23 June 2024 CNA
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A. GS 1 Related
B. GS 2 Related
SOCIAL JUSTICE
1. Govt. removes NTA chief, hands over probe to CBI
International Relations
1. PM Modi likely to skip SCO summit in Kazakhstan; Xi, Putin, Sharif may attend
2. Where does India stand with respect to G-7?
C. GS 3 Related
Security
1. No interim bail for Engineer Rashid; court asks NIA to say when he can take oath
2. UAPA tribunal confirms ban on Tehreek-e-Hurriyat, Muslim League J&K faction
D. GS 4 Related
E. Editorials
F. Prelims Facts
1. An ancient centre of learning
2. Erred in not crediting ICMR as co-inventor of Covaxin, admits Bharat Biotech
3. Stringent regulations could hinder growth of AI in India: experts
4. No GST on railway services, hostel stay
5. Art empowers villages in a once-troubled part of Bengal
G. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
H. UPSC Mains Practice Questions

Syllabus: Issues related to the development and management of the social sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources

Mains: CBI Probe into NEET-UG Irregularities

Context​: The Indian government has removed Subodh Kumar Singh, the Director-General of the National Testing Agency (NTA), amid allegations of irregularities and paper leaks in the NEET-UG examination. This move, alongside the postponement of the NEET-PG exam and the announcement of a CBI probe, marks significant steps toward addressing these issues.

Removal of NTA Chief:

• Subodh Kumar Singh has been removed from his position as Director-General of the NTA.
• Pradeep Singh Kharola has been given additional charge of the NTA until a permanent replacement is appointed.

Postponement of NEET-PG Exam:

• The Health Ministry postponed the NEET-PG exam scheduled for Sunday as a precautionary measure.
• The postponement aims to reassess the robustness of the examination processes in light of recent allegations.

CBI Probe into NEET-UG Irregularities:

• The Education Ministry has handed over the investigation of NEET-UG cheating and malpractice allegations to the CBI.
• This decision follows persistent demands from students and opposition parties.

Constitution of Expert Panel:

• A seven-member committee led by former ISRO chief K. Radhakrishnan has been constituted to reform the NTA.
• The panel will make recommendations on the structure and functioning of the NTA, examination process reforms, and data security improvements.

Significance

Restoring Trust in Examination System:

• The removal of the NTA chief and the CBI probe aim to restore public trust in the integrity of national examinations.
• These measures demonstrate the government’s commitment to addressing malpractice and ensuring fair conduct of exams.

Impact on Students:

• The postponement of the NEET-PG exam has caused inconvenience to many candidates.
• However, the decision is intended to protect the interests of students by ensuring the examination process is secure and credible.

Legal and Administrative Reforms:

• The enactment of the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, highlights the government’s focus on legal measures to prevent examination fraud.
• The expert panel’s recommendations could lead to significant reforms in the NTA’s operations and enhance the overall examination framework.

Solutions

Strengthening Examination Security:

• Implement robust data security protocols and anti-cheating measures.
• Utilize advanced technology for monitoring and ensuring the integrity of examination processes.

Transparent and Swift Investigation:

• Ensure the CBI conducts a thorough and transparent investigation into the NEET-UG irregularities.
• Hold accountable all individuals and organizations involved in the malpractice.

Comprehensive Reform of Examination Bodies:

• Follow through with the expert panel’s recommendations to overhaul the NTA’s structure and processes.
• Establish clear guidelines and protocols to prevent future irregularities and maintain the credibility of national examinations.

Nut Graf: The government’s decisive actions, including the removal of the NTA chief, the CBI probe, and the postponement of the NEET-PG exam, reflect a commitment to addressing serious issues in the examination system. The formation of an expert panel to recommend reforms indicates a proactive approach to ensuring long-term improvements.

Category:International Relations

1. PM Modi likely to skip SCO summit in Kazakhstan; Xi, Putin, Sharif may attend

Syllabus: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s Interests

Prelims: SCO

Mains: Significance of SCO to India

Context​: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to skip the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Kazakhstan, scheduled for July 3-4, 2024. Instead, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is likely to represent India. This decision has implications for India’s engagement with the SCO and its relations with key member states.

PM Modi’s Absence:

• PM Modi had initially confirmed his attendance, and an advance security team had already conducted a reconnaissance survey.
• The upcoming Parliament session, running from June 24 to July 3, is cited as the reason for his absence, with crucial activities such as the Speaker’s election and the President’s address.

SCO Summit Context:

• The summit will be hosted by Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
• Key attendees include Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Central Asian leaders, and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
• Iran and Belarus will be inducted as full members during this summit.

Potential Impact on Future Engagement:

• PM Modi’s absence may affect India’s participation in the SCO Heads of Government conference in Islamabad in Autumn 2024.
• MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal has not confirmed India’s participation, stating that details are not yet finalized.

Significance

India’s Commitment to SCO:

• India joined the SCO as a full member in 2017, aiming to enhance its strategic and economic engagements in Eurasia.
• PM Modi’s absence could raise questions about India’s commitment to the organization.

Geopolitical Dynamics:

• The SCO is a significant platform for India to engage with Russia and China amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.
• The absence of bilateral meetings between PM Modi and President Xi since the Galwan clashes in 2020 highlights strained India-China relations.

Relations with Russia:

• Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has complicated India’s discourse with Moscow.
• Despite the challenges, India and Russia have traditionally maintained strong ties, with annual summits being a key aspect of their relationship.

Solutions

Enhancing Diplomatic Engagement:

• Ensure high-level representation at the SCO summit through the External Affairs Minister to maintain India’s presence and influence.
• Utilize the summit as a platform for constructive dialogue and addressing bilateral issues with other member states.

Strengthening SCO Commitment:

• Reaffirm India’s commitment to the SCO through proactive participation in future meetings and initiatives.
• Balance domestic obligations with international engagements to maintain diplomatic continuity.

Addressing Bilateral Strains:

• Explore avenues for bilateral meetings with key leaders like President Xi and President Putin on the sidelines of international forums.
• Prioritize conflict resolution and cooperation in areas of mutual interest to strengthen ties with China and Russia.

Nut Graf: PM Modi’s expected absence from the SCO summit in Kazakhstan reflects the challenge of balancing domestic commitments with international engagements. However, India’s representation through the External Affairs Minister can ensure continued engagement with the SCO. Maintaining active participation in the SCO and addressing bilateral strains with key member states will be crucial for India’s strategic interests in the region

2. Where does India stand with respect to G-7?

Syllabus: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s Interests

Prelims: G7

Mains: Significance of G7 for India

Context​: The Group of Seven (G-7) summit, held in Italy’s Apulia region from June 13-15, 2024, discussed global issues including Ukraine, Africa, climate change, and artificial intelligence. India, represented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, attended the G-7 outreach session. This engagement highlights India’s evolving role on the global stage.

G-7 Summit Agenda

Key Topics:

• Bridging differences between “West and the Rest”
• Funding support for the Ukraine war
• Investing in Africa
• Addressing migration, climate change, and AI challenges

Outcomes:

• $50 billion allocated for Ukraine from frozen Russian assets
• Energy investment summit for Africa
• Criticism of China’s trade practices
• Engagement with leaders from 10 countries and multilateral organizations
• India’s Participation

Historical Involvement:

• India has been invited to the G-7 outreach 11 times
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi has attended five times

Importance to India:

• Platform to showcase achievements and perspectives
• Emphasis on democratic processes, technology, AI, and climate change
• Highlighting Global South concerns

Significance for India

Global South Representation:

• India is a key member and advocate for the Global South
• Hosted the “Voice of Global South” conference

Strategic Engagements:

• Bilateral meetings with key leaders (e.g., UK, France, Germany, Japan, Italy)
• Addressed issues with Ukraine and US leadership
• Criticisms of G-7

Exclusivity:

• G-7 criticized for being elitist and non-inclusive
• Excludes major economies like China, India, and Brazil

Effectiveness:

• Limited impact on global conflicts (e.g., Russia-Ukraine war, Israel-Gaza conflict)
• Inability to counter China’s global influence

Nut Graf: India’s involvement in the G-7 outreach reflects its growing global stature and commitment to addressing global challenges. While the G-7 faces criticism for exclusivity and limited effectiveness, India’s active engagement and advocacy for the Global South can help shape a more inclusive and responsive international order. The way forward involves continued participation, strategic bilateral engagements, and a push for greater inclusivity in global governance structures.

Category:Security

1. No interim bail for Engineer Rashid; court asks NIA to say when he can take oath

Syllabus: Role of state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security

Mains: Issue of Terror funding

Context​: Sheikh Abdul Rashid, popularly known as Engineer Rashid, a newly elected Lok Sabha MP from north Kashmir, failed to secure interim bail in connection with a 2017 Jammu and Kashmir terror funding case. The court has asked the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to respond to his plea and inform about the possibility of him taking the oath as an MP.

Arrest and Charges:

• Engineer Rashid was arrested in 2019 by the NIA in connection with a 2017 terror funding case.
• He is charged under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for alleged involvement in funding terrorist activities.
• His name emerged during the investigation of Kashmiri businessman Zahoor Watali, who was accused of funding terrorist groups and separatists.

Interim Bail Plea:

• Rashid’s counsel sought custody parole to allow him to take the oath as a Lok Sabha member.
• Cited a precedent where AAP leader Sanjay Singh was allowed to take the oath as a Rajya Sabha member while under similar circumstances.

Court Proceedings:

• Additional Sessions Judge Kiran Gupta noted that the charges against Rashid differ significantly from those against Sanjay Singh.
• The court asked the NIA to file a response and consult with the Parliament and Tihar Jail authorities regarding the oath-taking ceremony.

NIA’s Stand:

• The NIA is consulting with relevant authorities to facilitate Rashid’s oath-taking as an MP.
• The agency has been given time until July 1, 2024, to file its reply and provide an update on the matter.

Significance

Parliamentary Representation:

• Rashid’s election as an MP highlights the democratic process and the representation of diverse voices, including those from conflict-affected regions.
• His inability to take the oath on schedule raises questions about the intersection of legal proceedings and parliamentary duties.

Legal and Security Concerns:

• The case underscores the government’s efforts to combat terror funding and uphold national security.
• It also reflects the legal complexities and procedural challenges in balancing security concerns with individual rights and democratic processes.

Public and Political Reactions:

• Rashid’s arrest and subsequent legal battles have garnered public and political attention, with some advocating for his right to fulfill his parliamentary duties.
• The case has sparked debates on the handling of elected representatives facing serious charges.

Solutions

Legal Resolution:

• Expedite the legal process to ensure a timely and fair resolution of Rashid’s case.
• Ensure transparency and adherence to legal norms to maintain public trust in the judicial system.

Parliamentary Protocols:

• Establish clear protocols for the oath-taking of elected representatives who are under investigation or facing charges.
• Ensure that such protocols respect both legal constraints and parliamentary duties.

Security and Monitoring:

• Strengthen mechanisms to monitor and prevent terror funding without impeding the democratic process.
• Enhance coordination between investigative agencies and parliamentary authorities to address security concerns effectively.

Nut Graf: The denial of interim bail to Engineer Rashid, a newly elected Lok Sabha MP, underscores the complexities of balancing legal proceedings with parliamentary responsibilities. While the court’s decision reflects the seriousness of the charges against him, it also highlights the need for clear protocols and timely resolution to uphold democratic processes and national security. 

2. UAPA tribunal confirms ban on Tehreek-e-Hurriyat, Muslim League J&K faction

Syllabus: Role of state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security

Prelims: UAPA

Mains: Challenge of Secessionist activities in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir

Context​: A tribunal under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) confirmed the Indian government’s decision to impose a five-year ban on the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction) and Tehreek-e-Hurriyat, Jammu and Kashmir. The tribunal’s decision reinforces the Centre’s stance against secessionist activities in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

Tribunal Formation and Role:

• A one-member tribunal of Delhi High Court judge Sachin Datta was established in January under UAPA.
• The tribunal’s mandate was to evaluate if there was “sufficient cause” for the ban on the two organizations.

Accusations Against the Organizations:

• The tribunal upheld that both organizations were involved in secessionist activities aimed at merging Jammu and Kashmir with Pakistan and establishing Islamic rule.
• They were found to be acting on behalf of Pakistan-based terrorist organizations like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Hizbul Mujahideen.

Government’s Representation:

• Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati and advocate Rajat Nair represented the government before the tribunal.
• The government argued that the organizations were supporting militant operations in the valley.

Significance

National Security:

• The confirmation of the ban is significant for India’s national security, addressing the threat posed by organizations involved in anti-national activities.
• It reinforces the government’s stance against terrorism and its commitment to maintaining sovereignty and integrity.

Legal Precedent:

• This decision sets a legal precedent for the treatment of organizations involved in secessionist and terrorist activities.
• It demonstrates the application of stringent anti-terror laws like UAPA to curb such activities.

Impact on Kashmir:

• The ban aims to reduce the influence of secessionist organizations in Jammu and Kashmir.
• It is expected to impact the funding and operational capabilities of these organizations, thereby aiming to bring stability to the region.

Solutions

Strengthening Legal Framework:

• Continuously update and strengthen laws like UAPA to effectively combat terrorism and secessionist activities.
• Ensure robust mechanisms for timely and fair judicial processes.

Enhanced Surveillance and Intelligence:

• Improve intelligence gathering and surveillance to pre-empt and prevent the activities of such organizations.
• Foster international cooperation to curb cross-border terrorism funding and support.

Community Engagement:

• Engage with local communities in Jammu and Kashmir to address grievances and prevent the spread of extremist ideologies.
• Promote development and integration initiatives to strengthen national unity.

Nut Graf: The tribunal’s confirmation of the ban on the Tehreek-e-Hurriyat and the Muslim League J&K faction underscores India’s resolve to combat terrorism and secessionism. This decision aligns with the government’s efforts to ensure national security and uphold constitutional integrity. Moving forward, continuous vigilance, legal fortification, and community engagement will be crucial in addressing the challenges posed by such organizations.

2. Erred in not crediting ICMR as co-inventor of Covaxin, admits Bharat Biotech

Context: Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL) admitted to an inadvertent mistake in not crediting scientists from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) as co-inventors in the patent applications for Covaxin, India’s first indigenous Covid-19 vaccine. The company has initiated steps to rectify this oversight.

Background

Covaxin Development:

• Developed jointly by BBIL and ICMR.
• Widely publicized as a collaborative effort.
• Patent applications were filed in India and abroad to protect intellectual property rights.

Issue Identification

Patent Filing Mistake:

• ICMR scientists were not included as co-inventors in the patent applications.
• Contradicts the Health Ministry’s statement that the intellectual property rights of Covaxin were “jointly owned” by ICMR and BBIL.

BBIL’s Admission:

• Acknowledged the mistake and started the process to rectify it.
• Statement issued regarding respect and gratitude towards ICMR.

Circumstances Leading to the Error:

• Explained the rush and multiple challenges faced during the pandemic.
• Claimed the mistake was unintentional and due to lack of access to the BBIL-ICMR agreement, which was confidential.

Legal and Procedural Steps:

• BBIL is preparing necessary legal documents to include ICMR as co-owner of the patent applications.
• Emphasized that patent law provides provisions to rectify such mistakes.

Earlier Communication:

• Initially, BBIL provided a different explanation, citing the nature of the patent for the “process” of Covaxin manufacture.
• Highlighting that development was fully funded by Bharat Biotech, while ICMR provided the strain and conducted clinical trials.

Significance

• Intellectual Property Rights: Ensuring proper credit in patents is crucial for transparency and recognition.
• Collaborative Efforts: Reflects the importance of acknowledging contributions from all parties in joint ventures, especially in significant public health initiatives.
• Public and Institutional Trust: Maintaining trust between institutions and the public by correcting oversights and ensuring accuracy in credit allocation.

3. Stringent regulations could hinder growth of AI in India: experts

Context: As India navigates the regulatory framework for artificial intelligence (AI), experts warn that overly stringent regulations could impede the growth of the country’s rapidly developing AI sector. This document explores the current regulatory landscape, associated issues, significance, solutions, and conclusions regarding AI regulation in India.

Current Regulatory Landscape

Lack of Specific Laws:

• India currently lacks specific laws targeting generative AI technologies like deepfakes.
• The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has issued advisories and guidelines to encourage responsible AI development and use.

IT Rules, 2021:

• Mandates social media intermediaries to remove harmful content, such as deepfakes, within 36 hours of notification.

Recent Developments

Deepfake Incident:

• A viral deepfake video of actor Rashmika Mandanna led to MeitY’s intervention to remove such content quickly.

Legal Action:

• A public interest litigation (PIL) was filed in the Delhi High Court, highlighting the unregulated use of AI and deepfakes.
• The court has asked the Centre to respond, with a hearing scheduled for July.

Advisory Updates

March 1 Advisory:

• MeitY initially required explicit government permission for under-tested or unreliable generative AI products.

March 15 Advisory:

• Following criticism, MeitY revised the advisory, dropping the explicit permission requirement.
• Instead, under-tested AI products must carry disclaimers about their potential unreliability.

Expert Opinions

Industry Perspective:

• Jaijit Bhattacharya of the Centre for Digital Economy Policy Research (C-DEP) views the advisory as a reinforcement of existing regulations, emphasizing the need to label AI-generated content to prevent disinformation.
• He believes the advisory does not significantly hinder industry growth.

Legal Perspective:

• Mishi Choudhary of the Software Freedom Law Center (SFLC) stresses the need for the government to update laws to protect public interest and mitigate future harms associated with AI technology.

Issues

Potential Hindrances

• Over-Regulation: Stringent regulations could stifle innovation and slow down the growth of the AI sector. Ambiguity in guidelines can lead to confusion and hinder compliance efforts by AI developers.
• Lack of Clear Framework: The absence of specific laws addressing AI creates uncertainty for developers and investors.

Concerns with AI Technologies

• Misinformation: Deepfakes and other generative AI technologies can spread misinformation, create fake news, and generate false narratives.
• Public Trust: Ensuring AI systems are reliable and transparent is crucial for maintaining public trust.

4. No GST on railway services, hostel stay

Context: The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council recently convened after a nine-month hiatus to discuss various measures aimed at easing compliance for small businesses, exempting certain services from GST, and addressing future agendas such as rate rationalization and the GST Compensation Cess.

Key Decisions and Measures

GST Exemptions:

• Railway Services: Railway services have been exempted from GST, reducing transportation costs and potentially lowering fares.
• Hostel Accommodation: Hostel accommodation up to ₹20,000 per month is now exempt from GST, benefiting students, particularly those from rural areas.

Compliance Measures:

• Eased Compliance for Small Businesses: Measures have been approved to ease compliance burdens on small businesses.
• Interest and Penalty Waivers: Waivers of interest and penalties on certain past tax demands have been granted to reduce litigation.

Biometric Aadhaar Authentication:

• The Council approved the phased rollout of biometric-based Aadhaar authentication for all GST registrations to speed up the process and curb fraudulent activities.

Clarifications on GST Rates:

• Certain items, including milk cans, sprinklers, carton boxes, and solar cookers, will now attract a 12% GST rate, irrespective of their use, material, or energy source.

Future Discussions:

• Rate Rationalization: The Council will discuss the rationalization of GST rates in upcoming meetings, which is crucial for simplifying the tax structure.
• GST Compensation Cess: Deliberations on the future of the GST Compensation Cess post its expiry in March 2026 are also on the agenda.

Issues

• Complexity in Tax Structure: The current multiple GST rates can create confusion and compliance challenges for businesses.
• Fraudulent Practices: The fraudulent use of input tax credits through fake invoices is a significant issue, necessitating stringent verification measures.
• Pending Procedural Issues: Several procedural issues remain unresolved, requiring the Council’s attention in future meetings.

Significance

• Economic Relief: Exemptions for railway services and hostel accommodations provide economic relief to key sectors and social groups.
• Enhanced Compliance: Eased compliance measures and biometric authentication can enhance the efficiency and integrity of the GST system.
• Support for Small Businesses: Measures aimed at reducing compliance burdens and litigation costs support the growth and sustainability of small businesses.

5. Art empowers villages in a once-troubled part of Bengal

Context: The initiative led by artist Mrinal Mandal aims to transform villages previously affected by the Maoist movement in Jhargram, West Bengal, into art hubs. This project, named ‘Khwaabgaon,’ seeks to empower marginalized communities through art.

Background and Context

• Mrinal Mandal’s Background: Graduated from the Government Arts College in Kolkata in 2000. Developed a keen interest in traditional arts while exploring Bengal’s rural areas.
• Maoist Movement in Jhargram: Jhargram became a Maoist hotbed in 2008, marked by violence and destruction. Mandal depicted the suffering in his 2011 exhibition ‘Roots’ in Kolkata.

Initiatives and Efforts

• Chalchitra Academy: Established as an artists’ collective by Mrinal Mandal. Aimed at training villagers in traditional arts.
• Transformation of Lalbazar: A small village inhabited by the Lodha tribe. Workshops on traditional arts such as dokra, katum-katum, and kantha stitching. Village renamed ‘Khwaabgaon’ (village of dreams) due to the initiative’s impact.
• Expansion to Other Villages: By 2023, the project extended to another village inhabited by the Santhal tribe. A network of 12 villages now participate in the ‘Khwaabgaon’ project.

Significance

• Economic Empowerment: Art workshops have provided villagers with a new source of income. Attraction of tourists to Jhargram has increased economic activity.
• Cultural Preservation: Revitalization of traditional arts ensures cultural heritage is maintained. 
• Community Building: Art has fostered a sense of community and healing among villagers.

Q1.Which of these statements best describes Kantha stitching?

Q2. Consider the following statements with respect to the GST Council:

Q3.With reference to Deepfakes, which of the following statements is/are correct?

Q4. Consider the following statements with respect to Nalanda University:

Q5. Consider the following statements with respect to the Central Bureau of Investigation: