KUKI-ZOMI TRIBE
The Kuki-Zomi people are a diverse group of ethnicities inhabiting the mountainous regions of Northeast India, Myanmar, and Bangladesh. They share a common ancestry and cultural heritage, and their name reflects this shared identity: "Kuki" is a more general term encompassing various sub-tribes, while "Zomi" is a relatively recent term adopted by some Kuki communities to emphasize their distinct identity and cultural heritage.
- The exact origins of the Kuki-Zomi people remain unclear, but linguistic evidence suggests they migrated from Southeast Asia centuries ago. Today, they are found primarily in the Indian states of Manipur, Mizoram, Assam, Nagaland, and Tripura, as well as in Chin State, Myanmar, and the Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh.
- The Kuki-Zomi people comprise numerous sub-tribes, each with its own distinct dialect and cultural practices. Some of the major sub-tribes include the Hmar, Thadou, Paite, Gangte, Vaiphei, Zou, Aimol, and Anal. These sub-tribes speak various Kuki-Chin languages, which belong to the Tibeto-Burman language family.
- The Kuki-Zomi people have a rich and vibrant culture characterized by strong communal bonds, traditional music and dance, and colorful handicrafts. Their traditional attire is often adorned with intricate beadwork and embroidery, reflecting their artistic skills and cultural pride.
- The Kuki-Zomi people have faced various challenges throughout their history, including displacement, conflict, and marginalization. However, they have demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability, preserving their unique culture and traditions despite these hardships.
- In recent years, the Kuki-Zomi people have made significant strides in education, entrepreneurship, and political representation. They are increasingly active in advocating for their rights and cultural identity, and their contributions to the social and economic development of the regions they inhabit are becoming increasingly recognized.
3. Delisting Proposal in Manipur
- The representation calling for the potential removal of specific Kuki and Zomi tribes from the Scheduled Tribes (ST) list in Manipur stems from the ongoing ethnic conflict that has persisted for eight months.
- This conflict, initiated on May 3, 2023, arose following an order from the Manipur High Court directing the State government to recommend the inclusion of Meiteis in the ST list to the Centre.
- As the Centre now requests the State government to examine the representation for the delisting of Kuki and Zomi tribes, there is a risk of exacerbating existing tensions between the valley-based Meitei people and the hills-based Kuki-Zo (ST) people in the State.
- One significant factor driving the Meiteis' demand for ST status is their inability to own land in the forested hill districts, where only STs are permitted to own land.
- Notably, this marks the first instance where members of the Meitei community are advocating for their inclusion in the ST list by contending that specific Kuki and Zomi tribes should not be part of it.
- This development may also have broader implications for the criteria used to designate groups as Scheduled Tribes, a framework that has remained unchanged since its introduction by the Lokur Commission in 1965.
Key Arguments in the Kuki-Zomi Delisting Proposal
- In Mr. Thounaojam’s representation, objections have been raised against the inclusion of three specific entries in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) list of Manipur namely, “Any Mizo(Lushai) Tribes,” “Zou,” and “Any Kuki Tribes.”
- The primary argument put forth for the exclusion of these entries is that they are not considered "indigenous" to the land of Manipur.
- According to the representation, there is no historical mention of these specific tribes residing in Manipur in pre-Independence Censuses.
- Furthermore, the representation contends that the vagueness surrounding the terms "Any Mizo (Lushai) Tribes" and "Any Kuki Tribes" in the ST list has purportedly facilitated illegal immigrants from Myanmar and Bangladesh in wrongfully obtaining benefits intended for Scheduled Tribes in India.
The Lokur Commission, officially known as the Advisory Committee on the Revision of Lists of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, played a significant role in shaping the landscape of tribal communities in India. Established in 1965 by the Government of India. Chaired by Justice N.N. Lokur, a former Chief Justice of India. Tasked with revising the lists of Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in a rational and scientific manner.
Criteria for Scheduled Tribes:
- The Commission established five key criteria for identifying a community as an ST:
- Primitive Traits and Distinctive Culture
- Geographical Isolation
- Shyness of Contact with the Community at Large
- Backwardness
- Pre-dominantly Tribal Population
Impact on Tribal Communities
- The Lokur Commission's recommendations led to the addition of several new communities to the ST list, granting them access to educational and economic benefits reserved for STs.
- However, the criteria employed, particularly the emphasis on "primitive traits," have been criticized for being outdated, stereotypical, and potentially hindering social progress for tribal communities.
Criticisms and Debates
- The Commission's classification of certain communities as "primitive" has been challenged for being derogatory and inaccurate.
- The criteria used have been accused of being subjective and open to misinterpretation, leading to inconsistencies and exclusion of deserving communities.
- Debates continue regarding the need for revising or even abolishing the existing criteria altogether, with calls for a more nuanced approach based on social, economic, and cultural factors.
Legacy
- Despite the criticisms, the Lokur Commission's work remains influential in the administration of tribal affairs in India.
- Its report and recommendations form the basis for the current ST list and continue to be referenced in discussions about tribal inclusion and development.
- The Commission's legacy highlights the importance of ongoing discussions about the definition of "tribal" identity and the need for criteria that are fair, inclusive, and responsive to the evolving realities of tribal communities in India.
The National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) stands as a crucial advocate for the rights and welfare of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in India. Established in 1993 and elevated to constitutional status in 2018, the NCBC plays a multi-faceted role in ensuring social justice and equality for OBC communities.
Mandate and Responsibilities
- The NCBC probes cases of discrimination and denial of rights due to OBC status. It monitors the implementation of various government policies and schemes aimed at OBC development.
- The Commission regularly assesses the social, educational, and economic advancement of OBCs. It provides recommendations to the government on policies and programs to bridge existing gaps and address emerging challenges.
- Individuals from OBC communities can approach the NCBC with complaints related to violations of their rights or benefits. The Commission takes necessary action to address these grievances and ensure justice.
- The NCBC conducts research on the diverse OBC communities, analyzing their specific needs and vulnerabilities. It promotes awareness about OBC issues and advocates for their inclusive participation in various spheres of Indian society.
Key Achievements
- The NCBC played a significant role in implementing the Right to Education Act (2009) and ensuring reservation quotas for OBC students in educational institutions.
- The Commission has been instrumental in promoting entrepreneurship and skill development programs among OBC communities, leading to greater economic participation and self-reliance.
- The NCBC has consistently pushed for legislation and policy changes that benefit OBCs, such as reservations in government jobs and promotions, access to healthcare, and land rights.
Challenges and Future Directions
- OBCs are a diverse group with varying needs and levels of marginalization. The NCBC faces the challenge of addressing these internal disparities and ensuring inclusivity within its advocacy efforts.
- The Commission often operates with limited resources, hindering its ability to effectively reach out to remote OBC communities and conduct comprehensive research.
- Ensuring proper implementation of the NCBC's recommendations on the ground remains a crucial challenge. Stronger collaboration with state governments and local authorities is essential.
6. Examining Claims of Non-Indigeneity and Misuse
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For Prelims: kuki-zomi tribes, manipur, National Commission for Backward classes, STs, Lokur Commission, Other Backward Classes
For Mains:
1. Discuss the potential political and developmental implications of the proposed delisting. How might it affect land rights, access to resources, and inter-community relations in Manipur? (250 Words)
2. Assess the role of the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) in addressing the complexities of tribal identity and ensuring social justice for marginalized communities. How can the NCBC be strengthened to better address issues like the Kuki-Zomi delisting proposal? (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. Who was appointed as the head of the OBC Sub-categorisation Commission?
(Maharashtra Talathi 2019)
A. Justice Geeta Mittal
B. Justice Manjula Chellur
C. Justice Tahilramani
D. Justice G. Rohini
2. Which of the following pairs of list and contents is/are correctly matched? (UPSC CAPF 2019)
1. State list Public health and sanitation
2. Union list Citizenship, naturalisation and aliens
3. Concurrent list Legal, medical and other
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 only B. 1, 2 and 3 C. 2 and 3 only D. 3 only
Answers:1-D, 2- B
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GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT (GDP)
U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs will pare India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth forfiscal 2026 by a range of 0.2% to 0.4%, according to forecasts by economists.
The Bank of Baroda research cut inflation adjusted G
There are three primary ways to calculate GDP:
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Production Approach (GDP by Production): This approach calculates GDP by adding up the value-added at each stage of production. It involves summing up the value of all final goods and services produced in an economy.
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Income Approach (GDP by Income): This approach calculates GDP by summing up all the incomes earned in an economy, including wages, rents, interests, and profits. The idea is that all the income generated in an economy must ultimately be spent on purchasing goods and services.
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Expenditure Approach (GDP by Expenditure): This approach calculates GDP by summing up all the expenditures made on final goods and services. It includes consumption by households, investments by businesses, government spending, and net exports (exports minus imports).
3. Measuring GDP
GDP can be measured in three different ways:
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Nominal GDP: This is the raw GDP figure without adjusting for inflation. It reflects the total value of goods and services produced at current prices.
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Real GDP: Real GDP adjusts the nominal GDP for inflation, allowing for a more accurate comparison of economic performance over time. It represents the value of goods and services produced using constant prices from a specific base year.
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GDP per capita: This is the GDP divided by the population of a country. It provides a per-person measure of economic output and can be useful for comparing the relative economic well-being of different countries.
The GDP is a useful measure of economic health, but it has some limitations. For example, it does not take into account the distribution of income in an economy. It also does not take into account the quality of goods and services produced.
Despite its limitations, the GDP is a widely used measure of economic health. It is used by economists, policymakers, and businesses to track the performance of an economy and to make decisions about economic policy
4. Gross Value Added (GVA)
Gross Value Added (GVA) is a closely related concept to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and is used to measure the economic value generated by various economic activities within a country. GVA represents the value of goods and services produced in an economy minus the value of inputs (such as raw materials and intermediate goods) used in production. It's a way to measure the contribution of each individual sector or industry to the overall economy.
GVA can be calculated using the production approach, similar to one of the methods used to calculate GDP. The formula for calculating GVA is as follows:
GVA = Output Value - Intermediate Consumption
Where:
- Output Value: The total value of goods and services produced by an industry or sector.
- Intermediate Consumption: The value of inputs used in the production process, including raw materials, energy, and other intermediate goods.
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and Gross National Product (GNP) are both important economic indicators used to measure the size and health of an economy, but they focus on slightly different aspects of economic activity and include different factors. Here are the key differences between GDP and GNP:
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Definition and Scope:
- GDP: GDP measures the total value of all goods and services produced within a country's borders, regardless of whether the production is done by domestic or foreign entities. It only considers economic activities that take place within the country.
- GNP: GNP measures the total value of all goods and services produced by a country's residents, whether they are located within the country's borders or abroad. It takes into account the production of residents, both domestically and internationally.
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Foreign Income and Payments:
- GDP: GDP does not consider the income earned by residents of a country from their economic activities abroad, nor does it account for payments made to foreigners working within the country.
- GNP: GNP includes the income earned by a country's residents from their investments and activities abroad, minus the income earned by foreign residents from their investments within the country.
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Net Factor Income from Abroad:
- GDP: GDP does not account for net factor income from abroad, which is the difference between income earned by domestic residents abroad and income earned by foreign residents domestically.
- GNP: GNP includes net factor income from abroad as part of its calculation.
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Foreign Direct Investment:
- GDP: GDP does not directly consider foreign direct investment (FDI) flowing into or out of a country.
- GNP: GNP considers the impact of FDI on the income of a country's residents, both from investments made within the country and from investments made by residents abroad.
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Measurement Approach:
- GDP: GDP can be calculated using three different approaches: production, income, and expenditure approaches.
- GNP: GNP is primarily calculated using the income approach, as it focuses on the income earned by residents from their economic activities.
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For Prelims: GDP, GVA, FDI, GNP
For Mains: 1.Discuss the recent trends and challenges in India's GDP growth
2.Examine the role of the service sector in India's GDP growth
3.Compare and contrast the growth trajectories of India's GDP and GNP
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Previous Year Questions
1.With reference to Indian economy, consider the following statements: (UPSC CSE, 2015)
1. The rate of growth of Real Gross Domestic Product has steadily increased in the last decade. 2. The Gross Domestic Product at market prices (in rupees) has steadily increased in the last decade. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Answer (b)
2.A decrease in tax to GDP ratio of a country indicates which of the following? (UPSC CSE, 2015) 1. Slowing economic growth rate 2. Less equitable distribution of national income Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Answer (a)
Previous year UPSC Mains Question Covering similar theme: Define potential GDP and explain its determinants. What are the factors that have been inhibiting India from realizing its potential GDP? (UPSC CSE GS3, 2020) Explain the difference between computing methodology of India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) before the year 2015 and after the year 2015. (UPSC CSE GS3, 2021) |
KATCHATHEEVU ISLAND
2. Location of Katchatheevu Island
Katchatheevu is a small, uninhabited island covering 285 acres situated in the Palk Strait, positioned between India and Sri Lanka. It measures approximately 1.6 kilometres in length and slightly over 300 meters wide at its widest point.
- The island is located northeast of Rameswaram, around 33 kilometres from the Indian coastline. It is situated approximately 62 kilometres southwest of Jaffna, which is at the northern tip of Sri Lanka. Moreover, Katchatheevu is about 24 kilometres away from Delft Island, an inhabited island that belongs to Sri Lanka.
- The notable feature on Katchatheevu Island is the St. Anthony’s Church, built in the early 20th century. This Catholic shrine holds cultural and religious importance, especially during its annual festival. Christian priests from both India and Sri Lanka conduct services during this festival, attracting devotees from both countries who make pilgrimages to the island. In 2023, around 2,500 Indians travelled from Rameswaram to participate in this significant event.
- Despite its religious and cultural significance, Katchatheevu is not suitable for permanent human settlement due to the absence of a reliable source of drinking water on the island. This limitation restricts any long-term habitation on the island, making it primarily a site for occasional religious gatherings and pilgrimages.
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3. Historical Background of Katchatheevu Island
Katchatheevu Island, formed as a result of a volcanic eruption in the 14th century, holds a relatively recent place in the geological timeline.
- During the early medieval period, Katchatheevu was under the control of the Jaffna kingdom of Sri Lanka. However, by the 17th century, control shifted to the Ramnad Zamindari, which was based in Ramanathapuram, approximately 55 kilometres northwest of Rameswaram.
- With the advent of colonial rule, Katchatheevu became part of the Madras Presidency under the British administration. In 1921, both India and Sri Lanka, then British colonies, laid claim to Katchatheevu to delineate fishing boundaries in the region.
- A survey conducted during this period marked Katchatheevu as part of Sri Lanka. However, a British delegation from India contested this claim, asserting ownership of the island by the Ramnad kingdom.
- The dispute over the ownership of Katchatheevu persisted until 1974 when a final resolution was reached. This resolution marked a significant milestone in clarifying the status of the island and delineating the maritime boundaries between India and Sri Lanka.
4. Indo-Sri Lankan Maritime Agreement and Fishing Rights
In 1974, efforts were made by then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi to resolve the maritime border dispute between India and Sri Lanka permanently. This initiative led to the establishment of the 'Indo-Sri Lankan Maritime Agreement,' which resulted in the cession of Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka by India.
- Under the agreement, Indira Gandhi decided to "cede" Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka, perceiving the island to hold little strategic value for India. This move was intended to strengthen diplomatic ties between the two neighbouring countries.
- Despite ceding the island, Indian fishermen were granted continued access to Katchatheevu as per the agreement, maintaining their traditional fishing practices in the region. However, the agreement did not explicitly address the issue of fishing rights, leading to subsequent challenges and differing interpretations.
- Sri Lanka interpreted Indian fishermen's access to Katchatheevu as limited to activities such as resting, drying nets, and visiting the Catholic shrine, without requiring a visa. This interpretation created ambiguity regarding the extent of fishing rights granted to Indian fishermen in the waters surrounding Katchatheevu.
- In 1976, another agreement during India's Emergency period further complicated matters by prohibiting both countries from fishing in each other's Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs). However, Katchatheevu lies at the boundary of both countries' EEZs, adding to the uncertainty surrounding fishing rights and activities in the region.
- The agreements made in the 1970s regarding Katchatheevu and fishing rights have left unresolved issues, contributing to periodic tensions and disputes between Indian fishermen and Sri Lankan authorities. The lack of clear delineation and mutual understanding regarding fishing access around Katchatheevu continues to be a contentious issue between India and Sri Lanka.
5. Impact of the Sri Lankan Civil War on Katchatheevu
The period between 1983 and 2009 was marked by the Sri Lankan Civil War, during which the border dispute involving Katchatheevu took a back seat amidst the intense conflict.
- During the civil war, Sri Lankan naval forces were primarily focused on combating the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) based in Jaffna. This preoccupation allowed Indian fishermen to venture deep into Sri Lankan waters without significant repercussions. Incursions by Indian fishermen, especially using larger trawlers, became common during this time. These activities led to tensions as they not only overfished but also caused damage to Sri Lankan fishing equipment and vessels.
- The end of the civil war in 2009 brought about significant changes. Sri Lanka bolstered its maritime defences and shifted its attention to issues such as illegal fishing activities by Indian fishermen.
- Indian fishermen, facing resource depletion in Indian waters, continued to venture into Sri Lankan waters as they had done for years. However, with increased surveillance and stricter enforcement post-civil war, they began facing arrests and other consequences by the Sri Lankan navy.
- To this day, the Sri Lankan navy regularly apprehends Indian fishermen for illegal fishing activities in Sri Lankan waters. Incidents of alleged custodial torture and deaths have also been reported, further complicating the situation. Each such incident reignites demands to revisit the issue of Katchatheevu and its impact on fishing rights and maritime boundaries between India and Sri Lanka. The historical context of the island's ownership and fishing rights continues to be a source of contention and debate between the two nations.
6. Tamil Nadu's Stance on Katchatheevu
The issue of Katchatheevu holds significant political and emotional weight in Tamil Nadu, with successive governments and leaders advocating for its retrieval and the restoration of fishing rights for Tamil fishermen.
- The decision to "cede" Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka in 1974 without consulting the Tamil Nadu state assembly sparked immediate protests. This decision was seen as infringing on traditional fishing rights and livelihoods of Indian Tamil fishermen, given the historical ties of the Ramnad Zamindari to the island.
- The Tamil Nadu Assembly has consistently demanded the retrieval of Katchatheevu and the restoration of fishing rights. Leaders like J Jayalalitha and MK Stalin, among others, have actively pursued this agenda through legal and diplomatic channels.
- In 2008, Jayalalitha filed a petition arguing that ceding Katchatheevu required a constitutional amendment and had adversely affected fishermen's rights. Similar efforts were made by other leaders, including appeals to the Supreme Court.
- Despite Tamil Nadu's persistent demands, the Union government's stance has remained unchanged. It asserts that since Katchatheevu has been under dispute historically, no territorial or sovereignty claims were ceded.
- While there is vocal demand for Katchatheevu's retrieval, practical challenges hinder such efforts. The Union government has pointed out that revisiting Katchatheevu's status would require drastic measures, potentially leading to diplomatic complexities or conflict.
7. The Way Forward
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For Prelims: India-Sri Lanka, Katchatheevu island, LTTE, Sri Lanka Civil War, Exclusive Economic Zones
For Mains:
1. The Katchatheevu dispute highlights the complexities of maritime border demarcation. How can India ensure the security of its fishermen and promote sustainable fishing practices in the Palk Strait? (250 words)
2. You are a senior diplomat tasked with finding a solution to the Katchatheevu dispute. Outline a framework for negotiations that considers the historical, economic, and social aspects of the issue. (250 words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. Katchatheevu Island was ceded by India to which Country in 1974 (SSC CPO 2017)
A. Sri Lanka B.Maldives C.Indonesia D.Myanmar
2. With reference to the United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2022)
1. A coastal state has the right to establish the breadth of its territorial sea up to a limit not exceeding 12 nautical miles, measured from baseline determined in accordance with the convention.
2. Ships of all states, whether coastal or land-locked, enjoy the right of innocent passage through the territorial sea.
3. The Exclusive Economic zone shall not extend beyond 200 nautical miles from the baseline from which the breadth of the territorial sea is measured.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A.1 and 2 only B.2 and 3 only C.1 and 3 only D.1, 2 and 3
Answers: 1-A, 2-D
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JUDICIAL TRANSFERS
- Article 222(1) of the Indian Constitution grants the President the authority to transfer a High Court judge to another High Court, provided the Chief Justice of India (CJI) is consulted.
- This provision has been extensively analyzed through judicial pronouncements, particularly in three landmark cases known as the First, Second, and Third Judges cases.
- In the case of S.P. Gupta v. President of India (1981), also referred to as the First Judges case, the Supreme Court ruled that the term "consultation" with the CJI did not imply concurrence, thereby affirming the executive's dominance in judicial appointments and transfers.
- However, this interpretation was overturned in Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association v. Union of India (1993), commonly known as the Second Judges case. Here, the Court introduced the collegium system and held that in case of disagreement between the President and the CJI, the latter’s view would prevail.
- The judgment emphasized that judicial transfers should be guided by public interest and the need for better administration of justice. Justice J.S. Verma, who authored the ruling, further stated that the CJI must consult the Chief Justice of the concerned High Court, select Supreme Court judges, and at least one senior High Court judge or any other relevant individual, such as senior Bar members, where necessary.
- The Court reasoned that the involvement of multiple judges in the process serves as a safeguard against arbitrary decisions. Consequently, it also restricted the scope of judicial review in matters of transfer, asserting that such decisions should not be influenced by legislative debates.
- Additionally, the ruling clarified that a judge's consent is not mandatory for a transfer, whether initial or subsequent. The Third Judges case (1998) further refined the collegium system, stipulating that transfer recommendations must be made by the CJI in consultation with the four seniormost Supreme Court judges.
- It also mandated that inputs be sought from Supreme Court judges who had previously served in the High Court from which the judge was being transferred.
- Once the collegium finalizes its recommendation, the Law Minister examines it and advises the Prime Minister, who then forwards it to the President.
- Upon approval, the transfer is formalized through a gazette notification, and the judge assumes office in the new High Court
- A recent report by the Geneva-based International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) has expressed serious concerns regarding judicial independence in India, pointing to increasing executive influence, lack of transparency in judicial appointments, and inadequate accountability mechanisms.
- The report emphasized that judicial transfers, often executed without the judge’s consent, are frequently justified under broad terms such as “public interest” or the “better administration of justice.”
- This lack of clarity, according to the ICJ, makes it challenging to differentiate between genuine transfers and those intended as punitive or retaliatory measures.
- To address these issues, the ICJ recommended that Parliament establish a “Judicial Council” to oversee appointments and transfers, ensuring they are conducted through a transparent, objective, and predetermined framework
- To address concerns regarding the lack of transparency in the collegium system, the Narendra Modi government introduced significant reforms to judicial appointments in 2014.
- In August of that year, Parliament passed the Constitution (99th Amendment) Act, 2014, along with the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) Act, 2014, creating an independent body to replace the collegium system for appointing judges to the Supreme Court and High Courts.
- The NJAC was to be led by the Chief Justice of India (CJI) and comprised the two senior-most Supreme Court judges, the Union Law Minister, and two distinguished members from civil society.
- One of these members would be selected by a panel consisting of the CJI, Prime Minister, and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, while the other had to be from the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, or be a woman.
- The amendment saw an unusual level of political consensus, passing with overwhelming support in Parliament—except for opposition from veteran jurist Ram Jethmalani—and receiving ratification from 16 State legislatures.
- Despite its swift passage, the law faced immediate legal challenges in the Supreme Court. Critics argued that the veto power granted to any two dissenting NJAC members could enable the Law Minister and the two eminent members to override the judiciary’s majority within the commission.
- On October 16, 2015, a five-judge Bench struck down the NJAC as unconstitutional in a 4:1 ruling, declaring that it violated the “basic structure of the Constitution.” The majority held that allowing the Law Minister or non-judicial members to wield veto power over a Supreme Court judge within the commission could undermine judicial independence.
- However, in a dissenting opinion, Justice Jasti Chelameswar pointed out that aside from occasional leaks, collegium proceedings remained entirely inaccessible—even to Supreme Court judges who were not fortunate enough to become the Chief Justice of India
Justice Varma’s transfer appears to be aimed at preventing an administrative deadlock in Delhi. As the third senior-most judge, he was part of both the High Court Collegium and several key administrative committees, and his continued presence in the capital could have hindered critical decision-making. There is no specified timeline for the three-member inquiry committee investigating the allegations against him. While reviewing a petition seeking the registration of an FIR against the judge, the Chief Justice of India dismissed it as “premature,” emphasizing that any decision regarding criminal proceedings or a parliamentary motion for removal would be contingent on the committee’s findings.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court, through a press release, announced that the Chief Justice of the Allahabad High Court has been instructed not to assign Justice Varma any judicial responsibilities for the time being. This situation has also reignited political debates surrounding judicial appointments. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar commented that the outcome “would have been different” if the Supreme Court had not invalidated the “historic legislation” that sought to establish the NJAC
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For Prelims: Collegium system, National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC), Supreme court, High court, Intelligence Bureau (IB), First Judges case, Second Judges Case, Third Judges Case, Article 124(2), Article 217, Law Commission, and 99th Constitutional Amendment Act.
For Mains: 1. What are the two systems of the appointment of Judges that has triggered the fresh debate on the Judicial system in India? (250 Words).
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Previous year Question
1. With reference to the Indian judiciary, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2021)
1. Any retired judge of the Supreme Court of India can be called back to sit and act as a Supreme Court judge by the Chief Justice of India with the prior permission of the President of India.
2. A High Court in India has the power to review its own judgment as the Supreme Court does.
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: A
2. In India, Judicial Review implies (UPSC 2017)
A. the power of the Judiciary to pronounce upon the constitutionality of laws and executive orders
B. the power of the Judiciary to question the wisdom of the laws enacted by the Legislatures
C. the power of the Judiciary to review all the legislative enactments before they are assented to by the President
D. the power of the Judiciary to review its own judgments given earlier in similar or different cases
Answer: A
3. Consider the following statements:
1. The motion to impeach a Judge of the Supreme Court of India cannot be rejected by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha as per the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968.
2. The Constitution of India defines and gives details of what constitutes 'incapacity and proved misbehavior' of the Judges of the Supreme Court of India
3. The details of the process of impeachment of the Judges of the Supreme Court of India are given in the Judges (Inquiry) Act, of 1968.
4. If the motion for the impeachment of a Judge is taken up for voting, the law requires the motion to be backed by each House of the Parliament and supported by a majority of the total membership of that House and by not less than two-thirds of total members of that House present and voting.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2
B. 3 only
C. 3 and 4 only
D. 1, 3 and 4
Answer: C
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ANTI DUMPING DUTY
An anti-dumping duty (ADD) is a protectionist tariff imposed by a government on imported goods that are sold below their fair market value, a practice known as "dumping." Dumping occurs when a foreign company exports a product at a price lower than what it charges in its domestic market or below its production cost, potentially harming the importing country’s domestic industries. The duty aims to level the playing field by offsetting this price difference, protecting local businesses from unfair competition.
- Legal Basis: Governed internationally by the World Trade Organization (WTO) under the Agreement on Implementation of Article VI of GATT 1994 (Anti-Dumping Agreement). It allows countries to impose ADD if dumping causes or threatens "material injury" to domestic industries.
- Process:
- A domestic industry files a complaint.
- An investigation assesses dumping margins (export price vs. normal value), injury, and causality.
- If confirmed, the government imposes a duty, typically calculated as the difference between the export price and the "normal value" (domestic price or cost-plus-profit in the exporting country)
Countervailing duties (CVDs) are tariffs imposed by a government on imported goods to counteract subsidies provided by the exporting country’s government to its producers or exporters. These subsidies—such as tax breaks, grants, or low-interest loans—can artificially lower the price of exported goods, giving them an unfair advantage in the importing country’s market. CVDs aim to neutralize this advantage, protecting domestic industries from subsidized foreign competition.
- Legal Basis: Governed by the World Trade Organization (WTO) under the Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures (SCM Agreement), part of GATT 1994. Countries can impose CVDs if subsidies cause or threaten "material injury" to their domestic industries.
- Process:
- A domestic industry files a complaint with evidence of subsidies and injury.
- An investigation confirms the subsidy’s existence, calculates its value (subsidy margin), and assesses harm.
- If proven, a duty is levied, typically equal to the subsidy amount, to raise the import price to a fair level.
| Aspect | Countervailing Duties (CVDs) | Anti-Dumping Duties (ADDs) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Counteract foreign government subsidies | Counteract dumping by foreign companies |
| Target | Government subsidies | Private companies selling below fair value |
| Legal Basis | WTO SCM Agreement | WTO Anti-Dumping Agreement |
| Investigation Focus | Subsidies and their impact | Dumping and its impact |
| Calculation | Based on subsidy amount | Based on price difference |
| Example | Solar panels subsidized by a foreign government | Steel sold below home market price |
The World Trade Organization (WTO) is an international body that regulates and facilitates global trade among its member nations. Established on January 1, 1995, under the Marrakesh Agreement, it succeeded the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), which began in 1948. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the WTO provides a framework for negotiating trade agreements, resolving disputes, and promoting free and fair trade. As of March 2025, it has 164 member countries, representing over 98% of global trade, with India as a founding member since 1995.
Key Functions of the WTO
- The WTO oversees the implementation and operation of multilateral trade agreements negotiated by its member countries. These agreements cover goods, services, and intellectual property
- The WTO serves as a platform for member countries to negotiate trade liberalization and resolve trade-related issues. Notable negotiations include the Doha Round, which focuses on development and reducing trade barriers
- The WTO provides a structured process for resolving trade disputes between member countries. Its dispute settlement mechanism is binding and aims to ensure that trade rules are followed
- The WTO conducts regular reviews of member countries' trade policies and practices to ensure transparency and adherence to global trade rules
- The WTO provides support to developing and least-developed countries to help them integrate into the global trading system and comply with WTO rules
- The WTO collaborates with organizations like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank to ensure coherence in global economic policy-making
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For Prelims: World Trade Organisation (WTO), Anti Dumping duty
For Mains: GS III - Economy
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SOLAR FLARES (KERNEL)
- The Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT) aboard the Aditya-L1 mission identified the ‘kernel’ of a solar flare while observing an X6.3-class solar flare on February 22, 2024—one of the most powerful categories of solar eruptions. What makes this discovery significant is that SUIT detected brightening within the near-ultraviolet wavelength range (200-400 nm).
- According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the current solar activity and the number of sunspots indicate that the solar cycle might be approaching its peak, although official confirmation is still pending.
- Scientists suggest that the solar maximum provides the most favorable opportunity for launching and studying the Sun.
- Consequently, there has been an increase in solar observation missions. Experts in solar physics recognize that if this opportunity is missed, the next period of heightened solar activity will not occur until 2035-2036.
- The Sun’s magnetic field, similar to that of a bar magnet, consists of north and south poles created by the movement of electrically charged particles within it. Approximately every 11 years, the magnetic field undergoes a complete reversal, with the poles switching positions. This phenomenon is referred to as the solar cycle
- The solar cycle influences the Sun’s surface activity. The Sun experiences its highest level of activity when the magnetic field flips, a phase known as the solar maximum.
- During this period, there is an increase in the frequency and intensity of radiation and particle bursts emitted into space. Following the flip, the Sun gradually becomes less active, reaching the solar minimum before a new cycle begins
- The occurrence of sunspots—small, dark, and cooler regions with intensified magnetic fields—is at its highest during the solar maximum and at its lowest during the solar minimum. Scientists monitor the solar cycle by counting the number of sunspots
- Throughout the solar cycle, both solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) become more frequent. Solar flares release vast amounts of radiation and energetic particles due to the sudden discharge of magnetic energy stored within the Sun’s complex magnetic field. CMEs, on the other hand, involve the ejection of substantial amounts of plasma and magnetic fields from the Sun
- These solar events can significantly influence space weather and Earth's geospace. Potential consequences include disruptions in radio communications, interference with satellite operations, effects on power grids, and increased risks for astronauts and airline passengers
- India’s first dedicated solar mission, Aditya-L1, was launched on September 2, 2023, with the goal of enhancing our understanding of the Sun’s radiation, heat, particle emissions, and magnetic fields and their effects on Earth.
- The mission carries seven scientific instruments, including two key payloads: the Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VLEC) and the Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT)
- The European Space Agency (ESA) launched the Proba-3 mission on December 5, 2024, using ISRO’s PSLV-C59 rocket. This mission marks the first-ever demonstration of “precision formation flying,” where two satellites will maintain a coordinated formation in space.
- The two satellites—Occulter Spacecraft (200 kg) and Coronagraph Spacecraft (340 kg)—will simulate a natural solar eclipse by positioning themselves in Earth’s orbit in such a way that one satellite casts a shadow onto the other
- NASA's PUNCH (Polarimeter to Unify the Corona and Heliosphere) mission was launched on March 11, 2025. According to NASA, this mission consists of four small, suitcase-sized satellites designed to collectively observe the Sun and its surrounding environment.
- Together, these satellites will create a continuous field of view to study the region where the Sun’s outer atmosphere (corona) transitions into the solar wind, the continuous stream of charged particles emitted by the Sun
The Lagrange Point 1 (L1), located about 1.5 million km from Earth (1% of the Earth-Sun distance), is a gravitationally stable spot where the pull of the Sun and Earth balance. A halo orbit around L1 allows Aditya-L1 to:
- Continuously view the Sun without interruptions from eclipses or occultations.
- Provide an early warning system for solar storms, offering about an hour’s lead time before they reach Earth.
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For Prelims: Proba-3, (PUNCH) mission, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
For Mains: GS III - Science & technology
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Previous Year Questions
1.If a major solar storm (solar flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth? (UPSC CSE 2022) 1. GPS and navigation systems could fail. 2. Tsunamis could occur at equatorial regions. 3. Power grids could be damaged. 4. Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth. 5. Forest fires could take place over much of the planet. 6. Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed. 7. Shortwave radio communication of the aircraft flying over polar regions could be interrupted. Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2, 4 and 5 only (b) 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7 only (c) 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only (d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 Answer (c) A major solar storm or solar flare can have several impacts on Earth, primarily due to the intense bursts of radiation and charged particles interacting with the Earth's magnetosphere. Possible effects:
Incorrect options: |
