PRADHAN MANTRI SURAKSHA BIMA YOJANA (PMSBY)
1. Context
The Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) scheme is available to people of all income groups who are bank/ post office account holders and in the age bracket of 18 to 70 years. This was stated by Union Minister of State for Finance Dr Bhagwat Kisanrao Karad in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha recently.
2. Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana
- A government-backed accident insurance scheme that covers accidental death, permanent disability, and partial disablement is provided by Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojna.
- It is eligible for individuals between 18 and 70 years to apply for this scheme.
- This Indian government’s accidental scheme was announced during the 2015 budget. This scheme was granted to provide personal accident insurance to the high-risk section such as mechanics, labourers, and truck drivers which involves a lot of traveling.
- It is also the cheapest insurance cover. It covers partial and permanent disabilities.
- The age category between 18 and 70 must have a bank account. After excluding the service tax, the annual premium of the PMSBY will be Rs 12.
- This premium amount is directly debited from the bank account of the scheme holder.
- If the subscriber dies in an accident or if he is fully disabled Rs. 12 lakh is paid to the nominee and Rs.1 lakh is paid if the subscriber meets with an accident and suffers partial permanent disability.
3. Key features of the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana:
Accidental Insurance Coverage
PMSBY offers accidental death and disability insurance coverage to its beneficiaries. In the unfortunate event of accidental death or permanent disability, the insured or their nominee receives the assured sum.
Affordable Premium
The scheme provides an affordable insurance premium, making it accessible to a vast section of the population, especially those belonging to the economically weaker sections of society.
Eligibility Criteria
There are some eligibility criteria for applying this scheme and these conditions are given down below.
- The minimum age limit for applying is 18 years.
- The maximum age limit for applying is 70 years.
- Those who fall under this age criteria must have a savings bank account to subscribe to the policy.
- The Aadhaar card must be linked to the bank account.
- The Aadhaar card copy must be attached with the application form if it is not linked with the bank account.
- He or she is only eligible to join the scheme through a single bank account if the individual has more than one savings account.
- Rs 12 premium should be paid yearly.
- The program is valid for a year and it needs to be renewed at the end of the year.
- The applicant’s Aadhaar card is the primary KYC document required.
Enrollment Process
Interested individuals can enroll in the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana through various participating banks. The enrollment can be done through a simple application process, and the premium amount is automatically deducted from the bank account of the insured.
Insurance Amount
The insurance coverage provided under the scheme is as follows:
- Rs. 2 lakhs in case of accidental death.
- Rs. 2 lakhs in case of total and irrecoverable loss of both eyes or loss of use of both hands or feet or loss of sight in one eye and loss of use of one hand or one foot.
- Rs. 1 lakh in case of total and irrecoverable loss of sight in one eye or loss of use of one hand or one foot.
Term of Coverage: The coverage under PMSBY is for one year and needs to be renewed annually.
Renewal Process: Beneficiaries have the option to renew their enrollment in the scheme for subsequent years if they wish to continue availing of the insurance benefits.
4. Significance of Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana
The Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) holds significant importance due to its potential impact on the lives of individuals, especially those from economically vulnerable sections of society. The scheme addresses various critical aspects, making it highly significant:
- Financial Inclusion: PMSBY plays a crucial role in promoting financial inclusion by providing easy access to insurance coverage to a vast number of people, including those who may not have been able to afford insurance otherwise. It empowers individuals to secure their financial future in case of unforeseen accidents.
- Affordable Coverage: The scheme offers insurance coverage at an affordable premium, making it accessible to a wide range of people across different income groups. This affordability factor ensures that more people can benefit from the scheme, enhancing its inclusivity.
- Social Security: For many individuals, especially in rural areas, accidents can lead to financial hardships and even debt. PMSBY provides a safety net, offering financial security to the insured and their families in the event of accidental death or disability. This social security aspect is crucial for promoting a more stable and resilient society.
- Economic Empowerment: By providing insurance coverage against accidents, PMSBY contributes to the economic empowerment of the insured and their families. It helps mitigate the financial burden that could arise from a sudden loss of income due to accidents.
- Boosting Insurance Penetration: India historically had low insurance penetration, with a significant portion of the population being uninsured. PMSBY has helped increase insurance penetration by bringing more people under the insurance coverage umbrella, thereby contributing to the growth of the insurance sector.
| For Prelims: Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY). |
Previous year Question1. Examine the following statements related to Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) : (TSPSC GROUP 4)
A. The risk coverage of the scheme for accidental death or full disability is Rs. 2 lakh.
B. For partial disability, it is Rs 1 lakh.
C. The person under the age group of 18-70 years can avail the benefit of this scheme.
Choose the correct answer:
1. A, B, and C
2. A only
3. A and B only
4. B and C only
Answer: 1
|
Source: PIB
MANUAL FOR DISASTER MANAGEMENT PLAN (DMP)
1. Context
The Union Minister for Jal Shakti, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat released the Manual for Disaster Management Plan (DMP) during the two-day national conference of Rural WASH Partners Forum
2. About DMP
- The Disaster Plan is developed based on the Advisory issued by National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) which, under Section 37 of Disaster Management Act, 2005 desires every Ministry/ Department to develop its own disaster plan to counter and be prepared for any emergency arising in future
The objective of the Plan is to ensure
1.immediate WASH response to disasters as per the agreed standards
2.enhance WASH resilience to reduce disaster vulnerability
3.establish a robust environment, fund and coordination mechanism to achieve the desired goals; and develop a plan which caters to disaster preparedness, response, recovery, reconstruction, and mitigation.
- Impact of disaster on WASH infrastructure and services, disaster management cycle and activities for disaster-resilient WASH infrastructure construction at all stages, institutional mechanism for disaster preparedness, response, recovery, reconstruction, mitigation at various levels, minimum standards for WASH service delivery during and post-disaster and financial mechanism to fund the integration of disaster-resilience in WASH assets and services
- This disaster management plan includes, Gender-based vulnerabilities, issues concerning Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SC/ST), elderly, children and people with disabilities
In case of disaster, three kinds of assessment need to be conducted
1. Before the disaster: A Hazard-Vulnerability-Capacity mapping to guide the preparedness activities most needed,
2. During Response: A Rapid Needs Assessment (RNA) which can be completed in a day and point out the immediate needs of the affected population,
3. During Recovery & Reconstruction: A detailed Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) which highlights the long-term needs of the community and helps the administration “build back better” the damaged infrastructure and update the service delivery mechanisms to mitigate against future disasters
3. Other Indian efforts towards reducing the risk of disasters
-
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA): The NDMA is the apex body responsible for formulating policies, plans, and guidelines for disaster management in India. It coordinates and implements disaster risk reduction measures across the country.
-
State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs): Each state in India has its own SDMA, responsible for implementing disaster management measures at the state level and coordinating with the NDMA.
-
National Disaster Response Force (NDRF): The NDRF is a specialized force dedicated to disaster response. It is well-trained and equipped to handle various types of disasters and plays a crucial role in search and rescue operations during emergencies.
- Early Warning Systems: India has implemented various early warning systems for cyclones, floods, and tsunamis. These systems help alert communities in advance, allowing them to take necessary precautions and evacuate if needed
4. Basic components of Disaster management plan
A disaster management plan is a document that outlines the steps that will be taken to prepare for, respond to, and recover from a disaster. It should be comprehensive and include all aspects of disaster management, from hazard identification to recovery planning.
Here are the basic components of a disaster management plan:
- Hazard identification – This involves identifying the hazards that your community is most likely to experience. This could include natural hazards such as floods, earthquakes, and hurricanes, or man-made hazards such as fires, explosions, and chemical spills.
- Risk assessment – This involves assessing the likelihood and impact of each hazard. This will help you to prioritize your preparedness efforts and to develop appropriate response and recovery plans.
- Preparedness – This involves taking steps to reduce the risk of a disaster and to prepare for the possibility of one. This could include activities such as developing evacuation plans, stockpiling supplies, and training for emergency response.
- Response – This involves the actions that will be taken during a disaster. This could include activities such as search and rescue, providing first aid, and distributing food and water.
- Recovery – This involves the steps that will be taken to rebuild and recover from a disaster. This could include activities such as repairing infrastructure, providing financial assistance, and restoring services.
5. National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)
- The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) is the apex body for disaster management in India.
- It was established in 2005 under the Disaster Management Act, 2005. The NDMA is headed by the Prime Minister of India and is responsible for laying down the policies, plans and guidelines for disaster management in the country
- The NDMA plays a vital role in disaster management in India. It is responsible for coordinating the efforts of all the different agencies and organizations involved in disaster management.
- The NDMA also provides financial assistance to the States for disaster management and helps to promote research and development in the field of disaster management.
- The primary objective of the NDMA is to lay down policies, plans, and guidelines for disaster management and coordinate their implementation at the national level.
|
For Prelims: NDMA, Sendai Framework For Mains: 1.Analyze the challenges and opportunities in integrating technology and innovation in disaster management in India. How can emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, drones, and early warning systems enhance disaster preparedness and response? 2.In the context of the recent increase in extreme weather events and disasters in India, critically assess the effectiveness of the existing disaster management framework. What policy changes and institutional reforms are necessary to improve disaster response and recovery? |
|
Previous Year Questions
1.Select the correct statement about the Sendai framework (MPSC 2019)
1. This framework is passed by United Nations organisations conference at Sendai (Japan) on 18th March 2015
2. This framework is regarding measures for Disaster Risk Reduction
3. This is an onward step of the Hyogo Framework about disaster management
4. The provisions in this framework are binding on member countries
Select the correct code
A. 1 and 2 B. 2 and 3 C. 1, 2, 3 D. All the above
Answer - C
|
Source: pib
FASTER ADOPTION AND MANUFACTURING OF (HYBRID &) ELECTRICAL VEHICLES (FAME-II)
1. Context
The Union cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the proposal for implementation of scheme titled 'Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles in India Phase II (FAME India Phase II)' for promotion of Electric Mobility in the country.
2. Objective
The main objective of the scheme is to encourage Faster adoption of Electric and hybrid vehicle by way of offering upfront Incentive on purchase of Electric vehicles and also by way of establishing a necessary charging Infrastructure for electric vehicles. The scheme will help in addressing the issue of environmental pollution and fuel security.
2. About FAME-II
- The total fund requirement for this scheme is Rs. 10,000 crores over three years from 2019-20 to 2021-22.
- The scheme with a total outlay of Rs 10000 Crores over the period of three years will be implemented with effect from 1st April 2019.
- This scheme is the expanded version of the present scheme titled 'FAME India1 which was launched on 1st April 2015, with a total outlay of Rs. 895 crores
- The FAME India scheme has been successful in promoting the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles in India.
- In the first phase of the scheme, over 1.5 lakh (150,000) electric vehicles were sold. In the second phase, the sale of electric vehicles is expected to increase significantly.
- The FAME India scheme is one of the government of India's initiatives to promote clean energy and reduce pollution.
- The scheme is expected to help India achieve its target of 30% electric vehicle sales by 2030
3.Key features of FAME India Phase II
- The scheme provides financial incentives for the purchase of electric and hybrid vehicles, including:
- Demand Incentive - This is a one-time incentive given to the buyer of an electric or hybrid vehicle. The amount of the incentive depends on the type of vehicle and its battery capacity.
- Production Linked Incentive (PLI) - This is an incentive given to manufacturers of electric vehicles and components. The incentive is based on the number of vehicles and components manufactured.
- The scheme also provides incentives for the development of charging infrastructure, including:
- Infrastructure Development Charge (IDC) - This is a one-time incentive given to the developer of a charging station. The amount of the incentive depends on the capacity of the charging station.
- Fast Charging Corridors - This is an incentive given to the developer of a network of fast charging stations. The incentive is based on the number of stations and their capacity.
- The scheme also provides incentives for research and development in the field of electric vehicles, including:
- R&D Subsidy - This is an incentive given to companies that are developing new technologies for electric vehicles. The incentive is based on the amount of research and development expenditure incurred.
4. Impact of FAME India
- The FAME India scheme has had a positive impact on the adoption of electric vehicles in India. In the first phase of the scheme, over 1.5 lakh (150,000) electric vehicles were sold. In the second phase, the sale of electric vehicles is expected to increase significantly.
- The FAME India scheme has also helped to create jobs in the electric vehicle manufacturing and charging infrastructure sectors. According to a study by the National Institute of Electric Vehicles, the FAME India scheme has created over 100,000 jobs in the electric vehicle sector.
- The FAME India scheme is expected to help India achieve its target of 30% electric vehicle sales by 2030
- The government of India is working to address these challenges. For example, the government is providing subsidies to reduce the cost of electric vehicles. The government is also working to increase the number of charging stations in the country
|
Previous Year Questions
1. Choose the correct option regarding FAME Scheme?
A.To promote the manufacturing of electric and hybrid vehicle technology
B.FAME stands for Faster adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric vehicles
C.FAME India is part of the National Electric mobility Mission Plan
D. All of the above
Answer -D
|
Source:pib
NO CONFIDENCE MOTION
1. Context
After the first three days of Parliament’s monsoon session were washed out, the Opposition Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance(INDIA grouping has decided to move a no-confidence against the BJP-led NDA government in Lok Sabha, Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers claimed.
2. No confidence motion
- A no-confidence motion, also known as a motion of no confidence or a vote of no confidence, is a significant parliamentary mechanism used in democratic systems to express the legislature's lack of confidence in the government or a specific member of the government.
- A no-confidence motion can be moved only in the Lok Sabha and by any member of the House.
- The member has to give a written notice of the motion before 10 am and at least 50 members have to accept the motion. The Speaker will then decide the date for the discussion of the motion.
- It serves as a crucial tool for holding elected officials accountable for their actions and decisions.
3. Initiating a No Confidence Motion
- The process of initiating a no-confidence motion typically begins with the opposition parties.
- They may present a formal proposal in the legislative chamber, backed by a specific number of lawmakers' signatures.
- In some cases, dissatisfied members from the ruling party might also initiate such a motion.
- The primary purpose is to ascertain whether the government or a particular minister still commands the majority support in the legislature.
4. Debate and Voting Process
- Once the no-confidence motion is tabled, a debate follows, during which lawmakers discuss the reasons for their lack of confidence in the government's performance.
- This debate allows the government to present its side and attempt to persuade lawmakers to vote in their favor.
- Following the debate, a vote is held, and if the motion garners a majority of votes against the government or minister, it is considered successful.
5. Impact on Governance
- A successful no-confidence motion carries significant consequences.
- In some parliamentary systems, it leads to the resignation of the government, triggering the dissolution of the parliament and necessitating new elections.
- Alternatively, the opposition parties may be invited to form a new government if they can demonstrate sufficient support.
6. Responsible Use and Political Stability:
- While the no-confidence motion is a powerful democratic tool, its frequent or frivolous use can create political instability and hinder effective governance.
- Therefore, lawmakers must exercise discretion, focusing on critical issues and genuine concerns.
- Responsible use of the no-confidence motion ensures that the government remains accountable to the people and that the country's stability is maintained.
7. Significance of No confidence motion
The no-confidence motion holds significant importance in a democratic system, and its significance lies in the following aspects:
- Government Accountability: The no-confidence motion serves as a powerful mechanism to hold the government accountable for its actions, decisions, and policies. It allows the legislature to express its lack of confidence in the government's performance, ensuring that the executive branch remains answerable to the elected representatives and the public.
- Checks and Balances: In a democratic setup, the separation of powers is vital to prevent the concentration of authority. The no-confidence motion is one of the key instruments that the legislature can employ to check the powers of the government. It helps maintain a system of checks and balances, ensuring that no single branch of government becomes too dominant.
- Democratic Oversight: The no-confidence motion reinforces the principle of democratic oversight. It enables the elected representatives to actively monitor the government's performance and initiate action if they believe the government is not living up to its mandate or is engaged in misconduct.
- Crisis Resolution: In times of political crises or governance failures, the no-confidence motion can be used as a means to address the situation. If the government is unable to provide effective leadership or address pressing issues, the legislature can signal its lack of confidence, prompting necessary changes in the government or leading to new elections.
- Encourages Responsible Governance: The possibility of facing a no-confidence motion encourages the government to govern responsibly and make decisions that are in the best interest of the people. It acts as a motivator for the government to deliver on its promises and avoid policies that may be unpopular with the majority.
- Promotes Public Debate: The no-confidence motion triggers debates and discussions in the legislature, providing a platform for lawmakers to express their views and concerns openly. This fosters a healthy democratic environment where different perspectives are heard and considered.
8. Previous instances of No-confidence motion
- Since Independence, 27 no-confidence motions have been moved in Lok Sabha.
- The first no-confidence motion was moved against Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru by Congress leader Acharya Kripalani in August 1963, immediately after losing to China in the 1962 war. The motion, however, was defeated.
- Indira Gandhi as Prime Minister faced the most number of no-confidence motions - 15. She survived each of the 15 floor tests. Former West Bengal CM Jyotirmoy Basu of the CPI(M) has moved four no-confidence motions.
- Narasimha Rao had to face three no-confidence motions, Morarji Desai two, and Jawaharlal Nehru, Rajiv Gandhi, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and Narendra Modi have all faced one each.
- The last no-confidence motion was in 2003 when the then Congress President Sonia Gandhi moved the motion against Vajpayee.
- The duration of the longest debate on a no-confidence motion was 24.34 hours against Lal Bahadur Shastri, who has had to prove the majority of the House thrice.
- Most no-confidence motions have been defeated except in 1979 when Prime Minister Morarji Desai had to quit and in 1999 when the Vajpayee government lost power after their ally AIADMK pulled out of the coalition.
- In 2018, the Narendra Modi-led NDA government survived the no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha by 195 votes. While 135 members supported the motion, 330 MPs rejected it.
|
For Prelims: No-confidence motion, Lok Sabha, Checks and Balances, Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA).
For Mains: 1. Discuss the concept of a "No Confidence Motion" in a parliamentary democracy. Explain its purpose and significance in holding the government accountable for its actions and decisions. (250 words).
|
Previous year Question1. Consider the following statements regarding a No-Confidence Motion in India: (UPSC 2014)
1. There is no mention of a No-Confidence Motion in the Constitution of India.
2. A Motion of No-Confidence can be introduced in the Lok Sabha only
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: C
|
Source: The Hindustan Times
