May 2017 Ias Express

MAY 2017
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Contents
Drought SCAN INDIA

National
International
Economics
Science & Technology
Ecology
India & World
Social Issues & Development
Political Issues & Governance
Questions
Tit Bits
Editorials
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DROUGHT SCAN INDIA
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MAY 2017 IAS EXPRESS CrackingIAS.com

Drought is a normal, recurrent feature of conjunction with other indicators such as rainfall
climate and occurs in all climatic regimes and is usually figures, area under sowing, and so on.
characterized in terms of its spatial extension, intensity Other factors that a government should
and duration. Drought causes economic, environmental consider for declaring a drought are the drinking water
and social impacts. supply situation, the extent of fodder supply and its
According to the Drought Management Manual prevailing price compared with normal price; unusual
brought out in 2009, a drought is assessed on five movement of labour in search of employment; the
parameters. prevailing agricultural and non-agricultural wages
1. Availability of drinking water compared with normal times; and supply of foodgrains
2. Availability of irrigation water and the prices of essential commodities.
3. Availability of fodder The State government is responsible for
4. Availability of food grains declaring a drought, the manual says. It is necessary to
5. Energy sector requirement declare a drought through a formal notification for the
WHAT CONSTITUTES A DROUGHT? response measures to begin, it adds. Collectors can
The Government of Indias Manual for notify a drought only after the State government
Drought Management recommends that rainfall declares it all over the State or parts of it. States that
deficiency, the extent of area sown, normalised receive rain from the south-west monsoon should
difference vegetation index and moisture adequacy declare a drought in October. In the case of States that
index are the four standard monitoring tools that can receive rain from the north-east monsoon, the drought
be applied in combination to declare an administrative declaration should be done in January. If the situation
unit drought-affected. Since information on these warrants, it can be done earlier.
indicators is available at the level of taluk/tehsil/block, SCAN DROUGTH 2016
drought may be declared by a State government at the The unusual failures of the south-west
level of these administrative units on the basis of monsoon - June to September - and the immediately
observed deficiencies, the manual says. At least three following north-east monsoon (NEM) -October to
indicators can be considered for drought declaration December- in 2016, and the current heat wave
but the most important criterion is rainfall deficiency. conditions are the reasons for the unprecedented
A State government can consider declaring drought situation in the southern States. Standardised
a drought if the total rainfall for the States entire Precipitation Index (SPI), an index based on rainfall
duration of the rainy season from June to for drought monitoring,
September (the south-west monsoon) or from moderately/severely/extremely dry/wet situations for
October to December (the north-east monsoon) is the SWM period, the NEM period and the whole of
less than 75 per cent of the average rainfall for the 2016, is indicative of the grim situation.
season and there is an adverse impact on Forecasts by the India Meteorological
vegetation and soil moisture, the manual says. The Department (IMD) for the 2016 SWM and NEM for
government can consider declaring a drought if, along the southern peninsular region had been that there
with other indicators, the total area sown by the end of would be normal rainfall, but in both cases they were
July/August is less than 50 per cent of the total off the mark. The prediction for the NEM, particularly,
cultivable area. The declaration of drought could be was hugely off the mark. The region comprises the
linked with other indicators if the area of sowing was following nine meteorological subdivisions (which
less than 50 per cent of the cultivable area by the end of cover five States and two Union Territories): coastal
November/December . Andhra Pradesh (CAP), Telangana (TEL), Rayalaseema
Moisture adequacy index (MAI) values are (RYS), Tamil Nadu plus Puducherry (TN), coastal
critical to ascertain an agricultural drought, says the Karnataka (CK), north interior Karnataka (NIK), south
manual. The MAI values should be applied in
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Political Science, Sociology, General Studies, Essay & CSAT 1
DROUGHT SCAN INDIA
MONTHLY FOCUS

interior Karnataka (SIK), Kerala (KER) and normal, was significantly lower than the IMD forecast.
Lakshadweep (LAK). But, in terms of spatial distribution, the monsoon failed
The NEM is important for agriculture and the southern States. Against the forecast of 106 per
water resources in the meteorological subdivisions cent of the LPA, the actual rainfall for the country as a
of TN, CAP, RYS, SIK and KER. It is particularly whole was only 97 per cent. But in terms of rainfall
critical for TN, which is the biggest beneficiary of the distribution over the southern peninsula, the actual
NEM, as it receives nearly 48 per cent of its annual rainfall was only 92 per cent of the LPA against a
rainfall (of 914 millimetre) during October-December prediction of 113 per cent.
as against about 35 per cent during June-September. Before June 2016, most of the climate
The TN subdivision receives less rain during the SWM forecasting models around the world were indicating a
because, being on the leeward side of the Western high probability for the development of La Nina (the
Ghats, it falls in the rain-shadow region for the SWM. cooling of waters in equatorial Pacific that is positively
TN is the only subdivision that receives significantly correlated to the SWM and the opposite of El Nino,
more rainfall during the October-December period which is negatively correlated to SWM) during the
than during June-September (317 mm). Kerala, on the second half of the monsoon season, which would have
other hand, receives 70 per cent of its annual rainfall favoured a normal to above normal monsoon.
(2,928 mm) during June-September and only 16 per The oscillatory mode of the sea-surface
cent (478 mm) during October-December. temperature (SST), known as El Nino/Southern
The NEM rainfall data for 1901-2010 show that Oscillation (ENSO), has maintained a near-neutral-to-
there is a high degree of correlation between rainfall weak La Nina condition right into 2017. Moreover,
over the entire southern region and that over TNa according to the IMD, the atmospheric response to the
correlation coefficient of 0.84. For instance, during the neutral-to-mildly-La Nina conditions, as indicated by
110-year period, while there have been 26 and 27 years the corresponding Southern Oscillation Index (SOI),
of excess and deficient rainfall respectively over the which is a measure of the observed sea-level pressure
southern region, the corresponding figures for TN were difference between Tahiti and Darwin, Australia, on the
26 and 25. Frequently, the NEMs performance over Pacific, lagged behind and could be observed only after
TN is taken as an index for its performance over the the SWM season was over. (Negative SOI values
entire southern peninsula. During the last two decades correspond to El Nino and positive values to La Nina.)
of the NEM up to 2010, there were more excess years Thus the impact of ENSO on the SWM was neutral
than deficient years. and the non-development of La Nina against
The performance of NEM 2016 was the worst expectations was one of the chief reasons for the SWM
in the past 140 years. It caused huge NEM rainfall rainfall forecast going awry.
deficits (>60 per cent) in all the five subdivisions of Monthly distribution of rainfall
significance. TN, for instance, had a rainfall deficit of According to the IMD, in August 2016 there
62 per cent (against the long period average, or LPA, of was a strong ant-cyclonic circulation anomaly in the
438.2 mm) and a deficit of this magnitude (63 per cent) lower troposphere in the southern parts of the Arabian
was last experienced in 1876. Interestingly, this highly Sea, the southern peninsular region and south-western
deficient NEM came after a year of huge excess rainfall Bay of Bengal, which resulted in atmospheric
(of +53 per cent of the LPA) in NEM 2015, which subsidence over the southern peninsula, resulting in
resulted in a deluge in and around Chennai deficient monsoon in the entire region during the
accompanied by major devastation (Frontline, month.
December 25, 2015). For Chennai, this double blow An important meteorological influence on the
was indeed a cruel irony. monsoon is that of the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD),
In absolute figures, the quantum of SWM which is related to SSTs in the western and eastern
rainfall for the country as a whole, though technically Indian Ocean. A positive IOD, when the SST on the

DROUGHT SCAN INDIA
MONTHLY FOCUS

western side is warmer (and the eastern side is cooler), in September, which gradually moves southwards to
boosts the SWM winds. On occasions, positive IOD 16-17 N in October and 12-13 N in November, which
has helped counter an unfavourable ENSO condition. is a clear indication of the reversal of the low-level wind
Unfortunately, in 2016, the IOD, too, conspired against regime.
the monsoon and remained negative throughout with Correspondingly, the monsoon withdraws from
significantly above normal SSTs. the northern latitudes down up to 15 N in October,
Another phenomenon that is known to have a and south of 15 N there is a marked increase in rainfall,
role in the performance of the monsoon is the indicating the onset of the NEM. The reversal of winds
Madden Julian Oscillation (MJO). It is a tropical is well defined over the belt of coastal Tamil Nadu
oscillatory disturbance that propagates eastward around (CTN), which marks the onset of the NEM, and the
the globe with a cycle of about 30-60 days. Although normal onset date on the basis of the 110-year database
MJO does not cause ENSO, it is known to influence is taken as October 20. Before the onset, the SWM
the impact of ENSO. It can speed up and intensify the continues over the five subdivisions into the first half
development of El Nino and La Nina phases. Also, of October as well. The normal date of withdrawal is
depending on the phase of the MJO oscillation, it can taken to be December 30. In 2016, the SWM withdrew
either enhance or suppress convection over the region completely from the Indian region on October 28,
where its activity is located. According to the IMD, 2016, and the NEM onset occurred on October 31,
after about August 10, the MJO was active over the 2016.
Pacific causing above normal convective activity over Since the country receives three-fourths of its
there. As a consequence, the northward propagation of annual rainfall during the SWM period, the extent of
the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), or research in forecasting the NEM has been far less
the Equatorial Trough, into the Indian landmass, compared with the SWM. Being a large-scale system,
which aids convection and rainfall, was absent. The the SWMs synoptic features are well defined and have
End of the Monsoon Report 2016 of the IMD also been extensively studied and researched upon. On the
points out that there was anomalous subsidence over other hand, the meteorological factors influencing the
the peninsular region causing below normal convective smaller-scale NEM (being confined to the southern
activity and below normal rainfall over most of the peninsula) seem to be not as clearly discernible. But on
peninsular region. Increased convective activity and a broad scale, it is known that just as the south-westerly
associated rising motion over the Indian Ocean (owing winds of the SWM are driven by what is known as the
to the negative IOD) on the one side and the passage Mascarene High (the high pressure region in the
of the remnants of a number of low pressure systems southern Indian Ocean near the Mascarene Islands),
from the Pacific along the monsoon trough over the reversal of the south-westerly winds to north-
central India on the other resulted in this anomalous easterlies is driven by the cold outflow from the
subsidence between these two regions, says the report. Siberian High (a strong surface high pressure region
It is instructive to point out the special features over Siberia) in the Northern Hemisphere. Recent
of the NEM in appreciating the difficulty in forecasting studies have also demonstrated that the ENSO
as well as understanding the possible reasons for its phenomenon, which we know has a strong influence
failure in 2016. The NEM system is essentially the over the summer monsoon, affects the NEM, too.
retreating SWM when there is a reversal of the south- Similarly, the IOD mode has been identified to have an
westerly surface and lower tropospheric winds influence on the NEM with the positive IOD phase
associated with the SWM to become north-easterlies being associated with a good NEM and a negative IOD
that begin to flow over the Indian region in October. phase with a poor or suppressed NEM.
The monsoon trough (in the 850 millibar level winds at The seasonal NEM rainfall exhibits high
a height of about 1.5 kilometres where the atmosphere variability, but the year-to-year variability is such that
essentially begins) is normally located near 20 N latitude there are seasons of highly deficient rainfall and seasons

DROUGHT SCAN INDIA
MONTHLY FOCUS

of large-scale floods. During a given season, the NEM The outlook suggests that during the 2016 NEM,
often witnesses long dry spells. As is well known, normal rainfall is likely over most parts of South Asia.
occurrence of intense cyclonic storms over the Bay of However, below normal activity is likely over some
Bengal is another characteristic feature of the NEM. areas of the Southern part of the region consisting of
Because of this somewhat chaotic behaviour of the south-east peninsular India, Sri Lanka and Maldives.
NEM as against the well-organised SWM system, the Below normal rainfall is also likely over some areas of
skill in forecasting the NEM has been far less than in north and eastern parts of the region.
the case of the SWM. In particular, reasons for failure Positive SST in Nino 3.4 (El Nino) and
in the NEMs performance have been especially negative SOI during August-September and their
difficult to identify, points out Y.E.A. Raj, former persistence in October-November favour a good
Deputy Director General of Meteorology at the NEM, Raj said in an email to Frontline. But the
Chennai Regional Centre of the IMD, who has done correlation coefficients are of the order of 0.4-0.5 only
extensive research on the NEM. and the relation is not one-to-one. There are several
The IMDs forecast for NEM 2015 was fairly years when ENSO did not indicate excess/deficient
accurate. It had predicted above normal rainfall with NEM rainfall, but overall there is some relation, he
higher than 111 per cent of the LPA of seasonal rainfall added. Raj also pointed out that for NEM 2016, the
over the southern peninsula. The rainfall caused SST anomalies over Nino 3.4 varied between 0.41 and
unprecedented floods in Chennai. For TN, it had 0.73, indicating weak La Nina only. The
forecast over 112 per cent of the LPA. The actual corresponding SOI values for August to December
rainfall for the southern peninsula was 132 per cent of months were 5.3, 13.5, 4.3, 0.7, and 2.6 respectively
the LPA and the rainfall over TN was 152 per cent of providing no proper signal, he said.
its LPA. On the basis of model predictions that the The onset for NEM 2016 was delayed because
weak La Nina condition would turn to cool neutral of the cyclonic storm Kyant that formed over the Bay
ENSO condition and that the weak IOD condition of Bengal on October 21, 2016. Also, according to the
would continue to remain so during the NEM period, IMD, the onset phase of NEM 2016 was somewhat
the IMD had in September 2016 forecast a normal unusual. Normally, the onset occurs over southern
NEM 2016 for the five met subdivisions of the CTN and the rain belt then spreads to the interior and
southern peninsular region and normal rainfall for TN. northern parts of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. In 2016, the
Interestingly, unanimously agreeing on the onset occurred over SCAP and extreme northern parts
above perspective on the ENSO and the IOD, the of CTN and then spread southwards. But the onset
South Asian Climate Outlook Forum (SASCOF), of phase was short-lived as the MJO continued to play
which India is a member, during its ninth session in spoilsport. Over the peninsular region, it continued to
Myanmar in September 2016, made the following be in the unfavourable phase because of which the
observation: There is unanimity among the experts rainfall activity did not sustain.
that the prevailing cool neutral La Nina conditions in A second low pressure system that developed
the equatorial Pacific are likely to continue or reach to into a depression occurred on November 2, lasting up
borderline La Nina conditions during the OND to November 6. This depression first moved towards
[October to December] season. However, it is NCAP but curved back and moved towards
recognised that there is some uncertainty on the Bangladesh, carrying with it precious moisture that was
potential impacts of weak La Nina on the climate of the available along and off TN coast. This made way for
region due to strong day-to-day atmospheric variability dry and cold wind from the north to penetrate, which
observed in the region. On the basis of this and other caused the weakening of the monsoon over the
considerations, it issued the following forecast for southern peninsular region. While the depression of
NEM 2016 in its consensus statement, with an November 2 brought heavy to very heavy rainfall at
accompanying map for the consensus outlook (Fig. 6): isolated places, the transient low-intensity weather

DROUGHT SCAN INDIA
MONTHLY FOCUS

systems that formed subsequently over the southern deficient over all the five subdivisions benefited by the
parts of the Bay of Bengal during the rest of NEM, notes the IMDs end of season report on NEM
November, which had the potential to develop into 2016. In sum, month-wise, October and November
rainfall-bearing systems over land, could not be carried rainfall over all the subdivisions was largely
by the easterlies up to the south-eastern peninsula deficient. TN became largely deficient in October
because of dry and cold winds from the north, and the because of the late onset and so were the other four
easterlies became north-easterlies and carried these subdivisions. In November, as pointed out earlier, the
rain-bearing systems to Sri Lanka, skipping the depression that had formed over the south-east Bay of
southern peninsular region altogether. Bengal but moved towards the Bangladesh coast, the
Only when the cyclonic storm Nada penetration of dry and cold air from the north into the
(November 29-December 2, 2016) and the very severe south-west Bay of Bengal and the confinement of
cyclonic storm Vardah (December 6-13, 2016) over convective activity because of troughs in the easterlies
the south-east Bay of Bengal moved westwards and to the south of the Indian latitudes resulted in poor
crossed over Tamil Naduthe former near NEM activity over the southern peninsular region.
Nagapattinam and the latter close to Chennaithe Finally, in December, rainfall activity picked up over
associated landfalls and westward movement over land TN, CAP, RYS and SIK, thanks to the passage of Nada
triggered enhanced rainfall activity over the southern and Vardah. KER, being too far to the west, did not
peninsular region. Vardah, of course, brought with it benefit from even this minor spurt in the otherwise
some amount of devastation along the coast as well as largely suppressed overall NEM activity.
more than one-metre-high storm surges and sustained At the end of the season, the SPI, which is a
surface winds of 100-110 kilometres per hour speed. measure of rainfall-based wetness/dryness of a region,
But it also brought heavy to very heavy rainfall days in indicated moderately dry to extremely dry over most of
various parts of TN (where even extremely heavy the NEM region during October-December 2016. The
rainfall days occurred), CAP and RYS. prevailing heat wave over the southern States have only
Besides the above unfavourable meteorological accentuated this condition. The satisfactory reservoir
conditions, there were other meteorological factors that position, thanks to the excess rainfall during NEM
have identified influence over the performance of the 2015, unfortunately got undone because of the poor
NEM, which too were unfavourable. As noted earlier, SWM 2016 over the southern region. Otherwise, the
the MJO activity was unfavourable during the entire extreme drought situation prevailing now could have
season. There were also strong westerly wind been reasonably managed.
anomalies, which prevented proper north-easterly DROUGHT CRISIS MANAGEMENT
winds to blow over the southern peninsular region. The PLAN
equatorial trough had migrated too far to southern It sets out four important measures that a State
latitudes closer to the equator, rather than being over government should take at the time of a drought, with
the Indian southern region, which could otherwise have the Union governments help.
assisted enhanced precipitation. The locations of the 1. It should use the Mahatma Gandhi National
Siberian High (compared with 2015) were unfavourable Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS)
for strong movement of north-easterlies that would to provide immediate employment to drought-affected
have resulted in a good monsoon. Also, except for the people.
solitary instance that got deflected towards Sri Lanka, 2. The public distribution mechanism should be
there was general lack of easterly wave activity in the strengthened to provide food and fodder as a measure
latitude belt (8-12 N) of relevance to the NEM. to sustain the rural economy.
Despite two low pressure systems crossing the 3. The government should initiate actions to
TN coast and easterly wave troughs traversing over the recharge the groundwater table by building check dams
the Bay of Bengal, the NEM rainfall of 2016 ended up

DROUGHT SCAN INDIA
MONTHLY FOCUS

and providing pipeline water and other irrigation Employment generation and social welfare
facilities. practices
4. The government should either waive off or Several programmes of the Government of
defer farmer loans and arrange for crop loss India help build resilience of communities against
compensation. drought. The National Mission for Green India, aims at
The Union Ministry of Agriculture is the nodal improving the quality of forest cover. Currently, there is
Ministry in respect of monitoring and managing an outlay of 2.14 billion dollar, for a period of 2012-17,
drought conditions. Over the years, Indias drought to address 2.8 million hectares (mha) of degraded lands
management strategies have contributed to overall and enhance livelihoods of the people dependent on
development. For example, the drought of 19651967 them.
encouraged the green revolution, after the 1972 The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural
drought employment generation programmes were Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) has a
developed for the rural poor. In the last few years, strong focus on land, water and afforestation activities
India has shifted its focus from relief centric to the Similarly the Integrated Watershed Management
present drought management strategy. It includes Programme (IWMP) has targeted development of 75
institutional mechanisms, employment generation and million hectares of rainfed /degraded area in a phased
social welfare practices, community participation and manner during 2007-2027.
operation of EWS. Indias draft National Water Policy address
Institutional mechanism issues such as the water scarcity, inequities in its
India has in place an institutional mechanism distribution and the lack of planning, management and
that ensures coordinated action across ministries. The use of water resources Other programmes include the
National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) and State National Watershed Development Project for Rainfed
Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) constituted under Areas, National Food Security Mission, National
2005 Disaster Management Act, provide immediate Horticulture Mission, Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana,
drought relief to the affected people. For combating National Mission on Micro Irrigation.
the adverse financial impacts of drought, the National Community participation
Agricultural Insurance Scheme (NAIS) was introduced Community participation approach can play a
in 1999 and Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme in key role in effectiveness of government efforts. Under
2007. this Gram Sabha/Panchayat recommend relief works,
The Drought Management Group was Districts and Block-level committees are involved in
constituted to coordinate the efforts to deal with sanctioning and monitoring of relief works and NGOs
drought in various states. The National Disaster play a significant role in training and motivation.
Management Cell monitors the drought situation in Operation of Drought Early Warning
different states, National Calamity Contingency Fund Systems (EWS)
from the Government deals with calamities of severe EWS has two components:
nature. 1. Drought Forecasting
Drought Prone Area Development Programme 2. Drought Monitoring.
and Desert Development Programme use the plans IMD and the National Centre for Medium
prepared on the basis of the integrated estimation. Range Weather Forecasting offer meteorological
Research institutions like the International Crops information support for drought preparedness and
Research Institute for Semi-arid Tropics (ICRISAT); early warning. In order to overcome the limitations of
Central Arid Zone Research Institute; Indian Grassland drought monitoring, the National Agricultural Drought
and Fodder Research Institute are few of the institutes Assessment and Monitoring System (NADAMS)
dealing with drought. project provides near real-time information on

DROUGHT SCAN INDIA
MONTHLY FOCUS

prevalence, severity level & persistence of agricultural
drought.
Drought management practices have reduced
the adverse consequences for the people at large.
However, these efforts need to emphasize more on
environmental conservation and management like using
modern technologies for rainwater harvesting and
groundwater recharge, water conservation at basin or
micro level etc. Further there is a need to enhance
capacity building and skills for early warning system in
light of climate change impacts. There is need of top-
down approach to provide national real-time drought
monitoring and seasonal forecasting, and a bottom-up
approach that builds upon existing regional and local
systems to provide national coverage.

May 2017
IAS EXPRESS
National
1. Somnath Temple, Charminar among new places chosen for Swachh iconic
places initiative
The government has announced the names of ten new Iconic places under the Phase II of
Swachh Iconic Places initiative.
Swachh Iconic Places (SIP) is an initiative of Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation
under Swachh Bharat Mission.
The ten new iconic places that will be undertaken in Phase II of Swachh Iconic Places
initiative are: Gangotri, Yamunotri. Mahakaleshwar Temple (Ujjain), Char Minar
(Hyderabad), Church and Convent of St. Francis of Assissi (Goa), Adi Shankaracharyas
abode Kaladi in Ernakulam, Gomateshwar in Shravanbelgola, Baijnath Dham (Devghar),
Gaya Tirth (Bihar) and Somnath temple in Gujarat.
The ten Iconic places that are already under implementation in Phase I are: Ajmer Sharif
Dargah, CST Mumbai, Golden Temple (Amritsar), Kamakhya Temple (Assam),
Maikarnika Ghat (Varanasi), Meenakshi Temple (Madurai) Shri Mata Vaishno Devi
(Katra, J&K), Shree Jagannath Temple (Puri), The Taj Mahal (Agra), Tirupati Temple
(Tirumala).
The aim of this initiative is to make these places intensely clean and transform them as
model Swachh Tourist Destinations, that will enhance the experience of visitors from
India and abroad.
Under the Swachh Bharat Mission, a special clean-up initiative will be carried out on 100
iconic heritage, spiritual and cultural places in the country.
The Swachh Bharat Mission was launched on 2 October 2014 to make India clean and
open defecation free by 2019 to mark Mahatma Gandhis 150th birth anniversary.
The Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation will be the coordinating Ministry for this
initiative, in association with the Ministry of Urban Development, Ministry of Culture,
Ministry of Tourism and the concerned State governments. So far, under Swachh Bharat
Mission, the sanitation coverage has increased to 64% with 1.92 lakh villages becoming
Open Defecation Free (ODF).
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May 2017
IAS EXPRESS
2. Unique Identification Number for cows.
The central government has informed the Supreme Court that it intends to provide unique
identification number for cows as suggested by an expert committee to track cattle and
prevent their trafficking.
According to the August 2016 report submitted by the committee constituted by the home
ministry, the unique ID will have the details like cattle?s age, breed, sex, height, body
colour, horn type, tail switch, lactation profile (in case of milch cattles) and other special
marks.
The IDs are proposed to be?provided in the form of a polyurethane tag. In addition, the
registration proof has to be maintained by the owner of the cattle which should be
transferred to the next owner in case of legitimate transfer of the cattle. The committee
has also recommended that a state level data base may be http://crackingias.com/kite-
admin/http://crackingias.com/kite-admin/uploaded// to a website that links with a national
online database.
The response of the government was submitted to Supreme Court which was hearing the
PIL filed by Akhil Bharat Krishi Gosewa Sangh.
?According to the government, the recommendations of the panel?will help in stop

trafficking of cattle across the Indo-Bangladesh border and will also prevent
smuggling of cattle to Nepal for being sacrificed at the Gadhimai festival, which is
held once in five years.
Also, as per the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act read with Export
Import Policy (Exim policy) of India requires that cattle can be exported to other countries
only with a valid license from the regional licensing authority.
The allocation of unique ID will alsohelp to prevent cruelty towards the animals.
They can be vaccinated on time and scientific intervention can be made available on time.
It would also pave way for making a uniform act for cow preservation and protection in
India.
3. Indias longest ropeway route to come up between Mumbai and Elephanta

Island

Page 2/27
May 2017
IAS EXPRESS
Indias first and longest ropeway is planned to be constructed by the Mumbai Port Trust
to link Mumbai with the famous Elephanta Island in the Arabian Sea.
Elephanta Island has got global recognition for its famed Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO
World Heritage site.
The 8-km long ropeway will start from Sewri in Mumbais east coast and end at
Elephanta Island at Raigad district.
The 40-minute ride by a 20-seater cable car is expected to boost tourism as it offers a
magnificent view of mudflats on the east coast especially during the flamingo season, the
mangroves as well as the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link to the north.
At present, the islands are accessible only by ferries from the mainland and takes around
an hour for the 10-km cruise. Other details like the cable height and capacity of cars are
being worked out.
4. Indias first sea rope-way to connect Mumbai & Elephanta Island
Indias first and longest ropeway is planned to be constructed by the Mumbai Port Trust
to link Mumbai with the famous Elephanta Island in the Arabian Sea.
Elephanta Island has got global recognition for its famed Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO
World Heritage site.
The 8-km long ropeway will start from Sewri in Mumbais east coast and end at
Elephanta Island at Raigad district.
The 40-minute ride by a 20-seater cable car is expected to boost tourism as it offers a
magnificent view of mudflats on the east coast especially during the flamingo season, the
mangroves as well as the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link to the north.
At present, the islands are accessible only by ferries from the mainland and takes around
an hour for the 10-km cruise. Other details like the cable height and capacity of cars are
being worked out.

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5. India has become worlds second largest LPG importer
India has become worlds second largest LPG importer, a position that was previously
occupied by Japan.
China remains as the worlds top importer.
According to Petroleum Planning & Analysis Cell, LPG imports in the country has
increased 23% during the financial year 2016-2017 to about 11 million tonnes.
The main reason behind the increase in the consumption of LPG in India is due to the two
government schemes coupled with free gas connections.
From May 2016, the government is providing free cooking gas connections to women
from extremely poor households, to reduce the use of polluting fuels such as wood and
dried cow dung.
This has increased Indias active LPG users to about 200 million, which is 60% more
than Japans entire population.
According to the World Health Organization, polluting fuels used for cooking purposes
results in 1.3 million premature deaths in India every year.
India has set an ambitious target of increasing LPG usage to cover 80% of the households
by March 2019.
As per the present estimates of the oil ministry, demand for fuel will touch 35 million
tonnes by 2031-32 in India.
Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY)
PMUY was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May 2016 with the tagline of
Swachh Indhan, Behtar Jeevan.
The schemes motive is to provide free of cost LPG (cooking gas) connections to women
from BPL Households.
The scheme seeks to empower women and protect their health by shifting them from
traditional cooking based on unclean cooking fuels or on fossil fuels to clean cooking gas.
It is being implemented by Union Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.
The scheme will be implemented over three years time period until the financial year
2018-19.

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6. Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Power Project
Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Power Project
Rewa Ultra Mega Solar (RUMS) project is a joint venture of Solar Energy Corporation of
India and MP Urja Vikas Nigam, where in both parties have 50% stake.
When completed, it will be the worlds largest singlesite solar power project.
International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, is the lead
transaction advisor for this project that will mobilise USD 550 million in private
investment and avoid a million tonnes of GHG (Greenhouse gas) emissions.
Madhya Pradesh government has signed a power purchase agreement (PPA) with the
Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) to supply 24% of electricity generated from the
Rewa ultra mega solar project to be set up in the state.
Solar power sector in India
Indias solar power capacity has crossed 12 GW, with the addition of 5,525 MW solar
power generation capacity last fiscal year.
Among the states, Andhra Pradesh added the maximum solar capacity in 2016-17
(1,294.26 MW), followed by Karnataka (882.38 MW) and Telangana (759.13 MW).
Other major additions were in, Tamil Nadu (630.01 MW), Rajasthan (543 MW), Punjab
(388 MW), Uttar Pradesh (193.24 MW) and Uttarakhand (192.35 MW).
The Centre has set an ambitious target of adding 175 GW of renewable energy capacity
by 2022, which includes 100 GW of solar, 60 GW from wind, 10 GW from bio-power and
5 GW from small hydro-power (up to 25 MW capacity each).
At present, of the 310 GW installed power generation capacity, 46 GW is from renewable

power generation capacities.
7. 31st Meeting of the Central Consumer Protection Council

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Shri Ram Vilas Paswan, Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution,
chaired the 31st Meeting of the Central Consumer Protection Council held recently.
The topics discussed in the meeting included the points put forth by the Members on
challenges in combating adulteration, strengthening the enforcement machinery and
testing Infrastructure, training and capacity Building of all stakeholders.
Consumer Protection Councils
The Consumer Protection Act postulates establishment of Consumer Protection Councils at the
Central and State levels for the purpose of spreading consumer awareness.
The objects of the Councils, as per the Act, shall be to promote and protect the rights of the
consumers such as:
The right to be protected against the marketing of goods and services which are hazardous
to life and property.
The right to be informed about the quality, quantity, potency, purity, standard and price of
goods or services, as the case may be so as to protect the consumer against unfair trade
practices.
The right to be assured, wherever possible, access to a variety of goods and services at
competitive prices.
The right to be heard and to be assured that consumers interests will receive due
consideration at appropriate forums.
The right to seek redressal against unfair trade practices or restrictive trade practices or
unscrupulous exploitation of consumers.
The right to consumer education.
Central Consumer Protection Council
The Consumer Protection Act empowers the Central Government to establish a Central
Consumer Protection Council.
The council consists of the Minister in charge of consumer affairs in the Central
Government as its Chairman and such number of other official and non-official members
representing such interests as may be prescribed.
Under the Consumer Protection Council Rules 1987, the membership of the Council is
restricted to 150 members including the Central Minister in charge of Consumer Affairs
as the Chairman. The term of the Council is three years.
To monitor the implementation of the recommendations of the Council, the Central
Government may constitute a standing working group from amongst the members of the
council under the Chairmanship of the Member Secretary of the Council.

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The Council shall meet as and when necessary, but at least one meeting of the Council
shall be held at such time and place as the Chairman may think fit.
8. SAUNI Yojana
Phase I of SAUNI (Saurashtra Narmada Avtaran Irrigation) project was recently dedicated
to the Nation.
This is the second milestone in the Rs 12,000 crore project to pump Narmada water in 115
dams of arid Saurashtra region after the PM dedicated to public phase-I of the Link-I
canal in August last year.
SAUNI Yojana
Unlike traditional irrigation projects, SAUNI is a linking project, where the water will be filled
in irrigation dams that are already equipped with canal network.
In 2012, Narendra Modi as chief minister of Gujarat had announced the project.
The government has set a target to complete the four phase project by 2019.
This network of canals will then help channel water into farms.
To meet the water demands of Saurashtra region, under the SAUNI scheme, 115 dams
will be provided with excess water of the Sardar Sarovar Dam from the river Narmada.
This will be done through a network of pipelines.
The total cost of the project is Rs. 12,000 crore. In the first phase, the government has
constructed 57km of pipeline, which will fill up 10 dams of three districts of Saurashtra
region.
Does it benefit farmers?
Saurashtra region faces drought-like situation. This project will irrigate over 4 lakh
hectares of land and tackle water woes.
The government claims that when all the 115 dams are filled farmers in 5,000 villages

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will benefit.
Farmers can reap both Kharif and Rabi crop as opposed to Kharif crop cultivation so far
once the project makes more water accessible for agriculture.
Though the project will not be added to the command area under irrigation, it will
strengthen the existing network by providing 1 acre million cubic feet of surplus Narmada
water from the Sardar Sarovar Dam through a new pipeline network connecting existing
dams.
9. INS Chennai dedicated to Chennai
Naval Ship INS Chennai, a P15A Guided Missile Destroyer, was dedicated to
Chennai in the presence of the chief minister of Tamil Nadu and the Flag Officer
Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command.
It is the largest-ever destroyer to be built in India. It is third and last Kolkata-class

guided missile destroyers built under Project 15A.
The indigenously designed ship has state of the art weapons and sensors, stealth features,
an advanced action information system, a comprehensive auxiliary control system, world
class modular living spaces, sophisticated power distribution system and a host of other
advanced features. The ship is capable of undertaking a full spectrum of maritime warfare.
The ship has the formidable prowess of missile technology and has been armed with
supersonic surface to surface BrahMos missiles and Barak-8 long-range surface to
air missiles. The Project 15A Kolkata class are a class of stealth guided missile
destroyers built for Indian Navy. These destroyers are follow-on of the
legendary Project 15 Delhi class destroyers which entered service in the late 1990s.
The class comprises of three ships. INS Kolkata, the first ship of the class got
commissioned on August, 2014. The second ship, INS Kochi, got commissioned on
September, 2015. The third ship, INS Chennai, got commissioned on November, 2016.
10. World Bank Approves $ 375 Million Loan for Developing National
Waterway-1

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The
World Bank has approved a loan of $375 million for capacity augmentation of National
Waterway-1 (NW-1) between Haldia in West Bengal and Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh on the river
Ganga under the Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP).
The project would enable commercial navigation of vessels of 1,500-2,000 deadweight

tonnes capacity along a 1,390-km stretch.
As a part of the project, Inland Waterways Authority of India will set up a River
Information Service System on NW-1, the first of its kind in India.
Besides, three multi-modal terminals, one each at Varanasi, Sahibganj (Jharkhand),
Haldia; and inter-modal terminals at Kalughat and Ghazipur; a navigation lock at Farakka;
and five Roll on-Roll off (Ro-Ro) terminals would be constructed.
Need of the project:
The rail and road corridors of this region have been crippled with heavy traffic and have
become saturated. Hence, the development of NW-1 would pave way for an alternative,
viable, economical, efficient and eco-friendly mode of transport.
Jal Marg Vikas Project
Jal Marg Vikas Project is a project on the river Ganga that envisages the development of

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waterway between Allahabad and Haldia that will cover a distance of 1620 km.
It aims to develop a fairway with three metres depth to enable commercial navigation of at
least 1500 tonne vessels on the river.
The project includes the development of fairway, multi-modal terminals, strengthening of
open river navigation technique, conservancy works, modern River Information System
(RIS) etc.
River Information system
River Information system (RIS) RIS is a combination of modern tracking equipment

comprising of hardware and software designed to optimise transport and traffic processes
in inland water navigation.
The system has the capability to enhance swift electronic data transfer between mobile
vessels and Base stations through advance and real-time exchange of information.
It enables safe and efficient inland water transport by avoiding risks such as (i) Ship-to-
Ship collisions. (ii) Ship-Bridge collisions. (iii) Groundings.
Inland Waterway Authority of India (IWAI) is implementing the RIS in India.
NW-1
National Waterway-1 (NW-1) is a waterway passing through Uttar Pradesh, Bihar,

Jharkhand and West Bengal, potentially serving the major cities of Haldia, Howrah,
Kolkata, Bhagalpur, Patna, Ghazipur, Varanasi, Allahabad and their industrial hinterlands
including several industries located along the Ganga basin.
Inland Waterways Authority of India
Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) is the statutory body in charge of the
waterways in India.
Its headquarters is located in Noida, UP.
Its main function is to build the necessary infrastructure in the inland waterways,
surveying the economic feasibility of new projects and also carrying out administration
and regulation.
11. Monsoon will be normal in 2017: IMD
India will receive normal rains during the June-to-September southwest monsoon season,
the governments weather office said.
Rainfall will be 96% of the long-period average and there is a 38% probability that

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monsoon will be near normal, said K.J. Ramesh director general of India Meteorological
Department (IMD). He added that the normal rains will be good for the economy and
agriculture and rains will be distributed fairly across the country.
The southwest monsoon is considered normal when the rainfall is 96-104% of the long
period average (LPA) and is considered to be above normal when it is between
105-110% of the LPA. Around 49% of Indias workforce depends on agriculture for a
livelihood and 68% of the countrys population resides in rural areas.
The onset of monsoon kick-starts the sowing season for summer crops in the country.
India receives 70% of its annual rainfall during this period which irrigates over half of its
rain-fed lands.
In 2016, the monsoon was normal at 97% of the long-period average after two straight
years of deficit rains. The normal monsoon last year aided a rebound in agriculture growth
to 4.2% (2016-17), after a dismal 1.2% increase and a 0.2% contraction seen in 2015-16
and 2014-15, respectively.
IMD provides the long range forecast for the southwest monsoon rainfall in two
stages. In April, seasonal rainfall for the country as a whole is issued. In early June, these
numbers are updated.
12. Quality Mark Award Scheme for Dairy Cooperatives initiated by NDDB
As part of the innovative initiatives under the White Revolution umbrella Schemes, the
Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries has supported the National Dairy
Development Board (NDDB) developed initiative of Quality Mark Award Scheme for dairy
Cooperatives.
Aim of the scheme
To promote and encourage enhancement of safety, quality and hygiene of milk and milk
products manufactured by dairy cooperatives.
It is also aimed at bringing about process improvement in the entire value chain from
producer to the consumer to ensure availability of safe and quality of milk and products
both for the domestic and foreign market.
Quality Mark Award Scheme

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The Quality Mark Award Scheme for dairy Cooperatives in the country has been
initiated to instill confidence in the consumers for the quality of milk being marketed by
them by ensuring availability of safe and good quality milk and milk products.
The initiative does not propose any new/ additional system for Food Safety and Quality
Management but lays down minimum standards against each link of the processes
required for ensuring quality and safety.
The NDDB is in the process of registering the quality mark logo under Trademarks Act,
1998. The Dairy units which meet the criteria for award of quality mark will be allowed to
use the logo on the package containing milk and milk products.
The award of Quality Mark shall be valid for three years subject to maintenance of
quality, food safety standards and compliance with terms and conditions of the agreement.
National Dairy Development Board
The National Dairy Development Board is an institution of national importance set up by an Act
of Parliament of India.
It was founded by Dr. Verghese Kurien.

The National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) was created in 1965, fulfilling the desire
of the then prime minister of India the late Lal Bahadur Shastri to extend the success of
the Kaira Cooperative Milk Producers Union (Amul) to other parts of India.
The main office is in Anand, Gujarat with regional offices throughout the country.
NDDBs subsidiaries include IDMC Limited-Anand, Mother Dairy, Delhi, NDDB Dairy
Services, Delhi and Indian Immunologicals Ltd, Hyderabad.
Functions of NDDB
NDDB is extending financial and technical support to dairy cooperatives.

NDDB is implementing National Dairy Plan phase-1 (NDP-1), a central sector scheme of
Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India to increase milk production in the country.
13. "Unique Identification Number Sequences for cows and their progeny to
protect them from cattle smuggling
In a bid to avail better protection of cows and prohibition of smuggling of cattle across India and
Bangladesh border, the Centre in its report to the Supreme Court said each cow and its progeny
across India should get a Unique Identification Number (UID).
A government committee has also iterated the same.

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The plan is the brainchild of the Union Agriculture Ministry for tamper-proof
identification of cattle using polyurethene tags with a Unique Identification Number
Sequence.
Need for tagging:
Cattle smuggling has become a by-product of the dairy industry. Stray, retired and
abandoned cattle face high risk of falling into smugglers hands.
Important recommendations made by the committee:
The responsibility of safety and care of abandoned animals is mainly of the state
government.
Every district should have a shelter home of the capacity of at least 500 animals for
abandoned animals. This will help reduce the smuggling of abandoned animals.
Special care should be given to cattle beyond the age of milking, adding the animals that
stop milking are mainly smuggled outside India.
Scheme should be launched for farmers in distress so that they do not sell animals that are
beyond milking age. Funding of shelter homes should be done by the State Government.
The existing shelter homes lack facility and human resources.
Each animal be tagged with proper records of identification details, including age, breed,
sex, lactation, height, body, colour, horn type, tail switch and special marks.
14. National Waterway-1(River Ganga)
In a major boost towards realising countrys ambitious inland waterways project, the
World Bank has approved a $375 million loan for capacity augmentation of National
Waterway-1(River Ganga) under Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP).
The government is developing NW-1 (River Ganga) under JMVP from Haldia to Varanasi
(1390 Km) with the technical and financial assistance of the World Bank at an estimated
cost of Rs 5369 crore. The project would enable commercial navigation of vessels with
capacity of 1500-2,000 DWT.
Under the project, there are going to be three multi-modal terminals--one each at Varanasi
(Uttar Pradesh), Sahibganj (Jharkhand), and Haldia (West Bengal), two inter-modal
terminals- at Kalughat and Ghazipur, a new Navigation Lock at Farakka, five Roll on-Roll
off (Ro-Ro) terminals, development of Ferry services at Varanasi, Patna, Bhagalpur,

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Munger, Kolkata and Haldia and Vessel repair and maintenance facilities.
15. Paika rebellion
Descendants of 16 families associated with a little-known but bloody rebellion against British
colonialism, called the Paika rebellion of 1817 will be felicitated by the Prime Minister.
Paika rebellion
Two-hundred years ago in 1817, a valiant uprising of soldiers led by Buxi Jagabandhu
(Bidyadhar Mohapatra) took place in Khurda of Odisha. This is known as Paika rebellion.
The Paikas were the traditional land-owning militia of Odisha and served as warriors.
When armies of the East India Company overran most of Odisha in 1803, the Raja of
Khurda lost his primacy and the power and prestige of the Paikas went on a decline.
The British were not comfortable with these aggressive, warlike new subjects and set up
a commission under Walter Ewer to look into the issue.
The commission recommended that the hereditary rent-free lands granted to the Paikas be
taken over by the British administration and this recommendation was zealously adhered
to. They revolted against the British.
However, the rebellion had several other underlying causes like the rise in the price of
salt, abolition of the cowrie currency for payment of taxes and an overtly extortionist land
revenue policy.
Although initially the Company struggled to respond they managed to put down the
rebellion by May 1817. Many of the Paik leaders were hung or deported. Jagabandhu
surrendered in 1825.
16. UP Signs Power For All Agreement With Centre
The Uttar Pradesh government has signed Power for All pact with the Centre to provide 247
power supply to all the households in the State.
With this signing of the agreement, Uttar Pradesh which was the only state in the country
which did not join the central government scheme has finally joined in it.
Power for All scheme
Power for All scheme is a joint initiative of the central and state governments, with the

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objective of providing 24X7 electricity to all households, industry, commercial businesses
and other electricity-consuming entities within the time span of four years.
The government strives to provide 247 power across the country by 2019.
17. Advertising Standards Council of India issues new ad norms for celebrities
Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI), the ad industrys self-regulatory body, has
released a set of guidelines for celebrity endorsements that bring personalities, including doctors,
authors, activists and educationists, into the celebrity category.
The guidelines aim to clamp down on random or exaggerated claims made by celebrity
advertising.
Objective of the move:
The objective of this move is to protect consumer interest while encouraging celebrities and
advertisers to refrain from endorsing misleading advertisements, especially of products or
services which can cause serious financial loss or physical harm.
Background:
Celebrities have a strong influence on consumers and are guided by the choices they make or
endorse. Its important that both celebrities and advertisers are aware of the impact and power of
advertising and therefore make responsible claims to promote products or services
Important guidelines:
From now on, celebrities will be held responsible for the claims made in ads in which they
appear.
Celebrities must do due diligence and ensure that the claims made in their endorsements
are not misleading.
The council puts the onus on the advertiser and the advertising agency to ensure that
celebrity brand endorsers are aware of ASCI codes.
Celebrities are also banned from endorsing any advertisement of a product or treatment
or remedy that is prohibited for advertising under the Drugs & Magic Remedies
(Objectionable Advertisements) Act and the Drugs & Cosmetic Act.
Celebrities are also banned from appearing in any ad in which a product which by law
requires a health warning is injurious to health on its packaging or advertisement.
If a celebrity seeks advice directly or through the agency from ASCI on whether the
advertisement potentially violates any provisions of the ASCI code or not, then the he

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would be considered as having completed due diligence. However, ASCIs Advertising
Advice will not be construed as pre-clearance of the Advertisement.
Significance of this move:
Celebrities have been deployed by marketers to add credibility to their brand offering.
These celebrities, however, have a huge responsibility to ensure that the products they
endorse or feature in, are true to the claims made in those advertising messages.
The guidelines will help in ensuring that claims made in advertising are not misleading,
false or go unsubstantiated.
ASCI:
The Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI), established in 1985, is committed to

the cause of Self-Regulation in Advertising, ensuring the protection of the interests of
consumers.
ASCI was formed with the support of all four sectors connected with Advertising
Advertisers, Advertising Agencies, Media (including Broadcasters and the Press) and
others like PR Agencies and Market Research Companies.
ASCI is not a Government body, nor does it formulate rules for the public or for the
relevant industries.
Objectives of ASCI:
ASCIs goals include monitoring, administering and promoting standards of advertising

practices in India with a view to:
Ensuring truthfulness and honesty of representations and claims made through advertising
and safeguarding against misleading advertising.
Ensuring that advertising is not offensive to generally accepted norms and standards of
public decency.
Safeguarding against indiscriminate use of advertising for promotion of products or
services which are generally regarded as hazardous to society or to individuals or which
are unacceptable to society as a whole.
Ensuring that advertisements observe fairness in competition and the canons of generally
accepted competitive behavior.
18. E-Cinepramaan
Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Shri M Venkaiah Naidu has said that E-Cinepramaan
the Online Film Certification System of CBFC would facilitate the Honble Prime Ministers

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vision of Ease of Doing Business and Digital India. The complete automation of the Film
Certification Process would enable Good Governance making the entire process transparent and
efficient.
Objectives
The objective is to eliminate the need for human interface to the extent possible. The new online
certification system would be an important step in making the CBFC Office paper less and would
enable effective monitoring & real time progress tracking for both CBFC Officials and the
applicant (Producers). More online initiatives would be introduced in the Ministry as part of the
roadmap for transparent Governance. The Minister stated this at the launch function of the Online
Film Certification System of CBFC here today.
Salient features
In the e-cinepramaan, the status of each application would be visible online in the
dashboard of the producer/concerned CBFC official.
In case of short films/promos/trailers less than 10 minutes, even for Examination purposes
also, the producer need not visit the Office/Theatre. They can merely submit their
creations online.
For films longer than 10 minutes, the applicant will only have to show the film at the
Examining theatre and will not have to visit the CBFC Offices at all except to collect their
certificates.
The producer/applicant would be informed by SMS/e-mail of the status of their
application and any action needed, beginning from the receipt of application to the
certificate collection.
The transparency in the system and elimination of middle men would mitigate chances of
any corruption and would also avoid allegations of jumping the queue or rigging up of
Examination committees.
The implementation of QR code on the certificates would eliminate chances of fraudulent
certificates.
The system envisages a robust MIS system for performance tracking and efficient
reporting.
The system has inbuilt alerts depending on the pendency of the application to ensure that
time limits prescribed by the Rules are not violated.
Simultaneously, a new CBFC Website has also been developed bringing in new user
friendly features and important information at the click of a button.
19. Car Pool Lane formula in India

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Pollution in Delhi is a growing emergency and could reach real dangerous levels if treated with
the usual sluggish, ad hoc measures.
Present scenario:
There are an unstoppable number of private cars, adding their share of pollution to Delhi
every day, while at the same time, the public transport system in the Capital is highly
inadequate with a reported 50% shortage in buses.
Delhi governments Odd-Even formula may not produce the intended results unless
further options are explored.
Car Pool Lane can be adopted as it can help fight pollution and complement public transport.
What is Car Pool Lane formula?
The CPL formula, also known as the high occupancy vehicle (HOV) facility reserves one
lane, the fastest, on selected roads for cars carrying more than one occupant.
Single occupant cars are thus confined to the remaining lanes.
The greater number gets priority. Not the affluent, opulent, single fellow traveller.
Global experiences:
This system was first applied, though not exactly as an alternative to the odd-even
formula, in the US in 1969.
It continues to be in place in a number of other countries such as Canada, parts of Europe,
Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia and China.
These countries have adopted the CPL to suit their varying needs; they have gradually
evolved over time.
The US and other countries impose very heavy fines on violators of the CPL. As the CPL
will be applied to limited areas, monitoring arrangements through technology and manual
checks can be effectively mounted.
Advantages of CPL:
The CPL encourages both even and odd numbered cars to carry more people and ensures
them a speedier journey. Hence, a reduced number of cars on the road
It also encourages willing participation of car owners, thus promoting happy sharing and
car-pooling.
In road-unsafe cities like Delhi, where unruly criss-cross driving is more of a rule, the car
pool lane can provide a significant incentive toward cultivating a more civilised driving
culture.

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Interesting data:
A 2005 compilation in the US revealed interesting data: The HOV facility in the morning peak
hours carried nearly 32,000 people in 8,600 vehicles when other lanes carried 23,500 people in
21,300 vehicles. The travel time was 29 minutes in the CPL as against 64 minutes in the other
lanes
Is it feasible in India?
Author admits that
Implementing CPL in India is indeed a humongous task but ways can be explored and
CPL can be out in place selectively.
In some of the more dense traffic cities, and in some of their zones covering important
services and institutions, a beginning can be made. The nitty-gritty of such a system will
need to be worked out.
Suggestion:
To further facilitate the CPL and odd-even working, as well as fighting pollution, use of
public transport can be made free of charge for a limited period when pollution attains
uncontrollable levels, as Paris did recently.
Doubts:
There will be many doubts and difficulties, and as we move on, there would be matching answers
and options to meet and smoothen the CPL process. For example,
1. Whether the CPL should be enforced 247, or only on working days, or during certain
designated hours?
2. Whether to fix the minimum number of occupants in a car at two or more?
3. Which other vehicles, like bikes, emergency vehicles, chartered buses can use the CPL?
Conclusion:
It is high time that the CPL facility is put in place in important, fast-growing urban areas across
the country, in addition to or irrespective of the odd-even system.
20. Survey of India launches web portal Nakshe

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The Survey of India (SOI) has launched new web portal called Nakshe to make open
series maps available to Indians for free.
The portal was launched by Union Minister for Science & Technology and Earth
Sciences, Harsh Vardhan on the occasion of 250th anniversary of SOI.
It will offer free download of 3,000 Topographic maps or Open Series Maps (OSM) in a
pdf format on 1:50,000 scale through Aaadhar enabled user authentication process.
The maps are meant for development activities in the country, and can be also used to
plan scientific expeditions, research and planning development projects. Topographic
maps or OSM comprise natural and man-made geographical features including terrain or
topography.
21. Ken-Betwa link gets forest panel's nod but with reservations
The forest advisory committee (FAC), an expert body that advises the government on
approval or rejection of major projects involving diversion of forest land has recently
recommended the Ken-Betwa river link project (phase 1) in Madhya Pradesh for forest
clearance.
About 4141 ha of the total area to be submerged falls within the core Panna Tiger
Reserve (PTR).
FAC has recommended that the loss of forest land has to be compensated by purchasing
revenue or other non-forest land.
The project proponents and the government should compensate the loss of forestland and
tiger habitat through purchase and transfer to PTR equivalent revenue and private land.
The panel also recommended that the height of Dhaudan dam be re-examined to
conserve a part of the tiger reserve.
FAC suggested the height of the dam may be reduced by 10 meters if not at least 5 meters
as a trade-off between conservation and development.

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22. Gandhi's satyagraha centenary in Champaran
Patna has several landmarks and heritage trails associated with the legacy of Gandhi and
his stay in the capital 100 years ago after he had alighted from a third-class compartment
at Patna railway station (then Bankipore station).
Champaran Satyagraha movement
Mahatma Gandhis first Satygraha was undertaken in the erstwhile undivided Champaran
district in northern Bihar in April 1917 after he learned about the abuses suffered by
farmers, who were forced into growing indigo by British planters/estate owners. The
Champaran tenant, informed Gandhi, was bound by law to plant three out of every
twenty parts of his land with indigo for his landlord. This system was called Tinkathia.
Gandhi was initially reluctant to commit himself to the task but he was so thoroughly
persuaded by indigo cultivator Rajkumar Shukla that he decided to investigate the matter.
Gandhis plan was to carry out an extensive inquiry in the district and demand action
based on its findings. The local authorities did not find Gandhis visit welcoming and
they unsuccessfully tried to dissuade him from undertaking his inquiry. But Gandhi began
his work from the house of Babu Gorakh Prasad in Motihari, headquarters of the district.
During this time, Gandhi was served with a court summon while he was making a spot
visit to a village on an elephant back. Gandhi was charged with violating Section 144 of
CrPC but he refused to leave Champaran. The announcement of his inquiry had already
captivated the imagination of the peasants and his popularity skyrocketed as the news of
his prosecution broke.
On April 18, 1917 when Gandhi appeared in Motihari Court, nearly 2000 local people
accompanied him. The magistrate wanted to defer the trial and as a result, the Motihari
trial collapsed. The then Lieutenant Governor of Bihar had ordered the withdrawal of case
against Gandhi, and the Collector wrote to Gandhi saying he was free to conduct the
inquiry. This small step was a giant leap forward in the history of freedom struggle and
heralded the advent of Gandhian era.
Gandhis method of inquiry was based on surveys by the volunteers. The respondents
who willingly gave statements should sign the papers or give thumb impressions. For
those unwilling to participate, the reasons must be recorded by the volunteers.
The principal volunteers in this survey were mostly lawyers like Babu Rajendra Prasad,

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Dharnidhar Prasad, Gorakh Prasad, Ramnawami Prasad, Sambhusaran and Anugraha
Narain Sinha. Within a month, nearly 4,000 statements were taken.
In the meantime, the Bihar administration grew anxious at Gandhis prolonged stay in
Champaran. Thus on June 4, 1917, Sir Edward Gait, the Lieutenant Governor of Bihar,
declared the formation of a formal inquiry committee with Gandhi aboard. But Gait had to
concede that Gandhi and volunteers could remain in the district and Gandhi would not
cease to be an advocate of the ryats (tenants).
On July 11, 1917, the Champaran Inquiry Committee began its preliminary meeting and
after several sittings and spot visits, it submitted its final report on October 4. The
government accepted almost all its recommendations to the benefit of the ryats. The
principal recommendation accepted was the complete abolition of Tinkathia system.
On November 29, the Champaran Agrarian bill was submitted in the Bihar Legislative
Council. On March 4, 1919, with the formal signature of the Governor General, this bill
turned into a law. Almost a year after Gandhis arrival, the exploitative tinkathia system
had finally been abolished.
The victory at Champaran established Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi in Indias struggle

against the British raj.
23. India - ranked 40th in Tourism and Competitiveness Index
India was ranked 40th among the 136 economies across the world in 2017 Travel and
Tourism Competitiveness Index (TTCI) released by the World Economic Forum
(WEF).
In this edition of index, India has jumped 12 places from earlier 52nd position in 2015.
But it lagged behind its other Asian peers like Japan (4th) and China (13th).
Spain (1st), France (2nd), Germany (3rd), (4th), the United Kingdom (5th), the United
States (6th), Australia (7th), Italy (8th), Canada (9th) and Switzerland (10th).
Globally, advanced economies still hold the top slots, 12 of the top 15 most improved
countries are emerging markets.
Regionally, rise of Asias giants shows that Asian Tourism Century is becoming a reality.
To reach their potential, Asian countries still have more to do, from enhancing security,

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promoting their cultural heritage, building their infrastructure and creating stronger visa
policies.
24. Padayani Dance
Padayani is a traditional folk dance and a ritual art from the central portion of the Indian
state of Kerala. A ceremonial dance involving masks, it is an ancient ritual performed
in Bhagavati temples.
Padayani was performed by magico-medicine men of Kerala to heal the illnesses not
amenable to medical modalities of intervention. It is believed that it is evolved from a
symbolic past reminiscent of fencing march of martial art Kalari. Eventually in Kollam,
Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha and Kottayam districts of Kerala, the Nair folk became the
performers of the modern form of Padayani art, but the design and making of costumes
vested with Kaniyar people.
Features
The dance is performed in honor of Bhadrakaali.
Meaning, a row of warriors, Padayani is an art form that blends music, dance, theatre,
satire, facial masks, and paintings.
Padayani is unique to central Travancore, comprising the Pathanamthitta district of

Kerala.
Padayani is regarded as a remnant of the Dravidian forms of worship that existed

before the advent of Brahmanism.
Kalan Kolam is the major attraction in padayani. This is about a child who is begging his
life to lord siva while death comes in his 16th birthday.
A major attraction of padayani is the song associated with it. Traditionally only a single
type of instrument is used to associate the song, thappu.

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25. Cabinet approves signing of Agreement for CIRDAP establishment Centre in

Hyderabad
The Union Cabinet has given its approval for signing of an Agreement between Ministry of Rural
Development and Centre on Integrated Rural Development for Asia and the Pacific
(CIRDAP) for establishment of CIRDAP Centre at National Institute of Rural Development and
Panchayati Raj (NIRD&PR), Hyderabad.
Significance
CIRDAP Centre in NIRD&PR premises would give NIRD&PR an advantage of having

first-hand knowledge of networking with organizations specialized in rural development
programmes which in turn would help in building a repository of institutional knowledge
for NIRD&PR.
This Centre will also help NIRD&PR to enhance its status in the region through linkages
with other Ministries/Institutes in the CIRDAP Member Countries (CMCs).
The faculty of the NIRD&PR and the Ministry officials would benefit from exchange
visits to the best practices in the CMCs.
CIRDAP
The CIRDAP is a regional Inter Governmental and autonomous institution which came
into existence in 1979 at the initiative of the countries of Asia Pacific region and the Food
and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations (UN) with support from
several other UN bodies and donors.
India is one of the key founder members of this Organisation.
Its Headquarters is located at Dhaka, Bangladesh.
The objective of CIRDAP is to promote regional cooperation and act as a serving
institution for its member countries for promotion of integrated rural development through
research action, training, information dissemination etc.
CIRDAP has one sub regional office in Jakarta, Indonesia. This sub regional office of
CIRDAP in south-east Asia (SOCSEA) was established in Jakarta, Indonesia in 1997.
There are 46 countries in Asia Pacific Region, therefore CIRDAP has great potential for
expansion for which they would be assisted by CIRDAP Centres.
26. Barmer-Munawab, Pipad Road-Bilara rail routes declared as Green

Corridors

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The North Western Railway has declared the Barmer-Munawab and Pipad
Road-Bilara rail routes in Rajasthan as Green Corridors.
With this total number of green corridors has increased to five. The
114-km-long Manamadurai Rameswaram stretch of Southern Railway was Indias
first Green corridor. Okha-Kanalus and Porbandar-Wasjaliya railway sections of
Gujarat also have been declared green corridors.
Green corridor
The Green Corridor ensures zero toilet discharge on rail tracks as part of its commitment
to clean environment under the Swachh Rail-Swachh Bharat initiative. Trains in the
section have been equipped with bio-toilets to ensure zero discharge of human waste on
the rail tracks and preventing corrosion of the tracks.
The green corridor is aimed at contributing towards the 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan' initiated
by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian Railways have set the target of
providing bio-toilets in all the coaches by September 2019
Bio toilets
Indian Railway had developed the environment friendly Bio-toilets, in association with
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Bio-toilets evacuate discharge into a biodigester tank, containing anaerobic bacteria, fitted
underneath the train coach in a small space.
The bacteria convert human faecal matter into water and small amount of gases (including
methane) by process of hydrolysis, acetogenesis, acidogenesis and methanogenesis.
Indian railways aims to install human waste discharge free bio-toilets in all its coaches as
part of the Swachh Bharat Mission by September 2019.
27. Rail Development Authority (RDA)
It will be based in Delhi and will be set up through an executive order. It will be
responsible for recommending passenger fares, setting performance standards for rail
operations and creating level playing policy for private sector participation.
The RDA will be an independent body with separate budget.

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The independence is ensured through separate budget, appointment and removal
process.
It will act within the parameters of the Railway Act, 1989.
It will only make recommendations to the Railway Ministry which will take a final call on
passenger and freight fares.
Primary functions:
(i) Tariff determination: RDA will frame principles, recommend tariffs, principles for
classification of commodities, frame principles for social service obligation and guidelines for
track access charges on dedicated freight corridors.
(ii) Ensuring fair play: It will ensure level-playing field for all stakeholders.
It will propose modifications and send suggestions or advisory notes on investment in

railways.
It will also make suggestions regarding policies for private investment to ensure
reasonable safeguards to PPP investors to ensure level playing field and resolve disputes
regarding future concession agreements.
(iii) Setting standards: It will help to set efficiency and performance standards and disseminate
information in line with global best practices and benchmarking.
It will also collect, analyse and disseminate information and statistics concerning the rail
sector.
>Composition: It will have a Chairman and three members with a fixed term of five
years. Moreover, it will be allowed to engage experts from various fields.
They can be removed by the Centre on grounds such as insolvency, misbehaviour,

conviction, physical and mental incapability. The Chairman and members of the
Authority will be appointed by a Search and Selection Committee headed by the Cabinet
Secretary.
The search committee will also include Railway Board Chairman, Department of
Personnel and Training Secretary and Chairman of any regulatory body of Central
Government nominated by the Cabinet Secretary.

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28. Sahitya Akademi awardees cannot return award: HC
The Delhi High Court ruled that Sahitya Akademi awardees are not eligible to return their awards
as they are granted after considerable deliberations.
In 2015, several writers, poets and artists had returned their awards protesting against the
Akademis silence on the murder of M M Kalburgi as well as against the atmosphere of
intolerance and communalism in the backdrop of the Dadri lynching incident over
rumours of beef consumption.
Opposing the return of awards, a PIL was moved in the high court for framing of
guidelines to return the prize money received along with the awards.
The PIL had also sought framing of norms to protect the sanctity of the Sahitya Akademi
Puraskar as is done for the National symbols.
It had also urged for strong punitive action against those who return such awards.
Courts ruling:
The court dismissed the petition, saying since the Sahitya Akademis Constitution does
not provide for taking back any award once given, the issue sought to be raised by the
petitioners deserves no further consideration.
The court noted that the executive board of the Akademi in 2015 had resolved that awards
once granted cannot be taken back and therefore, there was no need to formulate
guidelines against the return of the awards.

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International
1. First ever United Nations rights in North Korea
North Korea has agreed to host a UN rights expert for the first time, granting access next
week to the special rapporteur on disabled people's rights, the world body said. Catalina
Devandas-Aguilar is scheduled to arrive in the isolated nation on 26 April 2017 following
an invitation from Pyongyang, the UN rights office said in a statement. Her visit "will be
the first ever to the country by an independent expert designated by the UN Human Rights
Council.
The rights council has accused North Korea of committing crimes against humanity
and detaining up to 120,000 people in brutal prison camps.
The North Korean regime last month boycotted a rights council session scrutinising its
record, branding the body's work a "mere political attack".
The upcoming visit marked an important chance to study the situation in the country, with
a particular focus on children living with disabilities.
Pyongyang ratified an international convention on the rights of disabled people, last
December.
She would explore the challenges and opportunities the government faced in
implementing that pact.
During her six-day mission, the expert will visit Pyongyang and the South Hwanghae
Province, followed by a press conference in the capital on the final day, the UN said.
2. Tropical Cyclone Maarutha
A deep depression in Bay of Bengal has intensified into a tropical cyclone named
Maarutha.
This cyclone is expected to hit Myanmar on 17 April 2017 and bring heavy rains in parts
of that country.
Tropical Cyclone Maarutha is the first named storm of 2017 Northern Hemisphere
tropical cyclone season.

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3. Pakistan's Gwadar port leased to Chinese company for 40 years
Pakistan has leased the operations of its strategic Gwadar port to a State-run Chinese
firm, the China Overseas Port Holding Company (COPHC) for a period of 40 years.
COPHC is slated to carry out all the developmental work on the port situated in the
Balochistan province of Pakistan.
COPHC took over the operations of the port in 2013. Previously, the control of the
Gwadar port was with Singapores PSA (Port of Singapore Authority) International.
As per the contract, 91% share of revenue collection from gross revenue of terminal and
marine operations as well as 85% share from gross revenue of free zone operation will go
to the COPHC.
The provinces will not be given any share in the revenue collection.
Gwadar Port is a warm-water, deep-sea port situated on the Arabian Sea at Gwadar in
Balochistan province of Pakistan. It is located at the mouth of the Persian Gulf just
outside the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
It features as the southern Pakistan hub of the $57 billion China-Pakistan Economic
Corridor (CPEC) plan. It is considered as a vital link between the Chinese One Belt, One
Road initiative and the Maritime Silk Road project.
Advantages for China
Gwadar offers China a shortest route to oil-rich West Asia and Africa.
China can use the port to transport fuel into north-western China, by transporting oil and
gas from the port through pipelines to Chinas Xinjiang province.
Having Gwadar under its command would change the security dynamics for China.
As Chinas oil imports increase, it would prefer to insulate its energy transports from the
troubled waters of the Straits of Malacca and the South China Sea.
Implications for India
Gwadar port offers serious strategic implications for India. Gwadar provides China a key
listening post to observe the Indian naval activities around the Persian Gulf and Gulf of
Aden.
The Gwadar port, if fully operationalised, will wean Pakistan away from near-total
dependence on Karachi, which is much closer to India and hence within the Indian
militarys strike range.
Lease of Gwadar port also helps China to encircle India (String of Pearls) and gain
strategic advantage in the region. India has apprehensions that these ports could be used
for military purpose as well.

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4. Climate Change Diplomacy: The Next Step
No country can control the climate risk it faces on its own. Climate change is more
challenging than many other global issues because it is a race against time, delaying
action makes lower climate risk levels unattainable. It also requires profound choices that
impact broad national interest debates such as development, energy, urbanisation and
consumption.
A top down regime is a strong signal to business and investors of political commitment
to emissions reductions targets and timetables. Only a binding regime can convince those
whose capital allocation decisions shape the economy that a high carbon business model
will expose them to greater risk and hit their returns harder than betting now on low
carbon.
Climate diplomacy is the practice and process of creating the international climate change
regime and ensuring its effective operation. The evolution of climate diplomacy therefore
precedes and shapes the construction of the climate regime.
In 2011, the European External Action Service (EEAS) defined three pillars of climate
diplomacy: promotion of ambitious climate action, support for the implementation of
climate policies and measures, and activities in the area of climate change and
international security.
Climate diplomacy has shifted from a relatively narrow focus on the UNFCCC process, to
a more complex and wider discipline that now engages new constituencies and embraces
broader geopolitical discussions.
This is a sign of success and the regimes growing relevance to a wide range of actors.
However, deeper and more intensive international diplomacy is necessary to counteract
and harness this increasing diversity of stakeholders that tend to complicate the basis for
international cooperation.
Paris Deal signed
175 countries of the world, including India, signed the Paris Accord on Climate Change,
to which all had agreed during the climate negotiations in Paris in December 2015. The
signing underlines the intention of countries to adhere to the negotiated accord. Each
country will also have to carry out a separate formal process to ratify the accord; that is, to
legally adopt it at a national level to enable implementation.
The Paris Accord is a huge step forward in international climate change diplomacy. At its

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core, is the process of universal, self-proposed ratcheted pledgeseach country will
pledge national actions which address climate change over an agreed time period (in the
first instance from 2020 to 2030, and then every five years after that), and then pledge to
do more over the next time period.
This is important because the first set of pledges is inadequate for the world to accomplish
the agreed goal of limiting global temperature rise to much less than 2 degree C.
Consequently, national pledging, achieving the pledges, and then pledging more is the
mantra of the accord.
As countries achieve their pledges, they will also be able to build confidence in their
abilities to achieve their pledges and trust in other countries to deliver on their pledges as
well. This virtuous cycle of trust and confidence will, we hope, move the world towards a
less-than- 2 degrees C temperature-rise future.
The accord also recognises that countries and their citizens need to be constantly nudged
and reminded of their commitment to achieve their pledges.
Another key element of the accord, is the transparency mechanism through which all
countries will periodically report on their actions to achieve their pledges, and on the
impact of these actions.
Early implementation would prevent the drift that set in with the Kyoto protocol in the
1990s and crucially with Donald Trumps ascendancy in the Republican presidential
primarie impose a four-year delay on any future leaders seeking to exit the agreement.
If countries do not make deep emissions cuts by 2020, they will miss their chance to hit
the Paris goal of limiting warming to 1.5-2C leaders and campaign groups warned.
The next phase is even more challenging as governments and businesses move to phase
out carbon emissions from the global economy, first by targeting economic sectors that
were left out of the Paris agreement.
About 15-20 countries including major oil producing states like Saudi Arabia, Iraq,
Nigeria and Kazakhstan, whose economies are likely to take a substantial hit because of a
faster shift to renewable energies dictated by climate change, did not become a part of the
summit. Syria and Yemen also did not show up. Even Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan
didnt show up.
Why is Paris Accord such a big deal?

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The Paris Agreement is perhaps the worlds biggest leap forward in climate change
policy in history.
The United Nations had been trying for decades to get countries to agree on a framework
for fighting climate change, which is a unique problem in that it requires the cooperation
of polluters around the world.
The Paris Agreement sets in motion a process for steep emissions cuts and it establishes
the important goal of limiting warming to only 1.5 or 2 degrees Celsius above
preindustrial levels.
Symbolically, the agreement shows something that never has been apparent before: The
world is united on this issue. We finally are starting to recognise we have a moral
responsibility to act.
The intensifying impact of climate change, and the necessity for further evolution of the
international regime, coupled with the lack of agreement around a legally binding
outcome so close to the end of the first commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol, had
heightened the crucial role of international negotiations, especially for small and
developing states.The United Nations General Assemblynand United Nations Security
Council have both stated that uncontrolled climate change poses a threat to international
peace and security.
And now that countries around the world have set their goals, our skill in developing and
deploying clean energy technologies will be critical to achieving those goals , and to
ratcheting up goals for the future.
What Challenges remain ?
About 15-20 countries including major oil producing states like Saudi Arabia, Iraq,
Nigeria and Kazakhstan, whose economies are likely to take a substantial hit because of a
faster shift to renewable energies dictated by climate change, did not attend. Syria and
Yemen also did not show up. Nor did Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan show up.
For its operationalisation, the Paris Agreement requires the signing and ratification by at
least 55 countries which together account for at least 55 per cent of global greenhouse gas
emissions. Both conditions need to be met.
The Paris Agreement sets in place a process for countries to cut emissions, report on their
progress and be held responsible to each other. Its seen as a critical first step and
a revolutionary turning point. But the big challenge is we have to turn these words that

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are on paper into actual action on the ground.
How to get the major polluters on board remains a challenge.
When it comes to climate change, we dont have much time. We need to think and act
fast. The changing weather conditions, unexpected rains,floods,droughts,tsunami, etc are
all result of human induced changes.
The only way to mitigate the worst effects of climate change is to reduce global
emissions. That hasnt happened yet, and COP21 will remain a dead letter unless it does.
What Next?
Climate diplomacy must manage political trade-offs. Balancing conflicting economic,

energy, climate change and diplomatic goals requires policy coordination at the highest
level.
Given the importance of limiting climate risks, climate diplomacy is still relatively under-
resourced in all countries, and seldom integrated as a top priority into broader foreign
policy processes.
Stronger top-down and bottom-up action is needed, but must be seen as

complementary, and not competing modes of action. This regime can only work if it rests
on strong national climate change programmes which are rooted in domestic political
consensus and national development processes. Global action, whether on human rights,
environment, trade or gender issues has always involved reciprocity between global,
regional and national activity.
Delivering an effective climate diplomacy strategy is beyond the capacity of any one
department, no matter how powerful. As with other major foreign policy issues such as
conflict prevention and non-proliferation effective international action requires a whole
of government approach. However, this is easier said than implemented, and the
experience of other policy areas shows the difficultly in aligning country interests,
resources and political activity around complex cross- cutting issues.
It is very important for any climate deal to work out, else we will be left directionless and
,alters will worsen.

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5. Sarin, the Deadly Nerve Gas Likely Used in Syria
The United
States believes the Syrian government employed a sarin-like nerve agent in recent deadly
attack in the countrys northwest.
The name sarin comes from the chemists who discovered it by chance: Schrader, Ambros,
Ruediger et Van der Linde.
Originally conceived as a pesticide, sarin was used by Iraqi dictator Saddam Husseins
regime to gas thousands of Kurds in the northern town of Halabja in 1988.
Inhaled or absorbed through the skin, the gas kills by crippling the respiratory center of
the central nervous system and paralysing the muscles around the lungs.
The combination results in death by suffocation, and sarin can contaminate food or water
supplies, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Symptoms of exposure to the agent include nausea and violent headaches, blurred vision,
drooling, muscle convulsions, respiratory arrest and loss of consciousness.
Sarin is 26 times more deadly than cyanide gas. Even when it does not kill, sarins effects
can cause permanent harm damaging a victims lungs, eyes and central nervous system.
Heavier than air, the gas can linger in an area for up to six hours, depending on weather
conditions.
6. Syria The Living Hell
The Syrian military has suspected to have dropped chemical agent on 04 April 2017 into
the rebel held town of Khan Sheikhoun, located in the north-western province of Idlib.
The attack killed 86 people, including at least 10 children and left civilians and rebels
convulsing, foaming at the mouth and unable to breathe. It was further reported that the
airstrikes continued in the area even on 05 April 2017.
While Russia standing in support of the Syrian President, Bashar al-Assads action,
admitted that the Syrian military had conducted the strike on April 04th, but said that it
had hit a weapons depot holding toxic weapons, which resulted in the toxins to spread
in the air and cause the deaths.
However, the international powers, such as the US, Israel, Turkey, France and Britain, did
not buy this argument and accused the Syrian regime of targeting civilians with chemical
weapons.

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The UN Security Council decided to vote on a resolution against the Syrian regime. The
US President Donald Trump cancelled the vote, instead opted to order strikes against a
Syrian military airfield near the central city of Homs.
The US, in its first direct military action against forces loyal to the Assad regime launched
59 Tomahawk cruise missiles, which, according to the Syrian military killed six Syrian
soldiers and destroyed nine jets.
The US designated the attack to serve as a deterrent towards the future use of chemical
weapons against civilians by the Syrian forces. The Syrian government on the other hand
called the attack an act of blatant aggression, one that was aimed at undermining the
efforts of Syria and its allies (Russia) to fight against extremists in the country.
There are multiple stake holders in the Syrian conflict with varied interests and at the
receiving end are innocent civilians who are caught up in this power struggle of the devil
and the deep blue sea.
Background Perspective
The unrest in Syria began as a part of the popular movement referred to as the Arab Spring that
started from Tunisia in 2010 and then swept across the Middle East and North African countries
like Egypt and Libya, Syria, Yemen, Bahrain, and several other countries.
The demand of the protestors was to end the many decades long autocratic and undemocratic
regimes of the likes of Muammar Gaddafi of Libya, Hosni Mubarak of Egypt, etc.
The power vacuum that was so created after the removal of the authoritarian rulers of these
countries; lend itself to political instability that provided a safe haven to terrorist groups like Al
Qaeda that found an opportunity to acquire greater strength by:
Firstly, absorbing the elements of terrorist syndicate that had fled from Afghanistan-
Pakistan region to escape the American led coalition forces.
Secondly, after US attack on Iraq and subsequent change of regime from Sunni ruler
Saddam Hussein to aShiites government, which started committing atrocities against the Sunni
population, resulted in large number of Sunnis to join the militant cadres of Al Qaeda.
Levant includes the areas of Libya and Sinai Peninsula of Egypt. In March 2011, scarcely a
month after Mubarak was deposed; anti-government demonstrators in many cities across Syria
started protesting against the authoritarian rule of President Bashar al-Assad, whose family has
ruled Syria for more than 40 years.

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Contours of Syrian Conflict
Syria became an independent republic in 1946 and has had a history of military coups,
with short spurts of democratic rule after a popular uprising from 1958 to 1961.
Thereafter, the Parliamentary system was replaced with a highly centralized Presidential
regime.
General Hafez al-Asad, the Minister of Defence seized power and declared himself
President in March 1971. His rule lasted till his death in 2000 and was automatically
succeeded by his son, the present President, Bashar al-Assad.
Sunni Muslims constitute three fourth of the population of Syria. The ruling Assad family
comes from a minority Alawite religious group that is an offshoot of the Shiite Muslim
faction. This 12% strong community has had a tight control over the Syrian military
services and constitutes the ruling elite.
Discontentment against the government progressively grew owing to inequality in the

distribution of resources, rampant corruption, curbing/ violation of human rights, poverty
and widespread deprivation. The strongest protest came from Syria's poor areas,
predominantly among conservative Sunnis.
The first protests started on 15 March 2011, when protesters marched in the Syrian capital
of Damascus demanding democratic reforms and the release of political prisoners.
The Syrian security forces retaliated with disproportionate force causing a huge collateral
damage thus further instigating the rebellion.
The consequent unprecedented civilian casualties drew a lot of flak for the Asad regime
worldwide.
On 29 July 2011, seven defecting Syrian officers formed the Free Syrian Army (FSA),
composed of defected Syrian Armed Forces officers and soldiers, aiming "to bring this
regime (the Assad government) down" with united opposition forces.
The rebel forces grew in strength over the years and were covertly supplied with
sophisticated weaponry from US by Saudi Arabia, the closest US ally in the region and
the biggest Sunni country of Middle East that wants to see the ouster of the Shiite regime
of Assad.
In the meanwhile the most dreaded militant organisation that has designs to form an
Islamic Caliphate in the region, The Islamic State saw an opportunity to garner support by
getting into the fray.

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As Islamic State started gaining territory in North and Eastern Syria, the conflict in Syria
became more than just a battle between those, for or against President Assad.
In September 2014, US, UK and some other countries joined forces to air attack ground
forces of IS.
Russia has had strong traditional ties with President Assad's Syrian government and has
helped Syria in the past by supplying weapons. However, Russia physically joined into
the fight by end of 2015 and launched air strikes against the rebels with devastating
effects.
Events Leading up to the Present Chaos
The Arab Spring protests descended into a civil war in Syria in 2011. Aleppo, an
ancient city of 2.3 million people, which was once Syrias main industrial and financial
centre, assumed great significance as it was a key base for a number of different rebel
factions opposed to the Assad regime.
The rebels operated from Aleppo with impunity till the summer of 2015 and Assad was
widely understood to be losing ground around the country, and possibly his grip on
power.
However, in response to his call for assistance from his international patrons, mainly,
Russia and Iran, he was able to mount a consequential offensive against the rebels.
Russia sent warplanes, attack helicopters, artillery pieces, and significant numbers of
military advisers. Iran sent in paramilitary operatives and battle-hardened fighters from
Hezbollah, its Lebanon-based proxy.
The pro-government troops had made significant advances around the city by end
December 2015 and, by February 2016, had nearly surrounded it.
The Assad regime, with significant support from Iran, imposed a blockade on rebel areas,
cutting off supplies to some 320,000 people. The rebels briefly broke the siege in late July
2016, but Assads forces re-imposed it in September 2016.
It is believed that the pro-government forces launched a campaign to systematically

destroy the medical facilities in rebel-held parts of the city, killing or wounding many of
its remaining doctors and nurses. The destruction left more than a quarter-million people
in eastern Aleppo without hospital care.

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Finally, by mid of December 2016, Assads forces have taken 90 percent of rebel
holdings in eastern Aleppo, reducing the city to rubble with unspeakable devastation and
gory tales of disaster etched on its backdrop.
Syria: a Battle Ground for a Proxy War between US & Russia and Saudi Arabia & Iran
The Syrian war has three separate dimensions:
First: Ouster of President Asad and Change of Regime
The two opposing sides comprise of the following:
1. The Syrian security forces, with the support of one of the largest Shiite country of the
Middle East, i.e. Iran, Lebanese Shiite militant group, Hezbollah and is being physically
assisted by Russia and morally by China.
2. The Syrian rebels, with the tacit support of the largest Sunni country of Middle East, i.e.
Saudi Arabia, Sunni militant factions like Al Qaeda and are being supported by US and its
European allies.
What needs to be understood here is that while US and Russia stand united on the fight
against IS, they are on the opposing sides on the issue of toppling President of Syria, Bashar al-
Asad.
The entry of Russia into the Syrian conflict further intensified the proxy war between US
and Russia.
United States and its Arab allies, mainly Saudi Arabia are known to have be supplying
large numbers of hi-tech weapons like the TOW missiles to the rebels, who are striking at the
Russian made vehicles being driven around by the Syrian forces and their Arab allies, like Iran/
Hezbollah.
US has been accusing Russia of targeting Western-backed moderate rebels and not the IS
targets alone to prop up the Asad regime. However, Russia has negated US claims and President
Putin blames US for not sharing the list of targets with Moscow.
The recent chemical attack by Syrian forces on the rebel held town, followed by the US
military intervention against Syrian military, is likely to only escalate and confuse the overall
political aims of the participants in that conflict.

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Second: Fight against the Islamic State
The Islamic State militant outfit is being countered by the Arab Coalition Forces led by
Saudi Arabia, supported by US and its European allies and also Russia.
The reason for US and its allies not sending ground troops to fight IS, is that, it fear that
the same may escalate the situation by providing cannon fire to the highly effective
Islamic State propaganda machinery.
The anti-West propaganda is likely to unite the Arabs world and it is likely to lead to an
all out West vs. Arab conflict. Perhaps this is the broader strategy that Islamic State has
been working on, while it is often seen mocking the West, provoking and daring them to
attack.
Third: Turf War between Sunnis and the Shiite Muslim Factions
The two heavy weights of the Middle East, i.e. Saudi Arabia (Sunni) and Iran (Shia) are
fighting for dominance by aiding their own factions of militant outfits operating in the
region.
The Shiite militant groups like Hezbollah of Lebanon and Houthis of Yemen are being
supported by Iran, while the Sunni militant groups like the Al Qaeda and ISIS is being
supported by Saudi Arabia.
Aleppo, a Synonym for Hell
This unfortunate struggle for dominance by various forces operating in the region has
already led to an estimated 300,000 deaths, about 4.8 million refugees and another 6.1
million displaced within Syria (50% of Syrian population).
The United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on 16 December 2016 referred to

Aleppo, as a "synonym for hell."
Russia, with virtually no losses of its own troops, has helped Assad retake vital ground
like Aleppo while pushing his opponents closer toward near-total defeat. However,
Assads victory has no bearing on the sufferings of the common people in Aleppo.
UN had brokered a peace deal for evacuation of civilians from the besieged territory and
nearly 100,000 have fled the violence hit area.

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Notwithstanding, the misery of millions of people continues unabated as the bombs rain-
in, not sparing anyone, including the ongoing humanitarian efforts.
Major Reasons for the Recent Chemical Attack on Khan Sheikhoun
It is believed that a large number of rebel fighters may have escaped the city of Aleppo to
seek refuge in and around Idlib province, which is to the south-west of Aleppo.
In case more time is given, the rebels with continued external support could rest, recoup
and reorganise themselves and take on the pro-government forces with greater resilience.
In order to maintain the momentum of their success in Aleppo and to consolidate its gains
the government and its Russian backers chose this region as their next major battleground.
The Assad regime, in its exuberance to finish fast, allegedly used chemical weapons,
which has brought unprecedented flak from the world community and embarrassed their
all time ally Russia.
Though Russia still maintains that the chemicals were dispersed when Syrian warplanes
bombed a facility where rebels were building chemical weapons.
The Assad regime as per record and as per an agreed UN resolution of 2013 is supposed
to have declared and destroyed all its chemical weapons.
The UN resolution had come in the wake of the most deadly chemical attack conducted by
the Syrian military on 21 August 2013 on two rebel controlled areas in the suburbs around
Damascus, Syria. Rockets containing chemical agent Sarin were launched resulting in a
death toll range from at least 281 to 1,729 people.
Subsequently, US - Russian negotiations led to the 14 September 2013 "Framework for

Elimination of Syrian Chemical Weapons," which called for the elimination of Syria's
chemical weapon stockpiles by mid-2014.
The UN Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) confirmed on 04

January 2015, that the destruction of chemical weapons by Syria was completed.
Notwithstanding the claims and counter claims, chemical agent was used during the April
04th attack, which resulted in many slow and brutal deaths of innocent civilians. It is
imperative that the world community unites against the use of all forms of chemical
weapons and ensures that similar incident is never ever repeated again.

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Conclusion
Assad regime on the behest of their trusted ally Russia has made a strategic blunder by
using the chemical weapons.
The visuals of distressed civilians and suffocating children have highlighted the sufferings
of the common people of Syria caught up in the conflict zone.
The incident has only robbed the pro-Syrian government coalition of the readily available
support from US and other European allies who are fighting the Islamic state alongside
them. Besides, the US military retaliation against the Syrian military has further confused
the overall politico-military aims of the forces participating in the conflict.
Lastly, the incident will further strengthen the resolve of the hard-line Islamists/ ISIS
fighters in the garb of rebels and help them to garner greater sympathy and the much
needed moral and material support.
7. What now for the Trans-Pacific Partnership after US exit?
US President-elect Donald Trumps has resolved to undo the Obama administrations

recalibration of Asia-Pacific strategic equations by pulling out of the Trans Pacific
Partnership (TPP) Agreement. The agreement was signed this year after seven years of
protracted negotiations between 12 Pacific Rim countries.
As expected, Donald Trump officially took the much awaited decision to withdraw the US
from 12 -nations Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). Donald Trump has been active in
making a number of policy changes since he took the charge of the 45th President of the
United States.
Background:
With more than five years of negotiation, TPP, one of the most ambitious free trade deals
negotiated between developing and developed countries, officially entered into an
agreement in February.
Countries have two years to ratify this more than 2,000-pages pact, involving higher labor
standards, intellectual property rights, environmental rules and other issues.

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None of the 12 countries have completed the ratification process so far. Japan, the second-
largest economy after the U.S in this treaty, voted to ratify the deal this month.
The exit of the US from the TPP was one of the most significant decisions taken by
Donald Trump. The TPP was signed by his predecessor Barack Obama in 2015. While
signing the cancellation of the deal, Trump argued that the TPP deal was harmful to the
citizens and manufacturers in America.
He also said that the US is going to stop the ridiculous trade deals that have taken
everybody out of our country and taken companies out of our country.
The TPP deal which was negotiated by Barack Obama never got a formal approval from
the Congress. But, this deal was supported by business entities. Then, it was considered as
the primary economic pillar of Obama administrations shift towards his own Asia-Pivot
Policy meant for Asia pacific region to counter China.
What is TPP?
TPP stands for Trans-Pacific Partnership. It is a hefty and complex agreement negotiated
meticulously by 12 countries: the United States, Mexico, Peru, Canada and Chile in the
Americas, and Japan, Vietnam, Australia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Brunei, Singapore, and
New Zealand in the Asia-Pacific. All these countries comprise almost 40 percent of the
world's gross domestic product.
The main rationale for the deal for many negotiating members was to re-engage the
United States as a trading partner, and balance what were sometimes one-sided trade
relationships with China by collectively raising standards.
A TPP minus the US makes it far less attractive for most members.
Whats good about TPP?
Those in favour say this trade deal will unleash new economic growth among countries
involved.
It is being said that the TPP has high potential to promote economic growth and improve
peoples living standards by facilitating the free cross-border movement of key factors of
economic activity, such as goods, people, money, and information. Failure to bring the
TPP into force would be a great loss to not only the TPP countries such as Japan and the
US but also the global economy they argue.
Why

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Although Trumps policy statements have been, at best, contradictory, he has been
consistent in his opposition to TPP. He thinks such deals will hurt American workers and
undercut US companies. His stance on trade is protectionist: he has vowed to shield
Americans from the effects of globalised trade by slapping hefty tariffs on cheap Chinese
imports of up to 45%.
Trump says, The TPP creates a new international commission that makes decisions the
American people cant veto, making it easier for our trading competitors to ship cheap
subsidised goods into US markets while allowing foreign countries to continue putting
barriers in front of our exports.
However, this pullout could threaten the US Asia rebalancing.
Criticisms:
Those against TPP fear it could mean jobs will move from the US to developing
countries. They also do not like the fact the five-year talks were held largely in secret.
The TPP would also have extensive negative ramifications for users freedom of
expression, right to privacy and due process, as well as hindering peoples abilities to
innovate.
The TPP suffers from a serious lack of transparency, threatens to impose more stringent
copyright without public input, and pressures foreign governments to adopt unbalanced
laws.
Some critics also claim that TPP paves the way for companies to sue governments that
change policy on, say, health and education to favour state-provided services.
The TPP will also intensify competition between countries labour forces.
How did the idea of the pact come about?
On the sidelines of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting in Jeju, South

Korea, on June 3, 2003, representatives from Brunei, New Zealand .Chile and Singapore
agreed on a Trans-Pacific Strategic Economic Partnership Agreement.
In January 2008, the US initiated talks with these four countries on trade liberalization in
financial service. This move eventually set the stage for the TPP. The Partnership was
broadened to include Vietnam, Japan, Australia, Malaysia, Canada, Peru, and Mexico.

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Impact of Trumps decision on India
The exit of the US from TPP would be beneficial for India as some of its provisions are
not in the country's interest. TPP was supposed to re-write the trade rules, most of which
were inimical to India's interests.
India was not part of the TPP, but it has been an important instrument of realpolitik for
Washington and New Delhi as they sought to counter the rise of an assertive China
without hurting their economic equations with the country.
In the rebalancing of its resources in Asia-Pacific, the US saw Indias role as the
lynchpin of the strategy.
The US Pivot to Asia and Indias Act East policies conflate. Washington sees India
as having a greater role in providing security and stability in the region.
The two strategies have been shaping the security order in the region as India was
reinvigorating its ties with Asian powers like Japan and Australia that has rattled China
greatly.
Now, India should not be complacent because of the current uncertainty surrounding TPP.
We must fully understand the implications of the various TPP disciplines and how we
should strategise ourselves in response to the very many ways they can impact us.
There is a possibility that the USs withdrawal from the globalization would create a
distinct possibility for China to fill its shoes. The rise of China in this reason can cause
some concerns to India. Some experts believe that India should carefully watch the
developments on this pact so that India could explore opportunities in all the TPP member
countries to boost its trade.
Impact of Trumps decision on RCEP
RCEP is the proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between 16 Asia-Pacific countries
which include India, Japan, China, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, and the
10-member ASEAN bloc. The proposed FTA, which aims to open up trade in goods and
services as well as liberalize investment policies, will cover a market of over three billion
people in these countries whose total GDP is more than $17 trillion and account for 40
percent of world trade.
After its withdrawal from the TPP, Americas role would be diminishing in the region. As
a result, China will emerge as much more powerful nation now. China has already built

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several new regional alliances through projects like Maritime Silk Road, One Belt One
Road (OBOR), Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and Asian Infrastructure
Investment Bank (AIIB). President Xi Jinping is planning to push hard for another
regional alliance called the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
It was originally considered as Chinas response to Obamas TPP. Now, New US
presidents cancellation of TPP, TPP has slowed down but RCEP is racing ahead. India is
neither a partner in TPP nor in RCEP thus far. But now India will be forced to take a view
on RCEP on the basis of its status and interests in the region.
What next?
To take effect, the deal has to be ratified by February 2018 by at least six countries that
account for 85% of the groups economic output. And this means that Japan and the US
will need to be on board.
But Mr Trumps comments suggest Congress will be directed to clearly reject it if they
get to vote on it at all.
Some countries, including New Zealand, have suggested some sort of deal may be
possible without the US. There has been loose talk of changing some of the conditions to
let Mr Trump approve it without losing face. But given the rhetoric coming out of Trump
Towers, that looks unlikely.
The TPPs two biggest economies are the US and Japan, and if Trump follows through on
his promise to withdraw from the pact it would send remaining states scrambling to
salvage it.
Conclusion
Apart from it, several member countries expressed hope that the TPP could be salvaged after the
USs decision left its future in serious jeopardy. Other countries, such as China, may help fill the
void left by the U.S.
Members of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) are seeking to move forward with the trade
agreement after the United States withdrew.
8. Japan Officially Recognises Bitcoin as Currency Starting April 2017
Japan has officially recognized bitcoin and digital currencies as legal money along the

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lines of other fiat currencies with effect from April 1, 2017.
The recognition comes after implementation of a new law amending Banking Act in Japan
for legalizing these currencies. It will help in integration of digital currency into legal
banking system through regulatory scrutiny.
The recognition means regulations governing banks and financial institutions will be
applicable to crypto-currency and digital currencies exchange platforms.
They will be also required to comply with strict Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and
Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements, along with annual audits.
Other requirements include meeting the stated capital and cyber security requirements to
ensure consumer protection.
It also makes these digital currencies as property of value, meaning that they can be
used for payment in the broader marketplace and that it may be bought or sold.
Bitcoin
Bitcoin is a form of digital currency or virtual currency created and held electronically.
No one controls it, that is, not regulated by any central bank or government.
They arent printed, like dollars or euros theyre produced by people, and increasingly
businesses, running computers all around the world, using software that solves
mathematical problems.
It is also called a cryptocurrency since it is decentralized and uses cryptography to

prevent double-spending, a significant challenge inherent to digital currencies.
Bitcoin is a distributed peer-to-peer digital currency that functions without the inter-
mediation of any central authority.
It can also be traded on an open market and its exchange rate fluctuates much like a
stock market i.e. based on the demand.

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9. WEF's global travel & tourism ranking
India has jumped 12 places to 40th rank globally in travel and tourism competitiveness list
by World Economic Forum. India is one of the countries that improved the most as it gained 12
places in Asia, but lagged behind its other Asian peers like Japan and China which were ranked
way ahead at 4th and 13th place, respectively. Spain is ranked at the top in the list.
India continues to enrich its cultural resources, protecting more cultural sites and
intangible expressions through UNESCO World Heritage lists, and via a greater digital
presence," WEF said in its Global Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report 2017.
Some of the factors that helped India climb up the ladder include international openness
through strong policies such as implementing visa on arrival and e-visas, and
improvements in the country's ground transport infrastructure which benefited the travel
and tourism sector in the country.
India has seen continued growth in international arrivals over the past 15 years,
reaching the 8 million mark in 2015, adding the country's vast cultural and natural
resources, and its price competitiveness advantage also attracted international tourists.
The report, however, noted that though health conditions are improving, they remain
"inadequate". Similarly, ICT readiness, security concerns and human resources are
improving, but remain "weak".
In the global ranking Spain, France and Germany were ranked at the top three positions,
making them the most tourism friendly economies.
The rise of Asia's giants shows that the Asian Tourism Century is becoming a reality. To
reach their potential, the majority of countries still have more to do, from enhancing
security, promoting their cultural heritage, building their infrastructure and creating
stronger visa policies.
These results are of significant importance as tourism helps economic growth and job
creation - up to 1/10th of global GDP and jobs are tourism-related.

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The report ranks 136 countries across 14 dimensions, revealing how well countries could
deliver sustainable economic and societal benefits through their travel and tourism sector.
10. Myanmar Becomes SASEC's 7th Member
Myanmar became the 7th member of South Asia Sub-regional Economic Cooperation
(SASEC) program of Asian Development Bank (ADB).
It was officially made member at the SASEC Finance Ministers meeting held in New
Delhi and chaired by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley.
Myanmars membership in SASEC will offer host of opportunities for realizing synergies
from economic cooperation in the subregion.
Road corridors in Myanmar can provide key gateway between South Asia and
Southeast Asia, while its ports can provide alternate routes and gateways to the
landlocked northeastern region of India.
It has the potential to unleash significant economic potential and bring better livelihoods
to millions in the region after developing multimodal connectivity between Indias
northeastern region, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.
Transport linkages between South and Southeast Asia will also become more attractive to
businesses once ongoing and planned motor vehicle agreements are finalized and
implemented.
Prior to becoming member, Myanmar was having observer status of SASEC since 2013.
Since 2014, it was participating in annual SASEC Nodal Officials meetings as an
observer.
It was invited by the participating countries of SASEC countries to become a full member
in 2015.
South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) program is a project-based

partnership to promote regional prosperity by improving cross-border connectivity,
boosting trade among member countries and strengthening regional economic
cooperation.
It was established in 2001 in response to the request of the four countries of South Asia

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Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal from ADB to assist in facilitating economic
cooperation among them. ADB is the secretariat and lead financier of the SASEC
program.
So far, it has supported 46 projects worth $9.17 billion in transport, trade facilitation,
energy and information and communications technology (ICT).
Its seven members are Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal and Sri
Lanka.

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Economics
1. Currency Chest
What is it?
Currency chests are branches of selected banks authorised by the RBI to stock rupee notes and
coins. The responsibility for managing the currency in circulation is vested in the RBI. The
central bank advises the Centre on the number of notes to be printed, the currency denominations,
security features and so on. The number of notes that need to be printed is determined using a
statistical model that takes the pace of economic growth, rate of inflation and the replacement rate
of soiled notes. The Government has, however, reserved the right to determine the amount of
coins that have to be minted.
The RBI offices in various cities receive the notes from note presses and coins from the mints.
These are sent to the currency chests and small coin depots from where they are distributed to
bank branches. The RBI has set up over 4,075 currency chests all over the country. Besides these,
there are around 3,746 bank branches that act as small coin depots to stock small coins.
Why is it important?
Against the back-ground of the recent events in demonetising ?1,000 and ?500 notes, the
question that arises is whether the RBI has adequate infrastructure for distributing the notes and if
it is being done equitably.
Of the 4,075 currency chests in the country, 2,722 or 67 per cent are held in branches of the State
Bank of India and its associate banks. Other Nationalised banks hold 1,173 chests, taking the
share of the PSU banks to 95 per cent. Private sector banks (160), Co-operative banks (3) and
foreign banks (4), regional rural banks (5) do not have a large role to play in stocking currency on
behalf of RBI.
This might be alright in normal times as the currency chests have to be fair in supplying cash to
all banks in the vicinity. But in crunch situations, such as the recent one, there are likely to be
complaints from non-PSU banks about currency not being distributed equitably. The urban co-
operative banks have recently been alleging that they are being allocated paltry sums from
currency chests to cater to their clients.
The regional distribution of these chests also appears questionable as those living in rural areas
too are complaining about non-availability of cash. With a number of small and payment banks
on the anvil, ensuring that there are adequate number of currency chests in all parts of the country
is an imperative.

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2. Direct benefits transfer for fertiliser: Scope, problem and challenges
From the coming kharif season beginning from June, the 70,000 crore rupees fertilizer subsidy
budgeted for 2017-18 will be disbursed to companies based on actual sales to farmers captured on
point of sale machines installed at nearly 2 lakh retail points across India. This could be a
significant change from the current system where firms are paid subsidy on receipt of their
fertilizer at the railhead point or any approved godown of a district. Prior to this, till October
2012, they were getting the subsidy on the despatch of material from their respective factories.
Scope
1. At this point of time, it has not been calculated that how much each farmer will actually
require due to which the subsidy cannot be directly apportioned to the farmers. What the
Government is trying to do with this step is to control the leakage of the subsidy which
happens because the sale does not happen always to the farmer. It is done to plywood
manufacturers, washing powder or other manufacturing units using urea as by-product.
This step is to prevent that.
2. During the time of demonetization, the fertilizer companies were specifically asked to
create PoS because they were saying that fertilizers had to be distributed which was a
challenge at that point of time. The aim is to make the transactions digital between the
farmer and the fertilizer company.
3. This will also allow them to possibly see where the consumption is happening. There was
a leakage which was also happening to neighbouring countries like Bangladesh and
Nepal. The sale happens in India but the product is transferred to these countries. If some
farmers are buying these fertilizers in excess, that can also be checked. Largest consumers
of fertilizers in India are Punjab and Uttar Pradesh.
Problems and Challenges
1. However, the way Government is promoting farming, it is totally different from

ecological farming. It has become a game of only three chemicals- NPK (nitrogen,
phosphorus and potassium). Plants require at least 17 elements for their growth.

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Government is saying that it is promoting organic farming but in this case, subsidy is
being given to chemical fertilizers and there are huge discrepancies in the usage of
fertilizer. The ratio of NPK usage should be 4:2:1. In Punjab, this ratio is 61:19:1. Urea is
cheap to purchase so farmers use it more that creates imbalance due to which the yield
either goes down or is stagnant. The whole system of subsidy should also look into overall
benefits to agriculture.
2. Over usage of fertilizer is a bigger challenge than subsidy. In 1950, with the use of less
NPK, the yield was more. Now, with the use of more NPK, lesser yield is being produced.
There is a need to improve the organic content of the soil through organic farming or
compost.
3. Government is selling compost at a particular price and same is the rate for urea so this
would not push the farmers towards organic farming. It is very important that farmers
should produce fertilizers in their fields. A cropping pattern should be there which is
being done now but on a small scale.
4. Instead of giving subsidies on chemicals, it is very important to incentivise those farmers
who are practicing organic farming and encourage them. Ultimately, these subsidies will
only help fertilizer companies to sustain their business but in the long run farmers
business will be hampered because his input costs will continuously increase with
inversely proportional output rates. The end product is also not safe for consumption.
Subsidy should be linked to productivity which will remove fertilizer companies from the
game. Corporates will not allow this as their motive is to earn profit. Farming is a
profitable business for these companies and not the farmers.
Possible Steps to be taken
1. The momentum for these changes has to be created through robust policies.
2. State Governments and Central Government need to work in tandem to encourage farmers
for ecological farming.
3. Particularly in western UP and Punjab, the farmers need to move away from wheat and
rice because the ground water has depleted.
4. Farmers have to be educated and taught to change their cropping pattern and move to
multiple cropping.

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3. Anti-dumping duty likely on hydrogen peroxide
Government is planning to impose anti-dumping duty of up to $118 per tonne on import

of hydrogen peroxide used by industries in applications such as corrosion control and
paper bleaching from six countries.
The move is aimed at guarding domestic players from cheap imports of hydrogen
peroxide from Bangladesh, Taiwan, Korea, Indonesia, Pakistan and Thailand.
Hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a colourless liquid, slightly more viscous than water.
Hydrogen peroxide is the simplest peroxide.
It is used as an oxidizer, bleaching agent and disinfectant. It is also used as ripening

agent.
Concentrated hydrogen peroxide, or high-test peroxide, is a reactive oxygen species and

has been used as a propellant in rocketry.
Hydrogen peroxide is unstable and slowly decomposes in the presence of base or a

catalyst. Because of its instability, hydrogen peroxide is typically stored with a stabilizer
in a weakly acidic solution.
Hydrogen peroxide is found in biological systems including the human body. Enzymes
that use or decompose hydrogen peroxide are classified as peroxidases.
4. Note ban will have positive impact in long term: World Bank
Demonetisation caused an immediate cash crunch, hurting economic growth, World Bank

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said
Note ban could accelerate financial deepening, foster financial inclusion, and increase
transparency, the bank added.
Temporary setbacks notwithstanding, note ban will have a positive development impact in
the long term as it accelerates financial deepening, foster financial inclusion and increase
transparency, the World Bank has said.
In a report titled South Asia Economic Focus Globalisation Backlash, it said

eliminating tax evasion and corruption the most talked objectives of junking old 500 and
1000 rupee notes is typically a demanding process involving multiple measures
overtime.
Demonetisation caused an immediate cash crunch, hurting economic growth, it

said. However, demonetisation could accelerate financial deepening, foster financial
inclusion, and increase transparency, thereby having a positive development impact in the
longer term.But for this to happen, there should be a large and durable shift from cash to
electronic payment methods.
World Bank said the changes in the use of specific digital payment tools over the last few
months suggest that a permanent change might have taken place.
Use of debit and credit cards at points of sale increased from Rs 52,000 crore to Rs 82,000
crore. The total value of transactions relying on prepaid instruments, including mobile
wallets, doubled between November 2016 and January 2017. The coming months will
tell whether these changes are here to stay.
World Bank said before demonetisation India relied on cash to a greater extent than other
large emerging markets.
However, the progress made on JAM, the innovative drive to link bank accounts, mobile
phone numbers and biometric identification cards, had taken the country to the cusp of a
technological transformation, the report said.
Most adults in India have an Aadhaar card (the A in JAM) and a mobile phone (the M).
But, the bank account side (Jan- Dhan Yojana, the J) was more limited as not every
household had a bank account, and many of existing accounts were inactive.
The hardship created by demonetisation could have given the impetus for households to
open and use bank accounts, and for IT companies to swiftly deploy digital payments
technology.

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After declining sharply, currency in circulation has bounced back, though not to its initial
level.
Given that economic activity did not decline substantially, the composition of transactions
must have changed in the direction of digital payments, the report said.
Indias velocity of money how many times the same rupee is used to buy goods and
services over one year was stable at about 2.2 before demonetisation but has since then
jumped to nearly 4 and by March 2017 it was still above 3.
5. PM launches cashless/less cash township models across 12 states
>Prime Minister has launched 81 cashless/less cash townships across 12 states in

Nagpur. The 81 townships included 56 in Gujarat and 25 in 11 states including Delhi,
Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar and Chhatisgarh.
cashless/less cash township was developed by Gujarat Narmada Valley Fertilizers and
Chemicals Ltd (GNFC) across these States under the auspices of National Institution
for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog.
GNFCs township at Bharuch (Gujarat) had become Indias first 100% cashless
township after demonetization.
It is expected that these 81 townships will deliver 2.5 lakh cashless transactions per
day, translating into 9 crore cashless transactions in a year.
The townships for adopting GNFCs model were selected based on a third-party
assessment by Price Waterhouse Coopers (PwC).
The chosen 81 townships belonged to that of central public sector companies such as
ONGC, Indian Oil, NTPC, SAIL, BHEL, NMDC, CRPF, BSF and Police Lines and also
to private sector townships like Reliance, Essar, Adani, Birla Aditya, Welspun etc.
>The criteria for qualification of a township to a less cash township are: townships must
have completed the payment acceptance infrastructure; all the families residing in the
townships must have been covered under training programmes; 80% of total transactions
during the review period should have been done through digital modes. NITI Aayog has
appreciated GNFCs model and had advised Central ministries and CMDs of 300-plus
central PSUs for quickly adopting to this model.

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6. Government e-Marketplace (GeM)
Government e-Marketplace (GeM) is the first Government portal that places all the
procurements- big or small- by Government organizations in public domain, with details
about the buyer, seller, item, quantity and price.
In the light of alleged irregularities, the government has reiterated that GeM is the most
transparent, accountable and efficient public procurement portal and has already resulted
in savings of crores of Rupees to the Government.
The government has also assured that there are adequate checks and balances in place on
GeM which do not allow suppliers to get away with supplying at a higher price to the
Government, than the prevailing market or Last Procurement Price (LPP).
GeM
Government e-Marketplace (GeM) aims to transform the way in which procurement of

goods and services is done by the Government Ministries/Departments, PSUs,
autonomous bodies etc.
DGS&D with technical support of NeGD (MeitY) has developed GeM portal for
procurement of both Products & Services.
GeM is a completely paperless, cashless and system driven e-market place that enables
procurement of common use goods and services with minimal human interface.
7. Business Reform Action Plan 2017
The Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), Ministry of Commerce and
Industry, in partnership with the World Bank Group, released the Business Reform Action
Plan (BRAP) 2017 for implementation by States/UTs on 13.04.2017.
The BRAP includes 405 recommendations for reforms on regulatory processes, policies,

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practices and procedures spread across 12 reform areas, that is, labour regulation
enablers; contract enforcement; registering property; inspection reform enablers; single
window system; land availability and allotment; construction permit enablers;
environmental registration enablers; obtaining utility permits; paying taxes; access to
information and transparency enablers and sector specific reforms spanning the lifecycle
of a typical business.
This year there are 103 new set of reforms (out of 405) focusing on central inspection
system, online land allotment system, online single window system for granting
construction permits, registration under Inter State Migrant Workmen (RE&CS) Act,
1979, approval for boiler manufacturer and boiler erector etc. BRAP 2017 also includes
two new sectors i.e. Healthcare and Hospitality. The last date to implement the reform is
31.10.2017.
DIPP will carry out a comprehensive business-to-government (B2G) feedback exercise

this year whereby feedback will be taken from businesses on the quality of
implementation of the reforms claimed by the States and UTs. For each State/UT, the
scores will be aggregated over all the surveys conducted to yield an overall score for the
State/UT
8. Gender Parity Index
The Union Minister of Finance, Defence and Corporate Affairs Shri Arun Jaitley will
release Gender Parity Index specific to India in the formal sector during the 33rd Annual
Session of FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO) to be held in New Delhi tomorrow.
The main aim of developing Gender Parity Index commissioned jointly by FLO and
FICCI is to evaluate gender diversity and empowerment of women in the formal
sector and the progress made over the years. The Index will serve as framework for
measuring gender parity and produce an overall score of an organisation and reflect it on
the index.

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9. RBI issues Revised Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) framework for NPAs
The RBI has come out with a revised prompt corrective action (PCA) framework for
banks
Thresholds: It spells out certain thresholds, the breach of which could invite resolutions
such as a merger with another bank or even shutting down of the bank
The thresholds are based on capital, net non-performing assets, profitability and leverage
ratio
Three thresholds: The breach of the third one on capital would identify a bank as a likely
candidate for resolution through tools like amalgamation, reconstruction, winding up etc.
First: The breach of the first threshold will invite restriction on dividend distribution or
require parents of foreign banks to bring in more capital
This will get triggered if capital adequacy ratio (including capital conservation buffer)
falls below 10.25% or common equity tier-I (CET1) capital ratio falls below 6.75%
Breach of either CAR or CET1 would trigger corrective action
The trigger for net NPA is 6% and 4% for leverage ratio. Two consecutive years of
negative return on assets (RoA) will also be classified in threshold one
Second: The breach of the second threshold will occur when the capital adequacy ratio
falls below 7.75% or CET1 goes below 5.125%
The net NPA threshold is breach of 12% and leverage ratio below 3.5%
Three consecutive years of negative ROA will also trigger threshold two
Breach of threshold two will result in restrictions on expansion of branches and higher
provisions
Third: The breach of the last threshold happens when CET1 falls below 3.625% and net
NPA goes above 12%
Negative ROA for four consecutive years will also be considered as a breach of the third
threshold vis-a-vis the profitability parameter
Restrictions, in addition to that of threshold one and two, will be put on management

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compensation and directors fees if the the third level is breached
Corrective action that can be imposed on banks includes special audit, restructuring
operations and activation of recovery plan
Promoters of banks can be asked to bring in new management, or even can supersede the
banks board, as a part of corrective action
10. BHIM-Aadhaar platform launched, advancing PM Modis digital push
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the BHIM-Aadhaar platforma merchant

interface linking the unique identification number to the Bharat Interface for Money
mobile application on the 126th birth anniversary of Dr B.R. Ambedkar.
Like Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar worked to give rights to the common man through the Indian
Constitution, one can expect the BHIM app to do similarly great work through the
financial system.
The new interface will enable customers to make payments using a merchants
biometric-enabled device.
The merchant merely has to download the BHIM app on his smartphone and link the
device to an Aadhaar biometric reader.
Any citizen without access to smartphones, Internet, debit or credit cards will be able to
transact digitally through the BHIM-Aadhaar platform.
To avail of this service, a customer has to first link his bank account to his Aadhaar
number. To make a payment, all he has to do is select the banks name and enter the
Aadhaar number. His fingerprint will serve as the password to authenticate the
transaction.
To start with, no transaction fee will be levied on either the merchants or customers to
encourage adoption of the new digital payment service, especially in small towns and
rural India.
The government statement said 27 major banks had already tied up with 300,000
merchants for accepting payments using BHIM-Aadhaar. It went on to add that all public
sector banks have been instructed to go live with Aadhaar Pay.

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Under the referral bonus scheme, an individual will earn Rs10 for every new referral
madei.e., educating another person or merchant about the BHIM app and ensuring that
they carry out three transactions using the same.
The new upgrade is aligned to facilitate governments initiative of launching customer

referral bonus and merchant incentive schemes. Three new languagesPunjabi, Marathi
and Assamesehave gone live on the app.
It was one of several measures aimed at promoting digital transactions in the aftermath of
the 8 November demonetization of high-value banknotes, which triggered a nationwide
cash crunch.
11. Oil Palm Area And Production In India
The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved measures to
increase oil palm area and production in India. These include
1. Relaxation of land ceiling limit for oil palm cultivation under NMOOP (National Mission
on Oilseeds and Oil Palm).
2. The Cabinet approved relaxation in restrictions for providing assistance to more than
25-hectare area also under NMOOP to attract corporate bodies towards oil palm and
derive maximum benefit of 100% FDI.
3. Revision of norms of assistance under Mini Mission-II of NMOOP.
4. The Cabinet further gave its approval to revise the norms of assistance mainly for planting
materials, maintenance cost, inter-cropping cost and bore-well to make oil palm
plantations attractive.
Impact
To encourage oil palm plantation on large scale by corporate bodies and to utilize
wastelands. By relaxing restrictions under NMOOP, private entrepreneurs/cooperative
bodies/joint ventures will show their interest in investment in oil palm plantation and
availing the NMOOP support.
To encourage farmers for oil palm cultivation in a bigger way. The revision of cost norms
will motivate fanners for oil palm plantation.
Annual Action Plan (AAP) of the State / Agencies will be approved by Department of
Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers Welfare on revised cost norms. The private
entrepreneurs/ cooperative bodies/ joint ventures will be invited by the respective state

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Governments for oil palm plantation in their state.
At present, the programme is being implemented in 12 States, namely, Andhra Pradesh,
Karnataka, Tamil Nadu. Mizoram, Odisha, Kerala, Telangana. Chhattisgarh, Gujarat,
Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland & Assam. Nearly 133 districts are under oil palm
cultivation in these 12 states, However, all the potential states of Oil palm are covered
under NMOOP.
There will be some financial implication in relaxing restrictions of area and up-scaling the
norms of subsidies but the same would be accommodated within NMOOP fund.
Therefore, no additional funds would be required.
Oil Palm Area
The norms of assistance for various interventions were decided on the basis of prevailing prices at
the time of formulation of the NMOOP programme. In view of large investment towards the cost
of planting material, digging of pits, planting, manuring, irrigation and maintenance of plantation
for four years without any income, farmers particularly small and marginal have shown
reluctance in taking up oil palm plantation. Besides, in North Eastern States, which have good
potential for oil palm needs additional investment in land preparation being hilly terrain.
Background
Edible Oil is an important component of household food basket. The total production of
edible oil in the country is about 9 million MT. while the domestic requirement is around
25 million MT. The gap between demand and supply is being met through imports, which
amounted to Rs. 68,000 crores in 2015-16.
Palm oil contributes 70% of vegetable oil import and is one of the cheapest oil due to high
productivity per hectare.
Oil Palm is one of the worlds most efficient crop in terms of yield of vegetable oil per ha
and today it is largest source of vegetable oil in the world. Malaysia, Indonesia, Nigeria,
Thailand and Columbia are the major oil palm producing countries.
12. Hold fiscal deficit at 3% till FY20, says N.K. Singh panel

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The Centre can take a pause on the fiscal consolidation front over the next three
years by maintaining a fiscal deficit to GDP ratio of 3% till 2019-20, the Fiscal
Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Review Committee chaired by
former Revenue Secretary N.K. Singh has recommended.
Set up to comprehensively review and give recommendations on the FRBM roadmap for
future, the panel has advocated reaching a fiscal deficit to GDP ratio of 2.8% in
2020-21, 2.6% the subsequent year and 2.5% in 2022-23.
To put that in context, the government has set a fiscal deficit target of 3.2% of GDP in
2017-18, marginally better than the 3.5% clocked last year.
The FRBM law enacted in 2003 had originally envisaged attaining a fiscal deficit of
3% of GDP by 2008-09, but amendments over the years had revised the year for
achieving the same target to 2017-18.
The panel has introduced an escape clause that allows the government to skip the
fiscal deficit target for a particular year, in situations that include national security
concerns, acts of war, national calamities, a collapse of the agriculture sector and far-
reaching structural reforms with unanticipated fiscal implications.
It recommended that deviations from the stipulated fiscal targets should not be more
than 0.5%.
The Reserve Bank of India governor Urjit Patel was not in favour of such a large
deviation.
Mr. Patel, who was also a member of the panel along with Chief Economic Adviser
Arvind Subramanian, was inclined to only permit a 0.3% deviation.
The escape clause can also be triggered if the economy's real output growth slips by three
percentage points from the average of the previous four quarters.
A similar buoyancy clause has been proposed, so that fiscal deficit must fall at least
0.5% below the target if real output grows 3% faster than that average.
The panel has recommended that the existing FRBM Act and rules be scrapped and
a new Debt and Fiscal Responsibility Act be adopted and proposed the creation of
a Fiscal Council that the government must consult before invoking escape clauses.

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13. Marginal Cost of Funds based Lending Rate (MCLR) reform by the RBI
The Reserve Bank of India has brought a new methodology of setting lending rate by commercial
banks under the name Marginal Cost of Funds based Lending Rate (MCLR). It has modified the
existing base rate system from April 2016 onwards.
As per the new guidelines by the RBI, banks have to prepare Marginal Cost of Funds based
Lending Rate (MCLR) which will be the internal benchmark lending rates. Based upon this
MCLR, interest rate for different types of customers should be fixed in accordance with their
riskiness. The base rate will be now determined on the basis of the MCLR calculation.
The MCLR should be revised monthly by considering some new factors including the repo rate
and other borrowing rates. Specifically the repo rate and other borrowing rates that were not
explicitly considered under the base rate system.
As per the new guidelines, banks have to set five benchmark rates for different tenure or time
periods ranging from overnight (one day) rates to one year.
The new methodology uses the marginal cost or latest cost conditions reflected in the interest rate
given by the banks for obtaining funds (from deposits and while borrowing from RBI) while
setting their lending rate. This means that the interest rate given by a bank for deposits and the
repo rate (for obtaining funds from the RBI) are the decisive factors in the calculation of MCLR.
Why the MCLR reform?
At present, the banks are slightly slow to change their interest rate in accordance with repo rate
change by the RBI. Commercial banks are significantly depending upon the RBIs LAF repo to
get short term funds. But they are reluctant to change their individual lending rates and deposit
rates with periodic changes in repo rate.
Whenever the RBI is changing the repo rate, it was verbally compelling banks to make changes in
their lending rate. The purpose of changing the repo is realized only if the banks are changing
their individual lending and deposit rates.
Implication on monetary policy
Now, the novel element of the MCLR system is that it facilitates the so called monetary
transmission. It is mandatory for banks to consider the repo rate while calculating their MCLR.
The RBI calls the effective passing of repo rate change into interest rate change by the banking
system as an important part of monetary transmission. Monetary transmission in complete sense

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is the way in which a monetary policy signal (like a repo rate cut) is passed into the economy in
producing the set objectives.
Take the case of a repo rate reduction by the RBI. It is aimed to reduce overall interest rate in the
economy and thus promoting loans for consumption and investment. This consumption and
investment boost will be realized only if banks are cutting interest rate in response to the reduced
repo rate.
Previously under the base rate system, banks were changing the base rate, only occasionally.
They waited for long time or waited for large repo cuts to bring corresponding reduction in their
base rate. Now with MCLR, banks are obliged to readjust interest rate monthly. This means that
such quick revision will encourage them to consider the repo rate changes.
How to calculate MCLR
The concept of marginal is important to understand MCLR. In economics sense, marginal means
the additional or changed situation. While calculating the lending rate, banks have to consider the
changed cost conditions or the marginal cost conditions. For banks, what are the costs for
obtaining funds? It is basically the interest rate given to the depositors (often referred as cost for
the funds). The MCLR norm describes different components of marginal costs. A novel factor is
the inclusion of interest rate given to the RBI for getting short term funds the repo rate in the
calculation of lending rate.
Following are the main components of MCLR.
1. Marginal cost of funds;

2. Negative carry on account of CRR;
3. Operating costs;
4. Tenor premium.
Negative carry on account of CRR: is the cost that the banks have to incur while keeping
reserves with the RBI. The RBI is not giving an interest for CRR held by the banks. The cost of
such funds kept idle can be charged from loans given to the people.
Operating cost: is the operating expenses incurred by the banks
Tenor premium: denotes that higher interest can be charged from long term loans
Marginal Cost: The marginal cost that is the novel element of the MCLR. The marginal cost of
funds will comprise of Marginal cost of borrowings and return on networth. According to the
RBI, the Marginal Cost should be charged on the basis of following factors:

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1. Interest rate given for various types of deposits- savings, current, term deposit, foreign
currency deposit
2. Borrowings Short term interest rate or the Repo rate etc., Long term rupee
borrowing rate
3. Return on networth in accordance with capital adequacy norms.
The marginal cost of borrowings shall have a weightage of 92% of Marginal Cost of
Funds while return on networth will have the balance weightage of 8%.
In essence, the MCLR is determined largely by the marginal cost for funds and especially
by the deposit rate and by the repo rate. Any change in repo rate brings changes in
marginal cost and hence the MCLR should also be changed.
According to the RBI guideline, actual lending rates will be determined by adding the
components of spread to the MCLR. Spread means that banks can charge higher interest rate
depending upon the riskiness of the borrower.
Powerful element of the MCLR system form the monetary policy angle is that banks have to
revise their marginal cost on a monthly basis. According to the RBI guideline, Banks will
review and publish their MCLR of different maturities every month on a pre-announced date.
Such a monthly revision will compel the banks to consider the change in repo rate change if any
made by the RBI during the month.
Regarding the status-quo of base rate, the initial guidelines from the RBI indicate that the Base
rate will be replaced by the MCLR. Existing loans and credit limits linked to the Base Rate may
continue till repayment or renewal, as the case may be. Existing borrowers will also have the
option to move to the Marginal Cost of Funds based Lending Rate (MCLR) linked loan at
mutually acceptable terms.
How MCLR is different from base rate?
The base rate or the standard lending rate by a bank is calculated on the basis of the following
factors:
1. Cost for the funds (interest rate given for deposits),

2. Operating expenses,
3. Minimum rate of return (profit), and
4. Cost for the CRR (for the four percent CRR, the RBI is not giving any interest to the
banks)
On the other hand, the MCLR is comprised of the following are the main components.

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1. Marginal cost of funds;
2. Negative carry on account of CRR;
3. Operating costs;
4. Tenor premium
It is very clear that the CRR costs and operating expenses are the common factors for both base
rate and the MCLR. The factor minimum rate of return is explicitly excluded under MCLR.
But the most important difference is the careful calculation of Marginal costs under MCLR. On
the other hand under base rate, the cost is calculated on an average basis by simply averaging the
interest rate incurred for deposits. The requirement that MCLR should be revised monthly makes
the MCLR very dynamic compared to the base rate.
Under MCLR:
1. Costs that the bank is incurring to get funds (means deposit) is calculated on a marginal
basis
2. The marginal costs include Repo rate; whereas this was not included under the base rate.
3. Many other interest rates usually incurred by banks when mobilizing funds also to be
carefully considered by banks when calculating the costs.
4. The MCLR should be revised monthly.
5. A tenor premium or higher interest rate for long term loans should be included.
14. Tax to GDP ratio - Implications.
Indias tax-to-GDP ratio is at 16.6% is well below the emerging market economies (EME) and
OECD averages of about 21% and 34% respectively. Taxation is the key to long run political and
economic development. According to recent economic survey, it said India needs to increase its
tax-GDP ratio, and spend more on health and education.
Comparison with OECD Countries
1. India's tax to GDP increased from 10.4% in 1965 to 16.6% in 2015-16, the corresponding
tax-to-GDP ratio of OECD countries increased from 21% in 1965 to 33% in 2015.
2. Even compared to OECD nations with lower GDP (Korea, Turkey, Mexico, Chile,
Portugal, Greece, Slovenia and Poland) is still lower at 16.6% versus average of 24% of
these nations.
3. Among the G-20 Countries, India had the third lowest tax-base, just above Mexico and
Indonesia.

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4. A high tax-to-GDP ratio is also a common feature of countries with high level of social
security measures such as Belgium, Denmark etc.
5. The level of tax compliance in most advanced countries is very high, as high as 90%.
What is Tax-To-GDP Ratio?

The tax-to-GDP ratio is the ratio of tax collected compared to national gross domestic product
(GDP). In a simpler language, it would be Tax contribution towards GDP.Some countries aim to
increase the tax-to-GDP ratio by a certain percentage to address deficiencies in their budgets.
In states where tax revenue has gone up significantly in comparison to GDP, policymakers may
decide to increase the percentage of tax revenue they apply towards foreign debt or other
programs.
BREAKING DOWN 'Tax-To-GDP Ratio
When tax revenues grow at a slower rate than the GDP of a country, the tax-to-GDP ratio
drops; when tax revenue grows faster than GDP, the ratio increases. For example, if a
country has a $10 trillion GDP and tax revenue of $2 trillion, its tax-to-GDP ratio is 20%.
If its GDP increases to $15 trillion and its tax revenue jumps to $3 trillion, it retains its
20% ratio. In contrast, if GDP increases to $18 trillion and taxes only increase to $3
trillion, the ratio falls to 16.7%, and conversely, if tax revenue climbs to $4 trillion and the
GDP rises to $12 trillion, the tax-to-GDP ratio grows to 33.3%.
Tax-to-GDP Ratio Mean
The tax-to-GDP ratio gives policymakers and analysts a metric that they can use to
compare tax receipts from year to year. In most cases, because taxes are related to
economic activity, the ratio should stay relatively consistent. Essentially, as the GDP
grows, tax revenue should grow as well.
Tax and GDP are related, since a higher GDP will automatically lead to a higher tax
collection (a higher GDP is an indicator that there has been an increased overall
development in the country and hence a higher per capita income).
Increasing the country's tax-GDP ratio may become important if its fiscal deficit is high.
This is because the higher the fiscal deficit, the more the gap between the revenue the
government is generating from tax and other sources such as PSUs, investments, exports
etc and the expenditure it is incurring in doling out subsidies, running welfare schemes
and running the government.
To close this gap between income and expenditure, the government needs more revenue,
which it can get from tax revenues. However, countries like India have a low tax to GDP
ratio. The problem arises especially in countries where development is low and tax

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evasion is high.
Taxation is the key to long run political and economic development. Therefore bringing
more and more people into the tax net via some form of direct taxation will help in
increasing the tax-to-GDP ratio as well as government commitment to its developmental
programmes.
Reasons for Indias low tax-to-GDP ratio
1. High tax evasions-Tax compliance in India is extremely low.

2. Low per capita Income: Low average incomes and a high poverty rate result in a very
small portion of the labor force being eligible to pay personnel income tax.
3. Unorganized sector: India has relatively large informal/unorganized sector, and tax
evasion is more rampant in informal sector compare to organized sector.
4. Small Tax Base and its adverse effect tax buoyancy: In India, only 3% people pay income
tax. This is because a large population is still poor and hence don't earn enough to be in
taxable income bracket, but also because even those who fall under the tax bracket, either
don't pay or pay very little taxes. A small tax base unnecessary burdens the honest tax
payer. According to Shome Panel, in the last 10 years though the direct tax collection has
increased by more than 700%, the number of tax payers has merely grown by 35%.
5. Lingering of contentious, adversial tax issues: India has one of highest number of
disputes between tax administration and taxpayers, with lowest proportion of recovery of
tax arrears. For example: the Vodafone tax dispute involving RS 20 K crore lingering
since 2008.
6. Tax exemption and subsidy policies: The exemptions in the taxable income have grown at
a much faster rate than the income. As a result, there is less tax buoyancy. Similarly tax
expenditure in the form of tax subsidies and exemptions was more than 6 lakh crore in
2015-16.
7. Loop-holes in double tax avoidance treaties: Provisions for tax exemptions from short
term capital gains are often misused by companies to re-route their investments from such
countries (called round tripping of funds). Similarly issues related to tax-evasion, double
non-taxation and transfer pricing need to be fixed.
8. Flourishing informal market ecosystem: informal sectors like paying guest
accommodations, Kirana stores, Stationary shops, etc. Evade taxation.
Howto Improve Tax-to-GDP ratio?.
Widening tax base: This can be done by implementing GST. GST will be a game changer
as it will radically improve collection efficiency, will phase out a number of exemptions
in a phased manner; lowers tax rates, increase the compliance level and generate more
revenues from indirect taxes. GST will widen the tax base and generate additional
revenues.

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Improving compliance rate of tax laws: GAAR (General Anti-avoidance rules) provisions
may be useful in dealing with tax evasions where tax benefits exceed certain limit.
Efficient targeting of subsidies and phasing out of tax exemptions: subsidies to the well
off need to be scaled back, similarly tax exemptions to be reviewed and phased out,
reasonable taxation of the better off regardless of where they get their income from like
industry, services, real estate or agriculture.
Fast racking of disputes: Fast tracking of tax disputes, reducing discretion of taxman and
creating a predictable dispute resolution mechanism.
There is a need to avoid retrospective taxation.
15. First ever foreign buyer bids for SME IPO
A foreign investor has participated in the public issue of a small and medium enterprise
(SME) for the first time since the segment was introduced five years ago on the BSE and
the NSE.
The initial public offer (IPO) of Bohra Industries saw a bid from a foreign institutional
investor (FII) amounting to almost 35% of the issue size.
The Udaipur-based company, which was incorporated in 1996, entered the capital market
to raise Rs.25 crore but the issue was subscribed more than three times with bids
amounting to Rs.80 crore coming in.
Recently completed IPOs have received over-whelming response in both primary and
secondary markets, which is quite encouraging, said Mahavir Lunawat, group managing
director, Pantomath Advisory Service Group, the investment banker for the IPO.
The past has proved that SME companies give good return on investment. This is one of
the major reasons behind increasing participation of investors.
Apart from a bid from an FII, the issue witnessed strong participation from both retail and
non-retail investors, including corporates and high net worth individuals (HNIs).
The FII is believed to be an India-focussed fund of an overseas investor registered with

the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).
The BSE and the National Stock Exchange (NSE) unveiled separate SME platforms in
2012. While BSE has more than 170 companies listed on its SME segment, NSE has
almost 50 entities on board so far.

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Incidentally, Bohra Industries got listed on the NSE platform called Emerge. Since
January 1, NSE and BSE have seen listing of 14 and 15 SMEs respectively.
16. Cabinet nods for NBS rates fixation
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved the Fixation of Nutrient
Based Subsidy (NBS) rates for Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers for the year 2017-18.
Nutrient Based Subsidy
Government has been implementing Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) Policy for decontrolled P&K
fertilizers since April 2010.
Under this policy, the subsidy on Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers is announced
by the Government on annual basis for each nutrient i.e., Nitrogen (N), Phosphorous (P),
Potash (K) and Sulphur (S) on per kg basis which is converted into subsidy per tonne
depending upon the nutrient content in each grade of the fertilizers.
These rates are determined taking into account the international and domestic prices of
P&K fertilizers, exchange rate, inventory level in the country etc.
The fertiliser manufacturers and marketers are free to fix the maximum retail price at
reasonable rates under NBS.

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17. First monetary policy review in 2017-18
The Reserve Bank of India, in its first monetary policy review of financial year 2017-18, kept
the repurchase (repo) rate unchanged at 6.25%, citing upward risks to inflation and global
uncertainty.
The Monetary Policy Committee, however, raised the reverse repo rate by 0.25 basis points to
6%, and cut the marginal standing facility (MSF) rate to 6.5%. The decision of the MPC is
consistent with a neutral stance of monetary policy in consonance with the objective of achieving
the medium-term target for consumer price index (CPI) inflation of 4% within a band of +/- 2%,
while supporting growth, said RBI in its policy statement.
RBI hiked reverse repo rate by 25 bps to 6.00% thereby reducing the corridor between
repo and reverse repo to 25 bps from the existing 50 bps.
The essential aim seems to be ensuring a sharper focus on the keeping overnight rates
(especially the overnight call money rate) aligned to the repo rate
The central bank has proposed that banks be allowed to invest in Real Estate Investment
Trusts (REITs) and Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs).
This follows an earlier proposal by market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of
India (Sebi).
The RBI proposed to allow banks to participate in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REIT)
and Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs) following a proposal by market regulator
Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). Banks would be allowed to invest in
these instruments within the stipulated limit of 20 percent of net-owned funds.
One of the highlights of today's policy was the decision to allow banks to invest in Real
Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and Infrastructure Investment Trusts (INVITs) within
the 20% umbrella limit.
It will allow banks to invest in an important asset class thereby providing much needed
boost to this segment. Owing to better liquidity, the cost of capital for developers in the
commercial segment will come down in the future.
Inflation projection
The RBI expects the volatility in global crude prices to impact the consumer price
inflation (CPI) trajectory going ahead. Much of the impact of the fall of $4.5 per barrel in
international prices of crude since early February, the RBI feels, would feed into the CPI
print in April as its cumulative pass-through occurred with a lag in the first week of this
month.

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CPI inflation is set to undershoot the target of 5% for Q4 of 2016-17 in view of the
sub-4% readings for January and February. For 2017-18, inflation is projected to average
4.5% in the first half of the year and 5% in the second half.
The RBI also expects the El Nio event around July-August, the implementation of the
allowances recommended by the 7th CPC and the the one-off effects of the GST to put
upward pressures on the inflation.
Liquidity
The surplus liquidity in the banking system declined from a peak of around Rs 7-lakh
crore on January 4, 2017 to an average of Rs 6-lakh crore in February and further down to
Rs 4-lakh crore in March.
Currency in circulation expanded steadily during this period. Its impact on the liquidity
overhang was, however, partly offset by a significant decline in cash balances of the
Government up to mid-March which released liquidity into the system.
The central bank intends to keep managing liquidity via Market Stabilization Scheme
(MSS) and Open Market Operations (OMOs).
Growth
The RBI projects the GVA growth to strengthen to 7.4% in 2017-18 from 6.7% in
2016-17, with risks evenly balanced.
It identified several favourable domestic factors -- the pace of remonetisation, significant
improvement in transmission of past policy rate reductions, rural demand, and
infrastructure, the roll-out of the GST, the institution of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy
Code, etc. -- to boost investment and growth.

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Science and Technology

1. NASA's SPB lunched successfully
Nasa successfully launched its football-stadium-sized, super pressure balloon from

New Zealand, that will help detect cosmic rays from beyond our galaxy as they
penetrate the Earth's atmosphere.
The mission will run for 100 or more days floating at 33.5 km in the southern
hemisphere's mid-latitude band. Following our 2015 and 2016 New Zealand missions,
we've learned key lessons on the balloon design that have gone into perfecting the
technology for this year's flight, said Debbie Fairbrother, Nasa's Balloon Programme
Office chief.
The super pressure balloon technology is the main flight objective, the
International Extreme Universe Space Observatory on a Super Pressure Balloon
(EUSO-SPB) payload is flying as a mission of opportunity.
EUSO-SPB's objective is to detect ultra-high energy cosmic rays from beyond our
galaxy as they penetrate the Earth's atmosphere.
As these high-energy particles enter the atmosphere, they interact with nitrogen molecules
in the air and create a UV fluorescence light.
EUSO-SPB will observe a broad swathe of the Earth's atmosphere to detect the UV
fluorescence from these deep space cosmic rays coming in from above.
EUSO-SPB is now searching for the most energetic cosmic particles ever observed.
The 18.8-million-cubic-foot (532,000-cubic-meter) Super Pressure Balloon lifted off from

Nasa's new launch pad adjacent to Wanaka Airport carrying a suspended payload of 2,495
kilogrammes.
As the balloon travels around the Earth, it may be visible from the ground, particularly
at sunrise and sunset, to those who live in the southern hemisphere's mid-latitudes, such
as Argentina and South Africa.
2. Agni-III missile successfully test-fired

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India on 27 April 2017 successfully test-fired its intermediate-range ballistic missile
Agni-III from Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast. The missile lifted off from Launch Pad
No 4 of the Integrated Test Range located on the island.
1. The Strategic Forces Command, an especially raised missile-handling unit of the Indian
Army, carried out the test with logistics support from DRDO.
2. Agni-III has a strike range of more than 3,000 km and capable of carrying both
conventional and nuclear warheads weighing up to 1.5 tonnes.
3. The missile is powered by a two-stage solid propellant engine. With a length of 17 metres,
the missile's diameter is 2 metres and weight is around 2,200 kg.
4. The missile was inducted in the armed forces in June 2011.
3. Oxytocin More than just a Love Hormone
Oxytocin is a hormone that is made in the brain, in the hypothalamus. It is transported to,
and secreted by, the pituitary gland, which is located at the base of the brain.
It acts both as a hormone and as a brain neurotransmitter.
The release of oxytocin by the pituitary gland acts to regulate two female reproductive
functions: Childbirth and Breast-feeding.
Oxytocin has also been dubbed the hug hormone, cuddle chemical, moral molecule, and
the bliss hormone due to its effects on behavior, including its role in love and in female
reproductive biological functions in reproduction.
Why in news?
According to a recent study, Oxytocin is involved in a broader range of social interactions

than previously understood.
The new study pinpoints a unique way in which oxytocin alters activity in a part of the
brain called the nucleus accumbens, which is crucial to experiencing the pleasant
sensation neuroscientists call reward.
Importance of the findings

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The findings not only provide validity for ongoing trials of oxytocin in autistic patients,
but also suggest possible new treatments for neuropsychiatric conditions in which social
activity is impaired.
4. Technical textiles
Technical textiles
Technical Textiles or functional textiles, considered a sunrise sector in the country, are
defined as Textile material and products manufactured primarily for their Technical
performance and functional properties rather than aesthetic and decorative characteristics.
Technical textiles include textiles for automotive applications, medical textiles (e.g.,
implants), geotextiles (reinforcement of embankments), agrotextiles (textiles for crop
protection), and protective clothing (e.g., heat and radiation protection for fire fighter
clothing, molten metal protection for welders, stab protection and bulletproof vests, and
spacesuits).
Functional textiles can be woven or non-woven.
Automobile, geo, medical, industrial, and agro textiles are among the range of products
that are made in the country.
Technical textiles sector is all set for demand taking off for products such as geo and agro
textiles.
Significance of technical textiles sector
Technical textiles sector is a thrust area for the Government because of the value addition
involved.
It can be used in infrastructure projects, including ports, roads, and railways, and in
sectors such as agriculture.
Challenges for technical textiles
Technical textiles is a fragmented sector with several small and medium-scale industries
manufacturing specialised products.
The main challenges for technical textiles in the country are awareness among consumers,
need for technology and knowledge about it among entrepreneurs, the investments and
time needed to be innovative and develop applications, and raw material availability.

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5. More aerosol in atmosphere results in heavier rainfall
Contrary to the general notion that pre-monsoon aerosol loading results in decrease in
seasonal rainfall, a long-term (2002-2013) satellite observational study and model-based
analysis by researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur has found
that higher aerosol loading results in delayed but more rainfall over Central and Northern
India. Higher aerosol loading changes cloud properties in terms of size (both height and
width) and microphysics, which results in more rainfall.
Fourteen microns is the agreed raindrop size, and until it reaches this size, the growth of
droplets in the cloud is primarily driven by condensation. When aerosol particles are
higher, the number of nucleation sites increases resulting in far too many number of
droplets. Under such circumstances, it takes time for the droplets to grow in size through
condensation.
There is an increase in the condensation of water vapour into cloud droplets as the number
of aerosol particles increases. But there is a reduction in radius of the drops formed near
the cloud base.
Although genesis of cloud systems is influenced by various meteorological parameters,

aerosols are capable of strongly modifying the cloud structure, dynamics and composition
during Indian summer monsoon.
Once cloud starts forming due to convection, the presence of more aerosol particles tend
to modify the warm phase microphysics as well as ice phase microphysics.
Two forces - gravity and updraft (vertical velocity) - tend to act on droplets.
Under high aerosol loading, rather than falling down as raindrops, the smaller droplets
tend to rise upwards in convective atmosphere due to updraft.
As the droplets are lifted up they tend to cross the freezing level and turn into ice
particles. The process of water droplets turning into ice particles releases more latent heat
of freezing and further invigorates the cloud.
In the absence of cloud, aerosol particles tend to absorb solar radiation and this leads to
warming or less decrease in temperature with height. As a result, there is suppression of
convection leading to further suppression of cloud formation.
Till now scientists have shown that presence of more aerosol in pre-monsoon season may
lead to reduction in total monsoon rainfall due to aerosol-solar radiation interactions.

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6. C-DOTs Public Data Office (PDO) technology
The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DoT) has developed a public data office (PDO)
technology solution to deliver low-cost Wi-Fi solutions.
The mass PDO solution is priced at Rs 50,000.

The concept of PDO will enable vendors to sell low-cost Wi-Fi-based broadband services
anywhere.
The vendor will get a tech solution pack including both software and hardware elements.
It will include a Wi-Fi access point with e-KYC, one-time password authentication and a
mechanism to manage service vouchers. A billing system will also accompany the
package.
The service will be available over a license-free ISM (industrial, scientific and medical)
band.
For commercial production of the device, C-DoT plans to transfer the technology to
nearly 20 manufacturing partners including Bharat Heavy Electricals (BHEL) and
Himachal Futuristic Communications (HFCL).
According to C-DoT, in semi-urban or rural areas, the technology will be available in 2.4
GHz and 5.8 GHZ bands, which do not require any regulation for access.
C-DOT
The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) is an Indian Government owned

telecommunications technology development centre.
It was established in 1984 with initial mandate of designing and developing digital
exchanges.
Sam Pitroda started the C-DOT as an autonomous telecom R&D organisation.
C-DOT has expanded to develop intelligent computer software applications. It is one of
the 2 Indian Government organisations which have been appraised at Maturity Level 5 of
CMMI-DEV v1.3, other being Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) Software Technology
Centre.
7. India develops National Action Plan to combat Antimicrobial Resistance
Antimicrobial resistance is a serious threat to global public health that requires action
across all government sectors and society and is driven by many interconnected factors.
Single, isolated interventions have limited impact and coordinated action is required to

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minimize the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance.
The Ministers later signed a Delhi Declaration for collectively strategizing to contain
AMR. It pledges to adopt a holistic and collaborative approach towards prevention and
containment of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in India. It calls on all stakeholders
including UN, WHO, FAO and other UN agencies, civil society organizations etc., to
support the development and implementation of the national and state action plans on
AMR.
In alignment with global action plan, Indias action plan has objectives of enhancing
awareness, strengthening surveillance, improving rational use of antibiotics, reducing
infections and promoting research. In addition, India aims to support neighbouring
countries in collective fight against infectious diseases.
Health Ministry has taken a lead in this effort at international fora and has initiated series
of actions including setting up a National Surveillance System for AMR, enacted
regulations (Schedule-H-1) to regulate sale of antibiotics, brought out National
Guidelines for use of antibiotics etc. He further said that more efforts are required
considering the large size of our country, magnitude of the problem and the fact
that AMR needs to be addressed comprehensively under One Health Approach.
8. BrahMos Land Attack Supersonic Cruise Missile
This variant of Long Range BrahMos Missile was fired from Indian Naval Ship Teg, a
Guided Missile Frigate, on a target on land.
BrahMos Missile has been jointly developed by India and Russia, and its Anti Ship
variant has already been inducted into Indian Navy.
Land Attack variant of BrahMos Missile provides Indian Naval Ships the capability to
precisely neutralise selected targets deep inland, far away from coast, from stand-off
ranges at sea.
The missile has a range of 400km.
The technology upgrade to the extended range BrahMos has come after India gained entry into
the 34-nation Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) in June 2016, which removed the
caps on the missiles range.

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The MTCR basically prevents the proliferation of missiles and UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles)
over the range of 300-km.
9. Ghana, Kenya and Malawi to pilot GSK malaria vaccine from 2018
Ghana, Kenya and Malawi will pilot the worlds first malaria vaccine from 2018, offering
it for babies and children in high-risk areas as part of real-life trials.
Combined with existing malaria interventions, such a vaccine would have the potential to
save tens of thousands of lives in Africa.
The injectable vaccine, called RTS,S or Mosquirix, was developed by British drugmaker
GlaxoSmithKline to protect children from the most deadly form of malaria in Africa.
This is WHOs pilot programme to assess whether the Mosquirixs protective effect in
children aged 5 to 17 months can be replicated in real-life.
It will also assess the feasibility of delivering the four doses needed, and explore the
vaccines potential role in reducing the number of children killed by the disease.
10. Worms versus plastic
The researchers found a caterpillar commercially bred for fishing bait has the ability to
biodegrade polyethylene, one of the toughest and most used plastics, frequently found clogging
landfill sites in the form of shopping bags.
The scientists have observed that the degradation rate of the wax worm is extremely fast
when compared to other recent discoveries.
Last year, a bacteria was found to biodegrade plastics at a rate of just 0.13mg a day.
Significance of the discovery
The present discovery assumes significance for getting rid of the ever increasing Polyethylene
plastic waste that degrades the environment.
It is estimated that a trillion plastic bags are used every single year. The plastics are highly
resistant to breaking down, and even if it does the smaller pieces usually tend to choke up

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ecosystems without getting degraded. The wax worms were found to transform the
polyethylene into ethylene glycol.
To make sure it was not just the chewing and degrading the plastic, scientists mashed up
some of the worms and smeared them on polyethylene bags and got similar results as
above.
The molecular details of the process of breakdown could be used to come up with a
biotechnological solution for managing polyethylene waste.
Wax Worms
Wax worms are medium-white caterpillars with black-tipped feet that live as parasites in
bee colonies and are commercially bred for fishing bait.
They are the caterpillar larvae of wax moths. Wax moths lay their eggs inside beehives
where these worms hatch and grow on beeswax.
The wax worms feed on cocoons, pollen, and shed skins of bees and are considered as
parasites by the beekeepers.
11. IISc makes two potent molecules to fight TB
Scientists at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru have developed two new,
potent molecules that can severely impact the survival of mycobacteria,
including Mycobacterium tuberculosis that causes TB.
Unlike most antibiotics that target the bacterial metabolism by aiming at the cellular
components, the novel molecules inhibit the stress response pathway of mycobacteria.
The stress response pathway is crucial for bacteria to survive during hostile conditions
such as lack of nutrients and the presence of antibiotics, to name a few. So any inhibition
of this pathway will lead to its death.
The master regulator of stress pathway in the case of mycobacteria is (p)ppGpp

(Guanosine pentaphospahte or Guanosine tetraphosphate).
Though a molecule that inhibits the (p)ppGpp formation has already been synthesised, the
efficacy is not much. Very high concentration of Relacin molecule is needed to inhibit
the pathway and, therefore, the efficacy is low.
So we synthesised two new molecules acetylated compound (AC compound) and

acetylated benzoylated compound (AB compound) by bringing about a modification in
the base of the Relacin molecule, says Prof. Dipankar Chatterji from the Division of

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Biological Sciences, IISc and the corresponding author of the paper.
We found both the molecules to be very good inhibitors of stress response. The two
compounds affected the rate of synthesis of (p)ppGpp and also reduced the cell survival,
he says. Laboratory studies showed that the two molecules were not toxic to human cells
and were able to penetrate the human lung epithelial cells.
We found our compounds were targeting the Rel gene. The Rel gene makes Rel protein,
which in turn synthesises (p)ppGpp. When the Rel gene is knocked out, the long-term
survival of Mycobacterium smegmatis decreases.
The Alarmone molecule (p)ppgpp, a modified nucleotide, is ubiquitous in bacteria and

absent in humans. Inhibiting (p)ppgpp synthesis would specifically target the survival of
bacteria without having any effects on humans, says Dr. Kirtimaan Syal from the
Division of Biological Sciences, IISc and the first author of the paper.
The major reason for prolonged treatment of TB is the bacteriums ability to persist in
dormant form, which is tolerant to most antibiotics used in the treatment regimen. So
inhibition of (p)ppGpp-mediated persistence could help in shortening the treatment
regime, dealing with the emergence of multiple drug resistance and treatment of chronic
infections.
Under hostile conditions, bacteria tend to form biofilms, which protect the bacteria from
stress and induce tolerance to antibiotics.
Recent studies have shown that tuberculosis bacteria that cannot form a biofilm cannot
survive inside the host. Evidences have shown that at the time of infection, the M.
tuberculosis display a biofilm-like phenotype and this helps the bacteria to survive inside
the host.
12. CSIR-NIO develops robotic platform to track oceanic processes
It is capable of being stationed at any water depth from 0-200 metres to track the oceanic
processes.
The robot has been designed to regularly record the water column information at every 10
to 25 cm during every profile four times a day.
The robot was tested during the recent voyage of RV Sindhu Sadhana, the latest state of

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the art research vessel of NIO.
The SREP robot has been designed particularly to carry out studies related to the
monsoon, global climate and upwelling.
Upwelling is a phenomenon associated with the monsoon that sees the migration of deep
sea oxygen minimum zone (OMZ) towards the coast. It also brings the nutrient-rich
water to the surface and enhances the biological productivity of the region.
Several sensors attached to SREP is capable of detecting the conditions associated with
upwelling such as low temperature, low oxygen, high nutrients, and changes in
density patterns etc.
This enables SREP to effectively track upwelling during June to September.
Upwelling is an important phenomenon for the ecosystem sustenance and fishery.
Similarly, since south-west monsoon forms the backbone of the countrys economy,
knowing the conditions for its onset forms one of the major goals of SREP.
The robot in its final configuration will be capable of sitting on the seabed for 100 days
continuously to track the oceanic processes in the upcoming monsoon season.
CSIR-NIO was established on 1 January 1966 with its headquarters at Dona Paula,
Goa. It has regional centres at Kochi, Mumbai and Visakhapatnam. CSIR-NIO was
established following the International Indian Ocean Expedition (IIOE) in the 1960s.
CSIR-NIO primarily focuses on research over traditional branches of oceanography such

as biological, chemical, geological/geophysical, and physical as well as over ocean
engineering, marine instrumentation and marine archaeology.
13. Solve a problem, win ?1 crore
The Centre is set to launch a scheme, called IDEAS, or Innovations for Development of Efficient
and Affordable Systems for students from higher educational institutions to volunteer to offer
innovative, original and practical solutions to problems facing the country and get rewarded for
their efforts.
It is an initiative to challenge young minds with problems of society in general, to come

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up with innovative, original, practical and economical solutions.
The Human Resource Development Ministry has identified a handful of areas pertaining
to which the problem-solving skills of students will be tested. These are affordable
healthcare, computer science and ICT, energy (making solar/renewable resources cheaper,
energy efficiency, etc.), affordable housing, healthcare, agriculture, education, water
resources and river systems, affordable infrastructure, defence, cybersecurity and
information security, and environment and climate change.
The scheme will invite students to find solutions to problems in these fields and offer a
prize of ?1 crore to the best solution in each field.
Under each of the above areas or themes, 10 problem statements will be prepared and
widely publicised.
All higher educational institutions will be eligible and encouraged to participate, but
participation of IITs, NITs and CFTIs will be mandatory.
14. Plumes from Saturns Moon enceladus hint that it could support life
Could icy moons like Saturns Enceladus in the outer solar system be home to microbes
or other forms of alien life?Intriguing new findings from data collected by
NASAs Cassini spacecraft suggest the possibility.
Plumes of gas erupting out of Enceladus a small moon with an ocean of liquid water
beneath its icy crust contain hydrogen.
Scientists infer a lot from that: that there are hydrothermal chemical reactions similar to
those that occur at hot fissures at the ocean bottoms on Earth.
On Earth at least, hydrothermal vents thrive with microbial life, offering up the potential
that icy moons far away from Earth dubbed OceanWorlds.
This is the latest discovery by Cassini, a spacecraft that is heading into its final months
after 13 years of exploring Saturn, its moons and rings.
On April 22, Cassini begins a journey that will take it between the planet and its rings for
22 orbits before its mission finally ends with a crash into Saturns atmosphere in
September.
Cassinis findings also show that levels of carbon dioxide, hydrogen and methane
measured in the Enceladus plume were out of equilibrium, an imbalance that could
provide an energy source that organisms could tap into for food.

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It indicates there is chemical potential to support microbial systems.
In a separate paper,another team of researchers using the Hubble Space Telescope once
again spotted what appears to be a similar plume rising from Europa, one of Jupiters big
moons that also possesses an ocean beneath an icy exterior.Cassini had earlier found that
there are seas of methane on Saturns largest moon, Titan, a finding that has inspired
some scientists to suggest sending a boat there.
At a mere 310 miles wide, Enceladus was considered too small to be geologically
interesting; scientists suspected that its interior had frozen solid long ago. But a decade
ago, Cassini spotted plumes rising from the south pole region, one of the biggest, most
surprising discoveries of the mission, which has been in orbit around Saturn for nearly 13
years.
The tidal forces of Saturn pulling and squeezing Enceladus appear to generate enough
heat to melt the ice. From additional Cassini observations, scientists concluded that not
only is there a pool of water near the south pole of Enceladus to generate the plumes, but a
global ocean that lies beneath the moons ice.
At hydrothermal vents on Earth, the hydrogen is quickly gobbled up by microbes. That so

much hydrogen is rising through Enceladus ocean and reaching space could mean there
is no life on the little moon to take advantage of it.
15. Scientists have found second Great Spot in Jupiter which is cold and high up.
The Great Spot was found to be 24,000 km across and 12,000 km wide.
It is found to be in the upper atmosphere and is much cooler than the hot surroundings.
Unlike the Great Red Spot which was identified in 1830, this newly discovered Great
Spot is continuously changing its shape and size.
The Great Cold Spot is believed to be caused by magnetic forces responsible for Jupiters
polar auroras. This phenomenon drives energy into the atmosphere and creates a region of
cooling in the boundary layer between the underlying atmosphere and the vacuum of
space.
The Great Spot was discovered by a British-led team using a telescope in the Southern
Observatory in northern Chile.

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It was found to be much more volatile than the slowly changing Great Red Spot and found
to be thousands of years old.
Scientists have planned to study the Great Cold Spot using ground telescopes
and NASAs Juno spacecraft that is orbiting around Jupiter.
16. Doctors can see a fever
Visual, non-invasive monitoring of body temperature of patients without using a

thermometer may become a reality soon, thanks to the work carried out by a team of
scientists led by John Philip, head of the smart materials section at the Indira Gandhi
Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), Kalpakkam, near Chennai.
The concept is based on ferrofluid emulsion contained in a thin film that changes colour
with rise in temperature within a narrow range - 30-40 C.
The emulsion has iron oxide nanoparticles containing oil droplets dispersed in water.
Till now ferrofluid was used as a magnetic stimuli-responsive material. In the presence of
a temperature-sensitive polymer poly(N-isopropylacrylamide), also known as PNIPAM)
the ferrofluid emulsion can be used as a thermally tunable grating to produce different
colours.
Up to about 34 C, the polymer is highly hydrated and swollen due to repulsive

interaction between individual monomer segments.But when the temperature crosses 34
C, the polymer becomes dehydrated leading to a collapsed state.
The polymer will once again become hydrated and swollen when the temperature falls
below 34 C. By using certain additives, we can tune the collapse of the polymer to
higher temperature to reflect fever conditions, clarifies A.W. Zaibudeen, senior research
fellow at IGCAR and the first author of the paper.
Using magnetic fields, the scientists first achieved a particular ordering (spacing between
the arrays of emulsion droplets) of emulsion and got a particular colour.
When polymer is added as a stabiliser and the temperature is increased, the grating
spacing of the polymer changes and gives rise to a different colour or spacing.
If the normal temperature is fixed at yellow, the change will be to green when the

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temperature increases.Colour with higher wavelength is produced at lower temperature
and colour of lower wavelength at higher temperature.
17. Global interest in PSLV soars
The
PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle) space vehicle has received more than double
the volume of inquiries from prospective customers ever since it launched a record
104 satellites on a single flight in February.
A world best, 101 small foreign commercial spacecraft were taken up at once in the feat,
catapulting the PSLV's overall commercial tally to 180.
The PSLV, with a near impeccable 37 successes in 39 flights, is a clear leader in the
category of rockets that lift small satellites to low earth orbits or LEOs.
These satellites weigh up to 500 kg and must be placed in polar orbits 500 km from
the earth.
Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle
The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) was developed to allow India to
launch its Indian Remote Sensing (IRS) satellites into Sun-synchronous
orbits, a service that was, until the advent of the PSLV, commercially available
only from Russia.
PSLV can also launch small size satellites into geostationary transfer
orbit (GTO).
Some notable payloads launched by PSLV include India's first lunar

probe Chandrayaan-1, India's first interplanetary mission, Mangalyaan (Mars
orbiter Mission) and India's first space observatory, Astrosat.

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18. Why India is struggling and failing to control tuberculosis?.
Recently, the Delhi High Court acceded to the plea of a girl that she must be given access
to Bedaquiline, an anti-TB drug to treat multi-drug resistant disease (MDR-TB).
Issue
Bedaquilines availability is restricted to just five cities. Since the girl was not residing in
the five cities, her domicile status was held against her from being treated with
Bedaquiline.
How does bedaquiline work?
Bedaquiline is a bactericidal drug which belongs to a new class of antibiotics

(diarylquinolines).
Although the drug is active against many different bacteria, it has been registered
specifically for the treatment of MDR-TB.
Bedaquiline works by blocking an enzyme inside the Mycobacterium tuberculosis

bacteria called ATP synthase. This enzyme is used by the bacteria to generate energy.
Without the ability to generate energy, the TB bacteria die and the patients condition can
start to improve.
Why the use of Bedaquiline is restricted in India?
Since Bedaquiline was the first major anti-TB drug discovered in the last 40 years, the
govt restricted its use because of the fear that mycobacterium might develop resistance to
the medicine.
The rationing of Bedaquiline by the government on the fears of drug resistance is

understandable, since, the rampant use of anti-TB medicines had resulted in 4.80 lakh new
cases of MDR TB in 2015.
In India, around 99,000 new cases of MDR-TB are notified. But, only 164 patients are
enrolled for Bedaquiline therapy.
Lacunae in managing MDR-TB:

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Joint TB Monitoring Mission in its report had pointed out the lacunae within the Revised
National Tuberculosis Control Program (RNTCP) in the management of MDR-TB cases.
The high-power committee suggested that the rise in drug-resistant TB is because of

the inherent weakness of state-run TB control programmes and the lack of awareness
among patients, who do not complete the six-month medication.
Also, slashing the five-year budget of RNTC from Rs 6,500 crore to Rs 4,500 crore has
only added to the problem of TB control in the country.
Scientific evidence also suggests that a delay in the treatment of MDR cases only makes
the community more susceptible to the spread of infection.
Suggested ways to prevent MDR-TB cases:
Preventing resistance against Bedaquiline is a must, but the manner in which it is being
done is impractical and undemocratic. If the priority is prevention of drug resistance, then
1. Strict surveillance of MDR cases;

2. Better community outreach programmes to educate the patient & the healthcare provider
against treatment dropout;
3. Quality assurance on available anti-TB drugs;
4. Educating physicians against the injudicious use of Anti-TB therapy are far better means
of preventing MDR-TB cases.
Way ahead:
TB is a disease of the poor. A compassionate approach supplemented by scientific

rationality is a must in promoting Bedaquiline therapy.
The Delhi HC order should be an eye opener to rethink the means of rolling out
Bedaquiline therapy more effectively and to introduce other drug treatments (like
Delaminate) in India.

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19. Possible Venus twin discovered
Astronomers, using NASAs Kepler space telescope, have discovered a Venus-like planet
orbiting a dim star that is one-fifth the diameter of our Sun and is located 219 light years
away from Earth.
The newly found planet is only slightly larger than Earth, and it tightly embraces its low-
temperature star called Kepler-1649, encircling it every nine days.
The tight orbit causes the flux of sunlight reaching the planet to be 2.3 times as great as
the solar flux on Earth. For comparison, the solar flux on Venus is 1.9 times the terrestrial
value.
The discovery will provide insight into the nature of planets around M dwarf stars, by far
the most common type in the universe.
20. Litchi causing encephalitis deaths in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district: study
In a bid to establish relation between litchi consumption and encephalitis, the researchers
collected clinical specimen (blood, cerebrospinal fluid and urine) and environmental
specimen (litchis). They conducted test for evidence of infectious pathogens, pesticides,
toxic metals and other non-infectious causes, including presence of hypoglycin A or
methylenecyclopropylglycine (MCPG), naturally-occurring fruit-based toxins that cause
hypoglycaemia and metabolic derangement.
For their research, they considered 390 patients who came for the treatment in two
hospitals in Muzaffarpur between May 26 and July 17, 2014. Out of whom, 122 (31 per
cent) died. The researchers found that the absence of an evening meal significantly
modified the effect of eating litchis on the disease.
They concluded, To prevent illness and reduce mortality in the region, we recommended
minimising litchi consumption, ensuring receipt of an evening meal and implementing
rapid glucose correction for suspected illness.
Outbreaks of unexplained diseases frequently remain under-investigated. In India,

outbreaks of an acute neurological illness with high mortality among children occur
annually in Muzaffarpur, the countrys largest litchi cultivation region.

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21. Long term antibiotic usage increases risk of cancer-inducing polyps
Long-term use of antibiotics increases the risk later in life of developing colon polyps,
often a precursor of bowel cancer.
The findings,boost evidence that the digestive tracts complex network of bacteria may
play a key role in cancer emergence.
Earlier research has linked antibiotic use to developing bowel cancer but the potential
association with these abnormal growths had not been explored.
The researchers found an increased risk of polyps among women who had taken
antibiotics for a total of two months or more over a two-decade span.
Women who did so in their 20s and 30s had a 36% greater chance of polyps forming
compared to counterparts who did not extensively use antibiotics.
The risk jumped by 70% in women who took antibiotics for at least two months while
they were in their 40s and 50s.Long-term antibiotic use in early-to-middle adulthood was
associated with increased risk of colorectal adenoma, the study said, using the technical
term for polyps.
The study was not based on a controlled experiment, so the evidence that antibiotics
somehow lead to the appearance of polyps remains circumstantial, the researchers noted.
But there is a plausible explanation for how this might happened.
Antibiotics fundamentally alter the population of bacteria in the digestive tract the
microbiome by killing some germs and reducing the population of others.
Even when they work as intended by eliminating a disease-causing bug, antibiotics also
reduce the guts resistance to other hostile bacteria. This disruption of the natural
balance of bacteria, earlier work has shown, is common in patients with bowel
cancer.
Add to this the fact that many bugs requiring antibiotics cause inflammation ,a known risk
factor for bowel cancer and the link becomes even stronger. There is increasing evidence
that our microbiota are important in regulating our immune responses and many aspects of
our normal function.
Anything that disturbs our gut bacteria, such as changes in diet, inflammation or
antibiotic use may have an impact on our health.

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22. HYPERLOOPING INDIA?
The term Hyperloop has suddenly become a highly sensational debate in India. An unbelievable
technological advancement in the transportation sector- amazinglyfuturistic as a sci-fi movie. Can
a vehicle travel on earth clocking the speed of an Airplane? The answer is- yes. Soon Indians
will witness this capsule like vehicle shooting through a tube like the bullet passing through the
barrel of a gun.
Hyperloop is the futuristic technology conjured up by the entrepreneur Elon Musk. It is a

system where magnetically levitating capsules are moved at high speeds through low pressure
tubes, there by potentially reducing transport time - of people and goods - by more than 80%.This
transportation system will revolutionalise the mobility of mankind on ground like never before.
A Hyperloop system is now being installed first time in the world, to connect Abu Dhabi
and Dubai. The envisaged Speed of travel is a whooping 1200 km per hour.The time taken to
reach the destination- an unbelievable 12 minutes.
Hyperloop a reality in India?
Hyperloop One, the company developing the technology, has begun an online vote for
people to suggest and choose the best route to deploy a Hyperloop in their countries. The
company proclaimed that the Hyperloop One Global Challenge received 2,600 registrants from
90 countries. It then selected 35 semi- finalists from across the world, five of which are from
India. The route choices of India are:
- Bengaluru- to- Chennai( 334 km in 20 minutes),
- Bengaluru- to- Thiruvananthapuram ( 736 km in 42 minutes),
- Delhi- to- Mumbai via Jaipur and Indore( 1,317 km in 55 minutes),
- Mumbai- to -Chennai via Bengaluru( 1,102 km in 50 minutes),
- Bengaluru to Chennai( 334 km in 20 minutes).
Hyperloop One has announced its ambitious project to run these service in India by
2021.Ot of the 500 plus technicians working on this ambitious project 25 plus are Indians.There

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are also reports that the company has already begun talks with the Indian Government to see how
to make this possible, and how to combine this with the "Make in India" mission by sourcing the
necessary material locally.
Pros and Cons
If approved, Hyperloop project would enable India to jump forward in its transport
infrastructure and could transform the way business is conducted in India. The potential benefits
to the goods transport by this fast and cheap transportation can be mind boggling, boosting the
national productivity and economy.
However, in a country like India, the flip side of such a system is also clearly visible. At a
time when railway infrastructure is abysmal and the airline industry is priced beyond the abilities
of most of the populace, can India really afford another transport system for which the
infrastructure required is huge? However if Hyperloop can run using renewable source of
energy,as it is envisaged, it can be turned into a most popular, cheap and quick mass
transportation system in India.
As of now,there are all probabilities that such a super fast mobility will be used by the
upper echelon of the society only, like our Airlines.
23. India & TB
Disease control in India is a story of contradictions and tuberculosis (TB) is no exception. TB is a

staggering epidemic that affects 2.8 million and kills 485,000 Indians, pushing individuals,
families and communities into poverty, suffering and debt. TB is caused by bacteria
(Mycobacterium tuberculosis) that most often affect the lungs. Tuberculosis is curable and
preventable. It is spread from person to person through the air. When people with lung TB cough,
sneeze or spit, they propel the TB germs into the air. A person needs to inhale only a few of these
germs to become infected.
India has more patients living with drug resistant TB than any other country in the world.
Furthermore, there is evidence that India is home to the most serious hotspots of MDR-TB
transmission, especially in cities like Mumbai.
Months after the Indian government launched the TB Free India campaign, nine policy
changes under the Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program (RNTCP) are yet to be
implemented. The delay has raised concerns among the international public health community

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which believes that drug resistant TB (DR-TB) currently spreading at an alarming rate in India
will not remain confined with the borders if the Indian government does not show
urgency.
Almost all antibiotics used for treating TB were invented before astronauts walked on the moon.
Only two new TB medicines have been approved since that era bedaquiline in 2012 and
delamanid in 2014 and their access has been restricted to a small number of patients with the
most resistant forms of the disease.
India recently released a draft of its latest strategic five-year plan to control TB which takes the
approach to find, treat, prevent and build for TB control on a massive scale.
India among other countries in the South East Asian Region, which bear half of the global
tuberculosis burden, on Thursday signed a call for action and pledged to scale up measures
to end the disease by 2030.
TB ignored
Perhaps because its fundamentals are beyond the capacity of the health establishment. A lack
of preventive strategies, poor nutrition, and rapid urbanisation with limited public
awareness all feed Indias epidemic. Many of these are domains traditionally outside of
disease control programmes though they have an impact on disease control.
As drug resistance increases, the tools available to combat it correspondingly decrease.

Unfortunately, complacency around TB is also the reason few innovative treatments are being
developed. Unlike treatment for drug-sensitive TB, which is almost always 100 percent effective
when carried out properly, treating drug-resistant TB is considerably more difficult. And
treatment for extensively drug-resistant TB can take up to two years and involves a set of
increasingly unpleasant drugs that have side-effects ranging from nausea to permanent hearing
loss. As well, successful cure is not guaranteed.
National Strategic Plan on TB
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, in its national strategic plan for tuberculosis
elimination (2017-2025), has set a highly ambitious goal of achieving a rapid decline in
burden of TB, morbidity and mortality while working towards elimination of TB by 2025.
A national strategic plan (NSP) formulated by the Central Tuberculosis Division to eliminate
tuberculosis (TB) by 2025 aims to fight the bacteria by better detection, treatment, prevention,
and strengthening policies.
Doctors in the field, however, say the war against TB has to be started from the ground

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level by teaching the most basic coughing and sneezing etiquettes to prevent the spread.
One of the prevention strategies in the NSP states that 95% population with latent TB
should be started on preventive treatment, if found eligible for it. It also aims at taking
treatment success rate of TB patients in private sector from the current 13% to 90% in 2025.
Radical approaches are needed to come anywhere close to reaching these ambitious targets.
Most importantly, the TB control programme plans to do away with the strategy of waiting for
patients to walk in to get tested and instead engage in detecting more cases, both drug-sensitive
and drug-resistant.
The emphasis will be on using highly sensitive diagnostic tests, undertaking universal
testing for drug-resistant TB, reaching out to TB patients seeking care from private doctors and
targeting people belonging to high-risk populations.
The other priority is to provide anti-TB treatment irrespective of where patients seek
care from, public or private and ensure that they complete the treatment.
For the first time, the TB control programme talks of having in place patient-friendly
systems to provide treatment and social support
It seeks to make the daily regimen universal; currently, the thrice weekly regimen is
followed by RNTCP, and the daily regimen has been introduced only in five States.
There will be a rapid scale-up of short-course regimens for drug-resistant TB and

drug sensitivity testing-guided treatment.
Acknowledging that the business-as-usual approach will not get the Health Ministry
anywhere close to the goals, it has earmarked critical components that will be addressed on
priority.
These include sending customised SMSes to improve drug compliance, incentivising

private doctors to notify cases and providing free medicines to patients approaching the
private sector, facilitating nutritional support to TB patients, including financial support,
rewarding States performing well in controlling TB, and using management information
systems to monitor all aspects of TB control.
The ultimate impact of this national strategic plan will be transformational

improvements in the end TB efforts of India, the report says. It plans to take a detect-treat-
prevent-build approach in its war against TB.
T The plan lack

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The plan ignores the fact that most Indians affected by TB do not seek care under the
government programme. It is usually their last choice. Even the poorest prefer to pay and go to
the private sector because it is efficient and accessible. They land up in the public sector penniless
and much sicker. That most TB-affected need efficient care with dignity and respect has escaped
Indias health programme planners.
Nadda listed numerous achievements among which were mandatory case notification from the
private sector, inclusion of new Cartridge Based Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (CB
NAAT) machines for early detection, and the introduction of new drugs such as Bedaquiline.
What missed mention was that the increased case notification is but only a fraction of the cases
detected and treated privately.
The government has failed to implement TB notification successfully. India does have
500 new CB NAAT machines but they remain underutilised, highly rationed and of limited reach
to most of the TB-affected.
We still dont know the governments forecasting mechanism for procuring cartridges
to make these tests accessible. Whats more, most TB patients rarely get tested upfront for
drug resistanc As a result, numerous cases of DR-TB remain undiagnosed, poorly treated and
often lost or what the WHO terms missing.
The main gaps are regarding the governments failure to roll-out Fixed Dose
Combinations (FDCs) for tuberculosis(TB) patients living with HIV; the failure to provide A
child-friendly TB regimen and the glacially slow pace of scaling up availability of a new
drug Bedaquiline, which can treat multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB).
Neglect of TB
TBs institutionalised neglect is not limited to the government alone. In its recently
released first ever priority list of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, the WHO didnt include DR-TB.
The list is supposed to provide direction globally to government priorities for research on bacteria
for which we need new antibiotics. There is already shrinking support for research into new TB
antibiotics primarily because TB is a disease with a large market at the base of the pyramid.
This is borne by the fact that despite its massive human costs, only two drugs have been
developed in four decades and remain expensive and inaccessible to most. Such omissions let the
pharmaceutical sector and government off the hook from pressure to invest in research for new
drugs.
The lack of large-scale safety data and the paucity of effective TB drugs, especially for
MDR-TB, are the reasons for the World Health Organization (WHO) to insist that the drug be
used only when all options to treat TB using the existing drugs have been exhausted.

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Way ahead
Indias spending per TB patient is the least among BRICS countries. The answers lie in
expanding the capacity of the public sector, aggressively engaging the private sector, increasing
budgets, and creating a massive campaign to ensure awareness and empowerment among those
most severely affected.
In developing nations, overcrowding is a major risk factor in the transmission of the

disease from the patient to other unaffected persons. Hence, community planning and
housing need to be done in such a way to prevent overcrowding.
Conditions, which weaken the immune system, cancers, medications to treat cancers,
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS),
poorly controlled diabetes mellitus, increase in the chance of an exposed individual having the
active disease.
Hence, efforts should be made to ensure one has good immune system through regular
medical evaluation.
The setting up of a regional innovation to implementation fund for accelerated sharing of

knowledge, intellectual resources and innovations to reach out and treat all cases, is a good step.
Countries also need to apply best practices in taking comprehensive TB treatment and
prevention programmes to universal scale while improving quality and making them
genuinely people-centered.
Community interventions are needed the most for the control of the disease.
It should be noted that tuberculosis causes the patient loss of direct income, loss of days at
work, loss of play, and also the risk of stigmatisation. Therefore, prevention cannot be over
emphasised.
According to a recent WHO report, TB affects an estimated three million women every year and
remains a leading cause of death among adult women globally. Despite the severity of the issue,
attention to the gender-specific aspects of the disease are still lacking. Issues such as stigma and
poverty are heightened for women with TB as they are often abandoned by families.
It is essential to look at TB as social suffering and not just a clinical problem. We must
employ a multi-faceted approach for TB that puts women and girls at the centre and
engages their families, communities, and governments.

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The burden of the disease has risen exponentially with two people dying of tuberculosis every
three minutes in the country and one patient infects 10 or more people in a year. The expenditure
on TB is the least in India, compared to other BRICS economies. We need access to a free and
reliable TB test, counselling, free high-quality treatment, and economic and nutritional support.
24. Indias first International research centre for Foot, Mouth disease of cattle
Indias first International research centre for Foot and Mouth disease of cattle and
buffalos was inaugurated at Argul (Bhubaneswar), Odisha.
The research centre has been constructed in joint collaboration of UNs Food and
Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAT).
It will conduct research on viral disease of cattle and buffaloes. It has the facility for safe
handling and storage of live Foot and Mouth disease virus that essentially is required for
control of the disease.
It will collect samples from all over the country to find a cure of the disease. Notably,
India is suffering a loss of Rs. 23,000 annually due to Foot and Mouth disease of cattle
and buffalos.
Note:
Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is an enteroviral disease caused by the virus
named coxsackie virus A16. It usually infects babies and children less than five years old
and it leads to ulcers in the mouth and rashes on the palm and feet. The disease generally
occurs during monsoon and the post-monsoon season as a person gets prone to infection
with the change in temperature. In a few cases, there also could be rashes on the rest of
the body and on the buttocks.
25. SpaceX successfully re-launches its first used rocket
Elon Musk-led space exploration startup SpaceX has successfully launched its pre-used
first stage of Falcon 9 rocket in its bid to drive down costs and speed up flights.

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It marks the first time relaunch of an orbital class rocket. The Falcon 9 took off from
Floridas Kennedy Space Center hoisting a broadcasting satellite.
The reused first stage was earlier used in March 2016 and had successfully landed on
drone platform.
26. New way to fight drug resistant superbugs
Scientists from UK have discovered a new way of removing antibodies from the blood stream.
This method has potential to reduce chronic infections that may help humans in the fight
against drug resistant superbugs.
Scientists had used a process known as plasmapheresis that is somewhat like kidney
dialysis. It involved the removal, treatment, and return of blood plasma from circulation.
It was done five times in a week in order to remove antibody from two patients with
bronchiectasis who had suffered with chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections
resistant to many antibiotics.
Using this process, scientists replaced antibodies in these patients with those from blood
donations. This treatment restored ability for the patients blood to kill their infecting
Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections.
Superbugs
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) or superbugs happens when microorganisms such as

viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites change when they are exposed to antimicrobial
drugs. These microorganisms are also termed as superbugs.
As a result, the medicines or drugs become ineffective and infections persist in the body
further increasing the risk of spread to others.
27. Eclipses of binary star shed light on orbiting exoplanet
A team of scientists from Raman Research Institute, Bengaluru and University of Delhi
for the first time have seen indications of a massive planet orbiting a low mass X-ray
binary star system.
The system MXB 1658-298 is an X-ray binary and a part of the constellation Ophiuchus
(serpent bearer).

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It is nearly 30,000 light years away and the planet is expected to be nearly 8,000 times as
massive as the earth.
X-ray binaries consist of a pair of stars orbiting each other of which one is compact one
such as a black hole or a neutron star.
In this case it is a neutron star which draws matter from its less-massive companion and
generates X-rays which are detected by detectors placed in satellites in space.
X-ray binaries are a class of binary stars that are luminous in X-rays. The X-rays
are produced by matter falling from one component, called the donor (usually a
relatively normal star), to the other component, called the accretor, which is very
compact: a neutron star or black hole.
Exoplanet is a planet that does not orbit the Sun and instead orbits a different star,
stellar remnant, or brown dwarf. It is also termed as extrasolar planet.
Neutron stars are created when giant stars die in supernovas and their cores
collapse, with the protons and electrons essentially melting into each other to form
neutrons.
This discovery is made with a new technique, X-Ray observation by measuring periodic
delays in X-ray eclipses.
It is a new technique of detecting exoplanets and observations are done from space
observatories.
In X-ray binaries, the time in-between eclipses of the source can increase, decrease and
also shows abrupt changes.
But in MXB 1658-298, time between the eclipses increases and decreases periodically.
28. Geotagging of assets created under RKVY
It is proposed to prepare inventory of the assets created in the last one decade
(2007-2017) under RKVY through Geotagging technique. National Remote Sensing
Centre (NRSC), wing of Indian Space Research Organisation is providing technical

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support to RKVY division and has come up with a detailed procedure for the same. The
institute is involved in preparation of the required app, imparting training to the states
etc..The trained officers at the field level will take the photographs (with details of
latitude, longitude, year of creation etc.) of the assets and upload on to the Bhuvan-RKVY
platform of NRSC
So far NRSC has developed RKVY app, training manual, imparted training to 17 states
regarding use of the app. The organisation will provide technical backstopping till the
Geotagging exercise is completed. Pilot work has been initiated in 4 sattes of Orissa,
Maharashtra, Bihar and Karnataka.
A formal MoU is proposed to be signed between DAC&FW and NRSC regarding use
of BHUVAN for launching BHUVAN-RKVY platform. It is proposed to sign the MoU
on 6th April .Minsters of Agriculture, Department of Science, Secretary (DAC&FW),
Director ISRO, Director NRSA and other senior officers from both the sides are expected
to be present during the ceremon

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Ecology
1. Himachal forests affected by lantana shrub
1. Atleast 6 per cent of the forests in Himachal Pradesh are invaded by exotic weed Lantana.
The state's forest minister Thakur Singh Bharmouri recently told the Legislative
Assembly that the state is working "full-time" to weed out the menace, but it would take
at least 20 years to clear it from the state forests. Re-greening the areas with native high-
rise foliage will take another four years, he said. The 2015-16 survey by the forest
department shows that the state's largest district, Kangra, is worst affected by Lantana,
followed by Sirmaur, Solan and Bilaspur. Shimla is the least affected. The flowering
shrub is a known water guzzler and poses a threat to indigenous plant species. Several
countries are struggling to contain the spread of Lantana without much success.
2. Lantana spreads very fast and does not allow anything else, including grass or other plant
or shrub, grow in the area leading to the migration or decline in the number of herbivores.
This can lead to starvation of tigers, leopards and other carnivores at the top of the food
chain.
3. Not just the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, even the Nagarahole National Park and Bandipur
National Park in neighbouring Karnataka and the Jim Corbett National Park in
Uttarakhand are amongst the worst-hit by the spread of this flowery shrub.
4. The Corbett Tiger Reserve (CTR) adopted the Root Cut Stock methodology about a
decade back to treat areas encroached by lantana.
5. First introduced in India in 1807, lantana has spread from the Himalayas to the
southernmost parts of the country, though it is the hilly regions, especially the
Shivaliks that have largely borne the brunt of the spread of this species.
Livelihoods impacted
1. In Himachal Pradesh, the fast spread of lantana is adversely impacting not only wildlife,
cattle, medicinal and other native plant species but also affecting the livelihoods of a large
number of local people, including the tribal population. The districts of Mandi, Hamirpur
and Solan are the worst affected.
2. With lantana encroaching pastures and grazing area and impacting the productivity of the
soil, it has caused widespread loss to livelihood.
3. Yet another problem is that when carnivores like leopards do not find food in the forests,
they tend to move into human habitations causing human-animal conflict.
4. In the Shivalik foothills of Jammu and Kashmir also the lantana shrub has been making
inroads into pastures, thereby shrinking the areas for cattle grazing and like Himachal
Pradesh, affecting the livelihood of people.

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5. The Cut Root Stock methodology is now being implemented in Himachal Pradesh with
certain modifications according to climatic conditions of the State.
Control the spread
1. For Himachal Pradesh, where over 177,000 hectares of forest and other land have been
encroached by lantana, the priority is to control the speed of the spread of this weed,
pointed out Mr. Vaidya. According to the latest data available, a little over 8,776 hectares
of land infested by lantana in the State has been treated and the target fixed for the current
financial year is 5,000 hectares.
2. For wildlife experts and authorities, besides tackling the problem of poaching, the
challenge today is to urgently control the voracious hunger for growth of lantana that is
indirectly threatening the population of the big cats, local flora and fauna as well as
causing serious livelihood problems.
2. Clean Water Technology - PIB Based
The Department of Biotechnology and Department of Science and Technology, Ministry of

Science and Technology are collaborating with The India-Canada Centre for Innovation
Multidisciplinary Partnerships to Accelerate Community Transformation and Sustainability (IC-
IMPACTS), to promote multidisciplinary research partnerships. Five projects addressing the
issue of Clean Water Technology are being implemented by the Departments at the total cost of
Rs. 572 lakhs with matched funding from Canada.
Clean Water Technology
Biosensors for detection of toxins impedance-based handheld biosensors for assessment

of the water quality and a nanoparticle based water treatment system to eliminate toxins
and microorganisms in water. Toxins which will be detected are cyanotoxin
(microcystins, anatoxins) and microorganisms
(Enterococcus, Salmonella, Staphylococcus).
Heavy metal detection and removal Plastic cartridges for colour based test monitoring
kit for detection of multiplex heavy metal. Developing fixed bed bio-char columns to
remove heavy metals from waste water.
Bio-recovery from waste water (waste to wealth) Integrated pilot-scale 915 MHz MW-
AOP for advanced anaerobic digestion system for resource recovery
Survey to identify and explore alternatives in domestic water management technology
and financial appropriateness of water and wastewater infrastructure in selected cities of
India

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These Technologies are currently being developed with the aim that these technologies will be
implemented in India. Prior art is available for the technologies being developed. The
technologies are being adapted and modified for Indian conditions. Technologies developed will
be taken for feasibility studies and shall be implemented on pilot scale within two years.
3. A shrinking home for endemic birds
Birds endemic to the biodiverse Western Ghats appear to be in greater danger than they
were thought to be, because the range of places they live in may have been overestimated.
Researchers from four American universities who analysed range maps used by the
influential global authority, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN),
found that for 17 of 18 bird species, the distribution was smaller than IUCN estimates.
The Red List classifications of the IUCN serve to guide protection policies; less
vulnerable species receive a lower conservation focus. The study published in the journal
Biological Conservation, argues that IUCN overestimated the habitat of these bird species
by up to 88%. Of the 18 species, habitats of 12 were overestimated by over 50%. Under
the new model, 10 species could be bumped up on the IUCN scale, for a higher risk. An
example is the Malabar grey hornbill which IUCN classifies as Least Concern and
believes is distributed across 2.3 lakh sq.km in Kerala and Karnataka. But when
researchers used a spatial modelling technique, they found its range was just 43,060 sq.
km, or, nearly 81% less than the estimates. This would put the bird in the Near
Threatened category. Again, the Nilgiri pipit appears to have lost 88% of its habitat,
making it endangered rather than vulnerable.
IUCN uses expert sightings and other records, while the study used land cover, forest type
(satellite imagery), temperature, precipitation and citizen science using the eBird online
birding checklist.
1. Malabar grey hornbills are only found in the Western Ghat area and their dwindling
number shows that the global biodviersity hotspot is in danger due to human intervention.

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2. They are the most beautiful and attractive birds. Goa has different species of hornbills.
Malabar grey hornbills were recently found in Keri-Shiroli near Mhadei wildlife sanctuary
inside the nest feeding its young ones.
3. Apart from colour, the Malabar grey hornbills are different from other hornbills in other
respects. The Malabar grey hornbill has a large beak without the casque, which is most
prominent in other species of hornbills.
4. Its brownish-grey wings, with a white carpal patch and black primary flight feathers
tipped with white colour, can be easily noticed on trees in forested areas. This bird makes
a loud, cackling and laughing tocko- tocko- tock' sound.
5. In areas of Shiroli in Sattari, pairs of Malabar grey hornbills make their nests in holes of
Kokam trees (Garcica indica), which are safe and out of reach of predators. Here the bird
lays its eggs.
6. Before laying eggs, the female incarcerates herself within the cavity by sealing its
entrance with cement-like substance made from her droppings. The entrance to the nest
retains a narrow aperture through which the female usually voids excreta and receives
food.
1. The Nilgiri pipit is closely associated with short montane grasslands interspersed with
marshy grounds and small streams mostly in hill slopes above 1,000 metres (3,300 ft) in
the Ponmudi hills and above 1,500 metres (4,900 ft) in the Nilgiris, Palani and High
Ranges.
2. They have also been claimed to occur in the Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve but a
2014 study suggests that the species is restricted to the high altitude grassy peaks of the
Nilgiris and the Anamalais.
3. Museum specimens exist from the Palani ranges but habitat changes may have led to its
reduction or extirpation as the species was not found in surveys.
4. 22nd April: Earth Day
Earth Day is celebrated every year on April 22.

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It aims to encourage people to carry out activities that will benefit the Earth, such as
recycling more, using solar power or plant trees.
It was first celebrated in 1970, and since then it is celebrated in more than 193 countries
by over a billion people every year.
Earth Day celebrations are coordinated globally by the Earth Day Network.
Earth Day 2017s Campaign is Environmental & Climate Literacy.
This years campaign is dedicated to an ambitious goal to achieve global climate and
environmental literacy in the space of three years, by Earth Day 2020.
The concept of observing Earth Day was formally proposed by John McConnell at a
UNESCO conference on Environment in 1969.
Later in 1971, a proclamation was signed to observe international Earth Day annually on
the Vernal Equinox by UN Secretary-General U Thant.
On Earth Day 2016, historic Paris Agreement on Climate Change was signed. The
agreement is legally binding on signatory countries to limit global temperature rise to well
below 2 degrees Celsius.
5. Inter-Ministerial Delegation to Participate in Basel, Rotterdam, Stockholm

Conventions in Geneva
An inter-ministerial Indian delegation headed by the Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest

and Climate Change, Ajay Narayan Jha, will participate in the 2017 Conference of Parties
(COPs) to the Basel, Rotterdam, Stockholm (BRS) Conventions.
The three COPs to BRS Conventions will be held jointly and back-to-back from April
24-May 5, 2017 in Geneva, Switzerland.
The theme of the meetings and the high-level segment will be A future detoxified:
sound management of chemicals and waste.
Meetings of the COPs of BRS Conventions are generally held every alternate year.
India has participated in the earlier meetings of the COPs of the BRS Conventions.
Previously, COP 12 of Basel Convention and COP 7 meetings of Rotterdam and
Stockholm Conventions were held in Geneva, Switzerland in May 2015.
Conference of Parties (COPs) to the BRS Convention include the 13th meeting of the

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Conference of Parties to Basel Convention (BC COP 13); the 8th meeting of the
Conference of Parties to Rotterdam Convention (RC COP 8) and 8th meeting of the
Conference of Parties to Stockholm Convention (SC COP 8).
While the Basel Convention will discuss the control of transboundary movements of
hazardous wastes and their disposal, the Rotterdam Convention will deliberate on the
prior informed consent procedure for certain hazardous chemicals and pesticides in
international trade and the Stockholm Convention is on persistent organic pollutants
(POPs).
The most important matters to be deliberated during COPs include listing of chemicals
under Rotterdam and Stockholm Convention may have an impact on industrial growth.
The inclusion of chemicals under Rotterdam Convention does not ban the chemical.
However, importing countries need to follow the PIC procedure.
BRS Conventions
The Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm (BRS) Conventions are multilateral environmental
agreements, which share the common objective of protecting human health and the
environment from hazardous chemicals and wastes.
To enhance cooperation and coordination among the BRS Conventions, their respective
conferences of the Parties have taken a series of decisions.
This synergies process aims to strengthen the implementation of the three conventions
at the national, regional and global levels by providing coherent policy guidance,
enhancing efficiency in the provision of support to Parties to the Conventions, reducing
their administrative burden and maximising the effective and efficient use of resources at
all levels, while maintaining the legal autonomy of these three multilateral environmental
agreements.
In addition to initiating reforms to the secretariats of the three Conventions on an
administrative as well as operational level, this process is changing the way in which the
implementation of the Conventions are undertaken at the national and regional levels.
Parties to the Conventions and entities supporting countries in the implementation of the
Conventions, such as regional centres, intergovernmental organizations and non-
governmental organizations, also undertake efforts to increase coherence in the
implementation of the Conventions.
Basel Convention
The Basel Convention was adopted on March 22, 1989 by the Conference of
Plenipotentiaries in Basel, Switzerland, in response to a public outcry, following the
discovery, in the 1980s, in Africa and other parts of the developing world of deposits of
toxic wastes imported from abroad.
The Convention also covers hazardous wastes that are explosive, flammable, poisonous,
infectious, corrosive, toxic, or eco-toxic.

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The Convention aims towards restricting trans-boundary movements of hazardous wastes
and its disposal with environmentally sound management (ESM).
The Basel Convention was adopted in 1989 and entered into force on May 5, 1992. India
ratified the Convention in June 24, 1992.
Rotterdam Convention
The Rotterdam Convention is a multilateral environmental agreement which prescribes

obligations on the importers and exporters of certain hazardous chemicals.
Parties are empowered to make informed decisions about the chemicals they wish to
import.
The Prior Informed Consent (PIC) procedure is the mechanism for formally obtaining and
disseminating the decisions of importing Parties, as to whether they wish to receive future
shipments of those chemicals listed in Annex III of the Convention and for ensuring
compliance with these decisions by exporting Parties.
As of now, a total of 47 chemicals are listed in Annex III of the Convention. Out of these,
33 are pesticides and 14 industrial chemicals, which are subject to PIC procedures.
The Convention was adopted on September 10, 1998 and entered into force on February
24, 2004. India ratified the Convention on May 24, 2005.
Stockholm Convention
The Stockholm Convention is a global treaty to protect human health and the environment
from a class of chemicals known as Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs).
These remain intact in the environment for long periods (persistent), become widely
distributed geographically (long range transport), accumulate in the fatty tissue of humans
and wildlife (bioaccumulation), and have a harmful impact on human health, or on
environment (toxic).
Under the Convention, the chemicals can be listed for complete elimination from
production, use, export and import (Annex-A), Restriction in use and production for
specific purpose only (Annex-B) or Unintentional production (Annex-C).
The implementation of the Convention requires the parties to take measures to eliminate
or reduce the release of these POPs into the environment.
Till date, 26 chemicals are listed as POPs under the Stockholm Convention. As of now,
India has ratified only the 12 initially listed POPs.
The Convention was adopted on May 22, 2001 and entered into force on May 17, 2004.
India ratified the Convention on January 13, 2006.
6. States turn to dogs to check wildlife crimes

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In a bid to combat wildlife crimes more effectively, the Forest Departments of different
States are strengthening law enforcement using squads of sniffer and tracker dogs.
Toward this end, 13 puppies aged six to nine months, along with 26 dog handlers, began
training at the National Training Centre for Dogs (NTCD), BSF Academy, in Tekanpur,
Gwalior earlier this month.
When their training is over in December, States such as Uttar Pradesh and Sikkim, and the
Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar, will get wildlife sniffer dog squads for the first
time. West Bengals Forest Department will get three squads, Uttarkahand and Assam
two, and Odisha and Kerala one each.
The agency had trained dogs for the military and para-military forces for security
purposes. After talks between different Ministries, the Ministry of Environment and
Forests, in consultation with the Home Ministry, gave us the task of training dogs to help
check wildlife crimes such as poaching, Dr. Nag said.
For every dog trained, two personnel are also trained. The breeds chosen are German
Shepherds and Belgian Malinois.
The training of dogs in India for wildlife crime prevention was pioneered by TRAFFIC, a
global wildlife trade monitoring network. Also known as TRAFFICs Super
Sniffers, 43 of the squads have been deployed in the country.
Dogs are strength multipliers and their sense of smell works across long distances to
detect a carcass or trafficked animal parts. The dogs also provide protection to the forest
guard who often has to move alone. With the dog around, no one can touch the guard.
TRAFFIC
TRAFFICs believes in a world where wildlife trade maintains wildlife populations and
contributes to sustainable human development. Through research, analysis, guidance and
influence we promote sustainable wildlife trade and combat wildlife crime and trafficking.
TRAFFIC, the wildlife trade monitoring network, is the leading non-governmental

organization working globally on trade in wild animals and plants in the context of both
biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. TRAFFICs mission is to ensure
that trade in wild plants and animals is not a threat to the conservation of nature.
TRAFFICs vision is of a world where wildlife trade is: managed in a way that maintains
healthy wildlife populations and ecosystems; contributes to meeting human needs;
supports local and national economies; and helps motivate commitments to conserve wild

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species and habitats.
7. Goldman Environmental Prize for hero of Niyamgiri protests
Activist Prafulla Samantara is one of the six winners of the Goldman Environmental Prize for
2017.
He is being honoured for his historic 12-year legal battle that affirmed the
indigenous Dongria Kondhs land rights and protected the Niyamgiri Hills from a
massive, open-pit aluminum ore mine.
Goldman Environmental Prize
The Goldman Environmental Prize was created in 1990 to honour grassroots

environmentalists undertaking risk of their lives for the cause of protecting the
environment.
The award is given to six persons every year- one each from six geographical regions of
the world, namely, Africa, Asia, Europe, Islands and Island Nations, North America, and
South & Central America.
The prize is given by Goldman Environmental Foundation of San Francisco. The prize is
also known as the Green Nobel.
Niyamgiri Hills:
The Niyamgiri Hills form a mountain range in the Eastern Indian state of Orissa.
They are home to more than 8,000 of the Dongria Kondh people, whose lifestyle and
religion have helped nurture the areas dense forests and unusually rich wildlife.
Dongria Kondhs
The Dongria Kondh in southwestern Odisha is one of Indias so-called particularly

vulnerable tribal groups.
The Kondhas are believed to be from the Proto-Australoid ethnic group. Their native
language is Kui, a Dravidian language written with the Odia script.
They have a subsistence economy based on foraging, hunting & gathering but they now
primarily depend on a subsistence agriculture i.e. shifting cultivation or slash and burn
cultivation or Podu.
The Dongria Kondh call themselves Jharnia meaning those who live by the Jharana
(streams). Hundreds of perennial streams flow from Niyamgiri hill, and there are

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hundreds of Dongria villages by the streams.
The Dongria are considered the protectors of these streams, hills and jungles by the people
of the nearby plains.
8. Omans mountains may hold clues for reversing climate change
Deep in the jagged red mountains of Oman, geologists are searching for an efficient and
cheap way to remove carbon dioxide from the air and oceans - and perhaps begin to
reverse climate change.
They are coring samples from one of the world's only exposed sections of the Earth's
mantle to uncover how a spontaneous natural process millions of years ago transformed
carbon dioxide into limestone and marble.
As the world mobilizes to confront climate change, the main focus has been on reducing
emissions through fuel efficient cars and cleaner power plants. But some researchers are
also testing ways to remove or recycle carbon already in the seas and sky.
The Hellisheidi geothermal plant in Iceland injects carbon into volcanic rock. At the
massive Sinopec fertilizer plant in China, carbon is filtered and reused as fuel. In all, 16
industrial projects currently capture and store around 27 million tons of carbon, according
to the International Energy Agency. That's less than 0.1 percent of global emissions -
human activity is estimated to pump about 40 billion tons a year into the atmosphere - but
the technology has shown promise.
"Any one technique is not guaranteed to succeed," said Stuart Haszeldine, a geology
professor at the University of Edinburgh who serves on a U.N. climate body studying how
to reduce atmospheric carbon.
"If we're interested as a species, we've got to try a lot harder and do a lot more and a lot of
different actions," he said.
One such action is underway in the al-Hajjar Mountains of Oman, in a quiet corner of the
Arabian Peninsula, where a unique rock formation pulls carbon out of thin air.
Peter Kelemen, a 61-year-old geochemist at Columbia University's Lamont-Doherty Earth

Observatory, has been exploring Oman's hills for nearly three decades. "You can walk
down these beautiful canyons and basically descend 20 kilometers (12 miles) into the
earth's interior," he said.

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The sultanate boasts the largest exposed sections of the Earth's mantle, thrust up by plate
tectonics millions of years ago. The mantle contains peridotite, a rock that reacts with the
carbon in air and water to form marble and limestone.
"Every single magnesium atom in these rocks has made friends with the carbon dioxide to
form solid limestone, magnesium carbonate, plus quartz," he said as he patted a rust-
colored boulder in the Wadi Mansah valley.
"There's about a billion tons of CO2 in this mountain," he said, pointing off to the east.
Rain and springs pull carbon from the exposed mantle to form stalactites and stalagmites
in mountain caves. Natural pools develop surface scum of white carbonate.
Carbon dioxide is the primary greenhouse gas driving climate change, which
threatens political instability, severe weather and food insecurity worldwide,
according to the United Nations climate body.
Natural carbon levels have risen from 280 to 405 parts per million since the Industrial
Revolution, and current estimates hold that the world will be 6 C hotter by 2100.
In 2015, 196 nations signed the Paris climate accords, agreeing to curb greenhouse gas
emissions to levels that would keep the rise in the Earth's temperature to under 2 C.
That has injected new urgency into the work underway in Oman, where Keleman's team
recently spent four months extracting dozens of core samples, which they hope to use to
construct a geological history of the process that turns carbon dioxide into carbonate.
Around 13 tons of core samples from four different sites will be sent to the Chikyu, a
state-of-the-art research vessel off the coast of Japan, where Keleman and other
geologists will analyze them in round-the-clock shifts.
They hope to answer the question of how the rocks managed to capture so much carbon
over the course of 90 million years - and to see if there's a way to speed up the timetable.
Kelemen thinks a drilling operation could cycle carbon-rich water into the newly formed
seabed on oceanic ridges far below the surface. Just like in Oman's mountains, the
submerged rock would chemically absorb carbon from the water. The water could then be
cycled back to the surface to absorb more carbon from the atmosphere, in a sort of
conveyor belt.
Such a project would require years more of testing, but Kelemen hopes the energy
industry, with its offshore drilling expertise and deep pockets, will take interest.

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9. The Teesta river dispute
1.
The Teesta river originates in Sikkim and flows through West Bengal as well as
Bangladesh. India claims a share of 55 percent of the river's water.
2. Bangladesh wants a higher share than it gets now. Currently, its share is lower than that of
India's.
3. Negotiations on how to share the water have been going on since 1983. A 2011 interim
deal - that was supposed to last 15 years - gave India 42.5 percent of the Teesta's waters
and gave Bangladesh 37.5 percent. Banerjee opposed this deal so it was shelved and
remains unsigned. In fact, she was scheduled to accompany the then PM Manmohan
Singh to Bangladesh to sign that deal in 2011, but cancelled the trip.
4. Bangladesh wants 50 percent of the Teesta's waters between December and May every
year, because that's when the water flow to the country drops drastically. "The historical
flow of the river at Rangpur is 5,000 cusecs, but we're getting only 500 cusecs of water
now. This has affected farmers whose standing crops are withering away and also
fishermen who are facing loss of livelihood," said a Bangladeshi expert to TOI a couple of
years ago.
5. India says it has its own compulsions. "Not enough water is flowing into the Teesta to
meet our irrigation needs. We have to increase the area under irrigation in North Bengal to
boost agricultural production. We will achieve our target of bringing in 1.5 lakh acres of
farmland," said the then West Bengal irrigation minister Rajib Banerjee, three years ago.
6. The river is Bangladesh's fourth largest transboundary river for irrigation and fishing. The
Teesta's floodplain covers 2,750sq km in Bangladesh. Of the river's catchment - an area of
land where water collects - 83 percent is in India and 17 percent is in Bangladesh.
7. That means more than one lakh hectares of land across five districts in Bangladesh are
severely affected by withdrawals of the Teesta's waters in India, said the Observer
Research Foundation. These five Bangladesh districts then face acute shortages during the
dry season, it added.
8. Banerjee has in the past countered the above line of argument citing the amount of Teesta
waters India already gives Bangladesh. "When we need a certain quantity of water to
maintain our Kolkata Port and fulfil the need of farmers, water is released from Teesta

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and Farakka barrages to Bangladesh sacrificing the state's interest" she said in 2013.
9. Hydropower on the Teesta .is another point of conflict. There are at least 26 projects on
the river mostly in Sikkim, aimed at producing some 50,000MW.
10. Banerjee proposed sharing the waters of other rivers, like the Torsa river. As north Bengal
is completely dependent on the Teesta, she said, rivers like the Torsa, which are closer to
the border of India and Bangladesh, are good options. The Torsa, in fact, has connectivity
with Bangladesh's Padma river. The West Bengal CM proposed that the two countries set
up a commission to ascertain the level of water flowing through the Torsa and the
quantum of water that can be shared.
10. De facto carbon tax: Is India's 'green' path too steep?
Twenty years after Kyoto, there is much greater awareness and support for measures to
mitigate climate change.
A total of 194 countries have enthusiastically signed the Paris Agreement, and have
promised to aggressively cut greenhouse gas emissions in a time-bound manner.
Presidents Barack Obama and Xi Jinping together signed up to the Paris deal, in a great
symbolic ceremony last year. But currently under President Donald Trump there is
apprehension that the US may back out of even the international Paris Agreement.
Even China is proactively trying to bring an emission trading system that will put an
implicit price on carbon.
What is carbon tax?
A carbon tax is a fee for making users of fossil fuels pay for climate damage their fuel use
imposes by releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, and for motivating switches to
clean energy.
A carbon tax is a tax levied on the carbon content of fuels. It is a form of carbon pricing.
Carbon is present in every hydrocarbon fuel (coal, petroleum, and natural gas) and
converted to carbon dioxide (CO2) and other products when combusted.

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India introduced a nationwide carbon tax in 2010, which is currently Rs.400/tonne
Where does India stand on climate change?
The National Action Plan on Climate Change was launched in 2008.
It has eight vertical missions on water, energy efficiency, solar, sustainable habitat,
agriculture, forestry, Himalayan ecology and strategic knowledge on climate change.
Indias ambition for renewable energy production is well known.
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the timelines to achieve renewable capacity has
been aggressively advanced, and the scale vastly enlarged.
So, Indias commitment for action on greening, to mitigate climate change and to act
against global warming is not in doubt.
Indeed, by some reckoning, Indias initiatives and leadership for environmental activism
dates back to the 1972 UN conference in Stockholm.
Is India overdoing its bit in greening its energy?
In the aggregate terms, India is now in the third highest emitter of carbon dioxide. (not in
per capita terms)
Firstly, the coal cess that was introduced a few years ago is now at Rs400 per tonne,
almost one-fifth the cost of mining coal. This is something like a 20% carbon tax.
India has the worlds third largest endowment of coal, which can help double our per
capita electricity usage at a relatively low cost.
Due to the coal bidding scams and the coal cess, India now might have become the most
expensive place to produce coal-fired electricity.
It is greatly hurting our competitiveness, and will directly undermine industry as it faces
an onslaught of imports from China and other trade partners.
Also, we already have a system of renewable purchase obligations (RPOs) on all

electricity distribution companies and also captive producers.
There is often not enough solar or wind energy available for purchase, within state

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boundaries.
Across states, wheeling of solar is not yet possible and the RPOs burden goes up steadily
every year. This increases the cost of energy.
Solutions:
It is not as if India should stay away from global joint efforts at curbing greenhouse gases.
Green energy, apart from mitigating climate change has great potential for job creation.
India is uniquely blessed with sunshine almost all the time, and hence solar can contribute
hugely to our energy needs.
Electric vehicles are a nascent industry, which eventually can change the economics of oil
and geopolitics.
But it is not necessary for India, whose per capita consumption of electricity is barely half
the world average, to embrace the highest rate of carbon taxes in the world.
Success in mitigating climate change requires global and absolute cooperation.
India needs to cautiously calibrate its greening pace and de facto carbon taxation.
11. Nagoya Protocol
The Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing
of Benefits Arising from their Utilization (ABS) to the Convention on Biological
Diversity is a supplementary agreement to the Convention on Biological Diversity.
It provides a transparent legal framework for the effective implementation of one of the
three objectives of the CBD: the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising out of the
utilization of genetic resources.
The Nagoya Protocol on ABS was adopted on 29 October 2010 in Nagoya, Japan and
entered into force on 12 October 2014, 90 days after the deposit of the fiftieth instrument
of ratification. Its objective is the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the
utilization of genetic resources, thereby contributing to the conservation and sustainable

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use of biodiversity.
Importance
The Nagoya Protocol will create greater legal certainty and transparency for both providers and
users of genetic resources by:
Establishing more predictable conditions for access to genetic resources.
Helping to ensure benefit-sharing when genetic resources leave the country providing the
genetic resources
By helping to ensure benefit-sharing, the Nagoya Protocol creates incentives to conserve and
sustainably use genetic resources, and therefore enhances the contribution of biodiversity to
development and human well-being.
What it covers?
The Nagoya Protocol applies to genetic resources that are covered by the CBD, and to the
benefits arising from their utilization. The Nagoya Protocol also covers traditional knowledge
(TK) associated with genetic resources that are covered by the CBD and the benefits arising from
its utilization.
Core obligations
The Nagoya Protocol sets out core obligations for its contracting Parties to take measures in
relation to access to genetic resources, benefit-sharing and compliance.
Access obligations
Domestic-level access measures are to:
Create legal certainty, clarity and transparency
Provide fair and non-arbitrary rules and procedures
Establish clear rules and procedures for prior informed consent and mutually agreed terms
Provide for issuance of a permit or equivalent when access is granted
Create conditions to promote and encourage research contributing to biodiversity

conservation and sustainable use
Pay due regard to cases of present or imminent emergencies that threaten human, animal

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or plant health
Consider the importance of genetic resources for food and agriculture for food security.
Benefit-sharing obligations
Domestic-level benefit-sharing measures are to provide for the fair and equitable sharing of
benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources with the contracting party providing
genetic resources.
Utilization includes research and development on the genetic or biochemical composition of

genetic resources, as well as subsequent applications and commercialization. Sharing is subject to
mutually agreed terms. Benefits may be monetary or non-monetary such as royalties and the
sharing of research results.
Compliance obligations
Specific obligations to support compliance with the domestic legislation or regulatory
requirements of the contracting party providing genetic resources, and contractual obligations
reflected in mutually agreed terms, are a significant innovation of the Nagoya Protocol.
Contracting Parties are to:
Take measures providing that genetic resources utilized within their jurisdiction have been
accessed in accordance with prior informed consent, and that mutually agreed terms have
been established, as required by another contracting party
Cooperate in cases of alleged violation of another contracting partys requirements
Encourage contractual provisions on dispute resolution in mutually agreed terms
Ensure an opportunity is available to seek recourse under their legal systems when
disputes arise from mutually agreed terms
Take measures regarding access to justice
Take measures to monitor the utilization of genetic resources after they leave a country
including by designating effective checkpoints at any stage of the value-chain: research,
development, innovation, pre-commercialization or commercialization
Tools and mechanisms that assist in implementation

The Nagoya Protocols success will require effective implementation at the domestic level. A
range of tools and mechanisms provided by the Nagoya Protocol will assist contracting Parties

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including:
Establishing national focal points (NFPs) and competent national authorities (CNAs) to
serve as contact points for information, grant access or cooperate on issues of compliance
An Access and Benefit-sharing Clearing-House to share information, such as domestic

regulatory ABS requirements or information on NFPs and CNAs
Capacity-building to support key aspects of implementation. Based on a countrys self-

assessment of national needs and priorities, this can include capacity to
Develop domestic ABS legislation to implement the Nagoya Protocol
Negotiate MAT
Develop in-country research capability and institutions
Awareness-raising
Technology Transfer
Targeted financial support for capacity-building and development initiatives through the
Nagoya Protocols financial mechanism, the Global Environment Facility (GEF)
How does Nagoya Protocol address traditional knowledge associated with genetic resources and
genetic resources held by indigenous and local communities?
The Nagoya Protocol addresses traditional knowledge associated with genetic resources with
provisions on access, benefit-sharing and compliance.
It also addresses genetic resources where indigenous and local communities have the established
right to grant access to them. Contracting Parties are to take measures to ensure these
communities prior informed consent, and fair and equitable benefit-sharing, keeping in mind
community laws and procedures as well as customary use and exchange.
12. Odisha gets India's first Green Climate Fund Project to ensure food security

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Odisha has become the first state in the country to have got the clearance for the first Green
Climate Fund Project (GCF). The project Ground water recharge and solar micro irrigation to
ensure food security and enhance resilience in vulnerable tribal areas of Odisha has got the nod
of the GCF board today. This prestigious project has obtained technical clearance from
NABARD which is the national implementing entity, independent technical advisory panel and
approval of the MoEFCC.
The five-year project will directly impact 1.54 mn vulnerable SC-ST households.
GCF will provide a grant of 34 million USD to Government of Odisha through NABARD. The
project will impact 5.2 million vulnerable food insecure households in 15 priority districts with
high level of food insecurity, water scarcity and high climatic stress (present and future scenario)
and with high proportion of vulnerable SC-ST population. A total of 2.59 million of this
population are males and 2.6 million are females. They account for 12 percent of the entire
population of the state.
The project was conceptualized by Department of Water Resources and under the direct
supervision of Principal Secretary Water Resources. The project document was prepared by
leading climate change advisory firm CTRAN under the climate innovation program of ACT (a
DFID funded Program).
Green Climate Fund (GCF)
The Green Climate Fund (GCF) aims to make a significant and ambitious contribution to the
global efforts towards attaining the goals set by the international community to combat climate
change. It was formally established by a UNFCCC decision in Durban, South Africa in
December 2011, although the groundwork was laid in the earlier, non-binding Copenhagen
Accord of 2009.
It is widely claimed that the objective of the GCF is to raise $100 billion per year in climate
financing by 2020. This is not an official figure, however, and disputes remain as to whether the
funding target will be based on public sources, or whether leveraged private finance will be
counted towards the total. Only a fraction of this sum has been pledged so far, mostly to cover
start-up costs.
The GCF is overseen by a 24-strong Board, composed of equal number of members from
developing and developed countries, and will be headquartered in Songdo (Incheon), South
Korea. The World Bank serves as the interim trustee, meaning that it is tasked with administering
any money currently raised.

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13. Ammonia hotspots over agricultural areas
A satellite study of airborne ammonia gas has revealed four major hotspots over
productive agricultural regions across the world. Increased atmospheric ammonia is linked
to poor air and water quality.
Using data from NASAs Atmospheric Infrared Sounder satellite instrument, researchers
led by the University of Maryland (UMD), discovered increased ammonia concentrations
from 2002 to 2016 over agricultural centres in the US, Europe, China and India. The
study was published last month in the journal, Geophysical Research Letters.
Harmful effects
Increased ammonia is linked to fertilizers, livestock animal wastes, changes in

atmospheric chemistry and warming soils that retain less ammonia.
Gaseous ammonia is a natural part of the Earths nitrogen cycle, but excessive
ammonia is harmful to plants, the study adds. Ammonia gas can also fall back to Earth
and waterbodies, where it contributes to harmful algal blooms and dead zones with
dangerously low oxygen levels.
To control ammonia-related pollution, it is necessary to regulate fertilizer waste

and agricultural residue burning. Increase in fertilizer use is the leading cause behind the
increase of gaseous ammonia in the atmosphere. Except for a few countries in Europe,
ammonia emission is not regulated.
The study results could help formulate strategies to control ammonia pollution near major
agricultural areas.
Bad news for India
The ammonia concentration in the atmosphere over India is the highest in the world due to
cattle population and excessive fertilizer use.
The use of nitrogen fertilizers has grown worldwide, contributing to the growing demand
for food. Where fertilizers are subsided, the regulation of the fertilizer use is the biggest
challenge.
Subsidies lead to low price of fertilizers, farmers also tend to over-apply because they
dont want to take the risk of low yields.

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The best ways to reduce ammonia emissions are improvement in manure management
system, reduction of excessive nitrogen in animal diets and recycling of manure in crop
systems. Storage of manure with minimum risk of run-off and seepage as well as
prevention of leaching to water bodies and riparian buffer zones is necessary to reduce
ammonia emissions.
In India, we can try to improve the digestibility of protein compound in animal feed to
reduce ammonia emissions. One should prioritise nitrogen use efficiency in livestock
systems, identify hotspots and explore country-specific approaches to reduce ammonia
pollution.
14. Endosulfan - End?
Endosulfan
Endosulfan is a toxic pesticides having hazardous effects on human genetic and endocrine

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systems.
The Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants in 2011 added it in list of

banned substances and phasing it out as an agrichemical.
It is banned in over 80 nations due to its high toxicity.
It is sprayed as pesticide on crops like cotton, fruits, tea, paddy, cashew, tobacco etc. for
control of pests in agriculture such as whiteflies, aphids, beetles, worms etc.
Hazardous effects
In case of humans it causes delayed reproductive development, autism, bioaccumulation,

endocrine disruption (stunting of hormones), long-range contamination, neurotoxicity,
long-range contamination and sensory Loss.
It blocks the inhibitory receptors of the Central Nervous System, disrupts the ionic
channels and destroys the integrity of the nerve cells.
The spraying of endsosulfan also destroys biodiversity of the area.>
Supreme Court Order
Many parts of the world have fallen prey to this pesticide, that has affected a lot of humans,
animals and the environment. The Supreme Court of India had passed an interim order on May
13, 2011, as a major number of victims were reported to be affected in Kasargod (Kerala) (here it
was aerially sprayed on Cashew plantations), and banned the production, distribution and use
of endosulfan.
Indias Stand
India has agreed to comply with phase out of Endosulfan by 2017 and all existing stock of the
pesticide in the country that is past its expiry date in accordance with Stockholm Convention
Stockholm Convention
The Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants(POPs) was adopted at a

Conference of Plenipotentiaries on 22 May 2001 in Stockholm, Sweden.
It is a global treaty to protect human health and the environment from chemicals that

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remain intact in the environment for long periods, become widely distributed
geographically, accumulate in the fatty tissue of humans and wildlife, and have harmful
impacts on human health or on the environment.
Given their long range transport, no one government acting alone can protect its citizens
or its environment from POPs.
In response to this global problem, the Stockholm Convention, which was adopted in 2001 and
entered into force in 2004, requires its parties to take measures to eliminate or reduce the release
of POPs into the environment.
15. El Salvador becomes worlds first country to ban metal mining
The law imposes broad prohibition on the extraction of minerals to protect the nations allegedly
quite fragile environment, water reservoirs and reduce social tensions.
16. First ever bio-gas bus
A city based company has claimed to have launched the first bio-gas fuelled bus in
Kolkata keeping a flat fare of just Re 1. The first one to launch bio-gas bus in the entire south
east Asia.
17. New species of tree living crab found in Western Ghats
Scientists from the University of Kerala have discovered a new species of long-legged,
tree-dwelling crabs named Kani maranjandu in Western Ghats of Kerala.
It has been named after the Kani tribe in Kerala and are substantially different from other
congeners (organisms within the same genus).
Kani maranjandu is the first crab species of its kind to offer a record of an arboreal crab
(species that lives in trees).

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Traits:- Its upper shell is hard, its male abdominal structure and reproductive parts and
diagnostic elongated walking legs (no other genus has).

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India & World

1. A step forward for Indo-Bangla ties
The Tripura government has commenced the land acquisition process for the construction
of India-Bangladesh Friendship Bridge over river Feni that demarcates boundaries
between the two countries in south Tripura.
The process for acquiring land for a four-lane approach road and a connecting road on
Indian side in southern Tripura has also begun.
Government of India is bearing the entire burden of expenditure towards the construction
of the 150-metre bridge which will connect Sabroom of India and Ramgarh in
Bangladesh.
Rehabilitation package is ready to compensate people who would be dislodged for

construction purposes.
Land is required for the bridge, approach road and connecting road. Acquisition work
started yesterday.
The bridge would facilitate implementation of a protocol India earlier signed with
Bangladesh to use Chittagong sea port as a port of call. The port is 72 kilometre away
from Sabroom.
India is also expanding rail network up to Sabroom to handle cargo consignments

that would arrivefrom Chittagong port.
Ultimate connectivity plan is to benefit Tripura and other landlocked northeastern

States with international and domestic shipments using the sea port.
2. Logistics pact with U.S. almost done
India is all set to notify the operationalising of the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of
Agreement (LEMOA) with the U.S.

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The notification includes designating the points of contact for the U.S. military to work
with and setting up a common account for payments. The U.S., which has similar
agreements with several countries, has already notified the details.
After the notification, the U.S. is expected to formally ratify the agreement which will
then operationalise the pact.
India and the U.S. concluded the logistics agreement, the first of the three foundational
agreements between the two nations, last August. However, its implementation has been
delayed, as India was unable to streamline administrative procedures to enable its
operationalisation.
LEMOA pact
LEMOA stands for Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA), a

tweaked India-specific version of the Logistics Support Agreement (LSA), which the U.S.
has with several countries it has close military to military cooperation. It is also one of the
three foundational agreements as referred to by the U.S.
LEMOA gives access, to both countries, to designated military facilities on either side
for the purpose of refuelling and replenishment. India and the U.S. already hold large
number of joint exercises during which payments are done each time, which is a long and
tedious process.
Under the new agreement, a mechanism will be instituted for book-keeping and payments
and officials, who will act as nodal points of contact, will be designated on both sides.
The agreement will primarily cover four areas port calls, joint exercises, training
and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief. Any other requirement has to be
agreed upon by both sides on a case-by-case basis.
However, this is not a basing agreement. There will be no basing of the U.S. troops or
assets on Indian soil. This is purely a logistical agreement.They are meant to build basic
ground work and promote interoperability between militaries by creating common
standards and systems. They also guide sale and transfer of high-end technologies.
3. Belmont Forum Secretariat

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The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its approval
for signing of the Collaborative Agreement with French National Research Agency (ANR),
France for supporting the Belmont Forum Secretariat from January, 2015 to December, 2017 at a
total estimated expenditure of Euro 40,000. The Cabinet also approved continued financial
support to Belmont Forum Secretariat beyond 2017.
Highlights
The Belmont Forum, created in 2009, is a high level group of the worlds major
and emerging funders of global environmental change research and international science
councils. It provides an opportunity to identify study and deliver international
environmental research priorities, for the society, in an accelerated way through trans-
national research collaboration between natural and social scientists and alignment of
international resources
India is a member of Belmont Forum, besides Australia, Brazil, Canada, European
Commission, France, Germany, Japan, Netherland, South Africa, UK and USA Ministry
of Earth Science (MoES), represents India in the Belmont Forum since 2012.
In order to coordinate the activities of the Belmont, a Secretariat is hosted by one of the
Belmont forum member on rotational basis. ANR, France is hosting the Secretariat from
January, 2015 to December, 2017. Expenditure for hosting the Secretariat will be borne
by Belmont Forum member countries in kind or cash contribution.
Impact
The Agreement will help to maintain a certain degree of continuity in the operations of the
Forum and also help in smooth coordination of the activities of Belmont Forum.
As India is already participating in 4 Collaborative Research Actions (CRAs) and
Secretariat will be coordinating the activities of Belmont Forum, Indian scientific
community will ultimately benefit from this agreement.
Background
Since the inception of Belmont Forum in 2009, its operations were being handled by a
part-time secretariat associated with the respective Chairs of the Belmont Forum.
As the Co-chairs are rotational, the Secretariat also rotates and sometime co-chairs are
from different Continents with different time zone.
In order to maintain a certain degree of continuity in the operations of the Forum,
establishment of a Full-time Secretariat was agreed upon by Belmont Forum members, on
rotational basis.
ANR, France has agreed to host the Secretariat from January, 2015 to December, 2017.

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4. Bimstec Grid Interconnection
The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the proposal
of the Ministry of Power for Signing of Memorandum of Understanding for Establishment of the
BIMSTEC Grid Interconnection. It will be signed among member states of BIMSTEC at the
upcoming 3rd BIMSTEC Energy Ministers Meeting to be held in Nepal shortly.
Background
The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation
(BIMSTEC) is an international organisation involving a group of countries in South Asia
and South East Asia viz. Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan and
Nepal. The Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation in BIMSTEC was formulated in the
first BIMSTEC Energy Ministers Conference held in New Delhi on October 4, 2005.
In this plan, under the BIMSTEC Trans-Power Exchange and Development Project, it
was decided that a Task Force led by Thailand, with representatives of member countries,
will give a report on draft MoU for grid interconnections.
Total five meetings Task Force for BIMSTEC on Trans-power Exchange were held and
the draft MoU for establishment of BIMSTEC Grid Interconnection was finalized by the
Task Force on 16th Mar 2015.
In the BIMSTEC Leaders Retreat 2016, held in Goa on 16th October 2016, the Leaders
decided to expedite the signing of the MoU on BIMSTEC Grid Interconnection.
Eventually, during the 4th meeting of BIMSTEC Senior Officials on Energy held on
11th-12th January 2017, the MoU was discussed and finalized.
Impact
This MoU will provide a broad framework for the Parties to cooperate towards the
implementation of grid interconnections for the trade in electricity with a view to promoting
rational and optimal power transmission in the BIMSTEC region. This MoU will facilitate
the optimization of using the energy resources in the region for mutual benefits on non-
discriminatory basis subject to laws, rules and regulations of the respective Parties;
the promotion of efficient, economic, and secure operation of power system needed
through the development of regional electricity networks;
the necessity of optimization of capital investment for generation capacity addition across
the region; and
power exchange through cross border interconnections.
5. Tawang Becoming the Focus of Sino-Indian Relations

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Chinas
statement that it is gravely concerned over the governments decision to allow the
Dalai Lama to visit Arunachal Pradeshs Tawang monastery in early April, and that
it would seriously damage bilateral ties, is unwarranted. It is also an unacceptable
escalation of rhetoric over an issue that India and China have engaged with each other on,
including during the visit by Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar to Beijing.
The controversy over the Tawang area goes back to the Shimla meet of 1914, when
the Chinese representatives just initialled, and didnt sign, a trilateral agreement with
British India and Tibet. Later, in 1959, when the current Dalai Lama led Tibet, he came
into India through Tawang. He has not visited Arunachal Pradesh since 2009, when he
retraced his 1959 journey. On that occasion too, his itinerary had evoked threats from
Beijing, but eventually bilateral concerns outweighed them. The Chinese government
would do well to not allow tensions with India over the issue of Arunachal Pradesh to
spill into other spheres of engagement, and perhaps to also recall its own talks with
representatives of the Dalai Lama that broke down after nine rounds in 2010 when it seeks
to castigate him and New Delhi for their engagement. Beijings objections over access for
the Dalai Lama as a spiritual leader to a religious shrine obviously cannot be allowed to
intimidate India into restricting his free movement.
At the same time, New Delhi must calibrate its moves to avoid misperceptions that it
is indulging in political power-play. Recent developments, such as visits to Tawang
by American diplomats including the U.S. Ambassador, and an official dinner at the
U.S.Embassy attended by a Minister and leader of the Tibetan government in exile
based in Dharamshala, could be interpreted as messages aimed at China, even if they did
not signify any policy change. Beijing has been touchy about visiting delegations from
Taiwan and the grant of visas to those it perceives as dissident activists.
Pinpricks cannot substitute for policy and New Delhi should keep its focus on the
major issues between the two countries. The bid for Nuclear Suppliers Group membership
and having Masood Azhar placed on the UN terrorists list have occupied much of the
bilateral canvas, while the larger issue of the boundary resolution hasnt been addressed
adequately. Statements from former Chinese special envoy Dai Bingguo, who
suggested that flexibility from India over the eastern boundary in Arunachal
Pradesh could yield flexibility from China over other areas, that is, the western
boundary in J&K, are significant. If the statements are an indication that the 20th round
of talks between the special representatives expected this year will see an opening for
progress, then that is a more worthwhile goal for New Delhi and Beijing to be
preoccupied with.

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6. Australia ready to supply uranium to India as soon as possible
India and Australia on 10 April 2017 committed to begin the commercial exports of
Uranium from Australia as well as hold an early round of talks on the proposed
comprehensive economic cooperation agreement (CECA).
The nations also signed six pacts across inseveral key areas such as civil aviation,
environment, health & medicine as well as one aimed at boosting counter-terrorism
cooperation.
The issue of procurement of Uranium from Australia was addressed by both Prime
Minister Narendra Modi and his Australian counterpart Malcolm Turnbull who is
currently in India as part of a four day tour. Modi welcomed the passage of a domestic
legislation by the Australian parliament, which now allows the export of the nuclear
material to India.
Australia has about 40 per cent of the world's uranium reserves and exports nearly
7,000 tonnes of yellow cake annually.
Previous Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott had signed a memorandum of

understanding in 2014 for "Cooperation in the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy" whereby
Australia would become a long-term supplier of uranium to India.
The proposed comprehensive economic cooperation agreement (CECA), the nations only
committed to hold an early round of negotiations.
India had pushed talks on the backburner keeping an eye on the Regional Comprehensive
Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement, of which Australia is a part. However, with that
too moving slowly, India is keen on finishing talks.
The RCEP agreement involves the ten countries of the ASEAN grouping and six of
its free trade partners - China, India, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea and
Australia. Under the RCEP, India had earlier offered tariff elimination of 42.5 per cent of
all traded goods to Australia, while that country has offered zero tariff on 80 percent of
such goods.
The two leaders also inaugurated a research center on nano and bio technology.
The Australia-India Research Fund of nearly $100 million has focused on

collaborative research projects in the areas such as nano-technology, smartcities,
infrastructure, agriculture and disease control.

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7. Indo Mongolian Joint Exercise: Nomadic Elephant
Twelfth iteration of Indo Mongolian Joint Military Exercise Nomadic Elephant has
begun at Vairengte in Mizoram.
Nomadic Elephant is aimed at training the troops in Counter Insurgency & Counter
Terrorism Operations under the United Nations mandate.
The joint training will also lay emphasis on conducting operations by a joint subunit,
comprising of troops from both the armies, in adverse operational conditions aimed at
enhancing the interoperability between the two armies.
8. India gives largest soft loan
India pledged a soft loan of nearly Rs 32,000 crore for Bangladesh, as the two nations
inked 22 pacts for cooperation in diverse areas, including defence, cyber security, nuclear
energy and space technology.
This is the single-largest soft loan New Delhi has pledged to any country at one go.Prime
Minister Narendra Modi announced Indias new line of credit of $4.5 billion (Rs 28,921
crore) for development projects in Bangladesh after a meeting with his counterpart from
the neighbouring country, Sheikh Hasina, who is currently on a four-day-visit to New
Delhi.
This (line of credit) brings our resource allocation for Bangladesh to more than $8 billion
over the past six years,the implementation of the defence credit line would be guided by
the needs and priorities of Bangladesh.
The neighbours inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to lay the framework for
bilateral defence cooperation. Two other MoUs were inked for cooperation between the
National Defence College, New Delhi, and the Defence Services Staff College at
Wellington in Tamil Nadu with counterpart institutions in Dhaka and Mirpur in
Bangladesh on national security, development, strategic and operational studies.
The Indian Space Research Organisation and Bangladesh Telecom Regulatory

Commission signed an MoU for cooperation in peaceful uses of outer space. This will
pave the way for India to offer its space technology to Bangladesh.

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The two countries inked an agreement for cooperation in peaceful uses of nuclear energy,
along with the inter-agency arrangement for Exchange of Technical Information and Co-
operation in the Regulation of Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection.
Indias Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnership signed an agreement with
Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission for cooperation on nuclear power plant
projects in the neighbouring country.
The pacts are likely to pave the way for India joining Russia for developing nuclear power
plants in energy-starved Bangladesh. India also promised to train 1,500 judicial officers of
Bangladesh in its institutes. New Delhi already delivered on its promise of training 1,500
civil servants of Bangladesh in India.
9. Kolkata- Khulna-Dhaka bus service flagged off
A Kolkata-Khulna-Dhaka bus service was ceremoniously flagged off from Kolkata today.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, his counterpart from Bangladesh Smt. Sheikh Hasina
and the Chief Minister of West Bengal Smt Mamata Banerjee jointly initiated the
ceremony from Hyderabad House in New Delhi. This is a part of several initiatives being
taken to strengthen bilateral relations and provide better road and rail connectivity for
citizens of both the countries. Senior Ministers and high level officials from the
Government of West Bengal and visiting delegates from Bangladesh participated in the
flagging off ceremony held at Kolkata today.
The bus services are being operated on the Kolkata-Dhaka and Kolkata- Dhaka-Agaratala
routes in addition to the newly introduced Kolkata-Khulna-Dhaka bus service. They are
being run by the State Transport Corporations of West Bengal and Tripura, besides
Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation. Now, for the first time, Kolkata and Khulna are
being directly connected through a bus route. In the 409 Km long bus route from Kolkata
via Khulna to Dhaka, two buses will run three days a week from both sides.
10. India & CPEC
China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a collection of projects currently under

construction at a cost of $46 billion.

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The 3,000-km CPEC connecting Xinjiang with Pakistans Gwadar Port through PoK is
stated to cost $46 billion.
This project will shorten the route for Chinas energy imports from the Middle East by
about 12,000 kms.
The project includes building of highways, railways as well as pipelines. It is among the
six economic corridors conceived under Chinas Silk Road Economic Belt and 21st-
Century Maritime Silk Road.
It is intended to rapidly expand and upgrade Pakistani infrastructure as well as deepen and
broaden economic links between Pakistan and the Peoples Republic of China.
The corridor is considered to be an extension of Chinas ambitious One Belt, One Road
initiative, and the importance of CPEC to China is reflected by its inclusion as part of
Chinas 13th five-year development plan.
Benefits to Pakistan:
For Pakistan, the Chinese investment in the south-western region of the country is a game-
changer for the economy, especially considering the fact that despite the high
concentration of mineral resources in the region it has remained the poorest district.
The $46 billion promised by China will be used in generating close to 17,000 megawatts
of electricity at a cost of $34 billion through coal, nuclear and other renewable energy
projects. The rest of the money would be utilised in building up transport infrastructure.
In favour of Indias Participation in CPEC
Indias Participation in AIIB
Examples of India co-operating either with China or Pakistan or both have been drawn
upon to build a case for Indias participation in CPEC.
In this regard, the primary and oft-cited example is Indias participation in the Asian
Investment Infrastructure Bank (AIIB).
Advocates of participation in CPEC cite Indias AIIB membership to dismiss its
reservations on CPEC.
In their view, if India could choose to join the AIIB, which may also ultimately fund some
CPEC projects, then why avoid participating in that connectivity corridor?
BCIM Corridor
Another example often cited is the Bangladesh China India Myanmar (BCIM) corridor.
The argument flowing from this example is that intertwining BCIM and CPEC would
contribute to optimizing the logic of India-China regional cooperation.
Indian States of Punjab and J&K

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In addition, advocates propose that India should explore the possibility of CPEC being
expanded with one of its branches including the Indian states of Punjab and Jammu &
Kashmir.
There is also a reflection of this view in Pakistan, where prominent commentators have
observed that the trade utopia via CPEC would remain unfulfilled if India were not
integrated in the project.
Access to Afghanistan and Central Asia
Also articulated has been the possibility of India participating in CPEC if Pakistan were to
grant it overland access to Afghanistan and Central Asia.
Why India should not participate in CPEC?
Weakening of Indias Legitimate Claims
The buts in Indias CPEC participation are manifold and complex. This is so because
any Indian participation would inextricably be linked to the countrys legitimate claims
on PoK.
India must not lose an opportunity to communicate its concerns to the international
community.
It also needs to muster efforts to ensure that its territorial position is not diluted further in
order to avoid past situations such as Tibet and Aksai Chin.
Lack of Trust
India shares a great deal of trust deficit with China and Pakistan and has a history of
conflict with both.
As a result, even though suggestions to re-approach the project pragmatically have been
made, no advocate has overruled the principle strands of contention that continue to mar
Indias equations with China and Pakistan.
Enhanced Chinese Presence in the Indian Ocean
CPEC rests on a Chinese plan to secure and shorten its supply lines through Gwadar with
an enhanced presence in the Indian Ocean.
Hence, it is widely believed that upon CPECs fruition, an extensive Chinese presence
will undermine Indias influence in the Indian Ocean.
The possibility of a robust naval presence at a key location that may put China in a
commanding position at the mouth of the Gulf in Indias perceived home-ground is
fraught with implications for India

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Security Concerns
The CPEC assets in PoK can be used militarily against India during war is a further
source of concern for the security establishment
Could India rely on CPEC?
It is wishful thinking to argue that participation in CPEC would enhance Indias connectivity
options. There are enough cues in history to suggest otherwise.
For decades, Indias connectivity options on its west have been foreclosed owing to
Pakistans obstinate resistance to cooperation and its control over PoK.
Also, given the longstanding frictions and unstable bilateral ties, it is nave to reckon that
connectivity via Pakistan or PoK would be unproblematic and smooth.
Here, it is worth noting how, despite close strategic ties, Pakistan has used its connectivity
access as a lever to bully the United States like it did by obstructing the passage of NATO
trucks into Afghanistan across the Torkham crossing in retaliation for the US attack on
Salala.
With India, things could become even more complicated and ugly because of Pakistans
animus towards India.
A sequential pattern shows how China and Pakistan have stapled their partnership to
Indias strategic detriment: the Sino-Pak Border Agreement 1963, defence and
clandestine nuclear and ballistic missile cooperation, and multiple Chinese vetoes at
multilateral forums including the UN on issues of critical importance to India have all
adversely impacted upon Indias core interests.
While still holding out that Kashmir is a bilateral problem, China, at Pakistans behest,
has built several infrastructure projects in both parts of PoK. In similar flagrant disregard,
the CPEC too is being taken forward despite Indias objections.
Projections envisaging that India-Pakistan-China tripartite cooperation on CPEC would
usher in greater connectivity, stability and establish peace are fanciful unless existing
equations transform radically.
India: An obstructionist in the neighbourhood
Chinas proclamations about developing a string of connectivity and infrastructure

projects in Indias vicinity has stirred political and popular perceptions in countries in the
proximate neighbourhood.
Chinas increasing footprints in the South Asian region is often portrayed as India losing
its strategic hold.
A case in point is the construction of the Hambantota Port in Sri Lanka where China
reportedly filled in for India (though there is no official confirmation on whether the
project was ever formally offered to India).

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Indias caution on the BCIM corridor, inordinate delay in moving ahead with the
Chabahar Port and reservations on CPEC are being increasingly cited by detractors to
present the country as an unaccommodating, reluctant, regional player.
Such misrepresentations have cost India dearly. Despite being the largest economy in the
South Asian region, the country has suffered a considerable dent in its image due to a
perceptible rise in hostile perceptions amongst nations in its contiguity.
Indias stand
India must closely watch the geopolitical shifts in and around the subcontinent where
China has begun to feature in national calculations. Indias ambitions on expanding
multilateral engagement is unequivocally contingent upon the China factor.
Whether it is RCEP (Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership) or connecting the
CPEC to the International North South Transport Corridor in the longer term, India cannot
afford to appear as sitting in isolation.
There is also a strong view that India should not just reject the CPEC as unviable and
instead think in terms of dealing with a regional order that will inevitably tilt towards
China if the project were to succeed.
Further, India must prepare to deal with challenges stemming from the ongoing
realignment between China, Pakistan, Russia, Iran and Afghanistan. Hence, what India
needs to do is to generate viable options to secure its interests while not compromising
upon genuine strategic/territorial concerns.
India must show resolve in terms of fulfilling the regional commitments that it makes. It
must further strengthen existing leverages derived from a diverse geography, demographic
size and growth indicators to project itself as an indispensable player in regional
development.
For instance, Indias vast peninsular expanse could be critical in Chinas Maritime Silk
Road initiative. Apart from this, India must handle emerging strategic realignments,
including proximity to the US, smartly, so as to attain its objectives in the region.
Road ahead
Currently, there is little that India can do to stall CPEC except for diplomatically
articulating its objections and make it un-implementable.
The fate of CPEC, projected as the pivotal flagship project from the OBOR stable, is quite
crucial.
In the face of Indias reservations, the failure of CPEC to take off would mean a loss of
repute for China and Pakistan, something which both countries would try hard to avoid.
Indias future strategy thrust on CPEC must be based on a careful reassessment of the
discernible ifs and the buts.

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11. SASEC Operational Plan 2016-25 includes nine projects worth $2.4 Billion
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a total of nine projects costing $2.42
billion as part of the Operational Plan (OP) 2016-2025 of the South Asia Subregional
Economic Cooperation (SASEC) program.
The nine projects comprise of two rail projects in Bangladesh worth $890 million, two
economic corridor initiatives (a project and program loan) and a bridge project in India
worth an aggregate of $1.2 billion, trade facilitation and airport projects in Bhutan worth
$27 million and key SASEC road and energy projects in Nepal worth $302 million.
All these projects are aligned with the SASEC OPs thrusts of developing road and rail
links aligned closely with trade routes toward the east, streamlining trade procedures, and
improving energy infrastructure.
These projects will receive ADB financing of $1.43 billion. These nine projects represent
a significant increase compared to the previous 15 years, when the annual average value
of projects approved was only about $500 million.
Programme
In 2001, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Nepal formed the South Asia Sub-Regional
Economic Cooperation (SASEC) programme, which the Maldives and Sri Lanka joined in
2014.
Under SASEC programme, these countries have worked together to build power plants,
highways, rail systems and fibre optic networks to expand and improve Internet access.
It is a project-based partnership to promote regional prosperity by
1. Improving cross-border connectivity,

2. Boosting trade among member countries, and
3. Strengthening regional economic cooperation.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is the secretariat and lead financier of the
SASEC programme.
Till date, ADB has approved 46 SASEC projects worth almost USD 9.17 billion in
transport, energy, trade facilitation, and information and communications technology.
12. Exercise Surya Kiran-IX
Indo-Nepal Battalion Level Combined Training / Exercise (Exercise Surya Kiran-IX) was
conducted at Pithoragarh from 07-20 March 2017. A total of 17 officers, 28 Junior

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Commissioned Officers and 305 Other Ranks from 28 PUNJAB participated in the
exercise. A total of Rs. 97,32,640/- (Rupees Ninety Seven Lakhs Thirty Two Thousand
Six Hundred Forty Only) was incurred on the conduct of exercise. The objective of the
exercise was to increase military-to-military cooperation with emphasis on cooperation in
the area of Counter Insurgency / Counter Terrorism, Humanitarian Aid and Disaster
Relief, Disaster Management Capabilities and effectiveness of any response to Pandemic /
Epidemic diseases and Combat Life Survivality between the two countries.
13. Green Growth Equity Fund
India and the UK announce joint UK-India Fund, namely a Green Growth Equity Fund;
Aims to leverage private sector investment from the City of London to invest in Green
Infrastructure Projects in India;

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Social Issues and Development

1. Venture Capital Fund for Scheduled Castes Scheme (SCS)
The scheme of Venture Capital Fund for Scheduled Castes was launched in 2014-15 with unique
feature of higher level of loans from Rs.50 lakhs to Rs.15 crores for SC entrepreneurs.
It was launched to encourage budding and existing entrepreneurs from Scheduled Castes
(SCs).
Its objective is to promote entrepreneurship amongst the SCs who are oriented towards
innovation and technological growth by providing concessional finance to them.
It also seeks to enhance direct and indirect employment generation for SC population.
Industrial Finance Corporation of India (IFCI) Limited will be the Sponsor this scheme.
While, Settler and Asset Management Company (AMC) will be nodal agency to operate
the scheme.
Under this scheme, Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment will provide
assistance of Rs. 15 crore to each 30 persons a year, in the form of loan.
The government has informed that under Venture Capital Fund for Scheduled Castes
Scheme (SCS) loans amounting to Rs.236.66 crores to 65 Scheduled Caste entrepreneurs
has been sanctioned till date.
The loans have been sanctioned in different areas including Solar Energy, Water treatment
plants, Food processing and Beverages, Hotel etc.
2. SC sets 25% of ex-husband's net salary as benchmark for alimony
The Supreme Court (SC) of India in April 2017 set a benchmark for maintenance to be
paid by a husband to his former wife.
The court has mentioned that 25% of his net salary to be given to his ex-wife for
maintenance.
Amount of maintenance or permanent alimony must be sufficient to ensure that a woman

lived with dignity after separating from her husband.
The court has mentioned there was nothing wrong in the order of the high court but
Supreme Court has reduced the sum by Rs 3000 on the ground that the man had remarried
and was responsible for his new family.
The court also mentioned thatit seems that the decision of the apex court has an

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inclination towards protecting the claims of women in matrimonial disputes that affects
the financial status of the couple.
3. RUSA app launched to keep a track of educational projects
Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA), a body under the aegis of the Ministry of Human
Resource Development here in New Delhi is the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) of the
Department of Higher Education, MHRD which aims to provide strategic central funding to State
Higher Education Departments and Institutions and achieve the broad objectives of access, equity
and excellence. The State Higher Education Departments and Institutions undertake certain
governance, academic and administrative reforms as a pre-requisite to be entitled for RUSA
grants. The implementation of RUSA in its right earnest began after May 2014.
4. Child artistes can work only for 5 hours a day
The Labour Ministry has proposed the draft Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation)
Amendment Rules, 2017 to fix the working conditions for child artistes and for employing
children in family enterprises.
The government had brought a new law to govern child labour, known as the Child
Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016, which put a blanket ban on
employment of children below 14 years of age. However, it had made two exceptions in
favour of child labour: children could work as child artistes (in the entertainment sector),
and could help in their family enterprises.
Key provisions of the draft rules:
While a child artiste will not be allowed to work for more than five hours a day, a child
assisting in a family business can only work for three hours a day.
Children will be allowed to assist their family in running family enterprises without
affecting their school education. The family would include parents, real siblings, and
real brother and sister of the parents.
Such children will not be allowed to engage in any production, supply or retail chain
which is remunerative for the family and hazardous activities.
At least 20% of the income earned by the child artiste will be required to be deposited in a
fixed deposit account in a nationalised bank.
The money would be credited to the child after she turns 18.

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The permission of the district magistrate would be mandatory for engaging a child artiste.
The production unit must nominate a person, who would be held responsible for the safety
and security of the child artiste.
A child cannot take part in a street performance for monetary gain.
5. The Paths We Walk
A Documentary Photo exhibition called The Paths We Walk was recently inaugurated in New
Delhi.
The exhibition has been organized by the National Trust under Ministry of Social Justice
and Empowerment in collaboration with Society for Child Development.
The Documentary photo exhibition is intended to tackle negative myths of disability and
employment of persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Intellectual Disability and Multiple
Disabilities.
The photo exhibition is just a glimpse of the vast capabilities of persons with Disabilities.
It has been a joint collaborative effort of NGOs working for the welfare of persons with
disabilities.
The month of April is celebrated across the World as the World Autism Awareness
Month. The National Trust has been organizing conferences and events during the months
to create awareness and celebrate diversity.
About National Trust:
The National Trust is a Statutory Body under Department of Empowerment of Persons

with Disabilities (Divyangjan), Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment.
For its establishment, the National Trust Act for the welfare of persons with Autism,
Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation and Multiple Disabilities was passed in the Parliament
on 30th December 1999.
Functions of National Trust:
The National Trust has been set up to discharge two basic duties legal and welfare.
1. Legal duties are discharged through Local Level Committee (LLC) set up at district level
under the chairmanship of the District Collector / District Magistrate and providing legal
guardianship.
2. Welfare duty is discharged through the schemes and activities.
The schemes and activities of the National Trust inter-alia include training, awareness and

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capacity building programmes and shelter, care giving and empowerment.
The National Trust is implementing 10 schemes for overall development of persons with
disabilities which have been revised and launched last year.
6. Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan
Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS),

launched in 2013 aims at providing strategic funding to eligible state higher educational
institutions. The central funding (in the ratio of 60:40 for general category States, 90:10
for special category states and 100% for union territories) would be norm based and
outcome dependent. The funding would flow from the central ministry through the state
governments/union territories to the State Higher Education Councils before reaching the
identified institutions. The funding to states would be made on the basis of critical
appraisal of State Higher Education Plans, which would describe each states strategy to
address issues of equity, access and excellence in higher education
7. National consultation on transforming lives through livelihoods thrust and

Strategy for Poverty Free Gram Panchayats
Deendayal Antodaya Yojana National Rural Livelihoods Mission is an important rural

poverty alleviation program implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development with
the support of State Governments.
The Mission is currently being implemented in about 3400 blocks 2.3 lakh villages spread
across 520 districts of 29 States and 5 UTs.
The Mission has mobilized about 3.63 crore households into 31 lakh SHGs. The women
from rural poor households are provided financial assistance in addition facilitating access
to bank loans for undertaking livelihoods activities.
The Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India held a national consultation

with SHG women of all States and UTs on transforming lives through livelihoods
thrust and Strategy for Poverty Free Gram Panchayats at Pragati Maidan on 14th
April, 2017.
The event also marked the inauguration of a 10 day Aajeevika Mela that is being
organized to promote exhibition and sale of products produced by SHGs from different

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parts of the country.
Mission Antyodaya seeks to bring 1 crore households from 50000 gram panchayats
spread across 5000 clusters out of poverty. He emphasized the need for promoting
effective convergence of all rural development and related programs at the village level.
Shri Sinha also acknowledged the pivotal role played by SHG members in the successful
implementation of the rural development programs. In this context, he requested select
SHG members to share their experiences in tackling poverty and diversifying their
livelihoods.
Apart from improving their own livelihoods, several women have narrated how their
SHGs became instrumental in accessing public services like NREGA work, SBM
benefits, housing and other entitlements. Further, SHG members particularly from
Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand elaborated how they were able to tackle social evils
such as illicit distillation.
The underlying theme of all experiences was the enhanced level of empowerment and
confidence that the women felt by being members of SHGs.
The special attraction of this Mela are metal products from Madhya Pradesh, Sambalpuri
sarees from Odisha, wood carving work from Andhra Pradesh, bamboo products from
Tripura, Madhubani paintings from Bihar, Terrakota from Chhattisgarh, shawls and
carpets from Jammu and Kashmir, handicrafts from Uttar Pradesh, tribal jewellery from
Jharkhand, handlooms from North Eastern states etc.
8. Universalising the Facility Of Institutional Delivery
As per National Family Health Survey (NFHS-IV 2015-16), institutional delivery in rural areas is
75.1%. As per data available through National Family Health Survey (NFHS), Institutional
delivery in rural areas has increased from 31.1% in 2005-06(NFHS-III) to 75.1% in
2015-16(NFHS-IV).
Institutional Delivery | Key steps taken by Government of India
Promotion of institutional deliveries through Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY), a conditional

cash transfer scheme.

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Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakaram (JSSK) entitles all pregnant women delivering in
public health institutions to absolutely free and no expense delivery, including caesarean
section. Similar entitlements have been put in place for all sick infants accessing public
health institutions for treatment.
Operationalization of Sub-Centers, Primary Health Centers, Community Health Centers
and District Hospitals for providing 247 basic and comprehensive obstetric care.
Capacity building of health care providers in basic and comprehensive obstetric care with
a strategic initiative Dakshata to enable service providers in providing high quality
services during childbirth at the institutions.
Mother and Child Tracking System is being implemented to ensure antenatal, intranatal
and postnatal care along-with immunization services.
Engagement of more than 9.90 lakh Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) to
generate demand and facilitate accessing of health care services by the community.
Establishing Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Wings at high caseload facilities to
improve the quality of care provided to mothers and children.
Newer interventions to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity- Diagnosis &
management of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus, Hypothyroidism during pregnancy,
Training of General Surgeons for performing Caesarean Section, Calcium
supplementation during pregnancy and lactation, De-worming during pregnancy,
Maternal Near Miss Review, screening for Syphilis during pregnancy and Dakshata
guidelines for strengthening intra-partum care.
The Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) has been introduced with the
aim of conducting special ANC checkups for pregnant women (in their 2nd / 3rd
Trimesters of pregnancy) in the country on 9th of every month by Medical Officer/OBGY
specialist in the government health facilities and also through Private sector on voluntary
basis for tracking of high risk pregnancy to ensure institutional deliveries.
Enhancing the availability of human resources particularly in high priority districts(HPDs)
through a slew of measures like improving retention of specialists, medical officers and
nursing personnel particularly in difficult areas through special incentives; hiring of
contractual personnel including MOs and Nurses particularly for operationalization of
comprehensive RMNCH services at Delivery Points.
To sharpen the focus on the low performing districts, 184 High Priority Districts (HPDs)
have been prioritized for Reproductive Maternal New-born Child Health+ Adolescent
(RMNCH+A) interventions for achieving improved maternal and child health outcomes.
The government has framed a set of Performance Based Incentives for the human
resource working in these HPDs.
Referral transport for pregnant women, sick neonates and sick infants is being provided
by the States as per their local needs, using different models i.e. 108/102 which include a
network of emergency response vehicles using toll free number, government ambulances,
available transport under public private partnership etc.

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9. Cab Safety Measures
Cab Safety Measures, recommended by the Ministry of Women and Child Development,
concerning safety of women commuters availing of cab services have been included in the new
Taxi Policy Guidelines. These measures have been recommended by the WCD Minister, Smt
Maneka Sanjay Gandhi to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and Shipping
(MoRTH).
Cab Safety Measures
The recommendations come in the background of numerous cases of sexual harassment of

women in cabs being reported to Smt. Maneka Gandhi on social media after women took
to Twitter and Facebook to flag their ordeal.
Following this, the WCD Minister held a meeting with radio cab service providers to find
a solution to the grave problem. Based on this, the WCD Minister wrote to Sh. Nitin
Gadkari , Minister of Road Transport and Highways and Shipping to incorporate the
necessary safety measures in the regulatory guidelines being prepared by MoRTH.
Recommendations of WCD Ministry
The taxis should be mandatorily fitted with GPS panic devices.

For the safety of women and child passengers, the central locking system in the taxis
should not be allowed.
The drivers identification along with the photo and registration number of the vehicle
should also be prominently displayed in the taxi.
Violation of the stipulated rules by the taxi operators/drivers should be strictly dealt in
accordance with law.
Sharing of seat should be subject to willingness of passengers.
Other measures
Women commuters have been expressing their concern via social media to Smt Maneka Gandhi
regarding safety in taxis. The WCD Minister has launched a hashtag, #HelpMeWCD, where any
woman or child facing harassment/ violence can directly report their cases by tweeting.
10. Polygamy is not a religious practice: government tells SC
Polygamy is not a religious practice, but rather a social custom or usage which the
State can interfere with to ensure that Muslim women's fundamental rights are not
violated, the Centre told the Supreme Court.

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"Practices such as polygamy cannot be described as being sanctioned by religion,
inasmuch as historically, polygamy prevailed across communities for several centuries
including the ancient Greeks and Romans, Hindus, Jews and Zoroastrians. It had less to
do with religion and more to do with social norms at the time," the Centre said in its
written submissions filed late on 10 April 2017 in the Supreme Court.
"In the Holy Koran as well, it appears that the prevalent or perhaps even rampant practice
of polygamy in pre- Islamic society was sought to be regulated and restricted so as to treat
women better than they were treated in pre-Islamic times," the government, represented
by Attorney- General Mukul Rohatgi and advocate Madhavi Divan, submitted.
"It is submitted that the practice of polygamy is a social practice rather than a
religious one and therefore would not be protected under Article 25. This is true also
of nikah halala and triple talaq.
For the same reason, polygamy would amount to a custom or usage, which is "law"
within the meaning of Article 13 and therefore subject to fundamental rights," the
Centre argued.
Since a social practice cannot be held to be an integral part of a faith and belief or an
"essential religious practice," it has to satisfy the overarching constitutional goal of
gender equality, gender justice and dignity, the government submitted.
The government argued that reforms have not happened in the practices followed by
the Muslim community despite clear indications.
It said gender equality and the dignity of women were "non-negotiable."
The Supreme Court has fixed for May 11 the Constitution Bench hearings on a batch of
petitions on the issue.
11. SC order on liquor ban: None for the road
The liquor trade, as the Supreme Court has emphasised, is indeed res extra commercium,
something outside the idea of commerce. It exists solely at the discretion of policymakers
without any concomitant fundamental right that other businesses enjoy. The point was cited by
the court while ordering that liquor sales be prohibited within 500 metres from national and
State highways. In a different sense, it only underscores how much the executive is, and ought to
be, involved in policy-making on the subject.

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Imposing restrictions on the location of liquor outlets, applying them in a differential
manner to vends, hotels and standalone bars is undoubtedly an executive decision. It
ispossible to argue that the executive will be lax in enforcement, corrupt in licensing or too
revenue-centric to worry about the social costs of its decisions.
The court's ill-considered order is wholly concerned with the availability of liquor - to the point
that it bans sale of liquor on highway stretches even within city and town limits, where police
checks are quite common - and does not touch upon strengthening the enforcement of the law
against drunk driving. With the same moral outrage against high fatalities on our roads, and
with much less economic cost, the court could have ordered stricter patrolling on highways
and regular check-points.
The order has come down like a sledgehammer not only on the liquor vends and the hospitality
sector but also on the revenues of State governments, on the business of hotels and bars, and the
tourism potential of many parts of the country.
The inventive responses of State governments and the industry give an idea of how much
they are affected by it - and indeed how absurd the court's order is. States are downgrading
highways into urban roads' or major district roads', moves fraught with consequences as
safety and quality norms may be compromised; local bodies, which now have to maintain
them, may not find the required resources. Some luxury hotels situated on highways
are creating alternative entrances to claim that their bars are located beyond 500 metres.
An enterprising owner has built a maze of sorts to create a longer walking distance from a
highway to his bar. It is not clear how the 500-metre distance is to be measured - as a straight line
from the highway in any direction or along the paths leading to an outlet. One may denounce or
laugh away these moves to circumvent the order; but they can be also seen as desperate responses
from those fearing loss of income, jobs and business. The court should have the wisdom and the
humility to examine the consequences of its order and do the necessary thing - amend it.
12. Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs): lost in a classification trap
A recent Anthropological Survey of India (AnSI) publication has brought to the fore startling
revelations about the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in the country.
The survey has asked the State governments to conduct baseline surveys to arrive at
accurate demographic and socio-economic figures of the PVTGs.
It also points out that the PVTG list requires revising and refinement to avoid overlapping
and repetition.

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PVTGs
PVTGs are more vulnerable among the tribal groups.

Due to this factor, more developed and assertive tribal groups take a major chunk of the
tribal development funds, because of which PVTGs need more funds directed for their
development.
In this context, in 1975, the Government of India initiated to identify the most vulnerable
tribal groups as a separate category called PVTGs and declared 52 such groups.
In 1993 an additional 23 groups were added to the category,making it a total of 75 PVTGs
out of 705 Scheduled Tribes, spread over 17 states and one Union Territory(UT), in the
country (2011 census).
No base line surveys have been conducted among more than half of such groups.
Highlights of the survey:
According to the survey, of the 75 PVTGs, base line surveys exists for about 40 groups,
even after declaring them as PVTGs.
Base line surveys are done to precisely identify the PVTG families, their habitat and socio-
economic status, so that development initiatives are implemented for these communities,
based on the facts and figures.
Among the 75 listed PVTGs the highest number are found in Odisha (13), followed by
Andhra Pradesh (12), Bihar including Jharkhand (9) Madhya Pradesh including
Chhattisgarh (7) Tamil Nadu (6) Kerala and Gujarat having five groups each.
The remaining PVTGs live in West Bengal (3) Maharashtra (3), two each in Karnataka
and Uttarakhand and one each in Rajasthan, Tripura and Manipur.
All the four tribal groups in Andamans, and one in Nicobar Islands, are recognised as
PVTGs.
Some of the PVTGs are distributed in more than one State. The Birhor are recognised as a
PVTG in four States, while 10 other group are PVTG in two States, namely the Sahariya,
Kurumba, Koraga, Korwa, JenuKuruba, Kattunayakan, Katkari/Kathodi, Kharia, Kolam,
and Lodha. Thus, the number of the PVTGs at the national level would be 63.
Regional and State-specific variations in welfare schemes for PVTGs has also been
highlighted. While Odisha has established exclusive micro-projects for the PVTGs, there
are none such in for the five PVTGs in Gujarat.
In Tamil Nadu, development schemes are being monitored through the Tribal Research
Centre, Ooty, and implemented by the State government. However, in Karnataka, all
affairs of two the PVTGs are handled by the Social Welfare Department, which extends
some schemes as per their knowledge, barely receiving any professional advice. Only
recently, the Karnataka Tribal Research Centre was been established at Mysore while
many States did so decades ago.
In some cases, a PVTG receives benefits only in a few blocks in a district, while the same
group is deprived in adjacent blocks. The reason is that micro-projects extend benefits

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only within their jurisdiction.
There is a huge variation in the number of PVTGs ranging from a few individuals as in
case of Great Andamanese, Onge and Sentinelese and about a little more than a thousand
people as in the case of Toda of Nilgiris. Although PVTGs are slowly witnessing decadal
increase in their population, quite a few still face stagnation such as the Birhor in central
India. Some are declining like the Onge and Andamanese.
Smallest population size among the PVTGs are the Senteneles (groups of 32). They still
shy away from others. The Great Andamanese (57 persons) and the Onge (107 persons)
are the dwindling populations.
In main land, the Toto of West Bengal and the Toda of Tamil Nadu have population less
than 2000 persons.
The Saharia people of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan are the largest among the PVTGs
with population more than 4 lakhs.
Literacy rate among the PVTGs has gone up significantly over the past. From a single
digit literacy rate, the figures have increased to 30 to 40 % in many of the PVTGs.
However, as is the case with entire India, female literacy rate is still considerably lower
compared to male counterpart.
The authors have pointed out at a considerable increase in the age of marriage among
PVTGs. The incidence of girl child being married while still being a minor, among these
tribes has been decreasing.
13. Unnat Bharat Abhiyan
The Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) along with the Ministries of
Rural Development and Panchayati Raj has agreed to link all Higher Education Institutes
(HEIs) with rural development processes under Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA). In this
regard, a Tripartite Agreement between MHRD, Ministry of Rural Development and
Ministry of Panchayati Raj was also signed on 12th January, 2017 as an attempt to bring
about substantial improvements in the formulation and delivery of developmental
schemes in the rural areas. It is envisaged that representatives of Higher Education
Institutions interact with local bodies and community in selected village clusters and
provide knowledge inputs into the Gram Panchayat Development Plans.
MHRD, Department of Higher Education has formulated this scheme and first phase is
under implementation in several parts of the country. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)
Delhi has been designated as the Coordinating Institute

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The MHRD has advised all the HEIs which are funded by the Central /State Government
and all institutions approved by the regulatory bodies, to adopt clusters of backward Gram
Panchayats / villages in their vicinity and apply their knowledge and expertise to improve
the infrastructure in the Gram Panchayats (GPs). HEIs in the districts are expected to
carry out detailed field study, participate in conceptualising & preparation of community-
level development plans along with the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj personnel
by providing technical, managerial inputs and by suggesting innovative solutions to the
issues faced in the day-to-day lives of the households therein, in the areas of livelihoods,
energy security, environment and basic living amenities. The institutions have been
advised to continue their engagement with chosen Panchayats and offer assistance to the
Rural Development and Panchayat Raj personnel. The programme is to be implemented
over the next two years, with additional clusters. No time frame can be assigned for
coverage of all districts in the country, at present. Funds (Budget Estimate) allocated to
the UBA during 2016-17 is 10 Crore.
14. Prime Minister to Inaugurate Exhibitiion Swachhagraha Bapu Ko

Karyanjali-a Mission, an Exhibition
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will inaugurate the exhibition entitled
Swachhagraha Bapu Ko Karyanjali-A Mission, An Exhibition on the occasion of
100th Anniversary of Champaran Satyagrah tomorrow in National Archives of India
(NAI) Janpath, New Delhi. Briefing media persons here today, Shri Raghvendra Singh,
Director General, NAI said that this exhibition is a humble tribute to Gandhi Ji on
hundred years of his first experiment of Satyagraha in India, in Champaran and is an
attempt to sensitize future generations to fulfill Gandhis dream of Swachh Bharat,
where societys reflection would be as clean as the thoughts within, of every citizen of
India. This digital and experiential exhibition strives to connect the essential principles of
Satyagrah Jeevan-Chakra evolved by Gandhi Ji, with the elements of Swachhagraha,
the movement. The exhibition will be open for public in NAI campus for one month and
later on, it will be taken to other cities of the country as Mobile exhibition. He informed
the media persons that the Prime Minister will launch an Online Interactive Quiz on the
occasion which will continue for 30 months till October, 2019.
Gandhi Ji was initially reluctant to visit Champaran. Rather, he had hardly knew where
Champaran was and was unaware of the conditions of the farmers who cultivated Indigo.
Upon his arrival in Patna on 10th April 1917 and thence to in Motihari on 15th April, he
immediately realized that his stay there would be a long haul. The drama of Champaran
has been succinctly depicted in this exhibition. During his stay, Gandhi Ji delved in detail
with the problems of people. Social practices of scavenging, illiteracy, issues covering
women and health were found to be the main impediments. These obstacles were common

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to the political issues that Gandhi Ji confronted. Satyagraha was the weapon he employed
to overcome hurdles on both these fronts.
The Champaran Satyagraha changed the dynamics of Indian politics, catapulting Gandhi
Ji to the forefront of Indias freedom struggle. For the first time, people of India realized
the power of non-violence and passive resistance, based on action.
Gandhi Jis freedom struggle culminated in Indias independence on 15th August 1947.
Though politically independent, India has long since grappled with the same vital issues
that Gandhi Ji came face to face with in Champaran, that of health, sanitation, clean water,
cleanliness, lack of awareness and education etc. This exhibition is an attempt to link
Gandhi Jis core principles of Satyagraha with contemporary issues, a movement to
improve conditions through Swachhagraha. The younger generation of India needs to
understand its importance. In fact we all need to.
15. Labour Reforms in India: Align, incentivise, and create trust
Democratic developing countries always have challenge of development which should

benefit impoverished masses by way of providing employment and decent standard of
living.
Universal adult franchise which is landmark of democracy gives voice to labor which is
strong in numbers. These countries cant ignore interest of labor in favor of industry and
capital. Developed countries on the other hand extended voting power to workmen only
after long period of industrial development.
During this period capitalists of the country amassed wealth and in latter period, mainly
after numerous labor movements, workers getting voting rights, activism of International
Labor Organization and New Deal of Roosevelt , western governments took up
responsibility of wealth redistribution. India at time of independence took up dual of
wealth creation and redistribution simultaneously.
For this they need investment which has to compete with developed countries. Investment
whether domestic or foreign will come, given there is low cost advantage.
In the starting phase this low cost advantage is derived through relative lower wages of
workers as there is surplus labor. As a result industries start mushrooming and results in
shortage adequate skilled labor and at same time there is rise of trade unionism.

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By this time low cost advantage starts waning and governments struggle to maintain
balance between workers rights and industrial growth by legislation. After this
government tries to maintain low cost advantages by easing Infrastructure bottlenecks,
Tax concessions etc. This is quite evident form developments in Chinese economy over
last two decades.
Trade unions (like Bhartiya Majdoor Sangha or Centre for Indian trade Union) are
pressure groups which aim to protect interests of labor through collective bargaining.
As individual worker doesnt have much influence, they need to get together to deal with
capitalists. They bargain constantly for higher wages, safety at work, social security, job
security etc.
For this they organize demonstration, strikes and petitions to higher authorities. 1st
organized strike in India was in Great Indian Peninsular Railways in 1899. Sometimes
some of them indulge in violence, as it was seen recently A jute Mill in West Bengal and
Maruti udyog Ltd.
They also constitute a separate class and vote bank and political parties tries woo them
before elections. But in last decade frequency of strikes, lockouts and Man days lost have
reduced significantly, so is their behavior as separate vote bank. This indicates toward
growing cordial relations.
To deal with trade unions and to present their consolidated viewpoint employers too got
organized and 1st such organization was All India Organization of Employers, formed in
1932.
There are three parties in this cooperation 1) Government 2) Employer 3) Trade Union.
This is generally called Tripartite Cooperation System. Here government acts as mediator
between other two who generally have conflicting interests. But in reality all three parties
have a common interest that is industrial growth and are dependent upon each other.
Legal Status
The constitution has many articles directed toward their interests for eg. Article 23 forbids forced
labor, 24 forbids child labor (in factories, mines and other hazardous occupations) below age of
14 years.
Further, Article 43A was inserted by 42nd amendment directing state to take steps to ensure
workers participation in management of industries. (Gandhi ji said that employers are trustees of
interests of workers and they must ensure their welfare.)
Labor laws are under concurrent list. There are approx. 144 central and state laws, most or all of

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which seek compliance from industries.
Important laws related to Industrial relations are:
1. Employee state insurance Act ESI card is issued, insuring worker against any accident at
work. Theres also ESI corporation.
2. Employees Provident Fund and Miscellaneous provisions Act Provident fund is one in
which employee pays part of his wage ( 12 % in most cases) and equal contribution by
employer. This is mandatory for establishment employing more than 20 people.
3. Factories Act ,1948
4. Child Labor (prohibition and regulation) Act prohibits children below age of 14 to work
in hazardous jobs. There are demands for complete ban on child employment
5. Industrial Disputes Act One important provision Industries employing more than 100
people cannot terminate employment before approval of government. There is strong
demand from industry to revise this limit, to facilitate easy entry and exit.
6. Minimum Wages Act
7. Bonded Labor system ( Abolition) Act System in which onetime payment was made by
employer to supplier or leader of group and whole seasons or years services of labor
was taken. Still rampant in some businesses like Brick Kilns
8. Contract Labor (Regulation and Abolition) Act, 1970 Contract labor is indirectly
employed by an establishment through a contractor or agency. So their relation with
principal organization becomes ambiguous. They are generally discriminated against
direct employees in terms of wages, job security, status etc. This act attempts to abolish it
in certain circumstances and to bring them at par with direct employees.
9. Apprentices Act, 1961
Institutions
Ministry of Labor is there at Centre with 4 attached offices, 10 subordinate offices, 4 autonomous
organisations and adjudication bodies and Arbitration body.
Office of Chief Labor Commissioner
Its also known as Central Industrial Relation Machinery. Is responsible for handling

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Industrial Disputes, Implementation of laws for which ministry is responsible, Settlements
and awards, verification of membership of Trade Unions etc
Labor Bureau
Collection, compilation and dissemination of labor statistics.
Construction and maintenance of working class consumer price index numbers(WC-CPI)

for selected centers and all India basis for industrial workers,
Construction of CPI numbers for agricultural and rural workers, maintenance of up to date
data relating to working conditions of industrial workers,
Undertaking research into specific problems concerning labor with a view to supplying
date and information needed for the formulation of labor policy,
Publishing reports, pamphlets and brochures on various aspects of labor
Employee State Insurance Corporation
The organisation administers various benefits under the ESI Act, for instance, sickness
benefit, maternity benefit, dependents expenses, funeral benefit, which are cash benefits
and medical benefit.
The medical benefit has been made available to the family members of the insured
employees.
Employee Provident Fund Organization
Administers various schemes under Employees Provident Fund and Miscellaneous

provisions Act.
There are schemes like Employee provident fund scheme, Employee Deposit linked
Insurance Scheme, Pension scheme etc.
Several Industrial Tribunal Cum labor courts are operating to adjudicate under
Industrial Disputes Act
Board of Arbitration is there to mediate between central government and its employees

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International Labor Organisation
Founded in 1919 as result of Treaty of Versailles, it became first specialized agency under
United Nations in 1945.
Its vision is to secure humane working conditions for workers and to attain social justice
for them universally.
In short it carries Decent Work Agenda.
It has produced about 189 legally binding conventions on member countries and more
than 200 non-binding recommendations.
It is also global center for research and study on work and labor.
It also gave 4 core standards on labor which are part of general human rights as per UN
declarations.
Freedom of Association, Right to organize and Right to Collective Bargaining.
Abolition of forced labor
Minimum age of employment and abolition of child labor
Prohibition on workplace discrimination and Equal pay for men and women for work of
equal value
Issues:
Labor protection legislation is one of the basic features of welfare state and aims at
providing social justice.
The main aim of such laws should be to create more, safer, and rewarding jobs for the
labor.
This includes standards on minimum wages, working conditions, overtime controls, right
against unjustified retrenchment, strengthening of Labor unions, Right of worker to
compensation in case of accident at work place, post-retirement benefits, Personal
progress , skill development ,Social security and Dignified and respectful job etc. Issues
which arise from point of workers and industries.

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Simplification of procedures
For the fulfillment of above needs, there are numerous overlapping, rigid and isolated
acts( about 145), which are applicable to firms at any point of time.
It gives immense powers to public officials and results in harassment of employers.
It leaves room for corruption and increases compliance costs in terms of money and time.
This type of policy runs counter to above stated desirable objectives. This makes our firms
uncompetitive to foreign firms.
It is quite apparent from the perpetual dismal performance of Indian manufacturing

sector.
Huge Informal Sector
India have about 85 -90 % of the workforce employed in informal sector on which these
laws are not applicable.
These are micro firms employing as low as 5-10 persons.
These employers are discouraged to expand their businesses, by such huge number of
regressive laws.
Neither have they had understanding of laws to that level nor are services of Lawyers to
ensure compliance much expensive.
Further, huge majority of workforce get no formal training. This results in low
productivity and low value addition.
Entry and exit Barriers for firms and Job security for workers
This issue is of retrenchment, Law for this provides that government approval should be
taken before retrenchment of the workers (in case industrial dispute act apply).
As a rule for good economic environment, there should least entry and exit barriers for
Firms in any business. But in addition, social security of the workers is indispensable.
It should be notice that a businessmen will scale down his operations almost only in face

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of losses or in drive of modernisation.
Ease of doing Business:
India ranked 134 out of 189 countries
Starting a business : 179 out of 189
Current reforms are expected to improve these rankings significantly
Social Safety Net for workers
In order to enable capacity building of workers so that they could withstand any recession
or retrenchment, they need to be provided some social security by means such as
Insurance Pensions, provident funds etc.
Government ought to increase its presence in this area, particularly in case of startups and
small scale industry. Because these units have low financial capacity to provide for these
expenses. Their growth too is extremely important for Industry.
In UK government provides safety net to employees of startups.
Disinvestment and FDI
Trade unions time and again have resented privatization. Government has been ideal
employer in pre liberalization era.
PSEs one of the main objectives was to provide employment even at cost of economy
but this very policy was result of demise of PSEs. Same is true for FDI.
Indias Demographic Dividend
India is expected to generate 51 million jobs till 2019, it is imperative to streamline all
laws, to facilitate manufacturing sector in India so as economy could absorb new human
resource inflow.
Further, theres expected increase in productivity of agriculture sector, which will result
substantial shift to industry.

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Last decades much resented jobless growth was due to its service sector source. Within
service sector it was based on services such as Finance, real estate, business etc. These
services have least employment elasticity.
For example 1% increase in Finance Services amount to far less than 1% increase in
employment. On the other hand manufacture sector have tendency to shift to capital
intensive technology which replaces labor with capital. Confusing labor laws just speeds
up this replacement. Construction sector have highest employment elasticity (more than
1).
Recent Labor Reforms
Apprenticeship Act In apprentice system, trade workers, engineers (both diploma holder
and graduates), 10+2 passed vocational students, need to undergo training in industry to
enhance their skill. On completion of this they become regular workers. For this they get
stipend in form of remuneration.
New amendment increases Stipend to 70 % of wage of regular unskilled worker in first

year, 80% in second year. Non engineers can also be appointed, and their total number
could be up to 10 % of the total workforce. Now students other than engineering can also
seek apprenticeship. About 500 new trades are added.
It also removes the some penalties for Industry employer cant be jailed for non-
compliance.
Factories act Overtime ( normal hours increase) , better working conditions, Allows
women for overnight work provided there is adequate safeguards and transport
Facility
Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Shramev jayate Karyakaram
Employees Provident Fund Organization
In the Employees Provident Fund Organization about Rs 27,000 crore was lying
unclaimed. This was due to manual procedures and formalities to get the amount released.
When worker change city then it was not possible for him get his balance from new city.
Other reason is that some employers deposit his contributions in name of ghost employees
so that they can themselves claim the amount. Universal Account Number would help
addressing both problems and in the money reaching the poor with the portability

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provided for Employees Provident Fund Organization.
Self-certification of documents
This aims at elimination of troublesome submission procedures, under which returns was to be
certified by officials. Now by self-certification method, compliance will be checked randomly
through firms/employers selected by computer.
Inspector Raj
A transparent Labor Inspection Scheme for random selection of units for inspection would
end undue harassment of the Inspector Raj, while ensuring better compliance. Now
officials have power to select units on their discretion. This results in rent seeking and
corruption.
Number of forms related to compliance with labor laws that employers have to file will
drop from 16 to 1.
Apprentice Protsahan Yojana

The Apprentice Protsahan Yojana and the Effective Implementation of revamped Rashtriya
Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) for labour in the unorganized sector were also launched today.
Shramev Jayate
Skill development of youth would be created through initiatives under Shramev Jayate. It is
one of the most important elements of the Make in India vision and aims to create an
opportunity for India to meet the global requirement of skilled labour workforce in the years
ahead.
16. Demonetisation, cashless economy & rural development
Demonetisation is an act by which government of a nation strips the circulation of one or more
than one currency unit of its status as a legal tender. This process of Demonetisation is largely
done keeping in mind the goal of unearthing Black Money accumulated through corrupt means.
Not only India but several countries like USA in 1969; Zaire in 1990; Australia in 1996;
Zimbabwe in 2010 and North Korea in 2010 have resorted to demonetisation.
While the effort resulted in success in the developed liberalised economies of the USA and

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Australia, it could not ensure any success in the underdeveloped African countries.
Demonetisation in India
The first demonetisation in the independent India was done in the year 1946 and another
one in the year 1978. At that time the currency notes of higher denomination constituted
only 3% of the total currency in the circulation and its effect on the inconvenience was
minimal.
As far as demonetisation of November 2016 is concerned, the rupees 500 and 1000
constituted under gigantic share of 86% of the notes in circulation during 2016.
The size of the economy, the growth rate of the economy and the role of the private sector
and services sector to economic growth and development was small in the year 1946 and
1978 as compared to the year 2016.
The number of people within the net of the Income-Tax was also not so large during 1946
and 1978. There are more than 11 crore PAN card holders now and the number is on
increase.
In the year 1946 and 1978 public were already aware that the demonetisation will be
introduced by the government sooner or later, therefore, the demonetisation at that time
could not produce any substantial gain to the economy.
One of the key features of the demonetisation in 2016 is that it was kept very secret, so
that the black money holders could not get any time to convert their black money and
counterfeit currency into white money.
Objectives behind Demonetisation
One of the objectives is that the taxable income earned from this exercise will be spent on
economic growth boosting the development activities and also the economic upliftment of
the poor.
Existence of black money is one of the fundamental reasons for the endurance of high
economic inequalities, poverty and unemployment in the country.
The Wanchoo Committee in its report on Black Money-1971 described black money as a
"cancerous growth in the country's economy, which if not checked in time, will surely
lead to its ruination".
Manifestation of Black Money in social, economic and political space of our lives has a
debilitating effect on the Institutions of governance and conduct of public policy in the
country.
Success of inclusive development strategy critically depends on the capacity of our
society to root out the evils of corruption and black money from its very foundations.
Cashless Economy

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Cashless economy means more and more use of digital mode and less use of cash in
transactions.
The World Bank's World Development Report-2016 envisages that in many instances,
digital technologies have boosted growth, expanded opportunities and improved service
delivery.
Larger size of digital economies is in the developed economies is one of the factors of less
corruption in these countries as compared to developing countries.
Therefore, in order to escape from adversaries of corruption and black money and to have
more transparent and cleaner economic growth with social Justice, less use of cash is one
of the suggested measures.
Sweden, where 89% is no cash payment, ranks 3rd in Corruption Perception Index. In
India, an estimated 22% is non cash payment and India ranks 76th in the Corruption
Perception Index. This veritably proves that there is a strong negative correlation between
the cashless transaction and corruption.
Achieving a cashless rural economy
Worldwide there is a tremendous interest among policymakers to explore the possibility

of moving towards a cashless economy. Digitisation of transactions is the best way to
move towards cashless economy.
Rural areas are home to two thirds of the countrys population of some 870 million
people where much of the challenge lies in achieving cashless transactions for the rest of
the decade.
It is estimated that rural users will constitute almost half of all Internet users in 2020.
Number of connected rural consumers is expected to increase from 120 million in 2015 to
almost 315 in 2020.
Over 93% of people in rural India have not done any digital transactions. So the real
problem lies there. The government has taken steps including announcing zero balance
accounts for people, but growth of Bank branches has been low.
Challenges
Currency denominated economy: High level of cash circulation in India. Cash in

circulation amounts to around 13% of India's GDP.
Transactions are mainly in cash: Nearly 95% of transactions take place in cash. Large size
of informal / unorganised sector entities and workers prefer cash based transactions.
ATM use is mainly for cash withdrawals and not for settling online transactions: Nearly
92% of ATM cards are used for cash withdrawals. Multiple holding of cards in urban and
semi urban areas show low rural penetration.
Limited availability of point of sale terminals: Most of the POS terminals remain in urban
/ semi urban areas.
Mobile Internet penetration remains weak in rural India: In India there is poor

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connectivity in rural areas. Lower literacy level in poor and rural parts of the country
makes it problematic to push the use of plastic money on a wider scale.
Banking facilities in rural areas
Private sector banks have been steadily increasing their rural presence. Top private
lenders ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank and Yes Bank have been expanding their presence in
unbanked and under banked areas over the past 5 years.
RBI has asked banks to prioritize opening of branches in unbanked rural centres over 3
year cycle of 2013-16. The central bank will give credit for the branches opened in excess
of the 25% for a year.
Technology is a great enabler for financial inclusion, which includes branch on wheels, a
mobilevan-based branch that aims at providing banking services to a cluster of remote
unbanked villages.
Though rural branches benefit from cheaper real estate rents, the cost of servicing and
staffing balances out the benefits. However, since RBI mandates 25% of new branches in
rural areas, banks have aggressively ventured into rural areas.
Prospects and the road ahead
The Jan Dhan Aadhaar Mobile (JAM) can encourage digital transaction culture. It is
spreading to reach each remote corner of the country. A large number of government
transfers (DBT) are made through JAM mode. This will help people to get digital
transaction awareness.
The role of the government in these cases will be to make cashless transactions mandatory
for certain payments and make it mandatory for certain services exceeding a certain
amount which has already been initiated.
A tax rebate (of say 1% to 2%) on payments made by households as salary to unorganised
sector (domestic servants, sweepers etc) can boost cashless payments.
This will do two things, one the households will have an incentive to go cashless and two,
large portion of the unorganised sector will be financially included.
The 5 A's of promoting financial inclusion through cashless payment instruments which
are availability, accessibility, acceptability, affordability and awareness.
Government should assure basic necessities in rural areas and focus on developing
infrastructure. Special drives through schools, colleges, panchayats etc can help create
awareness about cashless/ banking transactions.
Financial literacy is a must for bringing more and more people to the digital platform.
Digital payment or payment through banks, instead of paying cash should be encouraged.
Linkage of all welfare activities with bank accounts is a very strategic step. A strong
banking base is the basic prerequisite for the cashless economy.
Targeted financial education programs can improve financial skills and Credit
Management, and increase account ownership in rural India.

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Perspectives
More and more money will come to the banking system in the form of either current or
savings account. The savings will push up investment and lead to capital formation in the
economy.
The opening of new bank accounts for depositing the banned currencies shows that it has
promoted banking literacy among the general population and connected the common man
who was out of the net of the banking system with the banking system.
It has strengthened the banking system, as many Bank branches were facing acute
problem of NPA. The capabilities of banks to lend more will be enhanced which would
raise investment in the economy.
The excess income deposited in the banks can generate taxable income for the
government which can be spent on various welfare programmes for the poor in different
sectors of the economy.
People who have earned black money through corruption and unfair means will be
exposed and be punished so that it will pave the way towards a corruption free society. It
will help to create a corruption free administrative and political environment in the
country.
It will enhance the flow of FDI to the economy, as the foreign investment requires a
corruption free environment and it will also be helpful to control the outflow of illicit
money to other developed countries for foreign bank accounts.
It will promote social and cultural development in the society. Corruption and black
money erodes social and cultural systems. It will put a break on unethical social
development.
It will help the nation to achieve a real and cleaner economic growth rate, not an artificial
and dirty economic growth rate achieved with the help of Black Money.
Any growth rate achieved through distributive justice and with less economic inequality is
the true growth rate for a developing country like India.
Less growth rate with less poverty and lower income inequality is more desirable and
better for the Happiness Index than high growth rate with more number of people living
below the poverty line and there is huge income inequality between the rich and poor.
India is a great democracy where the people at large despite inconvenience supported the
demonetization drive by the government for unearthing black money and counterfeit
currency.
Suggestions:
Demonetization should be a continuous exercise by the government and be repeated at

suitable intervals to discourage the hording of Black Money in the form of cash.
The self help groups (SHGs) can be of great help to the people in the promotion of digital
banking systems in the rural areas. More and more SHGs must be given the charge of
Bank Mitras (friend) who can extend their help to the bank, post offices and Bank

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corresponding for proliferation of digital economy.
Rural social infrastructure such as Youth Clubs and Mahila Mandals and Panchayati Raj
Institutions should be energized for the propagation of digital rural economy.
The Gram Sabhas in Panchayati Raj Institutions and Ward Sabhas in ULBs mast take up
the issue of digital economy at the village level.
All the line department functionaries such as school teachers, health workers, village
Development officers, anganwadi workers, etc. must educate the people about the
financial inclusion and digital economy
Like Pulse Polio Campaign, the Digital India Campaign twice or thrice in a year in a mass
scale can be conducted in the country. It is an appropriate way to propagate the digital
India campaign both in rural as well as urban areas.
Strong political will among both the ruling and opposition parties is necessary for the
implementation of any economic reforms including demonetization and cashless economy
in the country.
17. New guidelines for NGOs
The Centre told the Supreme Court that it has framed guidelines for regulating the
activity, registration and grants to over 32 lakh voluntary organisations (VOs)/NGOs in
the country.
A bench of Chief Justice J.S.Khehar and Justice D.Y.Chandrachud was informed by
additional solicitor general Tushar Mehta that in compliance with the apex court order, a
high-level committee under the chairmanship of S.Vijaykumar, ex-secretary, the ministry
of rural development has framed the guidelines/rules for accredition of VOs/NGOs. The
apex court took the affidavit of the Centre detailing the guidelines on record and asked
Mehta to serve the copy to petitioner advocate M.L.Sharma and amicus curiae Rakesh
Dwivedi, who is assisting the court in the matter.
Under the new guidelines
Niti Aayog has been appointed as the nodal agency for the purpose of registration and
accredition of VOs/NGOs seeking funding from the government of India.
The aayog has been also tasked with maintaining of database systems to manage and
disseminate information relating to NGOs/VOs.
The existing portal at Niti Aayog (NGO-Darpan) shall be strengthened and aligned with
accredition-like functions which should also provide a snapshot of the NGO with regard
to its ongoing and past work, particularly with respect to public and foreign funds so as to
facilitate grant making authorities on the bonafides, the affidavit said.
It said that all VOs/NGOs, aspiring to be funded by the government, shall register
themselves in NGO-Darpan through online process which would enable them to get a

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unique ID.
The registration system should facilitate the seamless operation of the IT Act and FCRA
with respect to NGOs without the need for cumbersome and intrusive processes, which
create mutual distrust and scope for misuse, it said.
Regarding accredition of NGOs and VOs, the affidavit said a process of evaluating,
consistency of compliance to statutory requirements and of the registration including
accounts and audit requirements will be in place.
In future, all funds to NGOs/VOs should be released through the public fund management
system (PFMS) that a three-tier monitoring system shall be instituted uniformly for the
central government and ministries.
The formulated guidelines stipulate a tough monitoring mechanism by which the grantee
institutions shall upload photographs in support of the performances and should geo-tag
the assets, if applicable.
The periodical progress reports from grantee institutions should be incorporated in the
NGO scheme workflow on the website of the ministry, with the grantee institution making
data entry under a login and password.
18. CCEA approved removal of ceiling on individual organic products
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved removal of all
quantitative ceilings on individual organic products and allowed unrestricted exports of all
organic and organic processed products.
The removal of quantitative ceilings will be irrespective of any existing or future

restriction/prohibition on the export of their basic product (non-organic).
However, in respect of organic pulses and lentils, the quantitative ceiling on exports will
continue but enhanced from the existing 10,000 MT per annum (MTPA) to 50,000
MTPA. in view of their acute shortage in the country.
Removal of quantitative celling on wheat, non-basmati rice, organic sugar and increasing
limit on export of organic pulses is expected to contribute to Governments objective of
doubling the farmers income by 2022.
It will lead to reduction in input costs in farming and aid farmer in gaining premium price
for organic agriculture products.

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It will also result in increased adoption of organic agriculture by farmers and complement
various Government programs like National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NSAM),
Organic Value Chain Development in North Eastern Region (OVCDNER) and
Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) taken up to encourage organic agriculture.
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved removal of all
quantitative ceilings on individual organic products and allowed unrestricted exports of all
organic and organic processed products.
The removal of quantitative ceilings will be irrespective of any existing or future

restriction/prohibition on the export of their basic product (non-organic).
However, in respect of organic pulses and lentils, the quantitative ceiling on exports will
continue but enhanced from the existing 10,000 MT per annum (MTPA) to 50,000
MTPA. in view of their acute shortage in the country.
Benefits
Removal of quantitative celling on wheat, non-basmati rice, organic sugar and increasing
limit on export of organic pulses is expected to contribute to Governments objective of
doubling the farmers income by 2022.
It will lead to reduction in input costs in farming and aid farmer in gaining premium price
for organic agriculture products.
It will also result in increased adoption of organic agriculture by farmers and complement
various Government programs like National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NSAM),
Organic Value Chain Development in North Eastern Region (OVCDNER) and
Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) taken up to encourage organic agriculture.
19. Cabinet approves ratification of the Minimum Age Convention, 1973 and
Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention, 1999
The Union Cabinet has given its approval for ratification of the two fundamental conventions of
the International Labour Organization namely:
Minimum Age Convention

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The Convention concerning Minimum Age for Admission to Employment, is a
Convention adopted in 1973 by the International Labour Organization.
It requires ratifying states to pursue a national policy designed to ensure the effective
abolition of child labour and to raise progressively the minimum age for admission to
employment or work.
Countries are free to specify a minimum age for labour, with a minimum of 15 years. A
declaration of 14 years is also possible when for a specified period of time.
Laws may also permit light work for children aged 1315 (not harming their health or
school work). The minimum age of 18 years is specified for work which is likely to
jeopardise the health, safety or morals of young persons.
Definitions of the type of work and derogations are only possible after tripartite
consultations (if such a system exists in the ratifying country).
Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention
The Convention concerning the Prohibition and Immediate Action for the Elimination of
the Worst Forms of Child Labour, known in short as the Worst Forms of Child Labour
Convention, was adopted by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in 1999.
By ratifying this Convention, a country commits itself to taking immediate action to
prohibit and eliminate the worst forms of child labour.
The ILOs International Programme on the Elimination of Child Labour (IPEC) is
responsible for assisting countries in this regard as well as monitoring compliance. One of
the methods used by IPEC to assist countries in this regard are Time-bound Programmes.
The convention includes forms of child labour, which are predefined worst forms of child
labour. They are also sometimes referred to as automatic worst forms of child labour.
International Labour Organisation (ILO)
The ILO is a United Nations agency dealing with labour issues, particularly international
labour standards, social protection, and work opportunities for all.
It was established in 1919 as an agency of the League of Nations and is headquartered in
Geneva, Switzerland.
India is a founder member of the ILO. At present, it has 187 members.
The principal means of action in the ILO is the setting up of International standards in the
form of Conventions, Recommendations and Protocol.
So far India has ratified 45 Conventions, out of which 42 are in force. Out of these 4 are
Core or Fundamental or Conventions.
20. Supreme Court directs Govt. to Notify HIV-hit children as disadvantaged

group

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The Supreme Court has ordered State governments to consider issuing a notification under the
Right to Education law, declaring children living with/affected by HIV as a disadvantaged
group deserving additional rights to help them gain free and compulsory education, a
fundamental right under the Constitution.
The court has given States four weeks to issue the notification under Section 2 (d) of The
Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act of 2009, which mandates the
State governments concerned to issue a notification that a child belongs to a
disadvantaged group based on reasons ranging from caste, social, cultural, linguistic,
geographical, gender, etc. The Act makes education compulsory for children between six
and 14 years of age.
The court ordered that those States which are unwilling to issue a notification under
Section 2 (d) should file an affidavit explaining why they consider it unnecessary to
inform that children living with HIV do not belong to a disadvantaged group. The court
however noted that at least 11 States have already issued the notification.
Note
The order was based on a petition which pointed out that HIV-hit children face denial of
admission, outright expulsion, segregation, breach of confidentiality to being given chores
like cleaning toilets.
According to NACO estimates in 2012-2013, around 20.9 lakh people were living with
HIV in 2011. Children less than 15 years of age account for seven percent (1.45 lakh) of
all infections.
21. Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP)
To empower women in agriculture by making systematic investments to enhance their

participation and productivity,also create and sustain agriculture based livelihoods of rural
women
22. DAY-NRLM
The Deen Dayal Antyodaya YojanaNational Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM) is

making a difference to the lives and livelihoods of over 3.6 crore households from where
women have joined Self Help Groups (SHGs). The collectives of women under SHGs,
Village Organisations (VOs) and Cluster Level Federations (CLFs) has evolved
transformational social capital that is changing gender relations, access to services and

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participation in Gram Sabhas and Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). The programme has
given confidence to women to seek Bank loans for economic activity after developing
skills and competencies through a sustained Community Resource Person (CRP) led
handholding for livelihood diversification. 1.50 lakh women Community Resource
Persons (CRPs) who have themselves come out of poverty, are today the greatest agents
of change in promoting sustainable agriculture, providing Banking services, developing a
cadre of Para Vets for animal care, Book keepers and Accountants to womens
collectives, and most importantly an agent for social transformation of villages.
Since the inception of the programme in 2011, women members of SHGs have accessed
Rs. 1.06 lakh crore as Bank credit. From Rs. 20,000 crore Bank linkage in 2014-15, SHGs
got more than Rs. 30,000 crore as credit in 2015-16. Till February 2017 over Rs. 29,000
crore had already been disbursed and it is expected that about Rs. 35,000 crore to Rs.
38,000 crore will be mobilised as credit in the Financial Year 2016-17. Analysis of Bank
linkage in 2016-17 shows the remarkable increase in credit linkage in States like Assam,
Bihar, Odisha, Rajasthan and West Bengal. There is a clear National spread in Bank
linkage as SHGs become vibrant and stronger institutions of the poor in many Northern
Indian States as well. They are already strong and vibrant in the Southern Indian States.
Under the DAY-NRLM, over 30 lakh women farmers have been supported under Mahila
Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP) to promote sustainable agricultural practices.
Women SHG led Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs) for agricultural implements, power
tillers etc have come up in some States. Vermi Compost/NADEP pits have also come up
through the efforts of these women SHG farmers besides the promotion of pesticide free
agriculture and multi-tier cropping in rain-fed regions for fodder, food, forest, fruits and
fibre.

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Political Issues, Human Rights and Governance

1. National Court of Appeal - Why?
The National Court of Appeal with regional benches in Chennai, Mumbai and Kolkata is meant
to act as final court of justice in dealing with appeals from the decisions of the High Courts and
tribunals within their region in civil, criminal, labour and revenue matters. In such a scenario, a
much-relieved Supreme Court of India situated in Delhi would only hear matters of constitutional
law and public law.
However, the Centre has rejected this idea. It cites three grounds for rejecting the idea
1. The Supreme Court always sits in Delhi as per the Constitution.

2. The Chief Justices of India in the past have consistently opposed the idea of an NCA or
regional benches to the Supreme Court.
3. An NCA would completely change the constitution of the Supreme Court.
National Court of Appeal | Why?
A National Court of Appeals makes sense, with the Supreme Court being burdened with
cases of all kinds. The Supreme Court was meant to be a Constitutional Court. However,
the sheer weight of its case backlog leaves the court with little time for its primal
functions.
Geographical proximity to the court is definitely an aspect of access to justice. The fact
that the Supreme Court sits only in New Delhi limits accessibility to litigants from south
India. High Courts meant for facilitating easy access to justice are losing their sheen in
many ways.
If a court of appeal is established, the majority of appeals from high courts can be
addressed in these courts.
A court of appeal can work as an excellent mechanism to sieve cases. If there are areas of
law that are particularly unsettled and need clarification, the court of appeal can club them
together and send these forward to the Supreme Court. Not only can a number of
individual cases be disposed of but areas of law can also be settled and a clear precedent
set.
If the Supreme Court only deals with crucial cases, the process will become streamlined
and will save a lot of time and expense, for both litigants and the courts.
It would relieve the Supreme Court of the weight of hearing regular civil and criminal
appeals, allowing the court to concentrate on determining only fundamental questions of
constitutional importance.
National Court of Appeal | Why not?

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Splitting the Supreme Court will be a very regrettable step. The Supreme Court has to be
at one place and there cant be circuit benches like high courts.
Dilution of the Supreme Court and its aura as an apex court may not be in line with the
concept of the Supreme Court envisioned by the architects of the Constitution.
The issue of proximity is relevant only up to high courts and cant be extended to the
Supreme Court. There are enough high court benches to address that issue.
This suggestion would require an amendment in Article 130 of the Constitution which is
impermissible as this would change the constitution of the Supreme Court completely.
Also, NCA will mean more expense and hardship to litigant.
What else can be done?
Efforts should be to strengthen subordinate judiciary (high courts) so that proper justice can be
dispensed with.
The Supreme Court should discourage the usage of the High Court as a mere stepping-
stone towards the end of judicial hierarchy. The glory and resplendence of High Courts
should be reclaimed.
All High Courts must entertain writs, including in the burgeoning service matters, only
before Single Benches in the first instance and then to a Division Bench in the form of a
Letter Patents Appeal so as to provide at least a two-tier accessible hierarchy of approach.
The challenges to orders of tribunals, irrespective of the former status of their adjudicating
Members or Chairpersons, must only be allowed to be entertained by Division Benches of
High Courts and not directly to the Supreme Court since the highest Court cannot be
rendered the first appellate Court from statutory tribunals and neither can justice be made
unaffordable for our citizens.
National Court of Appeal | way out
A National Court of Appeal is being advocated as an intermediate forum between the Supreme
Court and the various high courts of India. But a better solution to ease the higher judiciarys
burden may lie in strengthening that of the lower. Before adverting to a new layer, the conception
of which may be difficult to achieve, we need to strategise and reconfigure our existing judicial
hierarchy to the rising challenges before us. The only way to do it is to revitalise our High Courts
and restore them to their pinnacle.
2. Can appoint Lokpal without LoP, says SC
The Supreme Court found the Lokpal and Lokayukta Act of 2013 an eminently
workable piece of legislation which provides for the appointment of Lokpal chairperson

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and members even in the absence of a recognised Leader of Opposition (LoP).
The judgment goes against the very logic of the governments argument that
appointments of Lokpal chairperson and members is not currently possible, and would
have to wait till the 2013 Act is amended to replace the LoP with the single largest
Opposition party leader.
Under the 2013 Act, the appointments to Lokpal is made by a high-level selection
committee of the Prime Minister, Lok Sabha Speaker, LoP, Chief Justice of India and an
eminent jurist chosen by them. The fact that the 16th Lok Sabha does not have a
recognised LoP Congress party could not get the required 10% membership in the Lok
Sabha post 2014 parliamentary elections had stalled the implementation of the Lokpal
Act.
But the judgment authored by Justice Ranjan Gogoi differs with the governments
viewpoint. Highlighting Indias commitment to zero tolerance against corruption, the
court said an existing law cannot be put on hold merely because the Parliament is working
on a better law.
Instead, the court points to sub-section (2) of Section 4 of the original 2013 Lokpal Act,
which makes it clear that an appointment of the chairperson or members of Lokpal will
not be invalidated merely because one of the members of the selection committee the
LoP is missing.
In short, the available members of the Lokpal selection committee could very well
recommend suitable persons to the President for appointment to Lokpal.
If an appointment process done by a truncated Lokpal Selection Committee is already

recognised under the 2013 Act, why should the government wait for any amendments at
all, the Supreme Court asked.
Appointing a Lokpal
But having said that, the Supreme Court added that it cannot push the issue any further. It
said no matter how strongly the populace feels about the imminent need for the Lokpal
law and its beneficial effects on the citizenry of a democratic country, it cannot overstep
its jurisdiction and encroach into the legislative domain.
Lokpal and Lokayuktas and Other Related Law (Amendment) Bill, 2014, containing
the proposed amendments in the law has been gathering dust from the date of its
introduction in the Parliament on December 18, 2014.

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Though a Parliamentary Standing Committee submitted its report on December 3, 2015,
fully supporting the amendment to replace the LoP with the single largest Opposition
party leader in Lok Sabha, the law is yet to see the light of the day.
3. Simultaneous elections - Pros & Cons
Prime Minister Narendra Modi suggested holding simultaneous elections to panchayats, urban
local bodies, states and Parliament so that parties and workers spending too much time and
money in electioneering can make use of the time for social work and to take people-oriented
programmes to the grassroots.
The parliamentary standing committee on law and personnel has also strongly recommended
holding of simultaneous Lok Sabha and assembly elections all over the country.
In 1951-52, the countrys first general election was held. There was a simultaneous General
Election to House of People (Lok Sabha) and all State Legislative Assemblies. This continued in
three subsequent General Elections held in the years- 1957, 1962 and 1967. But in 1968 and
1969, the cycle got disrupted due to the premature dissolution of some Legislative Assemblies.
Similarly in the year 1970, the Lok Sabha itself got dissolved prematurely. As a result of
premature dissolution and extension of the terms of Lok Sabha and state assemblies, the cycle of
simultaneous elections got disturbed.
The rationale
To reduce the cost associated with multiple elections;
To overcome the policy paralysis and governance deficit associated with imposition of the
Model Code of Conduct at election time;
Law Commission in its 170th report {Reform of Electoral Laws (1999)} suggested holding
simultaneous elections at all levels for stability in governance.
To limit the disruption to normal public life associated with elections, such as increased traffic
and noise pollution; and lastly
To free up the manpower of the armed forces deployed on election-related duties.
Another consequence of frequent elections is the aggravation of vices like communalism,

casteism, corruption (vote-buying and fund-raising) and crony capitalism. If the country is

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perpetually in election mode, there is no respite from these evils.
Others often argue that the fact that there is always an important state or local election around the
corner makes it difficult for central governments to take unpopular decisions such as reducing
fuel subsidies or increasing rail fares, all small parts of a larger reforms agenda. In other words,
elections are a costly diversion from the real process of governing. Simultaneous polls will enable
parties to create capacity, vertically integrate interests. However, greater consensus is needed to
proceed further on this.
A department-related parliamentary standing committee which submitted its report in December

2015 studied the issue in detail and made some interesting recommendations. The committee
noted that general public opinion supports the idea of simultaneous elections. One suggestion it
received was that elections for assemblies with term ending six months before or after the Lok
Sabha election could be clubbed with general elections. If implemented, the analysis suggests that
this would mean assembly elections can be held in 12 states in 2019 along with the Lok Sabha
polls.
Countries in which simultaneous elections

are held In South Africa, elections to
national and provincial legislatures are
held simultaneously for five years and
after two years municipal elections are
held. Similarly in Sweden, simultaneous
elections to national legislature (Riksdag),
provincial legislature/county council
(landsting) and local bodies/municipal
Assemblies (Kommunfullmaktige) are
held on a fixed date i.e. second Sunday in
September for four years.
But the problem with this suggestion is that the term of a state assembly (or Lok Sabha) cannot be
extended unless the country is in a situation of emergency. A constitutional amendment which
allows the curtailing or extending of the term of state assemblies for a predetermined period can
solve this problem. It is possible that even this may not lead to the desired outcome in the near
term. One recommendation made by the standing committee, however, can make things a lot
smoother. It suggests that elections for assemblies can be conducted in two phasesone with the
Lok Sabha and the other midway through the Lok Sabhas term. This will significantly reduce
the time and energy spent on polls.
To be sure, there are multiple issues that will need to be addressed if the country intends to move
in this direction. The concerns and suggestions of different stakeholders will have to be debated
in order to build political consensus around the idea. That said, the proposal will not only have

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economic benefits but will free up precious political space for policy discussions. It will also help
in taking forward the process of economic reforms as decisions will not always be hostage to
assembly elections.
Difficulties
Not all voters are highly educated to know who to vote for. They may get confused and may
not know whether they are voting for candidates contesting assembly or parliament elections.
Frequent elections bring the politicians back to the voters, create jobs {though temporary} and
prevent the mixing of local and national issues in the minds of the voters.
The issue of logistics and requirement of security personnel, election and administrative
officials needs to be considered. There is a dearth of enough security and administrative officials
to conduct simultaneous free and fair elections throughout the country in one go.
Recently, the elections in West Bengal were held in 6 phases mainly due to the security
concerns. If this is situation, holding simultaneous elections for all the states may need to be held
in many phases stretching over many months.
Constitution says
Article 83(2) of the Constitution requires that the Lok Sabha be in existence for five years from
the date of its first meeting, unless dissolved earlier, and, thereafter, a fresh election would have
to be conducted.
Similarly, Article 172 of the Constitution requires that the state legislatures continue for five
years, unless dissolved earlier.
So phrase, unless dissolved earlier, found in the text of these two articles is against the
notion of simultaneous elections in a big country like India as it is not possible to ensure
simultaneous dissolution of governments.
Way out
When we turn to the governance implications of streamlining elections, the evidence is even
less clear. The governments argument essentially boils down to the notion that elections are a
costly distraction from governance. But the real challenges of governance in Indias multi-level
electoral context are more profound than that. These include:
The challenges of accountability that arise from voters difficulties in attributing policy
responsibility to one level of government or the other;

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Divergent policy preferences across regions within a common political system;
Incongruent governments at different levels of the federal system.
Even when the BJP won a clear majority in 2014, they found counter-veiling opposition forces
in the Rajya Sabha and the states which complicate the passage of legislation.
The chains of electoral accountability in Indias federal system are complex: voters have a
hard time disentangling which level of government is responsible for which policies (or for
blocking which policies), and often hold state governments responsible for policies that are
centrally designed. State governments, in turn, have become deft at claiming attribution for
central policies where they implement them well in their own states as with the Mahatma
Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act scheme or Public Distribution System.
Furthermore, states have different policy priorities and capacities which shape how well they
implement the initiatives of the central government. These are the real challenges for thinking
about governance in India not the frequency with which elections are held. These challenges
require coalition building, information sharing, and political skills to navigate. And if the cost of
elections is the real problem, there are other ways to rein in party expenditure and regulate
campaign finance than streamlining the election calendar, with all the other real consequences
that would entail for the functioning of Indian democracy.
4. April 24: National Panchayati Raj Diwas
In India, April 24th is celebrated as National Panchayati Raj Diwas every year.
This day marks the passing of the Constitution (73rd Amendment) Act, 1992 that came
into force with effect from 24 April 1993.
The passage of 73rd amendment is hailed as a defining moment in history as it permits

states to take steps to organize village panchayats and provide them with necessary
powers and authority necessary to facilitate them to function as units of self-government.
Every year on this day Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj organises National Conference
and awards best performing Gram Panchayats with The Panchayat Shashakatikaran
Puraskar/Rashtriya Gaurav Gram Sabha Puraskar.
The first National Panchayati Raj Day was celebrated in 2010.
The 73rd Amendment 1992 added a new Part IX to the constitution titled The

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Panchayats covering provisions from Article 243 to 243(O); and a new Eleventh
Schedule covering 29 subjects within the functions of the Panchayats.
73rd amendment implements the article 40 of the DPSP which says that State shall take
steps to organise village panchayats and endow them with such powers and authority as
may be necessary to enable them to function as units of self-government.
5. SC refers anti-defection law issue to larger Bench
The 10th Schedule to the Constitution, popularly referred to as the Anti-Defection Law, was
inserted by the 52nd Amendment in 1985. The grounds for disqualification are mentioned under
Articles 102 (2) and 191 (2).
A Member of Parliament or state legislature is deemed to have defected:
1. When the elected member voluntarily gives up his membership of a political party.
2. If he votes or abstains from voting in such House contrary to any direction issued by his
political party or anyone authorised to do so, without obtaining prior permission.
3. Independent members would be disqualified if they joined a political party.
4. Nominated members who were not members of a party could choose to join a party within
six months; after that period, they were treated as a party member or independent member.
Exceptions under the Law:
1. Any person elected as speaker or chairman could resign from his party, and rejoin the party
if he demitted that post.
2. A party could be merged into another if at least two-thirds of its party legislators voted for
the merger.
3. The law initially permitted splitting of parties, but that has now been outlawed.
Why in news?
The Supreme Court today referred to a larger bench the issue whether a lawmaker is bound by the
party whip even after his or her expulsion.

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Issue
The apex court was hearing a plea filed by Rajya Sabha MP and expelled Samajwadi
Party member Amar Singh, who has sought to declare that the provisions of the 10th
Schedule of the Constitution relating to disqualification on ground of defection do not
apply to an elected member of a House who has been expelled by the party.
A bench of two judges referred to an earlier plea filed by Singh in which the court had
refused to revisit the historic 1996 verdict on the anti- defection law which had held that a
nominated or elected lawmaker of a political party is bound by its whip even after
expulsion.
The bench said while dealing with that case, the two judge bench had referred the matter
to a larger bench and framed certain questions, including What is the status in either
House of Parliament or the state legislatures of a member who is expelled from the party
which set him/her up as a candidate for election.
The matter was then heard by a three-judge bench which had disposed of the plea while
keeping open the questions referred to by the two-judge bench for decision in an
appropriate case.
As the question remains alive today, the court think it appropriate that the matter should
be placed before the larger bench for consideration of the questions.
The apex court also issued notice to the Centre on the interim relief sought by Singh that
the 1996 verdict shall not apply to him while the issues raised by him are pending
consideration by the larger bench.
As per the interpretation of the anti-defection law by the Supreme Court in 1996, a
member elected or nominated by a political party continues to be under its control even
after his or her expulsion.
6. Boycott those who misuse triple talaq- AIMLB4
Those using triple talaq recklessly and without justification should be made to face social
boycott, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) said on Sunday at the
conclusion of its executive meet here.
The body, which represents major sects, also came out with a code of conduct for divorce,
in case the separation becomes inevitable. It notably does not recommend instant divorce
or triple talaq as a way of separation.
It has been decided in the executive meet that men who arbitrarily use triple talaq should
face social boycott, AIMPLB member Kamal Farooqui told IANS.
He said that the decision comes in the light of the fact that Islam deems divorce as

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unpleasant and its used only as the last resort.
The code of conduct put forth by the Board advocates using single talaq as a last resort
if other attempts at reconciliation fail. A man can rejoin with his wife in three months
after single talalq, and can remarry after three months without the woman having to
go through nikah halala.
Just as it is unfair to impose Islam on the unwilling, in the same way it is unfair to force
Muslims to follow laws from other religions.
7. One Crore MGNREGA assets geotagged
Mahatma Gandhi NREGS has reached a new milestone today by geotagging one Crore assets and
putting them in public domain.
The geotagging exercise started from 1st September, 2016.

One Crore assets have been geotagged and put in public domain in the last seven months.
It is expected that the exercise will lead to greater transparency and ensure accountability
at field level.
Need
The scale of rural assets created under MGNREGA is very large. Since the inception of the
programme in financial year 2006-07, about 2.82 Crore assets have been created under the
programme.
On an average, about 30 Lakh Assets are created annually which includes a variety of works such
as water harvesting structures, plantations, rural infrastructure, flood control measures, individual
assets for sustainable livelihood, community infrastructure and so on.
Background
Geotagging of assets created under MGNREGA was started after Prime Minister
Narendra Modi emphasised the need for online recording and monitoring of assets to
check leakages.
Subsequently, on June 24, 2016, the Ministry of Rural development signed a MoU with
National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), ISRO and National Informatics Centre to
geotag MGNREGA assets created under each village panchayats.
The geotagging exercise commenced from 1st September 2016. Gram Rozgar Sahayak or

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a junior engineer uploads the photos of assets on the Bhuvan web portal run by ISROs
National Remote Sensing Centre via a mobile app.
The time and location of the asset get automatically encrypted at the time of upload of the
photos. In this way, within a span of seven months, one crore assets have been geotagged
and shared in public domain.
In January 2017, Kangra district (Himachal Pradesh) became the first district in the
country to geotag all the assets created under MGNREGA.
Geotagging
Geotagging is the process of adding geographical information to various media in the

form of metadata.
The data usually consists of coordinates like latitude and longitude, but may even include
bearing, altitude, distance and place names.
Applications
Geotagging is most commonly used for photographs and can help people get a lot of
specific information about where the picture was taken or the exact location of a friend
who logged on to a service.
Geotagging location services can be used to find location-specific websites, news and
other information. It is based on positions and coordinates and is often directly taken from
a global positioning system (GPS).
Some social networking sites and services give out the location of their users, which
allows users to know exactly where their friends are as they are logged on to that website
(or check-in to the service).
8. Government launches programme for capacity building of Elected Women

Representatives (EWRs) of Panchayats
The Ministry of Women and Child Development in collaboration with the Ministry of
Panchayati Raj has launched a nationwide programme for capacity building of Elected
Women Representatives (EWRs) of Panchayats and a training program for Trainers of
women panchayat leaders at Ranchi, Jharkhand.
The Ministry of Women and Child Development has launched the programme
representatives at the grassroots level in various fields like engineering (building of
roads, drains, latrines etc.), finance, social development, education, health, and
environment among others.

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In the first phase of the training, 40 master trainers of Jharkhand will be trained at the
State institute of Rural Development, Ranchi.
In the second phase, around 3000 Elected Women Representatives (EWRs) will be
imparted training by the master trainers at the districts of Simdega, Pakur and Chatra of
Jharkhand.
In subsequent phases, similar training modules will be organised in different states

throughout the country with the help of National Institute of Rural Development, State
Institutes of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Departments of the States. At
present, there are around 13 lakhs EWRs in panchayats throughout the country.
In the first phase of the training, 40 master trainers of Jharkhand will be trained at the
State institute of Rural Development, Ranchi.
In the second phase, around 3000 Elected Women Representatives (EWRs) will be
imparted training by the master trainers at the districts of Simdega, Pakur and Chatra of
Jharkhand. In subsequent phases, similar training modules will be organised in different
states throughout the country with the help of National Institute of Rural Development,
State Institutes of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Departments of the States. At
In subsequent phases, similar training modules will be organised in different states

throughout the country with the help of National Institute of Rural Development, State
Institutes of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Departments of the States. At
The initiative is aimed at empowering EWRs by enhancing their capacity, capability and
skill in governance and administration of villages as the EWRs lack appropriate
knowledge and skill to administer the village.
The women sarpanches can be helpful in taking several new schemes of the government
to the common man especially those in distress and the underprivileged.
Women sarpanches can also play a vital role in ensuring the safety of women, education
of the girl child, health of women, creation of assets under MGNREGA, immunisation
and other important issues at the grassroots level.
9. Govt promoting Hindi only per act of parliament

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Faced with criticism that the Central government is unfairly imposing Hindi on non-Hindi-
speaking States, the government has iterated that it was only promoting the language as per an
Act of Parliament.
Issue
In March, the Department of Official Language of the Home Ministry pulled out a 2011
report of a Committee of Parliament on Official Language and sent it to the President for
approval.
The progressive use of Hindi in the Central government offices is reviewed by this
Committee every 10 years under the Official Languages Act, 1963 and the Rules framed
under it.
As many as 110 out of the 117 recommendations in this report were accepted by the
President.
The Home Ministry has issued an advisory to all States and government departments to
implement the recommendations.
In May 2015, the government had issued an order that as per the Official Languages Act,
1963, all government files would have to be issued bilingually, in Hindi and English.
Parliamentary Committees recommendations
Giving students the option of writing their exams in Hindi.

Making minimum knowledge of Hindi compulsory for government jobs.
Ensuring that the government spends more on Hindi advertisements than English ones.
The railway ministry should buy equipment with lettering in Devnagri script.
Railway tickets should be bilingual, with Hindi being one of the two languages.
Hindi should be an option for UPSC aspirants.
Cabinet ministers should deliver their speeches in Hindi as much as possible.
Making it mandatory at railway stations in C category (non-Hindi speaking) states such
as Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telengana and Kerala to have
announcements in Hindi.
Article 351
Article 351 says it shall be the duty of the Union to promote the spread of the Hindi
language, to develop it so that it may serve as a medium of expression for all the elements of
the composite culture of India and to secure its enrichment by assimilating without
interfering with its genius, the forms, style and expressions used in Hindustani and in the
other languages of India specified in the Eighth Schedule, and by drawing, wherever
necessary or desirable, for its vocabulary, primarily on Sanskrit and secondarily on other
languages.

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10. Need to buy VVPAT machines without further delay for 2019 Lok Sabha polls:
CEC to government
The Election Commission has sent a fresh reminder to the law ministry seeking urgent
sanction of funds for procurement of voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) in time to
hold the 2019 Lok Sabha elections with new-age EVMs.
Chief Election Commissioner Nasim Zaidi reiterated that the order for supply of VVPAT
needed to be placed without further delay to ensure that they are ready by September 2018
to meet the requirement of next general election to the House of the People.
Commission stands fully committed to deploy VVPATs along with EVMs in all future
elections so that transparency of electoral process is enhanced, integrity of the voting
is preserved and voters confidence in the process is further strengthened. It is felt
that the process of procurement of VVPATs cannot be delayed any longer given
prevailing environment.
The ECs pitch for immediate sanction of funds for procuring VVPATs comes
amid doubts raised by several parties , including BSP, Congress, Samajwadi Party+and
Aam Aadmi Party on the reliability and tamper-proof nature of EVMs.
EC is right now using only Generation 2 and 3 EVMs. As on date, EC owns around
53,500 Generation 3 or M3 EVMs which come with a paper trail. However, to hold an
entire Lok Sabha poll with VVPAT, EC would need and estimated 15.5 lakh more new-
age EVMs.
The Supreme Court had on January 2 this year directed the EC to bring on record the
approximate time within which the entire system of VVPAT can be introduced, subject to
grant of sanction and release of funds as and when required.
The Court had also asked the Solicitor General of India to assist the court insofar as
sanction and release of funds is concerned.
11. SC for broad anti-torture legislation
In its latest remark, the Supreme Court has observed that India may be finding it tough to secure
extraditions because there is a fear within the international community that the accused persons

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would be subject to torture here.
The remark was in context of the setback suffered by the CBI in its efforts to get Kim
Davy a Danish citizen and prime accused in the Purulia arms drop case of 1995
extradited from Denmark.
Setback
A Danish court had rejected the plea on the ground that he would risk torture or other
inhuman treatment in India.
SCs advice
Considering it a matter of both Article 21 (fundamental right to life and dignity) and of
international reputation, the court has asked the government to consider promulgating a
standalone, comprehensive law to define and punish torture as an instrument of human
degradation by state authorities. Such a law is in the national interest.
Note
India has signed the UN Convention against torture way back in 1997. But, it has still not
ratified it. The Convention defines torture as a criminal offence.
A bill was also proposed in this regard. But, no action has been taken on the Prevention of
Torture Bill 2010 even six years after it was passed by the Lok Sabha on May 6, 2010 and
recommended by a Select Committee of the Rajya Sabha of which he had been Chairman.
The centre contends some States were not in favour of such a law and the Indian Penal
Code and the Criminal Procedure Code were more than sufficient.
12. Allahabad HC becomes pilot project for case backlog study
The Supreme Court has decided to put the Allahabad HC under the microscope as a pilot
project to investigate how High Courts deal with pendency.
This is a target-specific exercise to study how criminal appeals face years of delay as
appellants face inhuman compulsions inside jails.
The court has called for real-time statistics from the Allahabad HC and has also roped in
some senior advocates to assist the Supreme Court.
The court has directed the HC Registrar to hand over particulars of the criminal appeals,
category-wise and year-wise, for the study in four weeks.
It also sought the High Court to produce details of the institution and disposal statistics of

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last 10 years, average disposal time of the appeals, identified causes for the delay, steps
already taken and in contemplation for tackling and accelerating disposals, mechanism in
place to oversee the process and progress recorded.
Pendency of cases in India:
In Allahabad high court, 9.24 lakh cases are pending highest among all the HCs of
which 3.09 lakh cases are over 10 years old.
As on June 30, 2016, 40.54 lakh cases were pending in the 24 HCs, which are grappling
with 44% shortage of judges.
Rajasthan high court has the oldest pending case in the country. It is pending for 61 years
now.
13. Centre files curative plea on AFSPA
The government on 12 April 2017 asked the Supreme Court to urgently reconsider
its July 2016 verdict which ripped open the cloak of immunity and secrecy provided
by the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act of 1958 (AFSPA) to security forces for
deaths caused during encounters in disturbed areas.
The Supreme Court had held that "there is no concept of absolute immunity from trial
by a criminal court" if an Army man has committed an offence.
The judgment by a Bench led by Justice Madan B. Lokur had held that every death
caused by security forces in a disturbed area, even if the victim was a dreaded
criminal or a militant or a terrorist or an insurgent, should be thoroughly inquired
into to address any allegation of use of excessive or retaliatory force.
Attorney-General Mukul Rohatgi on 12 April 2017 appeared before a Bench led by Chief
Justice of India J.S. Khehar during the mentioning hour, and apprised the court that the
judgment had become a fetter on security forces involved in anti-militancy operations.
"This court ought to have appreciated that the principles of right to self-defence cannot be
strictly applied while dealing with militants and terrorist elements in a hostile and unstable
terrain. This court ought to have taken into account the complexity and the reality of the
conduct of military operations and tactics, especially while combating terrorists," the
curative petition said.
The judgment came on a plea by hundreds of families in Manipur for a probe by

Special Investigation Team.

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14. Inter State Water Dispute
Inter-State River Water Disputes Act 1956 extends to the whole of India and provides for
adjudication of water disputes.
Inter-state water disputes are different from other Inter-state disputes in the term that
Constitution bars the jurisdiction of any other court over water disputes. These disputes
are to be adjudicated by temporary, ad-hoc and exclusive tribunals as the tribunals are
dissolved after they give away the awards. Awards carry the force of a Supreme Court
decree and are legally binding on the states for a period of 25-30
This arrangement has been ineffective and suffered from several governance challenges.
When states approach the Supreme Court, the bar on its jurisdiction puts restrictions on
the court. SC has had to limit its role to providing clarifications, leaving states
discontented.
Inter State Water Dispute | Shortcomings of the existing provisions
The existing Inter-State Water Disputes Act of 1956 does not fix any time limit for
resolving river water disputes.
It should be noted that the Cauvery Water Tribunal has taken almost 26 years and 3
months but the issue is still pending before the Supreme Court.
Therefore, it is being proposed to set a time limit for Dispute Redressal Committees to
resolve disputes cordially.
Inter State Water Dispute | Causes of Inter-State Water Dispute
Water is a limited resource and the demand of it has increased numerous times in
agricultural, industrial and domestic sector as compared to its current availability. The
country is developing and lifestyle changes such as increased urbanization has put a strain
on our natural resources.
The moment water is amassed at a large scale, it paves the way for a dispute where
commissions come into play and this goes on and on. Honestly. this is more of a political
issue than a regional one because these disputes are used as emotive issues by all the

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parties during elections and several vested interest are created that leads to more serious
issues like bandhs, strikes and riot like situations.
There is an ongoing debate on development/growth imperative on our environment and

ecology. Issues are also related with the storage of water such as dams and subsequent
usage of it for production of electricity and other uses, which lead to disputes among the
states.
Quite seriously, there is an administrative system which is in conflict with what people
want. The supply side incapability of the administration is neutralised through changing
the nature of demand by the administration.
Inter State Water Dispute | Solutions
Primary requirement in this case is to involve the people who are actually using the river
water such as farmers and create a broader consensus on how water should be used. India
has ample examples from the history on water management techniques and taking a leaf
out of the pages of history is significant both politically and ecologically.
Although water is a state subject (Entry 17), the regulation and development of inter-state
rivers and river valleys in the public interest is in the Union list (Entry 56). However, the
Centre has generally taken a back seat, allowing states to take control over such critical
issues. It would be prudent to shift Entry 17 of State List to the Concurrent List.
It is very important to prevent the destruction of sources of water (catchment areas of

Cauvery river have been destroyed due to multiple reasons) to meet the demands of
people during critical times.
Optimum utilisation and sustainable use of water resources in cropping patterns, irrigation
systems and demand management.
Establishment of a single, permanent tribunal to hear all inter-state water dispute cases to
deal with procedural complexities involving numerous stakeholders across governments
and agencies.
Inter State Water Dispute | Conclusion
A robust institutional framework to ensure transparency and cooperation is necessary to

adjudicate inter-state water disputes in letter and spirit. Political situations should be dealt
politically and legal safeguards should be seldom applied in order to enhance the spirit of

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cooperative federalism.
Note
Narmada Water Dispute- Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan
Mahi River Dispute- Gujarat, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh
Ravi and Beas Water Dispute- Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Jammu
and Kashmir and Delhi
Satluj-Yamuna Link Canal Dispute- Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan
Yamuna River Water Dispute- Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab,
Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Delhi.
Karmnasa River Water Dispute- Uttar Pradesh and Bihar
Barak River Water Dispute- Assam and Manipur
Cauvery Water Dispute- Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka
Krishna Water Dispute- Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh
Tungabhadra Water Dispute- Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka
Aliyar and Bhivani River Water Dispute- Tamil Nadu and Kerala
Godavari River Water Dispute- Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Chattisgarh, Karnataka, Madhya
Pradesh
15. Unnat Bharat Abhiyaan
The Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) along with the Ministries of Rural
Development and Panchayati Raj has agreed to link all Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) with
rural development processes under Unnat Bharat Abhiyaan (UBA).
Highlights

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In this regard, a Tripartite Agreement between MHRD, Ministry of Rural Development
and Ministry of Panchayati Raj was also signed as an attempt to bring about substantial
improvements in the formulation and delivery of developmental schemes in the rural
areas.
It is envisaged that representatives of Higher Education Institutions interact with local
bodies and community in selected village clusters and provide knowledge inputs into the
Gram Panchayat Development Plans.
MHRD, Department of Higher Education has formulated this scheme and first phase is
under implementation in several parts of the country. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)
Delhi has been designated as the Coordinating Institute.
The MHRD has advised all the HEIs which are funded by the Central /State Government
and all institutions approved by the regulatory bodies, to adopt clusters of backward Gram
Panchayats / villages in their vicinity and apply their knowledge and expertise to improve
the infrastructure in the Gram Panchayats (GPs).
HEIs in the districts are expected to carry out detailed field study, participate in
conceptualising & preparation of community-level development plans along with the
Rural Development and Panchayat Raj personnel by providing technical, managerial
inputs and by suggesting innovative solutions to the issues faced in the day-to-day lives of
the households therein, in the areas of livelihoods, energy security, environment and basic
living amenities.
The institutions have been advised to continue their engagement with chosen Panchayats
and offer assistance to the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj personnel. The
programme is to be implemented over the next two years, with additional clusters.
Role of the three ministries
Ministry of Human Resource Developmentto oversee that selected Higher Educational

Institutions (HEIs) adopt (5) panchayats each in consultation with the District Collectors
and use their knowledge base to find solutions for the issues of basic amenities &
livelihood opportunities faced by the rural communities and thereby help in bringing
about a qualitative change in the economic change in the economic and living standards of
the people.
As per the Tripartite Agreement, the role of the Ministry of Rural Development is to
facilitate effective participation of District Collectors, DRDAs and other authorities to
assist the institutions in preparation of the Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP)
and convergence of plan resources wherever possible.
The role of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj is to issue instructions to all State Governments
and local bodies regarding the involvement of knowledge institutions in the GPDP
process to operationalise the tie up between the organizations in the interest of quality
GPDP preparation in the selected clusters.
Few leading Private Educational Institutions and deemed Universities are involved in the
programme.

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16. Re-promulgation of Ordinances: Parliamentary supremacy Vs.Judicial Review
The Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court, in Krishna Kumar Singhs case, has reiterated the
principle that re-promulgation of ordinances is a fraud on the Constitution and a subversion of the
democratic legislative processes. According to Supreme Court, re-promulgation represents an
effort to overreach the legislative process which is the primary source of law-making in a
parliamentary democracy.
What is the latest controversy over the Enemy Property (Amendment and Validation)
Ordinance?
It was first promulgated on January 7, 2016, with the objective of plugging loopholes in
the principal act and to ensure that the enemy properties worth thousands of crore do not
revert to the legal heirs.
The fifth Enemy Property ordinance has been promulgated on the December 22, 2016, to
give continued effect to the provisions of the fourth ordinance.
The said ordinance has inserted a saving provision vide Section 22(2) of the fifth
ordinance to ensure continuity.
The aspect that requires thoughtful consideration is an attempt by the government to
nullify the judgment, decree or order of any Court by inserting Section 8A (1) in the
ordinance. Section 8A (1) empowers the custodian to dispose of enemy properties
whether by sale or otherwise notwithstanding any judgment, decree or order of any court,
tribunal or authority.
The failure of the government to ensure the passing of the Enemy Property Bill, 2016 and
using the back door of re-promulgation is a practice condemned by the Supreme Court.
In case of Enemy Property ordinance, the government, by re-promulgating ordinance for a

record fifth time, has converted the emergent power under Article 123 into a source
of parallel law-making that is antithetical to the scheme of the Constitution.
Article 123
Re-promulgation is fundamentally at odds with the principal of parliamentary supremacy.

Article 123 of the Constitution spells out requirements before resorting to the
extraordinary measure of promulgating an ordinance.
Is re-promulgation against the mandate of the Constitution?
This clear attempt by the government to first nullify a judgment and, thereafter, re-
promulgate ordinances in the absence of parliamentary approval, is contrary to the intent

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of our founding fathers and the mandate of the Constitution.
The founding fathers were cognisant that the ordinance making power is a negation of
the rule of law.
They envisaged that the aid of Article 123 and 213 of the Constitution will be taken in
emergent circumstances when the legislature is not in session and extraordinary
circumstances warrant the exercise of authority in order to avoid a situation of
constitutional vacuum.
The Constituent Assembly debates leave no manner of doubt that the said power ought
not to be exercised merely to circumvent a failure to muster support in the legislature.
What should the government do?
The satisfaction of the president at the time of the promulgation of an ordinance is within
the purview of judicial review.
The government will have to satisfy the Court about whether the satisfaction for re-
promulgation was based on some relevant material.
In the meantime, it would augur well for the government to strictly abide by the Supreme
Courts ruling in Krishna Kumars case or else will run the vice of unconstitutionality.
Though it is not illegal per se to remove the basis or the foundation of a judgment by a
subsequent enactment that uniformly applies to a class of persons, however, the same will
be tested on the basis of Article 14 of the Constitution.
Conclusion
The Constitution Bench judgment of the Supreme Court is a vindication of the supremacy
of Parliament and a reminder to the executive about the threat posed to the sovereignty of
the Parliament by re-promulgation of ordinances.
Parliamentary supremacy and the power of judicial review is the cornerstone of our
democratic republic.
17. LG of Puducherry Vs. LG of Delhi
Government of Union Territories Act, 1963:
The Government of Union Territories Act, 1963 provides for a Legislative Assembly of
Pondicherry (as Puducherry was then called), with a Council of Ministers to govern the
Union Territory of Pondicherry. The same Act says that the UT will be administered by
the President of India through an Administrator (LG).
At the same time, Section 18 of the Act, which deals with Extent of legislative power of
the Assembly, says that MLAs may make laws for the whole or any part of the Union

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Territory with respect to any of the matters enumerated in the State List or the Concurrent
List.
Contradiction:
And Section 44 of the Act, which deals with the Council of Ministers and its working,
says the Council of Ministers headed by a Chief Minister will aid and advise the
Administrator in the exercise of his functions in relation to matters with respect to which
the Legislative Assembly of the Union Territory has power to make laws. But there is a
contradiction.
The same clause also allows the LG to act in his discretion in the matter of lawmaking,
even though the Council of Ministers has the task of aiding and advising him.
In case of a difference of opinion:
In case of a difference of opinion between the LG and his Ministers on any matter, the
Administrator is bound to refer it to the President for a decision and act according to the
decision given by the President.
However, the Administrator can also claim that the matter is urgent, and take immediate
action as he deems necessary.
As per Rule 47 of Rules of Business of the Government of Pondicherry, 1963, the
Administrator exercises powers regulating the conditions of service of such persons in
consultation with the Chief Minister. In case the LG has a difference of opinion with the
Chief Minister, he can refer the matter to the central government for the decision of the
President.
Prior Approval:
Under Section 22 of the Act, prior sanction of the Administrator is required for certain
legislative proposals. These include Bills or amendments that the Council of Ministers
intends to move in the Legislative Assembly, and which deal with the constitution and
organisation of the court of the Judicial Commissioner, and jurisdiction and powers of
the court of the Judicial Commissioner with respect to any of the matters in the State List
or the Concurrent List.
Recommendation of the LG:
Section 23 of the Act also makes it obligatory on the part of the UT government to seek the
recommendation of the LG before moving a Bill or an amendment to provide for the
imposition, abolition, remission, alteration or regulation of any tax, the amendment of the law
with respect to any financial obligations undertaken or to be undertaken, and anything that has
to do with the Consolidated Fund of the UT.

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Assent of the LG:
Once the Assembly has passed a Bill, the LG can either grant or withhold his assent; or reserve it
for the consideration of the President. He can also send it back to the Assembly for
reconsideration.
The manner in which the LG functions vis--vis the elected government (Council of Ministers) is
also spelt out in the Rules of Business of the Government of Pondicherry, 1963, issued on June
22, 1963.
Powers and functions of the LG of Puducherry Vs. LG of Delhi
Functions:
The LG of Delhi enjoys greater powers than the LG of Puducherry. The LG of Delhi has
Executive Functions that allow him to exercise his powers in matters connected to
public order, police and land in consultation with the Chief Minister, if it is so provided
under any order issued by the President under Article 239 of the Constitution.
Source of power:
While the LG of Delhi is also guided by the Government of National Capital Territory of
Delhi Act, 1991, and the Transaction of Business of the Government of National Capital
Territory of Delhi Rules, 1993, the LG of Puducherry is guided mostly by the
Government of Union Territories Act, 1963.
Role of LG:
Articles 239 and 239AA of the Constitution, as well as the Government of National
Capital Territory of Delhi Act, 1991, clearly underline that Delhi is a UT, where the
Centre, whose eyes and ears are the LG, has a much more prominent role than in
Puducherry.
Legislative powers:
Under the constitutional scheme, the Delhi Assembly has the power to legislate on all
subjects except law and order and land.
However, the Puducherry Assembly can legislate on any issue under the Concurrent and
State Lists.
However, if the law is in conflict with a law passed by Parliament, the law passed by
Parliament prevails.
But like the AAP government in Delhi, the Congress government in Puducherry too can

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do little but watch helplessly if the LG appointed by the Centre starts making life difficult
for it.
18. Inter-state Council standing committee meeting after 11 years
The Union Home Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh recently chaired the 11th Standing Committee
meeting of the Inter-State Council. The council was attended by Chief Ministers of various states.
Inter-State Council
The Inter-State Council is a constitutional body to facilitate coordination between states

and the centre.
It is a recommendatory body to investigate and discuss subjects, in which some or all of
the states or the union government have a common interest.
It is set up on the basis of provisions in Article 263 of the Constitution of India by a
Presidential Order, 1990 based on the recommendation of Sarkaria Commission.
The Inter-state council is not a permanent constitutional body for coordination between
the states and Central government.
Rather, President can establish it at any time if it appears to him that the public interests
would be served by the establishment of such a council.
Composition of the Inter-State Council:
The Council is headed by Prime Minister (Chairman). Besides, Chief Ministers of all
states and UTs (having legislative Assembly) are its members.
Six Union ministers of cabinet rank nominated by the Prime Minister are also members.
19. 14th Finance Commission gives thumbs-up to cooperative federalism
The Fourteenth Finance Commission(FFC) was appointed on 2ndJanuary, 2013under the

chairmanship of Dr. Y. V. Reddy. In addition to the primary objectives mentioned above,
the terms of reference for the commission sought suggestionsregarding the principles
which would govern the quantum and distribution of grants-in-aid (no plan grants to
states), the measures, if needed, to augment State government finances to supplement the
resources of local government and to review the state of the finances, deficit and debt
conditions at different levels of government.
The FFC has submitted its recommendations for the period 2015-16 to 2020-21. They are
likely to have major implications for centre-state relations, for budgeting by, and the fiscal

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situation of, the centre and the states.
The FFC has radically enhanced the share of the states in the central divisible pool from
the current 32 percent to 42 per cent which is the biggest ever increase in vertical tax
devolution.
The last two Finance Commissions viz. Twelfth (period 2005-10) and Thirteenth (period
2010-15) had recommended a state share of 30.5 percent (increase of 1 percent) and 32
per cent (increase of 1.5 percent), respectively in the central divisible pool.
The FFC has also proposed a new horizontal formula for the distribution of the states
share in divisible pool among the states. There are changes both in the variables
included/excluded as well as the weights assigned to them. Relative to the Thirteenth
Finance Commission, the FFC has incorporated two new variables: 2011 population and
forest cover; and excluded the fiscal discipline variable.
Finance Commission - Concepts and definitions
Tax devolution
One of the core tasks of a Finance Commission as stipulated in Article 280 (3) (a) of the
Constitution is to make recommendations regarding the distribution between the Union
and the states of the net proceeds of taxes.
This is the most important task of any Finance Commission, as the share of states in the
net proceeds of Union taxes is the predominant channel of resource transfer from the
Centre to states.
Divisible Pool The divisible pool is that portion of gross tax revenue which is distributed
between the Centre and the States.
Divisible pool
The divisible pool is that portion of gross tax revenue which is distributed between the
Centre and the States. The divisible pool consists of all taxes, except surcharges and cess
levied for specific purpose, net of collection charges.
Prior to the enactment of the Constitution (Eightieth Amendment) Act, 2000, the sharing
of the Union tax revenues with the states was in accordance with the provisions of articles
270 and 272, as they stood then.
The eightieth amendment of the Constitution altered the pattern of sharing of Union taxes

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in a fundamental way. Under thisamendment, article 272 was dropped and article 270 was
substantially changed.
The new article 270 provides for sharing of all the taxes and duties referred to in the
Union list, except the taxes and duties referred to in articles 268 and 269, respectively,
and surcharges on taxes and duties referred to in article 271 and any cess levied for
specific purposes.
Grants-in-aid
Horizontal imbalances are addressed by the Finance Commission through the system of
tax devolution and grantsin- aid, the former instrument used more predominantly.
Under Article 275 of the Constitution, Finance Commissions are mandated to recommend
the principles as well as the quantum of grants to those States which are in need of
assistance and that different sums may be fixed for different States. Thus one of the pre-
requisites for grants is the assessment of the needs of the States.
The First Commission had laid down five broad principles for determining the eligibility
of a State for grants. The first was that the Budget of a State was the starting point for
examination of a need. The second was the efforts made by States to realize the potential
and the third was that the grants should help in equalizing the standards of basic services
across States.
Fourthly, any special burden or obligations of national concern, though within the State's
sphere, should also be taken into account. Fifthly, grants might be given to further any
beneficent service of national interest to less advanced States.
Grants recommended by the Finance Commissions are predominantly in the nature of

general purpose grants meeting the difference between the assessed expenditure on the
non-plan revenue account of each State and the projected revenue including the share of a
State in Central taxes. These are often referred to as 'gap filling grants'.
Over the years, the scope of grants to States was extended further to cover special
problems. Following the seventy-third and seventy-fourth amendments to the
Constitution, Finance Commissions were charged with the additional responsibility of
recommending measures to augment the Consolidated Fund of a State to supplementthe
resources of local bodies.
This has resulted in further expansion in the scope of Finance Commission grants. The

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Tenth Commission was the first Commission to have recommended grants for rural and
urban local bodies. Thus, over the years, there has been considerable extension in the
scope of grants-in-aid.
Fiscal capacity/Income distance
The income distance criterion was first used by Twelfth FC, measured by per capita GSDP as a
proxy for the distance between states in tax capacity.
When so proxied, the procedure implicitly applies a single average tax-to- GSDP ratio to
determine fiscal capacity distance between states. The Thirteenth FC changed the formula slightly
and recommended the use of separate averages for measuring tax capacity, one for general
category states (GCS) and another for special category states (SCS).
Horizontal Devolution Formula in the 13th and 14th Finance Commissions
Variable Weights accorded

13th FC 14th FC
Population (1971) 25 17.5
Population (2011) 0 10
Fiscal capacity/Income distance 47.5 50
Area 10 15
Forest Cover 0 7.5
Fiscal discipline 17.5 0
Total 100 100
Fiscal discipline
Fiscal discipline as a criterion for tax devolution was used by Eleventh and Twelfth FC to provide
an incentive to states managing their finances prudently. The criterion was continued in the
Thirteenth FC as well without any change. The index of fiscal discipline is arrived at by
comparing improvements in the ratio of own revenue receipts of a state to its total revenue
expenditure relative to the corresponding average across all states.
Special Category States (SCS) and General Category States (GCS)

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The concept of a special category state was first introduced in 1969 when the Fifth
Finance Commission sought to provide certain disadvantaged states with preferential
treatment in the form of central assistance and tax breaks.
Initially three states Assam, Nagaland and Jammu & Kashmir were granted special status
but since then eight more have been included (Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh,
Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Sikkim, Tripura and Uttarakhand).
All other states barring these are treated as General Category States.The rationale for
special status is that these states, because of inherent features, have a low resource base
and cannot mobilize resourcesfor development.
Some of the features required for special status are:

(i) hilly and difficult terrain;
(ii) low population density or sizeable share of tribal population;
(iii) strategic location along borders with neighbouring countries;
(iv) economic and infrastructural backwardness; and
(v) non-viable nature of state finances
The FFC recommendations are expected to add substantial spending capacity to states budgets.
20. Lok Sabha approves bill to accord constitutional status to NCBC
A bill to accord constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes
was approved by the Lok Sabha even as the Opposition expressed apprehensions that it
would impair the power of states.
The Constitution Amendment Bill, which requires two-thirds majority for passage, was
approved by the House with 360 members voting in favour and two against.
The bill has similar provisions as in case of Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes
(ST) commissions, will not curtail the powers of states in any way.
As per objects and reasons of the bill, the commission will hear the grievances of socially
and educationally backward classes, a function which has been discharged so far by the
National Commission for Scheduled Castes.
It also seeks to insert a new Article 342A so as to provide that the President may, by
public notification, specify the socially and educationally backward classes.
The power of state commissions would continue.

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The House also repealed the National Commission for Backward Classes Act 1993 as the
commission will now be part of the Constitution.
21. Why we need a Public Sector Asset Rehabilitation Agency (PARA)?
One of the leading issue in Indian economy is the unresolvable nature of the stressed asset
problem in the banking sector. Both NPAs and Stressed Assets are rising and has reached the post-
reform highs. Indias bad debt is one of the worst among the emerging peers. Besides the
worsening stressed asset scenario, the failure of existing arrangements created to tackle bad debts
is also a matter of concern. In this regard, the Economic Survey 2017 makes a restatement of the
Twin Balance Sheet (TBS) problem it has invented last year while assessing the NPA scenario.
Twin Balance Sheet (TBS) problem indicate the weakened financial positions of the Public-
Sector Banks (PSBs) and some large corporate houses. The Survey (2017) while examining the
failure of existing initiatives like (ARCs, JLF, SDR, S4A etc.), argues for the creation of a
dedicated government run asset reconstruction agency which is named as Public Sector Asset
Rehabilitation Agency (PARA). The PARA is proposed as a government owned and managed
agency that deals with bad assets of PSBs. Given that bulk of the bad assets are with PSBs, it is
suitable for the government to make such a non-market/centralized entity to deal with the
financial health of its own institutions. Such a step will help the economy to tide over the bad
asset problem which is hindering Indians economic growth. Following are the main arguments
cited for the creation of PARA.
1. The current bad debt problem is more serious
Over the last one decade; and especially in the last few years, the bad asset problem in
Indias financial system is aggravating. The level of Gross Non- Performing Assets (GNPAs) has
increased to 9.1% in September 2016 from 7.8% in March 2016. Similarly, the stressed assets
(NPAs + Restructured loans + written off loans) increased to 12.3% from 11.5% in the same
period. The trend for future also indicates rising NPAs.
Why an urgent need for solving the NPA problem?
The Asset quality worsening trend is here for several years. But the current situation necessitates
urgent action because of the following reasons.
Firstly, the NPAs are at the higher level after the crisis and reform years of early 1990s.
Secondly, Indias current NPA ratio is higher compared to most of other EMEs (except
Russia).

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Thirdly, the NPA problem is severe for PSBs.
The Economic Survey uses the term Twin Balance Sheet problem to indicate the stressed
situation of banks and corporate at the same time. Here, the Corporate are in a financial trouble as
their investment is not giving profit because of difficult economic environment. In the same way,
the banks are facing stressed assets including high NPAs because of non-repayment of debt taken
by the corporate. In effect, the balance sheets of banks and corporate are simultaneously under
trouble and are highly related. The TBS problem emerged only by 2010 while the systemic stress
in the banking system is gradually growing since then.
2. High level of NPAs for Public Sector Banks (PSBs)
The Asset (mainly loans) quality deterioration is particularly strong for PSBs. According to
RBIs Financial Stability Report (December 2016), more than four-fifths of the non-performing
assets were in the PSBs. The NPA ratio for them has reached up to 12 percent. As per the
Financial Stability Report, the PSBs GNPA ratio may increase to 12.5 per cent in March 2017
and then to 12.9 per cent in March 2018. Thirteen of the PSBs who holds 40 per cent of total
loans are severely stressed. Over 20 per cent of their outstanding loans are classified as
restructured or NPAs. The return on assets is negative, implying that they are accumulating
losses.
3.The existing arrangements have failed:
There are several market oriented mechanisms created by the RBI along with other
regulators and the Government to tackle the bad debt problem. The ARCs, SDR, S4A are some of
them. But most of them have failed or are underperforming.
The SARFAESI Act encouraged creation of Asset Reconstruction Companies and there are
19 ARCs in India as on February 2017; most of them private. But the contribution of ARCs in
asset reconstruction is negligible. In 2014, the RBI asked ARCs to pay a greater proportion of the
purchase price up-front in cash. Since then, asset reconstruction activities came down. They have
bought up only about 5 percent of total NPAs at book value over 2014-15 and 2015-16. ARCs
have found it difficult to recover money from the debtors. As a result, the ARCs were able to
offer only low prices to banks. This low pricing of bad assets is discouraging for banks to sell
their assets to ARCs.
In the context of slow asset securitization oriented resolution, the RBI has introduced two
bank-based mechanisms. First was the Strategic Debt Restructuring (SDR) scheme launched in
2015. Here, creditors or banks could take over firms that were unable to pay and sell them to new
owners later. In 2016, a similar programme called Sustainable Structuring of Stressed Assets
(S4A) was announced. Under this scheme, creditors could provide firms with debt reductions up
to 50 percent in order to restore their financial viability.

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But the progress of these two schemes were also quite limited. Only two cases have been
concluded under SDR as of end-December 2016. In the case of S4A, only one small case has
been resolved till January 2017.
Debt write downs have discouraged banks to engage with S4A. Here, they must make large
debt reductions to restore viability in many cases. But public sector bankers are reluctant to grant
write-downs because of no return from it. Debt write-downs in the case of the large debtors may
deplete banks capital. At the same time, write-downs can attract the attention of investigative
agencies.
Several other attempts like Joint Lenders Forum (JLF) have yielded only limited returns in
tackling bad assets. In the case of JLF, decisions can be taken by 75 percent of creditors by value
and 60 percent by number. But reaching consensus under JLF proved difficult, as different banks
have different degrees of credit exposure, capital cushions, and incentives. Acute coordination
failures when the bad debt involve large amount has been reported.
4. Stressed asset of large companies are difficult to resolve.
The NPA problem is not just the problem of banks. It is a byproduct of the poor
performance of the loan takers which are basically large corporate. Though there are cases of
mismanagement of borrowed money by the corporate from banks, bulk of the bad debt problem
has been caused by unexpected changes in the economic environment like delay in project
implementation, exchange rates, growth rate assumptions going wrong etc.
The stressed asset profile of PSBs indicate that they are concentrated in few big borrowers.
According to the Economic Survey 2017, as on September 2016, about 33 of the top 100 stressed
debtors would need debt reductions of less than 50 percent, 10 would need reductions of 51-75
percent, and no less than 57 would need reductions of 75 percent or more. A mere 50 companies
account for 71 percent of the debt owed by debtors. According to the RBI, on average, these 50
companies owe Rs 20,000 crores in debt, with 10 companies owing more than Rs 40,000 crores
each.
Many of these large companies are having big debt needs debt write-downs to stay in
business so that they can repay debt in future. Cash flows are deteriorating and debt reductions of
more than 50 percent is needed to restore viability.
The only alternative here would be to convert debt to equity, takeover of the companies,
and then sell them at a loss. For this, the RBI launched SDR and S4A schemes; but both of them
failed to address the issue.
5. Delay is costly: The biggest problem out of stressed assets is delay. If the solution of the
problem is delayed, bad debt keeps rising and it raises the costs for the government to finance the

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PSBs. Similarly, stressed banks continue to avoid giving loans and this will adversely affect
investment in the economy.
Hence there is the need for PARA
So far, the Private Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs) have failed to solve bad asset
problem. At the same time, in international experience shows that a professionally run central
agency with government backing can overcome the above difficulties.
The current serious stressed asset situation and the inability of the existing arrangements
necessitate an immediate resolution of the problem. As the Economic Survey argues it has now
been eight years since the twin balance sheet problem first materialised, and still no resolution is
in sight. And because the financial position of the stressed debtors is deteriorating, the ultimate
cost to the government and society is rising not just financially, but also in terms of foregone
economic growth and the risks to future growth.
The Survey hence demands a non-market and centralized approach like the Public Setor
Asset Rehabilitation Agency (PARA) to solve the problem.
22. Shifting Political Economy of CSS
The total plan outlay in the Union Budget is the sum of Central Plan and Central Assistance for
State and UT plans. Here, we discuss the entirely to list the major programs under the Central
Assistance for States and UT plans. It should be noted that Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS)
forms a major chunk of the Central Assistance for State and UT plans.
What are centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS)

Usually, Center can run schemes only on subjects mentioned in Union list (Central Plan/Central
Sector Schemes). Its the duty of the states to implement programmes on items mentioned in the
State list. But to encourage states to take up projects and programmes in the national interest,
Center sponsors fully or partially many programmes on items mentioned in State list. These
programs are called Centrally Sponsored Schemes.
To be precise, CSS is the biggest component of Central Assistance to state plans (CA), where
states dont have much flexibility. The other component block grants to states is a grant and
states have full flexibility in utilizing. But in the Budget 2015, many of the plan grants (block
grants) like Normal Central Assistance, Special Plan Assistance, Special Central Assistance and
Additional Central Assistance for other purposes are subsumed in the award of FC itself (greater
share of taxes and non-plan grants). Thus, though considered as two separate entities before,
Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) now being the major part of Central Assistance (CA) to

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states, the terms CSS and CA are often used interchangeably.
Budget allocation to CSS
NITI Aayogs Arvind Panagariya recommends reducing CSS

As per the Union Budget 2015-16, the total Plan Outlay for 2015-16 is Rs. 4,65,277 crore.
The Budgetary support for Central Plan in 2014-15 is Rs.2,60,493 crore while the total
central assistance for State and Union Territory Plans is Rs.2,04,784 crore. It should be
noted that while the budgetary support for Central Plan has increased, the central
assistance to state plans has decreased this year.
The changes in CSS started last financial year with a higher tax devolution recommended by the
Fourteenth Finance Commission (FFC). This higher tax devolution without a corresponding
increase in revenue receipts meant that the Union government restructured its approach of
running a plethora of central schemes under state plans. Specifically, the Union government
decreased its own support for some of them in last years budget. In a few cases, the government
discontinued some centrally sponsored schemes altogether, bringing down the total number of
CSS from 147 to 66.
On the other hand, the response of the states to the question of CSS restructuring was two-fold.
Initially, states had submitted to the FFC that proliferation of CSS impinges upon their fiscal
autonomy as they do not have any say in design of these schemes and face many restrictions in
their implementation (Finance Commission 2015: 88). At the same time, states also clearly
demonstrated an endowment effect they continued to see CSS an important source of money
that they werent willing to give up.
To resolve this paradox on CSS, a sub-group of chief ministers on the rationalisation of centrally
sponsored schemes was constituted as part of NITI Aayog in March, 2015. The proposals in the
recent Union budget on vertical distribution of specific purpose grants are entirely the handiwork
of this sub-group. These proposals are summarised and critiqued below:
The number of CSS has gone down from 66 to 30:
This figure is going to garner a lot of media attention. What will go unnoticed is that the
consolidation does not mean that 36 schemes have been eliminated.
Rather, there are hardly any schemes that have been discontinued. The reduction has come
about as multiple schemes have been clubbed together into one umbrella scheme for each
sector.
This serves the states well, who will now have a greater say over implementation, even
though their demand of flexibility in implementing the sub-schemes has not been agreed
to.

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From the Central Governments perspective, 30 schemes is still a large number.
A better approach might have been to go all out on only on a handful of high-priority
areas like health or rural development for a pre-defined time and subsequently moving on
to other areas.
The allocation for these 30 schemes has increased in absolute terms:
The allocation for CSS has increased from 2.08 lakh crores to 2.34 lakh crores (an
increase of 12.5% in absolute terms).
But states are unlikely to talk about this increase in their respective budgets. Chief
Ministers in their budget speeches will instead express disappointment over the decrease
in the number of CSS.
Changes in funding pattern for CSS:
There has been a change in funding pattern for CSS for the second straight year.
This year, CSS have been divided into three new categories. The first category Core of
the Core schemes comprises of six umbrella schemes of utmost priority.
This includes MGNREGA and other programmes for social protection. Theres no
change in the funding pattern for such schemes.
The second category19 Core schemes will be shared in 60:40 ratio between the Union
and the states and in the ratio of 90:10 for the eight North Eastern and three Himalayan
states.
The schemes here comprise of essential interventions as the National Development
Agenda for realizing VISION 2022 (Sub-group report, NITI Aayog: 24).
The third category comprises of three optional schemes, which the states can implement
if they choose to.
This changed pattern is likely to be featured in all state budgets. Chief Ministers will
claim that the states fiscal plans will be affected, mainly on account of increasing
contributions to those Core schemes on which they otherwise spent less than 40%.
A trick that this budget missed is shifting to a regime of specific purpose open-ended
matching grants instead of a fixed 60:40 ratio.
The fixed ratio will mean that states will be compelled to implement these schemes just to
avail of the 60% assistance, even if they have done considerably well in a particular area.
For instance, Kerala might be reluctant to shift its focus from primary education to other
priority areas even though it has done considerably well in the former, just because of the
political economy around the 60% assistance promised by the central government.
The three proposals above, on the balance, seem to present a pretty good deal for the
states.
But the question is: what is it that the Union government hopes to gain out of this
restructuring?
After all, it adopted the recommendations, without modifications, of a sub-group of nine

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CMs, six of whom were not from the ruling party at the Centre.
The Union government has essentially got the nod of states on just one issueessentially a
post-dated cheque from states that they will agree to shift from expenditure-based
monitoring to outcome-based monitoring for these schemes.
Ideally, the Union government should have opted to focus only on a few key priorities,
but for now it appears that any major change has been put at abeyance until the end of the
12th plan.
For now, the action now shifts to the state budgets
Last year, states hardly had any time to react to the changes proposed by the FFC, and
they went ahead with changes at the margin to their commitments.
This year, they have a better idea of the fiscal space available to them and are in a better
position to decide and shape their own priorities.
List of the Centrally Sponsored Schemes

At present, there are 72 CSS, including six new schemes introduced by the NDA government.
Budget 2015-16 mentions about bringing down the number of Centrally Sponsored Schemes
(CSS) in tune with the higher allocation for states as per 14th Finance Commission
recommendations. Now there are only 31 schemes fully supported by Union Government and 24
schemes under partial support. 8 schemes are de-linked from centers support.
Schemes to be fully supported by Union Government (100%)
1. Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGA).
2. Multi Sectoral Development Programme for Minorities (MSDP)

3. Pre-Matric Scholarship for children of those engaged in unclean occupation.
4. Scholarship schemes (Post and Pre Matric) for SC, ST and OBCs
5. Support for Machinery for implementation of Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 and
Prevention of Atrocities Act 1989.
6. National Programme for persons with Disabilities
7. Scheme for providing Education to Minorities
8. Umbrella scheme for education of ST Children
9. Indira Gandhi Matritva Sahyog Yojna (IGMSY)
10. Integrated Child Protection Scheme (ICPS).
11. Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for Empowerment of Adolescent Girls (RGSEAG)- SABLA
12. National Nutrition Mission (NNM)
13. Scheme for protection and development of women Assistance for schemes under proviso(i) to
Article 275(1) of the Constitution
14. Special Central Assistance to Tribal Sub-Plan
15. Sarva Shiksha Abhiyaan (Financed from Education Cess)
16. Mid Day Meal

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17. Schemes of North Eastern Council
18. Special Package for Bodoland Territorial Council
19. National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) including Annapurna
20. Grants from Central Pool of Resources for North Eastern Region and Sikkim
21. Social Security for Unorganized Workers Scheme
22. Support to Educational Development including Teacher Training and Adult Education.
23. Border Area Development Programme
24. Member of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS)
25. Cess backed allocation for Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna (PMGSY)
26. Roads and Bridges financed from Central Road Fund
27. Project Tiger
28. Project Elephant
29. Additional Central Assistance for Externally Aided Projects (Loan Portion)
30. Additional Central Assistance for Externally Aided Projects (Grant Portion)
Schemes to be run with the Changed Sharing Pattern (50:50,60:40, 90:10)
1.Cattle Development
2. Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture

3. Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana
4. National Livestock Mission
5. National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture
6.Dairy Vikas Abhiyaan
7. Veterinary Services and Animal Health
8.National Rural Drinking Water Programme
9. Swaccha Bharat Abhiyaan (Rural and Urban)
10. National Afforestation Programme
11. National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Eco-Systems (NPCA)
12. National AIDS and STD Control programme
13. National Health Mission
14. National Urban Livelihoods Mission (NULM)
15. Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyaan (RMSA)
16. Strategic Assistance for State Higher Education Rashtriya Uchcha Shiksha Abhiyan
(RUSA)
17. For Development of Infrastructure Facilities for Judiciary
18. National Land Records Modernisation Programme
19. National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM)
20. Rural Housing- Housing for All
21. Integrated Child Development Service
22. Rajiv Gandhi Khel Abhiyan (RGKA) (erstwhile Panchayat Yuva Krida aur Khel Abhiyan

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(PYKKA)
23.PMKSY(including Watershed programme and Micro-irrigation)
24. Impact Assessment Studies of AIBFMP
However, the Centre-State funding pattern is being modified in view of the larger devolution of
tax resources to States as per the recommendations of 14th Finance Commission whereby in this
scheme, the revenue expenditure is to be borne by the States. Subsequent to changed funding
pattern, overall expenditure on the schemes will not decrease.
Schemes delinked from support of the Centre
1. National e-Governance Plan
2. Backward Regions Grant Funds

3. Modernization of Police Forces
4. Rajiv Gandhi Panchayat Sashaktikaran Abhiyaan (RGPSA)
5. Scheme for Central Assistance to the States for developing export infrastructure
6. Scheme for setting up of 6000 Model Schools
7. National Mission on Food Processing
8. Tourist Infrastructure
Why are some CSS de-linked from Centers support?

As states are now given more direct funds which offer greater flexibility (extra to regular CSS),
there is no need for additional spending through the CSS route by the Center.
Why there are still CSS?
Ideally, all CSS should go. Funds should flow to states without pre-conditions to ensure greater
flexibility. The center will save on inter-mediation costs and in the long term, there would also be
higher implementation efficiency in terms of outcome yields on every rupee spent. But there are
still Centrally Sponsored Schemes running on state subjects. The reasons are the following:
1. Keeping in mind that some of these schemes represent national priorities especially those
targeted at poverty alleviation, Centre has decided that it will continue to contribute to such
schemes.
2. The schemes mandated by legal obligations and those backed by Cess collections have been
fully provided for.

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Finance Commission and Recommendations
Finance commission (FC) recommended 42 percent of Union Tax as share to states (vertical
devolution). But will FC deal with the split the 42 percent tax share among different states
(horizontal distribution
The objective of 14th FC has been to fill the resource gaps of each State to the extent
possible through tax devolution.
FC believe that while there are certain common factors that impact cost disability and
fiscal capacity of States, there exist circumstances that are unique to individual States.
FFC did not make a distinction between special and general category states in determining
their norms and recommendations.
However, FC have provided post-devolution revenue deficit grants for States where
devolution alone could not cover the assessed gap.
Hence, Normal Central Assistance, Special Plan Assistance, Special Central Assistance
and Additional Central Assistance for other purposes are subsumed in the award itself.
Highlights of Fourteenth Finance Commission
Appointed every five years, the Finance Commission is a Constitutional body with the broad
mandate to define the center-state fiscal relations. Its most important task is to recommend the
division of tax revenues collected by the Center (excluding cetain items such as cess) called the
divisible pool between the Center and States and the share to be allocated to each State. But it
also makes recommendations on other tax related issues as per the terms of references.
Fourteenth Finance Commission (FFC) recommendations covering five years period

beginning 1.4.2015 were tabled in the House on 25th February, 2015 along with an
Explanatory Memorandum on the Actions Taken by the Government.
An important recommendation of FFC is the devolution of a significantly higher share of
42% of the divisible pool to States compared with the 32% share recommended by the
Thirteenth Finance commission. Accordingly, the total devolution to the States in 2015-16
will be Rs 5.26 lakh crores, which is Rs. 1.78 lakh crores more than in 2014-15.
The larger devolution is a response to the demand by States for increased flow of untied
fiscal resources in place of tied resources that come with Centrally Sponsored Schemes.
The government has accepted this recommendation.
The horizontal devolution formula1 recommended by the 14th Finance Commission
incorporates two new variables, the 2011 population and forest cover. At the same time, it

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does not take into account fiscal discipline, a criterion included by the Thirteenth Finance
Commission in its formula.
As per the terms of reference, the FFC also provides revenue deficit grants to the 11 States
so identified. The total revenue deficit grant over the five years to these states is Rs.
1,94,821 crore. This recommendation has been accepted in principle. The institutional
arrangements for the implementation of this recommendation are yet to be put in place.
Focus on local bodies has been an ongoing concern and the FFC has recommended that
grants to local bodies should be only for basic services and functions assigned to them
under relevant legislation. The Commission has recommended grants of Rs 2.87 lakh cr in
total over the five years.
Devolution Formula in 13th and 14th Finance Commission
The Government has accepted this recommendation. (Source: Explanatory Memorandum as to

the Action Taken on the Recommendations Made by the 14th Finance Commission in its report
submitted to the President on December 15, 2014, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of
Finance)
Other recommendations by FFC concern GST, Fiscal Consolidation Roadmap and Pricing of
Public Utilities, Public Expenditure Management. These recommendations are under
examination. Basic Grant (Rs. in cr) Performance Grant (Rs. in cr) Gram Panchayats 1,80,263
20,029 Municipalities 69,715 17,428
23. Features of The ECI-EVMs
Leaders who lost recent Assembly Elections including Mayawati, the BSP President alleged that
the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), were managed in favour of the BJP and demanded the a
paper ballot election, following her crushing defeat in Uttar Pradesh Assembly election, a demand
also backed by Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav.
How do the EVMs work?
Every EVM machine has a control unit, a ballot unit and a 5-metre cable.
The machine can be operated with a 5 volt battery.
The way it works is that a voter is supposed to press a button against the name or photo of
the candidate she wishes to vote for.
The moment a button is pressed, the machine locks itself.
It opens now only with a new ballot number.

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An EVM registers only five votes in a minute.
EVMs became popular because they were easier to carry and later count the votes on.
They have been a part of India's election process for the last 15 years.
While all this sounds alright, there is enough evidence to suggest EVMs are also unsafe
and unreliable.
EC decision to switch to EVMs
Paper ballots have inherent problems their printing, storage and transportation involve
huge expenditure; lakh of ballot boxes are needed for each election, and there are logistics
issues with their safe storage between elections.
There were instances when the number of invalid votes (marked incorrectly by illiterate
voters) exceeded the winning margin.
Also, the counting of ballot papers could take a full day or more.
To overcome these problems, the EC approached the Electronics Corporation of India
Limited (ECIL) in 1977 to develop the prototype of an EVM.
On August 6, 1980, the EC demonstrated the ECIL prototype to representatives of
political parties to a generally positive reaction.
The EC subsequently also drafted Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) to manufacture
EVMs.
EVMs first used in elections
The EC decided on a trial run at a few polling stations during the 1982 Kerala Assembly
elections.
Since the Representation of the People (RP) Act, 1951, only allowed ballot papers and
ballot boxes, it urged the government to amend the law.
It did not, however, wait for the amendment, and invoked its emergency powers under
Article 324 to use voting machines in 50 out of the 84 polling stations of Paravur
constituency, where Congress candidate A C Jose was pitted against the CPIs Sivan
Pillai.
What are the threats?
EVMs can easily be hacked.

The complete profile of a voter can be accessed through EVMs.
EVMs can be used to manage the results of an election.
The EVMs can easily be tampered by an election official.
Even the election software of an EVM can be changed.
That EVMs can be hacked is a threat that has been given not only in India, but in many other
countries, which is why a number of them have banned the voting machines.
Netherlands banned it for lack of transparency.

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Ireland, after three years of research worth 51 million pounds, decided to junk EVMs.
Germany declared EVMs unconstitutional and banned it.
Italy also dropped e-voting since its results could be easily managed.
In the United States, California and many other states banned EVMs if they did not have a
paper trail.
According to a CIA security expert, Venezuela, Macedonia and Ukraine stopped using
EVMs after massive rigging was found.
England and France have never used EVMs.
First Challenge by CPI
CPIs Pillai, filed a writ petition in Kerala High Court days before polling,
questioning the use and functioning of EVMs.
After the EC demonstrated the machines to the HC, the court refused to interfere.
After Pillai won by a margin of just 123 votes, the Congresss Jose went to the HC
saying the RP Act, 1951, and Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961, did not allow use
of EVMs.
The HC again ruled in the ECs favour, but the Supreme Court reversed the
verdict and ordered a repoll at all 50 polling stations using conventional ballots.
This time, Jose won.
The EC then suspended the use of EVMs until Parliament, in 1988, inserted
Section 61A in the RP Act and Rules, legitimising them.
In November 1998, they were used on an experimental basis in 16 Assembly seats
5 each in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, and 6 in Delhi. In the Lok Sabha
elections of 2004, the entire country voted using EVMs.
Courts allowed PILs on the alleged tamper ability of EVMs
The 1984 SC verdict striking down the pilot run of EVMs in Kerala had little to do
with the machines efficiency.
It was passed on the ground that there was no provision for them in the existing
law. But political parties and experts have repeatedly questioned the functioning of
EVMs in court.
In 2004, advocate Pran Nath Lekhi sought to establish before the Delhi High Court
that EVMs had been doctored to favour the UPA in the Lok Sabha elections.
Lekhi pleaded that the result of the election was the opposite of the projections (of
an NDA win) made by opinion and exit polls.
The HC found no merit in the petition, and Lekhi was forced to withdraw.
In 2005, the Karnataka High Court upheld the use of EVMs, and described them
as a great achievement and a source of national pride.
The HC order was passed on an election petition filed in 1999 by an unsuccessful

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candidate who challenged the integrity of EVMs used in the Yelahanka
parliamentary constituency.
The court examined BEL scientists and studied the safety features of the machines
before ruling that the EVMs were tamper-proof, and an attempt to doctor them
could not be kept hidden.
EC response to criticisms of EVMs
From August 3 to 8, 2009, the Commission undertook the extraordinary step of

inviting sceptics to demonstrate the alleged fallibility of EVMs, using 100
randomly sourced machines from 10 states.
The outcome of this exercise is that none of the persons, who were given the
opportunity, could actually demonstrate any tamperability of the ECI-EVM, in any
of the 100 machines put on display.
The persons either failed or chose not to demonstrate, the EC said in a press note
on August 8
The machines, the EC said, could neither be reprogrammed nor controlled by an
external device. The source code (for the EVM) is so designed that it allows a
voter to cast the vote only once. The next vote can be recorded only after the
Presiding Officer enables the ballot on the Control Unit. In between the machine
becomes dead to any signal from outside (except from the Control Unit), the
2009 statement said.
The Commission has said that comparisons between EVMs in India and abroad,
where they have failed, are both misplaced and misguided.
This is because most of the systems used in other countries are PC based and
running on operating systems. Hence, these could be vulnerable to hacking.
The EVM in India on the other hand is a fully standalone machine without being
part of any network and with no provision for any input The software in the EVM
chip is one time programmable and is burnt into the chip at the time of
manufacture.
Nothing can be written on the chip after manufacture. Thus the ECI-EVMs are
fundamentally different (and) any surmise based on foreign studies or operating
system based EVMs would be completely erroneous.
EC agreed to Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT)
As the large number of parties, activists and candidates constantly alleging rigging
of EVMs despite repeated assurances, the EC called a meeting of all state and
national political parties on October 4, 2010 to discuss the issue.
At this meeting, some parties suggested that in order to increase transparency, the
EC should explore the possibility of introducing VVPAT, in which a voter
immediately gets a printout of her vote, which is then deposited in the ballot box.

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So, every voter can see whether her vote has been registered correctly.
At the same time, BJP leader Subramanian Swamy, who was then the president of
the Janata Party, filed a writ petition in Delhi High Court alleging that EVMs were
vulnerable to rigging, and demanding a paper back-up of the EVM vote.
The EC informed the court that it was already exploring the idea of VVPAT.
In 2012, the HC observed that EVMs in their present form were not tamper-
proof, and the VVPAT system may be developed early in consultation with
political parties.
Subsequently, the Supreme Court ordered the EC to use VVPATs across all seats
in the 2019 Lok Sabha election.
EVM hacking controversy of 2010
The biggest controversy around EVMs, in 2010, three scientists claimed they had
developed a way to hack into the machines.
A video posted on the Internet by the researchers purportedly showed them
connecting a home-made electronic device to an actual ECI-EVM. Professor J
Alex Halderman from the University of Michigan, who led the project, said the
device allowed them to change the results on the machine by sending it messages
from a mobile phone.
The EC once again denied the allegations, and nothing much came of the video
except that the Indian scientist out of the three, Hari Prasad, was arrested for
allegedly stealing an EVM from the Collectors office in Mumbai.
2014 General Elections
The 2014 Lok Sabha Election saw several allegations of EVM-rigging.

One of the prominent ones was when Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi alleged
that an EVM had been tampered by the BJP and said the Congress would take it
up with the Election Commission.
During a mandatory mock poll in Jorhat on April 3, 2014, every time a button was
pressed, the vote went in favour of BJP.
Congress MP Sanjay Nirupam, who who was defeated in the Mumbai North
constituency, alleged EVM-tampering. Congress candidates have been defeated
in Gujarat, Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh with massive leads, which are not
possible.
The contract of the EVM had been given to a multi-national company based in
Gujarat.
On May 16, 2014, social activist and Aam Aadmi Party candidate for the Mumbai
North East constituency Medha Patkar filed a complaint about the possible rigging
of votes in her constituency. Her complaint with the election commission states
that an address tag used to identify an EVM machine was found on the streets of

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Mumbai.
Maharashtra Civic Body Polls 2017
Recently, the Congress, NCP, Shiv Sena had alleged of possible tampering and
manipulations by BJP in the EVMs in the recent elections to 10 Municipal
Corporations and 25 Zilla Parishads in Maharashtra.
The city BJP chiefs son was declared the winner from the ward, but Shiv Sena
claimed that the total of the votes received by each candidate exceeded the total
number of votes cast. In Mumbai, independent candidate Shrikant Shirsat also
claimed that he got zero votes at the booth near his residence in Saki Naka alleging
the EVMs were defective.
Controversy now headed
All political parties have criticised EVMs only when they have lost elections.
Five days ahead of the Delhi Assembly election results in February 2015, Arvind
Kejriwal had tweeted about possible tampering of EVMs.
He did not pursue his allegation after the same EVMs registered a record mandate
for his party, which won 67 out of 70 seats.
Similarly, while the BJP seems happy with EVMs today, before the 2014 general
election, it had alleged tampering on many occasions in fact, BJP spokesperson
GVL Narasimha Rao had even written a book titled Democracy At Risk! Can We
Trust Our Electronic Voting Machines?, with a foreword by L K Advani.
Mayawati is only the latest politician to attack EVMs; before her the RJD, TDP,
SP, JD(U) and Left have all targeted the machines.
Election Commission Justification
The Election Commission continued to vouch for the electronic voting machines
credibility, even as the AAP joined the BSP to cast aspersions on the functioning
of the
devices.
The commission said that it had been successfully using the EVMs since 2000 in
every election, and had full confidence in the absolute credibility of the
machines.
The poll panel also noted that the credibility of the EVMs had been successfully
recognised by the courts on several occasions.
Officials pointed out that the EVMs were mechanically and electronically
designed to prevent any tampering or manipulation. The programmes used in the
EVMs were burnt into one-time programmable or masked chips (hardware) so that
they could not be altered or tampered with, they explained.

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The possibility of data corruption is almost zero since the machines were not
networked either by wire or by wireless to any other machine or system, the
officials argued.

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Questions
1. Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code
The Parliament has recently passed the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code Bill, 2016. It was first
passed in Lok Sabha and later in Rajya Sabha in the month of May, 2016.
The billwill replace the existing bankruptcy laws to make it easy for investors to exit
within a fixed time frame, in an effort to improve the ease of doing business in India.
The Code creates time-bound processes for insolvency resolution of companies and
individuals.
The bill introduced as a money bill
The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Bill, 2015 was introduced as a money bill in the Lok
Sabha.
In case of money bills, the Rajya Sabha can only make recommendations that are not
binding on the Lok Sabha.
The president has no power to return a money bill.
What is Insolvency?
Simply speaking, insolvency is a financial state of being one that is reached when you
are unable to pay off your debts on time.
Insolvency is essentially the state of being that prompts one to file for bankruptcy. An
entity a person, family, or company becomes insolvent when it cannot pay its lenders
back on time.
Typically, those who become insolvent will take certain steps toward a resolution. One of
the most common solutions for insolvency is bankruptcy.
What is Bankruptcy?
Bankruptcy, on the other hand, is a legal process that serves the purpose of resolving the
issue of insolvency.
Bankruptcy is a legal declaration of ones inability to pay off debts. When one files for
bankruptcy, one obliges to pay off what is owed with help from the government.
In general, there are two main forms of bankruptcy
1. Reorganization: Under reorganization bankruptcy, debtors restructure their repayment

plans to make them more easily met.

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2. Liquidation bankruptcy: Under liquidation bankruptcy, debtors sell certain assets in order
to make money they can use to pay off their creditors.
It should be noted here that while insolvency is a financial situation and bankruptcy is a legal
condition. Insolvency may or may not lead to bankruptcy.
Bankruptcy laws across the world
US
The US has a Bankruptcy Code that provides for fairly quick liquidation or reorganisation
of business with what is popularly known as Chapter 7, with cases being filed in
bankruptcy courts; Chapter 11, which deals with reorganisation of businesses; and
Chapter 15, on cross-border insolvencies. Individual bankruptcies are dealt with
separately.
UK
In the UK, once cases are filed for bankruptcies, after 12 months, there is either discharge
with part of the assets being used to pay off debts, or, in situations where companies can
be turned around, court-appointed administrators handle cases.
Germany
The German insolvency law is applicable to both individuals and firms, with independent
court-appointed insolvency practitioners helping in realising assets or reorganising the
business.
Why does India need a bankruptcy law?
India is a capital starved country and therefore it is essential that capital isnt frittered
away on weak and unviable businesses. Quick resolution of bankruptcy can ensure this.
Today, bankruptcy proceedings in India are governed by multiple laws the Companies
Act, SARFAESI Act, Sick Industrial Companies Act, and so on. The entire process of
winding up is also very long-winded, with courts, debt recovery tribunals and the Board
for Industrial and Financial Reconstruction all having a say in the process.
According to the World Banks Doing Business 2016 report,
a. On average, secured creditors in India recover only 25.7 cents for every dollar of credit
from an insolvent firm at the end of insolvency proceedings. This contrasts poorly
with the OECD countries where creditors recover 72.3 cents.

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b. The whole insolvency process takes 4.3 years to conclude in India whereas it takes just
1.7 years in OECD countries.
c. Because of the above reasons, India ranks an abysmal 136 out of 189 countries with
respect to resolving insolvency.
Previous Bankruptcy Laws in India:
There are, several laws that deal with insolvency for companies, such as the Sick
Industrial Companies Act, the Recovery of Debt Due to Banks and Financial Institutions
Act, and Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of
Security Interest Act, 2002 (SARFAESI).
There are also a couple of laws dating from the time of the British Raj for dealing with
individual debtors like Presidency Towns Insolvency Act, 1909 and the Provincial
Insolvency Act, 1920.
The Bankruptcy Law Reform Committee:
To fix the issues with the current insolvency regime, the government had set up a high
level Bankruptcy Law Reform Committee (BLRC) in August 2014 under T. K.
Viswanathan.
This committee had submitted its report in November 2015 while suggesting new
institutions and structures to modernize the present outdated system.
After consultation with stakeholders about the committee recommendations, government
prepared a draft bill and introduced it in the Parliament.
Salient Features of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2015:
The bill contains a clear speedy mechanism for early identification of financial distress
and initiate revival/re-organisation of the company if it is viable.
Timeline:
The bill proposes a timeline of 180 days to deal with the applications for insolvency
resolution with an option of extending it by 90 days for exceptional cases.
Insolvency Resolution Plan:
The insolvency resolution plan has to be approved by 75% of the creditors. If the plan is
approved, then the adjudicating authority will give its sanction. In case of rejection of
insolvency resolution plan, the adjudicating authority will pass an order for liquidation.
Insolvency Professionals (IPs) & Insolvency Professional Agencies (IPAs):
The resolution processes will be conducted by licensed insolvency professionals (IPs).

These IPs will be members of insolvency professional agencies (IPAs). IPAs will also
furnish performance bonds equal to the assets of a company under insolvency resolution.

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Information Utilities:
Information utilities (IUs) will be established to collect, collate and disseminate financial
information to facilitate insolvency resolution.
Bankruptcy and Insolvency Adjudicator:
The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) will adjudicate insolvency resolution for
companies. The Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT) will adjudicate insolvency resolution for
individuals.
The Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT), which has jurisdiction over individuals and
unlimited liability partnership firms. Appeals from the order of DRT shall lie to the Debt
Recovery Appellate Tribunal (DRAT).
Insolvency regulators:
The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India will be set up to regulate functioning of
IPs, IPAs and IUs.
What about financial sector insolvencies?
The Financial Sector Legislative Reforms Commission (FSLRC) has recommended the
creation of a resolution corporation to monitor financial firms, and intervene before they
go bust.
The aim is to either close firms that cant be revived, or change their management to
protect investors or depositors.
This is important because the failure of large banks or institutions imposes costs on
taxpayers in the form of bailouts or capital infusion.
The proposal is to promote the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation
(DICGC) as resolution corporation.
Critical Analysis of the Code:
Time-bound insolvency resolution will require establishment of several new entities.

Also, given the pendency and disposal rate of DRTs, their current capacity may be
inadequate to take up the additional role.
IPAs, regulated by the Board, will be created for regulating the functioning of IPs. This
approach of having regulated entities further regulate professionals may be contrary to the
current practice of regulating licensed professionals. Further, requiring a high value of
performance bond may deter the formation of IPAs.
The Code provides an order of priority to distribute assets during liquidation. It is unclear
why:
a. Secured creditors will receive their entire outstanding amount, rather than up to their
collateral value,
b. Unsecured creditors have priority over trade creditors, and
c. Government dues will be repaid after unsecured creditors.

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The Code provides for the creation of multiple IUs. However, it does not specify that full
information about a company will be accessible through a single query from any IU. This
may lead to financial information being scattered across these IUs.
The Code creates an Insolvency and Bankruptcy Fund. However, it does not specify the
manner in which the Fund will be used.
Importance of the bankruptcy code:
The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code would provide such environment to ensure easy exit for
sick companies and help the country to improve its position in easy of doing business.
The bankruptcy code will make it easier for companies to wind up failed businesses and
bring India on a par with developed nations in terms of resolving bankruptcy issues.
A stated objective of the new law is to promote entrepreneurship, availability of credit,
and balance the interests of all stakeholders.
Once the code will come into place it will minimize the problem of delay as there are
strict timelines within which the case has to be disposed off.
The code will also consolidate the existing laws thus making the process simpler.
Quick disposal of cases will maximize the recovery amount.
Establishment of information utilities will help in creating a database to provide
information on the insolvency status of individuals. In addition to this, specialized
insolvency professionals will help in guiding through the process.
Easy process of claim by the creditors also encourages financial institutions to extend
credit facilities thus strengthening the financial markets with increased availability of
credit for business.
However, enactment of the code is just a beginning. For effective results, the government will
have to ensure that its so-called pillars insolvency professionals, information utilities, a
strengthened adjudication mechanism, and a regulator are institutionalised.

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Tit Bits
1. Exercise 'Varuna' begins
India and France on 24 April 2017 began their week-long bilateral naval exercise Varuna in
France's Toulon port. The Indian contingent comprises Indian Naval Ships Mumbai, Trishul and
Aditya, part of Indian Navy's Overseas Deployment to the Mediterranean Sea and the west coast
of Africa, and part of an anti-piracy operation in the Gulf of Aden. Another Indian Naval Ship
Tarkash, which is also a part of this group, has proceeded to London.
2. Vistadome Coach
The Indian Railways has launched the countrys first ever Vistadome coach services on
Visakhapatnam-Araku route.
The objective of this trial run is to offer tourists to enjoy the scenic beauty, not only at
destination, but also en route to picturesque Araku Valley.
The advance features of the coaches include glass roof, LED lights, revolving seats and
GPS-based info system, which will certainly make it a comfortable and enjoyable journey
for the tourists as well as the local residents.
3. Kempe Gowda
Kempe Gowda was a chieftain under the Vijayanagara kings and ruled over most parts of
Karnataka in the 16th century.
The city of Bengaluru itself was established by Kempe Gowda in 1537, as the capital of
his erstwhile kingdom. He is considered to be the founder of Bengaluru, currently the
capital of the Indian state of Karnataka.
According to historians, Kempe Gowda is a just and humane ruler and is widely accepted
as the founder of Bangalore.
He visualized a city with military cantonment, water tanks, temples etc, that provide
employment to tradesmen.

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Kempe Gowdas planned city had eight access gates and wide roads. He ensured that
collection of revenue is just and equitable in the city.
Planned urban development of the Bengaluru city is a testimony to the capability of

Kempe Gowda that even today despite unprecedented challenges of population, traffic
and environmental pollution, Bengaluru remains as a Garden City.
He ensured that collection of revenue is just and equitable.
He is also credited with building the Basavanagudi Bull temple, Ulsoor Someshwara
temple and Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple, all of which are stronger even today.
In the 1550s, Kempe Gowda struck coins known as Pagodas. This act of his incurred the
displeasure of the Vijayanagara kings and he was imprisoned for five years. After an
illustrious reign of three decades, Kempe Gowda died in 1570.
One of his social reforms was to prohibit the custom of amputating the last two fingers of
the left hand of the married women during Bandi Devaru, an important custom of
Morasu Vokkaligas.
4. Stereolithography
Scientists have developed a novel way to 3D-print objects using glass, an advance that
could be used to make very small optical components for complex computers. The
process is known as Stereolithography.
Stereolithography is a form of 3D-printing technology used for creating models,

prototypes, patterns and production parts in a layer by layer fashion using
photopolymerisation, a process by which light causes chains of molecules to link, forming
polymers. The material, which remains a liquid, is washed out in a solvent bath, leaving
only the desired cured structure. The polymer still mixed in this glass structure is
subsequently removed by heating.
5. Channakeshava temple turns 900
The Chennakesava Temple was built on the banks of the Yagachi River in Belur,

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Karnataka.
It was constructed by Vishnuvardhana of the Hoysala dynasty, is a monument recognised

by the ASI.
Considered to be the first temple of Hoysala style, it was built between 1106 and 1117.
Soon after winning a war in 1104, Vishnuvardhana took up the construction of the temple,
and according to an inscription, the temple was ready by March 1117.
These temple complexes, along with Halebid, have been proposed to be listed under
UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
6. Dadasaheb Phalke award for 2016
Renowned filmmaker and actor Kasinathuni Viswanath won the Dadasaheb Phalke
Award for the year 2016.
With this, Viswanath became the 48th recipient of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the
highest recognition in Indian cinema.
He is best known for his award-winning movies in Telugu, Tamil and Hindi.
He won the Padma Shri in 1992 and the Andhra Pradesh goverment has honoured him
with 20 Nandi awards.
7. Nomadic Elephant
Twelfth iteration of Indo - Mongolian Joint Military Exercise Nomadic Elephant is

presently underway at Vairengte from 05 April 2017 till 18 April 2017. Mongolian Army
is represented by nine officers and 36 soldiers of the elite 084 Special Forces Task
Battalion while Indian Army is represented by a contingent comprising of three officers,
four JCOs and 39 soldiers of the Jammu & Kashmir Rifles. Nomadic Elephant is aimed at
training the troops in Counter Insurgency & Counter Terrorism Operations under the
United Nations mandate. The joint training will also lay emphasis on conducting
operations by a joint subunit, comprising of troops from both the armies, in adverse
operational conditions aimed at enhancing the interoperability between the two armies.

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8. Mission Zindagi
Campaign for the national perspective of mental health and various government policy
guidelines and also the importance of identifying early warning signs of depression and
mitigation management techniques
9. Science Cities
Science City, Kolkata,West Bengal
Regional Science City, Lucknow,Uttarkand
The objectives for establishing a Science City, inter alia include:
To portray the growth of science and technology and their applications in industry
and human welfare.
To popularize and to enhance understanding of science and technology in cities,

urban and rural areas for the benefit of students and for the common man
10. Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana
A new scheme Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana(PMRPY) has been announced
in the Budget for 2016-17 with the objective of promoting employment generation and
an allocation of Rs. 1000 crores has been made. The scheme is being implemented by the
Ministry of Labour and Employment in 2016-17. Under the scheme employers would be
provided an incentive for enhancing employment by reimbursement of the 8.33% EPS
contribution made by the employer in respect of new employment.
The PMRPY scheme is targeted for workers earning wages upto Rs. 15,000/- per month.
Publicity and awareness campaign is an integral component of the PMRPY scheme for
encouraging employers including Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to
avail benefits.

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11. Amended Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri
Narendra Modi has approved the introduction of "Amended Technology Upgradation
Fund Scheme (ATUFS)" in place of the existing Revised Restructured Technology
Upgradation Fund Scheme (RR-TUFS),for technology upgradation of the textiles
industry, with effect from the date of notification of the scheme.
The new scheme specifically targets:
a. Employment generation and export by encouraging apparel and garment industry, which
will provide employment to women in particular and increase Indias share inglobal exports.
b. Promotion of Technical Textiles, a sunrise sector, for export and employment
c. Promoting conversion of existing looms to better technology looms for improvement in

quality and productivity
d. Encouraging better quality in processing industry and checking need for import of fabrics
by the garment sector.
12. Prime Ministers Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP)
To provide continuous and sustainable employment to a large segment of traditional and

prospective artisans, rural and urban unemployed youth in the country, for better
livelihood and also to arrest the distressful migration of rural youth to urban areas.
To increase the wage earning capacity of artisans and contribute to increase in the growth
rate of rural and urban employment.

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13. NBRMAP-DB-BGR 34
Herbal formulation named NBRMAP-DB effective against diabetes

The formulation was licensed to M/s. AIMIL Pharmaceutical Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi for
manufacturing the drug and marketing the same with the brand name of BGR-34.
14. Make in Steel for Make in India
The Ministry of Steel @SteelMinIndia is organizing a National Conference of

#SecondarySteel Producers on the theme #MakeinSteel for #MakeinIndia in New Delhi
tomorrow i.e. 5 April 2017. On the eve of the conference the Minister of Steel Chaudhary
Birender Singh @ChBirenderSingh said, @SteelMinIndia places all steel producers on
equal footing and we are working to provide them enabling environment for growth.
Secondary Steel sector will play a key role in meeting the targets set under Draft
#NationalSteelPolicy 2017. I am sure that the day-long conference with eminent speakers
and participants will lead to concrete outcomes that will shape the future of industry.
The focus of the conference is to deliberate on the issues and concerns of the secondary
steel sector. The day-long conference will have session on Technology innovation for
quality steel production, Quality, energy & environmental issues impacting secondary
steel sector and Strategy to give impetus to secondary steel sector.
15. Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana
Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu, Union Minister of Urban Development, Housing and Urban
Poverty Alleviation and Information and Broadcasting, in presence of Shri Thaawarchand
Gehlot, Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment distributed 3052 Aids and Assisted
Living Devices distributed to 1843 Senior Citizens during National Launch of
RASHTRIYA VAYOSHRI YOJANA of Ministry of Social Justice and
Empowerment at Swarna Bharat Trust, Nellore, Andhra Pradesh here today.
The devices will help the Senior Citizens to overcome their age related physical
impairment and to lead a dignified and productive life with minimal dependence on

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care givers or other members of the family. The ambitious Scheme, first of its kind in the
country is expected to benefit 5,20,000 Senior Citizens over a period of the 3 years

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Personalities
1. Bhagwan Mahaviras philosophy
Mahavir's Philosophies are ahimsa, truth, compassion and non-violence ,right faith, right
knowledge and right conduct.
Note: Lord Mahavir was the 24th and the last Tirthankara of the Jain religion. At the heart of
right conduct for Jains lie the five great vows:
1. Nonviolence (Ahimsa) - not to cause harm to any living beings
2. Truthfulness (Satya) - to speak the harmless truth only
3. Non-stealing (Asteya) - not to take anything not properly given
4. Chastity (Brahmacharya) - not to indulge in sensual pleasure
5. Non-possession/Non-attachment (Aparigraha) - complete detachment from people,

places, and material things.
Anekantavada is Jain Doctrine.
2. President of India Inaugurates all India Seminar on Economic Reforms with

reference to Electoral Issues
The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee inaugurated an All India Seminar on
Economic Reforms With Reference to Electoral Issues organised by the Confederation
of the Indian Bar today (April 8, 2017) in New Delhi.
Speaking on the occasion, the President said that a strong electoral system is necessary to
strengthen the democratic structure of India. Timely reforms are necessary which not only
would give justice to the people but also to the ideals enshrined in the Constitution of
India. Hence it is necessary to undertake a dispassionate analysis of the way in which our

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electoral process is functioning with a view to address the shortcomings in the system.
The President said that generally in the past, coalition governments at the Centre
contributed to unstable governments necessitating frequent elections. Fragile coalitions
did not last. He also referred to the issue of responsibility to the electorate and said that
Parliament is not merely a deliberative body but a decision making body.
The President said that the Constitution (Forty Second Amendment) Act 1976 imposed a
freeze on the population figure for readjustment at the 1971 census and has been extended
by the Constitution (Eighty-fourth Amendment) Act 2001 till 2026. As a result the House
of the People today represents the population figure of 1971 census whereas our
population has increased manifold in the recent decades. This gives rise to an anomalous
situation wherein today, India has over 800 million voters and 543 Lok Sabha
Constituencies represent 1.28 billion people. To give true expression to the will of the
people, it is time that we look at the legal provisions on the delimitation of the
Parliamentary constituencies with a view to increase their number. If Great Britain can
have more than 600 Parliamentary constituencies, why cant India, with a much higher
population, have more number of seats, the President asked.
The President congratulated the Confederation of the Indian Bar for organizing this
Seminar and expressed hope that the Seminar will deliberate at length electoral reforms
and substantive and concrete suggestions will come out of the deliberations.

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Editorials and Columns - Edited

1. India-Iran relations - US shadow falls?
Anticipating increasing tensions between Iran and the US, the Government has apparently
advised Indian firms to go slow in investments in proposed projects of Irans Chabahars free
trade zone. According to a news report, there is an apprehension that Indias financial transaction
and technology imports in the rest of the world could be jeopardized if India gets caught in the
crossfire between US and Iran. With this development, the future of a slew of gas based projects
like urea, petrochemical, steel plants etc in the Chabahar free trade zone also seem to be in doubt.
These projects have been announced after the Obama administration lifted sanctions against Iran
in January 2016. Earlier, India had agreed to develop two berths at the Chabahar port as well,
after signing a MoU with Iran on May 6th, 2016. India believes that the Chabahar port is of
great strategic importance as a maritime trade transit route to Iran, Afghanistan and
Central Asia.
India is blocked in terms of transit to Afghanistan due to Pakistan and it is least

expected that Pakistan would lift restrictions for India because this would mean giving
easy access to India in Central Asia. Therefore, the alternative is to develop a route
through Iran as it will be strategically the shortest route to Afghanistan and Central Asia.
It will also reduce Afghanistans dependence on Pakistan as a route to access India.
India will need to consider the prevailing tensions between Iran and the United States to
secure its investment and strategic interests in the region specifically the investments
made in areas such as petrochemicals. Financial sanctions against Iran by the US
earlier made it quite difficult for India to invest in Iran for the port development
process as well.
Complex foreign investment regime of Iran is also a factor that makes Indian strategic
involvement in the country a little troublesome task.
US sanctions against Iran were imposed against Iranian companies, entities that
supported extremism and individuals which were involved in the missile programme.
India has nothing to do with the Iranian involvement in either missile programmes or
support to extremist organizations. Therefore, it is unlikely that India will be affected by
American sanctions.
China is also involved in Chabahar and is building an oil refinery in that region. It has
already made an offer to Iran to build Chabahar as China considers it as an important link
to its One Belt, One Road initiative. China is not worried about the American sanctions
against Iran. Iran would like China to play an important role in Chabahar as this is the
way of the dual-use policy of Iranian diplomacy.
India must consider this important development and try to efficiently navigate its ways to
secure its interests in the region. India cannot afford to lose Chabahar only by
anticipating future American sanctions against Iran. Iran itself is not too enthusiastic

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about Chinese involvement in Chabahar because they have ruined the oil fields of
Chabahar by using their inferior technology and the imperialist ways of business
operations by China. Therefore, Iran is definitely looking forward to India.
As the policy of President Trump on Iran unfolds itself in days to come, India should wait
cautiously over the next few months to see how it turns for Indias engagement in Chabahar.
With Iran, India should try to grasp strategic opportunity while being cautious about it at the same
time. This might help it to maintain a balanced approach for future.
2. Farm loan waiver is no solution for Indian agriculture
Farm loans may be crop loans or investment loans taken to buy equipment. Both farmers and
banks reap a good harvest when all is well. But when there is a poor monsoon or natural calamity,
farmers may be unable to repay loans. The rural distress in such situations often prompts States or
the Centre to offer relief reduction or complete waiver of loans.
Essentially, the Centre or States take over the liability of farmers and repay the banks. Waivers
are usually selective only certain loan types, categories of farmers or loan sources may qualify.
For instance, in 2008, crop loans and investment loans were waived for marginal and small
farmers (those with less than 2 hectares of land ownership); other farmers were only given a 25
per cent reduction. The recent waiver in UP is also a selective one. The Madras High Court has
directed Tamil Nadu to offer a waiver to all farmers in the State.
Why is it important?
Agriculture in India has been facing many issues fragmented land holding, depleting water table
levels, deteriorating soil quality, rising input costs, low productivity. Add to this vagaries of the
monsoon. Output prices may not be remunerative. Farmers are often forced to borrow to manage
expenses. Also, many small farmers not eligible for bank credit borrow at exorbitant interest rates
from private sources.
When nature rides roughshod over debt-ridden farmers in the form of erratic monsoon and crop
failures, they face grim options. Indebtedness is a key reason for the many farmer suicides in the
country.
Loan waivers provide some relief to farmers in such situations, but there are debates about the
long-term effectiveness of the measure.
Issues related to agriculture:

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Fragmented land holding
Depletion of water table level
Deteriorating soil quality
Rising input costs and less output
Low productivity
Vagaries of monsoon
Due to these reasons, often farmers are unable to manage their expenses and have to borrow
money from moneylenders at extremely high rates as they are not eligible for bank credit.
Indebtedness is a major reason for farmer suicides in the country.
Loan waiver as idea seems to be bad politics as well as bad economics because it may win the
political party some votes but is not sustainable in the long run. Waiver of loan is a plain action
where the credit climate is hampered. It will be counter-productive not only for the state but for
the entire credit market. It is a sub-optimal policy. A good policy would have been a set of things
which were suggested by the Swaminathan Committee Report. On an average, the income of
farmers is so low that their daily survival becomes a problem.
Farm loan waivers is becoming a necessity now because these deep rooted problems are not being
addressed related to farmers and their sufferings cannot be ignored. As per the NSSOs 59th
survey, about 40% of farmers dislike farming and would quit if they can therefore, finding of
short-term and long-term solutions can severely impact food security.
As a long term measure, agriculture should be made sustainable by:
Reducing inefficiencies and increasing income

Providing protection through insurance schemes
Better risk management and more efficient agricultural markets
Subsidies should be directed towards the farmers not the companies.
The various national agricultural markets are yet to be linked (which means all trading happens
within each, and not across), and powerful trader lobbies. Farm loan waivers may act as a
temporary solution and can prove to be moral hazard in future because those farmers who are
able to pay their loans might not pay it expecting a waiver. The banks may become wary in
providing loans to the poor farmers who actually need it. If this is done, politicians may find it as
a suitable way to bag votes in their favour again and again. These waivers will add to the NPAs
of the banks and it will cost taxpayers.
To be sure, the agriculture sector needs government support but loan waivers are not the solution.
On the contrary, expenditure on loan waivers will eventually leave less fiscal space for public

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expenditure in agriculture. India needs massive investment in areas such as irrigation, water
conservation, better storage facilities, market connectivity and agricultural research. The
problems in Indian agriculture are structural. They need long-term solutions. Loan waivers will
only end up complicating the problem. The Indian economy has suffered a lot due to competitive
populism in the past. Its time parties and governments addressed the real issues.
3. Niti Aayog at two
Government replaced the Planning Commission which was set up in 1950 with NITI Aayog on
1st January 2015. The new policy body which is serving as a think tank is tasked with the role of
formulating policies and directions for the Government. According to the resolution of the Union
Cabinet for setting up the NITI Aayog, the body is responsible to recommend a national agenda
including strategic and technical advice on elements of policy and economic matters. It also
develops mechanisms for village level plans and aggregates these progressively at higher levels
of Government. While NITI Aayog has been set up with an aim to foster and enhance the centre-
state co-operation, the opposition parties criticize the body saying that the replacement of
Planning Commission could be best viewed only as a cosmetic change.
NITI Aayogs draft three-year action agenda

The agenda includes proposals for shifting additional revenues to high priority sectors, doubling
farmers income by 2022, creating jobs, bringing down land prices and expanding tax base
through measures such as taxing agricultural income.
The action agenda will span a three-year time frame involving mostly executive decisions, the
strategy will be for a seven-year period and include decisions that need legislative changes while
the vision would be for 15 years and incorporate institutional changes that may need
Constitutional amendments.
Tax reforms
The draft action agenda makes a strong case for tackling tax evasion, expanding the tax base and
simplifying the tax stem through reforms. One related proposal is consolidating existing custom
duty rates to a unified rate.
NITI Aayog member Bibek Debroy made a case for removal of exemptions on personal
income tax and bringing agriculture income under the tax net above a threshold limit same as
what applies to individuals in urban areas.

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This would widen the tax base and more funds could be made available for the social sector
schemes, he said.
On the threshold limit for taxing agriculture income, while it should be the same as what is
applicable in urban areas, income could be calculated based on the past three years or five years
as agriculture income varies depending on the monsoons.
Land prices
In the area of urban development, the draft stresses on the need to bring down land prices to
make hosing affordable through increased supply of urban land. It proposed more flexible
conversion rules from one use to another, release of land held by sick units, more generous floor
space index, reform in the Rent Control Act and promoting dormitory housing.
Job creation
For creating jobs, the action points include creation of Coastal Employment Zones to boost
exports and generate high-productivity jobs and enhancing labour-market flexibility through
reforming key laws.
The action points also propose addressing high and rising share of NPAs in Indias banks
through supporting the auction of larger assets to private asset reconstruction companies and
strengthening the State Bank of India-led ARC.
Hits and Misses of NITI Aayog
NITI Aayog is still at infancy. It is trying to find out what its role should be because the
role of think tank is not an easy one. There has to be awareness regarding all the
constraints, be in touch with professional organizations and then decide whether a
programme will work or not. Based on this, it has to give suggestions to the State
Governments and Government of India. This role has not been performed by NITI Aayog,
therefore, this body needs some more time.
Any think tank has to be slightly distant from the Government. The members and Vice
Chairman of NITI Aayog have been defending Government on all issues which is actually
the role of various ministries of the Government. If that role is taken by the think tank,
then there is a conflict between justifying Government and giving advice to the
Government on right issues.
Planning Commission was not doing very well because the members of this body were

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generally defeated politicians with no interest in academic knowledge or in finding out
why things were not working well. Its role was to decide inter ministerial allocation of
resources for education, health etc. Only this part has been removed from the NITI
Aayogs functions and this role has been now given to Finance Ministry. Earlier the
Planning Commission was only designated to assimilate the demands of various
ministries and state governments and then allocate resources.
NITI Aayog has done some good work in the areas of land acquisition, whether PSUs
should work as Government department or as a commercial organization, digital economy
etc. Two years is a short span of time for any institution to evolve as the Planning
Commission also evolved over the past 50-60 years gradually.
As far as demonetization is concerned, NITI Aayog had no role in conceptualizing this
move, affirming this policy or implementation. Even on MDGs, NITI Aayog could not
generate a Report as to why India could not achieve them in 2015.
States used to get funds from three different sources up to 2013-14. 50% funds was
received from Finance Commission, 45% from Central Ministries and 5% from Planning
Commission. Therefore, the role of the Planning Commission vis-a-vis states was diluted
in 1991 itself. Finance Commissions role has been enhanced and the role of the
ministries has been reduced. Planning Commission even then was not there in the picture.
It had a decisive role in deciding the funds allocated to the Ministries of Government of
India.
Job creation needs immediate focus as it is the need of the hour because those who are
employed become a part of the economy. MSME sector can create a lot of jobs. So, some
policies might come out to support MSME in creating jobs. Giving incentives might also
help in this regard. NITI Aayog needs to study the trends of jobs in last few years in India
as past few years were those of jobless growth. Programmes like Aajeevika have not
rendered any new jobs. World Bank has said so in its Report as well.
Any criticism that leads to improvement or transformation is welcome. More studies are required
to be done along with accountability. A clear roadmap of plans and ideas has to be there. The
institution is expected to serve the purpose of co-operative federalism. NITI Aayog should make
evaluations of the flagship programmes being run by the Government and help in delivering those
programmes on ground. It has a role in governance and its larger role is to align with the
Government policies and give them suggestions. To make it strong, some powers should also be
vested in them.
4. Indias space telescope - ASTROSAT

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ASTROSAT
Indias Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle successfully launched ASTROSAT, the countrys
Multi Wavelength Space Observatory along with six foreign customer satellites.
PSLV was launched today in its heaviest XL version with six strap-on motors of the
first stage. The launch took place from the First Launch Pad at the Satish Dhawan Space
Centre SHAR (SDSC SHAR), Sriharikota, the spaceport of India.
ASTROSAT is Indias first dedicated multi wavelength space observatory. This scientific
satellite mission endeavours for a more detailed understanding of our universe.
ASTROSAT is designed to observe the universe in the Visible, Ultraviolet, low and high
energy X-ray regions of the electromagnetic spectrum simultaneously with the help of its
five payloads.
ASTROSAT was realised by ISRO with the participation of all major astronomy
institutions including Inter University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA)
of Pune, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) at Mumbai, Indian Institute of
Astrophysics (IIAP) and Raman Research Institute (RRI) of Bangalore as well as some of
the Universities in India and two institutions from Canada and the UK.
The frequency with which electrons spiral around a magnetic field depends on the
strength of the magnetic field. Whatever frequency they are spiralling they scatter light at
that frequency. So in the case of neutron stars, the frequency of electron spiralling
matches high-energy X-ray light. On which basis magnetic field of neutron stars will be
measured.
Why need space based telescope?
India does have ground-based telescopes (including the Giant Metrewave Radio
Telescope near Pune and the Indian Astronomical Observatory in Ladakh). But like all
other ground-based telescopes, these can only detect radio waves and infrared radiation as
they penetrate the Earths atmosphere. However, in the case of higher frequency
radiations, the atmosphere tends to block most ultraviolet light and all X-rays and gamma-
rays.
Objectives of the mission
The scientific objectives of ASTROSAT mission are to:-
(1) Understand high energy processes in binary star systems containing neutron stars and
black holes,
(2) Estimate magnetic fields of neutron stars,
(3) Study star birth regions and high energy processes in star systems lying beyond our galaxy,

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(4) Detect new briefly bright x-ray sources in the sky and
(5) Perform a limited deep field survey of the universe in the ultraviolet region.
Payloads of satellite
According to ISRO, to fulfill these objectives the ASTROSAT carries the following five
payloads.
(1) The Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (UVIT, capable of observing the sky in the Visible, Near
Ultraviolet and Far Ultraviolet regions of the electromagnetic spectrum.
(2) Large Area X-ray Proportional Counter (LAXPC, is designed for study the variations in the
emission of X-rays from sources like X-ray binaries, Active Galactic Nuclei and other cosmic
sources.
(3) Soft X-ray Telescope (SXT) is designed for studying how the X-ray spectrum of 0.3-8 keV
range coming from distant celestial bodies varies with time.
(4) Cadmium Zinc Telluride Imager (CZTI), functioning in the X-ray region, extends the
capability of the satellite to sense X-rays of high energy in 10-100 keV range.
(5) Scanning Sky Monitor (SSM) is intended to scan the sky for long term monitoring of bright X-
ray sources in binary stars, and for the detection and location of sources that become bright in X-
rays for a short duration of time.
How telescope works
(1) Human eyes can see farther away, but it has limitations, as an object gets further away it
becomes harder to see. It happens because as an object gets further away less of its light will
reach to eye. The image takes up less space on your retina, making the image smaller.
(2) Which makes it harder to see distant images?. We effectively need a bigger eye to collect
more light. With more light we can create a brighter image, where comes the telescope. The big
lens in the telescope (objective lens) collects much more light compare to eyes and focuses the
light to a point (the focal point) inside the telescope.
(3) A smaller lens (eyepiece lens) takes the bright light from the focal point and magnifies it so
that it uses more of retina. A telescopes ability to collect light depends on the size of the
objective lens, which is used to gather and focus light from a narrow region of sky.
Electromagnetic spectrum and telescopes

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(1) In electromagnetic spectrum, Radio has long wavelengths and low energies, while gamma
rays have very short wavelengths and high energies.
(2) Telescopes rely on the interaction between energy and matter. The atomic matter that forms
the telescope has to somehow interpret the energy emitted from astronomical objects. This energy
is in the form of electromagnetic waves.
Observation
(1) Indias first dedicated space observatory, ASTROSAT, has captured the rare phenomenon of
a small, 6-billion-year-old vampire star preying on a bigger celestial body.
(2) Scientists say the smaller star feeds off its companion star by sucking out its mass and
energy, causing its eventual death.
(3) The most popular explanation is that these are binary systems in which the smaller star
sucks material out of the bigger companion star to become a blue straggler, and hence is called a
vampire star. The small star becomes bigger, hotter and bluer, which gives it the appearance of
being young, while the ageing companion burns out and collapses to a stellar remnant.
5. China launches 1st high-throughput communications satellite
China successfully launched a new communication satellite which will enable passengers
of high-speed trains to watch high-definition videos smoothly and help those at the scene
of natural disasters.
Shijian-13, China's first high-throughput communications satellite, was launched from

Xichang Satellite Launch Center in China's southwestern Sichuan Province.
The satellite, with a transfer capacity of 20 Gbps and a designed orbital life of 15 years,
was sent into orbit on a Long March-3B carrier rocket, state-run Xinhua news agency
reported.
The satellite, which has a higher message capacity than the combined capacity of all of
China's previous communications satellites, is capable of providing better Internet access
on planes and high-speed trains, as well as in less-developed regions.
The satellite will undergo tests on its broadband multimedia satellite communications

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system and the high-speed laser communication technology between the ground and the
satellite.
Different from previous satellites fuelled by chemicals, Shijian-13 is the first Chinese
satellite to be powered by electricity.
Using electricity as propellant could potentially improve efficiency by as much as 10

times compared with those that use chemicals as a propellant.
For the first time, a large number of domestic components have been used on the
communications satellite.
It is also the first time a laser communications system has been installed on a Chinese
high orbit satellite with a long lifespan.
6. Is India Prepared for a Cyber Attack?
The shortage of cash happened due to demonetisation has forced people to migrate to
online transactions even for their smallest needs.
This sudden uptake of online transactions has exposed the existing security gaps in the
system which make organisations as well as customers vulnerable to cyber attacks at this
critical time.
Cyberspace can be exploited in what ways?
The existing security gaps are ready ground for cyber-criminals to exploit. There are
various ways of doing this:
1. By introducing a malicious bug into the system that can skim through privileged
information.
2. By introducing rogue applications to lure customers into downloading them.
3. By intensifying hacking attempts and phishing attacks etc.,
Present scenario/threats:

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Security is seen as just another layer to transact hassle-free but it is imperative that
security becomes embedded by design rather than as a bolted add-on for payment
gateways.
According to research on strategic national measures to combat cybercrime, mobile frauds

are expected to grow by to about 65% in India by 2017. About 46% complaints of online
banking are related to credit or debit card fraud.
In the absence of a proper understanding of the security infrastructure and the right
policies and assets to protect, businesses and organisations are at a risk.
Indias premier security agency, CERT, has already cautioned bankers and customers to
adopt high-end security encryption.
How can the cyberspace be strengthened?
The data security infrastructure along with customer-redress mechanisms will have to be
well thought of and the purview of IT laws for cybercrimes will have to be expanded to
include mobile-wallet payment systems.
E-wallet firms will need to invest in the latest technologies to safeguard their gateways
against cyber attacks which are quite sophisticated and advanced.
It is imperative that organisations develop a comprehensive business-driven security

model that fully integrates with the security requirements keeping in mind the overall
business goals and objectives of the company.
Such a model will help organisations chose their security investments to create the best
possible balance between customers ease of use and cyber security.
Current policies and laws:
We already have strong cyber security guidelines in place but they are not followed
stringently, leading to a gap of grief.
The Government is mulling over the almost 15-year-old Information Technology (IT) Act
to further strengthen cyber security infrastructure, following demonetisation.
The RBI has also recently sent out a cyber security framework to be followed by banks,
covering best practices.

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To help the Government achieve its goal of Digital India, the RBI has ordered all prepaid
payment instrument issuers, which includes all RBI-authorised banks and NBFCs, to get a
special audit done of their systems by auditors of CERT-In and comply with the audit
report recommendations immediately.
CISOs (chief information security officers) along with the board of directors now need to
take tough decisions to address the business impact of a cyber-attack.
Way ahead:
It is evident that the threat landscape is evolving continuously and the complex layers
make cyber security a challenge.
The Governments push for stronger cyber security infrastructure is a welcome move,
although we still have a long way to go. The illusion of protection from cyber attacks is a
thing of past, no one is secure.
How we minimise the impact with continuous monitoring, early detection and quick
response is the key in the world of digital economy. An attack is imminent. It is now up to
the organisations to prioritise their cyber security needs and act on it.
7. Financial inclusion must for social change
The objective of financial inclusion is mainly to provide finance on easy terms to the
vulnerable and weaker sections of the society to facilitate investment and economic
growth in the country.
Financial inclusion (FI) enables improved and better social development, in an equitable
manner across the country.
It enables empowerment of the under-privileged and poor, including women, with the
mission of making them self-sufficient and well informed to take better financial
decisions.
The objective of financial inclusion is to ensure universal access to a wide range of

financial services like savings and payment account, credit insurance and pensions.

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Further, financial inclusion also aims to provide services for business opportunities,
education, and savings for retirement and insurance against risks including emergency
loans. Thus, the main target of financial inclusion is better standards of living and income
for a larger number of residents in the country.
Measures taken
The Government as well as Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has been undertaking concerted
measures to extend financial inclusion since Independence. The earlier measures were not
yielding the desired results.
However, in recent months, the Government of India reviewed the policy to ensure that
financial inclusion, in a limited sense of opening of bank accounts, is successful.
The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) has yielded results and nearly 98 per cent
of households in India now have bank accounts.
Historical Evolution of Financial Inclusion
Policy makers have grappled with the issue of reducing the scope of the informal sector
since colonial times.
Nicholson Report (1895) was one of the first to highlight the need to establish Land
banks as an alternative to dominance of moneylenders. Resultantly, the Cooperative
Credit Societies Act, 1904 was passed to provide, amongst other things, a legal basis for
cooperative credit societies.
The concept of expanding financial access gained importance in the years after
Independence and immediately after the All-India Rural Credit Survey, 1951-54, which
pointed out that in 1950-51, commercial banks provided only 0.9 per cent of the total
credit to farmers, agriculturalist moneylenders provided 24.9 per cent while professional
moneylenders provided 44.8 per cent of the total credit to farmers (RBI 2008, 2011).
The early efforts to usher financial inclusion included nationalization of State Bank of
India in 1955 followed by nationalization of more banks in 1969 and1980.
The establishment of National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD)
and the introduction of priority sector lending to increase flow of credit to certain sectors
including agriculture are other measures aimed at improving access to formal financial
institutions.
In 2005, RBI announced a number of measures, including provision of whole gamut of
financial services. Initially, banks were advised to open no-frill accounts (since renamed
as Basic Saving Bank Deposit account in August 2012 and now Jan Dhan Account).
Financial Inclusion received further impetus after the Rangarajan Committee (GOI, 2008)
suggested various measures including the need to expand banking to provide a suite of
services related to deposits, credit, micro insurance and remittance for the poor.
Consequently, banks were advised to identify at least one district to achieve 100 per cent

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financial inclusion on a pilot basis.
Banks were also advised to (i) initiate ICT based Business Correspondent model (BC
model) to provide low cost banking services at door step in remote villages, (ii) Board
approved financial inclusion plan (FIP) for 3 years commencing from 2010, (iii) Roadmap
to cover all the villages having population above 2000 by 2012 and all the villages having
population between 1000 to 2000 by 2013, (iv) Availability of at least four banking
products, and (v) Opening of at least 25 per cent of new branches in unbanked rural areas.
Other important measures include issuing Kisan/General Credit Card. Micro Units
Development Refinance Agency (MUDRA) bank, focuses on providing credit to small
entrepreneurs whose financing requirements do not exceed Rs.10 lakh. Established with a
corpus of Rs.20, 000 crore and credit guarantee corpus of Rs.3000 crore, it will refinance
and assist those financial institutions who finance micro enterprises in India.
However, despite various attempts, the spread of formal sources of credit especially in
rural areas has been slow. In rural areas, the expansion of the formal sector and various
programmes has not succeeded in supplanting the moneylenders as the dominant source
of credit.
PMJDY
In this context, PMJDY differs from the previous approach not merely because it seeks to
implement inclusion through a Mission-mode approach, but also offers a RuPAY
Debit card, micro insurance and emphasis on banking coverage of households rather
than coverage of villages.
At the time of launch, PMJDY targeted the opening of 7.5 crore bank accounts by January
26, 2015 but achieved record-breaking success.
Socio-economic Impact of Financial Inclusion
The push for inclusion has implications beyond simply banking. Over the past two
decades, it has become clear that economic growth requires the creation and expansion of
a robust banking sector.
Historically, economic changes invariably lead to social changes. The push to expand
inclusion has triggered major economic and social changes. Rural India is witnessing
profound changes which include rapid mechanisation of agriculture, improvement in
transport, communication and other technological changes.
Jan Dhans potential social impact is its ability to create a comprehensive social security
net along with the three affordable social security schemes:
1. Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana
2. Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyothi Bima Yojana

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3. Atal Pension Yojana
Nearly 10.4 crore people are covered under these three schemes
Using the PMJDY account as the pivot, these schemes can alter the manner in which
benefits are delivered to citizens while concurrently creating a social security net for the
poor and those working in the unorganised sector.
Use of technology
Technology has been at the forefront of financial inclusion, especially after 2010.
Technological advances and constantly lowering of technology investments/solutions
offers much hope for PMJDY.
Jan Dhan, Aadhaar and Mobile (JAM) combined with the proposed concessions for the
use of credit and debit cards offer a unique opportunity that can facilitate a paradigm shift
in our economy and society.
The reach of Jan Dhan accounts offers an opportunity to make these accounts the basis
around which a larger network that links users to small businesses many which already
access the formal banking system.
Aadhaar enabled micro-ATMs (BC outlets) offer an opportunity to use RuPAY cards
validated by biometrics to pay for purchases replacing cash. However, this requires
certain preconditions to be fulfilled.
Importantly, it will require the banks to create a system that will enable transfer of money
almost instantaneously not a problem if each RuPAY Card is provided with an inbuilt
Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) registration and Near Field Communications (NFC)
tags. Such a digital ecosystem has the ability to facilitate a society where electronic
transactions can replace cash.
The Business Correspondent model has witnessed rapid adoption among the
community, especially when it works effectively, indicative of the large unmet demand
for formal financial services.
The three immediate benefits more clearly discernible in the under-banked areas include
convenience, lower transactions costs and improved banking relationship visible in the
form of higher loan recovery rates.
In Mahabubnagar district of Telengana, it has led to the disappearance of informal money
transfer agents mainly because of spread of ATMs and BCs.
Similarly, cost of remittances has witnessed a sharp decline over the past four years since
banks are leveraging their investments in core banking solutions (CBS) to transfer money
almost instantaneously.

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In a number of villages, BCs often help the banks mobilise term deposits most of which
would otherwise have gone into more risky investment, informal investments and pyramid
schemes.
On the contrary, its ultimate success will be indicated only when the formal banking
system eliminates private, informal moneylenders.
Two major issues that presently constrain the benefits of PMJDY reaching their intended
beneficiaries quickly include
Lack of access points- lack of access points means that effectively half of Indias villages
lack banking access.
Transaction limits on accounts opened through BCs- Removing the transaction limits
placed on PMJDY accounts will make it more attractive to use the accounts more
frequently.
The success of Jan Dhan and more importantly, the growth of the culture of banking are
hindered by limited flexibility of the accounts opened and restrictions on the transactions
through BC channel. Most of the banks have a daily transaction limit that varies from
Rs.1500 to Rs.10,000 per day deposit or withdrawal from an account. The maximum
permissible limit for any one transaction is Rs.50,000. Any transaction exceeding this
limit requires the BC to visit the branch along with the account holder and attaining
approval for this transaction. No transaction above Rs.10,000 per day is allowed.
The problems are aggravated because in a number of instances, account holders have
given their Jan Dhan account to receive their entitlements that the government transfers to
the beneficiary or for some transaction due to Direct Benefits Transfer (DBT) from
various government agencies or LIC payments often exceed the daily transaction limits
allowed by the banks in an accounts.
Road ahead
The cause of FI will be helped if post offices were used for expanding banking services.
There are nearly 28 crore accounts in post offices with savings account numbering more
than 13 crore and recurring deposits of more than 11 crore. Although, various initiatives
had been undertaken in order to financially include all sections of society, the success of
such measures had remained partial. Recently Post Office has been granted licence to
open payment bank is welcome step in this direction.
Similarly, the use of Fair Price Shops that distribute rations can be another useful way to
help expand access of PMJDY accounts, which will also concurrently bring about major
changes in the socio-economic structure of the village while helping to create a digital
ecosystem.
Financial inclusion is expected to make significant changes in the economy, especially the
rural economy, which is expected to witness a revolution in availability of financial

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instruments mainly because of PMJDY, gold monetization scheme and MUDRA. The
DBT which will operate through the banking system will also ensure regularity of flow of
liquidity in households and therefore opportunities for investment. The key player in the
market would be banks, micro-finance institutions, self-help groups, post offices and
MUDRA bank.
The banking system which mainly will be the conduit to the flow of resources can be
expected to offer more financial instruments to retain and park these funds within the
system. Similarly, the post offices, especially with their reach of 1, 40,000 branches in
rural areas can also be expected to introduce new schemes to tap these resources.
8. Fence an Absolute Essential along the India-Myanmar Border
The construction of border fence by Myanmar has led to resentment among the people on
both sides of the Indo-Myanmar border.
The affected people mainly are Konyak, Khiamniungan and Yimchunger Nagas who
inhabit the areas of Eastern Nagaland in India and the Naga Self Administered Zone
(NSAZ) in Myanmar.
The construction is currently on hold.
Issue
The ongoing activity of fence construction along the Indo- Mynamr has triggered
apprehensions among the people living on either side of the border.
It would deprive them of the produce from their land and forest resources.
From the security perspective, possible anti-establishment sentiments could destroy the
peace along the Indo-Myanmar border.
Border problem between India and Myanmar:
The formation of Myanmar as a separate State in 1935 and decolonisation of the sub-
continent in 1947 divided ethnic communities living along the Indo-Myanmar border.

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These communities, particularly Nagas, found the newly created boundary to be
inconsistent with the traditional limits of the region they inhabited.
And they felt a deep sense of insecurity as they became ethnic minorities on both sides of
the border.
Free Movement Regime (FMR)
The people living in the Eastern districts of Nagaland and in the areas of NSAZ in
Myanmar have close family ties and engage in cultural and economic exchanges.
In some instances, the imaginary border line even cuts across houses, land and villages.
People living on the Indian side, own land holdings including cultivated lands and
forested areas across the border and are completely dependent on it for their livelihood.
Also from the Myanmar side, a lot of villagers come to the Indian side to buy basic
essentials.
Therefore, the Indian and Myanmarese governments established the Free Movement Regime
(FMR), which allowed Nagas to travel 16 kilometres across the border on either side without any
visa requirements.
Advantages of FMR:
Taking advantage of the FMR, a sizeable number of students from NSAZ also study in
schools on the Indian side of the border.
Shortcomings of FMR:
The FMR has been misused by locals to smuggle contraband in their head loads, which
are not subject to inspection.
Militant groups have been using the porous border for moving cadres and arms.
Along with other active Indian insurgent groups, the NSCN-Khaplang (NSCN-K), which
had unilaterally abrogated the ceasefire with the Government of India (GoI) in 2015,
maintains its camps and training bases in NSAZ in Myanmar.

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All these groups carry out illegal activities including launching strikes against Indian
security forces and returning to their safe havens in Myanmar.
China has also been reportedly aiding some of these groups.
Policing such a large area marked by harsh terrain and dense forest is difficult.
How to effectively manage the border between India and Myanmar?
Suitable measures need to be initiated in order to establish trust and confidence amongst
the affected populace.
Tripartite talks involving the local stakeholders via state government, the Myanmarese
government and the GoI could be organised to address extant concerns.
Socio-economic initiatives on either side of the border aimed at benefitting the local
inhabitants by alleviating poverty and bringing greater development in the region should
be worked out.
A mutually acceptable arrangement addressing the security concerns of both the countries
with minimum discomfort to the local inhabitants would be best way to address the border
problem.
The Indian government on its part should provide an assurance that no construction of
border fence will be undertaken on the Indian side without taking the affected population
into confidence.
In case national security concerns dictate the necessity of constructing a fence along the
India-Myanmar border, options such as selective fencing, better use of technology, and
regulated flow of cross-border movement, among other initiatives, can be examined.
Regulated borders with greater emphasis on developing people-to-people contact and

cross-border trade initiatives are likely to yield greater security benefits.
It is however essential to take into confidence the affected populace and the local
stakeholders prior to the finalisation and implementation of such plans.
9. The fraying fabric of liberal democracy

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Liberal, secular democracies are besieged. Their ideals are being challenged among Hindus in
India, among Republicans in America and among political parties in France. They are besieged in
Russia, Turkey and other countries. Alarms were heard around the world with the unexpected
election of Donald Trump as president of the USthough there were many earlier warnings of
dissatisfaction with institutions of liberal democracy, with the rise of authoritarian leaders and
populist movements on all continents. Like global warming, which has come into collective
human awareness lately, the causes of discontent with liberal democracy have been brewing
outside the gatherings in which people like us from around the world were celebrating
globalizations benefits. They werent listening.
A democracy or an econocracy
An expanding movement called Rethinking economics, of over 40 groups of economics

students in 13 countries, is expressing dissatisfaction with the ideas of economics they are being
taught. They also point to a root cause of the global discontent with democracies. In their view,
the large influence of economists on governments and in multilateral organizations, as well as the
dominant ideas of economics that are being translated into public policy, has converted
democracies into econocracies. They present their arguments in a very readable book,
The Econocracy: the Perils of Leaving Economics to the Experts.
The economy, they say, has become a parallel universe to human society. It has its own
models of the world founded on over-simplified premises such as: Human beings are rational, self-
interested agents; transactions between them can be modelled as mathematical formulas; and
whatever cannot be quantified cannot have a role in their models. In this over-simplified view of
human society, politicsthe cut and thrust of human aspirations and poweris an interference in
the growth of a disembodied economy, the maximization of whose growth must be the ultimate
goal of good economic policies.
The authors give the example of how a famous childrens charity justified a campaign to
encourage fathers to read to their children on the basis that improving literacy would
increase GDP (gross domestic product) by 1.5% by 2020. With the dominance of economists
in public policy, people are being led to think that something is worth doing only if it will
contribute to the growth of GDP.
Rather than society being manipulated to feed the growth of a disembodied economy, the
economy must be changeable to serve society. In his introduction to The Econocracy, J.B.S.
Haldane, chief economist at the Bank of England, writes, Public interest in institutions has been
dented. Repairing that dent... will require new and wider means of listening to, and learning from
societal stakeholders. The student authors say, We believe that at its core, economics should be
a public discussion about how to organize society. To be able to do that, economics must be
transformed from a technical discipline into a public dialogue.

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EVMs and deliberative democracy
US Justice Louis Brandeis said: The greatest menace to freedom is an inert people. Public
discussion is a political duty; and that this should be the fundamental principle of the American
government. The popular vision of democracy is a society in which every citizen has a right to
vote for her representative in government. In this vision, the core of democracy is free, fair and
frequent elections. According to this concept, India is a hugely successful democracy. Using
technology, such as electronic voting machines (EVMs), it conducts elections on a scale no
other country does. EVMs are transported even to remote mountain hamlets so that every citizen
can exercise her right to vote.
This vision sees only the vertical threads of democracys fabricthe constitutional relationship
between the people and those who govern them. It misses the horizontal threads that make the
fabric of democracy strong. The horizontal threads are processes for deliberation among citizens,
who may have diverse opinions about the qualities of their society and differences about what
public policy should be. As Brandeis said, public discussion is the duty of citizens; only to vote in
elections is not enough.
Technology is making it easier for consumers to exercise their choices in the marketplace. With a
touch on their smartphones, they can select from a dazzling array of products and services sellers
offer them. They can also electronically select a candidate from those offered to them at elections.
Social media and marketing companies are deploying increasingly better algorithms to
understand every individuals preferences and give her what she wants. They know what we like
and give us more of what we like. Thus, social media, with its vast reach, is creating large echo
chambers of people with the same preferences, within which they can hear more about what they
like, from people they want to follow. However, it is deepening divides between people with
different views. They do not hear each other.
For a healthy democracy, shared public spaces, online or not, are a lot better than echo
chambers, writes Cass Sunstein in his book, #Republic: Divided Democracy in the Age of
Social Media. Digital technologies and social media are making life easier for consumers. But
they are making life more difficult for citizens. Two centuries before social media, framers of the
US Constitution were deeply worried that without the horizontal weft of democratic deliberations,
democracys fabric would be weak. Social media facilitates populism. It is making people
passive consumers and passionate supporters of productsincluding political leaders.
Democracys vertical links between people and their governments have become weak, with
experts making policies which they are convinced are good for the economy, without listening to
the people. Democracys horizontal threads are fraying, with people like us listening only to
people we like, a tendency that social media strengthens. Deficiencies in listening are root
causes for the weakening of democracys fabric. (Source - http://www.livemint.com/Opinion/
YmNtCv4KxExtnlj7Tjc6sM/The-fraying-fabric-of-liberal-democracy.html)

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10. Jallikattu
"Jallikattu" is a rural sport of taming bulls practised in south Tamil Nadu as a part of
Pongal celebrations on "MattuPongal" day. The sport is ancient. Sangam literature (2nd
BCE 2nd CE), has many detailed references to EruThazhuvuthal(hugging the bull).
It is derived from the words calli (coins) and kattu (tie), which means a bundle of
coins is tied to the bulls horns. In older times, the tamer sought to remove this bundle
from the animals head to win gold or silver.
Participants tackle the bull in an arena by its hump and try to hand on till they cross the
finishing line. They would be called brave and valourous and would also sometimes
be rewarded with a bride.
Jallikattu is popular in the districts of Madurai, Tiruchirapalli, Theni, Pudukottal and

Dindigul. This region is also known as the jallikattu belt.
MoEF issued a notification in 2011 which banned the use of bulls as performing animals, thereby
banning jallikattu, bull fights and bull races. But this did not put an end to the event.
Year after year, court guidelines or laws were violated during jallikattu and bull races, and
in some instances some bulls suffered painfully and died. Participants also received
injuries many times.
The Supreme Court in Animal Welfare Board vs. Nagaraj had declared jallikattu to be
illegal, being violative of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, which prohibits
causing pain and suffering to animals, and is contravention to the constitutional duty of
treating animals with compassion, Article 51 (g).Supreme Court said that the use of bulls
in such events severely harmed the animals. The Court held that all living creatures,
including animals, have inherent dignity and rights to live peacefully and protect their
well-being. Supreme Court also denied central government to allow use of bulls by
amending the list of animals prohibited from being trained for performances.Supreme
Court also struck down the Tamil Nadu state law that permitted jallikattu. It also reiterated
the expansive reading it had given in the past, to Article 21 (Right to Life), which
prohibits any disturbance to the environment, including animals, considered essential for
human life. The court also exhaustively cited international rights jurisprudence to stress
the need to correct anthropocentric views and the fact that animals too have the right to
live dignified lives.

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The Central Government passed a notification on January 7, 2016 permitting jallikattu,
subjecting it to some conditions.
Animal Welfare Board of India, PETA and other petitioners challenged the notification in
Court.
The Supreme Court stayed the Centres notification allowing jallikattu and the ban
resumed.
Arguments for Jallikattu
It is a traditional festival in states like Tamil Nadu and people had a fundamental right to
perpetuate the tradition.
The right to conduct jallikattu is part of the right to freedom of religion enshrined under
Article 25 of the Constitution of India.
Banning jallikattu will decimate Indias indigenous cattle breeds as many breeds are on
the verge of extinction. Unless there is an engagement with the traditional livestock
keepers, many cattle breeds will give way to commercial dairies and slaughter houses.
The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) supports traditional practices to keep the
chain intact and thus enable conservation of native breeds.
The time a bull spends engaged in the sport is less than 30 seconds. If required, rules can
be implemented to enhance the safety of the animals and men if required.
Arguments against Jallikattu
The Supreme Court held that the tradition cannot be a ground to allow jallikattu because
child marriage was also a tradition in India which is now banned.
Activists say that before being sent to the arena, bulls are tortured, starved, administered
alcohol and inflicted with pain to make them violent. As a result, the bulls suffer from
severe forms of physical and mental injuries and death.
During races, bulls are often hit with nail-studded sticks. They are punched, jumped on,
and dragged to the ground.
There cannot be blind adherence to tradition which involves harm to animals. Jallikattu

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sport cannot be the only means to preserve the cattle breeds. Other mechanisms should be
created to preserve the cattle breeds.
SC noted that the penalties for cruelty to animals under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act
1960 are weak and that the act requires an update.
The AWBI had formulated a draft Animal Welfare Act, 2011 to strengthen the law but this draft
is yet to be passed.
The draft should be made into legislation and must be enforced immediately. Owners of bulls
trained for the sport must be well compensated so that the animals are not sent for slaughter.
11. Education is a Human Right - Right to Education : Retrospect and Prospects
Education has an immense impact on the human society. One can safely assume that a
person is not in the proper sense till he is educated. It trains the human mind to think and
take the right decision.
In other words, man becomes a rational animal when he is educated. Through education
that knowledge and information is received and spread throughout the world.
An uneducated person cannot read and write and hence he is closed to all the knowledge
and wisdom he can gain through books and other mediums. In other words, he is shut off
from the outside world. In contrast, an educated man lives in a room with all its windows
open towards outside world.
Without education, a man is so circumstanced he know not how to make best of himself.
Therefore, for him the purpose of society is ab-initio frustrated.
Education is powerful because without it, early civilizations would have struggled to
survive and thrive as a culture. It is important that adults trained the young of their society
in the knowledge and skills they would need to master and eventually pass on.
It is universally accepted that education empowers the people for the full development of
human personality, strengthens the respect for human rights, and helps to overcome
exploitations and traditional inequalities of caste, class and gender.
Without knowledge you cant be informed nor can you truly understand the meaning of
many topics. It is important to have knowledge, so you can pass your knowledge to the
next generation. Education is important because it equips us with all that is needed to
make our dreams come true.
Education opens doors of brilliant career opportunities. It fetches better prospects in
career and growth. It is a preparation for living in a better way in future with an ability to
participate successfully in the modern economy and society. Education is empowerment
for socio-economic mobility, an instrument for reducing socio-economic inequalities, and

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equipment to trigger growth and development.
It is through education that knowledge and information is received and spread throughout
the world. There has been a paradigm shift in this sphere: from education as a
transcendental and value to education to cost recovery system.
The feature such as commodification of education, private sectors dominance in higher
education, and market-driven education flowing from world trade law stand juxtaposed to
the fact that largest pool of illiterates is in India and high dropouts of students even at
primary level here is owing to economic reasons.
The linkage of right to education to right to dignified life, equality, freedom and cultural
and minority right has made it highly intricate and the extent of regulations relating to it
from different perspectives, quite complex. The right to education originates from the
apparent motion that it obligatory for the state to provide education to its citizens.
The core of the right to education relates to its substance, which differs from education
itself. Effective and transformative education should be the result of the exercise of the
right to education, which is a universal human right. The right is about the entitlement to
claim the substance of it; it relates to the possibility of demanding the right to education
and making it justifiable.
The substance of the right to education is given in broad terms by international legislation
but real meaning is given to it as national legislators incorporate it.
The process of incorporation is more important than the process of adhering to an
international treaty because it is this incorporation that entitles people to demand for their
right to education.
Litigation and RTE
While studying cases in the High Courts and the Supreme Court from 2010 to 2015 which
directly affected rights of a child under the RTE Act by a research centre, it was observed
that some provisions of the Act are more litigated than the others.
More litigated issues
As much as 49% cases on the RTE Act have dealt with questions of access to education.
The reasons for this may be denial of admission, fixing age-limits for admission to a
particular class, transfer of students from one school to another, and conducting screening
tests at the time of admission.
Thus, they feature prominently in the priorities of litigants.
Further, out of the total disputes settled, almost 24% exclusively refer to Section 12(1)(c)
of the Act, which mandates all non-minority, unaided private schools to reserve 25% seats
for children belonging to economically weaker sections and disadvantaged groups.

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The denial of admission by private schools, delayed reimbursement by State governments
to private schools, ambiguity over definitions of economically weaker sections and
disadvantaged groups are some of the most prominent issues that have arisen in relation
to this provision.
There have been several cases of unaided private schools fighting with State governments
over their perceived autonomy vis--vis obligations outlined in the RTE Act.
Other issues included the applicability of the RTE Act to minority schools, applicability
of the no-detention policy to private schools, and the definition of neighbourhood for
admission into neighbourhood schools.
While some of these issues are yet to be resolved by the court, others are yet to be
enforced by schools themselves.
It is still unclear if all unaided private schools and some specified government schools are
prohibited from conducting admission tests/interviews, as a recent MHRD order
significantly weakens this ban.
Further, many private schools continue to charge donations from children, despite it being
illegal under the RTE Act.
Less litigated issues
The provisions which are relatively less litigated are facilities for disabled students
prescribed under the Act. They account merely 5% of the total litigation.
The provisions mandating basic facilities and adequate infrastructure in schools constitute
11% of the total disputes settled under the RTE Act.
It has been observed that fewer litigants seem to have approached courts for relief over
infrastructural norms and availability of qualified teachers as required under the RTE Act.
However it does not mean that these norms are better implemented than more litigated
ones.
These provisions impose positive obligations on States for implementing the RTE Act
and, therefore, must be progressively realised as it may not be high priority for litigants
who are generally individual parents.
The provisions on banning corporal punishment and prescription of pupil-teacher ratio in
classrooms have not been contested at all, even though circumstantial evidence and news
reports suggest clear violations of these.
Limitations of judiciary
From the above types and frequency of litigations, it appears that the RTE Act remains
under-enforced.
The courts are usually demand-driven and give priority to issues that are brought forward
by litigants. Hence, they still dont have the opportunity to go beyond injunctions and
focus on long-term reliefs involving systemic reform.
In very few cases, the courts have formulated monitoring mechanisms to ensure timely

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implementation of their orders.
However in some cases the courts interventions were instrumental in the implementation
of the Act. For instance, courts directed the Gujarat and Telangana governments to
implement key provisions of the Act, including section 12(1)(c). This happened as late as
in 2015.
Proposed reforms
The judiciary is expected to play a significant role in enforcing the RTE Act.
Courts have been acting and have to continue to act as first port of call in the absence of
proper statutory bodies and grievance redressal mechanisms.
However, it is imperative that judicial efforts be supplemented by building awareness and
strengthening grievance redressal mechanisms under the RTE Act.
This will lead to saving of litigation costs as well as remove the barriers to secure rights
for parents and their children.
Side by side, strategic litigation across High Courts should also be explored, for pushing
implementation of the RTE Act by state governments.
In a PIL filed in 2014 by National Coalition for Education in SC, it pointed out that at
least 3.77 crore children between the age of 6 to14 years were not in schools.
It also highlighted sluggish implementation of the RTE Act, leading the Apex Court to
direct all states and union territories to respond to these issues.
Thus, more such efforts by civil society organisations will be useful in getting targeted
judicial orders for the effective implementation of the Act.
RTE is here to stay as its focus on educating all children is core objective of a developing
India. Now the executive has to strengthen education delivery mechanisms and summon
necessary political will to implement Act. Simultaneously, judiciary will continue hold
government accountable and ensure the Acts enforcement.
Right to Education Act
Its been eight years since the Right to Education Act, 2009, came into force.
The RTE Act has been touted to be a landmark legislation that seeks to realise the
fundamental right to education for all children in the age group of 6-14 years.
Yet it is being perceived as an ill-drafted and poorly implemented legislation.
Many schools in country still suffer from lack of adequate drinking water facilities,
playgrounds or the necessary infrastructure prescribed by the Act.
There still exists cases of corporal punishment which has been banned by RTE.
The learning outcomes which are the indicators of quality of classroom instruction have
been found to be badly low.
Thus, it shows that bureaucratic apathy and weak institutional mechanisms are some factors that
have contributed to poor and less significant implementation of the Act. However, there is

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relatively unexamined indicator of how the law has worked is its contestation in courts.
12. Should India have a presidential form of government?
The system of government under which man lives is fundamental to his being.
Government is behind every evil in society, and every virtue. It shapes a society's
character. A good government allows individuals to become honest and virtuous; a bad
one makes them wicked and corrupt.
A system of government, therefore, isn't simply a matter of man's prosperity or liberty; it
is also a matter of his morality.
For a nation to prosper, its political system must foster a national vision, ensure fairness
and encourage participation. When a nation has vision, when its citizens' efforts are fairly
rewarded and when there are opportunities for participation, the nation rises.
India's parliamentary system fails to deliver any of these ingredients. A great people are
languishing because of a poor choice made in their system of government.
It was argued that the political system in India was created based entirely on British
parliamentary democracy by some sections of the society and their experience of what
they themselves were deprived of. So, according to these people, the Westminster model
of democracy is not suited to our reality.
Traditionally, there have been three criticisms of the presidential form of government: the
president can assume dictatorial powers; the executive is not responsible to the directly
elected legislature; and finally, if the president belongs to one party and the legislature is
controlled by another party, it can lead to conflict and paralysis. Each of these criticisms
can be dealt with. As the US experience has shown, there are definite checks and balances
in the presidential system.
Present Presidential system in India
Presidential system is a system of government where a head of government is also head of
state and leads an executive branch that is separate from the legislative branch.
The United States, for instance, has a presidential system. The executive is elected and
often titled "president" and is not responsible to the legislature, which cannot in normal
circumstances dismiss it.
The legislature may have the right in extreme cases to dismiss the executive, often
through impeachment; however such dismissals are seen as so rare as not to contradict a
central tenet of presidentialism, that in normal circumstances using normal means the
legislature cannot dismiss the executive.
The title president has persisted from a time when such person personally presided over
the governing body, as with the US President of the Continental Congress, prior to the
executive function being split into a separate branch of government.
Presidential systems are numerous, but the following are generally true:

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The executive can veto legislative acts and, in turn, a supermajority of lawmakers may
override the veto. The veto is generally derived from the British tradition of royal assent
in which an act of parliament can only be enacted with the assent of the monarch.
The president has a fixed term of office. Elections are held at regular times and cannot be
triggered by a vote of confidence or other parliamentary procedures, although in some
countries there is an exception which provides for the removal of a president who is found
to have broken a law.
The executive branch is unipersonal. Members of the cabinet serve at the pleasure of the
president and must carry out the policies of the executive and legislative branches.
Cabinet ministers or executive departmental chiefs are not members of the legislature.
However, presidential systems often need legislative approval of executive nominations to
the cabinet, judiciary, and various lower governmental posts. A president generally can
direct members of the cabinet, military, or any officer or employee of the executive
branch, but cannot direct or dismiss judges.
The president can often pardon or commute sentences of convicted criminals.
Countries that feature a presidential system of government are not the exclusive users of
the title of president. For example, a dictator, who may or may not have been popularly or
legitimately elected may be and often is called a president. Likewise, leaders of one-party
states are often called presidents. Most parliamentary republics have presidents, but this
position is largely ceremonial; notable examples include Germany, India, Ireland, Israel
and Italy. The title is also used in parliamentary republics with an executive presidency,
and also in semi-presidential systems.
Benefits of Presidential system:
First, it will force political parties to be more democratic and robust. All political parties
will have to chose their best candidates as there will be a direct head-to-head contest. The
people will not accept anyone less. There will be no alternate power centres, no remote
controls, and no backseat drivers. Those not in the magic circle will get an opportunity.
Second, the voters will know their candidates intimately. The electorate has enough data
to take calls on their candidates.
Third, the president will be fully in charge of the executive. He will be able to attract the
best and brightest to his cabinet, irrespective of their political affiliations. They will serve
at his pleasure and be accountable to him. He wont have to fix quotas for allies or give
important positions to senior but incompetent leaders. Nor will he have to waste time
thinking about their loyalty.
Fourth, the government will be stable. The president will be elected by the people and will
be voted out by them. He will not have to appease unreasonable allies and indulge in
compromises all the time. He can raise FDI sectoral caps, increase the price of diesel, and
hike train fares without thinking that his job is in danger or that he will be forced to
rollback these measures.
Fifth, the legislature will be free to do its work. The job of parliament is to pass laws. But

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opposition law-makers have begun to believe their duty is to bring down the government.
Once that power is taken away from them, it will bring them back to their primary task of
discussing bills and passing laws that will improve the lot of the people.
Arguments against Presidential system:
A presidential system centralises power in one individual unlike the parliamentary system,
where the Prime Minister is the first among equals. The surrender to the authority of one
individual, as in the presidential system, is dangerous for democracy.
The over-centralisation of power in one individual is something we have to guard against.
Those who argue in favour of a presidential system often state that the safeguards and
checks are in place: that a powerful President can be stalled by a powerful legislature. But
if the legislature is dominated by the same party to which the President belongs, a
charismatic President or a strong President may prevent any move from the legislature.
The presidential systems reputation in India is sullied because its name became associated with
an autocrat. How exactly does the American structure make it impossible for the president to
become a dictator?
First, there is the federal structure. The state governments are genuinely sovereign. They
cannot be controlled, even by the combined forces of Congress and the president.
Second, the executive, legislative and judiciary are not just separate in powers but in
institutions. Each institution derives its legitimacy directly from the people, not from
another branch.
Third, each institution is balanced with others. In the legislature, the balance is between
the House and the Senate, and then with the president. In the judiciary it is with the
executive and legislature, and with the states. The executive is balanced with the Senate
with regard to treaties and appointments.
Lastly, the people hold direct sway over them all. They elect the legislative and the
executive branches separately.
Besides this, Indias many challenges require political arrangements that permit decisive
action, whereas ours increasingly promote drift and indecision.
India must have a system of government whose leaders can focus on governance rather
than on staying in power.
A system of directly elected chief executives at all levels panchayat chiefs, town
mayors, Chief Ministers (or Governors) and a national President elected for a fixed term
of office, invulnerable to the whims of the legislature, and with clearly defined authority
in their respective domains would permit India to deal more efficiently with its critical
economic and social challenges.
Cabinet posts would not be limited to those who are electable rather than those who are
able. At the end of a fixed period of time say the same five years we currently accord to
our Lok Sabha the public would be able to judge the individual on performance in

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improving the lives of Indians, rather than on political skill at keeping a government in
office.
The fear that an elected President could become a Caesar is ill-founded since the
Presidents power would be balanced by directly elected chief executives in the States.
In any case, the Emergency demonstrated that even a parliamentary system can be
distorted to permit autocratic rule. Dictatorship is not the result of a particular type of
governmental system.
What about the States?
The underlying argument is that it is easier to bring talent to governance in a presidential

system, is specious.
Getting outside talent in a parliamentary system too, right from C.D. Deshmukh to
T.A. Pai to Manmohan Singh to M.G.K. Menon to Raja Ramanna, talent has been coming
into the parliamentary system with the added safeguard of democratic accountability,
because the outsiders have to get elected after assuming office.
On the other hand, bringing outside talent in a presidential system without people being
democratically elected would deter people from giving independent advice to the chief
executive because they owe their appointment to him/her.
Those who speak in favour of a presidential system have only the Centre in mind.
They have not thought of the logical consequence, which is that we will have to move
simultaneously to a gubernatorial form in the States. A switch at the Centre will also
require a change in the States.
Direct accountability
However, in India, the President would have to work with Parliament to get his budget
through or to pass specific Bills.
Indias fragmented polity, with dozens of political parties in the fray, makes a U.S.-style
two-party gridlock in Parliament impossible.
An Indian presidency, instead of facing a monolithic opposition, would have the
opportunity to build issue-based coalitions on different issues, mobilising different
temporary alliances of different smaller parties from one policy to the next the opposite
of the dictatorial steamroller some fear a presidential system could produce.
Any politician with aspirations to rule India as President will have to win the support of
people beyond his or her home turf; he or she will have to reach out to different groups,
interests, and minorities.
Since the directly elected President will not have coalition partners to blame for his or her
inaction, a presidential term will have to be justified in terms of results, and accountability
will be direct and personal.
Democracy is vital for Indias survival. With the needs and challenges of one-sixth of
humanity before our leaders, India must have a democracy that delivers progress to

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people. Changing to a presidential system is the best way of ensuring a democracy that
works. It is time for a change.
Need for a shift:
Our parliamentary system is a perversity only the British could have devised: to vote for a
legislature in order to form the executive. It has created a unique breed of legislator,
largely unqualified to legislate, who has sought election only in order to wield executive
power.
There is no genuine separation of powers: the legislature cannot truly hold the executive
accountable since the government wields the majority in the House. The parliamentary
system does not permit the existence of a legislature distinct from the executive, applying
its collective mind freely to the nations laws.
For 25 years till 2014, our system has also produced coalition governments which have
been obliged to focus more on politics than on policy or performance. It has forced
governments to concentrate less on governing than on staying in office, and obliged them
to cater to the lowest common denominator of their coalitions, since withdrawal of
support can bring governments down. The parliamentary system has distorted the voting
preferences of an electorate that knows which individuals it wants but not necessarily
which parties or policies.
Besides, Indias many challenges require political arrangements that permit decisive
action, whereas ours increasingly promote drift and indecision. We must have a system of
government whose leaders can focus on governance rather than on staying in power.
Concerns in the Indian context:
The notion that the presidential system could lapse into dictatorship took root first during
Indira Gandhis Emergency in the mid-1970s. It was widely believed that she wanted to
adopt the presidential form of government to further her own autocratic reign.
The fallacy that the presidential system has autocratic tendencies, however, still prevails.
Why Presidential system may not be suitable for India?
A diverse country like India cannot function without consensus-building. This winner
takes it all approach, which is a necessary consequence of the presidential system, is
likely to lead to a situation where the views of an individual can ride roughshod over the
interests of different segments.
The other argument, that it is easier to bring talent to governance in a presidential system,
is specious. Besides, outside talent can be brought in a parliamentary system too. On
the other hand, bringing outside talent in a presidential system without people being
democratically elected would deter people from giving independent advice to the chief
executive because they owe their appointment to him/her.

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Those who speak in favour of a presidential system have only the Centre in mind. They
have not thought of the logical consequence, which is that we will have to move
simultaneously to a gubernatorial form in the States. A switch at the Centre will also
require a change in the States.
Way ahead:
A switch over to the presidential system is not possible under our present constitutional
scheme because of the basic structure doctrine propounded by the Supreme Court in
1973 which has been accepted by the political class without reservation, except for an
abortive attempt during the Emergency by Indira Gandhis government to have it
overturned.
The Constituent Assembly had made an informed choice after considering both the British
model and the American model and after Dr. B.R. Ambedkar had drawn up a balance
sheet of their merits and demerits. To alter the informed choice made by the Constituent
Assembly would violate the basic structure of the Constitution.
Different models of Presidential systems.
In the American system, the President appoints his officers; they have limited tenure and
their offices are confirmed by the Senate (Upper House).
Latin American model, where some Constitutions give Presidents a term often amounting
to life tenure like in Cuba.
There are plenty of models to choose from and there are arguments against each. So,
which system is being argued for when the votaries of change seek a shift to the
presidential system?
Rajya Sabha cannot be compared to the U.S. Senate where each state has its own
Constitution and has the power to change it.
The relationship between the states and the federal government is extraordinary; as is the
status of their courts and the manner of appointment of judges.
Merely stating that a change to the presidential system is needed does not mean much.
The Indian debate currently is not focussed on the kind of presidential system envisaged.
What is the term we are seeking for the President? Should he/she be re-elected?
If so, for how many terms? Then, who decides the change? Parliament?
All this requires a massive amendment to the basic structure of the Constitution.
The Supreme Court has spelt its view on the basic structure of the Constitution.
Those who support the presidential system should do their homework when they argue
against the parliamentary system. There is also the matter of separation of powers.
In the U.S., the President, who is also the Supreme Commander, has the power to veto the
Congress.
Does India need this? The manner of removing the U.S. President through impeachment is
a very complex process. There is also the possibility of aggregating more powers to the

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President.
One could argue that the parliamentary system too runs a similar risk.
Reform the process
However, the ideas are doing rounds about reforming the electoral processes to make
democracy more robust.
From limiting expenditure of political parties and deciding the ceiling on the expenditure,
to holding simultaneous elections, declaring the results for a combination of booths
instead of constituencies.
The present parliamentary system has been tried and tested for nearly 70 years. Rather
than change the system, why not reform thoroughly and cleanse the electoral processes?
What next?.
The system of government under which man lives is fundamental to his being.
Government is behind every evil in society, and every virtue. It shapes a societys
character. A good government allows individuals to become honest and virtuous; a bad
one makes them wicked and corrupt.
A system of government, therefore, isnt simply a matter of mans prosperity or liberty; it
is also a matter of his morality. For a nation to prosper, its political system must foster a
national vision, ensure fairness and encourage participation.
When a nation has vision, when its citizens efforts are fairly rewarded and when there
are opportunities for participation, the nation rises. Hence, an informed debate is
necessary in this regard.
13. Agricultural sector growth a precondition for economic growth
Kisaano ki Samriddhi, the well-being of farmers is vital to the nation's prosperity. Kisan is the
sentinel of our food security. Annadaata Sukhibhava has been one of our fundamental
civilizational values. It is the time the government is taking several steps to usher in Second
Green Revolution in the entire country. India lives in the villages. Agriculture sector is the soul of
Indian economy and for the people of India.
The share of agriculture in employment was 48.9 per cent of the workforce. In other
words Agriculture is the principal source of livelihood for more than 58% of the
population of this country. As per the Economic Survey the sector share in the Gross
Domestic Product (GDP) was 17.4 in 2015-16.
We all know that the agriculture sector is the backbone and crucial in our Indian economy

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which provides the basic ingredients to mankind and providing raw material for rapid
industrialisation sector development. No doubt that the besides manufacturing sectors,
Agriculture sector provides great employment opportunities for rural people/youth on a
large scale for their livelihood and also provides an entrepreneurship.
Agriculture is a state subject as per the constitutional list of VII schedule. The concept of
competitive Federalism to Competitive Sub-Federalism besides the smart city mission,
agriculture development is needed at the gross root level. Rural development is one of our
top priorities for Government.
We have to work harder to provide food security to our people and to make the agriculture
sector resilient to the vagaries of nature. We have to provide better amenities and
opportunities to our people in villages to ensure a decent quality of life. No doubt that the
food processing sector helps increase farmers income.
Agriculture is the main Input to the biotic community for any activity in this planet of
Earth. The level of agriculture production and overall availability of food grains is
satisfactory and sufficient for human energy. Food grains Stock in Central Pool for
current period is about approximately 361.63 lakh MT
The Indian economy is estimated to register a GDP growth rate of 7.1 per cent in 2016-17.
The radical measures initiated in November 2016 in the form of demonetisation of Rs.
1000 and Rs. 500 currency notes, the Indian economy is likely to experience a slowdown
in the growth rate in Agriculture and allied sectors.
However we hope that the growth of agriculture & allied sectors improved significantly in
a long run. As per the first advance estimates of the CSO, growth rate for the agriculture
and allied sectors is estimated to be 4.1 to 5.1 per cent. We need to rationalize fertilizer
subsidy in an input, crop and region neutral format and minimize diversions thorough the
Digital and Direct Benefit Transfer options.
Price policy of agricultural produce
The price policy of Government for major agricultural commodities seeks to ensure
remunerative prices to the farmers to encourage higher investment and production, and to
safeguard the interest of consumers by making available supplies at reasonable prices. On
account of the volatility of prices of pulses, a Committee on Incentivising Pulses
Production through Minimum Support Price (MSP) and Related
Agricultural Policies is needed for farmers development.
Government of India has established the National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change to
assist States and Union Territories to undertake projects and actions for adaptation to
climate change. Rs. 182.3 crore has been released for 18 projects for sectors including
agriculture and animal husbandry, water resources, coastal areas, biodiversity and

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ecosystem services.
In India, the exit problem arises because of three types of reasons

1. Interests
2. Institutions
3. Ideas/ Ideology.
How might the exit problem be addressed?
Technology and the JAM solution: Technology can help in two ways. First, it brings
down human discretion and the layers of intermediaries. And, second, it breaks the old
shackles and old ways of doing business. Fertilizer, agriculture, sugar etccan be
addressed through technology and leveraging the potential of JAM for DBT Scheme.
The Government has taken a number of initiatives through the Ministry of Agriculture,
Cooperation and Farmers Welfare
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, with the biggestever Government's contribution to
crop insurance and with lowest-ever premium rates for farmers. It has many firsts to its
credit like national coverage of post-harvest losses due to inundation and unseasonal rains,
no capping on Government subsidy, and use of technology for early and accurate
settlement of claims. Assistance to farmers afflicted by natural calamity has been
increased by 50% and eligibility norms have been relaxed.
Soil Health Card to 14 crore farm-holdings by March, 2017 and will result in judicious
application of fertilizers, lowering input costs and bettering soil health. To promote
organic farming, Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana is being implemented under which
8,000 clusters have been developed so far.
Prime Minister Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY)/ "Per Drop More Crop" and "Jal
Sanchay for Jal Sinchan".: The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana promises assured
irrigation, expanding cultivated areas by improving water use efficiency and enabling
drought proofing.
New Urea Policy-2015 with the objective of maximizing indigenous production and
improving energy efficiency. The policy will lead to additional production of 17 Lakh
metric tonnes annually in the next three years.
Providing 100% neem-coated urea has not only improved efficiency but has also helped in
plugging subsidy leakages by preventing illegal diversion of subsidized urea to non-
agricultural use. The highest ever urea fertilizer production was achieved in 2015.
National Agriculture Market Scheme (NAM) launched to connect mandis across the entire
country. It is making India One food zone, One Country, One Market. This will
immensely benefit our farmers in getting fair and remunerative prices.

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National Food Security Mission (NFSM)
Agriculture credit
Two National Kamdhenu Breeding Centres opened in the country, one in the North and
one in the South.
National Gokul Mission started for development and conservation of indigenous cattle
breeds.
Blue Revolution initiated to increase fisheries production. Production increased to 150
lakh tonnes
National Livestock Mission (NLM) extended to entire country
The Objectives
Increasing production of rice, wheat, pulses and coarse cereals through area expansion
and productivity enhancement in a sustainable manner in the identified districts of the
country; Restoring soil fertility and productivity at the individual farm level; and
enhancing farm level economy (i.e. farm profits) to restore confidence amongst the
farmers.
To improve the quality of life of farmers especially small and marginal farmers by
offering a complete package of activities to maximize farm returns for enhancing food and
livelihood security.
Indian farmers needs to be both innovative and competitive in the global market. It is the
task of government, policy-makers, educators, researchers, and extension workers to
ensure they have the tools, technologies, and new farming systems that enable them to
increase the productivity.
14. Aadhaar bill - money bill?
The Supreme Court will begin hearing final arguments next month on a writ petition challenging
the validity of the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial & Other Subsidies, Benefits &
Services) Act, 2016 or the Aadhaar Act.
Whats the issue?.
The government had moved the Aadhar Bill in the parliament as a money bill. Through this
categorisation, the government had the law enacted by securing a simple majority in the Lok
Sabha while rendering redundant any opposition to the legislation in the Upper House of
Parliament.

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What was the need for legislative backing?.
Originally, Aadhaar was conceived as a scheme to provide to every Indian a unique identity
number, with a purported view to enabling a fair and equitable distribution of benefits and
subsidies.
Given that the Aadhaar project was being implemented even without statutory support, public
interest petitions were filed in the Supreme Court challenging the projects legitimacy. In these
cases, the court issued a series of interim orders prohibiting the state from making Aadhaar
mandatory, while permitting its use only for a set of limited governmental schemes.
Then, in March 2016, the Union government withdrew the earlier bill, and introduced, in its
place, as a money bill, a new draft legislation, titled the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial
& Other Subsidies, Benefits & Services) Bill, 2016. This categorisation was extraordinary
because a money bill, under Indias constitutional design, requires only the Lok Sabhas
affirmation for it to turn into law.
What is a Money bill?.
A money bill is defined by Article 110 of the Constitution, as a draft law that contains
only provisions that deal with all or any of the matters listed in that article.
These comprise a set of seven features, broadly including items such as the imposition or
regulation of a tax; the regulation of the borrowing of money by the Government of India;
the withdrawal of money from the Consolidated Fund of India; and so forth.
Article 110 further clarifies that in cases where a dispute arises over whether a bill is a
money bill or not, the Lok Sabha Speakers decision on the issue shall be considered
final.
The provision requires that a bill conform to the criteria prescribed in it for it to be
classified as a money bill.
Where a bill intends to legislate on matters beyond the features delineated in Article 110,
it must be treated as an ordinary draft statute.
What is Aadhaar?.
Originally, Aadhaar was conceived as a scheme to provide to every Indian a unique

identity number for enabling a fair and equitable distribution of benefits and subsidies
A draft of a statute was introduced in the Rajya Sabha, in December 2010 as an ordinary
bill.
This meant that both Houses of Parliament had to provide their vote to the bill for it to
become law.
However it was not passed due to concerns over privacy and protection of data security.
In March 2016, the Union government withdrew the earlier bill, and introduced the

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Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial & Other Subsidies, Benefits & Services) Bill,
2016 as a money bill.
Hence now it required only the Lok Sabhas affirmation for it to turn into law.
The legislation endangers the core liberties, in manners both explicit and implicit ways.
Therefore this move was designed to bypass opposition in Rajya Sabha bill.
How is Aadhaar connected?
The NDA government chose to introduce the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other
Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Bill, 2016 as a Money Bill. The Lok Sabha cleared the Bill and
passed it to the Rajya Sabha.
While the NDA has a majority in the Lok Sabha, it does not in the Rajya Sabha. This led to
intense debates in the Upper House, led by Congress leader Jairam Ramesh. The House
recommended several amendments to the Bill, which was passed with a majority in the House.
Aadhaar Act shows
A simple reading of the Aadhaar Act would show us that its contents go far beyond the features
enumerated in Article 110. If anything, it is the provisions in the legislation that pertain to the
Consolidated Fund and its use that are incidental to the Acts core purpose which, quite
evidently, is to ensure, among other things, the creation of a framework for maintaining a central
database of biometric information collected from citizens.
Ordinarily, a draft legislation is classified as a money bill when it provides for funds to be made
available to the executive to carry out specific tasks. In the case of the Aadhaar Act, such
provisions are manifestly absent. The Speakers decision to confirm the governments
classification is, therefore, an error that is not merely procedural in nature but one that constitutes,
in substance, an unmitigated flouting of Article 110.
In many ways, Aadhaar has brought out to plain sight the worryingly totalitarian impulses of our
state. The government has argued, with some force, that Indian citizens possess no fundamental
right to privacy.
This argument, however, is predicated on judgments of the Supreme Court that have little
contemporary relevance, and that have, in any event, been overlooked in several subsequent cases
where the court has clarified the extent of the liberties that the Constitution guarantees.
Right to privacy
It permits the creation of a database of not only biometric information but also various other
private data, without so much as bothering about safeguards that need to be installed to ensure

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their security. We scarcely need to stretch our imaginations to wonder what the government and
other agencies to which this information can be shared without any regulatory checks can do
with all this material.
That a statute so pernicious in its breadth can be enacted after being introduced as a money bill
only makes matters worse. It has the effect of negating altogether the Rajya Sabhas legislative
role, making, in the process, a mockery of our democracy.
It is imperative, therefore, that the court refers the present controversy to a larger bench, with a
view to overruling Siddiqui. Suhrith Parthasarathy is an advocate practising at the Madras High
Court.
Oppositions concern
The Oppositions main concern was with the usage of Aadhaar data to facilitate mass
surveillance. Originally, the Aadhaar project was supposed to be voluntary, but this Bill makes
enrolment compuslory. The Bill contains a blanket national security clause, a clause bound to
induce misuse.
Does the Aadhaar bill fit the money bill criteria?
The bill provides for a mechanism to identify a person using biometrics, and states that this could
be used for providing subsidies or government services. However, it also allows the Aadhaar
system to be used for other purposes. Therefore, it seems to contain matters other than those that
are incidental to expenditure from the Consolidated Fund. That is, it does not seem to fit the
requirement of only the matters listed.
What is the governments stand?
In the Supreme Courts judgment in Mohd. Saeed Siddiqui v. State of UP (2014), the
court ruled that a Speakers decision to classify a draft statute as a money bill, was not
judicially reviewable, even if the classification was incorrect.
The court justified that this is because the error in question constituted nothing more than
a mere procedural irregularity.
The government sites this case to justify its stand
Experts say
According to experts, contents of Aadhar act go far beyond the features enumerated in Article
110. If anything, it is the provisions in the legislation that pertain to the Consolidated Fund and its
use that are incidental to the Acts core purpose which, quite evidently, is to ensure, among
other things, the creation of a framework for maintaining a central database of biometric

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information collected from citizens.
Ordinarily, a draft legislation is classified as a money bill when it provides for funds to be made
available to the executive to carry out specific tasks. In the case of the Aadhaar Act, such
provisions are manifestly absent. The Speakers decision to confirm the governments
classification is, therefore, an error that is not merely procedural in nature but one that constitutes,
in substance, an unmitigated flouting of Article 110.
According to experts, Money bills are typically directly related to the finances of the government
Article 110(1) of the constitution defines a money bill as one that deals only (only) with any of
the following:
(a) Imposition, abolition, remission, alteration or regulation of any tax,

(b) Regulation of the borrowing of money or the giving of any guarantee by the Government of
India, or the amendment of the law with respect to any financial obligations undertaken or to be
undertaken by the Government of India,
(c) Custody of the Consolidated Fund or the Contingency Fund of India, the payment of moneys
into or the withdrawal of moneys from any such fund,
(d) Appropriation of moneys out of the Consolidated Fund of India,
(e) Declaring of any expenditure to be expenditure charged on the Consolidated Fund of India or
the increasing of the amount of any such expenditure,
(f) Receipt of money on account of the Consolidated Fund of India or the public account of India
or the custody or issue of such money or the audit of the accounts of the Union or of a State; or
(g) Any matter incidental to any of the matters specified in sub-clauses (a) to (f).
The stress on only is well advised: the constituent assembly debated it and retained the word.
In other words, Bills which exclusively contain provisions for imposition and abolition of taxes,
for appropriation of moneys out of the Consolidated Fund, etc., are certified as Money Bills.
Speakers decision to classify
The assertion that the Speakers decision is beyond judicial review finds support in the Supreme
Courts judgment in Mohd. Saeed Siddiqui v. State of UP (2014). Here, a three-judge bench had
ruled, in the context of State legislatures, that a Speakers decision to classify a draft statute as a
money bill, was not judicially reviewable, even if the classification was incorrect.
This is because the error in question, the court ruled, constituted nothing more than a mere
procedural irregularity.
But there are significant problems with this view. Chief among them is the wording of
Article 110, which vests no unbridled discretion in the Speaker. The provision requires
that a bill conform to the criteria prescribed in it for it to be classified as a money bill.

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Where a bill intends to legislate on matters beyond the features delineated in Article 110,
it must be treated as an ordinary draft statute. Any violation of this mandate has to be
seen, therefore, as a substantive constitutional error.
There are other flaws too in the judgment. Most notably, it brushes aside the verdict of a
Constitution Bench in Raja Ram Pal v. Honble Speaker, Lok Sabha (2007), where the
court had ruled that clauses that attach finality to a determination of an issue do not
altogether oust the courts jurisdiction. That is, the bench held, there are numerous
circumstances where the court can review parliamentary pronouncements. These would
include instances where a Speakers choice is grossly illegal, or disregards basic
constitutional mandates, or, worse still, where the Speakers decision is riddled with
perversities, or is arrived at through dishonest intentions.
What should be done?
But it brushes aside the verdict of a Constitution Bench in Raja Ram Pal v. Honble Speaker, Lok
Sabha (2007). In this case, the court had ruled that clauses that attach finality to a determination
of an issue is not altogether outside the courts jurisdiction.
The bench held that there are numerous circumstances where the court can review parliamentary
pronouncements like instances where a Speakers choice is grossly illegal, or disregards basic
constitutional mandates, or where the Speakers decision is arrived at through dishonest
intentions.
Therefore it should be understood that the Speakers decision to confirm the governments
classification is an error that is not merely procedural in nature but one that constitutes, in
substance, an unmitigated violation of Article 110.
Road ahead
The governments response is predicated on two prongs: that the Speakers decision to classify a
draft legislation as a money bill is immune from judicial review, and that, in any event, the
Aadhaar Bill fulfilled all the constitutional requirements of a money bill. A careful examination
of these arguments will, however, show us that the government is wrong on both counts.
In this case, prima facie it appears that the government has taken the money bill route to bypass
the upper house. This move is even backed by the speaker of the Lok Sabha, whose decision is
final on the question of whether a bill is a money bill. However, this constitutional provision
cannot be seen as a convenient tool to deal with an inconvenient second chamber.
The Constitution reposes faith in the speakers fairness and objectivity. Article 110(1) provides
the touchstone of the decision to be taken by the speaker under Article 110(3). Any decision
actuated by extraneous considerations cant be a proper decision under Article 110(3). The
speakers decision needs to be in conformity with the constitutional provisions. If not, it is no

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decision under the Constitution.
15. Universal Basic Income - Is it needed?
The Universal Basic Income is a proposed form of social security that is designed to lift people
above the poverty line, to protect citizens as automation lessens the number of available jobs, and
to boost the economy by enabling citizens to spend more. The UBI system would be implemented
on an unconditional basis, meaning that every citizen would receive it without having to submit
to a means test.
Pros
Poverty alleviation
At its most crucial and most noble UBI could stand to alleviate poverty on a global scale,
lessen societal inequalities and improve the quality of life for those who currently struggle to
make ends meet.
Leaner government
Many people have argued that UBI could simplify our social support systems, cutting down on
bureaucratic costs, and other spending on various forms of welfare.
Economic boost
Increased confidence in personal finances could in turn encourage consumers to spend more
providing an economic boost to any country that implemented such a system. Corporations would
also benefit given that people would have increased spending capacity to invest in their products.
Tech and automation
Wages have remained largely stagnant for decades, so that despite technological forward-leaps,
employees havent felt as much tangible benefit as might be expected. As technological progress
increases, many people face losing their jobs due to proliferating automation. But products dont
just need to be assembled, they need to be bought. Many feel that only a UBI could guarantee
this.
Jobs people actually like
From a Jobspotting perspective, a key benefit is that people would no longer have to work in dead-
end jobs that dont align with their values and ideals. If people didnt have to worry about

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finding a way to pay the bills, they might be able to spend their time on work that is meaningful
to them. Companies too would be forced to increase the value proposition that they offer their
employees, meaning that that standard of employment that people experience would be on a
much higher level.
Increased entrepreneurship
If a person can cover basic costs for themselves and their families, there is less risk attached to
pushing the boat out on a new enterprise. If it fails, they wont have to go down with the ship.
More entrepreneurship and small business could lead to a diversified economy, giving megacorps
less of a chance to completely monopolise whole industries.
Cons
Expense
Introducing a UBI would be expensive to governments, especially at first as they change the
existing systems to facilitate the new payments. If we take the US as an example, it would cost on
average $3 trillion per annum to provide its citizens with $10,000 a year and this is much less
than the rate that was proposed in Switzerland.
No incentive to work
The idea of something for nothing doesnt wash well with opponents of the idea, who fear a
population that would become idle, signalling the end of high-functioning capitalism. However,
any proposed social welfare payment meets with the same hackneyed argument. If indeed the
current generation are more motivated more by fulfilment than finances as has often been argued,
perhaps this assertion is dead in the water before it can even get started.
It doesnt solve debt
Debt is a serious consideration that many people have to face and having a small injection of
money every now and then wont alleviate suffering of those in deep holes of debt. Some also
argue that debt collectors could be even more aggressive if they know that a person has at least a
little constant income.
Poor countries get left behind
Its all very well to see UBI as a utopian ideal in developed countries, but for nations that are
already struggling to provide basic services and infrastructure, implementing this is simply an
impossibility, and just a different way for poor countries to get left behind. The only countries
currently considering this currently are largely wealthy and often quite monocultural, meaning
that UBI could just be a new brand of Eurocentric elitism.

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Corruption wont go away
The implementation of a UBI presumes that we live in a fair society, where everyone plays by the
rules. But as we have seen time and time again, having material wealth in a country doesnt mean
that people benefit from it. Many argue that this system would just pave the way for a new type
of corruption or cronyism that we havent been able to foresee yet.
Road ahead
Switzerland may have said a very clear NO to the proposition, but globally, the jury is still out.
Social welfare systems already cost governments a lot of money worldwide, and even within
those that function well, many people still fall through the cracks. While the idea of free money
is massively appealing for obvious reasons, it retains an idealistic sheen that needs to be properly
thought through to make sure that it wouldnt create more problems than it can solve.
That said, a little idealism is healthy and its good to see people proposing alternatives to the
systems that we already operate in. The ways we work are rapidly changing, and the ways we
earn should change too. But we cant let every discussion about what would benefit us i.e.
the human race come from a jaundiced perspective that is elite and homogenous. For a system
like UBI to work, detracting factors such as corruption, debt and intense poverty need to be part
of the wider discussion.
16. New Emission Standards: BS-III to BS-IV to BS-VI by 2020
The Supreme Court, citing the reasons of public health has banned the sale and registration of
Bharat Stage III (BS-III) vehicles with effect from 01 April 2017.
Notwithstanding, the hue and cry being raised by the automobile manufacturers, asking for more
time to dispose of their existing stocks of BS-III vehicles, the SC ruled that from 01st April, only
BS-IV emission norms compliant vehicles can be bought/ registered across the country.
Indias Commitment to Curb Pollution
It is estimated that 1.2 million deaths take place every year due to air pollution in the
country and hence, certain drastic measures are required to be taken to tackle this serious
hazard.
Besides, India had pledged during the Paris Climate Summit to cut down its carbon
emissions levels by as much as 33%-35% by 2030.
It had further pledged to create an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of
carbon dioxide through additional forests and tree cover.

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In order to meet this explicit requirement, besides drastically reducing dependence on
fossil fuels and the use of alternative sources of energy, it is imperative to lay down
clearly defined policy on vehicular pollution control regime.
National Auto Fuel Policy
Emission norms were introduced in India in 1991 for petrol and 1992 for diesel vehicles.
Thereafter, the use of catalytic converters for petrol vehicles was made mandatory and
unleaded petrol was introduced into the market.
Supreme Court, on 29 April 1999, ruled that all vehicles in India must comply with Euro I
or India 2000 norms by 01 June 1999 and EURO II norms was made mandatory in NCR
by April 2000.
Since, a lot of car manufactures were not prepared at that stage to make the transition to
EURO II norms; in a subsequent judgement the implementation date was postponed.
Mashelkar Committee, which was formed by the Government to propose a road map for
implementation of Euro based emission norms for India, submitted its report in 2002.
The Committee recommended a phased implementation of future norms with the
regulations being implemented in major cities first and extended to the rest of the country
after a few years.
Consequent to the recommendations of the Committee, the National Auto Fuel Policy was
announced officially in 2003. The policy also created guidelines for auto fuels, reduction
of pollution from older vehicles and R&D for air quality data creation.
The Auto Fuel Policy initially enunciated the roadmap for implementation of the Bharat
Stage norms till 2010.
Bharat Stage Emission Standards
The Union Government instituted certain emission standards to regulate the output of air
pollutants from all types of internal combustion engine equipments, including motor
vehicles. These standards are called Bharat Stage Emission Standards.
The standards required to be adopted and the timeline for its implementation has been set
by the Central Pollution Control Board under the Ministry of Environment & Forests and
Climate Change.
These standards are based on the European regulations, which were first introduced in
2000. All new vehicles manufactured after the implementation of the norms have to be
compliant with the regulations.
Bharat Stage III norms were enforced across the country with effect from October 2010.
The emission norms for two and three wheelers are more lenient.
Up till early 2016, BS-IV auto fuel was being supplied to only 13 major cities of North
India, while the vehicles in the rest of the country ran on BS-III grade fuel.
It was committed that by April 2016, Goa, Kerala, Karnataka, Telangana, Odisha, Daman
and Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Andaman and Nicobar will also start getting BS-IV

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fuel.
Living up to its assurance of supplying BS-IV fuel to the entire country by April 2017, the
stage was now set for implementation of the BS-IV compliant vehicles.
Impact of Switching Over from BS III to BS IV
The above said SC ruling has served as a bolt from the blue for the auto industry. Though,
their representation seems to be unjustified, as the transport ministry had issued a
notification regarding the transition to BS-IV two years ago, and they had sufficient notice
to switch over production to BS-IV and reduce their BS-III inventory.
It is estimated that around 6.71 lakh two-wheelers, 97,000 commercial vehicles and over
40,000 three-wheelers are affected by the ban.
The auto firms are presently holding a stock of over 8 lakh such vehicles, which are
valued at up to Rs 20, 000 cr. Besides, upgrading engines, so as to comply with BS IV
norms will further add to the manufacturing cost.
The switchover from BS III to BS IV emission norms may have caused a one-time
material impact on the auto industry; however, in the long run it will be a profitable
exercise.
The reason being, that the next transition from BS IV to BS VI is also around the corner
and the auto manufacturers better get their act together, if they wish to remain competitive
in the global market.
Switchover from BS-IV to BS-VI by April 2020
The government displaying its unequivocal intention to curb vehicular pollution had
earlier announced on 13 January 2016, that India would skip BS-V and directly switch
from BS-IV to BS-VI norms by 2020.
The reason given by the Oil Ministry was that there is not much difference between BS-V
and BS-VI fuel and this transition would turn out to be more economical in the long run.
The BS-VI norms is said to be equivalent to the Euro-VI norms.
The switchover to BS-VI would require the vehicles to be fitted with DPF (Diesel
Particulate Filter).
Implications of Adopting BS-VI Norms
Fitting of DPF inside the engine compartment will require major re-engineering effort and
would also incidentally result in an increase of the length of the car bonnet.
The small car segment falls in the four meter length category, the increased length of the
car bonnet is likely to put the present small cars into the higher excise duty bracket,
thereby increasing the cost of cars.
It is estimated that the petrol cars will be costlier by Rs 10,000-20,000, diesel cars by Rs
80,000-1.2 lakh and by trucks 1.5-2 lakh.
Besides, skipping of BS-V will put extra pressure on auto manufactures to produce
complaint vehicles with significantly higher technological enhancement.

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In order to switch to the BS-VI norms, oil refineries will require substantial investments to
upgrade refineries to supply fuel types that match the BS-VI standards.
This switchover from BS-IV to BS-VI is likely to cost the oil companies between Rs
50,000 cr to Rs 80,000 cr.
Road ahead
It can be well understood from the reasons given above that the industry is resisting the
proposed changeover. However, the automobile industry must cooperate in the larger
interest of the country and also to remain globally competitive.
Another point that needs to be highlighted here is that vehicular pollution contributes
towards less than 10 percent of the overall pollution index of the country.
The two major factors which adversely impact the environment, besides the others, are the
unethical practice of fuel adulteration and the uncontrolled usage of fossil fuels /
conventional high polluting fuels by a host of small scale industries.
Therefore, along with the adoption of the new emission norms for vehicles, it is
imperative that the menace of fuel adulteration and the type of energy resource being
employed by small scale industries, especially in the unorganised sector, is strictly
monitored to maximise the benefits of implementation of the new emission policy.
17. EXIT POLLS - threat to democracy?
Recently, the Election Commission (EC) had banned the conduct and publication of exit
polls between February 4 and March 8, when five states were scheduled to vote.
How did the media react to the Election Commissions guidelines?
There were strong protests from both the print and electronic media, who contended that
the guidelines violated their fundamental right of free speech and expression.
As per media, it is condemnable to arrest a journalist for doing his job of disseminating
information received from another agency, a pollster called RDI.
The arrest will tend to strengthen state intolerance of media and could create a climate of
suppression of facts that citizens need to know in order to take informed decisions and
form opinions.
The EC order was challenged in the Supreme Court and the High Courts of Delhi and
Rajasthan.
The Supreme Court heard the matter urgently, but did not stay the Commissions
guidelines, making the 1998 Lok Sabha elections the only elections in the country in
which both opinion and exit polls were banned for close to a month.

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Difference between exit poll and opinion poll
An opinion poll is a pre-election survey to gather voters views on a range of election-

related issues.
An exit poll, on the other hand, is conducted immediately after people have voted, and
assesses the support for political parties and their candidates.
But why is the Election Commission (EC) opposed to media coverage of opinion
polls and exit polls during a multi-phase election?
Both kinds of polls can be controversial if the agency conducting them is perceived to be
biased.
The EC believes the results of such polls influence voting behaviour during an election
that plays out in multiple phases: in the case of UP, Indias largest state, in seven phases
spread over February 11 to March 8.
Critics say the projections of these surveys can be influenced by the choice, wording and
timing of the questions, and by the nature of the sample drawn.
Political parties often allege that many opinion and exit polls are motivated and sponsored
by their rivals, and could have a distorting effect on the choices voters make in a
protracted election, rather than simply reflecting public sentiment or views.
How do other countries deal with pre-election and exit polls?
European Union countries
Sixteen European Union countries ban reporting of opinion polls, with ban timeframes
ranging from a full month to just 24 hours before polling day.
Only Italy, Slovakia and Luxembourg have a ban of more than 7 days. A 7-day blackout
imposed by France in 1977 was overturned by a court order that deemed it to be violative
of the freedom of expression.
The French ban has been reduced to 24 hours ahead of voting day.
UK
In the UK, there are no restrictions on publishing results of opinion polls however,
results of exit polls cant be published until the voting is over.
US
In the United States, media coverage of opinion polls is regarded as an integral part of free
speech in elections, and publication is allowed at any time.
The only restriction that exists not reporting likely outcomes from exit polls before

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voting is over on election day is one that news organisations commissioning the polls
voluntarily impose upon themselves.
When did the EC first attempt to place curbs on such surveys?
In 1997:
The EC held its first consultation with political parties on exit and opinion polls on
December 22, 1997 when Dr M S Gill was Chief Election Commissioner followed by
another on December 23. In the meetings, representatives of most national and state
parties said these polls were unscientific, and suffered from biases in the size and nature
of samples.
Other attempts:
Soon afterward, on January 11, 1998, with Lok Sabha polls and Assembly elections in
Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Nagaland and Tripura around the corner, the
Election Commission issued guidelines under Article 324 of the Constitution, prohibiting
newspapers and news channels from publishing results of pre-election surveys and exit
polls between 5 pm on February 14 and 5 pm on March 7. The first votes in the elections
were scheduled to be cast on February 16, 1998, and the last votes on March 7.
The EC also mandated that while carrying the results of exit and opinion polls,
newspapers and channels should disclose the sample size of the electorate, the details of
polling methodology, the margin of error and the background of the polling agency.
Why is the current EC ban limited to exit polls?
After the success of 1998, the EC tried to invoke these guidelines again ahead of the Lok
Sabha polls of 1999. But sections of the media refused to follow it, forcing the EC to
move court.
The matter was referred to a Constitution Bench of the apex court, which expressed
concern over the constitutional validity of the guidelines. After the Bench observed that
the EC cannot enforce such guidelines in the absence of statutory sanction, the
Commission withdrew its plans.
In 2004, the EC approached the Law Ministry along with the endorsement of six national
parties and 18 state parties, seeking an amendment to the Representation of the People Act
to provide for a ban on both exit and opinion polls during a period specified by the
Commission.
The recommendation was accepted in part, and in February 2010, restrictions were
imposed only on exit polls through the introduction of Section 126(A) in the Act.
In November 2013, the EC held consultations with political parties to revive its demand to
restrict pre-election opinion polls as well.

Page 50/53
May 2017
IAS EXPRESS
All political parties with the exception of the BJP endorsed the suggestion to forbid
publishing results of opinion polls from the date of notification of elections until the end
of polling.
The suggestion was sent to the Law Ministry, but no action has been taken on it so far.
In favour of banning exit polls:
1. Exit polls disclosed in the early stages of polling may impact voting patterns in the latter
stages.
2. These polls can be manipulated to show one party or the other in the lead, in a bid to
influence voters.
3. A derivative argument emanating from the above two points is that extraneous factors
should not be allowed to distort voter intentions and final choices. She must exercise her
franchise in a hermetically-sealed bubble.
Exit polls actually influence voting behaviour
Firstly,
If elections are about choice, tactical voting, or tactical non-voting, are also choices. If,
say, a voter believes that the earlier phase of voting went one way, he can change his mind
in order to impact the vote in later stages.
Tactical voting happens even without exit polls, as parties put up dummy candidates, and
religious and caste groups vote differently in different constituencies in order to defeat a
party they are against, etc.
If voter behaviour is about voting for or against someone, is it any business of the EC to
insist that she should be voting only in the way she initially planned to?
If more information results in different patterns of voter behaviour, there is nothing wrong
in it.
The only thing to guard against is voter laziness, where he or she does not go to vote
thinking it is all over.
What is worth defending is the voters right to vote as he or she wants to, and to change
his or her mind at the last minute, without coercive pressures.
Exit polls are merely additional information inputs and not a deterrent to choice.
In any case, the alleged damage exit polls may do can easily be done by political parties
claiming victory after one phase and by newspapers or TV channels hinting at how the
vote went.
A mere ban on exit polls does not automatically shut off a source of critical information
for the voter.
By denying the voter this information, the EC is effectively limiting voter choices, which
is unwarranted in a free election. What information the voter does not get formally, she
will seek informally, which may be worse.

Page 51/53
May 2017
IAS EXPRESS
Secondly,
The argument that some exit polls may be dubious and fake does not hold much water.
When fake news and paid news happen in most elections, and politicians can anyway
convey biases through innuendo and dog-whistle statements that appeal to baser instincts,
the assumption that only exit polls are distortive of voting intentions is questionable.
The commission should not presume that voters are fools, who will get taken in by exit
poll misrepresentations.
These are exaggerated fears, and can anyway be fanned by local media and through
whisper campaigns that the commission can do nothing about.
The antidote to fake or doctored news is exposure of these sources, not a ban. Nothing
distorts choice like bans.
If multiple agencies compete among themselves to conduct exit polls, it is likely that they
will contradict each other, thereby cancelling out whatever impact a single poll might
have had.
Thirdly,
The commissions assumption that voters must exercise choice in an antiseptic

environment is plain wrong. Nobody makes choices in a vacuum, the EC cannot provide a
bubble of isolation in which the voter decides whom to vote for in an election.
Pressures from family, community, friends and material incentives all play a part in voter
decisions. The voter has to decide amidst this cacophony.
A ban on exit polls is hardly going to be decisive in cutting out the noise.
ECs own failings:
This year, Election Commission is holding elections spread over large timeframes. For
example, three mini states (Goa, Manipur and Uttarakhand), one midi state (Punjab) and
one mega state (UP) are going to the polls.
Here the question is: What stopped the commission from finishing the four smaller polls
in one day, and the whole of UP in another?
If the Lok Sabha elections can be held over seven or eight phases, what is the earthy need
to use the same time frame for one big state?
The commissions job is to hold the elections quickly and then move on. By giving itself
extended time to hold elections in slow motion, it is giving itself needless importance and
control over the discourse longer than needed.
In the process, it is stamping on free speech, when the whole purpose of an election is to
allow politicians, the citizenry, and the media to use this freedom to enable voters to make
a choice.
The point of an election campaign is to influence the voter, and to artificially try and
prevent one form of influence opinion or exit polls is counter-productive.

Page 52/53
May 2017
IAS EXPRESS
The EC should stop thinking that the purpose of the polls is to give its own views
predominance.
The commission is the instrument to ensure informed consent of the voter, not the end-
goal of democracy.
Road ahead
The EC should remove the ban. Such polls will create one additional source of
information, remove a gag on media and create a market for opinion.
The government should abandon the paternalistic notion that people need to be protected
from information, to keep out evil influences. Trust their judgement.

Page 53/53
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UPSC Question Mains 2016
Our Test Mains 2016
GENERAL STUDIES - 1
GS 1 - Questions
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GENERAL STUDIES - 1
1. Major cities of India are becoming Indian floods are a man-made disaster. 1 15
vulnerable to flood conditions. Discuss. Explain. How can these floods be
scientifically managed?.
Chennai is only the latest example of
demographic and environmental changes 3
leading to urban flooding. Examine the (GS3) 1
issue of urban flooding.
2. Early Buddhist Stupa-art, while depicting Stupas remind the Buddhist practitioner 3 14
folk motifs and narratives, successfully of the Buddha and his teachings. Explain.
expounds Buddhist ideals. Elucidate.
3. Krishnadeva Raya, the king of Krishnadevaraya a Scholar and Patron 3 11
Vijayanagar, was not only an of Arts. Discuss.
accomplished scholar himself but was a
also a great patron of learning and
literature. Discuss.
4. Explain how the upraising of 1857 British policies towards India completely 3 1
constitutes an important watershed in the changed in the years 1857 to 1877.
evolution of British policies towards Examine.
colonial India. 1858 is the Great Divide In modern
Indian history, as the policy, practice and 1 2
ideals of the government that followed
differed fundamentally from the
government of the Company which it
displaced. Discuss.
5. Discuss the role of women in the The role of women in the salt protests fits 3 16
freedom struggle especially during the into a larger understanding of the role of
Gandhian phase. women in Indias fight for freedom from
British rule. Explain
6. An essential condition to eradicate What is Empowerment line?. How is this 3 18
poverty is to liberate the poor from the different from Poverty Line?. What are
process of deprivation. Substantiate this the key priorities for empowering Indians
statement with suitable examples. to shift focus from Poverty to
Empowerment?. 3 7
Explain the dynamics of poverty and (GS2)
deprivation.
7. Why are the tribals in India referred to as Identify the difference between scheduled 3 12
the Scheduled Tribes? Indicate the major caste (SC) and scheduled tribe (ST) ?
provisions enshrined in the Constitution How has the Indian government
of India for their upliftment. classified tribes and caste into it?.
8. What is the basis of regionalism? Is it that Examine interaction between federalism 3 6
unequal distribution of benefits of and regionalism in India.
development on regional basis eventually
promotes regionalism? Substantiate your
Study materials available Political Science, Sociology, General Studies, Essay & CSAT Paper 1& 2
2nd Floor. New.No.59 (Old 1228),18th Main Road, Anna Nagar. Chennai - 40. Landmark - Above ADYAR
BAKERY 1
answer.
9. Present an account of the Indus Water Is Indus Waters Treaty a bad bargaining 3 10
Treaty and examine its ecological, chip for India?.
economic and political implications in the
context of changing bilateral relations.
10. Highlight the differences in the approach Bring out the similarities & differences 4 1
of Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma between Netaji & Mahatma Gandhi.
Gandhi in the struggle for freedom.
11. Has the formation of linguistic states Explain BR Ambedkars thoughts on 4 4
strengthened the cause of Indian unity? Linguistic States.
Why language was decided as the basis on
which Indias states were to be 1 25
reorganized?. Comment on the
reorganization of states after States
Reorganization Act, 1956.
12. To what extent globalisation has Does globalization imply we will become 4 3
influenced the core of cultural diversity in one culture?.
India? Explain.
13. Discuss the concept of air mass and What are Air masses?. How does this 4 18
explain its role in macro-climatic changes. relate to climate & forestry?.
14. South China Sea has assumed great South China Sea is of geopolitical and 4 15
geopolitical significance in the present geo-economic interest for India. Discuss. (GS2)
context. Comment.
15. Enumerate the problems and prospects of Highlight the salient features of National 4 8
inland water transport in India. Waterways Bill 2015. Would it be a Game
changer for addressing inland water
transport issues?.
16. In what way micro-watershed Short notes on Drought Management 4 16
development projects help in water Strategies in India.
conservation in drought-prone and semi-
arid regions of India?
17. The Himalayas are highly prone to Why do landslides occur more in 4 20
landslides.Discuss the causes and suggest Himalayas than Western Ghats?. How
suitable measures of mitigation. can landslides be managed?.
18. The effective management of land and Mention three major differences between 4 13
water resources will drastically reduce the the Himalayan and the Peninsular
human miseries. Explain. drainage systems. Managing the optimum
use of water resources is the need of the
hour. Explain.
19. With a brief background of quality of Discussed in Current Affairs Class but
urban life in India, introduce the not covered in Test Papers.
objectives and strategy of the Smart City
Programme.
20. The anti-colonial struggles in West Africa
were led by the new elite of Western -
educated Africans. Examine.
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BAKERY 2
GENERAL STUDIES - 2
Our Test Mains 2016
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GS 2 - Questions
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No. No.
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Vouch us.
GENERAL STUDIES - 2
1. Demographic Dividend in India will remain only How has Demographic Dividend 1 8
theoretical unless our manpower becomes more become Demographic Disaster for (GS 1)
educated, aware, skilled and creative. What measures India?.
have been taken by the government to enhance the
capacity of our population to be more productive and
employable?
2. Effectiveness of the government system at various Highlight the features of Citizens 1 5
levels and peoples participation in the governance Charter Bill, 2011. (GS 3)
system are inter-dependent/ Discuss their
relationship in the context of India.
3. In the Indian governance system, the role of non- Give a critical estimate on role of 4 5
state actors has been only marginal. Critically super-national bodies in Indian
examine this statement. governance.
How do Non-state actors pose threat 1 9
to India's internal security?. (GS 3)
4. Increasing cross-border terrorist attacks in India and Is future of regional cooperation in 2 11
growing interference in the internal affairs of South Asia in shambles?.
member-states by Pakistan are not conducive for the
future of SAARC (South Asian Association for
Regional Cooperation). Explain with suitable
examples.
5. The broader aims and objectives of WTO are to Examine the background and current 2 4
manage and promote international trade in the era of state of Indian position in Doha
globalization. But the Doha round of negotiations Round negotiations. 2 13
seem doomed due to differences between the Is WTO right in the Indo US solar
developed and the developing countries. Discuss in panel dispute?.
the Indian perspective.
6. The Indian party system is passing through a phase The roots of many pertinent problems 2 17
of transition which looks to be full of contradictions faced by Indian democracy can be partly
and paradoxes. Discuss. traced to the lack of intra-party
democracy in political parties.
Comment.
7. Traditional bureaucratic structure and culture have Government has no business to do 3 8
hampered the process of socio-economic business. The focus should be minimum
development in India. Comment. government and maximum governance.
Discuss.
8. Discuss each adjective attached to the word Should 42nd amendment be repealed 3 14
Republic in the Preamble. Are they defendable in as it altered the philosophy of the
the present circumstances? Indian Constitution?.
[Stressed more in the Class & also
Model answer given for relevance of
Socialism & Secularism]
9. Discuss the essentials of the 69th Constitutional Comment on the Constitutional status 1 2
Amendment Act and anomalies, if any, which have of Delhi. What are the powers and
BAKERY 1
led to recent reported conflicts between the elected duties of the Delhi government?.
representatives and the institution of the Lieutenant
Governor in the administration of Delhi. Do you
think that this will give rise to a new trend in the
functioning of the Indian federal politics?
10. Evaluate the economic and strategic dimensions of Place a review on India's 'Look East' 2 15
Indias Look East Policy in the context of the post- and 'Act East' Policies.
2 7
Cold War international scenario. How has the end of cold war altered
Indias foreign policy stand?.
11. Exercise of CAGs powers in relation to the accounts The Comptroller and Auditor- 1 1
of the Union and the States is derived from Article General (CAG) of India is a
149 of the Indian Constitution. Discuss whether prosecutor with a law that hobbles its
audit of the Governments policy implementation functioning, a judge without the
could amount to overstepping its own (CAG) power to sentence and a litigant with
jurisdiction. no right to appeal. Comment. 3 6
Examine the relationship between a
PAC and CAG.
12. Has the Indian governmental system responded After 25 years after liberalization, India 3 1
adequately to the demands of Liberalization, must realize that wealth isn't
Privatization and Globalization started in 1991? What development unless it is shared. Explain.
can the government do to be responsive to this
important change?
13. In the integrity index of Transparency International, Transparency and Information pervade 3 18
India stands very low. Discuss briefly the legal, good governance. Discuss the statement
political, social and cultural factors that have caused in light of Indias status in Transparency
the decline of public morality in India. Internationals CPI Index.
14. Professor Amartya Sen has advocated important Amartya Sen's capability approach offers 3 2
reforms in the realms of primary education and the path to comprehensive and
primary health care. What are your suggestions to meaningful development for India.
improve their status and performance? Explain.
15. To what extent is Article 370 of the Indian Assess the implications of abrogating 3 3
Constitution, bearing marginal note temporary Article 370?.
provision with respect to the State of Jammu and
Kashmir, temporary? Discuss the future prospects
of this provision in the context of Indian polity.
16. What is quasi-judicial body? Explain with the help of What are Constitutional, Statutory & 4 17
concrete examples. Quasi-Judicial Bodies?. Give examples
for each category.
17. What was held in the Coelho case? In this context, Is 9th Schedule open to judicial 3 10
can you say that judicial review is of key importance review?. Place your arguments. Throw
amongst the basic features of the Constitution? light on I.R.Coelho Judgment in this
context?.
[Stressed more in the Class & also
Model answer given]
18. Did the Government of India Act, 1935 lay down a Covered in the Class but not in TEST
federal constitution? Discuss. PAPERS.
19. Examine the main provisions of the National Child
Policy and throw light on the status of its
implementation.
20. What are the aims and objectives of the McBride
Commission of the UNESCO? What is Indias
position on these?
BAKERY 2
GENERAL STUDIES - 3
Our Test Mains 2016
GS 3 - Questions
Exactly feeling the Pulse of UPSC. Ask Our Students who have written Test. Qn.
No. No.
the tests. They will Vouch us.
GENERAL STUDIES - 3
1. How globalization has led to the reduction of Identify the linkages between globalization 1 11
employment in the formal sector of the Indian and inclusive growth.
4 8
economy? Is increased informalization Globalization and economic reforms
detrimental to the development of the country? typically affect the formal sector, the
informal sector existing outside regulation.
Yet, numerous links between them mean the
informal sector is variously affected. Explain.
2. Comment on the challenges for inclusive How is Inclusive growth different from pro- 1 8
growth which include careless and useless poor growth?.
1 9
manpower in the Indian context. Suggest How to exploit demographic dividend of
measures to be taken for facing these India to achieve Inclusive growth?.
challenges. Few more questions from various
dimensions OF INCLUSIVE GROWTH in
Test 1 of GS -3
3. Discuss Indias achievements in the field of Elucidate the role of science and technology in 1 2
Space Science and Technology. How the fostering inclusive growth. (AN INDIRECT
application of this technology has helped India QUESTION ONLY BUT RIGHT
in its socio-economic development? ORIENTATION TO UPSC QUESTION)
4. The frequency of urban floods due to high Indian floods are a man-made disaster. 1 15
intensity rainfall is increasing over the years. Explain. How can these floods be (GS1)
Discussing the reasons for urban floods. scientifically managed?.
Highlight the mechanisms for preparedness to Chennai is only the latest example of
reduce the risk during such events. demographic and environmental changes 3 1
leading to urban flooding. Examine the
issue of urban flooding.
5. What is water-use efficiency? Describe the role What are the objectives of Pradhan Mantri 2 11
of micro-irrigation in increasing the water-use Krishi Sinchayee Yojana?. Why does Micro-
efficiency. irrigation lag far behind potential?.
6. Use of Internet and social media by non-state India is far behind in cyber security expertise 2 11
actors for subversive activities is a major compared to UK, US and China. Do you
concern. How have these have misused in the agree?. Propose a model of New Cyber
recent past? Suggest effective guidelines to Security Architecture for India.
curb the above threat. Distinguish the terms - Cyber Warfare &
Cyber terrorism. What do you understand by 3 3
"Sabotage"?.
7. What is allelopathy? Discuss its role in major Explore the possible role of possible role of 3 7
cropping systems of irrigated agriculture. allelechemicals in improving crop productivity.
8. Give an account of the current status and the Would UJALA programme emerge as a 3 20
targets to be achieved pertaining to renewable winwin from consumer point of view?
energy sources in the country. Discuss in brief
the importance of National Programme on
Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs).
nd
2 Floor. New.No.59 (Old 1228),18th Main Road, Anna Nagar. Ch - 40. Landmark - Above Adyar Bakery 1
9. In the integrity index of Transparency Transparency and Information pervade good 3 18
International, India stands very low. Discuss governance. Discuss the statement in light of
briefly the legal, political, social and cultural Indias status in Transparency Internationals
factors that have caused the decline of public CPI Index.
morality in India.
10. Why is nanotechnology one of the key What are the properties and uses of 3 15
technologies of the 21st century? Describe the nanoparticles?. Elaborate on Indias Nano
salient features of Indian Governments Mission.
Mission on Nanoscience and Technology and
the scope of its application in the development
process of the country.
11. Rehabilitation of human settlements is one of Explain 'development' in DIDR angle. 3 4
the important environmental impacts which
always attracts controversy while planning Note - Development-Induced Displacement
major projects. Discuss the measures suggested And Resettlement (DIDR).
for mitigation of this impact while proposing
major developmental projects. One essay was also given and discussed.
12. With reference to National Disaster Explain the meaning of Uttarakhand 3 6
Management Authority (NDMA) guidelines, cloudburst and how does it affect India?.
discuss the measures to be adopted to mitigate How can we manage such disasters?.
the impact of the recent incidents of
cloudbursts in many places of Uttarakhand.
13. The terms Hot Pursuit and Surgical Strikes What is meant by Doctrine Of Hot Pursuit?. 3 17
are often used in connection with armed action Examine its pros & cons.
against terrorist attacks. Discuss the strategic
impact of such actions.
14. Women empowerment in India needs gender Short notes on Gender Responsive 4 13
budgeting. What are the requirements and Budgeting.
status of gender budgeting in the Indian Gender Responsive Budgeting in India
context? needs a completely different rhythm if it has
to translate into better outcomes for the
women of our country. Examine. 4 7
What is the difference between sex and (GS 1)
gender. Lack of political mobilization and
4
lobbying capacity is a major inadequacy of (GS 1) 19
feminist politics in India. Comment.
15. Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) is Jan Dhan Yojana has helped poor, but 4 12
necessary for bringing unbanked to the financial inclusion still far off. Explain.
institutional finance fold. Do you agree with A meaningful financial inclusion starts only 1 2
this for financial inclusion of the poorer with the availability of public goods.
section of the Indian society? Give arguments Elucidate. Do you think that Jan Dhan
to justify your opinion. Yojana will bring meaningful financial
inclusion?.
16. What are Smart Cities? Examine their To Support Smart Cities, India needs Smart 4 16
relevance for urban development in India. Will Villages. Explain.
it increase rural-urban differences? Give Give a brief on schemes of Government of
arguments for Smart Villages in the light of India aimed at making smart villages. In 1 11
PURA and RURBAN Mission. what ways people and tradition would be an (GS 1)
hindrance in this pursuit?.
17. Justify the need for FDI for the development Comment on latest changes in FDI policy. 4 4
of the Indian economy. Why there is gap
between MOUs signed and actual FDIs?
Suggest remedial steps to be taken for
increasing actual FDIs in India.
nd
18. Discuss the role of land reforms in agricultural By and large land reforms in India enacted so 4 3
development. Identify the factors that were far and those contemplated in the near future,
responsible for the success of land reforms in are in the right direction; and yet are far from
India. satisfactory. Explain.
19. Given the vulnerability of Indian agriculture to How can PMFBY scheme can be a 4 10
vagaries of nature, discuss the need for crop gamechanger?.
insurance and bring out the salient features of
the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana
(PMFBY)
20. Terrorism is emerging as a competitive What makes terrorism an essentially contested 4 20
industry over the last few decades. Analyse concept?.
the above statement.
nd
GENERAL STUDIES - 4
Our Test Mains 2016
GS 4 - Questions
Exactly feeling the Pulse of UPSC. Ask Our Students who have Test. Qn.
No. No.
written the tests. They will Vouch
us.
GENERAL STUDIES - 4
1. Analyse John Rawlss concept of social justice in the Justice is not an ethic of rewards but an 4 12
Indian context. ethic of redressal. (John Rawls). Comment.
2. Anger is a harmful negative emotion. It is injurious to We are all emotional beings. Emotional 4 17
both personal life and work life. (a) Discuss how it Intelligence is the ultimate workplace
leads to negative emotions and undesirable anger management solution. Comment
behaviours. (b) How can it be managed and from an Individuals perspective and
controlled? Public Administration perspective.
Emotionally intelligent behavior is a
prerequisite for a successful civil servant. 1 4
Examine.
3. Corruption causes misuse of government treasury, The decline in output and corruption can 3 3
Administrative inefficiency and obstruction in the be curbed by promoting professionalism at
path of national Development. Discuss Kautilyas work. (Kautilya). Explain.
views.
4. Discuss Mahatma Gandhis concept of seven sins. Short notes on Seven Deadly Sins as said 1 10
by Mahatma Gandhi.
5. Discuss the Public Services Code as recommended Conduct Rules for civil servants need to be 4 1
by the 2nd Administrative Reforms Commission. redrawn. Explain w.r.t. 2nd ARC Report..
6. Explain how ethics contributes to social and human rta is described as a power or force 1 1
well-being. which is the controller of the forces of
nature and of moral values in human
society. Explain.
'RTA' and 'DHARMA' Indian
Philosophy.
7. Law and ethics are considered to be the two tools for (a) Ethics and legality are not synonymous. 2 4
controlling human conduct so as to make it Comment.
conducive to civilized social existence. (a) Discuss
how they achieve this objective. (b) Giving examples
show how the two differ in their approaches.
8. Max Weber said that it is not wise to apply to public Is Weberian Rational Bureaucracy 2 11
administration the sort of moral and ethical norms morally & ethically clean type?. How
we apply to matters of personal conscience. It is does Merton criticize Weber in this
important to realise that the State bureaucracy might regard?. 2 20
possess its own independent bureaucratic morality. What is meant by Bureaupathology?.
Critically analyse this statement. How can it be overcome in Indian
Context?.
9. Our attitudes towards life, work, other people and Attitudes are by and large acquired as a 3 6
society are generally shaped unconsciously by the result of various life experiences, although
family and social surroundings in which we grow up. a small but growing body of evidence
Some of these unconsciously acquired attitudes and indicates that attitudes may be influenced
values are often undesirable in the citizens of modern by genetic factors, too. How can such
democratic and egalitarian society. (a) Discuss such attitudes developed over a period of 20
undesirable values prevalent in todays educated years can be tuned to match the
nd
Indians. (b) How can such undesirable attitudes be requirements of Modern Bureaucratic set
changed and socio-ethical values be cultivated in the up?. Identify the Challenges thereupon.
aspiring and serving civil servants?
10. What do you understand by the terms governance, Differentiate between organizations 4 3
good governance and ethical governance? ethical principles and administrative
procedures. Are Ethical Governance and
Good Governance same?.
11. Why should impartiality and non-partisanship be Relationships are the DNA of 4 6
considered as foundational values in public services, governance. Comment. Differentiate
especially in the present day socio-political context? between impartiality and
Illustrate your answer with examples. nonpartisanship in such relations.
Public servants should strictly observe 2 13
the triple maxim of impartiality,
neutrality, and anonymity. Comment.
12. How could social influence and persuasion
contribute to the success of Swatchh Bharat
Abhiyan?
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3. Indias longest ropeway route to come up between Mumbai and Elephanta

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4. Indias first sea rope-way to connect Mumbai & Elephanta Island

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China remains as the worlds top importer.

Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY)

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6. Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Power Project

Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Power Project

Solar power sector in India

At present, of the 310 GW installed power generation capacity, 46 GW is from renewable

7. 31st Meeting of the Central Consumer Protection Council

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Consumer Protection Councils

Central Consumer Protection Council

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This will be done through a network of pipelines.

Does it benefit farmers?

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9. INS Chennai dedicated to Chennai

It is the largest-ever destroyer to be built in India. It is third and last Kolkata-class

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The project would enable commercial navigation of vessels of 1,500-2,000 deadweight

Need of the project:

Jal Marg Vikas Project

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River Information system

River Information system (RIS) RIS is a combination of modern tracking equipment

National Waterway-1 (NW-1) is a waterway passing through Uttar Pradesh, Bihar,

Inland Waterways Authority of India

11. Monsoon will be normal in 2017: IMD

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Aim of the scheme

Quality Mark Award Scheme

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National Dairy Development Board

It was founded by Dr. Verghese Kurien.

NDDB is extending financial and technical support to dairy cooperatives.

A government committee has also iterated the same.

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Need for tagging:

Important recommendations made by the committee:

14. National Waterway-1(River Ganga)

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