HIGH PERFORMANCE BUILDINGS (HPB)
1. Context
High-performance buildings (HPBs) are at the forefront of sustainable construction, tackling urgent needs like energy efficiency, climate resilience and resource conservation. As climate change intensifies, resources become scarcer, and urbanisation increases, HPBs — built to consume less energy, conserve resources, and withstand unpredictable weather — are an important part of achieving and keeping sustainable living
2. About Interactive Design
- High-Performance Buildings (HPBs) emphasize a collaborative design methodology that brings together architects, engineers, sustainability experts, and building owners to establish clear, measurable performance objectives.
- For instance, these objectives could target achieving 90% daylighting in occupied areas or maintaining cooling efficiency at 700 square feet per tonne of air conditioning in commercial spaces.
- This approach ensures seamless integration of all building systems, including air-conditioning, lighting, and structural elements such as walls, roofs, and windows.
- Digital modeling plays a pivotal role by offering a virtual project simulation. This enables the design team to forecast performance outcomes, determine optimal system sizes, and evaluate various strategies.
- By conducting simulations, the team can refine their plans to align with energy efficiency and thermal comfort targets before construction begins. This forward-thinking approach enhances operational efficiency, boosts resilience, and minimizes long-term expenses.
- A notable feature of the integrative design process in HPBs is the early adoption of passive design strategies.
- These involve leveraging natural daylight and utilizing materials with thermal mass to store heat, effectively reducing heating and cooling requirements. This strategy allows designers to select appropriately sized equipment, optimizing energy use
3. Process of making materials sustainable
- Materials for high-performance buildings (HPBs) are selected based on their durability, energy efficiency, and contribution to occupant well-being. These buildings prioritize materials with low embodied carbon—referring to the emissions generated during manufacturing—and high recycled content. To identify the most sustainable options, a life-cycle assessment is often employed to measure a material’s environmental impact over its entire lifespan.
- In addition, HPBs utilize low-emission interior materials to enhance indoor air quality by minimizing the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are harmful substances that readily evaporate into the air. This not only promotes a healthier indoor environment for occupants but also enhances the overall performance of the building.
- For instance, in the development of the Indian Institute of Human Settlements (IIHS) campus in Bengaluru, planners are employing life-cycle cost analysis.
- This approach assesses materials based on factors like comfort, durability, and long-term costs. It also considers how envelope materials impact the sizing of cooling systems and energy consumption over a 50-year period
4. How can buildings use less energy?
- Buildings contribute approximately 40% of the total energy consumption, amounting to 580 million terajoules—or 13,865 million tonnes of oil—over their lifespans, primarily for operational activities. Reducing this energy demand involves implementing both passive and active strategies.
- Passive design approaches leverage natural resources by maximizing daylight, optimizing building orientation, and utilizing thermal mass to minimize dependency on artificial lighting, heating, and cooling systems. These strategies are adapted to the local climate and the specific requirements of the building, ensuring efficient operation without excessive reliance on mechanical systems.
- On the active front, high-performance buildings (HPBs) integrate energy-efficient HVAC systems, lighting, and appliances, complemented by smart technologies such as automated lighting controls and occupancy sensors.
- These innovations enable real-time energy monitoring and optimization. For example, the Infosys Hyderabad campus became India’s first HPB to adopt a radiant cooling HVAC system paired with daylighting controls and task lighting, significantly reducing energy consumption.
- A core objective of HPBs is achieving net-zero or net-positive energy performance, where the building generates as much or more energy than it consumes. This goal is increasingly attainable with advancements in cost-effective solar and wind energy technologies, helping to decrease dependence on fossil fuels
5. Significance of High Performance buildings (HPB)
- Water scarcity remains a pressing challenge across the nation, and high-performance buildings (HPBs) address this issue by focusing on water conservation, reuse, and quality enhancement.
- Features such as low-flow faucets and dual-flush toilets minimize water consumption, while rainwater harvesting systems collect rainwater for non-potable purposes like irrigation and sanitation.
- On-site wastewater treatment further boosts efficiency by recycling greywater for irrigation and treating blackwater using biological solutions such as constructed wetlands or sewage treatment plants.
- HPBs also integrate green infrastructure elements, including permeable paving and bioswales, to manage stormwater effectively and mitigate urban heat island effects.
- For instance, Infosys campuses in India recycle 100% of their wastewater through advanced water management systems, such as aerobic membrane bioreactors, achieving zero-discharge status.
- To ensure optimal performance, HPBs rely on advanced monitoring systems that track real-time metrics like energy use, water consumption, and indoor environmental quality. This data enables facility managers to identify inefficiencies and take corrective measures, while ongoing performance evaluations validate the building’s design and guide future projects.
- An example is the second annex of the Indian Institute of Human Settlements (IIHS) campus in Bengaluru, which uses a network of smart devices and AI-driven controls to optimize thermal regulation and improve efficiency
6. How can HPBs handle climate risks?
- High-performance buildings (HPBs) are designed to endure extreme and unpredictable weather conditions, such as intense heat and flash floods, through strategic site selection and flood prevention measures.
- Their structural resilience is bolstered by the use of durable materials and diversified energy systems, while passive survivability ensures habitability even during power outages.
- Additionally, renewable energy systems provide backup power, and rainwater harvesting combined with on-site water treatment helps maintain water availability during emergencies.
- For instance, the Infosys Crescent building in Bengaluru demonstrates exceptional energy efficiency. Accommodating around 8,000 occupants, it consumes only 75 kWh of energy per square meter annually, compared to the 150-200 kWh typically used by similar office buildings.
- Despite 90% of the space being air-conditioned, the building's advanced cooling system requires just 3 watts per square foot, significantly lower than the usual 4-5 watts in conventional offices. This example highlights how intelligent design can reduce energy usage and costs without inflating construction expenses.
- HPBs are setting new benchmarks for sustainability and resilient architecture in the 21st century. Beyond their environmental benefits and lower operational costs, they also enhance real estate value.
- As the principles behind HPB construction and operation become more widely adopted, the ultimate aim should be to transform all buildings into high-performance structures
7. Way Forward
high-performance buildings (HPBs) represent a transformative approach to modern construction, addressing critical challenges such as climate resilience, energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainable resource use. By integrating innovative design principles, advanced technologies, and environmentally friendly practices, HPBs offer a blueprint for creating structures that are not only efficient and cost-effective but also adaptable to the uncertainties of the future.
As these practices gain wider adoption, HPBs will play a pivotal role in mitigating environmental impacts, enhancing occupant well-being, and setting new standards for sustainable urban development. The ultimate vision should be to transition all buildings towards high performance, fostering a built environment that is both resilient and aligned with global sustainability goals
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For Prelims: Contribution of buildings to global energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, India’s initiatives for green and sustainable buildings (e.g., Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC), Green Building Council)
For Mains: Urbanization and the role of HPBs in creating sustainable cities, Geographic factors influencing building design (e.g., climate-responsive architecture)
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Source: The Hindu
HIGH PERFORMANCE BUILDINGS (HPB)
1. Context
High-performance buildings (HPBs) are at the forefront of sustainable construction, tackling urgent needs like energy efficiency, climate resilience and resource conservation. As climate change intensifies, resources become scarcer, and urbanisation increases, HPBs — built to consume less energy, conserve resources, and withstand unpredictable weather — are an important part of achieving and keeping sustainable living
2. About Interactive Design
- High-Performance Buildings (HPBs) emphasize a collaborative design methodology that brings together architects, engineers, sustainability experts, and building owners to establish clear, measurable performance objectives.
- For instance, these objectives could target achieving 90% daylighting in occupied areas or maintaining cooling efficiency at 700 square feet per tonne of air conditioning in commercial spaces.
- This approach ensures seamless integration of all building systems, including air-conditioning, lighting, and structural elements such as walls, roofs, and windows.
- Digital modeling plays a pivotal role by offering a virtual project simulation. This enables the design team to forecast performance outcomes, determine optimal system sizes, and evaluate various strategies.
- By conducting simulations, the team can refine their plans to align with energy efficiency and thermal comfort targets before construction begins. This forward-thinking approach enhances operational efficiency, boosts resilience, and minimizes long-term expenses.
- A notable feature of the integrative design process in HPBs is the early adoption of passive design strategies.
- These involve leveraging natural daylight and utilizing materials with thermal mass to store heat, effectively reducing heating and cooling requirements. This strategy allows designers to select appropriately sized equipment, optimizing energy use
3. Process of making materials sustainable
- Materials for high-performance buildings (HPBs) are selected based on their durability, energy efficiency, and contribution to occupant well-being. These buildings prioritize materials with low embodied carbon—referring to the emissions generated during manufacturing—and high recycled content. To identify the most sustainable options, a life-cycle assessment is often employed to measure a material’s environmental impact over its entire lifespan.
- In addition, HPBs utilize low-emission interior materials to enhance indoor air quality by minimizing the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are harmful substances that readily evaporate into the air. This not only promotes a healthier indoor environment for occupants but also enhances the overall performance of the building.
- For instance, in the development of the Indian Institute of Human Settlements (IIHS) campus in Bengaluru, planners are employing life-cycle cost analysis.
- This approach assesses materials based on factors like comfort, durability, and long-term costs. It also considers how envelope materials impact the sizing of cooling systems and energy consumption over a 50-year period
4. How can buildings use less energy?
- Buildings contribute approximately 40% of the total energy consumption, amounting to 580 million terajoules—or 13,865 million tonnes of oil—over their lifespans, primarily for operational activities. Reducing this energy demand involves implementing both passive and active strategies.
- Passive design approaches leverage natural resources by maximizing daylight, optimizing building orientation, and utilizing thermal mass to minimize dependency on artificial lighting, heating, and cooling systems. These strategies are adapted to the local climate and the specific requirements of the building, ensuring efficient operation without excessive reliance on mechanical systems.
- On the active front, high-performance buildings (HPBs) integrate energy-efficient HVAC systems, lighting, and appliances, complemented by smart technologies such as automated lighting controls and occupancy sensors.
- These innovations enable real-time energy monitoring and optimization. For example, the Infosys Hyderabad campus became India’s first HPB to adopt a radiant cooling HVAC system paired with daylighting controls and task lighting, significantly reducing energy consumption.
- A core objective of HPBs is achieving net-zero or net-positive energy performance, where the building generates as much or more energy than it consumes. This goal is increasingly attainable with advancements in cost-effective solar and wind energy technologies, helping to decrease dependence on fossil fuels
5. Significance of High Performance buildings (HPB)
- Water scarcity remains a pressing challenge across the nation, and high-performance buildings (HPBs) address this issue by focusing on water conservation, reuse, and quality enhancement.
- Features such as low-flow faucets and dual-flush toilets minimize water consumption, while rainwater harvesting systems collect rainwater for non-potable purposes like irrigation and sanitation.
- On-site wastewater treatment further boosts efficiency by recycling greywater for irrigation and treating blackwater using biological solutions such as constructed wetlands or sewage treatment plants.
- HPBs also integrate green infrastructure elements, including permeable paving and bioswales, to manage stormwater effectively and mitigate urban heat island effects.
- For instance, Infosys campuses in India recycle 100% of their wastewater through advanced water management systems, such as aerobic membrane bioreactors, achieving zero-discharge status.
- To ensure optimal performance, HPBs rely on advanced monitoring systems that track real-time metrics like energy use, water consumption, and indoor environmental quality. This data enables facility managers to identify inefficiencies and take corrective measures, while ongoing performance evaluations validate the building’s design and guide future projects.
- An example is the second annex of the Indian Institute of Human Settlements (IIHS) campus in Bengaluru, which uses a network of smart devices and AI-driven controls to optimize thermal regulation and improve efficiency
6. How can HPBs handle climate risks?
- High-performance buildings (HPBs) are designed to endure extreme and unpredictable weather conditions, such as intense heat and flash floods, through strategic site selection and flood prevention measures.
- Their structural resilience is bolstered by the use of durable materials and diversified energy systems, while passive survivability ensures habitability even during power outages.
- Additionally, renewable energy systems provide backup power, and rainwater harvesting combined with on-site water treatment helps maintain water availability during emergencies.
- For instance, the Infosys Crescent building in Bengaluru demonstrates exceptional energy efficiency. Accommodating around 8,000 occupants, it consumes only 75 kWh of energy per square meter annually, compared to the 150-200 kWh typically used by similar office buildings.
- Despite 90% of the space being air-conditioned, the building's advanced cooling system requires just 3 watts per square foot, significantly lower than the usual 4-5 watts in conventional offices. This example highlights how intelligent design can reduce energy usage and costs without inflating construction expenses.
- HPBs are setting new benchmarks for sustainability and resilient architecture in the 21st century. Beyond their environmental benefits and lower operational costs, they also enhance real estate value.
- As the principles behind HPB construction and operation become more widely adopted, the ultimate aim should be to transform all buildings into high-performance structures
7. Way Forward
high-performance buildings (HPBs) represent a transformative approach to modern construction, addressing critical challenges such as climate resilience, energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainable resource use. By integrating innovative design principles, advanced technologies, and environmentally friendly practices, HPBs offer a blueprint for creating structures that are not only efficient and cost-effective but also adaptable to the uncertainties of the future.
As these practices gain wider adoption, HPBs will play a pivotal role in mitigating environmental impacts, enhancing occupant well-being, and setting new standards for sustainable urban development. The ultimate vision should be to transition all buildings towards high performance, fostering a built environment that is both resilient and aligned with global sustainability goals
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For Prelims: Contribution of buildings to global energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, India’s initiatives for green and sustainable buildings (e.g., Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC), Green Building Council)
For Mains: Urbanization and the role of HPBs in creating sustainable cities, Geographic factors influencing building design (e.g., climate-responsive architecture)
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Source: The Hindu
ILLEGAL AND RETRIBUTIVE DEMOLITIONS OF HOMES
1. Context
The Supreme Court on November 13 underscored that it is unconstitutional to demolish a person’s property without adhering to the due process of law, simply on the grounds of their alleged involvement in a crime. A Bench of Justices B.R. Gavai and K.V. Viswanathan issued a slew of guidelines to prevent illegal and retributive bulldozing of homes and private properties of accused persons by States. Earlier, the top court had extended its interim order halting demolitions across the country without express permission except for encroachments on public land or unauthorised structures.
2. Recent demolitions scenario
- In recent years, several states have witnessed an increasing trend of demolishing homes and private properties belonging to accused individuals. These demolitions have been defended as measures against encroachment or as actions targeting unauthorized constructions.
- The practice gained prominence with the demolition drives in Delhi’s Jahangirpuri following incidents of communal violence.
- This approach later extended to other regions, such as Nuh in Haryana, where clashes between religious groups in 2023 led the local administration to demolish numerous homes in the area.
- Similarly, after communal riots in Khargone, Madhya Pradesh, houses and businesses predominantly owned by Muslims, labeled as “alleged rioters,” were razed.
- A 2024 report by the Housing and Land Rights Network revealed that over 153,820 homes were demolished between 2022 and 2023, resulting in the displacement of more than 738,438 people across urban and rural areas.
- Further, an Amnesty International report from February highlighted that, between April and June 2022, authorities in four BJP-governed states and one AAP-ruled state demolished 128 structures, primarily owned by Muslims.
- The issue reached the courts through a series of petitions challenging the demolition drives in various states. These petitions, consolidated with one filed by Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind opposing the Jahangirpuri demolitions of 2022, led to a significant court ruling.
- On September 2, a two-judge Bench announced plans to establish nationwide guidelines to address these concerns, invoking its authority under Article 142
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Court Ruling
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3. Guidelines
- The court outlined detailed guidelines to enhance institutional accountability while clarifying that these instructions would not apply to unauthorised constructions or demolitions ordered by a court.
- It emphasized that officials involved in unlawful demolitions would face disciplinary actions, contempt proceedings, and monetary fines. Additionally, compensation for wrongful demolitions must be recovered directly from the responsible officials.
- To protect the rights of affected individuals, the court mandated that no demolition drive could proceed without providing at least 15 days' prior notice. This notice, delivered via registered post, should clearly outline the nature of the alleged unauthorised construction, specify the violations, and state the grounds for the proposed action.
- The court further instructed that the property owner must be given a personal hearing, with the discussions duly documented. The final order should address the arguments presented by both parties and determine whether the unauthorised construction can be regularized or if demolition of the entire structure is necessary.
- Before initiating any demolition, a detailed inspection report must be prepared and signed by at least two witnesses.
- Additionally, the court required the authorities to videograph the entire demolition process. A comprehensive demolition report, including the names of all police officials and personnel involved, must be submitted to the Municipal Commissioner and uploaded to a digital platform for public access
4. Way Forward
The ruling is expected to make officials reconsider before unquestioningly executing political directives to demolish homes as a means of making a statement, he observes. He emphasizes that holding government officials personally accountable could act as a significant deterrent. However, there remains some doubt, as a culture of impunity might continue, especially since earlier judicial efforts to establish guidelines on issues such as hate speech and mob lynching have shown limited effectiveness
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For Prelims: Article 142, Supreme Court of India
For Mains: Rule of law, accountability, and social justice
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Source: The Hindu
MINIMUM SUPPORT PRICE
1. Context
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs increased the minimum support price for rabi crops for the next marketing season of 2025-26 with the MSP for wheat going up by ₹150 a quintal.
2. What is the Minimum Support Price (MSP)?
- MSP is the minimum price a farmer must pay for their food grains as guaranteed by the government. They are recommended by the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) and approved by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs.
- The CACP submits its recommendations to the government in the form of Price Policy Reports every year.
- After considering the report and views of the state governments and also keeping in view the overall demand and supply situation in the country, the central government takes the final decision.
- The Food Corporation of India (FCI) is the nodal agency for procurement along with State agencies, at the beginning of the sowing season.
The minimum support price (MSP) is set for 23 crops every year. They include:
- 7 cereals (paddy, wheat, maize, bajra, jowar, ragi, and barley)
- 5 pulses (chana, tur/arhar, moong, urad, and Masur)
- 7 oilseeds (rapeseed-mustard, groundnut, soya bean, sunflower, sesamum, safflower, and Enigerseed) and
- 4 commercial crops (sugarcane, cotton, copra, and raw jute).
3. How MSP is Calculated?
- MSP, presently, is based on a formula of 1.5 times the production costs.
- The CACP projects three kinds of production costs for every crop, both at state and all-India average levels.
- A2 covers all paid-out costs directly incurred by the farmer — in cash and kind — on seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, hired labour, leased-in land, fuel, irrigation, etc.
- A2+FL includes A2 plus an imputed value of unpaid family labour.
- C2: Estimated land rent and the cost of interest on the money taken for farming are added to A2 and FL.
- Farm unions are demanding that a comprehensive cost calculation (C2) must also include capital assets and the rentals and interest forgone on owned land, as recommended by the National Commission for Farmers.
4. The issue with the calculation of MSP
- To calculate MSP, the government uses A2+FL cost. The criticism of A2+FL is that it doesn’t cover all costs and that a more representative measure, C2, needs to be used.
- For example, in the 2017-18 rabi season, CACP data shows that C2 for wheat was 54% higher than A2+FL.
- The Swaminathan Commission also stated that the MSP should be based on the comprehensive cost of production, which is the C2 method.
5. Key Points about the Farmer's Demand
- After the recent decision to repeal three contentious farm laws, protesting farmer unions are now pressing for their demand of the legalization of the Minimum Support Price (MSP).
- They want a legal guarantee for the MSP, which at present is just an indicative or a desired price.
- Legalising MSPs would put the government under a legal obligation to buy every grain of the crops for which MSPs have been announced.
- At present, the PM has announced the formation of a committee to make MSP more transparent, as well as to change crop patterns and to promote zero-budget agriculture which would reduce the cost of production.
- The entire issue of enforcing MSP legally is a tricky, complicated, and multidimensional one, involving lots of factors.
- Core demand: MSP based on a C2+50% formula should be made a legal entitlement for all agricultural produce. This would mean a 34% increase in the latest MSP for paddy and a 13% increase for wheat. MSP should also be extended to fruit and vegetable farmers who have been excluded from benefits so far.
6. The rationale behind the demand for legislation of MSP
- Farmers receive less than MSP: In most crops grown across much of India, the prices received by farmers, especially during harvest time, are well below the officially declared MSPs. And since MSPs have no statutory backing, they cannot demand these as a matter of right.
- Limited procurement by the Govt: Also, the actual procurement at MSP by the Govt. is confined to only about a third of wheat and rice crops (of which half is bought in Punjab and Haryana alone), and 10%-20% of select pulses and oilseeds. According to the Shanta Kumar Committee’s 2015 report, only 6% of the farm households sell wheat and rice to the government at the MSP rates.
7. Challenges associated with MSP
- Protest by Farmers: Farm unions have been protesting for more than six months on Delhi's outskirts, demanding legislation to guarantee MSP for all farmers for all crops and a repeal of three contentious farm reform laws.
- MSP and Inflation: When announcing the MSP, inflation should be taken into account. But often the price is not increased up to the mark. For example, this time MSP for Maize has not even considered inflation then how it will benefit farmers! Also, frequent increases in the MSPs can lead to inflation too.
- High Input Costs: The input costs have been rising faster than sale prices, squeezing the meagre income of the small farmers and driving them into debt.
- Lack of Mechanism: No mechanism guarantees that every farmer can get at least the MSP as the floor price in the market. So proper mechanisms need to be fixed for all times to come.
- Restriction in Europe: Even after producing surplus grains, every year a huge portion of these grains gets rotten. This is due to the restrictions under WTO norms, that grain stocks with the FCI (being heavily subsidized due to MSP) cannot be exported.
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For Prelims: Minimum Support Price, Rabi Crops, WTO, Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP), Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, Food Corporation of India
For Mains:
1. Explain the concept of Minimum Support Price (MSP) in India. How is MSP determined, and what is its role in ensuring fair prices for agricultural produce? (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC CSE 2020)
1. In the case of all cereals, pulses, and oil seeds, the procurement at Minimum Support Price (MSP) is unlimited in any State/UT of India.
2. In the case of cereals and pulses, the MSP is fixed in any State/UT at a level to which the market price will never rise.
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: D
2. Which of the following factors/policies were affecting the price of rice in India in the recent past? (UPSC CSE, 2020)
(1) Minimum Support Price (2) Government’s trading (3) Government’s stockpiling (4) Consumer subsidies Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2 and 4 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Answer: D
3. In India, which of the following can be considered as public investment in agriculture? (UPSC GS1, 2020)
(1) Fixing Minimum Support Price for agricultural produce of all crops (2) Computerization of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (3) Social Capital development (4) Free electricity supply to farmers (5) Waiver of agricultural loans by the banking system (6) Setting up of cold storage facilities by the governments. In India, which of the following can be considered as public investment in agriculture? Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2 and 5 only (b) 1, 3, 4 and 5 only (c) 2, 3 and 6 only (d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 Answer: C
4. The Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) of sugarcane is approved by the (UPSC CSE, 2015)
(a) Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (b) Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (c) Directorate of Marketing and Inspection, Ministry of Agriculture (d) Agricultural Produce Market Committee Answer: A
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COMMUNALISM
1. Context
A day after a 22-year-old man was killed amid communal clashes, police in Uttar Pradesh’s Bahraich district Monday detained 30 persons in connection with the violence and murder. In the Maharajganj area, ground zero of the clashes, streets were empty — apart from police personnel who conducted flag marches. Internet services have, meanwhile, been suspended in Bahraich.
2. About communalism
- Communalism is a form of groupism that is based on religious or ethnic identity.
- It is characterized by intolerance and division between different groups.
- An example of communalism would be a situation where members of one religious community exhibit hostility or prejudice towards another religious community, based on their religious beliefs or identities.
- This can manifest in various forms, such as religiously motivated violence, discrimination, or the promotion of religious exclusivity. Some examples of communalism include:
- The partition of India in 1947, which was a result of communal violence between Hindus and Muslims.
- The Gujarat riots in 2002, were a result of communal violence between Hindus and Muslims.
- The Muzaffarnagar riots in 2013, were a result of communal violence between Hindus and Muslims.
3. Main Features of Communalism
Divisiveness: Communalism promotes divisions and tensions between different religious communities.
Identity-based Politics: It exploits religious identities to gain political mileage or create vote banks.
Prejudice and Stereotyping: Communalism fosters negative stereotypes and prejudices about other religious groups.
Propagation of Hatred: It encourages the spread of hate speech and animosity towards other communities.
Violence: In extreme cases, communalism can lead to communal violence and clashes.
4. Religious Communalism
- Communal violence refers to violent conflicts and clashes between different religious communities.
- It involves acts of aggression, rioting, destruction of property, and sometimes loss of life, driven by religious differences and animosity.
- The most common form of communalism is religious communalism.
- This is the belief that one's own religion is superior to other religions.
- It can lead to intolerance and violence against people of other religious faiths.
- Communalism and communal violence are interconnected in several ways.
- Communalism can create an atmosphere of intolerance and division that makes communal violence more likely.
- Communal violence, in turn, can reinforce communalist beliefs and further divide society.
- The rise of communalism in India can be traced back to the colonial period.
- The British Raj divided Indian society into religious communities for administration.
- This created a sense of separateness between different religious groups, which laid the foundation for communalism.
5. Main Causes of Communalism in India
Historical Grievances: Past conflicts and grievances between religious communities have left lingering tensions.
Political Exploitation: Some politicians use religious identity for their electoral gains, leading to communal polarization.
Socio-economic Factors: Unequal distribution of resources and opportunities can create competition and tension between communities.
Religious Fundamentalism: The rise of religious fundamentalism can fuel communalism.
Lack of Intercommunity Understanding: Lack of communication and understanding between communities can breed suspicion and hostility.
6. Significant Instances of Communalism in India
Communalism has been a major problem in India for centuries. Here are some of the most significant instances of communalism in India:
The Partition of India in 1947: The partition of India was a result of communal violence between Hindus and Muslims. Millions of people were killed or displaced in the violence, and the partition led to the creation of two separate countries, India and Pakistan.
The Babri Masjid demolition in 1992: The Babri Masjid demolition was the destruction of a 16th-century mosque in Ayodhya, by a Hindu mob in 1992. The demolition sparked widespread communal violence across India, leaving hundreds of people dead.
The Gujarat Riots in 2002: The Gujarat riots were a series of communal riots that took place in Gujarat, in 2002. The riots were triggered by the burning of a train carrying Hindu pilgrims in Godhra, Gujarat. Over 1,000 people, mostly Muslims, were killed in the riots.
The Muzaffarnagar Riots in 2013: The Muzaffarnagar riots were a series of communal riots that took place in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, in 2013. The riots were triggered by a minor dispute between two groups of people, but they quickly escalated into violence. Over 60 people, mostly Muslims, were killed in the riots.
The Dadri lynching in 2015: The Dadri lynching was the killing of a Muslim man, Mohammad Akhlaq, by a mob in Dadri, Uttar Pradesh, in 2015. Akhlaq was accused of storing beef in his house, which is considered taboo in Hindu culture. The lynching sparked outrage across India and highlighted the growing problem of communal violence in the country.
7. Difference between Communalism and Secularism
Communalism: It is the promotion of religious identities and divisions, leading to hostility and prejudice between religious communities.
Secularism: It advocates the separation of religion and state, treating all religions equally and ensuring religious freedom for all citizens without discrimination. It promotes harmony and tolerance among different religious groups.
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For Prelims: Communalism, Secularism, Riots, the partition of India, the Gujarat riots, the Babri Masjid demolition, Bajrang Dal, Vishwa Hindu Parishad, The Muzaffarnagar riots, religious communalism,
For Mains:
1. What are the main causes of communalism in India? Discuss the socio-economic factors and religious fundamentalism contributing to communal tensions in the Country. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. The Deccan Riots Commission was concerned with: (UPSC CAPF 2014)
A. indebtedness of the peasant
B. lack of law and order in the Deccan
C. problems with the Ryotwari system
D. communal riots in the Deccan
Answer: A
2. Librehan Commission was appointed by the Union Government to enquire into: (Kerala SET 2017)
A. Indira Gandhi Assassination case
B. Babri Masjid Demolition case
C. Educational Reforms
D. Centre-State Relations
Answer: B
3. Who is the present President of Vishwa Hindu Parishad? (HSSC Police SI 2021)
A. Vishnu Sadashiv B. Kokje Alok Kumar C. Pravin Togadia D. None of them
Answer: D
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Source: The Indian Express
GLOBAL DIGITAL COMPACT (GDC)
1. Context
In the recently concluded ‘Summit of the Future’ organised by the United Nations, member countries adopted the ‘Global Digital Compact’ (GDC). This ambitious instrument is perhaps the first of its kind in the international arena focusing on the potential of digital technologies, with the specific intention to harness and regulate them for the common good.
2.What is Global Digital Compact’ (GDC)?
- The Global Digital Compact (GDC) is a diplomatic framework that outlines shared objectives for governments, organizations, businesses, and various stakeholders. While it does not have the force of law, increased compliance could lead to these principles evolving into soft law within individual countries.
- Previously, the United Nations facilitated the establishment of two other significant compacts: the "Global Compact," which encourages CEOs to commit to universal sustainability principles and support UN objectives, and the "Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration," which addresses all aspects of international migration in a comprehensive manner.
- The GDC is founded on the premise that digital technologies are significantly transforming our world. While these technologies can offer substantial benefits—facilitating the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—they also introduce serious challenges and concerns.
- This compact aims to ensure human oversight of technological advancements in ways that promote sustainable development. It builds on established norms of international law, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the UN 2030 Agenda, advocating for global collaboration in the governance of data and digital technologies.
- To achieve the goals outlined in the GDC, member states of the UN have pledged to create two panels: an "Independent International Scientific Panel on AI" and a "Global Dialogue on AI Governance."
- The objectives include bridging the digital divide, ensuring inclusive participation in the digital economy, enhancing access to data, and promoting responsible and equitable data governance.
- The principles of the GDC emphasize inclusivity, accessibility to digital technologies, sustainability, and the development of trustworthy technologies operating within a competitive market environment
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Digital goods and services
To tackle the digital divide, the GDC suggests the creation of “digital public goods,” which encompass open-source software, open data, and open AI models, all while ensuring adherence to privacy standards and best practices.
This approach recognizes the potential of digital public goods to foster social change as part of a "digital public infrastructure" that provides essential services. Such infrastructure requires the design and implementation of shared digital systems tailored to the specific priorities and needs of various stakeholders. Consequently, the GDC envisions collaborative partnerships, including those with private sector entities, to achieve these goals
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3. GDC and United Nations (UN)
- The GDC often makes optimistic assertions that overlook the complexities of the issues at hand, presuming that the goodwill among nations will suffice to meet its goals. This viewpoint might also indicate the UN's desire to maintain a significant role in the governance of technologies, including artificial intelligence.
- For instance, data is often likened to oil in the 21st century, reflecting its immense value, particularly given its integration into extractive industries that have detrimental environmental impacts.
- The rapid advancement of generative AI models highlights the vast amounts and types of data collected for training purposes. While the GDC acknowledges the challenges in AI governance, it offers limited practical solutions or strategies.
- Moreover, while the GDC advocates for "trustworthy data flow," many countries resist this notion, as it conflicts with their principles of digital sovereignty. Some nations even have laws mandating that their citizens' data remain within national borders.
- Additionally, the GDC connects various objectives and proposed actions to relevant Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which is a positive development, suggesting that digitization is essential for achieving these goals.
- However, it's important to note that the current AI revolution was not underway when the SDGs were adopted in 2015, and given the lackluster progress of countries in achieving the SDGs, it is questionable whether an additional initiative like the GDC can effect meaningful change.
- UN member states are working to navigate the regulation of major tech companies while asserting their digital sovereignty. Therefore, the governance of digital technologies is too intricate to be resolved by a single entity like the GDC.
- Multilateral and regional discussions are necessary to address jurisdictional and local needs. By aligning with existing digital governance frameworks and merging SDGs with digital initiatives, the GDC appears to be more of a brainstorming tool than a roadmap provider.
- Nonetheless, it has the potential to assist in capacity building and foster collaborations between developing nations and those in the Global North for the advancement of digital public goods
4. Way Forward
In conclusion, while the GDC may not lead to a fundamental transformation in how digital technologies are governed globally, it has the potential to yield meaningful and concrete results if member states commit to its principles and objectives
Source: The Hindu
PERIODIC LABOUR FORCE SURVEY (PLFS)
1. Context
The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) of India 2023-24 data has a slightly dull picture of Maharashtra compared with the national average. While both labour force and workforce participation rates increased by about 2 percentage points for India, the same metrics have seen a marginal dip compared with 2022-23 for the State.
2. About The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS)
- The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) is a sample survey conducted by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) of India to provide information on the labour force and employment situation in the country.
- The survey is conducted annually in all the states and union territories of India.
- The PLFS provides data on various employment indicators, including the labour force participation rate (LFPR), unemployment rate (UR), worker population ratio (WPR), and employment by industry and occupation.
- The PLFS sheds light on the proportion of individuals seeking employment, the unemployment rate, gender disparities in employment and wages, and the sectoral distribution of workers.
- Additionally, it details the types of employment, such as casual labour, self-employment, and regular salaried jobs.
- This comprehensive data is crucial for understanding the dynamics of the Indian labour market and formulating effective employment strategies.
3. Data Collection Methods in PLFS
- The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) collects employment data using two methods: Usual Status (US) and Current Weekly Status (CWS).
- In the US method, respondents are asked to recall their employment details for the past year, while in the CWS method, they are asked to recall their employment details for the past week.
- The labour force estimate derived from the US method includes individuals who worked or were seeking/available for work for a significant portion of the past year, as well as those who worked for at least 30 days during the reference period.
- Conversely, the labour force estimate based on the CWS method encompasses those who worked for at least one hour or sought/were available for work for at least one hour on any day during the past week.
- The global trend has shifted towards a greater emphasis on CWS data due to the improved accuracy of recall for shorter reference periods.
4. Latest findings of the Report
Unemployment Rate (UER)
- The UER is often the most talked about metric in popular discourse. Simply put, it refers to the proportion of people who demanded work over the past year and failed to get it.
- As the data in Table 1 shows, for the population above 15 years of age, the UER has fallen significantly from 6.6% to 5.1% over the last year (that is, July to June cycle).
- Simply put, 5.1% of all the people above 15 years of age who demanded work failed to get one.
Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR)
- The Unemployment Rate (UER) is calculated as a proportion of the population that is demanding work.
- However, this population also fluctuates for various reasons. The Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR) is a measure of the total population demanding work, expressed as a proportion of the total population above 15 years of age.
- As seen in Table 1, India's LFPR, which had been gradually increasing, has experienced a significant surge in the past year.
- As of 2022-23, 54.6% of all Indians above the age of 15 were actively seeking employment.
LFPR for women
- This metric looks at LFPR among women to ascertain where the additional demand for jobs is coming from.
- The data shows that female LFPR has gone up over the years but there were two discrete step-ups one in 2019-20 (when India’s GDP growth rate had slowed down to less than 4% and this was before the Covid pandemic hit) and the second in 2022-23 when it rose to 31.6%.
Worker Population Rate
- Since the proportion of people demanding work (the LFPR) goes up and down and the percentage of those failing to get a job (the UER) is expressed as a proportion of the former, it can throw off analysis.
- As such, there is another way to look at the labour market: Worker Population Ratio (WPR).
- The WPR is the percentage of persons employed among the persons in the population.
- Thus, instead of looking at how many demand a job and how many fail to get it, the WPR simply gives a measure of how many people have a job as a proportion of the total population.
- This metric too has been going up and especially noteworthy are the two discrete
step-ups in 2019-20 and 2022-23.
WPR among women
This metric throws light on the WPR for women to understand what’s leading to the spike in overall WPR. Again, the WPR for women has been going up but two main spikes have been in 2019-20 and 2022-23.
Monthly earnings
The PLFS reports also provide a sense of how much people earn in different types of jobs.
While it is true that incomes have broadly gone up after falling during Covid the main takeaway from this data emerges when one compares how little have monthly incomes changed over the past 6 years, especially in the face of a sharp rise in inflation. To be sure, since late 2019, annual consumer inflation has always been above the RBI’s target of 4%.
Distribution of workers
To accurately make sense of more and more people working, it is important to know not just what they earn but also what kind of work they do. For this, we look at data collected over the usual status by PLFS. Table 3 alongside gives the details of the three main classifications: self-employment, casual labour (say a construction worker) and regular salaried job. Self-employed has two sub-categories:
(i) own account worker and employer and
(ii) unpaid helper in household enterprises.
The data shows that self-employment has risen and jobs in the other two categories have fallen in proportion. It is also noteworthy that self-employment among women is the key driver for this overall trend.
5. Key Trends in PLFS 2022-23
- Upon initial analysis, the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) for 2022-23 reveals several encouraging trends. The unemployment rate is on a downward trajectory, and both the Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR) and Workforce Participation Rate (WPR) exhibit substantial increases. A particularly heartening development is the notable rise in the participation of women in the workforce. This suggests a positive correlation between economic recovery and the creation of more employment opportunities, especially for women.
- However, a closer examination of the nature and remuneration of these new jobs alters the understanding. The predominant trend is the emergence of jobs falling under the category of "self-employment." Typically, in a growing economy, businesses tend to hire more employees. Conversely, during economic challenges, individuals often transition from regular employment to "self-employed" status. This nuanced perspective prompts a reconsideration of the quality and sustainability of the employment being generated.
- Analyzing the trends among women across various metrics reveals an interesting dynamic. The data suggests that economic strains on household finances have led more women, previously outside the workforce, to join in. However, a noteworthy observation is the prevalence of women taking up roles as "unpaid helpers in household enterprises," highlighting a complex interplay between economic conditions and women's workforce participation.
- Furthermore, an examination of the sectoral landscape indicates a regressive shift in India's employment patterns. Notably, there has been an increase in the proportion of Indians employed in agriculture over the past year, while the numbers in manufacturing have witnessed a decline. This shift underscores the evolving economic dynamics and sectoral preferences shaping the employment scenario.
- In a thriving economy, one would expect an improvement in monthly incomes. However, the Indian scenario deviates from this expectation. Despite positive indicators in other areas, the data suggests that the overall economic boom is not translating into significant improvements in monthly incomes for individuals in India. This anomaly prompts a closer examination of the factors contributing to this divergence.
6. The WayForward
While there are positive signals in the headline indicators, a more nuanced analysis reveals complexities like job creation, women's participation dynamics, sectoral shifts, and income patterns. This holistic perspective is essential for a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted impact of economic trends on the labour market in India.
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For Prelims: Periodic Labour Force Survey, National Sample Survey Office, labour force participation rate, worker population ratio
For Mains:
1. Examine the changing nature of employment in India, as reflected in the increasing share of self-employment and the declining proportion of regular salaried jobs. Discuss the implications of this shift for the quality and sustainability of employment. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions 1. Given below are two statements, one is labeled as Assertion (A) and the other as Reason (R). (UPPSC 2019)
Assertion (A): The labour force participation rate is falling sharply in recent years for females in India.
Reason (R): The decline in labour force participation rate is due to improved family income and an increase in education.
Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
Codes:
A. Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
B. Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
C. (A) is true, but (R) is false
D. (A) is false, but (R) is true
2. Which of the following statements about the employment situation in India according to the periodic Labour Force Survey 2017-18 is/are correct? (UPSC CAPF 2020)
1. Construction sector gave employment to nearly one-tenth of the urban male workforce in India
2. Nearly one-fourth of urban female workers in India were working in the manufacturing sector
3. One-fourth of rural female workers in India were engaged in the agriculture sector
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 2 only B. 1 and 2 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
3. Disguised unemployment generally means (UPSC 2013)
(a) large number of people remain unemployed
4. Assertion (A): Workers - population ratio in India is low in contrast to that in developed countries. Reason (R): Rapid growth of population, low female worker population rate and omission of unpaid family workers lead to low worker-population ratio. Choose the correct answer: (Telangana Police SI Mains 2018) A. (A) is true, but (R) is false.
B. (A) is false, but (R) is true.
C. Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not a correct explanation of (A).
D. Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
Answers: 1-C, 2-B, 3-C, 4-D Mains1. Most of the unemployment in India is structural in nature. Examine the methodology adopted to compute unemployment in the country and suggest improvements. (UPSC 2023) |
Source: The Indian Express
