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DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS, 23 JANUARY 2024

SUB-CATEGORISATION OF SCHEDULED CASTE

 

1. Context

The Union government has formed a high-level committee of secretaries, chaired by the Cabinet Secretary, to evaluate and work out a method for the equitable distribution of benefits, schemes and initiatives to the most backward communities among the over 1,200 Scheduled Castes (SCs) across the country, that have been crowded out by relatively forward and dominant ones.

2. What is the issue?

  • Caution is needed when considering the sub-categorization of SCs and STs due to various complexities.
  • Unlike OBCs, SCs and STs do not have a creamy layer, and addressing backwardness among them involves dealing with untouchability issues.
  • Sub-categorization may exacerbate differences within these communities and lead to competition for affirmative action.
  • There is already a demand for OBC status from groups like Marathas, Patels, and Jats, making the situation more challenging.
  • Some SC communities, like Madigas in Telangana, feel marginalized and seek a separate quota.
  • Key Ministries are discussing the proposal, which would require amending Article 341 of the Constitution.
  • Legal options include waiting for a larger Supreme Court bench to rule on the matter or going ahead with the amendment.
  • Sub-categorization has a contentious history, with earlier attempts in states like Andhra Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu on hold.
  • The idea has both supporters and opponents within the government.
  • Concerns include encroachment on states' powers, the potential for the creamy layer issue, and its applicability to STs and new entries in the list of SCs and STs.
  • The issue remains complex and politically sensitive.

3. What is the Presidential list?

  • In India, the term "Presidential list" typically refers to the Presidential Orders issued under Articles 341 and 342 of the Indian Constitution.
  • These articles deal with the recognition and classification of Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), respectively.
  • The President of India, upon the advice of the Governor of a state, can issue a notification specifying which communities or groups within a state are to be recognized as Scheduled Castes or Scheduled Tribes.
  • These notifications are known as Presidential Orders, and they are crucial for determining eligibility for various affirmative action programs, reservations in government jobs, educational institutions, and other benefits for SCs and STs.
  • The process involves recommendations from the State Government, scrutiny by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment at the central level, and finally, the issuance of the Presidential Order by the President of India.
  • The Presidential list is, therefore, a list of communities or tribes that have been officially recognized as Scheduled Castes or Scheduled Tribes in a particular state or union territory of India.
  • This list can vary from state to state based on the demographic composition and historical background of each region.

4. Who are Madiga community?

  • The Madiga community is a Scheduled Caste (SC) community in India, primarily found in the southern states of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and parts of Tamil Nadu.
  • Scheduled Castes, also known as Dalits, historically faced social and economic discrimination and were considered the lowest in the caste hierarchy in India.
  • The Madiga community, like other SC communities, has historically experienced social and economic marginalization, including discrimination and exclusion from various aspects of social life, such as education and employment.
  • As a result, they have been beneficiaries of affirmative action policies and reservations provided by the Indian government to uplift marginalized communities.
  • It's important to note that within the broader category of Scheduled Castes, there are various subgroups and communities with their distinct identities, histories, and challenges.
  • The Madiga community is one of these subgroups within the Scheduled Caste category in South India.
  • Over the years, there have been movements and demands within the Madiga community for greater recognition and rights, as well as for a separate quota within the SC category to address internal disparities and inequities.

5. What is a Mala community?

  • The Mala community is another Scheduled Caste (SC) community in India, primarily found in the southern states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
  • As with other SC communities, the Mala community has historically experienced social and economic discrimination and has been subjected to various forms of marginalization and exclusion.
  • The Mala community, like the Madiga community and other SC groups, has been a beneficiary of affirmative action policies and reservations provided by the Indian government to address historical injustices and uplift marginalized communities.
  • These policies aim to provide opportunities in education, employment, and political representation to SCs.
  • It's important to understand that within the broader category of Scheduled Castes, there are numerous subgroups and communities, each with its unique identity, history, and socio-economic conditions.
  • The Mala community is one of these subgroups within the SC category in the southern regions of India.
  • Like other SC communities, the Mala community has also had its share of social and political movements advocating for their rights and addressing disparities within their community.

6. What is a creamy layer?

The "creamy layer" refers to a threshold of economic and social status within a particular reserved category that is deemed to be relatively privileged and not in need of affirmative action benefits, such as reservations in educational institutions and government jobs. The concept of the creamy layer was introduced to ensure that the benefits of reservations reach those who are genuinely disadvantaged and economically deprived within the reserved categories.

For example:

  • In the case of OBCs, the creamy layer concept is applied to exclude individuals or families within the OBC category who have achieved a certain level of income or social status. These individuals are considered part of the creamy layer and are not eligible for OBC reservations in higher education and government jobs.
  • For SCs and STs, there is typically no creamy layer concept. Reservations for these categories are intended to benefit all members, regardless of their economic status, due to the historical discrimination and social disadvantages they have faced.
The idea behind the creamy layer concept is to prevent the reservation benefits from concentrating among the relatively well-off individuals or families within a reserved category, thereby ensuring that the most economically and socially disadvantaged individuals receive the intended benefits of affirmative action policies. The specific criteria and income thresholds for determining the creamy layer can vary and are periodically revised by the government.

7. What are the arguments for and against sub-categorisation?

Sub-categorization of reservations in India, especially within Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), is a complex and contentious issue. Various arguments exist both for and against sub-categorization:

Arguments in Favor of Sub-Categorization:

  • Addressing Internal Disparities: One of the primary arguments for sub-categorization is that it helps address internal disparities within SCs and STs. By identifying specific groups or communities within these broader categories that are more marginalized or disadvantaged, sub-categorization can ensure that the benefits of reservations reach those who need them the most.
  • Equitable Distribution: Sub-categorization can lead to a more equitable distribution of reserved seats and benefits. It can prevent dominant groups within SCs and STs from monopolizing the advantages of reservations, ensuring that smaller and more vulnerable subgroups receive their fair share.
  • Efficient Resource Allocation: Sub-categorization can help in efficient resource allocation by targeting government resources, such as scholarships and welfare programs, toward the neediest subgroups, thereby maximizing the impact of affirmative action policies.
  • Social Justice: Proponents argue that sub-categorization aligns with the principles of social justice by addressing historical injustices and ensuring that the most marginalized communities receive support to uplift themselves.

Arguments Against Sub-Categorization:

  • Complexity: Critics argue that sub-categorization introduces complexity into an already intricate system of reservations. Determining which subgroups should receive how much benefit can be administratively challenging and lead to disputes.
  • Divisiveness: Sub-categorization can sometimes lead to divisions and conflicts within the SC and ST communities. It may create rivalries among subgroups competing for reserved seats and benefits, potentially undermining solidarity among these communities.
  • Administrative Burden: Managing multiple subcategories may pose an administrative burden on the government, including the need for data collection and constant revision of subcategories.
  • Legal Challenges: The constitutionality of sub-categorization has been a subject of legal debate. While some judgments have upheld its validity, others have sought further clarification from larger benches of the Supreme Court.
  • Political Factors: The issue of sub-categorization is often influenced by political considerations. Decisions to subcategorize or not can be influenced by electoral dynamics and political interests.

The arguments for sub-categorization focus on addressing internal inequalities and ensuring equitable distribution of benefits, while the arguments against it emphasize the potential complexities, divisiveness, and administrative challenges it may pose. The decision to implement sub-categorization is a nuanced one and requires careful consideration of its potential impact on marginalized communities and the broader social fabric.

For Prelims: The Presidential List, Article 341 of the Constitution, Creamy layer, Sub-Categorization, Scheduled Caste (SC), and Scheduled Tribe (ST).

For Mains: 1. Discuss the concept of sub-categorization of SCs in India. What are the key arguments in favor of and against sub-categorization? Assess the implications and challenges associated with implementing sub-categorization as a policy measure for social justice. (250 Words).

 

Previous year question

1. Under the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, who shall be the authority to initiate the process for determining the nature and extent of individual or community forest rights or both? (UPSC 2013)

A. State Forest Department

B. District Collector/Deputy Commissioner

C. Tahsildar/Block Development Officer/Mandal Revenue Officer

D. Gram Sabha

Answer: D

Source: The Indian Express

FOREIGN CONTRIBUTION REGULATION ACT (FCRA)

 

1. Context

The Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, 2010 (FCRA) registration of two prominent non-governmental organisations (NGOs) — Centre for Policy Research (CPR) and World Vision India (WVI) have been cancelled

2. Foreign Contribution Regulation Act

  • The law sought to regulate foreign donations to individuals and associations so that they functioned "in a manner consistent with the values of a sovereign democratic republic". 
  • Foreign funding in India is regulated under the FCRA act. Individuals are permitted to accept foreign contributions without the permission of MHA. However, the monetary limit for acceptance of such foreign contributions shall be less than Rs. 25,000.
  • It is implemented by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The FCRA was enacted during the Emergency in 1976 amid apprehensions that foreign powers were interfering in India's affairs by pumping money into the country through independent organizations. These concerns were, in fact, even older- they had been expressed in Parliament as early as 1969.

3. Provisions of the Act

  • The FCRA requires every person or NGO wishing to receive foreign donations to be registered under the act, to open a bank account for the receipt of foreign funds in the statute Bank of India, Delhi, and to utilize those funds only for which they have been received, and as stipulated in the act.
  •  They are also required to file annual returns, and they must not transfer the funds to another NGO.
  • The Act prohibits the receipt of foreign funds by candidates for elections, journalists or newspapers and media broadcast companies, judges and government servants, members of the legislature and political parties or their office-bearers, and organizations of a political nature.

4. Key Highlights of the 2020 Amendment

  • It bars public servants from receiving foreign contributions. It prohibits the transfer of foreign contributions to any other person.
  • Aadhar number is mandatory for all office bearers, directors, or key functionaries of a person receiving foreign contributions, as an identification document.
  • The foreign contribution must be received only in an account designated by the bank as an FCRA account in such branches of the State Bank of India, New Delhi.
  • No funds other than foreign contributions should be received or deposited in this account.
  • It allowed the government to restrict the usage of unutilized foreign contributions. This may be done if, based on an inquiry the government believes that such a person has contravened provisions of the FCRA.
  • While NGOs earlier could use up to 50 percent of funds for administrative use, the new amendment restricted this use to 20 percent.

5. Registration under FCRA

  • NGOs that want to receive foreign funds must apply online in a prescribed format with the required documentation. FCRA registrations are granted to individuals or associations that have definite cultural, economic, educational, religious, and social programs.
  • Following the application, the MHA makes inquiries through the Intelligence Bureau into the antecedents of the applicant and accordingly processes the application. The MHA is required to approve or reject the application within 90 days-failing which is expected to inform the NGO of the reasons for the same.
  • Once granted, FCRA registration is valid for five years. NGOs are expected to apply for renewal within six months of the date of expiry of registration. In case of failure to apply for renewal, the registration is deemed to have expired.

6. Cancellation of Approval

The government reserves the right to cancel the FCRA registration of any NGO if it finds it to violate the Act. Registration can be cancelled for a range of reasons including, if "in the opinion of the Central Government, the public interest must cancel the certificate". Once the registration of an NGO is canceled, it is not eligible for re-registration for three years. All orders of the government can be challenged in the High court.

For Prlims& Mains

For Prelims: FCRA, Rajiv Gandhi Foundation, Rajiv Gandhi Charitable Trust, NGO, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

For Mains: 1. What is the Foreign contribution regulation act and discuss the new restrictions introduced by the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Act, 2020.

 

 

Previous Year Questions

 

1.Examine critically the recent changes in the rules governing foreign funding of NGOs under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), 1976. (Please refer GS-II Paper, 2015)

 

Source: The Indian Express

RARE EARTH ELEMENTS

 
 
1.Context
 
A vast and largely overlooked source of rare earth metals, materials critical for clean energy, could be in our homes, sitting in the back of our cabinets and junk drawers
 
2.About rare earth metals
Rare earth elements or rare earth metals are a set of 17 chemical elements in the periodic table  the 15 lanthanides, plus scandium and yttrium, which tend to occur in the same ore deposits as the lanthanides, and have similar chemical properties
 
The 17 rare earths are cerium (Ce), dysprosium (Dy), erbium (Er), europium (Eu), gadolinium (Gd), holmium (Ho), lanthanum (La), lutetium (Lu), neodymium (Nd), praseodymium (Pr), promethium (Pm), samarium (Sm), scandium (Sc), terbium (Tb), thulium (Tm), ytterbium (Yb), and yttrium (Y)
 
Despite their classification, most of these elements are not really “rare”. One of the rare earths, promethium, is radioactive
Source:Thermo Fisher Scientific
 
 
3.Applications of rare earths
  • These elements are important in technologies of consumer electronics, computers and networks, communications, clean energy, advanced transportation, healthcare, environmental mitigation, and national defence, among others
  • Scandium is used in televisions and fluorescent lamps, and yttrium is used in drugs to treat rheumatoid arthritis and cancer
  •  Rare earth elements are used in space shuttle components, jet engine turbines, and drones
  • Cerium, the most abundant rare earth element, is essential to NASA’s Space Shuttle Programme
  • In recent years, rare earths have become even more important because there has been an increase in demand for green energy
  • Elements like neodymium and dysprosium, which are used in wind turbine motors, are sought-after more than ever as wind mills across the world continue to grow
  • Moreover, the push for switching from internal combustion cars to electric vehicles has also led to a rise in demand for rare earth magnets made from neodymium, boron, and iron and batteries
 
 
 
For Prelims: Applications of rare earths, rare earth elements
For Mains:
1.Europe’s largest known deposit of rare earth elements found in Sweden: Could the discovery change geopolitics?
 
 
 
Source:indianexpress
 

RAM RAJYA

 
 
1. Context
 
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and many in his government, along with the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, would be busy in pran pratishta at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. One hopes that with the consecration, the country will also see the beginnings of Ram Rajya in the true sense, where communal harmony and safety of all people, especially women, is secured, and poverty is abolished
Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha Ceremony Completed See Ram Mandir Top 10 Photos  Videos | Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha: राम मंदिर के गर्भगृह में हुई रामलला की  प्राण प्रतिष्ठा, देखें- दस खास तस्वीरें
 
2.What is Ram Rajya?

"Ram Rajya" is a term that originates from Hindu mythology and is associated with the rule of Lord Rama, a central figure in the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana. In the Hindu tradition, Ram Rajya is idealized as a just and ideal governance system, characterized by righteousness, justice, and prosperity.

The concept of Ram Rajya is often used to describe an ideal state or society where the ruler governs with integrity, fairness, and in accordance with dharma (righteousness). According to Hindu beliefs, Lord Rama, the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu, ruled his kingdom of Ayodhya in a manner that exemplified these qualities

Ram Rajya, literally meaning "Rama's rule", is an idealised Hindu monarchy in which a righteous king like Rama rules with justice, prosperity, and morality for the welfare of all his subjects. It is often referred to as a golden age in Hindu mythology and culture.

There is no single, universally accepted definition of Ram Rajya, but it is generally described as a time of:

  • Righteousness: The king rules with dharma, or righteousness, always upholding the law and acting in the best interests of his people.
  • Prosperity: The kingdom is prosperous, with abundant food, resources, and wealth for all.
  • Peace and harmony: There is peace and harmony within the kingdom, with no crime, violence, or social discord.
  • Justice: All subjects are treated equally and fairly under the law, regardless of their social status.
  • Dharma: People follow their dharma, or duty, leading to a just and harmonious society.

The concept of Ram Rajya is often invoked in Indian politics and social discourse, with the hope that India can one day achieve such a golden age. It is also a popular theme in Indian art, literature, and music

The idea of Ram Rajya is based on the life and deeds of Rama, a prince of Ayodhya who is considered to be an incarnation of the god Vishnu in Hinduism. Rama is known for his righteousness, justice, and compassion, and his rule over Ayodhya is seen as a model for good governance

3.What is ideal society?

 

The concept of an "ideal society" is subjective and can vary based on individual perspectives, cultural backgrounds, philosophical beliefs, and historical contexts. Different thinkers, cultures, and ideologies have proposed their visions of an ideal society. Here are some common themes and characteristics often associated with the idea of an ideal society:

  • Justice and Equality: Many visions of an ideal society emphasize principles of justice and equality. This includes equal rights and opportunities for all individuals, regardless of factors such as race, gender, religion, or socioeconomic status.

  • Freedom and Individual Rights: An ideal society often respects and protects the rights and freedoms of individuals. This includes freedom of speech, religion, and assembly, as well as protection against arbitrary government interference.

  • Peace and Harmony: Ideal societies are often characterized by a sense of peace and harmony, both within the community and in international relations. This may involve resolving conflicts through peaceful means and fostering cooperation among individuals and nations.

  • Prosperity and Well-being: Economic prosperity and the well-being of citizens are key components of many visions of an ideal society. This may involve ensuring access to basic needs such as food, shelter, healthcare, and education.

  • Environmental Sustainability: Some ideal societies prioritize environmental sustainability, recognizing the importance of preserving the planet for future generations. This includes responsible stewardship of natural resources and efforts to mitigate environmental degradation.

  • Cultural and Social Diversity: Embracing and celebrating cultural and social diversity is a characteristic of many ideal societies. This involves respecting different perspectives, fostering inclusivity, and promoting cultural exchange.

  • Rule of Law: An ideal society often operates under the rule of law, where laws are just, transparent, and applied consistently. This ensures that individuals are treated fairly and that there is a system in place to address grievances

 
4.How Ram Rajya and ideal society is similar?
 
Subject Ram Rajya Ideal Society
Justice and Righteousness Emphasis on upholding dharma (righteousness) in governance. Advocates for a just and fair system treating individuals equitably.
Equality and Fairness Envisions a society without discrimination based on caste, creed, or social status. Promotes equal opportunities and treatment for all members.
Peace and Harmony Associated with a rule that brings peace to the kingdom. Aspires to social harmony, cooperation, and peaceful conflict resolution.
Prosperity and Well-being Linked to economic prosperity and fulfilling basic needs for all citizens. Includes provisions for economic well-being and overall welfare of members.
Moral Values and Virtues Emphasizes moral values such as compassion, honesty, and integrity. Highlights the importance of ethical conduct in personal and societal affairs.
 
 
5.What did Gandhi say about Ram Rajya?
 
  • Mahatma Gandhi, a prominent leader in the Indian independence movement, often invoked the idea of "Ram Rajya" in his speeches and writings.
  • Gandhi's interpretation of Ram Rajya was more in the context of an ideal social order based on ethical and moral principles rather than a literal or religious interpretation.
  • Gandhi envisioned Ram Rajya as a state of societal perfection characterized by justice, equality, and the well-being of all its members.
  • He used the concept to emphasize the need for a just and non-violent society. Gandhi believed that the principles of truth, non-violence, and selfless service should be the guiding values for individuals and society as a whole.
  • It's important to note that Gandhi's Ram Rajya was not tied to any particular religious or mythological narrative but was a symbolic representation of an ideal state based on moral and ethical principles.
  • He often used the term to advocate for a society that reflects the highest moral values and embodies the spirit of service to humanity.
  • In Gandhi's vision, Ram Rajya was not exclusive to any particular religious group but was meant to be a universal concept that transcends religious and cultural boundaries.
  • He believed that individuals and society should strive to embody the virtues of compassion, self-discipline, and non-violence, creating a harmonious and just social order

6.Way forward

The relevance of the concept of Ram Rajya today can be interpreted in different ways, and opinions may vary based on individual perspectives and cultural contexts

Ram Rajya can vary, and some may view it through a religious or mythological lens, while others may adopt a more secular or symbolic perspective

Source: Indianexpress

MOSQUITO FISH

 
 
 
 
1. Context 
 

Recently, both governmental and non-governmental entities in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Punjab have introduced mosquitofish into local water bodies to address concerns raised by residents regarding a mosquito menace. Authorities in Visakhapatnam are preparing to release an additional six lakh mosquitofish, following the earlier release of around 20 lakh a few months ago.

The global climate and ecosystems have undergone significant changes in the past century, hastening the proliferation of diseases transmitted by mosquitoes. Presently, these diseases are prevalent in over 150 countries, impacting over 500 million individuals. In India alone, approximately 40 million people contract mosquito-borne diseases annually, making such illnesses a persistent and significant public health challenge for many decades.

 
2. What is mosquitofish?
  • Mosquitofish, particularly species like Gambusia affinis and Gambusia holbrooki, play a pivotal role in biological mosquito control. Introduced as an alternative solution in the 1960s, these fish were intended to thrive in freshwater ecosystems, feeding on mosquito larvae. This method gained popularity as an environmentally friendly substitute for chemical pesticides, known for their adverse effects on human health and the ecosystem.
  • During the 1980s and 1990s, the adoption of biological control measures, such as deploying mosquitofish, saw a significant increase. These approaches were deemed sustainable and gained approval as effective means to address mosquito-related issues without resorting to harmful chemicals.
  • Despite the initial intentions behind introducing mosquitofish, unforeseen challenges arose. In countries where governments endorsed this strategy, authorities released these fish into freshwater ecosystems. However, the unintended consequence was the unchecked proliferation of mosquitofish populations, extending far beyond their original habitats.
  • Originally hailing from the U.S., these mosquitofish species transformed into global inhabitants. Notorious for their detrimental ecological impact, particularly species like Gambusia, they have been implicated in displacing and preying on native fauna. This, in turn, has contributed to the extinction of indigenous fish, amphibians, and various freshwater communities.
  • Gambusia species, known for their adaptability and tolerance to fluctuating environmental conditions, have become some of the most widely dispersed freshwater fish globally. This notoriety stems from their unintended role in ecological disruptions, highlighting the importance of careful planning and monitoring when implementing biological control strategies to mitigate mosquito-related issues.

3. Utilization of Mosquitofish in India:

  • Gambusia, a type of mosquitofish, was first introduced in India during British rule in 1928. The initiative aimed to address mosquito-related concerns and control mosquito-borne diseases, with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) at the forefront of these efforts.
  • Various governmental organizations, including the ICMR, the National Institute of Malaria Research (NIMR), local municipal corporations, the Fisheries Department, and the Health Department, joined forces with private organizations in India. Together, they undertook mosquito management strategies, particularly focusing on combating malaria.
  • The strategy involved introducing Gambusia into freshwater ecosystems, to have these fish prey on or compete with mosquito larvae, thereby reducing mosquito populations. The responsibility for implementing this scheme extended to municipal corporations, district administrations, health departments, fisheries departments, tribal development agencies, local aquaculturists, and the general public across India.

Unintended Consequences

  • Similar to the American experience, Gambusia has proliferated in India, establishing self-sustaining populations in various habitats nationwide. The well-intentioned strategy, however, has led to unintended consequences, resulting in severe ecological and environmental problems.
  • The initial intent to control mosquitoes and the introduction of Gambusia has backfired, causing ecological disruptions and environmental challenges. The widespread presence of these mosquitofish has raised concerns about their impact on native ecosystems, highlighting the need for careful consideration and monitoring in mosquito management strategies.

4. Ecological Impact of Mosquitofish

Recent research delved into the genetic diversity of Gambusia species in India, uncovering widespread distribution, particularly of G. holbrooki and, to a lesser extent, G. affinis, with a notable presence in Northeast India. Haplotypes and genotypes within these species were explored, shedding light on their genetic makeup.

Invasive Alien Species

  • Wildlife biologists and conservationists globally recognize mosquitofish as one of the hundred most detrimental invasive alien species. Their resilience, voracious feeding habits, and aggressive behaviour in introduced habitats pose significant challenges to native ecosystems.
  •  Studies from various countries, including Australia and New Zealand, showcase the harmful consequences of introduced mosquitofish. Local extinctions, predation on native species, and threats to aquatic biodiversity have been observed, emphasizing the need for caution in introducing such species.

Concerns in India

  • Reports in India suggest a decline in Microhyla tadpoles following the introduction of Gambusia. Such indications raise concerns about the potential impact on indigenous aquatic biodiversity.
  • Despite earlier recommendations, both the World Health Organization and the National Biodiversity Authority of the government of India have shifted their stance. In 1982, WHO stopped recommending Gambusia for mosquito control, and in 2018, G. affinis and G. holbrooki were designated as invasive alien species.

Ongoing Introduction Challenges

  • Despite policy shifts, both governmental and non-governmental organizations in India persist in introducing mosquitofish for mosquito control. This raises questions about the enforcement of existing measures and the need for stricter regulations.
  • Current circumstances demand more stringent enforcement measures to prevent further introductions of these species into freshwater ecosystems. Additionally, addressing the consequences of past introductions is crucial, emphasizing the protection of indigenous aquatic biodiversity and the well-being of native species.

 

5. Addressing the Mosquitofish Problem

The challenge at hand involves dealing with both immediate threats and long-term ecosystem health. To find the most effective solution, practitioners need to approach the problem from multiple angles, acknowledging the urgency of the "wolf at the door" and the subtler threat akin to "termites at the base."

Policy and Recommendations

The National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC), under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, currently recommends the use of Gambusia and Poecilia (guppy) fishes for mosquito control. One key step towards a solution involves reevaluating and potentially revising these recommendations. Removing the endorsement of these species can be a crucial measure.

Localized Alternatives

  • Effective mosquito control requires a shift towards localized solutions. Collaboration among mosquito biologists, entomologists, invasion ecologists, and fish taxonomists becomes imperative. This collaboration should focus on specific river basins to compile lists of native fish species capable of controlling mosquito larvae.
  • Based on the compiled lists, authorities can strategically release native fish species into natural environments. This targeted approach aims to avoid the ecological repercussions associated with invasive alien species like Gambusia. By utilizing native species, the objective is to maintain ecological balance while effectively managing mosquito populations.

Holistic Approach

  • A holistic solution involves integrating the expertise of various professionals, each contributing their knowledge to the broader goal of sustainable mosquito control.
  • Mosquito biologists, entomologists, invasion ecologists, and fish taxonomists working in tandem can provide a comprehensive and ecologically sound approach to the complex issue at hand.
  • Emphasizing a river basin-focused strategy ensures that interventions are tailored to the specific ecological conditions of each region. This approach minimizes the risk of unintended consequences and allows for a more nuanced and effective control of mosquito larvae.
 
For Prelims: Mosquito Fish, Malaria, WHO, National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control, National Institute of Malaria Research, ICMR, 
For Mains: 
1. Discuss the historical evolution of mosquito control strategies in India, focusing on the introduction of mosquitofish. Analyze the unintended consequences and ecological impact of such interventions. (250 Words)
 
 
Previous Year Questions
 
1. Widespread resistance of the malarial parasites to drugs like chloroquine has prompted attempts to develop a malarial vaccine to combat malaria. Why is it difficult to develop an effective malaria vaccine? (UPSC 2010)
A. Malaria is caused by several species of plasmodium
B. Man does not develop immunity to malaria during natural infection
C. Vaccines can be developed only against bacteria
D. Man is only an intermediate host and not the definitive host
 
 
2. The release of which of the following into ponds and wells helps in controlling mosquitoes? (Rajasthan PTET 2013)
A. Gambusia fish        B. Snail            C. Crab            D. Dogfish
 
Answers: 1-B, 2-A
 
 Source: The Hindu
 

INTERIM BUDGET

 
 
 
 
1. Context
 
 
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the upcoming Interim Budget is unlikely to have any “spectacular announcement”, but small tax relief measures and a fillip to welfare spending are likely, according to officials.
 
 

2. What is the interim budget?

An interim budget is a financial statement presented by the government of a country for a short period, typically covering the immediate needs and expenses until a full budget is presented. In many countries, including India, the government follows a fiscal year from April 1 to March 31. An interim budget is usually presented when the government's term is coming to an end, and elections are around the corner.

Key features of an interim budget include:

  •  Interim budgets are temporary and serve as a stopgap arrangement until a newly elected government can present a full budget.
  • The focus of an interim budget is on essential expenditures, such as day-to-day expenses, salaries, and ongoing government schemes. It typically avoids introducing new policies or making major changes in taxation.
  • Governments presenting interim budgets generally refrain from introducing major policy decisions or long-term fiscal measures, as those are usually reserved for a full budget.
  • The interim budget seeks parliamentary approval for necessary spending to ensure the continuity of government operations until a new government can present a comprehensive budget.

In India, the Finance Minister typically presents an interim budget in the Lok Sabha (the lower house of Parliament) ahead of general elections. The interim budget is meant to ensure the government's financial continuity until a new government is formed, and it outlines estimates for government revenue and expenditure for the short term. It is important to note that the interim budget is distinct from the full budget, which is presented by the newly elected government after the elections.

 

3. Difference between the Interim Budget and Union Budget

Feature Interim Budget Union Budget
Scope Temporary; for a few months until new government takes over Comprehensive; for the entire fiscal year
Purpose Ensure continuity in government spending Outline government's financial plan and introduce new policies
Timing Presented before general elections or when there's a government transition Presented annually on February 1st
Content Focuses on essential expenditures; avoids major policy announcements Comprehensive; includes revenue and expenditure estimates, policy initiatives, and tax proposals
Limitations Cannot introduce new schemes or projects Can introduce new schemes and alter existing ones
Policy Announcements Generally refrains from major policy changes

 Introduces new policies, schemes, and tax proposals

 

 

4. The difference between an interim budget and a vote on account

While an interim budget and a vote on account are both financial mechanisms used by governments, they serve different purposes and are distinct. 

Feature Interim Budget Vote on Account
Purpose Complete budget presented during government transition, often in an election year. Provision seeking parliamentary approval for essential spending to ensure government continuity for a specific period. Part of the interim budget.
Coverage Covers entire government expenditures and receipts for the specified period. Includes routine expenditures, new policy announcements, and financial allocations. Covers only routine and essential expenditures for a short duration. Does not include major policy changes or new long-term schemes.
Scope of Policy Changes May includes policy changes, new schemes, and announcements, albeit minimised during a transitional period. Typically does not include major policy changes or the introduction of new long-term schemes. Aimed at securing funds for routine functioning.
Timing Presented during the year of a general election, often a few months before elections, to cover the transition period until a new government is formed.

Specific provisions within the interim budget, are sought for a short period to cover immediate financial needs until a full budget is presented.

 

5. Who presented the first interim budget in India?

  • R. K. Shanmukham Chetty presented the first interim budget in India on November 26, 1947.
  • At the time, India was still in its early months of independence and the budget covered only a period of seven months, from August 15, 1947, to March 31, 1948. This was due to the need to adjust to the partition of the country and the formation of a new government.
  • Chetty, who was also the first Finance Minister of Independent India, played a crucial role in laying the foundation for India's economic development. His first budget focused on rebuilding the devastated economy after the partition and laying the groundwork for long-term growth.

 

6. The Way Forward

India can modernize interim budgets, ensuring their effectiveness in navigating financial transitions while adhering to responsible fiscal principles. This will pave the way for sustainable economic development and a smooth handover of responsibilities to the incoming government.

 

For Prelims: Interim Budget, Union Budget, Vote on Account, 
For Mains: 
1. Critically analyze the role of interim budgets in a democratic system like India. Do they maintain financial stability amidst elections, or are they susceptible to populism and short-term gain? (250 Words)
2. Compare and contrast the key features of interim budgets with regular union budgets. How does this distinction impact long-term economic planning and policy implementation? (250 Words)
 
 
Previous Year Questions 
 
1. What is the difference between "vote-on-account" and "interim budget"? (UPSC 2011)
1. The provision of a "vote-on-account" is used by a regular Government, while an "interim budget" is a provision used by a caretaker Government.
2. A "vote-on-account" only deals with the expenditure in the Government's budget, while an "interim budget" includes both expenditure and receipts.
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: B
 
2. Vote on Account is meant for (BPSC 2016)
A. Vote on the report of CAG
B. To meet unforeseen expenditure
C. Appropriating funds pending the passing of the budget
D. Budget
E. None of the above/More than one of the above
 
Answers: 1-B, 2-C
 Source: Indianexpress

 


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