MULLAPERIYAR DAM
1. Context
The Supreme Court on Monday fixed July 10 for finalising the legal issues to be heard and decided by it in an original suit filed by Tamil Nadu against neighbouring Kerala over the construction of a mega parking project near the Mullaperiyar dam
2. New Guidelines
- The CWC (Central Water Commission) implemented a set of guidelines for dam construction following Kerala's preparation of the DPR (Detailed Project Report) in 2011. Those informed about the situation mentioned that the costs for various project components have increased since the last DPR, hence the need for a revision.
- Recently, the State government approached the CWC to expedite approval for a new dam's construction. Additionally, the State expressed its readiness to supply water to Tamil Nadu from this new dam.
- Kerala and Tamil Nadu have been embroiled in a prolonged legal dispute regarding the stability and other related aspects of the current dam. Kerala has been advocating for a new dam primarily on safety grounds.
- Both states witnessed significant protests after Kerala raised safety concerns and called for the decommissioning the existing dam
3. What do we Know about the Mullaperiyar Dam?
The Mullaperiyar Dam is located in the southern Indian state of Kerala, but it's owned and operated by the Government of Tamil Nadu.
Here are some key points about the dam:
- Situated in the Western Ghats, the Mullaperiyar Dam is built across the Periyar River in the state of Kerala
- Although the dam is located in Kerala, it is owned, maintained, and operated by the Government of Tamil Nadu based on a 999-year lease agreement signed in 1886
- The primary purpose of the dam is to divert water from the Periyar River's catchment area to the Vaigai River basin in Tamil Nadu for irrigation and drinking water purposes
- The dam has been a subject of contention between Kerala and Tamil Nadu due to concerns over its structural integrity. Kerala has raised concerns about the dam's safety due to its age and the potential risk to downstream areas in case of a dam failure. Tamil Nadu contends that the dam is safe and necessary for meeting its water needs
- The two states have engaged in a prolonged legal battle over the Mullaperiyar Dam's safety and the need for a new dam. Kerala has called for decommissioning the existing dam and constructing a new one, while Tamil Nadu has insisted on raising the dam's water level, citing its necessity for irrigation
- The issue has reached the Supreme Court of India multiple times, and the court has issued various directives regarding the water level and safety measures to address concerns from both states
4.What is the Dispute regarding Mullaperiyar dam?
The dispute surrounding the Mullaperiyar Dam primarily revolves around several key issues:
- Kerala has raised serious concerns about the dam's structural integrity due to its age and the potential risks associated with a dam failure. There have been apprehensions that the dam, which is over a century old, might not withstand a major earthquake or natural calamity, posing a threat to the downstream areas in Kerala
- Tamil Nadu, which owns and operates the dam, asserts its rights to receive a certain amount of water from the Periyar River through the dam for irrigation purposes in the Vaigai River basin. There have been disagreements between the two states regarding the permissible water level in the dam and the quantity of water to be released to Tamil Nadu
- The disagreement between Kerala and Tamil Nadu has escalated into a legal battle that has been ongoing for decades. Both states have filed numerous cases and counter-cases in courts, including the Supreme Court of India, seeking decisions on issues related to the dam's safety, water sharing, and the need for a new dam
- The Mullaperiyar Dam issue has significant political implications for both states. It has been a point of contention in the political landscape of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, with each state advocating for its respective stance on the dam's safety and water-sharing agreements
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Periyar river
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5. What is the Dam Safety Act?
- The Dam Safety Act, introduced to the Rajya Sabha in December 2021, aimed to address issues of inadequate monitoring and maintenance that have led to dam-related disasters.
- This legislation outlined specific duties and required the establishment of both national and state-level bodies to enforce its provisions.
- It proposed the creation of a National Committee on Dam Safety responsible for overseeing policies and regulations, a National Dam Safety Authority tasked with implementation and the resolution of state-level disputes, designating the Chairman of the Central Water Commission (CWC) to lead national dam safety protocols, and the formation of State Committees on Dam Safety (SCDS) and State Dam Safety Organizations (SDSO)
- The Dam Safety Act (DSA) 2021 was enacted by the Union Government of India to prevent dam failure-related disasters. The act focuses on the proper surveillance, inspection, operation, and maintenance of specified dams. It also establishes an institutional mechanism to ensure their safe functioning
- The act was notified by the Government of India on December 14, 2021, and came into effect on December 30, 2021.
- The act provides for institutional mechanisms for surveillance, inspection, operation, and maintenance of the specified dams. The Central Water Commission (CWC) provides technical expertise and guidance on all matters related to dams.
- Failure to comply with any provision of the act is punishable with imprisonment and/or fines. If such obstruction or refusal to comply with directions results in loss of lives or imminent danger thereof, the entity shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years
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Previous Year Questions
1. Which one of the following pairs is not correctly matched? (UPSC CSE 2010) Dam/Lake River (a) Govind Sagar : Satluj Answer: (b) 2.Consider the following statements: (UPSC CSE 2009)
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only Answer: (d) |
Source: The Hindu
CORAL BLEACH
1. Context
The fourth global mass coral bleaching event has been triggered by extraordinary ocean temperatures, the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) said on (April 15 2024). This could have serious consequences for ocean life and millions of people who rely on reefs for food, jobs, and coastal defence.
2. What are Coral reefs?
Coral reefs are diverse and valuable marine ecosystems formed by the accumulation of coral polyps, tiny organisms related to sea anemones and jellyfish. These polyps secrete a calcium carbonate exoskeleton that provides the framework for the reef structure. Over time, as new generations of corals grow on top of the old ones, the reef continues to develop and expand
Coral reefs are found in clear, warm, and shallow waters, usually between the tropics of Cancer and Capricorn
3. What is Coral bleaching
Coral bleaching is a phenomenon that occurs when coral polyps expel the symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) living within their tissues. These algae provide corals with essential nutrients through photosynthesis and give them their vibrant colours.
When corals are under stress, such as from high water temperatures or pollution, they expel the algae, causing the coral to turn completely white or pale.
3.1. Reasons for Coral bleaching
- The primary cause of coral bleaching is the rising sea temperatures associated with climate change.
- When the water becomes too warm, corals become stressed, and as a survival mechanism, they expel the algae, which leads to the loss of their main source of food.
- Without the colourful algae, the corals appear bleached and are more vulnerable to disease and death
- Other factors can contribute to coral bleaching as well, including ocean acidification, pollution, and extreme weather events.
- All of these stressors can weaken the corals and make them more susceptible to bleaching.
- Coral bleaching is a significant concern for the health and survival of coral reefs around the world.
- Repeated or prolonged bleaching events can lead to mass coral die-offs, causing the loss of biodiversity and the degradation of entire reef ecosystems
4. Why Coral reefs are important to everyone
- Coral reefs are hot spots of biodiversity. They are often referred to as the rainforests of the sea because they are home to the highest concentrations of species in the ocean.
- Healthy reefs are vibrant ecosystems that support fish and fisheries, which in turn support economies and food for millions of people
- Additionally, they provide billions of dollars in economic activity every year through tourism, particularly in places like the Florida Keys, where people go to scuba dive, snorkel, fish and experience the natural beauty of coral reefs
- If that isn’t enough, reefs also protect shorelines, beaches and billions of dollars in coastal infrastructure by buffering wave energy, particularly during storms and hurricanes.
- They host a microscopic symbiotic algae called zooxanthella that photosynthesizes just like plants, providing food to the coral
5. What can we do to protect Coral reefs?
Protecting coral reefs requires a combination of local, national, and global efforts to address the various threats they face
Coral reefs are in danger, and there are many things that can be done to protect them. Here are some of the most important actions that individuals, businesses, and governments can take:
- Reduce your carbon footprint. The main threat to coral reefs is climate change, so reducing your carbon emissions is one of the most important things you can do to help. This means driving less, using less energy at home, and eating less meat.
- Support sustainable fishing practices. Overfishing is another major threat to coral reefs. When fish populations are depleted, it can lead to algae blooms that smother coral reefs. Choose to eat seafood that is sustainably caught, and support businesses that practice sustainable fishing methods.
- Use reef-friendly sunscreen. Some sunscreen ingredients can be harmful to coral reefs. Choose a reef-friendly sunscreen that does not contain oxybenzone or octinoxate.
- Support marine protected areas. Marine protected areas (MPAs) are areas of the ocean where fishing and other human activities are restricted. MPAs can help to protect coral reefs by reducing the amount of pollution and fishing pressure they face.
- Volunteer your time to coral reef conservation efforts. There are many organizations that are working to protect coral reefs. You can volunteer your time to help with beach cleanups, coral reef monitoring, or other conservation efforts.
- Establish Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): Designating and effectively managing marine protected areas can help protect coral reefs and the surrounding marine life from destructive activities such as overfishing, pollution, and habitat destruction.
- Encourage Responsible Tourism: Sustainable tourism practices can minimize the negative impacts on coral reefs. This includes promoting responsible diving and snorkeling practices, limiting physical contact with corals, and avoiding the use of harmful chemicals like sunscreen that can harm marine life
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For Prelims: Corals, Coral reefs, polyps, zooxanthellae
For Mains: 1.Examine the major human-induced threats to coral reefs, including pollution, overfishing, and coastal development. What measures can be taken to address these threats and conserve coral reef ecosystems?
2.Assess the role of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in safeguarding coral reefs. Discuss the challenges in establishing and effectively managing MPAs for coral reef conservation. |
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Previous Year Questions
1. Consider the following Statements
1. Most of the coral reefs are in tropical waters
2. More than one-third of the world's coral reefs are located in territories of Australia, Indonesia, and Phillippines
3. Coral reefs host far more number of animal phyla than those hosted by tropical rainforests
Which of the statements above given is/ are correct
A. 1 and 2 B. 3 Only C. 1 and 3 D.1, 2, 3
Answer- D
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Source: DownToEarth
NATIONAL GREEN TRIBUNAL
1. Context
In an important ruling that could energise climate litigation in India, the Supreme Court last week said that people had a fundamental right to be free from adverse impacts of climate change, and that this right flowed naturally from the right to life and the right to equality guaranteed in the Indian Constitution.
2. What is National Green Tribunal (NGT)?
- The National Green Tribunal (NGT) is a specialized judicial body established in India to handle cases related to environmental protection and conservation.
- It was established under the National Green Tribunal Act, of 2010, and its primary objective is to effectively and expeditiously address environmental disputes and promote sustainable development.
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With the establishment of the NGT, India became the third country in the world to set up a specialized environmental tribunal, only after Australia and New Zealand, and the first developing country to do so.
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NGT is mandated to make disposal of applications or appeals finally within 6 months of the filing of the same.
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The NGT has five places of sittings, New Delhi is the Principal place of sitting, and Bhopal, Pune, Kolkata and Chennai are the other four.
3. Structure of the National Green Tribunal (NGT)
- Chairperson: The NGT is headed by a full-time Chairperson who is a retired judge of the Supreme Court of India. The Chairperson is responsible for the overall administration and functioning of the tribunal.
- Judicial Members: The NGT consists of judicial members who are retired judges of either the Supreme Court or a High Court. These members have extensive legal knowledge and experience in handling environmental matters.
- Expert Members: The tribunal also includes expert members who possess expertise in areas such as environmental science, ecology, hydrology, and forestry. These members provide valuable technical insights and guidance in the resolution of environmental disputes.
- The NGT is organized into multiple benches located across different regions of India. These benches are responsible for hearing cases specific to their respective jurisdictions. Each bench is headed by a judicial member and consists of one or more expert members, as required.
4. What are the Important Landmark Judgements of NGT?
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has delivered several landmark judgments that have had a significant impact on environmental protection and conservation in India. Here are some of the important landmark judgments delivered by the NGT:
- Vardhaman Kaushik v. Union of India (2013): This case dealt with the issue of groundwater depletion due to illegal extraction by industries in Uttar Pradesh. The NGT directed the closure of industries that were extracting groundwater without proper permissions and ordered the payment of compensation for environmental damage caused.
- Alembic Pharmaceuticals Ltd. v. Rohit Prajapati & Ors. (2014): In this case, the NGT ordered the closure of an industrial unit in Gujarat for releasing untreated effluents into a water body, causing pollution and harm to the environment and public health.
- M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (2014): The NGT issued a landmark judgment in this case regarding the pollution of the Yamuna River. It directed several measures to clean and rejuvenate the river, including the establishment of sewage treatment plants and the regulation of industries contributing to pollution.
- Subhash Chandra Sharma v. Union of India (2015): This case focused on the issue of air pollution caused by solid waste burning in open areas. The NGT imposed a ban on burning waste in open spaces and directed municipal authorities to take measures to manage waste effectively.
- Raghu Nath Sharma v. State of Himachal Pradesh (2016): The NGT ordered the closure of illegal hotels and structures in the eco-sensitive Rohtang Pass area of Himachal Pradesh to protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
- Yamuna Muktikaran Abhiyan v. Union of India (2017): This case dealt with the rejuvenation of the Yamuna River and led to the NGT issuing directions to clean and restore the river, including measures to prevent encroachments and pollution.
- M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (2017): The NGT banned the use of disposable plastic in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) and directed authorities to take steps to prevent the use and sale of such plastic.
- Shailesh Singh v. Hotel Holiday Regency (2019): In this case, the NGT imposed heavy fines on a hotel in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, for causing air pollution by running diesel generators without proper emission control measures.
- Subhash Chandran vs. Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (2020): This judgment highlighted the importance of safeguarding coastal areas and wetlands from unauthorized construction and development activities, emphasizing the need for stringent environmental norms.
- In Re: Report by Comptroller and Auditor General of India (2021): The NGT directed the formulation of guidelines for the regulation of groundwater extraction and management to prevent overexploitation and depletion.
5. What is a dissolved oxygen level?
- Dissolved oxygen (DO) level refers to the concentration of oxygen gas (O2) that is dissolved in a liquid, typically water.
- It is a crucial parameter in aquatic ecosystems as it directly affects the survival and well-being of aquatic organisms.
- In natural water bodies like lakes, rivers, and oceans, oxygen dissolves from the atmosphere through processes such as diffusion and aeration.
- Aquatic plants, algae, and phytoplankton also contribute to the production of oxygen through photosynthesis. However, the level of dissolved oxygen can fluctuate based on various factors, including temperature, altitude, water flow, pollution, and organic matter decomposition.
- Dissolved oxygen is essential for aquatic organisms because they rely on it for their respiration process, similar to how animals breathe oxygen from the air.
- Insufficient levels of dissolved oxygen can lead to hypoxia, a condition where organisms are deprived of the oxygen they need to survive. This can result in stress, reduced growth, reproductive issues, and even mortality in aquatic species.
Different species of aquatic organisms have varying tolerance levels for dissolved oxygen. For example:
- Fish and other aquatic animals often require dissolved oxygen levels between 4 to 6 milligrams per liter (mg/L) to thrive.
- Some species of fish, insects, and other aquatic organisms can tolerate lower levels of dissolved oxygen, even below 2 mg/L, while others require higher concentrations.
6. What are chemical oxygen demand and biological oxygen demand?
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD):
- COD is a measure of the amount of oxygen required to chemically oxidize and break down organic and inorganic substances present in water.
- It provides an indication of the total amount of pollutants that can be chemically oxidized by a strong oxidizing agent. COD is expressed in milligrams per liter (mg/L) of oxygen consumed.
- COD is useful in assessing the overall pollution load in a water sample, including both biodegradable and non-biodegradable substances.
- It is commonly used for industrial wastewater monitoring, as it provides a rapid estimation of the organic content and potential pollution levels. However, COD does not differentiate between different types of pollutants or indicate the potential impact on aquatic life.
Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD):
- BOD measures the amount of dissolved oxygen consumed by microorganisms (bacteria) during the biological degradation of organic matter in water.
- It is a key indicator of the level of biodegradable organic pollutants present in water. BOD is expressed in milligrams per liter (mg/L) of oxygen consumed over a specific time period, usually 5 days (BOD₅).
- BOD is particularly important in assessing the impact of organic pollution on aquatic ecosystems.
- High BOD levels indicate that a water body may have a significant amount of organic pollutants, which can lead to oxygen depletion as microorganisms break down the organic matter. This oxygen depletion, known as hypoxia, can harm aquatic organisms and disrupt the ecological balance of the water body.
Comparing BOD and COD:
- BOD primarily measures the biologically degradable organic matter and provides information about the potential impact on aquatic life.
- COD measures both biologically and chemically degradable pollutants, giving an indication of the overall pollution load and oxygen demand.
- BOD is a more specific and ecologically relevant parameter, but it takes longer to determine (5 days), while COD can be measured more quickly.
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For Prelims: National Green Tribunal (NGT), National Green Tribunal Act, of 2010, Dissolved oxygen (DO), Chemical Oxygen demand (COD), and Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD).
For Mains: 1. Discuss the significance of Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) and Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) as critical indicators for assessing water pollution and quality. (250 Words)
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Previous year Question1. How is the National Green Tribunal (NGT) different from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)? (UPSC 2018)
1. The NGT has been established by an Act whereas the CPCB has been created by the executive order of the Government.
2. The NGT provides environmental justice and helps reduce the burden of litigation in the higher courts whereas the CPCB promotes cleanliness of streams and wells, and aims to improve the quality of air in the country.
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. The National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 was enacted in consonance with which of the following provisions of the Constitution of India? (UPSC 2012)
1. Right of a healthy environment, construed as a part of the Right to life under Article 21
2. Provision of grants for raising the level of administration in the Scheduled Areas for the welfare of Scheduled Tribes under Article 275(1)
3. Powers and functions of Gram Sabha as mentioned under Article 243(A)
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
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Source: The Indian Express
AYUSHMAN BHARAT
1. Context
On April 14 2024, releasing its election manifesto for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) promised to expand its Ayushman Bharat Health Insurance scheme to cover senior citizens
2. About Ayushman Bharat Scheme
The Ayushman Bharat scheme, officially known as the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), is a flagship healthcare initiative launched by the Government of India in September 2018. It is aimed at providing financial protection and access to quality healthcare services to a significant portion of India's population, especially those who are economically disadvantaged and vulnerable.
The scheme has two main components:
- Health and Wellness Centers (HWCs): This component aims to transform the existing sub-centers and primary health centers into Health and Wellness Centers. These centers serve as the first point of contact for individuals seeking healthcare services. They offer a range of preventive, promotive, and basic healthcare services, including maternal and child health services, communicable disease management, and health education.
- Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY): PM-JAY is the larger component of the Ayushman Bharat scheme, focused on providing health insurance coverage to economically vulnerable families. It offers financial protection against catastrophic health expenses by covering the cost of hospitalization and certain medical procedures. PM-JAY provides coverage up to ₹5 lahks (per family per year) for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization. This includes coverage for a wide range of medical treatments, surgeries, and therapies.
3. Key features of PM-JAY include:
- Universal Coverage: PM-JAY covers over 10 crore (100 million) vulnerable and economically disadvantaged families, which is approximately 50 crore individuals, making it one of the largest government-funded healthcare insurance programs in the world.
- Cashless Transactions: Beneficiaries can avail of cashless and paperless healthcare services at any empanelled public or private hospital across the country.
- Portability: The scheme is portable, meaning beneficiaries can access services in any part of the country, irrespective of where they are registered under the scheme.
- No Cap on Family Size: The benefits under the scheme are not limited by family size or age, providing comprehensive coverage to all eligible family members.
- Priority for Women and Senior Citizens: The scheme gives priority to women, senior citizens, and individuals from marginalized communities.
- Empanelled Hospitals: The scheme has a network of public and private hospitals that have been empanelled to provide services under PM-JAY.
4. What is National Health Authority (NHA)?
- The National Health Authority (NHA) is the apex body responsible for the implementation and management of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), also known as Ayushman Bharat, in India.
- It was established as an autonomous body by the Government of India in January 2019.
- The NHA plays a crucial role in the effective execution of the world's largest government-funded health insurance scheme.
Key functions and responsibilities of the National Health Authority include:
- Policy Formulation: The NHA is responsible for formulating policies and guidelines for the implementation of PM-JAY. It works to ensure that the scheme aligns with the broader objectives of universal health coverage and affordable healthcare for all.
- Enrollment and Beneficiary Identification: The NHA oversees the process of identifying and enrolling eligible beneficiaries for PM-JAY. This involves creating and maintaining a comprehensive database of eligible families to ensure accurate and efficient access to healthcare services.
- Empanelment of Hospitals: The NHA empanels both public and private hospitals to participate in the scheme. These hospitals are evaluated based on their infrastructure, facilities, and willingness to provide services under PM-JAY. Empanelled hospitals provide cashless and quality healthcare services to beneficiaries.
- Claims Management: The NHA is responsible for managing the claims process, which includes processing and reimbursing hospitals for the healthcare services provided to beneficiaries. This process ensures that beneficiaries can access medical treatment without facing financial barriers.
- Monitoring and Quality Assurance: The NHA monitors the implementation of PM-JAY to ensure that the services provided by empanelled hospitals meet quality standards. It conducts regular audits and assessments to maintain the quality of healthcare services.
- Technology and Data Management: The NHA employs technology extensively to manage beneficiary data, hospital empanelment, claims processing, and monitoring. This helps in creating an efficient and transparent system for the implementation of the scheme.
- Capacity Building: The NHA works on capacity-building initiatives for stakeholders involved in the implementation of PM-JAY. This includes training for healthcare providers, government officials, and other relevant personnel.
- Research and Innovation: The NHA focuses on research and innovation to improve the implementation of PM-JAY. It explores ways to enhance the scheme's reach, effectiveness, and impact.
5. Is National Health Authority a Statutory Body?
- The National Health Authority (NHA) is a statutory body. It was established by an Act of Parliament known as the " National Health Authority Act, 2019.
- The Act was passed to provide a legal framework for the creation and functioning of the NHA, which is responsible for the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), also known as Ayushman Bharat.
- The National Health Authority Act, 2019, outlines the composition, Powers, functions, and responsibilities of the NHA.
- It grants the NHA the authority to manage and oversee the implementation of PM-JAY, which is one of the largest government-funded health insurance schemes in the world.
- The Act also provides the NHA with the necessary legal framework to carry out its role effectively, including policy formulation, enrollment of beneficiaries, empowerment of hospitals, claims processing, and quality assurance.
- As a statutory body, the National Health Authority operates within the legal framework provided by the Act and has the authority to make decisions, issue guidelines, and implement policies related to the functioning of PM-JAY.
- This legal status ensures that the NHA has the necessary autonomy and powers to carry out its responsibilities in the implementation of the healthcare scheme.
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For Prelims: Ayushman Bharat, Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (PMJAY), the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG), Health and Wellness Centers (HWCs), National Health Authority (NHA).
For Mains: 1. Discuss the significance, achievements, and challenges of the Ayushman Bharat scheme in the context of achieving universal health coverage in India. (250 Words).
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Previous year Question
1. With reference to Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2022)
1. Private and public hospitals must adopt it.
2. As it aims to achieve universal health coverage, every citizen of India should be part of it ultimately.
3. It has seamless portability across the country.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
2. With reference to 'Ayushman Bharat Yojana' which of the following statement(s) is/are correct? (UPPSC 2020)
1. This Yojana provides free health insurance of Rs. 5 lahks per person.
2. The expenses incurred in this Scheme (Yojana) is shared between the Centre and State in a 60:40 ratio.
Select the correct answer from the codes given below.
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: B
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Source: The Indian Express
STAR CAMPAIGNER
1. Context
Sunita Kejriwal, wife of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, was appointed as a ‘star campaigner’ by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for its campaign in Gujarat.
2. Who are Star Campaigners?
- In India, a star campaigner is a popular political figure designated by a political party to campaign for candidates in specific constituencies during an election.
- These individuals are typically well-known politicians, celebrities, or social figures who can attract large crowds and generate support for the party's candidates.
- There is no legal definition of a star campaigner, but the Election Commission of India (ECI) issues guidelines regulating their campaign activities.
- These guidelines include restrictions on campaign spending and the requirement for star campaigners to follow the Model Code of Conduct, which outlines ethical standards for campaigning.
3. Legal Provisions Regarding Star Campaigners under the RP Act
Section 77 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 (RP Act) delineates the legal framework for the expenditure incurred by individuals termed as "leaders of a political party," commonly referred to as "star campaigners." These individuals, who serve as the face of their respective parties during electoral campaigns, typically comprise the top leaders of a political party along with other prominent figures. However, the sole prerequisite for their appointment is their membership in the political party that selects them.
Appointment Limits
National or State-recognised political parties are authorized to designate a maximum of 40 star campaigners.
Registered unrecognized political parties are permitted to appoint up to 20-star campaigners.
Communication Protocol
The RP Act mandates that the names of appointed star campaigners must be promptly communicated to the Election Commission (EC) and the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of the respective States within seven days from the date of election notification.
Multi-phase Election Considerations
In instances of multi-phase elections, political parties retain the option to submit separate lists of star campaigners for different phases.
Despite the provision for separate lists, it is observed that major political parties commonly opt for a single list applicable to all phases within a State.
4. Benefits of Expenditure Exemptions for Star Campaigners
- According to the RP Act, expenses incurred by "leaders of a political party" for travel, whether by air or any other means, to campaign for their party are not considered part of the election expenditure of individual candidates of the same party.
- This provision allows star campaigners to actively participate in campaigns without impacting the expenditure limits imposed on individual candidates. In larger states, the election expenditure limit per Lok Sabha constituency is ₹95 lakh, while in smaller states, it is ₹75 lakh.
- Star campaigners serve as significant assets in attracting votes for the candidates nominated by their respective parties. They can effectively bolster the campaign efforts of party candidates without constraints on their expenditure limits.
Regulatory Considerations
- The exemption is contingent upon star campaigners limiting their activities to general party campaigning.
- If, during any rally or meeting, a star campaigner explicitly solicits votes for specific candidates or shares the platform with them, the expenses incurred for such events will be attributed to the election expenditure of the respective candidates.
- Boarding and lodging expenses accrued by star campaigners while campaigning for particular candidates will be included in the expenditure accounts of those candidates, regardless of who pays for them.
- If candidates accompany star campaigners during travel, 50% of the travel expenditure of the star campaigners will also be attributed to those candidates.
5. Issues Surrounding Star Campaigners
- The Election Commission (EC) has issued advisories urging political parties to elevate the level of election discourse to issue-based debates and maintain decorum in campaigning.
- Despite the advisory, star campaigners from various parties have been found guilty of using inappropriate language, resorting to abusive rhetoric against leaders of opposing parties, and appealing to the caste or communal sentiments of voters.
- Instances include the use of inflammatory language by Anurag Thakur and Parvesh Verma of the BJP during the Delhi Assembly election campaign in January 2020, leading to their removal from the list of star campaigners by the EC for violating the Model Code of Conduct.
- In November 2020, the Supreme Court intervened in a case involving the revocation of star campaigner status for Kamal Nath of the Congress party by the EC. The court stayed the EC's order, asserting that the EC lacked the authority to take such actions.
Expenditure Assessment Discrepancies
- There are concerns regarding the assessment of expenditure incurred during rallies or meetings of star campaigners, with reported discrepancies between the assessed and actual expenditure.
- The discrepancy may stem from the use of a rate card by the EC that fails to reflect current market rates for various campaign-related items.
- As a result, the apportionment of expenditure to contesting candidates is lower than it should be, potentially distorting the transparency and fairness of electoral spending assessments.
6. Proposed Actions for Reform
- The existing provision in the RP Act granting political parties the authority to appoint or revoke the appointment of star campaigners should be reconsidered.
- Amend the law to empower the Election Commission (EC) to revoke the 'star campaigner' status of a leader in the event of serious violations of the Model Code of Conduct.
- This amendment would enable the EC, as the highest authority vested with the superintendence and control of elections under Article 324 of the Constitution, to take decisive action against offenders, potentially depriving party candidates of expenditure relief for their campaigns.
- By granting the EC the authority to revoke 'star campaigner' status, a heightened sense of responsibility would be instilled among leaders, encouraging them to adhere to campaign decorum and restraint.
Enhancing Expense Assessment
- Efforts should be made to enhance the accuracy and robustness of the assessment and apportionment of rally/meeting expenses where star campaigners actively campaign for particular candidates.
- Develop more robust methodologies for assessing campaign expenses, ensuring that they accurately reflect the actual costs incurred during rallies and meetings.
- Update rate cards used by the EC to reflect current market rates for various campaign-related expenses, preventing understatement and ensuring fairness in expense apportionment.
7. Way Forward
By implementing the measures, stakeholders can work towards enhancing the integrity of election campaigns, promoting fair and transparent electoral processes, and upholding democratic values.
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For Prelims: Star Campaigners, Election commission of India, Represenation of People Act, National Praties, State Parties, Registerd Parties, Article 324, Model Code of Conduct
For Mains:
1. Explain the concept of 'star campaigners' in Indian politics. What role do they play during election campaigns? Discuss the regulatory framework governing the activities of star campaigners. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. 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 recognised 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 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
3. Consider the following statements : (UPSC CSE 2021)
1. The Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms of 1919 recommended granting voting rights to all women above the age of 21.
2. The Government of India Act of 1935 gave women reserved seats in the legislature.
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
Answers: 1-D, 2-B, 3-B Mains 1. In the light of recent controversy regarding the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVM), what are the challenges before the Election Commission of India to ensure the trustworthiness of elections in India? (UPSC 2018) |
Source: The Hindu
DIRECT TAXES
1. Context
Government’s net direct tax collections, after adjusting for refunds, grew 17.7 per cent year-on-year to Rs 19.58 lakh crore in financial year 2023-24, exceeding the revised estimate of Rs 19.45 lakh crore by 0.67 per cent, as per the provisional estimates released by the Ministry of Finance
2. What is a Direct Tax?
A direct tax is one that is levied directly on an individual or organization's income, wealth, or property. The taxpayer bears the burden of the tax and cannot easily shift it to someone else. In contrast, an indirect tax is levied on a transaction, such as a sale of goods or services, and often gets passed on to the consumer in the final price.
Here are some common examples of direct taxes:
- Income tax: This is a tax on the income earned by individuals and businesses.
- Property tax: This is a tax on the value of real estate or other property.
- Wealth tax: This is a tax on the total value of a person's assets. (Less common than income and property tax)
- Inheritance tax: This is a tax on the value of assets that are inherited from a deceased person.
3. What is the difference between direct tax and indirect tax?
| Subject | Direct Tax | Indirect Tax |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Taxes imposed directly on individuals or entities. | Taxes imposed on goods and services rather than on individuals or entities directly. |
| Burden | Cannot be shifted; borne by the taxpayer. | Initially borne by the seller or producer, but can be shifted to the end consumer through higher prices. |
| Examples | Income tax, property tax, wealth tax, capital gains tax. | Sales tax, value-added tax (VAT), excise duty, customs duty, goods and services tax (GST). |
| Progressivity | Usually progressive; tax rate increases as taxable amount increases. | Not inherently progressive; applied uniformly regardless of income level. |
4. What are the components of direct tax?
Direct taxes typically consist of several components, each targeting different sources of income or assets.
The main components of direct taxes include:
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Income Tax: This is the tax imposed on an individual's or entity's income, including wages, salaries, interest, dividends, rental income, and other sources of income. Income tax rates may vary depending on the level of income and other factors.
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Corporate Tax: Corporations are subject to corporate income tax on their profits. This tax is levied on the earnings of corporations and business entities.
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Capital Gains Tax: This tax is levied on the profit earned from the sale of assets such as stocks, bonds, real estate, and other investments. The tax rate may vary depending on how long the asset was held before being sold.
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Property Tax: Property tax is imposed on the value of real estate properties owned by individuals or entities. It is typically assessed annually by local governments based on the assessed value of the property.
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Wealth Tax: Some countries levy a tax on the net wealth or assets owned by individuals or entities above a certain threshold. This tax is often based on the total value of assets such as real estate, investments, cash, and other valuables.
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Inheritance Tax (Estate Tax): This tax is imposed on the transfer of assets from a deceased person to their heirs or beneficiaries. It is based on the value of the inherited assets and may vary depending on the relationship between the deceased and the heir, as well as the size of the estate
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Income tax is part of direct tax or indirect tax?
Income tax is a component of direct tax. It is imposed directly on individuals or entities based on their income. The burden of income tax cannot be shifted to someone else; it is the responsibility of the taxpayer to pay the tax on their earnings. Therefore, income tax falls under the category of direct taxes
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5.What is the tax structure in India?
India's tax structure has three tiers: central government, state governments, and local municipal bodies. Each tier levies specific taxes. Here's a breakdown:
| Level | Taxes Levied |
|---|---|
| Central Government | * Income Tax * Corporation Tax * Goods and Services Tax (CGST) * Customs Duty * Central Excise Duty (phased out with GST) |
| State Governments | * Value Added Tax (VAT) (replaced by GST for most goods and services) * State Excise Duty * Professional Tax * Land Revenue * Stamp Duty * Income tax on agricultural income (rare) |
| Local Municipal Bodies | * Property Tax * Octroi (mostly abolished) * Entertainment Tax (varies by state) * Local service taxes |
Key Components:
- Direct Taxes: Income tax, corporate tax, wealth tax (not very common).
- Indirect Taxes: Goods and Services Tax (GST), customs duty, excise duty (mostly replaced by GST), VAT (mostly replaced by GST), sales tax (varies by state).
GST (Goods and Services Tax): Introduced in 2017, GST is a major reform that applies a single tax on the supply of goods and services across the country. It has replaced a multitude of indirect taxes, simplifying the tax system. GST has three components:
- CGST: Central Goods and Services Tax (collected by central government)
- SGST: State Goods and Services Tax (collected by state government)
- IGST: Integrated Goods and Services Tax (levied on inter-state transactions, collected by central government)
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Net direct tax collections had stood at Rs 16.64 lakh crore in the preceding financial year 2022-23. Refunds stood at Rs 3.79 lakh crore in FY24, an increase of 22.74 per cent over the refunds of Rs 3.09 lakh crore issued in FY23
Income tax collections continued to be higher than corporate tax collections. Gross corporate tax collection (provisional) in FY24 was Rs 11.32 lakh crore, a growth of 13.06 per cent over Rs 10 lakh crore collected in the preceding year, while the net corporate tax collection stood at Rs 9.11 lakh crore, up 10.26 per cent from Rs 8.26 lakh crore in the previous financial year
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6. What is the net direct tax?
"Net direct tax" typically refers to the total amount of direct taxes collected by a government after accounting for any refunds or rebates.
To calculate the net direct tax, you would start with the gross direct tax collections, which is the total amount of direct taxes collected from individuals and entities. Then, any refunds or rebates issued to taxpayers would be subtracted from the gross collections to arrive at the net direct tax.
The net direct tax collection is an important indicator of a government's revenue from direct taxes and its effectiveness in tax administration. It reflects the actual amount of revenue that the government receives from direct taxes after adjusting for any refunds or adjustments made to taxpayers
7. Major tax reforms in India
India has undergone several major tax reforms over the years to simplify the tax structure, improve compliance, and boost economic growth.
Some of the significant tax reforms in India include:
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Goods and Services Tax (GST): One of the most significant tax reforms in India, GST was introduced on July 1, 2017, replacing a complex system of indirect taxes including VAT, service tax, excise duty, and others. GST is a destination-based tax levied on the supply of goods and services, aimed at creating a unified national market, eliminating cascading effects of taxes, and streamlining tax administration.
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Direct Tax Code (DTC): The Direct Tax Code was proposed to replace the existing Income Tax Act, 1961, with a simplified, modernized, and taxpayer-friendly direct tax regime. Although the DTC has not been implemented in its entirety, certain provisions and reforms proposed in the code have been incorporated into the existing tax laws to improve efficiency and reduce litigation.
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Reduction in Corporate Tax Rates: In September 2019, the Indian government announced significant cuts in corporate tax rates to boost investment, promote economic growth, and make Indian industry globally competitive. The corporate tax rate for domestic companies was reduced from 30% to 22%, and for new manufacturing companies incorporated after October 1, 2019, the tax rate was further reduced to 15%.
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Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act: The Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act was enacted in 1988 to prohibit benami transactions and provide for confiscation of benami properties. In 2016, the government amended the Act to make it more stringent and effective in curbing black money and undisclosed income.
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Demonetization: In November 2016, the Indian government announced the demonetization of high-denomination currency notes (Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000) to curb black money, corruption, and counterfeiting. The demonetization move was accompanied by various measures to promote digital transactions and increase tax compliance.
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Introduction of Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC): The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code was introduced in 2016 to provide a comprehensive framework for the resolution of insolvency and bankruptcy cases in a time-bound manner. The IBC aims to promote ease of doing business, protect the interests of creditors and investors, and facilitate the resolution of stressed assets
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For Prelims: Economic and Social Development-Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector Initiatives, etc.
For Mains: GSIII: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment
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Previous Year Questions
1.Enumerate the indirect taxes which have been subsumed in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in India. Also, comment on the revenue implications of the GST introduced in India since July 2017. (UPC CSE GS III 2019)
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Source: Indianexpress
