Daily News Analysis

th
09 April 2024
Topics To be Covered:
✓ Right To Be Free From Adverse Effects Of Climate Change:
Supreme Court
✓ Traditional New Year Festivals
✓ States being compelled to move court against Centre:
Supreme Court
✓ Project Akashteer
✓ Patanjali Controversy and Misleading Advertisements
✓ India Invokes the “Peace Clause” for rice in WTO
✓ A freak DNA change 25 million years ago is why humans
lack tail?
✓ Ethical leadership is non-negotiable: VP
✓ Land portions from 10 cantonment boards to be run by local
bodies
✓ Appointment of 16th Finance Commission Member
✓ Places in News: Zaporizhzhia
 Topics
Right To Be Free From Adverse Effects Of Climate Change: Supreme
Court
Subject: GS: 03: Environment
Context:
Recently, the Supreme Court of India historically stated that people have a right to be free from the adverse
effects of climate change recognised by Articles 14 and 21 of the Indian Constitution.
More on News:
❖ The Supreme Court passed its judgment in a case titled M K Ranjitsinh & Ors versus Union of India & Ors
regarding the protection of two critically endangered bird species on the IUCN Red List – the great Indian
bustard (GIB) and the lesser florican.
➢ Both are scheduled species listed under Part III of Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
Background & Evolution of the Judgment:
❖ Petition: The judgment came on a long pending petition by wildlife activist MK Ranjitsinh and others to
protect the Great Indian Bustard (GIB) (Ardeotis nigriceps).
❖ Earlier Judgment: In April 2021, the Court placed restrictions on the setting up of overhead transmission
lines.
➢ Setting of Expert Committee: A committee was appointed to evaluate the laying of underground high-
voltage lines on a case-to-case basis.
➢ On Powerlines: All low-voltage power lines were directed to be laid underground in the “priority” and
“potential” habitats of GIB in the future.
✓ For existing power lines, bird diverters were to be installed that were pending for the conversion of
overhead power lines into underground power lines.
❖ The Union Government’s Position: Since the major solar and wind energy-producing installations of India
are in Rajasthan and Gujarat area, the Centre claimed the court’s directions will harm India’s global
commitments to reduce the carbon footprint by increasing dependence on renewable energy sources.
❖ Supreme Court’s Action: The court recalled an earlier order requiring the undergrounding of overhead
transmission lines across an area of over 80,000 sq. km. in the two states.
❖ Recent Judgment: In April 2024, the Court placed its reliance on several reports by the Wildlife Institute
of India, identifying 13,663 square km as the “priority area”; 80,680 square km as “potential areas”; and 6,654
square km as “additional important areas” for the GIB.
➢ Formation of an Expert Committee: The bench formed an expert committee comprising independent
experts, members of the National Board of Wildlife, representatives of power companies, and former
and serving bureaucrats drawn from departments of environment and forests and ministry of new and
renewable energy (MNRE).
➢ Aim: The Committee is formed to suggest ways to balance two objectives – the conservation of the
bird and India’s sustainable development goals.
✓ The committee’s first report is expected by July 31.
Implications of the Judgment for Environmental Jurisprudence:
❖ Strengthening Environmental & Climate Justice: The judgment puts the focus on strengthening
environmental and climate justice by highlighting the multiple impacts of climate change on a range of
communities.
❖ Expansion of Article 14 & Article 21: These have been expanded by the apex court to include a right to
clean environment.
➢ The judgment not only looks to curb environmental pollution, but also proactively outlines
environmental and climate justice issues, keeping our international commitments in mind.
❖ Establishment of Legal Precedent: As per experts, the judgment will set an important legal precedent, and
will influence the broader public discourse on environmental matters, and has the potential to shape future
government policies.
Need for Right to be Free from the Adverse Effects of Climate Change:
❖ Rising Vulnerabilities: Evidence for the vulnerability of Indians to climate change is threatening day by day.
➢ Floods have become more frequent and intense.
➢ Rainfall patterns are changing.
➢ Heatwaves pose serious health risks
✓ Several studies, including IPCC reports, have warned that global warming will put an increasing
number of Indians at risk in the coming years.
❖ Severe Impact on Communities & Culture: Indigenous communities such as tribals in Andaman and
Nicobar Islands depend on nature and the relationship that indigenous communities have with nature may
be tied to their culture or religion.
➢ The destruction of lands and forests or their displacement from their homes may result in a permanent
loss of their unique culture.
➢ In these ways too, climate change may impact the constitutional guarantee of the right to equality
(Article 14).
❖ Risk of Deepening of Inequality: If climate change and environmental degradation lead to acute food and
water shortages in a particular area, poorer communities will suffer more than richer.
➢ The inability of underserved communities to adapt to climate change or cope with its effects violates the
right to life (Article 21) as well as the right to equality (Article 14).
❖ No Priority: Yet, the toll taken by receding glaciers, landslides, sea-level rise, poor air and the loss of green
lungs is rarely an issue for the country’s political class even in an election year.
➢ Ecology has, by and large, remained the concern only of academics, civil society groups and activists.
❖ Lack of Executive Action: Governments have not always given proper respect to SC rulings that underline
the links between ecology and human dignity.
➢ Delhi’s continuing air pollution is a classic example of the hiatus between jurisprudence and policy.
❖ A Question & Threat to Development: Environmental issues like air and water quality receive attention only
when they become an emergency. But with such a scenario, the issue of climate change would become grave.
➢ These events raise questions on the country’s developmental actions which haven’t always been
sensitive to ecological concerns.
❖ Lack of Legal Framework: Overall, India’s legal framework lacks a single comprehensive climate change
law.
 ➢ While dwelling on India’s international commitments to mitigate the impact of greenhouse gas
emissions, the apex court also noted that despite many regulations and policies to address the adverse
effects of climate change, there was no single legislation relating to climate change and attendant
concerns.
✓ However, the absence of such legislation, did not mean that Indians do not have a “right against
adverse effects of climate change”.
Measures Taken to Protect Human Rights Against Climate Change:
❖ On National Level:
➢ Implementation of the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC): It includes various
missions targeting climate change mitigation and adaptation.
➢ Focus on Renewable Energy Initiatives: Such as the National Solar Mission and promotion of clean
energy sources.
✓ As part of its international climate change commitments under the United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement, India has committed to
scale up non-fossil-based power capacity.
➢ Sustainable Agriculture Practices: It is focused to enhance resilience to climate change impacts.
➢ Afforestation & Restoration Programs: There is a focus on implementation of the Afforestation and
Reforestation programs to combat deforestation and enhance carbon sequestration.
❖ On International Level:
➢ United Nations: The United Nations, through a resolution in 2022, declared access to a clean, healthy
environment as a universal human right.
➢ Frameworks for Climate Finance: Such as the Green Climate Fund to support developing countries
in their climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts.
➢ Climate-resilient Infrastructures: To enhance resilience to extreme weather events and sea-level rise.
➢ Support for Capacity-building Initiatives: To enhance the ability of vulnerable communities to adapt
to climate change impacts.
❖ Recommendations by the United Nations Environment Program:
➢ International Cooperation: To recognize the link between climate change and human rights in the
Paris Agreement.
➢ Ensure climate funds’ safeguards fully consider human rights.
➢ Increase financial assistance to developing countries.
➢ Incorporate human rights norms into domestic legal frameworks, including climate change laws.
➢ Collaborative Approach: Local governments should reduce greenhouse gases emissions in
collaboration with the private actors in line with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human
Rights.
Climate Change & Human Rights in India:
❖ Right to Health: Article 21 and Article 14 are important sources of the right to a clean environment and the
right against the adverse effects of climate change.
➢ Without a clean environment, which is stable and non impacted by the impacts of climate change, the
right to life is not fully realized.
✓ Article 21 recognises the right to life and personal liberty and the right to health is its important part.
✓ Article 14 indicates that all persons shall have equality before law and the equal protection of laws.
❖ Article 48A: It states that the State shall endeavor to protect and improve the environment and to safeguard
the forests and wildlife of the country. It was added by the 42nd Amendment, 1976 and places an obligation
on the State to protect the environment and wildlife.
❖ Article 51-A (g): It states that it shall be the duty of every citizen of India to protect and improve the natural
environment including forests, lakes, rivers and wildlife and to have compassion for living creatures.
❖ Right to be free from the Adverse Effects of Climate Change: The right to health is impacted due to various
factors such as air pollution, shifts in vector-borne diseases, rising temperatures, droughts, shortages in food
supplies due to crop failure, storms, and flooding.
➢ Hence, a right to be free from the adverse effects of climate change is desirable.
❖ Judicial Intervention:
➢ M C Mehta v Union of India (1987): The Supreme Court treated the right to live in a pollution-free
environment as a part of the Right to Life.
➢ Since then, several SC verdicts have underlined that people have a right to breathe unpolluted air, drink
clean water and live a healthy life.
Earlier Interpretation and Expansion of the Scope of Article 21:
❖ Heart of the Rights: The Supreme Court has said that the right to life is not just mere existence, but that it
includes all rights that make it a meaningful and dignified existence for an individual.
➢ In the 1980s, the SC read the right to a clean environment as part of Article 21.
➢ Virender Gaur v. State of Haryana (1994): Recognition that the right to a clean environment is an
integral facet of the right to a healthy life.
❖ Right to Speedy Trial: In Hussainara Khatoon Vs. the State of Bihar (1979), the Supreme Court declared
that the right to speedy trial is an essential component of fairness in criminal justice.
❖ Right to Health: In the case of Parmanand Katara Vs. Union of India (1989), the Supreme Court held
that every doctor has a professional obligation to protect human life in emergencies.
❖ Right to Livelihood: In the Olga Tellis Vs. Bombay Municipal Corporation (1985) case
❖ Protection against Illegal Detention: In DK Basu Vs. State of West Bengal (1997) case
❖ Right to Shelter: In Chameli Singh Vs. State of UP (1996) case
❖ Right against Sexual Harassment at Workplace: In Vishaka Vs. State of Rajasthan (1997) case
❖ Right to Clean Environment: In Subhash Kumar Vs. State of Bihar and Ors (1991)
❖ Right to Privacy: In KS Puttaswamy Vs. Union of India (2017) judgment
❖ Right to Education: In Mohini Jain Vs. State of Karnataka (1992) case
❖ Right to Good Roads: In the Road Accident case of 2004, the Supreme Court ruled that good roads free
from potholes and safe for pedestrians and vehicles are a part of the right to life under Article 21.
❖ Right to Sleep: In the case of Amir Khan vs. State of Gujarat in 2012
❖ Right to Die With Dignity: In Aruna Ramachandra Shanbaug vs. Union of India 2011 case
❖ Right against Torture and Inhuman Treatment: In the DK Basu case (1996)
Way Forward:
❖ Urgent Shift on Solar Energy: India urgently needs to shift to solar power as India is likely to account for
25% of global energy demand growth over the next two decades, necessitating a move towards solar for
enhanced energy security and self-sufficiency while mitigating environmental impacts.
❖ A Call to Action: The Supreme Court said that states are compelled to take effective measures to mitigate
climate change.
 ➢ The intersection of climate change and human rights has been put into sharp focus in recent years,
underscoring the imperative for states to address climate impacts by providing the rights.
❖ Interpretation of Rights: The Supreme Court opined that constitutional rights such as the right to life and
equality before the law are interpreted to include the right to a clean environment and protection against
the adverse effects of climate change.
➢ Even while lacking a comprehensive climate change law, India encompasses various measures aimed at
mitigating environmental degradation and addressing climate change concerns.
Conclusion:
Recognition by the Supreme Court of India of the right to be free from the adverse effects of climate change
within the purview of constitutional fundamental rights paves the way for legal accountability of actions that
undermine meeting climate targets. This case significantly influences jurisprudence on climate governance in
India.
News Source: The Indian Express
Traditional New Year Festivals
Subject: GS: 01: Culture
Context:
The President of India greeted fellow citizens on the eve of Chaitra Sukladi, Ugadi, Gudi Padwa, Cheti Chand,
Navreh and Sajibu Cheiraoba.
More on News:
❖ These festivals are celebrated in different parts of the country and spread the message of peace, harmony and
tolerance to welcome the spring season and Indian New Year.
Festival Features
Chaitra Sukladi ❖ It marks the beginning of the new year day according to the Hindu calendar (Vikram
Samvat) in parts of North India.
❖ It falls on the first day of the Chaitra month, the first month of the Hindu calendar.
➢ Vikram Samvat: It is based on the day when the emperor Vikramaditya
defeated Sakas, invaded Ujjain and called for a new era. Under his supervision,
astronomers formed a new calendar based on the luni-solar system.
✓ It is still followed in the northern regions of India.
➢ It is the first day during the waxing phase (in which the visible side of the moon
is getting bigger every night) of the moon in the Chaitra (first month of Hindu
calendar).
Ugadi ❖ It is celebrated by the peoples of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka and
Maharashtra, marking the beginning of a new lunar year.
❖ It derives its name from the Sanskrit words “yuga” (age) and “adi” (beginning).
❖ Ugadi is celebrated with the preparation of a special dish called “Ugadi Pachadi,”
which is a distinctive blend of neem flowers, jaggery, tamarind, raw mango, and chilli.
➢ Additionally, cultural events, traditional rites, and social gatherings mark the
festivities, which bring together families and strengthen communal bonds.
❖ For Ugadi, doors in homes are adorned with mango leaf decorations called toranalu
or Torana in Kannada.
Gudi Padwa ❖ It is a Hindu festival that marks the beginning of the new year according to the
lunisolar Hindu calendar.
❖ The word Gudi Padwa is made of two words - Gudi refers to the flag (garlanded with
flowers, mango, and neem leaves, topped with upturned silver or copper vessel) and
padwa or padava or padavo comes from the Sanskrit word pratipada which refers
to the first day of a lunar fortnight.
❖ It is celebrated in the states of Maharashtra, Goa, and parts of Karnataka and
Andhra Pradesh.
❖ It is celebrated with colorful floor decorations called rangoli, a special Gudi flag, street
processions, dancing, and festive foods.
❖ Mythological & Historical Significance:
➢ It is believed to be the day when Lord Brahma created the universe.
➢ It also marks the day when Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after defeating
Ravana.
➢ It is also believed to be the day when Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was
crowned as the king of the Maratha Empire.
Cheti Chand ❖ Cheti Chand is celebrated as Jhulelal Jayanti by the Sindhi community to
commemorate the birth anniversary of Uderolal/Jhulelal, the patron saint of Sindhis.
❖ This marks the beginning of the Sindhi New Year. As per the Hindu calendar, it is
primarily observed on the second day of Chaitra Shukla Paksha. Chaitra month is
called 'Chet' in Sindhi.
❖ Significance: The day is significant for Sindhis since it is believed that Varun Dev
emerged as Jhulelal on this day to save the Sindhi community from a king who
wanted to destroy Sindhi culture.
Navreh ❖ Navreh is derived from Nav-varsh of Sanskrit. It is the lunar new year that is
celebrated in Kashmir.
❖ It falls on the first day of the Chaitra Navratri.
❖ The day is dedicated to their Goddess Sharika and they pay homage to her on that day.
❖ On this day, Kashmiri pandits look at a bowl of rice which is considered as a symbol
of riches and fertility.
❖ The festival is associated with the onset of spring and the blossoming of flowers.
Sajibu ❖ It is the Manipuri New Year festival of Meiteis (an ethnic group in Manipur) which
Cheiraoba is observed on the first day of Manipur lunar month Shajibu.
❖ On the day of the festival, people arrange a joint family feast in which traditional
cuisines are offered to local deities at the entrance gates of the houses.
❖ The festival marks the beginning of a new agricultural cycle.
❖ It is celebrated with the preparation of a special dish called “Chak-Hao,” made from
fermented soybean.
❖ People also perform traditional dances and offer prayers to the deities for a
prosperous year ahead.
News Source: PIB
States being compelled to move court against Centre: Supreme Court
Subject: GS-02 Polity
Context:
The Supreme Court has cautioned the Union government against engaging in a “contest” with drought-hit
Karnataka over its request for drought relief.
More on the news:
❖ Various other states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka have also filed cases against the Union government
in lieu of delays and perceived neglect in receiving disaster relief funds from the Centre.
Why are states filing cases against the Union government?
❖ Denial of disaster relief funds: Karnataka's request for ₹18,171.44 crore under NDRF for drought relief has
been pending for six months due to which a crop of ₹35,162.05 crore has been damaged in the State.
❖ Centre's Failure to Meet Obligations Under Disaster Management Laws: Karnataka has also argued that
the Centre has violated the Disaster Management Act, 2005 and not taking a decision on NDRF assistance
within a month as mandated.
❖ Violation of fundamental rights of citizens:
➢ Karnataka argues the Centre's inaction violates the right to life (Article 21) and right to equality (Article
14) of its citizens by not providing assistance during a crisis.
❖ Centre exceeding its authority:
➢ Kerala has also accused the Centre of interfering in its net borrowing limits, pushing the state to a financial
emergency.
Centre role in disaster relief fund distribution to states
❖ Government of India helps state government in disaster relief efforts through two channels
➢ State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF)
✓ For this fund channel, union and state government contribute fund in the ratio of of 75:25 to all
states
▪ It excludes North-Eastern and Himalayan States, for which it is 90:10 ratio.
➢ National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF)
✓ Centre government is responsible for the entire contribution of funds for this fund channel.
✓ There is an additional provision for receiving contributions/ grants from any person or institutions.
▪ contributions are accepted through various methods. as per Section 46 (1) (b) of the Disaster
Management Act, 2005.
During 2021, as per the recommendation of 15th Finance Commission, two more mitigation funds were
set up at National and State level.
❖ National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF): Centre has set up this fund for the mitigation of disaster
risks.
❖ State Disaster Mitigation Fund (SDMF): This fund channel has been asked to set up by state for the
mitigation of disaster risks.
❖ Centre shares 75% for all states and 90% for north-eastern and himalayan states as a centre share in SDMF.
Impact of Centre's Failure to offer relief funds on Indian Economy
❖ Limited Ability to Respond:
➢ When relief funds don't come on time, states may struggle to help affected people. This can slow down
the recovery process and hurt the economy in the affected area.
❖ Financial Pressure on States:
➢ If funds are delayed or denied, states may have to cut spending on important services or borrow more
money. This will put extra strain on their budgets and increase their debt.
❖ Loss of Income and Productivity:
➢ Farmers hit by droughts and people affected by floods or cyclones may lose their income. This situation
would disable them from contributing to the economy as they used to.
❖ Decline in Agricultural Production:
➢ Without proper assistance for farmers affected by drought, agricultural production could decline which
will impact food security and ultimately it will lead to high prices.
What is the role of the Supreme Court in this matter?
The Supreme Court of India holds a vital position as the highest judicial authority in the country.
❖ Setting legal precedent: The Court's decisions in these cases can establish legal principles for future disputes
between states and the Centre regarding disaster relief funds.
➢ It can clarify the Centre's obligations under disaster management laws and the rights of states in seeking
assistance.
❖ Ensuring accountability: By reviewing the Centre's decisions and actions, the Court can hold the government
accountable for following proper procedures and fulfilling its responsibilities towards disaster-stricken states.
❖ Promoting fair resource allocation: The Court can ensure fair and non-discriminatory allocation of disaster
relief funds by the Centre.
➢ This can help prevent situations where some states feel neglected compared to others.
❖ Upholding the federal structure: By resolving disputes between states and the Centre, the Court plays a role
in upholding India's federal structure, ensuring a balance of power between the central and state governments.
❖ Interpreting the Constitution:
➢ It interprets the Constitution, ensuring that the actions of both the Union and state governments follow its
rules.
✓ The court emphasizes resolving conflicts internally to avoid disagreements between the Union and
states.
❖ Reviewing Government Actions:
➢ The Supreme Court checks government policies and decisions, ensuring that it aligns with the principles
outlined in the Constitution and other relevant laws
News Source: The Hindu
Project Akashteer
Subject: GS-03: Science and Technology
Context:
The Indian Army has initiated the induction of control and reporting systems under 'Project Akashteer' to
bolster its air defence capabilities.
More on News:
❖ Year of Technology Absorption: The Indian Army has declared 2024 as the 'Year of Technology
Absorption' and is undertaking various initiatives to induct niche technology and systems into its inventory.
About Project Akashteer:
❖ Developed by: Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL)
❖ Aim: To automate air defense control and reporting processes by digitizing them with an emphasis on mobility
and resilience.
➢ This will enable swift engagement of hostile targets, significantly reduce the risk of fratricide, and
ensure the safety of friendly aircraft in contested airspace.
❖ Mobile Vehicle-Based Control Centers: The system's control centres, designed to be vehicle-based and
mobile, can maintain operational capabilities even in challenging communication environments.
➢ The system will facilitate the complete automation of air defense operations and significantly enhance
India's air defense posture.
How will it help India's air defense system?
❖ Efficiency and Integration: By digitizing Air Defence Control and Reporting processes, 'Akashteer'
promises to introduce efficiency and integration empowering the Indian Army to promptly address hostile
threats while mitigating the likelihood of friendly fire incidents.
❖ Situational Awareness: It integrates radar and communication systems into a unified network, providing
the Indian Army with unprecedented situational awareness.
➢ This will enable them to detect and engage hostile targets more effectively, ensuring the safety of
friendly aircraft in contested airspace.
❖ Mobility and Resilience: The system's vehicle-based and mobile Control Centers are designed to maintain
operational capabilities even in challenging communication environments.
➢ This ensures that the Indian Army can operate effectively in diverse terrain and under adverse
conditions.
❖ Automation: Overall, the deployment of 'Akashteer' represents a significant stride towards achieving full
automation in air defense operations.
➢ This advancement will bolster the Indian Army's capability to safeguard its airspace, thereby guaranteeing
a safer and more secure future for the nation.
News Source: Economic Times
Patanjali Controversy and Misleading Advertisements
Subject: GS: 02: Polity and Governance
Context:
Recently, the Supreme Court prohibited Patanjali Ayurved Ltd from issuing false advertisements about the
medical efficacy of its products and issued contempt notices to the business for breaking a prior promise.
Issues with Patanjali’s False Claims:
❖ Ethical issue: The Misleading advertisement affects consumer trust and the business's integrity. The
controversy shows the consumer's susceptibility, as they trust that some regulating authority has ensured
that nothing harmful, hazardous, or useless is sold as medicine.
❖ Violation of Legislations: The Indian Medical Association (IMA) argued that Patanjali's advertisement headed
"MISCONCEPTIONS SPREAD BY ALLOPATHY" violated legislation governing medication regulation.
It was a direct violation of the Drugs and Other Magical Remedies Act of 1954 (DOMA) and the Consumer
Protection Act of 2019 (CPA).
❖ Adverse health impact: Unverified products can harm consumers' health. There is a larger risk with such
pharmaceuticals (of which Ayurveda accounts for more than 75%), because the user assumes that all items
are natural and therefore safe.
❖ Misleading advertisements: These Misleading advertisements have increased the number of incidents of self-
medication due to their claims of effective therapy and cure for intractable conditions.
❖ Inactions of government and regulatory bodies: Even as the claims are made with increasing impunity, no
tangible action appears to have been taken by the state governments to which the Ministry of Ayush has filed
hundreds of complaints. The Advertising Standards Council of India, a regulatory body, has also failed to
take any action or establish norms.
❖ Inadequate legislation: There is a lack of adequate legislation governing the regulation of such drugs and
advertising.
➢ For example, the rules of the DMR Act are distinct, limited, and particular, as they were intended to
regulate deceptive claims and ads involving medical drugs and products.
➢ Whether the items have been licensed or not, whether they are evidence-based or not, and if R&D has
been conducted falls outside the scope of DMR.
What is a Misleading Advertisement?
The Consumer Protection Act of 2019 defines a misleading advertisement for any goods or service as one that:
❖ Falsely describing a product or service What does the Magic Remedies Act entail?
❖ Providing a false guarantee ❖ Under the Act, the term “drug” refers to medicines
❖ Making an express or implied intended for human or animal use, substances for
representation that would constitute an diagnosis or treatment of diseases, and articles
unfair trade practice affecting the body’s functions.
❖ Concealing important information are all ❖ Definition of Magic Remedy: Other than articles meant
examples of misleading consumers. for consumption, the definition for “magic remedy” under
Legislations to combat misleading this Act also extends to talismans, mantras, and charms
advertisements that allegedly possess miraculous powers for healing or
❖ Bureau of Indian Standards influencing bodily functions.
(Certification) Regulations, 1988
❖ Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006.
❖ The Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act of 1955 (DOMA).
❖ The Drug and Cosmetics Act of 1940
❖ The Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade,
Commerce, Production, Supply, and Distribution) Act of 2003
Regulators to deal with misleading advertisements.
❖ Advertising Standards Council of India: ASCI was founded in 1985 by professionals from the advertising
and media industries to ensure that commercials in India are fair, honest, and comply with the ASCI Code.
❖ Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA): Established by the Consumer Protection Act of 2019 to
regulate concerns connected to consumer rights violations, unfair trade practices, and false or misleading
marketing that are detrimental to the interests of the general public and consumers as a whole.
❖ Issuing of Guidelines: The CCPA has issued the Guidelines for the Prevention and Endorsement of
Misleading Advertisements, 2022.
➢ Non-misleading and legitimate advertisements
➢ Bait and free claim advertisements, and the duties of manufacturers, service providers, advertisers, and
advertising agencies.
LEGAL ARGUMENT AGAINST PATANJALI’S ACTIONS
❖ Drugs and Other Magical Remedies Act
of 1954 (DOMA): Section 4 of the DOMA
prohibits the publication of false drug ads.
Publishing a deceptive advertisement
under the DOMA is punishable by up to six
months in prison and/or a fine for the
first offense. The penalty for a second
offence can be up to one year in prison.
❖ Consumer Protection Act of 2019:
Section 2(28) of the Consumer
Protection Act of 2019 deals with
misleading advertisement'.
➢ Section 89 of the CPA imposes more
severe penalties for false or
misleading advertising.
➢ First-time offenses can result in
penalties of up to Rs 10 lakh and
imprisonment for up to two years.
➢ Subsequent violations may result in
penalties of up to Rs 50 lakh and
imprisonment for a maximum of
five years. The CPA also defines the
term "misleading advertisement."
❖ Violation of the MoU agreed between
the Ministry of AYUSH and the ASCI:
MoU inked by the Ministry of AYUSH and
the ASCI had been violated.
❖ Drugs and Magic Remedies
(Objectionable Advertisements) Act of
1954 (DMR): The DMR, which applies to
all systems of medicine, prohibits advertising medications that claim to treat or cure specific ailments.
➢ Promoting medications for the treatment and cure of 54 particular medical diseases, including cancer,
diabetes, heart disease, and blood pressure, is expressly prohibited.
❖ The Drug and Cosmetics (D&C) Act of 1940: The act established a new Chapter IV A for ASU medicine
in 1964. The distinction between classical medicine, patent and proprietary medicine is explained there
News Source: Business Standard
India Invokes the “Peace Clause” for rice in WTO
Subject: GS-03: Economy
Context:
India has invoked the peace clause at the World Trade Organization (WTO) for the fifth consecutive time for
the marketing year 2022-23 due to breaching the prescribed subsidy limit for rice offered to its farmers.
More on News:
❖ Subsidy for Rice Production: While
India’s rice production value was $52.8
billion in 2022-23, a subsidy worth
$6.39 billion was given to farmers
during the year.
❖ Breach of 10% Limit: Thus, the rice
subsidy was 12 per cent of the value of
production, thereby breaching the 10
per cent domestic support ceiling,
which is in accordance with global trade
rules.
❖ Invoking of Peace Clause: There is no
immediate repercussion for the breach
since India has invoked the “peace
clause”, agreed upon at the Bali
ministerial of WTO in 2013.
➢ This provides immunity to
developing countries from
challenges for breaching the ceiling for wheat and rice until a permanent solution is found.
❖ Concerns raised by India: India has been complaining that the 10 per cent subsidy ceiling is calculated on
the basis of the reference price of 1986-88, which became outdated long ago.
Peace Clause:
❖ About: It was established in 2013 under the Bali Agreement. It permits developing nations to exceed the 10
percent ceiling without facing legal action by other members temporarily.
❖ Conditions for Government: Governments seeking the shelter of the peace clause have to:
➢ avoid distorting trade or impacting other countries’ food security
➢ provide information to show they are meeting those conditions.
Issues with the peace clause:
❖ Controversial: Some developed countries argue that it gives developing countries an unfair advantage, and it
could lead to trade distortions. Others say it is crucial for developing countries to meet their food security.
❖ Flexibility in rules-based order: WTO is a rules based organisation, and the peace clause is seen as a
departure from those rules.
➢ The flexibility provided by WTO in the peace clause is leading to conflict of interest between developed
and developing nations.
For Additional Reading, refer WTO and India
News Source: Business Standard
A freak DNA change 25 million years ago is why humans lack tail?
Subject: GS:03: Science and Technology
Context:
Recently, Researchers found an insertion between two pieces of the TBXT gene, which prevented apes from
producing a protein required to form a tail
Key Findings of the Research
❖ Losing of Tail: Apes lost their tails approximately 25 Bipedalism
million years ago due to a rare insertion of an Alu ❖ Bipedalism, the ability to walk upright on
element in a critical gene during development. two legs, is a defining trait of human
❖ Cause of Taillessness: This insertion interrupted the evolution. Unlike our primate relatives, who
TBXT gene, producing a faulty TBXT protein and primarily use all four limbs for mobility,
resulting in taillessness. humans have evolved to stand upright and
❖ Insertion in Junk DNA: NYU researchers discovered walk on two legs.
the insertion in 'junk' DNA, which is present in all apes
but lacking in monkeys. Junk DNA
❖ Tail Loss: Engineered mice embryos carrying the faulty ❖ About: In genetics, the term junk DNA
TBXT gene confirmed its role in tail loss. refers to regions of DNA that are noncoding.
❖ Bipedalism: The mutation certainly conferred ❖ Origin: The term “junk DNA” was first used
advantages, possibly connected to bipedalism, although in the 1960s, but was formalized by Susumu
the particular benefit remains unknown. Ohno in 1972.
❖ Shaping Evolutionary Trajectory: Evolution took ❖ The amount of mutation occurring as a result
advantage of this one-in-a-million event, substantially of deleterious mutations set a limit for the
modifying ape anatomy and dictating their evolutionary amount of functional loci that could be
course. expected when a normal mutation rate was
❖ Evolutionary Adaptations: The findings provide light considered.
on the genetic factors behind ape tail loss and demonstrate the complexities of evolutionary adaptations.
❖ Evolutionary Relevance: Understanding the evolutionary relevance of tail loss sheds light on the genesis
of distinct ape features and their subsequent dominance in the natural world.
News Source: The Hindu
Ethical leadership is non-negotiable: VP
Subject: GS 04: Ethics
Context:
Vice-President of India in his address at the 6th Convocation Ceremony of the Indian Institute of Management
(IIM) Bodh Gaya talked about the importance of ethical leadership.
What is Ethical leadership?
❖ It refers to a leadership style that is characterized by a commitment to moral values, principles, and ethical
behavior in decision making.
➢ Ethical leaders prioritize honesty, integrity, and fairness in their decision-making and actions, setting
a positive example for their team or organization.
Why is ethical leadership important?
❖ Conscience shaper: To foster trust, respect, and a sense of fairness among team members or followers.
❖ Positive workplace culture: To create a positive organizational culture and enhance the reputation of leaders
and organizations.
❖ Right decisions: It contributes to better decision-making and overall ethical behavior within an organization.
❖ Improved staff morale: Ethical leadership is about leading, inspiring, motivating, and making the
employees feel accountable for their work.
Principles of ethical leadership: Key points of the address:
❖ Fairness and Justice: To treat all ❖ Ethical leadership: He underscored the importance of
individuals with equal respect and honor the non-negotiability of ethical leadership and cautioned
regardless of their background, position, or the youth against succumbing to temptations and
status without any favoritism or unethical shortcuts.
discrimination.
❖ Youth as torchbearers of India's future: The youth of
➢ Example: Nelson Mandela brought the country should assume the role of becoming
reconciliation among the blacks and ambassadors of a society which adheres to rule of law.
whites despite the decades of
❖ Economic Nationalism: To make ‘Swadeshi’ and
animosity. ‘Vocal for Local’ a national habit which can boost our
❖ Accountability: Ethical leaders take foreign exchange reserves generating employment
responsibility for their actions and the opportunities by nurturing the environment of
outcomes of their decisions. When leaders entrepreneurship.
hold themselves accountable, it creates an
❖ India frontrunner in adoption of cutting-edge
environment where everyone in the
technology: Learning technologies such as quantum
organization feels responsible for their
computing, machine learning, 6G and green hydrogen etc
actions.
present gold mine opportunities for the young offering
➢ Example: Mahatma Gandhi taking endless opportunities.
accountability of the chauri- chaura
violence.
❖ Transparency: It reduces suspicions and promotes ethical behavior
as every decision is openly communicated with the team members and
stakeholders fostering trust.
➢ Example: Mr. E sreedharan completed delhi Metro project
before completion deadline with no corruption charges.
❖ Honesty and Integrity: It is the cornerstone of ethical leadership
meaning being truthful, keeping promises, and admitting
mistakes when they occur. Integrity builds trust, and trust is
fundamental to ethical decision-making.
❖ Empathy: Ethical leadership is also about being empathetic and
considering the impact of their decisions on all stakeholders
ensures that decisions are not made in isolation but with a broader perspective.
➢ Example: A civil servant from Kozhikode affectionately called Collector Bro started a ‘compassionate
Keralam’ campaign to feed hungry, clean ponds etc.
❖ Courage: Ethical leadership is about displaying courage in decision-making whereby one is not afraid to
stand up for what is right, even in the face of adversity. Ethical courage is vital in situations where unethical
behaviour or practices need to be addressed.
➢ Example: Malala Yousafzai standing up for girls right for education against death threats by taliban
❖ Respectful and Dignified treatment: A moral leader will respect his juniors opinions, choices, and morals
and will not treat them as a means to achieve his goal.
➢ Example: Tata group helping their employees and guest with all the medical and financial help who were
a victim of the 26/11 attacks.
❖ Continuous Learning and Improvement: Ethical leaders are open to feedback and self-reflection, seeking
active opportunities to enhance their learning. They understand that ethics is an ongoing journey, not a
destination.
❖ Vision and Values Alignment: Ethical leaders consistently uphold the principles and values they espouse and
ensure that their decisions align with the organization's vision and values.
Chanakya On Ethics In Leadership:
❖ Chanakya places a strong emphasis on the need for the leader to be moral, emphasising the value of
ethics for a leader in his book, "Arthashastra."
❖ Qualities of a leader:
➢ Philosopher king: A true leader acts both as a saint (is wise, knowledgeable, and able to connect with
people) and a king (is active and dynamic and makes judgments about governance) rather than simply
being monarch.
➢ The 6 foes of a king: A king must restrain his desires and fight the temptations of (sex, wrath, avarice,
conceit, haughtiness, and overjoyed) constantly.
➢ Neutrality of Emotions: A King must be neutral in his emotions including lust (Kaama), anger
(Krodha), greed (Lobha), and attachment (Moha).
➢ An Unjust or Immoral Ruler: He is incapable of ensuring the welfare of his subjects and will either
succumb to their wrath or that of his foes.
Challenges:
❖ Goal v/s Means: Leaders often face pressure to prioritize short-term results over ethical considerations,
leading to unethical behaviour such as cutting corners or compromising values to meet targets.
❖ Ethical Dilemmas: To encounter situations where ethical principles conflict with stakeholder interests, making
it challenging to make decisions that satisfy everyone.
➢ Example: Right to environment v/s Right to Livelihood
❖ Organizational Culture: In organizations where unethical behavior is tolerated or overlooked, leaders may
struggle to maintain ethical standards and foster a culture of integrity.
➢ Example: Often honest public servants gets transferred or demoted because of the corrupt system they
are trying to bring a change in (e.g.: IAS officer Ashok Khemka)
❖ Lack of Awareness or Training: Some leaders may lack awareness of ethical issues or the skills needed to
address them effectively.
❖ Resistance to Change: Implementing ethical practices may face resistance from individuals or groups
accustomed to a business as usual approach.
Case study: Johnson & Johnson's Tylenol Crisis: A Model of Ethical Leadership
❖ The crisis: In 1982, J&J painkiller Tylenol was replaced with cyanide-laced capsules in the Chicago area
kiling seven people.
❖ Response: J&J chairman formed a seven-member strategy team with 2 objectives,
➢ How do we protect the people:
✓ National Alert: The company immediately alerted consumers across the nation via media as well
as established a 1-800 hot line for consumers to call.
✓ National withdrawal: The production was stopped immediately and withdraw all Tylenol
capsules from the entire country.
 ➢ How do we save this product:
✓ Benefits of open communications: J&J recognized how open and transparent communication
from the source can clearly disseminating warnings to the public as well as the company's stand
on the crisis, toning down the negative publicity.
✓ Product Innovation: A new triple safety seal packaging were introduced making Tylenol the first
product in the industry to use the new tamper resistant packaging just 6 months after the crisis
occurred.
News Source: PIB
Land portions from 10 cantonment boards to be run by local bodies
Subject: GS:02: Polity and Governance
Context:
The Centre has decided to shrink the land under the jurisdiction of 10 key cantonment boards across five
states and put them under the state local bodies.
More on News
❖ Undoing Colonial Legacy: The move is part of Prime Minister’s overall plan to “undo the colonial legacy”
❖ Governance Reforms: It aims usher in a “range of governance reforms”
About the Cantonments:
❖ Origin: Cantonments in India were first established during the British East India Company's reign, particularly
following the Battle of Plassey in 1757.
➢ Following this battle, the EIC gained major territorial rights and set up permanent military bases along
trade arteries like the Ganga River.
❖ Purpose: These cantonments were purposefully positioned away from urban areas to reduce the connection
between the troops and local residents, maintaining discipline and preventing emotional bonds that could
undermine British rule.
Establishment:
❖ First Cantonments: The first three cantonments, Barrackpore, Danapur, and St. Thomas Mount, were erected
before 1800.
➢ Under the British administration, 56 cantonments were created over time to monitor local communities
for signs of dissent or revolt strategically.
❖ Establishment of New Cantonments: After India attained independence, six further cantonments were
created, the last of which was in Ajmer in 1962. Currently, there are 62 cantonments spread throughout multiple
military commands.
Regulatory Framework:
❖ Cantonments Act: Several acts, including the Cantonments Act of 1889, the Cantonment Code of 1899, and
the Cantonments Act of 1924, developed the regulatory basis for cantonments.
❖ Civilian Participation: The 1924 Act established cantonment boards with civilian participation to oversee
municipal issues in cantonments.
❖ Provision of Cantonment Act: The Cantonments Act, which superseded the 1924 Act in 2006, included
revisions to increase democratization within cantonment boards, including provisions for elected civilian
members and designated seats for women.
❖ Role of Cantonment Boards: These bodies are in charge of providing civic facilities such as health care,
water supply, education, and street lighting in cantonments.
❖ Administrative Control: Administrative control remains with military authorities, and the station
commander serves as the board's ex-officio president.
Cantonment Areas and their administration:
❖ Number of Cantonments in India: The country has 61 Cantonments notified under the Cantonments Act
of 1924 (which was replaced by the Cantonments Act of 2006).
❖ Role of Central Government in Cantonment Areas: According to Entry 3 of the Union List (Schedule
VII) of the Indian Constitution, the Union of India is responsible for the urban self-government of
cantonments and the housing accommodations they provide.
❖ Administration of Cantonment Board: Categories of Cantonment Board:
The Board's ex-officio President is the
Cantonment Station Commander, and the Category I: Category II: Category Category IV:
Chief Executive Officer is an IDES or populations between III: between populations
Defence Estates Organisation officer who above 10,000 and 2,500 and below 2,500.
also serves as the Board's Member- 50,000. 50,000. 10,000.
Secretary.
➢ Cantonment Boards, democratic entities, are responsible for the general municipal management of the
designated cantonments. Representation: A cantonment board comprises eight elected members, three
nominated military members, three ex-officio members (the station commander, garrison engineer, and
senior executive medical officer), and one district magistrate representative.
❖ Difference with Military Stations: Cantonments differ from Military Stations in that Military Stations are
established by executive order and solely intended for the use and lodging of the armed forces.
❖ Term of Cantonment Member: A board member serves for a five-year term.
❖ Management of Cantonment Boards: The cantonment boards are controlled by GOCs, IDES officers, state
bureaucrats, and a few elected members.
❖ Member Secretary of the Board: An officer of the Indian Defence Estates Service (IDES) or Defence
Estates Organisation is the board's chief executive officer and member-secretary.
News Source: Indian Express
Appointment of 16th Finance Commission Member
Subject: GS-02: Polity and Governance
Context:
The Government has appointed Manoj Panda, former director at the Institute of Economic Growth as the full time
member of the 16th Finance Commission.
More on News:
❖ Research areas: His research areas include monitoring and analysis of macro-economic trends and
prospects, evaluation of alternative trade and fiscal policy options from the point of view of growth and
distribution.
About Sixteenth Finance Commission (SFC):
❖ Chairman: Arvind Panagariya.
❖ Full Time Members: A.N. Jha (Former expenditure secretary and member of the 15th Finance Commission)
➢ Annie George Mathew (Former special secretary of the department of expenditure).
➢ Niranjan Rajadhyaksha (executive director of Artha Global Niranjan Rajadhyaksha).
➢ Part-Time Member: Soumya Kanti Ghosh (State Bank of India’s group chief economic adviser).
❖ Duration: It is tasked with defining the distribution of the Centre’s tax revenue to states for five years
starting FY27.
 ➢ It will make its recommendations available by 31 October 2025, covering an award period of five years
beginning 1 April 2026.
Finance Commission:
❖ About: The first Finance Commission was set up in 1951.
➢ Set up under Article 280 of the Constitution, FC is a constitutional body formed by the President of
India to give suggestions on center-state financial relations.
❖ Core Responsibility:
➢ To evaluate the state of finances of the Union and State Governments.
➢ Recommend the sharing of taxes between them.
➢ Lay down the principles determining the distribution of these taxes among States.
❖ Working: It is characterized by consultations with all levels of government, thus strengthening the principle
of cooperative federalism.
❖ Composition: It consists of a chairman and 4 other members to be appointed by the President.
❖ Nature of Recommendations: Advisory in nature, not binding on the government.
❖ Qualifications: The Parliament has given the following specifications for appointing the members.
➢ The chairman must have experience in public affairs while the other four members should be
selected from amongst the following criteria:
✓ A High Court judge or one qualified to become one;
✓ An individual having specialized knowledge of finance and accounts of the government;
✓ A person who possesses experience in financial matters and administration;
✓ A person who has special knowledge of economics.
Additional Reading: 16th Finance Commission
News Source: BS
Places in News:
Zaporizhzhia
Subject: GS:03: Science and Technology
Context:
The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) in Ukraine was damaged
recently in a drone attack.
About Zaporizhzhia Plant:
❖ It is one of five nuclear power stations in Ukraine, which meets almost half of
its electricity demand through nuclear energy.
➢ The six reactors at Zaporizhzhia have the capacity to produce 5,700 MW of electricity.
❖ Location: The plant is located in south-east Ukraine in Enerhodar on the banks of Dnieper river.
❖ Russian Occupation of Plant: Russian forces seized it after their February 2022 full-scale invasion and have
occupied it ever since, alongside most of the Zaporizhzhia region.
❖ Current Operating Status: The facility stopped generating power in 2022, but needs a constant supply of
electricity to cool one of its reactors which is in a state of "hot conservation", i.e., it is not fully offline.
News Source: Indian Express
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