HPAS Mains 2022 (General Studies Paper II ): Questions and Model Answers

February 25, 2023

Attempt all questions. Answer to Question No. 1 to 15 should not exceed 60 words in each case. Contents of the answers are more important than their length. Each question carries 4 marks.

Question: 1 Describe about the power Of Judicial Review in India.

Answer:

Judicial review is defined as the doctrine under which executive and legislative actions are reviewed by the judiciary. Judicial review is considered a basic structure of the Constitution (Indira Gandhi vs Raj Narain Case).
The provisions of several Articles like Article 13, 32, 131-36, 143, 226 explicitly confer the power of Judicial review on the Supreme Court and High Courts.
The power of Judicial Review enables the judiciary to protect the rights and liberties of citizens from infringement by the government. It acts as a check on the arbitrary exercise of power by the government and ensures that all actions of the government are in accordance with the Constitution.
The power of Judicial Review has been used by the judiciary in India to strike down several laws and executive actions that were found to be unconstitutional or violated fundamental rights. For example, in 2017, the Supreme Court struck down the practice of Triple Talaq. The court held that the practice was unconstitutional and violated the right to equality enshrined in the Constitution.
In conclusion, the power of Judicial Review is a vital component of India’s democratic system, which ensures that all government actions are in line with the Constitution and protect the rights and liberties of citizens.

Question: 2 Discuss in detail about the Right to equality given in the Indian Constitution.

Answer:

Right to Equality is a fundamental right enshrined in the Constitution of India that guarantees equality before the law, equal protection of the law, and prohibits discrimination on various grounds. It ensures that every citizen has an equal opportunity to succeed and contribute to the development of the country, regardless of their background or social status.
It includes equality before law and equal protection of law (Article 14), prohibition of discrimination on grounds of race, religion, gender, and caste or birthplace (Article 15). It also includes equality of opportunity in matters of employment (Article 16), abolition of untouchability (Article 17) and titles (Article 18).
However, right to equality is not absolute in nature and there is an increase in atrocities against SC/STs and women. According to the recent data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), in comparison to prior years, there has been a 15.3% increase in crime against women in 2021.

Question: 3. Describe the Supreme Court’s judgment on 103rd Constitutional amendment.

Answer:

The 103rd Amendment inserted Articles 15(6) and 16(6) in the Constitution to provide up to 10 per cent reservation to the economically weaker sections (EWS) among non-OBC and non-SC/ST sections of the population. Recently, the Supreme Court upheld the validity of 103^rd Constitutional amendment by split majority.
According to this judgement, reservation based only on economic criteria does not violate the basic structure of the Constitution, and that the exclusion of classes covered in Article 15(4) and 16(4) — that is OBCs and SC/STs — in the 103rd amendment does not damage the basic structure.
Treating EWS as a separate class would be a reasonable classification, and treating unequal equally would violate the principle of equality under the Constitution.
The court also imposed certain conditions on the implementation of the reservation for EWS. It held that the reservation for EWS would be applicable only to those who are not covered under the existing reservations for SCs, STs, and OBCs.

Question: 4. Discuss about the ‘Basic Structure’ theory Of Indian Constitution.

Answer:

Basic Structure theory is a judicial principle that the Constitution has certain basic features that cannot be altered or destroyed by amendments by Parliament. Over the years, various facets of the basic structure doctrine have evolved, forming the basis for judicial review of Constitutional amendments.

Significance:

It protected the supremacy of the constitution.
To act as a proper check against the arbitrary power of the executive.
Act as a shield to protect the fundamental rights of individual

Criticism:

Judiciary has not defined basic structure. It is vague and loosely formulated in the sense that there is no clear-cut list given by the judiciary about the constitution of basic structure.
Open to interpretation
Against the concept of separation of powers
Basic structure has strengthened democratic principle with judgements like Keshavnanda Bharati, Minerva Mill, Indira Sawhney etc. Doctrine of basic structure has acted as a bulwark against actions of authoritarian executive when it enjoys brute majority in the legislature.

Question: 5. What do you understand by ‘Startup India Scheme’ ? What benefits are available under this scheme?

Answer:

Launched on 16^th January, 2016, the Startup India Initiative has rolled out several programs with the objective of supporting entrepreneurs, building a robust startup ecosystem and transforming India into a country of job creators instead of job seekers.
These programs are managed by a dedicated Startup India Team, which reports to the Department for Industrial Policy and Promotion (DPIIT).

Benefits:

Startups shall be allowed to be self-certify compliance for 6 Labour Laws and 3 Environmental Laws through a simple online procedure.
In the case of labour laws, no inspections will be conducted for a period of 5 years.
Startups may be inspected only on receipt of credible and verifiable complaint of violation, filed in writing and approved by at least one level senior to the inspecting officer.
In the case of environment laws, startups which fall under the ‘white category’ (as defined by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)) would be able to self-certify compliance and only random checks would be carried out in such case.

Question: 6. Discuss the role Of Deputy Commissioner as District Magistrate.

Answer:

The responsibility of General Administration of the District lies with the Deputy Commissioner.
S/He is the Executive Head and has three-fold roles as Deputy Commissioner, District Collector, District Magistrate.
The Deputy Commissioner is responsible for the following functions and activities as District Magistrate:
Deputy Commissioner is responsible for the maintenance of Law and Order in the District.
Controls and supervisions the issuance of various licenses under Arms Act, Explosion Act, etc.
Supervisions and monitor the performance of Prosecution Agency and the police.
Conducts and gets conductor the inspection of Police Stations/Posts.
S/He is also responsible for taking action against hording, block-marketing and charging of higher rates of essential and eatable commodities.

Question: 7. What are the main hindrances in the way of smooth functioning of Rural Local Self-Governing bodies in India? Elucidate.

Answer:

Hindrances in the functioning of Rural self-government:

Inadequate finances: The inadequacy of funds has also stood in the way of successful working of the Panchayati Raj. The Panchayati Raj bodies have limited powers in respect of imposing cesses and taxes. They have very little funds doled out to them by the State Government. Further, they are generally reluctant to raise necessary funds due to the fear of losing popularity with the masses.
Lack of cordial relations between officials and people: Introduction of the Panchayati Raj aimed at securing effective participation of the people. But in reality, this hardly happens since the key administrative and technical positions are manned by the government officials. Generally, there is lack of proper cooperation and coordination between the people and the officials like Block Development Officers, the District Officers etc. Again, the officers fail to discharge the developmental duties more efficiently and sincerely.
Issue of Sarpanch Pati: On the Panchayati Raj Day in 2015, the Prime Minister called for an end to ‘Sarpanch Pati culture’. But it is still very much prevalent in the society, mainly due to gender biases, women illiteracy and patriarchal society.
Lack of Support Staff: The Standing Committee on Rural Development (Chair: Dr. P Venugopal) in July 2018 observed that there is severe lack of support staff and personnel in panchayats, such as secretary, junior engineers, computer operators, and data entry operators. This affects their functioning and delivery of services by them.

Question: 8. Discuss about India’s Policy of Panchsheel.

Answer:

The Panchsheel Agreement was a five-point agreement between India and China, signed on 29 April 1954.
The agreement consisted of five principles which were to govern their relations: mutual recognition of one another’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, Non-aggression pact, mutual non-interference with each other’s domestic affairs, equality as well as mutual benefit, as well as coexistence in peace.
The agreement was signed between India and China on 29 April 1954
The agreement was seen as a victory of Indian diplomacy, as it prevented the two nations from going to war
The agreement was significant in maintaining peace and stability in Asia
The Panchsheel Agreement was a significant step in the development of India-China relation
The Panchsheel Agreement was an important document in India’s history. It set the groundwork for future relations between India and China. The agreement is also significant because it showed that India was willing to cooperate with other nations, even those who were not its traditional allies. This cooperative spirit would continue to be a hallmark of Indian foreign policy throughout the years

Question: 9. Examine India’s Policy of ‘Act East’.

Answer:

India’s Act East Policy is based on 4 C’s – Culture, Commerce, Connectivity, and Capacity Building. As described by PM Modi, India’s vision for the region is SAGAR – Security for All and Growth for All. This article covers the ‘Act East Policy’ of India launched in 2014 and helps one understand its difference with the ‘Look East Policy’ of India launched in 1991.
The Act East policy has evolved to include political, strategic, and cultural components, as well as the creation of institutional channels for communication and collaboration. India has developed close relationships with all of the nations in the Asia-Pacific region, upgrading its relations with Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Japan, the Republic of Korea (ROK), Australia, Singapore, and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to strategic partnerships.
Additionally, India has actively participated in regional discussion forums like The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD), Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC), and Indian Ocean Rim Association in addition to ASEAN, ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), and East Asia Summit (EAS) (IORA).

In our domestic agenda for infrastructure, manufacturing, trade, skills, urban renewal, smart cities, Make in India, and other initiatives, Act East Policy has placed focus on India-ASEAN collaboration. Regional integration and prosperity may be sparked by connectivity initiatives, space collaboration, science and technology cooperation, and inter-personal interactions.
The Objective of ”Act East Policy” is to promote economic cooperation, cultural ties and develop strategic relationship with countries in the Asia-Pacific region through continuous engagement at bilateral, regional and multilateral levels thereby providing enhanced connectivity to the States of North Eastern Region including Arunachal Pradesh with other countries in our neighbourhood.
Some of the major projects include Kaladan Multi-modal Transit Transport Project, the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway Project, Rhi-Tiddim Road Project, Border Haats, etc.

Question: 10. Describe about India’s role in Russia-Ukraine war.

Answer:

As Russia’s war in Ukraine unfolds, India’s national interests have so far dictated a position of formal neutrality. It has abstained from successive votes in the UN Security Council, General Assembly, and Human Rights Council that condemned Russian aggression in Ukraine and thus far has refused to openly call out Russia as the instigator of the crisis.

History of India- Russia Relations

India and Russia have had deep relations for decades & Russia accounted for $5.51 billion of the $12.4 billion that India spent between 2018 and 2021 on arms imports.
From being a marginal player, Russia has become India’s third-biggest oil supplier since the war, with purchases jumping about 10-fold from a year-earlier because of cheap prices. The value of India’s coal imports from Russia, meanwhile, has risen four-fold during the same period.

India’s stand

India’s public neutrality toward the Russian invasion is driven fundamentally by its concerns vis-à-vis China and Pakistan. India sees both of these states as immediate and enduring threats, and it believes that preserving its friendship with Moscow will help to prevent deepening Russian ties with China and to limit Russian temptations to build new strategic ties with Pakistan. Consequently, by being neutral India aims to minimize Moscow’s proximity to both of its rivals.

Question: 11. Discuss the contribution of Pahari Gandhi Baba Kanshi Ram in the freedom movement.

Answer:

Pahari Gandhi Baba Kanshi Ram was born on 11 Jul 1882 in Dehra Gopipur village Dada Siba

Contribution in the freedom movement:

In Kangra areas, Baba Kanshi Ram joined the Independence movement in 1916. He was influenced by patriotism of Lala Hardayal and Ajit Singh during his studies at Lahore. He left the teacher’s job and joined the national movement.
In 1927, a conference took place at Tal in Sujanpur Tira, was attended by Baba Kanshi Ram. He was a prolific singer and was conferred the title of “Paharan Da Bulbul” by Sarojini Naidu at this conference.
In Kangra areas the Salt Satyagraha began in the month of March 1930. Baba Kanshi Ram and his party launched a movement to garner support for the Salt movement.
In 1937, in a political meeting at Gadriawala (Hoshiyarpur) J.L Nehru gave him title of “Pahari Ghandhi”.
When Sardar Bhagat Singh, Raj Guru and Sukhdev were hanged he took oath to continue wearing black clothes till India achieves independence.
He was a great follower of M.K. Gandhi and practiced all his principles in real life.

Question: 12. Describe the role of Praja Mandal in the freedom movement.

Answer:

Praja Mandals were organised on the Gandhian Principles and were successful in a great magnitude to develop political consciousness among hill people . Exposure provided by various national organisations to hills people led to the formation of a number of local bodies.

Role:

Social Reforms: Praja Mandals fought against the oppressive and the unjust rule of the Princely States, achieved democratization of the administration and introduce social reforms.
Economic Reforms: Praja Mandals encouraged the Hill people to refuse to pay unjust taxes, to fight against cruelties, rule of terror, high- handedness, slavery and feudalism and not to perform beggar.
Political Reforms: The major objectives of Praja Mandals were to establish a responsible government and to take effective and solid steps to force the issue of integration of the Hill States with the Indian Dominion.

Question: 13. Describe about the “Bhai do, na Pai” movement of Himachal Pradesh.

Answer:

Himalayan Riyasti Praja Mandal started a movement called Bhai Do, Na Pai Do movement.
Bhagmal Sautha was the leader of the movement.
This slogan was given by him standing in the Gunj Bazar of the Simla, now called Shimla.
This specific movement was started for the boycott of British goods and the Civil Disobedience Movement. That is why Bhai Do, Na Pai Do movement is also known as an extension of Civil Disobedience Movement.
In this movement, he advocated discontinuing any sought of help for World War -2 and also requested people not to pay the land revenue anymore.
Bhai Do Na Pai movement, which meant not to give anything and to cooperate with the rajas.

Question: 14. Describe the “New” and “old” area polities in Himachal Pradesh.

Answer:

The present-day Himachal Pradesh consists of two types of hill areas i.e the Punjab hills and the Shimla hills. In hilly region prior to independence, two types of movements were going on simultaneously, i.e., the Praja Mandal movement (in Shimla Hill States), and the Freedom movement (In Punjab Hill States).

Politics of Old areas: People in old areas participated in Praja mandal movements and were isolated from freedom struggle for a good amount of time. Agriculture and horticulture are the main occupation in old areas. Therefore, these areas act as pressure groups for agriculture and horticulture related policy making. Traditionally old areas voted for Congress and followed green cap as a result of cap politics.
Politics of new areas: The people in these areas participated in the freedom struggle movements with the specific objective of overthrowing the British rule. These areas are experiencing electoral politics from 1921 when the dyarchy was introduced in Punjab. Industries and employment are major issues in new areas. Therefore, these areas act as pressure groups for industries related policy making. Traditionally new areas voted for BJP and followed red cap as a result of cap politics.

Question: 15. Describe the journey of Himachal Pradesh to become a democratic state.

Answer:

Before independence, half of the Himachal Pradesh was under the control of princely states and other half was under the control of British empire. The path to becoming a fully democratic state was full of up and downs.

We can divide the journey of Himachal Pradesh as a democratic state into four stages:

Stage 1 Centrally Administered territory: Himachal Pradesh came into being on April 15, 1948 as a Centrally Administered Territory following an integration of 30 erstwhile princely states. An Advisory council of nine members was formed to advise the chief commissioner. But as a chief commissioner province, Himachal’s administrative set up was not fully democratic because the whole power was vested with the chief commissioner.
Stage 2 Part ‘C’ state: Government of India Part ‘C’ states Act, 1951 introduced a partial democratic set-up in Himachal Pradesh but still the main power was concentrated with the Lt. Governor on important issues like revenue, law and order etc.
Stage 3 Union Territory: It was a complete reversal of the journey of Himachal Pradesh toward a democratic state. Himachal Pradesh was made a Union Territory headed by a Lieutenant Governor on November 1, 1956. People’s participation was restricted.
Stage 4: Full statehood: On Jan 25, 1971, Prime Minister of India Mrs. Indira Gandhi on Girja Maidan (now Known as the Ridge) in Shimla, inaugurated the Himachal Pradesh as the 18th state of the Union of India. It was the final stage and step toward the formation of fully democratic Himachal Pradesh .

Attempt all questions. Answer to Question No. 16 to 25 should not exceed to 120 words in each case. Contents of the answers are more important than their length. Each question carries 8 marks.

Question: 16. Examine the tension areas in Centre State financial relations in India.

Answer:

Indian government follows a quasi-federal system wherein the financial, legislative and administrative powers are divided between the centre and state.

Tension areas in centre-state financial relations:

Vertical Fiscal Imbalance occurs when the revenues of different levels of government (i.e., centre, state and local) do not match their expenditures responsibilities. There is a mismatch in the revenue capacity and expenditure responsibilities of the central, state and local govt. The lower-level government (state and local) are often dependent on the central govt for finances to meet their expenditure responsibilities and this necessitates inter-governmental transfers from central govt to lower level governments.
Horizontal fiscal imbalance occurs when governments at the same level in different regions of a country have different abilities to provide services due to different abilities of raising funds. For example not all states or municipalities in India raise equal amount of tax revenue, which will ultimately define the quality of services provided by individual states to their respective people. Then some region have higher cost of services compared to other regions, so this kind of an imbalance or mismatch in the revenue and expenditure accounts of governments at same level is known as horizontal fiscal imbalance.
More revenue with the Union: It is found that union level government raises more resources than it needs and therefore it passes on resources through revenue sharing or grants to the unit states to support their expenditure. Thus, even if states at two levels are constitutionally sovereign, independent and autonomous, fiscally the governments are not. For example, in India, of the total revenue, union government collects more than 60 per cent while of the total expenditure, it spends around 40 per cent, including expenditure on centrally sponsored schemes
Inadequate devolution of power: There is inadequate devolution of taxes levied and collected by the central government, thereby reducing the finances available for state activities, within their sphere of responsibility. However, this concern has been addressed by 14^th Finance commission. The heavy dependence of the states on the union for financial resources has resulted in progressive erosion of the jurisdiction, authority and initiative of the states in their own constitutionally defined spheres.
Indebtedness of States: One of the major problem areas in Centre-State financial and Objectives relations pertains to the mounting central loans. According to Sarkaria Commission.
Problems with Centrally Sponsored Schemes: The proliferation of Centrally Sponsored Schemes, whose design and implementation are totally determined by the Centre without adequate consultation with the State Governments, is another serious problem.
Issues Related to Present Institutional Arrangements: Institutions like Inter-State Council, National Integration Council, Finance Commission and the Boards of the Reserve Bank of India and other financial institutions are not working effectively to address the issues of states

Question: 17. Analyse the problem of politics of defection in India.

Answer:

Parliament added an anti-defection law to the Constitution as the Tenth Schedule in 1985. Its purpose was to bring stability to governments by discouraging legislators from changing parties.

Problems associated with Anti defection law:

Ambiguity over Merger Clause: The merger of the Legislature Party would deem to be the merger of the Political party as well. This can create a “legal friction” between the different groups formed within the party.
Biased Role of Presiding Officer: The Speaker/Chairperson of the House is the key authority to take decisions on the disqualification issue. It is often seen that when the aggrieved party moves for disqualification, Speakers choose not to act, thus formalizing the defection.
No time limit to decide on disqualification: The Speaker/Chairperson is expected to give a prompt decision on disqualification under the Tenth Schedule; however no strict time limit has been prescribed.
Defection through Resignation: In 2019, some members submitted resignation letters to escape disqualification proceedings. The Supreme Court ultimately ruled that the Speaker has the authority to verify if a resignation is voluntary and genuine, but it is constitutionally impermissible for the Speaker to take into account extraneous factors while considering the resignation. In other words, once it is clear that a member is resigning out of free will, the Speaker is bound to accept it.
Freedom of Speech of Legislators: One of the conditions for disqualification is violation of whip issued by the Political Party to vote in a particular manner. Critics argue that this greatly limits the ability of a member to exercise her free opinion on the floor of the House on certain proposed legislations.
Wider implementation: Scope of defection is very wide as it is applicable on every legislation. It is also applicable to members of the Rajya Sabha and Legislative Councils which don’t have a say in the stability of the government.

Way forward:

Dinesh Goswami Committee Report recommended that disqualification of a member should only be attracted in the event a member violates a whip on matters related to Motion of Vote of Confidence, a No-confidence Motion, Money Bill or a Motion of Vote of Thanks to the President’s address.

Question: 18. What do you mean by NGOs? Discuss their role in the governance of India.

Answer:

Civil Society, when organized in structure and specialized in function, takes the form of NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations).
NGOs include groups and institutions that are entirely or largely independent of Government and that have primarily humanitarian or cooperative rather than commercial
The term NGO in India has been used denote a wide spectrum of organizations:
- Non-Governmental,
- Quasi or Semi-Governmental,
- Formal or informal,
- Non-profit or profit oriented bodies, with a legal status and registered under special Acts (like Companies Act. Societies Registration Act, etc).

Role played by the NGOs in governance:

NGOs are expected to play an important role in all conceivable aspects of development as a planner and implementer of development programmes; mobiliser of local resources and initiatives; catalyst, enabler and innovator.
In developing countries India, there are numerous gaps left by the Government in the development process which are filled by NGOs.
Work where state resources are inadequate: Two main such area include education and healthcare.
Facilitating Communication: at the field level, NGOs have the first hand feel of the community response to the existing programmes and basic needs of the people.
Advocacy for and with the underprivileged as these NGOs prepare and empower the poor to overcome psychological inhibitions and to raise the voice against atrocities, which is basically an advocacy role.
NGOs become ombudsman for the affected people and attempt to influence the government policy and programmes on behalf of the underprivileged sections (women, children or any other).
NGOs have a vital and decisive role to play in bringing about socioeconomic development, along with other public and private partners. Their confidence in the government, cooperation and joint efforts with personnel will strengthen the governance in the country.

Question: 19. Discuss the efforts made by the government of India for the welfare of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.

Answer:

Scheduled Castes (SCs), who constitute 16.6% of our population as per 2011 Census, have historically suffered social and educational disabilities and economic deprivation arising therefrom. Accordingly, special provisions have been enshrined in the Constitution for advancement of their interests. These provisions range from measures to remove any kind of social disabilities imposed on them to ensure equality of opportunity in every sphere, to measures of positive discrimination to bring them at par with rest of the population.
These communities were notified as Scheduled Castes as per provisions contained in Clause 1 of Article 341 of the Constitution.
The Constitution of India, Article 366 (25) defines Scheduled Tribes as “such tribes or tribal communities or part of or groups within such tribes or tribal communities as are deemed under Article 342 to the scheduled Tribes (STs) for the purposes of this Constitution”.

Various initiatives taken for the welfare of Scheduled Castes:

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is the nodal Ministry to oversee the interests of the Scheduled Castes.
Various scholarships are provided to the students belonging to the Scheduled Castes (SCs) to ensure that education is not denied due to the poor financial condition of their families. These Scholarships are provided at both pre-matric and post-matric levels.
Under Article 338 the National Commission for Scheduled Castes was established with a view to provide safeguards against the exploitation of Scheduled Castes and to promote and protect their social, educational, economic and cultural interests.
National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation (NSFDC) assists the target group by way of refinancing loans, skill training, Entrepreneurship Development Programmes and providing marketing support through State Channelizing Agencies, RRBs, Public Sector Bank and Other Institutions.
National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation (NSKFDC) provides credit facilities to beneficiaries amongst Safai Karamcharis, manual scavengers and their dependants for income generating activities for socio-economic development.
Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 under which assistance is provided to States/ UTs for implementation of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989.
Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAGY): The Centrally Sponsored Pilot Scheme ‘Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana’ (PMAGY) is being implemented for integrated development of Scheduled Castes (SC) majority villages having SC Population concentration > 50%

Various initiatives taken for the welfare of Scheduled Tribes:

National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) was established by amending Article 338 and inserting a new Article 338A in the Constitution through the Constitution (89th Amendment) Act, 2003.
The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has launched Van Bandhu Kalyan Yojana (VKY) for welfare of Tribals.
Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme for ST students
Post Matric Scholarship Scheme for ST students.
National Overseas Scholarship for ST students for studying abroad.
National Fellowship and Scholarship for Higher Education of ST students (a) Scholarship for Higher Education (earlier known as Top Class Education for ST Students), (b) Fellowship (earlier known as Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship Scheme for ST students).
Strengthening Education among ST Girls in Low Literacy Districts

Question: 20. Evaluate the implementation of the MGNREGA Act, 2005 in India

Answer:

The Indian Parliament passed the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act in August 2005.
MGNREGA is an Act to provide for the enhancement of livelihood security of the households in rural areas of the country by providing at least one hundred days of guaranteed wage employment in every financial year to every household whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work.
Under MGNREGS, state governments can ask for 50 days of work, in addition to the guaranteed 100 days, in case of exigencies arising from natural calamities.
The Standing Committee on Rural Development noted that the scheme should be revamped to meet the challenges in the wake of COVID-19. It recommended increasing the guaranteed days of work under the scheme from 100 days to 150 days.
The ambit of permissible works under the scheme requires frequent revision. The Ministry of Rural Development may consult stakeholders and include area-specific works under MGNREGA as per local needs. These may include, for instance, construction of bunds to stop land erosion during floods, and boundary works for agricultural fields to protect them from grazing animals.
Wage rates notified under MGNREGA range from Rs 193 to Rs 318 in different states/UTs. The fluctuation in wage rates across states/UTs is not justified & a mechanism needs to be devised for a unified wage rate across the country.
Indexing MGNREGA wages to Consumer Price Index (CPI)-Rural as opposed to CPI-Agricultural Labour, as recommended by Dr. Nagesh Singh Committee, has not been implemented.
The Government must review its position and increase the wages.
Delayed payment of wages: Wages under MGNREGA are paid by the central government. Beneficiaries become eligible for receiving wages within 15 days from the date of closure of muster rolls on completion of work.
There is inordinate delay in payment of wages to beneficiaries. This is mainly due to failed payment transfer arising from: (i) inactive Aadhaar, and (ii) closed, blocked, or frozen bank account.
In case of delay in payment of wages under MGNREGA, beneficiaries are entitled to compensation at the rate of 0.05% of unpaid wages per day for the duration of delay. The payment of delay compensation is not adhered to in most places in the country.
Under MGNREGA, the Gram Sabha must conduct regular social audits of all projects taken up within the Gram Panchayat but the implementation of this provision is poor.
MGNREG Act, 2005 was implemented w.e.f. 01st April, 2008 in the entire country. ‘Much water has flown under the bridge’ since then and the ‘need of the hour’ is the review and revamping of MGNREGA Scheme in totality to meet the new demands while overcoming the impediments thrown in its path during its journey so far.

Question: 21. What is the concept of Self-Help Groups? Discuss its role in the socio-economic development of rural India.

Answer:

Self Help Groups are self-governed, peer- controlled information group of people with similar socio-economic background and having a desire to collectively perform for common purpose.
They are informal associations of people who choose to come together to find ways to improve their living conditions.
They help to build Social Capital among the poor, especially women.

The SHGs have played the following roles-

Saving and Financial Decision Making: One of the primary benefits of participation in a SHG is the opportunity to save regularly, access formal savings institutions and participate in the management of these savings. They save regularly, have their own bank accounts and make deposits into these accounts. SHG is having a good impact on members, in their ability to save their hard-earned money.
Access to credit: A corollary of participation in SHGs is an improvement in a woman’s access to credit. Since the project is perhaps too early in its implementation to directly improve women’s access to credit. The financial mobility due to participation in the SHG has led to an improvement in the quality of life, according to some of the successful groups. Overall, many families were able to address their basic needs better than before.
Employment: with the implementation of SHG has generated Self-employment opportunities for the rural poor. The progress of the program since inception assisted in formation of 35.7 lakh SHGs; assisted 1.24 Cr. Swarozgaris in establishing their own micro-enterprises.
The program helped many participants in improving their economic conditions. After joining the self-help group, the women are economically and socially empowered.
Participation in local government: Because of SHG, women know about their local political institutions such as the Gram Panchayats and have better knowledge of where to report certain types of grievances. As part of the political empowerment process, it is a pertinent fact that many women have not only been elected to the Gram Panchayats but have become the role holders too.

Question: 22. Explain how India is benefitted from signing of Indo-US Civil Nuclear deal

Answer:

More than decade after the historic Indo-US nuclear deal, the pact did not lead to India setting up foreign-built reactors, but it helped fuel domestic power plants and give India access to critical technologies in strategic areas. They also felt that it gave India the recognition of being a responsible nuclear weapon state with strong non-proliferation credentials.
The Indo-US nuclear cooperation agreement was signed on October 10, 2008, that gave a fillip to the ties between the two nations, which since then have been on an upswing.

It had a significant impact on India in several ways. Here are some data points:

Increase in Nuclear Power Capacity: The Indo-US nuclear deal allowed India to access civilian nuclear technology and fuel, which helped the country increase its nuclear power capacity. According to the World Nuclear Association, India had a total installed nuclear power capacity of 6,780 MW as of January 2023, up from 3,450 MW in 2008.
Boost to India’s Energy Security: The deal also helped India address its energy security concerns by diversifying its energy mix. According to the Ministry of Power, Government of India, nuclear energy accounted for 2.96% of the country’s total electricity generation in 2020-21, up from 1.57% in 2007-08.
Improved India-US Relations: The nuclear deal helped improve India’s relations with the United States. According to the Pew Research Center, 63% of Indians had a favorable view of the United States in 2021, up from 55% in 2007.
Economic Benefits: The nuclear deal also had economic benefits for India. According to a report by the Confederation of Indian Industry, the nuclear industry has the potential to create up to 250,000 jobs and contribute $17 billion to India’s economy by 2030.
Nuclear Liability Law: However, the deal also led to the passing of India’s Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, which created a framework for compensation in case of a nuclear accident. The law has been criticized for potentially discouraging foreign companies from investing in India’s nuclear industry.
Development of strong relations with many countries:-Strong A major aspect of the Indo-US nuclear deal was the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) gave a special waiver to India that enabled it to sign cooperation agreements with a dozen countries.
The pact also enabled India to separate its civilian and military programmes. The country currently has 15 of its reactors under the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Post waiver, India signed nuclear cooperation agreements for peaceful means with the US, France, Russia, Canada, Argentina, Australia, Sri Lanka, United Kingdom, Japan, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Kazakhstan and Korea.
Help in Getting Nuclear Fuel:- According to the responses by the government on questions in Parliament, India imported over 7841.51 metric tonnes of nuclear fuel from 2008-2009 to 2017-18.
Following the pacts, there have been specific agreements for import of uranium from France, Kazakhstan, Australia, Canada and Russia.
India’s entry in Major control regimes:-After the deal India has joined three major control regimes like the export control regimes—the Missile Technical Control Regime, Wassenaar Arrangement and Australia Group.
India developed Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs), which are currently the backbone of the Indian nuclear power generation. In 1998, after conducting nuclear tests, India declared itself a nuclear weapon state. Overall, the Indo-US nuclear deal had a significant impact on India’s energy mix, economy, and international relations..

Question: 23. Describe ‘Head power attributes of India’s foreign policy.

Answer:

India’s foreign policy is guided by a set of head power attributes that reflect its aspirations to be recognized as a major global power. These head power attributes include the following:
Strategic autonomy: India believes in pursuing an independent foreign policy that is not dictated by any external power. It aims to maintain strategic autonomy in its foreign relations and safeguard its national interests.
Global leadership: India aspires to be a global leader and play a significant role in shaping the international order. It seeks to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the world by collaborating with other nations and multilateral organizations.
Non-alignment: India follows a policy of non-alignment, which means it does not align itself with any particular bloc or group of nations. It maintains friendly relations with all countries and seeks to pursue mutually beneficial partnerships.
Soft power: India leverages its cultural, intellectual, and economic strengths to enhance its influence in the world. It promotes its soft power through initiatives such as the promotion of Indian languages, Ayurveda, yoga, and Bollywood films.
Economic diplomacy: India seeks to promote its economic interests through its foreign policy. It has been actively engaging with other nations to promote trade and investment, and has also been playing a leading role in regional economic initiatives such as the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).
Regional leadership: India aims to be a regional leader and promote stability and development in its neighborhood. It has been actively involved in initiatives such as the Quad, the Indian Ocean Rim Association, and the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation.
Overall, India’s foreign policy is characterized by a balance of realism and idealism. It seeks to promote its interests while also contributing to global peace and stability.
If India can sustain its economic growth and social sector reforms, India would be a major power in the world by the year 2050. Therefore, on the eve of the 74th Independence Day, India is looking to the future with optimistic visions.

Question: 24. Discuss India’s economic benefits with the development of infrastructures at Chabahar Port.

Answer:

India’s interest in the development of Chabahar port in south–east Iran goes back to the 1990’s, finally coming to fruition with the signing of an agreement on 24th of May 2016. India and Iran have agreed to develop Chabahar, located in the Gulf of Oman northwest of the Indian Ocean, into a full ledged deep seaport.
The agreement to develop Chahbahar has generated enthusiasm and stoked interest because it is not only Iran and India that are the major stakeholders, but Afghanistan as well. This tripartite agreement involves development of major road and rail connectivity between the three countries in order to link them up to the seaport. This has implications for wider accessibility to the Central Asian countries and beyond. For landlocked, resource-rich Afghanistan and Central Asia, this accessibility to the sea and a resurgent Indian economy offers tremendous economic potential for the region-that was thus far constrained by Pakistan’s veto of the only land route connectivity between India and Central Asia.
India does not have overland trade and commerce with resource rich Central Asia. India hopes that development of Chabahar port apart from boosting bilateral trade and commerce with these countries will also build confidence for investment.

The Economic Benefits of the Chabahar deal

India sees both political and economic benefits in developing the Chabahar seaport. On the economic front, the port will allow India to directly tap into Afghan and Central Asian markets by circumventing the volatile Pakistani territory. Pakistan has denied India overland trading rights with Afghanistan through its territory by restricting the movement of Indian goods to Afghanistan. The Af-Pak Trade and Transit Agreement allows Afghan trucks to carry cargo to Pakistani ports but the trucks are not allowed to transport Indian goods through Pakistan to Afghanistan. Therefore, Chabahar’s development is expected to reduce costs by almost a third and increase the potential transaction value of trade between India, Afghanistan and Central Asia.
Afghanistan’s geo–strategic location provides it the unique ability to provide access to South, Central and West Asia.
Drawing attention to India’s plan to construct a 560-mile long railway line, it will help in linking the Iranian port with the iron ore mines.
Indian investment in and development of the port will allow these companies to transport their raw materials from Afghanistan to India for processing at much-reduced costs and circumvent the volatile tribal areas of Pakistan
Like Afghanistan, Iran is rich in various natural resources. Indian companies have already started eyeing Iran’s iron ore, crude oil, gas, urea, sugar, rice and dry fruits, which were not tapped to their potential owing to sanctions.
The other benefit that India will get from building and modernizing Chabahar port is reduction in import cost of oil and India’s investment in a fertilizer plant in Iran that could potentially save 50% of fertilizer subsidy
Given that Chabahar seaport will bring economic prosperity not only to the participating countries but the region as a whole, India must join hands with Afghanistan and deploy a strong military contingent to keep the road safe and secure – similar to the earlier deployment that India did to provide security for the Indian road engineers working on the Zaranj– Delaram road.

Question: 25. Describe Indian’s role in BRICS towards the growth of regional economic cooperation.

Answer:

The name BRICS stands for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—five developing countries that joined together for economic and social advancement. They all have the trait of being freshly industrialised and pursuing maximal commerce and development. Together, BRICS makes up around 40% of the global population and about 30% of global GDP, making it a significant economic force.

India’s Position in South Asian Trade

In the middle of the world economic recession, the first BRICS summit was convened in 2009. Due to its robust economy at the time, India has since taken on the role of a trade facilitator in South Asia and Africa. India is actually the best-performing economy in South Asia, according to the forum’s researchers, and a regional economic engine.
A worldwide power bloc and burgeoning investment market. India has the third-largest economy in the world. India plays a variety of roles on the social, political, and economic fronts.

India’s Role in utilising BRICS Platform in Facilitating Trade

India has taken several steps to improve trade including proposals for a new inclusive BRICS portal. This is so that the next time any one of the BRICS countries tweaks its import or export licenses, imposes anti-dumping duties or changes the criteria for product registration, the other members are likely to learn about it instantly. It also pitched for an independent BRICS credit rating agency so that members can compare their ranking with members itself instead of other developed countries.
India also promotes intra-BRICS trade, which means urging member nations to import goods from each other instead of Europe. The idea is that intra-trade provides the flexibility of trading in currencies other than the dollar.

Countering Currency war

India and Brazil could trade in Rupee or Lira, whichever suits the deal. By doing this, countries can strengthen their own currency while weakening the US Dollar.

India’s Function as Growth Facilitator for BRICS Nations

Each nation must prioritise its own economic development in order for the BRICS to prosper. A powerful country will benefit the BRICS collectively. India, too resembles the BRICS’s engine of growth.
The economic production of the BRICS countries increased from $3 billion to $15 billion between 2001 and 2013. India, China, and Brazil were viewed as sure bets by investors. But things quickly changed. BRICS has struggled during the last few years. The tightening sanctions against Russia, China’s stock market crash in 2015, Indian markets’ bear run in 2014, and the ongoing Brazilian economic crisis, all led investments to flow back to the US.

Peace is Solution for Healthy Growth

India needs the BRICS to be stable for trade to flourish, which is also why peacekeeping in trade regions like the Mediterranean, North Africa, and the Indian Ocean is vital.
Maintaining Peace Within BRICS Nation & also Around them is Important & India Needs to solve its conflict with China & also maintaining peace in Potential markets like Africa , South Asia & Indian ocean Region is a matter which needs to be Addressed.

Attempt all questions. Answer to Question No. 26 to 28 should not exceed 400 words in each case. Contents of the answers are more important than their length. Each question carries 20 marks.

Question: 26. Explain the trend of ‘regionalization of Indian Polities’ for the better understanding of current political scenario.

Answer:

The trend of ‘regionalization of Indian polities’ refers to the increasing importance of regional political parties and the decentralization of power from the national level to the state level in Indian politics. This trend has been evolving since the 1980s and has become more prominent in recent years.

Why there is an increase in regionalization of Indian politics?

There are several factors behind the rise of regionalization of Indian politics. One of the main factors driving this trend was the failure of the national political parties to address the specific needs and concerns of various regions and communities within India. This led to a sense of alienation and frustration among the people, which in turn led to the rise of regional parties. Another factor contributing to the regionalization of Indian politics was the process of economic liberalization and globalization, which brought about rapid changes in the social and economic structure of the country. These changes led to the emergence of new social groups and identities, which demanded greater representation and political power.
Today, India has a multi-party-political system with regional parties playing a crucial role in many states. Some of the major regional parties include the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal, the Biju Janata Dal in Odisha, the Telangana Rashtra Samithi in Telangana, and the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra. These parties have been able to address the specific needs and concerns of their respective regions and have therefore gained a strong foothold in their areas of influence.

Trend of regionalization of politics:

1967 Elections: The Congress failed to secure majorities in eight states and its majority in the Lok Sabha was reduced to very narrow 54% of the seats. Regional parties started growing all over the country. Split within the congress party in 1969 also led to the rise of multiple leaders at the national and state level.
Rise of Janata Party: Post emergency all leaders of opposition were united against Congress government and formed new coalition led by Janata party in 1977. Janata party was divided into multiple political parties after some time which further give rise to regional parties like Samajwadi party, Rastriya janata dal, JD(U) etc.
Relevance of regional parties : Bofors scandal, economic crisis, all set the tone for an era of coalitions that has lasted for almost twenty five years of coalition governments. The modern era of coalition politics has come into being as a consequence of the development of the multi-party system. The coalition politics has led to empowerment for regional parties from the states and has added to India’s search for true federalism. Since 1996, twenty three regional parties have been sharing power at the national level. there is a strong sense of Indianness, or what is called a federal unifier.

Current Political Scenario:

The regionalization of Indian polities has had a significant impact on the current political scenario. Regional parties have become key players in national politics, and coalitions of regional parties have played important roles in forming governments at the national level. This has led to a more fragmented political landscape, with a proliferation of smaller parties and a decrease in the dominance of national parties. At the same time, regionalization has also contributed to the diversification of Indian politics and has allowed for a greater representation of the diverse cultures and identities of the country. It has also led to greater accountability and responsiveness to local needs and concerns, as state governments have become more directly responsible for addressing the needs of their constituents.
Overall, the trend of regionalization of Indian politics has had a significant impact on the country’s political landscape and has brought about a greater degree of decentralization and democratization in the political process. It has also highlighted the importance of recognizing and addressing the specific needs and concerns of different regions and communities within India.

Question: 27. Critically examine major tents of India’s Nuclear Policy.

Answer:

Nuclear programme of India was initiated in the late 1940s under the guidance of Homi J. Bhabha. JL. Nehru was against nuclear weapons so he pleaded with the superpowers for comprehensive nuclear disarmament. However, the nuclear arsenal kept rising.
When Communist China conducted the nuclear tests in October 1964, the five nuclear powers (US, USSR, UK, France, and China) also the five Permanent Members of the UN Security Council had tried to impose the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty (NPT) of 1968 on the rest of the world.
India’s nuclear policy has evolved over time, but some of the major tenets of the country’s nuclear policy are as follows:
No First Use (NFU) policy: India’s nuclear policy is based on the principle of “no first use” of nuclear weapons, which means that India will not use nuclear weapons first in any conflict. This policy was adopted to promote regional stability and to deter other nuclear powers from using their weapons against India.
Minimum Credible Deterrence (MCD): India’s nuclear policy is based on the concept of “minimum credible deterrence,” which means that India will maintain a nuclear arsenal sufficient to deter any potential adversary from using nuclear weapons against India.
Non-Proliferation: India is committed to non-proliferation and disarmament, and has always supported the idea of a world without nuclear weapons. India is not a signatory to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), but has declared a voluntary moratorium on nuclear testing and has expressed its willingness to negotiate a global ban on nuclear testing.
Civilian Nuclear Energy: India’s nuclear policy also includes the development of civilian nuclear energy. India has a large and growing population and needs to develop its energy infrastructure. Nuclear power is seen as a way to meet some of the country’s energy needs while reducing its dependence on fossil fuels.
Strategic Autonomy: India’s nuclear policy is also based on the concept of “strategic autonomy.” This means that India will develop its nuclear capabilities and doctrine based on its own strategic requirements, without being influenced by other countries

Benefits of NFU

A limited nuclear weapons programme without tactical weapons and a convoluted command and control structure is made possible by NFU policy.
By preventing the placement of weapons on high alert and preventing an arms race, the concept reduces the likelihood of nuclear use.
Because it is up to the enemy to decide whether to escalate a nuclear use, the doctrine also lessens the likelihood of needless turmoil.
India’s ambitions to join the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) and United Nations Security Council (UNSC) can be aided by strict adherence to the philosophy.

Objections to the NFU

Some nuclear weapon states have rejected the concept of no-first-use (NFU) and most, if not all, of the others have only expressed declaratory support.
As the inferior party will attempt to prevent a conventional attack by threatening a nuclear reaction, nuclear weapons are frequently considered as a cure to conventional inferiority.
The first-use nuclear doctrine provides a nuclear risk component to every war the superior state contemplates because it makes it difficult for the possible attacker to reliably estimate that it can win at a manageable cost when there is a chance of nuclear escalation.
In India the NFU policy has been called into question on the grounds that it allows Pakistan to take the initiative while restricting India’s options militarily and puts India in a disadvantageous position.
Pakistan’s low nuclear thresholds and its policy of using its nuclear umbrella to foment sub-conventional conflict in India is the principal reason behind the debate around India’s ‘no first use’ policy.

India’s Future Concern

While India’s nuclear policy has been broadly consistent over the years, there have been some changes in recent years. For example, India has recently adopted a more assertive posture in its nuclear doctrine, indicating that it may consider using nuclear weapons in response to a major attack using other weapons of mass destruction or on critical infrastructure. Additionally, India has been expanding its nuclear arsenal and developing new delivery systems, which has raised concerns among some observers about the potential for an arms race in South Asia. Overall, India’s nuclear policy remains a subject of debate and scrutiny both domestically and internationally.

Question: 28. ‘Women empowerment is still a distant dream, despite the several efforts made by the Himachal Pradesh Government for the upliftment of women. “ Do you agree with this statement?

Answer:

“Feminism isn’t about making women stronger. Women are already strong, it’s about changing the way the world perceives that strength.” G.D. Anderson
Yes, Women empowerment is still a distant dream, despite the several efforts made by the Himachal Pradesh Government. Economic empowerment allows women to control and benefit from resources, assets, and income. It also aids the ability to manage risk and improve women’s well-being. Empowerment of women enhances the quality and the quantity of human resources available for development.

Issues and problems faced by women:

Selective abortion and female infanticide: It is the most common practice for years in India in which abortion of female fetus is performed in the womb of mother after the fatal sex determination and sex selective abortion by the medical professionals.
Sexual harassment: It is the form of sexual exploitation of a girl child at home, streets, public places, transports, offices, etc by the family members, neighbours, friends or relatives.
Dowry and Bride burning: It is another problem generally faced by women of low or middle-class family during or after the marriage. Parents of boys demand a lot of money from the bride’s family to be rich in one time. Groom’s family perform bride burning in case of lack of fulfilled dowry demand.
Disparity in education: The level of women education is less than men still in the modern age.
Domestic violence: It is like endemic and widespread disease affects almost 70% of Indian women according to the women and child development official. It is performed by the husband, relative or other family member.
Child Marriages: Early marriage of the girls by their parents in order to be escaped from dowry. It is highly practiced in the rural India.
Inadequate Nutrition: Inadequate nutrition in the childhood affects women in their later life especially women belonging to the lower middle class and poor families.
Low status in the family: It is the abuse or violence against women. Women are considered as inferior to men.
Status of widows: Widows are treated poorly and forced to wear white clothes.
Initiatives taken by Government to tackle issues related to women:
Himachal Pradesh state commission for women act, 1996: Investigate and examine all matters relating to the safeguards provided for women under the Constitution and other laws
Child marriage prohibition act, 2006: This act criminalised the child marriage in India and Himachal Pradesh.
Protection of women from domestic violence act 2005: It is an Act of the Parliament enforced in Himachal Pradesh to protect women from domestic violence.
The Act provides a definition of “domestic violence” for the first time in Indian law, with this definition being broad and including not only physical violence, but also other forms of violence such as emotional/verbal, sexual, and economic abuse.
The dowry prohibition (Himachal Pradesh amendment) act, 1976: According to this act, if any person demands, directly or indirectly, from the parents or guardian of a bride or bridegroom or from any other person, as the case may be, any dowry, he shall be punishable with imprisonment which may extend to one year and with fine which may extend to five thousand rupees”.
Participation of women in politics: Presently, in State Legislative assembly out of 68 seats in the state assembly only 1 seat is held by women depicting, a very low level of representation of women in the highest elected body of the state and with little bargaining power because of small representation in the political process.

Different important schemes for women welfare in Himachal Pradesh:

Beti Hai Anmol Yojna: This scheme is for girls of BPL families up to two girl children. After their birth, the department deposits rupees 10,000 per girl child in the post office/ Bank account.
Mukhya Mantri Kanyadan Yojna: In this scheme girls who are orphan or whose father is physically/Mentally incapacitated or bed ridden can get rupees 25,000 grant for their marriage if their parents annual income is not more than rupees 35,000 per annum.
Self-Employment Assistance for women: In this scheme women are granted rupees 2500 for establishing any project or venture who have annual income not more than 35,000 per annum.
Mahila Vikas Nigam: Objective of Mahila Vikas Nigam is to provide self-employment to the women by providing loan on subsidised interest rates.
Widow Re-marriage Scheme: The objective of the scheme is to rehabilitate the widows. In this scheme Rs. 50,000 grant is providing to widow, on her remarriage.
Mother- Teresa Asahaya Matri Sambal Yojna: Objective of this scheme is to provide financial assistance to widow women for educating and looking after their children up to two children till they attain age of 18 years. In this scheme women get rupees 3000 per annum per child.
State Home For women: State home is meant for housing destitute, widow and the women who are in moral danger. Department is running one state home at Mashobra in Shimla Distt. These inmates get free residence and free diet. For their rehabilitation they get various skill trainings in the state home so that after leaving the state home they can earn and be rehabilitated. After leaving the state home department provides grant of Rupees 20,000 per inmates for her rehabilitation.
Himachal Pradesh Mahila Vikas Protsahan yojana: Under the scheme, a state level award for the persons/organisation working for the development and empowerment of women in the field of health, education, sports, social services and art and culture, is granted.
Indira Gandhi Matritava Sahyog Yojana: Indira Gandhi Matritva Sahyog Yojna(IGMSY) is a centrally sponsored Scheme and is being implemented on pilot basis in one District of Himachal Pradesh i.e. Hamirpur since 2010-11. IGMSY scheme is being implemented through ICDS platform and Anganwadi Centres are the focal points for the delivery of services to the pregnant and lactating women. This scheme is hundred percent Centrally Sponsored Scheme. Under this scheme Rs. 6000/- cash incentive in three phases is provided to pregnant and lactating women.
Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for Empowerment of Adolescent Girls (SABLA): SABLA was introduced as Centrally Sponsored Scheme for benefitting Adolescent Girls (AGs). Funding pattern of the scheme is 90:10 sharing by Central and State Government in four districts which are Solan, Kullu, Kangra, and Chamba during the Financial Year 2010-11 replacing Kishori Shakti Yojana. The Scheme aims at covering AGs in the age group of 11-18 years, with main focus on Out of School AG, who are provided life skill education and vocational training under this scheme along with supplementary Nutrition.
Kishori Shakti Yojana: Kishori Shakti Yojana is 100% Centrally Sponsored Scheme. This scheme is operational in 46 ICDS Projects of 8 Districts viz. Shimla, Sirmour, Kinnaur, Mandi, Bilaspur, Una, Hamirpur and Lahaul-Spiti of the State. This scheme is for the improvement of health, nutritional status, and for improving/upgrading home based vocational skills status of Adolescent girls.
Participation of Women in Panchayati Raj Institutions: The 73rd constitutional amendment has proved to be a boon for women especially the rural women enabling them to contribute in their own way to the society, thus enabling them to think beyond their home and hearth. Himachal Pradesh has increased the reservation for women from 33% to 50 % now. After this women have been facilitated increasingly and are encouraged to be active participants by ensuring their participation in all the three tiers of Panchayati Raj.
Himachal Pradesh ranked among the top five states in the country in terms of crime rate (crime per one lakh population) of several offences against women, as per the NCRB’s ‘Crime in India 2018’ published earlier this year. These crimes include abetment to suicide, cybercrimes against women, rape and molestation of minors, murder with rape, domestic violence and kidnapping a minor to compel to marriage. According to the report, recent years have witnessed a sharp rise in number of untraced missing females, increasing from 32 in 2015 to 225 in 2019 and 163 so far this year.
Women in Himachal Pradesh have been primarily involved in economic activities outside the home. They work in fields, rear animals and are also engaged in small cottage industries. Besides, they are also holding job in government offices as well as in private sector. All these factors have contributed to their economic independence, freedom of movement, decision making power and social recognition. The women’s work participation has witnessed gradual increase over decades. The absence of taboos and the active involvement of service delivery institutions were the casual factors along with the implementation of NREGA, which provided an opportunity for work with timely payment.
However, on the positive side, Himachal Pradesh has a stable population with low infant mortality and mortality rates though the mean age at marriage is low, fertility in the state still remains low. Fertility reduction has taken place for both educated and illiterate women and has brought about development in the state. It has strong association with health and human development indicators although the possible causes maybe economic growth and social evolution.