TUBER-BASED RAINBOW DIET
1. Context
The ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute (CTCRI) is gearing up to extend its tuber crop-based ‘rainbow diet’ campaign to more areas in the country with sizeable tribal populations
The campaign aims to promote biofortified tubers and value-added products made from them to combat malnutrition and ensure a balanced diet. In the current fiscal year, the campaign will be launched in Odisha, targeting nine districts with large tribal populations
2. What are Tuber crops?
- Tuber crops are plants that produce edible underground storage structures called tubers
- Root and tuber crops consist of root crops, such as beets and carrots, and tuber crops, such as potatoes and sweet potatoes, and the leaves of root crops, such as beet tops
- A typical ‘rainbow diet’ is a meal plan comprising different-coloured fresh fruits and vegetables
- The colours in these natural foods are caused by specific phytonutrients
- With its tuber crop-based rainbow diet, the CTCRI is popularising the orange-fleshed sweet potato (rich in beta-carotene), the purple-fleshed sweet potato, and purple-fleshed yam (rich in anthocyanin)
- The ‘rainbow diet’ campaign was launched in Attappadi in Kerala’s Palakkad district. On the occasion, the institute unveiled a ‘Tuber Crops Rainbow Diet Plate’ featuring biofortified sweet potato, cassava, and also millets
3. ICAR- Central tuber crops research institute
Over the years, the CTCRI has developed numerous improved tuber varieties that have since found acceptance with the farming community.
Biofortified tubers were low-cost, natural solutions for promoting health, and wellness in tribal communities
- The CTCRI has previously introduced biofortified sweet potato varieties in Arunachal Pradesh and Tripura.
- The institute has also unveiled a “Tuber Crops Rainbow Diet Plate” featuring biofortified sweet potato, cassava, and millets.
- The CTCRI’s efforts aim to develop improved tuber varieties and explore tuber-millet combinations for nutritious value-added products.
Source: the Hindu
BONN CLIMATE MEET
1. Context
The recent Bonn climate change conference aimed to be a turning point for addressing global warming. However, the conference fell short of expectations, similar to past notable climate conferences. Disagreements between developed and developing nations persisted, hindering progress on both longstanding and emerging issues. The lack of consensus was evident in the delayed agreement on meeting agendas, which was only finalized on the second-to-last day of the conference. Overall, Bonn failed to serve as the catalyst for accelerated climate action that was desperately needed to meet the crucial 1.5 or 2 degree Celsius targets.
2. Global Stocktake (GST) discussions at Bonn Climate Conference
- The third and final round of technical discussions on Global Stocktake (GST) concluded at the Bonn Climate Change Conference.
- GST is mandated by the 2015 Paris Agreement and assesses progress in the fight against climate change.
- GST framework was established, outlining elements to be included in the stocktake exercise.
- Disagreements between developed and developing countries persisted during the discussions, particularly concerning finance and 'historical responsibility'.
- Developing countries were displeased with Australia's attempt to downplay the historical responsibility of developed nations in causing global warming.
- Australia argued that historical emissions occurred when alternatives to fossil fuels were limited, and the harm caused by greenhouse gases was not well understood.
- Developing countries consider historical responsibility as a basis for differentiated burden-sharing in the climate change framework.
- The issue of historical responsibility is likely to resurface at COP 28 in Dubai and could lead to significant contention.
- The United States also expressed a similar stance during the Bonn meeting, emphasizing that bridging the adequacy gap is not solely the responsibility of developed nations.
- Developing countries view the erasure of historical responsibility as a sensitive red line that could lead to major conflicts.
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Image Source: The Indian Express3. Mitigation Work Programme (MWP)
- MWP was established at COP 26 in Glasgow in 2021 as an emergency mechanism solely focused on increasing emission cuts.
- The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) indicates that global emissions much decrease by 43% from 2019 levels by 2030 to meet the 1.5-degree target.
- Emissions continue to rise, surpassing 2019 levels in 2021.
4. Challenges in MWP Discussions
- Developing countries raised concerns during MWP discussions, stating that while they are asked to strengthen climate actions, developed countries have not provided sufficient financial and technological support.
- Developing countries, including India, emphasize the need for international assistance in the form of funding and technology transfers to enhance their climate efforts.
5. Financing Challenges
- Developed countries have an obligation to support developing countries climate action plans through financial and technology transfers.
- Insufficient funds have been a persistent issue, with developing countries requiring up to US$6 trillion between now and 2030 to implement their climate action plans.
- Loss and damage needs of developing countries are estimated to be around US$400 billion annually, with additional funds required for various purposes.
- The committed goal of raising US$100 billion per year from 2020 by developed countries has not been fully realized.
6. Efforts for Financial Resources
- A new initiative, the Summit for a New Global Financial Pact, is taking place in Paris, aimed at redirecting global financial flows and generating new funds to combat climate change, biodiversity loss, and poverty.
- Several heads of state are expected to attend the two-day meeting.
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For Prelims: BONN Climate Challenge, New Global Financial Pact, Climate Change, Paris Agreement, Biodiversity, Mitigation Work Programme (MWP), Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), COP 28, and Global Stocktake (GST).
For Mains: 1. What efforts are being made to address financial challenges and support climate action plans of developing countries? (250 words).
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Previous year Questions
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1. Consider the following pairs: (UPSC 2020)
International agreement/setup Subject
1. Alma-Ata Declaration Healthcare of the people
2. Hague Convention Biological and chemical weapons
3. Talanoa Dialogue Global climate change
4. Under2 Coalition Child rights
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 4 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 2, 3, and 4 only
Answer: C
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Source: The Indian Express
HEAT WAVES
1. Context
In recent times, heatwave deaths have been reported in various parts of India, prompting urgent action from the government. Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya convened a meeting with senior officials from the India Meteorological Department, National Disaster Management Authority and the Health Ministry to address this issue. The meeting focused on deploying central teams to affected states, developing prevention plans and raising awareness.
2. About Heat Wave
- A heatwave is a period of abnormally high temperatures, a common phenomenon in India during the months of May-June and in some rare cases even extends till July.
- Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) classifies heat waves according to regions and temperature ranges. As per IMD, the number of heatwave days in India has increased from 413 over 1981-1990 to 600 over 2011-2020.
- This sharp rise in the number of heatwave days has resulted due to the increasing impact of climate change.
- The last three years have been La Niña years, which has served as a precursor to 2023 likely being an El Niño year. (The El Niño is a complementary phenomenon in which warmer water spreads westeast across the equatorial Pacific Ocean.)
- As we eagerly await the likely birth of an El Niño this year, we have already had a heat wave occur over northwest India.
- Heat waves tend to be confined to north and northwest India in El Niño years.
3. Understanding the Effects of Heat on the Body
Heat Exhaustion Occurs when excessive sweating leads to the draining of the body's resources, but it is not life-threatening. Recovery is possible by rehydrating and seeking cooler areas.
Heat stroke Results from an inability to regulate core body temperature, leading to severe symptoms and potential organ damage. Promptly reducing core temperature is crucial in these cases.
4. Symptoms and Medical care
Signs of heat stroke Extremely high body temperature without sweating, drowsiness, vomiting, reduced urination and impaired breathing.
Vulnerable populations Older adults, young children and individuals with comorbidities are more susceptible to heat-related impacts. However, heat stroke can affect individuals of any age.
5. Preventive Measure to Avoid Heat Stroke
Minimize exposure Stay indoors or seek shade during peak sunlight hours, especially between noon and 3 pm. Avoid strenuous activities during this time.
Stay hydrated Drink water regularly, even if not feeling thirsty. Consume hydrating fluids such as lassi, lemon water, buttermilk or ORS to maintain electrolyte balance.
Clothing and accessories Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose-fitting cotton clothes. Use goggles, umbrellas and appropriate footwear for protection.
Home cooling Use curtains or shades to keep homes cool. Utilize damp clothes and cod baths to lower body temperature.
6. Role of Humidity and Night-time Temperatures
High humidity Increased perceived temperature and reduces the effectiveness of sweat evaporation, making it harder to cool down.
High night-time temperatures Light the body's recovery time, hindering the restoration of resources. Low night temperatures are essential for adequate recuperation.
7. Linking Heatwaves to Climate Change and Global Implications
Rising global temperatures Climate Change contributes to increased heatwave frequency and intensity, impacting human health.
Health Risks and Socioeconomic Impact Heatwaves can cause additional deaths, public health emergencies, reduced labour productivity and disruptions to essential services.
8. Criteria for Declaring Heat Waves in India
- In plains maximum temperature of at least 40 °C or more
- In Hilly regions maximum temperature of at least 30 °C or more
- Severe heat wave departure from normal temperature exceeds 6.40 °C
9. Impact of heat waves on Health
Health impacts of heat Heat-related illnesses range from heat cramps to heatstroke and hyperthermia. Heat can also worsen existing conditions and lead to premature death.
Indirect health effects Heat affects human behaviour, disease transmission, health services, air quality and critical infrastructure.
10. Conclusion
- Addressing heatwave deaths in India requires a multi-faceted approach involving government intervention, public awareness and preventive measures.
- By understanding the effects of heat on the body, recognizing critical symptoms and implementing preventive strategies, the risk of heat-related illnesses and fatalities can be reduced.
- Additionally, acknowledging the role of climate change and preparing for future heat waves is essential for safeguarding public health.
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For Prelims: Heatwave, India Meteorological Department, National Disaster Management Authority, the Health Ministry, ORS, Humidity, high temperatures
For Mains:
1. Climate change is considered a contributing factor to the increased frequency and intensity of heat waves. Discuss the measures that can be taken at national and international levels to address climate change and minimize its impact on public health. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. Arrange the following India Meteorological Headquarters in Chronological order of their establishment and select your correct answer from the codes given below: (UPPSC Civil Service 2018)
A. New Delhi
B. Kolkata
C. Shimla
D. Pune
1. C D A B 2. B A D C 3. D B C A 4. B C D A
Answer: 4
2. Consider the following statements: (MPSC Forest Services 2019)
(a) The Disaster Management Act was passed by the Parliament in 2005.
(b) The Union Home Minister Acts as a Chairperson of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).
(c) The NDMA may have not more than nine members including Vice-Chairman.
(d) The tenure of the members of NDMA shall be five years.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
1. (a), (b) and (c) 2. (a), (c) and (d) 3. (b), (c) and (d) 4. All above
Answer: 2
3. National Disaster Management Authority is headed by (CDS 2021)
A. the Prime Minister. B. the Home Minister C. the President. D. the Health Minister.
Answer: A
4. With reference to Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2022)
1. Private and public hospitals must adopt it.
2. As it aims to achieve universal health coverage, every citizen of India should be part of it ultimately.
3. It has seamless portability across the country.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
5. Consider the following statement: (UPSC 2018)
1. The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 replaced the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954.
2. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is under the charge of the Director General of Health Services in the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: A
6. What is the full form of ORS? (NHM UP CHO 2021)
A. Oral Recovered Solution
B. Oral Rehydration Salts
C. Oral Regenerate Salts
D. Oral Regenerate Solution
Answer: B
7. Consider the following statements with regard to atmospheric humidity: (UPSC ESE 2018)
1. Absolute humidity is the amount of water vapour per unit volume.
2. Hygrometer is used to measure relative humidity.
3. Dew point is the temperature at which the relative humidity is 75%.
Which of the above statements are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 1 and 3 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
8. Relative humidity is (ISRO Scientist Civil 2020)
A. Something concerned with air conditioning
B. The ratio of moisture present in air to the capability of air to hold maximum moisture
C. The ratio of actual humidity to absolute humidity
D. Representative of amount of moisture held in air
Answer: B
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Source: The Indian Express & WHO
CHILD LABOUR IN INDIA
1. Context
According to the ILO, a shocking 10.1 million children in India find themselves engaged in various forms of labour.
2. Child Labour: Definition
- Child labour typically means the employment of children in any manual work with or without payment. It is a deep-rooted social ill in India.
- Child labour refers to the employment of children in any work that deprives them of their childhood, interferes with their ability to attend regular school, and that is mentally, physically, socially or morally dangerous and harmful.
3. Child Labour in India: A Silent Epidemic
- International Labour Organization (ILO) estimates reveal that approximately 10.1 million children in India are victims of various forms of labour.
- Child labour deprives children of their rightful childhood, dreams, and opportunities, perpetuating the cycle of poverty and denying them fundamental rights.
- The district of Aligarh, known for its lock industry, unveils a tragic tale that exposes the harsh realities faced by child labourers.
- The plight of child labourers in India demands urgent attention and action to break the chains that bind these innocent souls.
- Child labour robs children of their chance for a better future and extinguishes the flicker of hope.
- Swift measures are needed to emancipate these young workers and provide them with the support and opportunities they deserve.
4. Child Labour in Aligarh's Lock Industry
- Ravi, a 12-year-old boy, works in the lock industry in Aligarh, facing gruelling conditions and heavy manual labour for a meagre wage.
- Children like Ravi operate heavy machinery with their small hands, enduring burdens beyond their capacity.
- Ravi's story exemplifies the urgent need for intervention and highlights the suffering of young workers in the lock industry.
5. Child Labour in India: Statistics
- Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of child labourers in India, estimated at 2.1 million.
- Bihar, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and other states also have significant child labour rates.
- These states account for nearly 55% of the total working children in India.
- Child labour is prominent in agriculture (70%), services (20%), and industry (10%).
- A significant percentage of children involved in child labour are out of school, with 28% of children aged 5-11 years and 35% of children aged 12-14 years affected.
- Boys are more affected by child labour than girls across all age groups, although the gender gap narrows when considering extensive household chores.
- Child labour prevalence in rural areas (14%) is nearly three times higher than in urban areas (5%).
Image Source: Down To Earth
6. Consequences of Child Labour
- Child labour exposes children to physical risks, health complications, and long-term developmental issues.
- Emotional scars, anxiety, trauma, and a sense of hopelessness plague child labourers.
- The cycle of poverty and child labour intertwines, crushing aspirations, denying education, and perpetuating a struggle for survival.
7. Constitutional and Legal Provisions
- The Indian constitution provides free and compulsory education for all children in the age group of six to 14 years as a fundamental right under Article 21A. Child labour in India decreased in the decade 2001 to 2011, and this demonstrates that the right combination of policy and programmatic interventions can make a difference.
- According to Article 23 of the Indian Constitution any type of forced labour is prohibited.
- Article 24 states that a child under 14 years cannot be employed to perform any hazardous work.
- Article 39 states that “the health and strength of workers, men and women, and the tender age of children are not abused”.
- In the same manner, Child Labour Act (Prohibition and Regulation) 1986 prohibits children under the age of 14 years to be working in hazardous industries and processes.
- Policy interventions such as MGNREGA 2005, the Right to Education Act 2009 and the Mid Day Meal Scheme have paved the way for children to be in schools along with guaranteed wage employment (unskilled) for rural families.
- Further, with the ratification of International Labour Organization Conventions Nos. 138 (Minimum age convention) and 182 (Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention) in 2017, the Indian government have demonstrated its commitment to the elimination of child labour including those engaged in hazardous occupations.
8. Combating Child Labour in India: Initiatives
- Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016 strengthens child protection laws in India.
- The government has implemented legislation to combat child labour and protect children from exploitation.
- International Labour Organization (ILO) leads global efforts to fight child labour through technical assistance and promoting international standards.
- ILO facilitates dialogue and cooperation among workers, employers, and governments to address labour challenges.
- The conference held in Geneva from June 5-16, 2023, addressed various labour-related issues, including child labour.
- Delegates from member states discussed just transitions, apprenticeships, and labour protection.
- Non-governmental organizations and grassroots movements play a crucial role in raising awareness, rescuing child labourers, and advocating for their rights.
- Combating child labour requires a united effort from governments, non-profits, and individuals.
- Stronger policies, public awareness, and support are needed to eradicate child labour.
- Addressing root causes like poverty, lack of education, and weak enforcement of labour laws is essential.
9. Calls to Action
- Advocate for stronger policies and enforcement to protect children from exploitation.
- Raise public awareness about the issue of child labour.
- Support initiatives that provide education and opportunities for children.
- Address root causes such as poverty and lack of education.
10. The Journey Ahead
- Urgent action is needed to protect children from the injustices of child labour.
- Collaboration and compassion are essential in dismantling the shackles of child labour.
- Create a society where every child is nurtured, educated, and empowered to reach their full potential.
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For Prelims: International Labour Organisation (ILO), Child Labour Act (Prohibition and Regulation) 1986, International Labour Organization Conventions Nos. 138 (Minimum age convention) and 182 (Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention), Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016.
For Mains: 1. How have the ratifications of International Labour Organisation conventions demonstrated the Indian government's commitment to eliminating child labour? (250 Words).
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Previous year Questions
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1. International Labour Organization's Conventions 138 and 182 are related to (UPSC 2018)
A. Child labour
B. Adaptation of agricultural practices to global climate change
C. Regulation of food prices and food
D. Security
Answer: A
2. Which one of the following is not part of the aims and purposes of the ILO as per the Philadelphia Declaration? (UPSC EPFO 2016)
A. Labour is not a commodity
B. Freedom of expression and of association are essential to sustained progress.
C. Poverty anywhere constitutes a danger to prosperity everywhere
D. The war against want requires to be carried on with unrelenting vigour within each nation and is solely the responsibility of the government.
Answer: D
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Source: Down To Earth
INTEGRATED THEATRE COMMANDS
1. Context
India is resolutely advancing its efforts to establish theatre commands, aiming to build integrated war-fighting machinery cost-effectively.
After addressing various concerns, a consensus has been reached among the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force regarding the plan.
2. India's Push for Integrated Theatre Commands
Consensus Among the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force After addressing various concerns, a consensus has been reached among the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force regarding the establishment of theatre commands. This consensus reflects the collaborative efforts of the three services.
Three Integrated Theatre Commands The revised proposal calls for the creation of three integrated theatre commands, each led by a senior three-star general. The commands will be responsible for managing the northern borders with China, the western front with Pakistan, and a maritime command in peninsular India.
Discarding the Air Defence Command (ADC) The original proposal for an Air Defence Command (ADC) has been discarded. The Indian Air Force (IAF) argued against a standalone ADC, citing interdependence between air defence and offensive air missions. Dividing limited air assets among different theatre commands was deemed operationally unwise.
Operational Flexibility and Collaboration among Services Air assets will not be owned by a specific theatre command but will shift based on the contingency faced. Efforts are underway to foster collaboration and a sense of working together among the Army, Navy, and IAF.
Cross-Staffing Initiative to Foster Collaboration A group of officers from the Army, IAF, and Navy have been cross-posted to other services. This initiative aims to promote collaboration in areas of commonality, such as equipment and technology.
Synergizing Appraisal System for Tri-Service Appointments Steps is being taken to introduce common annual confidential reports for two and three-star generals across the armed forces. This move aims to streamline the appraisal system and enhance coordination for tri-Service appointments.
India's Current Unified and Single-Service Commands India currently has two unified commands: the Andaman and Nicobar Command and the Strategic Forces Command. Additionally, there are 17 single-Service commands (Army 7, IAF 7, and Navy 3).
3. China's Model
Enhancing Offensive Capabilities China reorganized its People's Liberation Army into five theatre commands in 2016. India's efforts to establish theatre commands reflect a similar intention to enhance offensive capabilities and command-and-control structures.
4. Streamlining Military Operations
Enhancing Coordination and Efficiency The establishment of theatre commands aims to streamline military operations in a rapidly evolving security landscape. The goal is to enhance coordination and efficiency among the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
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For Prelims: Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, China, Integrated Theatre commands, Pakistan, Air Defence Command, Andaman and Nicobar Command, the Strategic Forces Command,
For Mains:
1. Assess the implications of the establishment of theatre commands on India's national security. Analyze the potential impact on regional stability. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. Consider the following in respect of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (INOS): (UPSC 2017)
1. Inaugural INOS was held in India in 2015 under the chairmanship of the Indian Navy.
2. IONS is a voluntary initiative that seeks to increase maritime co-operation among navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region,
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: B
2. Which one of the following is the best description of 'INS Astradharini', that was in the news recently? (UPSC 2016)
A. Amphibious warfare ship
B. Nuclear-powered submarine
C. Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
D. Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier
Answer: C
3. Consider the following countries: (UPSC 2015)
1. China
2. France
3. India
4. Israel
5. Pakistan
Which among the above are Nuclear Weapons States as recognized by the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, commonly known as the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT)?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 1, 3, 4 and 5 only C. 2, 4 and 5 only D. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Answer: A
4. Consider the following pairs: (UPSC 2022)
Country Important reason for being in the news recently
1. Chad Setting up of permanent military base by China
2. Guinea Suspension of Constitution and Government by military
3. Lebanon Severe and prolonged economic depression
4. Tunisia Suspension of Parliament by President
How many pairs given above are correctly matched?
A. Only one pair B. Only two pair C. Only three pair D. All four pairs
Answer: C
5. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2021)
1. 21st February is declared to be the International Mother Language Day by UNICEF.
2. The demand that Bangla has to be one of the national languages was raised in the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan.
Which of the above statement is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: B
6. Consider the following countries: (UPSC 2022)
1. Azerbaijan
2. Kyrgyzstan
3. Tajikistan
4. Turkmenistan
5. Uzbekistan
Which of the above have borders with Afghanistan?
A. 1, 2 and 5 only B. 1, 2, 3 and 4 only C. 3, 4 and 5 only D. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Answer: C
7. Which one of the following best describes the Andaman & Nicobar Island Command? (UPSC CAPF 2015)
A. A cyber security command
B. A unified command comprising Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard
C. A unified command comprising Navy and the Coast Guard
D. One of the commands of the Indian Navy
Answer:B
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Source: The Economic Times
GOVERNOR'S POWER
1. Context
Amid a conflict between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government and Punjab Governor Banwarilal Purohit, the former has decided to replace the Governor as the Chancellor of state-run universities with Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann
2. About Governor
- Part VI of the Constitution deals with the states and lists out the role and responsibility of the Governor of states.
- Article 153 provides for a Governor of every state and is the constitutional head of the state.
- The executive power of the State shall be vested in the Governor and shall be exercised by him either directly or through officers subordinate to him in accordance with this Constitution (Article 154).
- Governor performs the same duties as of President, but as the executive head of a State; the work remains the same as of the office of the President of India.
- A Governor is a nominated head and not an elected representative.
- Dual Role of the Governor as head and representative
- Constitutional head of state; and
- Link between Union and State governments. - His dual role makes him a key functionary in the Indian Constitutional system.
3. Powers of Governor
- Under Article 161 the Governor has the following powers –the power to grant pardons, reprieves, respites, or remissions of punishment; the power to suspend, remit or commute the sentence of any person convicted of any offence against any law relating to a matter to which the executive power of the State extends.
- The Governor makes all executive decisions on behalf of the state government (Article 166(1)).
- The Governor appoints the Chief Minister and other cabinet members. They serve at the pleasure of the Governor (Article 164).
- He may create rules for the efficient execution of a state government's work and its distribution among the ministers. (Article 166(3))
- He appoints the state's advocate general and determines his tenure and conditions of service.
- He has the authority to recommend to the President the declaration of a state of constitutional emergency.
- He may request from the Chief Minister any information about the administration of the state's affairs, as well as legislative suggestions (Article 167).
- The governor appoints the state election commissioner and establishes his term of office and working conditions (Article 243K).
4. Friction points between the States and Governor
- In recent years. these have been largely about the selection of the party to form a government, the deadline for proving the majority, sitting on Bills, and passing negative remarks on the state administration.
- Kerala’s government was dismissed based on a report by the Governor. Several state governments have been dismissed since then, including 63 through President’s Rule orders issued by Governors between 1971 and 1990.
- Kerala Governor in 2020 turned down a request to summon a special sitting of the Assembly to debate the three central farm laws.
- In 2018 J&K Governor dissolved the Assembly amid indications that various parties were coming together to form the government. This paved the way for the Centre to later bifurcate the state into two Union territories, by considering the Governor as the government.
- In 2019 Maharashtra Governor quietly invited the BJP leader and administered his oath as CM. This government lasted just 80 hours. Six months later, the governor refused to nominate CM to the Legislative Council.
- Following the Karnataka polls in 2018, Governor Vajubhai Vala invited the BJP to form the government and gave B S Yeddyurappa 15 days to prove the majority. Challenged by Congress and JDS in the Supreme Court, it was reduced to three days.
5. Reasons for the friction between the Governor and the state governments
- There is no provision for impeaching the Governor, who is appointed by the President on the Centre's advice. While the Governor has a 5-year tenure, he can remain in office only until the pleasure of the President.
- There are no guidelines for the exercise of the Governor's powers, including for appointing a CM or dissolving the Assembly. There is no limit set for how long a Governor can withhold assent to a Bill.
- According to the Constitutional expert, although the Constituent Assembly envisaged the governor to be apolitical. But the truth is, politicians, become Governors and then resign to fight elections.
- The CM is answerable to the people. But the Governor is answerable to no one except the Centre. This is the fundamental defect in the Constitution.
6. Reforms Suggested
Several Panels, the Administrative Reforms Commission of 1968 and the Sarkaria Commission of 1988 have recommended reforms such as
- selection of the Governor through a panel comprising the PM, the Home Minister, the Lok Sabha Speaker, and the CM.
- Apart from fixing his tenure for five years
- Recommendations have also been made for a provision to impeach the Governor by the Assembly.
For Prelims & Mains
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For Prelims: Governor, Chief Minister, Article 153, Article 154, Article 164, and Article 243K.
For Mains: 1. In the context of friction between the state governments and the Governor explain the role and powers of the Governor and what reforms have been suggested so far to end the tussle between the state governments and the Governor.
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Source: The Indian Express
