THE PLACES OF WORSHIP ACT
1. Context
2. The Places of Worship Act and its Provisions
| The long title describes it as “An Act to prohibit conversion of any place of worship and to provide for the maintenance of the religious character of any place of worship as it existed on the 15th day of August, 1947, and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.” |
religious denomination into a place of worship of a different religious denomination or even a different segment of the same religious denomination.
Section 4(1) declares that the religious character of a place of worship “shall continue to be the same as it existed” on August 15, 1947.
Section 5 stipulates that the Act shall not apply to the Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri Masjid case, and to any suit, appeal or proceeding relating to it.
At least two petitions challenging the Act are pending before the Supreme Court.
| The law has been challenged on the ground that it bars judicial review, which is a basic feature of the Constitution, imposes an “arbitrary irrational retrospective cutoff date”, and abridges the right to religion of Hindus, Jains, Buddhists and Sikhs. |
3. Reasons for bringing of the act
- The Act was brought by the Prime Minister P V Narasimha Rao at a time when the Ram temple movement was at its peak.
- The Babri Masjid was still standing, but L K Advani’s rath yatra, his arrest in Bihar and the firing on kar sevaks in Uttar Pradesh had raised communal tensions.
| Moving the Bill in Parliament, then Home Minister S B Chavan said: “It is considered necessary to adopt these measures in view of the controversies arising from time to time with regard to conversion of places of worship which tend to vitiate the communal atmosphere Adoption of this Bill will effectively prevent any new controversies from arising in respect of conversion of any place of worship…” |
4. Supreme Court verdict
- The constitutional validity of the 1991 Act was not under challenge, nor had it been examined before the Supreme Court Bench that heard the Ramjanmaboomi-Babri Masjid title suit.
- Even so, the court, while disagreeing with certain conclusions drawn by the Allahabad High Court about the Act, made specific observations in its support.
- “In providing a guarantee for the preservation of the religious character of places of public worship as they existed on 15 August 1947 and against the conversion of places of public worship, Parliament determined that independence from colonial rule furnishes a constitutional basis for healing the injustices of the past by providing the confidence to every religious community that their places of worship will be preserved and that their character will not be altered,” the court said.
5. Constitutional obligations
- The law addresses itself to the State as much as to every citizen of the nation.
- The State, has by enacting the law, enforced a constitutional commitment and operationalised its constitutional obligations to uphold the equality of all religions and secularism which is a part of the basic features of the Constitution.
- The Places of Worship Act imposes a non-derogable obligation towards enforcing our commitment to secularism under the Indian Constitution.
- The law is hence a legislative instrument designed to protect the secular features of the Indian polity, which is one of the basic features of the Constitution.
- The Places of Worship Act is a legislative intervention which preserves non-retrogression as an essential feature of our secular values.
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For Prelims: The Places of Worship Act, secularism, Indian Constitution, Ramjanmaboomi-Babri Masjid title suit,
For Mains:
1. What is the Places of Worship Act and discuss its constitutional obligations (250 words)
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TOUCHSCREEN
- A touchscreen serves a dual purpose: it acts as an input receiver for computers (like tapping an app) and displays the output (such as launching the app). Apart from smartphones, touchscreens are now common in ATMs, household appliances (like TVs and AC panels), e-readers, billing systems, and electronic voting machines.
- According to historical records, the touchscreen's inception is credited to engineer E.A. Johnson at the Royal Radar Establishment in Malvern, U.K., in 1965. Johnson detailed his invention, a capacitive device detecting finger touch, in two papers published in 1965 and 1967. He envisioned its use beyond air traffic control systems.
- Another significant advancement was the development of the resistive touchscreen in 1970, attributed to G. Samuel Hurst at the University of Kentucky. These inventions spurred further innovation.
- For instance, Nimish Mehta at the University of Toronto pioneered a multitouch-capable touchscreen in 1982, while Myron Krueger, an American artist, explored capturing various hand gestures on a screen in 1983. Building on these, Bob Boie at Bell Labs created the first transparent multitouch interface in 1984.
- While touchscreens were adapted for non-expert use with computer terminals in the early 1970s, their widespread adoption began in 1993 with IBM and BellSouth's Simon, a portable email-capable device.
- Subsequent devices like Apple's Newton, the Palm Pilot PDA, and others popularized touchscreens. In the early 2000s, engineers introduced wall-sized touchscreens, enhanced computer capabilities for touch and gestures, multitouch-enabled touchpads, and overall touchscreen improvements.
- In consumer electronics, 2007 marked significant breakthroughs with the release of the LG Prada and the Apple iPhone, the pioneering phones featuring touchscreens
A touchscreen is a user interface that allows interaction with electronic devices by directly touching the display screen. It enables users to input commands or interact with digital content by physically touching the screen, eliminating the need for external input devices like a keyboard or a mouse.
There are several types of touchscreen technologies, including:
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Resistive Touchscreens: These consist of multiple layers. When pressure is applied, the layers make contact, determining the touchpoint. They are durable but can be less sensitive to touch.
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Capacitive Touchscreens: They use the electrical properties of the human body to detect touch. When a conductive object, like a finger, touches the screen, it disrupts the screen's electrostatic field, allowing the device to pinpoint the touch location.
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Surface Acoustic Wave Touchscreens: Utilizing ultrasonic waves on the screen's surface, they detect touch by measuring the disturbances caused by touching the screen.
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Infrared Touchscreens: These use infrared light to detect touch. When an object touches the screen, it interrupts the infrared light beams, enabling the device to identify the touch location.
Touchscreens are commonly found in smartphones, tablets, laptops, ATMs, interactive kiosks, information displays, and various other electronic devices. They offer intuitive and user-friendly interactions, facilitating a wide range of applications in both personal and commercial settings
4. How do touchscreens work?
- The two primary types of touchscreens are capacitive and resistive, although various other methods exist. Among these, capacitive touchscreens are utilized in smartphones and other portable devices designed for information access.
- A capacitive touchscreen comprises a surface embedded with a grid of capacitors.
- A capacitor, an electronic component, consists of two parallel plates with an air gap between them, each plate linked to the circuit. These plates store electrical charge.
- When a user's finger touches the surface, a small charge from a nearby capacitor moves through the circuit into the finger, altering the electric field at that spot. Sensors positioned along the screen's edges detect this alteration and transmit it to a signal processor, determining the point of contact. (This explains why some touchscreens may not respond to touches when the user is wearing gloves.)
- A more complex method, known as the projected capacitive approach, is employed in smartphones utilizing mutual capacitance architecture. In this method, two conducting layers contain strips of conductive material, with one set of strips running horizontally and the other vertically. When these strips intersect, they form capacitors, and changes in their capacitance help locate where the screen was touched. This technique enables the detection of multiple simultaneous touches.
- In contrast, resistive touchscreens use resistance. They consist of two conductive sheets separated by a small gap.
- When a finger touches one sheet, it presses it to touch the underlying sheet, allowing an electric current to pass through. Sensors detect this change using a grid of wires attached to one of the sheets and, with the aid of a processor, determine the touchpoint. Other touchscreen technologies rely on optical or acoustic wave inputs, among other methods.
- Between 2007 and 2013, capacitive touchscreens surpassed resistive touchscreens in the consumer electronics market.
- Resistive touchscreens are cost-effective to manufacture and consume less power. However, as per a review published in the journal Sensors in July 2021, capacitive touchscreens offer superior image clarity, sensitivity, and durability
INDIAN FOREST AND WOOD CERTIFICATION SCHEME
The Indian Forest & Wood Certification Scheme aimed at voluntary third-party certification, seeks to incentivize sustainable forest management and agroforestry across the country.
Key Components of the Scheme
- Forest Management Certification based on the Indian Forest Management Standard, assesses adherence to responsible forestry practices within forests.
- A new addition to the scheme, this certification focuses on sustainable management of trees grown outside forests, including agroforestry and farm forestry practices.
- Chain of Custody Certification ensures responsible handling and tracking of wood products throughout the supply chain, from forest to consumer.
Benefits for Various Entities
- The scheme offers market incentives for implementing sustainable forest management practices in State Forest Departments.
- Engaging in agroforestry and farm forestry can open up new market opportunities for farmers.
- Participating in the scheme can enhance the reputation and market competitiveness of wood-based businesses.
Governance and Oversight
- The Indian Forest and Wood Certification Council is a multi-stakeholder advisory body that oversees the scheme, ensuring diverse perspectives and representation.
- Indian Institute of Forest Management, Bhopal Acts as the scheme operating agency, managing its implementation and day-to-day operations.
- National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies (NABCB) Under the Quality Council of India, NABCB accredits certification bodies to conduct independent audits and assess compliance with the scheme's standards.
Significance
The Indian Forest & Wood Certification Scheme holds significant potential for:
- Promoting Sustainable Forestry Practices By incentivizing responsible forest management and agroforestry, the scheme can contribute to the conservation of India's forests and biodiversity.
- Certification can open doors to new markets for wood products, benefiting both producers and consumers who value sustainability.
- The scheme can contribute to the overall development and modernization of India's forest sector, leading to increased economic opportunities and environmental benefits.
- Timber refers to processed wood used in construction, carpentry, and furniture, sourced primarily from tree trunks with high-quality wood suitable for structural or aesthetic purposes.
- Timber smuggling, synonymous with illegal logging or wood trafficking, entails the unauthorized removal, transportation, or sale of timber, often violating national laws. A significant environmental concern, it contributes to deforestation, habitat destruction, and biodiversity loss.
- Timber is legal in India when sourced and harvested by forestry laws. However, challenges such as illegal logging and timber smuggling necessitate government enforcement measures.
4. How does timber production cause deforestation?
Timber production may contribute to deforestation as large forest areas are cleared for logging. This involves felling trees, transporting logs, and processing them into timber for commercial use.
Timber logging in deforestation involves selectively or clear-cutting trees for commercial purposes, driven by market demands for timber products. It leads to habitat loss, soil erosion, and disruptions to ecosystems.
Effects of Deforestation Due to Timber Logging- Deforestation leads to habitat destruction, causing the decline or extinction of plant and animal species.
- Removal of trees hampers carbon sequestration, contributing to increased atmospheric carbon dioxide levels and exacerbating climate change.
- Tree removal exposes soil to erosion, resulting in degradation and reduced fertility.
- Forests play a vital role in regulating water cycles. Deforestation alters rainfall patterns, affecting water availability.
- Deforestation adversely affects indigenous communities relying on forests for livelihoods and cultural practices.
Forest certification in India is a voluntary process that verifies whether a forest is managed according to established standards for sustainability, including environmental, social, and economic considerations. This independent assessment is conducted by accredited certification bodies and results in the issuance of a certificate.
Types of forest certification in India
- Forest Management Unit (FMU) certification Assesses the management practices of an entire forest unit, ensuring compliance with sustainability standards.
- Chain of Custody (CoC) certification Tracks the flow of timber and forest products from the forest to the final consumer, guaranteeing their certified origin.
- Tree Outside Forests (TOF) certification Evaluates the sustainable management of trees grown outside forests, including farm forestry and agroforestry systems.
Benefits of forest certification
- Promotes sustainable forest management practices, reducing deforestation, protecting biodiversity, and ensuring responsible use of forest resources.
- Provides market access for certified timber and forest products, enhancing their value and competitiveness in the global market.
- Ensures fair treatment and respect for the rights of forest communities and indigenous peoples.
- Encourages transparent and accountable forest governance practices, building trust among stakeholders.
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For Prelims: Indian Forest & Wood Certification Scheme, National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies, Indian Institute of Forest Management, The Indian Forest and Wood Certification Council,
For Mains:
1. Discuss the ethical concerns surrounding timber smuggling and illegal logging. How can the Indian Forest & Wood Certification Scheme contribute to reducing corruption and promoting ethical practices in the timber industry? (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions Prelims
1. Which of the following statements about tropical rainforests are correct? (UPSC CAPF 2021)
1. The soils of tropical rainforests are quite infertile.
2. The vegetation is evergreen, enabling photosynthesis to take place year around.
3. They have been described as 'deserts covered by trees'.
4. They are the most productive land-based ecosystem.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
A. 2 and 4 only B. 1, 3, and 4 only C. 1, 2, and 3 only D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
2. "If rainforests and tropical forests are the lungs of the Earth, then surely wetlands function as its kidneys." Which one of the following functions of wetlands best reflects the above statement? (UPSC 2022)
A. The water cycle in wetlands involves surface runoff, subsoil percolation, and evaporation.
B. Algae form the nutrient base upon which fish, crustaceans, molluscs, birds, reptiles, and mammals thrive.
C. Wetlands play a vital role in maintaining sedimentation balance and soil stabilization.
D. Aquatic plants absorb heavy metals and excess nutrients.
3. If the tropical rainforest is removed, it does not regenerate quickly as compared to the tropical deciduous forest. This is because (UPSC 2011)
A. The soil of rain forest is deficient in nutrients.
B. propagules of the trees in the rainforest have poor viability.
C. The rainforest species are slow-growing.
D. exotic species invades the fertile soil of rain forest.
4. Consider the following States:
1. Arunachal Pradesh
2. Himachal Pradesh
3. Mizoram
In which of the above States do 'Tropical Wet Evergreen Forests' occur? (UPSC 2015)
A. 1 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
5. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change recently published the draft Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, in 2020. Which of the following statements is correct about EIA? (Punjab Civil Service 2020)
1. It predicts the effect of a proposed industrial/infrastructural project on the environment.
2. It prevents the proposed activity/project from being approved without proper oversight or taking adverse consequences into account.
3. It compares various alternatives for a project and seeks to identify the one which represents the best combination of economic and environmental costs and benefits.
4. As per the new notification, Coal and non-Coal mineral prospecting and solar photovoltaic projects do not need prior environmental clearance.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. Only 1 and 2 B. Only 2, 3 and 4 C. Only 1, 2 and 3 D. Only 1, 2 and 4
6. With reference to the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), consider the following statements: (UPSC 2014)
1. It is an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Environment and Forests.
2. It strives to conserve nature through action-based research, education, and public awareness.
3. It organizes and conducts nature trails and camps for the general public.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 3 only B. 2 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
7. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2019)
1. As per law, the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority exists at both National and State levels.
2. People's participation is mandatory in the compensatory afforestation programmes carried out under the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act, 2016.
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
8. Consider the following States: (UPSC 2019)
1. Chhattisgarh
2. Madhya Pradesh
3. Maharashtra
4. Odisha
With reference to the State mentioned above, in terms of the percentage of forest cover to the total area of the State, which one of the following is the correct ascending order?
A. 2-3-1-4 B. 2-3-4-1 C. 3-2-4-1 D. 3-2-1-4
9. At the national level, which ministry is the nodal agency to ensure effective implementation of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006? (UPSC 2021) (a) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
10. A particular State in India has the following characteristics: (UPSC 2012)
Which one among the following States has all the above characteristics? (a) Arunachal Pradesh (b) Assam (c) Himachal Pradesh (d) Uttarakhand
11. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2019)
1. As per recent amendment to the Indian Forest Act, 1927, forest dwellers have the right to fell the bamboos grown on forest areas.
2. As per the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, bamboo is a minor forest produce.
3. The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 allows ownership of minor forest produce to forest dwellers.
Which of the statement given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
12. The Indian Forest Act 1927 was enacted after repealing which of the following Indian forest acts? (SSC CGL 2021)
A. Indian Forest Act, 1922
B. Indian Forest Act, 1878
C. Indian Forest Act, 1865
D. Indian Forest Act, 1882
13. In which year Forest Conservation Act was passed? (UPTET 2019)
A. 1986 B. 1990 C. 1980 D. 1988
14. The government of India encourage the cultivation of 'sea buckthorn'. What is the importance of this plant? (UPSC 2012)
1. It helps in controlling soil erosion and in preventing desertification.
2. It is a rich source of biodiesel
3. It has nutritional value and is well-adapted to live in cold areas of high altitudes.
4. Its timber is of great commercial value.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 2, 3 and 4 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
15. With reference to ‘Forest Carbon Partnership Facility’, which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC 2015)
Select the correct answer using the code” given below. (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Answers: 1-D, 2-D, 3-A, 4-C, 5-D, 6-C,7-A, 8-C, 9-D, 10-A, 11-B, 12-B, 13-C, 14-C, 15-C,
Mains1. What are the consequences of Illegal mining? Discuss the Ministry of Environment and Forests’ concept of GO AND NO GO zones for coal mining sector. (UPSC 2013)
2. Examine the status of forest resources of India and its resultant impact on climate change. (UPSC 2020)
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KETAMINE
- Ketamine is a powerful medication primarily used for inducing and maintaining anesthesia. It was developed in the 1960s and is commonly utilized in medical settings for anesthesia during surgeries or procedures. It's classified as a dissociative anesthetic, which means it can induce a state of sedation, pain relief, and immobility while keeping the patient conscious.
- Aside from its anesthetic properties, ketamine has gained attention for its off-label uses. At sub-anesthetic doses, it has been explored for its potential in treating depression, particularly treatment-resistant depression. Some studies have shown rapid antidepressant effects in individuals who haven't responded to other traditional antidepressant medications.
- However, due to its hallucinogenic and dissociative properties, ketamine is also a controlled substance and has the potential for abuse. It's categorized as a Schedule III controlled substance in the United States, meaning it has a recognized medical use but also a potential for moderate to low physical dependence or high psychological dependence.
- Ketamine's use in clinical settings is highly regulated, and its off-label use for depression treatment typically involves specialised clinics or medical practitioners due to its potential for misuse and the need for careful administration and monitoring
Ketamine can be consumed in various ways depending on its intended use:
Medical Settings: In medical settings, ketamine is typically administered intravenously (IV) for anesthesia or as an infusion for depression treatment. It can also be given intramuscularly (IM) in certain situations.
Off-label Use for Depression: When used off-label for depression treatment, ketamine is often administered as a nasal spray or through intravenous infusion in specialized clinics or under the supervision of healthcare professionals.
Recreational Use: Illicitly, ketamine can be consumed in several ways:
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- Snorting: It's commonly snorted in powdered form. The powder is usually heated to form a liquid, which is then dried to create a powder for snorting.
- Injection: Some individuals inject liquid ketamine intramuscularly or intravenously, which is a highly risky method with potential serious health consequences.
- Oral Consumption: Ketamine can be ingested orally, but this method is less common due to the unpredictable effects and slower onset compared to other routes of administration.
Regardless of the method, it's important to note that ketamine is a controlled substance and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional for legitimate medical purposes. Misuse or recreational use of ketamine can have severe health risks and legal implications
Ketamine can produce a range of effects depending on the dosage and the individual's response. Here are some of its effects:
Anesthetic: At higher doses, ketamine induces anesthesia, leading to a state of sedation, pain relief, and immobility. It's used in medical settings for surgeries or procedures requiring anesthesia.
Hallucinations and Dissociation: At lower doses or when used recreationally, ketamine can induce hallucinations, alter perceptions, and cause a sense of detachment from reality. This dissociative effect is why it's classified as a dissociative anesthetic.
Euphoria and Relaxation: Some users report feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and a sense of detachment from the environment. These effects contribute to its potential for misuse or recreational use.
Cognitive and Psychological Effects: Ketamine can impair cognitive function, leading to confusion, difficulty concentrating, and memory problems. In some cases, it may cause agitation, anxiety, or panic attacks.
Physical Effects: Ketamine can also have physical effects such as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and motor impairment. At high doses or with prolonged use, it can cause respiratory depression, muscle rigidity, and even lead to a state known as "k-hole," characterized by profound dissociation and hallucinations.
Potential for Dependence and Addiction: Long-term or frequent misuse of ketamine can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction, where individuals may develop a psychological craving for the drug
5. Is it safe to consume ketamine?
Ketamine, when used under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare professional in a controlled medical setting, can be safe and effective for its intended purposes such as anesthesia or in certain treatments for depression or chronic pain. However, its recreational or off-label use carries significant risks and safety concerns.
Health Risks: Misuse or unsupervised use of ketamine can lead to a range of health risks. High doses can cause serious complications such as respiratory depression, cardiovascular issues, or even a loss of consciousness. It can also lead to accidents or injuries due to impaired coordination and judgment.
Psychological Effects: Ketamine can induce hallucinations, dissociation, confusion, and anxiety. Prolonged or heavy use can result in psychological dependence, impacting mental health and overall well-being.
Addiction Potential: There's a risk of developing tolerance, dependence, and addiction with prolonged misuse. This can lead to cravings and compulsive use, contributing to a cycle of addiction.
Legal Implications: Ketamine is a controlled substance, and its misuse or unauthorized possession can have legal consequences.
Due to its potential for misuse and associated health risks, consuming ketamine without proper medical supervision is not safe. Seeking treatment or assistance from healthcare professionals is crucial for anyone struggling with substance misuse or addiction related to ketamine or any other substance
6. Way forward
In recent years, ketamine has been a subject of widespread debate due to its growing use for treating depression and other serious mental health issues. While some experts and patients call it lifesaving, others say it’s addictive and causes bladder ailments. Here is a look at what ketamine is, and whether it is safe to consume
| For Prelims: Current events of national and international importance. |
Source: Indianexpress
TERMS OF TRADE
- Terms of Trade (ToT) refers to the ratio between a country's export prices and its import prices. It's a measure used to assess the relative strength of a nation's export sector against its import sector.
- Improvement in the terms of trade means that a country can buy more imports for the same quantity of exports, or it needs to export fewer goods to buy a given quantity of imports. Conversely, a decline in terms of trade implies that a country must export more goods to maintain the same level of imports.
- Factors influencing terms of trade include changes in export and import prices, exchange rates, inflation rates, and productivity changes in various industries. Countries aim to achieve favorable terms of trade to enhance their economic well-being by maximizing their purchasing power for imports using their exports.
- For example, if a country exports oil and the price of oil increases globally, this might improve its terms of trade because it can buy more goods with the same amount of oil exports. However, if the prices of the goods a country imports rise faster than the prices of its exports, its terms of trade may worsen
- The Terms of Trade (ToT) serves as a gauge for a nation's economic well-being, yet its interpretation can sometimes be misleading. Fluctuations in import and export prices directly influence the ToT, emphasizing the importance of understanding the reasons behind price shifts. To monitor economies, ToT measurements are often logged in an index.
- A positive shift in a country's ToT generally signifies that export prices rose while import prices either stayed the same or declined.
- Conversely, it could mean that although export prices decreased, the reduction wasn't as significant as the drop in import prices.
- Another scenario might involve stable export prices alongside decreasing import prices or a situation where export prices increased at a faster rate than import prices. These diverse circumstances can all contribute to an enhanced ToT
- The ToT based on implicit price deflators is a broad-based indicator of how prices for agricultural commodities have moved vis-à-vis for non-agricultural goods and services.
- It does not show whether and how much the ToT has improved for those actually engaged in crop production: farmers and agricultural labourers.
The Agriculture Ministry maintains data on both the prices received by farmers for the produce they sell and the prices paid for the products bought by them. - The latter includes final consumption items (from purchased foods to toilet soap, toothpaste, medicines, mobile services, two-wheelers and gold jewellery), intermediate inputs (seed, fertiliser, pesticides, livestock feed, irrigation charges, diesel, hired labour, marketing costs and interest on loans) and capital goods (tractors, electric motor/pumps, cement, bricks, steel and other construction materials).
Based on the above, the Ministry has constructed year-wise indices of prices received (IPR) and prices paid (IPP) with the three years ended 2011-12=100 as base value. - The ToT for farmers is the ratio of IPR to IPP. A ratio above one (or 100%) implies their enjoying favourable pricing power, in terms of what they sell versus what they buy. A ToT ratio below one indicates unfavourable conditions of exchange
- The Ministry has, likewise, constructed year-wise IPR for agricultural labourers, which is basically wages received by them.
- The IPP in their case is only for final consumption items. Agricultural workers, unlike farmers, have just their labour power to sell, with the money from it also mainly spent on consumption goods.
The farmers’ ToT ratio went up significantly — by 17.3%, from 87.8 to 102.9 — between 2004-05 and 2010-11. It has, however, fallen thereafter and stagnated at 97-99 levels. - The agricultural labourers’ ToT ratio rose more spectacularly, by 109.2% from a mere 64.2 in 2004-05 to 134.4 in 2016-17. But even it has registered a decline to 119.5 in the last computed year of 2021-22.
Simply put, while the ToT for the farm sector as a whole may have improved since the mid-2000s, it has been more for agricultural labourers than for farmers. - Moreover, the last few years have been marked by stagnation or deterioration for both.
Agricultural labourers a big chunk of them from Dalit, Adivasi or Most Backward Classes backgrounds have historically occupied the bottom-most rung of India’s socioeconomic ladder. - Accelerated growth in the wider economy from around 2003-04 helped create new employment avenues for them outside of agriculture, particularly in construction and the urban services sector.
- Together with parallel government interventions such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act and the targeted public distribution system, it led to a tightening of labour markets.
- Farm workers, in the process, discovered hitherto non-existent alternatives (“opportunity cost”) to transplanting paddy, harvesting sugarcane, picking cotton, spraying insecticides or removing weeds in fields.
- The resultant rise in real wages for agricultural labourers, also reflected in their ToT, has impacted farmers.
- They have been squeezed between higher costs for not just hired labour, but also agro-chemicals, seed, feed, diesel, tractors and farm machinery, and other inputs and no commensurate increase in produce prices.
- Subsidies on fertiliser, electricity/canal irrigation charges, agricultural credit and crop insurance may have partly protected farmers from rising production costs, just as MSP procurement has ensured stable realisations in select crops like paddy, wheat and sugarcane.
- But even after factoring these, the ToT for farmers has stagnated at best in the last 10 years. That, along with not many new crop yield breakthroughs and fragmentation of landholdings, probably also explains the clamour for reservations in government jobs and educational institutions by Marathas, Jats, Patidars, Kapus and other dominant agrarian communities.
- Even for agricultural laborers, the ToT ratio, while still favourable, has fallen after 2018-19. This is reflected in rural wages, too, hardly rising in real terms after adjusting for inflation
- The Terms of Trade (ToT) can significantly impact farmers and farm workers. When the ToT is favorable, meaning that the prices farmers receive for their agricultural products increase relative to the prices of the goods they need to purchase (like machinery, fertilizers, or imported goods), it generally benefits them.
- A favorable ToT allows farmers to potentially earn more for their produce while spending less on inputs, thereby improving their income and profitability.
- Conversely, an unfavorable ToT can pose challenges. If the prices of what farmers produce decrease compared to the prices they pay for essential goods, it can squeeze their profit margins.
- This situation may lead to financial strain, affecting both farmers and farm workers. They might have to work harder or find ways to optimize their production processes to offset the reduced profitability.
- Additionally, fluctuations in the ToT can impact the overall agricultural sector. Changes in export and import prices can influence demand for agricultural products domestically and internationally, which, in turn, affects farmers' livelihoods and the employment opportunities available for farm workers.
- Government policies related to trade, subsidies, tariffs, and international agreements also play a role in shaping the ToT and subsequently impact the incomes and livelihoods of farmers and farm workers
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For Prelims: Economic and Social Development
For Mains: General Studies III: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment
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TELECOMMUNICATION BILL 2023
The Telecommunications Bill, 2023, introduced in Lok Sabha on December 18, 2023, aims to regulate telecommunication activities, repealing the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, the Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933, and the Telegraph Wires (Unlawful Possession) Act, 1950.
Key provisions include
- Prior authorization from the central government is required for telecommunication services, network operations, and possession of radio equipment. Existing licenses remain valid for the granted period or five years if unspecified.
- Spectrum assignment is through auction, except for specific uses like national security, disaster management, and public services. Central government may repurpose or reassign frequencies and permit sharing, trading, leasing, and surrender of spectrum.
- Messages may be intercepted on grounds of public safety or emergency, specified in the interest of the state, prevention of offences, or public order. Telecom services may be suspended under similar grounds. Temporary possession of telecom infrastructure is allowed during public emergencies.
- Central government may prescribe standards for telecom equipment, infrastructure, networks, and services.
- Facility providers can seek a right of way for telecom infrastructure on a non-discriminatory basis.
- The central government may implement measures like prior consent for specified messages, the creation of Do Not Disturb registers, and a mechanism for reporting malware. Telecom service providers must establish online mechanisms for grievance redressal.
- Amendments allow individuals with at least 30 years of professional experience to serve as the chairperson of TRAI and those with at least 25 years of experience to be members.
- The Universal Service Obligation Fund is renamed Digital Bharat Nidhi, allowing its use for research and development.
- Criminal and civil offences specified, including unauthorized provision of telecom services, network access, and possession of unauthorized equipment. Penalties include imprisonment and fines.
- Adjudicating officer appointed by the central government for civil offences. Appeals can be made to the Designated Appeals Committee and further to TDSAT for breaches of terms and conditions.
- Spectrum allocation in India involves a combination of administrative allocation and auction allocation, governed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) assigning specific radio frequencies to various services like mobile communication, broadcasting, and radio navigation.
- It's a complex process balancing efficient resource utilisation with promoting competition and innovation.
- Spectrum Allocation includes Methods of Administrative Allocation and Auction Allocation.
Administrative allocation of spectrum is a method where the government directly assigns specific radio frequencies to entities without involving an auction process. The decision-making authority rests with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in India, guided by established regulations and policies.
Who receives spectrum through this method?
- Agencies like Defence, Railways, and Police need a dedicated spectrum for secure communication and operations.
- Doordarshan and All India Radio receive spectrum through administrative allocation to ensure wider access to public information and programming.
- Specific services can also be used for services deemed critical for national security, disaster management, or scientific research.
- The recently proposed amendments in the Telecommunications Bill 2023 suggest administrative allocation for satellite broadband services like OneWeb and Starlink to bridge the digital divide in rural areas.
Advantages
- Compared to auctions, allocating spectrum directly can be quicker, especially for critical services where time is of the essence.
- Administrative allocation can ensure that entities serving public needs or providing essential services have guaranteed access to spectrum, even if they lack financial resources for auctions.
- Spectrum can be specifically allocated to services contributing to specific national priorities, like boosting rural connectivity or scientific research.
Disadvantages
- The decision-making process might lack transparency if clear criteria and guidelines are not followed, potentially leading to concerns about bias or unfairness.
- Without the competitive pressure of auctions, there might be less incentive for efficient use of allocated spectrum, potentially hindering innovation and service quality.
- There's a risk of political influence or corruption if proper oversight and accountability mechanisms are not in place.
Auction allocation of spectrum is a method where the government sells licenses to use specific radio frequencies through open bidding. Instead of direct government assignment, entities compete for the rights to these valuable airwaves by offering the highest price.
Who participates in spectrum auctions?
- Telecom operators like Airtel, Jio, and Vodafone Idea participate in auctions to acquire spectrum for their mobile services like 4G and 5G.
- Private broadcasters like Television channels and radio stations bid for spectrum to broadcast their programs.
- Sometimes, new companies looking to enter the telecom or broadcasting market may also participate in auctions.
Benefits of Auction Allocation
- By pitting companies against each other, auctions ensure that the spectrum goes to those who value it most, potentially leading to better services and lower prices for consumers.
- Auction proceeds can be a significant source of income for the government, which can be used to fund infrastructure development and other public services.
- Since companies pay for the spectrum they acquire, they are more likely to use it efficiently and avoid wastage.
Challenges of Auction Allocation
- Designing and conducting auctions can be a complex and time-consuming process, delaying the deployment of new services.
- The high cost of participating in auctions can make it difficult for smaller companies to compete with established players, potentially hindering innovation.
- If the spectrum is concentrated in the hands of a few big players, it can exacerbate the digital divide, as smaller players may struggle to offer services in rural or remote areas.
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For Prelims: Department of Telecommunications, satellite broadband services, Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, The Telecommunications Bill, Digital Bharat Nidhi, Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, the Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933, the Telegraph Wires (Unlawful Possession) Act, 1950
For Mains:
1. How does the Telecommunications Bill 2023 aim to streamline and modernize the telecommunications sector in India? What are its potential implications for user privacy, government control, and innovation? (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. What is a "Virtual Private Network"? (UPSC 2011)
A. It is a private computer network of an organization where remote users can transmit encrypted information through the server of the organization
B. It is a computer network across a public internet that provides users access to their organization's network while maintaining the security of the information transmitted
C. It is a computer network in which users can access a shared pool of computing resources through a service provider
D. None of the statements (a), (b), and (c) given above is a correct description of a Virtual Private Network
2. With reference to communication technologies, what is/are the difference/differences between LTE (Long-Term Evolution) and VoLTE (Voice over Long-Term Evolution)? (UPSC 2019)
1. LTE is commonly marketed as 3G and VoLTE are commonly marketed as advanced 3G.
2. LTE is data-only technology and VoLTE is voice-only technology.
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
3. In India, the term “Public Key Infrastructure” is used in the context of (UPSC 2020) (a) Digital security infrastructure
4. Which of the following is/are the aims/aims of the “Digital India” Plan of the Government of India? (UPSC 2018)
Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
5. With reference to Web 3·0, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2022) 1. Web 3·0 technology enables people to control their own data. 2. In Web 3·0 world, there can be blockchain based social networks. 3. Web 3·0 is operated by users collectively rather than a corporation. Which of the statements given above are correct? A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Answers: 1-B, 2-D, 3-A, 4-B, 5- D |
Source: The Indian Express and PRS
