9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 16 November, 2024

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Mains Oriented Articles

GS PAPER - 2

India lacks a world-class public policy institution

Source: The post India lacks a world-class public policy institution has been created, based on the article “India needs a globally recognised public policy school” published in “The Hindu” on 16th November 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS paper2- Governance-Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Education.

Context: The article explains why India lacks a world-class public policy institution. It highlights centralized executive power, weak policy influence, and political instability. It suggests creating a school focused on India’s unique dynamics, promoting empathy, and fostering non-partisan collaboration.

For detailed information on Public policy education in India read this article here

Why Doesn’t India Have a World-Class Public Policy Institution?

  1. Centralized Decision-Making: In India, the executive branch holds significant decision-making power, which is concentrated within a small political elite. This limits the roles of public policy institutions as their influence on policy is minimal compared to institutions in countries like the U.S., where Congress has significant legislative powers.
  2. Limited Legislative Oversight: The limited oversight role of the legislature in India compared to the U.S. means that public policy institutions have fewer opportunities to influence policy through a decentralized and deliberative process.
  3. Political Dynamics and Stability: The influence of public policy experts in India is heavily dependent on the current political leadership. This leads to instability, as shifts in power can sideline key decision-makers and experts.
  4. Lack of Influence of Policy Groups: In India, unless policy groups align closely with the political priorities of the top leadership, they struggle to exert influence. This is different from more institutionalized democracies where think tanks and advocacy groups can maintain influence regardless of the political party in power.

How Can India Develop a Top-Tier Public Policy School?

  1. Understand India’s Unique Power Dynamics: Unlike the U.S. Congress, India’s centralized executive dominates decision-making, reducing policy experts’ influence. A policy school must train students to navigate this centralized structure.
  2. Focus on Informal Networks: Teach students to work within India’s informal networks, caste hierarchies, regional elites, and grassroots movements, as power is often opaque and unevenly distributed.
  3. Emphasize Empathy: The curriculum should focus on understanding people’s lived realities to avoid top-down policies that can harm local communities.
  4. Address Political Instability: Build a non-partisan space for policy interventions that remain relevant despite regime changes, unlike the current system tied closely to executive power.

Question for practice:

Discuss how centralized executive power and political instability in India impact the development and effectiveness of public policy institutions.

Supreme Court clarifies the interpretation of Article 30 and its implications for minority institutions in India

Source: The post Supreme Court clarifies the interpretation of Article 30 and its implications for minority institutions in India has been created, based on the article “Universities are different from religious institutions” published in “The Hindu” on 16th November 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS paper2-Constitution of India —historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.

Context: The article discusses the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) case, focusing on a 2024 Supreme Court judgment. It overrules the 1967 Azeez Basha case, clarifying AMU’s status as a minority institution. The article highlights different judicial views and the evolving interpretation of Article 30.

For detailed information on Minority Institutions in India- Determination Criteria, Benefits and Challenges read this article here

What is the Background of the AMU Case?

  1. Foundation of AMU: Sir Syed Ahmad Khan founded the M.A.O. College in 1877, which later became the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). It was seen as a key effort in Muslim education post-1857.
  2. Controversy on Minority Status: In 1967, the Supreme Court in S. Azeez Basha declared that AMU was neither established nor administered by Muslims. The university was not heard during the judgment.
  3. Role of M.A.O. College: AMU inherited all debts, rights, and privileges of M.A.O. College, recognized as a minority institution. Historical evidence, such as the 1912 letter from Harcourt Butler, confirmed that ₹30 lakh was raised to establish AMU.

What Was the Supreme Court’s Decision in AMU judgment 2024?

  1. The Supreme Court overruled the 1967 S. Azeez Basha judgment, recognizing Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) as a minority institution.
  2. A seven-judge Supreme Court Bench, in a 4-3 majority, introduced a “holistic and realistic” test to assess an institution’s minority status, leaving AMU’s case to a smaller Bench.
  3. The court emphasized a broad interpretation of Article 30, extending protection to pre-constitutional-era institutions like AMU.
  4. The judgment rejected arguments that governmental control or governance structures negate minority status, supporting AMU’s historical and legal continuity with M.A.O. College.
  5. The court affirmed that the right to administer is a consequence of establishment, ensuring AMU’s place as a minority institution of national importance.

What are the other important cases related to the interpretation of Article 30?

  1. T.M.A. Pai Foundation Case (2002)
  • The 11-judge Bench clarified the administrative rights of minority institutions under Article 30.
  • It identified rights such as selecting students, fixing fees, choosing governing bodies, and disciplining employees.
  • The case limited governmental interference while ensuring educational standards.
  1. Xaviers Case (1974)
  • This case highlighted the importance of “choice” in the establishment and administration of minority institutions under Article 30.
  • Justice M.H. Beg ruled that any law indirectly forcing minorities to give up their rights would be void.
  • It emphasized a balance between administrative rights and general educational standards.
  1. Kerala Education Bill Case (1958)
  • The Court reiterated that “choice” is a key element under Article 30 for minorities to establish and administer institutions.
  • It emphasized that these rights cannot be curtailed arbitrarily.
  1. Basheshar Nath Case (1959)
  • This case ruled that fundamental rights cannot be waived.

Conclusion:

The Supreme Court’s decision supports AMU’s role as a significant minority institution, capable of contributing to national importance while maintaining its foundational identity. This aligns with the vision of its founders and the broader goals of Article 30.

Question for practice:

Examine how the Supreme Court’s 2024 judgment on Aligarh Muslim University clarifies the interpretation of Article 30 and its implications for minority institutions in India.

GS PAPER - 3

Indian Ocean Brown Cloud

Source: The post Indian Ocean Brown Cloud has been created, based on the article “We knew what caused air pollution 25 years ago – but governments still won’t act” published in “Indian Express” on 16th November 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS paper 3-Environment (Pollution)

Context: The article discusses the Indian Ocean Experiment (INDOEX), which discovered the Indian Ocean Brown Cloud caused by biomass and fossil fuel burning. It highlights India’s ongoing air pollution crisis, its sources, health impacts, and the need for scientific, long-term solutions.

What is the Indian Ocean Brown Cloud?

  1. In 1999, the Indian Ocean Experiment (INDOEX) studied haze over the Indian Ocean, led by V Ramanathan.
  2. They discovered a giant “Indian Ocean Brown Cloud,” later renamed “Atmospheric Brown Cloud with a Focus on Asia.”
  3. It was caused by biomass and fossil fuel burning, affecting temperatures, rainfall, agriculture, and health.
  4. Governments in South Asia ignored the 2002 United Nations report on the findings.

How severe is India’s air pollution?

  1. A thick haze, up to 3 km, covers the Indo-Gangetic Plains, affecting lives, livelihoods, and the economy.
  2. Most Indian cities fail to meet national ambient air quality standards, which are lenient compared to WHO guidelines.
  3. India emits 52 lakh tonnes of PM2.5 annually, excluding dust from natural and man-made sources.
  4. Major contributors to PM2.5 pollution: Biomass burning (55%), including cooking fuels and stubble burning (6.5%), Industry and power plants contribute 37%, mainly from coal burning, Transport contributes 7%.
  5. Health and economic impacts: Indoor pollution from biomass cooking fuels causes 8,00,000 premature deaths annually.

What are the key solutions to reduce air pollution?

  1. Energy transition in households:

Shift to LPG, biogas, or electricity for cooking to reduce PM2.5.

Targeted policies like a new PM Ujjwala Yojana can help low-income households.

  1. Cleaner industry practices:

Encourage MSMEs to adopt electric boilers and clean technologies.

Strengthen pollution control boards to enforce industrial norms.

  1. Stubble burning control:

Mandate harvesters that cut closer to the ground to leave less stubble.

Provide incentives like Haryana’s ₹1,000 per acre for stubble management.

  1. Improving transport: Scale up electric vehicles and public transport with clear targets.
  2. Managing local pollution sources: Strengthen local bodies to control road dust, garbage burning, and construction activities.

Question for practice:

Discuss the various sources of air pollution in India as identified in the Indian Ocean Experiment (INDOEX) and their associated health and economic impacts.

Reimposition of AFSPA in Manipur

Source: The post reimposition of AFSPA in Manipur has been created, based on the article “Express View: AFSPA is a blunt instrument – address political failure Manipur instead” published in “Indian Express” on 16th November 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS paper 3- Internal Security

Context: The article discusses ethnic conflicts in Manipur, worsened by government inaction, distrust, and the reimposition of AFSPA. It highlights historical opposition to AFSPA, poor governance, and unresolved tensions between communities, urging better political solutions instead of relying on military measures.

For detailed information on Manipur unrest and its impact on regional security read this article here

What is the Current Situation in Manipur?

  1. Manipur has experienced 19 months of ethnic conflict, resulting in deaths and displacements. 2. The recent violence prompted the reimposition of the Disturbed Area status under AFSPA in six police stations, which has historically faced opposition in Manipur and other Northeast areas.

What Are the Root Causes of the Conflict?

  1. The conflict originated from the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status and opposition by the Kuki-Zomi community.
  2. Ethnic identities have long influenced socioeconomic and political dynamics in Manipur, leading to entrenched divisions and conflict.

What is the major concern regarding the conflicts in Manipur?

  1. Ineffective Governance: The state government focuses on blaming outsiders and imposing internet bans, with no effective solutions.
  2. Uncontrolled Weapons: Over 5,000 looted weapons remain unaccounted for, worsening security concerns.
  3. Administrative Failures: The issue is viewed only through law and order, ignoring underlying political problems.

What is the History of AFSPA in Manipur?

  1. Initial Imposition (1958): AFSPA was first imposed in the Naga-dominated districts of Senapati, Tamenglong, and Ukhrul.
  2. Extension to New Areas (1960s): The Act was extended to Kuki-Zomi-dominated Churachandpur district.
  3. Statewide Implementation (1979): The entire state came under AFSPA due to armed insurgency in Meitei-dominated Imphal Valley.
  4. Major Protests: Activist Irom Sharmila protested against AFSPA for 16 years, starting in 2000.
  5. Review and Recommendations: The Jeevan Reddy Committee in 2005 and the Second Administrative Reforms Commission recommended repealing AFSPA, calling it “highly undesirable.”
  6. Recent Rollbacks Elsewhere: AFSPA has been reduced in other parts of the Northeast due to declining militancy, but Manipur remains an exception.

Question for practice:

Evaluate the effectiveness of government measures, including the reimposition of AFSPA, in addressing the ethnic conflict and security concerns in Manipur.

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Discovery of the World’s Largest Coral in the Solomon Islands

Source: This post on Discovery of the World’s Largest Coral in the Solomon Islands has been created based on the article “Scientists discover the largest coral colony on Earth in the Solomon Islands: Key insights on its size and age” published in Times of India on 16th November 2024.

Why in news?

Recently, a massive coral structure has been discovered in the Solomon Islands, South Pacific. The discovery of this colossal coral underscores the ocean’s vast mysteries and the urgent need to protect such ecosystems from environmental challenges.

About Discovery of the World’s Largest Coral in the Solomon Islands

Scientists discover the largest coral colony on Earth in the Solomon Islands
Source: TOI

It’s the largest coral known to date. The coral is comparable in size to two basketball courts or five tennis courts.

It has been found as part of National Geographic’s Pristine Seas Project, led by explorer Enric Sala.

Physical Characteristics:

1. It is lying at a depth of 40 feet below the surface. Its height (16 feet) indicates an estimated age of over 300 years. It is visible from space due to its sheer size and striking colors.

2. It measures approximately 111 feet wide, 104 feet long, and 18 feet high.

3. It belongs to the Pavona clavus species. It is predominantly brown but includes vibrant hues of yellow, blue, and red.

4. It provides habitat, shelter, and breeding grounds for various marine species, including shrimp, crabs, and fish. It has been compared to finding the world’s tallest tree due to its ecological importance.

UPSC Syllabus: Environment 

Jeevan Pramaan: Digital Life Certificates (DLCs) for Pensioners

Source: This post on Jeevan Pramaan: Digital Life Certificates (DLCs) for Pensioners has been created based on the article “In ‘life certificate’ month, how Govt’s Jeevan Pramaan has been faring” published in Indian Express on 16th November 2024.

Why in news?

The third annual Jeevan Pramaan campaign began on November 1, 2024, and will continue until November 30. The Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare (DoPPW) has organized 1,900 camps across the country to assist pensioners in generating their DLCs.

About Jeevan Pramaan Initiative

1. The government launched Jeevan Pramaan in 2014 to simplify the life certificate submission process for pensioners.

2. This initiative allows pensioners to generate Digital Life Certificates (DLCs) online, eliminating the need for them to visit pension-disbursing authorities such as banks and post offices in person.

3. The certificates are made available directly to the relevant authorities, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process.

4. Every November, pensioners across various sectors, including government services, Defence, Railways, PSUs, and educational institutions, are required to submit a “life certificate” to continue receiving their pensions.

5. Pensioners can either generate DLCs through Jeevan Pramaan or physically submit their life certificates at banks or post offices, depending on their preference.

DLC Generation Process

1. To generate a DLC, pensioners must have an Aadhaar number and a mobile number linked to it. They must also register their Aadhaar with their pension-disbursing authority.

2. Pensioners can choose to generate the DLC themselves using the Jeevan Pramaan app or website, provided they have access to a biometric device, or they can visit a designated camp for assistance.

3. Biometric authentication, using either fingerprint or face recognition, is required for the process.

Benefits of the initiative

1. The Jeevan Pramaan initiative represents a significant step forward in digitally empowering pensioners.

2. By providing the option to generate life certificates online, the government has reduced the burden on pensioners, sparing them the inconvenience of visiting pension offices every November.

3. The addition of face authentication and the extensive outreach of the campaign have further simplified the process, making it accessible to more pensioners.

UPSC Syllabus: Polity and nation 

CAG Highlights Key Challenges in Urban Local Bodies

Source: This post on CAG Highlights Key Challenges in Urban Local Bodies Across 18 States has been created based on the article “What is ailing urban local bodies in 18 states: CAG flags 42% resource-expenditure gap, 37% staff vacancy” published in Indian express on 16th November 2024.

Why in news?

Recently, the CAG released a compendium of audit reports into the implementation of the 74th amendment in 18 states.

CAG Report Insights

1. Significant Resource-Expenditure Gap: Urban local bodies in 18 states face a 42% gap between their available resources and expenditures. Only 29% of their expenditure is directed towards programmatic and developmental work.

2. Incomplete Implementation of the 74th Constitutional Amendment: The 74th Amendment, enacted in 1993 to empower urban local bodies, has not been fully implemented in these states even after 31 years.

3. While 17 out of 18 designated functions have been devolved on average, the spirit of the law has been weakly adhered to. Critical functions like urban planning and fire services are the least devolved.

4. Revenue Challenges: On average, only 32% of ULB revenue comes from their own resources; the remainder is funded by the Union and state governments. Urban local bodies are able to realize only 56% of the property tax demand, indicating inefficiencies in revenue generation.

5. Staff Shortages: There is an average 37% vacancy in sanctioned staff positions within ULBs. ULBs in 16 states have limited or no authority over their recruitment processes, compounding workforce challenges.

6. Limited Autonomy: Only four functions devolved to urban local bodies are handled with complete autonomy. The lack of full autonomy undermines the effective functioning of ULBs in critical areas.

7. Devolution Status Across States: Nine states — Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Odisha, Punjab, and Tripura have devolved all 18 functions under the 74th Amendment. However, compliance with the “in-spirit” implementation remains weak.

8. Developmental Implications: With 50% of India’s population projected to live in cities by 2050, the lack of robust and autonomous ULBs jeopardizes urban governance and the quality of life for citizens.

Recommendations by CAG

1. Strengthen Urban Planning and Governance: Involve ULBs in critical functions like planning to ensure effective governance.

2. Enhance Resource Mobilization: Improve ULBs’ revenue generation capabilities, especially in property tax collection.

3. Empower ULBs: Provide complete autonomy in critical functions and ensure adequate staffing.

4. Collaborative Approach: States must work with stakeholders across government, civil society, and academia to establish vibrant and efficient urban governance systems.

UPSC Syllabus: Polity and nation 

‘Know Your Medicine’ (KYM) App

Source: This post on ‘Know Your Medicine’ (KYM) App has been created based on the article “Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Champions Clean Sports; Launches Push for NADA India’s ‘Know Your Medicine’ App” published in Indian Express on 16th November 2024.

Why in news?

Recently, the Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports introduced the KYM app under the aegis of the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) India.

About ‘Know Your Medicine’ (KYM) App

1. Launched by: Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports

2. Aim: The app aims to empower athletes with vital knowledge to prevent inadvertent doping and promote fair competition.

3. Purpose of the KYM App: It is designed to strengthen the fight against doping in sports. It provides athletes with an easy way to check if a medicine or its ingredients are prohibited under the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) regulations.

4. Features of the KYM App:

i) Quick Verification: It helps athletes confirm whether substances are permissible under anti-doping rules.

ii) Sport-Specific Search: It allows users to select their sport and access tailored information.

iii) Advanced Search Options: It includes image and audio search functionalities for convenience.

5. Promoting a Clean Sporting Culture: It is part of NADA India’s larger mission to raise anti-doping awareness and education. It supports the vision of fostering fair, transparent, and ethical sportsmanship across all levels of competition.

UPSC Syllabus: Schemes and programmes

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