• G20 document prepared by World Bank lauds India’s progress
• RBI decides to discontinue I-CRR in a phased manner
• Tribes India Pavilion at crafts bazaar at Bharat Mandapam Showcases wide range of tribal Art for G20 Leaders’ Summit
• Thali economics: How food inflation is pinching vegetarian households more, why September promises some respite
• Joint Statement from India and the United States
• 21st VARUNA Naval Exercise between India and France begins
• Trai’s latest recommendations likely to help FM radio find lost signal
• Centre notifies third phase of mandatory hallmarking from September 8, 2023
• Why the RBI has proposed setting-up a Self Regulatory Organisation for fintechs
• ‘Bharat: Mother of Democracy’ portal launched at G20 exhibition

The case for decoupled elections

Relevance: comparison between the Indian system and the European Union’s

News: The article provides a comparative analysis of the Indian system and the European Union.

What are the differences between the Indian system and the European Union (EU)?

States: India has 28 states and 8 Union Territories, while the EU comprises 27 countries.

Official Languages: The EU has 24 official languages, whereas India recognizes 22 languages in its Eighth Schedule and has at least 35 more seeking recognition.

Population: India’s population is about 3.5 times larger than the EU’s, with around 450 million people.

Income: India has a higher GINI coefficient with a GINI of 36 in 2019, whereas Germany and France have lower GINI coefficients (32 and 30, respectively), while Bulgaria and Lithuania have higher ones (39 and around 36, respectively).

Currency: The EU has a common currency used by 20 nations, with the option for seven more to join if they meet the Maastricht or Convergence Criteria.

Trades: The EU functions as a common market, allowing the free movement of goods and people across member countries. Labor rights include automatic residency rights, and goods can be sold anywhere within the union.

Political System: In the EU, each nation has its own political system, laws, and elections with varying polling methods. The EU mandates a secret ballot. Voting systems range from first-past-the-post to proportional representation or ranked voting.

Each nation also maintains its own parliamentary system and enacts its own laws.

The EU is governed by the European Parliament (EP) in Strasbourg, France. EP members are directly elected by citizens of member states every five years using secret ballot and proportional representation.

The EP has a key role in voting on laws, negotiating on behalf of the EU, overseeing joint institutions, questioning the central bank on monetary policy, and establishing cross-zone commissions.

After the EP passes legislation, member nations must harmonize their local laws with the EP laws. This is similar to India’s federal system, where states can make their own laws but must align them with parliamentary legislation.

However, EU member states have more flexibility compared to Indian states in this regard.

National Elections: EU member nations hold separate national elections from European Parliament (EP) elections, allowing them to prioritize local issues over pan-national matters.

India follows a similar approach, keeping state elections separate from Lok Sabha elections to maintain a clear focus on local concerns and avoid overshadowing by national considerations.

Taxes and Policies: Member states can set their income tax rates, with varying slabs. Indirect taxes are locally decided but must adhere to EU-approved value-added tax (VAT) levels.

The European Central Bank sets policy interest rates and utilizes other monetary policy tools as necessary.

Continental Shift? Why it’s not quite Asia’s century yet

News: During the recent visit to Indonesia for the Asean-India and East Asia summits, PM Modi described the 21st century as the ‘Asian century.’

What is the significance of the term Asian century?

The term gained popularity in the 1990s when East Asia was seen as a model for rapid economic growth.

Today, Asia leads the world in economic growth and has the largest middle class. Three of the world’s top five economies are also located in Asia.

Moreover, the term goes beyond economic competitiveness, as it also includes cultural richness because of the presence of three of the world’s oldest river valley civilizations.

However, some don’t agree with this idea and argue that Asia is not a natural bloc but rather a creation of European geographers.

They argue that there is lack of overlap between the economy of central Asian republics and East Asian economy. They also argue that Asia lacks the hegemonic power that the United States had in the 20th century.

Therefore, it is not wise to portray 21st century as the ‘Asian century’.

Must Read: India’s dilemmas in an Asian century and What is Asian centrality? 

What is the way ahead?

The Indian Prime Minister has called for the need to build a rules-based order in Asia, which is seen as a challenge to China’s growing influence.

China also faces significant resistance to its leadership in Asia, turning the continent into a place of competing ideas.

Therefore, even though Asia stands out as the world’s most economically active region with strong trade connections, the idea of the ‘Asian century’ still remains to be fully achieved.

An overhaul, the criminal law Bills, and the big picture

News– The central government has introduced three Bills in Parliament in August called the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023 and the Bharatiya Sakshya (BS) Bill, 2023.

What are provisions in BNSS on registration of FIR and conducting inquiry?

The BNSS includes a provision regarding the registration of cognisable offenses at any police station, regardless of the location of committed offense. This practice is known as recording a First Information Report at Zero.

A new provision has been introduced to allow for a preliminary inquiry to determine the presence of a prima facie case.

This should be done even when the information suggests the commission of a cognisable offense punishable with imprisonment between three to seven years.

This diverges from the Supreme Court’s ruling in Lalita Kumari versus Govt. of Uttar Pradesh (2013). SC mandated the mandatory registration of an FIR when a cognisable offense is disclosed.

This clause has both advantages and disadvantages. Parties in dispute may reach a compromise within the 14-day timeframe allotted for a preliminary inquiry. But, the police might misuse this period to avoid registering even valid cases.

What are provisions in BNSS related to arrest of accused and issues related to them?

All provisions of the CrPC on arrest have been retained in the BNSS.

A new clause stipulates that for offenses carrying a sentence of less than three years of imprisonment, an arrest can only be made with prior permission from the Deputy Superintendent of Police. It is for individuals who are infirm or aged over 60.

The new Codes allow for handcuffing in at least a dozen categories of persons accused of serious offenses, including terrorist acts, murder, rape, acid attacks, or offenses against the state. This is likely to aid the police in securing the custody of such individuals.

However, the enabling section guiding handcuffing remains unchanged. It states that “the person arrested shall not be subjected to more restraint than is necessary to prevent his escape.”

Therefore, the investigating officer will still need to justify handcuffing based on the potential for escape or physical harm when these criminals are presented before the court.

The new Sanhita introduces a requirement for a forensic expert to visit the crime scene and collect forensic evidence in cases where the punishment is more than seven years of imprisonment.

However, the new code has recognized the practical limitations of limited forensic infrastructure at the ground level. State governments have been granted a maximum of five years to implement this provision.

The Sanhita promotes the use of audio and video recording during various stages of investigations, including searches. However, the preferred use of smartphones, as recommended, has its limitations.

In the case of Shafhi Mohammad vs. The State Of Himachal Pradesh (2018), the Supreme Court directed the Ministry of Home Affairs and states to establish facilities for the videography and photography of crime scenes during police station-level investigations.

What is criticism against BNSS code?

The ban on the two-finger test in cases of rape is not explicitly included in the Code. The Supreme Court has declared in the Lillu @ Rajesh & Anr vs. State Of Haryana (2013) case that this test is unscientific and violates the dignity and privacy of rape victims.

Regarding the disclosure of the identity of rape victims, the provision allowing authorization to the next of kin when the victim is a minor needs reconsiderstion.

This is because the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act exclusively addresses this issue and does not include a similar provision.

The Supreme Court, in the case of Nipun Saxena vs. Union Of India (2018) expressed reservations about delegating such authority to the next of kin.

One provision in the Sanhita that has drawn criticism is the extension of the period of police custody beyond the 15 days stipulated in the CrPC.

This extension allows the police to re-interrogate an accused individual if additional evidence surfaces during an investigation.

What are some positive aspects of the BNSS code?

The Sanhita proposes broadening the scope of judicial inquiry into suspicious deaths to include dowry-related deaths.

A useful addition that could have been included in the Sanhita relates to videography and photography of post-mortems, especially in cases of custodial deaths or deaths resulting from encounters.

The Supreme Court and the National Human Rights Commission of India have consistently urged states to comply with such directives.

India’s G20 presidency has been a landmark- The voice of emerging powers must be heard

News: The article discusses India’s role in the G20 Leaders’ Summit, highlighting its achievements as the G20 President. It underscores India’s leadership in health and digital inclusion. The article also touches on global challenges, the G7’s resistance to change, and emerging powers seeking greater influence in global decision-making.

How has India’s role as G20 President impacted the global stage?

Pandemic Leadership: India emphasized pandemic preparedness during its G20 presidency, becoming a model for other nations after effectively managing the Covid-19 crisis.

Digital Influence: India’s push for digital public infrastructure, such as the Unified Payments Interface, has expanded to nearly two dozen countries, setting a global trend.

Geopolitical Balance: Amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict, India maintained neutrality, effectively balancing relations with major global players like Russia and the U.S.

Democratizing G20: India’s presidency democratized the G20 process, emphasizing inclusivity and bringing the discussions closer to its citizens by hosting in different cities.

Promotion of Multilateral Cooperation: With initiatives like involving the African Union in the G20, India is fostering broader global collaborations.

What are the main G20 challenges?

Russia-Ukraine War: The conflict has created divisions among G20 members, with countries forced to pick sides or maintain neutrality.

Differences between G7 and G20: The G7, a subgroup within the G20, often pulls in a different direction on key issues. For instance, while the G7 might have a unified stance, other G20 members seek equitable decisions on debt and climate commitments.

Digital Inclusion: India’s initiative of digital public infrastructure like the Unified Payments Interface faces resistance, especially from U.S. private entities and Chinese state companies.

Financial Reforms: The G20 faces challenges in reforming the multilateral financial architecture, with differences in opinions among its members.

Energy and Climate Commitments: While the need for action on climate change is unanimous, the methods and commitments vary among members.

What recent global changes impact the G20’s direction?

Geopolitical Tensions: The absence of China and Russia from the G20 summit highlights underlying global tensions.

BRICS Expansion: The growth of the BRICS nations is reshaping global dynamics.

India’s Lunar Landing: This achievement highlights the rising technological and scientific capabilities of emerging nations.

Ukraine Conflict’s Economic Impact: The war has caused distortions in food and energy markets, affecting global trade and economics.

What’s the future of G20?

New Presidencies: After India, Brazil and South Africa will lead the G20, emphasizing health, digital inclusion, and financial reforms.

IBSA Collaboration: The India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) grouping will enhance G20’s focus on health, debt relief, and climate goals.

African Union Inclusion: India’s proposal to include the African Union in the G20 is expected to be accepted, diversifying the group’s representation.

Shift Towards Global South: G20 is likely to increase its association with the Global South, which has historically been excluded from major global processes.

Dialogue Platform: Despite disagreements, the G20 will remain a key forum for dialogue and cooperation, adapting to a world in transition.

India’s G20 opportunity: Internet shutdowns hamper Digital India promise

News: The article discusses India’s contradictory digital landscape. While India has a high number of internet users and leads in digital innovation, it also frequently shuts down the internet, affecting millions. As India hosts the G20 Summit, it should commit to consistent internet access, matching international digital rights standards.

How India’s digital progress contradictory?

India’s digital progress presents a picture of contradictions:

Impressive Rankings: India stands second in terms of active internet users and possesses the second-largest social media user base. This showcases the country’s rapid embrace of the digital age.

Internet Shutdowns: Contradicting its digital growth, India has imposed the most internet shutdowns globally for five consecutive years. In 2022 alone, the internet was shut down 84 times.

Cutting-Edge Technology: While India is advancing with efforts in 5G and even 6G prototypes, a significant portion of its population still uses outdated 2G technology.

Aadhaar Debates: The digital ID system, Aadhaar, is praised for its unique benefits. However, it has faced criticism for privacy concerns and connectivity issues, which sometimes prevent basic services like obtaining rations or making UPI payments.

What has the G20 discussed about digital inclusion?

Digital Public Infrastructure: The G20 DEWG led discussions on Digital Public Infrastructure, recognizing its importance in modern societies.

Digital Inclusion Priority: One of their primary areas of discussion was “Digital Inclusion — Connecting the Unconnected”, emphasizing the importance of bringing connectivity to all.

Inclusivity in Planning: The G20 DEWG document pushes for inclusivity to eliminate barriers. This aims for the empowerment of end-users and focuses on last-mile access.

Emphasis on Human Rights: The same document accentuates the need for a human rights-centric approach at every stage, from planning to operation.

How can India realign with global digital standards?

End Internet Shutdowns: With 84 shutdowns in 2022, India should reduce these to uphold consistent internet access and match international standards.

Honor International Commitments: India’s signing of the G7 “open societies” joint statement in 2021 against “politically motivated shutdowns” should be adhered to, removing any qualifiers.

Strengthen Digital Infrastructure: While India pushes for 5G and 6G, efforts should be made to upgrade the vast population still on 2G.

Address Aadhaar Concerns: Addressing criticisms of Aadhaar, especially concerning privacy and connectivity, will ensure better service delivery without interruptions.

Act on G20 DEWG Recommendations: India should implement the recommendations of the G20 DEWG, focusing on human rights, inclusivity, and consistent high-quality connectivity.

G20’s well being challenge

News: The article discusses the challenges faced by women, children, and adolescents in G20 countries due to factors like Covid-19, conflict, climate change, and cost of living. It stresses the need for G20 leadership in improving their health and well-being for global economic growth. The solutions include better financing, data systems, early childhood investment, and global cooperation.

What challenges are faced by women, children, and adolescents in G20 countries?

The “Four Cs”: They are impacted by Covid-19, conflict, climate change, and the rising cost of living.

Climate Displacement: 80% of those displaced due to climate emergencies are women, highlighting gender-specific challenges.

Preventable Deaths: Almost 2 million deaths occur yearly among these groups in G20 countries. Many are avoidable with proper care and resources.

Economic Inequalities: Women continue to earn less than men, even with similar education, pushing many into poverty.

Healthcare Shortfalls: Numerous countries can’t maintain pre-pandemic health spending levels, affecting the health of these vulnerable groups.

Environmental Impact: Climate change caused over 1,50,000 deaths in 2000, with children bearing 88% of this burden.

What role does G20 play?

Population Representation: G20 countries encompass two-thirds of the world’s population, making their decisions highly impactful.

Economic Power: They represent approximately 85% of the global GDP, granting them immense economic leverage in international matters.

Digital Health Drive: Under G20’s watch, India launched digital health strategies, leading to the registration of a billion people for vaccine monitoring and distributing 1.78 billion Covid-19 doses.

Addressing Climate Impact: Recognizing the critical link between climate and health, G20 is spearheading initiatives to mitigate the negative effects of the climate crisis on public health.

Promotion of Collaboration: The G20 encourages countries to cooperate, share best practices, and collectively address challenges.

What actions are suggested for G20?

Prioritize Health and Well-being: The G20 must make the health and well-being of women, children, and adolescents a permanent fixture on its action agenda.

Increase Financing: They should prioritize cross-cutting financing to strengthen health systems, improve access to health services, and address social factors like poverty and gender inequality.

Develop Robust Data Systems: Strong data systems are needed to monitor and effectively implement policies and programs.

Promote Research and Health Tech Development: G20 countries should advance research and development of new health technologies and vaccines.

Invest in Early Childhood: Emphasize investing in the early years, promoting family-friendly policies and universal social protection.

Tackle Youth Unemployment: Focus on skills development for adolescents, promoting digital literacy, and environmentally conscious growth.

Eastern hedge – on India and ASEAN relationship

News– Recently Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Indonesian capital of Jakarta for the annual India-ASEAN summit.

What are the challenges faced by the world today?

As per the UNCTAD in its ‘Global Trade Update’ on June 21, the outlook for worldwide trade in the latter half of 2023 is gloomy due to a series of negative factors.

These factors include reduced global economic forecasts, ongoing inflation, financial vulnerabilities, and geopolitical tensions taking center stage.

Food insecurity has been exacerbated by the conflict in Ukraine, the effects of climate change, and the various policy responses to combat inflationary pressures at the national level. The potential onset of an El Niño further complicates the situation.

What were the important developments during the summit?

The joint statement issued by leaders during the ASEAN-India summit, titled ‘Enhancing Food Security and Nutrition in Response to Crises,’ underscores the collective concern felt within the region regarding the heightened global food insecurity.

This insecurity has been exacerbated by the conflict in Ukraine, the effects of climate change, and the various policy responses to combat inflationary pressures at the national level.

How India positioned itself at the ASEAN summit?

Modi emphasized the importance of a post-COVID-19 world order governed by rules and advocated for a free and open Indo-Pacific.

It was clearly aimed at certain members of the Asian bloc who are growing increasingly concerned about China’s recent assertiveness in the South China Sea.

The Prime Minister’s implicit message to ASEAN members is that India is a dependable, long-term strategic and economic partner that has no territorial ambitions.

India also aimed to position itself as a voice that amplifies the concerns of the Global South.

What are trade related issues between two countries?

For India, trade relations with eastern economies have grown in volume but have shown significant imbalances. Imports are far exceeding India’s exports.

The widening trade deficit and concerns that Chinese products are exploiting lower tariffs under the FTA to enter the Indian market have contributed to a review of the agreement. It is expected to be completed in 2025.

Change the playbook, repatriate Indian children

News– The article explains the issues of children who are taken away from their migrant parents by authorities in advanced countries.

What are issues related to the process of confiscation of children by foreign authorities from migrant parents?

A migrated family in a high-income country finds themselves in a troubling situation where they are accused of mistreating their children.

These allegations surface through the child’s struggles in adapting to a foreign environment at school and when parents seek medical care for an injured or ill child.

The ensuing legal process is heavily biased.  Assessments carried out by social workers who hold cultural biases against the family.

As a result, the parents lose custody of their children. They are subsequently placed in foster care for their entire childhood.

Contact with the parents is severely restricted. It is often limited to just one hour every few weeks in a dismal contact centre. Over time, the child becomes completely estranged from their parents.

What are the issues faced by children who are taken away from their parents?

These children are entrusted to local foster parents who do not share the same ethnic or cultural background as the child’s family of origin.

Consequently, these children lose their sense of identity. They fail to establish meaningful connections with either their host country or their extended family back home.

When they eventually leave foster care, they are left feeling doubly alienated. They are not considered citizens of the country where they reside, and they lack significant ties to their country of origin.

Way forward-

A more compassionate and humane solution for such children would involve their safe return to their home country, rather than leaving them in the custody of a foreign state.

Foreign nations should move beyond self-righteous perspectives. They should conduct genuine investigations into parents’ claims of cultural bias and unfair trials within their child protection systems.

The fate of these children should be considered from a broader perspective, rather than merely focusing on their place of residence.

The New Look In New Delhi

Source– The post is based on the article “The New Look In New Delhi” published in “The Times of India” on 9th September 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- International relations

Relevance- Multilateralism in Indian foreign policy

News– The article explains the different phases of multilateralism in Indian foreign policy and key elements of multilateralism in the present context.

What are different phases of multilateralism for India?

First phase– India’s history of multilateral engagement can be divided into four distinct periods. The first phase saw India’s unwavering commitment to the United Nations. However, this approach came into conflict with the realities of the Cold War.

Second phase- It involved India’s participation in the Afro-Asian conference in Bandung and the formation of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).

NAM served as both a diplomatic shield and an ideological framework. It helped India to position itself between the competing influences of Moscow and Washington.

However, NAM proved ineffective when put to the test. During the 1962 conflict with China, many African and West Asian nations aligned themselves with Beijing.

Third phase- The post-Cold War era, marked by India’s economic liberalization in 1991, ushered in a third phase of multilateralism. India was a participant in the creation of the BRIC group.

The Quad originated during the tenure of U.S. President George W. Bush. It was inspired by the impressive joint response of the four Quad nations’ navies to the Asian tsunami disaster. President Bush decided to formalize this cooperation. It gave birth to the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, later known as the Quad.

However, during its initial phase, the Quad faced geopolitical challenges. China strongly opposed it. Australia withdrew from the group, and India found itself standing alone as the main proponent of the initiative.

Fourth phase- The Modi government represents the latest phase of India’s approach to multilateralism. It involves several key elements.

What are key aspects of the new phase of multilateralism by India?

There is a deliberate shift away from the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). Prime Minister Modi has not physically attended a single NAM summit.

There is an effort to reshape post-Cold War groupings to counter China’s expanding influence. In the most recent BRICS summit, India attempted to resist Beijing’s plans to transform BRICS into an alternative to the Group of Seven (G7).

The Quad has taken the forward-looking turn. Its primary focus is on ensuring that China does not dominate in strategic technology.

Another aspect of India’s approach involves the establishment of a series of small, specialized minilateral groups, each addressing a single issue.

These minilaterals aim to address gaps in the existing international order, which has been marked by a loss of legitimacy in the West due to internal crises.

Additionally, these efforts respond to the incapacity of current international organizations to address urgent global crises, especially in the context of climate change.

The International Solar Alliance garnered substantial interest from developing nations. It has prompted India to transform it into a permanent entity.

The Climate Disaster Resilience Initiative emerged from India’s genuine concerns that the West was neglecting climate adaptation efforts.

At the recent G20 summit, India is actively working on restructuring the entire multilateral development bank system to redirect its focus toward green finance for the Global South.

India is also planning the establishment of a new multilateral body, capitalizing on its digital successes. It is known as the One Future Alliance.

India is collaborating with Western countries on many of these initiatives. Much of this new multilateralism will ultimately be financed by Western development agencies.

This could be the most critical geopolitical aspect of India’s current phase of multilateralism.

What are the challenges for the new phase of multilateralism by India?

India still has a long way to go before it can assert itself as a rule-maker on the global stage.

The International Solar Alliance has encountered challenges in maintaining its vision. It is shifting its focus more toward aid projects than setting global standards.

The Climate Disaster Resilience Initiative is still in its early stages. The success of the One Future Alliance may be challenging to achieve, as governments tend to be cautious when presented with digital initiatives.

GS Paper 3

Pulses are dearer- Shortfall in pulse production has spurred inflation

News: Due to lower monsoon rainfall, there’s less planting of pulses like arhar, urad, and moong. This has caused their prices to rise above the official minimum rates. Global pulse prices are also high. The government needs to use its stored pulses wisely and consider changing import rules to help with the shortage.

What are the reasons for the price rise in pulses?

Domestic Reasons for Pulse Price Rise:

Reduced Planting: Farmers sowed 8.6% less area under pulses such as arhar, urad, and moong compared to last year, a decline of over 1.1 million hectares.

Price Increases: In two months, arhar prices increased from Rs 10,000 to Rs 12,500 per quintal. Moong prices went up from Rs 6,500 to Rs 9,000, and chana prices rose from Rs 4,600-4,700 to Rs 6,100-6,200.

Exceeding MSP:  Current market prices for pulses like arhar, moong, and chana are well above their official Minimum Support Prices.

Global Reasons for Pulse Price Rise:

Reduced International Harvests:

Canada and Australia’s pulse harvests are projected at 1.3-1.4 mt each, down from 1.7-1.8 mt the previous year.

El Niño is affecting Myanmar, a key urad supplier to India.

International Price Hikes: Masoor’s landed price increased from $650-680 to $780-790 per tonne.

Export Limitations:  Mozambique set a floor price of $850-900 per tonne for arhar exports.

What can the government do?

Utilize Stored Pulses: The government has chana stocks which can be released into the market. They were holding around 3.8 million tonnes of chana as of June 30.

Restrict Bidders: Consider limiting bidders to actual users or dal millers during allocations. This ensures that the right stakeholders get access to the pulses.

Revisit Import Restrictions: The current rule, not allowing stocks to be held beyond 30 days from customs clearance, discourages imports. This needs revision as larger imports are crucial now.

Facilitate Bigger Shipments: Presently, imports are in 25-tonne containers, but bigger 30,000-60,000 tonne vessels would be more efficient.

Revise Pea Import Duties: The government should reconsider the 50% duty and the minimum price of Rs 200/kg on yellow/white peas, making them more affordable for import.

RBI decides to discontinue I-CRR in a phased manner

Source: The post is based on the article “RBI decides to discontinue I-CRR in a phased manner” published in The Hindu on 9th September 2023

What is the News?

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced that it would discontinue the incremental cash reserve ratio (I-CRR) in a phased manner.

What is the Incremental cash reserve ratio (I-CRR)?

I-CRR is an additional cash balance which the RBI can ask banks to maintain over and above the Cash Reserve Ratio(CRR).

Note: Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) is the minimum amount of the total deposits which banks have to maintain as cash reserves with the Reserve Bank of India.It is an essential tool to maintain the health of the banking system.Banks cannot use this amount for lending or for any investment purposes.

Why was Incremental cash reserve ratio (I-CRR) introduced?

The I-CRR was introduced on August 10, 2023 by RBI.

I-CRR was announced as a temporary measure to absorb excess liquidity from the banking system.

The level of surplus liquidity in the system surged because of the return of Rs 2,000 banknotes to the banking system.

RBI’s surplus transfer to the government also led to increase in government spending and capital inflows.

Note: Last time, RBI imposed the I-CRR was in November 2016 to absorb a part of the surplus liquidity in the system following the demonetization of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 banknotes on November 8, 2016.It was later discontinued from the fortnight beginning December 10, 2016.

Tribes India Pavilion at crafts bazaar at Bharat Mandapam Showcases wide range of tribal Art for G20 Leaders’ Summit

Source: The post is based on the article “Tribes India Pavilion at crafts bazaar at Bharat Mandapam Showcases wide range of tribal Art for G20 Leaders’ Summit” published in PIB on 9th September 2023

What is the News?

The Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Ltd (TRIFED), Ministry of Tribal Affairs is showcasing a wide range of traditional tribal art, artifacts, paintings and many more at the ‘Tribes India’ pavilion.

The exhibition is being hosted at the Crafts Bazaar as part of the G-20 Leaders’ Summit at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

What are the tribal arts showcased at the Tribes India pavilion?

Pithora Art: It is a ritualistic painting characterized by animated figures and lavish use of color.

– These paintings are done by the Rathwa, Bhilala, Naik and Bhil tribes of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh.

– The paintings speak of the social, cultural and mythological life and beliefs of the tribals.The painting are a medium of propitiation, thanksgiving and commemoration of

auspicious occasions.

– Padma Shri awardee Shri Paresh Rathwa is a renowned artist of Pithora art.

What are the other tribal arts displayed at the Tribes India pavilion?

Gond painting from Madhya Pradesh.

Saura painting by artisans from Odisha.

Angora and Pashmina shawls from the high altitudes of Leh-Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh.

The colorful jewellery by the Konyak tribes of Nagaland appeases the eye.

Maheshwari silk sarees from Madhya Pradesh: It is worn during religious functions and auspicious events.

Dhokra jewellery: It is carved out of molten metals, beads, colorful glass pieces, and wooden balls.Tribal artisans from West Bengal, Odisha, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh are the architects of these pieces of intrinsic art.

Thali economics: How food inflation is pinching vegetarian households more, why September promises some respite

Joint Statement from India and the United States

Trai’s latest recommendations likely to help FM radio find lost signal

Source: The post is based on the article “Trai’s latest recommendations likely to help FM radio find lost signal” published in Business Standard on 9th September 2023

What is the News?

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India(TRAI) has released its recommendations on issues related to FM radio broadcasting including private FM Radio operators.

What are the recommendations given by TRAI to address issues related to FM radio broadcasting?

Source: Business Standard

Click Here to read

What are the expected benefits of TRAI recommendations on FM Radio?

Firstly, the FM Radio industry will be able to increase its revenue

Secondly, FM radio can become a great tool to bridge the information gap that exists in rural India.

– Many in rural India still rely on FM radio channels for their entertainment and information.

Thus, allowing private FM players to broadcast news can prove to be a game changer for the government and other companies in delivering news to their citizens or customers in all parts of the country.

Thirdly, this will help them to bring more programming variety to radio.

Centre notifies third phase of mandatory hallmarking from September 8, 2023

Source: The post is based on the article “Centre notifies third phase of mandatory hallmarking from September 8, 2023” published in PIB on 9th September 2023

What is the News?

The third phase of the mandatory hallmarking vide Hallmarking of Gold Jewellery and Gold Artefacts (Third Amendment) Order, 2023 comes into force from September 8, 2023.

The third phase will cover an additional 55 new districts under the mandatory hallmarking system.

What is Hallmarking?

Hallmarking is the accurate determination and official recording of the proportionate content of precious metal in precious metal articles.

Hallmarks are thus official marks used in many countries as a guarantee of purity or fineness of precious metal articles.

The principle objectives of the Hallmarking Scheme are to protect the public against adulteration and to obligate manufacturers to maintain legal standards of fineness.

In India, at present two precious metals namely gold and silver have been brought under the purview of Hallmarking.

What is the Hallmarking scheme?

Under the Hallmarking scheme of Bureau of Indian Standards(BIS), Jewellers are registered for selling hallmarked jewellery and recognised testing and hallmarking centers.

Aim: To protect consumers against victimization due to irregular gold or silver quality, develop India as a leading gold market center in the World and develop export competitiveness.

Mandatory Hallmarking of Gold Jewellery:

Mandatory Hallmarking of Gold Jewellery has come into force from June,2021.

In the first phase, mandatory hallmarking was implemented in 256 districts of the country with effect from 23 June 2021 and in the second phase additional 32 districts were covered.

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