the neighborhood on its security
and development.
• Increasing radicalization: Â In the past decade or so, the
number of Maldivians drawn towards terrorist groups like
the Islamic State (IS) and Pakistan-based jihadist groups has
been increasing.
• I nclination towards terror: Â Radicalism in the island nation
has increased the possibility of Pakistan based terror groups
using remote Maldivian islands as a launch pad for terror
attacks against India and Indian interests.
• C hinese affinity: Â China’s strategic footprint in India’s
neighborhood has increased. The Maldives has emerged as
an important ‘pearl’ in China’s “String of Pearls” construct
in South Asia.
www.civilsdaily.com 39
Recent gestures by India
[1] 2014 Male drinking-water crisis
• I n the wake of a drinking water crisis in Malé in December
2014, following collapse of the island’s only water treatment
plant, Maldives urged India for immediate help.
• India came to rescue by sending its heavy lift transporters like
C-17 Globemaster III, Il-76 carrying bottled water.
[2] 2020 Covid-19 crisis
• D
 uring the COVID-19 crisis of 2020, India extended help to
Maldives in the form of financial, material and logistical support.
• Also, the IAF airlifted 6.2 tonnes of essential medicines and
hospital consumables to Maldives, as part of ‘Operation
Sanjeevani’.
[3] Greater Male Connectivity Project
• India has recently announced the signing of a $500-million
infrastructure project for the construction of the Greater Malé
Connectivity Project (GMCP).
• This infrastructure project, the largest-ever by India in the
Maldives, involves the construction of a 6.74-km-long bridge
and causeway link.
[4] Defence Cooperation and Other Projects
• India has gifted a Dornier aircraft and a patrol vessel to the
Maldives in the past.
• India has provided 24 vehicles and a naval boat and will build
police facilities on 61 islands in the country.
• The joint statement released by India and Maldives after Defence
Minister’s visit highlighted ongoing defense cooperation
between the two neighbors.
• The countries have agreed to explore additional avenues for
cooperation, including in areas of defense trade, capacity
building, and joint exercises.
• Both countries are working closely to address challenges,
including those on maritime security, terrorism, radicalization,
piracy, trafficking, organized crime, and natural disasters.
Maldives’ significance for India
• Increasing maritime cooperation: Â As maritime economic
activity in the Indian Ocean has risen dramatically in recent
decades, the geopolitical competition too in the Indian Ocean
has intensified.
• Toll Gate in Indian Ocean:  It is situated at the hub of
commercial sea-lanes running through the Indian Ocean.
More than 97% of India’s international trade by volume and
75% by value passes through the region.
• Naval cooperation: Â Maldives is an important partner in India’s
role as the net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region.
• Important SAARC member: Â Besides, Maldives is a member of
the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC)
and the South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC).
• P eople To People Contact: Â There is a significant population
of Maldivian students in India. They are aided by a liberal visa-
free regime extended by India. There is also medical tourism.
• M ajor destination for Tourists: Â Tourism is the mainstay of
the Maldivian economy. The country is now a major tourist
destination for some Indians and a job destination for others.
Way forward
• I ndia continues to be an important partner of the Maldives.
• India must not grow complacent over its position and must
remain attentive to the developments in the Maldives.
• India must play a key role within the Indo-Pacific security space
to ensure regional security in South Asia and surrounding
maritime boundaries.
• At present, the ‘India Out’ campaign has support from a
limited population but this cannot be taken for granted by
the Indian government.
Mains Value addition:Â
Important Quotes for Mains Answers
PM Modi:The relations between India and Maldives are older
than history. Our cultures have flourished with the power of
these waves. Our relationships have been blessed by the depths
of the ocean. We are good neighbors. We are strong partners.
We have mutually invested in development and progress. But
we also together have responsibility for peace and security in
the region.”- EAM Jaishankar
“Maldives-India relation, goes beyond diplomacy. Our values, our
cultures, and our histories are intertwined, making it a traditional
relationship. Our centuries-old relationship is grown with political
trust, economic cooperation and coherent strategic policies
between our two countries.”- Solih on his visit to India in 2021Â

FOREIGN POLICY WATCH: INDIA-AFGHANISTAN

In news: Helmand Water Conflict

International Relations | GS2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings

and agreements involving India 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : Helmand River
Mains level : Taliban-Iran Conflict

40 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02


Central Idea
• Iran and Afghanistan have been engaged in a prolonged
disagreement over the sharing of water from the Helmand River.
• Violent confrontations have occurred in the border region
between the two countries in the recent past.
About Helmand River
• T he Helmand River is the longest river in Afghanistan, spanning
approximately 1,150 kilometers (715 miles) in length.
• It originates near Kabul in the western Hindu Kush mountain
range.
• The river flows in a south-westerly direction through desert
areas before emptying into Lake Hamun, which straddles the
Afghanistan-Iran border.
• Lake Hamun, fed by the Helmand River, is the largest freshwater
lake in Iran.
• The Helmand River is a vital water source for both Afghanistan
and Iran, supporting agriculture, livelihoods, and ecosystems
in the region.
Row over Helmand River and Lake Hamun
• A
 fghanistan’s longest river: The Helmand River holds great
importance for Afghanistan as it is the country’s longest river,
originating near Kabul and flowing through desert areas.
• Iran’s largest freshwater lake: Lake Hamun, located on the
Afghanistan-Iran border, is Iran’s largest freshwater lake and
has been historically sustained by the Helmand River.
WTO AND INDIA
Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM): Balancing
Trade and Environment
International Relations | GS2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings
and agreements involving India 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : ETS, CBAM and FTA’s
Mains level : Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism and associated concerns
• Drying up due to drought: The Lake has experienced a drastic
decline in water levels and has largely dried up, attributed to
factors such as drought and the construction of dams and
water control infrastructure.
• E conomic Importance: Lake Hamun plays a vital role in
the regional ecosystem and supports agricultural activities,
livelihoods, and economic sectors in the surrounding areas.
Disagreements between Iran and Afghanistan
(Taliban)
• F
 ouling of the 1973 Helmand River Treaty: The agreement
signed in 1973 between Iran and Afghanistan to regulate the
allocation of river water has not been fully ratified or effectively
put into practice.
• I ran accuses Afghanistan of violating water rights: Iran has
consistently accused Afghanistan of infringing upon its water
rights, claiming that it receives significantly less water than
agreed upon in the 1973 treaty.
• A fghanistan blames climatic factors for reduced water flow:
Afghanistan has refuted Iran’s allegations, citing climatic factors
such as reduced rainfall and diminished river water volumes
as the primary causes of the current situation.
• Concerns over Afghanistan’s dam and irrigation projects:
Tehran expresses concerns over Afghanistan’s construction of
dams, reservoirs, and irrigation systems along the Helmand
River, fearing that these initiatives negatively impact water
flow into Iran.
Why is Taliban furious this time?
• T aliban’s interest in promoting agriculture: The Taliban seeks
to prioritize agricultural development, which influences their
approach to water management and distribution.
• Tehran’s sudden attention to Sistan-Baluchistan after protests:
Following nationwide protests, including Sistan-Baluchistan,
Iran’s government has shown increased attention to the
region due to its disadvantaged status and reliance on water
resources from Lake Hamun.
Central Idea
• T
 he European Union’s (EU) Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism
(CBAM) has raised concerns in India due to its potential impact
on the country’s carbon-intensive exports to the EU. While
India has criticized CBAM as protectionist and discriminatory,
the debate highlights the delicate relationship between trade
and environmental considerations.
www.civilsdaily.com 41

Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)
Proposed by European Union (EU)
Purpose To reduce carbon emissions from imported
goods and prevent competitive disadvantage
against countries with weaker environmental
regulations
Objectives Reduce carbon emissions from imported
goods Promote a level playing field between
the EU and its trading partners Protect EU
companies that have invested in green
technologies
How does CBAM work?
Coverage Applies to imported goods that are carbon-
intensive
Integration Covered by the EU’s Emissions Trading
System (ETS), which currently covers
industries like power generation, steel,
and cement
Implementation CBAM taxes would be imposed on the
carbon content of imported goods at the
border, and the tax rates would be based
on the carbon price in the EU ETS
Exemptions Possible exemptions for countries that
have implemented comparable carbon
pricing systems
Revenue Use Revenue generated from CBAM taxes
could be used to fund the EU’s climate
objectives, such as financing climate-friendly
investments and supporting developing
countries’ climate efforts
42 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02
Who will be affected by CBAM?
Countries Non-EU countries, including India, that export
carbon-intensive goods to the EU
Items Initially covers iron and steel, cement,
aluminium, fertilisers, and electric energy
production
Expansion The scope of the CBAM may expand to other
sectors in the future
Advantages of CBAM in addressing climate-related
challenges
• A ddressing Carbon Leakage: CBAM helps address the issue of
carbon leakage, which occurs when domestic industries relocate
to countries with less stringent climate policies, leading to
increased global emissions. By imposing carbon-related costs on
imported products, CBAM aims to discourage carbon-intensive
industries from shifting production to countries with lower
environmental standards, thereby reducing carbon leakage.
• Encouraging Global Climate Action: CBAM incentivizes countries
with carbon-intensive industries to adopt more stringent climate
policies. The mechanism sends a signal that products exported
to the EU market should meet similar environmental standards
as EU-produced goods. This encourages exporting countries to
reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and transition to cleaner
production processes, contributing to global climate action.
• Levelling the Playing Field: CBAM aims to create a level playing
field for EU industries by ensuring that imported goods face
similar carbon costs as domestic products. This helps prevent
unfair competition, as it aligns the cost of carbon across
different markets. It incentivizes domestic industries to invest
in cleaner technologies and processes, knowing that imported
goods will also be subject to equivalent carbon-related costs.
• R evenue Generation for Climate Initiatives: CBAM has the
potential to generate revenue for the EU, which can be used
to fund climate initiatives and support the transition to a low-
carbon economy. The funds collected through CBAM can be
reinvested in research and development, renewable energy
projects, or supporting industries in their decarbonization efforts.
• Aligning Trade and Climate Objectives: CBAM highlights
the interlinkage between trade and environmental concerns.
It creates an opportunity to align trade policies with climate
objectives, fostering greater coherence between economic
growth and sustainability. CBAM encourages countries to
consider the carbon intensity of their exports and provides
an impetus for the adoption of climate-friendly practices in
international trade.
Key issues associated with CBAM
• Trade Protectionism: CBAM has been accused of being protectionist
in nature. Critics argue that it could create barriers to trade and
hinder the export capabilities of countries, particularly those
with carbon-intensive industries. By imposing carbon-related
costs on imports, CBAM may give an advantage to domestic
industries and discriminate against foreign competitors.
• Discrimination and Non-Discrimination Principles: CBAM
may face challenges in adhering to the principles of non-
discrimination within the WTO. While it is designed to be
origin-neutral, in practice, it could potentially discriminate
between goods from different countries based on varying
carbon pricing policies or reporting requirements. This could
lead to disputes and challenges under WTO rules.
• C omplexity and Implementation Challenges : CBAM
implementation involves complex calculations and mechanisms
to determine the carbon-related costs of imported products.
 Setting up effective monitoring, reporting, and verification
systems to ensure compliance could be challenging, both for
the EU and exporting countries. The administrative burden
and costs associated with implementing CBAM may also pose
practical difficulties.
• Potential for Double Regulation: Some argue that CBAM
may lead to overlapping regulations and duplicate efforts.
Exporting countries may already have their own carbon pricing
mechanisms or environmental regulations in place. CBAM’s
imposition of additional costs on top of these existing measures
could be seen as redundant and burdensome.
• Impact on Developing Countries : Developing countries, which
often have carbon-intensive industries, may face disproportionate
negative effects from CBAM. These countries might struggle to
comply with the stringent requirements and costs associated
with CBAM, hindering their economic development and ability
to compete in global markets.
• I ncomplete Accounting of Emissions: CBAM focuses on explicit
carbon prices, which may not fully account for the implicit
costs associated with products from different countries. This
incomplete accounting could result in arbitrary or unjustifiable
discrimination and may not effectively incentivize countries to
adopt more stringent environmental policies.
WTO Consistency and CBAM potential discrimination
• WTO’s non-discrimination principle: The World Trade Organization
(WTO) operates on the principle of non-discrimination, treating
‘like’ products from different countries equally.
• O rigin-neutral CBAM : While CBAM appears origin-neutral in
design, its application could potentially discriminate between
goods based on inadequate carbon pricing policies or burdensome
reporting requirements for importers. Whether the products
affected by CBAM are truly ‘like’ is a key consideration.
• For instance: While steel products may seem similar, different
production methods lead to varying carbon intensity. This
raises the question of whether processes and production
methods should be relevant for comparing products. Critics
argue that CBAM violates WTO law by discriminating based
on embedded emissions
What are the concerns raised in India?
• I mpact on Export of Carbon-Intensive Products: India fears
that CBAM implementation could severely affect its export of
carbon-intensive products, particularly in sectors like aluminium,
iron, and steel. These sectors may face significant challenges
in accessing the EU market if they are subjected to additional
economic costs due to CBAM.
• P rotectionism and Discrimination: India has criticized CBAM
as being protectionist and discriminatory. It argues that the
mechanism may create trade barriers and hinder the export
competitiveness of Indian industries. India fears that CBAM
could give an unfair advantage to EU domestic industries at
the expense of Indian exporters.
• Potential Economic Disruption: The implementation of CBAM
may disrupt India’s trade flows and economic stability. The
imposition of additional costs on carbon-intensive products
exported to the EU market could lead to reduced demand, loss
of market share, and potential negative impacts on employment
and economic growth in India.
• World Trade Organization (WTO) Challenge: India has
contemplated the possibility of challenging CBAM at the
WTO’s dispute settlement body. It raises concerns about the
compatibility of CBAM with WTO rules, particularly regarding
non-discrimination and trade-related principles
• Interplay between Trade and the Environment: The concerns
raised by India highlight the broader issue of the interplay
between trade and environmental considerations. While
acknowledging the need for environmental protection, India
emphasizes the importance of ensuring that environmental
measures do not become a smokescreen for trade protectionism.
Facts for prelims
What is Regional Trade Agreement (RTA)?
• R
 TA is a treaty between two or more countries in a particular
region that aims to reduce or eliminate trade barriers, such as
tariffs and quotas, to facilitate increased trade between the
member countries.
• RTAs can take various forms, such as Free Trade Agreements,
Customs Unions, Common Markets, and Economic Unions.
What is Free Trade Agreement (FTA)?
• F
 TA is a specific type of RTA that eliminates tariffs and other
trade barriers on goods traded between the member countries.
• FTAs may also include provisions on trade in services and
investment, but they are primarily focused on reducing tariffs
on goods
Conclusion
• T
 he implementation of the EU’s CBAM has sparked concerns
in India, primarily due to its potential impact on carbon-
intensive exports. Analyzing its WTO consistency and potential
justifications under the General Exceptions clause is crucial. In
the ongoing India-EU free trade agreement negotiations, India
should actively engage with the EU to safeguard its interests
regarding CBAM while remaining open to the possibility of a
WTO challenge.
www.civilsdaily.com 43
SECURITY ISSUES
TERRORISM AND CHALLENGES RELATED TO IT
Pakistan’s State-Sponsored Terrorism Threatens SCO’s
Regional Security Efforts
Security Issues | GS3: External State & Non-State Actors: Challenges To
Internal Security. 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : SCO and its Anti-Terrorism Agenda
Mains level : Pakistan’s State Sponsored Terrorism, SCO’s Limited Authority
and Implications
Central Idea
• T
 he Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) of the Shanghai
Cooperation Organisation (SCO) recently convened in Goa
to address pressing regional issues. Unfortunately, on the
same day, the People’s Anti-Fascists Front (PAF), an offshoot
of Pakistan-sponsored Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM), claimed the
lives of five Indian army personnel in Jammu and Kashmir’s
Rajouri district.
Background: SCO’s Anti-Terrorism Agenda
• T
 he SCO’s origins trace back to the establishment of the
Shanghai Five in 1996, consisting of Russia, China, Kazakhstan,
Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan.
• In 1998, the group recognized the joint fight against separatism,
extremism, and terrorism originating from the Af-Pak region
as a top priority. The inclusion of Uzbekistan in 2001 led to
the organization’s renaming as the SCO.
• Subsequently, the Regional Anti-Terrorists Structure (RATS)
was formed in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, to institutionalize and
consolidate anti-terrorism efforts within the SCO.
• RATS facilitated joint counterterrorism exercises, training, and
the preparation of countermeasures.
Pakistan’s Role in State-Sponsored Terrorism
• S afe Haven for Terrorist Groups: Pakistan has served as a safe
haven and provided sanctuary for various terrorist groups. These
groups, such as the Taliban, Haqqani Network, Lashkar-e-Taiba
(LeT), and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), operate from Pakistani
soil, carry out attacks in neighboring countries, and then seek
refuge in Pakistan.
• Training and Recruitment: Pakistan has been involved in
training and recruiting terrorists. Extremist organizations have
established training camps within Pakistan where individuals
are indoctrinated, radicalized, and trained in various aspects
of terrorism, including bomb-making, guerrilla warfare, and
ideological indoctrination.
44 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02
• F inancial and Logistical Support: Pakistan has been accused
of providing financial and logistical support to terrorist groups.
This support includes funding, weapons, ammunition, and
intelligence assistance, enabling these groups to carry out
their activities with impunity.
• Proxy Warfare: Pakistan has used terrorism as a proxy warfare
strategy to achieve its geopolitical objectives. By sponsoring
terrorist groups, Pakistan seeks to influence and destabilize
neighboring countries, particularly India and Afghanistan, with
the aim of furthering its own interests in the region.
• Infiltration of Terrorists: Pakistan has facilitated the infiltration
of terrorists across its borders into neighboring countries.
This includes providing safe passage, forged documents,
and logistical support to terrorists to carry out attacks or join
insurgencies in other regions.
• State-Sponsored Radicalization: Pakistan has promoted and
facilitated the radicalization of individuals, both within its own
territory and abroad. Madrasas (religious schools) in Pakistan
have been accused of spreading extremist ideologies, fueling
hatred, and recruiting individuals for terrorist activities.
• I nstrument of Influence: Pakistan has used terrorism as a tool
to exert influence and control over regions and communities. By
supporting and sponsoring terrorist groups, Pakistan seeks to
manipulate political dynamics, create instability, and maintain
a degree of control over areas of strategic importance.
Impact of Pakistan-Sponsored Terrorism in Jammu
and Kashmir
• Loss of Lives: Pakistan-sponsored terrorism in Jammu and
Kashmir has resulted in the loss of countless innocent lives,
including civilians, security forces, and terrorists themselves.
The region has witnessed numerous terror attacks, suicide
bombings, and armed encounters, leading to a tragic loss of
human lives.
• D estabilization and Conflict : The continuous infiltration of
terrorists from Pakistan into Jammu and Kashmir has fueled
instability and prolonged the conflict in the region. The presence
of terrorist groups has created an atmosphere of fear and
insecurity, hindering the social and economic development
of the region.
• Human Rights Violations : The activities of Pakistan-sponsored
terrorist groups have been accompanied by human rights
violations in Jammu and Kashmir. These violations include
targeted killings, forced disappearances, torture, and intimidation
of civilians, leading to a climate of fear and repression.
• D isruption of Normalcy: The persistent threat of terrorism
has disrupted normal life in Jammu and Kashmir. Educational
institutions, businesses, and daily activities have been severely
affected as people live under constant fear and uncertainty.
• Obstruction of Peace Processes : Pakistan-sponsored terrorism
acts as a major obstacle to the peace process between India
and Pakistan. The violence and unrest created by these terrorist
groups hinder any meaningful dialogue and diplomatic efforts
aimed at resolving the Kashmir issue.
• Economic Impact: The sustained presence of terrorist activities
has had a detrimental impact on the economy of Jammu and
Kashmir. Tourism, a significant source of revenue for the region,
has suffered due to the prevailing security concerns, leading
to job losses and economic downturn.
• Psychological Impact: The ongoing terrorism has taken a toll
on the mental health and well-being of the people of Jammu
and Kashmir. The constant threat of violence, loss of loved ones,
and living under a state of fear have resulted in psychological
trauma for individuals and communities.
Consequences of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism on
internal peace in Pakistan
• I ncreased Violence and Insecurity: Pakistan-sponsored
terrorism has led to a rise in violence and insecurity within
the country. Terrorist attacks carried out by extremist groups
have resulted in the loss of numerous lives and widespread
fear among the population.
• L oss of Civilian Lives : Innocent civilians have been the primary
victims of terrorist attacks sponsored by Pakistan. These attacks
have targeted public places, religious institutions, markets, and
educational institutions, causing significant casualties among
the civilian population.
• S
 ectarian and Ethnic Tensions : Pakistan has witnessed an
escalation in sectarian and ethnic tensions as a result of state-
sponsored terrorism. Extremist groups have targeted specific
religious and ethnic communities, exacerbating divisions and
leading to a breakdown of social harmony.
• I nternal Displacement: The violence and insecurity caused
by Pakistan-sponsored terrorism have resulted in internal
displacement of populations within Pakistan. People are forced
to leave their homes and seek refuge in safer areas, leading to
the displacement crisis and additional socio-economic burdens.
SCO’s Limited Authority and Implications
• L
 ack of Enforcement Power: The SCO does not possess
strong enforcement power or mechanisms to compel member
states to adhere to its mandates or take action against state-
sponsored terrorism. It heavily relies on voluntary cooperation
among member states, making it challenging to address non-
compliance effectively.
• Ineffectiveness in Holding States Accountable : The absence
of robust mechanisms for accountability limits the SCO’s ability
to hold member states accountable for their actions, including
Pakistan’s involvement in state-sponsored terrorism. This
undermines the credibility and effectiveness of the organization
in addressing terrorism-related issues.
• Risk of Becoming a Platform for Political Maneuvering : The
limited authority of the SCO creates a risk that member states,
including Pakistan, may use the organization as a platform for
political maneuvering rather than genuinely addressing the
issue of terrorism. Geopolitical rivalries and divergent interests
among member states can impede the organization’s ability
to effectively combat terrorism.
• C  ompromised Regional Security: The limited authority of
the SCO in dealing with state-sponsored terrorism hampers
its ability to effectively address security threats in the region.
This compromises the overall regional security and stability,
as terrorist groups continue to exploit the gaps and operate
with impunity.
• Diminished Credibility: The inability of the SCO to take
decisive action against state-sponsored terrorism can lead to a
diminished credibility of the organization in the international
community. The lack of concrete measures to address terrorism
undermines its role as a regional security organization and
casts doubts on its effectiveness
• Weakening of Counterterrorism Efforts: The limited authority
of the SCO hampers its ability to coordinate and implement
comprehensive counterterrorism efforts among member states.
This undermines the potential of collective action in addressing
the shared threat of terrorism and limits the effectiveness of
joint initiatives and cooperation.
Conclusion
• T
 he limited authority of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation
(SCO) to address state-sponsored terrorism, coupled with
growing divergence among member states and the inclusion
of rogue nations like Pakistan, threatens its effectiveness in
countering terror threats. Without stronger mechanisms and
unified action, the SCO risks becoming ineffective in tackling
the rising challenges of terrorism, thereby compromising
regional security and stability.
www.civilsdaily.com 45
ENVIRO & BIODIVERSITY
CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACT ON INDIA AND WORLD - INTERNATIONAL REPORTS, KEY OBSERVATIONS, ETC.
Slowing of Overturning Circulation in Antarctic
Enviro & Biodiversity | GS1: Climatic Change 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : Overturning Circulation
Mains level : Not Much
Central Idea
• R ecent research indicates that the Antarctic overturning
circulation, a global network of ocean currents, is slowing
down at a faster rate than previously predicted.
• The overturning circulation is crucial for redistributing heat,
carbon, and nutrients, and maintaining Earth’s climate stability
and deep-ocean oxygen levels.
What is Overturning Circulation?
• T he overturning circulation (OC) refers to the large-scale
circulation pattern in the global ocean, involving both surface
and deep currents.
• It is a network of ocean currents that plays a crucial role in
redistributing heat, carbon, and nutrients around the globe.
• It is driven by the sinking of dense, cold, oxygen-rich water
from the ocean surface to the deep ocean and the rising of
less dense water in different regions.
46 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02
How does it work?
• I t operates on a global scale and involves the sinking and rising
of water masses driven by density differences.
• Cold, dense water sinks in certain regions, while warmer, less
dense water rises in other areas, creating a continuous flow
of water.
Key components and processes
• A ntarctic Bottom Water: Cold, dense water forms near
Antarctica and sinks to the ocean floor, spreading northward
along the seafloor.
• N orth Atlantic Deep Water: Another dense water mass forms
in the North Atlantic and sinks to great depths.
• Thermohaline Circulation: Temperature and salinity differences
drive the sinking and rising of water masses, influencing the
overturning circulation.
• Deep Ocean Currents: Once the dense water sinks, it flows
along the deep ocean basins, connecting various regions of
the world ocean.
Observing and studying the OC
• M onitoring the overturning circulation is challenging due to
its vast scale and complex dynamics.
• Observations include ship-based measurements, moored
instruments, floats, satellites, and numerical models.
• Scientists use a combination of measurements and simulations
to understand the behavior and changes in the overturning
circulation.
Importance of the Overturning Circulation
• H
 eat redistribution: The overturning circulation helps regulate
Earth’s climate by transporting heat from the equator to the
poles and vice versa.
• Assist carbon cycle: It plays a vital role in redistributing carbon
dioxide and other greenhouse gases, impacting the global
carbon cycle.
• N
 utrient cycling: The circulation also facilitates the transport
of nutrients, affecting marine ecosystems and productivity.
Consequences of a Slowing OC
• C
 limatic changes: A slowdown in the overturning circulation
can have significant consequences for Earth’s climate and
marine ecosystems.
• N
 utrient disruption: It can disrupt the transport of heat,
carbon, and nutrients, leading to changes in regional and
global climate patterns.
• D
 e-oxygenation: Reduced oxygen supply to the deep ocean
can affect deep-sea marine life and potentially lead to shifts
in species distribution.
Impact of Melting Antarctic Ice
• M
 elting Antarctic ice disrupts the formation of Antarctic bottom
water, a key component of the overturning circulation.
• Freshening of surface waters due to melt-water makes them
less dense and less likely to sink, slowing down the circulation.
Future Outlook
• A
 ntarctica’s ice loss is expected to continue and accelerate
with global warming.
CLIMATE CHANGE NEGOTIATIONS - UNFCCC, COP, OTHER CONVENTIONS AND PROTOCOLS
Mainstreaming Biodiversity: A Pivotal Step Towards a
Sustainable Future
Enviro & Biodiversity | GS3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & •
Degradation, Eia 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : Biodiversity, National Mission on Biodiversity and Human Wellbeing It also includes the diversity of habitats, ecological processes,
Mains level : Biodiversity, significance challenges and conservation
Central Idea
• T
 he observance of International Biodiversity Day on May 22
serves as a powerful reminder of the critical role our natural
world plays in addressing the climate change crisis and the threat
to our future posed by declining biodiversity. Preserving and
enhancing biodiversity emerges as a cost-effective approach
to sequester carbon dioxide and mitigate climate change.
What is Biodiversity?
• B
 iodiversity refers to the variety of life forms found on Earth,
including plants, animals, microorganisms, and their interactions
within ecosystems. It encompasses the diversity of species,
genetic diversity within species, and the diversity of ecosystems.
• A nticipated freshening due to increased ice loss will prolong
the slowdown and further decrease deep-ocean oxygen levels.
• The consequences of the slowdown extend beyond Antarctica,
affecting the global ocean, climate change, and sea level rise.
• Urgent action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is necessary
to address these issues.
Way forward
• I ntensify efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
• Implement measures to mitigate ice loss from Antarctica and
address the freshening of surface waters.
• Promote scientific research and monitoring to understand and
respond to the ongoing changes.
• Raise awareness about the importance of the overturning
circulation and its impact on climate and marine ecosystems.
 iodiversity is not limited to specific areas but exists everywhere,
B
from terrestrial habitats like forests, grasslands, and deserts to
aquatic environments such as rivers, lakes, and oceans.
•
and the complex web of relationships between organisms
and their environment.
• Biodiversity is crucial for the functioning of ecosystems and
provides numerous benefits to humans. It supports essential
ecosystem services, such as pollination, nutrient cycling, soil
formation, and water purification.
• Biodiversity also contributes to food security by providing a
variety of crops, livestock, and wild foods. Additionally, it plays
a vital role in medicine, as many pharmaceuticals are derived
from natural sources.
The Decline of Biodiversity: key contributing factors
• H
 abitat Loss: The conversion of natural habitats into agricultural
lands, urban areas, and industrial zones is a primary driver of
biodiversity loss. Deforestation, land degradation, and habitat
fragmentation disrupt ecosystems and displace numerous species.
• C
 limate Change: Rising temperatures, altered precipitation
patterns, and extreme weather events associated with climate
change have a profound impact on biodiversity. Species may
struggle to adapt or migrate quickly enough, leading to
population declines and even extinction.
• P
 ollution : Pollution, including air and water pollution, poses
a severe threat to biodiversity. Chemical contaminants, such as
pesticides, herbicides, and industrial pollutants, can accumulate
in ecosystems and harm both flora and fauna.
• O
 verexploitation: Unsustainable harvesting of wildlife,
overfishing, and illegal wildlife trade put immense pressure on
species populations. This overexploitation disrupts ecological
balance and can lead to the collapse of ecosystems.
www.civilsdaily.com 47
• I nvasive Species: Non-native species introduced into new
environments can outcompete native species, disrupt ecological
interactions, and cause harm to local ecosystems. Invasive
species often lack natural predators or controls, allowing them
to multiply rapidly.
• Agricultural Practices : Intensive agricultural practices, including
the use of chemical inputs, monoculture farming, and the
destruction of natural habitats for agriculture, contribute
to the loss of biodiversity. This impacts both terrestrial and
aquatic ecosystems.
• Disease and Pathogens: The spread of diseases and pathogens,
both natural and human-mediated, can have devastating effects
on wildlife populations. Diseases can cause mass die-offs and
population declines, leading to decreased biodiversity.
• Inadequate Conservation Efforts: Inadequate conservation
measures, weak enforcement of protective laws, and insufficient
funding for conservation initiatives contribute to the decline
of biodiversity. Conservation efforts are often fragmented and
not prioritized, further exacerbating the problem.
• L ack of Public Awareness and Engagement: Limited awareness
among the general public about the importance of biodiversity
and the consequences of its decline hinders collective action.
Engaging communities and fostering a sense of responsibility
towards biodiversity is crucial for effective conservation.
Facts for prelims
What is biosphere reserve?
• P
 rotected area: A biosphere reserve is an area of land or water
that is protected by law in order to support the conservation
of ecosystems, as well as the sustainability of mankind’s impact
on the environment.
Current status of Biosphere reserves
• Worldwide: There are 738 biosphere reserves in 134 countries,
including 22 transboundary sites.
• In India:
• Presently, there are 18 notified biosphere reserves in India.
Ten out of the eighteen biosphere reserves are a part of the
World Network of Biosphere Reserves, based on the UNESCO
Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme list.
• In India, the first biosphere reserve was designated by UNESCO
in 2000, namely, the blue mountains of the Nilgiris stretching
over Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala.
Way Forward
• M
 ultifunctional Landscapes: Moving beyond the traditional
focus on forests, biodiversity management should encompass
diverse ecosystems such as grasslands, savannas, alpine
pastures, and deserts. Recognizing the value of multifunctional
landscapes allows for the conservation and sustainable use of
various ecological communities.
• Community Engagement: Empowering local communities and
indigenous groups in biodiversity management is crucial. Their
traditional knowledge, practices, and direct involvement are
valuable assets for effective conservation and sustainable use
of biodiversity. Establishing platforms such as gram sabhas and
biodiversity management committees facilitates community
participation and decision-making.
48 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02
• Mainstreaming Biodiversity : Biodiversity considerations
should be integrated into all sectors and aspects of society.
Development programs, government departments, public
and private institutions, and industries should incorporate
biodiversity conservation and sustainable practices as core
principles.
• P olicy and Legal Frameworks: Ensuring effective implementation
of regulations, enforcing laws against biodiversity crimes, and
revisiting policies that hinder biodiversity protection are key
steps. It is also important to support the rights of indigenous
communities and local stakeholders through legal mechanisms.
• Education and Awareness: Promoting biodiversity education
and raising awareness about its importance among the
general public, policymakers, and stakeholders is crucial.
This includes integrating biodiversity topics into educational
curricula, conducting awareness campaigns, and disseminating
information about the benefits of biodiversity conservation.
• Research and Science-Based Approaches : Investing in scientific
research, monitoring, and data collection is vital for evidence-
based decision-making and effective biodiversity management.
This includes studying biodiversity patterns, understanding
ecosystem dynamics, and identifying key species and habitats
for conservation priorities.
• Collaborative Partnerships : Building partnerships and
collaborations among various stakeholders is essential. This
includes government agencies, non-governmental organizations,
research institutions, local communities, and private sectors.
Collaboration fosters knowledge sharing, resource mobilization,
and the implementation of joint initiatives for biodiversity
conservation.
• Sustainable Financing : Ensuring sustainable financing
mechanisms for biodiversity conservation is crucial. This includes
exploring innovative funding models, leveraging public-private
partnerships, and integrating biodiversity into sustainable
development financing frameworks.
• International Cooperation : Collaborating at the global level
is necessary to address transboundary biodiversity issues.
Sharing best practices, knowledge exchange, and aligning
efforts with international conventions and agreements such
as the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) can strengthen
biodiversity management.
• S
 ustainable Land Use: Promoting sustainable land use practices is
essential to minimize habitat loss and degradation. This includes
supporting initiatives such as reforestation, afforestation, and
sustainable agriculture that maintain ecosystem integrity.
• Responsible Consumption: Making informed choices as
consumers can have a significant impact on biodiversity.
Supporting sustainable and ethically sourced products, reducing
waste, and opting for environmentally friendly practices can
reduce the demand for products that harm biodiversity.
• Preservation of Natural Habitats: Protecting and preserving natural
habitats, including forests, wetlands, and marine ecosystems,
is critical. This involves advocating for the establishment and
expansion of protected areas, national parks, and wildlife
reserves.
• S ustainable Fisheries: Supporting sustainable fishing practices,
such as responsible fishing quotas, implementing fishing
regulations, and avoiding overfishing, helps maintain healthy
marine ecosystems and protect marine biodiversity.
• S upport Conservation Organizations: Contributing to and
supporting conservation organizations and initiatives can
make a significant difference. Donations, volunteering, and
participation in citizen science projects can aid in research,
conservation efforts, and advocacy for biodiversity protection.
 Conclusion
• T
 he mainstreaming of biodiversity represents a significant
step toward securing a sustainable future. Recognizing the
interconnectedness of all life forms and ecosystems, we
must redefine our approach to biodiversity management.
The proposed National Mission on Biodiversity and Human
Wellbeing provides a roadmap and empowers all citizens to
take part in safeguarding our precious natural heritage.

SCIENCE TECH

INNOVATIONS IN SCIENCES, IT, COMPUTERS, ROBOTICS AND NANOTECHNOLOGY

What is Foucault Pendulum?

Science Tech | GS3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields  Central Idea
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important : • T
 he Foucault pendulum is a device that proves the Earth’s
Prelims level : Foucault Pendulum rotation and has been installed in the new Parliament building
Mains level : NA in New Delhi.
• It was designed and installed by the National Council of Science
Museums (NCSM), Kolkata.

Foucault Pendulum: A Unique Invention

• H istorical Context: In 1851, the Foucault pendulum experiment
conclusively demonstrated the Earth’s rotation, settling debates
about the planet’s movement.
• Leon Foucault: The French scientist invented the Foucault
pendulum and invited scientists and the public to witness the
Earth’s rotation through the experiment.
• Working: The pendulum consists of a heavy iron ball suspended
by a steel wire and swings in a plane, mimicking the Earth’s
rotation on its axis.
• Exhibition at the Pantheon: The demonstration took place
at the Pantheon in Paris, where the ball’s motion represented
the Earth’s rotation.

www.civilsdaily.com 49
Significance
• E arth’s Rotation as a Scientific Fact: The Foucault pendulum
experiment solidified the understanding that the Earth rotates
on its axis.
• Supporting Astronomical Studies: The knowledge of the
Earth’s rotation is crucial for studying various astronomical
phenomena, such as day and night cycles and seasonal changes.
• Continual Scientific Inquiry: The Foucault pendulum experiment
encouraged further research into the Earth’s rotation and its
implications for our understanding of the universe.
ISRO MISSIONS AND DISCOVERIES
ISRO successfully deploys NavIC NVS-1 Satellite
Science Tech | GS3: Achievements Of Indians In S&T 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : NAVIC
Mains level : Indigenous GPS
Central Idea
• T
 he Indian Space Research Organisation has successfully
launched its fifth satellite of 2023.
• A 2,232-kilogram satellite named NVS-1 was launched into
space as part of theNavIChttps://www.civilsdaily.com/news/
centres-push-for-navic-system/
What is NAVIC?
50 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02
Modern Applications and Further Exploration
• E ducational Installations: The inclusion of a Foucault pendulum
in the new Parliament building in New Delhi provides an
opportunity for public education and scientific engagement.
• Technological Advancements: Advances in technology, such
as precision instruments and digital monitoring, can enhance
the accuracy and impact of Foucault pendulum installations.
• C ontinued Research: Ongoing scientific studies and experiments
can deepen our understanding of the Earth’s rotation and its
relationship to other celestial bodies.
• S pace Exploration: Exploring the Earth’s rotation from space
can offer unique perspectives and insights into its dynamics.
• N
 avIC is a regional satellite navigation system consisting of
seven satellites in orbit that provide positioning, navigation,
and timing services to various sectors, including civil aviation
and the military.
(1) Origins and Motivation:
• T
 he idea of NAVIC emerged in the early 2000s as IRNSS (Indian
Regional Navigation Satellite System) to address India’s need
for an independent navigation system for strategic and civilian
purposes.
• The motivation behind NAVIC was to reduce dependence
on foreign systems like GPS and enhance national security,
sovereignty, and economic growth.
(2) Satellite Deployment:
• T he NAVIC constellation consists of a total of 7* satellites.
• The first satellite, IRNSS-1A, was launched in July 2013, followed
by subsequent launches of IRNSS-1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1F, and IRNSS-1I.
• Each satellite is placed in a geostationary orbit or an inclined
geosynchronous orbit, providing continuous coverage over
the Indian landmass and surrounding regions.
(3) Renaming to NAVIC:
• I n 2016, the system was officially named NAVIC, which stands
for Navigation with Indian Constellation.
• The name change aimed to create a distinct brand identity for
the Indian regional navigation system.
About NVS-1 Satellite
• N VS-1 is part of the second-generation NavIC satellite series
and ensures continuity of existing services while introducing
new services in the Li band.
• The satellite features two solar arrays generating up to 2.4
kW of power, a lithium-ion battery for eclipse support, and
thermal management and propulsion systems.
• Notably, NVS-1 includes a Rubidium atomic clock developed
in-house by the Space Applications Centre, showcasing India’s
technical expertise in this advanced technology.
 Note:
The numbers of satellites in this constellation is disputed. It
is given as 7 and 8 on different sources. Total Nine satellites
were launched out of which the very first (IRNSS-1A) is partially
failed because of some issue in its
Atomic Clock. Another and the last satellite had a launch
failure. Hence the number 7/8.
https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/what-are-entangled-
atomic-clocks/
INTERNATIONAL SPACE AGENCIES - MISSIONS AND DISCOVERIES
Shenzhou-16 successfully launches with 3 Astronauts to
Space
Science Tech | GS3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : Shenzhou-16, Gaganyan
Mains level : Manned missions to Space
Try this PYQ
With reference to India’s satellite launch vehicles, consider the
following statements:
(1) PSLVs launch satellites useful for Earth resources monitoring
whereas GSLVs are designed mainly to launch communication
satellites.
(2) Satellites launched by PSLV appear to remain permanently
fixed in the same position in the sky, as viewed from a particular
location on Earth.
(3) GSLV Mk III is a four-staged launch vehicle with the first and
third stages using solid rocket motors; and the second and
fourth stages using liquid rocket engines.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct.?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 2 (d) 3 only
Central Idea
• C
 hina has achieved a successful launch of the Shenzhou-16
spacecraft carrying three astronauts to the Tiangong space
station.
What is Shenzhou-16?
• S henzhou-16 spacecraft is part of Chinese manned spaceflight
missions and was designed to transport astronauts to the
Tiangong space station.
• This mission marks an important step in China’s space exploration
efforts, with the crew set to conduct a range of tests and
experiments during their five-month stay.
• The Tiangong space station, operated by the China Manned
Space Agency (CMSA), is an integral part of China’s ambitious
space program and aims to be a hub for scientific research.
Objectives of the Mission
• T he new crew will carry out large-scale tests and experiments
in various fields, including the study of quantum phenomena,
high-precision space time-frequency systems, verification of
general relativity, and the origin of life.
• These scientific endeavors are expected to lead to significant
achievements during the crew’s five-month stay.
www.civilsdaily.com 51
INNOVATIONS IN BIOTECHNOLOGY AND MEDICAL SCIENCES

Devastating Frog Disease: Chytridiomycosis

Science Tech | : Awareness in various sc and tech fields  Central Idea

Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important : • A multinational study has recently published a breakthrough
Prelims level : Chytridiomycosis method in the journal Transboundary and Emerging Diseases
Mains level : Not Much to detect all known strains of the amphibian chytrid fungus.
• This method will enhance our ability to detect and research
the disease and work towards finding a widely available cure.

Chytridiomycosis: The deadly frog disease

• C hytridiomycosis, also known as chytrid, is a fungal disease
that has been decimating frog populations worldwide for
the past 40 years.
• The disease has caused severe declines in over 500 frog species
and led to 90 extinctions, making it the deadliest animal
disease known.

How does it infect?

• C hytrid infects frogs by reproducing in their skin, damaging
their ability to balance water and salt levels.
• The mortality rate is extreme, and the disease has affected
a high number of species, causing devastating declines and
extinctions.
• The disease originated in Asia and spread globally through
amphibian trade and travel.

ISRO MISSIONS AND DISCOVERIES

India discovers TOI 4603b Exoplanet

Science Tech | GS3: Achievements Of Indians In S&T 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : Exoplanet TOI4603b
Mains level : Not Much
About the Exoplanet TOI4603b
• T he exoplanet is found around the star called TOI4603 or HD
245134.
• It has a mass 13 times greater than that of Jupiter and a density
of approximately 14 g/cm3.
• Using PARAS, scientists confirmed the secondary body as a
planet, and it was named TOI 4603b or HD 245134b.
An exoplanet, short for “extra-solar planet,” is a planet that orbits
a star other than our Sun. These planets are located outside of
our solar system and are not part of our planetary system.

Utilization of Indigenous Technology

Central Idea
• A
 new Jupiter-size exoplanet with the highest density known
till this date has been discovered by an international team
of scientists at the Exoplanet Research Group of the Physical
Research Laboratory (PRL), Ahmedabad.
• Massive giant exoplanets are defined as those with a mass
greater than four times that of Jupiter.
• T
 he discovery of this massive exoplanet was made using the
indigenously made PRL Advanced Radial-velocity Abu-sky
Search spectrograph (PARAS) at the 1.2 m telescope of PRL at
its Gurushikhar Observatory in Mt. Abu.
• The mass of the planet was measured precisely using PARAS.
India’s Contribution to Exoplanet Discoveries
• T
 his marks the third exoplanet discovery by India and the PRL
scientists using the PARAS spectrograph and the PRL 1.2m
telescope.
• Previous discoveries include K2-236b in 2018 and TOI-1789b
in 2021.

52 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02

CORONAVIRUS - DISEASE, MEDICAL SCIENCES INVOLVED & PREVENTIVE MEASURES
India joins Centralised Laboratory Network (CLN)
Science Tech | GS3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : Centralised Laboratory Network (CLN)
Mains level : Not Much
Central Idea
• India has recently become a member of the Centralized
Laboratory Network (CLN), which is a part of the Coalition for
Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI).
Centralised Laboratory Network (CLN)
• C LN consists of 15 partner facilities in 13 countries and aims to
test vaccines for use during pandemics and epidemic disease
outbreaks.
• It focuses on testing vaccines for pandemic and epidemic
disease outbreaks.
• It is part of the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations
(CEPI).
• The network aims to standardize testing methods and materials.
New members of the CLN
• Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of
Virology (ICMR-NIV) joins CLN.
• Institute Pasteur de Dakar (IPD) from Senegal is a new member.
INNOVATIONS IN SCIENCES, IT, COMPUTERS, ROBOTICS AND NANOTECHNOLOGY
VERY IMPORTANT: Harnessing the Potential of Graphene:
India’s Path to Leadership
Science Tech | GS3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields 
Note4Students | From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level : Graphene, semiconductors and its applications
Mains level : Potential of graphene to transform industries
Central Idea
• I n the realm of technological advancements, certain breakthroughs
possess the power to revolutionize entire industries. Artificial
Intelligence (AI) for software, quantum computing for computers,
and graphene for materials are such game-changers. While
India has made commendable progress in AI and shows promise
in quantum computing, it is crucial for the country to catch up
in the domain of graphene.
What is Graphene?
• G
 raphene is a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a
hexagonal lattice pattern. It is a two-dimensional material
that is incredibly thin, strong, and lightweight. In fact, it is
the thinnest material known to date, with a thickness of just
one atom.
• K AVI Institute of Clinical Research (KAVI ICR) and University of
Nairobi Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases (UNITID)
from Kenya join CLN.
• S
 ynexa Life Sciences from South Africa becomes a member.
• Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) from Uganda is also
a new member.
Objectives of the CEPI-funded network
• T he CEPI-funded network aims to identify promising vaccine
candidates rapidly and accurately.
• T he network focuses on emerging infectious diseases.
• The goal is to support sustainable regional outbreak preparedness
infrastructure.
CEPI-Funded Network Objectives
• T he CEPI-funded network, which includes CLN, has the primary
objective of identifying the most promising vaccine candidates
rapidly and accurately against emerging infectious diseases.
• In addition to vaccine testing, the expanded network also aims
to support the development of sustainable regional outbreak
preparedness infrastructure.
• By working collaboratively and sharing standardized methods
and materials, the network enhances global preparedness for
potential disease outbreaks.
• D
 espite its thinness, graphene is remarkably strong, around
200 times stronger than steel, yet incredibly flexible.
Why Graphene is known as The Wonder Material?
• E xceptional Strength: Despite being only one atom thick,
graphene is incredibly strong. It is approximately 200 times
stronger than steel, yet it is incredibly flexible. This combination of
strength and flexibility makes it highly desirable for applications
where strength and durability are crucial.
• S uperb Electrical Conductivity: Graphene is an excellent
conductor of electricity, even surpassing traditional conductors
like copper. It allows the flow of electrons with minimal
resistance, making it ideal for developing high-performance
electronics and electrical devices.
• High Thermal Conductivity: Along with its electrical conductivity,
graphene also exhibits excellent thermal conductivity. It can
efficiently transfer heat, making it valuable for applications
requiring efficient heat management, such as in electronics,
thermal management systems, and energy storage devices.
www.civilsdaily.com 53
• T ransparency: Graphene is nearly transparent and can absorb • S
 ingapore: Singapore has invested in graphene research and
only 2% of light passing through it. This property makes it an development, aiming to position itself as a regional hub for
intriguing material for optoelectronic devices, transparent graphene-related technologies. The country has established
conductive films, and touchscreens, as it enables the transmission research institutes and centers focused on graphene and has
of light while maintaining conductivity. attracted collaborations with international partners.
• Impermeability to Gases: Graphene is impermeable to gases,
even those as small as hydrogen and helium. This property opens
up possibilities for applications in gas separation, filtration, India’s progress in the graphene sector
and storage, as well as creating barriers against moisture or • Research and Academic Contributions: The Centre for Nano
gas permeation in various industries. Science and Engineering at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc)
• V
 ersatility and Composite Formation : Graphene can be Bangalore, in collaboration with KAS Tech, has been actively
combined with other materials to create composite materials involved in graphene research and development.
with enhanced properties. Even in small quantities, graphene • Start-ups and Industry Initiatives : Several start-ups and foreign
can significantly improve the strength, conductivity, and other subsidiaries have emerged in India, focusing on graphene or
characteristics of composite materials. This versatility expands its graphene derivatives. Notably, Tata Steel has achieved success
potential applications in fields such as aerospace, automotive, in growing graphene using annealing and extracting atomic
construction, and sports equipment. carbon from steel surfaces. They have also explored the use of
• Wide Range of Applications: Graphene has the potential to graphene in recycling plastic products. Other start-ups, such as
revolutionize numerous industries and sectors. It can be used Log 9 and RF Nanocomposites, have patented graphene-based
in energy storage devices like batteries and supercapacitors, technologies for ultracapacitors, EMI shielding, and stealth
for developing sensors, inks, membranes for water purification, applications, respectively.
and in healthcare for drug delivery systems and biosensors. Its • Graphene Innovation Centre in Kerala: In a laudable step,
applications also extend to areas such as defense and aerospace, the India Innovation Centre for Graphene was established
where its exceptional strength, conductivity, and sensitivity to in Kerala. This center, implemented by the Digital University
environmental changes offer unique advantages. Kerala in partnership with Tata Steel and C-MET, Thrissur, aims
to foster large-scale innovation activity around graphene. It
serves as a collaborative platform for research, development,
Global Graphene Landscape and commercialization of graphene-based technologies.
• C hina: China declared graphene a priority in its 13th Plan. • P atents and Intellectual Property: While India’s graphene-
China has emerged as a global leader in the production and related patent filings are relatively modest compared to other
commercialization of graphene. China’s emphasis on graphene leading countries, there have been efforts to secure intellectual
is evident from its graphene-related patent filings, which have property. Indian researchers and institutions have filed patents for
surpassed those of other leading nations in recent years. graphene-based technologies and applications, demonstrating
• United States: The United States has a strong presence in the innovation and progress in the field.
graphene landscape, with active research and development
initiatives. Several universities, research institutions, and
companies in the U.S. are at the forefront of graphene research,
exploring its potential applications and commercialization
prospects. The country has a considerable number of graphene-
related patents and is home to leading graphene companies
and startups.
• United Kingdom: The UK has been a pioneer in graphene
research since its discovery. The University of Manchester,
where graphene was first isolated, remains a hub for graphene
research and innovation. The UK government has invested in
the National Graphene Institute and the Graphene Engineering
Innovation Centre to support research and development in
graphene applications.
• S outh Korea: South Korea has active research programs,
industry collaborations, and graphene-related patent filings.
South Korean companies are involved in graphene production,
Facts for prelims: Semiconductors
• S emiconductors are materials that have properties that are in
commercialization, and application development across
between those of conductors (such as copper) and insulators
various sectors.
(such as rubber).
• Japan: Japan has a significant presence in graphene research
• They have the ability to conduct electricity under certain
and commercialization. Japanese universities and research
conditions, but not under others.
institutions have made notable contributions to the field. The
• The conductivity of semiconductors can be manipulated through
country has a strong focus on developing graphene-based
the introduction of impurities or doping with other materials.
technologies in areas such as electronics, energy storage, and
• This process alters the electronic properties of the material and
composite materials. Japanese companies are actively involved
creates regions of excess or deficit of electrons, called p-type
in graphene production and application development.
and n-type regions respectively.
• R ussia: Russia has a growing presence in the graphene landscape,
• The interface between these regions is known as a p-n junction,
with notable research activities and patents in the field. Russian
which is a fundamental building block of many semiconductor
universities and research institutes are engaged in graphene
devices.
research, and the country has witnessed the establishment of
graphene-focused companies.

54 SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02

Way Ahead: India’s graphene sector
• N ational Graphene Mission: Establish a dedicated National
Graphene Mission, similar to initiatives undertaken by other
countries. This mission should focus on fostering research,
development, and commercialization of graphene-based
technologies, with clear objectives, timelines, and allocated
resources.
• Increased Research and Development: Encourage and
fund research and development activities in graphene across
academic institutions, research organizations, and industry.
Foster collaborations between academia, industry, and
government to drive innovation and accelerate the discovery
of new applications for graphene.
• Infrastructure and Facilities: Invest in infrastructure and
facilities for large-scale production, characterization, and testing
of graphene. Develop advanced laboratories equipped with
state-of-the-art instruments to support graphene research
and development.
• Skill Development and Training: Promote skill development
programs and training initiatives to build a skilled workforce
with expertise in graphene technology. Develop specialized
courses and training modules at educational institutions
to produce a talent pool proficient in graphene research,
fabrication, characterization, and application development.
• I ndustry-Academia Collaboration: Foster stronger collaboration
between industry and academia to bridge the gap between
research and commercialization. Encourage joint research
projects, technology transfer, and the establishment of industry-
academia consortia focused on graphene.
• Funding and Financial Support: Increase funding for graphene
research and development through government grants,
industry investments, and venture capital. Provide financial
support and incentives for start-ups and companies working
on graphene technologies to encourage entrepreneurship
and product development.
• Intellectual Property Protection: Strengthen intellectual
property protection mechanisms and encourage researchers
and companies to file patents for graphene-based technologies
and applications. Support the development of patent pools
and licensing frameworks to facilitate technology transfer and
commercialization.
Conclusion
• T
 he potential of graphene to transform industries cannot be
understated. As the world advances towards the graphene age,
India must secure its position as a leader rather than a bystander.
The time to prioritize graphene is now, as the production of
high-grade graphene may become concentrated in select global
locations, similar to semiconductors. India has witnessed the
consequences of missing out on the semiconductor wave, and
it cannot afford to repeat history.
www.civilsdaily.com 55
56
EU accounted for $74.5 bn worth of trade in goods in 2020,
or 11.1% of India’s total global trade

India’s exports to the EU were worth $41.36 billion in 2020-21

How does this impact India?
It covers energy-intensive sectors such as cement, steel,
aluminium

SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02

EU has proposed a policy — called the Carbon Border
By increasing the prices of Indian-made goods in the EU, this
Adjustment Mechanism
tax would make Indian goods less attractive
EU proposes CBT Sadly, India’s many ‘self-reliance’ tariffs are also a contributor
It seeks to tax products such as cement and steel that are
extremely carbon intensive, with effect from 2026 to this.

BASIC, a group constituting Brazil, India, South Africa and

China have opposed this move.

CBT is a tax on carbon emissions attributed to imported

Impact on trade
goods that have not been carbon-taxed at source
Altering competitiveness
It is part of the European Commission’s European Green What is Carbon Border Tax? Issues with CBT
Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism Promoting protectionism
Deal that endeavours to make Europe the first climate-neutral
continent by 2050. (CBAM)
Unfair practices under WTO
Aim-
To ‘incentivize’ greener manufacturing around the world and
A violation of Paris Accord
create parity with European manufacturers who are already
subjected to substantial carbon levies.

China’s continuing reliance on non-renewable energy to

power its economy leaves it particularly vulnerable in this
matter

China produces steel with blast furnaces that release a large It is just one way of holding large emitters accountable for
amount of carbon their role in harming the environment.

So it will have to pay an additional layer of carbon border tax Fundamental changes can’t be forced by tariffs.
Political implications of CBT
Way forward This should take all nations into confidence than imposing
This will consequently reduce the competitiveness of steel such overnight tariffs.
produced in China
It is no doubt that India must be in the forefront in climate
politics.
 Delay in the release of data

Challenges Issue of comparability

Unavailability of Census and HCE survey data causing and Concerns
difficulties in policymaking in India Reliance on multiple surveys and datasets
Context
Census enumeration postponed to 2024-25 False targeting of beneficiaries

HCE survey results for 2022-23 may be delayed until after Resource wastage
the general elections in 2024

Financial Inclusion

Infrastructure

Involves using factual information and credible evidence for Where can India Healthcare:
policymaking utilize EBP?
What is EBP? Education and HRD
Relies on relevant data and evidence rather than political
opinions or theories
Agriculture upliftment

Considered fundamental for good governance Social Welfare

Skill Development
Evidence-Based Policymaking (EBP)

Facts and Credible Evidence

Establish a National Evidence-Based Policy Institute
Supplementing Political Opinion or Theory
Develop a National Evidence Bank
Informed Decision-Making
Encourage Collaborative Research Partnerships
Why rely on EBP?
Better Policy Outcomes Way forward
Implement Mandatory Evidence Assessments
Targeted Resource Allocation
Promote Open Data and Transparency

Prevention of decisions based on vested interests

Evidence-based policymaking can bring high-impact changes
Enhanced public trust
Systemic institutionalization of EBP is imperative
Evidence-Based Campaigning
Impact on Timely and accurate data are crucial
Voter Engagement and Education Electoral Politics Conclusion
Strengthen the statistical system and safeguard against
Policy Evaluation and Improvement external influence

www.civilsdaily.com
57
58
Significance of live-streaming court proceedings in India
remains largely unrealized
Central Idea
Model Rules for Live Streaming and Recording of Court
Only nine out of 25 High Courts have implemented live
Proceedings exclude certain case categories.
streaming, while the Supreme Court restricts it to Existing Restrictions
Constitutional cases

SAMACHAR MANTHAN | WEEK 02

Broadcasting rights issue imposes restrictions on reproducing
or transmitting recordings.

Live streaming technology enables real-time streaming of

videos over the internet Increased Transparency
What is live
-streaming technology? Elevating Legal Standards as the nation watches
Streaming content helps people attend events they cannot be
Significance
present at
Academic Advancement
It is the internet's response to live television broadcasts,
popular for news shows and sports. Easy Accessibility of references for lawyers

Instilling public faith in Judiciary

Live streaming of Court Proceedings

Supreme Court emphasized the need for live streaming in

district and High Courts. Contempt of Court

Time, resource constraints, and distance limit public access Disinformation and Sensationalism
to court hearings.
Why discuss this? Unnecessary Activism by judges
Videoconferencing became essential during the COVID-19
Issues
Inadequate Infrastructure
pandemic.
Need more Awareness and Training

Gujarat HC pioneered live streaming in October 2020.

Karnataka and Meghalaya HCs followed with varying

degrees of success. Implement live streaming in all courtrooms.
Early Adopters
Gujarat and MP HC's YouTube channel gained significant Ensure adequate infrastructure for videoconferencing and
subscribers and views. live streaming.

Way Forward
Review and revise restrictions on live streaming.

Conduct awareness campaigns to educate the public.

 Train Collision Avoidance System (TCAS)

Rashtriya Rail Sanraksha Kosh (RRSK)

Measures to Prevent Transition to LHB Coaches

Railway Accidents
GPS-based Fog Pass Device

Provision of Thick Web Switches (TWS)

Ultrasonic Flaw Detection (USFD) Testing

280 people dead and more than 900 injured Train Protection and Warning System (TPWS)
Central Idea

It is one of the worst train tragedies in India's history

Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system

Safety Integrity Level 4 (SIL-4) certified technology

KAVACH System
Stops two trains coming together 380 metres apart.

Auto Whistling at Level Crossing Gates

General Causes
Derailment, Level crossing accidents, Collisions, Fire Automatic Braking for Prevention of Overspeeding

Signal Failure
Causes of the accident
Colliding into Stationary Freight Train
Problem lies within the railway institution itself rather than
Coaches Flipping Over to Third Track individual errors
Odisha Train Accident
Derailment of Coming Train Rashtriya Rail Sanraksha Kosh funds allocated for track
renewals were not effectively utilized.
Defects in wheel diameter and defects in coaches/wagons
need
CAG report on
Railway Reforms Basic maintenance ignored
Train collisions account for approximately 4.7% of all train
accidents Issues with goods train being slower than ever

Significant decrease from 415 incidents in 2001-02 to 34

incidents in 2021-22

No passenger deaths were recorded during the consecutive Anil Kakodkar

years of 2019-20 and 2020-21, although 73 passengers Committee Recommendations (2012) -
sustained injuries Key stats
Creation of a Railway Safety Authority
Restructuring Research Design and Standards Organization
Cumulative compensation payout from 2017-18 to 2021-22 (RDSO)
stands at less than Rs 14 crore
Adoption of Advanced Signalling System
Way forward
Elimination of Level Crossings

Switch to LHB Design Coaches

Safety Infrastructure Maintenance

www.civilsdaily.com
Triple train crash in Odisha's Balasore: One of India's worst train tragedies

59