23 Jan 2024 CNA
Download PDF Here
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. GS 1 Related B. GS 2 Related SOCIAL JUSTICE 1. Intersectionality of gender and caste in women’s participation in the labour force C. GS 3 Related D. GS 4 Related E. Editorials POLITY 1. The idea of one nation, one election is against federalism GOVERNANCE 1. Why was FCRA registration for several NGOs cancelled? F. Prelims Facts 1. Chinese research vessel enters Indian Ocean, ‘heading’ to Male, say trackers 2. Jammu CSIR lab finds cannabis compound that has antibiotic effects 3. With no iron or steel, Ayodhya temple is a study in sandstone G. Tidbits H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
A. GS 1 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
B. GS 2 Related
1. Intersectionality of gender and caste in women’s participation in the labour force
Syllabus: Issues Relating to Development and Management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.
Mains: Issues related to women
Introduction:
Over the last two decades, India has witnessed a significant downturn in Female Labour Force Participation (LFP), particularly in the informal sector. This decline is multifaceted, influenced by structural constraints in the manufacturing and service sectors, gender bias, and caste discrimination. Exploring this intricate web reveals a nuanced landscape where education, caste dynamics, and economic stability play pivotal roles in shaping women’s employment choices.
Caste Lens on Female LFP:
The paper delves into the intersectionality of caste and gender, using data from the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011. Conflicting results from previous studies necessitate a deeper understanding of how caste influences women’s participation in the rural informal sector. Education emerges as a key factor, with historical disparities favouring women from higher castes.
Factors Influencing Women’s Participation:
- The analysis extends to the tehsil level in selected states, examining the interplay between high and low-income households, the percentage of female-headed households, and caste dynamics.
- Intriguingly, the study finds that women’s LFP in the rural informal economy tends to rise under specific conditions, such as a higher number of lower-caste households and an increased prevalence of female-headed households, particularly when economically disadvantaged.
Challenges and Opportunities:
- The research sheds light on the challenges faced by women, especially from lower castes, emphasizing limited educational opportunities that confine them to informal sector jobs. However, affirmative action policies enable entry into the formal economy for educated women from lower castes, challenging societal norms.
- Despite obstacles rooted in caste and gender bias, the study underscores the positive influence of women’s participation in the workforce.
- Beyond economic contributions, women’s employment correlates with delayed marriage and childbirth, higher chances of children attending school, reduced susceptibility to domestic violence, and increased mobility.
Implications for Inclusive Policies:
- Understanding the intricate dynamics of female LFP in rural India becomes crucial for formulating inclusive policies.
- The findings advocate for a holistic approach, addressing caste-based disparities, promoting education, and creating opportunities for women in both formal and informal sectors.
Conclusion: Unraveling the complexities of female LFP in rural India reveals a tapestry woven with caste, gender, and economic threads. The study not only contributes valuable insights into the challenges faced by women but also emphasizes the transformative power of their participation in shaping a more inclusive and enlightened future for the nation.
Nut graf: The decline in female Labour Force Participation (LFP) in rural India, analyzed through the caste lens, reveals a complex interplay of education, caste dynamics, and economic stability. Despite challenges, women’s workforce participation positively impacts society, advocating for inclusive policies.
C. GS 3 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
D. GS 4 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
E. Editorials
1. The idea of one nation, one election is against federalism
Syllabus: GS-2, Issues and Challenges Pertaining to the Federal Structure
Mains: ‘One Nation, One Election ‘ and concern with Federalism
Introduction:
- In September 2023, the Union Government formed the ‘High-Level Committee on One Nation, One Election’ under the leadership of former President Ramnath Kovind.
- The committee has met thrice, seeking opinions from national and State political parties and the public.
- Despite no fixed timeline, concerns arise due to its coincidence with the 2024 general elections.
Potential Impact on Federalism:
- The High-Level Committee’s recommendations may impact the democratic setup and federal structure of India.
- Legal scrutiny becomes crucial, reminiscent of the U.S. Supreme Court’s role in the Baker v. Carr case.
Feasibility and Expenditure:
- Proponents argue for cost reduction, citing the 2014 elections’ ₹3,870 crore expenditure.
- Opponents question the logical and factual basis, emphasizing the value of free and fair elections.
Governance Downtime and Model Code of Conduct:
- Supporters claim reduced governance downtime by having elections once in five years.
- Critics argue that democratic processes and the Model Code of Conduct ensure a level playing field during elections.
Legal Concerns:
- S.R. Bommai v. Union of India (1994) asserted the States’ independent constitutional existence, emphasizing their vital role.
- Altering the tenure of State Legislatures for a common election contradicts the Constitution and the Supreme Court’s stance.
Language Bias and Consultation Process:
- The High-Level Committee’s website, intended for stakeholder interaction, is available only in English and Hindi.
- This language bias raises concerns about bias, exclusion, and inequality in the consultation process.
Independence of the Election Commission:
- The Election Commission’s apparent silence on the committee’s process raises questions about its independence.
- Similar to the demonetization scenario, where the Reserve Bank of India was kept uninformed, the Election Commission appears to be a passive observer.
Possibility of Halting One Nation, One Election:
- Unlike the U.K. where Parliament is supreme, India’s constitutional structure grants broad judicial review powers to higher courts.
- A constitutional showdown is anticipated, questioning whether the Supreme Court will intervene to preserve the constitutional architecture.
Conclusion: The stage is set for a constitutional showdown, and the Supreme Court’s involvement appears inevitable to preserve India’s constitutional framework.
Nut Graf: The Union Government’s push for ‘One Nation, One Election’ faces scrutiny for potential impacts on federalism and legal concerns. The debate over feasibility, governance downtime, language bias, and the Election Commission’s role sets the stage for a constitutional showdown, with the Supreme Court expected to play a crucial role.
Category: GOVERNANCE
1. Why was FCRA registration for several NGOs cancelled?
Syllabus: GS-2, Development Processes and the Development Industry — the Role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations
Mains: FCRA and its impact on NGO
Background: FCRA Registration Cancellations
- NGOs Affected: The FCRA registration of two notable NGOs, the Centre for Policy Research (CPR) and World Vision India (WVI), was cancelled recently.
- Monitoring Authority: The implementation of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, 2010 (FCRA) is overseen by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
Renewal Process and Amendments:
- COVID-19 Impact: The registration renewal for thousands of NGOs was due in 2020-2021, but due to the pandemic, many NGOs couldn’t complete the process.
- Amendments in 2020: Amendments to the FCRA Act in 2020 affected the renewal process, leading to an extension of the renewal deadline multiple times, with the latest extension until March 31, 2024.
FCRA and Foreign Donations Regulation:
- Purpose of FCRA: FCRA regulates foreign donations to prevent adverse effects on the country’s internal security.
- Mandatory Registration: It is compulsory for associations, groups, or NGOs intending to receive foreign donations to register under the FCRA.
- Registration Validity: Initially valid for five years, NGOs must apply for renewal to continue receiving foreign contributions.
- Permissible Activities: Registered groups can utilize foreign contributions for social, educational, religious, economic, and cultural programs.
The Scale of Registration Cancellations:
- Number of Cancellations: Since 2015, over 16,000 NGOs have faced FCRA registration cancellations for alleged violations.
- Current Status: As of January 22, 16,989 FCRA-registered NGOs were active, with nearly 6,000 NGOs losing their registration from January 1, 2022.
Concerns and Risk Assessment:
- Vulnerability of NGO Sector: A 2012 MHA report highlighted the vulnerability of the NGO sector to money laundering and terrorist financing risks.
- Enforcement Measures: Rigorous enforcement and coordination with foreign countries for law enforcement are deemed necessary.
Recent FCRA Registrations and Rejections:
- Record Registrations: In 2023, a record number of 1,111 associations were granted fresh FCRA registrations.
- Religious Category: Nearly half of the fresh registrations under the religious category were for Christian NGOs.
- Applications Status (2021-2022): Out of 1,615 applications for FCRA registration, 722 were granted clearance, and 225 were rejected.
CPR and WVI Registration Cancellations:
- Allegations Against CPR: MHA accused CPR of diverting foreign donations for protests, legal battles, and violating FCRA norms through the production of current affairs programs.
- CPR Response: CPR labelled the decision as incomprehensible and disproportionate, challenging the basis of a research institution’s functioning.
- WVI Allegations: WVI’s registration was cancelled for alleged FCRA violations spanning from 2012-13 to 2020-21, with accusations of affecting India’s economic interests.
- WVI’s Foreign Donations: WVI, registered under the FCRA in 1986, received the highest amount of foreign donations among all NGOs.
Nut Graf: Amidst ongoing cancellations of Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) registrations for NGOs, the recent revocation of the Centre for Policy Research (CPR) and World Vision India (WVI) draws attention. Allegations include fund misuse and violation of FCRA norms, raising concerns about the regulatory landscape and the NGOs’ responses.
F. Prelims Facts
1. Chinese research vessel enters Indian Ocean, ‘heading’ to Male, say trackers
Context: The recent entry of the Chinese research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 03 into the Indian Ocean, heading towards the Maldives, has stirred geopolitical considerations in the region. Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) reports and maritime tracking portals have noted the vessel’s movement, with its destination set for Male, the capital of the Maldives.
Issue:
- Chinese research vessels have been increasingly active in the Indian Ocean Region, particularly around the Ninety Degree East Ridge and Southwest Indian Ridge.
- These vessels are equipped with advanced technologies for surveillance and data gathering, raising concerns about their potential impact on regional dynamics.
- The vessel’s reported visit aligns with engagements between Chinese officials and the Maldivian leadership, including a meeting between the Chinese Communist Party’s Vice-Minister of the International Department and Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu.
- This occurs amidst consistent demands from the Maldives for the withdrawal of Indian troops from its territory.
Significance:
The situation adds another layer of complexity to the delicate geopolitical balance in the Indian Ocean, where the interests of India, China, and the Maldives intersect. The reported visit prompts questions about the evolving strategic landscape in the region and its implications for regional stability.
2. Jammu CSIR lab finds cannabis compound that has antibiotic effects
Context: Cannabis could play a vital role in combating antibiotic resistance, according to scientists at CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine. They discovered that phytocannabinoids, compounds found in the cannabis plant, possess unexplored antibiotic properties.
Issue:
- Antibiotic resistance is a global health concern, with bacteria developing sophisticated shields against antibiotic medications.
- The researchers focused on tetrahydrocannabidiol (THCBD), a phytocannabinoid, testing its effectiveness against Staphylococcus aureus, a bacteria responsible for many antibiotic resistance-related deaths. THCBD demonstrated potent antibacterial properties, particularly against methicillin-resistant strains.
Significance:
- The study suggests that cannabis-derived compounds could provide alternative solutions to combat antibiotic-resistant pathogens.
- However, further research and safety assessments are needed to transform these compounds into viable drugs.
- Legal constraints and the need for specific regulations have previously hindered cannabis-related research, but the study aims to catalyze a policy transition at a national level to facilitate valuable research on cannabis.
3. With no iron or steel, Ayodhya temple is a study in sandstone
Context:
The Ayodhya temple, consecrated on 22 January 2024, stands as a sprawling sandstone structure, a testament to the collective wisdom and engineering prowess of some of the country’s finest minds, according to authorities involved in its construction.
Details:
- The grand temple, devoid of any iron or steel, utilized stones from the Bansi Paharpur region in Rajasthan.
- Elaborate carvings of Lord Hanuman, deities, peacocks, and floral patterns adorn these stones. The three-storey temple, constructed in the traditional Nagara style, spans 380 feet in length, 250 feet in width, and rises 161 feet high.
- Overcoming challenges during excavation, engineers devised an artificial foundation to support the superstructure.
- The temple complex includes a rectangular periphery called percota, a unique feature seen more commonly in South Indian temples.
- The periphery, 14 feet wide and stretching 732 meters, surrounds the temple. Additionally, the complex emphasizes green spaces, comprising about 70% of the area, featuring hundreds of trees and preserved ancient Shiva temples.
- Essential facilities like sewage and water treatment plants, a fire brigade post, and a dedicated electricity line contribute to the temple’s comprehensive infrastructure.
Significance:
The dedication to nature, architectural finesse, and adherence to tradition make the Ayodhya temple a remarkable achievement.
G. Tidbits
Nothing here for today!!!
H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
Q1) Consider the following statements:
- The Rewa Solar Project in Madhya Pradesh was the first solar project in the country to break the grid parity barrier.
- The world’s largest solar park is located in India.
- In the context of the International Solar Alliance, sunshine countries are those which lie either completely or partly between the Tropic of Cancer and the Equator.
Which of these statement(s) is /are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- 1 & 2 only
- 1, 2 & 3
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct. The Rewa Solar Project, located in Madhya Pradesh, was the first solar project in India to achieve grid parity. Grid parity is a situation where the cost of generating solar power becomes equal to or less than the cost of power generated from conventional sources like coal or natural gas. The Rewa Solar Project achieved this milestone, making solar power more competitive. It is a 750 MW (three units generating 250 MW each) project which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2020.
Statement 2 is correct: Bhadla Solar Park is the world’s largest solar park located in India which is spread over a total area of 14,000 acres in Bhadla, Phalodi tehsil, Jodhpur district, Rajasthan, India.
Statement 3 is incorrect: The International Solar Alliance (ISA) is an alliance of countries that receive abundant sunlight and are located either completely or partly between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. These countries are referred to as “sunshine countries.” The ISA aims to promote solar energy and reduce the cost of solar power generation in these regions.
Q2) Consider the following statements:
- Initially, SEBI was a non-statutory body. Only after the SEBI Act by Parliament in 1992, it was given autonomous and statutory powers.
- Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT) is a statutory body to hear and dispose of appeals against orders passed by the Securities and Exchange Board of India or by an adjudicating officer under the Act.
Which of these statement(s) is /are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- None of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct: SEBI, the Securities and Exchange Board of India, was initially set up as a non-statutory body through a resolution of the Government of India in 1988. However, recognizing the need for a statutory basis and more regulatory powers, the SEBI Act was enacted in 1992. This Act conferred autonomous and statutory powers to SEBI, granting it the authority to regulate and oversee the securities market in India.
Statement 2 is correct: SAT is a statutory body established under the SEBI Act, 1992. It serves as an appellate tribunal to hear and dispose of appeals against orders passed by SEBI or by an adjudicating officer under the Act. SAT provides an avenue for aggrieved parties to challenge regulatory decisions in the securities market.
Q3) Consider the following statements with respect to Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA):
- FCRA controls foreign funding or donations and ensures that they do not compromise the nation‘s domestic security.
- The Ministry of Finance oversees the implementation of this act.
Which of the statements are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 & 2
- None of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: a
Explanation:
Explanation:
This first statement is correct as the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) is designed to regulate the acceptance and utilization of foreign contributions and foreign hospitality to ensure that they do not adversely affect the country’s security or strategic interests.
Statement 2 is incorrect: The implementation and monitoring of FCRA are overseen by the Ministry of Home Affairs, not the Ministry of Finance. The Ministry of Home Affairs is responsible for granting registration to NGOs under FCRA, and it monitors compliance to prevent any misuse of foreign contributions for activities detrimental to national security.
Q4) Consider the following statements:
- Kumki (Kunki) is a term used in India for trained captive Asian elephants, used in operations to trap wild elephants.
- The Asian elephant is the largest living land animal in Asia and has been listed as “endangered” in the IUCN Red List.
- Assam is home to India’s highest population of wild elephants, followed by Karnataka.
Which of these statement(s) is /are correct?
- 1 only
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct: Kumki elephants are trained captive elephants used in various operations, including managing and guiding wild elephants. They are employed in tasks like capturing or herding wild elephants in a controlled manner, especially during human-elephant conflict situations.
Statement 2 is correct: The Asian elephant is the largest living land animal in Asia. The IUCN Red List categorizes the Asian elephant as “endangered.” This status reflects the species’ vulnerability to extinction due to factors such as habitat loss, fragmentation, and human-elephant conflicts.
Statement 3 is incorrect: Karnataka has the highest population of wild elephants in India, followed by Assam.
Q5) Which of the following National Parks is unique in being a swamp with floating vegetation that supports a rich biodiversity?
- Bhitarkanika National Park
- Keibul Lamjao National Park
- Keoladeo Ghana National Park
- Sultanpur National Park
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation: Keibul Lamjao National Park is distinct for its unique swampy environment with floating vegetation, supporting a rich biodiversity. Located in Manipur, India, it is the only floating national park globally. This park is renowned for the endangered Sangai deer and various species thriving in its marshy ecosystem. The floating phumdis, or heterogeneous mass of vegetation, contribute to the park’s ecological uniqueness. Keibul Lamjao National Park’s conservation efforts are crucial for preserving not only the Sangai deer but also the diverse flora and fauna adapted to its specialized wetland habitat.
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
- Analyse the concept of ‘One Nation, One Election’ in the context of Indian democracy. Discuss its potential impact on the political, administrative, and social fabric of India. Critically evaluate the advantages and challenges associated with its implementation. (250 words, 15 marks) (General Studies – II, Polity)
- Examine the factors influencing the Labour Force Participation Rate in India with a special focus on gender and caste dynamics. Discuss the implications of these factors on India’s socio-economic fabric and suggest measures that can be taken to improve women’s participation in the workforce, especially in the informal sector. (250 words, 15 marks) (General Studies – II, Social Justice)
Comments