PUBLIC INTEREST LITIGATION (PIL)
Public Interest Litigation (PIL) covers a wide range of matters that are entertained by courts to address issues affecting the public interest.
Here are some common categories of matters that are often entertained under PIL:
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Environmental Protection: Cases related to pollution control, deforestation, conservation of natural resources, protection of wildlife, and sustainable development.
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Human Rights Violations: Cases involving violations of fundamental rights, such as police brutality, custodial torture, discrimination based on race, gender, or religion, and protection of the rights of marginalized communities.
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Corruption and Governance: PIL can be used to address issues of corruption in government institutions, misuse of public funds, lack of transparency, and accountability in governance.
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Public Health: Matters concerning access to healthcare services, sanitation, vaccination programs, and public health infrastructure.
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Consumer Rights: Cases related to product safety, misleading advertising, unfair trade practices, and protection of consumer rights.
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Education: PIL can address issues related to access to education, quality of education, implementation of government policies in education, and discrimination in educational institutions.
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Social Welfare: Matters concerning welfare schemes for disadvantaged groups, implementation of social welfare programs, and protection of the rights of vulnerable populations such as children, women, and the elderly.
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Urban Development and Planning: Cases related to illegal construction, encroachment on public land, urban sprawl, and planning violations.
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Media Freedom: Cases concerning freedom of speech and expression, censorship, media regulations, and protection of journalists' rights.
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Public Safety and Security: Matters related to disaster management, fire safety, road safety, and measures to ensure public safety and security.
The genesis and evolution of Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in India can be traced back to the 1970s when the Supreme Court of India expanded the scope of locus standi (the right to bring legal action) to allow individuals and organizations to file cases on behalf of those who are unable to approach the court due to social, economic, or other disabilities.
Here are some landmark judgments that played a crucial role in the development of PIL in India:
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S.P. Gupta v. Union of India (1981): This case, commonly known as the "Judges Transfer case," is considered a landmark in the evolution of PIL in India. The Supreme Court held that any member of the public or social action group could approach the court seeking enforcement of public duties. The court also recognized the concept of "epistolary jurisdiction," allowing letters or postcards addressed to the court to be treated as writ petitions.
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Bandhua Mukti Morcha v. Union of India (1984): In this case, the Supreme Court addressed the issue of bonded labor in various industries and held that Article 21 (Right to Life) of the Constitution includes the right to live with dignity. The court issued guidelines for the rehabilitation of bonded laborers and directed the government to take necessary measures for their release and rehabilitation.
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Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan (1997): This case dealt with the issue of sexual harassment at the workplace. The Supreme Court laid down guidelines, known as the Vishaka Guidelines, for preventing and redressing sexual harassment at workplaces. The court held that it is the duty of the employer to provide a safe working environment for women employees.
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MC Mehta v. Union of India (1986): In this case, the Supreme Court addressed the issue of pollution in the Ganga river. The court issued several directions to control pollution and ensure the cleanliness of the river. This case led to the establishment of the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) to oversee the conservation and management of the Ganga river.
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M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (1996): This case, commonly known as the "Oleum Gas Leak case," involved a gas leak from a factory in Delhi. The Supreme Court held that the "polluter pays" principle applies, and directed the factory to pay compensation to the victims of the gas leak. The court also laid down guidelines for the handling of hazardous substances to prevent similar incidents in the future
- Traditionally, only aggrieved parties had the standing to approach the court. However, the Supreme Court of India broadened the concept of locus standi to allow any individual or organization to file PIL on behalf of those who are unable to approach the court due to social, economic, or other disabilities. This expansive interpretation increased access to justice for marginalized groups and encouraged the filing of PILs
- The growth of civil society organizations, NGOs, and social activists in India has raised awareness about various social, environmental, and governance issues. These groups play a significant role in initiating PILs and mobilizing public support for legal interventions to address public interest concerns
- The Indian judiciary, particularly the Supreme Court, has shown a proactive approach in addressing socio-economic and environmental issues through PILs. The judiciary's willingness to intervene in matters of public interest and provide remedies has encouraged the filing of PILs by individuals and organizations
- In many cases, PILs are filed when executive or legislative institutions fail to address pressing issues adequately. When there is a perceived lack of action or inefficiency on the part of the government, PILs serve as a mechanism to hold authorities accountable and seek judicial intervention
- The Indian Constitution enshrines principles of social justice, equality, and the protection of fundamental rights. PILs serve as a means to enforce these constitutional mandates and ensure that government actions are consistent with constitutional principles
- The role of the media in highlighting social issues and bringing them to the public's attention cannot be overstated. Media coverage often serves as a catalyst for PILs by generating public interest and support for legal interventions
- The growth of PIL in India is also influenced by global legal trends and precedents. Indian courts often refer to international conventions, treaties, and judgments from other jurisdictions when adjudicating PIL cases, contributing to the evolution of PIL jurisprudence in the country
- PILs can be filed in any court of law, including the Supreme Court, High Courts, and lower courts. The relatively simple procedural requirements and the availability of pro bono legal assistance encourage individuals and organizations to approach the courts with public interest concerns
In India, Public Interest Litigation (PIL) can be filed by any individual, organization, or group of persons acting in the public interest. Unlike traditional litigation where only aggrieved parties have the standing to file cases, PIL allows any concerned citizen or entity to approach the court on behalf of those who may be unable to do so due to social, economic, or other disabilities.
Here are some examples of who can file a PIL:
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Individual Citizens: Any individual citizen who has a genuine concern about an issue affecting the public interest can file a PIL. They do not need to have a direct personal interest in the matter but must demonstrate that the issue has broader societal implications.
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Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): NGOs working in areas such as human rights, environmental conservation, consumer protection, and social welfare often file PILs to address systemic issues and advocate for policy changes.
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Social Activists: Social activists who are passionate about specific causes or issues may file PILs to bring attention to violations of rights, corruption, environmental degradation, or other matters of public concern.
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Lawyers and Legal Aid Organizations: Lawyers and legal aid organizations often take up PILs on behalf of marginalized communities or disadvantaged groups who lack access to justice or resources to pursue legal remedies.
As for whom a PIL can be filed against, there are various potential respondents, including:
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Government Authorities: PILs can be filed against government authorities at the central, state, or local levels for their failure to perform their duties, violation of laws, or infringement of fundamental rights.
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Private Entities: PILs can also be filed against private entities, such as corporations, businesses, or individuals, if their actions or policies have a significant impact on public interest or violate legal provisions.
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Public Institutions: PILs can target public institutions like regulatory bodies, educational institutions, or healthcare facilities if they are not fulfilling their mandated roles or if there are systemic issues affecting public welfare.
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Other Entities: PILs can be directed against any entity whose actions or omissions have a bearing on the public interest, including environmental polluters, public utilities, or entities involved in unethical practices
- One of the significant challenges is the filing of frivolous PILs or PILs with mala fide intentions. Some PILs are filed for personal gain, publicity, or to harass opponents rather than addressing genuine public interest concerns. This misuse clogs the judicial system and undermines the credibility of PILs
- There is often a lack of proper screening mechanisms to filter out frivolous or politically motivated PILs at the initial stage. As a result, courts may waste time and resources hearing PILs that do not serve the public interest
- PILs require substantial judicial time and resources, which can strain the already overburdened judicial system. The high volume of PILs, coupled with lengthy court proceedings, may lead to delays in the disposal of cases and affect the timely delivery of justice
- While PIL allows any concerned citizen or organization to approach the court, there can be challenges related to the standing and locus standi of the petitioner. Courts often grapple with determining whether the petitioner has a genuine interest in the matter and whether they are the appropriate party to bring the case
- Although PIL is intended to provide access to justice for marginalized groups, there can still be significant costs associated with legal proceedings, including court fees, lawyer fees, and other expenses. This can deter individuals or organizations with limited resources from filing PILs
- In some cases, PILs may encroach upon the domain of the executive and legislative branches of government, leading to tensions between the judiciary and other arms of the state. While the judiciary plays a crucial role in upholding constitutional values, excessive judicial activism through PILs can disrupt the balance of power between the branches of government
- There are concerns that judicial activism through PILs may lead to judicial overreach, where courts venture into areas that are traditionally within the purview of the executive or legislature. This can raise questions about the separation of powers and the democratic legitimacy of judicial interventions
KUKI INSURGENCY
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The people of Manipur are grouped into three main ethnic communities – Meiteis those inhabiting the valley and 29 major tribes in the hills dividing into two main ethno-denominations, namely Nagas and Kuki-Chins
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In 2012, the groups held a nearly eight month long blockade of highways around their area, costing the Government a couple of crores in losses each day.
Source: indianexpress
WAQF ACT
- In Islamic law, a waqf refers to property dedicated to God for religious or charitable purposes. This can include any type of property, either movable or immovable, that is set aside for the benefit of the public, serving as an act of piety that enables Muslims to continue their charitable contributions even after death.
- A waqf can be created through a formal document, or property may be recognized as waqf if it has been consistently used for religious or charitable purposes over time. The income generated from such properties is usually directed towards the upkeep of mosques, funding educational institutions, or aiding the needy.
- Once a property is designated as waqf, it cannot be inherited, sold, or given away. Non-Muslims are also permitted to establish a waqf, provided the purpose aligns with Islamic values.
- In India, waqfs are governed by the 1995 Act. The identification and delineation of waqf properties are carried out by a survey conducted by the State government.
- A survey commissioner, appointed under this Act, identifies these properties through local inquiries, witness statements, and examination of public records. Once identified, the properties are listed in the State’s official gazette, and a record is maintained by the State Waqf Board.
- Each waqf is managed by a mutawalli (caretaker) responsible for its administration. While waqfs are similar to trusts under the Indian Trusts Act of 1882, unlike trusts, waqfs cannot be dissolved by a Board
- The 1995 Act creates Waqf Boards in each State, responsible for overseeing the management of waqf properties within their respective areas. These Boards are legally recognized entities, enabling them to initiate or face legal action.
- Each State Waqf Board is led by a chairperson and includes one or two representatives from the State government, Muslim legislators, acknowledged Islamic scholars, and mutawallis (caretakers) of the waqfs.
- The Act also requires the appointment of a full-time Chief Executive Officer for each Board, who must be a practicing Muslim and hold a rank equivalent to at least a Deputy Secretary in the State government.
- The Waqf Board is empowered to manage waqf properties and undertake actions to reclaim lost assets. It also has the authority to approve the transfer of immovable waqf properties through sale, gift, mortgage, exchange, or lease, but such transactions require the consent of at least two-thirds of the Board members.
- The 2013 amendments to the 1995 Act further enhanced the Board's powers, making it almost impossible to sell waqf properties, as neither the mutawalli nor the Board is permitted to sell such property.
- In addition to the State Waqf Boards, the legislation also establishes the Central Waqf Council, a national advisory body under the Ministry of Minority Affairs.
- This Council ensures consistent administration of waqf properties across the country and is chaired by the Union Minister of Minority Affairs.
- The Council also advises the Union government on waqf-related matters, including policy formulation, implementation of waqf laws, and the resolution of inter-state disputes
- The definition of ‘waqf’ has been revised under the new Bill. Now, only lawful property owners who have practiced Islam for at least five years are permitted to establish waqf properties through formal deeds.
- This change eliminates the concept of ‘waqf by use,’ which allowed a property to be considered waqf based on its usage, even if the original deed was contested. Historically, waqf properties were often designated orally until formal documentation became more common.
- To prevent fraudulent claims of waqf status, the Bill stipulates that any government property identified or declared as waqf, either before or after the enactment of this Act, will not be recognized as waqf property. The law also allows widows, divorced women, and orphans to benefit from waqf proceeds.
- The responsibility for surveying waqf properties, previously handled by survey commissioners under the 1995 Act, will now be transferred to district collectors or officers of equivalent rank under the new Bill.
- To enhance the accuracy of waqf property records, the Bill proposes the establishment of a centralized registration system. All information regarding waqf properties must be uploaded to this portal within six months of the law’s enactment, and any new waqf property registrations must be submitted through this portal to the Waqf Boards.
- Additionally, the Bill removes section 40, which previously allowed waqf tribunals to determine whether a property qualifies as waqf. Instead, the district collector is now designated as the final authority on such matters.
- Once a decision is made, the collector must update the revenue records and report to the State government. Importantly, the Bill states that the disputed property cannot be treated as waqf property until the collector submits a final report, meaning the Waqf Board cannot take control of the land until the government resolves the issue.
- One of the most debated provisions in the Bill is the proposal to include non-Muslims in key waqf institutions, such as the Central Waqf Council, State Waqf Boards, and waqf tribunals.
- The Bill authorizes the Centre to appoint three Members of Parliament (two from the Lok Sabha and one from the Rajya Sabha) to the Central Waqf Council without requiring them to be Muslims. Previously, under the 1995 Act, these MPs had to be from the Muslim community.
- The new Bill also mandates that State Waqf Boards must include two non-Muslims and two women as members. The composition of waqf tribunals has been altered from a three-member body to a two-member body, consisting of a district judge and an officer of joint secretary rank to the State government.
- The proposed law requires tribunals to resolve disputes within six months, with a possible six-month extension.
- Furthermore, the Bill gives the Centre the authority to “direct the audit of any waqf at any time by an auditor appointed by the Comptroller and Auditor-General of India, or by any officer designated by the Central Government for that purpose.”
- The Waqf Boards are required to audit their accounts annually, selecting auditors from a panel formed by the State governments. Mutawallis who fail to maintain proper accounts will face penalties.
- The proposed law also allows courts to intervene in waqf disputes by removing the finality of waqf tribunal decisions, enabling aggrieved parties to appeal directly to the relevant High Court. This measure aims to increase judicial oversight and reduce instances of arbitrary power exercised by Waqf Boards or tribunals
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For Prelims: Waqf board, Amendment process in Parliament
For Mains: GS II - Indian Governance
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NATIONAL DISASTER MANAGEMENT ACT (NDMA)
- NDMA develops national policies and guidelines for disaster management to strengthen the country's ability to respond to and mitigate the effects of disasters
- It coordinates between various government departments, agencies, and stakeholders involved in disaster management, ensuring a cohesive approach to disaster response and recovery
- NDMA oversees the implementation of disaster management plans and provides technical assistance and guidance to state and district authorities
- It focuses on building the capacity of institutions and individuals through training, simulations, and public awareness programs
- NDMA supports research on disaster management practices and technologies to improve preparedness and response strategies
- During a disaster, NDMA plays a key role in mobilizing resources, providing strategic direction, and coordinating relief efforts
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Developing national policies, plans, and guidelines for disaster management, including strategies for disaster risk reduction and response.
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Coordinating with various government agencies, state governments, and other stakeholders to ensure a unified approach to disaster management
- Overseeing the development and implementation of disaster preparedness plans and response strategies. This includes ensuring that resources and personnel are ready for quick deployment during emergencies
- Enhancing the capabilities of institutions and individuals involved in disaster management through training, exercises, and simulations
- Promoting disaster awareness and educating the public on how to prepare for and respond to disasters. This includes campaigns and community outreach programs.
- Supporting research and development in disaster management practices, technologies, and methodologies to improve resilience and response strategies.
- Ensuring the effective management of resources needed for disaster response, including financial resources, equipment, and personnel
- Monitoring the implementation of disaster management plans and evaluating their effectiveness. This involves assessing the performance of disaster management activities and making necessary adjustments
- Integrating disaster management considerations into national and state development plans to reduce vulnerability and enhance resilience
- Providing technical support and guidance to state and local authorities to strengthen their disaster management capabilities and ensure that they align with national standards and practices.
The amendment Bill acknowledges the need for improvements and proposes several key changes to enhance the effectiveness of the Act:
- Urban Disaster Management Authorities: While disaster management structures already exist at the district level, the Bill recognizes that large metropolitan areas, which often span multiple districts, have unique needs. It proposes establishing Urban Disaster Management Authorities in all state capitals and cities with municipal corporations, led by the municipal commissioner. This aims to ensure a coordinated approach to city-specific disasters, such as urban flooding.
- State Disaster Response Force (SDRF): Although many states have developed disaster response forces similar to the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the 2005 Act does not mandate the formation of SDRFs. The Bill seeks to make it compulsory for every state to establish and maintain an SDRF.
- National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC): Currently operational and headed by the Cabinet Secretary, the NCMC manages national emergencies, including disasters. The Bill proposes granting the NCMC legal status, establishing it as the central body for addressing disasters with significant or national impacts.
- Enhanced Role of NDMA: The Bill suggests expanding the National Disaster Management Authority's (NDMA) role and responsibilities. NDMA will be tasked with regularly reviewing the full spectrum of disaster risks, including those from emerging threats.
- Disaster Databases: NDMA will be required to develop and maintain a national disaster database, covering disaster assessments, fund allocation, expenditures, and preparedness plans. Similarly, State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs) will need to establish state-level disaster databases.
- Compensations: The Bill proposes that NDMA set guidelines for minimum relief standards for disaster-affected individuals. This includes recommendations on compensation for loss of life, property damage, and livelihood losses.
- Man-made Disasters: The Bill clarifies the definition of disasters, specifying that “man-made causes” exclude law-and-order situations. For instance, damage and loss during riots will not fall under the Act's provisions.
- Absence of Vice-Chairperson: Although the NDMA is chaired by the Prime Minister, the vice-chairperson position, meant to oversee daily operations, has been vacant for about ten years. The Bill aims to formalize this role by allowing the chairperson or vice-chairperson to designate any member to handle daily responsibilities
- The NDMP provides a comprehensive and strategic framework for managing disasters across the country. It outlines the policies, procedures, and responsibilities for disaster management, ensuring a coordinated and effective response
- The plan includes guidelines for identifying, assessing, and managing various types of disaster risks. It helps in understanding potential hazards, vulnerabilities, and the capacity to cope with disasters, allowing for better preparedness and mitigation strategies.
- NDMP facilitates coordination among different government agencies, state governments, and other stakeholders involved in disaster management. It integrates efforts across various levels of government and sectors, promoting a unified approach to disaster response
- The plan emphasizes the importance of disaster preparedness and response measures. It sets out protocols for early warning systems, evacuation procedures, emergency response teams, and resource mobilization to ensure a swift and organized reaction during a disaster.
- NDMP helps in the efficient allocation and utilization of resources for disaster management. It provides guidelines on budgeting, funding, and resource management, ensuring that adequate resources are available for disaster response and recovery
- The plan outlines strategies for building the capacity of institutions, organizations, and individuals involved in disaster management. This includes training, capacity development programs, and simulation exercises to enhance preparedness and response capabilities.
- NDMP promotes public awareness and education on disaster preparedness and risk reduction. It encourages community involvement and provides information on how individuals and communities can protect themselves and respond effectively to disasters.
- The plan includes guidelines for recovery and rehabilitation efforts post-disaster. It focuses on restoring normalcy, rebuilding infrastructure, and providing support to affected communities to help them recover and rebuild their lives
- NDMP establishes mechanisms for monitoring and evaluating disaster management activities. It helps in assessing the effectiveness of disaster response measures, identifying gaps, and making necessary improvements to enhance future disaster management efforts.
- Effective disaster management requires coordination among various government departments, state authorities, and non-governmental organizations. The NDMA often faces difficulties in ensuring seamless cooperation and communication among these diverse stakeholders
- Adequate allocation and efficient management of resources, including financial, human, and material resources, can be challenging. Ensuring that resources are distributed effectively and reach the areas in need, especially during a crisis, is a persistent issue
- Building the capacity of disaster management teams at various levels and providing adequate training is an ongoing challenge. Ensuring that local and state-level authorities are well-prepared and equipped to handle disasters requires continuous effort and investment
- Raising public awareness about disaster preparedness and risk reduction is crucial but challenging. Many communities, especially in vulnerable regions, lack awareness or have inadequate preparedness measures, which can hinder effective disaster response
- Incorporating new technologies and innovations into disaster management practices is necessary for improving response and recovery. However, the adoption of advanced technologies and systems can be slow due to budget constraints, technical challenges, and resistance to change
- Rapid urbanization and environmental changes pose significant challenges to disaster management. Cities and regions experiencing rapid growth may face increased risks and vulnerabilities, requiring updated and adaptive management strategies.
- Ensuring sufficient funding for disaster management initiatives and maintaining budget allocations can be challenging. Financial constraints may limit the implementation of comprehensive disaster management plans and the development of necessary infrastructure.
- Effective disaster management relies on accurate data and timely analysis. Collecting and analyzing data related to disaster risks, response efforts, and recovery progress can be complex and resource-intensive
- India faces a wide range of natural and man-made disasters, including floods, earthquakes, cyclones, and industrial accidents. Developing and implementing effective strategies for managing this diverse range of disasters can be challenging
- Ensuring that the legal and institutional frameworks for disaster management are up-to-date and effective is essential. The NDMA must navigate complex legal and administrative structures while advocating for necessary reforms and updates.
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For Prelims: Current events of national and international importance
For Mains: GS-III: Disaster Management
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INDIAN SPACE RESEARCH ORGANISATION (ISRO)
- India possesses four launch vehicles: the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), and the Launch Vehicle Mark-III (LVM-3).
- These rockets are capable of deploying satellites weighing up to four tonnes into geosynchronous orbit. For payloads heavier than four tonnes, India relies on foreign launch vehicles such as Europe’s Ariane V and SpaceX’s Falcon 9.
- India currently operates a diverse fleet of satellites used for telecommunications, remote sensing, positioning, navigation, meteorology, disaster management, space-based internet, scientific research, and experimental missions. Launch vehicles are crucial for upcoming space missions like Chandrayaan 3 and Aditya L1
- All these launch vehicles will require satellites for deployment. Larger vehicles can support national objectives such as lunar exploration and establishing a space station, while ISRO can utilize smaller satellites for technology demonstrations and capability showcases. However, these smaller satellite missions will constitute only a minority of launches.
- Satellites have finite mission durations. As they age, the need arises to replace them with newer models, thereby generating ongoing demand for launch services.
- However, operators prefer extending satellite lifespans through software and hardware upgrades, complicating predictions regarding the quantity and frequency of required launches.
- Launch vehicle technology is also advancing. For instance, the PSLV can deploy multiple satellites into diverse orbits in a single launch. Increasingly, rocket stages are being designed for reusability, lowering production costs and enhancing economic viability. ISRO is developing Reusable Launch Vehicle and vertical landing technologies to facilitate stage reusability.
- Additionally, efforts are underway to transition rocket engines from traditional toxic fuels to environmentally friendly alternatives
- The Indian space program previously operated on a supply-driven model, where ISRO would develop and launch satellites first, then seek customers requiring satellite services. In 2019-2020, the Indian government reformed the space sector to adopt a demand-driven approach.
- Now, satellites are only built and launched if there is existing demand for their services. This shift may have contributed to the challenges highlighted by Mr. Somanath.
- This has created a dilemma where potential customers of satellite services must first recognize the need for these services. Once demand is established, it prompts the creation and launch of satellites, addressing the demand Mr. Somanath referenced.
- Consider the example of space-based internet services.
- For such services to succeed in a country already well-served by affordable fiber and mobile internet, companies must educate potential users about the benefits of space-based connectivity. This education process creates the demand that prompts companies to launch satellite constellations into orbit to provide these services.
- Without well-informed customers, ISRO's anticipated demand levels will not materialize. These customers include not only consumers of space-based internet but also businesses, government agencies, defense establishments, and everyday individuals such as farmers and bankers. Therefore, substantial efforts are needed to educate a wide range of stakeholders.
- Another area likely to drive future demand is human spaceflight, encompassing human-rated launch vehicles for transporting humans and supplies to orbital destinations like space stations or the moon. Additionally, there may eventually be demand for space tourism
- India’s current launch vehicles lack the necessary power for certain missions, such as Chandrayaan 4. China successfully launched its Chang’e 4 and Chang’e 5 missions using the Long March 5, demonstrating its capability to handle such missions in a single launch. In contrast, India’s LVM-3 has less than one-third of the Long March 5’s capacity (specifically 28%) and would require two LVM-3 launches to deploy all components of Chandrayaan 4.
- To enhance capability, ISRO plans to upgrade the LVM-3 with a semi-cryogenic engine to increase its payload capacity to six tonnes for geostationary transfer orbit (GTO) missions. Additionally, ISRO envisions developing a new launch vehicle, known as the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) or Project Soorya, capable of lifting 10 tonnes to GTO. However, funding for this project remains in the proposal stage. Variants of this launch vehicle are anticipated to further augment its lifting capacity.
- Furthermore, India requires another successful launch of the SSLV to bolster confidence in its capability to launch smaller satellites, typically experimental or university-built. Success in this arena would encourage space companies to develop larger satellites, potentially increasing demand for launch services
- All these launch vehicles will require satellites for deployment. Larger vehicles can support national objectives such as lunar exploration and establishing a space station, while ISRO can utilize smaller satellites for technology demonstrations and capability showcases. However, these smaller satellite missions will constitute only a minority of launches.
- Satellites have finite mission durations. As they age, the need arises to replace them with newer models, thereby generating ongoing demand for launch services. However, operators prefer extending satellite lifespans through software and hardware upgrades, complicating predictions regarding the quantity and frequency of required launches.
- Launch vehicle technology is also advancing. For instance, the PSLV can deploy multiple satellites into diverse orbits in a single launch.
- Increasingly, rocket stages are being designed for reusability, lowering production costs and enhancing economic viability. ISRO is developing Reusable Launch Vehicle and vertical landing technologies to facilitate stage reusability.
- Additionally, efforts are underway to transition rocket engines from traditional toxic fuels to environmentally friendly alternatives
- The Indian government aims for the private sector to stimulate demand among customers and take charge of satellite development and launches.
- It encourages private companies to identify and offer services both domestically and internationally, while also generating revenue through its own launch services. Additionally, the government aims to enhance skills and create job opportunities for workers.
- However, private companies prefer the government to act as a customer rather than a direct competitor in the launch industry. They seek the government to establish reliable regulations and enforce the rule of law.
- Private players seek a steady revenue stream, which the Indian government can provide over the long term. There is discussion about the government serving as an 'anchor customer' to support companies in their early stages.
- The strategy involves the government eventually stepping back from the launch vehicle sector, leaving sufficient demand for launch services with private companies.
- This mirrors the approach in the U.S., where government agencies like NASA contract with SpaceX, Blue Origin, and others for satellite launches.
- Therefore, the Indian government plans to absorb the transition costs from a supply-driven to a demand-driven satellite and launch vehicle development model. However, it has yet to educate its own ministries and establish some of the foundational demand for satellites and launch vehicles
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For Prelims: PSLV, GSLV, GSLV Mk-III, SSLV
For Mains: GS III- Science & Technology- Satellite Applications, Challenges and Solutions
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Previous Year Questions
1. With reference to India's satellite launch vehicles, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2018)
1. PSLVs launch satellites useful for Earth resources monitoring whereas GSLVs are designed mainly to launch communication satellites.
2. Satellites launched by PSLV appear to remain permanently fixed in the same position in the sky, as viewed from a particular location on Earth.
3. GSLV Mk III is a four- staged launch vehicle with the first and third stages using solid rocket motors; and the second and fourth stages using liquid rocket engines.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3
C. 1 and 2
D. 3 only
Answer: A
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MONETARY POLICY COMMITTEE (MPC)
Monetary policy refers to the actions and strategies undertaken by a country's central bank to control and regulate the supply of money, credit availability, and interest rates in an economy. Its primary goal is to achieve specific economic objectives, such as price stability, full employment, and sustainable economic growth.
Central banks use various tools to implement monetary policy, including:
Interest Rates: Adjusting the interest rates at which banks lend to each other (known as the federal funds rate in the United States) influences borrowing and spending in the economy.
Open Market Operations: Buying or selling government securities in the open market to regulate the money supply. When a central bank buys securities, it injects money into the system, and when it sells them, it reduces the money supply.
Reserve Requirements: Mandating the amount of reserves banks must hold, affecting their ability to lend money.
By influencing the availability and cost of money, central banks aim to stabilize prices, control inflation, encourage or discourage borrowing and spending, and promote economic growth. However, the effectiveness of monetary policy can be influenced by various factors such as global economic conditions, fiscal policies, and market expectations.
3.What is the primary objective of the monetary policy?
The primary objective of monetary policy typically revolves around maintaining price stability or controlling inflation within an economy. Central banks often set an inflation target, aiming to keep it at a moderate and steady level. Stable prices help in fostering confidence in the economy, encouraging investment, and ensuring that the value of money remains relatively constant over time.
However, while controlling inflation is often the primary goal, central banks might also consider other objectives, such as:
Full Employment: Some central banks have a secondary objective of supporting maximum employment or reducing unemployment rates.
Economic Growth: Encouraging sustainable economic growth by managing interest rates and credit availability to stimulate or cool down economic activity.
Exchange Rate Stability: In some cases, maintaining stable exchange rates might be an important consideration, especially for countries with open economies heavily reliant on international trade.
These additional objectives can vary depending on the economic conditions, priorities of the government, and the central bank's mandate. Nonetheless, ensuring price stability is typically the fundamental goal of most monetary policies, as it forms the basis for a healthy and growing economy.
4. Monetary Policy Committee (MPC)
- In line with the amended RBI Act, 1934, Section 45ZB grants authority to the central government to establish a six-member Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) responsible for determining the policy interest rate aimed at achieving the inflation target.
- The inaugural MPC was formed on September 29, 2016. Section 45ZB stipulates that "the Monetary Policy Committee will ascertain the Policy Rate necessary to meet the inflation target" and that "the decisions made by the Monetary Policy Committee will be obligatory for the Bank."
- According to Section 45ZB, the MPC comprises the RBI Governor as the ex officio chairperson, the Deputy Governor overseeing monetary policy, a Bank official nominated by the Central Board, and three individuals appointed by the central government.
- The individuals chosen by the central government must possess "capabilities, ethical standing, expertise, and experience in economics, banking, finance, or monetary policy" (Section 45ZC)
- The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) plays a crucial role in managing inflation through its decisions on the policy interest rate.
- When inflation is too high, the MPC might decide to increase the policy interest rate. This action aims to make borrowing more expensive, which can reduce spending and investment in the economy.
- As a result, it could help decrease demand for goods and services, potentially curbing inflation.
- Conversely, when inflation is too low or the economy needs a boost, the MPC might decrease the policy interest rate.
- This move makes borrowing cheaper, encouraging businesses and individuals to spend and invest more, thus stimulating economic activity and potentially raising inflation closer to the target level.
- The MPC's goal is to use the policy interest rate as a tool to steer inflation toward a target set by the government or central bank.
- By monitoring economic indicators and assessing the current and expected inflation levels, the MPC makes informed decisions to maintain price stability within the economy
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For Prelims: Economic and Social Development
For Mains: General Studies III: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment.
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Previous Year Questions
1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2021)
1. The Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is appointed by the Central Government.
2. Certain provisions in the Constitution of India give the Central Government the right to issue directions to the RBI in the public interest.
3. The Governor of the RBI draws his natural power from the RBI Act.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: C
2. Concerning the Indian economy, consider the following: (UPSC 2015)
Which of the above is/are component(s) of Monetary Policy? (a) 1 only (b) 2, 3 and 4 (c) 1 and 2 (d) 1, 3 and 4 Answer: C 3. An increase in Bank Rate generally indicates: (UPSC 2013) (a) Market rate of interest is likely to fall. (b) Central bank is no longer making loans to commercial banks. (c) Central bank is following an easy money policy. (d) Central bank is following a tight money policy. Answer: (d) 4. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC)? (UPSC 2017) 1. It decides the RBI's benchmark interest rates. 2. It is a 12-member body including the Governor of RBI and is reconstituted every year. 3. It functions under the chairmanship of the Union Finance Minister. Select the correct answer using the code given below: A. 1 only B. 1 and 2 only C. 3 only D. 2 and 3 only Answer: A |
