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DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS, 29 JUNE 2023

LABOUR FORCE PARTICIPATION RATE (LFPR)

1. Context

According to the latest data available from the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE), India’s labour force participation rate (LFPR) fell to 39.5% in the last financial year (2022-23) that ended in March. This is the lowest LFPR reading since 2016-17. The LFPR for men stood at a seven-year low of 66% while that of women was pegged at a mere 8.8%. 

2. What is Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR)?

  • The labor force participation rate (LFPR) is a measure that refers to the percentage of the working-age population (typically defined as individuals aged 15 years and above) who are either employed or actively seeking employment.
  • It is a commonly used indicator to understand the level of engagement of a country's population in the labor market.
  • To calculate the LFPR, the number of individuals in the labor force (which includes both employed and unemployed individuals actively seeking work) is divided by the total working-age population and multiplied by 100 to express it as a percentage.
  • The labor force includes people who are currently employed, as well as those who are unemployed but actively looking for work.
  • It does not include individuals who are not in the labor force, such as students, retirees, homemakers, or individuals who are not actively seeking employment.
  • The LFPR provides insights into the proportion of the population that is economically active, which is important for assessing the level of labor market engagement, estimating potential labor supply, and evaluating changes in workforce dynamics over time.

3. LFPR and Unemployment Rate in India

  • Unemployment Rate: The percentage of people who are unemployed and actively seeking work.
  • LFPR (Labour Force Participation Rate): The percentage of the working-age population that is either employed or actively seeking employment.
  • Importance of Unemployment Rate: Commonly used to assess the stress in the job market.
  • India's Unique Situation:
  • Low LFPR: India's LFPR has been consistently lower than the global average.
  • Falling LFPR: India's LFPR has been declining over time.

4. Significance of LFPR

  • Developing Economy Concern: A low and falling LFPR is unfavorable for a developing economy like India.
  • Lack of Job Opportunities: Workers may opt out of the labor force due to prolonged unemployment and discouragement.
  • The unemployment rate alone is insufficient to gauge India's labor market situation.
  •  LFPR provides a more comprehensive understanding of labor market engagement and workforce dynamics.

5. Falling LFPR

  • India's LFPR has been continuously decreasing since 2016-17.
  • Reached its lowest level in 2022-23.
  • Despite fast economic growth (e.g., GDP growth of 7.2% in 2022-23), LFPR has been declining.

6. Low Female LFPR

  • Female LFPR in India has dropped to just 8.8% in FY23.
  • More than 90% of working-age women in India do not actively look for jobs.
  • Significantly lower LFPR among women indicates gender-related challenges in accessing and participating in the labor market.

7. Key Observations

  • The falling LFPR contradicts the country's economic growth rate.
  • Female LFPR is particularly concerning, with a vast majority of women not seeking employment.
  • Low LFPR and low female LFPR signify potential issues with job availability, gender inequality, and labor market participation in India.

8. Comparison of Labor Force Participation Rates in India and Other Countries

  • CMIE vs. ILO: CMIE's measure of assessing the Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR) is more stringent than that of the International Labour Organization (ILO).
  • India's LFPR: CMIE estimated India's LFPR at 40% for 2022, while the ILO pegged it at 49%. Both measures indicate a low LFPR compared to other countries.
  • Higher LFPR in other countries: According to the ILO model, several Latin American and Asian economies have significantly higher LFPRs than India.
  • Indonesia had an LFPR of around 67% in 2022, while South Korea and Brazil had rates as high as 63-64%. Argentina, Bangladesh, and the Philippines recorded LFPRs in the range of 58-60%. Sri Lanka had over 51% of its population in the labor force.
  • In contrast, India had less than half of its working-age population either employed or actively seeking employment, according to the data.
For Prelims: Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE), Labour force participation rate (LFPR), Gross Domestic Product (GDP), International Labour Organisation (ILO), and Unemployment rate.
For Mains: 1. What is Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) and discuss the factors that have contributed to the Low LFPR in India? (250 Words)

Previous year Question

1. Given below are two statements, one is labeled as Assertion (A) and the other as Reason (R). (UPPSC 2019)
Assertion (A): The labour force participation rate is falling sharply in recent years for females in India.
Reason (R): The decline in labour force participation rate is due to improved family income and an increase in education.
Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
Codes:
A. Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
B. Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
C. (A) is true, but (R) is false
D. (A) is false, but (R) is true
Answer: C
 
2. Which of the following statements about the employment situation in India according to the periodic Labour Force Survey 2017-18 is/are correct? (UPSC CAPF 2020)
1. Construction sector gave employment to nearly one-tenth of the urban male workforce in India
2. Nearly one-fourth of urban female workers in India were working in the manufacturing sector
3. One-fourth of rural female workers in India were engaged in the agriculture sector
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 2 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
 Source: The Indian Express

GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATION TAG

1. Context

The Geographical Indications Registry in Chennai has given tags to seven different products from Uttar Pradesh. Amroha Dholak, Mahoba Gaura Patthar Hastashlip, Manipuri Tarkashi, Sambhal Horn Craft, Baghpat Home Furnishings, Barabanki Handloom Product and Kalpi Handmade Paper are the products that have been given the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. 
 

2. About Geographical Indication (GI) Tag

  • A Geographical Indication (GI) is a label that is applied to products that have a specific geographical origin and that have characteristics related to that particular location.
  • For Example, a GI tag for Amroha Dholak indicates that the dholaks must be made in Amroha, Uttar Pradesh, using traditional methods and materials.

3. Importance of GI Tag

  • GI tags are important because they help to produce the reputation and authenticity of products from a particular region.
  • They also help to promote fair trade and sustainable practices. In the case of the seven products from Uttar Pradesh that have received GI tags, these tags will help to ensure that these products are made using traditional methods and that they are of high quality.
  • This will benefit the artisans who make these products and it will also help to preserve the unique cultural heritage of Uttar Pradesh.

4. Products from Uttar Pradesh Get GI Tag

4.1. Amroha Dholak

  • It is a musical instrument crafted from natural wood, particularly mango, jackfruit and teakwood.
  • Skilled artisans carve hollow blocks of various sizes and shapes from mango and sheesham trees, which are then fitted with animal skin, typically goatskin, to produce the instrument.
  • It is produced by around 300 small units, employing over 1, 000 artisans. The Artisans Welfare Society in Mohalla Danishmandan, Amroha, Uttar Pradesh applied the GI Tag.
Image source: One district-one product
 

4.2. Baghpat Home Furnishings

  • Exquisite Handloom Craft The Directorate of Handloom and Textile Industries, Government of Uttar Pradesh and the Master Weavers Cooperative Society Limited applied the Baghpat Home Furnishings. 
  • Baghpat and Meerut are renowned for their exclusive handloom home furnishing products and the tradition of weaving cotton yarn fabrics for generations. 
  • The handloom weaving process in Baghpat is known for utilizing only cotton yarn and the distinctive frame loom technique.
Image source: One district-one product
 

4.3. Barabanki Handloom Product

  • A GI Tag for Traditional Weaving The Barabanki Handloom Product has also been honoured with a GI tag. 
  • The application for this product was filed by the Directorate of Handloom and Textile Industries, Government of Uttar Pradesh, along with Bhartiya Bunkar Sahkari Samiti Limited.
  • The filing reveals that the Barabanki cluster comprises approximately 50, 000 weavers and 20, 000 looms in Barabanki and its adjoining areas. 
  • The annual turnover of this cluster is projected to be around ₹150 crores.
Image source: One district-one product
 

4.4. Kalpi Handmade Paper

  • An Age-old Craft application for the Kalpi Handmade Paper was submitted by the Hasht Nirmit Kagaj Samiti in the Industrial Estate of Kalpi, Uttar Pradesh.
  • Kalpi has a rich history of handmade paper manufacturing. Munnalal Khaddari a Gandhian formally introduced the craft in the 1940s, although some locals claim its roots go even further back.
  • The Kalpi handmade paper-making cluster engages over 5, 000 craftsmen and operates approximately 200 units.
Image Source: Magzter
 

4.5. Mahoba Gaura Patthar Hastashlip

  • Crafted from the Pyro Flight Stone Mahoba Gaura Pattar Hastashlip represents the stone craft of the region, specifically using the unique and delicate Pyro Flight Stone.
  • This radiant white stone is predominantly found in Mahoba and is carved into various pieces to create stunning craft items.
Image Source: Jagran
 

4.6. Manipuri Tarkashi 

  • Intricate Brass Wire Inlay Work on Wood Mainpuri Tarkashi is a popular art form originating from Mainpuri, Uttar Pradesh.
  • It involves intricate brass wire inlay work on wood. Traditionally, it was employed in the creation of Khadaous (wooden sandals) an essential household item when leather was considered unclean.
Image source: One district-one product

 

4.7. Sambhal Horn Craft

  • Unique Handcrafted Art The Sambhal Horn Craft utilizes raw materials obtained from dead animals and showcases the skilful handiwork of artisans.
  • This craft involves completely handmade creations and is recognized for its distinctiveness.

Image source: One district-one product

 
 
For Prelims: Geographical Indication Tag, Uttar Pradesh, Amroha Dholak, Mahoba Gaura Patthar Hastashlip, Manipuri Tarkashi, Sambhal Horn Craft, Baghpat Home Furnishings, Barabanki Handloom Product, Kalpi Handmade Paper,
For Mains: 
1. Discuss the potential economic and cultural benefits of obtaining GI tags for regional products in terms of enhancing their market value and preserving traditional knowledge. (250 Words)

 

Previous Year Questions

1. Which of the following has/have been accorded 'Geographical Indication' status?  (UPSC 2015)

1. Banaras Brocades and Sarees
2. Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma
3. Tirupathi Laddu
Select the correct answer using the code given below.

A. 1 only           B. 2 and 3 only               C.  1 and 3 only              D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: C
 
2. India enacted The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 in order to comply with the obligations to (UPSC  2018) 
A. ILO           B. IMF               C. UNCTAD             D. WTO
 
Answer: D
 
3. On the basis of 'one district one product' programme in Uttar Pradesh, which one of the following pairs is NOT correctly matched? (UPPSC Combined State Exam 2022) 
A. Gautam Buddh Nagar - Readymade Garments 
B. Amethi - Moonz Products
C. Agra - Leather Products
D. Baghpat - Wooden Toys
 
Answer: D
 
4. In which of the following states was the Monpa handmade paper making unit inaugurated in December 2020? (SSC CHSL 2021) 
A. Manipur            B. Tripura              C. Assam              D. Arunachal Pradesh
 
Answer: D
 
 
Source: The Indian Express

AMERICAN BALD EAGLE

 

1. Context

The American bald eagle was removed from the United States' list of endangered
species on June 28, 2007. Since then, the population of the bird has steadily risen. A 2021 report by the US Fish and Wildlife Service said that the number of bald eagles in the wild has quadrupled since 2009. However, just a few decades back, the bird was on the verge of extinction, facing multiple threats to its existence. In fact, many conservationists felt that the national symbol of the United States was on the path to becoming the dodo of the 20th century.

2. The Decline and Conservation of Bald Eagles in the United States

  • Abundant bald eagle populations existed in the United States when they became the national symbol in 1782.
  • By the early 1800s, their numbers started declining due to hunting and being perceived as a threat to livestock.
  • Counties offered bounties on bald eagles, further contributing to their decline.
  • Feather hunting for fashion in the late 19th century intensified the hunting pressure on bald eagles.
  • Populations continued to decline until the 1940s, prompting the passage of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act in 1940.
  • The act expanded protections and even prohibited the possession of eagle feathers.
  • Despite these protections, bald eagles faced new threats beyond hunting and habitat destruction.
Image Source: The Indian Express

3. DDT's Devastating Impact on Bald Eagles

  • DDT,(Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane) an insecticide, was widely used in agriculture in the US starting from the mid to late 1940s.
  • The use of DDT led to the contamination of water bodies, and subsequently, the fish living in them.
  • Bald eagles ingested DDT through their diet of contaminated fish, leading to thin-shelled eggs and nesting failures.
  • By 1963, the continental US (excluding Alaska) had only 417 nesting pairs of bald eagles due to large-scale nesting failures caused by DDT.
  • Other bird species such as ospreys and peregrine falcons also experienced population declines due to DDT exposure.

4. Silent Spring, DDT Ban, and the Endangered Species Act

  • Rachel Carson's book, Silent Spring, published in 1962, shed light on the harmful effects of chemical pesticides, specifically DDT, on the environment and bald eagle populations.
  • Silent Spring became a catalyst for the environmental movement of the 1960s.
  • In 1972, a nationwide ban on the agricultural use of DDT was implemented.
  • The Endangered Species Act was enacted in 1973, providing additional protections for endangered species and their habitats.
  • The bald eagle was among the original species listed for protection under the Endangered Species Act.

5. Captive Breeding Programs and Habitat Protections for Bald Eagles

  • Captive breeding programs initiated in the 1970s played a crucial role in the resurgence of bald eagles.
  • Programs led by the US Fish and Wildlife Service bald eagle colonies in captivity and released them into the wild, increasing survival rates.
  • Hacking, a controlled release method, simulated wild nesting environments and aided repopulation efforts.
  • Strict restrictions were imposed on human activities near eagle nests and nesting areas, such as prohibiting construction within approximately 100 meters.
  • Protection against hunting, banning of DDT, captive breeding, and habitat protections contributed to the steady growth of bald eagle populations.
  • In 1995, the bald eagle's status changed from "endangered" to "threatened," and in 2007, it was completely delisted.

6. Success and Lessons from Bald Eagle Conservation Efforts

  • Bald eagle population in the US: In 2007, there were approximately 9,789 known breeding pairs. By 2021, the number of nesting pairs increased to about 71,400, with an overall population of approximately 316,700.
  • Comprehensive approach: Conservation efforts involved multiple strategies, including the banning of DDT, habitat protections, and captive breeding programs.
  • Time and persistence: Conservation efforts spanned several decades, with lobbying for the ban on DDT and subsequent recovery taking years. It highlights the importance of patience and a long-term commitment to conservation.
  • Lessons learned: Conservation requires comprehensive policies that address various factors contributing to population decline. It also emphasizes the need for persistence and staying the course over time.
  • Resilience and stewardship: The success of bald eagle conservation reflects the shared resilience of the nation and the importance of responsible stewardship of lands and waters.
  • Important case study: The bald eagle's conservation serves as a case study on the significance of persisting with conservation efforts, especially in the face of climate change and novel risks to biodiversity.
For Prelims: Bald Eagle, Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940, DDT (an insecticide), Endangered Species Act of 1973.
 
Previous year Question
 
1. Dichlorodiphenyl Trichloro Ethane (DDT) is the first chlorinated organic insecticide for the discovery of its effectiveness as an insecticide Paul Muller was awarded Nobel Prize in Medicine and Physiology in 1948. (MPSC 2013)
(a) DDT is effective against mosquitos that spread malaria.
(b) DDT is effective against lice that carry typhus.
(c) DDT has high toxicity towards fish.
(d) DDT is not metabolized easily by animals.
Which of the above statements is correct?
A. (a) and (c)
B. (a) and (d)
C. (a), (c), and (d)
D. (a), (b), (c), and (d)
Answer: D
 
2. DDT adversely affects our environment because: (SSC CHSL 2021)
A. it can kill beneficial insects like honeybees
B. it can allow the growth of harmful insects
C. it can promote the growth of harmful insects
D. it can kill harmful insects
Answer: A
 
Source: The Indian Express

CHANDRAYAAN-3

1. Context 

Almost four years after its unsuccessful attempt to land a spacecraft on the Moon, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for its third lunar mission, Chnadrayaan-3 (Ch-3).
With a primary objective of executing a precise landing on the celestial body, the mission is scheduled to launch between July 12 and 19.
 
 2. Chandrayaan-3
  • Chandrayaan-3 is the third lunar mission of the ISRO. It follows the Chandrayaan-1 and Chandrayaan-2 missions.
  • The primary objective of Chandrayaan-3 is to achieve a successful landing on the Moon's surface, rectifying the setback faced by its predecessor, Chandrayaan-2, in 2019.
  • The Chandrayaan-3 mission aims to demonstrate India's capability to soft-land a lander and rover on the lunar surface.
  • By executing a precise landing, ISRO intends to showcase the technological advancements and expertise of the Indian space program.
  • The mission will contribute to expanding our understanding of the Moon, its geological features, and its evolution.
  • To ensure the success of Chandrayaan-3, ISRO has incorporated improvements and modifications based on the lessons learned from Chandrayaan-2.
  • These include enhancements in the design and functioning of the lander and rover, as well as improvements in navigation and landing systems.
  • Rigorous testing and evaluations have been conducted to address the shortcomings identified during the previous mission.
  • It can be expected that they will be similar to those carried by Chandrayaan-2, aiming to study lunar topography, mineralogy, surface composition, and the Moon's environment.
  • These instruments will gather valuable data to further our knowledge of the Moon and contribute to scientific research.
Image Source: India Today

3. Chandrayaan-2 Mission and its Objectives and Discoveries

  • The Chandrayaan-2 mission, launched on July 22, 2019, had a multifaceted objective.
  • While the most discussed goal was to demonstrate the ability to soft-land a lander and rover on the unexplored south pole of the Moon, it also aimed to expand lunar scientific knowledge through various studies.
  • These studies included detailed investigations of topography, seismography, mineral identification and distribution, surface chemical composition, topsoil thermo-physical characteristics and the lunar atmosphere composition.

4. Chandrayaan 2 Orbiter

  • Despite the challenges faced by the Vikram lunar lander, which crash-landed on the Moon's surface on September 6, 2019, the Mission's orbiter remained fully operational.
  • The orbiter gathered a wealth of new information about the Moon and its environment, significantly contributing to our understanding of the lunar surface, sub-surface and exosphere.
  • The data collected by the orbiter added valuable insights into the exploration of permanently shadowed regions and the study of craters and boulders beneath the regolith.
 

5. Reasons for Failure of the Vikram Lander

  • The landing attempt of the Chandrayaan-2 Mission's Vikram lander encountered a setback when ISRO lost contact shortly before the scheduled touchdown on September 7.
  • The lander was decelerating but failed to slow down to the required safe landing speed of 2 meters per second.
  • Designed to absorb an impact even at 5 meters per second, Vikram hit the Moon's surface at a much higher speed, resulting in damage to itself and its instruments.
  • The crash landing of the Vikram lander prevented the successful demonstration of soft landing technology in space.
  • However, ISRO identified and rectified the small error responsible for the failure, paving the way for the upcoming Chandrayaan-3 mission to showcase this technology without any glitches.
  • Furthermore, the crash landing also resulted in missed opportunities for gathering additional data about the lunar terrain, composition and mineralogy.
 

6. The Way Forward

  • The lander Vikram and rover Pragyaan was equipped with instruments to conduct surface observations, which, combined with the orbiter's support, could have provided diverse sets of data contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the Moon.
  • With Chandrayaan-3 on the horizon, ISRO aims to overcome previous challenges, achieve a successful soft landing on the Moon, and advance scientific exploration by collecting valuable information about our celestial neighbour.
 
For Prelims: Vikram lander, Chandrayaan-3, Chandrayaan-2, Moon, ISRO, lunar mission, celestial body, 
For Mains: 
1. Discuss the primary objective of Chandrayaan-3 and its significance in India's space exploration efforts. (250 Words)
 
 

Previous Year Questions

1. In the context of space technology, what is "Bhuvan", recently in the news?  (UPSC 2010) 
A. A mini satellite, launched by ISRO for promoting the distance educa­tion in India
B. The name given to the next Moon Impact Probe, for Chandrayan-II
C. A geoportal of ISRO with 3 D imaging capabilities of India
D. A space telescope developed by India

Answer: C

2. What will be India's second moon mission by ISRO? (Maharashtra Talathi  2019) 

A. Chandrayaan 1          B. Chandrayaan 1.A       C. Chandrayaan 2          D. Chandrayaan 3

Answer: C

3. Chandrayaan - 2 was launched from which of the following states by ISRO? (DSSSB LDC 2019) 

A. Maharashtra           B.  Rajasthan             C.  Kerala             D.  Andhra Pradesh

Answer: D

4. The phases of the moon as we see from the Earth are due to changing relative positions of the sun, the earth and the moon. Which of the following statements is true?  (CTET  2022)
 
A. on a full moon day, the earth comes between the sun and the moon
B. on a new moon day, the moon is in between the earth and the sun
C. on a full moon day, the moon is in between the earth and the sun
D. on a new moon day, the earth is between the sun and the moon.
E. on a new moon day, the sun is between the moon and the earth

 1. A, B          2.  B, C          3. C, D          4. A, E

Answer: 1

5. ISRO is related to:  (SSC JE EE  2020) 

A. space research          B. agricultural research           C. seed research        D. marine research

Answer: A

6. “The experiment will employ a trio of spacecraft flying in formation in the shape of an equilateral triangle that has sides one million kilometres long, with lasers shining between the craft.” The experiment in question refers to (UPSC 2020) 

A. Voyager-2          B. New Horizons          C. LISA Pathfinder          D. Evolved LISA

Answer: D

Source: The Indian Express

GREEN CREDIT PROGRAMME

 
 
 
1. Context
The Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change has notified draft rules for ‘Green Credit’, an incentive that individuals, farmer-producer organisations (FPO), industries, rural and urban local bodies, among other stakeholders, will be able to earn for environment positive actions. 
The ministry proposed the draft Green Credit Programme Implementation Rules 2023 in a notification issued June 26, 2023 and has invited for objections and suggestions within 60 days
 
2. About Green Credit programme
 
  • According to a notification issued by the Environment Ministry, the Green Credit programme encourages private sector industries and companies as well as other entities to meet their existing obligations, stemming from other legal frameworks, by taking actions which are able to converge with activities relevant to generating or buying Green Credits.
     
  • The main objectives of the Green Credit Programme (GCP) are to create a market-based mechanism for providing incentives in the form of Green Credits to individuals, farmer producer organisations, cooperatives, forestry enterprises, sustainable agriculture enterprises, urban and rural local bodies, private sectors, industries and organisations for environment positive actions.
  • Green Credits will arise from a range of sectors and entities, ranging from small-scale ones such as individuals, farmer producer organisations, cooperatives, forestry enterprises and sustainable agriculture enterprises to those being developed at the level of urban and rural local bodies, private sectors, industries and organisation
  • Green Credits will be tradable outcomes and will act as incentives. In the beginning, Green Credits will be made available to individuals and entities, engaged in selected activities and who undertake environmental interventions
These Green Credits will be made available for trading on a domestic market platform

3. Activities under Green Credit Programme
By ‘green credit’, the government means a singular unit of an incentive provided for a specified activity, delivering a positive impact on the environment. 

The activities include:

1. Tree plantation-based green credit: To promote activities for increasing the green cover across the country through tree plantation and related activities

2. Water-based green credit: To promote water conservation, water harvesting and water use efficiency / savings, including treatment and reuse of wastewater

3. Sustainable agriculture-based green credit: To promote natural and regenerative agricultural practices and land restoration to improve productivity, soil health and nutritional value of food produced

4. Waste management-based green credit: To promote sustainable and improved practices for waste management, including collection, segregation and treatment

5. Air pollution reduction-based green credit: To promote measures for reducing air pollution and other pollution abatement activities

6. Mangrove conservation and restoration-based green credit: To promote measures for conservation and restoration of mangroves

7. Ecomark-based green credit: To encourage manufacturers to obtain ‘Ecomark’ label for their goods and services

8. Sustainable building and infrastructure-based green credit: To encourage the construction of buildings and other infrastructure using sustainable technologies and materials

Through the programme, thresholds and benchmarks will be developed for each green credit activity

4. Administration of GCP

  • The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education shall be the administrator of the programme. 
  • The institute will develop guidelines, processes and procedures for implementation of the programme and develop methodologies and standards, registration process and associated measurement, reporting and verification mechanisms
  • The green credits will be tradable and those earning it will be able to put these credits up for sale on a proposed domestic market platform

5. Way forward

It was first announced by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the 2023-24 budget with a view to leverage a competitive market-based approach and incentivise voluntary environmental actions of various stakeholders

It also raises serious questions about how rigour of monitoring will be maintained and who should take the responsibility for pollution reduction and biodiversity savings, she added.

She also pointed out that the capacity that will have to be built to monitor these systems and prevent fraud will use resources that could have been diverted to more transformational pollution control and biodiversity protection efforts, regulated and mandated by the government.

 

 

Source: DownToEarth

 


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