9 PM Daily Current Affairs Brief – October 6th, 2023

Mains Oriented Articles

GS PAPER - 1

No country for old women

Source: The post is based on the article “No country for old women” published in “The Hindu” on 6th October 2023.

Syllabus: GS1- Society- population and associated issues

News: The graphically illustrates the challenges faced by India’s growing elderly population, particularly women, in areas such as health, daily activities, and financial stability. It also highlights their lack of awareness about government support schemes.

What is the current status of India’s elderly population?        

Greying India: Since 2010, the population of senior citizens (60 and over) in India has significantly risen, while the under-15 population has decreased. By 2100, it’s anticipated that seniors will make up 36% of the total population.

Dependency by Region: India’s overall dependency ratio is 15.7, with the highest ratio in the southern region (19.4), followed by the west (16.9).

Sex Ratio Among Elderly: In 2021, for every 1000 elderly men in India, there are 1061 elderly women. The south region has 1136 women per 1000 men, while the west has 1120.

Ageing Index: India’s ageing index is 39.3, with the highest in the south at 61.7, followed by the west at 49.

What challenges do elderly women face?

Health Challenges: 30% of women over 60 have one morbidity and nearly 25% suffer from two morbidities, showing significant health concerns.

Daily Activities: Difficulty in basic self-care is evident since 30% struggle to get out of bed and 25% find it tough to eat and bathe without help, indicating a demand for assistance in daily living.

Financial Issues: With just 22% of elderly women employed, there is a distinct issue related to financial stability and self-sufficiency in this demographic.

Awareness and Access: Less than 25% of elderly women are informed about government concession schemes, suggesting a barrier in awareness and potentially accessing support services available to them.

Mental Health: The incidence of depression is higher among elderly women across different age groups, pointing towards additional mental health challenges.

Equality and identity- Equitable distribution of resources must not be by accentuating caste identity

Source: The post is based on the article “Equality and identity- Equitable distribution of resources must not be by accentuating caste identity” published in “The Hindu” on 6th October 2023.

Syllabus: GS1- Society-  population and associated issues  & GS2- polity- caste survey

News: The article discusses a detailed caste survey in Bihar, India, revealing that 63% of its population belongs to certain backward classes. This may influence national politics and policies on reservations, potentially promoting demands for a nationwide caste census and impacting political party strategies and legal debates on caste-based reservations in education and employment.

What does the caste survey in Bihar show?

The caste survey in Bihar reveals that 63% of the state’s population, which is 13 crores, belongs to the Extremely Backward Classes (EBC) and Other Backward Classes (OBC) categories.

Methodically, Bihar assigned a code to each of 214 identified castes, ensuring clarity and manageability of the data.

The comprehensive survey involved a two-stage process: initially listing houses, then gathering detailed information from each household.

What is the significance of this caste survey?

Impact on Reservation Policies

The caste survey shows that a significant 63% of Bihar’s 13 crore population belongs to EBC and OBC categories.

It might influence legal and political discourses at a national level, particularly regarding the 50% reservation cap in educational institutions and government services.

Potential for a Nationwide Caste Census

The thorough and organized methodology used in Bihar’s survey might give a boost to demands for a caste census across India.

Having detailed caste data for the whole country might influence socio-economic and political policies more broadly.

Influence on Political Strategy

This detailed caste information may shape the strategies of political parties, particularly those who focus on consolidating Hindu voters or those targeting different OBC sections for support.

For instance, it may create opportunities for social groups to leverage their size and influence political agendas and policies.

Legal Implications and Social Harmony

By providing exact numbers, the data might be used to present ‘quantifiable data’ that the judiciary seeks to justify reservation levels in various states.

The article emphasizes that while caste data is useful, maintaining a balance that doesn’t amplify caste identity is crucial to uphold the constitutional vision of a casteless society.

GS PAPER - 2

If Indian troops are removed, Maldives will lose a diplomatic card to balance China

Source: The post is based on the article “If Indian troops are removed, Maldives will lose a diplomatic card to balance China…it will also distance France and US” published in The Times of India on 6^th October 2023.

Syllabus: GS 2 – International Relations – Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and Agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

Relevance: India and Maldives Relation

News: The newly elected President of the Maldives, Mohamed Muizzu, has stated his intention to withdraw Indian troops from the Maldives. This has raised concerns that the Maldives may shift its alignment toward China, causing concerns for India.

How has been the bilateral relation between India and Maldives?

The recent statement about removing Indian troops from the Maldives is potentially influenced by external factors.

However, historically, India has maintained a supportive relationship with the Maldives, including instances such as Operation Cactus in 1988, assistance during the 2004 tsunami, and support during the Covid pandemic.

Read More: Election of China-friendly Mohamed Muizzu could test Indo-Maldives ties

What may be the probable consequences of Maldives removing the Indian troops from its country?

The removal of Indian troops from the Maldives may affect the nation’s diplomatic balance with China and strain relations with France, the US, and India.

Moreover, India should also explore options like relocating troops and radar stations to an Indian island on the Laccadive Ridge.

Further, despite removal, diplomatic efforts with Maldives should still continue, highlighting India’s significance in the Indian Ocean region.

How does the removal of troops may impact India’s position in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR)?

The possible withdrawal of Indian troops from the Maldives may not be a significant setback for India. Instead, it will give opportunity to India to adjust its diplomacy in response to China’s presence in the Indian Ocean region.

Moreover, India has matched China’s development efforts in the Maldives, and past tensions with Maldives have not seriously damaged bilateral ties. Hence, the current statement by given by Muizzu may need further observation.

What are the concerns for countries in the IOR aligning their interest with China?

The Chinese debt trap is a legitimate concern for the countries located in the IOR. Countries in the IOR should also be cautious of Chinese practices, especially their acquisition of critical infrastructure like ports, as seen in Sri Lanka.

Moreover, India has been engaged with and supporting IOR nations for years through organizations like Saarc and IORARC, whereas China is a relatively new entrant in the region.

How can India respond to the Chinese challenge in the IOR?

India’s history of naval exercises with IOR nations and its successful hosting of the recent G20 enhance its stature and could lead to deeper engagement with IOR countries.

Foreign Minister Jaishankar has also highlighted the importance of aligning logistics chains and improving naval interoperability in the IOR. He advocated cooperation with like-minded nations like the US, Australia, and Japan to counter the Chinese threat.

Educating our security chieftains

Source: The post is based on the article “Educating our security chieftains” published in Business Standard on 6^th October 2023.

Syllabus: GS 2 – Issues Related with Education

Relevance: concerns with Professional Military Education (PME) in India

News: In May 2013, the then Prime Minister of India, Manmohan Singh, laid the foundation stone of the Indian National Defence University (INDU) in Binola, Gurugram.

What was the purpose of establishing the university?

The Indian National Defence University (INDU) was planned to primarily focus on national security subjects, as recommended by the Kargil Review Committee in 1999.

It aimed to provide education in national security studies for both military and civilian personnel, with a structure similar to Indian Institutes of Management and Technology.

INDU was intended to be led by a serving three-star general from the army, navy, or air force, with a student composition of two-thirds military and the rest from government, police, and civilians.

However, despite being proposed in 2013, INDU has not been established yet, highlighting the deficiency of institutions for “professional military education” (PME) in India.

How is India’s professional military education (PME) system compare to those of other countries?

India’s PME system falls behind nations like the US, UK, Russia, China, and even Pakistan, all of which have made substantial investments in specialized PME institutions.

According to the US, PME emphasizes cognitive learning, diverse perspectives, critical analysis, and innovative thinking for complex problems.

However, India’s military PME predominantly concentrates on tactical aspects throughout professional development, lacking a focus on strategic studies.

What are the concerns with India’s professional military education (PME)?

Currently, India’s PME system is primarily overseen by the military, with minimal participation from civilian committees, leading to a focus on “training” rather than “education.”

Many officers completing courses in India have reported that PMEs emphasizes more on social activities rather than imparting essential elements of statecraft and national security.

Ultimately, this limited focus on strategic education hampers their ability to provide crucial strategic advice during national security crises.

Moreover, a study by US military officers noted that the Indian course at DSSC in Wellington was not as competitive as the equivalent courses in Pakistan.

What steps have been taken by the current government to reform military education?

The current government asserts that the military environment has changed significantly, aligning with the PM’s agenda of “transform, reform, and perform.”

Further, modern militaries prioritize providing comprehensive education to their officers for a better understanding of broader national security issues.

Consequently, around 30 Indian military officers are sent abroad each year to attend staff college courses with foreign armies to acquire modern education.

What can be the way ahead?

Indian PME lacks creativity and promotes operational stereotypes. It also does not foster group discussions or prepare officers for future senior positions.

Hence, the PME in India should be restructured to expand officers’ cognitive space and facilitate their understanding of macro issues.

Mess-y Education- Segregating students by food creates a terrible learning environment

Source: The post is based on the article “Mess-y Education- Segregating students by food creates a terrible learning environment. IIT-B must do better” published in “Times of India” on 6th October 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- Governance- Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Education.

News: The article discusses a situation at IIT Bombay where tables in the mess have been reserved for vegetarians, leading to protests and fines for dissenting students.

What are the issues at IIT Bombay?

Issue of Segregation in the Mess:

IIT Bombay reserved mess tables for vegetarian students.

The reason given was the discomfort of some at the sight and smell of non-vegetarian food.

Student Protests and Administration’s Response:

Protesting students, opposing this separation, have been fined.

The administration accuses them of disrupting “peace and harmony within the mess.”

Caste Discrimination Concerns:

This policy is seen as potentially enforcing a purity-pollution matrix and casteism.

A student’s suicide in February already spotlighted existing caste discrimination issues at IIT Bombay.

Faculty Involvement:

Some faculty members are supporting protesting students, critiquing the administration’s approach.

What are the larger implications of this issue?

Damage to IIT’s Global Reputation:

The institute, known for producing globally successful professionals, faces potential harm to its brand due to this controversy.

IIT’s international image might be affected as the incident contradicts the spirit of diversity and acceptance promoted globally.

Highlighting Systemic Prejudices:

This situation brings systemic prejudices, like caste discrimination, to the forefront.

Darshan Solanki’s suicide already put the spotlight on caste issues, and this mess segregation further emphasizes them.

Threat to Student Harmony and Education:

The action of segregating mess tables could inhibit the harmonious interaction between diverse students.

The educational environment might suffer as students face a physical manifestation of division daily.

Contradiction to Global Standards:

While Indian students abroad enjoy supportive and diverse environments, similar support might be perceived as lacking in their home institutions.

The contradiction between what is practiced abroad and at home, especially at a premier institution like IIT, is stark and potentially disillusioning for students.

What should be done?

Addressing Prejudices Directly:

IIT Bombay should engage in actions that squarely tackle any prejudices and caste-based discriminations on campus.

Policies should not perpetuate social cleavages and must be formulated to combat systemic issues, not just isolated incidents.

Ensuring Equity in Institutional Policies:

The mess should be de-segregated to assure all students they are equal and welcome.

Practices that may lead to stigmatization or division among students need to be urgently revised.

Promoting a Supportive Environment:

The institute must create an environment that promotes diversity and supports all students equally.

Considering the international engagements and reputation of IIT, adopting global standards in promoting and respecting diversity is vital.

Proactive Management of Student Concerns:

Administrators should be responsive to student protests and concerns, avoiding punitive actions like fines.

Ensuring open dialogue and mutual respect between management and students will help in developing a supportive educational environment.

Defusing the ticking time bomb called diabetes

Source: The post is based on the article “Defusing the ticking time bomb called diabetes” published in “The Hindu” on 6th October 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- Governance- Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health,

News: The article discusses the rising issue of diabetes and obesity in India, linked to the high consumption of unhealthy ultra-processed foods. It highlights the food industry’s aggressive marketing in India and suggests that strict government regulations and policies are needed to control and reduce the public health crisis.

What is the current situation of diabetes and obesity in India?

As of June 2023, a notable study points out a health concern in India related to diabetes and obesity.

The study reveals that 11.4% of the population, which is 10.13 crore people, are living with diabetes.

Additionally, 15.3% of Indians, or 13.6 crore people, are pre-diabetic, showing a potential risk of developing diabetes.

The obesity issue is also notable with 28.6% of the population being classified as obese according to Body Mass Index (BMI) measures.

What are the reasons for high diabetes rates in India?

Ultra-Processed Food Consumption: Many Indians are consuming unhealthy ultra-processed foods, such as chips, instant noodles, and carbonated drinks. These foods often replace traditional diets.

Dietary Impact: A daily increase of 10% in ultra-processed food consumption is linked to a 15% higher risk of type-2 diabetes among adults.

Food Industry’s Role: The food industry in India heavily promotes unhealthy foods. They spend billions on marketing, targeting especially the young and middle class.

Influential Marketing: Tactics include using cartoon characters, celebrity endorsements, and incentives to attract consumers, especially children.

Lack of Effective Regulations: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India hasn’t effectively addressed the crisis. There’s an absence of strong front-of-package labelling to warn consumers about unhealthy products.

Industry Resistance: The food industry opposes restrictions on marketing and often engages in partnerships that might not prioritize public health.

What should be done?

Implementing Regulatory Policies: Government should create legal frameworks or ordinances to reduce ultra-processed food consumption, similar to actions taken by South Africa, Norway, and Mexico.

Defining Healthy Food: Laws or guidelines should clearly define ‘healthy food’ to inform consumer choices.

Warning Labels: Implementing warning labels on unhealthy food and beverages can inform people about the risks of consuming such items.

Restricting Marketing: Placing restrictions on how unhealthy foods and beverages are marketed, especially to vulnerable populations like children, can control consumption.

Avoiding Industry Influence: Government policies and actions should be devoid of food industry influence to avoid conflict of interest and ensure public health is prioritized.

Promoting Public Awareness: There must be campaigns to inform people about the dangers of consuming ultra-processed foods, leveraging data such as the 15% higher risk of diabetes associated with a 10% daily increase in their consumption.

Following Proven Examples: Adapting measures from other countries, like the Infant Milk Substitutes Act which successfully regulated commercial baby food, can offer a guideline for regulating unhealthy foods and beverages.

Nagorno-Karabakh conflict: History, India’s response

Source: This post has been created based on the article “Nagorno-Karabakh conflict: History, India’s response” published in the Indian Express on 6^th October 2023.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2 — International Relations: Bilateral relationships involving India and/or affecting India’s interests including India and West Asian Nations.

News: The article discusses the history of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan and the historical development of their bilateral relations with India, and India’s foreign policy response to the issue.

Nagorno-Karabakh is at the root of the tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The province is officially recognised as part of Azerbaijan. Its population is predominantly ethnic Armenian, having close cultural, social, and historical ties with Armenia. The Armenians are Christians, while Azeris are Muslims. The enclave is connected to Armenia through the Lachin Corridor.

What is the history of the conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh?

Historically, Nagorno-Karabakh was part of the Azerbaijan SSR (Soviet Socialist Republic). Conflict emerged with the weakening and the eventual collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. This led to the following major developments:

1) In 1991, the region declared independence leading to war between Armenia and Azerbaijan, with Armenia having the upper hand. In 1994, Russia brokered a ceasefire known as the Bishkek Protocol.

2) In 2020, Azerbaijan managed to take control of the territory around Nagorno-Karabakh.

3) In December 2022, the Lachin Corridor was blockaded by Azerbaijan, causing severe shortages of essential goods in the province.

4) In September 2023, Azerbaijan launched an “anti-terrorist” offensive and claimed to have regained full control of the province.

What has been India’s position?

India’s foreign policy position has been one of balance and not taking clear sides.

Accordingly, India believes that any lasting resolution of the conflict can only be achieved peacefully through diplomatic dialogue and negotiations.

In this regard, India supports OSCE (Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe) Minsk Group’s continued efforts for a peaceful resolution.

How are India’s ties in the region?

India has ties with both. The region is also important for its centrality to India’s plans of connectivity through the south Caucasus.

India-Armenia relations:

Historical ties of the two countries date back thousands of years. Cultural interactions have taken place as part of military invasions, establishing of communities and movement of traders.

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, India established diplomatic relations and has a treaty relationship with Armenia.

Armenia also supports for India’s position on the Kashmir issue and on the question of a permanent seat in the UNSC.

In 2022, military cooperation strengthened in terms of India’s supply of military weapons and ammunitions worth US $250 million.

India-Azerbaijan relations:

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, India established diplomatic relations with Azerbaijan.

However, Azerbaijan’s proximity to Pakistan has been seen as a roadblock in the bilateral ties. In contrast to Armenia, there has not been a single high-level visit between the two countries.

What should be the way forward for India?

Because of the geographical location of Armenia and Azerbaijan, the region is important as a viable corridor for India’s connectivity with Russia and Europe through Central Asia and Iran. Armenia and Azerbaijan are both members of the International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC), which holds importance for India.

Hence, tensions in the region directly impact India’s plans to bypass Pakistan as the gateway to Europe and Russia. India will have to walk a “diplomatic tightrope” to figure out a way around this dilemma.

GS PAPER - 3

In Manipur, another internet shutdown, a conflict intensified — on internet shutdowns in Manipur

Source: This post has been created based on the article “In Manipur, another internet shutdown, a conflict intensified” published in the Indian Express on 6^th October 2023.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 Internal Security — Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges.

News: The article discusses the recurring pattern of internet shutdowns in Manipur and the associated reasoning, failure of institutions to ensure accountability of state governments and its consequences.

Recently, India’s second-longest internet blackout stretching for over 143 days in Manipur ended in September with the restoration of full internet access. However, horrific images posted of those slain in the Manipur conflict on social media led to outrage and protests in Imphal leading to another shutdown of internet.

The state’s failure to protect its citizens raises questions. It also underpins a lack of confidence in the state and a climate of mistrust and fear.

More on internet shutdowns here

What are the reasons for prevalence of internet shutdowns in India?

1) Union Executive: The Union government has set its own example with a 552-day shutdown in Jammu and Kashmir.

2) The Department of Telecom refuses to maintain a centralized database. Also, the proposed Telecom Bill retains unchecked power to implement internet shutdowns.

3) Judiciary: The Supreme Court has avoided addressing the internet shutdown issue in multiple cases. The High Court of Manipur has focused on the concept of “limited internet shutdowns”, which is gaining traction but lacks public attention.

5) Private Sector: Major telecom players like Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone are advocating for service-level blocks. It may lead to increased government interference in dictating “essential internet services”.

What are the consequences of internet shutdowns without accountability?

In the absence of accountability, internet shutdowns will continue to hamper the democratic political discourse by preventing public assembly and protest.

Internet shutdowns prevent images of violence and brutality reaching us, which will make us numb and apathetic to the tragedy in Manipur.

This lack of ensuring accountability may lead to a “cycle of violence” — which refers to the harmful relationship that can develop between the state and its citizens.

The banking sector is leading the journey towards an Atmanirbhar Bharat

Source: This post has been created based on the article “The banking sector is leading the journey towards an Atmanirbhar Bharat” published in the Indian Express on 6^th October 2023.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 Indian Economy — Indian Economy and issues relating to mobilization of resources.

News: The article discusses the growth, emerging changes and the associated challenges lying ahead for the banking and financial sector in India.

What are the reasons for the growing optimism for India across the world?

1) High growth and stability despite episodes of stress — from the dotcom bubble to the September 11 attacks, the 2008 financial crisis, the European debt crisis, the Covid-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine War.

2) Huge changes have occurred in the banking and financial sector, which is leading the transformative journey of India.

What are the positive developments in the banking and financial sector post-independence?

Developments in this sector in the 75 years post-independence, especially the reforms over the past 30 years, have made the financial sector diverse and inclusive. These developments include:

1) Consolidation in the public sector banking space.

2) Emergence of private banks.

3) Specialized non-banking financial companies (NBFCs).

4) The emerging fin-tech ecosystem.

What are the wide-ranging changes in this sector?

1) Legacy issues of Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) and “External shocks” have been tackled.

2) Profits generated by banks (Internal Accruals) are being reinvested to fund growth and expansion.

3) Healthy projections of loan growth in the coming years due to decreasing capital costs.

4) Departure from the “bricks-and-mortar” model by banks to cutting-edge technology adoption.

5) Universal coverage of banking through Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) and the widespread use of technology to deliver financial services have transformed finance.

6) Products like mobile banking applications, retail electronic fund transfers, UPI, Aadhaar e-KYC, Bharat Bill Payment System, and “scan & pay” have transformed traditional banking.

7) Banks are also currently moving towards a knowledge-based regime, enabled by AI and cognitive computing. AI-enabled capabilities can help banks to personalize customer engagement and increase their ability to develop a deeper understanding of customers.

What are the associated challenges in front of this sector?

The fast pace of technological changes and structural transformations have created “regulatory blind spots” and vulnerabilities leading to various lacunae. These include:

1) Issues in Digitalisation of banking and finance: Mushrooming of unregulated digital lending apps and the issues of crypto-currencies and cyber-attacks.

2) There is an added responsibility to ensure the availability of critical support infrastructure for a secured payment settlement system, ATMs, internet/ mobile banking, dealing with cyber security risks, and addressing customer grievances.

3) Banks are expected to be major financiers for initiatives to control climate change. Banks will also have to account for a new risk based on climate change, which is a challenge due to the lack of a clear methodology and data.

4) Quality of human resources is also an emerging challenge due to the widening of the skill gap. To address this, banks and financial institutions will have to attract, train and retain talent. Capacity building will be needed to ensure upskilling and reskilling of human resources in order to develop employees who are flexible, agile, and open to new technologies.

5) Investment in research and openness to accepting and developing out-of-box ideas for seamless service delivery and hyper-personalization of products will have to be undertaken.

Counting rural women’s labour — on female labour force participation in rural India

Source: This post has been created based on the article “Counting rural women’s labour” published in the Indian Express on 6^th October 2023.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 Indian Economy — Inclusive growth and issues relating to employment.

News: The article discusses the state of Labour Force Participation (LFP) of women, especially rural women, its distribution and emerging trends.

What is the state of women’s labour force in India?

As per Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) data for 2021-22, LFPR is only 35.6% for women in the working age group (15-59 years).

Participation rate was higher for rural India compared to urban.

India has one of the lowest female labour force participation rates (LFPR) in the world, even behind other South Asian countries (except Afghanistan and Pakistan).

The Time Use Survey (2019) reveals that on average, women spend over 5 hours every day in unpaid domestic services and more than 2 hours in unpaid caregiving services in rural areas which is substantially more than men. Rural women also spend over 7 hours every day growing crops for the market and household use.

What explains the recent increase in women’s Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR)?

Feminization of Agriculture: From 2017 to 2021, women’s LFPR increased relative to men, particularly in rural areas because of the larger engagement of rural women in agriculture and allied activities.

Rural India: Recent increase in rural women’s LFPR is entirely explained by the increase in self-employment.

What are the current trends in rural women’s labour force participation?

1) Nearly 3/4th of rural working women were involved in agriculture and allied activities.

2) More than half worked as unpaid family helpers (in household business without getting any payment). Furthermore, married women were more prone to taking on the role of unpaid family helpers or engaging in domestic chores.

3) Rural women working as regular and casual wage workers faced a higher ”Gender Wage Gap” compared to urban women.

4) Self-employed women received less than half of men’s earnings, indicating a higher gender earning gap.

5) A significant proportion of women are involved in unpaid but essential activities and are not considered within the labour force in India.

6) In rural areas, one third of women remained engaged in unpaid domestic chores.

What is the state of rural women in agriculture?

1) Gender Disparity: The Agriculture Census (2015-16) reported that women owned only 14.7% of the operational landholdings. Out of these, 57% are small and marginal landholdings. This is important as owning land can enable women to get access to different agricultural schemes, compensation and relief measures in case of crop loss.

2) Recently, schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) and Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) have received a higher allocation from the government. But the gender-wise beneficiary data highlights that only 15% women farmers received financial support from PMFBY in 2023 and only 25% women farmers received financial benefit under PM-KISAN. Since landowning is the major criterion for getting benefits of these two schemes, many women farmers end up excluded.

What should be the way forward?

The unpaid, unaccounted and underpaid contribution of rural women, not only in agriculture but the overall rural economy, must be counted. Also, inclusion of landless, marginal women farmers in government agricultural schemes is required to combat gender inequality in rural India.

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Govt issues guidelines to prevent suicide among students

Source: The post is based on the article “Govt issues guidelines to prevent suicide among students” published in “Indian Express” on 5th October 2023

What is the News?

The Union Ministry of Education has released draft guidelines to prevent student suicides in schools. 

These guidelines are titled UMMEED (Understand, Motivate, Manage, Empathise, Empower, Develop).

What is these draft guidelines to prevent student suicides in schools?

The guidelines aim to serve as directions to schools for enhancing sensitivity, understanding, and providing support in case of reported self-harm.

The guidelines emphasize the belief that “Every Child Matters” and are developed with the goal of preventing student suicides.

They recognize that students facing personal and social challenges may experience sadness, frustration, mood swings, hopelessness, and, in severe cases, engage in self-harm or suicide.

Key Features of these guidelines:

Firstly, it suggests the formation of a School Wellness Team (SwT) led by the school principal.These teams should be trained to handle crisis situations and respond immediately when a student shows signs of self-harm.

Secondly, it recommends an orientation a year for teachers and family members, to help build awareness around student suicides.These orientations will be conducted by the schools for the capacity-building of various stakeholders.

Thirdly, the guidelines outline actions that individuals at the school, or members of the wellness team, should take when they encounter a student displaying warning signs or attempting self-harm.

Fourthly, it has also asked schools to de-stigmatize mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, suicide, substance abuse through storytelling, rallies, posters, exhibitions and other activities.

Fifthly, the guidelines have also proposed some smaller and immediate changes such as locking all empty classrooms and not having any dark corridors or areas in schools.

GI tags for Basohli Pashmina, Udhampur’s Kalari

Source: The post is based on the article “GI tags for Basohli Pashmina, Udhampur’s Kalari” published in “Hindustan Times” on 6th October 2023

What is the News?

Basohli Pashmina and Kalari cuisine from Jammu and Kashmir has got the Geographical Indication(GI) tag.

What is ​​Basohli Pashmina?

Source: KashmirObserver

​​Basohli Pashmina is a more than 100-year-old traditional craft from Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district.

It is a hand-spun product known for extreme softness, fineness and light-weight.

Granting it a GI tag would not only protect the exceptional craftsmanship of these artisans but also preserve its uniqueness.

Note: Pashmina Shawl is a fine wool made from the undercoat of the Changthangi or Pashmina goat.

What is Kalari?

Kalari is a Dogra cuisine.The dish finds its origin in Udhampur district,J&K.

The dish is made from milk and is a dense cheese.It’s cooked in its own fat, salted, and served hot with bun slices.

Glacial lake outburst flood kills 14 in Sikkim, 102 people missing: What is GLOF, and why does it happen?

Source: The post is based on the article “Glacial lake outburst flood kills 14 in Sikkim, 102 people missing: What is GLOF, and why does it happen?” published in “The Indian Express” on 6th October 2023

What is the News?

Fourteen people have died and 102 people are missing in Sikkim after the burst of the South Lhonak Lake (a glacial lake) due to heavy rains.

What is Glacial Lake outburst flood(GLOF)? 

Click Here to read

Where is South Lhonak Lake?

South Lhonak Lake is a glacial-moraine-dammed lake, located in Sikkim’s far northwestern region.

It was formed due to the melting of the Lhonak glacier.

It is one of the fastest expanding lakes in the Sikkim Himalaya region, and one of the 14 potentially dangerous lakes susceptible to Glacial lake outburst flood(GLOFs).

It plays a role in the hydrological cycle, releasing water downstream, ultimately benefiting the Teesta River basin.

Where is Chungthang Dam?

Chungthang Dam, also known as the Chungthang Hydroelectric Project, is a dam and hydroelectric power station located in Chungthang, a town in Sikkim.

It is an integral part of the 1200 MW mega Teesta Stage III Hydro Electric Project, a major source of electricity for Sikkim and West Bengal.

It is a run-of-the-river hydroelectric project, which was commissioned in 2017.

What happened in Sikkim?

South Lhonak Lake, a glacial lake in the upper reaches of Sikkim, burst its banks following a cloudburst in the area. 

The lake burst resulted in a sudden rise in the water level of the Teesta River and a flash flood.

This further led to the breach of the Chungthang Hydro-Dam in Sikkim causing parts of it to give way.

These all led to massive flooding downstream. 

11th Meeting of the India-UAE High Level Joint Task Force on Investments

Source: The post is based on the article “11th Meeting of the India-UAE High Level Joint Task Force on Investments” published in“PIB” on 6th October 2023

What is the News?

The Eleventh meeting of the UAE-India High Level Joint Task Force on Investments (‘the Joint Task Force’) was held in Abu Dhabi.

What is the UAE-India High Level Joint Task Force on Investments?

The UAE-India High Level Joint Task Force on Investments was established in 2013.

Aim: To promote trade, investment and economic ties between India and the UAE.The Task Force has provided an effective mechanism for discussion on opportunities & prospects for investments in both countries as well as resolution of issues faced by investors of the two countries.

What are the key highlights from the 11th meeting of the UAE-India Joint Task Force on Investments?

Reviewed the implementation of CEPA: The two countries reviewed the progress made on the implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and India, which came into force in May 2022. 

– The CEPA has helped reduce tariffs on more than 80 percent of product lines, eliminate  barriers to trade and create new pathways for investment and joint ventures. 

– In the first 12 months of the CEPA, bilateral non-oil trade reached US$50.5 billion representing a growth of 5.8% compared to the corresponding period a year earlier. 

– The two countries are now fast moving towards the target of US$100 billion non-oil trade by 2030.  

India-UAE Start-Up Bridge: It is a joint initiative between the UAE Ministry of Economy and India’s  Ministry of Commerce and Industry. 

– The bridge is expected to act as a one-stop platform that offers training sessions and knowledge-sharing on important topics such as market access, investment funds, venture capital, incubators and the respective business landscape in each country.

Discussed the establishment of Abu Dhabi – India Virtual Trade Corridor: The corridor aims to increase overall trade volumes by developing data exchange systems to facilitate paperless trade between the two countries, improving efficiencies and security.

Norway’s Jon Fosse wins Nobel for literature

Source: The post is based on the article “Norway’s Jon Fosse wins Nobel for literature” published in “The Hindu” on 6th October 2023

What is the News?

The Nobel Prize for Literature 2023 has been awarded to Norwegian author Jon Olav Fosse for his innovative plays and prose which give voice to the unsayable.

Who is Jon Fosse?

Jon Fosse was born in 1959 in the Norwegian coastal town of Haugesund.He is considered as one of the most important contemporary European writers.

He published his first novel, Red, Black in 1983.He has since published numerous novels, stories, books of poetry, essay collections and even children’s books.

His work “A New Name: Septology VI-VII” was a finalist for the International Booker Prize in 2022.Other notable works by Fosse include I Am the Wind, Melancholy, Boathouse and The Dead Dogs.

His themes explore the absurdity, the futility and yet the power of the human condition; everyday confusions and irresolutions and the difficulty to form actual connections.

Why is Jon Fosse not very popular in the English-speaking world?

Fosse has been celebrated in Europe for a long time,But he is not that popular in the United Kingdom and that has impacted his visibility in the rest of the English-speaking world like in India.

It has been said that the UK and the US find his themes difficult to relate to and his plays difficult to connect with.

RuPay Domestic Card Scheme Agreement between India and the UAE

Source: The post is based on the article “RuPay Domestic Card Scheme Agreement between India and the UAE” published in “PIB” on 6th October 2023

What is the News?

NPCI International Payments Limited(NIPL), a subsidiary of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has signed an agreement with Al Etihad Payments (AEP), an indirect subsidiary of the Central Bank of UAE. 

What is the purpose of the agreement signed between NIPL and UAE?

As per the agreement, NIPL and AEP will work together to build, implement and operationalize UAE’s national Domestic Card Scheme(DCS). 

The DCS will aim to facilitate the growth of e-commerce and digital transactions in the UAE, bolster financial inclusion, support UAE’s digitization agenda, reduce the cost of payments and enhance UAE’s competitiveness and position as a global payments leader.

The services that will be offered by NIPL consists of a RuPay stack and value-added services like fraud monitoring services and analytics.NIPL will also assist AEP in formulating the operating regulations for their domestic card scheme.

What is Rupay?

RuPay is an indigenous, highly secure, and widely accepted card payment network in India. RuPay cards have debit, credit, and prepaid propositions. 

More than 750 Million RuPay cards are in circulation as of date. RuPay cards make up more than 60% of total cards issued in India, with every second Indian having a RuPay card now. 

These cards are issued through the entire banking spectrum, including public sector, private, and small banks.

What is the significance of India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)?

India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) framework consisting of digital identity, digital payments and digital data exchange layers has played a crucial role in revolutionizing the payment industry. 

This infrastructure has provided nearly every Indian adult with access to banking services, remote authentication through Aadhar, and affordable mobile internet connectivity. 

As a result, India has become the world’s third-largest fintech ecosystem, with significant growth in digital transactions and a customer base exceeding 340 million

Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995 decriminalized

Source: The post is based on the article “Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995 decriminalized” published in “PIB” on 6th October 2023

What is the News?

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has notified amendments in the Cable Television Networks Rules,1994.

These amendments operationalize the implementation of the decriminalized provisions of the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995.

What is the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act,1995?

Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995 is an act to regulate the operation of cable television networks in the country and for matters connected

Section 16 of the Act dealt with the punishment for contraventions under any of its provisions. 

This section had provision for imprisonment which might extend up to 2 years, in case of first instance, and 5 years for every subsequent offence.

What are the changes made to the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act,1995?

Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act,1995 has now been decriminalized  through the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provision) Act, 2023. 

The imprisonment provisions have been now replaced with monetary penalty and other non-monetary measures like Advisory, Warning and Censure. 

These measures will be enforced through the “designated officer”.Moreover, Section 16 now introduces an appeal mechanism against the order made by designated officers. 

What are the benefits of decriminalization of provisions under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995?

It promotes compliance by focusing on education and offering a range of penalties like advisory, censure and warnings.

The appointment of a “designated officer” simplifies enforcement, reducing the burden on the criminal justice system.

An appeal mechanism ensures fairness and transparency, and definitions for industry terms enhance consistency.

First public sector caravan park in Kerala to bring in more tourists to Bekal Fort

Source:  The post is based on the article “First public sector caravan park in Kerala to bring in more tourists to Bekal Fort” published in “The Hindu” on 6th October 2023

What is the News?

The Kerala Tourism Development Corporation(KTDC) will develop the caravan park and camp shelter at Bekal Fort.

What is Bekal Fort?

Bekal Fort is located in Kasargod district, Kerala.It is the largest fort in Kerala.

It was built in the 17th century by Shivappa Nayaka of the Keladi dynasty. 

The fort has seen rise and fall of several dynasties and later came under the control of the Kingdom of Mysore.

Structure: The fort appears to emerge from the sea.Almost three-quarters of its exterior is in contact with water.

– An important feature of the fort is the water-tank and the flight of steps leading to an observation tower built by Tipu Sultan.

– The fort’s zigzag entrance and surrounding trenches reveal its defensive strategy.Holes on the outer walls are designed to defend the fort effectively from naval attacks.The upper holes are meant for aiming at the farthest targets; lower holes below for striking as enemy nearer and the lowest holes to attacking enemy closest to the fort.

– The fort’s solid construction resembles the Thalassery Fort and the St. Angelo Fort at Kannur built by the Dutch.

Over 1.36 crore school students from across the country participate in Veer Gatha Project 3.0

Source: The post is based on the article “Over 1.36 crore school students from across the country participate in Veer Gatha Project 3.0” published in“PIB” on 6th October 2023

What is the News?

More than 1.36 crore school students from all 36 States and UTs participated enthusiastically in the 3rd edition of the Veer Gatha Project.

What is Project Veer Gatha?

Project Veer Gatha was initiated under the Gallantry Awards Portal (GAP) in 2021.

Aim: To disseminate the details of acts of bravery of the Gallantry Awardees and the life stories of these brave hearts among the students so as to raise the spirit of patriotism and instill amongst them values of civic consciousness. 

The project deepened this noble aim by providing a platform to the school students to do creative projects/activities based on gallantry award winners. 

– As part of this, the students framed different projects through various media like art, poems, essays and multimedia on these gallantry award winners and best projects were awarded at national level by the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Education.

Two editions of the Veer Gatha Project (i.e. Edition-I and Edition-II) have been conducted in 2021 and 2022 respectively.

The third edition of Project Veer Gatha is now being organized by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) in collaboration with the Ministry of Education(MoE).

India expanding censorship regime, creating uneven playing field: study

Source: The post is based on the article “India expanding censorship regime, creating uneven playing field: study” published in “The Hindu” on 6th October 2023

What is the News?

Freedom House, a Washington-based non-profit organization has released a report titled “Freedom on the Net 2023: The Repressive Power of Artificial Intelligence”.

What is the Freedom on the Net report?

Freedom on the Net is an annual study of human rights in the digital sphere. 

The report assesses internet freedom in 70 countries, accounting for almost 89 percent of the world’s internet users. 

This report covered developments between June 2022 and May 2023. 

What are the key findings of the Freedom on the Net report?

Source: The Hindu

Global Internet Freedom Decline: Internet freedom has declined globally for the 13th consecutive year.Out of 70 countries assessed, 29 have witnessed a deterioration in online human rights, while only 20 have shown improvements.

Worst country for Internet Freedom: China was ranked as the world’s worst environment for Internet freedom for the ninth consecutive year.Myanmar emerged as the world’s second most repressive country for online freedom.

– Iran also experienced a significant increase in digital repression, including Internet shutdowns and social media blockages during anti-government protests.

Legal Consequences for Online Expression: A record 55 countries saw individuals facing legal repercussions for online expression.

– The number of countries imposing arrests and long prison terms for online activities has risen from 18 in 2014 to 31 in 2023.

Elections as Triggers: Elections often serve as triggers for digital repression.Incumbent leaders frequently criminalize speech, block independent news sites, and control information to influence election outcomes.

What are the key findings of the report related to India?

India’s Censorship measures: India has incorporated censorship including the use of automated systems, into the country’s legal framework. 

– The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules require large social media platforms to use AI-based moderation tools for broadly defined types of content — such as speech that could undermine public order, decency, morality, or the country’s sovereignty, integrity, and security, or content that officials had previously ordered removed.

Censorship methods adopted by India: The report evaluates countries on five censorship methods — Internet connectivity restrictions, blocks on social media platforms, blocks on websites, blocks on VPNs, and forced removal of content.

– India engaged in all forms of censorship methods except one (VPN blocking).

Digital Freedom score: India received a score of 50 on a scale of 1 to 100 for Digital freedom where ‘100’ represented highest digital freedom.Iceland had the highest Internet freedom with a score of 94.