9 PM Daily Current Affairs Brief – May 29th, 2023
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Mains Oriented Articles
GS PAPER - 1
New Parliament building – Explained, pointwise
Contents
- 1 Introduction
- 2 About the history of the New Parliament building
- 3 What is the need for the New Parliament building?
- 4 What are the main features of the New Parliament building?
- 5 What are the arguments supporting the development of the New Parliament building?
- 6 What are critics’ arguments against the construction of the New Parliament building?
- 7 What are the advantages associated with the development process of the New Parliament building?
- 8 What should be done?
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Introduction
The recently inaugurated new Parliament building is a remarkable achievement and a symbol of the nation’s progress. It stands alongside the old Parliament House, embodying the aspirations and pride of the Indian people.
With increased seating capacity, advanced technology, and a blend of modernity and cultural heritage, the new building reflects India’s commitment to democracy and sustainability. It showcases impressive artwork, green building practices, and accessibility for all. This architectural marvel signifies a new era in India’s legislative journey.
About the history of the New Parliament building
July 2012: The need for a new Parliament building is proposed by the office of the then Lok Sabha Speaker, Meira Kumar. The existing building is deemed inadequate to meet the requirements of a growing democracy.
2020: The Central Vista redevelopment project, which includes the construction of a new Parliament building, is approved by the government. The project aims to revitalize the central administrative area of New Delhi.
In 2020: A petition was filed in the Delhi High Court challenging the Central Vista Redevelopment Project. Later, the Supreme Court transferred to itself the case from the Delhi High Court in “larger public interest”.
Dec 2020: The foundation stone for the new Parliament building is laid by Prime Minister.
In January 2021: A SC bench, by 2:1 majority, upheld the approvals and clearances granted for the Central Vista Project.
May 2023: The new Parliament building is completed and dedicated to the nation by Prime Minister. The inauguration ceremony takes place, marking the 75th year of India’s Independence.
What is the need for the New Parliament building?
Insufficient seating space for MPs: The current Parliament House was not designed to accommodate a bicameral legislature for a full-fledged democracy. The Central Hall can only seat 440 persons, which becomes a significant issue during Joint Sessions. Inadequate space for movement also poses a security risk.
Distressed infrastructure: Over time, modifications and additions to the existing building have led to issues such as water seepage, impacting aesthetics. The inclusion of services like water supply, sewer lines, air conditioning, fire safety equipment, and CCTV cameras has created challenges. Fire safety, in particular, is a major concern.
Outdated communication structures: The communication infrastructure and technology in the current Parliament House are outdated. Additionally, the acoustics of the halls require improvement.
Safety concerns: The current Parliament building was constructed when Delhi was in Seismic Zone-II. However, it is now located in Seismic Zone-IV, raising structural safety concerns.
Inadequate workspace for employees: Inner service corridors have been converted into offices over the years, resulting in poor-quality workspaces. Some of these workspaces have been further divided to accommodate additional workers, making them even smaller.
What are the main features of the New Parliament building?
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Constitutional Hall: The building includes a state-of-the-art Constitutional Hall, emphasizing the importance of Indian citizens in the democratic process.
Modern facilities: The new building offers secure and efficient office spaces equipped with the latest communication technology. It features large committee rooms with advanced audio-visual equipment and provides an enhanced library experience.
Environmentally sustainable: The new Parliament building is designed as a “Platinum-rated Green Building,” demonstrating India’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
Reflecting Indian heritage: The building showcases the vibrance and diversity of modern India by incorporating cultural and regional arts and crafts, serving as an embodiment of Indian heritage.
What are the arguments supporting the development of the New Parliament building?
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Infrastructure and technological upgrades: The new Parliament building addresses issues of inadequate seating capacity, office space, and outdated infrastructure in the old building. It incorporates state-of-the-art facilities, advanced communication systems, and electronic surveillance for improved functionality and efficiency.
Enhanced legislative proceedings: The new building provides well-engineered acoustics, a digitized voting system, and modern audiovisual systems to facilitate effective legislative proceedings. It ensures a more conducive environment for debates, discussions, and decision-making on matters of national importance.
Increased seating capacity: The new Parliament building can accommodate a larger number of Members of Parliament (MPs) and offers expanded seating capacity in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha chambers. This allows for a future increase in the number of MPs after the delimitation process.
Safety and security: The new building addresses safety concerns, particularly related to seismic safety and fire safety, ensuring the well-being of MPs and staff. It incorporates modern safety measures and infrastructure to mitigate risks and provide a secure environment for parliamentary activities.
Improved workspace and amenities: The new Parliament building offers improved workspaces for MPs, with well-designed offices and facilities. It provides better amenities, including comfortable seating, technological advancements, and dedicated spaces for meetings, committees, and libraries.
Symbolic and cultural significance: The new building represents the aspirations, pride, and culture of the Indian nation, embodying a sense of civilizational continuity. It showcases artwork, installations, and murals that celebrate India’s heritage, diversity, and achievements.
National pride and symbolism: The development of the new Parliament building is seen as a matter of national pride and a representation of India’s progress in the 21st century. It signifies India’s determination, resilience, and its commitment to democratic values and good governance.
Read more: Functioning of Parliament: Challenges and way forward – Explained, pointwise |
What are critics’ arguments against the construction of the New Parliament building?
Cost and allocation of resources: Critics raise concerns about the substantial cost associated with constructing the new Parliament building, including expenses for interior decoration and artwork. They argue that these funds could have been utilized for more pressing needs, such as healthcare, education, or infrastructure development.
Lack of public consultation: The opposition express discontent over the lack of public consultation or involvement in the decision-making process regarding the construction of the new Parliament building. They argue that such a significant project should have involved broader discussions and considerations of public opinion.
Symbolism and controversial dates: Political analysts criticize the choice of the date and occasion for the inauguration of the new Parliament building, citing concerns about symbolism and the perceived prioritization of specific ideologies. They contend that a more inclusive and secular approach should have been taken to avoid potential controversies and division.
Superstition and cultural appropriateness: A well-known architect questions the decision-making process based on superstitious beliefs, such as adherence to Vastu regulations or the choice of an auspicious date, rather than pragmatic considerations. They argue that such decisions should be guided by practicality, inclusivity, and respect for diverse perspectives.
Public access and transparency: Some critics express concerns about limited public access to the new Parliament building and suggest that it could have been inaugurated as an open house, allowing citizens to explore and engage with the democratic institution.
Legacy and significance of the old building: Critics emphasize the historical and cultural significance of the old Parliament House and argue that its retirement to secondary functions diminishes its legacy. They contend that preserving the old building as a symbol of India’s democratic journey would have been a more appropriate approach.
What are the advantages associated with the development process of the New Parliament building?
Economic Boost: The construction of the new Parliament building contributes to economic growth by stimulating the construction industry. It boosted local and national economies.
Infrastructure Development: The new Parliament building is a significant addition to India’s infrastructure. It showcases the country’s commitment to modernity and progress, attracting attention and potential investments from domestic and international stakeholders. It serves as an iconic landmark that enhances the overall image and reputation of the nation.
Job Creation: The construction and subsequent functioning of the new Parliament building created employment opportunities across various sectors. From architects, engineers, and construction workers to maintenance staff, administrative personnel, and security personnel, it generates a diverse range of jobs that contribute to livelihoods and economic stability.
Tourism and Cultural Impact: The new Parliament building serves as a tourist attraction and a reflection of India’s cultural heritage. Its design, artwork, and integration of regional arts and crafts draw visitors, both domestic and international, stimulating tourism and promoting cultural exchange. This, in turn, generates revenue and supports local businesses in the hospitality and tourism sectors.
Read more: Parliamentary debates: Significance, issues and the way forward – Explained, pointwise |
What should be done?
Public consultation and transparency: To address concerns about public involvement and transparency, it would be beneficial to engage in open discussions and consultations with the public regarding significant projects like the construction of the Parliament Building.
Preservation and renovation: Considering the historical and cultural significance of the old Parliament House, exploring options for its preservation and renovation should be considered.
The balance between tradition and modernity: Striking a balance between preserving heritage and incorporating modern elements can be achieved through architectural designs that reflect India’s rich cultural diversity while embracing technological advancements.
Emphasize public engagement: To foster a sense of ownership and connection with the democratic institution, provisions should be made to allow more public access to the Parliament building, such as guided tours or designated areas for public observation during sessions.
Sources: Times of India (Article 1 and Article 2), The Hindu, Indian Express (Article 1 and Article 2), PIB, Live Law and Hindustan Times
Syllabus: GS 1: Art & Culture: Salient aspects of Art Forms, literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
GS PAPER - 3
Is ONDC really the UPI of e-commerce?
Contents
Source: The post is based on the article “Is ONDC really the UPI of e-commerce?” published in Mint on 29th May 2023.
Syllabus: GS 3 – Indian Economy – Digital Economy
Relevance: concerns associated with Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) platform.
News: The article explains the concerns associated with Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC).
What is ONDC?
After the success of UPI, a hype is being created for ONDC that it will revolutionize e-commerce like UPI did with the payment system. However, the situation is different for both.
Why is it inappropriate to compare ONDC to UPI?
Before the launch of the UPI, all debit-based transactions were through a combination of cash exchange, online bank transfers, debit cards, etc. Even before UPI, people hardly used credit cards for payments.
Therefore, the launch of UPI made debit-based transactions easier by leveraging technology. UPI did not compete with any such big players in the market. It only made the existing payment system technology driven.
So, comparing ONDC with the UPI that it will democratize e-commerce by providing technology to the small players, which then will be able to compete with the big e-commerce companies is inappropriate.
What are the challenges with ONDC?
Making Profit: It is argued that ONDC will ensure competitiveness in the market by ending the monopoly of the big e-commerce companies. However, in reality even these big companies suffer in being a profitable.
For instance, it is viewed that platforms like Swiggy and Zomato are exploiting their duopoly power to create super-profits for themselves. However, for the fiscal year 2022, both reported losses.
Hence, even for the ONDC, it cannot be said that it will make huge profits by eliminating monopoly from the market.
Relying on Marketplace Model: One of the aims of ONDC is to create several new vertical marketplaces. However, large e-commerce companies like Amazon have shifted from the marketplace model to a ‘full-stack model’ or into a platform.
This is because the marketplace lacks standardization of pricing, payment terms, logistics, packaging, service levels, returns, resolution of customer complaints, etc.
Therefore, for ONDC, reversal to a marketplace model will bring back all the problems that were inherent in that model.
Ensuring a level playing field: It is argued that ONDC will ensure a level playing field by allowing small sellers to sell their products online.
However, concerns remain over the efficiency of the ONDC that how it will make the economic chain efficient while also offering a small player the opportunity to deliver their products to customers in their locality.
Moreover, some people still prefer shopping offline and most small players do not even target customers who care for the convenience of home delivery.
So, any solution that focuses on home delivery is unlikely to benefit smaller players because they can never beat the e-commerce companies on this.
Therefore, imitating the models of the bigger players is probably not the answer because what has worked for them may not work for others.
What can be the way ahead?
Any such new idea that aims to revolutionize requires fundamental change rather than following the same pattern. Else, similar problems will exist like other e-commerce companies.
India needs to fill the vacuum of its mid-sized enterprises space
Contents
Source: The post is based on the article “India needs to fill the vacuum of its mid-sized enterprises space” published in Live Mint on 29th May 2023.
Syllabus: GS 3 – Changes in Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth
Relevance: concerns with MSMEs
News: India has recently focused more on encouraging entrepreneurship through a variety of programmes and initiatives.
What are some of the initiatives that encourage entrepreneurship?
The government of India launched a Startup India in 2016. This increased the recognised startups from 442 in 2016 to 92,683 in 2023. The Startup India Seed Fund Scheme has also funded many businesses.
However, along with these initiatives, there is also a need to scale-up the firms.
Why is there a need to scale-up firms?
As per the MSME Annual Report of Government of India (2022-23), the micro sector makes up for over 99% of the total estimated number of MSMEs. The small sector has 0.33 million enterprises and the medium sector has only 5,000 firms.
Therefore, India needs policies that transform firms from a micro to mid-size stage because it is the mid-sized firms which hold greater potential to grow into a large firm.
According to a Mckinsey report, India is home to over 600 large firms that are 11 times more productive than average and contribute around 40% to total exports.
Therefore, to utilize this potential, India needs to promote micro firms and overcome its challenges.
What are the challenges faced by micro firms?
Hence, scaling up is required for micro firms. This is because scaling-up enables firms to adopt newer technology, get access to different markets, and streamline production processes, along with boosting productivity.
What measures have been taken to scale up micro firms?
There are two major areas to focus for improving the ease of doing business and transitioning to larger firms – a) to simplify as well as streamline the regulatory framework, and b) promote access to capital.
In the context of streamlining the regulatory framework, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that there has been reduction in compliances along with decriminalizing various legal provisions.
This is important because a high regulatory burden disincentivizes firms to grow and firms prefer to stay small in size and outside the ambit of the formal system.
Additionally, various schemes have attempted to ease access to credit, especially for firms that have remained outside the formal credit system.
For instance, the Udyam Assist Platform, functions with the goal of bringing informal micro enterprises under the formal ambit to help them avail benefits under India’s priority sector lending rules.
Another notable scheme is PM SVANidhi (Prime Minister Street Vendor’s Atmanirbhar Nidhi) that provides credit to small entrepreneurs such as hawkers and street vendors.
Must Read: MSMEs: Significance, Challenges and Solutions – Explained
What can be the way ahead?
MSMEs form the backbone of the economy. Therefore, it is a huge responsibility to ensure that the schemes initiated for aiding growth among micro and small firms are implemented effectively.
Save The Summit – on ecological threats of mountaineering
Source: The post is based on the article “Save The Summit” published in Live Mint on 29th May 2023.
Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 -Environmental Degradation
Context: Commercialization of Himalayan expedition has become an ecological threat for the mountain.
The first official ascent of Mt Everest was made by Tenzing Norgay and Edmund Hillary 70 years ago. Over the decades, many others, including Junko Tabei (1975, Japan) and Bachendri Pal (1984, India) achieved this feat. However, with the rise of commercial expeditions in the 1990s, these expeditions became a threat to the mountains.
What are threats associated with commercialization of the Himalayan Expedition?
It has resulted in issues like ‘traffic jams’ and ‘garbage mountains’ on the mountains.
Mountaineering has become an ecological threat.
Over-commercialization and overcrowding are resulting in events like Joshimath flood.
What should be done?
Countries need to recalibrate their approach to mountain tourism and climbing to ensure the long-term preservation of the Everest region.
Why is the 1.5 degree Celsius target critical?
Contents
Source: The post is based on the article
“Why is the 1.5 degree Celsius target critical?” Published in The Hindu on 29th May 2023.
“Fighting climate change” in Business Standard on 29th Mat 2023.
Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 -Environmental Degradation and Climate Change
Context: The article discusses the importance of the 1.5-degree Celsius target.
World Meteorological Organization’s (WMO) recently released reports indicate that by 2027, the average global temperature will exceed 1.5 degrees, a critical point beyond which there may be no return.
The report has also predicted that 1.5 degree Celsius temperature rise will happen over the next five years rather than the originally predicted timeline of 2033-37, due to el-nino factors.
Initially, for decades 2 degrees was an acceptable level of warming. However, Small Island countries opposed it as it threatened their survival. The 1.5°C target was officially recognized by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in 2018.
1.5°C target implies average planetary warming to 1.5 degree.
What is the significance of a 1.5-degree target?
The IPCC’s 2018 report outlined the consequences of crossing 1.5-degree threshold. The report outlined potential outcomes, including more frequent and intense heat waves, droughts, heavy rainfall, a rise in sea levels, and destruction of ecosystems.
What are the causes behind crossing the threshold?
Developed G7 nations, responsible for a significant share of greenhouse gas emissions, have largely failed to fulfill their climate action pledges.
Countries such as Australia, the U.S., Japan, Russia, and Canada have made little progress, while China, Iran, and Saudi Arabia also rank low in climate performance.
The recent cyclone “Mocha”, which hit Myanmar and Bangladesh earlier this month, exemplified these heightened risks.
Now, Covid Pandemic and Ukraine crisis have added to the rising threat.
How recent G7 summit is trying to tackle the climate change?
At leaders’ summit in Hiroshima, the G7 claimed that its own emissions have peaked. It means the bulk of the responsibility now lies with major emerging powers such as China and India.
The final communique asked all major economies to ensure that their individual emissions do not continue to rise after 2025 and reiterated claims to hit net zero by 2050.
However, G7 country’s claim is not rightful, because:
- First, the cut-off year of 2025 has not been mandated by any international agreement.
- Second, it is difficult to understand the G7 claims of reaching peak emissions when major powers such as Germany, struggling with lower gas supplies from Russia.
- Third, developed countries have committed to spending just $100 billion per year in support of climate action in developing countries.
What are the impacts of rising temperatures on the Weather Events?
There is a mass loss of glaciers in High-mountain Asia, Western North America, and South America.
The WMO’s reports suggest an increase in precipitation anomalies and marine heat waves relative to marine cold spells.
Climate change exacerbates food insecurity, displacement, and mortality while negatively affecting crop yields and increasing the risks posed by agricultural pests and diseases.
How does it impact India?
India has been experiencing increased impacts of climate change, including extreme weather events, hotter temperatures, and unpredictable monsoons.
As per India Meteorological Department, India saw 573 climate disasters, causing 138,377 deaths, between 1970 and 2021.
However, India has performed better on Climate Change Performance Index 2023 than many developed nations. India’s performance has been a result of Green Hydrogen Mission and the introduction of green bonds.
Better numbers in private projects
Contents
- 1 What is the role of the state and financial entity in the economy?
- 2 What are indicators for measuring investment in the economy?
- 3 What is shown by investment indicators related to the stock of value of private projects under implementation?
- 4 What do macroeconomics say about multiplier impacts of demand generation?
- 5 Could the present optimism related to high investment can lead to significant recovery?
Source- The post is based on the article “Better numbers in private projects” published in the “Business Standard” on 29th May 2023.
Syllabus: GS3- Indian economy and growth
Relevance- Investment in the Indian economy
News– The article explains the recent trend of investment growth in the Indian economy and its implications for the economy.
What is the role of the state and financial entity in the economy?
State is a small part of the economy. Almost all output and jobs are made in the private sector. State actions create incentives for private people to invest.
In this fundamental sense, public policy is not a game of muscular action in the economy. It is the game of establishing conditions in which the private sector will engage in investment in the economy.
Similarly, the financial system should best be seen as creating conditions for non-financial firms to build the economy. Policy and finance are the means to achieve vibrant growth.
What are indicators for measuring investment in the economy?
One measure of investment activity is the year-on-year growth of net fixed assets (NFAs) of large non-financial firms. This is data about the annual flow of investment by large firms. NFA growth has declined steadily from about 25% real in 2007-08 to about 0% real in 2021-22.
A good leading indicator of investment is found using the CMIE capex database. It tracks all large investment projects. The methods for the database have been consistently in place from 1995 onwards.
All clear projects with a distinct name are measured in the database. It shows up in various disclosures by the firm and by the state.
It has declined from 2011-12 onwards. Things have now changed.
It was at its bottom in 2020 at a value of about 47 trillion. There was a slow recovery from 2020 and a sharp gain in early 2023. The latest value is at around 55 trillion. It is 17% real above the bottom. The long decline has reversed.
This is an important positive change in Indian economic conditions. The present value of the stock of private investment is far low as compared to the peak value of 2011. But, it is back to the levels last seen in 2018.
What do macroeconomics say about multiplier impacts of demand generation?
A demand impulse generates a multiplier effect. Increased private investment impacts the entire economy. Increased purchases and employment generate greater demand.
This triggers many good responses. These are greater borrowing, greater purchases of durable goods, greater investments in business plans, and non-workers transitioning into unemployment.
Under the macroeconomics aggregate lies a lot of things. Some firms are faring well and some firms are collapsing.
The limitations of firm resolution in India have led to the excessive survival of impaired organisations. The rising investment of recent quarters may lift all the firms.
The upsurge in private projects under implementation should reflect an upsurge in investment in the NFA data.
The upsurge in the flow of investment expenses should trigger a significant scale of the “multiplier effect” gains in demand and employment?
The modest macroeconomic recovery should lead to broad-based investment and high growth rate.
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