PARLIAMENTARY TERMS
1. Context
Since the beginning of the Monsoon Session, opposition parties have been demanding that Prime Minister Narendra Modi make a statement in Parliament on the violent situation in Manipur. After several days of protests and washouts, the opposition gave two separate notices to move motions of no-confidence against the government on Wednesday, hoping to force the Prime Minister to reply to the debate
2. Prorogation and Dissolution - Compare and Contrast
Prorogation
Prorogation is the end of a session of Parliament without dissolving it entirely.
It is done by the President (in the case of the Lok Sabha) or the Governor (in the case of State Legislative Assemblies) on the advice of the Prime Minister or Chief Minister, respectively.
Prorogation brings the ongoing session to an end and allows for a new session to begin at a later date.
During prorogation, all pending bills and motions before the Parliament or Legislative Assembly lapse and must be reintroduced in the next session.
Dissolution
Dissolution is the termination of the entire Parliament or Legislative Assembly before the completion of its full term.
It is done by the President (in the case of the Lok Sabha) or the Governor (in the case of State Legislative Assemblies) on the advice of the Prime Minister or Chief Minister, respectively.
Dissolution leads to the formation of a new Parliament or Legislative Assembly through fresh elections.
After dissolution, all bills and motions pending before the Parliament or Legislative Assembly automatically lapse, and new bills and motions must be introduced in the new House.
Comparison
Both prorogation and dissolution involve the end of a session or term in the Parliament or Legislative Assembly. However, prorogation is temporary, while dissolution leads to fresh elections and the formation of a new House.
Quorum
Quorum is the minimum number of members required to be present in the Parliament or Legislative Assembly to conduct its business. It ensures that important decisions are not taken without the presence of a sufficient number of members.
3. Difference between No-Confidence Motion and Trust Vote: No-Confidence Motion:
A no-confidence motion is brought against the ruling government by the opposition to show that they have lost confidence in the government's ability to govern effectively.
If the no-confidence motion is passed by a majority vote, the entire government must resign, leading to a potential change in government.
Trust Vote
A trust vote is initiated by the ruling government to prove its majority in the Parliament or Legislative Assembly.
The government seeks the support of the members through the trust vote to demonstrate that it has enough support to continue governing.
Comparison
Both the no-confidence motion and trust vote are motions brought before the House to test the government's stability and support. However, the no-confidence motion is initiated by the opposition to oust the government, while the trust vote is introduced by the ruling government to demonstrate its majority.
Session of the Parliament
A session of the Parliament refers to the period during which the Parliament meets to conduct its business. A session usually lasts for a few weeks or months and is followed by prorogation or dissolution.
4. Substantive, Substitute, and Subsidiary Motions - Compare and Contrast: Substantive Motion
A substantive motion proposes a specific course of action or a decision on a particular matter.
It is a self-contained proposal that can stand on its own and does not require reference to any other motion.
Substitute Motion
A substitute motion is an alternative proposal introduced in place of the original motion.
It is moved when members want to replace the original motion with a different course of action.
Subsidiary Motion
A subsidiary motion relates to the procedure or conduct of the House.
It is used to facilitate the decision-making process or to modify the main motion.
Comparison
All three types of motions are used during parliamentary proceedings to address different aspects of business. While a substantive motion proposes a specific course of action, a substitute motion replaces the original proposal, and a subsidiary motion deals with procedural matters.
5. Closure Motion, Privilege Motion, Calling Attention Motion, Adjournment Motion, No-Confidence Motion, Motion of Thanks:
Closure Motion: A closure motion is moved to end the debate on a matter and proceed to a vote. It requires the support of a minimum number of members to be passed.
Privilege Motion: A privilege motion is moved to raise a question of breach of parliamentary privilege by a member or any other person. It seeks to safeguard the dignity and rights of the members and the House.
Calling Attention Motion: A calling attention motion is moved to call the attention of a minister to a matter of urgent public importance and seek their response.
Adjournment Motion: An adjournment motion is moved to draw the attention of the House to a definite matter of urgent public importance and seek the adjournment of the House to discuss it.
No-Confidence Motion: As discussed earlier, a no-confidence motion is brought against the government to express a lack of confidence in its ability to govern.
Motion of Thanks: A motion of thanks is moved to express gratitude to the President (in the case of the Lok Sabha) or the Governor (in the case of State Legislative Assemblies) for their address to the Parliament or Legislative Assembly at the beginning of a session. It is usually a customary motion.
| For Prelims: Closure Motion, Privilege Motion, Calling Attention Motion, Adjournment Motion, No-Confidence Motion, Motion of Thanks, Substantive, Substitute, and Subsidiary Motions - Compare and Contrast, Substantive Motion, No-Confidence Motion and Trust Vote, Prorogation and Dissolution - Compare and Contrast |
Source: The Indian Express
ARAVALLI RANGE
1. Context
In February 2019, the Haryana legislative assembly amended the Punjab Land Preservation Act (PLPA) which was effectuated in 1900 for the “conservation of sub-soil water” and “prevention of erosion,” by giving the state the power to “regulate, restrict or prohibit” certain activities, including “clearing or breaking up” of land. This amendment also removed several hills of the Aravalli range from the category of “restricted area,” making around 63,000 acres of the Aravalli range available for construction and mining activities.
2. About Aravalli Range
- The Aravalli Range, often referred to as the Aravalli Mountains, is one of the oldest mountain ranges in India, stretching approximately 800 kilometers across the northwestern states of Rajasthan, Haryana, and Gujarat.
- It is a significant geographical feature with a diverse history, rich biodiversity, and cultural importance.
- The Aravalli Range dates back millions of years and is believed to have formed during the Proterozoic era through tectonic processes.
- It is classified as a fold mountain range, which means it was created by the folding and uplift of ancient rock layers due to the collision of tectonic plates.
- Over geological time, the region experienced various phases of tectonic activity, resulting in the formation of the present-day mountain range.
- The Aravalli Range is characterized by its gentle to moderate slopes and irregular ridges. The range generally runs in the northeast-to-southwest direction, separating the arid Thar Desert to the northwest from the fertile plains of northern and central India to the east.
- Several rivers, including the Banas, Luni, and Sabarmati, originate in the Aravalli Range, contributing to the region's hydrology and supporting agriculture and human settlements.
3. Biodiversity and Ecology
- The Aravalli Range boasts diverse flora and fauna, making it a significant ecological hotspot.
- The forests here are a mix of dry deciduous and thorn forests, providing habitat to a variety of plant and animal species.
- Leopards, sambar deer, chinkara, and various bird species are some of the wildlife found in these mountains.
- Additionally, the Aravalli Range is known for its unique geological formations, including rock formations and caves, which add to its ecological importance.
4. Water Resource and Conservation
- The Aravalli Range acts as a natural water divide, directing the flow of rivers towards the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal.
- It serves as a critical watershed, contributing to the groundwater recharge in the surrounding areas.
- However, over the years, the mountains have faced environmental threats, including deforestation, mining, and urbanization, which have impacted the region's hydrological balance and biodiversity.
- Conservation efforts have been undertaken to protect the Aravalli Range from further degradation.
- Various initiatives aim to promote afforestation, control mining activities, and raise awareness about the importance of preserving this ecologically sensitive region.
5. Fold Mountain
- A fold mountain is a type of mountain formed by the folding of rock layers due to tectonic forces.
- These mountains are created when tectonic plates converge, leading to the compression and bending of the Earth's crust.
- Over millions of years, the continuous pressure causes the rock layers to fold and buckle, resulting in the formation of long mountain chains with parallel ridges and valleys.
- Fold mountains are common on Earth and can be found on different continents.
6. Highest Peak of the Aravalli Range
The highest point of the Aravalli Range is Guru Shikhar, located in the state of Rajasthan, India. Guru Shikhar stands at an elevation of approximately 1,722 meters (5,650 feet) above sea level. It is a prominent tourist destination and a sacred place for locals and visitors alike.
7. Significance of Aravalli Range
- The Aravalli Range is one of the oldest fold mountain ranges in the world, representing millions of years of geological history. It's formation and geological features provide valuable insights into the Earth's ancient tectonic processes and uplift mechanisms.
- The Aravalli Range acts as a natural water divide, separating the watersheds of several major rivers. It directs the flow of rivers in different directions, contributing to the water supply of regions on both sides of the mountain range.
- The Aravalli Range is known for its rich biodiversity, harboring a diverse array of flora and fauna. The region's forests, grasslands, and rocky terrain support a variety of plant and animal species, some of which are endemic and endangered.
- The mountains play a crucial role in regulating the region's hydrological cycle by influencing rainfall patterns and groundwater recharge. The forest cover helps retain water and prevent soil erosion.
- The Aravalli Range has immense cultural significance, with numerous historical and religious sites dotting its landscape. Ancient temples, forts, and monuments stand as a testimony to the region's vibrant past and architectural heritage.
- The scenic beauty of the Aravalli Range and its surrounding areas draws tourists from far and wide. Popular tourist destinations like Udaipur, Mount Abu, and Ajmer attract visitors with their natural beauty and historical charm.
- The range serves as a significant groundwater reservoir, supplying water to numerous wells, lakes, and ponds. It plays a vital role in sustaining agriculture and human settlements in the region.
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For Prelims: Aravalli range, River Banas, River Luni, River Sabarmati, Guru Shikhar.
For Mains: 1. Discuss the geological history of the Aravalli Ranges, its ecological significance, and the challenges faced in ensuring sustainable conservation. (250 words).
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Previous year Question
1. Which one of the following is the correct order of formation of geological systems in India in terms of their age? (Starting with the oldest) (UPSC CAPF 2016)
A. Dharwars - Aravallis - Vindhyans - Cuddapahs
B. Aravallis - Dharwars - Cuddapahs - Vindhyans
C. Vindhyans - Dharwars - Aravallis - Cuddapahs
D. Cuddapahs - Vindhyans - Dharwars - Aravallis
Answers: B
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Source: Down to earth
FAIR AND REMUNERATIVE PRICE (FRP)
1. Context
The government on Wednesday increased the Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP), the minimum price that mills have to pay to sugarcane growers, by Rs 10 to Rs 315 per quintal for the 2023-24 season starting October
The decision to increase the FRP of sugarcane was taken in the meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
2. About Fair and remunerative price (FRP)
- Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) is the minimum price at which sugar mills are legally bound to purchase sugarcane from farmers in India.
- It is determined by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on the basis of recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP).
- The FRP is based on a number of factors, including the cost of production, the demand and supply situation, and the international price of sugar
- The FRP was introduced in 2009 as a way to ensure that sugarcane farmers receive a fair price for their crop.
- Prior to the FRP, sugar mills were able to negotiate prices with farmers, which often resulted in low prices for farmers.
- The FRP has helped to improve the income of sugarcane farmers and has made sugarcane cultivation a more viable option for farmers.
3.Key Statistics
- The FRP is revised annually, and the current FRP for the sugar season 2023-24 is Rs. 315 per quintal for a basic recovery rate of 10.25%
- This means that sugar mills must pay sugarcane farmers Rs. 315 per quintal for every 100 kilograms of sugarcane that they procure.
- The FRP is also adjusted for higher or lower recovery rates. For example, if the recovery rate is 10.5%, the FRP would be Rs. 321 per quintal.
- The FRP is an important policy instrument for ensuring the welfare of sugarcane farmers. It has helped to improve the income of sugarcane farmers and has made sugarcane cultivation a more viable option for farmers.
- The FRP is also a way to ensure that the sugar industry is sustainable in the long term
4. Benefits of FRP
Here are some of the benefits of the FRP:
- It ensures that sugarcane farmers receive a fair price for their crop.
- It makes sugarcane cultivation a more viable option for farmers.
- It helps to stabilize the sugar industry.
- It provides a social safety net for sugarcane farmers.
5. Way forward
The FRP is not without its challenges. One challenge is that it can lead to higher sugar prices for consumers. Another challenge is that it can make it difficult for sugar mills to be profitable. However, the FRP is an important policy instrument for ensuring the welfare of sugarcane farmers and for the sustainability of the sugar industry.
Source: indianexpress
16TH FINANCE COMMISSION
1. Context
The Sixteenth Finance Commission is due to be set up shortly. Many critical changes have taken place since the constitution of the Fifteenth Finance Commission in November 2017 that includes COVID-19 and the subsequent geopolitical challenges. The combined government debt-GDP ratio had also shot up close to 90% at the end of 2020-21.
2. Finance Commission
- The Finance Commission is a crucial constitutional body in India responsible for the distribution of financial resources between the central government and the state governments.
- It plays a vital role in maintaining fiscal federalism by ensuring a fair and equitable distribution of financial revenues and grants-in-aid among the various tiers of government.
- The Finance Commission is set up every five years, or at such earlier intervals as the President of India may decide, as per Article 280 of the Indian Constitution.
- It consists of a Chairman and four other members, each appointed by the President. These members are experts in the fields of economics, finance, and public administration.
3. Mandate and Functions
- The primary objective of the Finance Commission is to make recommendations to the President regarding the distribution of the net proceeds of taxes between the Union (central government) and the states, and the allocation of resources among the states.
- It also suggests measures to improve the financial position of the states, if necessary. The Commission's recommendations are aimed at addressing regional imbalances and ensuring the overall economic development of the country.
4. The specific functions of the Finance Commission include
- Tax Revenue Sharing: The Commission reviews the trends in revenue collections and recommends the percentage of the divisible pool of taxes that should be shared with the states. The divisible pool includes taxes like income tax, corporate tax, and excise duty.
- Grants-in-Aid: Besides the devolution of taxes, the Finance Commission also suggests grants-in-aid to states to support their financial requirements for various developmental projects and schemes.
- Debt Relief: The Commission may recommend measures to provide relief to states facing a high burden of debt, thereby promoting fiscal discipline.
- Macro-Fiscal Management: It examines the overall financial situation of the country and suggests measures to maintain macroeconomic stability.
- Any Other Matter: The President may also refer specific matters to the Commission for examination and recommendations.
5. Process of Working
- The Finance Commission follows a consultative process while formulating its recommendations.
- It seeks input from various stakeholders, including the central and state governments, local bodies, financial experts, and economists.
- The Commission examines historical data, financial indicators, and the needs of states to arrive at a comprehensive and objective assessment.
- After conducting detailed studies and consultations, the Commission submits its report to the President.
- The recommendations of the Finance Commission are ordinarily binding in nature, and both the central and state governments are expected to implement them. However, their acceptance depends on the discretion of the central government.
6. Importance
- The Finance Commission is crucial in maintaining the federal structure of India and ensuring that all states receive adequate financial support for their development.
- By promoting equitable distribution of resources, helps in reducing regional disparities and fostering balanced economic growth across the country.
- The Commission's recommendations also play a vital role in shaping the fiscal policies of both the central and state governments.
7. Recommendations of the Previous Finance Commission
13th Finance Commission Recommendations:
- Increase the number of court working hours using existing infrastructure.
- Enhance support to Lok Adalats.
- Provide additional funding to State Legal Services Authorities to enhance legal aid for the marginalized.
- Promote the use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms.
- Enhance the capacity of judicial officers and public prosecutors through training programs.
- Support the creation of a judicial academy in every state for training purposes.
- Allocate funds for the setting up of specialized courts.
14th Finance Commission's Recommendations:
- Raised states' share in the divisible pool of central taxes to 42%
- Revised to 41% after the number of states reduced to 28
- The withdrawal of Planning Commission grants helped manage the situation
15th Finance Commission Recommendations:
- Gather quantifiable data on the level of various services available in different states.
- Collect corresponding unit cost data to estimate cost disabilities among states.
- Fill gaps in statistical data through the efforts of the Ministry of Statistics.
8. Need for realistic expectations regarding the following 16th Finance Commission
- Acknowledging Implementation Challenges: Recognize the challenges and complexities involved in implementing Finance Commission recommendations, such as coordination issues, administrative capacity, and resistance to change. This understanding will help shape realistic expectations and strategies for addressing these challenges.
- Strengthening Implementation Mechanisms: Focus on improving the implementation mechanisms and processes. This includes enhancing coordination and cooperation between the Union and state governments, strengthening administrative capacity at all levels, and streamlining the implementation of conditionalities to facilitate smoother execution.
- Robust Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish effective monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track the progress and outcomes of implemented reforms. Regular assessment will help identify implementation gaps and provide opportunities for course correction and improvement.
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For Prelims: Finance Commission, Article 280, Fiscal Consolidation, Fiscal Federalism, and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanism.
For Mains: 1. Discuss the Role and Challenges of the Finance Commission in Promoting Fiscal Federalism and Ensuring Equitable Resource Distribution in India. (250 words).
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Previous year Question1. With reference to the Finance Commission of India, which of the following statements is correct? (UPSC 2011)
A. It encourages the inflow of foreign capital for infrastructure development.
B. It facilitates the proper distribution of finances among the Public Sector Undertaking.
C. It ensures transparency in financial administration.
D. None of the statements (a), (b), and (c) given above is correct in this context.
Answer: D
2. With reference to the Fourteenth Finance Commission, which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC 2015)
1. It has increased the share of States in the central divisible pool from 32 percent to 42 percent.
2. It has made recommendations concerning sector-specific grants.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: A
3. Which of the following is/are among the noticeable features of the recommendations of the Thirteenth Finance Commission? (UPSC 2012)
1. A design for the Goods and Services Tax, and a compensation package linked to adherence to the proposed design.
2. A design for the creation of lakhs of jobs in the next ten years in consonance with India's demographic dividend.
3. Devolution of a specified share of central taxes to local bodies as grants
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: C
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Source: The Hindu
STAPLED VISA
1. Context
India's decision to withdraw its eight-athlete wushu contingent from the Summer World University Games in Chengdu on July 28 was driven by China's issuance of stapled visas to three athletes from Arunachal Pradesh, a region claimed by China but under India's sovereignty. The stapled visa issue has been a longstanding point of contention between the two countries, and this incident adds to the ongoing diplomatic tension.
2. About Stapled Visa
- A stapled visa is an unstamped piece of paper attached by a pin or staples to a passport page, as opposed to a regular visa that is affixed and stamped by the issuing authority.
- China has been issuing stapled visas to Indian nationals from Arunachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir, which India vehemently rejects as a valid form of documentation.
3. China's Dispute Over Arunachal Pradesh
- China challenges India's sovereignty over Arunachal Pradesh and disputes the legality of the McMahon Line, the border agreed upon between Tibet and British India in 1914.
- This disagreement forms the core of Chinese claims over the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and its occasional incursions into Indian territory.
4. Chronology of the Stapled Visa Practice
The issuance of stapled visas by China for residents of Arunachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir dates back to the mid-2000s. Here is a timeline of key events:
- 2005: Chinese media begins referring to Arunachal Pradesh as "South Tibet."
- Late 2006: China refuses to grant a visa to an Indian government official serving in Arunachal Pradesh.
- 2008-09: Stapled visas for Jammu and Kashmir residents reportedly start being issued.
- 2009: A Kashmiri man claims to have received a stapled visa in 2009 and was stopped at an airport.
- 2010: China denies a visa to Northern Army Commander Lt Gen B S Jaswal due to his posting in "sensitive" Jammu and Kashmir.
- 2011: Chinese foreign ministry expresses willingness to handle issues related to stapled visas before a meeting between the Indian and Chinese leaders.
- 2013: Indian weightlifters and archers from Arunachal Pradesh face visa issues due to stapled visas.
5. Impact on Sports and Diplomatic Relations
- The stapled visa dispute has resulted in India's withdrawal of its wushu contingent from the Chengdu games, further straining diplomatic relations between the two nations.
- China's refusal to recognize India's sovereignty over Arunachal Pradesh and its periodic efforts to undermine it through such actions have led to consistent protests from India.
6.The Way Forward
- The stapled visa issue remains a thorny subject in India-China relations, reflecting broader territorial disputes.
- As long as the disagreement over Arunachal Pradesh persists, tensions are likely to continue between the two Asian giants, impacting not only sports but also other aspects of bilateral relations.
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For Prelims: stapled visa, India- China Arunachal Prasad, Jammu and Kashmir
For Mains:
1. What is a stapled visa, and why has it become a point of contention between India and China? Discuss India's stance on stapled visas and its implications on diplomatic relations. (250 Words)
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Source: The Indian Express
