Current Affairs Compilations for UPSC IAS Prelims 2022

Mains Oriented Articles

GS Paper 1

• India@75, Looking at 100: From Mathura to Manipur: The journey for gender justice

GS Paper 2

• Express View on Delhi services Bill: A self-goal
• Workplace safety is not negotiable at any level
• Details Awaited – Personal data protection bill this time does well to emphasise purpose limitation. But subsequent rules are the key

GS Paper 3

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Mains Oriented Articles

GS Paper 1

India@75, Looking at 100: From Mathura to Manipur: The journey for gender justice

Source: The post is based on the article “India@75, Looking at 100: From Mathura to Manipur: The journey for gender justice” published in “The Indian express” on 4th August 2023.

Syllabus: GS1- social issues

News: The author discusses the increasing violence against women in India. Despite reforms, incidents like rapes continue to rise. Key cases like the Mathura rape and Delhi gang rape shaped legal changes. However, current events, like conflicts in Manipur, show persisting challenges. The article questions India’s progress on gender justice as it nears 100 years of independence.

About Current State of Gender Justice in India

Gender justice in India faces serious challenges due to high violence rates against women.

In 2021, India saw 31,677 registered rape cases, showing an increase from 2020.

Despite laws like the 2012 POCSO Act, these incidents continue, including 10% involving minors.

Important cases like Mathura, Delhi, and Hathras have led to law reforms.

However, gender-based violence persists during conflicts, like in Manipur.

As India approaches 100 years of nationhood, it’s crucial to address these systemic issues.

How have rape laws evolved?

Start of Movement: The Mathura rape case in 1979 ignited the campaign against rape.

1983 Amendment: After the case, rape laws saw the first amendment. Minimum seven years for general rapes and ten years for aggravated ones were set.

Vishaka Guidelines: Introduced in 1997, these led to the 2013 act against workplace sexual harassment.

2012 Change: POCSO Act introduced, addressing sexual crimes against children under 18. It expanded the definition of sexual assault.

Post Delhi Gang Rape: After the 2012 incident, the rape law further evolved, including wider definitions from POCSO into the section 376 of the IPC.

2019 Update: Kathua case’s aftermath led to death penalties for rape of minor girls under 12.

Caste-based Atrocities: Cases like Hathras underline the need for laws recognizing caste-related sexual violence.

What notable cases marked the campaign?

Mathura Case (1979): A tribal girl raped by policemen, leading to a Supreme Court judgment.

Rameeza Bi & Maya Tyagi: Husbands killed by police; both women raped.

Suman Rani (1989): Sentence reduced due to the victim’s “character and conduct”.

Bhanwari Devi (1992): Acquitted due to caste beliefs; sparked workplace harassment guidelines.

Khairlanji Massacre (2006): Dalit family targeted; mother and daughter gang-raped.

Kathua Case (2018): Muslim girl raped and murdered; led to death penalty for rape of minors under 12.

Hathras Case (2020): Dalit woman raped by upper-caste men; delayed medical care and controversial cremation.

Manipur Conflict: Ethnic conflict saw increased sexual assaults, compelling national attention.

GS Paper 2

Express View on Delhi services Bill: A self-goal

Source: The post is based on the article “Express View on Delhi services Bill: A self-goal” published in “The Indian express” on 4th August 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure.

News: This article discusses the GNCTD Bill, which can allow the central government in India to override decisions of Delhi’s elected officials. This raises concerns about democracy and federalism. The article also critiques regional parties supporting this bill, warning it could harm their political influence.

About Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill (GNCTD Bill)

The GNCTD Bill allows the central government to override Delhi’s elected decisions.

Once passed, the Lieutenant-Governor (Centre’s nominee) becomes the final authority in Delhi.

Previously, the Supreme Court ruled Delhi’s elected government had more powers.

BJD and YSRCP, two regional parties, support the bill, which could affect their future political influence.

What are the issues with GNCTD Bill?

Central Overreach: The GNCTD Bill enables the central government to overrule the decisions of Delhi’s elected government.

Lieutenant-Governor’s Power: The Lieutenant-Governor, appointed by the Centre, becomes the final decision-maker in Delhi, bypassing elected representatives.

Contradicts Supreme Court: The bill goes against a recent Supreme Court decision that granted Delhi’s elected government more powers.

Undermines Democracy: The bill challenges the fundamental promise of electoral democracy and the federal spirit of the Indian Constitution.

Federal Concerns: By impacting Delhi’s autonomy, there’s a fear that other states might face similar central interventions.

Erodes Checks and Balances: The bill could weaken the balance of power, concentrating authority with the Centre rather than distributing it federally.

Workplace safety is not negotiable at any level

Source– The post is based on the article “Workplace safety is not negotiable at any level” published in the “mint” on 4th August 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- Vulnerable sections of the population. GS1- Social empowerment

Relevance: issues related to women

News– The article deals with the issue of sexual harassment of women at workplaces.

What are some statistics related to sexual harassment of women at workplace?

According to a 2022 report by the International Labour Organization, nearly 23% of employed individuals globally experienced violence and harassment at work.

In India, an analysis conducted by Mint revealed that the country’s leading publicly traded companies witnessed a significant 70% increase in sexual harassment complaints during the period of 2022-23.

This rise in reported cases was particularly prominent among 23 large-cap firms.

Which factors are responsible for increased reporting of sexual harassment cases at workplaces?

In the previous fiscal year, a significant number of employees transitioned back to work on hybrid models after the pandemic-induced shift to remote work. The increase in reported cases of harassment could potentially be attributed to this shift.

The rise in reported cases could also be explained by improved reporting mechanisms due to clearer guidelines and policies implementation.

There is  a greater sense of confidence in the redressal process and people now feel more empowered to come forward and seek resolution

In Indian workplaces, awareness of rights and grievance mechanisms has increased significantly since the introduction of the Supreme Court’s Vishaka guidelines in 1997.

These guidelines laid the foundation for the Sexual Harassment of Women in the Workplace Act of 2013, commonly known as the PoSH Act.

Well-managed companies are educating their staff about this law seriously. As a result, office employees now have a clearer understanding of the scope of the PoSH Act and the various forms of harassment.

The global movement of speaking up and exposing predators has also influenced India Inc. Employers have established Vishaka panels to address harassment cases. Discussions about gender ratio and autonomy have become common topics in office conversations.

The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted companies to address the emotional and physical safety of their employees.

Well-managed companies have established a PoSH apparatus. But, they are exceptions. The majority of formal and informal organisations in the country lack adequate safety measures.

Way forward-

It is crucial to recognize that this law is to safeguard every individual across all levels of employment, regardless of positions.

Addressing this challenge requires collective effort from all stakeholders. Gender justice must be at the forefront of this endeavor.

Details Awaited – Personal data protection bill this time does well to emphasise purpose limitation. But subsequent rules are the key

Source: The post is based on the article “Details Awaited – Personal data protection bill this time does well to emphasise purpose limitation. But subsequent rules are the key” published in The Times of India on 4^th August 2023.

Syllabus: GS 2 – Government Policies and Interventions for Development in various sectors and Issues arising out of their Design and Implementation.

Relevance: About Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2023

News: Recently, the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2023, was introduced in Lok Sabha after the changes made on recommendation of the parliamentary committee.

What are the key provisions of the new Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2023?

The Bill has three notable features:

Firstly, it emphasizes purpose limitation to prevent data misuse, ensuring that even unwittingly given consent does not grant access beyond the specified purpose.

For example, a food delivery app may in its fine print also seek the phone contact list. The bill clearly spells out that even if consent is unwittingly given, purpose limitation will apply. In this example, the phone contact list will be out of bounds for the app.

Secondly, individuals have the right to have their data erased.

Thirdly, the bill introduces consent managers, licensed intermediaries, to help people navigate the legal aspects of consent.

However, the effectiveness of the bill depends on the subordinate legislation or rules that the government will later draft.

Must Read: Data Protection Bill approved by Cabinet: Content, concerns and The dangers in the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill

What can be the way ahead?

First, the drafted rules should provide clear definitions for exemptions from the checks imposed by data protection law.

Currently, the government has a broad exemption for using the personal data for upholding sovereignty and public order. However, these exceptions should be more specific and precise, considering that governments collect significant amounts of personal data.

Second, privacy being a fundamental right, the bill needs to be thoroughly debated in the Parliament. However, considering India’s significant amount of unprotected personal data, the bill’s passage should not be delayed.

GS Paper 3

How a nuclear ‘chain reaction’ and neighbourhood challenges led to India acquiring its n-weapons”

Source: The post is based on the article “How a nuclear ‘chain reaction’ and neighbourhood challenges led to India acquiring its n-weapons” published in “The Indian express” on 4th August 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- Security challenges

News: In this article author discusses J. Robert Oppenheimer’s regret over creating the atomic bomb. The article traces India’s nuclear journey, from Nehru’s early decisions to Vajpayee’s nuclear tests in 1998. Current global tensions around nuclear weapons are highlighted, with India’s role in promoting disarmament emphasized.

How did India evolve its nuclear power?

India’s Evolution of Nuclear Power:

Initial Approach:

Prime Minister Nehru was against atomic bombs but wanted nuclear power.

Dr. Homi J Bhabha was chosen to lead India’s nuclear program.

Reason for Development:

After China’s nuclear test in 1964, India felt the need for its own nuclear capabilities.

Early Testing:

India conducted its first nuclear test in 1974 under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

External Influences:

In 1985, US President Reagan informed Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi about Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities.

Rajiv Gandhi then began considering developing India’s own bomb.

Further Testing and Evolution:

Prime Minister Vajpayee oversaw nuclear tests in 1998.

These tests were a response to perceived threats from China.

Diplomatic Moves Post-Testing:

India engaged with the US, resulting in a strategic partnership involving technology cooperation.

What is India’s current stance on nuclear power?

India’s Current Stance on Nuclear Power:

Political Utility Emphasized:

After the 1998 tests, India highlighted the political benefits of its nuclear actions.

Despite international criticism, these tests boosted India’s strategic autonomy in decision-making.

Strategic Partnerships Formed:

Talks between Jaswant Singh and Strobe Talbott solidified the India-US relationship.

This led to the Indo-US nuclear deal, promoting cooperation in defense and technology sectors.

Promotion of Peace and Deterrence:

India’s nuclear weapons are primarily for deterrence.

In the 2019 Balakot surgical strike, even though India had nuclear capabilities, it opted for conventional warfare, ensuring peace.

Global Leadership in Disarmament:

Ahead of the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan emphasized a nuclear-free world.

As the G20 chair, India has the moral authority and opportunity to spearhead efforts in nuclear disarmament.

Overall, India maintains a careful balance between demonstrating its nuclear capabilities and promoting global peace.

What’s the Global Perspective on Nuclear Weapons?

Oppenheimer’s Remorse:

Oppenheimer regretted his role in creating the atomic bomb.

He believed it would end wars, but it started a US-USSR nuclear arms race.

Cold War Impact:

After the bombings in Japan, a nuclear race began, defining the Cold War era.

Current Tensions:

President Putin uses strong nuclear rhetoric regarding the Ukraine conflict.

India has voiced concerns over such aggressive postures.

Push for Disarmament:

Japan’s Prime Minister, Fumio Kishida, seeks a world without nuclear weapons.

India, being the G20 chair, can lead global disarmament initiatives.

Lessons from a load carrier

Source: The post is based on the article “Lessons from a load carrier” published in “Business standard” on 4th August 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- Security challenges and their management in border areas;

News: The author highlights the Indian Army’s use of Stallion vehicles and their costs. He suggests standardizing military gear for easier logistics. The article promotes involving civilian networks in military logistics and using retired military staff for maintenance. The aim is efficient logistics management.

How would the Indian army be able to standardize a load carrier?

The Indian Army can standardize a load carrier as follows:

Single Vehicle Type: Choose mainly one type of vehicle, like the Stallion by Ashok Leyland, which is already heavily used by the army. For example, the army operates about 50,000 Stallions today.

Commonalities: Even if different vehicles are used, ensure they have basic similarities with the primary chosen type. Like, base vehicle types should have common spare parts with marginally different types.

Reduce Spare Parts Inventory: By standardizing, the army can reduce the number of spare parts needed. For instances, the Soviets simplified logistics by using standard parts across different vehicles.

Involve Civil-Retail Network: Use Ashok Leyland’s wide truck network to simplify delivery and maintenance processes. Like, the Vehicle Factory Jabalpur can anticipate and cater to vehicle service needs through local retailers.

What are the benefits of standardizing a load carrier?

Cost Efficiency: Reduced need for various spare parts. For example, each Stallion costs 230 lakh, with a yearly fleet renewal of about 21,500 crore.

Simplified Logistics: Easier inventory management and reduced complexities. Like, Soviet Union simplified their military logistics by using standardized parts across different equipment.

Maintenance Predictability: Easier to anticipate servicing needs and spare parts consumption. Such as, Vehicle Factory Jabalpur can pre-ship components based on anticipated consumption.

Civil-Retail Involvement: Opportunity to involve local retail networks for better delivery and maintenance. For example, Ashok Leyland’s network can be used for transporting Stallions directly to military units.

Re-employment: Retired military personnel can maintain equipment they are familiar with. Like, Ex-servicemen can service equipment they used during service.

Six years of GST: Compensation cess still needs to be sorted out

Source– The post is based on the article “Six years of GST: Compensation cess still needs to be sorted out” published in the “mint” on 4th August 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- Government budgeting

Relevance: Issues related to GST

News– The article explains the issues related to GST compensation cess.

What are some facts related to GST compensation cess?

The funding for GST compensation was sourced from a cess imposed on specific goods listed in a schedule to the 2017 Act. These mainly include tobacco, coal-based solid fuels, and fossil-fuelled motor vehicles.

The schedule was also open-ended, allowing for the inclusion of any other supplies. This approach represented an exceptional statutory commitment to provide additional revenue.

What are facts and statistics related to shortage in cess collection?

Pandemic led to a significant increase in the required compensation while the collections from the cess declined. To address this discrepancy, the Centre resorted to special borrowing to cover the deficit in GST compensation.

During the 49th meeting of the GST Council in February 2023, the outstanding payments for June 2022 amounting to ₹0.16 trillion, were announced.

During the five-year statutory period, states received a total of ₹5.89 trillion in GST compensation, averaging ₹1.18 trillion per year.

However, the average annual revenue from the cess was only ₹0.96 trillion. It is falling below the average annual compensation required.

The cess collection for the entire financial year 2022-23 is totaling ₹5.76 trillion. It is still lower than the ₹5.89 trillion payout.

The shortage in cess collection was not evenly distributed across all years. There was a surplus in the pre-pandemic year 2018-19. Yet ,₹0.15 trillion of arrears remained unpaid until the beginning of 2022-23.

The likely reason for this delay is the late supply of audited figures of state revenues.

What is the government’s future plan for cess?

In September 2021, during the 45th meeting of the GST Council, it was proposed to extend the cess until March 2026 to cover the repayment of the Centre’s special borrowing used to compensate for the pandemic years.

In the most recent meeting, the GST Council recommended amending the Compensation Act rules to broaden the definition of taxable vehicles under the cess.

Way forward-

GST Compensation Act does allow for a surplus in the compensation fund to be divided between the Centre and states in a specified manner. But, once its statutory function is fulfilled, it should be reclassified separately from the Compensation Act.

There is a need to consider repurposing and renaming the compensation cess on items like tobacco, coal, and fossil-fuelled transportation as a Pigouvian levy on goods with negative health or climate impacts.

However, the utilization of the proceeds from such a climate cess should be guided by experts working in India on climate action. Additionally, the process to track the effectiveness of these critical expenditures needs to be carefully designed.

Why is the Biological Diversity Bill facing opposition?

Source– The post is based on the article “Why is the Biological Diversity Bill facing opposition?” published in “The Hindu” on 4th August 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- Economy

Relevance: Issues related to global economic development

News– Recently Parliament passed the Biological Diversity (Amendment) Bill, 2021.

Why are there issues with the Bill?

The Bill provides exemptions for “codified traditional knowledge” and the AYUSH industry concerning benefit sharing. It deprives local communities of the advantages related to accessing biological resources.

The lack of a precise definition for “codified traditional knowledge” opens the door to potential exploitation.

This exemption is regressive because the legislation was initially enacted to guarantee “fair and equitable sharing of benefits.”

The Bill replaces criminal offences with monetary penalties. It raises concerns about potential resource exploitation.

To what extent has the Act been implemented?

According to a 2022 investigation conducted by the Centre for Science and Environment, many States lack data on the funds received from companies and traders for access and benefit sharing.

In cases where money was collected, it was not shared with local communities.

A 2016 study conducted by legal researchers revealed numerous challenges in various States regarding the implementation of provisions of the Act, particularly those related to access and benefit sharing.

What is viewpoint of industry about the Act?

The industry has expressed dissatisfaction with the regulations and has resorted to legal action seeking relaxation.

For instance, in 2016, the Uttarakhand Biodiversity Board issued a notice to Divya Pharmacy for violating the Act by using biological resources without prior notification to the Board.

The company challenged the notice in the Uttarakhand high court, but the court ruled against them.

In 2015, representatives from Gujarat’s Ayurveda industry requested the central government to postpone the implementation of access and benefit sharing provisions, seeking relief for the sector.

However, the then Environment Minister stated that the industry had to deposit an amount towards these provisions and no exemptions could be granted.

The Bill explicitly mentions that stakeholders from various sectors, including the Indian system of medicine, seed, industry, and research sectors, expressed concerns about the need to simplify, streamline, and reduce compliance burden.

The objective of the Bill is to create a favourable environment for collaborative research and investments.

India needs evidence-based, ethics-driven medicine

Source– The post is based on the article “India needs evidence-based, ethics-driven medicine” published in “The Hindu” on 4th August 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- Science and Technology

Relevance: Issues related to taditional system of medicine

News–  Supporters of Hameopathy have argued in The Lancet Regional Health – Southeast Asia recently for expanding its use by citing demand and decolonisation, disregarding its flaws.

What are issues related to safety and efficacy of Homeopathy?

The evidence supporting the efficacy of homoeopathy is lacking in strength.

The initial double-blind randomized controlled trial (RCT), conducted and well-documented is known as the Nuremberg Salt Test (1835).

It concluded that the symptoms or changes attributed to the effects of homoeopathic medicines were merely products of imagination and preconceived notions.

Multiple systematic reviews have consistently found that homoeopathic treatments lack clinically significant effects across different ailments, population groups, study types.

Recently, researchers discovered that over half of the 193 homeopathic trials conducted in the last two decades were not registered.

Unregistered trials displayed some evidence of efficacy, but registered trials did not. It cast doubt on the validity and reliability of the evidence.

The World Health Organization  has issued warnings against homoeopathic treatments for HIV, tuberculosis, malaria, flu, and infant diarrhea. It has asserted that it has no place in their treatment protocols.

There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that homoeopathy does not effectively treat cancers.

On the contrary, homoeopathic treatments have been linked to both non-fatal and fatal adverse events, and exacerbation of existing conditions.

What are issues related to standards used in evidence-based medicine for judging the effects of homoeopathy?

Supporters of homoeopathy argue that the standards commonly used in evidence-based medicine are not appropriate for evaluating its “holistic effects.” However, this claim can be refuted for several reasons.

1. The standards used in evidence-based medicine are not arbitrary choices made by allopathic practitioners for their own benefit.

They are established through collaboration among a global community that includes epidemiologists, biostatisticians, quality improvement researchers, implementation managers, and others.

Various disciplines outside of medicine, such as psychology, economics, community health, implementation science, and public policy, have successfully adapted evidence synthesis methods to support their claims.

On the other hand, proponents of homoeopathy have not been able to develop valid alternative evidence synthesis frameworks to test its efficacy and safety.

2. The argument that evidence-based medicine is “reductionist” and cannot accommodate holistic approaches is not entirely accurate.
3. Evidence-based medicine does not solely focus on establishing empirical evidence. It also seeks to explain the underlying mechanisms that support the evidence.

However, over the past century, there has been no substantial evidence to explain the proposed mechanisms of action for homoeopathy.

There is an argument that a pluralistic approach in medicine can help to decolonize medicine.

However, homoeopathy’s introduction in India was during the colonial period. It raises questions about its traditional tag, as it was brought in during colonial times for colonial benefits.

Some homoeopathy supporters offer testimonials from prominent figures like Gandhi and Tagore. However, there is limited mention of homoeopathy in Gandhi’s writings. There is no evidence that Tagore favoured it.

Chawal Is The New Oil

Source: The post is based on the article “Chawal Is The New Oil” published in The Times of India on 4^th August 2023.

Syllabus: GS 3 – Indian Economy –Growth & Development

Relevance: About ban on the export of rice

News: Russia’s decision to abandon the Black Sea grain deal is contributing to the global food price volatility. Further, India’s ban on exporting certain varieties of rice is further exacerbating the situation as India has a 40% share of world rice exports.

What are the reasons for imposing a ban on the export of rice?

Political Reasons: There are political reasons like the upcoming election which has made the government control the rising prices domestically.

Strategic Reasons: The government is using export restrictions not only for managing domestic inflation but also as a leverage tool.

In 2022, despite the wheat ban, India made exceptions for discretionary export approvals to support neighboring and vulnerable countries.

As a result, Egypt, which imported 80% of its wheat requirements from Russia and Ukraine, became the largest recipients of Indian wheat.

This support from India in the midst of the crisis helped in improving the bilateral relations between the two countries.

Hence, India strategically utilized a commodity to safeguard its political interests and it is likely to adopt a similar approach for the recent rice export ban.

Read More: India’s rice export curbs could prove too myopic for its good

What may be the impact of ban on farmers?

The ban may upset those farmers who benefit from high-priced exports.

However, the government has taken this political risk because the number of large farmers with surplus for export or to sell under the MSP is relatively small compared to the majority of Indian subsistence farmers.

Moreover, while the MSP offers protection to farmers during periods of low global cereal prices, export curbs serve as a trade-off during years of high global prices.

What lies ahead?

Using essential commodities, including food for securing geo-political interest is not a new concept. Oil has been often used to secure geo-political interest by the OPEC countries in the response of geopolitical events.

Even the American President Eisenhower used food to support newly independent developing countries and gain their allegiance against communism.

Hence, prioritizing critical international relationships through a focused export program offers India greater benefits than a free market approach in cereals trade.

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Centre restricts laptop, PC and tablet imports; calls for license

Source: The post is based on the article “Centre restricts laptop, PC and tablet imports; calls for license”  published in The Hindu on 5th August 2023. 

What is the News?

The Government of India has imposed restrictions on imports of laptops, all-in-one personal computers and tablets.

The restrictions have been imposed under HSN Code 8471 on seven categories of electronic gadgets.

What does the HSN Code 8471 say?

The Harmonised System of Nomenclature (HSN) code is a classification system used to identify products for taxation purposes.

HSN code 8471 is used to identify devices that are designed to perform data processing tasks.

What are the exemptions provided under this order?

People who travel abroad can bring along one laptop, tablet, all-in-one personal computer, or ultra-small form factor computer in their baggage without import restrictions when returning to India. The exemption applies to items bought from e-commerce platforms and shipped via post or courier.

An exemption is also provided for up to 20 items per shipment, particularly for research, testing, evaluation, repair, re-export, and product development. The imports are permitted under the condition that they are used solely for their stated purposes and not sold.

Why has the government imposed these restrictions?

Strengthen local manufacturing: With the curbing imports of these devices, the government aims to reduce reliance on foreign markets and encourage the growth of local manufacturing capabilities.

To boost PLI Scheme: This move will give a direct boost to the Center’s production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme for IT hardware. 

Reduce Reliance on China: The highest share of imports is in the category of personal computers including laptops, and palmtops, under which imports from China stood at $558.36 million in April-May this year as against $618.26 million in the year-ago period.China accounts for roughly 70-80 per cent of the share of India’s imports of personal computers, laptops.

What is its potential impact?

This announcement is expected to impact companies that import bulk of their products from outside India. Tech giants like Apple will have to either start manufacturing their laptops in India or stop importing their gadgets to India.

Amid row, Data Protection Bill tabled

Source: The post is based on the article “Amid row, Data Protection Bill tabled”  published in The Hindu on 4th August 2023

What is the News?

Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2023 has been introduced in the Lok Sabha. The Bill seeks to provide for the protection of personal data and the privacy of individuals.

What are the key provisions of the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2023?

Applicability: The bill will apply to processing of digital personal data within India and to data processing outside the country if it is done for offering goods or services, or for profiling individuals in India.

Obligations of data principals: Companies are required to protect digital data taken from individuals (the former termed ‘data fiduciaries’ and the latter ‘data principals’) by clearly mentioning to them what data are being collected and what they are being used for, appointing and giving contact information of a data protection officer and giving users the right to delete or modify their personal data.

Data protection board: It proposes to set up a data protection board that will adjudicate on matters related to violations of the provisions including data breaches. The Union government will notify the appointment of its members.

The Bill strikes off Section 43A of the Information Technology Act, 2000 that requires companies which mishandle user data to compensate users. 

Data Localisation: The Bill permits relaxed data localisation requirements and permits cross-border data flow to certain countries and territories as may be notified by the central government. 

Exemptions: The Bill provides a wide range of exemptions for the “state and its instrumentalities”. For instance, personal data can be processed “in the interest of sovereignty and integrity of India or security of the state” for “fulfilling any obligation under law”.

Fines: The bill proposes fines ranging from ₹50 crore to ₹250 crore for companies that fail to protect user data or default on disclosure requirements. These fines can be compounded, that is separate fines can be imposed on the same data fiduciary for each violation.

Ministry of Education launches Study In India portal for international students

Source: The post is based on the article “Ministry of Education launches Study In India portal for international students”  published in PIB on 3rd August 2023.

What is the News?

The Union Minister of Education and Union External Affairs Minister have jointly launched Study in India Portal.

What is Study in India Portal?

Study in India (SII) portal is a one-stop platform that will simplify international students’ academic journey in India.

The portal will provide information about higher education institutions (HEIs) in India. It will showcase the academic programmes in the HEIs covering undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral programmes as well courses in Indian Knowledge System (IKS) such as Yoga, Ayurveda, classical arts and more. 

The portal will have information about the academic facilities, research support and related information available in the institutes.

Students will be able to apply to more than one institute/course of their choice. 

The portal will also be a one-stop spot for student registration, visa application process, choosing the desired courses and receiving offer letters from the institute. 

What is the Study in India Programme?

Launched by: Ministry of Education

Aim: To increase the number of international students in India and promote India as the preferred study destination, providing affordable and quality education as per global standards.

Partnership with Premier Education Institutes: The programme involves partnership with educational institutes fulfilling one of the following criteria:

– National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) ranking (<=100)

– National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) accreditation score (>=3.01)

– Institutes of National Importance (INI)

Significance: India being one of the largest higher education systems in the world, our universities offer a diverse range of courses catering to the evolving needs of the global workforce. The programme seeks to facilitate international students’ access to these courses and showcase the country’s academic excellence.

Union Minister says, NIDHI program has various components to support innovations, startups and startup incubation ecosystem in the country

Source: The post is based on the article “Union Minister says, NIDHI program has various components to support innovations, startups and startup incubation ecosystem in the country”  published in PIB on 3rd August 2023.

What is the News?

The Union Minister of Science & Technology (DST) has informed Lok Sabha about the NIDHI Program.

What is the NIDHI Program?

Nodal Department: Department of Science & Technology(DST)

Launched in: 2016

Aim: 1) To promote S&T based entrepreneurship and startup ecosystem across the county and 2) To nurture start-ups through scouting, supporting and scaling of innovations.

Key Components of NIDHI: The components of NIDHI are designed to support ideators and innovators since their early startup journey and link them to the entire market value chain.

– NIDHI-Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR): Inspiring graduating students to take entrepreneurship by providing fellowship

– NIDHI-Promotion and Acceleration of Young and Aspiring Technology Entrepreneurs (PRAYAS): Supports innovators and startups technically and financially from Idea to Prototype stage.

– NIDHI – Inclusive-Technology Business Incubator (iTBI): Program has been rolled out to increase outreach of incubation programs in terms of geographies, gender etc.

– NIDHI-Technology Business Incubator (TBI): Support and nurture knowledge driven innovative start-ups into successful enterprises.

– NIDHI-Seed Support Program (SSP): Provides early-stage funding to potential start-ups with promising ideas / innovations to help them graduate to the next level.

– NIDHI-Center of Excellence (CoE): To create a world class facility to help startups go global.

– NIDHI-Accelerator: Fast tracking a startup through focused intervention.

Endangered Himalayan vulture, bred in captivity for the first time in India

Source: The post is based on the article “Endangered Himalayan vulture, bred in captivity for the first time in India”  published in The Hindu on 4th August 2023.

What is the News?

Researchers have recorded the first instance of captive breeding of the Himalayan vulture (Gyps himalayensis) in India at the Assam State Zoo, Guwahati.

What is Captive breeding?

Captive breeding is the process of breeding animals outside of their natural environment in restricted conditions in farms, zoos or other closed facilities. 

The choice of individual animals that are to be part of a captive breeding population, and the mating partners within that population, are controlled by humans.

What is Himalayan vulture?

Himalayan Griffon vulture or Himalayan Vulture inhabits the higher regions of the Himalayas and the Tibetan Plateau.

They can fly at an elevation of up to 5,500 metre with help of their wide and powerful wings.

They generally feed on dead carcasses and would sometimes wait for a few days before eating the dead animal.

IUCN Status: Near Threatened

About Vulture Conservation Breeding Centres(VCBC):

Vulture Conservation Breeding Centres(VCBC) have been established by Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) at Pinjore in Haryana, Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh, Rani in Assam and Rajabhatkhawa in West Bengal.

These centres are involved in conservation breeding of the white-rumped vulture (Gyps bengalensis), slender-billed vulture (Gyps tenuirostris), and the Indian vulture (Gyps indicus). 

Rajya Sabha passes Mediation Bill, 2021

Source: The post is based on the article “Rajya Sabha passes Mediation Bill, 2021”  published in The Economic Times on 1st August 2023.

What is the News?

Rajya Sabha has passed the Mediation Bill 2021.

What is Mediation?

Mediation is a type of ADR (alternative dispute resolution), where a dispute is referred to a neutral person, who engages with the warring parties and tries to find a solution agreeable to both. 

Courts have regularly been ordering mediation to settle civil, commercial, and family disputes among others.

What are the key provisions of the Mediation Bill 2021?

Firstly, persons can try to settle civil or commercial disputes through mediation before approaching any court or tribunal. However, the pre-litigation mediation is voluntary and not mandatory.

Secondly, a party may withdraw from mediation after two mediation sessions. 

Thirdly, the mediation process must be completed within 180 days, which may be extended by another 180 days by the parties.

Fourthly, the Mediation Council of India will be set up. Its functions include registering mediators, and recognising mediation service providers and mediation institutes (which train and certify mediators).

Fifthly, currently, mediations are ordered by the courts and when a dispute is thus settled, the settlement agreement is converted into a decree by the court, thus making it binding on the parties. However, the Mediation bill puts a mediated settlement agreement on par with a court judgment without the need for any further court sanction.

Lastly, Mediation agreements can only be challenged on grounds of: (i) fraud, (ii) corruption, (iii) impersonation, or (iv) relating to disputes not fit for mediation. 

NHAI Launches ‘Rajmargyatra’ a Unified Mobile Application for National Highway Users

Source: The post is based on the article “NHAI Launches ‘Rajmargyatra’ a Unified Mobile Application for National Highway Users”  published in PIB on 3rd August 2023.

What is the News?

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has launched the ‘Rajmargyatra’ app.

What is Rajmargyatra?

Rajmargyatra is a citizen-centric unified mobile application. It empowers travelers with comprehensive information on Indian National Highways while also offering an efficient complaint redressal system.

Aim: To create a seamless, user-friendly experience for highway users, fostering a safer and more enjoyable journey on Indian National Highways.

Key Features of Rajmargyatra app:

Comprehensive Highway Information: The app serves as a one-stop repository of essential information for National Highway users. Get real-time weather conditions, timely broadcast notifications, and access to details about nearby toll plazas, and other essential services that ensure a seamless and safe journey on National Highways.

Hassle-Free Complaint Redressal: The app comes equipped with an inbuilt complaint redressal and escalation mechanism. Users can easily report highway-related issues, attaching geo-tagged videos or photos for better clarity. Users can also track the status of their grievances for complete transparency.

Seamless FASTag Services: The app integrates its services with various bank portals, making it convenient for users to recharge their FASTags, avail monthly passes, and access other FASTag-related banking services – all within a single platform.

Over-speeding notifications and voice-assistance to encourage responsible and safe driving behavior.

Net zero emissions target

Source: The post is based on the article “Net zero emissions target”  published in PIB on 3rd August 2023.

What is the News?

Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change has informed Lok Sabha about India’s net zero emissions target and the measures it has taken to address the rapidly growing environmental problems in the country.

India’s Greenhouse emissions:

India is an emerging economy whose priority is to achieve development and poverty eradication goals. Due to this, Greenhouse emissions are bound to increase.

However, it is to be noted that India’s historical cumulative emissions from 1850 to 2019 amount to less than 4 percent of cumulative carbon dioxide emissions of the world from the pre-industrial era, despite being home to 17% of the world’s population. 

Hence, India’s responsibility for global warming thus far has been minimal and even today its annual per capita emissions are only about one-third of the global average.

India’s Net Zero Emissions Target:

At COP 26 in November 2021, India has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. 

India’s long-term low-carbon development strategy submitted to the UN is guided by principles of equity, climate justice, and the idea of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities.

The strategy rests on seven key transitions to low-carbon development pathways.These include 1) low-carbon development of electricity systems consistent with development 2) develop an integrated, efficient and inclusive transport system 3) promote adaptation in urban design, energy and material efficiency in buildings 4) promoting economy-wide decoupling of growth from emissions and development of an efficient, innovative low emission industrial system 5) development of carbon dioxide removal and related engineering solutions 6) enhancing forest and vegetation cover and 7) economic and financial needs of low-carbon development.

What are the steps taken by India to address the growing environmental problems in the country?

National Clean Air Programme(NCAP)

PRANA Portal

Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Area(CAQM) 

India has moved from BS-IV to BS-VI norms for fuel and vehicles from 1stApril, 2020.

Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation(SATAT) has been launched as an initiative to set up a Compressed Biogas (CBG) production plant and make CBG available in the market for use in automotive fuels.

India has added ten wetlands to the List of Wetlands of International Importance (also called Ramsar Sites) within the framework of the Ramsar Convention, taking the total number of Ramsar Sites in India to 75, the highest in Asia,

The government has taken a defining step to eliminate single use plastics. A ban has been imposed on identified single use plastic items from 1st July 2022.

Desertification and Land Degradation Atlas of India

Government has initiated the work of Circular Economy.Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) rules have been notified for 4 categories of waste a) Plastic waste, b) Waste tyre, c) Batteries, and E-Waste.

House clears tweaked law to set off undersea mineral hunt

Source: The post is based on the article “House clears tweaked law to set off undersea mineral hunt”  published in Times of India on 4th August 2023.

What is the News?

The Rajya Sabha has passed the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill,2023.

What is Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill,2023?

The Bill seeks to make amendments to the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002.

The Act categorizes offshore mining-related activities into: (i) reconnaissance, which involves a preliminary survey to locate mineral resources, (ii) exploration, which includes exploring, proving, or locating mineral deposits, and (iii) production, the commercial activity of the extraction of minerals.

Key Provisions of the bill:

Composite license:  The Act provides for following types of concessions: (i) a reconnaissance permit for reconnaissance, (ii) an exploration license for exploration and (iii) a production lease for undertaking mining.  

– The Bill introduces a composite license for granting rights for exploration as well as production.

– Under the composite license, the licensee will be required to complete exploration within three years. This may be extended by two years upon application by the licensee. If mineral resources have been established, the licensee will be granted one or more production leases for the explored area.

Validity of concessions: Under the Act, a production lease is granted for a period of up to 30 years. It may be further renewed for up to 20 years. The Bill instead provides that a production lease, as well as a production lease under a composite license, will be valid for 50 years.

Mining of atomic minerals: The Bill adds that in case of atomic minerals, exploration, production, and composite licenses will be granted only to the government or government companies.  Atomic minerals are defined in the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957.

Standard area of blocks: A limit has also been introduced on total area one person can acquire offshore (not more than 45 minutes latitude by 45 minutes longitude) in respect of any mineral or prescribed group of associated minerals under one or more operating rights (taken together).

Offshore Areas Mineral Trust:  The Bill sets up the Offshore Areas Mineral Trust. Concession holders will be required to pay an amount to the Trust in addition to any royalty.  

– The funds will be used for specified purposes including: (i) exploration in offshore areas, (ii) research and studies about the mitigation of adverse effects of offshore mining on the ecology, and (iii) relief upon the occurrence of a disaster.

The following today’s current affairs articles have been covered in 7 PM Explained section of the day:

7 PM Editorial of the day: Age of consent: Explained, pointwise