General Studies Paper -1

Context: The Supreme Court making it mandatory for employers to grant menstrual leave could be counter-productive on women’s participation in the workforce, but asked Centre to consider framing a model policy on the issue after consulting states and stakeholders.

What is Menstrual Leave?

• Menstrual leave or period leave refers to all policies that allow employees to take time off when they are experiencing menstrual pain or discomfort.
• In the Lok Sabha, at least three attempts were made in recent years to bring in private member Bills to propose menstrual leave.

Menstrual Leave in the Light of Gender Gap

• Gender Gap: The World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2021 says that the gender global gap has widened (instead of shrinking).
• In the current situation, it would take the world 135.6 years to achieve gender equality.
• Labour Force Participation: Looking at it specifically at the workforce level, a woman earns 84 cents for every dollar that a man makes.
  • The participation of women in the labour force is significantly lower than that of men, and even fewer women hold leadership positions.
• Risk of Discrimination: If one adds mandatory paid leave for periods to this, it would end up further dissuading companies from hiring women.
• Social Stigma: If the government ratifies ‘special status’ for menstruating women, it validates the social stigma around menstruation.
• Period Shaming: It would exacerbate period shaming in a country where large swathes of people (both men and women) consider menstruation to be ‘impure’.
• Lack of Access to Affordable Sanitary Products: In India, accessing affordable and hygienic menstrual products poses a significant challenge. A considerable number of women, particularly those with low-income backgrounds, encounter difficulties in affording sanitary pads or tampons.
  • The latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS)-5 report underscores that approximately 50% of women aged 15 to 24 in India still resort to using cloth for menstrual protection.
• Cultural and Religious Practices: Specific cultural and religious beliefs and practices may hinder proper menstrual hygiene. For instance, in certain communities, menstruating women are viewed as impure, leading to restrictions on their involvement in religious activities or social gatherings.

Case Study of Japan

• There are countries such as Japan that provide leave for painful menstruation- but it is mostly unpaid, and unused.
  • Data shows that a mere 0.9% of women in the workforce avail menstrual leave days in Japan.
• Reason: Women claim that they are reluctant to avail this leave and broadcast that they are on their period, for the fear of sexual harassment.
• This is the situation (today), even though this policy was introduced in Japan more than seven decades ago.
• Gender Gap in Japan: As per the World Economic Forum’s ranking in 2019, Japan ranked 121 out of 153 in terms of gender equality. It has slipped to the 125th position in 2023.
  • Women in Japan are less likely to be employed (even with the same credentials) than men, and are often paid less.

Menstrual Leaves in Other Nations

• Erstwhile Soviet Russia had taken a policy decision to pay women who absented from work due to pain during the menstrual period.
• Few provinces in China have provisioned two-day paid leave for women. Indonesia offers women two days’ leave a month, but they rarely take it as employers perform physical examinations on them before allowing the leave.

Challenges in Implementation

• Equality Concerns: Opponents argue that providing special leave for menstruation may perpetuate gender stereotypes and undermine efforts to achieve gender equality in the workplace.
• Risk of Discrimination: There is a concern that providing menstrual leave could lead to discrimination against women in hiring decisions or promotions.
• Operational Challenges: Critics suggest that introducing menstrual leave policies might create operational challenges for businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises.
• Privacy Issues: Women might prefer to keep their health-related matters private, and introducing a specific leave category for menstruation could infringe on personal privacy.

Way Ahead

• Women are fighting hard for equity in their workplaces and leadership positions and menstruation leave could be held against them and reinforce their physical challenges.
• Recognising the diverse nature of menstrual experiences is essential.
• Tailoring support and being accommodative on a case-by-case basis promotes inclusivity, while also addressing the individual needs of those navigating their difficult periods.

General Studies Paper -2

Context

• Despite the seemingly successful talks between National Security Advisers (NSAs) of India and USA, to make progress on the bilateral Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET), structural challenges endure in its execution.

About the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET)

• It is a collaborative framework between India and the United States that aims to facilitate outcome-oriented cooperation in critical and emerging technology areas.
• It was announced by the Indian Prime Minister and US President during the Quad Summit in Tokyo in May 2022.
• It seeks to elevate and expand the strategic technology partnership and defense industrial cooperation between India and the US.
• It focuses on fostering collaboration across government, academia, and industry.

Key Technology Focus Areas

• Artificial Intelligence (AI): Both countries recognize the transformative potential of AI in various sectors. Collaborations in AI research, development, and applications are essential for societal well-being.
• Quantum Computing: Quantum technologies promise breakthroughs in computing power, cryptography, and secure communication. Joint efforts aim to harness quantum capabilities for mutual benefit.
• 5G/6G Telecommunications: The rollout of advanced wireless networks is crucial for economic growth and national security. iCET encourages cooperation in developing and deploying 5G and beyond.
• Biotechnology: Advances in biotech can revolutionize healthcare, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. Collaborations focus on research, innovation, and technology transfer.
• Space Technologies: Space exploration, satellite communication, and Earth observation are areas of mutual interest. iCET promotes joint projects in space technology development.
• Semiconductors: As the backbone of modern electronics, semiconductors play a vital role. Cooperation aims to enhance semiconductor manufacturing and design capabilities.

Collaborative Projects (Specific Examples)

• F-414INS6 Engines: The iCET’s defense component currently focuses on India locally manufacturing General Electric (GE) F-414INS6 afterburning turbofan engines for the under-development Tejas Mk-II light combat aircraft.
• Negotiations have concluded for GE to transfer around 80% technology to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for F-414 engines. However, critical know-how related to forging metallurgy discs for power pack turbines remains undisclosed.
• MQ-9 Armed Reaper/Predator-B UAVs: India is assembling 31 armed MQ-9 Reaper/Predator-B unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for all three services.
  • Technology transfer from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems for assembling the MQ-9s stands at around 10-15%, including establishing a domestic maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility for the UAVs.
• Stryker Infantry Combat Vehicle: Negotiations are ongoing for India to acquire, license-build, and co-develop the General Dynamics Land Systems Stryker.

Ongoing Negotiations

• The iCET also involves discussions about directly acquiring, license-building, and co-developing the General Dynamics Land Systems Stryker Infantry Combat Vehicle for the Indian Army.
• However, innate limitations persist in all these ventures.

Innate Limitations in Executing iCET

• Autonomy of U.S. Defense Companies: Local industry officials and military analysts emphasize that the primary impediments lie in the autonomy of U.S. defense companies regarding technology transfer.
  • These technologies have been developed at immense cost at Washington’s behest, and many companies zealously guard their Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) over them.
  • S. defense vendors are answerable to their shareholders, whose motivations are largely commercially driven. Consequently, the quantum of technology they are willing to transfer may be limited.
• Strict Export Control Laws: The U.S. has stringent export control laws related to military technologies.
  • The defense industrial complex in the U.S. is cautious about sharing critical military technologies via joint ventures, even if such collaboration aligns with Washington’s strategic interests.
  • Balancing national security concerns with collaborative ventures is essential.
• Technology Transfer: While progress has been made in technology transfer, challenges remain. U.S. defense companies guard their intellectual property rights (IPR), impacting the extent of technology transfer.
• Industry Motivations:S. defense vendors prioritize commercial interests. Their willingness to transfer technology depends on shareholder motivations.

Conclusion and Way Forward

• The iCET represents a significant step toward strengthening the India-U.S. partnership in critical and emerging technologies. By addressing challenges and leveraging opportunities, both nations can drive innovation, enhance security, and shape a technologically resilient future.
• While the iCET aims to enhance India-U.S. defense collaboration through technology transfer, bureaucratic complexities and limited technology sharing pose significant challenges. Addressing these limitations will be crucial for realizing the full potential of this strategic initiative.

General Studies Paper-3

Context: Recently, NITI Aayog released SDG India Index 2023-24.

About SDG India Index 2023-24

• SDG India Index 2023-24, the fourth edition of the country’s principal tool for measuring national and subnational progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)
• It measures and tracks national progress of all States and UTs on 113 indicators aligned to the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation’s (MoSPI) National Indicator Framework (NIF).

• Methodology: The SDG India Index computes goal-wise scores on the 16 SDGs for each State and UT. Overall State and UT scores or Composite Scores are generated from goal-wise scores to measure the aggregate performance of the sub-national unit based on its performance across the 16 SDGs.
  • These scores range between 0–100, and if a State/UT achieves a score of 100, it signifies it has achieved the targets. The higher the score of a State/UT, the greater the distance covered to the target.

India’s Progress

• India is progressing towards the Sustainable Development Goals despite global headwinds
• The composite score for India improved from 57 in 2018 to 66 in 2020-21 to further to 71 in 2023-24
  • Noteworthy advancements have been observed in Goals 1 (No Poverty), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), 13 (Climate Action). These are now in the ‘Front Runner’ category (a score between 65–99).

• Comparison: Since 2018, India has witnessed substantial progress in several key SDGs. Significant progress has been made in Goals 1 (No Poverty), 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) and 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).
• State wise: Uttarakhand and Kerala have taken the top spot among states in NITI Aayog’s SDG India Index 2023-24
  • Between 2018 and 2023-24, fastest moving States are Uttar Pradesh (increase in score by 25), followed by J&K (21), Uttarakhand (19), Sikkim (18), Haryana (17), Assam, Tripura and Punjab (16 each), Madhya Pradesh and Odisha (15 each)

Interventions facilitating SDG achievements

• Over 4 crore houses under the PM Awas Yojana (PMAY),
• 10 crore LPG connections under PM Ujjwala Yojana,
• Tap water connections in over 14.9 crore households under Jal Jeevan Mission
• Over 30 crore beneficiaries under Ayushman Bharat -Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana
• Coverage of over 80 crore people under the National Food Security Act (NFSA)
• Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) of ₹34 lakh crore made through PM-Jan Dhan accounts.
• The Skill India Mission has led to over 1.4 crore youth being trained and upskilled and has reskilled 54 lakh youth
• PM Mudra Yojana sanctioned 43 crore loans aggregating to ₹5 lakh crore for entrepreneurial aspirations of the youth besides Funds of Funds
• Emphasis on renewable energy resulted in an increase in solar power capacity from 2.82 GW to 73.32 GW in the past decade.
• Improvement in digital infrastructure with reduced internet data costs by 97% which has in turn positively affected and fostered financial inclusion

Issues

• Income and gender inequality were the SDGs which have seen a drop in the score.
• States not doing well have issues like sex ratio at birth.

Conclusion and Way Forward

• India bettered its performance in achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs) during 2023-24 with significant progress in eliminating poverty, economic growth and climate action.
• However, progress in addressing inequalities related with gender and income as well as access to equal opportunities needs to be addressed more effectively.
• Ending discrimination against women and girls is a basic human right and is a prerequisite for sustainable development.
• NITI Aayog is committed to supporting all the States and UTs in the localisation and acceleration of SDGs, an important barometer to measure progress towards Viksit Bharat @ 2047.

General Studies Paper-2

Context: Recently, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) amended the Rules to widen the administrative role of Lieutenant Governor (L-G) of Jammu and Kashmir.

Key Changes

• Police and Public Order: The L-G now has more say in matters related to police and public order, aiming to strengthen the L-G’s role in maintaining law and order within the Union Territory.
  • Any proposal requiring prior concurrence of the Finance Department in these areas must be placed before the L-G first.
• All India Service (AIS): Transfers and postings of AIS officers now fall under the L-G’s purview. This change grants the L-G greater authority in managing the bureaucracy.
• Legal Appointments and Prosecution: Proposals regarding the appointment of the Advocate-General, Law Officers, and decisions on prosecution sanctions or appeals will now be submitted to the L-G for approval.
  • The Department of Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs will play a crucial role in this process.
• Prisons and Forensic Science: Matters connected with Prisons and the Directorate of Prosecution and Forensic Science Laboratory will also be submitted to the L-G.

Lieutenant Governor

• A lieutenant governor serves as the constitutional head of five of India’s eight union territories.
• The President of India appoints the lieutenant governor for a five-year term, and they serve at the President’s pleasure.
• Responsibilities: The LG is the constitutional head of the UT, representing the President of India. Their role is largely ceremonial, similar to that of a Governor in a state.
  • The LG exercises executive powers on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers, headed by the Chief Minister. However, they have discretionary powers in certain matters, such as law and order, land, and police, which can lead to conflicts with the elected government.
  • The LG can summon, prorogue, and dissolve the Legislative Assembly. They can also reserve certain bills for the President’s consideration.
  • The LG is responsible for the administration of the UT and can appoint administrators for various departments.

Challenges and Issues

• Conflict with Elected Governments: In UTs with legislative assemblies, there have been frequent conflicts between the LG and the elected government over the extent of their respective powers.
• Ambiguity in Powers: The constitutional provisions and laws defining the LG’s powers are often ambiguous, leading to different interpretations and disputes.
• Centralization of Power: Critics argue that the LG’s discretionary powers lead to centralization of power and undermine the autonomy of elected governments in UTs.

General Studies Paper -3

Context: The government plans to expand its Electric vehicles (EVs) policy to include retrospective benefits for prior investors.

• Previously, incentives were available only for new local facilities established within three years of approval.

About Electric vehicles (EVs)

• Electric vehicles (EVs) have gained significant traction in recent years as a cleaner and more efficient alternative to traditional gasoline-powered cars.
• With advancements in battery technology, a growing network of charging infrastructure, and increasing consumer demand, EVs have become a viable option for many drivers around the world.
• Significant investor support is essential to tap into the $100 billion-plus EV opportunity in India.
• India, being the third-largest automotive market in the world, could potentially “lead the global transition” from internal combustion engine (ICE) to decarbonised electric counterparts.

 E-Vehicle policy

• The government in March 2024 approved the E-Vehicle policy to promote India as a manufacturing destination for EVs and attract investment from reputed global EV manufacturers.
• Focus: Enhance access to latest technology, strengthen the EV ecosystem, and promote competition among players.
  • Aim to lower production costs and improve EV economics for Indian consumers.
  • Mandated 50% value addition in manufacturing to occur domestically within five years.
  • Reduced import duty on completely built units (CBUs) with a cost, insurance, and freight (CIF) value of $35,000 from 70%-100% to 15%.

Challenges and Issues

• India faces structural cost disadvantages in certain components.
• After-sales service is a major concern for EV customers, impacting the scalability of business models.
• Foreign investments may not always deliver desired outcomes

Comparison at Global

• India’s EV policy aligns with incentives provided in the U.S., China, and Europe for EV manufacturing.
  • Electric cars in Europe and the U.S. remain 10%-50% more expensive than combustion engine vehicles.
  • Both regions import 20%-30% of their EV battery demands, highlighting the need for integrated production.

Other related steps

• The Indian government has set a target to achieve 30 percent electrification of the country’s vehicle fleet by 2030, and has introduced several incentives and policies to support the growth of the EV industry.
• The industry was given a major boost in the FY24 Union Budget for the production of electric vehicles, adoption of hydrogen fuel, and embracing changing technologies.
• In the 2023-24 Union Budget, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a budget allocation of INR 35,000 crore for crucial capital investments aimed at achieving energy transition and net-zero targets by 2070.
• The government has already launched initiatives such as the Faster Adoption of Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles Scheme – II (FAME – II) and the Production Linked Incentive Scheme (PLI).

Conclusion and Way Forward

• India’s electric vehicle market is poised for significant growth in the coming years.
• With supportive government policies, increasing consumer awareness, and advancements in technology, the country is well positioned to transition towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly mode of transportation.
• As the demand for EVs increases, it presents a tremendous opportunity for both local and international companies to invest in and contribute to the growth of India’s EV ecosystem.
• Investors should evaluate potential assets based on competitive advantages, market capabilities, customer feedback, talent, and supply chain strategies.
• There is a need to strengthen domestic players to create capabilities for critical components and encourage foreign automakers to utilize local suppliers.
• Streamlined Enumeration Process: Enumerators should be provided with a specific list of castes (based on the finalised draft).
  • The questionnaire should ask for sub-caste names, caste names, larger caste groups, and caste surnames of respondents.
  • Internet-enabled handheld devices preloaded with caste details will make enumeration easy and foolproof.
• Legal Review of 2021 Judgment: Interested States should move the apex Court to review its 2021 judgement.
  • Implementing OBC reservation based on 1931 Census data and EWS reservation without empirical data is farcical. The next Census must enumerate caste.

Conclusion

• A caste census is not merely a capitulation to identity politics; it is a necessary step toward a more equitable and just society. It is a reflection of our commitment to social justice and equitable development.
• Amending the Census Act, 1948, to make caste enumeration mandatory would be a significant stride in this direction.
• Peter Drucker famously said, “Only what gets measured gets managed.” This adage holds true when it comes to addressing the problems faced by historically discriminated social groups.
  • Whether it’s based on caste, race, religion, gender, or disability, collecting data on group identities is essential for informed policy-making and inclusive development.

General Studies Paper-2

Context: Recently, India hosted the first BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat held in New Delhi, carrying particular weight given the major developments unfolding in neighbouring Myanmar.

About the BIMSTEC

• The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is a multilateral regional organisation that was established with the aim of accelerating shared growth and cooperation between littoral and adjacent countries in the Bay of Bengal region.
• It was founded as BIST-EC, in 1997, with the adoption of the Bangkok Declaration, with Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka and Thailand as members.
• It became BIMST-EC (Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Thailand Economic Cooperation) with the entry of Myanmar in late 1997, and eventually, it was named in its current form, when Nepal and Bhutan became members in 2004.
• It focuses on Trade & Investment (facilitating commerce and economic ties); Transport & Communication (enhancing connectivity across borders); Energy (collaborating on energy security and sustainability); Tourism (promoting cultural exchange and tourism); Technology (sharing knowledge and innovation); Fisheries & Agriculture (ensuring food security); Public Health (addressing health challenges together); Poverty Alleviation (lifting communities out of poverty); Counter-Terrorism & Transnational Crime (strengthening security); Environment & Disaster Management and Climate Change (protecting our planet); People-to-People Contact; and Cultural Cooperation.

BIMSTEC’s Regional Challenges

• India emphasised that the seven-member BIMSTEC should seek solutions to regional challenges from within the organisation itself, and highlighted that BIMSTEC’s complementary and congenial membership should aspire to higher goals.
• The organisation faces long standing goals such as capacity building and economic cooperation, which have now acquired renewed urgency.

Myanmar’s Instability and Regional Instability

• The ongoing crisis in Myanmar poses significant challenges for BIMSTEC. Instability in Myanmar has raised questions about developmental and connectivity projects aimed at strengthening ties among member countries.
• The military Junta in Myanmar recently lost control of Naungcho, a major town along a trade highway to China in the northern Shan State. This development directly affects connectivity and trade routes in the region.
• BIMSTEC’s discussions focused on crucial connectivity projects and border stability, while maintaining the cautious stance regarding the Myanmar crisis.

Other Challenges and Related Solutions

• Sluggish Progress and Efficiency: One of the major challenges BIMSTEC encounters is the perceived lack of efficiency and slow progress. Critics often highlight that the organisation hasn’t moved as swiftly as desired in achieving its objectives.
• The inconsistency in policy-making and implementation across member countries contributes to this sluggishness. Harmonising diverse national interests and priorities can be quite the jigsaw puzzle.
• Political Commitment: BIMSTEC’s advancement is hindered by varying levels of political commitment from member countries’ leaders. Larger nations sometimes fail to consistently demonstrate strong dedication to driving the organisation’s agenda forward.
  • Simultaneously, smaller countries may not always prioritise BIMSTEC on their own national agendas, leading to uneven commitment levels.
• Resource Constraints and Capacity Building: BIMSTEC operates with limited resources, which affects its ability to implement projects effectively. Enhancing institutional capacity and resource allocation is crucial.
  • Strengthening technical expertise, promoting research, and building human capital within the organisation are essential steps.
• Connectivity and Infrastructure Gaps: Despite being a regional grouping, BIMSTEC faces challenges related to physical connectivity. Improving transport links, energy grids, and digital infrastructure remains a priority.
  • Bridging gaps in connectivity will enhance trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges.
• Harmonising Diverse Interests: BIMSTEC comprises countries with varying economic sizes, political systems, and development levels. Balancing these diverse interests while pursuing common goals requires adept diplomacy.
  • Finding consensus on issues like trade facilitation, counterterrorism, and disaster management can be intricate.

Conclusion

• The BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ retreat provided an opportunity for member countries to address regional challenges, especially in light of Myanmar’s ongoing crisis. As the organisation seeks solutions, it remains crucial to balance economic cooperation, stability, and humanitarian concerns.

General Studies Paper-2

Context: Recently, it was found that there is a need to amend the Census Act of 1948 to make enumeration by caste mandatory, instead of leaving it to the whims of the Union Executive.

About

• India, with its rich cultural diversity, has a complex social structure that includes various castes and communities.
• Caste-wise enumeration was introduced during British Colonial Rule (1881-1931).
  • However, independent India abandoned full caste enumeration due to concerns about perpetuating caste divisions.

Census Authority

• Union Subject: While Census is a Union subject, the Collection of Statistics Act, 2008 empowers States and even local bodies to gather necessary statistics.
• Caste Surveys: Individual States can conduct caste surveys (e.g., Karnataka in 2015 and Bihar in 2023), but Census data carries more authority and is less contested.

Imperatives for a Caste Census (Why a Caste Census Matters)

• Social Imperative: Caste remains a foundational social construct in India. As of 2011-12, only about 5% of Indian marriages were inter-caste.
  • The use of caste surnames and caste marks persists, and residential segregation by caste continues. Choices of candidates for elections and ministers for Cabinets are still influenced by caste considerations.
• Legal Imperative: Constitutionally-mandated policies of social justice, including reservations in electoral constituencies, education, and public employment, cannot be effectively pursued without detailed caste-wise data.
  • Although the Constitution uses the term ‘class’ instead of ‘caste’, Supreme Court rulings have consistently emphasised caste as a relevant criterion for defining backward classes and upholding reservation policies.
  • The Supreme Court dismissed Maharashtra’s plea to enumerate OBCs in the 2021 Census. This decision is questionable, given the Court’s past rulings. Caste enumeration is a legal imperative, not merely a policy matter.
• Administrative Imperative: Detailed caste-wise data is necessary to avoid wrongful inclusions of undeserving castes and exclusions of deserving ones. It helps prevent a few dominant castes in a reserved category from crowding out others.
  • Sub-categorization within reserved categories and determining the income/wealth criterion for the creamy layer also require such data.
• Moral Imperative: The absence of detailed caste-wise data has allowed a coterie of elites, including upper castes and dominant Other Backward Classes (OBCs), to disproportionately control the nation’s assets, incomes, and positions of power.

Arguments Against Caste Census

• Social Divisiveness: India’s social divisions have existed for nearly 3,000 years, well before the Census efforts.
  • While caste counts of Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) since 1951 haven’t led to conflicts among these groups, critics argue that casteism won’t disappear by excluding it from the Census.
  • Religion, language, and region, also enumerated, can be equally divisive.
• Administrative Challenges: Some view caste enumeration as an administrative nightmare. Unlike the fuzzy concept of race, caste identity is clear-cut.
  • The Indian government has smoothly enumerated 1,234 SC castes and 698 ST tribes. Enumerating the remaining 4,000-odd castes, mostly State-specific, shouldn’t pose an intractable problem.
• Reservation Demands: Contrary to fears, caste-wise Census data could help address reservation claims objectively.
  • Governments could debate and decide on reservations for groups like the Marathas, Patidars, and Jats.
  • Fuzzy data, however, allows arbitrary implementation for electoral considerations.
• Legal Challenges: When States like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Odisha, and Jharkhand attempted to implement reservations for OBCs in local body elections, the judiciary (High Courts and Supreme Court) stayed the same due to the absence of caste-wise OBC data.
• Contradictory Stance: While the judiciary demands caste-wise data to uphold reservations, the executive arm of the State has avoided enumerating the same data.
• Demanding a caste census often comes from the victims of discrimination, while vested interests resist it. Germany’s census, for instance, does not enumerate people by race, which disadvantages its Black population.
  • Applying Cicero’s test of ‘Cui Bono’ (who benefits?), we recognise that collecting caste data is crucial for addressing historical injustices.

Way Forward for Caste Enumeration in Census

• Census Act (1948) should be amended to mandate caste enumeration. Leaving it to the whims of the Union executive is inadequate.
• Census Commissioner’s Role: Caste should be enumerated as part of the regular Census by the Census Commissioner.
  • Pertinent Questions: A few pertinent questions about caste should be added to the questionnaire.
• Expert Involvement: The government should enlist sociological/anthropological experts.
  • Experts can draw up a draft list of castes specific to each State.
  • Public Input: The draft list should be published online, inviting suggestions and comments from the public before finalising it.
• Streamlined Enumeration Process: Enumerators should be provided with a specific list of castes (based on the finalised draft).
  • The questionnaire should ask for sub-caste names, caste names, larger caste groups, and caste surnames of respondents.
  • Internet-enabled handheld devices preloaded with caste details will make enumeration easy and foolproof.
• Legal Review of 2021 Judgment: Interested States should move the apex Court to review its 2021 judgement.
  • Implementing OBC reservation based on 1931 Census data and EWS reservation without empirical data is farcical. The next Census must enumerate caste.

Conclusion

• A caste census is not merely a capitulation to identity politics; it is a necessary step toward a more equitable and just society. It is a reflection of our commitment to social justice and equitable development.
• Amending the Census Act, 1948, to make caste enumeration mandatory would be a significant stride in this direction.
• Peter Drucker famously said, “Only what gets measured gets managed.” This adage holds true when it comes to addressing the problems faced by historically discriminated social groups.

Whether it’s based on caste, race, religion, gender, or disability, collecting data on group identities is essential for informed policy-making and inclusive development.

General Studies Paper-2

Context: The Supreme Court held that a divorced Muslim woman is entitled to a claim of maintenance under Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), 1973, against her former husband.

Background

• The Telangana High Court directed a Muslim man to pay ₹10,000 interim maintenance to his former wife.
• However, the husband contended that the provisions of the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Divorce) Act, 1986, being a special law, should prevail over Section 125 of the CrPC.

Evolution of law on Maintenance

• The law governing maintenance for destitute wives, children, and parents has been codified under Section 125 of the CrPC.
• It stipulates that if any person “having sufficient means neglects or refuses to maintain” his wife, then a magistrate of the first class may, upon proof of such neglect or refusal, order such a person to make a monthly allowance for the maintenance of his wife at a monthly rate as the magistrate thinks fit.
• The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Divorce) Act, 1986, is a religion-specific law that provides for a procedure for a Muslim woman to claim maintenance during divorce.
  • Section 3 of the Act guarantees the payment of maintenance only during the period of iddat — a period, usually of three months.
• It was enacted to essentially nullify the Supreme Court’s 1985 decision in the case of Mohd. Ahmad Khan v. Shah Bano Begum which upheld a Muslim woman’s right to seek maintenance from her divorced husband under Section 125 of the CrPC.

Supreme Court Verdict

• SC said that Section 125 CrPC was introduced as a measure of social justice to protect women and children.
• It pointed out that the provision manifested the commitment under Article 15(3) of the Constitution towards special measures to ensure a life of dignity for women at all stages of their lives.
• The ruling reiterated that maintenance under Section 125 CrPC exists in addition to the provisions for maintenance under the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Divorce) Act, 1986 (MWPRD Act), not against it.

General Studies Paper -3

Context: The Union Cabinet has approved India to sign the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement.

About

• The Ministry of Earth Sciences will spearhead the country’s implementation of the BBNJ Agreement.
• The Agreement allows India to enhance its strategic presence in areas beyond the EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone).
• It would also contribute to achieving several SDGs, particularly SDG14 (Life Below Water).

What is the BBNJ Agreement?

• The BBNJ Agreement, or the ‘High Seas Treaty’, is an international treaty under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
• It sets precise mechanisms for the sustainable use of marine biological diversity through international cooperation and coordination.
• Parties cannot claim or exercise sovereign rights over marine resources derived from the high seas and ensure fair and equitable sharing of benefits.
  • High Seas (areas beyond national jurisdiction) are the global common oceans open to all for internationally lawful purposes such as navigation, overflight, laying submarine cables and pipelines, etc.

Implementation of BBNJ Agreement

• The BBNJ Agreement will be the third implementation agreement under UNCLOS if and when it enters into force, alongside its sister implementation agreements:
  • The 1994 Part XI Implementation Agreement (which addresses the exploration and extraction of mineral resources in the international seabed area) and
  • The 1995 UN Fish Stocks Agreement (which addresses the conservation and management of straddling and highly migratory fish stocks).
• The Agreement was agreed upon in March 2023 and is open for signature for two years starting September 2023.
• It will be an international legally binding treaty after it enters force 120 days after the 60th ratification, acceptance, approval or accession.
  • As of June 2024, 91 countries have signed the BBNJ Agreement, and eight Parties have ratified it.

United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)

• UNCLOS was adopted in 1982, and came into force in 1994.
• It lays down a comprehensive regime of law and order in the world’s oceans and seas establishing rules governing all uses of the oceans and their resources.
• It establishes the International Seabed Authority to regulate mining and related activities on the ocean floor beyond national jurisdiction.
• As of today, more than 160 countries have ratified UNCLOS.

General Studies Paper -2

Context: Prime Minister Modi paid an official visit to Russia for the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit.

Key Highlights

• PM Modi was conferred Russia’s highest national award “The Order of St. Andrew the Apostle” for his contribution to fostering India-Russia ties.
• The award was announced in 2019.
• India will set up two new consulates in the Russian cities of Kazan and Yekaterinburg.
• Russia agreed to India’s demand to ensure early release and return to home of the Indian nationals working in the Russian military as support staff.
• India and Russia are working on the Eastern Maritime Corridor and the two countries were discovering each other through the Ganga-Volga dialogue.
  • The Eastern Maritime Corridor is a proposed sea route between Chennai, India, and Vladivostok, Russia, passing through the Sea of Japan, the South China Sea, and the Malacca Strait.
• Both the Leaders agreed to set the bilateral trade target of USD 100 billion by 2030.

India- Russia Relations

• Political Relations: A watershed moment in relations between India and the Soviet Union was the signing of the Treaty of Peace and Friendship in 1971.
  • After the dissolution of the Soviet Union, India and Russia entered into a new Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation in 1993.
  • In 2000, during the visit of President Putin to India, the partnership acquired a new qualitative character, that of a Strategic Partnership.
  • In 2010 the relationship was elevated to the status of a Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.
• Defense and Security Cooperation: BrahMos Missile System as well as the licensed production in India of SU-30 aircraft and T-90 tanks are examples of such flagship cooperation.
  • Both sides concluded agreements on the supply of S-400 air defense systems, construction of frigates under Project 1135.6 and shareholders agreement on the formation of a joint venture to manufacture Ka-226T helicopters in India.
  • The two countries also hold exchanges and training exercises between their armed forces annually termed INDRA.
• Trade and Economic Relations: Both sides revised targets of increasing bilateral investment to US $50 billion and bilateral trade to US $30 billion by 2025. However, bilateral trade reached an all-time high of $65.70 billion in FY 2023-24.
  • Since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, India has been buying large amounts of Russian oil at a discount to cushion the inflationary impact of rising crude prices.
• Intergovernmental Commissions: There is regular high-level interaction between the two countries.
  • The IRIGC (India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission): It is the main body that conducts affairs at the governmental level between both countries. Both countries are members of international bodies including the UN, BRICS, G20 and SCO.
  • Two Inter-Governmental Commissions: One on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC), co-chaired by EAM and the Russian DPM, and
  • Another on Military-Technical Cooperation (IRIGC- MTC) co-chaired by Russian and Indian Defence Ministers, meet annually.
• Nuclear Energy: Russia recognizes India as a country with advanced nuclear technology with an impeccable non-proliferation record.
  • Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP) is being built in India with Russian cooperation.

Way Ahead

• Over the years, as India has diversified its relationships in a multi-polar world, the India-Russia relationship has stagnated in some areas and atrophied in others.
• To further strengthen the relationship between Both the nations there is need for;
  • Providing a new basis for the existing defense cooperation;
  • The opportunity for Indian business conglomerates to explore the economic viability of the Siberian and Far East Region of Russia;
  • Strengthening geo-economic connectivity projects;
  • Enhancing technological cooperation between India and Russia.