INSIGHTS EDITORIAL

ANALYSIS

DECEMBER 2024

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 INSIGHTS EDITORIAL ANALYSIS
Table of Contents
GENERAL STUDIES – 1.............................................................................................................................................. 2
Topic: Population and associated issues .................................................................................................................. 2
1. INDIA'S POPULATION POLICIES AND CHALLENGES .............................................................................................. 2

Topic: Poverty and developmental issues, Urbanization, their problems and their remedies. .................................... 4
2. ADVERTISING: A DOUBLE-EDGED SWORD IN MODERN PUBLIC SPACES ................................................................ 4

GENERAL STUDIES – 2.............................................................................................................................................. 6

Topic: Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary ..................................................... 6
3. JUDICIAL CODE OF CONDUCT ........................................................................................................................... 6

Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education,
Human Resources................................................................................................................................................... 8
4. REFORM IN UNIVERSITY ADMINISTRATION ........................................................................................................ 8
5. FOOD SAFETY AND CONSUMER AWARENESS ..................................................................................................... 9
6. INDIA’S ECONOMIC CHALLENGES AND POLICY DIRECTIONS ............................................................................... 11
7. BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN LIFESPAN AND HEALTHSPAN ............................................................................... 13
8. REGULATING SOCIAL MEDIA FOR CHILDREN ..................................................................................................... 15

Topic: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of
these schemes;...................................................................................................................................................... 17
9. THE MISUSE OF DOWRY HARASSMENT LAWS IN INDIA ...................................................................................... 17

Topic: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their
design and implementation. ..................................................................................................................................19
10. THE RIGHTS OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (RPWD ACT) AND THE ROLE OF STATE COMMISSIONERS ....... 19

Topic: India and its neighbourhood- relations. ........................................................................................................21

11. INDIA-BHUTAN RELATIONS .......................................................................................................................... 21
12. INDIA-CHINA RELATIONS ............................................................................................................................. 23

Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests. ....25
13. INDIA-NIGERIA RELATIONS AND STRATEGIC ENGAGEMENT ............................................................................ 25

Topic: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate. ........................................27
14. EROSION OF THE RULES-BASED WORLD ORDER AND ITS IMPLICATIONS .......................................................... 27

GENERAL STUDIES - 3 ............................................................................................................................................. 30

Topic: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and
employment ......................................................................................................................................................... 30
15. INDIA’S JOURNEY TO BECOMING A GLOBAL MANUFACTURING HUB ............................................................... 30
16. SLOWDOWN IN INDIA'S ECONOMIC GROWTH .............................................................................................. 32
17. ACHIEVING INDIA'S AMBITIOUS GROWTH TARGET ........................................................................................ 34
18. RUPEE DEPRECIATION AGAINST THE DOLLAR ................................................................................................ 36
19. GST COUNCIL MEETING AT JAISALMER ......................................................................................................... 38

Topic: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation ..............................................................................39

20. ANALYSING THE OUTCOMES OF COP29 AND THE NEW COLLECTIVE QUANTIFIED GOAL (NCQG) ....................... 39
21. NATIONAL MISSION FOR NATURAL FARMING (NMNF) AND THE CITY-FARMER PARTNERSHIP MODEL ............... 42

Topic: Disaster and disaster management. .............................................................................................................44

22. INDIA AS A GLOBAL LEADER IN TSUNAMI DISASTER MANAGEMENT ................................................................ 44
Topic: Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in
internal security challenges, basics of cyber security. .............................................................................................. 46
23. RESEARCH SECURITY IN INDIA’S STRATEGIC AND EMERGING SECTORS ............................................................ 46

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General Studies – 1
Topic: Population and associated issues
1. India's Population Policies and Challenges
Introduction
• The recent discussion about urging families to have at least three children, has reignited a critical debate
on India’s population policies.
• This discussion raises questions about whether India is equipped to support a larger population with
adequate education, healthcare, and social services.

India’s Demographic Profile: Opportunities and Challenges

• Demographic Composition:
o India is the world’s most populous country, with over 1.4 billion people.
o A significant portion of the population is young, presenting an opportunity for economic growth
through a "demographic dividend."
o However, this opportunity hinges on adequate investments in education, healthcare, and skill
development.
• Comparisons with Other Nations:
o Unlike countries such as Japan and Italy facing population decline, India does not currently face a
demographic crisis.
o Therefore, proposals to increase family size appear unnecessary, especially given existing
infrastructure and resource constraints.
• Population Growth Trends:
o Fertility rates in India have been steadily declining, with the Total Fertility Rate (TFR) dropping to
2.0 in 2023—below the replacement level of 2.1 in many states.
o Promoting population growth amidst such trends could strain existing resources.

Current State of Public Investment in Human Capital

• Education:
o Public expenditure on education has remained below 3% of GDP for over a decade. This is
significantly lower than the global average of 4.7% and inadequate for ensuring universal access
to quality education.
o The share of education in the government budget has declined from 10.7% to 9.2% over the past
seven years, raising concerns about the state’s prioritization of education.
o Insufficient funding leads to overcrowded classrooms, poorly trained teachers, and inadequate
facilities, especially in rural and underserved areas.
• Healthcare:
o Public healthcare spending has stagnated at less than 2% of GDP, far below the 6%
recommended by the WHO.
o Inadequate investment results in high out-of-pocket healthcare expenditures, pushing many
families into poverty.
• Impact on Human Development:
o A poorly educated and unhealthy population diminishes productivity and undermines economic
growth.
o Increasing family sizes without addressing these systemic issues could exacerbate poverty and
inequality.

The Economic Cost of Raising Children

• Urban vs. Rural Challenges:
o The annual cost of raising a child in urban centers like Mumbai (₹2.6 lakh), Delhi (₹3.19 lakh),
Bengaluru (₹3.5 lakh), and Indore (₹4.13 lakh) places a significant financial burden on families.

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o While rural areas have lower costs, economic challenges persist due to limited access to quality
education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.
• Rising Cost of Education:
o The cost of higher education is growing at an annual rate of 10%, further straining family budgets.
o This trend, coupled with insufficient public funding, makes quality education increasingly
unaffordable for low-income families.
• Government Dependency:
o Over half of India’s population (80 crore people) depends on government schemes for free food
grains.
o Encouraging larger families without addressing systemic issues could increase this dependency,
further straining public resources.

Quantity vs. Quality: The Case for Prioritizing Human Development

• Importance of Quality:
o A larger population does not inherently translate into economic growth. The quality of human
capital—education, skills, and health—is far more critical for long-term development.
o Countries with smaller populations but higher human development indices (HDI) consistently
outperform larger, underdeveloped populations.
• Labour Market Realities:
o India faces a paradox where educated individuals experience higher unemployment rates:
o Structural reforms are necessary to create jobs aligned with the skills of the educated youth.
• Demographic Dividend at Risk:
o Without significant investments in education and healthcare, India risks turning its demographic
dividend into a demographic burden.

Way Forward
• Increase Public Investment:
o Raise education spending to at least 6% of GDP and healthcare spending to 4% to improve
infrastructure and accessibility.
• Promote Skill Development:
o Align education curricula with job market demands and invest in vocational training to enhance
employability.
• Strengthen Population Policies:
o Focus on family planning and women’s empowerment to ensure informed choices about family
size.
• Urban Planning:
o Develop infrastructure to accommodate growing populations in urban centers, including
affordable housing and efficient public transport.

Conclusion
• While a larger population may seem beneficial in theory, the economic, social, and infrastructure realities
suggest otherwise.
• Increasing family sizes without addressing systemic challenges in education, healthcare, and employment
risks worsening existing inequalities and undermining long-term development.
• The focus should shift from population quantity to quality, ensuring that every citizen has access to the
resources and opportunities necessary to thrive.

Practice Question: Evaluate the effectiveness of India’s population policies in balancing growth and quality of life.
What measures can the government take to address the systemic challenges in education, healthcare, and
employment? (250 words)

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Topic: Poverty and developmental issues, Urbanization, their problems and their remedies.
2. Advertising: A Double-Edged Sword in Modern Public Spaces
Introduction
• Advertising, once a targeted means of communication, has permeated every possible space in modern
life—physical, digital, and even psychological.
• The issue has become glaringly evident as urban landscapes, cultural sites, and digital platforms are
flooded with ads.

Advertising in Public Spaces: A Cluttered Reality

• Visual Pollution: Urban spaces like streets, buses, metro trains, and cultural sites such as the Ganga Ghats
in Varanasi are being overtaken by interrupting advertisements.
o Public transport vehicles, once recognizable by their unique color schemes, now serve as mobile
billboards.
o Even bus stations and metro platforms obscure essential information with advertising clutter.
• Impact on Cultural and Heritage Sites:
o Advertising on heritage sites like the Ganga Ghats disrupts the spiritual and aesthetic experience,
eroding the sanctity of public landmarks.
o Such commercialization of culturally significant spaces reflects prioritization of revenue over
preservation.

Digital Platforms: Advertising Overload

• Ad Saturation: Digital screens—whether e-commerce platforms, social media, or mobile apps—are
increasingly designed to prioritize paid content.
o Search algorithms often favour products or services that pay for visibility, pushing organic and
genuine recommendations aside.
o Consumers face challenges in discerning between authentic and paid promotions.
• Manipulation and Trust Deficit:
o Excessive influencer marketing dilutes trust, as followers question the authenticity of content
creators promoting products they don’t consume.
o Ads like casino promotions, which promise unrealistic returns, highlight the manipulative nature
of some marketing strategies.

Psychological and Social Impacts

• Consumer Fatigue:
o Constant exposure to advertising causes cognitive overload, reducing its effectiveness and making
it psychologically repulsive.
o The ubiquitous nature of ads has trained people to ignore them, further diminishing their impact.
• Differential Pricing:
o Pricing discrimination, such as higher prices for iPhone users, raises ethical concerns about
equality.
o This mirrors offline practices, where economic behavior (e.g., perceived affluence) determines
pricing.

The Role of Research and Regulation

• Lack of Consumer-Centric Research:
o Most studies on advertising focus on enhancing its effectiveness rather than its negative impacts
on consumers.
o There is little exploration of the psychological, economic, and cultural costs of pervasive
advertising.
• Need for Regulatory Guidelines:
o Authorities should assess the cumulative impact of advertising on public well-being.
o Urban designers and municipal bodies must establish clear limits on advertising in public spaces
to preserve aesthetics.
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Striking a Balance: Lessons from Ad-Free Environments

• Ad-Free Experiences:
o Ad-free environments, such as university campuses, demonstrate the calming effect of reduced
visual clutter.
o These spaces emphasize the importance of serenity and collective ownership of public spaces.
• Urban Aesthetics:
o Cities should prioritize design that integrates advertising without compromising the visual and
cultural integrity of public spaces.

International Best Practices for Managing Advertising in Public and Digital Spaces
• Paris, France: Strict regulations limit the size and placement of advertisements to ensure they align with
the city's iconic architecture and heritage.
• Advertisements in Tokyo are integrated into the cityscape, with specific districts (e.g., Shibuya and
Akihabara) designated for vibrant ad displays while maintaining ad-free zones elsewhere.
• Copenhagen, Denmark: Enforces the use of sustainable materials and renewable energy for digital
billboards and outdoor advertisements.
• Rome, Italy: Prohibits advertising near historical landmarks such as the Colosseum and Vatican City.

Way Forward
• Municipal authorities should draft guidelines that restrict the size, placement, and density of
advertisements in public spaces, particularly near cultural and heritage sites.
• Enforce regulations mandating clear labeling of paid promotions on digital platforms to distinguish them
from organic content.
• Encourage advertisements that align with the cultural and aesthetic ethos of specific locations, blending
with the surroundings rather than disrupting them.
• Use AI and data analytics to ensure ads are relevant and shown to the right audience, reducing the
clutter of irrelevant advertisements.
• Educate consumers about the psychological effects of excessive advertising and empower them to opt
out of manipulative practices, such as predatory promotions or differential pricing.

Conclusion
• Excessive advertising has eroded the tranquility and functionality of public and digital spaces.
• Urban planners, governments, and consumers must demand a balance between monetization and
preservation of public spaces.
• In reclaiming serenity in public and digital spaces, society can foster an environment that values collective
ownership, authenticity, and sustainability over rampant commercialization.

Practice Question: Critically analyze the impact of excessive advertising on urban landscapes and public spaces in
India. How does visual pollution affect the cultural and aesthetic integrity of heritage sites? Suggest measures to
address this issue. (250 words)

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General Studies – 2
Topic: Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary
3. Judicial code of conduct
Introduction
• The recent communal remarks by Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav of the Allahabad High Court have
brought judicial conduct and independence under intense scrutiny.
• His comments, which equate communal majoritarianism with democracy, not only violate the ethos of
constitutional democracy but also contravene the oath of office, raising questions about judicial
accountability.
• It also highlights the challenges posed by political influence over the judiciary and the need for robust
mechanisms to uphold judicial impartiality and accountability.

Key Issues Exposed by the Incident

• Violation of Judicial Oath and Constitutional Values:
o Judges, under the Third Schedule of the Constitution, swear to uphold the integrity of India and
perform their duties “without fear or favour, affection or ill-will.”
o Justice Yadav’s remarks contradict this oath by openly disparaging minorities and reflecting a
biased ideological stance.
• Public Confidence and Judicial Impartiality:
o The judiciary derives its legitimacy from public trust. When judges express overt political or
communal biases, it erodes this trust.
o The Supreme Court in the Ravichandran Iyer case (1995) emphasized that judicial behavior is
pivotal for maintaining public faith in democracy, liberty, and justice.
• Growing Political Influence on the Judiciary:
o Justice Yadav’s remarks are not an isolated incident but part of a trend where certain judges lean
toward political power centers.
o Such tendencies undermine the judiciary's role as an impartial arbiter and weaken the democratic
framework.
• Impact on Judicial Independence:
o Judicial independence, a cornerstone of democracy, is compromised when judges align
themselves with political ideologies or external pressures.
o The comments by Justice Yadav highlight the need for stringent safeguards to prevent judicial
behavior from being influenced by personal or political agendas.

Global and Historical Perspectives on Judicial Accountability

• Judiciary and Democratic Erosion:
o Scholars like David Landau and Rosalind Dixon have demonstrated how courts can inadvertently
contribute to democratic backsliding by legitimizing executive overreach.
o In his work, J.A.G. Griffith argued that judicial impartiality is often a “myth” and warned against
the judiciary being co-opted by political interests.
• Judicial Review and Legitimacy:
o Judicial review, intended as a check on arbitrary executive action, can become a tool for
legitimizing such actions if judges are swayed by political or ideological biases.
o This reinforces the need for mechanisms to ensure judicial decisions are grounded in
constitutional values rather than personal or political considerations.
• International Standards:
o The Bangalore Principles of Judicial Conduct (2002) outline values such as independence,
impartiality, integrity, and equality that judges must uphold in both personal and professional
capacities.
o Global recognition of these principles highlights their relevance in maintaining judicial
accountability and public trust.
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Mechanisms for Judicial Accountability in India

• In-House Procedure (1997):
o The Supreme Court introduced an in-house procedure to address allegations of misconduct
among judges.
• Impeachment Process:
o The constitutional provision for removing a judge requires a majority in both Houses of
Parliament, making it impractical in most cases due to political partisanship.
• Restatement of Judicial Values (1997):
o The Supreme Court’s code of conduct advises judges to avoid public debates, political opinions,
and actions that may erode public confidence.
• Role of Bar Associations:
o Legal luminaries like Justice Krishna Iyer advocated for bar associations to play an active role in
addressing judicial aberrations.

Broader Implications for Judicial Independence and Democracy

• Quality of Democracy and Judiciary:
o Judicial independence directly influences the quality of democracy.
o A compromised judiciary weakens democratic institutions and fosters authoritarian tendencies.
• Preventing Political Co-optation:
o Judges must remain insulated from political and ideological influences to ensure fair and unbiased
adjudication.
• Strengthening Accountability Mechanisms:
o Transparent and independent oversight mechanisms are needed to address judicial misconduct
effectively.
o Efforts should focus on democratizing accountability processes while ensuring they do not
undermine judicial independence.

Way Forward
• Establishing Independent Oversight Mechanisms:
o Create a judicial accountability commission independent of both the judiciary and the executive
to investigate allegations of misconduct.
• Strengthening the In-House Procedure:
o Make the in-house procedure more transparent, with well-defined guidelines for addressing
judicial aberrations.
o Ensure that disciplinary actions are visible to the public to restore faith in the judiciary.
• Regulating Judicial Conduct:
o Enforce stricter adherence to the Restatement of Judicial Values and the Bangalore Principles.
o Prohibit judges from participating in politically or religiously motivated events during their tenure.
• Banning Post-Retirement Appointments:
o Prevent judges from accepting political or administrative roles post-retirement to eliminate
potential conflicts of interest.
• Enhancing Public Scrutiny:
o Encourage public and academic discourse on judicial accountability to ensure continuous pressure
for reform.

Conclusion
• The remarks by Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav underscore a pressing need to address judicial
accountability in India. While the judiciary is often considered the guardian of democracy, its integrity
depends on the conduct of individual judges.
• The current controversy is a reminder that judicial accountability is not just a legal necessity but a
democratic imperative.

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Practice Question: Discuss the constitutional oath taken by judges and how it underscores the principles of
judicial independence and impartiality. Illustrate with recent examples. (250 words)

Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to

Health, Education, Human Resources.
4. Reform in University Administration
Introduction
• Karnataka’s proposal to amend the Karnataka State Universities (KSU) Act to replace the Governor with
the Chief Minister as the chancellor of universities has stirred a debate on the governance of higher
education institutions.
• The proposed changes bring to light critical questions about the balance between political accountability
and university autonomy.

Background of the Amendment Proposal

• Current Framework:
o The Governor, as the chancellor of state universities, oversees key functions such as appointing
vice-chancellors (VCs), nominating members to academic bodies, and presiding over university
convocations.
o This role is intended to ensure impartiality and autonomy in higher education institutions.
• Proposed Changes:
o The Chief Minister would replace the Governor as the chancellor.
o The state government would gain control over appointing VCs and members of academic bodies.
o The Governor’s role would become largely ceremonial.

Merits of the Proposed Amendment

• Greater Accountability:
o The Chief Minister, as an elected representative, is directly answerable to the people and can
align higher education policies with local priorities.
o It could lead to more responsive and regionally focussed governance in higher education.
• Decentralisation of Power:
o The proposal empowers the state government to take charge of university affairs, reducing
dependence on the Governor.
o This aligns with the federal principle of allowing states to have greater control over institutions
within their jurisdiction.
• Streamlining Decision-Making:
o Removing the Governor from administrative roles could expedite decision-making processes
related to university governance.

Demerits and Concerns

• Threat to University Autonomy:
o Critics argue that transferring control to the Chief Minister risks exposing universities to excessive
political interference.
o Universities, traditionally spaces for intellectual independence and dissent, could lose their
credibility as autonomous institutions.
• Politicisation of Higher Education:
o Appointments of VCs and other academic positions could be influenced by political considerations
rather than merit.
o This could lead to a decline in academic standards and global rankings of universities.
• Lack of Safeguards:
o Without adequate checks and balances, concentrated power in the hands of the Chief Minister
might result in misuse or favouritism.

Broader Implications of the Debate

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• Political interference may lead to frequent changes in academic policies, causing uncertainty in
curriculum design and institutional stability.
• Since Governors are appointed by the central government, their reduced role might deepen the divide
between state and central governments, especially in states with different political parties in power.
• State universities may lose their competitive edge to private institutions, which often operate with
greater autonomy and less political interference.

Way Forward
• Balance Between Autonomy and Accountability:
o Striking a balance between efficient governance and university independence is crucial to avoid
excessive politicisation.
o States can consider forming independent bodies for university governance, comprising academic
experts, retired judges, and civil society members.
• Transparent Appointment Processes:
o The selection of VCs and other academic positions must be conducted through transparent,
merit-based mechanisms to uphold academic excellence.
• Strengthening Institutional Mechanisms:
o Creating robust grievance redressal mechanisms can help address concerns over political
interference while maintaining checks and balances.
• Central-State Collaboration:
o Higher education is a concurrent subject, requiring cooperation between the central and state
governments to ensure cohesive governance.

Conclusion
• Karnataka’s proposal to amend the KSU Act reflects broader tensions between state autonomy and
institutional independence.
• The debate underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in university governance that
prioritize transparency, meritocracy, and academic freedom.

Practice Question: Critically analyze the implications of Karnataka’s proposal to replace the Governor with the
Chief Minister as the chancellor of universities. How can a balance be achieved between political accountability
and university autonomy? (250 words)

5. Food Safety and Consumer Awareness

Introduction
• Recent reports allege Lindt dark chocolates contain lead and cadmium above acceptable levels. The
company attributes this to the inevitability of heavy metals in cocoa.
• In the US, a class-action suit has been filed; however, the company continues its operations unimpeded.
• Key Issue: Lack of accountability and transparency in addressing food safety concerns by multinational
corporations.

Historical Context: Nestlé Maggi Controversy

• In 2015, Nestlé’s Maggi noodles faced a temporary ban after tests revealed excessive lead and
monosodium glutamate content.
• This highlighted misleading marketing strategies, where a highly processed product was advertised as a
healthy choice with the tagline "Taste bhi, health bhi."

Multinational Corporations and Double Standards

• The Access to Nutrition Initiative study reveals that multinational corporations often sell less healthy
food in low-income countries compared to wealthier nations.
• Health star ratings for food products averaged 2.3 for richer countries versus 1.8 for poorer countries,
illustrating a disparity that borders on exploitation.
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• This disparity reflects systematic exploitation and underscores the ethical responsibility of global
corporations to ensure equitable food quality standards.

Processed Foods and Misleading Labelling in India

• The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) mandates labelling for ingredients, nutritional
value, and expiry dates on packaged foods.
• Despite regulatory requirements, many companies make unverifiable claims such as being "eco-friendly,"
"organic," or "diet-friendly."
• Many consumers fail to scrutinize labels thoroughly, relying instead on front-pack health claims
influenced by advertising.
• The Indian Council of Medical Research’s National Institute of Nutrition identified that misleading labels
contribute to rising non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and obesity.

Consumers’ Role in Scrutinizing Labels

• Many consumers fail to read food labels comprehensively. For instance:
o Example: Berries marketed as "healthy" may contain added sugar, mentioned discreetly in
ingredients but omitted in nutritional facts.
• Advertising Influence: Hidden messaging through advertisements and health claims often bypass rigorous
scrutiny, misleading consumers.

Transparency Issues in the Food Processing Industry

• The food processing industry has improved food availability and shelf life but often lacks transparency.
• Additives, preservatives, and chemical processes in food production are linked to metabolic disorders and
diseases.
• Traditional wisdom equating food with medicine is undermined by modern practices.

Organic Foods and the Push for Local Produce

• While organic foods are gaining traction, they remain a niche market due to high costs and limited
accessibility.
• Proposed Solution: Emphasizing local, seasonal produce with traceable sources, facilitated by QR codes
to provide detailed production and sourcing information.

Packaged Water as a High-Risk Food

• FSSAI’s classification of packaged water as a high-risk food is a welcome step, considering the dilution of
safety standards for profit.
• Regular audits and consumer vigilance are essential for ensuring safety.

Shifting Paradigms in Food Research

• Scientific perspectives on food constantly evolve:
o Coconut oil, once linked to heart disease, is now advocated for its neuroprotective properties.
o Seed oils, heavily promoted in the past, are now viewed as harmful.
• Traditional diets, validated by generational use and gut microbiome studies, are increasingly gaining
importance.

Impact of Refined Foods and Environmental Concerns

• Refined grains and polished foods have exacerbated health problems, including diabetes and obesity.
• Greenwashing and unsubstantiated environmental claims by corporations mislead consumers further.

Way Forward
• Misleading claims by food companies necessitate consumer awareness and vigilance.
• Nutritional literacy must extend beyond reading labels to understanding the broader implications of food
production and marketing.
• Caveat Emptor (Buyer Beware) should guide consumers in making informed choices.
• Regulatory bodies like FSSAI must strengthen enforcement and enhance labelling standards.
• Companies should adopt ethical practices, ensuring equitable food quality across markets.
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• Consumers must prioritize informed choices through mindfulness and vigilance.

Conclusion
• Consumers must adopt a mindful approach to food consumption, balancing modern convenience with
traditional knowledge.
• Enhancing transparency, improving labelling accuracy, and promoting nutritional literacy are pivotal steps
toward ensuring food safety and better health outcomes.

Practice Question: Recent controversies involving global food brands highlight the lack of accountability in
addressing food safety concerns. Analyze the role of regulatory frameworks in ensuring compliance by
multinational corporations operating in India. (250 words)

6. India’s Economic Challenges and Policy Directions

Introduction to the Economic Context
• Pre-COVID Economic Scenario:
o Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indian economy faced severe structural headwinds.
o GDP growth fell from 8.2% in March 2018 to 3.1% in March 2020.
o Growth decline occurred continuously for eight quarters, indicating systemic issues.
• Supply-Side Measures:
o To address this slowdown, the government implemented corporate tax cuts in late 2019, leading
to a revenue loss of ₹1.5 lakh crore.
o The intent was to increase corporate profits, driving investments, employment, incomes, and
consumption through a beneficial cycle.
• Pandemic Disruption:
o Before these measures took effect, the COVID-19 pandemic hit, further derailing growth.
o The RBI’s monetary policy was critical in rescuing the economy.

Post-Pandemic Economic Rebound and Recent Developments

• Initial Recovery:
o Post-pandemic, the economy witnessed a burst of demand, termed as “revenge consumption”,
fueled by pent-up savings.
o Monetary policy remained accommodative, enabling production to meet rising demand.
• Recent Slowdown (2024-25):
o Second-quarter GDP growth fell to 5.4%, the lowest in seven quarters, compared to 8.1% a year
ago.
o Manufacturing growth dropped to 2.2%, and export growth stagnated at 2.8%.
• Macroeconomic Indicators:
o Private Consumption: Growth fell to 6% in Q2 FY24.
o Government Consumption: Rose marginally to 4.4% but remains low compared to previous
years.
o Gross Fixed Capital Formation: Growth declined to 5.4% in Q2 from double digits in earlier years.
o Inflation: Consumer Price Index (CPI) remains above 6%, limiting RBI’s scope for monetary
intervention.
o Foreign Trade: Exports grew by 2.8%, while imports contracted by (-)2.9%, reflecting a weak
global demand environment.

Structural Challenges in India’s Economic Policy

• Corporate-Oriented Policy Approach:
o Corporate Tax Cuts (2019): Reduction in tax rates aimed to stimulate investments but resulted in
significant revenue loss.
o Corporate profits quadrupled in four years, but benefits did not trickle down to workers.

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o Banks suffered massive haircuts under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), reducing debt
recovery to 30% of the original loan amount.
• Workforce Issues:
o Increased informalisation and low-wage growth have suppressed demand.
o Wages stagnated while corporate profits rose, as highlighted by the Chief Economic Adviser.
• Outward Investments:
o India’s outward direct investment (ODI) reached $8.9 billion (Apr-Sep 2024), reflecting business
expansions abroad.
o Significant investments were directed to Singapore ($2.8 billion), the US ($1.1 billion), and the
Netherlands ($809 million).

Judicial Insights and Economic Implications

• Vishaka vs. State of Rajasthan (1997):
o Laid the groundwork for workplace reforms in India, showcasing the importance of institutional
mechanisms.
• Kerala HC Judgment (2022):
o Political parties were excluded from being categorized as workplaces, highlighting ambiguities in
governance definitions.
• Research Insights:
o Studies (e.g., David Hope and Julian Limberg, 2020) show that tax cuts for the wealthy across
OECD nations did not significantly impact employment or growth but widened inequalities.
o This research serves as a cautionary tale for relying heavily on supply-side policies.

Balancing Supply-Side and Demand-Side Measures

• Need for Demand Stimulus:
o The current economic slowdown demands a demand-side policy approach to complement
supply-side measures.
o Stimulating consumption through higher wages and employment growth is essential to revive
demand.
• Key Suggestions:
o Corporate Profits to Wages: Share corporate profits with workers to boost disposable income
and demand.
o Support Informal Sector: Address creeping informalisation and wage stagnation.
o Fiscal Policy Measures: Introduce measures like targeted transfers, increased government
expenditure, and support for MSMEs.
o Balance Investments: Encourage domestic investments alongside foreign investments to create
employment opportunities.

Global Context and Trade Concerns

• Global Economic Outlook:
o The IMF describes the global economic scenario as “underwhelming,” which could affect India’s
exports and foreign trade.
o Sluggish global demand further reduces growth prospects in the export sector.
• Strategic Trade Policies:
o Promote domestic manufacturing and reduce import dependency.
o Boost trade relations with emerging markets to counter global economic uncertainties.

Way Forward
• Shift Towards Inclusive Growth:
o Policies must focus on employment generation and equitable income distribution.
o Higher public expenditure in sectors like education, healthcare, and rural infrastructure.
• Support for MSMEs:
o MSMEs serve as significant employment generators and drivers of local demand. Policy
interventions must prioritize their revival.
• Balanced Fiscal Approach:
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o While corporate-oriented policies are essential for investments, demand-side measures like wage
growth and job creation cannot be ignored.
• Address Workforce Challenges:
o Focus on formalizing employment, ensuring job security, and enhancing skill development.
• Monetary-Fiscal Coordination:
o With inflation limiting RBI’s action, fiscal policy must take the lead in stimulating demand.

Conclusion
• India’s economic slowdown stems from structural weaknesses exacerbated by a supply-oriented policy
approach.
• Balancing supply-side incentives with demand-side stimulus is critical to achieving inclusive and
sustainable growth. As global trade remains sluggish, domestic consumption and investments must
become the pillars of India’s economic revival.

Practice Question: Analyse the recent slowdown in India’s economic growth, focusing on declining manufacturing
growth, low private consumption, and weak export performance. Suggest measures to overcome these
challenges. (250 words)

7. Bridging the Gap Between Lifespan and Healthspan

Introduction
• Increasing life expectancy is a hallmark of progress but can become counterproductive if additional years
are characterized by illness and disability.
• The objective is to ensure that added years to life are healthy, productive, and fulfilling, narrowing the
gap between lifespan (total years lived) and healthspan (years lived in good health).

Historical Progress in Life Expectancy

• Global Increase in Life Expectancy:
o Advances in water and sanitation, nutrition, and medical technologies significantly reduced
mortality from infectious diseases.
o Societal developments such as education, economic growth, and women’s empowerment
contributed to healthier populations.
o Decolonization allowed nations to focus on developmental goals, improving public health
infrastructure.
• Challenges of Rising Lifespan:
o Survivors of infectious diseases often faced long-term disabilities, undermining quality of life.
o Chronic health conditions due to aging required prolonged medical care, increasing dependency
and financial burdens.

The Shift to Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)

• Dominant Diseases:
o Cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancers, and chronic respiratory illnesses became the leading
causes of death and disability.
o Overweight and obesity rose alarmingly, further compounding the burden of NCDs.
• Lifestyle and Commercial Drivers:
o The global consumption of tobacco, ultra-processed foods, and sugar-sweetened beverages led
to widespread health deterioration.
o Sedentary lifestyles due to automobiles, television, and the internet reduced physical activity
levels.
• Social and Environmental Challenges:
o Rising mental health issues, especially among youth, were linked to emotional disconnection in a
digitally hyperconnected world.
o Road accidents, suicide, and homicidal violence further contributed to the health burden.
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o Environmental factors like air pollution and climate change introduced new health risks,
including respiratory diseases and vector-borne illnesses.

21st Century Trends: Life Expectancy vs. Healthy Life Expectancy

Global Trends
• Gap Analysis:
o The study by Garmany and Terzic (2024) reported a global mean gap of 9.6 years between life
expectancy and healthy life expectancy from 2000 to 2019.
o Gender Disparity: The gap was 2.4 years wider in women compared to men, largely due to higher
longevity in women paired with prolonged health issues.
• Country-Specific Insights:
o Developed countries like the USA (12.4 years) and UK (11.3 years) displayed the largest gaps.
Despite economic progress, unhealthy lifestyles and aging populations drove this disparity.
o Low-income countries like Lesotho showed narrower gaps but required simultaneous
improvements in both lifespan and healthspan.

India’s Performance
• Statistics (2000-2019):
o Life expectancy increased at 0.43 years per year, while healthy life expectancy rose at 0.37 years
per year.
o This widened the gap to 10.49 years by 2022: 9.22 years for men and 11.77 years for women.
• Dietary and Behavioral Drivers:
o The 2024 Economic Survey attributed 56.4% of India’s health burden to unhealthy diets,
necessitating immediate policy interventions.
• Economic Implications:
o Chief Economic Advisor highlighted the risk of losing economic benefits from India’s
demographic dividend if the health of the youth is not safeguarded.

Policy Imperatives for Bridging the Gap

Whole-Life Approach to Health
• Early-Life Interventions:
o Address maternal and child health by promoting nutritious diets and early healthcare access.
o Tackle malnutrition and stunting, which predispose individuals to NCDs in adulthood.
• Adolescence and Young Adults:
o Prevent unhealthy behaviors such as tobacco use, substance abuse, and sedentary lifestyles
through targeted awareness campaigns.
o Promote mental health initiatives to address depression, anxiety, and suicidal tendencies.
• Elderly Care:
o Develop age-specific health programs to manage chronic conditions and reduce disability in later
life.
o Expand healthcare infrastructure for palliative care, ensuring dignity in aging.

Addressing Key Risk Factors

• Dietary Reforms:
o Promote consumption of whole foods, fruits, and vegetables while discouraging ultra-processed
foods.
o Impose regulations on advertisements for unhealthy products targeting vulnerable populations.
• Physical Activity and Lifestyle:
o Invest in urban planning for walkable cities, cycling paths, and recreational spaces.
o Encourage workplace wellness programs and community fitness initiatives.
• Environmental Health:
o Strengthen laws to reduce air pollution, mitigate climate change, and combat vector-borne
diseases.

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Healthcare Access and Affordability
• Strengthening Primary Healthcare:
o Ensure that healthcare services are accessible, affordable, and equitable for all segments of
society.
o Integrate preventive, diagnostic, and curative care across all levels of the healthcare system.
• Technological Integration:
o Leverage telemedicine and AI-based diagnostics to improve healthcare delivery in underserved
areas.

Behavioral and Policy Interventions

• Regulatory Measures:
o Tax harmful products like tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks while incentivizing healthier
alternatives.
o Introduce labeling standards to empower consumers with informed choices.
• Educational Campaigns:
o Embed health education in school curriculums to inculcate lifelong healthy habits.
o Use mass media campaigns to highlight the risks of unhealthy lifestyles.

Conclusion
• India stands at a critical juncture as the world’s most populous country. With a widening gap between
lifespan and healthspan, the nation must act decisively to avert a public health crisis.
• A multi-pronged strategy encompassing early-life interventions, lifestyle reforms, and accessible
healthcare is essential to ensure that longer lives are lived in good health.

Practice Question: "A longer lifespan without a proportionate increase in healthspan can lead to increased
societal and economic burdens." Analyze this statement in the context of India's demographic challenges. (250
words)

8. Regulating Social Media for Children

Introduction
• Australia's recent legislation to ban social media access for children under 16 has ignited a global
conversation about the psychological, social, and developmental implications of online platforms on
young users.
• While its intention is to shield children from the potential harms of social media, the approach raises
questions about its broader effectiveness, enforceability, and implications for children's rights.

Context and Global Comparisons

• Australia's Law: The legislation marks a global first in implementing an outright age-based restriction on
social media use, targeting issues like cyberbullying, unrealistic standards, and exposure to harmful
content.
• Global Trends:
o Norway proposes a minimum age limit of 15 for social media use.
o France has trailed bans on mobile phones in schools to enhance student focus and encourage
offline interactions.
• These measures highlight an increasing recognition of the negative psychological impacts of digital
platforms on young minds.

Social Media and Mental Health: The Evidence

• Indian Context:
o A 2021 report revealed that 43% of Indian children aged 8-18 have active social media accounts.
o Studies have shown links between excessive social media use and heightened stress, anxiety, and
depression.
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• Global Insights:
o Jonathan Haidt, in The Anxious Generation, correlates increased screen time with rising anxiety,
depression, and self-harm among adolescents.
o Research by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences identifies compulsive
behaviors like late-night scrolling as disruptive to sleep and overall well-being.

Benefits and Risks of Social Media for Children

Benefits:
• Self-Expression and Connectivity: social media provides a platform for creative expression and peer
interaction.
• Educational Resources: It enables access to learning tools, global collaboration, and digital literacy.
• Skills Development: Responsible usage cultivates critical thinking and the ability to manage digital
identities.
Risks:
• Psychological Harm: Heightened social comparisons and exposure to idealized personas can damage self-
esteem, particularly in teenage girls.
• Addiction: Unregulated screen time fosters compulsive behaviors detrimental to mental and physical
health.
• Cyberbullying and Harmful Content: Children are vulnerable to harassment and exposure to
inappropriate material.

Challenges with an Outright Ban

• Enforcement Issues: Children can easily bypass restrictions by falsifying birth dates.
• Privacy Concerns: Strong age-verification mechanisms may infringe on data privacy.
• Exclusion from Opportunities: A complete ban risks depriving children of digital literacy and collaborative
learning essential in today’s connected world.

Alternative Approaches
• Balanced and Inclusive Models:
o France: Mobile phone bans in schools improved student focus and promoted physical activity.
o Finland: Digital citizenship curricula equip children with media literacy and resilience to navigate
online spaces safely.
• Parental and Institutional Roles:
o Parental Guidance: Open discussions, clear boundaries, and monitoring help children manage
their digital identities.
o Educational Interventions: Media literacy programs integrated into school curricula can foster
critical thinking about online content.
• Technological Safeguards:
o Tech Companies’ Role: Platforms can implement “safe mode” options with curated content and
restricted interactions.
o Supervised Access: Policymakers can explore supervised, time-limited social media access for
children to balance safety and inclusion.

Rights and Ethical Considerations

• The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child recognizes children's rights to:
o Express opinions on matters affecting them.
o Access information, especially from state and media sources.
o Share ideas and information responsibly.
• Blanket restrictions may undermine these rights, emphasizing the need for nuanced approaches that
empower rather than isolate.

Way Forward
• Collaborative Solutions: Governments, parents, educators, and tech companies must work together to
create safe, child-centric digital ecosystems.

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• Empowerment Over Isolation: Efforts should focus on teaching children to use technology responsibly,
fostering a healthier relationship with digital platforms.
• Integrated Policies: A ‘whole child’ approach that combines regulated digital engagement with offline
activities and critical thinking skills is crucial.

Conclusion
• The debate over Australia’s legislation banning social media for children under 16 underscores the
complexity of balancing safety, rights, and developmental needs in the digital age.
• Empowering children with the tools to navigate online spaces responsibly—through education,
parental guidance, and child-centric digital policies—represents a more sustainable solution.
• This approach not only safeguards mental health but also ensures that children develop the skills
necessary to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

Practice Question: Discuss the need for regulating social media usage among children under 16, citing recent
legislative measures like Australia’s ban and its implications for mental health, education, and child development.
(250 Words)

Topic: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and
the performance of these schemes;
9. The Misuse of Dowry Harassment Laws in India
Introduction
• The tragic suicide of Atul Subhash in Bengaluru has reignited the debate around the misuse of dowry
harassment laws in India.
• Atul’s case is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences that false allegations can have on
individuals and families.
• While Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) was enacted to address dowry-related violence and
harassment against women, its misuse has led to numerous cases of injustice, undermining its original
purpose.

Historical Context of Section 498A

• Enactment:
o Section 498A was introduced in 1983 to address the rampant issue of dowry-related violence and
harassment in India.
• Purpose:
o To criminalize cruelty by husbands or their relatives.
o Provide women with swift legal recourse against physical and mental abuse.
• Key Provisions:
o Offense is non-bailable, cognizable, and non-compoundable.
o Immediate arrest without prior investigation is permitted under this section to protect victims.
• Significance:
o The law empowered women to fight against the deeply entrenched social evil of dowry
harassment, saving countless lives.

Rise in Misuse and Its Implications

While Section 498A was created with noble intentions, its misuse has caused significant harm, leading to a debate
on its effectiveness and fairness.

Patterns of Misuse
• False Allegations:
o A growing number of cases involve baseless accusations made to extort money, harass the
husband’s family, or as an act of revenge.

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o Innocent individuals are dragged into prolonged legal battles, resulting in emotional and financial
strain.
• Malicious Intentions:
o Allegations are sometimes used as bargaining chips during divorce or settlement proceedings.
o Blackmail or coercion to gain custody of children, property, or financial advantages is common.

Consequences of Misuse
• Psychological and Emotional Impact:
o False accusations can lead to depression and even suicides, as in the case of Atul Subhash.
o Families of the accused often face humiliation and harassment, disrupting their personal and
professional lives.
• Legal and Economic Strain:
o Prolonged legal battles drain financial resources.
o The accused often lose their livelihoods due to societal stigma.
• Dilution of Genuine Cases:
o False cases erode the credibility of genuine victims, making it harder for them to seek justice.
o Courts and law enforcement are overburdened with frivolous complaints, delaying the resolution
of real cases.
• Judiciary’s Stance:
o The Supreme Court has repeatedly acknowledged the misuse of Section 498A.
o In Rajesh Sharma v. State of Uttar Pradesh (2017), the court described the misuse as “legal
terrorism.”

Why Does Misuse Happen?

• Absence of Safeguards:
o Arrests are made based on unverified complaints without any preliminary investigation.
o There is no penalty for filing false complaints, encouraging misuse.
• Gender-Biased Nature of Law:
o Section 498A is perceived as one-sided, offering no protection to men or their families falsely
implicated.
o The law does not account for the possibility of malicious intent by the complainant.
• Social and Cultural Factors:
o Societal norms often stigmatize the accused even before the truth is established.
o Families of the accused are presumed guilty, intensifying the harassment.

Judicial Responses to Misuse

• Supreme Court Observations:
o The judiciary has repeatedly cautioned against the automatic arrest of the accused in dowry
harassment cases.
o Arnesh Kumar v. State of Bihar (2014): The court directed police to avoid unnecessary arrests and
emphasized the need for preliminary inquiries before legal action.
• Recommendations:
o Establishment of family welfare committees to screen complaints before registering FIRs.
o Advocating for mediation and reconciliation in marital disputes.
• Balanced Approach:
o The judiciary has emphasized the importance of balancing the protection of genuine victims with
the rights of the accused.

Way Forward
• Strengthen Investigation Mechanisms
o Complaints should be thoroughly vetted by a neutral authority before filing an FIR.
o Police should be required to gather substantial evidence before making arrests.
• Penalize False Complaints
o Introduce stringent penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for individuals filing false cases.

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 INSIGHTS EDITORIAL ANALYSIS
o Publicly acknowledge cases where accusations are proven false to deter misuse.
• Gender-Neutral Provisions
o Amend Section 498A to provide safeguards for men and families falsely accused.
o Include mechanisms to protect the reputations and livelihoods of the accused during
investigations.
• Empower the Judiciary and Police
o Provide specialized training for judges and police to identify false accusations and recognize signs
of manipulation.
o Encourage courts to focus on mediation and counseling for resolving marital disputes.
• Increase Public Awareness
o Launch campaigns to educate the public about the proper use of Section 498A.
o Promote awareness about legal rights for both complainants and the accused.

Conclusion
• Atul Subhash’s case is a tragic reflection of the need for reform in the legal system.
• The judiciary and legislature must work together to recalibrate the law, ensuring that it safeguards
genuine victims while preventing its exploitation.
• Only by striking this delicate balance can we uphold the principles of justice and equity in society.

Practice Question: Laws aimed at protecting women, such as Section 498A, have been criticized for being gender-
biased and prone to misuse. Critically evaluate the need for gender-neutral provisions in welfare laws to uphold
the principles of justice and equity. (250 words)

Topic: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues
arising out of their design and implementation.
10. The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (RPWD Act) and the
Role of State Commissioners
Introduction
• The 2011 Census of India reported that 2.21% of the Indian population lives with disabilities, but this is a
significant underestimation.
• The 2019 Brief Disability Model Survey by WHO estimated the prevalence of severe disability among
Indian adults at 16%. This disparity highlights the need for accurate data collection mechanisms to plan
inclusive policies effectively.

United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)

• India ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) in
2007. The Convention emphasizes a rights-based approach to disability, focusing on dignity, equality, and
inclusion.
• The UNCRPD obligates states to align their national legislation with the Convention's principles.

Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights, and Full Participation) Act, 1995
• The Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights, and Full Participation) Act,
1995 was the first national law on disability.
• However, it followed a welfare model, lacking emphasis on equality and human rights.
• The Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016 replaced the 1995 Act, incorporating a human
rights-based approach. It expanded the definition of disability and introduced provisions for education,
employment, healthcare, and accessibility.

Key Provisions of the RPWD Act

• Expanded Scope of Disabilities:
o The RPWD Act recognizes 21 disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder, thalassemia, acid
attack survivors, and Parkinson’s disease, reflecting a more inclusive approach.
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• State Commissioners for Disabilities:
o The RPWD Act mandates the establishment of State Commissioners with quasi-judicial powers to
oversee the implementation of the Act.
o Powers and Functions:
▪ Conduct inquiries into complaints of rights violations.
▪ Intervene suo motu in cases of policy violations.
▪ Recommend corrective measures for policies or actions contravening the RPWD Act.
▪ Monitor and review disability-related policies, schemes, and quotas.

Challenges in Implementing the RPWD Act

• Delay in Appointments of State Commissioners
o Many states delay appointing State Commissioners, creating gaps in implementing the RPWD
Act.
o The Seema Girija Lal vs. Union of India case highlighted this issue, urging timely appointments.
• The RPWD Act allows for the appointment of experts from law, human rights, education, social work,
and NGOs. However:
o Most commissioners are civil servants from the nodal ministry, creating a conflict of interest.
o Only eight states have appointed non-civil servants as commissioners.
o This undermines the impartiality of the office, as the commissioner cannot hold the executive
accountable effectively.
• Underutilization of Suo Motu Powers
o Few commissioners proactively investigate such cases.
o This passivity erodes public trust in the statutory office.
• Commissioners often lack training in:
o Quasi-judicial functions.
o Legal procedures for conducting inquiries.
o Data analysis to monitor disability-related schemes.
• State governments often fail to provide adequate resources, infrastructure, and staff support.

Best Practices in Disability Governance

• Karnataka’s Model:
o Mobile Adalats: Reaching out to persons with disabilities in remote areas to address grievances
on the spot.
o District Disability Management Review (DDMR): A governance tool to monitor the
implementation of welfare programmes at the district level.
o Collaboration with Law Schools: Strengthening the quasi-judicial capacity of the office through
partnerships with legal experts.
o Designation of District Magistrates: As Deputy Commissioners for persons with disabilities,
ensuring localized disability inclusion.
• Delhi's Approach:
o Efficient grievance redress mechanisms and proactive engagement with disability organizations.

Way Forward
• Strengthening Appointments:
o Appoint individuals with substantial experience in human rights, education, or rehabilitation as
State Commissioners.
o Increase the representation of women with disabilities to address intersectional discrimination.
• Capacity Building:
o Provide training to State Commissioners in their quasi-judicial roles.
o Collaborate with law schools, NGOs, and UN entities to enhance understanding of disability laws
and policies.
• Increased Accountability:
o Develop online dashboards to track the number of cases received, resolved, and pending.
o Publish annual reports with recommendations for government action.
• Enhanced Research Functions:
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o Promote research on disability inclusion in areas such as social protection, climate change, and
care economy, in collaboration with global organizations.

Conclusion
• The RPWD Act is a progressive legislation that has the potential to transform the lives of persons with
disabilities in India. However, its success depends on the political will of state governments to strengthen
the State Commissioners' offices and address systemic gaps.
• India must uphold its commitment to the UNCRPD by addressing these challenges and ensuring that
disability rights are protected, promoted, and fulfilled across all states and union territories.

Practice Question: Examine the challenges faced in the implementation of the RPWD Act, 2016, at the state level.
Suggest best practices and policy interventions that can ensure effective enforcement of disability rights. (250
words)

Topic: India and its neighbourhood- relations.

11. India-Bhutan Relations
Introduction
• The visit of Bhutan’s King and Queen to India in December 2023 highlights the enduring strategic and
historical partnership between the two countries.
• Against the backdrop of growing Chinese pressure and Bhutan’s domestic challenges, this visit assumes
significant geopolitical importance.

Key Takeaways from the Visit

1. Reaffirmation of India-Bhutan Relations
• The meeting underscored the unique, time-tested partnership between India and Bhutan, rooted in
mutual trust and cooperation.
• India reiterated its commitment to Bhutan’s socio-economic development, exemplified by the doubling
of financial support from ₹5,000 crore to ₹10,000 crore for the 2024-2029 period.
• Bhutan’s Gelephu Mindfulness City Project, a flagship initiative by King Jigme Khesar, received Indian
backing, reinforcing New Delhi’s willingness to align with Bhutan’s developmental priorities.

2. Discussions on Strategic Areas

• Clean Energy and Hydropower:
o Bhutan remains a critical partner in India’s renewable energy strategy. Hydropower is central to
Bhutan’s economy, with the bulk of its energy exports directed to India.
o Strengthened cooperation in this area aligns with India’s push for regional energy security.
• Infrastructure Development:
o The visit emphasized connectivity and infrastructure projects underlined by Bhutan’s
geostrategic importance in the Himalayan region.

Geopolitical Context: China’s Growing Influence

1. China-Bhutan Border Issue
• Bhutan and China have been negotiating their border disputes since 1984. In 2023, they signed a
cooperation agreement to expedite boundary settlement and demarcation.
• China’s push to resolve boundary disputes reflects its broader strategy to weaken India’s influence in
Bhutan. Beijing has expressed its willingness to establish formal diplomatic relations with Bhutan after
border settlement.
• The border disputes, particularly in areas close to India’s Siliguri Corridor (Chicken’s Neck), are of
immense strategic importance to New Delhi. Any territorial adjustment could jeopardize India’s access to
its Northeastern states.

2. Construction of Villages in Disputed Areas

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 INSIGHTS EDITORIAL ANALYSIS
• China’s construction of villages along disputed territories with Bhutan is a tactic to alter ground realities.
These settlements serve both as civilian hubs and as part of a broader Chinese military strategy.
• By creating infrastructure in disputed areas, China aims to legitimize its territorial claims over time.

3. Economic Engagement and Coercion

• China is offering economic incentives to Bhutan, including promoting it as a top destination for Chinese
tourists and investing in Bhutan’s telecom sector.
• Beijing’s carrot-and-stick approach aims to lure Bhutan into closer economic and diplomatic alignment.

India’s Role in Bhutan’s Security and Sovereignty

• Strategic Dependence on India
o Bhutan’s small military relies heavily on India for training, logistical support, and defense
planning.
o The 2017 Doklam standoff highlighted India’s critical role in safeguarding Bhutan’s territorial
integrity. Indian troops intervened to prevent Chinese road construction in disputed territory.
• Friendship Treaty and Its Implications
o The India-Bhutan Friendship Treaty underpins their bilateral relations.
o The treaty emphasizes Bhutan’s sovereignty while ensuring India’s role in Bhutan’s foreign and
defense policies.
• Mitigating Chinese Pressure
o India’s enhanced financial support to Bhutan is aimed at countering China’s economic offers.

Challenges for Bhutan

1. Balancing India and China
• Bhutan faces a tightrope walk between preserving its friendship with India and managing growing Chinese
assertiveness.
• While engaging with China may provide short-term economic benefits, Bhutan’s sovereignty and
historical ties with India limit its diplomatic maneuverability.

2. Domestic Issues
• Youth Migration:
o Bhutan is witnessing significant outmigration, particularly among its youth, to countries like
Canada and Australia. This trend poses long-term challenges to its economy and labor market.
• Limited Economic Diversification:
o As a landlocked nation, Bhutan’s economic growth remains constrained. Over-reliance on
hydropower and limited industrial development leave it vulnerable to external pressures.

3. Sovereignty Concerns
• China’s tactics of altering territorial narratives pose a direct threat to Bhutan’s sovereignty.
• Bhutan must carefully navigate its diplomatic engagements to avoid being drawn into Beijing’s sphere of
influence.

The Strategic Importance of Bhutan to India

• Siliguri Corridor
o Bhutan’s geographical location makes it critical for the security of the Siliguri Corridor, the narrow
strip connecting mainland India to its Northeast.
o Any Chinese presence in the disputed regions could jeopardize this vital corridor.
• Hydropower Partnership
o Bhutan’s hydropower exports are central to India’s renewable energy strategy. Collaboration in
this sector strengthens bilateral ties and ensures mutual benefits.
• Geopolitical Buffer
o Bhutan serves as a buffer state between India and China, making its sovereignty essential for
India’s strategic stability in the Himalayas.

Way Forward
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 INSIGHTS EDITORIAL ANALYSIS
• Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation
o India must continue to prioritize Bhutan’s developmental needs, ensuring that its financial and
infrastructural assistance addresses Bhutan’s domestic challenges.
• Regional Engagement
o Bhutan’s engagement with China must be monitored closely, and India should proactively address
Bhutan’s concerns to prevent any diplomatic drift.
• Empowering Bhutan
o Supporting Bhutan’s economic diversification and capacity-building efforts will reduce its reliance
on external actors, including China.
• Multilateral Diplomacy
o India can leverage regional platforms like SAARC and BIMSTEC to reinforce Bhutan’s strategic
alignment with India.

Conclusion
• While Bhutan’s balancing act between India and China reflects its strategic compulsions, its deep-rooted
ties with India remain a cornerstone of its foreign policy.
• Bhutan’s sovereignty and stability are crucial for regional security, and New Delhi’s proactive engagement
is essential to ensuring a “Viksit Bharat” that includes a stable and friendly Himalayan neighborhood.

Practice Question: Discuss historical ties, the Friendship Treaty, and Bhutan’s balancing act between India and
China. Highlight the geopolitical implications of Bhutan-China boundary discussions and their potential impact on
India’s security (250 words)

12. India-China relations

Introduction
• The 23rd meeting between India’s National Security Adviser (NSA) and Chinese Foreign Minister as
Special Representatives (SRs) has renewed focus on bilateral relations amidst years of strain.
• This diplomatic dialogue represents a critical step forward after the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, marking
an effort to restore stability in bilateral ties.

Background
• Special Representatives Mechanism:
o Established two decades ago, the SR process serves as a framework for addressing bilateral
disputes, particularly the complex boundary issue.
o Previous rounds of SR talks provided a platform to maintain peace along the Line of Actual
Control (LAC) while working toward broader agreements.
• Recent Diplomatic Revival:
o The meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping during the
BRICS summit in October 2023 laid the groundwork for the resumption of talks.
o Troop disengagement at the LAC signaled mutual interest in de-escalation and dialogue.

Key Outcomes of the Meeting

• Cultural and Economic Cooperation:
o Resumption of Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra: A significant step symbolizing people-to-people
connections and cultural diplomacy.
o Revival of Border Trade in Sikkim: Enhancing local economic activity and restoring trust in trade
mechanisms.
• Scientific and Environmental Cooperation:
o Trans-boundary River Data Sharing: Crucial for flood management and addressing environmental
concerns, especially during monsoons.
o This aligns with long-standing Indian concerns about water security and China’s dam-building
activities upstream.
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• Connectivity and Exchange Programs:
o Discussions on restarting direct flights, easing visa restrictions for students and businesses, and
enhancing journalist exchanges signal a move toward normalizing relations.
• Commitment to Border Peace:
o Agreement on maintaining peace along the border to prevent disruptions in bilateral ties.
o China articulated a six-point consensus reflecting commitment to peaceful coexistence, while
India cautiously referred to the outcome as “positive directions.”

Challenges in India-China Relations

• Boundary Dispute:
o Unresolved border issues, including differing perceptions of the LAC, remain the core irritant.
o While disengagement has occurred in some areas, de-escalation and demilitarization across the
entire LAC are yet to be achieved.
• Trust Deficit:
o The 2020 Galwan clash eroded mutual trust, and China’s actions, such as aggressive patrolling,
continue to raise concerns.
o India remains cautious about Beijing’s intentions, given its history of sudden policy shifts.
• Economic and Strategic Concerns:
o Trade relations are imbalanced, with India importing significantly more from China than it
exports.
o China’s influence in South Asia, including in Pakistan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, challenges India’s
strategic interests.
• Global Power Dynamics:
o Changes in international alliances, such as India’s growing ties with the U.S., QUAD (India, U.S.,
Japan, Australia), and its participation in I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE, U.S.), influence bilateral relations
with China.
o China’s aggressive posture in Taiwan and the South China Sea also shapes global perceptions.

Way Forward
• Confidence-Building Measures:
o Continued disengagement and de-escalation at the LAC are essential.
o Mechanisms for transparency in military activities along the border should be strengthened.
• Broadening Cooperation:
o Deepening partnerships in areas of mutual interest, such as climate change, public health, and
infrastructure development, could provide common ground.
• Economic Realignment:
o Addressing the trade deficit through enhanced market access for Indian goods in China and
diversifying supply chains to reduce dependency.
o Promoting joint ventures in technology and renewable energy.
• Multilateral Engagement:
o Leveraging forums like BRICS, SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organization), and G20 to foster
dialogue and reduce tensions.
o Engaging with other global players to maintain balance in regional geopolitics.
• Strategic Vigilance:
o Strengthening ties with allies in the Indo-Pacific, including the QUAD and ASEAN nations, to
counterbalance China's influence.
o Enhancing India’s military and economic preparedness to safeguard its interests.

Conclusion
• The recent meeting represents a cautious but meaningful step toward normalizing India-China relations.
• A balanced approach combining diplomacy, strategic vigilance, and economic resilience will be critical for
India in managing its complex relationship with China amidst an evolving global landscape.

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Practice Question: The 2020 Galwan Valley clash marked a turning point in India-China relations. Discuss the
challenges that persist in normalizing relations and the strategies India can adopt to overcome them. (250 words)

Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting
India’s interests.
13. India-Nigeria Relations and Strategic Engagement
Introduction
• Prime Minister Modi’s Recent Visit (2024):
o First visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years.
o Strategic stopover on the way to the G-20 Summit in Brazil, signaling renewed emphasis on
Africa in India’s foreign policy.
• Recognition of India’s Role:
o Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu personally welcomed PM Modi, highlighting Nigeria’s high
regard for India.
o PM Modi awarded Nigeria’s second-highest civilian honor, the Grand Commander of the Order of
the Niger.
▪ Only the second foreign dignitary to receive this award since Queen Elizabeth II in 1969.
o Recognition of India’s growing stature in the Global South.

Strategic Importance of Nigeria

• Regional Leadership:
o Nigeria is Africa’s largest economy and democracy.
o A regional hegemon in West Africa and a key member of the African Union.
o Plays a mediating role in resolving African conflicts and promoting democracy on the continent.
• Economic Potential:
o Major exporter of oil and natural gas.
o Abundant natural resources, including minerals critical for global energy transitions, such as
lithium.
o Opportunities in sectors like agriculture, technology, healthcare, and renewable energy.
• Global South Dynamics:
o Both India and Nigeria are leaders in the Global South.
o Strengthening ties benefits collaborative efforts on shared global challenges like climate
change, development financing, and equitable trade systems.

Areas of Collaboration
• Defence and Security:
o Shared concerns over terrorism, piracy, and separatism.
o PM Modi emphasized counterterrorism cooperation, particularly against Islamist groups like Boko
Haram.
o Growing role of India as a defense supplier to Africa:
▪ Indian weapons sales to countries like Egypt, Algeria, Morocco, Tanzania, and
Mozambique.
▪ Nigeria has shown interest in purchasing Indian arms and technologies.
o Earlier in 2024, an Indian defense industry delegation visited Lagos to explore opportunities.
• Energy Cooperation:
o Nigeria is a major oil and gas exporter, critical for India’s energy security.
o Potential for investments in renewable energy infrastructure to support Nigeria’s energy
transition.
• Economic Engagement:
o Bilateral trade between India and Nigeria stood at $7.89 billion in 2023-24, down from $14.95
billion in 2021-22 due to India’s diversification of oil imports from Russia.
o Focus areas: Technology, education, healthcare, agriculture, and industrial goods.

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 INSIGHTS EDITORIAL ANALYSIS
• Developmental Assistance:
o India’s concessional loans to Nigeria: $100 million for various projects.
o Capacity-building programs for Nigerian professionals under India’s development partnership
model.
o A distinctive “India Way” approach focusing on mutual growth and capacity building.
• Healthcare and Education:
o Opportunities for Indian pharmaceutical companies to expand access to affordable medicines in
Nigeria.
o Indian universities and educational institutions could establish partnerships to strengthen human
capital in Nigeria.

Nigeria’s Relationship with China

• China’s Dominance in Infrastructure:
o Over $47 billion invested in 22 large-scale projects, including:
▪ Lekki Deep Sea Port: One of West Africa’s largest ports, expected to generate 170,000
jobs.
▪ National Public Security Communications System: Improving national security
infrastructure.
▪ Abuja Light Rail Project: Enhancing urban connectivity.
• Loans and Debt Dependence:
o Chinese loans account for 11.28% of Nigeria’s $27.67 billion external debt (March 2020).
• Technological Influence:
o Huawei’s extensive presence in Nigeria:
▪ Trained 3,000 Nigerians in cybersecurity and technology.
▪ Deployed over 27,500 mobile towers and 10,000 km of fiber optic cables.
• Mining Sector:
o China involved in Nigeria’s lithium mining for EV battery production.
o Example: Kaduna State’s collaboration with Ming Xin Mineral Separation Nig Ltd.

Challenges in India-Nigeria Relations

• Trade Decline:
o Bilateral trade reduced significantly due to India’s diversification of oil imports from Russia.
o Need to explore new trade opportunities in non-oil sectors.
• China’s Influence:
o China’s dominance in infrastructure, technology, and mining sectors poses challenges for India.
o India needs to present itself as a sustainable alternative to China’s debt-heavy financing model.
• Lack of High-Level Engagement:
o The 17-year gap in Indian Prime Ministerial visits underscores the need for consistent diplomatic
outreach.

Way Forward
• Expanding Trade and Investment:
o Diversify trade beyond oil to include sectors like technology, pharmaceuticals, and renewable
energy.
o Encourage Indian private sector investment in Nigerian industries.
• Collaborative Infrastructure Development:
o Compete with China by offering sustainable and transparent financing models.
o Partner in renewable energy projects, particularly solar and wind power.
• Strengthening Defence Ties:
o Enhance defense sales and joint training programs to boost counterterrorism capabilities.
o Develop security partnerships to address maritime piracy and drug trafficking.
• Developmental Cooperation:
o Expand capacity-building programs and concessional loans to support Nigeria’s socio-economic
development.

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 INSIGHTS EDITORIAL ANALYSIS
o Promote cultural and educational exchanges to strengthen long-term ties.
• Sustained Diplomatic Engagement:
o Regular high-level visits and strategic dialogues to maintain momentum in bilateral relations.
o Increased cooperation in multilateral forums like G-20, BRICS, and the African Union.

Conclusion
• Nigeria’s economic and geopolitical significance makes it a cornerstone of India’s Africa strategy.
• Converting goodwill generated by PM Modi’s visit into tangible outcomes requires consistent and
strategic action.
• A stronger India-Nigeria partnership will serve as a model for inclusive, sustainable, and equitable
growth in the Global South, fostering mutual progress and global leadership.

Practice Question: Analyze the strategic importance of Nigeria for India in the context of bilateral and regional
geopolitics. How does Nigeria’s role as Africa’s largest democracy and economy influence India’s foreign policy in
the region? (250 words)

Topic: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.
14. Erosion of the Rules-Based World Order and its Implications
Introduction
• The principles underpinning the modern rules-based world order, established post-World War II, are now
under unprecedented scrutiny.
• The foundational institutions and agreements that have fostered global cooperation and governance
are increasingly undermined by disinformation, unilateralism, and the decline of shared trust.

Challenges to Global Institutions and Norms

• UN and WHO's Decline:
o The UN, once a central platform for global diplomacy, has transitioned into a cautionary rather
than a regulatory body.
o WHO’s missteps during the COVID-19 pandemic led to a loss of credibility, exacerbating public
distrust in global health governance.
• WTO's Paralysis:
o The WTO, once a robust platform for resolving international trade disputes, is dysfunctional due
to the U.S.'s 2019 decision to block judicial appointments.
o Without an appellate court, unresolved disputes threaten to escalate into tariff wars and
economic fragmentation.
• Rise of Unilateral Actions:
o Leaders like Russian Presidentand Israeli Prime Minister have openly defied institutions like the
International Criminal Court (ICC), signaling a disregard for international accountability.

Disinformation and Transparency Crisis

• Weaponization of Misinformation:
o The dissemination of false or misleading narratives by state and non-state actors undermines
public trust.
o Example: Rumors about the U.S. withdrawing from the polio eradication initiative highlight
how disinformation destabilizes public faith in long-term global projects.
• Impact on Public Health Initiatives:
o Global vaccination campaigns, such as polio eradication, are vulnerable to mistrust fueled by
historical and modern disinformation.
o Resistance in Pakistan and Afghanistan is compounded by perceptions of imperialist motives,
showcasing how disinformation weakens global cooperation.

Geopolitical Instability and Security Concerns

• Revival of Tariff Barriers:
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o With leaders like Trump threatening tariff wars, the WTO’s incapacity to mediate disputes may
lead to economic protectionism, damaging global supply chains.
o Trade conflicts could evolve into geopolitical tools, exacerbating existing tensions.
• Nuclear Unpredictability:
o Deterrence during the Cold War relied on the predictability of treaties. However, recent
geopolitical dynamics challenge this stability.
o The potential escalation of localized nuclear conflicts into global crises highlights the fragility of
current security frameworks.

The Decline of Collective Problem-Solving

• Polio Eradication and Global Unity:
o The polio eradication program, a testament to global cooperation, faces setbacks due to
fragmented efforts and rising nationalism.
o Withdrawal or non-cooperation from major nations would undermine decades of progress,
endangering global health.
• Erosion of Shared Platforms:
o Post-war agreements were built on the principle that nations could collaborate based on
economic benchmarks or shared goals.
o The growing disregard for treaties and agreements signals a departure from this ethos, fostering
fragmentation.

The Future of the Rules-Based Order

• The Specter of Disintegration:
o A declining reliance on treaties and multilateralism suggests that the old certainties—nuclear
peace, free trade, and global health initiatives—are under threat.
o If nations increasingly prioritize unilateral actions over cooperative frameworks, the world risks
devolving into a state of unpredictability.
• Hope Amidst Challenges:
o Some institutions, like the WTO, retain potential if their functionality is restored. Similarly,
international norms could be revitalized with strong leadership and renewed trust.

Way Forward
• Reform and Revitalize the UN:
o Introduce institutional reforms to enhance the UN's effectiveness and credibility.
• Revive WTO's Functionality:
o Restore the WTO’s appellate body by resolving disputes over judicial appointments.
o Modernize trade frameworks to address emerging issues like digital trade, data sovereignty, and
climate-related trade policies.
• Reaffirming Commitments:
o Nations must visibly honor international agreements, such as the ICC’s rulings and nuclear non-
proliferation treaties.
• Strengthen Regional Alliances:
o Foster collaboration within regional blocs like ASEAN, the African Union, and the EU to address
regional challenges.
o Use regional frameworks to test solutions that can be scaled globally.
• Engage Emerging Powers:
o Include rising economies like India, Brazil, and South Africa in global decision-making platforms to
ensure balanced representation.
o Encourage their leadership in resolving global issues, such as health and climate crises.

Conclusion
• Revitalizing trust in global institutions, fostering transparency, and reaffirming commitment to
multilateral agreements are critical steps to prevent the complete disintegration of the world order.

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• Nations must recognize that cooperation, not isolation, is the path to addressing shared challenges and
securing a stable future.

Practice Question: Discuss the factors contributing to the erosion of global institutions like the UN, WHO, and
WTO. Suggest measures to revitalize their functioning and restore global trust. (250 words)

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 INSIGHTS EDITORIAL ANALYSIS
General Studies - 3
Topic: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth,
development and employment
15. India’s Journey to Becoming a Global Manufacturing Hub
Introduction
• India’s aspiration to establish itself as a global manufacturing powerhouse has been significantly
bolstered by strategic government interventions, particularly the Production Linked Incentive (PLI)
scheme.
• The scheme, combined with other economic reforms and a favorable policy environment, has created a
foundation for robust growth in manufacturing, exports, and employment generation.

The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme: Transformative Impact

• Key Features of the PLI Scheme:
o Provides financial incentives tied to incremental production.
o Targets 14 key sectors, including electronics, pharmaceuticals, automobiles, and textiles.
o Encourages domestic and foreign investments by reducing risk and increasing profitability.

• Achievements under the PLI Scheme:

o Mobile and Electronics Manufacturing: India emerged as the second-largest mobile
manufacturer globally, with exports exceeding $10 billion in FY23.
o Automobiles and EVs: Boosted manufacturing of electric vehicles, batteries, and advanced
automotive technologies.
o Pharmaceuticals: Expanded domestic production of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) to
reduce import dependence.
o Sectoral Contributions: Basic metals, chemicals, and food products, covered under PLI,
contributed 58% to total manufacturing output in 2022-23.

Insights from the Annual Survey of Industries (ASI) 2022-23

Key Findings:
• Manufacturing Growth:
o Output: 21.5% growth, indicating strong recovery and expansion.
o GVA: 7.3% growth, reflecting the challenges of high input costs.
• Sectoral Highlights:
o Sectors like motor vehicles, chemicals, and petroleum products registered robust growth.
o Strong recovery post-COVID-19 disruptions.

Implications:
• The robust growth despite a high base in 2021-22 highlights resilience and structural improvements.
• The divergence between output growth and GVA growth (due to input price inflation) signals the need for
cost optimization.

Challenges to Sustained Manufacturing Growth

High Input Costs:
• Input costs surged by 24.4%, affecting value addition.
• Heavy dependence on imports for raw materials and intermediates increases vulnerability to global price
fluctuations.
Recommendations:
• Streamlined Tariff Regime:
o Introduce a three-tier system:
▪ 0–2.5% for raw materials.
▪ 2.5–5% for intermediates.
▪ 5–7.5% for finished goods.
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• Promote domestic sourcing and reduce import dependency to mitigate cost pressures.

Regional Imbalances:
• Over 54% of manufacturing GVA is concentrated in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and
Uttar Pradesh.
• This concentration limits equitable development and prevents the full potential of manufacturing across
states.
Solutions:
• State-Level Reforms:
o Simplify land and labor laws.
o Enhance state infrastructure and connectivity.
o Promote state-specific manufacturing policies to attract investments.
• Encourage investments in underserved regions like Eastern and Northeastern India.

Expanding the Scope of Manufacturing

New Sectoral Opportunities:
• Sunrise Industries: Aerospace, space technology, and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO).
• Labor-Intensive Sectors: Apparel, leather, footwear, and furniture.
• Capital Goods: Target sectors with high import dependency to reduce vulnerability to supply chain
disruptions.
Green and Advanced Manufacturing:
• Incentivize green manufacturing to align with global sustainability goals.
• Invest in R&D for advanced technologies like AI, robotics, and IoT to strengthen competitiveness.

Enhancing Women’s Participation:

• Women account for a small share of the manufacturing workforce.
• According to the World Bank, manufacturing output could increase by 9% with higher female
participation.
• Solutions:
o Develop supportive infrastructure like childcare, hostels, and dormitories near factories.
o Promote skill development programs to prepare women for manufacturing roles.

Way Forward
• Increase manufacturing’s share in GVA from 17% to 25% by 2030 and 27% by 2047.
• Establish India as a leading global manufacturing hub by focusing on:
o Ease of Doing Business: Simplify regulations, reduce bureaucracy, and lower operational costs.
o Cost Competitiveness: Reduce logistics and energy costs to attract global manufacturers.
o Policy Continuity: Expand successful initiatives like the PLI scheme to additional sectors.
Role of States:
• Encourage regional manufacturing hubs to address imbalances.
• Ensure states actively participate in reforms and infrastructure development.
State-Level Reforms:
• Simplify labor laws, enhance infrastructure, and reduce red tape to attract investments.
Focus on Green Manufacturing
o Encourage manufacturers to adopt green technologies through tax benefits, subsidies, and reduced
compliance burdens.
o Support industries that emphasize recycling, reuse, and resource conservation in production processes.
Focus on Export Competitiveness
• Leverage trade agreements to access new markets for Indian manufacturing exports.
• Enhance adherence to global quality and safety standards to improve export acceptance.
• Build a strong “Made in India” brand for global markets, emphasizing quality and sustainability.

Conclusion
• With continued reforms and targeted investments, India is poised to transform its manufacturing sector
into a global powerhouse, driving economic growth, job creation, and innovation.
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 INSIGHTS EDITORIAL ANALYSIS
• Achieving these objectives will not only bolster India's position in global value chains but also play a
pivotal role in realizing its vision of becoming a developed economy by 2047.

Practice Question: Examine the role of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme in boosting India’s
manufacturing sector. Highlight its sectoral impact and potential for export-led growth. (250 words)

16. Slowdown in India's economic growth

Introduction
• The GDP figures for Q2 2024-25 present a concerning picture of India's economic trajectory, highlighting
a sharp deceleration in growth and raising questions about the economy's resilience and recovery
strategy.

Key Economic Trends

• Growth Deceleration
o Real GDP Growth Rate:
▪ Q2 2023-24: 8.6%
▪ Q2 2024-25: 5.4%
▪ This marks a significant return to growth levels seen two years ago, reflecting a
broad-based slowdown.
o Declining Quality of Growth: Growth driven by private consumption rather than investment or
exports indicates imbalances in the economic recovery.
• Weakening Investment and Trade
o A slowdown in capital investments reflects a lack of business confidence and challenges in
demand recovery.
• Import Contraction:
o This is indicative of reduced domestic demand, lower industrial activity, and subdued investment
sentiment.
• Government Spending Growth:
o A sharp reduction in fiscal impetus may further exacerbate the economic slowdown, particularly
as private investments remain subdued.
• Private Consumption Growth:
o Robust household spending signals resilience in consumer demand, driven by improving urban
consumption and services sector performance.
• Manufacturing Growth:
o Weak domestic demand, global headwinds, and rising input costs have constrained growth in the
sector.
• Mining and Quarrying Growth:
o Regulatory issues, falling global commodity prices, and subdued industrial demand have adversely
impacted this sector.
• Agriculture Shows Resilience
o Q2 2023-24: 1.7% → Q2 2024-25: 3.5%
o Despite this, H1 agricultural growth has seen a marginal dip (2.8% → 2.7%), indicating challenges
such as erratic weather patterns. (H1 agricultural growth refers to the growth in the agricultural
sector during the first half of a year.)
• Services Sector
o Strong private consumption likely supports segments like retail, trade, and financial services.

Implications for Policy

1. Monetary Policy
• Accommodative Expectations:
o A sharp decline in growth raises expectations for the RBI to adopt a more accommodative stance.
o However, persistent inflationary pressures may limit the scope for rate cuts.

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• Balancing Growth and Inflation:
o The central bank faces a challenging trade-off between stimulating growth and maintaining
macroeconomic stability.
2. Fiscal Policy
• Rising Burden on Government Spending:
o With monetary policy constrained, fiscal policy may need to take a larger role in supporting
growth.
o This could lead to increased fiscal deficits, potentially overshooting budgetary targets.
• Structural Challenges in Investment:
o Despite a surge in public capital expenditure in recent years, private investment has remained
muted.
o Structural bottlenecks, regulatory hurdles, and global uncertainties need to be addressed to
revive private sector participation.
3. Risks to Fiscal Discipline
• Increased fiscal spending to meet growth projections (6.5–7% for FY 2024-25) could jeopardize fiscal
consolidation efforts, raising concerns about macroeconomic stability.

Broader Implications and Challenges

• Retaining Growth Leadership
o The slowdown threatens India’s position as the fastest-growing major economy.
o Targeted reforms and consistent fiscal-monetary coordination will be critical to maintaining this
title.
• Trade-Offs
o Fiscal expansion may support growth but risks widening the fiscal deficit, necessitating a careful
balancing act.
o Overreliance on consumer spending and public expenditure without private investment revival is
unsustainable in the long term.
• Global Headwinds
o Weakening global demand and geopolitical uncertainties pose external risks to India’s growth
trajectory.

Way Forward
• Manufacturing
o Streamline regulatory frameworks to ease compliance for industries.
o Reduce input costs and incentivize export-oriented sectors to enhance global competitiveness.
• Mining
o Address delays in environmental clearances and licensing to improve productivity.
o Invest in technology-driven mining practices for efficiency gains.
• Agriculture
o Provide better access to credit for smallholder farmers.
o Invest in modern irrigation, storage, and logistics infrastructure to reduce supply chain
inefficiencies.
• MSMEs (Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises) and Infrastructure
o Mandate public procurement quotas for MSMEs to boost demand and employment.
o Enhance infrastructure spending in logistics, green energy, and digital technologies to create a
multiplier effect on growth.

Conclusion
• The Q2 2024-25 GDP figures highlight critical challenges for India’s economic policymakers. While private
consumption and agricultural growth provide some comfort, the overall slowdown underscores the need
for targeted reforms, structural improvements, and calibrated policy coordination.
• Only through a multipronged approach can India regain its growth trajectory and maintain economic
stability.

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 INSIGHTS EDITORIAL ANALYSIS
Practice Question: Discuss the role of fiscal and monetary policy coordination in mitigating the economic
slowdown in India. (250 words)

17. Achieving India's Ambitious Growth Target

Introduction
• India aspires to become a developed nation by 2047, the centenary of its independence.
• Achieving this goal necessitates sustaining an annual growth rate of around 8% over the next few
decades.
• This is an ambitious target, considering both global precedents and India's historical growth performance.

Historical Context and Global Comparisons

• Global Precedents:
o Only a handful of countries—China, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Singapore—have managed to
sustain a growth rate exceeding 8% over a 25-year period.
• India's Historical Growth Rates:
o Between 2001-02 and 2023-24, India's average annual growth rate was 6.3%.
o Excluding the COVID-19 pandemic period, the growth rate slightly improves to 6.7%.
o These figures highlight the gap between current performance and the desired growth trajectory.

Challenges to Sustained Growth

• Structural Constraints:
o India’s historical growth rate and global trends suggest that maintaining an 8% growth trajectory
will require transformative reforms.
• Geopolitical Risks:
o Disruptions like global conflicts, supply chain uncertainties, and trade dynamics may hinder
progress.
• State-Centric Reforms:
o Reforms in land, labour, and agriculture require proactive collaboration with states.

Opportunities for India

• Global Economic Shifts:
o India can leverage global supply chain diversification and its demographic dividend.
• Reform Continuity:
o The pandemic demonstrated India's resilience through reform-driven recovery, setting a strong
foundation for sustained growth.
• Strategic Investments:
o Initiatives like the Sovereign Wealth Fund and expanded irrigation infrastructure can reduce
external dependencies and stabilize domestic sectors.

Five Key Reform Proposals by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)

1. Strengthening Federal Consensus Through GST-like Councils
• Need for Consensus: Most next-generation reforms—related to land, labor, power, education,
agriculture, and climate action—fall under state or concurrent jurisdiction. Building consensus among
states and the Centre is crucial.
• Example: The GST Council, a model for cooperative federalism, has successfully implemented one of the
largest tax reforms.
• Proposed Action:
o Create GST-like councils or an empowered group of secretaries led by the cabinet secretary to
drive reforms.
o Integrate these councils within the Union Budget 2025-26’s economic policy framework, which
focuses on productivity and market efficiency.

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2. Public Sector Disinvestment and Monetization
• Unlocking Capital: Disinvestment of Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) can generate significant
resources.
o CII Estimates: Reducing the government’s stake in 80 listed PSEs to 51% could raise ₹10.3 lakh
crore, while retaining majority control.
o Successful Example: Air India's privatization.
• Proposed Strategy:
o Task Force: Establish a task force with private-sector experts to determine which PSEs to disinvest
and the appropriate timeframe.
o Disinvestment Fund: Use proceeds to retire government debt and invest in social and agri-
related infrastructure.
o Launch National Monetisation Pipeline (NMP) 2.0, building on the success of NMP 1.0 (2021-
2025).

3. Sovereign Wealth Fund for Strategic Investments

• Geopolitical Challenges: Mitigating risks and safeguarding India’s strategic interests require investments
in overseas assets.
o Proposed Focus Areas: Ports, logistic corridors, technology, and reserves of critical minerals.
o Fund Setup: Part of the disinvestment proceeds can seed a Sovereign Wealth Fund, ensuring
India secures critical resources and infrastructure globally.

4. Enhancing Irrigation Infrastructure

• Monsoon Dependency: Agriculture, rural demand, and inflation remain heavily dependent on the
monsoon.
o Proposed Target: Increase irrigation coverage to 80% of gross cropped area by 2030.
o Impact:
▪ Improved agricultural productivity.
▪ Climate resilience and stable farmer incomes.
▪ Reduced volatility in food inflation.

5. Simplifying Ease of Doing Business

• Current Progress: India has made significant strides in ease of doing business but must continue its
momentum.
• Proposed Measures:
o Simplify, rationalize, and digitize all compliances and approvals through the national single
window system.
o Expedite the Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0 to decriminalize business-facing laws.
o Implement the four labour codes to balance employer and employee interests, ensuring faster
adoption and streamlined labour markets.

Conclusion
• Achieving sustained 8% growth for the next two decades is an ambitious yet achievable goal. It demands
strategic reforms, efficient resource allocation, and proactive governance.
• The proposals by CII—focusing on federal consensus, disinvestment, strategic investments, irrigation, and
ease of doing business—can serve as a blueprint for India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation
by 2047.

Practice Question: Discuss the role of structural reforms in enabling India to achieve a sustained high-growth
trajectory. Highlight key challenges and suggest measures to address them. (250 words)

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18. Rupee Depreciation Against the Dollar
Introduction
• The Indian rupee has breached the psychological barrier of ₹85 against the US dollar, reaching its all-time
low. The steep and sustained depreciation has raised concerns about the economy.
• The depreciation has both positive and negative implications, necessitating comprehensive policy
responses.

Key Causes of Rupee Depreciation

1. Domestic Factors
• Economic Slowdown:
o India's GDP growth has fallen to a three-quarter low, dampening investor confidence.
o Industrial production and manufacturing sectors show subdued growth, further weakening
economic fundamentals.
• Widening Trade Deficit:
o India's merchandise trade deficit has expanded due to a rise in imports, particularly crude oil,
while exports remain sluggish.
o Higher import bills have increased demand for dollars, putting downward pressure on the rupee.
• Inflationary Pressures:
o Rising domestic inflation reduces the rupee's purchasing power and erodes investor confidence.
o Costlier imports, especially energy and technology, exacerbate inflationary trends.

2. Global Factors
• Strengthening US Dollar:
o The US dollar has gained strength amid robust economic growth in the US and a proactive
Federal Reserve.
o Investors seeking stability in volatile global markets prefer dollar-denominated assets, further
bolstering the dollar.
• Federal Reserve’s Tight Monetary Policy:
o Despite a 25 basis point rate cut, the Federal Reserve remains hawkish in its approach to inflation
control.
o Higher interest rates in the US attract capital flows away from emerging markets like India,
increasing pressure on the rupee.
• Global Economic Volatility:
o Geopolitical tensions, energy crises, and supply chain disruptions have created uncertainty,
prompting global investors to shift toward safer currencies like the dollar.
• Weakness in Other Currencies:
o Most global currencies, including the Euro, have depreciated against the dollar, further
accentuating the rupee’s relative decline.

Implications of a Weaker Rupee

1. Negative Impacts
• Imported Inflation:
o A weaker rupee increases the cost of imported goods such as crude oil, fertilizers, and
technology.
o This rise in costs is passed on to consumers, fueling inflation. SBI estimates that a 5% decline in
the rupee raises inflation by 25-30 basis points.
• Capital Outflows:
o Depreciation often triggers foreign institutional investors (FIIs) to withdraw capital from Indian
markets, reducing foreign exchange reserves.
• Corporate Challenges:
o Companies relying on imported raw materials face higher costs.
o Firms with foreign-denominated loans experience increased repayment burdens, affecting
profitability.
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• Impact on Forex Reserves:
o RBI interventions to stabilize the rupee can deplete foreign exchange reserves, reducing the
country’s ability to handle future external shocks.
• Higher Fiscal Deficit:
o Increased costs for importing crude oil and other essentials can widen the fiscal deficit, impacting
macroeconomic stability.

2. Positive Opportunities
• Export Competitiveness:
o A weaker rupee makes Indian goods cheaper in global markets, benefiting export-oriented
sectors like textiles, IT, and pharmaceuticals.
• Encouragement of Domestic Manufacturing:
o Costlier imports push industries and consumers to rely on domestic alternatives, promoting local
production.
• Opportunity for Policy Reforms:
o Depreciation provides a window for structural reforms to reduce import dependency and boost
domestic capacities.

Policy Responses
• RBI Interventions:
o The Reserve Bank of India can stabilize the rupee through forex market interventions, such as
selling dollars to increase supply.
o Interest rate adjustments can help control inflation and stabilize the rupee.
• Inflation Control:
o Tight monetary policies, including increased repo rates, can reduce inflationary pressures
stemming from a weaker rupee.
• Boosting Domestic Manufacturing:
o Strengthen the “Make in India” initiative to reduce dependence on imports, particularly in energy,
electronics, and capital goods.
o Promote self-reliance in critical sectors like energy and defense through targeted investments and
policy support.
• Enhancing Export Competitiveness:
o Diversify export products and markets to reduce dependency on specific sectors or regions.
o Provide targeted incentives for export-oriented industries like textiles, pharmaceuticals, and
agriculture.
• Energy Independence:
o Reduce reliance on imported crude oil by investing in renewable energy sources and domestic
energy production capabilities.
• Infrastructure Development:
o Build robust trade and logistical infrastructure to improve the efficiency of exports and domestic
manufacturing.

Strategic Measures
• Efficient Public Expenditure:
o Avoid fiscal slippages by prioritizing productive investments over subsidies and unproductive
expenses.
• Strengthening Forex Reserves:
o Diversify forex reserves into stable assets to ensure resilience against external shocks.
• Collaborations with Major Economies:
o Enhance trade relations with stable economies to attract investments and increase export
markets.
• Counter Geopolitical Risks:
o Engage diplomatically to reduce risks from geopolitical tensions that impact global trade and
energy prices.

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Conclusion
• The depreciation of the rupee to a historic low against the dollar reflects structural weaknesses in the
Indian economy and global economic volatility.
• Strategic fiscal and monetary policies, coupled with infrastructure and trade reforms, are essential for
addressing the challenges posed by rupee depreciation.
• Proactive measures can turn these challenges into opportunities for sustainable economic growth.

Practice Question: The rupee's depreciation against the dollar has both positive and negative implications for the
Indian economy. Critically analyze the causes and impacts of this trend. Suggest policy measures to mitigate its
adverse effects. (250 words)

19. GST Council Meeting at Jaisalmer

Introduction
• The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council meeting held in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, has sparked widespread
criticism for prioritizing trivial issues, such as popcorn tax slabs, while deferring significant policy
decisions.

Key Outcomes of the Meeting

Decisions on Minor Items
• Popcorn GST Rates:
o Salted popcorn: 5% GST.
o Pre-packaged and labelled popcorn: 12% GST.
o Caramel popcorn: 18% GST.
• The decision has been widely ridiculed for its excessive focus on trivial items. Social media reactions
highlight how this emphasis undermines the Council’s broader role in addressing complex taxation issues.

Other Adjustments:
• Fortified Rice Kernels: Reduction in GST for certain varieties aimed at promoting nutritional security.
• Gene Therapy: GST exemption, signaling support for advanced medical technologies.
• Penal Charges on Loans: Exemption from GST on penal charges for non-compliance with loan terms,
potentially benefiting borrowers.

Postponed Major Issues

• Health Insurance GST Reduction:
o A long-standing demand for reducing GST on health insurance premiums remains unaddressed.
This inaction affects stakeholders, especially those with premiums due in the current cycle.
• Rate Rationalisation:
o The Group of Ministers (GoM) on rate rationalisation sought more time, delaying crucial
reforms to simplify the tax structure.
o Existing multiplicity of tax slabs (0%, 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28%) continues to cause inefficiency,
compliance burdens, and scope for malpractices.
• Compensation Cess:
o Extension of discussions on the compensation cess mechanism perpetuates uncertainty for states
reliant on GST revenue sharing.

Challenges in the Current GST System

• Multiplicity of Tax Slabs
o India’s GST system includes a wide array of tax slabs and differential rates, making it one of the
most complex in the world.
o Tax variations on items based on packaging or content (e.g., popcorn, sweets, and sanitary
products) increase compliance costs and invite litigation.
• Lack of State Autonomy
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o States relinquished their taxation powers to establish GST but feel sidelined in decision-making.
o They often express dissatisfaction with revenue sharing, particularly the retention of special taxes
by the Centre.
o States argue for greater fiscal autonomy or revenue adjustments but are constrained by the
Council’s centralized structure.
• Deferred Reforms
o Rationalisation of tax slabs and compensation mechanisms are repeatedly deferred, eroding trust
among stakeholders.
o Businesses and taxpayers face operational challenges due to prolonged uncertainty,
undermining GST’s objective as a unified system.

Recommendations for Improvement

• Rationalisation of Tax Slabs
o Reduce the number of tax slabs to enhance simplicity and predictability.
o Eliminate variations based on minor differences in product attributes (e.g., packaging, content).
• Strengthen Decision-Making
o Prioritise addressing critical issues such as GST on health insurance and compensation cess
mechanisms.
o Expedite decision-making processes to avoid prolonged uncertainty for businesses and states.
• Balance Centre-State Dynamics
o Address revenue-sharing concerns by creating a transparent and equitable mechanism.
o Enhance state participation in the Council’s decision-making to build consensus and trust.
• Focus on Structural Reforms
o Undertake a comprehensive review of the GST system to align with global best practices.
o Prioritize simplification and rationalisation to reduce compliance burdens and operational
inefficiencies.

Conclusion
• The Jaisalmer GST Council meeting serves as a example of the systemic challenges plaguing India’s GST
framework.
• To restore GST’s credibility as a unified tax system, the Council must prioritize structural reforms and
demonstrate a commitment to balanced decision-making.
• Without these measures, GST risks becoming an overly complex and contentious system, undermining its
potential to drive India’s economic growth.

Practice Question: Discuss the challenges posed by the multiplicity of tax slabs in India’s GST system. How does
this complexity impact businesses and taxpayers? Suggest measures to simplify the GST framework. (250 words)

Topic: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation

20. Analysing the Outcomes of COP29 and the New Collective
Quantified Goal (NCQG)
Introduction
• The global climate crisis has reached unprecedented levels of urgency, with the Intergovernmental Panel
on Climate Change (IPCC) warning that global warming must be limited to 1.5°C above pre-industrial
levels to avoid catastrophic impacts.
• However, current global policies are projected to lead to a temperature rise of 3.1°C by the end of the
century.
• COP29, held in Baku, Azerbaijan, branded as the “Finance COP,” focused on the financial mechanisms
necessary to accelerate climate action, particularly through the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG).
While progress was made, significant gaps remain.

Key Issues Highlighted by COP29

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1. The Financing Gap in Climate Action
• Scale of Needs:
o Developing countries require between $5 trillion and $7 trillion by 2030 to meet their climate
action goals, as estimated by the Standing Committee on Finance under the UNFCCC. However,
current pledges are far below these requirements.
• Developing World Challenges:
o High Upfront Costs: Transitioning to renewable energy and green technologies involves
significant initial investments that are unaffordable for many developing nations without
external support.
o Limited Fiscal Capacity: Developing nations often prioritize essential development activities like
healthcare and education, leaving little room for climate investments.
o Risks of Green Technologies: Many green technologies, though promising, are still evolving and
carry a risk of failure, deterring large-scale investments without substantial subsidies.

2. India’s Approach to Climate Action

India is a prime example of a developing nation balancing climate commitments with economic challenges:
• Budgetary Allocations:
o The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) received a record allocation of ₹19,100 crore
in the 2024-25 budget.
o Additional subsidies, such as ₹5,790 crore under FAME Phase-II, aim to promote the adoption of
electric vehicles.
• Focus Areas:
o Expanding renewable energy infrastructure.
o Promoting energy efficiency and clean technologies.
o Encouraging private sector participation through subsidies and incentives.
• Challenges:
o Financing green energy projects amidst competing developmental needs.
o Addressing the high cost of borrowing in India, which increases the cost of renewable energy
projects.

Opportunities and Positive Developments

• Strengthening Multilateral Mechanisms
o Increased resources for the Adaptation Fund, Least Developed Countries Fund, and Special
Climate Change Fund can support vulnerable nations in addressing immediate climate challenges.
• Focus on Just Transitions
o The NCQG discussions highlighted the need for equitable transitions, ensuring that no nation is
left behind in the shift to a low-carbon economy.
• Innovation in Financing
o Emerging mechanisms, such as green bonds and blended finance models, can attract private
capital while mitigating risks for investors in developing countries.

Role and Limitations of the NCQG

1. Origin and Expectations
The NCQG was conceived during COP21 in Paris to establish a robust financial framework for climate action:
• Base Commitment: Building on the $100 billion annual pledge from Cancun (2010).
• Intended Objectives:
o Create specific, quantifiable climate finance targets.
o Ensure transparency and accountability in financial commitments.
o Align financial flows with the scale of global climate action needs.

2. COP29 Outcomes
The NCQG set a target of $300 billion annually from 2025 to 2035. However, this outcome was widely criticized:
• Inadequate Quantum:
o The figure is a fraction of the $1.3 trillion annually demanded by developing nations to meet their
conservative climate finance needs.
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o It fails to represent a transformative shift in global financial flows.
• Reliance on Private Capital:
o A significant portion of the $300 billion is expected to be mobilized through private capital,
reducing the burden on developed nations but increasing uncertainty for recipient countries.
o Developing nations prefer public grants, which are more predictable and do not exacerbate
debt burdens.

3. Structural Challenges
• Inequitable Burden Sharing:
o The NCQG fails to adhere to the principles of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and
Respective Capabilities (CBDR and RC).
o It does not account for historical emissions or the disproportionately high impact of climate
change on developing nations.
• Inefficient Financial Mechanisms:
o High debt burdens in developing nations limit their ability to access debt-based financing.

Developing World’s Challenges in Financing

• The Cost of Capital
o Developing countries face significantly higher borrowing costs than developed nations, making
large-scale climate investments unaffordable.
o The disparity in interest rates and risk premiums limits the flow of private capital to developing
nations.
• Lack of Predictable Financial Flows
o Climate finance flows remain concentrated within OECD countries, with limited transfer to the
Global South.
o Uncertainty regarding the availability and timing of funds hinders long-term planning for climate
action.
• Grant vs. Loan Debate
o Developing countries advocate for public grants over loans to avoid increasing their fiscal debt.
o Loans, even at concessional rates, burden nations with repayment obligations, diverting
resources from essential development activities.

The Road Ahead

• Increasing Financial Ambition
o Developed nations must recognize the scale of the climate crisis and commit to higher financial
targets.
o Climate finance must prioritize grants and concessional funding to ensure accessibility for
developing countries.
• Strengthening Global Cooperation
o Climate change transcends geographical boundaries, requiring collective global action.
o Multilateral forums must emphasize equity and climate justice, respecting the principles of CBDR
and RC.
• Leveraging Technology and Innovation
o Developing nations should focus on adopting cost-effective and scalable clean technologies.
o International collaboration on technology transfer can accelerate transitions while reducing costs.
• Continued Negotiations
o Climate finance discussions must remain a priority in future COP meetings.
o Transparent monitoring and accountability mechanisms are essential to ensure that financial
commitments translate into real action.

Conclusion
• The way forward lies in fostering stronger multilateral cooperation, increasing financial flows to
developing nations, and ensuring that climate action aligns with principles of equity and justice.

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• Only by bridging the gap between ambition and action can the global community effectively combat the
existential threat of climate change.

Practice Question: Discuss the financing challenges faced by developing countries in implementing clean energy
transitions and how the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) seeks to address these. (250 words)

21. National Mission for Natural Farming (NMNF) and the City-
Farmer Partnership Model
Introduction
• On November 25, 2024, the Government of India launched the National Mission for Natural Farming
(NMNF) to reduce dependency on chemical fertilisers and promote organic farming among one crore
farmers.
• NMNF aims to train and support farmers transitioning to organic farming, focusing on cow dung-based
manure and other locally available non-chemical fertilisers.
• However, its integration with urban waste management systems under the Swachh Bharat Mission
(SBM) offers an innovative solution to address challenges in both agriculture and waste management.

Challenges in NMNF Implementation

• Exclusion of Urban Organic Compost:
o India generates 5.8 crore tonnes of solid waste annually, with the potential to produce 1 crore
tonnes of organic compost.
o Despite this, urban compost from segregated waste is not yet integrated into NMNF, which could
address the manure needs of 15-20 lakh farmers annually.
• Environmental Impact of Current Waste Management:
o Unprocessed municipal waste often ends up in landfills near rural areas, causing environmental
degradation and methane emissions.
o Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) process only 30-40% of waste, relying on operational subsidies to
keep waste-processing facilities functional.
• Farmers’ Transportation Costs:
o Organic manure requirements are 2-3 tonnes per acre, far exceeding the 100-150 kg of chemical
fertilisers needed.
o Transportation costs make organic manure less accessible for farmers despite its lower price
(₹2,000-3,000 per tonne).

City-Farmer Partnership Model

Concept:
• This model links segregated urban wet waste with farmlands, enabling direct composting on farms. It
addresses challenges in waste management while promoting sustainable agriculture.

Operational Framework:
• Waste Collection and Supply:
o ULBs deliver segregated wet waste directly to farmlands instead of waste processing plants or
landfills.
• On-Farm Composting:
o Farmers use traditional pit composting methods, combining wet waste with cow dung slurry
and bio-cultures to produce organic compost within 2-3 months.
• Impact Metrics:
o One city with a population of 1 lakh generates 10-15 tonnes of wet waste daily, sufficient to
produce 3 tonnes of compost per day for a single farmer’s crop cycle.

Key Benefits:
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• Farmers:
o Access to free organic manure at their own farms, reducing transportation and input costs.
o Improved soil health and reduced dependency on chemical fertilisers.
• ULBs:
o Savings on operational subsidies (tipping fees).
o Enhanced waste processing efficiency and reduced methane emissions.
• Environmental Impact:
o Reduction in landfill waste and associated greenhouse gas emissions.
o Alignment with SBM and NMNF objectives.

Case Study: Chikkaballapura, Karnataka

• Implementation:
o The City-Farmer Partnership for Solid Waste Management (SWM) supplied 2,300 tonnes of
segregated wet waste to over 200 farmers, producing 600 tonnes of organic compost.
• Results:
o Reduced chemical fertiliser use by 50-60 tonnes.
o Improved soil health through rigorous testing before and after composting.
• Key Enablers:
o Farmer training programmes.
o Close monitoring of composting processes.
o Strong collaboration between ULBs, farmers, and local organisations.

Challenges and Solutions

• Waste Segregation:
o Challenge: Ensuring effective segregation of wet waste at the source.
o Solution: Public awareness campaigns and strict enforcement of segregation norms.
• Farmer Training:
o Challenge: Limited farmer capacity for on-farm composting.
o Solution: Training initiatives through self-help groups (SHGs), NGOs, and government agencies.
• Coordination Between Stakeholders:
o Challenge: Ensuring seamless collaboration between ULBs, farmers, and waste processing
agencies.
o Solution: Establishing local partnerships and incentivizing farmer participation.

International Best Practices for Promoting Organic Farming and Integrated Waste Management
• Germany has one of the most advanced waste management systems globally, focusing on a circular
economy approach. Organic waste is segregated at the source and converted into high-quality compost
and biogas.
• Japan has developed the Takakura Composting Method, a decentralized composting technique using
household waste. This method is widely adopted in urban and peri-urban areas.
• Sweden has adopted a bio-cycle farming model, where urban organic waste is used to produce bio-
fertiliser and biogas.
• Singapore has established community-level composting hubs in urban areas to manage organic waste
sustainably.

Way Forward
• Policy Recommendations:
o Integrate Urban Compost: Include urban wet waste composting into NMNF to meet the manure
demands of farmers.
o Decentralized Waste Management: Promote city-farmer partnerships for localized composting
solutions.
• Capacity Building:
o Strengthen farmer training programmes in composting techniques and soil health management.

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o Enhance waste segregation practices at the source through public awareness and infrastructure
investment.
• Financial Incentives:
o Provide subsidies for composting infrastructure on farms.
o Reduce operational costs for ULBs by incentivizing direct waste delivery to farms.

Conclusion
• The National Mission for Natural Farming (NMNF) and the City-Farmer Partnership Model represent a
transformative approach to addressing India’s agricultural and environmental challenges.
• Achieving NMNF’s target of supporting one crore farmers requires collaborative efforts across
government agencies, ULBs, and local communities, ensuring a win-win outcome for agriculture, urban
governance, and the environment.

Practice Question: Analyse the potential role of urban organic compost in achieving the goals of National Mission
for Natural Farming (NMNF). Highlight the challenges in integrating waste management with natural farming.
(250 words)

Topic: Disaster and disaster management.

22. India as a Global Leader in Tsunami Disaster Management
Introduction
• The tsunami of December 26, 2004, which claimed over 230,000 lives across 14 countries, was a turning
point in global disaster management.
• For India, this tragedy underscored the urgent need for robust preparedness measures, leading to the
establishment of the Indian Tsunami Early Warning System (TEWS).
• Today, India stands as a global leader in tsunami disaster management, with a state-of-the-art warning
system that is a model for international cooperation and technological excellence.

Key Features of the Indian Tsunami Early Warning System (TEWS)

• Genesis and Institutional Framework
o Following the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, the Government of India established the Indian
Tsunami Early Warning Centre (ITEWC) under the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information
Services (INCOIS) in Hyderabad.
o Operational since 2007, the centre is now central to India’s disaster preparedness and response
capabilities.
• Technological Components
o Seismic Sensors: A network of stations monitors tectonic activity in the Indian Ocean and beyond,
providing real-time data on undersea earthquakes.
o Deep-Ocean Pressure Recorders (DART): These measure changes in ocean pressure that indicate
tsunami waves.
o Wave Rider Buoys: Installed in strategic locations, they track wave parameters to refine tsunami
predictions.
o Tide Gauges: These measure sea-level changes to confirm tsunami events.
o Satellite Communication Systems: Critical for transmitting data and disseminating alerts swiftly.
• Operational Mechanism
o Detection: Continuous monitoring of tectonic activity by seismic stations.
o Simulation: Advanced computer models simulate tsunami propagation and predict impacts on
coastal areas.
o Monitoring: Instruments like DART buoys and tide gauges monitor the tsunami’s trajectory and
refine predictions.
o Alert Dissemination: Rapid communication of alerts via SMS, emails, television, radio, and social
media.

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India’s Global Role in Tsunami Preparedness
• International Collaboration
o India’s TEWS integrates data from global seismic networks and collaborates with agencies such as
the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center and Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA).
o Indigenous innovations like the Deep-Ocean Assessment and Reporting of Tsunamis (DART) buoys
are pivotal in real-time ocean pressure monitoring.
• Regional Support
o Designated as a Regional Tsunami Service Provider by UNESCO’s Intergovernmental
Oceanographic Commission, India provides advisories to 25 Indian Ocean Rim countries.
o The system’s accurate prediction during events like the 2012 Banda Aceh earthquake
demonstrates its reliability.
• Comparative Analysis with Global Systems
o Japan: Renowned for its advanced TEWS, backed by high seismic activity and technological
innovation.
o United States: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) leads TEWS efforts
for the Pacific and Atlantic coasts.
o Indonesia: Located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, Indonesia’s system focuses on frequent seismic
threats.
o Chile: A robust TEWS managed by the Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service of the Navy.
o Australia and New Zealand: Comprehensive systems for the Indian and Pacific Oceans,
emphasizing regional safety.

Challenges and Areas for Improvement

• Evolving Threats
o Beyond Plate Boundaries: While tsunamis are primarily associated with tectonic plate
boundaries, events in the Pacific suggest that they can occur at plate tails due to realignments.
The Indian Ocean’s Makran and Sumatra sources require continuous study.
o Non-Seismic Causes: Tsunamis caused by landslides, meteorite impacts, or nuclear explosions
pose unique challenges for prediction.
• Natural Precursors
o Observations like ocean withdrawal, unusual ocean sounds, specific odors, and animal behaviors
can act as precursors but remain underutilized.
• Public Awareness and Connectivity
o Enhancing public awareness, ensuring last-mile connectivity for alerts, and conducting regular
drills are essential to minimize casualties.
• Impact of Climate Change
o Rising sea levels and increased coastal vulnerabilities necessitate integrated planning for long-
term resilience.

Way Forward
• Enhanced Research and Development
o Invest in understanding tsunamigenic processes beyond traditional sources, including landslides,
meteorite impacts, and tectonic realignments.
o Develop advanced models for predicting tsunamis arising from non-seismic causes.
• Public Engagement and Awareness
o Strengthen public education campaigns on tsunami precursors and safe evacuation protocols.
o Implement community-based monitoring systems to leverage local knowledge and observations.
• International Collaboration
o Foster deeper collaboration with global agencies to share data and methodologies.
o Actively participate in international drills and workshops to stay updated on global best practices.
• Technological Upgrades
o Expand the deployment of DART buoys and tide gauges in critical zones.
o Utilize artificial intelligence and machine learning for real-time data analysis and prediction.
• Infrastructure and Coastal Resilience

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o Develop robust coastal infrastructure capable of withstanding tsunami impacts.
o Integrate climate change mitigation strategies to address rising sea levels and coastal erosion.
• Policy and Governance
o Formulate policies that mandate regular mock drills and ensure compliance with disaster
management standards.
o Allocate sustained funding for TEWS operations and upgrades.

Conclusion
• India’s Tsunami Early Warning System is a testament to its commitment to disaster preparedness and
regional cooperation.
• While challenges persist, the advancements made over the past two decades highlight India’s leadership
in leveraging technology for humanitarian purposes.
• By integrating global best practices, enhancing public awareness, and addressing emerging threats,
India can further solidify its position as a global leader in tsunami disaster management.

Practice Question: The tsunami of 2004 was a turning point in global disaster management. Discuss how this
event shaped India’s approach to disaster preparedness, particularly in the establishment of the Indian Tsunami
Early Warning System (TEWS). (250 words)

Topic: Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social
networking sites in internal security challenges, basics of cyber security.
23. Research Security in India’s Strategic and Emerging Sectors
Introduction:
• As India aspires to become a developed nation by 2047, science and technology (S&T) play a pivotal
role in achieving its development objectives.
• Strategic investments in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, space
exploration, and biotechnology are essential for global competitiveness and addressing societal
challenges.
• However, with intensified R&D efforts, the importance of research security has become paramount to
safeguard national interests.

Understanding Research Security

• Definition:
o Research security entails protecting sensitive scientific data, intellectual property (IP), and
infrastructure from threats such as espionage, cyberattacks, unauthorized access, and insider
threats.
• Significance:
o Prevents misuse of strategic research outputs by foreign actors.
o Ensures the confidentiality of data with economic and national security implications.
o Shields technological advancements from exploitation, which could undermine India's progress in
critical areas.

India’s Strategic and Emerging Technologies

India is making significant investments in:
• Space and Defence: Advancing satellite technology, missile systems, and space exploration capabilities.
• Semiconductors: Reducing reliance on imports to secure critical electronic supply chains.
• Biotechnology: Enhancing healthcare solutions, agricultural resilience, and vaccine development.
• Quantum and AI Technologies: Building leadership in quantum computing, AI-driven automation, and
cybersecurity.
With these advancements, research security becomes essential to maintain technological leadership and
prevent exploitation.

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Global Challenges and Lessons
International Case Studies:
• Harvard University Case:
o A senior professor and Chinese students were arrested for undisclosed ties to Chinese funding
while receiving U.S. defense research funds.
o Highlighted the vulnerabilities in research collaboration.
• COVID-19 Vaccine Cyberattacks (2020):
o Research facilities were targeted to steal vaccine development data.
• European Space Agency Breaches:
o Cyberattacks aimed at sabotaging and stealing sensitive aerospace research.
These incidents underline the global nature of research security threats and their severe implications.

Global Responses:
• United States:
o Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) and Science Act: Includes strict
research security provisions.
o National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Framework: Provides research security
guidelines tailored to institutions.
• Canada:
o National Security Guidelines for Research Partnerships.
o Policy on Sensitive Technology Research to avoid collaborations with high-risk institutions.
• European Union:
o A risk-based approach emphasizing sectoral self-governance and proportionate responses.
o Guidelines under Horizon Europe to secure EU-funded research projects.
• China’s Role:
o The Chinese Communist Party’s military-civil fusion strategy integrates civilian academic research
with military needs, making research security a global concern.

Current Challenges:
• Lack of Awareness:
o Research security has not been adequately prioritized in India’s policy circles or academia.
• Vulnerabilities:
o Foreign collaborations in sensitive sectors lack proper scrutiny.
o Weak data protection mechanisms in research labs.
o Inadequate personnel vetting and access controls.
• Conflict with Academic Freedom:
o Researchers may view security measures as an infringement on collaboration and openness.

Recommendations for Research Security in India

• Development of Guidelines:
o A risk-based and proportionate response, as adopted by the EU, can balance security with
academic openness.
• Dedicated Research Security Office:
o Establish within the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) to coordinate national
efforts.
• Classification of Research:
o Define sensitive research areas, including space, defence, and biotechnology, requiring higher
levels of security.
• Collaborative Approach:
o Engage researchers and institutions to ensure regulations are practical and effective.
• International Cooperation:
o Collaborate with trusted nations for knowledge-sharing and best practices.
• Digital Infrastructure Upgrades:
o Strengthen cybersecurity measures to prevent data breaches.

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Way Forward
• Establish Governance Mechanisms: Create a unified framework for research security with clear roles for
institutions, agencies, and policymakers.
• Funding and Resources: Invest in training, infrastructure, and surveillance to secure India’s R&D
ecosystem.
• Promote Security Awareness: Launch awareness campaigns for researchers to understand the
importance of security without stifling innovation.
• Engage Global Partners: Collaborate with nations like the U.S. and EU to align research security
standards.

Conclusion
• India’s ambitious S&T roadmap for 2047 demands robust research security measures. Protecting strategic
R&D investments while fostering global collaboration is the need of the hour. A carefully calibrated,
inclusive, and risk-based framework will empower India to achieve its scientific goals while safeguarding
national interests. By integrating security into its innovation ecosystem, India can reinforce its position as
a global leader in science and technology.

Practice Question: "Research security is integral to achieving technological sovereignty." Critically analyze this
statement with reference to India’s space, defence, and semiconductor sectors. (250 words)

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