DELIMITATION EXERCISE
- Delimitation refers to the process of determining the number of seats and defining the boundaries of electoral constituencies for the Lok Sabha and Legislative Assemblies.
- It also involves allocating seats specifically reserved for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) within these legislative bodies.
- As outlined in Articles 82 and 170 of the Constitution, the allocation of seats in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies, as well as the demarcation of constituencies, is subject to adjustment following each Census.
- This delimitation process is overseen by a Delimitation Commission established by an act of Parliament.
- Such redistricting exercises have historically occurred following the 1951, 1961, and 1971 Censuses.
3. Constitutional Requirements and Current Status
- The constitutional requirement for democratic governance stipulates that the government should be elected by the people, with the principle of 'one citizen-one vote-one value' being paramount.
- Historically, the number of seats in the Lok Sabha was determined based on population figures from the 1951, 1961, and 1971 Censuses, resulting in an average population per seat of 7.3 lahks, 8.4 lahks, and 10.1 lahks respectively.
- However, since the 1971 Census, the number of seats has been frozen to incentivize population control measures, ensuring that states with higher population growth do not gain disproportionately higher representation.
- This freeze was initially implemented through the 42nd Amendment Act until the year 2000 and extended by the 84th Amendment Act until 2026.
- Consequently, seat allocation is based on the population figures from the 1971 Census, with adjustments slated to occur following the first Census after 2026.
- Ordinarily, the delimitation process, including determining the number of seats, defining territorial constituency boundaries, and allocating reserved seats for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST), would align with the Census of 2031, being the first Census post-2026.
- However, with the postponement of the 2021 Census and the approach of the year 2026, discussions are underway regarding the impending delimitation exercise.
5. International Practices in Seat Allocation
- In the United States, the number of seats in the House of Representatives, akin to India's Lok Sabha, has remained fixed at 435 since 1913. Despite the population increase from 9.4 crore in 1911 to an estimated 33.4 crore in 2023, the method of equal proportion is utilized to redistribute seats among states following each Census. This method aims to maintain fairness, ensuring that no significant gain or loss occurs for any state. For instance, after the 2020 Census, 37 states saw no change in their number of seats, while Texas gained two seats, five states gained one seat each, and seven states lost one seat each.
- In the European Union Parliament, comprised of 720 members, seat allocation among its 27 member countries follows the principle of degressive proportionality. This principle entails that the ratio of population to the number of seats increases as population size increases. For example, Denmark, with a population of around 60 lahks, has 15 seats (with an average population of 4 lahks per member), while Germany, with a population of 8.3 crores, has 96 seats (with an average population of 8.6 lahks per member).
6. Proposed Ideal Solution
- The dilemma between democratic and federal principles in delimitation can be effectively addressed by striking a balance that acknowledges the significance of both. A harmonious solution can be achieved by giving equal weight to democratic representation and federal structure.
- The number of Members of Parliament (MPs) in the Lok Sabha could be capped at the current level of 543 seats. This ensures continuity in representation from various states, thereby upholding the federal principle. MPs primarily legislate on matters listed in the Union List, such as Defense, External Affairs, Railways, Telecommunication, and Taxation, and hold the Central government accountable.
- To meet democratic representational requirements, the number of Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) in each state can be increased in alignment with the current population. This adjustment can be made without altering the number of seats in the Rajya Sabha, thereby addressing the need for fair representation at the state level.
- Crucially, to strengthen democracy at the grassroots level, empowering local bodies like panchayats and municipalities is imperative. These entities engage directly with citizens on a daily basis and play a vital role in governance. Significant devolution of powers and finances to these bodies is essential to enhance democracy at the grassroots level, ensuring effective citizen participation in decision-making processes.
7. The Way Forward
Finding a balanced approach to delimitation that considers democratic representation, federal stability, and local governance empowerment is crucial for India's future. This proposed solution offers a starting point for discussion and debate to ensure a fair and effective delimitation process that strengthens the nation's democracy.
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For Prelims: Delimitation, Census, Covid-19 Pandemic, Article 82, Article 170 For Mains: 1. Critically analyze the potential conflict between the principle of "one citizen-one vote" and the freezing of Lok Sabha seats based on the 1971 Census in the context of delimitation. Discuss how this can impact federalism and representation in India. (250 Words)
2. How can the delimitation exercise be conducted in a manner that fosters national integration and strengthens the federal structure of India? (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. With reference to the Delimitation Commission, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2012)
1. The orders of the Delimitation Commission cannot be challenged in a Court of Law.
2. When the orders of the Delimitation Commission are laid before the Lok Sabha or State Legislative Assembly, they cannot effect any modifications in the orders.
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
2. Barak Valley in Assam is famous for which among the following? (MSTET 2019)
A. Bamboo Industry
B. Petroleum Production
C. Cottage Industries
D. Tea Cultivation
3. Which one of the following is an important crop of the Barak Valley? (Karnataka Civil Police Constable 2019)
A. Sugarcane B. Jute C. Tea D. Cotton
4. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2021)
1. In India, there is no law restricting the candidates from contesting in one Lok Sabha election from three constituencies.
2. In 1991 Lok Sabha Election, Shri Devi Lal contested from three Lok Sabha constituencies. 3. As per the- existing rules, if a candidate contests in one Lok Sabha election from many constituencies, his/her party should bear the cost of bye-elections to the constituencies vacated by him/her in the event of him/her winning in all the constituencies.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. 1 and 3 D. 2 and 3
5. The provisions in Fifth Schedule and Sixth Schedule in the Constitution of India are made in order to (UPSC 2015)
A. protect the interests of the Scheduled Tribes
B. determine the boundaries between States
C. determine the powers, authority and responsibilities of Panchayats
D. protect the interests of all the border States
Answers: 1-C, 2-D, 3-B, 4-B, 5-A
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INSOLVENCY AND BANKRUPTCY CODE (IBC)
1. Context
More than eight years have passed since the enactment of India’s Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC). According to data from the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI), creditors have realised ₹3.89 lakh crore under the framework, with a recovery rate of over 32.8% against admitted claims.
2. About Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC)
2.1.Insolvency: Insolvency is a situation where individuals or companies cannot repay their debt.
2.2.Bankruptcy: It is a situation whereby a court of competent jurisdiction has declared a person or other entity insolvent, having passed appropriate orders to resolve it and protect the rights of the creditors.
IBC was introduced in 2016 to consolidate previously available laws to create a time-bound mechanism with a creditor-in-control model as opposed to the debtor-in-possession system. When insolvency is triggered under the IBC, there can be just two outcomes: Resolution or Liquidation, with the former being the preferred solution.
Companies have to complete the entire insolvency exercise within 180 days under IBC and the deadline may be extended if the creditors do not raise objections to the extension.
3. CHALLENGES FOR THE IBC:
- Insolvency Bankruptcy Board of India is the regulator of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code in India. According to its regulator, IBBI the first objective of the IBC is a resolution-finding way to save a business through restructuring, change in ownership, mergers, etc.
- The second objective is to maximize the value of assets of the corporate debtor; the third objective is to promote entrepreneurship, availability of credit, and balancing of interests.
- According to Insolvency Bankruptcy Board of India data for the 3400 cases admitted under the IBC in the last six years, more than 50% of the cases ended in liquidation, and only 14% could find a proper resolution.
- The IBC was thus initially given a 180-day deadline to complete the resolution process, with a permitted 90-day extension. It was later amended to make the total timeline for completion 330 days which is almost a year.
- However, in the financial year 2022, it took 772 days to resolve cases involving companies that owed more than 1000 crores. The average number of days it took to resolve such cases increased rapidly over the past five years.
4. IBC 2016 Advantages
Strict timelines:
- Normal cases: 180 days
- Complex cases: 180 days +90 days
- Legal proceedings: 330 days
- In the case of tardy legal proceedings, it can go beyond 330 days.
- It promotes entrepreneurship, the release of capital that can be invested in other productive assets.
- It focuses more on resolution rather than liquidation.
- In only 15% of cases, the resolution is done, and the rest is liquidation.
5. Expert’s opinion on IBC:
- In order to address the delays, the parliamentary standing committee suggested that the time taken to admit the insolvency application and transfer control of the company to a resolution process, should not be more than 30 days after filing.
- The IBBI has also called for a new yardstick to measure haircuts. It suggested that haircuts cannot be looked at as the difference between the creditors’ claims and the actual almost realized but as the difference between what the companies bring along when it enters IBC and the value realized.
6. INSOLVENCY AND BANKRUPTCY CODE (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2021
- The insolvency and bankruptcy code (Amendment) Bill, 2021 was introduced in the Lok-Sabha to amend the insolvency law and provide for a pre-packaged resolution process for stressed Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises.
- Under this mechanism, main stakeholders such as creditors and shareholders come together to identify a prospective buyer and negotiate instead of a public bidding process.
- The insolvency and bankruptcy are applicable to defaults which is more than Rs.1crore. There has been a recent change in IBC, which is called the Pre-Pack mechanism for MSMEs.
6.1 Pre-Pack Mechanism:
- If an MSME takes a loan and the default is less than 1 crore, then this Pre-Pack mechanism will be applicable.
- Under this mechanism, the owner of the MSMEs will propose or submit a resolution plan to NCLT (National Company Law Tribunal). Outside bidders and open bidding will not be done.
- During this resolution, the management of MSMEs will remain with the previous owners. Under this mechanism, the process will be completed within 120 days.
7. CONCLUSION:
The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code has reformed the Indian Insolvency Law to a great extent. The government needs to provide appropriate budgetary allocations to up skilling insolvency professionals and digitization of insolvency resolution process.
There has been a marked improvement in the recovery process which is already leading to billions of dollars being invested in the country due to the protection of creditor rights.
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Prelims question: 1. According to the IBC, which of the following is not a financial service
A.Underwriting issuance of financial support
B.Accepting of deposits
C.Operating an investment scheme
D.Payment of wages to the Employees
Mains questions:
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Source: The Hindu
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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STAMPEDE
A stampede is a sudden rush or flight of a group of animals or people, usually caused by panic or fear. In the context of animals, it often refers to a herd of large mammals like cattle, horses, or elephants running together in the same direction. For humans, it describes a chaotic situation where a crowd moves rapidly and uncontrollably, often resulting in injuries or fatalities due to trampling or crushing.
Stampedes can be triggered by various factors, such as:
- Sudden loud noises
- Perceived threats
- Natural disasters
- Overcrowding in confined spaces
- Mass panic
Stampedes are particularly dangerous in crowded events or enclosed spaces, as people may be unable to escape the rushing crowd.
3. What causes stampedes?
Stampedes can be caused by several factors:
- Fear or panic: A perceived threat, real or imagined, can trigger a fight-or-flight response in a crowd.
- Overcrowding: When too many people are in a confined space, even small movements can create a domino effect.
- Poor crowd management: Inadequate planning or control of large gatherings can lead to chaotic situations.
- Sudden loud noises: Unexpected sounds like explosions or gunshots can startle a crowd into fleeing.
- Physical pressure: In dense crowds, people at the back pushing forward can create dangerous force on those in front.
- Limited exits: When escape routes are few or narrow, people may rush to leave, creating bottlenecks.
- Misinformation or rumors: False alarms or spreading of incorrect information can cause panic.
- Environmental factors: Extreme weather, fire, or structural collapses can prompt rapid evacuation attempts.
- Mob mentality: People tend to follow the actions of others in a crowd, amplifying panic.
- Cultural or religious events: Large gatherings for festivals or pilgrimages can sometimes lead to stampedes if not managed properly
India has unfortunately experienced several major stampedes. Here are some notable cases:
- Kumbh Mela stampede (2013): At least 36 people died at the Allahabad railway station during the Kumbh Mela festival.
- Ratangarh temple stampede (2013): Over 100 people died near a temple in Madhya Pradesh when rumors of a bridge collapse sparked panic.
- Sabarimala temple stampede (2011): 106 pilgrims died in Kerala during the Makara Jyothi festival.
- Pratapgarh temple stampede (2010): About 63 people died at a temple in Uttar Pradesh during a free food distribution event.
- Naina Devi temple stampede (2008): At least 162 people died in Himachal Pradesh when heavy rains caused panic among pilgrims.
- Mandher Devi temple stampede (2005): 291 people died in Maharashtra during a religious festival.
- Nashik Kumbh Mela stampede (2003): 39 people died during the holy bath ritual in Maharashtra.
- Nagpur stampede (1994): 114 people died on a narrow bridge during a religious procession
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For Prelims: Current events of national importance
For Mains: GS-II, GS-III: Government policies and interventions, Disaster Management
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POLAR RESEARCH VEHICLE (PRV)
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A Polar Research Vessel (PRV) is a specialized ship designed for conducting scientific studies in the polar areas near the Arctic and Antarctic. It also supports oceanographic research, equipped with cutting-edge instruments that allow scientists to investigate deep-sea environments and marine biodiversity.
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India currently runs three research stations in the polar zones — Bharati and Maitri in Antarctica, and Himadri in the Arctic. The country has long aimed to acquire its own PRV to bolster its independent research capabilities.
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The National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), functioning under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, is the main agency overseeing India's scientific missions to the Arctic, Antarctic, and the Himalayan regions.
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The polar areas offer untouched natural settings that are ideal for examining various scientific fields such as atmospheric, oceanic, biological, geological, and glaciological sciences. Growing concerns over climate change have recently increased the focus on Arctic studies.
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The Arctic’s sea ice has been steadily diminishing over the past few decades, with a 12.6% decrease in ice coverage per decade over the last 40 years, according to a 2023 MIT Climate Portal report. Research missions have explored topics including winter lightning activity in the Arctic, how precipitation patterns affect climate, radio frequency conditions, and the impact of aerosols on climate change. The initiative to construct India's first polar research vessel marks a major milestone in this context
- A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in Oslo, witnessed by Sarbananda Sonowal, India’s Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways. He described it as a significant step toward promoting scientific research, enhancing India’s strengths in polar and marine studies, and supporting international initiatives to tackle critical issues such as climate change
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Arctic Council
The region located north of latitude 66° 34’ N, known as the Arctic Circle, spans across parts of eight nations — the United States, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, and Sweden — all of which are members of the Arctic Council. This area also includes the Arctic Ocean. Scientific activities in the Arctic are regulated by various international agreements, such as the 1920 Svalbard Treaty and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, in addition to the national laws of the Arctic states
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India became a signatory to the Svalbard Treaty in Paris in 1920. As per the Arctic Portal website, this treaty grants Norway absolute sovereignty over the Svalbard archipelago. Svalbard is officially a territory of Norway, which holds the authority to implement and uphold laws applicable to the region.
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India’s involvement in Arctic research began in 2007 when a team of five Indian scientists visited the International Arctic Research Facilities at Ny-Ålesund. The visit aimed to start studies in areas like Arctic microbiology, atmospheric science, and geology. India established its own research base, Himadri, in July 2008.
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In Antarctica, India established its first research base, Dakshin Gangotri, in 1983, two years after its inaugural expedition to the continent. Although Dakshin Gangotri is now buried under ice, the other two stations, Maitri and Bharati, remain active. These operations fall under the governance of the Antarctic Treaty.
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The Antarctic Treaty was signed on December 1, 1959, by 12 nations — including countries like the United States, the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom, and Australia — with the aim of promoting peaceful activities and collaborative scientific research in Antarctica.
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As of now, the treaty has 56 member countries. Among them, 29 nations — including the 12 founding members — hold the status of ‘Consultative Parties,’ meaning they have a role in shaping policy decisions. India, which became a member in 1983, is also recognized as a Consultative Party.
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India is taking significant steps to revitalize its shipbuilding industry. The Union Budget for 2025 introduced several key initiatives, including the creation of maritime mega clusters, a ₹25,000-crore Maritime Development Fund (MDF), customs duty waivers, and the designation of infrastructure status for large vessels, all aimed at strengthening the sector.
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The ₹25,000 crore Maritime Development Fund is designed to offer broad-based support and encourage competitive growth. The government will provide 49% of the funding, while the remaining portion will come from contributions by ports and private players.
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India’s growing investment in shipbuilding hubs comes as outward payments for transport services continue to rise due to increasing exports. In 2022 alone, over $109 billion was paid by Indian traders for transportation services.
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The MDF aims to support ship purchases and expand the share of Indian-flagged vessels in global shipping to 20% by the year 2047. Additionally, the fund is projected to drive up to ₹1.5 lakh crore in investments in the shipping industry by 2030.
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The budget also continued support for the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy (SBFAP) 2.0, allocating ₹18,090 crore. This policy provides direct financial aid to Indian shipyards to improve their global competitiveness
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For Prelims: National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), polar research vehicle (PRV)
For Mains: GS III - Research centres at poles
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Previous Year Questions
1.Consider the following countries: (UPSC CSE 2014) 1. Denmark 2. Japan 3. Russian Federation 4. United Kingdom 5. United States of America Which of the above are the members of the ‘Arctic Council’? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 2, 3 and 4 only (c) 1, 4 and 5 only (d) 1, 3 and 5 only Answer (d) |
ASIAN DEVELOPMENT BANK (ADB)
- The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is a regional development bank established to promote social and economic development in Asia and the Pacific. Founded in 1966, ADB’s main goal is to reduce poverty and improve the quality of life for people in its member countries. It achieves this by providing loans, grants, technical assistance, and policy advice to governments and private enterprises.
- Headquartered in Manila, Philippines, the bank was created in response to the need for a financial institution that could support the development efforts of Asian countries, especially those emerging from colonial rule or struggling with underdevelopment. Its founding vision was to create a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia-Pacific region.
- ADB has 68 member countries, with both regional members (from Asia and the Pacific) and non-regional members (such as the United States and several European nations). Each member contributes to the bank’s capital and has a say in how it operates, although the influence of countries depends on the size of their financial contributions.
- The bank primarily focuses on sectors such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, climate change, and regional integration. Over time, ADB has evolved to address more complex challenges, including gender equality, environmental sustainability, and digital transformation.
- ADB works closely with national governments, other international financial institutions, and the private sector. It also plays a key role in mobilizing investments and fostering cooperation among countries in the region.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) was formed to address the urgent need for economic development and regional cooperation in Asia and the Pacific after World War II.
During the 1950s and early 1960s, many Asian countries were either newly independent or still recovering from the devastation of war. These nations faced widespread poverty, weak infrastructure, poor healthcare, low literacy rates, and a lack of industrial development. There was a strong need for financial support, technical expertise, and a platform for regional cooperation to help them grow and modernize.
At that time, existing global institutions like the World Bank were providing assistance, but Asia needed a dedicated regional institution that understood the specific challenges and development priorities of the region. The idea of a development bank for Asia gained momentum, especially with support from Japan and other industrialized countries, and in 1966, the ADB was officially established with its headquarters in Manila, Philippines.
In essence, ADB was formed to:
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Reduce poverty and improve the living standards in Asia and the Pacific.
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Mobilize resources for the region’s development, especially infrastructure and rural development.
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Promote economic growth and regional cooperation among member countries.
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Provide loans, grants, and technical expertise to both public and private sectors.
As of now, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has 68 member countries.
Out of these:
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49 are from Asia and the Pacific region (regional members)
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19 are from outside the region (non-regional members), such as the United States, Canada, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom
Every member country holds shares in the bank and has a say in its governance, although voting power is weighted based on the size of their capital contributions.
This broad membership helps ADB pool financial resources and expertise from around the world to support development efforts in Asia and the Pacific
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For Prelims: Asian Development Bank, India's Gross Domestic Product, Capital expenditure, Current account deficit, Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership
For Mains: GS II - Asian development bank (ADB), Asian Infrastructure investment bank (AIIB)
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Previous Year Questions
1.Consider the following statements: (2020)
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only Answer (b) 2. Which one among the following South Asian countries has the highest population density? (2009) (a) India Answer (a) 3. The term ‘Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership’ often appears in the news in the context of the affairs of a group of countries known as (2016) (a) G20 Answer (b) |
CENSUS
1. Context
2. Key Points
- India had conducted the Census every 10 years since 1881, but in 2020, the decennial exercise for Census 2021 had to be postponed due to the pandemic.
- Though the government has not announced fresh dates for the Census, the groundwork is being laid and details are emerging about some of the features.
- It will be the first digital Census allowing citizens to "self-enumerate". The NPR (National Population Register) has been made compulsory for citizens who want to exercise the right to fill out the Census form on their own rather than through government enumerators.
- For this, the Office of the Registrar General of India (RGI) has designed a "self-enumeration, Aadhaar or mobile number will be mandatorily collected.
3. Status of the Census exercise
- A January 2 notification extending the deadline for freezing administrative boundaries in States until June 30 has ruled out the exercise at least till September.
- As preparation and training take at least three months, the Census will have to be pushed to next year.
- Around 30 lakh government officials will be assigned as enumerators and each will have the task to collect the details of 650-800 people through both online and offline modes, covering an estimated population of 135 crore people.
- The Lok Sabha election is due in April-May 2024 and it is unlikely that the Census will be carried out before that since the same workforce will be dedicated to the elections.
- The completion of both phases of the Census will take at least 11 months, even if done at an accelerated pace from October 1.
4. Holding up the Census
- One reason which is holding up the exercise is the amendments proposed to the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, of 1969.
- The government wants to have a centralised register of births and deaths that can be used to update the population register, electoral register, Aadhaar, ration card, passport and driving license databases.
- The centrally stored data will be updated in real-time without a human interface leading to addition and deletion from electoral rolls when an individual turns 18 and after an individual's death respectively.
- A Bill to link the births and deaths registered with the population register and others are expected to be tabled in the next session of Parliament.
5. NPR
- The NPR, unlike the Census, is a comprehensive identity database of every "usual resident" in the country and the data proposed to be collected at the family level can be shared with States and other government departments.
- Though Census also collects similar information, the Census Act of 1948 bars sharing any individual's data with the State or Centre and only aggregate data at the administrative level can be released.
- According to Citizenship Rules 2003 under the Citizenship Act, 1955, NPR is the first step towards a compilation of the National Register of Indian Citizens (NRIC/NRC).
- Assam is the only State where an NRC has been compiled based on the directions of the Supreme Court, with the final draft of Assam's NRC excluding 19 lakhs of the 3.29 crores applicants.
- Assam Government has rejected the NRC in its current form and demanded re-verification of 30 per cent of names included in the NRC in areas bordering Bangladesh and 10 per cent in the remaining State.
- In 2020, the NPR was opposed by several State governments such as West Bengal, Kerala, Rajasthan, Odisha, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Punjab and Chhattisgarh and Civil Society Organisations due to its link with the proposed NRC as it might leave many people stateless for want of legacy documents.
- There are apprehensions that the Citizenship Amendment Act 9 (CAA), 2019 allows citizenship based on religion to six undocumented religious communities from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who entered India on or before December 31, 2014, will benefit non-Muslims excluded from the proposed citizens' register, while excluded.
- Muslims will have to prove their citizenship. The government has denied that the CAA and NRC are linked and there are currently any plans to compile a countrywide NRC.
5.1. The current status of NPR
- The NPR was first collected in 2010 when the Congres government was in power at the Centre.
- It was updated in 2015 and already has details of 119 crore residents.
- In March 2020, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) amended the Census Rules framed in 1990 to capture and store the Census data in an electronic form and enabled self-enumeration by respondents.
- The NPR is scheduled to be updated with the first phase of Census 2021.
- For this phase (house listing and household phase), 31 questions have been notified, while for the population enumeration, the second and main phase 28 questions have been finalised but are yet to be notified.
- The NPR is expected to collect details on 21 parameters of all family members, up from 14 questions in 2010 and 2015.
- The Sub-heads include passport number, relationship to head of the family, whether divorced/ widowed or separated, mother tongue if non-worker, cultivator, labourer, government employee, daily wage earner among others.
- The form also has a column on Aadhar, mobile phone, Voter ID and driver's licence.
- Though the government has claimed that the NPR form has not been finalised yet, the sample form is part of the Census of India 2021 Handbook for Principal/District Census Officers and Charge Officers in 2021.
- The NPR has retained contentious questions such as "mother tongue, place of birth of father and mother and last place of residence", possible indicators to determine inclusion in the Citizenship register.
- The questions were opposed by the State governments of West Bengal, Kerala, Rajasthan and Odisha in 2020.
- The final set of questions of both the phases and NPR was asked during a pre-test exercise in 2019 in 76 districts in 36 States and Union Territories covering a population of more than 26 lakhs.
6. Expected expenditure for Census
- The initial draft was prepared by the office of the Registrar General of India and circulated to key Ministries and the Prime Minister's Office called for the conduct of Census 2021 at a cost of ₹9, 275 crores and not the NPR.
- The draft Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) not was then revised and a financial provision of ₹4, 442.15 crores for updating the NPR was added on the directions of the MHA "subsequently".
- The proposal was cleared on August 16, 2019, and it received the Union Cabinet's nod on December 24, 2019.
- It was decided that the enumerator engaged for Census would also collect details for NPR.
- The Covid-19 pandemic struck in March 2020 and since then both exercises are on hold.
- Now, the NPR has been made compulsory if citizens want to exercise the right to fill out the Census form on their own.
- The deleted Handbook said that it is "mandatory for every usual resident of India to register in the NPR".
- Census is also mandatory and giving false information is a punishable offence.
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For Prelims: NPR, CAA, Census, Covid-19, Expenditure Finance Committee, Registrar General of India, Registration of Births and Deaths Act, of 1969, The Treatise on Indian Censuses Since 1981, Assam,
For Mains:
1. How can citizens file Census details online? Explain the norms being laid down and discuss the reasons for National Population Register being made compulsory for those who want to fill out the form digitally. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
Prelims:
1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2009)
1. Between Census 1951 and Census 2001, the density of the population of India has increased more than three times.
2. Between Census 1951 and Census 2001, the annual growth rate (exponential) of the population of India has doubled.
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. In the context of vaccines manufactured to prevent COVID-19 pandemic, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2022)
1. The Serum Institute of India produced COVID-19 vaccine named Covishield using mRNA platform.
2. Sputnik V vaccine is manufactured using vector based platform.
3. COVAXIN is an inactivated pathogen based vaccine.
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
Answer: B
3. Sinovac given for Covid-19 is a (UPPSC Combined State Exam 2022)
A. Protein sub-unit
B. Non-replicating viral vector
C. Whole virus vaccine
D. mRNA vaccine
Answer: C
4. Along with the Budget, the Finance Minister also places other documents before the Parliament which Include "The Macro Economic Framework Statement". The aforesaid document is presented because this is mandated by (UPSC 2020)
A. Long-standing parliamentary convention
B. Article 112 and Article 110 (1) of the Constitution of India
C. Article 113 of the Constitution of India
D. Provisions of the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act, 2003
Answer: D
5. Who is the Census Commissioner of India in 2021? (ICAR Technician 2022)
A. Dr Vivek Joshi
B. Dr C Chandramouli
C. Shri Sailesh
D. DK Sikri
Answer: A
6. The Registration of Birth and Death Act came into force in the year _____. (UPSSSC Junior Assistant 2020)
A. 1964 B. 1969 C. 1972 D.1981
Answer: B
7. Consider the following States: (UPSC 2022)
1. Andhra Pradesh
2. Kerala
3. Himachal Pradesh
4. Tripura
How many of the above are generally known as tea-producing States?
A. Only one State
B. Only two States
C. Only three States
D. All four States
Answer: C
8. Consider the following rivers (UPSC 2014)
1. Barak
2. Lohit
3. Subansiri
Which of the above flows/flow through Arunachal Pradesh?
A. 1 only B.2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
Mains:
1. Two parallel run schemes of the Government, viz the Adhaar Card and NPR, one as voluntary and the other as compulsory, have led to debates at national levels and also litigations. On merits, discuss whether or not both schemes need run concurrently. Analyse the potential of the schemes to achieve developmental benefits and equitable growth. (UPSC 2014)
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