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DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS, 10 AUGUST 2023

AYUSHMAN BHARAT

 

1. Context

Highlighting irregularities in the registration and validation of beneficiaries under the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (PMJAY), the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has revealed that nearly 7.5 lakh beneficiaries were linked with a single cellphone number - 9999999999.

2. About Ayushman Bharat Scheme

The Ayushman Bharat scheme, officially known as the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), is a flagship healthcare initiative launched by the Government of India in September 2018. It is aimed at providing financial protection and access to quality healthcare services to a significant portion of India's population, especially those who are economically disadvantaged and vulnerable.

The scheme has two main components:

  • Health and Wellness Centers (HWCs): This component aims to transform the existing sub-centers and primary health centers into Health and Wellness Centers. These centers serve as the first point of contact for individuals seeking healthcare services. They offer a range of preventive, promotive, and basic healthcare services, including maternal and child health services, communicable disease management, and health education.
  • Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY): PM-JAY is the larger component of the Ayushman Bharat scheme, focused on providing health insurance coverage to economically vulnerable families. It offers financial protection against catastrophic health expenses by covering the cost of hospitalization and certain medical procedures. PM-JAY provides coverage up to ₹5 lahks (per family per year) for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization. This includes coverage for a wide range of medical treatments, surgeries, and therapies.

3. Key features of PM-JAY include:

  • Universal Coverage: PM-JAY covers over 10 crore (100 million) vulnerable and economically disadvantaged families, which is approximately 50 crore individuals, making it one of the largest government-funded healthcare insurance programs in the world.
  • Cashless Transactions: Beneficiaries can avail of cashless and paperless healthcare services at any empanelled public or private hospital across the country.
  • Portability: The scheme is portable, meaning beneficiaries can access services in any part of the country, irrespective of where they are registered under the scheme.
  • No Cap on Family Size: The benefits under the scheme are not limited by family size or age, providing comprehensive coverage to all eligible family members.
  • Priority for Women and Senior Citizens: The scheme gives priority to women, senior citizens, and individuals from marginalized communities.
  • Empanelled Hospitals: The scheme has a network of public and private hospitals that have been empanelled to provide services under PM-JAY.

4. What is National Health Authority (NHA)?

  • The National Health Authority (NHA) is the apex body responsible for the implementation and management of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), also known as Ayushman Bharat, in India.
  • It was established as an autonomous body by the Government of India in January 2019.
  • The NHA plays a crucial role in the effective execution of the world's largest government-funded health insurance scheme.

Key functions and responsibilities of the National Health Authority include:

  • Policy Formulation: The NHA is responsible for formulating policies and guidelines for the implementation of PM-JAY. It works to ensure that the scheme aligns with the broader objectives of universal health coverage and affordable healthcare for all.
  • Enrollment and Beneficiary Identification: The NHA oversees the process of identifying and enrolling eligible beneficiaries for PM-JAY. This involves creating and maintaining a comprehensive database of eligible families to ensure accurate and efficient access to healthcare services.
  • Empanelment of Hospitals: The NHA empanels both public and private hospitals to participate in the scheme. These hospitals are evaluated based on their infrastructure, facilities, and willingness to provide services under PM-JAY. Empanelled hospitals provide cashless and quality healthcare services to beneficiaries.
  • Claims Management: The NHA is responsible for managing the claims process, which includes processing and reimbursing hospitals for the healthcare services provided to beneficiaries. This process ensures that beneficiaries can access medical treatment without facing financial barriers.
  • Monitoring and Quality Assurance: The NHA monitors the implementation of PM-JAY to ensure that the services provided by empanelled hospitals meet quality standards. It conducts regular audits and assessments to maintain the quality of healthcare services.
  • Technology and Data Management: The NHA employs technology extensively to manage beneficiary data, hospital empanelment, claims processing, and monitoring. This helps in creating an efficient and transparent system for the implementation of the scheme.
  • Capacity Building: The NHA works on capacity-building initiatives for stakeholders involved in the implementation of PM-JAY. This includes training for healthcare providers, government officials, and other relevant personnel.
  • Research and Innovation: The NHA focuses on research and innovation to improve the implementation of PM-JAY. It explores ways to enhance the scheme's reach, effectiveness, and impact.

5. Is National Health Authority a Statutory Body?

  • The National Health Authority (NHA) is a statutory body. It was established by an Act of Parliament known as the " National Health Authority Act, 2019.
  • The Act was passed to provide a legal framework for the creation and functioning of the NHA, which is responsible for the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), also known as Ayushman Bharat.
  • The National Health Authority Act, 2019, outlines the composition, Powers, functions, and responsibilities of the NHA.
  • It grants the NHA the authority to manage and oversee the implementation of PM-JAY, which is one of the largest government-funded health insurance schemes in the world.
  • The Act also provides the NHA with the necessary legal framework to carry out its role effectively, including policy formulation, enrollment of beneficiaries, empowerment of hospitals, claims processing, and quality assurance.
  • As a statutory body, the National Health Authority operates within the legal framework provided by the Act and has the authority to make decisions, issue guidelines, and implement policies related to the functioning of PM-JAY.
  • This legal status ensures that the NHA has the necessary autonomy and powers to carry out its responsibilities in the implementation of the healthcare scheme.
For Prelims: Ayushman Bharat, Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (PMJAY), the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG), Health and Wellness Centers (HWCs), National Health Authority (NHA).
For Mains: 1. Discuss the significance, achievements, and challenges of the Ayushman Bharat scheme in the context of achieving universal health coverage in India. (250 Words).
 
 
Previous year Question
1. 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
 
2. With reference to 'Ayushman Bharat Yojana' which of the following statement(s) is/are correct? (UPPSC 2020)
1. This Yojana provides free health insurance of Rs. 5 lahks per person.
2. The expenses incurred in this Scheme (Yojana) is shared between the Centre and State in a 60:40 ratio.
Select the correct answer from the codes given below.
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: B
Source: The Indian Express

KERALAM

1. Context 

Recently, the Kerala Assembly passed a resolution urging the Centre to rename the state as "Keralam" in the Constitution and all office records.
The resolution was moved by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and was passed unanimously, with the Congress-led Opposition not suggesting any changes.
 

2. Origin of the names

  • There are several theories about the origin of the names "Kerala" and "Keralam".
  • The earliest epigraphic record that mentions Kerala is emperor Asoka's Rock Edict II of 257 BC.
  • The inscription refers to the local ruler as Keralaputra (Sanskrit for "son of Kerala"), and also "son of Chera" referring to the Chera dynasty.
  • Scholars believe that "Keralam" could have originated from "Cheram".
Dr Herman Gundert, a German scholar who published the first Malayalam-English dictionary, observed the word "keram" is the Canarese (Kannada) form of cheram, and he described Keralam as Cheram the region between Gokarnam and Kanyakumari.
 
  • The term's origin could be from the root "cher", which means to join. This meaning is evident in the compound word "Cheralam", in which alam means region or land.

3. Demands for the modern state

  • The people speaking Malayalam had been ruled by various kings and princely states in the region.
  • It was in the 1920s that the Aikya (unified) Kerala movement gathered momentum and a demand for a separate state for Malayalam-speaking people came up.
  • It aimed at the integration of Malabar, Kochi and Travancore into one territory.
  • The Keralites who spoke the same language, shared common cultural traditions, and were unified by the same history, rituals and customs were inspired by the freedom movement to ask for unification and integration.

4. The state of Kerala after 1947

  • The merger and integration of princely states was a major step towards the formation of the state of Kerala after Independence.
  • On 1 July 1949, the two states of Travancore and Kochi were integrated, heralding the birth of the Travancore Cochin State.
  • When it was decided to reorganise states on a linguistic basis, the State Reorganisation Commission of the Union Government recommended the creation of the state of Kerala.
  • The Commission under Syed Fazl Ali recommended the inclusion of the district of Malabar and the taluk of Kasargod to the Malayalam-speaking people's state.
  • It also recommended the exclusion of the four Southern taluks of Travancore viz Tovala, Agastheeswaram, Kalkulam and Vilayankode together with some parts of Shenkottai (all these taluks now part of Tamil Nadu).
  • The state of Kerala came into being on November 1, 1956. In Malayalam, the state was referred to as Keralam, while in English it was Kerala.

5.  The process of renaming a state

  • Unlike in the case of renaming cities, to change the name of a state, approval from the Centre's Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is required.
  • This means that a Constitutional amendment becomes necessary to affect this change. The proposal has to first come from the state government.
  • The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) then takes over and gives its consent after it receives No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from several agencies such as the Ministry of Railways, Intelligence Bureau, Department of Posts, Survey of India and Registrar General of India.
  • If the proposal is accepted, the resolution, introduced as a Bill in the Parliament, becomes a law and the name of the state is changed thereafter.
 
For Prelims: Keralam, Chera dynasty,  Aikya Kerala movement,  Asoka's Rock Edict II, Malabar, Kochi, Travancore, State Reorganisation Commission, Syed Fazl Ali, Ministry of Railways, Intelligence Bureau, Department of Posts, Survey of India, Registrar General of India
For Mains: 
1. Discuss the role of historical, linguistic, and cultural factors in shaping regional identities and names. How do names like "Kerala" and "Keralam" encapsulate the rich history and diversity of the state? (250 Words)
2. Evaluate the role of linguistic movements in India's post-Independence state formation. How did the Aikya Kerala movement contribute to the recognition of linguistic and cultural unity, leading to the reorganization of states based on language? (250 Words)
 
 
Previous Year Questions
 
1. Consider the following States: (UPSC 2022) 
1. Andhra Pradesh
2. Kerala
3. Himachal Pradesh
4. Tripura
How many of the above are generally known as tea-producing States?
A. Only one State    B. Only two States        C. Only three States       D.  All four States
 
Answer: C
 
2. Consider the following pairs: (UPSC 2022)
Site of Ashoka's major rock edicts                Location in the State of
1. Dhauli                                                           Odisha
2. Erragudi                                                        Andhra Pradesh
3. Jaugada                                                         Madhya Pradesh
4. Kalsi                                                              Karnataka
How many pairs given above are correctly matched?
A. Only one State    B. Only two States        C. Only three States       D.  All four States
 
Answer: B
 
3. The 'Malabar' is a naval exercise between which of the following countries? (SSC JE ME 2018)
A. India and China India,         
B. Japan and USA India,
C. South Korea and Japan India,
D. Bangladesh and Sri Lanka
 
Answer: B
 
4. Which one of the following statements about 'Princely States' in India is not correct? (UPSC CAPF 2022) 
A. The British Government declared that States were free to join either India or Pakistan or remain independent.
B. The decision to join either India or Pakistan or remain independent was left not to the people of Princely States but to the Princely Rulers.
C. The Ruler of Travancore first decided to remain independent.
D. The State of Travancore finally joined India through a plebiscite.
 
Answer: B
 
5. Name the South Indian King who vanquished the forces of the Dutch East India Company in 1741 in the battle of Colachel.  (UPSSSC Lower PCS 2019)
A. Veera Pandya Kattabomman
B. Raja Raja Chola
C. Marthanda Varma
D. Haider Ali
 
Answer: C
 
6. A Commission for the Re-organisation of States, according to Language and Culture was set up by the Indian Government, in the year 1953, under the Chairmanship of (HSSC Group D 2018) 
A. Syed Fazal Ali      B. Mahatma Gandhi       C.  Jawaharlal Nehru     D.Subhaschandra Bose
 
Answer: A
 
7. "Central Bureau of Intelligence and Investigation" is listed in the __________ list given in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution of India. (SSC CGL 2017)
A. Union      B. State         C. Global              D. Concurrent
 
Answer: A
 
8. When was the Survey of India established? (DSSSB TGT 2018)
A. 1864         B. 1764       C. 1767             D.1867
 
Answer: C
 
9. Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India comes under which of the following ministry? (DSSSB Head Clerk 2022)
A. Ministry Statistics and Programme Implementation
B. Ministry of Home Affairs
C. Ministry Health and Family Welfare
D. Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs
 
Answer: B
 
10. Examine the following statements: (Telangana Police Constable 2018)
A. Anil Sant is the Registrar Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India.
B. The demographic dividend' term was first coined by David Bloom.
Choose the correct answer: 
A. Both A and B are incorrect.
B. Only A is correct
C. Only B is correct
D. Both A and B are correct.
 
Answer: A
 
Source: The Indian Express

AMENDMENT OF CONSTITUTION

 

1. Context

Debate on the 10% ‘forward quota’ Bill saw arguments on the amendment procedure, including whether state Assemblies should ratify the Bill, and questions related to aided and unaided institutions. 

2. What is a Constitutional Amendment?

  • A constitutional amendment is a formal change or addition to a country's constitution. A constitution is a foundational document that outlines the fundamental principles, structure, and framework of a government, as well as the rights and responsibilities of its citizens.
  • Constitutional amendments allow for modifications to this fundamental document without completely rewriting it.
  • Amendments are typically used to address issues that were not fully addressed or envisioned when the original constitution was written or to adapt the constitution to changing societal, political, or legal circumstances.
  • They can cover various topics, including civil rights, voting procedures, governmental powers and structures, taxation, and more.
  • The process for amending a constitution varies from country to country. It often involves a deliberate and formal procedure that requires approval by a designated body or bodies, such as a legislative body (like a parliament or congress), a special constitutional convention, or through a public referendum.
  • The requirements for passing an amendment may include specific majority votes, multiple stages of approval, and sometimes a requirement for a certain level of consensus or public support.
  • Constitutional amendments are a way to ensure that a constitution remains relevant and effective over time, while still preserving the core principles and values upon which a country's governance is built.

3. What are the different ways to amend Indian Constitution?

The Indian Constitution can be amended through several different methods outlined in Article 368. The methods vary depending on the significance and impact of the proposed amendment. 

  • Simple Majority in Parliament: Amendments that do not alter the federal structure of the Constitution or affect the powers of states can be made with a simple majority in both houses of Parliament (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha). The amendment bill must be passed by a majority of the total members present and voting.
  • Special Majority in Parliament: For amendments that do affect the federal structure or the powers of states, a special majority is required. This means that the amendment must be passed by a majority of the total membership of each house of Parliament (not just those present and voting) and by a two-thirds majority of the members present and voting in each house.
  • Special Majority and Ratification by States: Some amendments require a special majority in Parliament and ratification by at least half of the state legislatures. This is applicable to amendments that affect the distribution of powers between the center and the states or the representation of states in the Parliament.
  • Ratification by States: Certain amendments need ratification by at least half of the state legislatures, without the requirement of a special majority in Parliament. These amendments typically relate to subjects mentioned in the Concurrent List (where both the center and states have jurisdiction).
  • Process of Constitutional Conventions: This method has only been used once. The 73rd Amendment Act of 1992, which introduced Panchayati Raj institutions, was enacted through the process of constitutional conventions. The amendment was first discussed and approved by the states in their respective legislative assemblies before being passed in Parliament.
  • Process of Constitutional Assemblies: In this method, a proposed amendment is discussed by a constitutional assembly. If the assembly approves the amendment, it is then presented to the President for assent. This method has been used for amendments that affect the executive powers of the President.

4. Procedure to Amend the Indian Constitution

The procedure to amend the Indian Constitution involves several steps, and the specific process can vary based on the nature and impact of the proposed amendment. Here is a general overview of the procedure:
  • Introduction of Amendment Bill: The process begins with the introduction of an amendment bill in either house of Parliament (Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha). The bill can be introduced by a minister or any other member of Parliament.
  • Approval by Both Houses: The amendment bill must be passed by both houses of Parliament. The required majority for passing the bill depends on the nature of the amendment:
  • For amendments that do not affect the federal structure of the Constitution or the powers of states, a simple majority of members are present and voting is required in each house.
  • For amendments that affect the federal structure or the powers of states, a special majority is required. This means that the bill must be passed by a majority of the total membership of each house and by a two-thirds majority of the members present and voting in each house.
  • Sending to the President: After both houses of Parliament pass the amendment bill, it is sent to the President for assent.
  • President's Assent: The President has the power to either give assent to the amendment bill or withhold it. In most cases, the President gives assent, and the bill becomes law.
  • Publication in the Gazette: Once the President's assent is given, the amendment becomes a part of the Constitution. It is published in the official gazette of the Government of India.
  • Limitations on Amendments: While the Indian Constitution can be amended, certain core features of the Constitution cannot be altered. These include the federal structure of the country, the supremacy of the Constitution, the democratic and republican nature of the state, and the separation of powers between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
  • Amendments Requiring Ratification by States: Some amendments, particularly those that affect the federal balance or the powers of states, require ratification by at least half of the state legislatures. The ratification process usually occurs after the amendment bill is passed by Parliament.
  • Challenges in Court: If there are legal disputes or challenges regarding the constitutionality of an amendment, they can be taken to the courts. The Supreme Court of India has the authority to review and decide on the validity of constitutional amendments.

5. Major Constitutional Amendments

Some of the major constitutional amendments in India's history that have had a significant impact on the country's governance, society, and legal framework:
  • First Amendment Act, 1951: This amendment aimed to curtail the scope of fundamental rights to allow the government to impose restrictions on freedom of speech and expression, and other rights, in the interest of the sovereignty and integrity of India.
  • Seventh Amendment Act, 1956: This amendment reorganized states along linguistic lines, leading to the creation of new states and redrawing of boundaries. It was a significant step in addressing linguistic diversity.
  • Twenty-Fourth Amendment Act, 1971: This amendment clarified that the Parliament's power to amend the Constitution is not limited by fundamental rights. It was introduced in response to the Golaknath case, which had challenged the Parliament's authority to amend fundamental rights.
  • Forty-Second Amendment Act, 1976: Often referred to as the "Mini-Constitution," this amendment was introduced during the period of the Emergency and brought about extensive changes. It aimed to strengthen the central government's powers, restrict judicial review, and curtail fundamental rights.
  • Fifty-Second Amendment Act, 1985: This amendment sought to curb defections and promote political stability by introducing anti-defection provisions. It disqualified members of Parliament and state legislatures if they defected from their party.
  • Seventy-Third Amendment Act, 1992: This amendment introduced provisions for local self-governance through Panchayati Raj institutions. It aimed to empower rural communities by devolving powers and responsibilities to them.
  • Seventy-Fourth Amendment Act, 1992: Similar to the 73rd Amendment, this amendment focused on urban local bodies and introduced provisions for municipal governance, allowing greater autonomy to urban areas.
  • Ninety-First Amendment Act, 2003: This amendment introduced a new article (Article 21A) that made education a fundamental right for children between the ages of 6 and 14. It aimed to promote universal elementary education.
  • Ninety-Ninth Amendment Act, 2019: This amendment introduced a special provision for the reservation of seats for economically weaker sections in educational institutions and public employment.
  • One Hundred and First Amendment Act, 2016 (GST Amendment): This major economic reform introduced the Goods and Services Tax (GST), replacing a complex system of multiple indirect taxes with a unified taxation structure.
  • 102nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 2018: Constitutional status to National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC).
  • 103rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 2019: Provided a maximum of 10% Reservation for Economically Weaker Sections (EWSs).
  • 104th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2020: Extended the reservation of seats for SCs and STs in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies.

6. Criticism of the Amendment Procedure

  • States cannot initiate the amendment (Only Parliament can).
  • States have only one way to propose the amendment i.e. create the legislative council in the state.
  • The Constitution does not mention the time within which state legislatures ratify or reject the amendment.
  • The Constitution is also silent on whether the states can withdraw their approval once given.
  • No provision for a special body + Only in a few cases, the consent of the state legislatures is required.
  • No provision for holding a joint sitting.
  • Wide scope for taking matters to the judiciary due to vague provisions.
For Prelims: Constitutional amendment, Simple Majority, Special Majority, Constitutional Conventions, Anti-defection law, National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC), Reservation for Economically Weaker Sections (EWSs), Goods and Services Tax (GST).
For Mains: 1. Discuss the significance and challenges associated with the process of amending the Constitution of India. (250 Words).
 

Previous year Question

1. Consider the following statements (2013)

1. An amendment to the Constitution of India can be initiated by an introduction of a bill in the Lok Sabha only.
2. If such an amendment seeks to make changes in the federal character of the Constitution, the amendment also requires to be ratified by the legislature of all the States of India.
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: d

2. The Parliament of India acquires the power to legislate on any item in the State List in the national interest if a resolution to that effect is passed by the (UPSC 2016)

A. Lok Sabha by a simple majority of its total membership

B. Lok Sabha by a majority of not less than two-thirds of its total membership

C. Rajya Sabha by a simple majority of its total membership

D. Rajya Sabha by a simple majority of not less than two-thirds of its members present and voting

Answer: D

Source: The Indian Express

COURT VACATIONS

1. Context 

  • A recent report submitted by a Parliamentary panel has ignited discussions on the Indian judicial system's transparency, case backlog, and appointments.
  • The panel's recommendations include mandating Supreme Court and high court judges to disclose their assets annually, addressing the issue of prolonged court vacations, and advocating for a more diverse representation in judicial appointments.

2. About Court Vacations

  • Court vacations, an inherent part of the judicial calendar, provide insights into the functioning of the Indian judiciary.
  • While the Supreme Court operates for 193 working days, high courts function for around 210 days, and trial courts for 245 days annually.
  • High courts have the flexibility to structure their schedules as per service rules.
  • However, the traditional vacation periods, rooted in colonial practices, have faced criticism due to their impact on case pendency.

3. Impact on Important Cases

  • During court vacations, a limited number of judges convene "vacation benches" to address urgent matters.
  • These benches prioritize cases such as bail and eviction, ensuring that crucial issues are not further delayed.
  • Notably, significant cases have been heard during vacations, exemplified by the 2015 challenge to the National Judicial Appointments Commission and the 2017 hearing on triple talaq.

4. Critism on-court Vacations

  • The criticism of court vacations revolves around their potential negative implications.
  • Detractors argue that prolonged breaks lead to mounting case backlogs and sluggish judicial proceedings.
  • The colonial origins of vacation practices have also drawn scrutiny, as the summer break may have initially stemmed from European judges' discomfort with Indian heat.

5. Calls for Reforms

  • Various committees and legal experts have proposed reforms to address the issue of court vacations and case pendency.
  • The Justice Malimath Committee in 2000 recommended a reduction of vacation days, aligning with the need to manage the backlog.
  • The Law Commission of India's 230th report echoed this sentiment, suggesting a curtailment of vacation periods and an extension of court working hours.

6. Arguments in Favor of Court Vacations

  • Defenders of court vacations emphasize their significance within the legal fraternity.
  • Lawyers contend that these breaks provide essential rejuvenation in a demanding profession requiring intellectual rigour.
  • Judges, who already dedicate over 10 hours daily to their duties, utilize vacation time for judgment writing and preparation.
  • Additionally, judges are often noted for their commitment, with minimal leave taken during court sessions.

7. The Data Perspective

  • Data challenges the notion that reducing court vacations would significantly impact case pendency.
  • The Supreme Court's disposal of cases roughly matches the number of cases instituted annually.
  • The primary challenge lies in addressing legacy cases, suggesting that vacation reform might not be the sole solution to the backlog issue.

8. International Practices

  • A comparative analysis reveals the Indian Supreme Court's high caseload and the unique challenges it faces.
  • With 34 judges, it leads to the number of judgments delivered. In contrast, the US Supreme Court handles fewer cases and dedicates specific time frames for oral arguments.
  • Similarly, the UK's Supreme Court and other courts have distinct sitting patterns throughout the year.

9. The Way Forward

  • The Parliamentary panel's report has ignited discussions on vital aspects of the Indian judiciary.
  • Balancing transparency, case management, and appointments will require a nuanced approach.
  • The debate surrounding court vacations underscores differing viewpoints within the legal community, emphasizing the need for comprehensive reforms to address the broader challenges facing the Indian judicial system.
 
For Prelims: Parliamentary Panel Report, Court vacations, 
For Mains: 
1. Analyze the concept of court vacations in the Indian judiciary. How do the vacation periods for the courts impact the functioning of the judicial system? Critically evaluate the colonial origins of these vacation practices. (250 Words)
 
Previous Year Questions
 
1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2013)
The Parliamentary Committee on Public Accounts
1. consists of not more than 25 members of the Lok Sabha.
2. scrutinizes appropriation and finance accounts of the Government.
3. examines the report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 
A. 1 only   B. 2 and 3 only      C.  3 only           D. 1, 2 and 3
 
Answer: B
 
2. With reference to the Parliament of India, which of the following Parliamentary Committees scrutinizes and reports to the House whether the powers to make regulations, rules, sub-rules, by-laws, etc. conferred by the Constitution or delegated by the Parliament are being properly exercised by the Executive within the scope of such delegation? (UPSC 2018) 
A. Committee on Government Assurances
B. Committee on Subordinate Legislation
C.  Rules Committee 
D. Business Advisory Committee
 
Answer: B
 
Source: The Indian Express
 

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