SOIL HEALTH CARDS SCHEME
1. Context
Recently, The Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar, conveyed the developments in the Soil Health Cards Scheme information through a written response in the Rajya Sabha.
2. About the Soil Health Cards Scheme
- The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare introduced the scheme on December 5, 2015.
- Soil Health Card (SHC) is a printed report which contains nutrient status of soil concerning 12 nutrients: pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Organic Carbon (OC), Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), Sulphur (S), Zinc (Zn), Boron (B), Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn) and Copper (Cu) of farm holdings.
- SHC is provided to all farmers in the country at an interval of 3 years to enable the farmers to apply recommended doses of nutrients based on soil test values to realize improved and sustainable soil health and fertility, low costs and higher profits. Farmers can track their soil samples and also obtain their Soil Health Card report.
- It is a field-specific detailed report of soil fertility status and other important soil parameters that affect crop productivity.
3. The Essence of Soil Health Cards
- At its core, the Soil Health Card serves as a potent tool, equipping farmers with invaluable insights into their soil's nutrient composition.
- More than a simple report, it offers bespoke recommendations, guiding farmers toward optimal nutrient application to enhance soil health and fertility.
4. Technological Advancements
- The once-familiar Soil Health Card portal underwent a comprehensive rejuvenation, converging with a cutting-edge Geographic Information System (GIS).
- This fusion empowers a comprehensive visualization, effectively capturing and displaying test results on a geographical canvas.
5. Revamped Mobile Application
- To streamline implementation and ensure unfettered access to soil health information, the mobile application underwent a substantial upgrade.
- Enhanced functionalities include region restrictions for Village Level Entrepreneurs/ Operators conducting soil sample collection, automated latitude and longitude selection, and the ingenious generation of QR codes.
- This linkage seamlessly bridges sample data with test results, a process executed without manual intervention.
6. Rollout and Implementation
- In April 2023 the revamped system was unveiled. A revolutionary shift transpired as samples were collected through a user-friendly mobile application.
- The resultant Soil Health Cards are now generated within the refurbished portal.
- To facilitate this transition, an impressive tally of 56 training sessions were diligently conducted, catering to various states.
7. Soil Health Card and RKVY
- The Soil Health Card scheme has woven its essence into the fabric of the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY), confluence under the banner of 'Soil Health & Fertility' since the fiscal year 2022-23.
- This synergistic approach envisions a holistic agricultural transformation.
8. Village Level Soil Testing Labs (VLSTLs)
- A remarkable stride was taken with the issuance of guidelines for Village Level Soil Testing Labs (VLSTLs) on June 22, 2023.
- These labs can be envisioned by dynamic individuals such as rural youth or collective entities like Self Help Groups (SHGs), Schools, and Agriculture Universities.
9. Nurturing Village-Level Entrepreneurs
- Eligibility criteria for VLSTLs carve a path for aspiring young minds, with beneficiaries or village-level entrepreneurs falling within the age bracket of 18 to 27 years.
- Self Help Groups and Farmer's Producers Organisations (FPO) seamlessly integrate into this narrative, with their eligibility overseen by the District Level Executive Committee (DLEC).
10. Application Process and Training
- Initiating the journey involves applying for essential documents like qualification certificates, PAN Cards, and Aadhar Cards to the office of the Deputy Director/District Agriculture Officer.
- The training realm is further navigated as manufacturers and state governments orchestrate comprehensive guidance sessions on soil sampling, testing, and the meticulous generation of soil health cards.
11. Detailed Soil Mapping
- The landscape unravels further as Detailed Soil Mapping unfurls at a 1:10000 scale, orchestrated through a fusion of high-resolution satellite data and ground surveys.
- Prioritized areas undergo meticulous scrutiny by the Soil & Land Use Survey of India, Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare.
- This bountiful repository of Soil Resource Information, presented in digital format, stands distinct from the SHC endeavour.
12. The Way Forward
- The metamorphosis of the Soil Health Card Scheme signifies a resolute stride toward nurturing India's agricultural growth.
- Infusing technology with traditional wisdom, this narrative exemplifies the nation's steadfast commitment to fostering a resilient and sustainable farming ecosystem.
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For Prelims: Soil Health Card Scheme, District Level Executive Committee, Geographic Information System, Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, Village Level Soil Testing Labs, Self Help Groups,
For Mains:
1. Assess the challenges and opportunities in the implementation of the Soil Health Card Scheme. How can the scheme effectively address nutrient deficiencies and contribute to sustainable agricultural growth in India? (250 words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2017)
The nation-wide ‘Soil Health Card Scheme’ aims at
1. expanding the cultivable area under irrigation.
2. enabling the banks to assess the quantum of loans to be granted to farmers on the basis of soil quality.
3. checking the overuse of fertilizers in farmlands.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 3 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
2. Soil Health Card is related with (MPPSC AE Civil Engineering 2021)
A. Use of balanced fertilizer
B. High yields
C. Soil test
D. All of the above
Answer: D
3. Which of the following might be considered as the fourth dimension in GIS? (SSC Scientific Assistant Computer Science 2017)
A. Time B. Location C. Scale D. Space
Answer: A
4. For which of the following purposes can the Geographic Information System not be used? (CIL MT Civil 2017)
A. Studying the relative motions of planets
B. Disaster and business continuity planning
C. Deforestation
D. Development of public infrastructure facilities
Answer: A
5. Rashtriya Krishi vikas Yojana is a scheme of Government of India launched for the benefit of: (RRC Group D 2018)
A. School teachers
B. Agriculture & farmers
C. Industries
D. Hospitals
Answer: B
6. Consider the following statements: (MPSC Subordinate Services Prelims 2021)
a. Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana was launched during the 11th Five Year Plan.
b. The Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture was launched during the 12th Five Year Plan.
c. National Food Security Mission was launched in 2009-10.
Which of the above statements is/are incorrect?
1. All the three are incorrect
2. Only b
3. Only c
4. Only a
Answer: 3
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BHARATIYA NYAYA SANHITA BILL, 2023
1. Context
2. What is Sedition Law?
Historical Roots:
Sedition laws originated in 17th-century England, aiming to suppress unfavorable opinions about the government and monarchy.
Evolution in India:
- Originally absent from the Indian Penal Code (IPC) enacted in 1860.
- Introduced in 1870 as Section 124A through an amendment by James Stephen to address offenses against the government.
Sedition Law Today (Section 124A IPC):
- Defines sedition as using words, signs, or representations to bring hatred, contempt, or disaffection toward the lawfully established Indian government.
- Disaffection encompasses disloyalty and hostile sentiments.
- Excludes comments that don't incite hatred, contempt, or disaffection from constituting an offense.
Punishment and Consequences:
- Non-bailable offense.
- Penalties vary from imprisonment up to three years to a life sentence, with possible fines.
- Accused individuals are ineligible for government employment.
- Restrictions on possessing a passport and mandatory court appearances.
Sedition law in India, as outlined in Section 124A of the IPC, addresses actions aimed at stirring animosity or disloyalty towards the lawful government. While intended to safeguard public order, it raises discussions about the balance between expression and maintaining social stability.
3. Provisions of Section 150 in The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill, 2023
Section 150 of The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill, 2023 deals with offenses related to endangering India's sovereignty, unity, and integrity. While avoiding the term "sedition," it encompasses a wide range of actions that may incite secession, armed rebellion, subversive activities, or separatist feelings.
Scope:
- Encompasses various forms of communication: spoken or written words, signs, visible representations, electronic communication, and financial means.
- Targets those who purposely or knowingly incite secession, armed rebellion, or subversive activities, or encourage separatist sentiments.
- Aims to prevent acts that could jeopardize India's sovereignty and unity.
Punishments:
- Penalties range from life imprisonment to a maximum of seven years.
- Potential imposition of fines.
Exemption:
- Explanation clause: Expressions of disapproval of government actions, and seeking lawful alterations, are exempted if they do not incite the mentioned activities.
Contrast with Law Commission Recommendation:
- Broader scope: Encompasses a wider range of actions and means, including financial support.
- No explicit requirement for "tendency to incite violence" as recommended by the 22nd Law Commission.
- 22nd Law Commission's suggestion sought to include procedural safeguards and an expanded prison term.
4. Section 124A of IPC: Current Law on Sedition
Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) addresses the offense of sedition. It pertains to actions that bring hatred, contempt, or disaffection toward the legally established government. The section outlines punishable acts, penalties, and clarifications.
Actions Covered:
- Encompasses spoken or written words, signs, visible representation, or other means of expression.
- Targets individuals who attempt to incite hatred, contempt, or disaffection towards the government established by law.
Penalties:
- Possible sentences include life imprisonment with or without a fine.
- Alternatively, imprisonment for up to three years, along with a fine.
Explanation Clauses:
- "Disaffection" encompasses disloyalty and feelings of enmity.
- Comments expressing disapprobation of government measures for lawful alteration, without inciting hatred or disaffection, are not an offense.
- Expressing disapprobation of government actions, administrative or otherwise, without inciting hatred or disaffection, is not an offense.
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For Prelims: Sedition Law, Section 124A of IPC, Indian Penal Code (IPC), Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill, 2023, 22nd Law Commission.
For Mains: 1. Discuss the evolution, provisions, and contemporary relevance of the sedition law (Section 124A) in the Indian Penal Code. (250 words)
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Previous year Questions1. With reference to Rowlatt Satyagraha, which of the following statements is/are correct? ( UPSC 2015 )
Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only Answer: b |
CHINA'S SPONGE CITIES
- A sponge city is a new urban construction model for flood management, strengthening ecological infrastructure and drainage systems, proposed by Chinese researchers in early 2000 and accepted by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and the State Council as urbanism policy in 2014.
- It can alleviate urban flooding, water resources shortage, and the urban heat island effect and improve the ecological environment and biodiversity by absorbing and capturing rain water and utilizing it to reduce floods.
- Rainwater harvested can be repurposed for irrigation and for home use.
- According to 2018 data, 641 out of 654 large- and medium-sized cities in China were vulnerable to flooding and waterlogging, with 180 facing flood risks every year
- A total of 30 pilot sponge cities were selected in 2015 and 2016.
- By last year, only 64 of China’s 654 cities had produced legislation to implement sponge city guidelines
- Experts believe sponge city infrastructure can only handle no more than 200 millimetres (7.9 inches) of rain per day
- At the height of the rainstorms that lashed Beijing at the end of July, rainfall at one station reached 745 millimetres over three and a half days.
- In July 2021, Zhengzhou saw rainfall in excess of 200 mm in just one hour.
Sponge cities hold significant importance due to their potential to address a range of urban challenges, particularly those related to water management, climate change, and urban development. Some of the key significance of sponge cities include:
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Flood Mitigation: One of the primary benefits of sponge cities is their ability to manage and reduce the risk of flooding. By incorporating features such as permeable surfaces, retention ponds, and natural waterways, sponge cities can absorb excess rainwater and stormwater, preventing it from overwhelming drainage systems and causing floods.
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Climate Resilience: Sponge cities are designed to adapt to the impacts of climate change, such as increased rainfall intensity and rising sea levels. Their water management strategies help cities better cope with extreme weather events, reducing vulnerability to flooding and related damages.
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Water Conservation: These cities prioritize the efficient use of water resources by harvesting and reusing rainwater and treating wastewater for non-potable purposes. This conserves freshwater supplies and reduces the burden on water treatment facilities.
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Innovation and Technology: Sponge cities encourage the development and adoption of innovative technologies and solutions for urban water management. This can drive technological advancements and create opportunities for research and development.
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Community Engagement: The concept of sponge cities often involves community engagement and education about water management and climate resilience. This can lead to increased public awareness and participation in sustainable practices
- Even if sponge city measures had been implemented in full, they would have been unable to prevent this year’s disasters.
- Zhengzhou in Henan province was one of the most enthusiastic pioneers of sponge city construction, allocating nearly 60 billion yuan to the programme from 2016 to 2021. But it was unable to deal with its heaviest rainfall in history in 2021
- Experts believe sponge city infrastructure can only handle no more than 200 millimetres (7.9 inches) of rain per day.
- At the height of the rainstorms that lashed Beijing at the end of July, rainfall at one station reached 745 millimetres over three and a half days
- China has long sought to improve the way it handles extreme weather, and make highly populated cities less vulnerable to flooding and drought
- The "sponge city" initiative was designed to make greater use of lower-impact "nature-based solutions" to better distribute water and improve drainage and storage
- Those solutions included the use of permeable asphalt, the construction of new canals and ponds and also the restoration of wetlands, which would not only ease waterlogging, but also improve the urban environment
- According to 2018 data, 641 out of 654 large- and medium-sized cities in China were vulnerable to flooding and waterlogging, with 180 facing flood risks every year
MONTEREY POLICY COMMITTEE
1. Context
2. About Monetary Policy Committee
- The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is a key decision-making body within a central bank responsible for formulating and implementing monetary policy.
- Its primary objective is to ensure price stability and support sustainable economic growth.
- The committee achieves this by setting policy interest rates and employing other monetary tools to influence various aspects of the economy.
2.1. Types of Monetary Policy
Monetary policy is a dynamic toolset employed by central banks to regulate economic activity and maintain stability. These policies can be broadly classified into two distinct approaches: expansionary and contractionary policies.
Expansionary Policy: Expansionary policy serves as a catalyst for invigorating economic activity, particularly in times of sluggish growth or recessions. This policy endeavours to bolster economic momentum by amplifying the total money supply within the economy. The augmentation of the money supply is achieved by reducing prevailing interest rates on loans and various forms of debt.
Contractionary Policy: Contractionary policy is an essential countermeasure aimed at curbing excessive inflation driven by a surplus money supply. This strategy involves a deliberate reduction in the aggregate money supply within the economy, predominantly through interest rate escalation.
2.2. Key features of the Monetary Policy Committee
Composition: The MPC was constituted in 2016 as part of the RBI's reforms to its monetary policy framework. The MPC is composed of six members:
- The Governor of the RBI (Chairperson)
- Two Deputy Governors
- Three external members appointed by the government
Interest Rate Decisions: One of the main functions of the MPC is to set the policy interest rates, such as the repo rate or the official cash rate. These rates influence borrowing costs for banks and, subsequently, impact lending rates throughout the economy.
Inflation Targeting: Many central banks adopt an inflation-targeting framework. The MPC sets a target range for the inflation rate and adjusts policy rates to achieve this target. This approach helps anchor inflation expectations and maintain price stability.
Economic Analysis: The MPC analyzes a wide range of economic indicators, including inflation trends, GDP growth, unemployment rates, consumer spending, and global economic conditions. This analysis informs the committee's decisions on monetary policy adjustments.
2.3. Instruments of monetary policy
Repo Rate: The Repo Rate stands as the fixed interest rate at which the RBI extends overnight liquidity to banks against approved collateral (government securities) within the Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF).
Reverse Repo Rate: The Reverse Repo Rate, conversely, is the fixed interest rate at which the RBI withdraws liquidity from banks overnight by accepting eligible government securities under the LAF.
Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF): Comprising both overnight and term repo auctions, the LAF dynamically infuses liquidity. The RBI progressively enhances liquidity via variable rate repo auctions of diverse tenures. Term repos fortify the inter-bank term money market, fostering market-driven benchmarks for lending and deposit rates.
Marginal Standing Facility (MSF): The MSF extends an additional overnight borrowing avenue to scheduled commercial banks, leveraging a portion of their Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR) portfolio. This safeguard helps buffer the banking system against unforeseen liquidity shocks.
Corridor: The daily fluctuation range in the weighted average call money rate is dictated by the interplay between the MSF rate and the reverse repo rate.
Bank Rate: The Bank Rate presides over the rate at which the RBI purchases or rediscounts commercial papers. It's synchronized with the MSF rate, automatically adapting to changes in the policy repo rate.
Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR): Mandating banks to maintain a prescribed fraction of their Net Demand and Time Liabilities (NDTL) as a daily average balance with the RBI, the CRR curates liquidity in the banking system.
Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR): A percentage of NDTL that banks must hold in liquid assets, such as government securities, cash, and gold, constitutes the SLR. SLR adjustments wield a pivotal role in regulating lending resources for the private sector.
Open Market Operations (OMOs): OMOs orchestrate the outright purchase and sale of government securities, strategically infusing or withdrawing long-term liquidity.
Market Stabilisation Scheme (MSS): Introduced in 2004, the MSS adroitly manages surplus liquidity resulting from capital inflows. By vending short-term government securities and treasury bills, the RBI expertly absorbs longer-term surpluses.
3. About Monetary Policy Framework
- A Monetary Policy Framework is a set of principles, strategies, and tools that a central bank uses to manage and control the money supply and interest rates in an economy to achieve specific economic goals.
- The primary objective of most monetary policy frameworks is to promote price stability and sustainable economic growth.
- Central banks play a crucial role in a country's economy by influencing the availability of money and credit, which in turn affects spending, investment, and overall economic activity.
- A well-defined monetary policy framework helps guide the central bank's actions and decisions to achieve its objectives.
3. About Marginal Standing Facility
- The Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) is a special window provided by the central bank of a country to its commercial banks for borrowing funds on an overnight basis.
- The MSF is typically designed to serve as a mechanism for banks to obtain emergency or additional liquidity when they are unable to meet their short-term funding requirements through other means.
4. Difference between Repo Rate and Interest Rate
4.1. Repo rate
- The repo rate is the rate at which the central bank (in India, the Reserve Bank of India or RBI) lends money to commercial banks.
- It is a short-term rate, meaning that the money is borrowed and repaid overnight.
- The repo rate is used to control the liquidity in the banking system.
- When the repo rate is low, it encourages banks to lend money, which increases liquidity.
- When the repo rate is high, it discourages banks from lending money, which decreases liquidity.
4.2. Interest rate
- The interest rate is the rate at which banks charge their customers for loans.
- It is a long-term rate, meaning that the loan is repaid over months or years.
- The interest rate is influenced by several factors, including the repo rate, the inflation rate, and the risk of default.
| Feature | Repo rate | Interest rate |
| Definition | The rate at which the central bank lends money to commercial banks |
The rate at which banks charge their customers for loans
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| Maturity | Short-term (overnight) | Long-term (months or years) |
| Purpose | To control liquidity in the banking system | To earn a profit for banks and to cover the cost of lending money |
| Influences | Inflation rate, risk of default, and repo rate | Inflation rate, risk of default, and repo rate |
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For Prelims: RBI, Monetary Policy Committee, Inflation, Interest Rates, Repo rate, Marginal Standing Facility, Monetary Policy Framework,
For Mains:
1. What is the key difference between the repo rate and the interest rate? Explain how these rates impact different aspects of the economy. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2021)
1. The Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is appointed by the Central Government.
2. Certain provisions in the Constitution of India give the Central Government the right to issue directions to the RBI in the public interest.
3. The Governor of the RBI draws his natural power from the RBI Act.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: C
2. Concerning the Indian economy, consider the following: (UPSC 2015)
1. Bank rate
2. Open Market Operations
3. Public debt
4. Public revenue
Which of the above is/are component(s) of Monetary Policy? (a) 1 only (b) 2, 3 and 4 (c) 1 and 2 (d) 1, 3 and 4 Answer: C
3. An increase in Bank Rate generally indicates: (UPSC 2013) (a) Market rate of interest is likely to fall. (b) Central bank is no longer making loans to commercial banks. (c) Central bank is following an easy money policy. (d) Central bank is following a tight money policy. Answer: D 4. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC)? (UPSC 2017) 1. It decides the RBI's benchmark interest rates. 2. It is a 12-member body including the Governor of RBI and is reconstituted every year. 3. It functions under the chairmanship of the Union Finance Minister. Select the correct answer using the code given below: A. 1 only B. 1 and 2 only C. 3 only D. 2 and 3 only Answer: A 5. With reference to inflation in India, which of the following statements is correct? (UPSC 2015)
A. Controlling the inflation in India is the responsibility of the Government of India only
B. The Reserve Bank of India has no role in controlling the inflation
C. Decreased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation
D. Increased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation
Answer: C
6. With reference to India, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2010)
1. The Wholesale Price Index (WPI) in India is available on a monthly basis only.
2. As compared to Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers (CPI(IW)), the WPI gives less weight to food articles.
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
7. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2020)
1. The weightage of food in Consumer Price Index (CPI) is higher than that in Wholesale Price Index (WPI).
2. The WPI does not capture changes in the prices of services, which CPI does.
3. Reserve Bank of India has now adopted WPI as its key measure of inflation and to decide on changing the key policy rates.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 only C. 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
8. If the RBI decides to adopt an expansionist monetary policy, which of the following would it not do? (2020) (1) Cut and optimize the Statutory Liquidity Ratio (2) Increase the Marginal Standing Facility Rate (3) Cut the Bank Rate and Repo Rate Select the correct answer using the code given below: A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
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CAG AUDIT: NATIONAL SOCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMME (NSAP)
The audit found that there were several deficiencies in the implementation of NSAP, including:
- Inadequate verification of beneficiary eligibility: The CAG found that in many cases, beneficiaries were not properly verified before they were enrolled in the programme. This resulted in ineligible beneficiaries receiving benefits.
- Lack of transparency in the selection of beneficiaries: The CAG found that the selection of beneficiaries was not always transparent. In some cases, beneficiaries were selected based on political considerations, rather than their need for assistance.
- Delays in disbursal of benefits: The CAG found that there were delays in disbursal of benefits to beneficiaries. This was due to a number of factors, including inadequate funds, lack of coordination between government agencies, and procedural delays.
- The National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) is a welfare programme being administered by the Ministry of Rural Development. This programme is being implemented in rural areas as well as urban areas
- NSAP represents a significant step towards the fulfilment of the Directive Principles of State Policy enshrined in the Constitution of India which enjoin upon the State to undertake within its means a number of welfare measures
- Article 41 of the Constitution of India directs the State to provide public assistance to its citizens in case of unemployment, old age, sickness and disablement and in other cases of undeserved want within the limit of its economic capacity and development
- The National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) then comprised of National Old Age Pension Scheme (NOAPS), National Family Benefit Scheme (NFBS) and National Maternity Benefit Scheme (NMBS).
- These programmes were meant for providing social assistance benefit to the aged, the BPL households in the case of death of the primary breadwinner and for maternity
The NSAP has three components:
- The National Old Age Pension Scheme (NOAPS): This scheme provides a monthly pension of Rs 300 to eligible senior citizens (60 years and above).
- The National Family Benefit Scheme (NFBS): This scheme provides a lump sum payment of Rs 20,000 to the family of a breadwinner who dies in an accident.
- The National Maternity Benefit Scheme (NMBS): This scheme provides a one-time payment of Rs 6,000 to pregnant women who are below the poverty line.
ELECTION COMMISSION OF INDIA
1. Context
2. The Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service, and Term of Office) Bill, 2023
The Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service, and Term of Office) Bill, 2023, was introduced in Rajya Sabha on August 10, 2023. It repeals the Election Commission (Conditions of Service of Election Commissioners and Transaction of Business) Act, 1991.
- Election Commission: As per Article 324 of the Constitution, the Election Commission consists of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and such number of other Election Commissioners (ECs), as the President may decide. The CEC and other ECs are appointed by the President. The Bill specifies the same composition of the Election Commission. It adds that the CEC and other ECs will be appointed by the President on the recommendation of a Selection Committee.
- Selection Committee: The Selection Committee will consist of (i) the Prime Minister as Chairperson, (ii) the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha as member, and (iii) a Union Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime Minister as member. If the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha has not been recognized, the leader of the single largest opposition party in Lok Sabha will assume the role.
- Search Committee: A Search Committee will prepare a panel of five persons for the consideration of the Selection Committee. The Search Committee will be headed by the Cabinet Secretary. It will have two other members, not below the rank of Secretary to the central government, having knowledge and experience in matters related to elections. The Selection Committee may also consider candidates who have not been included in the panel prepared by the Search Committee.
- Qualification of CEC and ECs: Persons who are holding or have held posts equivalent to the rank of Secretary to the central government will be eligible to be appointed as CEC and ECs. Such persons must have expertise in managing and conducting elections.
- Salary and allowances: The 1991 Act provides that the salary of the ECs will be equal to that of a Supreme Court judge. The Bill provides that the salary, allowance, and service conditions of the CEC and other ECs will be the same as that of the Cabinet Secretary.
- Term of office: The 1991 Act mandates that the CEC and other ECs will hold office for a term of six years or until they reach the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier. If an EC is appointed as the CEC, his total term cannot exceed six years. The Bill retains the same tenure. Further, under the Bill, the CEC and other ECs will not be eligible for re-appointment.
- Conduct of business: All business of the Election Commission is to be conducted unanimously. In case of a difference of opinion between the CEC and the other ECs on any matter, it shall be decided through the majority.
- Removal and resignation: Under Article 324 of the Constitution, the CEC can only be removed from his office in a manner similar to that of a Supreme Court judge. This is done through an order of the President, based on a motion passed by both Houses of Parliament in the same session. The motion for removal must be adopted with (i) majority support of total membership of each House, and (ii) at least two-thirds support from members present and voting. An EC can only be removed from office on the recommendation of the CEC. The Bill retains this removal procedure.
- Further, the 1991 Act provides that the CEC and other ECs may submit their resignation to the President. The Bill has the same provision.
3. Election Commission of India- Powers and Functions
- The Election Commission of India (ECI) is an autonomous constitutional authority responsible for overseeing and conducting elections in India.
- Established on January 25, 1950, under Article 324 of the Indian Constitution, the Election Commission plays a vital role in upholding the democratic principles of the country by ensuring free and fair elections.
- The Election Commission of India (ECI) is vested with significant powers and functions to ensure the conduct of free, fair, and transparent elections in the country.
- These powers and functions are outlined in the Indian Constitution and various laws related to elections.
Some of the key powers and functions of the Election Commission of India include:
- Conducting Elections: The ECI is responsible for organizing and conducting elections to the Lok Sabha (House of the People), State Legislative Assemblies, and offices of the President and Vice-President of India.
- Voter Registration: The ECI oversees the process of voter registration, which includes the preparation and revision of electoral rolls, and the issuance of Voter ID cards to eligible citizens.
- Delimitation of Constituencies: The ECI determines the boundaries and delimits constituencies for parliamentary and assembly elections. This process aims to ensure equitable representation and prevent gerrymandering.
- Nomination of Candidates: The ECI supervises the filing of nominations by candidates, verifies their eligibility, and ensures compliance with nomination procedures.
- Model Code of Conduct: The ECI enforces the Model Code of Conduct, which provides guidelines for political parties and candidates to maintain ethical and fair campaigning practices during elections.
- Election Monitoring and Supervision: The ECI monitors all stages of the electoral process, including the conduct of polls, to ensure that elections are free from malpractices and irregularities.
- Election Schedule: The ECI announces the schedule for elections, including polling dates and result declaration dates, and ensures that elections are held within a specified time frame.
- Campaign Finance Regulation: The ECI monitors and regulates campaign financing to curb the use of illegal funds and maintain transparency in election spending.
- Media Management: The ECI regulates media coverage during elections to ensure equal opportunities for all candidates and parties and prevent any undue influence.
- Disqualification of Candidates: The ECI has the authority to disqualify candidates who violate election laws or engage in corrupt practices.
- Counting of Votes and Results: The ECI oversees the counting of votes and the declaration of election results, ensuring accuracy and transparency in the process.
- Dispute Resolution: The ECI adjudicates election-related disputes, addresses complaints of violations, and takes necessary actions to ensure a fair electoral process.
- Voter Education: The ECI conducts voter education campaigns to raise awareness among citizens about the electoral process, their voting rights, and the importance of participating in elections.
- Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and VVPATs: The ECI is responsible for the use and maintenance of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs), which enhance the transparency and integrity of the voting process.
- Code of Conduct for Political Parties: The ECI monitors the conduct of political parties and can take action against parties that violate election laws or engage in unethical practices.
4. Chief Election Commissioner and the two other Election Commissioners have equal powers-True or False?
- The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India holds a higher position and is the head of the Election Commission of India (ECI).
- While the three members of the Election Commission (including the CEC and the two Election Commissioners) work collectively to make decisions, the Chief Election Commissioner generally holds more administrative and decision-making authority.
- The Chief Election Commissioner is responsible for presiding over the meetings of the Election Commission, casting the deciding vote in case of a tie on any matter, and representing the Election Commission in its relations with the President of India and other authorities.
- The CEC also has a prominent role in shaping the policies and decisions of the Election Commission.
- However, it's important to note that the decisions and functioning of the Election Commission are usually made through a collective process, and the Chief Election Commissioner is expected to work in consultation with the other Election Commissioners.
- The independence, fairness, and integrity of the Election Commission's decisions are paramount, regardless of the position held by each member.
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For Prelims: Election Commission of India, Chief Election Commissioner, Election Commission (Conditions of Service of Election Commissioners and Transaction of Business) Act, 1991, State Election Commission, Article 324, Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs).
For Mains: 1. Discuss the powers and functions of the Election Commission of India. How does the Election Commission ensure the conduct of free and fair elections in the Country? (250 words).
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Previous year Question1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2017)
1. The Election Commission of India is a five-member body.
2. Union Ministry of Home Affairs decides the election schedule for the conduct of both general elections and bye-elections.
3. Election Commission resolves the disputes relating to splits/mergers of recognized political parties.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 3 only
Answer: D
2. Consider the following statements : (UPSC 2021)
1. In India, there is no law restricting the candidates from contesting in one Lok Sabha election from three constituencies.
2. In the 1991 Lok Sabha Election, Shri Devi Lal contested from three Lok Sabha constituencies.
3. As per the- existing rules, if a candidate contests in one Lok Sabha election from many constituencies, his/her party should bear the cost of bye-elections to the constituencies vacated by him/her in the event of him/her winning in all the constituencies.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. 1 and 3
D. 2 and 3
Answer: B
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