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Landslide in Kodagu

Why in News Recently, due to heavy rain, numbers of landslides occurred in many parts of India. Key Points Landslides: A landslide is defined...

27 Aug 2020 News Analysis
Magnets for Manufacturing

This editorial analysis is based on the article Magnets For Manufacturing which was published in The Hindu on 26th of August 2020. It analyses the...

26 Aug 2020 News Editorials
INS Viraat

Why in News Indian Naval Ship (INS) Viraat will be scrapped at a ship breaking yard at Alang in Gujarat soon. The decision to scrap INS Viraat...

26 Aug 2020 News Analysis
National Clean Air Programme

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to modify the National Clean Air...

26 Aug 2020 News Analysis
Conflict in Libya

Why in News The internal conflict in Libya that has been running since 2011 has shown signs of de-escalation as the rival authorities in the country...

26 Aug 2020 News Analysis
China Launches Warship for Pakistan

Why In News Recently, China has launched first of the four advanced naval warships it is building for Pakistan. This is the first ship of...

26 Aug 2020 News Analysis
India-Vietnam Meeting

Why in News Recently, the 17th meeting of India-Vietnam Joint Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technological Cooperation was...

26 Aug 2020 News Analysis
Star Formation in Dwarf Galaxies

Why in News Recently, astronomers from the Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES) have found out the reasons behind intense...

26 Aug 2020 News Analysis
Early Galaxy Detected by AstroSat

Why in News A team of Scientists from the Inter University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) has discovered one of the earliest galaxies...

26 Aug 2020 News Analysis
Bringing the Marginalised Back to School

This editorial analysis is based on the article Bringing the marginalised back to school which was published in the Indian Express on 24th of...

25 Aug 2020 News Editorials
Important Judgements of Independent India

The Constitution of India, enacted in 1950, has been the cornerstone of India’s democracy. After its enactment it has undergone several...

25 Aug 2020 Paper 2
Credit Guarantee for NBFC-MFIs

Why in News Recently, the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has introduced Partial Credit Guarantee Programme for...

25 Aug 2020 News Analysis
AIIB Loan for MUTP-3

Why In News The Government of India, the Government of Maharashtra, Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank...

25 Aug 2020 News Analysis
India’s Longest River Ropeway in Assam

Why in News The Assam government has inaugurated a 1.8-km ropeway across the Brahmaputra river, and described it as India’s longest river...

25 Aug 2020 News Analysis
Odisha’s Bonda Tribe

Why in News Recently, four people from the Bonda tribal community have tested positive for the Covid-19. Key Points PVTGs: Bondas are one of...

25 Aug 2020 News Analysis
Rotation of Panchayat Seats Between Men and Women

Why in News The Haryana government is planning to bring a Bill to provide 50:50 reservation in Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) for men and women...

25 Aug 2020 News Analysis
Online Path to Healthcare

This article is based on the editorial, “Online path to healthcare”, which was published in The Indian Express on 24/08/2020. It talks...

24 Aug 2020 News Editorials
Open API Service in Aarogya Setu

Why in News The government has announced a new feature 'Open API Service' for its contact tracing app Aarogya Setu. Key Points The Open API...

24 Aug 2020 News Analysis
National Council for Transgender Persons

Why in News Recently, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has constituted the National Council for Transgender Persons, under the...

24 Aug 2020 News Analysis
Inclusion of the Disabled in National Food Security Act 2013

Why in News The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution has asked State Governments/UTs to include all eligible disabled...

24 Aug 2020 News Analysis

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			'title' => 'Landslide in Kodagu',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, due to heavy rain, numbers of landslides occurred in many parts of India.</p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Landslides:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>A landslide is defined as the <strong>movement of a mass of rock, debris, or earth down a slope.</strong></li>
<li>They are a type of <strong>mass wasting,</strong> which denotes any downward movement of soil and rock under the direct influence of gravity.</li>
<li>The term landslide encompasses <strong>five modes of slope movement: falls, topples, slides, spreads, and flows.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598514735_image1.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598514735_image1.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" caption="false" width="283" height="250" /></strong></a></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Causes:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Slope movement occurs when <strong>forces acting downward (mainly due to gravity) exceed the strength of the earth materials</strong> that compose the slope.</li>
<li>Landslides are caused due to<strong> three major factors: geology, morphology, and human activity.</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Geology</strong> refers to characteristics of the material. The earth or rock might be weak or fractured, or different layers may have different strengths and stiffness.</li>
<li><strong>Morphology</strong> refers to the structure of the land. For example, slopes that lose their vegetation to fire or drought are more vulnerable to landslides. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Vegetation holds soil in place, and without the root systems of trees, bushes, and other plants, the land is more likely to slide away.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Human activity</strong> which include agriculture and construction increase the risk of a landslide.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Region:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Continent-wise, <strong>Asia suffers the maximum damages/losses</strong> due to landslides and within that, South-Asian nations are the worst sufferers <strong>including India</strong> which is one of the worst affected by landslides.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Mitigation:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Restriction on the construction and other developmental activities</strong> such as roads and dams in the areas prone to landslides.</li>
<li><strong>Limiting agriculture</strong> to valleys and areas with moderate slopes.</li>
<li><strong>Control</strong> on the development of large settlements in the high vulnerability zones.</li>
<li><strong>Promoting large-scale afforestation</strong> programmes and <strong>construction of bunds</strong> to reduce the flow of water.</li>
<li><strong>Terrace farming</strong> should be encouraged in the northeastern hill states where Jhumming (Slash and Burn/Shifting Cultivation) is still prevalent.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/landslips-galore-as-rain-batters-kodagu/article32300020.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
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		],
		(int) 1 => [
			'title' => 'Magnets for Manufacturing',
			'catname' => 'News Editorials',
			'desc' => '<div class="border">
<p>This editorial analysis is based on the article <a href="https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/magnets-for-manufacturing/article32440463.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Magnets For Manufacturing</strong></a> which was published in The Hindu on 26<sup>th</sup> of August 2020. It analyses the prospects of several manufacturing companies moving out of China and shifting to India.</p>
</div>
<p>Many American, Japanese, and South Korean manufacturing companies operating from China are planning to relocate their manufacturing bases to other destinations among which India is one of the destinations.</p>
<p>The real question now for India is, can it succeed in attracting manufacturing firms and jobs from China? This article analyses the prospects and challenges of the manufacturing Industries in India and the role of states in this regard.</p>
<h3>Reasons For Moving Out</h3>
<p>These companies are planning to exit China due to three primary reasons.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Supply Chain Disruptions:</strong> There is a realisation that relying heavily on China for building capacities and sourcing manufacturing goods is not an ideal business strategy due to supply chain disruptions in the country caused by <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/covid-19-and-globalization" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid-19.</strong></a>
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Decline in production and trade seen in China will have a strong impact on countries further up and down the supply chain since most of the countries have now imposed restrictions on movements to combat the spread of the virus.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Chinese Dominance Over Essential Goods:</strong> There is a fear of Chinese dominance over the supply of essential industrial goods. This is an alarming situation for any country and its industry as this puts their independence and autonomy in peril.</li>
<li><strong>Trade War:</strong> The growing risk and uncertainty involved in operating from or dealing with China in the light of geopolitical and trade conflicts between China and other countries, particularly the U.S. has further eroded Chinese potential.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Indian Situation</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>India lags far behind China in manufacturing prowess. China ranks first in contribution to world manufacturing output, while India ranks sixth.</li>
<li>Against India&rsquo;s target of pulling up the share of manufacturing in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to 25% by 2022, its share stood at 15% in 2018, only half of China&rsquo;s fi&shy;gure.</li>
<li>Industry value added grew at an average annual rate of 10.68% since China opened up its economy in 1978. In contrast, against the target of 12%, the manufacturing sector has grown at 7% after India opened up its economy.</li>
<li>Next to the European Union, China was the largest exporter of manufactured goods in 2018, with an 18% world share. India is not a part of the top 10 exporters who accounted for 83% of world manufacturing exports in 2018.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Issues With Indian Manufacturing Industries</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Stringent Labor Laws:</strong> The <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/labour-laws-and-covid-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>labour laws</strong> </a>in India are extremely complicated. e.g, Industrial Disputes Act-1947 provides that if you are a manufacturing firm with 100 workers or more, you cannot dismiss any of them under any circumstances unless you get prior approval from the government which is rarely given.
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The law is mandated even if the industry is going bankrupt. Thus, the investors are not willing to enter into this sector.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Inadequate Skilled Workforce:</strong> The manufacturing sector, for it to grow, requires an educated workforce with the necessary skills and training. India&rsquo;s skill ecosystem needs to be fixed.</li>
<li><strong>Basic Infrastructure:</strong> Roads, connectivity and transportation are slow and costly when compared to developed nations which is a huge deterrence to Industries. Uninterrupted power supply is another challenge.</li>
<li><strong>Small Size:</strong> Small enterprises, because of their smaller size, suffer from low productivity, preventing them from achieving economies of scale.</li>
<li><strong>Low Spending On R&amp;D:</strong> Currently, India spends about 0.7% of GDP on research and development, a considerably small amount when compared with other developed nations. This prevents the sector to evolve, innovate and grow.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Role of states</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Policy Coordination:</strong> Since India follows a federal government system, a lasting solution to these constraints cannot be possible without the active participation of State governments and effective policy coordination between the Centre and the States.</li>
<li><strong>State Specific Plans:</strong> Currently, manufacturing is mainly concentrated in few states like Maharashtra and Gujarat which cover a substantial portion of India&rsquo;s geographical area.
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>States like Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Rajasthan, Telangana, and West Bengal also have large land areas that can contribute to the success stories of Indian Manufacturing.</li>
<li>The reasons for less manufacturing activity in these States have to be carefully examined, and based on this, state specific industrialisation strategies need to be devised and implemented in a mission mode with active hand &shy;holding by the Central government.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Implementation:</strong> Strong and carefully designed policy implementation on the part of individual States would improve India&rsquo;s overall investment climate, thereby boosting investments, jobs, and economic growth.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Reforming Labor Laws:</strong> Reforming of the existing labour laws must be prioritised to make them simplified and flexible. They must be reformed in a way that will promote investment and ease of doing business within the sector.</li>
<li><strong>Imparting Skill:</strong> The quality of teaching in schools and colleges must be improved. The high-quality vocational training must be provided within the education system.
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>India&rsquo;s labour productivity, though increased in the last decade, is lower than that of China. This should be addressed to compete in the global market. Introduction of vocational courses under <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/national-education-policy-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>New Education Policy 2020</strong></a> is a welcome step.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Stable Power Supply:</strong> Stable, low cost and uninterrupted power is vital to promote the growth of the industries. Though the availability of Power has improved to a great extent but India must ensure this as soon as possible on industrial level to reap the benefits of manufacturing growth.</li>
<li><strong>Reducing Logistic Cost:</strong> The logistics cost in India is estimated to be almost double of the developed countries. In India, nearly 60% of cargo travels by road.
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>This is because of the overconsumption of the railway networks, high rail freights, long transit times, inadequate port depths, high turnaround time at ports and poor warehousing facilities. Addressing these issues can promote the growth of the manufacturing sector.</li>
<li>Cheap, fast and easy transportation is the basic requirement for booming industries.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>More Spending On R&amp;D:</strong> As India is spending very less on Research &amp; Development, it must improve its spending on it. India&rsquo;s spending is much less than the developed nations which spent between 3-4% of their GDPs.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Conclusion</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The policy actions of the Centre and the States must be well coordinated.</li>
<li>In this context, a suggestion put forth by the Union Minister is worth attempting. To promote electronic manufacturing, he suggested forming a Strategy Group consisting of representatives from the Central and State governments along with top industry executives.</li>
<li>The purpose is to instil teamwork and leverage ideas through sharing the best practices of the Centre and States. A similar approach is needed for developing the whole manufacturing sector.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598443744_image5.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598443744_image5.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="550" caption="false" /></a></p>
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 100%; border-style: dotted; border-color: #ff0000; background-color: #edffde;">
<p><span style="color: #333399;"><em><strong>Drishti Mains Question</strong></em></span></p>
<p>Critically analyse the prospects of India becoming the new manufacturing hub of the world and the role of states in this regard.</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p style="text-align: center;"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C69UAs7hZio" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p>This editorial is based on <strong><a href="https://www.hindustantimes.com/editorials/announce-another-fiscal-stimulus/story-rojRt2LO5F5J8er2uO4RXL.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&ldquo;Announce another fiscal stimulus&rdquo;</a> </strong>which was published in The Hindustan Times on August 24<sup>th</sup>, 2020. Now watch this on our Youtube channel.</p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/magnets-for-manufacturing'
		],
		(int) 2 => [
			'title' => 'INS Viraat',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Indian Naval Ship (INS) Viraat<strong> will be scrapped</strong> at a ship breaking yard at Alang in Gujarat soon.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The <strong>decision</strong> to scrap INS Viraat was taken in <strong>2019.</strong></li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>INS Viraat holds the <strong>Guinness World Record</strong> for being the <strong>longest serving warship of the world.</strong></li>
<li>Viraat, a <strong>Centaur class aircraft carrier</strong> weighing 27,800 tonnes, served in the <strong>British Navy</strong> as <strong>HMS Hermes for 25 years</strong> from November 1959 to April 1984. It was <strong>commissioned into the Indian Navy in May 1987</strong> after refurbishment.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The Centaur class of aircraft carriers of the Royal Navy was the<strong> last of the light fleet carrier designs</strong> started during the closing years of <a href="/to-the-points/paper1/world-war-ii" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>World War II</strong> </a><strong>(1939-45).</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Viraat played a major role in <strong>Operation Jupiter</strong> in 1989 during the Sri Lankan Peacekeeping operation. It also saw action during<strong> Op Parakram</strong> in 2001-2002, post the terrorist attack on Parliament.</li>
<li>The indigenous Advance Light Helicopters <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/apache-helicopters-for-indian-army" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&lsquo;Dhruv&rsquo;</strong> </a>and the Russian twin rotor<strong> Kamov-31</strong> have also operated from the ship.</li>
<li>It was <strong>decommissioned in March 2017,</strong> and the<strong> Navy had been incurring expenditure</strong> since then on its upkeep, such as the provision of electricity and water, and repairs. It was also<strong> taking up space in the crowded Naval dockyard.</strong></li>
<li>There had been demands from various quarters to not let Viraat go the way of <strong>Vikrant, India&rsquo;s first carrier</strong> that was eventually scrapped.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>In 2014, <strong>INS Vikrant,</strong> which played a role in the 1971 war with Pakistan was broken down in Mumbai.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>However, several attempts by the Navy to preserve the carrier, by converting it into a museum or by other means, failed. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The <strong>vessel could not be handed over to any state government</strong> because of lack of &ldquo;self-sustaining financially complete&rdquo; proposal to preserve it. The state governments of Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh had planned to preserve the aircraft carrier (in the form of a museum).</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>India is currently doing with only the<strong> 44,500-tonne INS Vikramaditya,</strong> the refurbished Admiral Gorshkov inducted from Russia in November 2013. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The trials of the first indigenous aircraft carrier <strong>(IAC-I, to be named as INS Vikrant)</strong> being built at the Cochin Shipyard have been derailed by the pandemic.</li>
<li>The government&rsquo;s approvals for a third carrier, the 65,000-tonne <strong>IAC-II (tentatively christened INS Vishal)</strong> has been pending since May 2015.</li>
<li>India needs aircraft carriers to secure the seas of the Indo-Pacific, to maintain peace, secure trade routes, and provide security to the region.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/ins-viraat-to-be-dismantled-at-alang-in-gujarat/article32436701.ece#:~:text=Decommissioned%20aircraft%20carrier%20Viraat%2C%20which,at%20Alang%20in%20Gujarat%20soon." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/ins-viraat-1'
		],
		(int) 3 => [
			'title' => 'National Clean Air Programme',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<p>The <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/national-green-tribunal-ngt" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National Green Tribunal (NGT)</strong></a> has directed the<strong> Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)</strong> to modify the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/govt-launches-mission-to-fight-air-pollution" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)</strong></a> which proposes 20-30% reduction of air pollution by 2024.</p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>NCAP:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It was launched by the MoEFCC in<strong> January 2019.</strong></li>
<li>It is the <strong>first-ever effort in the country to frame a national framework for air quality management with a time-bound reduction target.</strong></li>
<li>It seeks to <strong>cut the concentration of coarse</strong> (particulate matter of diameter 10 micrometer or less, or <strong>PM10</strong>) and <strong>fine particles</strong> (particulate matter of diameter 2.5 micrometer or less, or <strong>PM2.5) by at least 20%</strong> in the <strong>next five years,</strong> with <strong>2017 as the base year</strong> for comparison.</li>
<li><strong>The plan includes 102 non-attainment cities,</strong> across 23 states and Union territories, which were identified by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) on the basis of their ambient air quality data between 2011 and 2015.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Non-attainment cities:</strong> These are those that have fallen short of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for over five years.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>NGT&rsquo;s View:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The enforcement of the <strong>&lsquo;Sustainable Development&rsquo; principle</strong> and <strong>&lsquo;Public Trust Doctrine&rsquo;</strong> require stern measures to be adopted to give effect to the mandate of international obligations related to environmental quality, for which the <strong>Environment (Protection) Act, 1986</strong> was enacted.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Public Trust Doctrine:</strong> It states that the sovereign, or state, holds the trust of people to manage the designated resources for the benefit of the people.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The <strong>Right to Clean Air</strong> stood recognized as part of Right to Life and failure to address air pollution is a denial of Right to Life under <strong>Article 21.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>NGT&rsquo;s Directions:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The<strong> timeline</strong> to reduce air pollution by 20-30% by 2024 needs to be<strong> reduced.</strong></li>
<li>The <strong>target</strong> of reduction needs to be <strong>increased.</strong></li>
<li>It suggested the Ministry to review and action in terms of <strong>shift to e-vehicles and CNG vehicles,</strong> intensifying public transport system, mechanical cleaning of roads, enhancement of public parking facilities, improvement in fuel quality, and traffic management.</li>
<li>It directed the state pollution control boards to ensure the<strong> assessment and installation</strong> of the requisite number of real-time online continuous <strong>Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Systems within six months.</strong></li>
<li>It also directed an expert team of the <strong>Central Pollution Control Board</strong> to <strong>design a model</strong> for source apportionment and carrying capacity assessment within two months which may be replicated for all the non-attainment cities.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Source Apportionment:</strong> It is the practice of deriving information about pollution sources and the amount they contribute to ambient air pollution levels.</li>
<li><strong>Carrying Capacity:</strong> The concept of &ldquo;carrying capacity&rdquo; addresses the question as to how many people can be permitted into any area without the risk of degrading the environment there.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>National Green Tribunal</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It is a specialised body set up under the <strong>National Green Tribunal Act, 2010</strong> for effective and expeditious disposal of cases relating to environmental protection and conservation of forests and other natural resources.</li>
<li>It draws inspiration from India&rsquo;s constitutional provision of<strong> Article 21,</strong> which assures the citizens of India the<strong> right to a healthy environment.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Original Jurisdiction:</strong> It is related to matters of &ldquo;substantial question relating to the environment&rdquo; and &ldquo;damage to the environment due to specific activity&rdquo;.</li>
<li>It follows<strong> principles of Natural Justice.</strong></li>
<li>NGT is mandated to make disposal of applications or appeals finally<strong> within 6 months</strong> of filing the same.</li>
<li>The NGT has<strong> five places</strong> of sittings,<strong> New Delhi is the Principal</strong> place of sitting and <strong>Bhopal, Pune, Kolkata </strong>and<strong> Chennai</strong> are the other four.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/ngt-slams-ministrys-report-on-clean-air-programme/article32440795.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source TH</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/national-clean-air-programme'
		],
		(int) 4 => [
			'title' => 'Conflict in Libya',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>The internal conflict in Libya that has been running since 2011 has shown signs of de-escalation as the rival authorities in the country have called for a ceasefire.</p>
<h3>Key Points<a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598434219_image3.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598434219_image3.jpg" style="float: right;" width="350" caption="false" /></a></h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Rival Forces:</strong> The Self-proclaimed<strong> Libyan National Army (LNA)</strong> led by <strong>Khalifa Haftar</strong> has been battling forces aligned with the <strong>Tripoli-based, internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA).</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Both sides are formed from <strong>local armed factions,</strong> whose <strong>shifting loyalties</strong> have steered the course of the conflict.</li>
<li>LNA has long enjoyed backing from countries including the<strong> United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Russia and Jordan. </strong></li>
<li><strong>The USA, Turkey and Qatar</strong> support the GNA.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Ceasefire:</strong> The ceasefire call by GNA head proposed<strong> demilitarising Sirte city and resumption of oil production</strong> until a political deal is reached. It has also called for elections in March 2021.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The LNA dismissed this proposal, but a <strong>parallel ceasefire call</strong> by the LNA-aligned parliament has proposed<strong> Sirte</strong> as the seat of a new government.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Background</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Libya was ruled by <strong>Muammar Gaddafi</strong> for 42 years from 1969 to 2011 after he overturned the previous monarchy and proclaimed the new<strong> Libyan Arab Republic.</strong></li>
<li>In 2011, the<strong> first civil war</strong> broke out in Libya against the regime of Gaddafi. This war was a part of a series of anti-dictatorial protests in countries of Arab world like Tunisia, Morocco, Iraq, Algeria, Lebanon, Jordan etc, known as the <a href="/loksabha-rajyasabha-discussions/the-big-picture-syria-crisis-us-backs-out" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Arab Spring.</strong></a></li>
<li>In response to the civil war, a <strong>multi-state <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/us-minimises-its-share-in-nato-budget" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NATO</a>-led coalition</strong> began a military intervention in Libya in March 2011, aimed at protecting civilians and providing cover for a rebel advance.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The NATO intervention was backed by a <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/un-security-council-1#:~:text=Its%20primary%20responsibility%20is%20to,China%20and%20the%20United%20Kingdom." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>UN Security Council</strong> </a><strong>resolution 1973</strong> which was supported by 10 countries. 5 countries viz.<strong> India,</strong> Brazil, Germany, Russia and China abstained from voting.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>A UN-backed internationally recognized government was put in place called the Government of National Accord (GNA) which was supposed to bring out a democratic transition.</li>
<li>However, GNA <strong>failed to provide political stability</strong> to the country.</li>
<li>LNA captured the East of Libya and has been running long campaign against Islamist groups and other opponents since then.</li>
<li>Libya has no single government currently, with<strong> LNA backing the Tobruk-based parliament which governs East of Libya,</strong> and the <strong>GNA which controls Libya's western parts fromTripoli.</strong></li>
<li>Both sides have been in constant conflict since 2014, in what has been termed as the second Libyan Civil War. In addition to these, there are also<strong> smaller rival groups</strong> in the country like the <strong>Shura Council of Benghazi Revolutionaries, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant</strong> etc.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Impact</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Nearly 4,00,000 Libyans have been <strong>displaced</strong> over the past nine years. Thousands more have <strong>died.</strong></li>
<li>The conflict has cost tens of <strong>billions of dollars in lost oil revenue,</strong> damaged infrastructure, and sharply reduced living standards.</li>
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/covid-19-and-globalization" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid-19</strong></a> infections have started to surge.</li>
<li>The collapse of public services and corruption has fuelled protests in western Libya against the political elite.</li>
<li>Libya, a member of <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/talks-on-oil-cut-deal-at-g-20" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>OPEC</strong></a>, holds Africa<strong>&rsquo;s largest oil reserves,</strong> producing 1.6 million barrels per day before 2011. Blockades and presence of military forces have caused <strong>output to fluctuate</strong> sharply since then, affecting the <strong>oil prices.</strong></li>
<li><strong>International Response:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The <strong>International Berlin conference,</strong> held on 19<sup>th</sup> January 2020, was attended by Libyan parties and other concerned countries. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>As a result of this conference, the UN Security Council endorsed a<strong> 55-point road map</strong> for ending the war in Libya in February 2020.</li>
<li>The resolution demands that all countries refrain from interfering in Libya&rsquo;s conflict and its internal affairs and observe a <strong>UN arms embargo,</strong> including ceasing all support for and withdrawing all armed mercenary personnel.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Egypt, in association with LNA, proposed the <strong>Cairo Declaration</strong> on 6<sup>th</sup> June, 2020, for the Second Libyan Civil War ceasefire.</li>
<li>The USA has ordered <strong>evacuation of its troops</strong> stationed in<strong> Tripoli.</strong></li>
<li><strong>India evacuated</strong> its contingent of peacekeeping forces consisting of 15<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/central-reserve-police-force" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> CRPF</strong></a> personnel from Tripoli. India has also asked its citizens there to exercise extreme caution.</li>
<li>Foreign powers officially back the process of restoring peace in the country, but have <strong>also shipped arms</strong> to their allies, undercutting diplomatic efforts.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>India&rsquo;s Stand:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>India has <strong>expressed concern</strong> over continuing conflict and instability in Libya and said it <strong>supports</strong> efforts towards<strong> immediate cessation of all hostilities</strong> in the country.</li>
<li>Although India has been critical of the USA military intervention in Libya on the ground that civilians would be affected, its stand on Libya has been more of a <strong>realistic one</strong> as it has many <strong>vested interests</strong> in LIbya. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Economic :</strong> The regime in Libya needs to be a friendly one since Libya is an oil rich country and political instability could affect Indian <strong>industrial investments and energy security interests</strong> there. Indian companies, especially in the hydrocarbon, power, construction and IT sector, have several ongoing projects in Libya.</li>
<li><strong>Diaspora:</strong> Considering an estimated <strong>18,000 Indians</strong> who work in Libya, it is a considerable contribution to the remittance economy and adds to India&rsquo;s foreign exchange</li>
<li><strong>Foreign Policy:</strong> Supporting western intrusion into sovereignty of a country will not set a good precedent for other third-world countries.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Achieving peace in Libya is crucial not just for the country itself but also for stabilizing the global oil market and set a precedent for other such war-torn countries. However, a lasting deal will require <strong>political and economic agreements</strong> that have proved elusive for years, and <strong>cooperation from foreign powers.</strong></li>
<li>The western wishful thinking that the exogenous establishment of human rights democracy is possible through expeditionary intervention in domestic affairs of a country needs to end to give way to a more<strong> organic building up of trust in democratic institutions and sovereign control.</strong></li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/libya-conflict-explained-6568862/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: IE</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/conflict-in-libya'
		],
		(int) 5 => [
			'title' => 'China Launches Warship for Pakistan',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why In News</h3>
<p>Recently, China has launched <strong>first of the four advanced naval warships</strong> it is building for Pakistan.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>This is the first ship of <strong>Type-054 class frigate.</strong></li>
<li>The Type-054A is<strong> roughly the same size</strong> as the Indian Navy's existing <strong>Talwar class</strong> of frigates, purchased from Russia</li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Comparing with Talwar Class:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Size and Dimensions:</strong> The Type-054A and Talwar class <strong>displace approximately 4,000 tonnes</strong> and have a length of around<strong> 130 metres.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Stealth Level:</strong> Both classes, designed the 1990s, have features<strong> to reduce their radar and infra-red signatures.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Missile System:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The Type-054A uses a <strong>surface-to-air missile</strong> system called the<strong> HQ-16,</strong> which experts claim is derived from the <strong>Russian Shtil missile,</strong> already in service on the Talwar class frigates.</li>
<li>Type-054A has an <strong>advantage over the existing Talwar class</strong> ships as the former uses a <strong>vertical launch system</strong> (VLS).<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The<strong> vertical launch system</strong> allows the launch of<strong> multiple missiles simultaneously.</strong></li>
<li>Talwar class frigates use an <strong>older 'single-arm' launcher</strong> that can fire only<strong> one missile at a time.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The Talwar class ships use the <strong>supersonic Klub and Brahmos missiles,</strong> and are regarded to have better anti-ship capabilities than the Type-054A class.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Radar:</strong> The HQ-16, which relies on<strong> 'passive' radar</strong> to detect targets, is considered <strong>inferior to the new Indo-Israeli Barak-8 missile.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The relatively small size of the Type-054AP frigates means there is<strong> little scope to mount</strong> heavier radars and longer-range anti-aircraft or anti-ship weapons.</li>
<li>While the new Type-054AP frigates will be the most capable ships in the Pakistan Navy, they are<strong> not expected to significantly alter the balance of power in the region,</strong> given Pakistan's limitations in airborne anti-submarine capabilities.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/china-launches-warship-for-pakistan-navy/article32432221.ece#:~:text=the%20Pakistan%20Navy.-,Pakistan%2DChina%20defence%20ties%20turn%20a%20new%20chapter%20with%20the,the%20two%20all%2Dweather%20allies." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source TH</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/china-launches-warship-for-pakistan'
		],
		(int) 6 => [
			'title' => 'India-Vietnam Meeting',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, the <strong>17<sup>th</sup> meeting of <a href="/to-the-points/Paper2/india-vietnam-relations" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India-Vietnam</a> Joint Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technological Cooperation</strong> was held.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Both sides reviewed the recent developments in <strong>India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership</strong> (since 2016) and discussed the future trajectory of their wide-ranging engagement.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598427572_image2.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598427572_image2.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" caption="false" /></a></p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Indo-Pacific Region:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>India and Vietnam agreed to enhance their bilateral cooperation in line with India&rsquo;s <strong>Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI)</strong> and the<strong> ASEAN&rsquo;s Outlook on Indo-Pacific</strong> to achieve shared security, prosperity and growth for all in the <strong>region.</strong></li>
<li>This has come in the backdrop of <strong>China&rsquo;s aggression</strong> in the Indo-Pacific region including <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/china-in-south-china-sea" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>South China Sea region</strong></a> and its actions along the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/india-china-conflict" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Line of Actual Control (LAC)</strong> </a>with India.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>China claims sovereignty over most of the South China Sea, which is seen as having huge reserves of hydrocarbons and minerals. However, several <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-international-institution/asean" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations)</strong> </a>member countries, including Vietnam, Philippines and Brunei, dispute the Chinese claims.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>IPOI was launched by the Prime Minister of India at the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-international-institution/east-asia-summit" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>East Asia Summit</strong></a> in November <strong>2019.</strong></li>
<li>It focuses on <strong>seven central pillars</strong> conceived around Maritime Security, Maritime Ecology, Maritime Resources, Capacity Building and Resource Sharing, Disaster Risk Reduction and Management, Science, Technology and Academic Cooperation, and Trade Connectivity and Maritime Transport.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Cooperation at Multilateral and Regional Forums:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Both sides agreed to coordinate closely at multilateral forums, including at the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/elections-for-non-permanent-members-of-the-unsc" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>UN Security Council</strong></a>, where both India and Vietnam will <strong>serve concurrently as non-permanent members in 2021.</strong></li>
<li>They also agreed to step up cooperation and coordination at important regional forums under the ASEAN framework. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>India and Vietnam closely cooperate in various<strong> regional forums</strong> such as <strong>East Asia Summit, Mekong Ganga Cooperation, Asia Europe Meeting (ASEM).</strong></li>
<li>India appreciated the positive leadership provided by Vietnam to ASEAN in 2020 when the world is faced with the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/coronavirus-disease-named-covid-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid -19 pandemic.</strong></a><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Vietnam is the chair of ASEAN for 2020.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Economic Engagement:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>They agreed to explore closer cooperation in emerging areas such as <strong>civil nuclear energy, space, marine sciences and new technologies.</strong></li>
<li>India invited Vietnam to take advantage of India&rsquo;s new economic capacities and demands.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>India underlined its vision of <strong>Atmanirbhar Bharat</strong> for enhancing resilience through self-reliance and human-centric globalisation as the basis for its economic revival.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>India reaffirmed its<strong> development and capacity building assistance to Vietnam</strong> through initiatives such as <strong>Quick Impact Projects (QIP), Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC)</strong> and e-ITEC initiatives, <strong>PhD fellowships,</strong> as well as projects in<strong> water resource management in Vietnam&rsquo;s Mekong Delta region, <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/sustainable-development-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener">SDGs</a>,</strong> digital connectivity and heritage conservation.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Vietnam is a key pillar of <strong><a href="/loksabha-rajyasabha-discussions/the-big-picture-india-s-act-east-policy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India&rsquo;s Act East policy</a></strong> and there is a scope for further cooperation between the countries.</li>
<li>The close relationship between the two countries is <strong>significant for the maintenance of strategic balance in South East Asia</strong> which is witnessing aggressive Chinese activities.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://indianexpress.com/article/india/with-eye-on-indo-pacific-india-vietnam-to-enhance-cooperation-6569863/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: IE</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/india-vietnam-meeting'
		],
		(int) 7 => [
			'title' => 'Star Formation in Dwarf Galaxies',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, astronomers from the <strong>Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES)</strong> have found out the<strong> reasons behind intense star formation in some dwarf galaxies.</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>ARIES is an autonomous institute of Department of Science &amp; Technology (DST).</li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Background:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Amidst the billions of galaxies in the universe, a large number are tiny ones - <strong>100 times less massive than the Milky-way galaxy.</strong> Most of these are called <strong>dwarf galaxies and form stars at a much slower rate</strong> than the massive ones.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Dwarf galaxies</strong> are the most abundant type of galaxy in the universe but are difficult to detect due to their <strong>low luminosity, low mass </strong>and<strong> small size.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>However,</strong> some dwarf galaxies have been<strong> seen forming new stars at a mass-normalized rate</strong> i.e. 10-100 times more than that of the Milky-way galaxy.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The star-formation activities do not last longer than a few tens of million-years, a period which is much shorter than the age of these galaxies - typically a few billion years.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Reasons Found Out by the Aries Astronomers:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Disturbed Hydrogen Distribution:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Star formation at a high rate requires very high density of Hydrogen in the galaxies. Multiple nuclei and high concentration of ionized hydrogen have been found in the central region of such galaxies.</li>
<li>Hydrogen in these dwarf galaxies is found to be irregular and sometimes not moving in well-defined orbits i.e. non-symmetric distribution of hydrogen.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Galaxy-Galaxy Collision:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Some Hydrogen around these galaxies is also detected in forms of isolated clouds, plumes, and tails as if some other galaxy recently has collided or brushed away with these galaxies, and gas is scattered as debris around the galaxies.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Telescopes Used for the Study:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Scientists used the <strong>1.3-meter Devasthal Fast Optical Telescope (DFOT) near Nainital</strong> (Uttarakhand) and the <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/indian-telescope-spots-distant-radio-galaxy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT)</a> in Maharashtra.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Star Formation in Galaxies</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Stars are <strong>born within the clouds of dust and gas</strong> scattered throughout most galaxies.</li>
<li>Turbulence deep within these clouds gives rise to knots with sufficient mass that the gas and dust can begin to collapse under its own gravitational attraction.</li>
<li>As the cloud collapses, the material at the center begins to heat up. Known as a <strong>protostar,</strong> it is this hot core that one day becomes a star.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Not all of this material ends up as part of a star &mdash; the remaining dust can become planets, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/163348-2002-nn4-a-near-earth-asteroid" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>asteroids</strong></a>, or comets or may remain as dust.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Stars are <strong>fueled by the nuclear fusion of hydrogen to form helium</strong> deep in their interiors. The outflow of energy from the central regions of the star provides the pressure necessary to keep the star from collapsing under its own weight, and the energy by which it shines.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598426972_image1.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598426972_image1.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="650" caption="false" /></a></p>
</div>
<p>The above illustration shows the <strong>six steps of star formation</strong> for Sun-like stars.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The process starts on<strong> (A),</strong> where gas and dust in the space between stars (also called the <strong>InterStellar medium,</strong> ISM) collapse into a dense ball of gas called a <strong>prestellar core (B)</strong> that eventually will become the sun.</li>
<li>During the collapse a disk <strong>(C)</strong> forms around the core, while two jets are emitted at the poles.</li>
<li>At some point the star stops growing, but gas still falls onto the disk<strong> (D).</strong> After a few million years this process also halts. The <strong>star is now born (E),</strong> while the planets are being formed from the left-over material, which will eventually become a solar system <strong>(F).</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>A solar system typically lives 10 billion years after the formation process.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1648135" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: PIB</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/star-formation-in-dwarf-galaxies'
		],
		(int) 8 => [
			'title' => 'Early Galaxy Detected by AstroSat',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>A team of Scientists from the<strong> Inter University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA)</strong> has discovered one of the earliest galaxies called <strong>AUDFs01</strong> using <strong>AstroSat.</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The galaxy is located in the <strong>Hubble Extreme Deep field, 9.3 billion light-years</strong> away from Earth.</li>
<li>The team comprises scientists from <strong>India, Switzerland, France, USA, Japan and Netherlands.</strong></li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Hubble eXtreme Deep Field (XDF) :</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It is a portion of space that contains approximately 5,500 galaxies, the oldest of which are seen as they were 13.2 billion years ago, recorded by the Hubble Space Telescope for over 10 years.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Hubble Space Telescope :</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The HST or Hubble is a space telescope that was launched into <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/types-of-orbit" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Low Earth orbit</strong></a> in 1990 and remains in operation. It is one of the largest and most versatile space telescopes till date.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The galaxy was discovered using <strong>UltraViolet Imaging Telescope (UVIT)</strong> on Astrosat. AstroSat detected<strong> Extreme Ultraviolet light</strong> from the galaxy.</li>
<li>Earlier,<strong> NASA&rsquo;s Hubble Space Telescope (HST),</strong> which is <strong>significantly larger than UVIT,</strong> did not detect any UV emission from this galaxy because<strong> it is too faint.</strong></li>
<li>AstroSat/UVIT was able to achieve this unique feat because the <strong>background noise in the UVIT detector is much less</strong> than the ones on HST.</li>
<li>These observations lasted for more than<strong> 28 hours in October 2016,</strong> but it took nearly <strong>two years since then to carefully analyse the data</strong> to ascertain that the emission is indeed from the galaxy.</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>AstroSat</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It is a <strong>multi-wavelength astronomy mission</strong> on an<strong> IRS-class</strong> (Indian Remote Sensing-Class) satellite in a 650-km, near-equatorial orbit.</li>
<li>It was launched by the Indian launch vehicle <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/50th-pslv-launch" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>PSLV</strong></a> from <strong>Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota </strong>on<strong> September 28, 2015 by <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/indian-space-research-organisation-isro" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ISRO</a>.</strong></li>
<li>It is the <strong>first dedicated Indian astronomy mission</strong> aimed at studying celestial sources in X-ray, optical and UV spectral bands simultaneously with its<strong> five unique X-ray and ultraviolet telescopes working in tandem.</strong></li>
<li>One of the unique features of AstroSat mission is that it enables the <strong>simultaneous multi-wavelength observations of various astronomical objects</strong> with a single satellite.</li>
<li>The<strong> Ground Command and Control Centre</strong> for ASTROSAT is located at <strong>ISRO</strong> Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network<strong> (ISTRAC)</strong>, Bangalore, India.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Detection of an Early Galaxy</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Before the Big Bang, the universe <strong>consisted only of particles like electrons and protons.</strong> As the universe started to cool, the protons and neutrons began combining into<strong> ionized atoms</strong> of hydrogen (and eventually some helium).</li>
<li>Creation of neutral atoms allowed light to pass through the universe and thus, <strong>made it transparent,</strong> but it was still dark due to absence of any stars (dark ages).</li>
<li>A few hundred million years later, the dark age ended <strong>when the first stars and galaxies formed.</strong></li>
<li>The creation of stars and galaxies released an immense amount of energy that<strong> re-ionized neutral atoms</strong> and emitted UV lights.</li>
<li>These <strong>early UV lights are detected</strong> for detecting the earliest astronomical objects.</li>
<li>The probability that a fraction of extreme-UV photons escape the host galaxy and are caught by a telescope on Earth is almost zero. That&rsquo;s why they are <strong>detected using telescopes placed in space</strong> like HST and AstroSat.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<p>The detection of UV emission from AUDFs01 can help reveal details about the Big Bang, the end of dark ages and the formation of early stars and galaxies and thus give a boost to the ongoing cosmological research.</p>
<p><a href="https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/science/global-team-led-by-iucaa-scientists-marks-a-major-breakthrough-6568281/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: IE</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/early-galaxy-detected-by-astrosat'
		],
		(int) 9 => [
			'title' => 'Bringing the Marginalised Back to School',
			'catname' => 'News Editorials',
			'desc' => '<div class="border">
<p>This editorial analysis is based on the article <a href="https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/bringing-the-marginalised-back-to-school-6568141/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Bringing the marginalised back to school</strong> </a>which was published in the Indian Express on 24<sup>th</sup> of August 2020. It analyses the impact of Covid-19 on children especially the marginalised ones and their educational needs.</p>
</div>
<p>The<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/covid-19-and-indian-federalism" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> Covid-19 pandemic</strong></a> has significantly disrupted the education of millions of students. This has proven worse for the children of marginalised sections of the society who don&rsquo;t even have the option of digital learning.</p>
<p>The longer children and youth are unable to attend learning facilities (Schools,Colleges, Anganwadi etc), the more likelihood of their failing to return to their institutions, especially girls, and the marginalised, such as children on the move, children forced to live on the streets, children in tribal areas, children in slums and those from low-income households. This must be prevented as this would have a huge impact on our future.</p>
<h3>Impact</h3>
<p><strong>Closure Of Schools</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The pandemic has impacted the education of more than 300 million children. More than 10 million children are in the age group of three to six years across India.</li>
<li>This has denied them their fundamental right to quality, inclusive and safe education.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Digital Divide</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Only a handful of private schools could adopt online teaching methods.</li>
<li>Their low-income private and government school counterparts, on the other hand, have completely shut down for not having access to e-learning solutions.</li>
<li>Even in schools which were offering online education, the poor couldn&rsquo;t avail it because of the lack of technical facilities and resources at their own end.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Denial of Food</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>In India, the anganwadi are also known as &ldquo;khichdi ghars&rdquo;.</li>
<li>They provide food that in many cases is the only meal that children from most marginalised communities receive.</li>
<li>Closure of education facilities also means no nutrition for children from 0- 6 years during this time and thus they are being subjected to economic and social stress. Closure of the Mid day meal schools have led to denial of food to children as well.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Unsupportive Family</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>During the lockdown, when the anganwadis are closed, parents are the best facilitator for children&rsquo;s learning.</li>
<li>But many of them struggle to perform this task especially the marginalised families.</li>
<li>This is primarily due to their limited education level or scarce resources at their disposal.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Gender Discrimination</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Research suggests that the girls living in areas affected by conflict or recovering from disasters are more likely to be out of primary learning facilities than boys.</li>
<li>The gap between the numbers of girls and boys out of learning facilities during COVID-19 is likely to increase as girls are less likely to return to education facilities as they could be forced into early marriage, early pregnancies, domestic and sexual violence.</li>
<li>Existing gender discrimination could be exacerbated by the current situation.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<p><strong>Urgent Restoration</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>During the phase of the recovery from the pandemic, there should be urgency in restoring the safe, protective and nurturing environment for children.</li>
<li>This is especially for children who have witnessed loss of life in family, social distance from caregivers, extended periods of self-isolation at home, violence and exploitation.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Health Counselling</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Anxiety caused by the pandemic could negatively impact the mental health, nutrition and wellbeing of children.</li>
<li>It would be ideal to provide<strong> psychological and social support</strong> to children and their caregivers, both at home and at the anganwadis.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Digital Solutions</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Open-source digital learning solutions and Learning Management Software should be adopted so teachers can conduct teaching online.</li>
<li>The<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/classes-in-distance-mode" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> DIKSHA platform</strong></a>, with reach across all states in India, can be further strengthened to ensure accessibility of learning to the students.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Leveraging Mobile Penetration</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>With a rapid increase of mobile internet users in India, which is expected to reach 85% households by 2024, technology is enabling ubiquitous access and personalization of education even in the remotest parts of the country.</li>
<li>This can change the schooling system and increase the effectiveness of learning and teaching, giving students and teachers multiple options to choose from.</li>
<li>Many <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/aspirational-districts-programme" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>aspirational districts</strong></a> have initiated innovative, mobile-based learning models for effective delivery of education, which can be adopted by others.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Parents Counselling</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Parents require support and the same must be emphasised.</li>
<li>There must be dedicated programmes for the parents to help them guide their ward in such testing times.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Focus On Prevention</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Disseminating COVID-19 related messages on social distancing, hand washing and ways of engaging with children especially to mothers&rsquo; groups will support reduction in risks of pandemic.</li>
<li>The children must be taught to prevent and at the same time live with this pandemic for some time to come.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Access To ICT</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The government must aim to provide teachers, educators, school authorities and caregivers access to Information and Communication Technology (ICT) platforms and train them in the dissemination of learning materials.</li>
<li>The Government and the civil society must come forward and collaborate to gulf this digital divide so that everyone can have access to quality education.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Conclusion</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Among the <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/sustainable-development-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)</strong></a> that were agreed upon in 2016 by the countries across the globe,<strong> SDG-4&rsquo;s goal is to &ldquo;Ensure inclusive and quality education for all and promote lifelong learning&rdquo;.</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>This, of course, is also a necessary condition for people to improve their wellbeing and that of future generations. SDG 4 is, therefore, crucial for the attainment of all the other SDGs.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The pandemic is an opportunity for all organisations, institutions and individuals working in the education sector to collaborate, innovate and act in solidarity to support the government in ensuring that the education community and its stakeholders emerge stronger from the crisis.</li>
<li>We need to find new ways to integrate distance learning, scientific cooperation, and information support in our ways of working.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598357547_image5.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598357547_image5.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="600" caption="false" /></a></p>
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 100%; border-style: dotted; border-color: #ff0000; background-color: #f2f3ff;">
<p><em><strong>Drishti Mains Question</strong></em></p>
<p>Discuss the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the education of the children especially the marginalised children. What needs to be done in this hour to mitigate the impact on them?</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p style="text-align: center;"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IXw35rlBK9c" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p>This editorial is based on<a href="https://www.hindustantimes.com/editorials/the-quest-for-cleaner-cities/story-B2BykFulfLgPkgUjpaOT0H.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> &ldquo;The quest for cleaner cities&rdquo;</strong> </a>which was published in The Hindustan Times on August 24<sup>th</sup>, 2020. Now watch this on our Youtube channel.</p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/bringing-the-marginalised-back-to-school'
		],
		(int) 10 => [
			'title' => 'Important Judgements of Independent India',
			'catname' => 'Paper 2',
			'desc' => '<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The Constitution of India, enacted in 1950, has been the cornerstone of India&rsquo;s democracy. After its enactment it has undergone several amendments.</li>
<li>The Supreme Court is the ultimate interpreter of the Constitution and, by its creative and innovative interpretation, has been the protector of our constitutional rights and fundamental freedom.</li>
<li>These judgements are to be appreciated not only as precedents, but also as having laid down the law on issues of paramount importance&mdash;law that is binding on all courts and authorities in the country.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973)</h3>
<p><strong>Main theme:</strong> Propagating the <strong>&lsquo;basic structure&rsquo;</strong> doctrine as a safeguard against the usurpation of the Constitution.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It was unique for the reason that it brought a shift in the balance of democratic power. Earlier judgements had taken a stand that Parliament could amend even the fundamental rights through a proper legislative process. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>But the present case held that Parliament can not amend or alter the fundamental structure a<strong> &lsquo;Basic Structure&rsquo;</strong> of the constitution.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Besides, Kesavananda Case was significant in that the Supreme Court ascribed to itself the function of preserving the integrity of the Indian Constitution.</li>
<li>The <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/basic-structure-of-constitution" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&lsquo;basic structure&rsquo; doctrine</strong></a> formulated by the court represented the pinnacle of judicial creativity and set a benchmark for other constitutional courts around the world.</li>
<li>The doctrine ruled that even a constitutional amendment could be invalidated if it impaired the essential features&mdash;the basic structure&mdash;of the Constitution.</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Evolution of the Basic structure doctrine</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Since the adoption of Indian Constitution, debates have started regarding the power of the Parliament to amend key provisions of the Constitution.</li>
<li>In the early years of Independence, the Supreme Court conceded absolute power to Parliament in amending the Constitution, as was seen in the verdicts in <strong>Shankari Prasad case (1951) and Sajjan Singh case (1965).</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>This means Parliament had the power to amend any part of the constitution including Fundamental rights.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>However, in the <strong>Golaknath case (1967),</strong> the Supreme Court held that Parliament could not amend Fundamental Rights, and this power would be only with a Constituent Assembly.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The Court held that an amendment under Article 368 is "law" within the meaning of Article 13 of the Constitution and therefore, if an amendment "takes away or abridges" a Fundamental Right conferred by Part III, it is void.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>To get over the judgments of the Supreme Court in the Golaknath case (1967), RC Cooper case (1970), and Madhavrao Scindia case (1970), the then government headed by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had enacted major amendments to the Constitution (the 24<sup>th</sup>, 25<sup>th</sup>, 26<sup>th</sup> and 29<sup>th</sup>).</li>
<li>All the four amendments brought by the government were challenged in the Kesavananda Bharati case.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India (1978)</h3>
<p><strong>Main theme:</strong> Expanding the <strong>meaning of the &lsquo;right to life&rsquo;</strong> under the Constitution of India</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The right to life and personal liberty under Article 21 reads: &lsquo;No person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to <strong>procedure established by law&rdquo;.</strong></li>
<li>In other words, courts were not allowed to question any law&mdash;no matter how arbitrary or oppressive&mdash;as violating the right to life or personal liberty if the law had been suitably passed and enacted.</li>
<li>However, by vesting in itself the<strong> power of substantive review under Article 21,</strong> the court transformed itself from being merely a supervisor, to being a watchdog of the Constitution.</li>
<li>The Supreme Court&rsquo;s judgement in the Maneka Gandhi case effectively meant that <strong>&lsquo;procedure established by law&rsquo;</strong> under Article 21 would have the same effect as the expression<strong> &lsquo;due process of law&rsquo;.</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>In a subsequent decision, the Supreme Court stated that Article 21 would read as: <strong>&lsquo;No person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to fair, just and reasonable procedure established by valid law.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Mohammed Ahmed Khan v. Shah Bano Begum (1985)</h3>
<p><strong>Main theme:</strong> Questioning the sanctity of<strong> personal religious laws</strong> and bringing the debate on a<strong> Uniform Civil Code</strong> to the forefront of the national discourse.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>In April 1985, the Supreme Court delivered a judgement on the maintenance a divorced Muslim woman would be entitled to receive from her former husband in the case of Mohammed <strong>Ahmed Khan v. Shah Bano Begum (Shah Bano).</strong></li>
<li>It is seen as one of the milestones in Muslim women&rsquo;s fight for rights in India and the battle against the set Muslim personal law. It laid the ground for thousands of women to make legitimate claims which they were not allowed before.</li>
<li>While the Supreme Court upheld the right to alimony in the case, the judgment set off a political battle as well as a controversy about the extent to which courts can interfere in Muslim personal law.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Indra Sawhney v. Union of India (1992)</h3>
<p><strong>Main theme:</strong> Delivering the decision relating to the <strong>constitutionality of reservations</strong> under the Constitution of India.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>In the <strong>Indra Sawhney judgment (1992),</strong> the Court upheld the government&rsquo;s move and proclaimed that the advanced sections among the OBCs (i.e, the creamy layer) must be excluded from the list of beneficiaries of reservation. It also held that the concept of creamy layer must be excluded for SCs &amp; STs.</li>
<li>The Indra Sawhney verdict also held there would be reservation only in initial appointments and not promotions. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>But the government through this amendment introduced <strong>Article 16(4A)</strong> to the Constitution, empowering the state to make provisions for reservation in matters of promotion to SC/ST employees if the state feels they are not adequately represented.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The Supreme Court in the judgement also<strong> capped the reservation quota at 50%.</strong></li>
</ul>
<h3>Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan (1997)</h3>
<p><strong>Main theme:</strong> Innovating jurisprudence to <strong>prevent sexual harassment at the workplace.</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>In the context of sexual harassment of women at workplace, judicial activism reached its pinnacle in<strong> Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan (Vishaka).</strong></li>
<li>The judgement was unprecedented for several reasons: <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>the Supreme Court acknowledged and relied to a great extent on international treaties that had not been transformed into municipal law;</li>
<li>the Supreme Court provided the first authoritative definition of &lsquo;sexual harassment&rsquo; in India; and confronted with a statutory vacuum, it went creative and proposed the route of &lsquo;judicial legislation&rsquo;.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Since there was no legislation in India related to sexual harassment at the workplace, the court stated that it was free to rely on the<strong> Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW&mdash;signed by India in 1980)</strong> in interpreting <strong>Articles 14, 15, 19 and 215 of the Constitution.</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>To justify its decision the court referred to several sources including the <strong>Beijing Statement</strong> of Principles of the Independence of the Judiciary, a decision of the High Court of Australia and its own earlier decisions.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>The Supreme Court set out the following significant guidelines:</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The employer and/or other responsible people in a workplace are duty-bound to prevent or deter sexual harassment and set up processes to resolve, settle, or prosecute in such cases.</li>
<li>For the first time in India, &lsquo;sexual harassment&rsquo; was defined authoritatively. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The definition includes &lsquo;such unwelcome sexually determined behaviour (whether directly or by implication) such as: physical contact and advances, a demand or request for sexual favours, sexually coloured remarks, showing pornography, and any other unwelcome physical, verbal or non-verbal conduct of sexual nature&rsquo;.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>All employers or persons in charge of workplaces must strive to prevent sexual harassment and, if any act amounts to a specific offence under the Indian Penal Code, 1860 or any other law, they must take appropriate action to punish the guilty.</li>
<li>Even if the act is not considered a legal offence or a breach of service rules, the employer should create appropriate mechanisms so that the complaint is addressed and redressed in a time-bound manner.</li>
<li>This complaint mechanism must, if necessary, provide a complaints committee, a special counsellor or other support service, such as assuring confidentiality. The complaints committee should be headed by a woman, and at least half its members must be women.</li>
<li>The employer must sensitize female employees to their rights and prominently notify the court&rsquo;s guidelines.</li>
<li>Even if a third party is responsible for sexual harassment, the employer must take all steps necessary to support the victim.</li>
<li>The central and state governments should adopt suitable measures to ensure that private sector employers implement the guidelines.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Aruna Ramachandra Shanbaug v. Union of India (2011)</h3>
<p><strong>Main Theme:</strong> Accepting <strong>passive euthanasia</strong> as being constitutional</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Passive euthanasia</strong> is a condition where there is withdrawal of medical treatment with the deliberate intention to hasten the death of a terminally-ill patient.</li>
<li>The <strong>Aruna Shanbaug case</strong> triggered debate of Euthanasia in India.</li>
<li>A writ petition under Article 32 before the Supreme Court of India was filed, asking for the legalisation of euthanasia so that Aruna&rsquo;s continued suffering could be terminated by withdrawing medical support.</li>
<li>Supreme court in 2011 <strong>recognised passive euthanasia</strong> in this case by which it had permitted withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment from patients not in a position to make an informed decision.</li>
<li>Subsequent to this, in a landmark judgment (2018), the Supreme Court recognised passive euthanasia and<strong> &ldquo;living will&rdquo;.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>A <strong>&lsquo;living will&rsquo;</strong> is a concept where a patient can give consent that allows withdrawal of life support systems if the individual is reduced to a permanent vegetative state with no real chance of survival.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Lily Thomas v. Union of India (2013)</h3>
<p><strong>Main Theme:</strong> Struck down as unconstitutional <strong>Section 8(4) of the Representation of the People Act (RPA)-1951</strong> that allowed convicted lawmakers a three-month period for filing appeals to the higher court and to get a stay on the conviction and sentence.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Section 8 of the RPA</strong> deals with disqualification on conviction for certain offences: A person convicted of any offence and sentenced to imprisonment for varying terms under Sections 8 (1) (2) and (3) shall be disqualified from the date of conviction and shall continue to be disqualified for a further period of six years since his release. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>But <strong>Section 8 (4) of the RP Act</strong> gives protection to MPs and MLAs as they can continue in office even after conviction if an appeal is filed within three months.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The Supreme Court held that chargesheeted Members of Parliament and MLAs, on conviction for offences, will be immediately disqualified from holding membership of the House without being given three months&rsquo; time for appeal, as was the case before.</li>
<li>The Bench found it unconstitutional that convicted persons could be <strong>disqualified from contesting elections</strong> but could continue to be Members of Parliament and State Legislatures once elected.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Justice K.S. Puttaswamy vs. Union of India (2017)</h3>
<p><strong>Main Theme:</strong> SC ruled that <strong>Fundamental Right to Privacy</strong> is intrinsic to life and liberty and thus, comes under Article 21 of the Indian constitution.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Nine judges of this Court assembled to determine whether privacy is a constitutionally protected value. The issue reaches out to the foundation of a constitutional culture based on the protection of human rights and enables this Court to revisit the basic principles on which our Constitution has been founded and their consequences for a way of life it seeks to protect.</li>
<li>This case presents challenges for constitutional interpretation. If privacy is to be construed as a protected constitutional value, it would redefine in significant ways our concepts of liberty and the entitlements that flow out of its protection.</li>
<li>The Puttaswamy judgement of 2017 reaffirmed the<strong> &lsquo;Right to Privacy&rsquo; as a fundamental right in Indian Jurisprudence.</strong> Since then, it has been used as an important precedent in many cases, to emphasize upon the right to privacy as a fundamental right and to clarify the scope of the same.</li>
<li>The Supreme Court upheld the validity of the <strong>Aadhar Scheme</strong> on the ground that it did not violate the right to privacy of the citizens as minimal biometric data was collected in the enrolment process and the authentication process is not exposed to the internet. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The majority upheld the constitutionality of the Aadhaar Act, 2016 barring a few provisions on disclosure of personal information, cognizance of offences and use of the Aadhaar ecosystem by private corporations.</li>
<li>They relied on the fulfilment of the proportionality test as laid down in the Puttaswamy (2017) judgment.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Proportionality Test under Puttaswamy (2017) judgment</strong></p>
<p>It held that <strong>privacy is a natural right</strong> that inheres in all natural persons, and that the right may be restricted only by state action that passes each of the three tests:</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>First, such state action must have a legislative mandate;</li>
<li>Second, it must be pursuing a legitimate state purpose; and</li>
<li>Third, it must be proportionate i.e., such state action &mdash; both in its nature and extent, must be necessary in a democratic society and the action ought to be the least intrusive of the available alternatives to accomplish the ends</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Navtej Singh Johar vs. Union Of India (2018)</h3>
<p><strong>Main Theme:</strong> Decriminalised homosexuality by <strong>striking off parts of Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC)</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>In <strong>Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India case,</strong> the Supreme Court of India unanimously held that <strong>Section 377</strong> of the Indian Penal Code 1860 (IPC), which criminalized &lsquo;carnal intercourse against the order of nature&rsquo;, was<strong> unconstitutional</strong> in so far as it criminalized consensual sexual conduct between adults of the same sex.</li>
<li>The petition, challenged Section 377 on the ground that it was vague and it violated the constitutional rights to privacy, freedom of expression, equality, human dignity and protection from discrimination guaranteed under Articles 14, 15, 19 and 21 of the Constitution.</li>
<li>The Court relied upon the judgement in the case of <strong>K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India,</strong> which held that denying the LGBT community its right to privacy on the ground that they form a minority of the population would be violative of their fundamental rights, and that sexual orientation forms an inherent part of self-identity and denying the same would be violative of the right to life.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Read More:</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/constitutional-rights-judicial-review-and-parliamentary-democracy#:~:text=Judicial%20Review%20in%20its%20most,principles%20of%20Grundnorm*%20i.e.%20Constitution." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Constitutional Rights, Judicial Review and Parliamentary Democracy</strong></a></li>
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/privacy-judgement-and-the-aftermath" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Privacy Judgement and the Aftermath</strong></a></li>
<li><a href="/to-the-points/Paper2/to-the-point-paper-2-section-377-judgement" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Section 377 Judgement</strong></a></li>
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/perpetuating-the-power-imbalance-addressing-sexual-harassment-at-higher-institutions-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Perpetuating the Power-Imbalance &ndash; Addressing Sexual Harassment at Higher Institutions in India</strong></a></li>
<li><a href="/to-the-points/Paper2/reservation-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Reservation in India</strong></a></li>
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/reservation-not-a-right" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Reservation: Not a Right</strong></a></li>
</ul>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/to-the-points/Paper2/important-judgements-of-independent-india'
		],
		(int) 11 => [
			'title' => 'Credit Guarantee for NBFC-MFIs',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/national-bank-for-agriculture-and-rural-development-nabard" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD)</strong></a> has introduced <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/economic-stimulus-i" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Partial Credit Guarantee</strong></a><strong> Programme</strong> for <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/A%20nuanced%20understanding%20of%20the%20NBFC%20sector" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC)</a> - Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs).</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The programme aims to ensure unhindered flow of credit in rural areas hit by the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/coronavirus-disease-named-covid-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid-19 pandemic.</strong></a></li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Programme:</strong>
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Under the programme, NABARD will provide <strong>partial guarantee on pooled loans</strong> extended to small and mid-sized MFIs.
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>This has come in the backdrop of most <strong>MFIs being excluded from the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/rbi-cuts-repo-rate" target="_blank" rel="noopener">moratorium</a> benefits from banks,</strong> creating a dip in collections, resulting in widening asset-liability mismatch, credit downgrades and spike in cost of fresh funding.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>NABARD will facilitate Rs. 2,500 crore funding in the initial phase and will further increase the funding.</li>
<li>The program is expected to cover over 1 million households across 28 states and 650 districts.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Implementation:</strong>
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>NABARD has signed agreements with <strong>Vivriti Capital and Ujjivan <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/guidelines-for-licencing-of-small-finance-banks" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Small Finance Bank</a></strong> to roll out the initiative.
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Vivriti Capital is a non-banking financial corporation.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Benefits:</strong>
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The partially guaranteed loan facility will <strong>catalyse much-needed financing to millions of households, agricultural and business markets</strong> to sustain in the post Covid-19 environment.
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>MFIs operate in rural hinterlands and serve farmers, traders, rural businesses and households.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Pooled Loan Issuance (PLI):</strong>
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Under a PLI structure, a bank or an NBFC (Principal Lender), provides loans to identified Microfinance Institutions/other NBFCs/corporates (Borrowers).</li>
<li>Each of these loans are made as per terms agreed upon between the Principal Lender and the Borrowers in keeping with the Principal Lenders underwriting and credit evaluation practices.</li>
<li>The loans offered are pooled together and credit enhanced by way of a common partial guarantee offered by identified guarantors to the structure.</li>
<li>The<strong> PLI structure provides the lending bank adequate comfort through the guarantor's partial credit protection,</strong> it also <strong>reduces cost of capital</strong> as the rating of the loans get increased and helps lenders meet priority sector goals.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Non-Banking Financial Company-Micro Finance Institution</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The NBFC-MFI is a <strong>non-deposit taking financial company.</strong></li>
<li>Conditions to qualify as NBFC-MFI:
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Minimum Net Owned Funds (NOF) of Rs. 5 crore.</li>
<li>At least 85% of its Net Assets in the nature of <strong>Qualifying Assets.</strong>
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The Qualifying Assets are those assets which have a substantial period of time to be ready for its intended use or sale.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The difference between an NBFC-MFI and other NBFC is that while other NBFCs can operate at a very high level but MFIs cater to only the smaller level of social strata, with need of smaller amounts as loans.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<p>NBFC-MFI plays a crucial role in sustaining consumption demand as well as capital formation in the smaller level of strata, thus it is essential that they continue to get funding without disruption, and the partial credit guarantee programme is expected to systematically enable the same.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/business/nabard-planto-finance-nbfcs-mfis/article32432146.ece#:~:text=National%20Bank%20for%20Agriculture%20and,%2D19%2Daffected%20rural%20areas." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/credit-guarantee-for-nbfc-mfis'
		],
		(int) 12 => [
			'title' => 'AIIB Loan for MUTP-3',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why In News</h3>
<p>The <strong>Government of India,</strong> the Government of Maharashtra, Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation and the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-international-institution/asian-infrastructure-investment-bank" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)</strong></a> have signed a loan agreement for a<strong> USD 500 million</strong> for<strong> Mumbai Urban Transport Project-III.</strong></p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Mumbai Urban Transport Project-III (MUTP-3):</strong> It is a project supervised and implemented by the <strong>Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority</strong> to enhance the network capacity, service quality and safety of Mumbai&rsquo;s suburban railway system. The <strong>deadline</strong> for completion of MUTP-3 is<strong> 2022.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Major Objectives:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Improve traffic and transportation situation in Mumbai Metropolitan Region.</li>
<li>Institutional development and strengthening.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Expected Benefits:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The Project is expected to<strong> increase network capacity</strong> in the region and thus will improve mobility.</li>
<li>There will be a<strong> reduction in journey time and fatal accidents</strong> of commuters.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>There will be direct safety benefits to passengers and the public through the introduction of<strong> trespass control measures.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>It is estimated that among primary beneficiaries of the project, <strong>22% are female passengers who will benefit from improved safety and quality of service.</strong></li>
<li>It will also help in <strong>reducing carbon emissions</strong> by shifting passengers away from higher-carbon road transport towards efficient and convenient rail-based mobility.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Need:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The<strong> population's explosive growth</strong> represents the core driver behind Mumbai&rsquo;s urban expansion. It is compelling to prioritize sound urban and infrastructure planning.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>With a population of 22.8 million (2011), Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) is the most populous metropolitan region in India and is expected to reach 29.3 million by 2031 and 32.1 million by 2041.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Around<strong> 86%</strong> of Mumbai commuters rely on public transport.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The Mumbai suburban railway network <strong>carries three-quarters of all motorized travel</strong> (8 million passengers per day).</li>
<li>User experience remains compromised by the <strong>low amenity of carriages, substandard stations</strong> and<strong> station access,</strong> and serious <strong>safety concerns.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Between<strong> 2002-2012,</strong> there were more on average,<strong> 9.9 fatalities per day</strong> on the Mumbai suburban railway network.</li>
<li>A key reason for accidents and deaths is <strong>trespassing and overcrowding</strong> of both stations and train cars.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is a <strong>multilateral development bank</strong> with a mission to improve social and economic outcomes in Asia. It was established in <strong>December 2015.</strong></li>
<li>It is <strong>headquartered in Beijing (China)</strong> and began its operations in <strong>January 2016.</strong></li>
<li>It has <strong>103 members including India.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>India is among the founding members of AIIB.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>China is the largest shareholder</strong> in AIIB with a 26.6% voting power, followed by India with a 7.62% voting power.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>AIIB Support to India</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>India is the largest beneficiary of AIIB financing for infrastructure projects. The AIIB has approved some major projects in India. These are:<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Bangalore Metro Rail Project (USD 335 million).</li>
<li>Gujarat Rural Roads (MMGSY) Project (USD 329 million).</li>
<li>India Infrastructure Fund.</li>
<li>Andhra Pradesh 24&times;7 &ndash; Power For All Project.</li>
<li>USD 750 Million for Covid-19 support for India.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<p><a href="https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1648217" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source- PIB</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/aiib-loan-for-mutp-3'
		],
		(int) 13 => [
			'title' => 'India’s Longest River Ropeway in Assam',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>The <strong>Assam government</strong> has inaugurated a <strong>1.8-km ropeway across the Brahmaputra river,</strong> and described it as India&rsquo;s longest river ropeway.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598344661_image2.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598344661_image2.png" width="600" caption="false" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a></p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>About the Ropeway:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Built at the cost of <strong>Rs. 56 crore,</strong> it extends from<strong> Central to Northern Guwahati.</strong> It takes <strong>eight minutes</strong> to traverse the entire length of the ropeway.</li>
<li>It passes over the mid-river <strong>Peacock Island</strong> that houses <strong>Umananda,</strong> a medieval Shiva temple.</li>
<li>According to the government, this is <strong>one of the most advanced &amp; longest river crossing Aerial Tramway systems in India.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Aerial tramways are particularly well-suited in extreme terrain since the towers can be erected at larger intervals.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Need:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Thousands of people commute every day</strong> between the capital city of Guwahati and the town of North Guwahati, where IIT Guwahati is located. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Other travel options between the two banks are by ferry (30 minutes or more, depending on current and season) or by road through a bridge that usually takes over an hour in the traffic.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Other Benefits:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Apart from substantially reducing travel time, the ropeway will provide a <strong>breathtaking view of the Brahmaputra river</strong> and <strong>promote tourism</strong> in the State.</li>
<li>Tourists can take the ropeway to North Guwahati and spend quality time on that side. Hospitality services will also develop on that side and thus the ropeway is expected to be an overall boost for tourism in the city.</li>
<li>Further, the ropeway is considered as a <strong>convenient and non-polluting means of transport,</strong> as well as a <strong>source of environmentally friendly tourism.</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>It is ecologically sustainable as it is run by electric power protecting the beauty of the area, while simultaneously providing passengers with a comfortable and speedy means of travel.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/why-brahmaputra-ropeway-is-special-6568417/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: IE</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/india-s-longest-river-ropeway-in-assam'
		],
		(int) 14 => [
			'title' => 'Odisha’s Bonda Tribe',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, four people from the<strong> Bonda tribal community</strong> have tested positive for the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/covid-19-and-indian-federalism" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid-19.</strong></a></p>
<h3><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598344529_image1.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598344529_image1.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="500" caption="false" /></a></h3>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>PVTGs:</strong> Bondas are one of the 13 <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/particularly-vulnerable-tribal-groups" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)</a> found in Odisha.</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>There are a <strong>total of 75 PVTGs in India.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Austroasiatic Tribes:</strong> Bondas are members of a group of<strong> Austroasiatic tribes,</strong> they are believed to be <strong>part of the first wave of migration out of Africa</strong> about 60,000 years ago. They are the<strong> first forest settlers in India.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Culture:</strong> The Bondas have <strong>retained their identity and culture</strong> despite external interventions over the years.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Primarily forest dwellers,</strong> the Bondas used to hunt and forage for food in the wild.</li>
<li><strong>Matriarchal society-</strong>The women prefer to marry men who are younger by at least 5-10 years, so that the men can earn for them when they grow old.</li>
<li><strong>Unique dressing style-</strong> Women are semi clad and wear various types of rings and necklaces around their bodies, while the men carry lethal bows and arrows.</li>
<li><strong>Language-</strong> They continue to speak in their <strong>language, Remo,</strong> which comes under the Austroasiatic language belonging to the Mundari group. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The Mundari group of languages are spoken by <strong>Munda people.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Division:</strong> The Bonda tribe is divided into two groups based on their settlement: <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The <strong>Upper Bondas</strong> living in the inaccessible forests.</li>
<li>The <strong>Lower Bondas</strong> in the plains.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Tribes in Odisha:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Odisha is home to 62 tribal communities &mdash; the<strong> largest diverse groups of tribal population in India.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Thirteen of them are PVTGs&mdash; <strong>Bonda, Birhor, Chuktia Bhunjia, Didayi, Dungaria Kandha, Hill Kharia, Juang, Kutia Kondh, Lanjia Saora, Lodha, Mankirdia, Paudi Bhuyan and Saora.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Tribal populations are found in the <strong>entire seven districts of Kandhamal, Mayurbhanj, Sundargarh, Nabarangpur, Koraput, Malkangiri and Rayagada,</strong> and in parts of six other districts.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/virus-breaches-another-wall-four-bondas-test-positive/article32432563.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/odisha-s-bonda-tribe'
		],
		(int) 15 => [
			'title' => 'Rotation of Panchayat Seats Between Men and Women',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>The Haryana government is planning to bring a Bill to provide <strong>50:50 reservation</strong> in <strong><a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/panchayati-raj-institution-pri" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Panchayati Raj Institutions</a> (PRIs)</strong> for men and women candidates, and rotate the seats between male and female representatives after each term.</p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Men and women will be able to contest panchayat polls under the<strong> odd-even formula.</strong> This will be implemented for sarpanches and members of village wards, block samitis and zila parishads.</li>
<li><strong>Benefit:</strong> This will ensure equal opportunities for men and women, and women from all constituencies will have fair share in terms of reservation.</li>
<li><strong>Limitations:</strong> Policy of reservation for only one term and rotation of reserved seats and posts of chairperson can <strong>hinder the consolidation of leadership qualities</strong> among women representatives as it takes time for them to learn the skills of handling and negotiating various conflicting interests within the panchayat. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>To deal with this issue, some states like Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, Odisha and Karnataka have made provisions for<strong> two term reservation of seats at PRIs.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Haryana previously enacted <strong>Haryana Panchayati Raj (Amendment) Act, 2015&nbsp;</strong>laying down eligibility criteria to be able to contest Panchayat elections in the state. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It included<strong> disqualification</strong> in case of <strong>non-completion of minimum educational criteria</strong> (like class X pass for general category and Class 8<sup>th</sup> for SC), <strong>non-payment of arrears and debts</strong> to co-operative banks or electricity bills, and <strong>not having functional toilets</strong> at home.</li>
<li>The Supreme Court upheld this decision arguing that prescription of an educational qualification is not irrelevant for better administration. Also, the criteria of insolvency and toilets will encourage good practices among legislators.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Constitutional Provisions for Women Representation in PRIs:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The <strong>73<sup>rd</sup> Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992</strong> mandates <strong>33.3% reservation</strong> for women in PRIs across the country. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The 73<sup>rd</sup> Amendment envisages the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/appointment-of-government-servants-as-gram-panchayat-administrator" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Gram Sabha</strong></a> as the foundation of the Panchayat Raj System to perform functions and powers entrusted to it by the State Legislatures.</li>
<li>This has been increased to <strong>50% reservation</strong> in several states like Andhra Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Bihar etc.</li>
<li>Out of the 30.41 lakh elected representatives of PRIs, 13.74 lakh <strong>(45.2%)</strong> are women.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Article 15 (3)</strong> to the Constitution of India empowers the State to make <strong>special provisions for women.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Article 243D</strong> provides that <strong>one-third of the total number of seats and offices</strong> of the Chairpersons in PRIs at each level shall be reserved for women to be allotted by <strong>rotation to different constituencies in a Panchayat.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Such reservations of seats and offices of the chairpersons for women are also within the reservations for SCs and STs in all three tiers of PRIs.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>In order to bring about 50% reservation for women in Panchayats in all States, the <strong>110<sup>th</sup> Constitution Amendment Bill</strong> was introduced in the Lok Sabha in <strong>2009</strong>, but it was<strong> not passed</strong> despite being tabled several times.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Challenges Before Women in PRIs</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Patriarchy:</strong> Many women are not allowed to contest elections and many continue to work as proxies for their male family members. Their male co-workers show <strong>insensitivity</strong> and may refuse to cooperate. Burden of<strong> household responsibilities, purdah (veil) system and domestic violence</strong> negatively affect their functioning.</li>
<li><strong>Inadequate Capacities:</strong> Majority of women representatives enter into public life for the first time and do <strong>not have enough knowledge and skills</strong> to handle affairs of panchayats. Training programmes conducted by government training agencies are unable to cover all elected representatives in time.</li>
<li><strong>Violent Opposition:</strong> Women often face <strong>more resistance from the community</strong> if they want to take bold steps. They are also subjected to violence from powerful elements of the society.</li>
<li><strong>Two Child Norm:</strong> A few States like<strong> Odisha and Rajasthan have the two child norm</strong> for contesting panchayat elections. In rural areas women hardly have any say in the number of children in the family and such laws restrict their entry into panchayats.</li>
<li><strong>Caste System:</strong> Hierarchical caste system in rural India makes it difficult for women from SC and ST communities to work independently and effectively.</li>
<li><strong>Lack of Women at Other Levels:</strong> Lack of women coworkers and at higher administrative level also hinders the free functioning of women representatives.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Efforts by Government to Promote Women in PRIs:</strong> The Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) has been making continuous efforts by launching and implementing various schemes for capacity building of women representatives in PRIs, like <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA)</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><a href="/to-the-points/Paper2/year-end-review-2019-ministry-of-panchayati-raj" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>RGSA</strong> </a>was launched in 2018 for developing and strengthening the capacities of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) for rural local governance to become more responsive towards <strong>local development needs,</strong> preparing the <strong>participatory plans</strong> that leverage technology, efficient and <strong>optimum utilization of available resources</strong> for realizing sustainable solutions to local problems linked to <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/sustainable-development-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).</strong></a></li>
<li>It included rewards for ensuring women participation in PRIs</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP)</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Some of the <strong>key aspects of <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/mahila-sabhas-on-the-international-women-s-day" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GPDP</a> guidelines that are relevant to Women Empowerment include</strong> proactive participation of women in budgeting, planning, implementation and monitoring of GPDP and convening Mahila Sabhas prior to the general Gram Sabhas and their inclusion in Gram Sabhas and GPDP.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Panchayat Mahila Evam Yuva Shakti Abhiyan (PMEYSA)</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>It was implemented from the year 2007-08 till 2012-13 with the broad objective of empowerment of Elected Women &amp; Youth Representatives of Panchayats.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Recently, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj has directed all the States and Union Territories to organise <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/mahila-sabhas-on-the-international-women-s-day" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Special Gram Sabhas and Mahila Sabhas (Women&rsquo;s Assemblies)</strong></a> in all <strong>Gram Panchayats</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The current proposal is a welcome step. However, the government must bear in mind that equality in representation is not enough to ensure socio-political equity among genders, as the relatively disadvantaged position of women must be taken into account.</li>
<li>Increasing women in PRIs will increase the probability of their better <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/india-needs-more-women-parliamentarians" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>representation in parliament</strong></a>, which as of now is only 14%. To further promote women participation in PRIs, emphasis must be made for gender sensitization of male elected representatives and functionaries of PRIs.</li>
<li>In capacity building of women representatives, governments must also invite and involve civil society organizations, women&rsquo;s groups, academic institutions, corporate social responsibility foundations and also international organizations like UNWomen. A <strong>multi-stakeholder, collaborative, multi-pronged, systematic effort</strong> to enhance the capacities of Elected Women Representatives (EWRs) are required.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/haryana-plans-bill-to-rotate-panchayat-seats-between-men-and-women-6568372/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: IE</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/rotation-of-panchayat-seats-between-men-and-women'
		],
		(int) 16 => [
			'title' => 'Online Path to Healthcare',
			'catname' => 'News Editorials',
			'desc' => '<div class="border">
<p>This article is based on the editorial, <a href="https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/coronavirus-covid-19-online-path-to-healthcare-6566951/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&ldquo;Online path to healthcare&rdquo;,</strong></a> which was published in The Indian Express on 24/08/2020. It talks about the digital solutions to remove the barriers to healthcare in India and the challenges associated with it.</p>
</div>
<p>The <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/covid-19-and-indian-federalism" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid-19 crisis</strong> </a>has exposed the shortcomings of the healthcare services across India. New challenges are emerging every day especially in the rural areas which lack even the basic healthcare facilities.</p>
<p>In such a situation digital solutions like oximeter and on <strong>phone health care workers</strong> have evolved as a game changer and have been able to solve the long standing problems of accessibility and even affordability to a great extent. However, the challenges remain and for e-health to be a success the basic systems must be in place.</p>
<h3>E-Health</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>E-Health is an emerging field which primarily refers to health services and information delivered through the internet and related technologies.</li>
<li>In a broader sense, the term characterizes not only a technical development, but a commitment for networked, global thinking, to improve health care locally, regionally, and worldwide by using information and communication technology (ICT).</li>
</ul>
<h3>Benefits</h3>
<p><strong>Accessibility</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Accessibility to quality healthcare among the rural population is very poor as the village hospitals lack not only the physical infrastructure but also the manpower.</li>
<li>This negatively affects health-seeking behaviour and severely impacts the country&rsquo;s healthcare burden as people tend to avoid going to hospitals which are at far location for common diseases which become fatal at later stages.</li>
<li>Online solutions will bridge the gap and will provide the best solutions even to the hinterlands with the help of technology.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Efficiency</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>One of the promises of e-health is to increase efficiency in health care, thereby decreasing costs.</li>
<li>It would avoid duplicative or unnecessary diagnostic tests at several places and would save cost and efforts and would thus enhance efficiency.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Quality care</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>E-health will enhance the quality of healthcare as rural and marginalised people will be able to have access through tele health services.</li>
<li>Also comparisons between different providers will give additional power to consumers to choose the better health assurance.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Empowerment of consumers and patients</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>By making the knowledge bases of medicine and personal electronic records accessible to consumers over the Internet, e-health opens new avenues for patient-centered medicine, and enables evidence-based patient choice.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Better coordination</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Information exchange and communication between the different health service providers would be easier and would help in formulating a uniform and standard solution to health.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Challenges</h3>
<p><strong>Infrastructure</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>For E-Health to be successful, it's important that the minimum adequate infrastructure is in place.</li>
<li>Access to the internet and presence of pathological labs are few of them.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Cost consciousness</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The healthcare sector needs to be cost conscious and expenditure on unnecessary tests and procedures must be eliminated.</li>
<li>There is no national policy or standard protocol in this regard.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Data Security</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Ensuring data security remains one of the biggest challenges.</li>
<li>Patients and healthcare professionals alike need to feel one hundred percent confident about the confidentiality of digital health systems.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Training</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Engaging and training doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals, in the new technologies are essential else the whole idea would fail. The very backbone of this model is ICT and a trained manpower in ICT.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Pooling the knowledge</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>By pooling knowledge and resources across surgeries, hospitals and countries integrated E-Health systems can be developed faster and for the good of all.</li>
<li>It has been seen that big private hospitals are generally reluctant to share the best practices in general.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<p><strong>Filling the Gaps</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It is important to identify and analyse geographical, financial, social and systemic barriers to access and fill them. Increasing the budget for healthcare should be the first step in that direction.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Training</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Not only the doctors, nurses, medical and technical staff need to be trained, skilled and equipped, but their services have to be equitably distributed across regions.</li>
<li>Remote and rural areas are especially plagued with staff shortages.</li>
<li>Patients will have to be made aware to ensure that the potential of efficient healthcare systems are maximised.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>A National Policy</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>A clear, enforceable policy on human resources is needed to ensure that every single patient in India is taken care of by sensitive, trained and competent healthcare workers.</li>
<li>Clear demarcation of processes and procedures are essential to ensure accountability and for that a national policy on E-Health must be passed which will bring transparency and uniformity across the country.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Online Portals and Apps</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Online patient portals also provide medical test results, diagnosis and give patients detailed explanations of their illnesses, saving doctors precious time.</li>
<li>Devices like health rate monitors, exercise and activity trackers and sweat meters allow people to keep track of some aspects of their health without having to visit a doctor.</li>
<li>The use of such devices can help flag irregularities at an early stage.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Other Applications of Technology in Healthcare</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It ranges from drone delivery of life-saving medicines, blood components or devices to inaccessible areas to remotely conducted robotic surgeries and even use of-augmented reality (AR) glasses that could allow first responders to connect with faraway specialists in a matter of seconds.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Conclusion</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It cannot be overstated that solving basic healthcare challenges is crucial for ensuring the good health of the nation. It must be equitable, fair, affordable and transparent.</li>
<li>Digital solutions can remove long standing problems of Indian medical systems but for that basic systems must be in place.</li>
</ul>
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 100%; border-color: #ff0000; background-color: #e9f7eb; border-style: dotted;">
<p><span style="color: #000080;"><em><strong>Drishti Mains Question</strong></em></span></p>
<p>Do you feel E-Health can be the way out to our healthcare issues to a great extent? Discuss.</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p style="text-align: center;"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/olDNZQlJ_AM" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p>This editorial is based on <a href="https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/less-taxing-the-hindu-editorial-on-national-recruitment-agency/article32406562.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&ldquo;Less taxing: On National Recruitment Agency&rdquo;</strong></a> which was published on August 21<sup>st</sup>, 2020. Now watch this on our Youtube channel.</p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/online-path-to-healthcare'
		],
		(int) 17 => [
			'title' => 'Open API Service in Aarogya Setu',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>The government has announced a <strong>new feature 'Open API Service'</strong> for its contact tracing app <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/aarogya-setu-app-a-technological-solutionism" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Aarogya Setu.</strong></a></p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The Open API Service of Aarogya Setu addresses the fear/risk of<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/coronavirus-disease-named-covid-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> Covid-19</strong></a> infections and will help the people, businesses and the <strong>economy to return to normalcy.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Here, organizations can take informed decisions regarding the presence of employees in office and the need to explore work from home. Thus, risk of contracting is reduced without much compromising on activities of the entity.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The Open API Service of Aarogya Setu, can be <strong>availed by organizations and business entities.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Conditions:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Entities who are <strong>registered in India.</strong></li>
<li>Entities with<strong> more than 50 employees.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Benefits to Organizations and Business Entities:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>They can use the Open API Service to query the Aarogya Setu Application in real-time.</li>
<li>They can get the health status of their employees or any other Aarogya Setu User.</li>
<li>The Open API Service enables organizations to check the status of Aarogya Setu and integrate it into its various Work from Home features.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Privacy Issue Addressed:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The Open API shall only provide the Aarogya Setu status and name of the Aarogya Setu User (strictly,<strong> with User's consent only).</strong></li>
<li>No other personal data shall be provided through the API.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>API</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The term &lsquo;API&rsquo; stands for <strong>&lsquo;Application Programming Interface&rsquo;.</strong></li>
<li>An API is an interface that can be used to program software that interacts with an existing application.</li>
<li>In practice, an API is &ldquo;a set of functions and procedures&rdquo; that allow one to access and build upon the data and functionality of an existing application.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Open Source API</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>An open source API, also called <strong>public API,</strong> is an application programming interface made publicly available to software developers.</li>
<li>Open APIs are published on the internet and shared freely, allowing the owner of a network-accessible service to give universal access to consumers.</li>
<li>These are to support businesses with limited capital to invest in digital applications.</li>
<li>An overlapping term<strong> web service</strong> is a resource that&rsquo;s made available over the <strong>internet.</strong> A Web service is a software system designed to support interoperable machine-to-machine interaction over a network.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>APIs vs Web Services</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>APIs and web services are not mutually exclusive.</li>
<li>In fact, one is a subset of the other: <strong>every web service is an API</strong> &mdash; since it exposes an application&rsquo;s data and/or functionality &mdash;<strong> but not every API is a web service.</strong> This is because the definition of a web service is quite restrictive:<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Web services require a network.</strong> While APIs can be online or offline, web services must use a network.</li>
<li><strong>APIs are protocol agnostic.</strong> While APIs can use any protocols or design styles, web services usually use specific protocols.</li>
<li><strong>Web services are not open source generally:</strong> Instead, they tend to offer specific data and/or functionality to specific partners. Thus they are less prone to hacking than API.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Aarogya Setu</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Aarogya Setu was launched in April 2020. It was developed by the<strong> National Informatics Centre</strong> under the<strong> Ministry of Electronics &amp; Information Technology.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The motto of Aarogya Setu is<strong><em> &lsquo;Main Surakshit, Hum Surakshit, Bharat Surakshit&rsquo;.</em></strong></li>
<li>Since its launch, Aarogya Setu has continuously innovated and introduced more novel features like:<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>e-pass integration,</strong></li>
<li><strong>QR Code scanning,</strong></li>
<li><strong>Sharing of Health status</strong> with family/known persons, etc.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Aarogya Setu has emerged as the most downloaded contact tracing App in the world, with more than 15 crore users.</li>
<li>It aids the efforts of frontline health workers and the Government in Covid-19 mitigation and management efforts.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The <strong>Aarogya Setu ITIHAS</strong> interface which <strong>uses location data</strong> and Aarogya Setu analytics to predict emerging hotspots <strong>at Sub Pincode</strong> levels has been very effective in helping the health officials and administration to take necessary precautionary steps.</li>
<li>More than 30,000 hotspots have been identified at a very granular level of 300 m X 300 m and shared with State Governments and Districts.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Concerns:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Government has issued guidelines to the employers to ensure that all their employees install this app.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>This violates the right to privacy, which is a fundamental right as held by the Supreme court in <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/privacy-judgement-and-the-aftermath" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Puttaswamy case 2017.</strong></a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The data-sharing and knowledge-sharing protocol for the Aarogya Setu is <strong>prone to misuse,</strong> considering that India still<strong> doesn&rsquo;t have data protection laws.</strong></li>
<li>Vulnerable sections like<strong> migrant workers can&rsquo;t afford the smartphone</strong> and the internet.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>In May 2020, the government <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/arogya-setu-app-an-open-source" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>opened sourced the code</strong></a> for its contact tracing app Aarogya Setu&rsquo;s Android and iOS versions.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Open sourcing the code for an app allows developers to take a closer look at how the app functions. They can also find bugs in the system and report the same to the creator.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1647866" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source PIB</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/open-api-service-in-aarogya-setu'
		],
		(int) 18 => [
			'title' => 'National Council for Transgender Persons',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, the <strong>Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment</strong> has constituted the <strong>National Council for Transgender Persons,</strong> under the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/the-transgender-persons-protection-of-rights-bill-2019" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019.</strong></a></p>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Features of Transgender Persons Act, 2019</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Seeks to establish<strong> Natonal Council for Transgender persons.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Definition of a Transgender Person:</strong> The Act defines a transgender person as one whose gender does not match the gender assigned at birth. It includes transmen and trans-women, persons with intersex variations, gender-queers, and persons with socio-cultural identities, such as kinnar and hijra.</li>
<li><strong>Certificate of Identity:</strong> The Act states that a transgender person shall have the right to self-perceived gender identity.
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>A <strong>certificate of identity</strong> can be obtained at the District Magistrate's office and a revised certificate is to be obtained if sex is changed.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The Act has a provision that provides transgender the<strong> right of residence</strong> with parents and immediate family members.</li>
<li><strong>Prohibition Against Discrimination:</strong> The Act <strong>prohibits discrimination</strong> against a transgender person in various sectors such as education, employment, and healthcare etc.</li>
<li><strong>Punishment:</strong> It states that the offences against transgender persons will attract imprisonment between six months and two years, in addition to a fine.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Aim:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>To <strong>mainstream the transgender community&rsquo;s concerns,</strong> focusing on <strong>livelihood issues</strong> as well as to raise awareness about the trans community, so that transpersons are accepted within families and in the larger society.</li>
<li>To ensure that<strong> transgender welfare boards</strong> are set up in all States and essential needs of the transgender community, like housing, food, healthcare and education are met.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Functions:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Advising the Central government</strong> on the formulation of policies, programmes, legislation and projects with respect to transgender persons.</li>
<li><strong>Monitoring and evaluating</strong> the impact of policies and programmes designed for achieving equality and full participation of transgender persons.</li>
<li><strong>Reviewing and coordinating</strong> the activities of all the departments.</li>
<li><strong>Redressing grievances</strong> of transgender persons.</li>
<li>Performing such <strong>other functions</strong> as prescribed by the Centre.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Composition:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Its <strong>chairperson</strong> will be the Union <strong>Minister of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.</strong></li>
<li>It will also consists of: <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Representatives from five states or Union Territories</strong> (one each from the north, south, east, west and northeast regions), on a rotational basis.</li>
<li><strong>Five members of the trangender community</strong> (one each from the north, south, east, west and northeast regions). <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The tenure of the community members shall be <strong>three years.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Representatives from 10 central departments.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The council will have joint secretary-level members from the<strong> Ministries of Health, Home, Minority Affairs, Education, Rural Development, Labour and Law.</strong></li>
<li>In addition, there will be a member from the <strong>Department of Pensions (Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances &amp; Pensions), NITI Aayog, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/nhrc-on-public-s-rights" target="_blank" rel="noopener">National Human Rights Commission</a> and <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/rise-in-violence-against-women" target="_blank" rel="noopener">National Commission for Women.</a></strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Background</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>2013:</strong> The government set up an expert committee to study the problems of transgenders and recommend solutions.</li>
<li><strong>2014:</strong> In <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/sc-decriminalizes-homosexuality" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National Legal Services Authority v. Union of India case,</strong></a> the Supreme Court of India declared <strong>transgender people to be a 'third gender'.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It also affirmed that the fundamental rights granted under the Constitution of India will be equally applicable to transgender people, and gave <strong>them the right to self-identification of their gender as male, female or third-gender.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>2014:</strong> A <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/introduction-of-private-member-s-bill" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>private member Bill</strong></a>, the Rights of Transgendered Persons, was introduced in the Rajya Sabha.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The bill looked at a range of entitlements of such persons, providing specifically for them in health, education sectors, skill development and employment opportunities, and protection from abuse and torture.</li>
<li>However, this Bill got lapsed.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>2016:</strong> The Government introduced its own Bill in the Lok Sabha and it was referred to a Standing Committee.</li>
<li><strong>2019:</strong> The Parliament passed the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2019.</li>
<li><strong>2020:</strong> Government establishes the National Council for Transgender Persons.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The establishment of National Council for Transgender Persons which seeks to increase awareness and inculcate sense of respect and acceptance for transgender community, is a welcome step. However, its upto the effective functioning of the council whether it will able to identify the issues faced by the transgender community and accordingly advice the government.</li>
<li>Apart from policies and regulations, there is also a need for an inclusive approach, sensitising legal and law enforcement systems in particular towards the issues of transgender community.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/centre-forms-national-council-for-transgender-persons/article32422814.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/national-council-for-transgender-persons'
		],
		(int) 19 => [
			'title' => 'Inclusion of the Disabled in National Food Security Act 2013',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>The <strong>Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food &amp; Public Distribution</strong> has asked State Governments/UTs to include all eligible <a href="/to-the-points/Paper2/issues-related-to-persons-with-disability" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>disabled persons</strong></a> under the <strong>National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013. </strong></p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The disabled persons should get their entitled quota of food grains under <strong>NFSA</strong> &amp; <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/extension-of-food-grain-scheme" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana</strong></a> <strong>(PMGKAY)</strong> as per provisions of the Act. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Those not already covered should be issued fresh ration cards as per the eligibility criteria.</li>
<li>The disable person should also be covered by States/UTs under <strong>the priority households</strong> as per the criteria of identification evolved by them.</li>
<li><strong>PMGKAY</strong> is a part of <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/covid-19-economic-relief-package" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package (PMGKP)</strong></a> to help the poor fight the battle against <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/coronavirus-disease-named-covid-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid-19.</strong></a><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The scheme is aimed at providing each person who is covered under the <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/public-distribution-system-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National Food Security Act</strong></a> with an <strong>additional 5 kg grains (wheat or rice)</strong> for free, in <strong>addition to the 5 kg of subsidised foodgrain</strong> already provided through the <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/public-distribution-system-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Public Distribution System (PDS).</strong></a></li>
<li>The beneficiaries are also<strong> entitled to 1 kg of pulse for free,</strong> according to regional preferences.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The <strong>Section 10</strong> of the NFSA provides for identification and coverage of persons under the <strong>Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY)</strong> and the remaining households as <strong>priority households</strong> by the State Government.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Disability is one of the criteria for inclusion of beneficiaries under AAY households.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The<strong> Section 38</strong> of the NFSA mandates that the Central Government may from time to time give directions to the State Governments for effective implementation of the provisions of the Act.</li>
<li>The <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/atmanirbhar-bharat-and-economic-stimulus" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Atmanirbhar Bharat Package</strong></a> of the Government of India provides free food, along with other benefits, to the migrant labourers, who are not covered either under NFSA or any <strong>States Scheme <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/public-distribution-system-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS)</a> Cards (<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/economic-stimulus-ii" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Under Economic Stimulus-II</a>).</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Hence, the disabled persons<strong> without ration cards are also eligible</strong> for getting benefits under Atmanirbhar Bharat package.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Notified on:</strong> 10<sup>th</sup> September, 2013</li>
<li><strong>Objective:</strong> To provide <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/food-security-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>for food and nutritional security</strong></a> in the human life cycle approach, by ensuring access to adequate quantities of quality food at affordable prices to people to live a life with dignity.</li>
<li><strong>Coverage: 75%</strong> of the rural population and upto <strong>50%</strong> of the urban population for receiving subsidized foodgrains under <strong>Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS). </strong></li>
<li><strong>Eligibility:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Priority Households</strong> to be covered under TPDS, according to guidelines by the State government.</li>
<li>Households covered under existing <strong>Antyodaya Anna Yojana.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Provisions:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>5 Kgs of foodgrains per person per month at Rs. 3/2/1 per Kg for rice/wheat/coarse grains.</li>
<li>The existing AAY household will continue to receive 35 Kgs of foodgrains per household per month.</li>
<li><strong>Meal</strong> and <strong>maternity benefit</strong> of not less than Rs. 6,000 to<strong> pregnant women and lactating mothers</strong> during pregnancy and six months after the child birth,</li>
<li>Meals to <strong>children upto 14 years of age.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Food security allowance</strong> to beneficiaries in case of non-supply of entitled foodgrains or meals.</li>
<li>Setting up of <strong>grievance redressal mechanisms</strong> at the district and state level.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Antyodaya Anna Yojana</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It was launched in <strong>December, 2000.</strong></li>
<li>It involved identification of <strong>one crore poorest of the poor families</strong> from amongst the number of<a href="/to-the-points/paper3/poverty-estimation-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> Below Poverty Line</strong></a> families covered under TPDS within the States and providing them food grains at a highly subsidized rate.</li>
<li>Some target groups identified under AAY are:<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Landless agricultural labourers,</strong> marginal farmers, rural<strong> artisans/craftsmen</strong> and persons earning their livelihood on a daily basis in the<strong> informal sector.</strong></li>
<li>Households headed by <strong>widows/terminally ill</strong> persons/<strong>disabled</strong> persons/<strong>senior citizens.</strong></li>
<li>Widows or terminally ill persons or <strong>disabled persons</strong> or senior citizens.</li>
<li>All<strong> primitive tribal</strong> households.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<p><a href="https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1648050" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: PIB</strong></a></p>',
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		'title' => 'Landslide in Kodagu',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, due to heavy rain, numbers of landslides occurred in many parts of India.</p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Landslides:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>A landslide is defined as the <strong>movement of a mass of rock, debris, or earth down a slope.</strong></li>
<li>They are a type of <strong>mass wasting,</strong> which denotes any downward movement of soil and rock under the direct influence of gravity.</li>
<li>The term landslide encompasses <strong>five modes of slope movement: falls, topples, slides, spreads, and flows.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598514735_image1.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598514735_image1.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" caption="false" width="283" height="250" /></strong></a></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Causes:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Slope movement occurs when <strong>forces acting downward (mainly due to gravity) exceed the strength of the earth materials</strong> that compose the slope.</li>
<li>Landslides are caused due to<strong> three major factors: geology, morphology, and human activity.</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Geology</strong> refers to characteristics of the material. The earth or rock might be weak or fractured, or different layers may have different strengths and stiffness.</li>
<li><strong>Morphology</strong> refers to the structure of the land. For example, slopes that lose their vegetation to fire or drought are more vulnerable to landslides. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Vegetation holds soil in place, and without the root systems of trees, bushes, and other plants, the land is more likely to slide away.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Human activity</strong> which include agriculture and construction increase the risk of a landslide.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Region:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Continent-wise, <strong>Asia suffers the maximum damages/losses</strong> due to landslides and within that, South-Asian nations are the worst sufferers <strong>including India</strong> which is one of the worst affected by landslides.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Mitigation:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Restriction on the construction and other developmental activities</strong> such as roads and dams in the areas prone to landslides.</li>
<li><strong>Limiting agriculture</strong> to valleys and areas with moderate slopes.</li>
<li><strong>Control</strong> on the development of large settlements in the high vulnerability zones.</li>
<li><strong>Promoting large-scale afforestation</strong> programmes and <strong>construction of bunds</strong> to reduce the flow of water.</li>
<li><strong>Terrace farming</strong> should be encouraged in the northeastern hill states where Jhumming (Slash and Burn/Shifting Cultivation) is still prevalent.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/landslips-galore-as-rain-batters-kodagu/article32300020.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
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	(int) 1 => [
		'title' => 'Magnets for Manufacturing',
		'catname' => 'News Editorials',
		'desc' => '<div class="border">
<p>This editorial analysis is based on the article <a href="https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/magnets-for-manufacturing/article32440463.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Magnets For Manufacturing</strong></a> which was published in The Hindu on 26<sup>th</sup> of August 2020. It analyses the prospects of several manufacturing companies moving out of China and shifting to India.</p>
</div>
<p>Many American, Japanese, and South Korean manufacturing companies operating from China are planning to relocate their manufacturing bases to other destinations among which India is one of the destinations.</p>
<p>The real question now for India is, can it succeed in attracting manufacturing firms and jobs from China? This article analyses the prospects and challenges of the manufacturing Industries in India and the role of states in this regard.</p>
<h3>Reasons For Moving Out</h3>
<p>These companies are planning to exit China due to three primary reasons.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Supply Chain Disruptions:</strong> There is a realisation that relying heavily on China for building capacities and sourcing manufacturing goods is not an ideal business strategy due to supply chain disruptions in the country caused by <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/covid-19-and-globalization" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid-19.</strong></a>
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Decline in production and trade seen in China will have a strong impact on countries further up and down the supply chain since most of the countries have now imposed restrictions on movements to combat the spread of the virus.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Chinese Dominance Over Essential Goods:</strong> There is a fear of Chinese dominance over the supply of essential industrial goods. This is an alarming situation for any country and its industry as this puts their independence and autonomy in peril.</li>
<li><strong>Trade War:</strong> The growing risk and uncertainty involved in operating from or dealing with China in the light of geopolitical and trade conflicts between China and other countries, particularly the U.S. has further eroded Chinese potential.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Indian Situation</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>India lags far behind China in manufacturing prowess. China ranks first in contribution to world manufacturing output, while India ranks sixth.</li>
<li>Against India&rsquo;s target of pulling up the share of manufacturing in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to 25% by 2022, its share stood at 15% in 2018, only half of China&rsquo;s fi&shy;gure.</li>
<li>Industry value added grew at an average annual rate of 10.68% since China opened up its economy in 1978. In contrast, against the target of 12%, the manufacturing sector has grown at 7% after India opened up its economy.</li>
<li>Next to the European Union, China was the largest exporter of manufactured goods in 2018, with an 18% world share. India is not a part of the top 10 exporters who accounted for 83% of world manufacturing exports in 2018.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Issues With Indian Manufacturing Industries</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Stringent Labor Laws:</strong> The <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/labour-laws-and-covid-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>labour laws</strong> </a>in India are extremely complicated. e.g, Industrial Disputes Act-1947 provides that if you are a manufacturing firm with 100 workers or more, you cannot dismiss any of them under any circumstances unless you get prior approval from the government which is rarely given.
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The law is mandated even if the industry is going bankrupt. Thus, the investors are not willing to enter into this sector.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Inadequate Skilled Workforce:</strong> The manufacturing sector, for it to grow, requires an educated workforce with the necessary skills and training. India&rsquo;s skill ecosystem needs to be fixed.</li>
<li><strong>Basic Infrastructure:</strong> Roads, connectivity and transportation are slow and costly when compared to developed nations which is a huge deterrence to Industries. Uninterrupted power supply is another challenge.</li>
<li><strong>Small Size:</strong> Small enterprises, because of their smaller size, suffer from low productivity, preventing them from achieving economies of scale.</li>
<li><strong>Low Spending On R&amp;D:</strong> Currently, India spends about 0.7% of GDP on research and development, a considerably small amount when compared with other developed nations. This prevents the sector to evolve, innovate and grow.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Role of states</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Policy Coordination:</strong> Since India follows a federal government system, a lasting solution to these constraints cannot be possible without the active participation of State governments and effective policy coordination between the Centre and the States.</li>
<li><strong>State Specific Plans:</strong> Currently, manufacturing is mainly concentrated in few states like Maharashtra and Gujarat which cover a substantial portion of India&rsquo;s geographical area.
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>States like Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Rajasthan, Telangana, and West Bengal also have large land areas that can contribute to the success stories of Indian Manufacturing.</li>
<li>The reasons for less manufacturing activity in these States have to be carefully examined, and based on this, state specific industrialisation strategies need to be devised and implemented in a mission mode with active hand &shy;holding by the Central government.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Implementation:</strong> Strong and carefully designed policy implementation on the part of individual States would improve India&rsquo;s overall investment climate, thereby boosting investments, jobs, and economic growth.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Reforming Labor Laws:</strong> Reforming of the existing labour laws must be prioritised to make them simplified and flexible. They must be reformed in a way that will promote investment and ease of doing business within the sector.</li>
<li><strong>Imparting Skill:</strong> The quality of teaching in schools and colleges must be improved. The high-quality vocational training must be provided within the education system.
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>India&rsquo;s labour productivity, though increased in the last decade, is lower than that of China. This should be addressed to compete in the global market. Introduction of vocational courses under <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/national-education-policy-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>New Education Policy 2020</strong></a> is a welcome step.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Stable Power Supply:</strong> Stable, low cost and uninterrupted power is vital to promote the growth of the industries. Though the availability of Power has improved to a great extent but India must ensure this as soon as possible on industrial level to reap the benefits of manufacturing growth.</li>
<li><strong>Reducing Logistic Cost:</strong> The logistics cost in India is estimated to be almost double of the developed countries. In India, nearly 60% of cargo travels by road.
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>This is because of the overconsumption of the railway networks, high rail freights, long transit times, inadequate port depths, high turnaround time at ports and poor warehousing facilities. Addressing these issues can promote the growth of the manufacturing sector.</li>
<li>Cheap, fast and easy transportation is the basic requirement for booming industries.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>More Spending On R&amp;D:</strong> As India is spending very less on Research &amp; Development, it must improve its spending on it. India&rsquo;s spending is much less than the developed nations which spent between 3-4% of their GDPs.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Conclusion</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The policy actions of the Centre and the States must be well coordinated.</li>
<li>In this context, a suggestion put forth by the Union Minister is worth attempting. To promote electronic manufacturing, he suggested forming a Strategy Group consisting of representatives from the Central and State governments along with top industry executives.</li>
<li>The purpose is to instil teamwork and leverage ideas through sharing the best practices of the Centre and States. A similar approach is needed for developing the whole manufacturing sector.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598443744_image5.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598443744_image5.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="550" caption="false" /></a></p>
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 100%; border-style: dotted; border-color: #ff0000; background-color: #edffde;">
<p><span style="color: #333399;"><em><strong>Drishti Mains Question</strong></em></span></p>
<p>Critically analyse the prospects of India becoming the new manufacturing hub of the world and the role of states in this regard.</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p style="text-align: center;"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C69UAs7hZio" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p>This editorial is based on <strong><a href="https://www.hindustantimes.com/editorials/announce-another-fiscal-stimulus/story-rojRt2LO5F5J8er2uO4RXL.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&ldquo;Announce another fiscal stimulus&rdquo;</a> </strong>which was published in The Hindustan Times on August 24<sup>th</sup>, 2020. Now watch this on our Youtube channel.</p>',
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	(int) 2 => [
		'title' => 'INS Viraat',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Indian Naval Ship (INS) Viraat<strong> will be scrapped</strong> at a ship breaking yard at Alang in Gujarat soon.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The <strong>decision</strong> to scrap INS Viraat was taken in <strong>2019.</strong></li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>INS Viraat holds the <strong>Guinness World Record</strong> for being the <strong>longest serving warship of the world.</strong></li>
<li>Viraat, a <strong>Centaur class aircraft carrier</strong> weighing 27,800 tonnes, served in the <strong>British Navy</strong> as <strong>HMS Hermes for 25 years</strong> from November 1959 to April 1984. It was <strong>commissioned into the Indian Navy in May 1987</strong> after refurbishment.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The Centaur class of aircraft carriers of the Royal Navy was the<strong> last of the light fleet carrier designs</strong> started during the closing years of <a href="/to-the-points/paper1/world-war-ii" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>World War II</strong> </a><strong>(1939-45).</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Viraat played a major role in <strong>Operation Jupiter</strong> in 1989 during the Sri Lankan Peacekeeping operation. It also saw action during<strong> Op Parakram</strong> in 2001-2002, post the terrorist attack on Parliament.</li>
<li>The indigenous Advance Light Helicopters <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/apache-helicopters-for-indian-army" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&lsquo;Dhruv&rsquo;</strong> </a>and the Russian twin rotor<strong> Kamov-31</strong> have also operated from the ship.</li>
<li>It was <strong>decommissioned in March 2017,</strong> and the<strong> Navy had been incurring expenditure</strong> since then on its upkeep, such as the provision of electricity and water, and repairs. It was also<strong> taking up space in the crowded Naval dockyard.</strong></li>
<li>There had been demands from various quarters to not let Viraat go the way of <strong>Vikrant, India&rsquo;s first carrier</strong> that was eventually scrapped.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>In 2014, <strong>INS Vikrant,</strong> which played a role in the 1971 war with Pakistan was broken down in Mumbai.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>However, several attempts by the Navy to preserve the carrier, by converting it into a museum or by other means, failed. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The <strong>vessel could not be handed over to any state government</strong> because of lack of &ldquo;self-sustaining financially complete&rdquo; proposal to preserve it. The state governments of Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh had planned to preserve the aircraft carrier (in the form of a museum).</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>India is currently doing with only the<strong> 44,500-tonne INS Vikramaditya,</strong> the refurbished Admiral Gorshkov inducted from Russia in November 2013. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The trials of the first indigenous aircraft carrier <strong>(IAC-I, to be named as INS Vikrant)</strong> being built at the Cochin Shipyard have been derailed by the pandemic.</li>
<li>The government&rsquo;s approvals for a third carrier, the 65,000-tonne <strong>IAC-II (tentatively christened INS Vishal)</strong> has been pending since May 2015.</li>
<li>India needs aircraft carriers to secure the seas of the Indo-Pacific, to maintain peace, secure trade routes, and provide security to the region.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/ins-viraat-to-be-dismantled-at-alang-in-gujarat/article32436701.ece#:~:text=Decommissioned%20aircraft%20carrier%20Viraat%2C%20which,at%20Alang%20in%20Gujarat%20soon." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/ins-viraat-1'
	],
	(int) 3 => [
		'title' => 'National Clean Air Programme',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<p>The <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/national-green-tribunal-ngt" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National Green Tribunal (NGT)</strong></a> has directed the<strong> Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)</strong> to modify the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/govt-launches-mission-to-fight-air-pollution" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)</strong></a> which proposes 20-30% reduction of air pollution by 2024.</p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>NCAP:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It was launched by the MoEFCC in<strong> January 2019.</strong></li>
<li>It is the <strong>first-ever effort in the country to frame a national framework for air quality management with a time-bound reduction target.</strong></li>
<li>It seeks to <strong>cut the concentration of coarse</strong> (particulate matter of diameter 10 micrometer or less, or <strong>PM10</strong>) and <strong>fine particles</strong> (particulate matter of diameter 2.5 micrometer or less, or <strong>PM2.5) by at least 20%</strong> in the <strong>next five years,</strong> with <strong>2017 as the base year</strong> for comparison.</li>
<li><strong>The plan includes 102 non-attainment cities,</strong> across 23 states and Union territories, which were identified by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) on the basis of their ambient air quality data between 2011 and 2015.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Non-attainment cities:</strong> These are those that have fallen short of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for over five years.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>NGT&rsquo;s View:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The enforcement of the <strong>&lsquo;Sustainable Development&rsquo; principle</strong> and <strong>&lsquo;Public Trust Doctrine&rsquo;</strong> require stern measures to be adopted to give effect to the mandate of international obligations related to environmental quality, for which the <strong>Environment (Protection) Act, 1986</strong> was enacted.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Public Trust Doctrine:</strong> It states that the sovereign, or state, holds the trust of people to manage the designated resources for the benefit of the people.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The <strong>Right to Clean Air</strong> stood recognized as part of Right to Life and failure to address air pollution is a denial of Right to Life under <strong>Article 21.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>NGT&rsquo;s Directions:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The<strong> timeline</strong> to reduce air pollution by 20-30% by 2024 needs to be<strong> reduced.</strong></li>
<li>The <strong>target</strong> of reduction needs to be <strong>increased.</strong></li>
<li>It suggested the Ministry to review and action in terms of <strong>shift to e-vehicles and CNG vehicles,</strong> intensifying public transport system, mechanical cleaning of roads, enhancement of public parking facilities, improvement in fuel quality, and traffic management.</li>
<li>It directed the state pollution control boards to ensure the<strong> assessment and installation</strong> of the requisite number of real-time online continuous <strong>Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Systems within six months.</strong></li>
<li>It also directed an expert team of the <strong>Central Pollution Control Board</strong> to <strong>design a model</strong> for source apportionment and carrying capacity assessment within two months which may be replicated for all the non-attainment cities.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Source Apportionment:</strong> It is the practice of deriving information about pollution sources and the amount they contribute to ambient air pollution levels.</li>
<li><strong>Carrying Capacity:</strong> The concept of &ldquo;carrying capacity&rdquo; addresses the question as to how many people can be permitted into any area without the risk of degrading the environment there.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>National Green Tribunal</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It is a specialised body set up under the <strong>National Green Tribunal Act, 2010</strong> for effective and expeditious disposal of cases relating to environmental protection and conservation of forests and other natural resources.</li>
<li>It draws inspiration from India&rsquo;s constitutional provision of<strong> Article 21,</strong> which assures the citizens of India the<strong> right to a healthy environment.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Original Jurisdiction:</strong> It is related to matters of &ldquo;substantial question relating to the environment&rdquo; and &ldquo;damage to the environment due to specific activity&rdquo;.</li>
<li>It follows<strong> principles of Natural Justice.</strong></li>
<li>NGT is mandated to make disposal of applications or appeals finally<strong> within 6 months</strong> of filing the same.</li>
<li>The NGT has<strong> five places</strong> of sittings,<strong> New Delhi is the Principal</strong> place of sitting and <strong>Bhopal, Pune, Kolkata </strong>and<strong> Chennai</strong> are the other four.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/ngt-slams-ministrys-report-on-clean-air-programme/article32440795.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source TH</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/national-clean-air-programme'
	],
	(int) 4 => [
		'title' => 'Conflict in Libya',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>The internal conflict in Libya that has been running since 2011 has shown signs of de-escalation as the rival authorities in the country have called for a ceasefire.</p>
<h3>Key Points<a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598434219_image3.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598434219_image3.jpg" style="float: right;" width="350" caption="false" /></a></h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Rival Forces:</strong> The Self-proclaimed<strong> Libyan National Army (LNA)</strong> led by <strong>Khalifa Haftar</strong> has been battling forces aligned with the <strong>Tripoli-based, internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA).</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Both sides are formed from <strong>local armed factions,</strong> whose <strong>shifting loyalties</strong> have steered the course of the conflict.</li>
<li>LNA has long enjoyed backing from countries including the<strong> United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Russia and Jordan. </strong></li>
<li><strong>The USA, Turkey and Qatar</strong> support the GNA.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Ceasefire:</strong> The ceasefire call by GNA head proposed<strong> demilitarising Sirte city and resumption of oil production</strong> until a political deal is reached. It has also called for elections in March 2021.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The LNA dismissed this proposal, but a <strong>parallel ceasefire call</strong> by the LNA-aligned parliament has proposed<strong> Sirte</strong> as the seat of a new government.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Background</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Libya was ruled by <strong>Muammar Gaddafi</strong> for 42 years from 1969 to 2011 after he overturned the previous monarchy and proclaimed the new<strong> Libyan Arab Republic.</strong></li>
<li>In 2011, the<strong> first civil war</strong> broke out in Libya against the regime of Gaddafi. This war was a part of a series of anti-dictatorial protests in countries of Arab world like Tunisia, Morocco, Iraq, Algeria, Lebanon, Jordan etc, known as the <a href="/loksabha-rajyasabha-discussions/the-big-picture-syria-crisis-us-backs-out" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Arab Spring.</strong></a></li>
<li>In response to the civil war, a <strong>multi-state <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/us-minimises-its-share-in-nato-budget" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NATO</a>-led coalition</strong> began a military intervention in Libya in March 2011, aimed at protecting civilians and providing cover for a rebel advance.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The NATO intervention was backed by a <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/un-security-council-1#:~:text=Its%20primary%20responsibility%20is%20to,China%20and%20the%20United%20Kingdom." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>UN Security Council</strong> </a><strong>resolution 1973</strong> which was supported by 10 countries. 5 countries viz.<strong> India,</strong> Brazil, Germany, Russia and China abstained from voting.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>A UN-backed internationally recognized government was put in place called the Government of National Accord (GNA) which was supposed to bring out a democratic transition.</li>
<li>However, GNA <strong>failed to provide political stability</strong> to the country.</li>
<li>LNA captured the East of Libya and has been running long campaign against Islamist groups and other opponents since then.</li>
<li>Libya has no single government currently, with<strong> LNA backing the Tobruk-based parliament which governs East of Libya,</strong> and the <strong>GNA which controls Libya's western parts fromTripoli.</strong></li>
<li>Both sides have been in constant conflict since 2014, in what has been termed as the second Libyan Civil War. In addition to these, there are also<strong> smaller rival groups</strong> in the country like the <strong>Shura Council of Benghazi Revolutionaries, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant</strong> etc.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Impact</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Nearly 4,00,000 Libyans have been <strong>displaced</strong> over the past nine years. Thousands more have <strong>died.</strong></li>
<li>The conflict has cost tens of <strong>billions of dollars in lost oil revenue,</strong> damaged infrastructure, and sharply reduced living standards.</li>
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/covid-19-and-globalization" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid-19</strong></a> infections have started to surge.</li>
<li>The collapse of public services and corruption has fuelled protests in western Libya against the political elite.</li>
<li>Libya, a member of <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/talks-on-oil-cut-deal-at-g-20" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>OPEC</strong></a>, holds Africa<strong>&rsquo;s largest oil reserves,</strong> producing 1.6 million barrels per day before 2011. Blockades and presence of military forces have caused <strong>output to fluctuate</strong> sharply since then, affecting the <strong>oil prices.</strong></li>
<li><strong>International Response:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The <strong>International Berlin conference,</strong> held on 19<sup>th</sup> January 2020, was attended by Libyan parties and other concerned countries. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>As a result of this conference, the UN Security Council endorsed a<strong> 55-point road map</strong> for ending the war in Libya in February 2020.</li>
<li>The resolution demands that all countries refrain from interfering in Libya&rsquo;s conflict and its internal affairs and observe a <strong>UN arms embargo,</strong> including ceasing all support for and withdrawing all armed mercenary personnel.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Egypt, in association with LNA, proposed the <strong>Cairo Declaration</strong> on 6<sup>th</sup> June, 2020, for the Second Libyan Civil War ceasefire.</li>
<li>The USA has ordered <strong>evacuation of its troops</strong> stationed in<strong> Tripoli.</strong></li>
<li><strong>India evacuated</strong> its contingent of peacekeeping forces consisting of 15<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/central-reserve-police-force" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> CRPF</strong></a> personnel from Tripoli. India has also asked its citizens there to exercise extreme caution.</li>
<li>Foreign powers officially back the process of restoring peace in the country, but have <strong>also shipped arms</strong> to their allies, undercutting diplomatic efforts.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>India&rsquo;s Stand:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>India has <strong>expressed concern</strong> over continuing conflict and instability in Libya and said it <strong>supports</strong> efforts towards<strong> immediate cessation of all hostilities</strong> in the country.</li>
<li>Although India has been critical of the USA military intervention in Libya on the ground that civilians would be affected, its stand on Libya has been more of a <strong>realistic one</strong> as it has many <strong>vested interests</strong> in LIbya. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Economic :</strong> The regime in Libya needs to be a friendly one since Libya is an oil rich country and political instability could affect Indian <strong>industrial investments and energy security interests</strong> there. Indian companies, especially in the hydrocarbon, power, construction and IT sector, have several ongoing projects in Libya.</li>
<li><strong>Diaspora:</strong> Considering an estimated <strong>18,000 Indians</strong> who work in Libya, it is a considerable contribution to the remittance economy and adds to India&rsquo;s foreign exchange</li>
<li><strong>Foreign Policy:</strong> Supporting western intrusion into sovereignty of a country will not set a good precedent for other third-world countries.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Achieving peace in Libya is crucial not just for the country itself but also for stabilizing the global oil market and set a precedent for other such war-torn countries. However, a lasting deal will require <strong>political and economic agreements</strong> that have proved elusive for years, and <strong>cooperation from foreign powers.</strong></li>
<li>The western wishful thinking that the exogenous establishment of human rights democracy is possible through expeditionary intervention in domestic affairs of a country needs to end to give way to a more<strong> organic building up of trust in democratic institutions and sovereign control.</strong></li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/libya-conflict-explained-6568862/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: IE</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/conflict-in-libya'
	],
	(int) 5 => [
		'title' => 'China Launches Warship for Pakistan',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why In News</h3>
<p>Recently, China has launched <strong>first of the four advanced naval warships</strong> it is building for Pakistan.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>This is the first ship of <strong>Type-054 class frigate.</strong></li>
<li>The Type-054A is<strong> roughly the same size</strong> as the Indian Navy's existing <strong>Talwar class</strong> of frigates, purchased from Russia</li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Comparing with Talwar Class:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Size and Dimensions:</strong> The Type-054A and Talwar class <strong>displace approximately 4,000 tonnes</strong> and have a length of around<strong> 130 metres.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Stealth Level:</strong> Both classes, designed the 1990s, have features<strong> to reduce their radar and infra-red signatures.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Missile System:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The Type-054A uses a <strong>surface-to-air missile</strong> system called the<strong> HQ-16,</strong> which experts claim is derived from the <strong>Russian Shtil missile,</strong> already in service on the Talwar class frigates.</li>
<li>Type-054A has an <strong>advantage over the existing Talwar class</strong> ships as the former uses a <strong>vertical launch system</strong> (VLS).<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The<strong> vertical launch system</strong> allows the launch of<strong> multiple missiles simultaneously.</strong></li>
<li>Talwar class frigates use an <strong>older 'single-arm' launcher</strong> that can fire only<strong> one missile at a time.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The Talwar class ships use the <strong>supersonic Klub and Brahmos missiles,</strong> and are regarded to have better anti-ship capabilities than the Type-054A class.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Radar:</strong> The HQ-16, which relies on<strong> 'passive' radar</strong> to detect targets, is considered <strong>inferior to the new Indo-Israeli Barak-8 missile.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The relatively small size of the Type-054AP frigates means there is<strong> little scope to mount</strong> heavier radars and longer-range anti-aircraft or anti-ship weapons.</li>
<li>While the new Type-054AP frigates will be the most capable ships in the Pakistan Navy, they are<strong> not expected to significantly alter the balance of power in the region,</strong> given Pakistan's limitations in airborne anti-submarine capabilities.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/china-launches-warship-for-pakistan-navy/article32432221.ece#:~:text=the%20Pakistan%20Navy.-,Pakistan%2DChina%20defence%20ties%20turn%20a%20new%20chapter%20with%20the,the%20two%20all%2Dweather%20allies." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source TH</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/china-launches-warship-for-pakistan'
	],
	(int) 6 => [
		'title' => 'India-Vietnam Meeting',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, the <strong>17<sup>th</sup> meeting of <a href="/to-the-points/Paper2/india-vietnam-relations" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India-Vietnam</a> Joint Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technological Cooperation</strong> was held.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Both sides reviewed the recent developments in <strong>India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership</strong> (since 2016) and discussed the future trajectory of their wide-ranging engagement.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598427572_image2.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598427572_image2.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" caption="false" /></a></p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Indo-Pacific Region:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>India and Vietnam agreed to enhance their bilateral cooperation in line with India&rsquo;s <strong>Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI)</strong> and the<strong> ASEAN&rsquo;s Outlook on Indo-Pacific</strong> to achieve shared security, prosperity and growth for all in the <strong>region.</strong></li>
<li>This has come in the backdrop of <strong>China&rsquo;s aggression</strong> in the Indo-Pacific region including <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/china-in-south-china-sea" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>South China Sea region</strong></a> and its actions along the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/india-china-conflict" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Line of Actual Control (LAC)</strong> </a>with India.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>China claims sovereignty over most of the South China Sea, which is seen as having huge reserves of hydrocarbons and minerals. However, several <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-international-institution/asean" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations)</strong> </a>member countries, including Vietnam, Philippines and Brunei, dispute the Chinese claims.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>IPOI was launched by the Prime Minister of India at the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-international-institution/east-asia-summit" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>East Asia Summit</strong></a> in November <strong>2019.</strong></li>
<li>It focuses on <strong>seven central pillars</strong> conceived around Maritime Security, Maritime Ecology, Maritime Resources, Capacity Building and Resource Sharing, Disaster Risk Reduction and Management, Science, Technology and Academic Cooperation, and Trade Connectivity and Maritime Transport.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Cooperation at Multilateral and Regional Forums:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Both sides agreed to coordinate closely at multilateral forums, including at the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/elections-for-non-permanent-members-of-the-unsc" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>UN Security Council</strong></a>, where both India and Vietnam will <strong>serve concurrently as non-permanent members in 2021.</strong></li>
<li>They also agreed to step up cooperation and coordination at important regional forums under the ASEAN framework. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>India and Vietnam closely cooperate in various<strong> regional forums</strong> such as <strong>East Asia Summit, Mekong Ganga Cooperation, Asia Europe Meeting (ASEM).</strong></li>
<li>India appreciated the positive leadership provided by Vietnam to ASEAN in 2020 when the world is faced with the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/coronavirus-disease-named-covid-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid -19 pandemic.</strong></a><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Vietnam is the chair of ASEAN for 2020.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Economic Engagement:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>They agreed to explore closer cooperation in emerging areas such as <strong>civil nuclear energy, space, marine sciences and new technologies.</strong></li>
<li>India invited Vietnam to take advantage of India&rsquo;s new economic capacities and demands.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>India underlined its vision of <strong>Atmanirbhar Bharat</strong> for enhancing resilience through self-reliance and human-centric globalisation as the basis for its economic revival.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>India reaffirmed its<strong> development and capacity building assistance to Vietnam</strong> through initiatives such as <strong>Quick Impact Projects (QIP), Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC)</strong> and e-ITEC initiatives, <strong>PhD fellowships,</strong> as well as projects in<strong> water resource management in Vietnam&rsquo;s Mekong Delta region, <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/sustainable-development-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener">SDGs</a>,</strong> digital connectivity and heritage conservation.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Vietnam is a key pillar of <strong><a href="/loksabha-rajyasabha-discussions/the-big-picture-india-s-act-east-policy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India&rsquo;s Act East policy</a></strong> and there is a scope for further cooperation between the countries.</li>
<li>The close relationship between the two countries is <strong>significant for the maintenance of strategic balance in South East Asia</strong> which is witnessing aggressive Chinese activities.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://indianexpress.com/article/india/with-eye-on-indo-pacific-india-vietnam-to-enhance-cooperation-6569863/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: IE</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/india-vietnam-meeting'
	],
	(int) 7 => [
		'title' => 'Star Formation in Dwarf Galaxies',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, astronomers from the <strong>Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES)</strong> have found out the<strong> reasons behind intense star formation in some dwarf galaxies.</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>ARIES is an autonomous institute of Department of Science &amp; Technology (DST).</li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Background:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Amidst the billions of galaxies in the universe, a large number are tiny ones - <strong>100 times less massive than the Milky-way galaxy.</strong> Most of these are called <strong>dwarf galaxies and form stars at a much slower rate</strong> than the massive ones.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Dwarf galaxies</strong> are the most abundant type of galaxy in the universe but are difficult to detect due to their <strong>low luminosity, low mass </strong>and<strong> small size.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>However,</strong> some dwarf galaxies have been<strong> seen forming new stars at a mass-normalized rate</strong> i.e. 10-100 times more than that of the Milky-way galaxy.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The star-formation activities do not last longer than a few tens of million-years, a period which is much shorter than the age of these galaxies - typically a few billion years.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Reasons Found Out by the Aries Astronomers:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Disturbed Hydrogen Distribution:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Star formation at a high rate requires very high density of Hydrogen in the galaxies. Multiple nuclei and high concentration of ionized hydrogen have been found in the central region of such galaxies.</li>
<li>Hydrogen in these dwarf galaxies is found to be irregular and sometimes not moving in well-defined orbits i.e. non-symmetric distribution of hydrogen.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Galaxy-Galaxy Collision:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Some Hydrogen around these galaxies is also detected in forms of isolated clouds, plumes, and tails as if some other galaxy recently has collided or brushed away with these galaxies, and gas is scattered as debris around the galaxies.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Telescopes Used for the Study:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Scientists used the <strong>1.3-meter Devasthal Fast Optical Telescope (DFOT) near Nainital</strong> (Uttarakhand) and the <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/indian-telescope-spots-distant-radio-galaxy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT)</a> in Maharashtra.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Star Formation in Galaxies</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Stars are <strong>born within the clouds of dust and gas</strong> scattered throughout most galaxies.</li>
<li>Turbulence deep within these clouds gives rise to knots with sufficient mass that the gas and dust can begin to collapse under its own gravitational attraction.</li>
<li>As the cloud collapses, the material at the center begins to heat up. Known as a <strong>protostar,</strong> it is this hot core that one day becomes a star.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Not all of this material ends up as part of a star &mdash; the remaining dust can become planets, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/163348-2002-nn4-a-near-earth-asteroid" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>asteroids</strong></a>, or comets or may remain as dust.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Stars are <strong>fueled by the nuclear fusion of hydrogen to form helium</strong> deep in their interiors. The outflow of energy from the central regions of the star provides the pressure necessary to keep the star from collapsing under its own weight, and the energy by which it shines.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598426972_image1.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598426972_image1.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="650" caption="false" /></a></p>
</div>
<p>The above illustration shows the <strong>six steps of star formation</strong> for Sun-like stars.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The process starts on<strong> (A),</strong> where gas and dust in the space between stars (also called the <strong>InterStellar medium,</strong> ISM) collapse into a dense ball of gas called a <strong>prestellar core (B)</strong> that eventually will become the sun.</li>
<li>During the collapse a disk <strong>(C)</strong> forms around the core, while two jets are emitted at the poles.</li>
<li>At some point the star stops growing, but gas still falls onto the disk<strong> (D).</strong> After a few million years this process also halts. The <strong>star is now born (E),</strong> while the planets are being formed from the left-over material, which will eventually become a solar system <strong>(F).</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>A solar system typically lives 10 billion years after the formation process.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1648135" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: PIB</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/star-formation-in-dwarf-galaxies'
	],
	(int) 8 => [
		'title' => 'Early Galaxy Detected by AstroSat',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>A team of Scientists from the<strong> Inter University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA)</strong> has discovered one of the earliest galaxies called <strong>AUDFs01</strong> using <strong>AstroSat.</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The galaxy is located in the <strong>Hubble Extreme Deep field, 9.3 billion light-years</strong> away from Earth.</li>
<li>The team comprises scientists from <strong>India, Switzerland, France, USA, Japan and Netherlands.</strong></li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Hubble eXtreme Deep Field (XDF) :</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It is a portion of space that contains approximately 5,500 galaxies, the oldest of which are seen as they were 13.2 billion years ago, recorded by the Hubble Space Telescope for over 10 years.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Hubble Space Telescope :</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The HST or Hubble is a space telescope that was launched into <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/types-of-orbit" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Low Earth orbit</strong></a> in 1990 and remains in operation. It is one of the largest and most versatile space telescopes till date.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The galaxy was discovered using <strong>UltraViolet Imaging Telescope (UVIT)</strong> on Astrosat. AstroSat detected<strong> Extreme Ultraviolet light</strong> from the galaxy.</li>
<li>Earlier,<strong> NASA&rsquo;s Hubble Space Telescope (HST),</strong> which is <strong>significantly larger than UVIT,</strong> did not detect any UV emission from this galaxy because<strong> it is too faint.</strong></li>
<li>AstroSat/UVIT was able to achieve this unique feat because the <strong>background noise in the UVIT detector is much less</strong> than the ones on HST.</li>
<li>These observations lasted for more than<strong> 28 hours in October 2016,</strong> but it took nearly <strong>two years since then to carefully analyse the data</strong> to ascertain that the emission is indeed from the galaxy.</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>AstroSat</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It is a <strong>multi-wavelength astronomy mission</strong> on an<strong> IRS-class</strong> (Indian Remote Sensing-Class) satellite in a 650-km, near-equatorial orbit.</li>
<li>It was launched by the Indian launch vehicle <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/50th-pslv-launch" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>PSLV</strong></a> from <strong>Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota </strong>on<strong> September 28, 2015 by <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/indian-space-research-organisation-isro" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ISRO</a>.</strong></li>
<li>It is the <strong>first dedicated Indian astronomy mission</strong> aimed at studying celestial sources in X-ray, optical and UV spectral bands simultaneously with its<strong> five unique X-ray and ultraviolet telescopes working in tandem.</strong></li>
<li>One of the unique features of AstroSat mission is that it enables the <strong>simultaneous multi-wavelength observations of various astronomical objects</strong> with a single satellite.</li>
<li>The<strong> Ground Command and Control Centre</strong> for ASTROSAT is located at <strong>ISRO</strong> Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network<strong> (ISTRAC)</strong>, Bangalore, India.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Detection of an Early Galaxy</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Before the Big Bang, the universe <strong>consisted only of particles like electrons and protons.</strong> As the universe started to cool, the protons and neutrons began combining into<strong> ionized atoms</strong> of hydrogen (and eventually some helium).</li>
<li>Creation of neutral atoms allowed light to pass through the universe and thus, <strong>made it transparent,</strong> but it was still dark due to absence of any stars (dark ages).</li>
<li>A few hundred million years later, the dark age ended <strong>when the first stars and galaxies formed.</strong></li>
<li>The creation of stars and galaxies released an immense amount of energy that<strong> re-ionized neutral atoms</strong> and emitted UV lights.</li>
<li>These <strong>early UV lights are detected</strong> for detecting the earliest astronomical objects.</li>
<li>The probability that a fraction of extreme-UV photons escape the host galaxy and are caught by a telescope on Earth is almost zero. That&rsquo;s why they are <strong>detected using telescopes placed in space</strong> like HST and AstroSat.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<p>The detection of UV emission from AUDFs01 can help reveal details about the Big Bang, the end of dark ages and the formation of early stars and galaxies and thus give a boost to the ongoing cosmological research.</p>
<p><a href="https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/science/global-team-led-by-iucaa-scientists-marks-a-major-breakthrough-6568281/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: IE</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/early-galaxy-detected-by-astrosat'
	],
	(int) 9 => [
		'title' => 'Bringing the Marginalised Back to School',
		'catname' => 'News Editorials',
		'desc' => '<div class="border">
<p>This editorial analysis is based on the article <a href="https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/bringing-the-marginalised-back-to-school-6568141/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Bringing the marginalised back to school</strong> </a>which was published in the Indian Express on 24<sup>th</sup> of August 2020. It analyses the impact of Covid-19 on children especially the marginalised ones and their educational needs.</p>
</div>
<p>The<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/covid-19-and-indian-federalism" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> Covid-19 pandemic</strong></a> has significantly disrupted the education of millions of students. This has proven worse for the children of marginalised sections of the society who don&rsquo;t even have the option of digital learning.</p>
<p>The longer children and youth are unable to attend learning facilities (Schools,Colleges, Anganwadi etc), the more likelihood of their failing to return to their institutions, especially girls, and the marginalised, such as children on the move, children forced to live on the streets, children in tribal areas, children in slums and those from low-income households. This must be prevented as this would have a huge impact on our future.</p>
<h3>Impact</h3>
<p><strong>Closure Of Schools</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The pandemic has impacted the education of more than 300 million children. More than 10 million children are in the age group of three to six years across India.</li>
<li>This has denied them their fundamental right to quality, inclusive and safe education.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Digital Divide</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Only a handful of private schools could adopt online teaching methods.</li>
<li>Their low-income private and government school counterparts, on the other hand, have completely shut down for not having access to e-learning solutions.</li>
<li>Even in schools which were offering online education, the poor couldn&rsquo;t avail it because of the lack of technical facilities and resources at their own end.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Denial of Food</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>In India, the anganwadi are also known as &ldquo;khichdi ghars&rdquo;.</li>
<li>They provide food that in many cases is the only meal that children from most marginalised communities receive.</li>
<li>Closure of education facilities also means no nutrition for children from 0- 6 years during this time and thus they are being subjected to economic and social stress. Closure of the Mid day meal schools have led to denial of food to children as well.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Unsupportive Family</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>During the lockdown, when the anganwadis are closed, parents are the best facilitator for children&rsquo;s learning.</li>
<li>But many of them struggle to perform this task especially the marginalised families.</li>
<li>This is primarily due to their limited education level or scarce resources at their disposal.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Gender Discrimination</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Research suggests that the girls living in areas affected by conflict or recovering from disasters are more likely to be out of primary learning facilities than boys.</li>
<li>The gap between the numbers of girls and boys out of learning facilities during COVID-19 is likely to increase as girls are less likely to return to education facilities as they could be forced into early marriage, early pregnancies, domestic and sexual violence.</li>
<li>Existing gender discrimination could be exacerbated by the current situation.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<p><strong>Urgent Restoration</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>During the phase of the recovery from the pandemic, there should be urgency in restoring the safe, protective and nurturing environment for children.</li>
<li>This is especially for children who have witnessed loss of life in family, social distance from caregivers, extended periods of self-isolation at home, violence and exploitation.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Health Counselling</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Anxiety caused by the pandemic could negatively impact the mental health, nutrition and wellbeing of children.</li>
<li>It would be ideal to provide<strong> psychological and social support</strong> to children and their caregivers, both at home and at the anganwadis.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Digital Solutions</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Open-source digital learning solutions and Learning Management Software should be adopted so teachers can conduct teaching online.</li>
<li>The<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/classes-in-distance-mode" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> DIKSHA platform</strong></a>, with reach across all states in India, can be further strengthened to ensure accessibility of learning to the students.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Leveraging Mobile Penetration</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>With a rapid increase of mobile internet users in India, which is expected to reach 85% households by 2024, technology is enabling ubiquitous access and personalization of education even in the remotest parts of the country.</li>
<li>This can change the schooling system and increase the effectiveness of learning and teaching, giving students and teachers multiple options to choose from.</li>
<li>Many <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/aspirational-districts-programme" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>aspirational districts</strong></a> have initiated innovative, mobile-based learning models for effective delivery of education, which can be adopted by others.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Parents Counselling</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Parents require support and the same must be emphasised.</li>
<li>There must be dedicated programmes for the parents to help them guide their ward in such testing times.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Focus On Prevention</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Disseminating COVID-19 related messages on social distancing, hand washing and ways of engaging with children especially to mothers&rsquo; groups will support reduction in risks of pandemic.</li>
<li>The children must be taught to prevent and at the same time live with this pandemic for some time to come.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Access To ICT</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The government must aim to provide teachers, educators, school authorities and caregivers access to Information and Communication Technology (ICT) platforms and train them in the dissemination of learning materials.</li>
<li>The Government and the civil society must come forward and collaborate to gulf this digital divide so that everyone can have access to quality education.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Conclusion</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Among the <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/sustainable-development-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)</strong></a> that were agreed upon in 2016 by the countries across the globe,<strong> SDG-4&rsquo;s goal is to &ldquo;Ensure inclusive and quality education for all and promote lifelong learning&rdquo;.</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>This, of course, is also a necessary condition for people to improve their wellbeing and that of future generations. SDG 4 is, therefore, crucial for the attainment of all the other SDGs.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The pandemic is an opportunity for all organisations, institutions and individuals working in the education sector to collaborate, innovate and act in solidarity to support the government in ensuring that the education community and its stakeholders emerge stronger from the crisis.</li>
<li>We need to find new ways to integrate distance learning, scientific cooperation, and information support in our ways of working.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598357547_image5.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598357547_image5.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="600" caption="false" /></a></p>
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 100%; border-style: dotted; border-color: #ff0000; background-color: #f2f3ff;">
<p><em><strong>Drishti Mains Question</strong></em></p>
<p>Discuss the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the education of the children especially the marginalised children. What needs to be done in this hour to mitigate the impact on them?</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p style="text-align: center;"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IXw35rlBK9c" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p>This editorial is based on<a href="https://www.hindustantimes.com/editorials/the-quest-for-cleaner-cities/story-B2BykFulfLgPkgUjpaOT0H.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> &ldquo;The quest for cleaner cities&rdquo;</strong> </a>which was published in The Hindustan Times on August 24<sup>th</sup>, 2020. Now watch this on our Youtube channel.</p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/bringing-the-marginalised-back-to-school'
	],
	(int) 10 => [
		'title' => 'Important Judgements of Independent India',
		'catname' => 'Paper 2',
		'desc' => '<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The Constitution of India, enacted in 1950, has been the cornerstone of India&rsquo;s democracy. After its enactment it has undergone several amendments.</li>
<li>The Supreme Court is the ultimate interpreter of the Constitution and, by its creative and innovative interpretation, has been the protector of our constitutional rights and fundamental freedom.</li>
<li>These judgements are to be appreciated not only as precedents, but also as having laid down the law on issues of paramount importance&mdash;law that is binding on all courts and authorities in the country.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973)</h3>
<p><strong>Main theme:</strong> Propagating the <strong>&lsquo;basic structure&rsquo;</strong> doctrine as a safeguard against the usurpation of the Constitution.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It was unique for the reason that it brought a shift in the balance of democratic power. Earlier judgements had taken a stand that Parliament could amend even the fundamental rights through a proper legislative process. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>But the present case held that Parliament can not amend or alter the fundamental structure a<strong> &lsquo;Basic Structure&rsquo;</strong> of the constitution.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Besides, Kesavananda Case was significant in that the Supreme Court ascribed to itself the function of preserving the integrity of the Indian Constitution.</li>
<li>The <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/basic-structure-of-constitution" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&lsquo;basic structure&rsquo; doctrine</strong></a> formulated by the court represented the pinnacle of judicial creativity and set a benchmark for other constitutional courts around the world.</li>
<li>The doctrine ruled that even a constitutional amendment could be invalidated if it impaired the essential features&mdash;the basic structure&mdash;of the Constitution.</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Evolution of the Basic structure doctrine</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Since the adoption of Indian Constitution, debates have started regarding the power of the Parliament to amend key provisions of the Constitution.</li>
<li>In the early years of Independence, the Supreme Court conceded absolute power to Parliament in amending the Constitution, as was seen in the verdicts in <strong>Shankari Prasad case (1951) and Sajjan Singh case (1965).</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>This means Parliament had the power to amend any part of the constitution including Fundamental rights.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>However, in the <strong>Golaknath case (1967),</strong> the Supreme Court held that Parliament could not amend Fundamental Rights, and this power would be only with a Constituent Assembly.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The Court held that an amendment under Article 368 is "law" within the meaning of Article 13 of the Constitution and therefore, if an amendment "takes away or abridges" a Fundamental Right conferred by Part III, it is void.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>To get over the judgments of the Supreme Court in the Golaknath case (1967), RC Cooper case (1970), and Madhavrao Scindia case (1970), the then government headed by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had enacted major amendments to the Constitution (the 24<sup>th</sup>, 25<sup>th</sup>, 26<sup>th</sup> and 29<sup>th</sup>).</li>
<li>All the four amendments brought by the government were challenged in the Kesavananda Bharati case.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India (1978)</h3>
<p><strong>Main theme:</strong> Expanding the <strong>meaning of the &lsquo;right to life&rsquo;</strong> under the Constitution of India</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The right to life and personal liberty under Article 21 reads: &lsquo;No person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to <strong>procedure established by law&rdquo;.</strong></li>
<li>In other words, courts were not allowed to question any law&mdash;no matter how arbitrary or oppressive&mdash;as violating the right to life or personal liberty if the law had been suitably passed and enacted.</li>
<li>However, by vesting in itself the<strong> power of substantive review under Article 21,</strong> the court transformed itself from being merely a supervisor, to being a watchdog of the Constitution.</li>
<li>The Supreme Court&rsquo;s judgement in the Maneka Gandhi case effectively meant that <strong>&lsquo;procedure established by law&rsquo;</strong> under Article 21 would have the same effect as the expression<strong> &lsquo;due process of law&rsquo;.</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>In a subsequent decision, the Supreme Court stated that Article 21 would read as: <strong>&lsquo;No person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to fair, just and reasonable procedure established by valid law.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Mohammed Ahmed Khan v. Shah Bano Begum (1985)</h3>
<p><strong>Main theme:</strong> Questioning the sanctity of<strong> personal religious laws</strong> and bringing the debate on a<strong> Uniform Civil Code</strong> to the forefront of the national discourse.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>In April 1985, the Supreme Court delivered a judgement on the maintenance a divorced Muslim woman would be entitled to receive from her former husband in the case of Mohammed <strong>Ahmed Khan v. Shah Bano Begum (Shah Bano).</strong></li>
<li>It is seen as one of the milestones in Muslim women&rsquo;s fight for rights in India and the battle against the set Muslim personal law. It laid the ground for thousands of women to make legitimate claims which they were not allowed before.</li>
<li>While the Supreme Court upheld the right to alimony in the case, the judgment set off a political battle as well as a controversy about the extent to which courts can interfere in Muslim personal law.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Indra Sawhney v. Union of India (1992)</h3>
<p><strong>Main theme:</strong> Delivering the decision relating to the <strong>constitutionality of reservations</strong> under the Constitution of India.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>In the <strong>Indra Sawhney judgment (1992),</strong> the Court upheld the government&rsquo;s move and proclaimed that the advanced sections among the OBCs (i.e, the creamy layer) must be excluded from the list of beneficiaries of reservation. It also held that the concept of creamy layer must be excluded for SCs &amp; STs.</li>
<li>The Indra Sawhney verdict also held there would be reservation only in initial appointments and not promotions. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>But the government through this amendment introduced <strong>Article 16(4A)</strong> to the Constitution, empowering the state to make provisions for reservation in matters of promotion to SC/ST employees if the state feels they are not adequately represented.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The Supreme Court in the judgement also<strong> capped the reservation quota at 50%.</strong></li>
</ul>
<h3>Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan (1997)</h3>
<p><strong>Main theme:</strong> Innovating jurisprudence to <strong>prevent sexual harassment at the workplace.</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>In the context of sexual harassment of women at workplace, judicial activism reached its pinnacle in<strong> Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan (Vishaka).</strong></li>
<li>The judgement was unprecedented for several reasons: <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>the Supreme Court acknowledged and relied to a great extent on international treaties that had not been transformed into municipal law;</li>
<li>the Supreme Court provided the first authoritative definition of &lsquo;sexual harassment&rsquo; in India; and confronted with a statutory vacuum, it went creative and proposed the route of &lsquo;judicial legislation&rsquo;.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Since there was no legislation in India related to sexual harassment at the workplace, the court stated that it was free to rely on the<strong> Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW&mdash;signed by India in 1980)</strong> in interpreting <strong>Articles 14, 15, 19 and 215 of the Constitution.</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>To justify its decision the court referred to several sources including the <strong>Beijing Statement</strong> of Principles of the Independence of the Judiciary, a decision of the High Court of Australia and its own earlier decisions.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>The Supreme Court set out the following significant guidelines:</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The employer and/or other responsible people in a workplace are duty-bound to prevent or deter sexual harassment and set up processes to resolve, settle, or prosecute in such cases.</li>
<li>For the first time in India, &lsquo;sexual harassment&rsquo; was defined authoritatively. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The definition includes &lsquo;such unwelcome sexually determined behaviour (whether directly or by implication) such as: physical contact and advances, a demand or request for sexual favours, sexually coloured remarks, showing pornography, and any other unwelcome physical, verbal or non-verbal conduct of sexual nature&rsquo;.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>All employers or persons in charge of workplaces must strive to prevent sexual harassment and, if any act amounts to a specific offence under the Indian Penal Code, 1860 or any other law, they must take appropriate action to punish the guilty.</li>
<li>Even if the act is not considered a legal offence or a breach of service rules, the employer should create appropriate mechanisms so that the complaint is addressed and redressed in a time-bound manner.</li>
<li>This complaint mechanism must, if necessary, provide a complaints committee, a special counsellor or other support service, such as assuring confidentiality. The complaints committee should be headed by a woman, and at least half its members must be women.</li>
<li>The employer must sensitize female employees to their rights and prominently notify the court&rsquo;s guidelines.</li>
<li>Even if a third party is responsible for sexual harassment, the employer must take all steps necessary to support the victim.</li>
<li>The central and state governments should adopt suitable measures to ensure that private sector employers implement the guidelines.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Aruna Ramachandra Shanbaug v. Union of India (2011)</h3>
<p><strong>Main Theme:</strong> Accepting <strong>passive euthanasia</strong> as being constitutional</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Passive euthanasia</strong> is a condition where there is withdrawal of medical treatment with the deliberate intention to hasten the death of a terminally-ill patient.</li>
<li>The <strong>Aruna Shanbaug case</strong> triggered debate of Euthanasia in India.</li>
<li>A writ petition under Article 32 before the Supreme Court of India was filed, asking for the legalisation of euthanasia so that Aruna&rsquo;s continued suffering could be terminated by withdrawing medical support.</li>
<li>Supreme court in 2011 <strong>recognised passive euthanasia</strong> in this case by which it had permitted withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment from patients not in a position to make an informed decision.</li>
<li>Subsequent to this, in a landmark judgment (2018), the Supreme Court recognised passive euthanasia and<strong> &ldquo;living will&rdquo;.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>A <strong>&lsquo;living will&rsquo;</strong> is a concept where a patient can give consent that allows withdrawal of life support systems if the individual is reduced to a permanent vegetative state with no real chance of survival.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Lily Thomas v. Union of India (2013)</h3>
<p><strong>Main Theme:</strong> Struck down as unconstitutional <strong>Section 8(4) of the Representation of the People Act (RPA)-1951</strong> that allowed convicted lawmakers a three-month period for filing appeals to the higher court and to get a stay on the conviction and sentence.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Section 8 of the RPA</strong> deals with disqualification on conviction for certain offences: A person convicted of any offence and sentenced to imprisonment for varying terms under Sections 8 (1) (2) and (3) shall be disqualified from the date of conviction and shall continue to be disqualified for a further period of six years since his release. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>But <strong>Section 8 (4) of the RP Act</strong> gives protection to MPs and MLAs as they can continue in office even after conviction if an appeal is filed within three months.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The Supreme Court held that chargesheeted Members of Parliament and MLAs, on conviction for offences, will be immediately disqualified from holding membership of the House without being given three months&rsquo; time for appeal, as was the case before.</li>
<li>The Bench found it unconstitutional that convicted persons could be <strong>disqualified from contesting elections</strong> but could continue to be Members of Parliament and State Legislatures once elected.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Justice K.S. Puttaswamy vs. Union of India (2017)</h3>
<p><strong>Main Theme:</strong> SC ruled that <strong>Fundamental Right to Privacy</strong> is intrinsic to life and liberty and thus, comes under Article 21 of the Indian constitution.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Nine judges of this Court assembled to determine whether privacy is a constitutionally protected value. The issue reaches out to the foundation of a constitutional culture based on the protection of human rights and enables this Court to revisit the basic principles on which our Constitution has been founded and their consequences for a way of life it seeks to protect.</li>
<li>This case presents challenges for constitutional interpretation. If privacy is to be construed as a protected constitutional value, it would redefine in significant ways our concepts of liberty and the entitlements that flow out of its protection.</li>
<li>The Puttaswamy judgement of 2017 reaffirmed the<strong> &lsquo;Right to Privacy&rsquo; as a fundamental right in Indian Jurisprudence.</strong> Since then, it has been used as an important precedent in many cases, to emphasize upon the right to privacy as a fundamental right and to clarify the scope of the same.</li>
<li>The Supreme Court upheld the validity of the <strong>Aadhar Scheme</strong> on the ground that it did not violate the right to privacy of the citizens as minimal biometric data was collected in the enrolment process and the authentication process is not exposed to the internet. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The majority upheld the constitutionality of the Aadhaar Act, 2016 barring a few provisions on disclosure of personal information, cognizance of offences and use of the Aadhaar ecosystem by private corporations.</li>
<li>They relied on the fulfilment of the proportionality test as laid down in the Puttaswamy (2017) judgment.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Proportionality Test under Puttaswamy (2017) judgment</strong></p>
<p>It held that <strong>privacy is a natural right</strong> that inheres in all natural persons, and that the right may be restricted only by state action that passes each of the three tests:</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>First, such state action must have a legislative mandate;</li>
<li>Second, it must be pursuing a legitimate state purpose; and</li>
<li>Third, it must be proportionate i.e., such state action &mdash; both in its nature and extent, must be necessary in a democratic society and the action ought to be the least intrusive of the available alternatives to accomplish the ends</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Navtej Singh Johar vs. Union Of India (2018)</h3>
<p><strong>Main Theme:</strong> Decriminalised homosexuality by <strong>striking off parts of Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC)</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>In <strong>Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India case,</strong> the Supreme Court of India unanimously held that <strong>Section 377</strong> of the Indian Penal Code 1860 (IPC), which criminalized &lsquo;carnal intercourse against the order of nature&rsquo;, was<strong> unconstitutional</strong> in so far as it criminalized consensual sexual conduct between adults of the same sex.</li>
<li>The petition, challenged Section 377 on the ground that it was vague and it violated the constitutional rights to privacy, freedom of expression, equality, human dignity and protection from discrimination guaranteed under Articles 14, 15, 19 and 21 of the Constitution.</li>
<li>The Court relied upon the judgement in the case of <strong>K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India,</strong> which held that denying the LGBT community its right to privacy on the ground that they form a minority of the population would be violative of their fundamental rights, and that sexual orientation forms an inherent part of self-identity and denying the same would be violative of the right to life.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Read More:</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/constitutional-rights-judicial-review-and-parliamentary-democracy#:~:text=Judicial%20Review%20in%20its%20most,principles%20of%20Grundnorm*%20i.e.%20Constitution." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Constitutional Rights, Judicial Review and Parliamentary Democracy</strong></a></li>
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/privacy-judgement-and-the-aftermath" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Privacy Judgement and the Aftermath</strong></a></li>
<li><a href="/to-the-points/Paper2/to-the-point-paper-2-section-377-judgement" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Section 377 Judgement</strong></a></li>
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/perpetuating-the-power-imbalance-addressing-sexual-harassment-at-higher-institutions-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Perpetuating the Power-Imbalance &ndash; Addressing Sexual Harassment at Higher Institutions in India</strong></a></li>
<li><a href="/to-the-points/Paper2/reservation-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Reservation in India</strong></a></li>
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/reservation-not-a-right" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Reservation: Not a Right</strong></a></li>
</ul>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/to-the-points/Paper2/important-judgements-of-independent-india'
	],
	(int) 11 => [
		'title' => 'Credit Guarantee for NBFC-MFIs',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/national-bank-for-agriculture-and-rural-development-nabard" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD)</strong></a> has introduced <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/economic-stimulus-i" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Partial Credit Guarantee</strong></a><strong> Programme</strong> for <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/A%20nuanced%20understanding%20of%20the%20NBFC%20sector" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC)</a> - Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs).</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The programme aims to ensure unhindered flow of credit in rural areas hit by the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/coronavirus-disease-named-covid-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid-19 pandemic.</strong></a></li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Programme:</strong>
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Under the programme, NABARD will provide <strong>partial guarantee on pooled loans</strong> extended to small and mid-sized MFIs.
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>This has come in the backdrop of most <strong>MFIs being excluded from the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/rbi-cuts-repo-rate" target="_blank" rel="noopener">moratorium</a> benefits from banks,</strong> creating a dip in collections, resulting in widening asset-liability mismatch, credit downgrades and spike in cost of fresh funding.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>NABARD will facilitate Rs. 2,500 crore funding in the initial phase and will further increase the funding.</li>
<li>The program is expected to cover over 1 million households across 28 states and 650 districts.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Implementation:</strong>
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>NABARD has signed agreements with <strong>Vivriti Capital and Ujjivan <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/guidelines-for-licencing-of-small-finance-banks" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Small Finance Bank</a></strong> to roll out the initiative.
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Vivriti Capital is a non-banking financial corporation.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Benefits:</strong>
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The partially guaranteed loan facility will <strong>catalyse much-needed financing to millions of households, agricultural and business markets</strong> to sustain in the post Covid-19 environment.
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>MFIs operate in rural hinterlands and serve farmers, traders, rural businesses and households.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Pooled Loan Issuance (PLI):</strong>
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Under a PLI structure, a bank or an NBFC (Principal Lender), provides loans to identified Microfinance Institutions/other NBFCs/corporates (Borrowers).</li>
<li>Each of these loans are made as per terms agreed upon between the Principal Lender and the Borrowers in keeping with the Principal Lenders underwriting and credit evaluation practices.</li>
<li>The loans offered are pooled together and credit enhanced by way of a common partial guarantee offered by identified guarantors to the structure.</li>
<li>The<strong> PLI structure provides the lending bank adequate comfort through the guarantor's partial credit protection,</strong> it also <strong>reduces cost of capital</strong> as the rating of the loans get increased and helps lenders meet priority sector goals.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Non-Banking Financial Company-Micro Finance Institution</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The NBFC-MFI is a <strong>non-deposit taking financial company.</strong></li>
<li>Conditions to qualify as NBFC-MFI:
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Minimum Net Owned Funds (NOF) of Rs. 5 crore.</li>
<li>At least 85% of its Net Assets in the nature of <strong>Qualifying Assets.</strong>
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The Qualifying Assets are those assets which have a substantial period of time to be ready for its intended use or sale.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The difference between an NBFC-MFI and other NBFC is that while other NBFCs can operate at a very high level but MFIs cater to only the smaller level of social strata, with need of smaller amounts as loans.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<p>NBFC-MFI plays a crucial role in sustaining consumption demand as well as capital formation in the smaller level of strata, thus it is essential that they continue to get funding without disruption, and the partial credit guarantee programme is expected to systematically enable the same.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/business/nabard-planto-finance-nbfcs-mfis/article32432146.ece#:~:text=National%20Bank%20for%20Agriculture%20and,%2D19%2Daffected%20rural%20areas." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/credit-guarantee-for-nbfc-mfis'
	],
	(int) 12 => [
		'title' => 'AIIB Loan for MUTP-3',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why In News</h3>
<p>The <strong>Government of India,</strong> the Government of Maharashtra, Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation and the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-international-institution/asian-infrastructure-investment-bank" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)</strong></a> have signed a loan agreement for a<strong> USD 500 million</strong> for<strong> Mumbai Urban Transport Project-III.</strong></p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Mumbai Urban Transport Project-III (MUTP-3):</strong> It is a project supervised and implemented by the <strong>Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority</strong> to enhance the network capacity, service quality and safety of Mumbai&rsquo;s suburban railway system. The <strong>deadline</strong> for completion of MUTP-3 is<strong> 2022.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Major Objectives:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Improve traffic and transportation situation in Mumbai Metropolitan Region.</li>
<li>Institutional development and strengthening.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Expected Benefits:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The Project is expected to<strong> increase network capacity</strong> in the region and thus will improve mobility.</li>
<li>There will be a<strong> reduction in journey time and fatal accidents</strong> of commuters.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>There will be direct safety benefits to passengers and the public through the introduction of<strong> trespass control measures.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>It is estimated that among primary beneficiaries of the project, <strong>22% are female passengers who will benefit from improved safety and quality of service.</strong></li>
<li>It will also help in <strong>reducing carbon emissions</strong> by shifting passengers away from higher-carbon road transport towards efficient and convenient rail-based mobility.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Need:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The<strong> population's explosive growth</strong> represents the core driver behind Mumbai&rsquo;s urban expansion. It is compelling to prioritize sound urban and infrastructure planning.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>With a population of 22.8 million (2011), Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) is the most populous metropolitan region in India and is expected to reach 29.3 million by 2031 and 32.1 million by 2041.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Around<strong> 86%</strong> of Mumbai commuters rely on public transport.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The Mumbai suburban railway network <strong>carries three-quarters of all motorized travel</strong> (8 million passengers per day).</li>
<li>User experience remains compromised by the <strong>low amenity of carriages, substandard stations</strong> and<strong> station access,</strong> and serious <strong>safety concerns.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Between<strong> 2002-2012,</strong> there were more on average,<strong> 9.9 fatalities per day</strong> on the Mumbai suburban railway network.</li>
<li>A key reason for accidents and deaths is <strong>trespassing and overcrowding</strong> of both stations and train cars.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is a <strong>multilateral development bank</strong> with a mission to improve social and economic outcomes in Asia. It was established in <strong>December 2015.</strong></li>
<li>It is <strong>headquartered in Beijing (China)</strong> and began its operations in <strong>January 2016.</strong></li>
<li>It has <strong>103 members including India.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>India is among the founding members of AIIB.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>China is the largest shareholder</strong> in AIIB with a 26.6% voting power, followed by India with a 7.62% voting power.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>AIIB Support to India</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>India is the largest beneficiary of AIIB financing for infrastructure projects. The AIIB has approved some major projects in India. These are:<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Bangalore Metro Rail Project (USD 335 million).</li>
<li>Gujarat Rural Roads (MMGSY) Project (USD 329 million).</li>
<li>India Infrastructure Fund.</li>
<li>Andhra Pradesh 24&times;7 &ndash; Power For All Project.</li>
<li>USD 750 Million for Covid-19 support for India.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<p><a href="https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1648217" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source- PIB</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/aiib-loan-for-mutp-3'
	],
	(int) 13 => [
		'title' => 'India’s Longest River Ropeway in Assam',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>The <strong>Assam government</strong> has inaugurated a <strong>1.8-km ropeway across the Brahmaputra river,</strong> and described it as India&rsquo;s longest river ropeway.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598344661_image2.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598344661_image2.png" width="600" caption="false" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a></p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>About the Ropeway:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Built at the cost of <strong>Rs. 56 crore,</strong> it extends from<strong> Central to Northern Guwahati.</strong> It takes <strong>eight minutes</strong> to traverse the entire length of the ropeway.</li>
<li>It passes over the mid-river <strong>Peacock Island</strong> that houses <strong>Umananda,</strong> a medieval Shiva temple.</li>
<li>According to the government, this is <strong>one of the most advanced &amp; longest river crossing Aerial Tramway systems in India.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Aerial tramways are particularly well-suited in extreme terrain since the towers can be erected at larger intervals.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Need:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Thousands of people commute every day</strong> between the capital city of Guwahati and the town of North Guwahati, where IIT Guwahati is located. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Other travel options between the two banks are by ferry (30 minutes or more, depending on current and season) or by road through a bridge that usually takes over an hour in the traffic.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Other Benefits:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Apart from substantially reducing travel time, the ropeway will provide a <strong>breathtaking view of the Brahmaputra river</strong> and <strong>promote tourism</strong> in the State.</li>
<li>Tourists can take the ropeway to North Guwahati and spend quality time on that side. Hospitality services will also develop on that side and thus the ropeway is expected to be an overall boost for tourism in the city.</li>
<li>Further, the ropeway is considered as a <strong>convenient and non-polluting means of transport,</strong> as well as a <strong>source of environmentally friendly tourism.</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>It is ecologically sustainable as it is run by electric power protecting the beauty of the area, while simultaneously providing passengers with a comfortable and speedy means of travel.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/why-brahmaputra-ropeway-is-special-6568417/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: IE</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/india-s-longest-river-ropeway-in-assam'
	],
	(int) 14 => [
		'title' => 'Odisha’s Bonda Tribe',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, four people from the<strong> Bonda tribal community</strong> have tested positive for the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/covid-19-and-indian-federalism" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid-19.</strong></a></p>
<h3><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598344529_image1.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1598344529_image1.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="500" caption="false" /></a></h3>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>PVTGs:</strong> Bondas are one of the 13 <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/particularly-vulnerable-tribal-groups" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)</a> found in Odisha.</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>There are a <strong>total of 75 PVTGs in India.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Austroasiatic Tribes:</strong> Bondas are members of a group of<strong> Austroasiatic tribes,</strong> they are believed to be <strong>part of the first wave of migration out of Africa</strong> about 60,000 years ago. They are the<strong> first forest settlers in India.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Culture:</strong> The Bondas have <strong>retained their identity and culture</strong> despite external interventions over the years.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Primarily forest dwellers,</strong> the Bondas used to hunt and forage for food in the wild.</li>
<li><strong>Matriarchal society-</strong>The women prefer to marry men who are younger by at least 5-10 years, so that the men can earn for them when they grow old.</li>
<li><strong>Unique dressing style-</strong> Women are semi clad and wear various types of rings and necklaces around their bodies, while the men carry lethal bows and arrows.</li>
<li><strong>Language-</strong> They continue to speak in their <strong>language, Remo,</strong> which comes under the Austroasiatic language belonging to the Mundari group. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The Mundari group of languages are spoken by <strong>Munda people.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Division:</strong> The Bonda tribe is divided into two groups based on their settlement: <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The <strong>Upper Bondas</strong> living in the inaccessible forests.</li>
<li>The <strong>Lower Bondas</strong> in the plains.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Tribes in Odisha:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Odisha is home to 62 tribal communities &mdash; the<strong> largest diverse groups of tribal population in India.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Thirteen of them are PVTGs&mdash; <strong>Bonda, Birhor, Chuktia Bhunjia, Didayi, Dungaria Kandha, Hill Kharia, Juang, Kutia Kondh, Lanjia Saora, Lodha, Mankirdia, Paudi Bhuyan and Saora.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Tribal populations are found in the <strong>entire seven districts of Kandhamal, Mayurbhanj, Sundargarh, Nabarangpur, Koraput, Malkangiri and Rayagada,</strong> and in parts of six other districts.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/virus-breaches-another-wall-four-bondas-test-positive/article32432563.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/odisha-s-bonda-tribe'
	],
	(int) 15 => [
		'title' => 'Rotation of Panchayat Seats Between Men and Women',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>The Haryana government is planning to bring a Bill to provide <strong>50:50 reservation</strong> in <strong><a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/panchayati-raj-institution-pri" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Panchayati Raj Institutions</a> (PRIs)</strong> for men and women candidates, and rotate the seats between male and female representatives after each term.</p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Men and women will be able to contest panchayat polls under the<strong> odd-even formula.</strong> This will be implemented for sarpanches and members of village wards, block samitis and zila parishads.</li>
<li><strong>Benefit:</strong> This will ensure equal opportunities for men and women, and women from all constituencies will have fair share in terms of reservation.</li>
<li><strong>Limitations:</strong> Policy of reservation for only one term and rotation of reserved seats and posts of chairperson can <strong>hinder the consolidation of leadership qualities</strong> among women representatives as it takes time for them to learn the skills of handling and negotiating various conflicting interests within the panchayat. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>To deal with this issue, some states like Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, Odisha and Karnataka have made provisions for<strong> two term reservation of seats at PRIs.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Haryana previously enacted <strong>Haryana Panchayati Raj (Amendment) Act, 2015&nbsp;</strong>laying down eligibility criteria to be able to contest Panchayat elections in the state. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It included<strong> disqualification</strong> in case of <strong>non-completion of minimum educational criteria</strong> (like class X pass for general category and Class 8<sup>th</sup> for SC), <strong>non-payment of arrears and debts</strong> to co-operative banks or electricity bills, and <strong>not having functional toilets</strong> at home.</li>
<li>The Supreme Court upheld this decision arguing that prescription of an educational qualification is not irrelevant for better administration. Also, the criteria of insolvency and toilets will encourage good practices among legislators.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Constitutional Provisions for Women Representation in PRIs:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The <strong>73<sup>rd</sup> Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992</strong> mandates <strong>33.3% reservation</strong> for women in PRIs across the country. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The 73<sup>rd</sup> Amendment envisages the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/appointment-of-government-servants-as-gram-panchayat-administrator" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Gram Sabha</strong></a> as the foundation of the Panchayat Raj System to perform functions and powers entrusted to it by the State Legislatures.</li>
<li>This has been increased to <strong>50% reservation</strong> in several states like Andhra Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Bihar etc.</li>
<li>Out of the 30.41 lakh elected representatives of PRIs, 13.74 lakh <strong>(45.2%)</strong> are women.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Article 15 (3)</strong> to the Constitution of India empowers the State to make <strong>special provisions for women.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Article 243D</strong> provides that <strong>one-third of the total number of seats and offices</strong> of the Chairpersons in PRIs at each level shall be reserved for women to be allotted by <strong>rotation to different constituencies in a Panchayat.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Such reservations of seats and offices of the chairpersons for women are also within the reservations for SCs and STs in all three tiers of PRIs.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>In order to bring about 50% reservation for women in Panchayats in all States, the <strong>110<sup>th</sup> Constitution Amendment Bill</strong> was introduced in the Lok Sabha in <strong>2009</strong>, but it was<strong> not passed</strong> despite being tabled several times.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Challenges Before Women in PRIs</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Patriarchy:</strong> Many women are not allowed to contest elections and many continue to work as proxies for their male family members. Their male co-workers show <strong>insensitivity</strong> and may refuse to cooperate. Burden of<strong> household responsibilities, purdah (veil) system and domestic violence</strong> negatively affect their functioning.</li>
<li><strong>Inadequate Capacities:</strong> Majority of women representatives enter into public life for the first time and do <strong>not have enough knowledge and skills</strong> to handle affairs of panchayats. Training programmes conducted by government training agencies are unable to cover all elected representatives in time.</li>
<li><strong>Violent Opposition:</strong> Women often face <strong>more resistance from the community</strong> if they want to take bold steps. They are also subjected to violence from powerful elements of the society.</li>
<li><strong>Two Child Norm:</strong> A few States like<strong> Odisha and Rajasthan have the two child norm</strong> for contesting panchayat elections. In rural areas women hardly have any say in the number of children in the family and such laws restrict their entry into panchayats.</li>
<li><strong>Caste System:</strong> Hierarchical caste system in rural India makes it difficult for women from SC and ST communities to work independently and effectively.</li>
<li><strong>Lack of Women at Other Levels:</strong> Lack of women coworkers and at higher administrative level also hinders the free functioning of women representatives.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Efforts by Government to Promote Women in PRIs:</strong> The Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) has been making continuous efforts by launching and implementing various schemes for capacity building of women representatives in PRIs, like <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA)</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><a href="/to-the-points/Paper2/year-end-review-2019-ministry-of-panchayati-raj" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>RGSA</strong> </a>was launched in 2018 for developing and strengthening the capacities of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) for rural local governance to become more responsive towards <strong>local development needs,</strong> preparing the <strong>participatory plans</strong> that leverage technology, efficient and <strong>optimum utilization of available resources</strong> for realizing sustainable solutions to local problems linked to <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/sustainable-development-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).</strong></a></li>
<li>It included rewards for ensuring women participation in PRIs</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP)</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Some of the <strong>key aspects of <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/mahila-sabhas-on-the-international-women-s-day" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GPDP</a> guidelines that are relevant to Women Empowerment include</strong> proactive participation of women in budgeting, planning, implementation and monitoring of GPDP and convening Mahila Sabhas prior to the general Gram Sabhas and their inclusion in Gram Sabhas and GPDP.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Panchayat Mahila Evam Yuva Shakti Abhiyan (PMEYSA)</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>It was implemented from the year 2007-08 till 2012-13 with the broad objective of empowerment of Elected Women &amp; Youth Representatives of Panchayats.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Recently, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj has directed all the States and Union Territories to organise <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/mahila-sabhas-on-the-international-women-s-day" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Special Gram Sabhas and Mahila Sabhas (Women&rsquo;s Assemblies)</strong></a> in all <strong>Gram Panchayats</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The current proposal is a welcome step. However, the government must bear in mind that equality in representation is not enough to ensure socio-political equity among genders, as the relatively disadvantaged position of women must be taken into account.</li>
<li>Increasing women in PRIs will increase the probability of their better <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/india-needs-more-women-parliamentarians" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>representation in parliament</strong></a>, which as of now is only 14%. To further promote women participation in PRIs, emphasis must be made for gender sensitization of male elected representatives and functionaries of PRIs.</li>
<li>In capacity building of women representatives, governments must also invite and involve civil society organizations, women&rsquo;s groups, academic institutions, corporate social responsibility foundations and also international organizations like UNWomen. A <strong>multi-stakeholder, collaborative, multi-pronged, systematic effort</strong> to enhance the capacities of Elected Women Representatives (EWRs) are required.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/haryana-plans-bill-to-rotate-panchayat-seats-between-men-and-women-6568372/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: IE</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/rotation-of-panchayat-seats-between-men-and-women'
	],
	(int) 16 => [
		'title' => 'Online Path to Healthcare',
		'catname' => 'News Editorials',
		'desc' => '<div class="border">
<p>This article is based on the editorial, <a href="https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/coronavirus-covid-19-online-path-to-healthcare-6566951/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&ldquo;Online path to healthcare&rdquo;,</strong></a> which was published in The Indian Express on 24/08/2020. It talks about the digital solutions to remove the barriers to healthcare in India and the challenges associated with it.</p>
</div>
<p>The <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/covid-19-and-indian-federalism" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid-19 crisis</strong> </a>has exposed the shortcomings of the healthcare services across India. New challenges are emerging every day especially in the rural areas which lack even the basic healthcare facilities.</p>
<p>In such a situation digital solutions like oximeter and on <strong>phone health care workers</strong> have evolved as a game changer and have been able to solve the long standing problems of accessibility and even affordability to a great extent. However, the challenges remain and for e-health to be a success the basic systems must be in place.</p>
<h3>E-Health</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>E-Health is an emerging field which primarily refers to health services and information delivered through the internet and related technologies.</li>
<li>In a broader sense, the term characterizes not only a technical development, but a commitment for networked, global thinking, to improve health care locally, regionally, and worldwide by using information and communication technology (ICT).</li>
</ul>
<h3>Benefits</h3>
<p><strong>Accessibility</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Accessibility to quality healthcare among the rural population is very poor as the village hospitals lack not only the physical infrastructure but also the manpower.</li>
<li>This negatively affects health-seeking behaviour and severely impacts the country&rsquo;s healthcare burden as people tend to avoid going to hospitals which are at far location for common diseases which become fatal at later stages.</li>
<li>Online solutions will bridge the gap and will provide the best solutions even to the hinterlands with the help of technology.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Efficiency</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>One of the promises of e-health is to increase efficiency in health care, thereby decreasing costs.</li>
<li>It would avoid duplicative or unnecessary diagnostic tests at several places and would save cost and efforts and would thus enhance efficiency.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Quality care</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>E-health will enhance the quality of healthcare as rural and marginalised people will be able to have access through tele health services.</li>
<li>Also comparisons between different providers will give additional power to consumers to choose the better health assurance.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Empowerment of consumers and patients</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>By making the knowledge bases of medicine and personal electronic records accessible to consumers over the Internet, e-health opens new avenues for patient-centered medicine, and enables evidence-based patient choice.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Better coordination</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Information exchange and communication between the different health service providers would be easier and would help in formulating a uniform and standard solution to health.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Challenges</h3>
<p><strong>Infrastructure</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>For E-Health to be successful, it's important that the minimum adequate infrastructure is in place.</li>
<li>Access to the internet and presence of pathological labs are few of them.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Cost consciousness</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The healthcare sector needs to be cost conscious and expenditure on unnecessary tests and procedures must be eliminated.</li>
<li>There is no national policy or standard protocol in this regard.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Data Security</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Ensuring data security remains one of the biggest challenges.</li>
<li>Patients and healthcare professionals alike need to feel one hundred percent confident about the confidentiality of digital health systems.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Training</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Engaging and training doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals, in the new technologies are essential else the whole idea would fail. The very backbone of this model is ICT and a trained manpower in ICT.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Pooling the knowledge</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>By pooling knowledge and resources across surgeries, hospitals and countries integrated E-Health systems can be developed faster and for the good of all.</li>
<li>It has been seen that big private hospitals are generally reluctant to share the best practices in general.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<p><strong>Filling the Gaps</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It is important to identify and analyse geographical, financial, social and systemic barriers to access and fill them. Increasing the budget for healthcare should be the first step in that direction.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Training</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Not only the doctors, nurses, medical and technical staff need to be trained, skilled and equipped, but their services have to be equitably distributed across regions.</li>
<li>Remote and rural areas are especially plagued with staff shortages.</li>
<li>Patients will have to be made aware to ensure that the potential of efficient healthcare systems are maximised.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>A National Policy</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>A clear, enforceable policy on human resources is needed to ensure that every single patient in India is taken care of by sensitive, trained and competent healthcare workers.</li>
<li>Clear demarcation of processes and procedures are essential to ensure accountability and for that a national policy on E-Health must be passed which will bring transparency and uniformity across the country.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Online Portals and Apps</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Online patient portals also provide medical test results, diagnosis and give patients detailed explanations of their illnesses, saving doctors precious time.</li>
<li>Devices like health rate monitors, exercise and activity trackers and sweat meters allow people to keep track of some aspects of their health without having to visit a doctor.</li>
<li>The use of such devices can help flag irregularities at an early stage.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Other Applications of Technology in Healthcare</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It ranges from drone delivery of life-saving medicines, blood components or devices to inaccessible areas to remotely conducted robotic surgeries and even use of-augmented reality (AR) glasses that could allow first responders to connect with faraway specialists in a matter of seconds.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Conclusion</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It cannot be overstated that solving basic healthcare challenges is crucial for ensuring the good health of the nation. It must be equitable, fair, affordable and transparent.</li>
<li>Digital solutions can remove long standing problems of Indian medical systems but for that basic systems must be in place.</li>
</ul>
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 100%; border-color: #ff0000; background-color: #e9f7eb; border-style: dotted;">
<p><span style="color: #000080;"><em><strong>Drishti Mains Question</strong></em></span></p>
<p>Do you feel E-Health can be the way out to our healthcare issues to a great extent? Discuss.</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p style="text-align: center;"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/olDNZQlJ_AM" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p>This editorial is based on <a href="https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/less-taxing-the-hindu-editorial-on-national-recruitment-agency/article32406562.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&ldquo;Less taxing: On National Recruitment Agency&rdquo;</strong></a> which was published on August 21<sup>st</sup>, 2020. Now watch this on our Youtube channel.</p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/online-path-to-healthcare'
	],
	(int) 17 => [
		'title' => 'Open API Service in Aarogya Setu',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>The government has announced a <strong>new feature 'Open API Service'</strong> for its contact tracing app <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/aarogya-setu-app-a-technological-solutionism" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Aarogya Setu.</strong></a></p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The Open API Service of Aarogya Setu addresses the fear/risk of<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/coronavirus-disease-named-covid-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> Covid-19</strong></a> infections and will help the people, businesses and the <strong>economy to return to normalcy.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Here, organizations can take informed decisions regarding the presence of employees in office and the need to explore work from home. Thus, risk of contracting is reduced without much compromising on activities of the entity.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The Open API Service of Aarogya Setu, can be <strong>availed by organizations and business entities.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Conditions:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Entities who are <strong>registered in India.</strong></li>
<li>Entities with<strong> more than 50 employees.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Benefits to Organizations and Business Entities:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>They can use the Open API Service to query the Aarogya Setu Application in real-time.</li>
<li>They can get the health status of their employees or any other Aarogya Setu User.</li>
<li>The Open API Service enables organizations to check the status of Aarogya Setu and integrate it into its various Work from Home features.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Privacy Issue Addressed:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The Open API shall only provide the Aarogya Setu status and name of the Aarogya Setu User (strictly,<strong> with User's consent only).</strong></li>
<li>No other personal data shall be provided through the API.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>API</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The term &lsquo;API&rsquo; stands for <strong>&lsquo;Application Programming Interface&rsquo;.</strong></li>
<li>An API is an interface that can be used to program software that interacts with an existing application.</li>
<li>In practice, an API is &ldquo;a set of functions and procedures&rdquo; that allow one to access and build upon the data and functionality of an existing application.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Open Source API</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>An open source API, also called <strong>public API,</strong> is an application programming interface made publicly available to software developers.</li>
<li>Open APIs are published on the internet and shared freely, allowing the owner of a network-accessible service to give universal access to consumers.</li>
<li>These are to support businesses with limited capital to invest in digital applications.</li>
<li>An overlapping term<strong> web service</strong> is a resource that&rsquo;s made available over the <strong>internet.</strong> A Web service is a software system designed to support interoperable machine-to-machine interaction over a network.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>APIs vs Web Services</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>APIs and web services are not mutually exclusive.</li>
<li>In fact, one is a subset of the other: <strong>every web service is an API</strong> &mdash; since it exposes an application&rsquo;s data and/or functionality &mdash;<strong> but not every API is a web service.</strong> This is because the definition of a web service is quite restrictive:<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Web services require a network.</strong> While APIs can be online or offline, web services must use a network.</li>
<li><strong>APIs are protocol agnostic.</strong> While APIs can use any protocols or design styles, web services usually use specific protocols.</li>
<li><strong>Web services are not open source generally:</strong> Instead, they tend to offer specific data and/or functionality to specific partners. Thus they are less prone to hacking than API.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Aarogya Setu</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Aarogya Setu was launched in April 2020. It was developed by the<strong> National Informatics Centre</strong> under the<strong> Ministry of Electronics &amp; Information Technology.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The motto of Aarogya Setu is<strong><em> &lsquo;Main Surakshit, Hum Surakshit, Bharat Surakshit&rsquo;.</em></strong></li>
<li>Since its launch, Aarogya Setu has continuously innovated and introduced more novel features like:<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>e-pass integration,</strong></li>
<li><strong>QR Code scanning,</strong></li>
<li><strong>Sharing of Health status</strong> with family/known persons, etc.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Aarogya Setu has emerged as the most downloaded contact tracing App in the world, with more than 15 crore users.</li>
<li>It aids the efforts of frontline health workers and the Government in Covid-19 mitigation and management efforts.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The <strong>Aarogya Setu ITIHAS</strong> interface which <strong>uses location data</strong> and Aarogya Setu analytics to predict emerging hotspots <strong>at Sub Pincode</strong> levels has been very effective in helping the health officials and administration to take necessary precautionary steps.</li>
<li>More than 30,000 hotspots have been identified at a very granular level of 300 m X 300 m and shared with State Governments and Districts.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Concerns:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Government has issued guidelines to the employers to ensure that all their employees install this app.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>This violates the right to privacy, which is a fundamental right as held by the Supreme court in <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/privacy-judgement-and-the-aftermath" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Puttaswamy case 2017.</strong></a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The data-sharing and knowledge-sharing protocol for the Aarogya Setu is <strong>prone to misuse,</strong> considering that India still<strong> doesn&rsquo;t have data protection laws.</strong></li>
<li>Vulnerable sections like<strong> migrant workers can&rsquo;t afford the smartphone</strong> and the internet.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>In May 2020, the government <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/arogya-setu-app-an-open-source" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>opened sourced the code</strong></a> for its contact tracing app Aarogya Setu&rsquo;s Android and iOS versions.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Open sourcing the code for an app allows developers to take a closer look at how the app functions. They can also find bugs in the system and report the same to the creator.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1647866" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source PIB</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/open-api-service-in-aarogya-setu'
	],
	(int) 18 => [
		'title' => 'National Council for Transgender Persons',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, the <strong>Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment</strong> has constituted the <strong>National Council for Transgender Persons,</strong> under the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/the-transgender-persons-protection-of-rights-bill-2019" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019.</strong></a></p>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Features of Transgender Persons Act, 2019</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Seeks to establish<strong> Natonal Council for Transgender persons.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Definition of a Transgender Person:</strong> The Act defines a transgender person as one whose gender does not match the gender assigned at birth. It includes transmen and trans-women, persons with intersex variations, gender-queers, and persons with socio-cultural identities, such as kinnar and hijra.</li>
<li><strong>Certificate of Identity:</strong> The Act states that a transgender person shall have the right to self-perceived gender identity.
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>A <strong>certificate of identity</strong> can be obtained at the District Magistrate's office and a revised certificate is to be obtained if sex is changed.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The Act has a provision that provides transgender the<strong> right of residence</strong> with parents and immediate family members.</li>
<li><strong>Prohibition Against Discrimination:</strong> The Act <strong>prohibits discrimination</strong> against a transgender person in various sectors such as education, employment, and healthcare etc.</li>
<li><strong>Punishment:</strong> It states that the offences against transgender persons will attract imprisonment between six months and two years, in addition to a fine.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Aim:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>To <strong>mainstream the transgender community&rsquo;s concerns,</strong> focusing on <strong>livelihood issues</strong> as well as to raise awareness about the trans community, so that transpersons are accepted within families and in the larger society.</li>
<li>To ensure that<strong> transgender welfare boards</strong> are set up in all States and essential needs of the transgender community, like housing, food, healthcare and education are met.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Functions:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Advising the Central government</strong> on the formulation of policies, programmes, legislation and projects with respect to transgender persons.</li>
<li><strong>Monitoring and evaluating</strong> the impact of policies and programmes designed for achieving equality and full participation of transgender persons.</li>
<li><strong>Reviewing and coordinating</strong> the activities of all the departments.</li>
<li><strong>Redressing grievances</strong> of transgender persons.</li>
<li>Performing such <strong>other functions</strong> as prescribed by the Centre.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Composition:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Its <strong>chairperson</strong> will be the Union <strong>Minister of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.</strong></li>
<li>It will also consists of: <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Representatives from five states or Union Territories</strong> (one each from the north, south, east, west and northeast regions), on a rotational basis.</li>
<li><strong>Five members of the trangender community</strong> (one each from the north, south, east, west and northeast regions). <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The tenure of the community members shall be <strong>three years.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Representatives from 10 central departments.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The council will have joint secretary-level members from the<strong> Ministries of Health, Home, Minority Affairs, Education, Rural Development, Labour and Law.</strong></li>
<li>In addition, there will be a member from the <strong>Department of Pensions (Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances &amp; Pensions), NITI Aayog, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/nhrc-on-public-s-rights" target="_blank" rel="noopener">National Human Rights Commission</a> and <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/rise-in-violence-against-women" target="_blank" rel="noopener">National Commission for Women.</a></strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Background</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>2013:</strong> The government set up an expert committee to study the problems of transgenders and recommend solutions.</li>
<li><strong>2014:</strong> In <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/sc-decriminalizes-homosexuality" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National Legal Services Authority v. Union of India case,</strong></a> the Supreme Court of India declared <strong>transgender people to be a 'third gender'.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It also affirmed that the fundamental rights granted under the Constitution of India will be equally applicable to transgender people, and gave <strong>them the right to self-identification of their gender as male, female or third-gender.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>2014:</strong> A <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/introduction-of-private-member-s-bill" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>private member Bill</strong></a>, the Rights of Transgendered Persons, was introduced in the Rajya Sabha.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The bill looked at a range of entitlements of such persons, providing specifically for them in health, education sectors, skill development and employment opportunities, and protection from abuse and torture.</li>
<li>However, this Bill got lapsed.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>2016:</strong> The Government introduced its own Bill in the Lok Sabha and it was referred to a Standing Committee.</li>
<li><strong>2019:</strong> The Parliament passed the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2019.</li>
<li><strong>2020:</strong> Government establishes the National Council for Transgender Persons.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The establishment of National Council for Transgender Persons which seeks to increase awareness and inculcate sense of respect and acceptance for transgender community, is a welcome step. However, its upto the effective functioning of the council whether it will able to identify the issues faced by the transgender community and accordingly advice the government.</li>
<li>Apart from policies and regulations, there is also a need for an inclusive approach, sensitising legal and law enforcement systems in particular towards the issues of transgender community.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/centre-forms-national-council-for-transgender-persons/article32422814.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
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	(int) 19 => [
		'title' => 'Inclusion of the Disabled in National Food Security Act 2013',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>The <strong>Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food &amp; Public Distribution</strong> has asked State Governments/UTs to include all eligible <a href="/to-the-points/Paper2/issues-related-to-persons-with-disability" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>disabled persons</strong></a> under the <strong>National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013. </strong></p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The disabled persons should get their entitled quota of food grains under <strong>NFSA</strong> &amp; <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/extension-of-food-grain-scheme" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana</strong></a> <strong>(PMGKAY)</strong> as per provisions of the Act. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Those not already covered should be issued fresh ration cards as per the eligibility criteria.</li>
<li>The disable person should also be covered by States/UTs under <strong>the priority households</strong> as per the criteria of identification evolved by them.</li>
<li><strong>PMGKAY</strong> is a part of <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/covid-19-economic-relief-package" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package (PMGKP)</strong></a> to help the poor fight the battle against <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/coronavirus-disease-named-covid-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid-19.</strong></a><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The scheme is aimed at providing each person who is covered under the <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/public-distribution-system-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National Food Security Act</strong></a> with an <strong>additional 5 kg grains (wheat or rice)</strong> for free, in <strong>addition to the 5 kg of subsidised foodgrain</strong> already provided through the <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/public-distribution-system-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Public Distribution System (PDS).</strong></a></li>
<li>The beneficiaries are also<strong> entitled to 1 kg of pulse for free,</strong> according to regional preferences.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The <strong>Section 10</strong> of the NFSA provides for identification and coverage of persons under the <strong>Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY)</strong> and the remaining households as <strong>priority households</strong> by the State Government.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Disability is one of the criteria for inclusion of beneficiaries under AAY households.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The<strong> Section 38</strong> of the NFSA mandates that the Central Government may from time to time give directions to the State Governments for effective implementation of the provisions of the Act.</li>
<li>The <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/atmanirbhar-bharat-and-economic-stimulus" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Atmanirbhar Bharat Package</strong></a> of the Government of India provides free food, along with other benefits, to the migrant labourers, who are not covered either under NFSA or any <strong>States Scheme <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/public-distribution-system-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS)</a> Cards (<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/economic-stimulus-ii" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Under Economic Stimulus-II</a>).</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Hence, the disabled persons<strong> without ration cards are also eligible</strong> for getting benefits under Atmanirbhar Bharat package.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Notified on:</strong> 10<sup>th</sup> September, 2013</li>
<li><strong>Objective:</strong> To provide <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/food-security-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>for food and nutritional security</strong></a> in the human life cycle approach, by ensuring access to adequate quantities of quality food at affordable prices to people to live a life with dignity.</li>
<li><strong>Coverage: 75%</strong> of the rural population and upto <strong>50%</strong> of the urban population for receiving subsidized foodgrains under <strong>Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS). </strong></li>
<li><strong>Eligibility:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Priority Households</strong> to be covered under TPDS, according to guidelines by the State government.</li>
<li>Households covered under existing <strong>Antyodaya Anna Yojana.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Provisions:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>5 Kgs of foodgrains per person per month at Rs. 3/2/1 per Kg for rice/wheat/coarse grains.</li>
<li>The existing AAY household will continue to receive 35 Kgs of foodgrains per household per month.</li>
<li><strong>Meal</strong> and <strong>maternity benefit</strong> of not less than Rs. 6,000 to<strong> pregnant women and lactating mothers</strong> during pregnancy and six months after the child birth,</li>
<li>Meals to <strong>children upto 14 years of age.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Food security allowance</strong> to beneficiaries in case of non-supply of entitled foodgrains or meals.</li>
<li>Setting up of <strong>grievance redressal mechanisms</strong> at the district and state level.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Antyodaya Anna Yojana</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It was launched in <strong>December, 2000.</strong></li>
<li>It involved identification of <strong>one crore poorest of the poor families</strong> from amongst the number of<a href="/to-the-points/paper3/poverty-estimation-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> Below Poverty Line</strong></a> families covered under TPDS within the States and providing them food grains at a highly subsidized rate.</li>
<li>Some target groups identified under AAY are:<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Landless agricultural labourers,</strong> marginal farmers, rural<strong> artisans/craftsmen</strong> and persons earning their livelihood on a daily basis in the<strong> informal sector.</strong></li>
<li>Households headed by <strong>widows/terminally ill</strong> persons/<strong>disabled</strong> persons/<strong>senior citizens.</strong></li>
<li>Widows or terminally ill persons or <strong>disabled persons</strong> or senior citizens.</li>
<li>All<strong> primitive tribal</strong> households.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<p><a href="https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1648050" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: PIB</strong></a></p>',
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