ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE
1. Context
In 2010, India woke up to a scientific storm. A research paper published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases described a new enzyme that could make bacteria resistant to nearly all antibiotics, including our last-resort drugs. This enzyme was named New Delhi Metallo-beta-lactamase, or NDM. Overnight, the gene’s name became a political issue. The Indian government argued it unfairly tarnished the nation’s reputation, while the British researchers defended it as a standard naming practice. The media seized the story, politicians took positions, and for a short time, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) became front-page news.
2. What is Anti Microbial Resistance?
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites change over time and no longer respond to medicine making infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of disease spread severe illness, and death.
3. Emergence and spread of AMR
- AMR occurs naturally over time, usually through genetic changes.
- Antimicrobial-resistant organisms are found in people, animals, food, plants, and the environment (in water, soil, and air).
- They can spread from person to person or between people and animals, including from food of animal origin.
- The main drivers of antimicrobial resistance include the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials, lack of access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) for both humans and animals, and poor infection and disease prevention and control in healthcare facilities and farms. Poor access to quality, affordable medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics, lack of awareness and knowledge, and lack of enforcement of legislation.
4. Factors causing AMR in India
- The high disease burden
- The rising income
- The easy and cheap availability of these medicines to the public.
- The uncontrolled sales of antibiotics
- Poor Public health infrastructure
- Lack of awareness regarding the misuse of antibiotics.
6. Government Initiatives that help to curb Antimicrobial Resistance In India
- Through the Swacch Bharat Program, the government has taken active steps to improve hygiene and sanitation and reduce the environmental spread of pathogens.
- Vaccination is an equally important public health measure, and through Mission Indradhaniush, India has set itself an ambitious goal of increasing routine immunization coverage to 90% within just a few years.
6.1 Red Line Campaign
7. WHO's Global plan on Anti-Microbial Resistance?
- To improve awareness and understanding of antimicrobial resistance through effective communication, education, and training.
- To Strengthen the knowledge and evidence base through surveillance and research.
- To reduce the incidence of infection through effective sanitation, hygiene, and infection prevention measures.
- To Optimize the use of antimicrobial medicines in human and animal health.
- To develop the economic case for sustainable investment that takes account of the needs of all countries and to increase investment in new medicines, diagnostic tools, vaccines, and other interventions.
8. Global efforts
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For Prelims: Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), UN Environment Programme, the World Health Organization (WHO), World Organisation for Animal Health, Mission Indradhaniush, Red Line Campaign.
For Mains: 1.Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is considered one of the most significant challenges the world faces today. Discuss.
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Previous Year Questions
1.Which of the following are the reasons for the occurrence of multi-drug resistance in microbial pathogens in India? ( UPSC CSE 2019)
Select the correct answer using the code given below. (a) 1 and 2 Answer: (b) |
QUANTUM TUNNELLING
Very small particles, on the scale of an atom or smaller, behave in ways that are very different compared to objects we encounter in our everyday lives. The behaviour of small particles, extremely counter-intuitive at times, is described by the laws of quantum mechanics.
2. What is Quantum Tunnelling?
- Quantum tunnelling is one of those fascinating phenomena in physics that almost feels like it breaks the rules of common sense. To understand it, imagine a tiny particle—like an electron—approaching a barrier, something it doesn’t seem to have enough energy to climb over.
- In our everyday world, if you don’t have enough energy to jump over a wall, you simply bounce back. But in the quantum world, particles don’t behave like little billiard balls; they are also described by waves of probability.
- These probability waves spread out, and some part of the wave can extend into and even beyond the barrier. This means that while most of the time the particle reflects back, there is still a small chance that it will appear on the other side of the barrier without ever having gone “over” it in the classical sense. It’s as if the particle has slipped, or “tunnelled,” through the wall.
- This strange effect arises because quantum mechanics deals with probabilities and wave functions, not definite paths. The barrier doesn’t completely forbid the particle—it just makes the likelihood of passing through very small, depending on the thickness and height of the barrier.
- In the real world, quantum tunnelling is not just theory—it plays a role in many important processes. For example, it allows nuclear fusion to occur in the sun, because protons don’t have enough classical energy to overcome their mutual repulsion, but tunnelling lets them get close enough to fuse. It’s also the principle behind technologies like tunnel diodes and scanning tunnelling microscopes
- Quantum tunnelling may sound like a purely theoretical quirk of quantum mechanics, but in fact it has very practical and far-reaching applications in science, technology, and even the functioning of the universe itself.
- For instance, the very reason stars like our Sun shine is because of tunnelling. Inside the Sun, hydrogen nuclei (protons) need to get extremely close together to fuse into helium, but their natural electric repulsion makes this almost impossible at the temperatures present.
- Classically, fusion shouldn’t occur. Yet, because of quantum tunnelling, protons can “slip through” their mutual energy barrier, allowing fusion to happen, which in turn produces the sunlight and energy that sustain life on Earth.
- In electronics, tunnelling is deliberately harnessed in devices. Tunnel diodes, for example, use the tunnelling effect to achieve very fast switching speeds and are important in high-frequency applications. Similarly, the flash memory used in USB drives and SSDs relies on electrons tunnelling through insulating barriers to store and erase data.
- Another remarkable use is the Scanning Tunnelling Microscope (STM), which revolutionized nanotechnology. This instrument brings a sharp tip extremely close to a surface, and electrons tunnel between the tip and the surface. By measuring this tunnelling current, scientists can map surfaces at the atomic scale, even “seeing” individual atoms.
- Tunnelling also plays a role in quantum computing and superconductivity. In Josephson junctions, where two superconductors are separated by a thin insulating barrier, pairs of electrons can tunnel across, giving rise to highly sensitive devices like SQUIDs (Superconducting Quantum Interference Devices), which can detect extremely faint magnetic fields.
- Even in biology, tunnelling is believed to contribute to enzyme reactions, where tiny particles like protons or electrons tunnel during biochemical processes, making reactions faster than classical chemistry would predict
- Quantum tunnelling and the light speed threshold (the universal speed limit of relativity) seem to be pulling in opposite directions at first glance. Relativity says: no particle carrying information or mass can travel faster than the speed of light in vacuum.
- Quantum tunnelling, on the other hand, sometimes appears to let a particle “get through” a barrier faster than if it had gone over or around it—almost as if it were cheating the speed limit
- When a particle tunnels through a barrier, its wave function (the mathematical object that describes its probability of being somewhere) extends into the barrier. If the barrier is thin enough, there’s a finite chance that the particle will show up on the other side.
- Now, the time it takes for this tunnelling to occur is strange. In some experiments, it looks like particles “emerge” on the other side almost instantly, faster than light could have crossed the same distance.
- But this doesn’t mean the particle literally travels through the barrier at superluminal speed. Instead, tunnelling is a non-classical process where the concept of a well-defined trajectory inside the barrier simply doesn’t apply.
- In fact, most physicists say: the particle doesn’t really “cross” the barrier in the ordinary sense—it’s more accurate to say that the probability of finding it on the other side suddenly becomes nonzero.
- Crucially, no usable information or signal can be transmitted faster than light via tunnelling. This is why relativity is not violated. The appearance of faster-than-light behaviour comes from how we interpret timing in quantum processes, not from actual superluminal motion
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- The National Quantum Mission (NQM) is an initiative launched by the Government of India in 2023 to advance research and development in quantum science and technology. With a focus on four core areas—Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing & Metrology, and Quantum Materials & Devices—the mission seeks to position India as a global leader in quantum innovation.
- The mission is funded with an allocation of ₹6,003.65 crore over a span of eight years (2023-2031) and aims to drive both scientific breakthroughs and industrial applications. A key feature of the mission is the establishment of four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs), each dedicated to one of the key areas, to address specific research objectives and challenges in quantum technologies.
- The NQM is expected to support a range of applications, from secure communication systems to advanced computing, with the potential to transform fields like healthcare, defense, and cryptography
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For Prelims: Quantum computing, supercomputers, Qiskit Runtime, IBM, National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications, superconductors,
For Mains:
1. What is Quantum computing? Discuss the need for Quantum Computers in emerging countries like India. (250 Words)
2. What are quantum computers and how are they different from conventional computers? Where does India stand in the race to build quantum computers that can realise their full potential? (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. India's first Supercomputer is (TSPSC AEE 2015)
A. Aditya
B. Param Yuva
C. Param
D. Vikram-100
Answer: C
2. What is the full form of IBM? (SSC Steno 2017)
A. International Business Machine
B. Indian Beta Machine
C. Integral Business Machine
D. Internal Beta Machine
Answer: A
3. Which one of the following is the context in which the term "qubit" is mentioned? (UPSC 2022)
A. Cloud Services
B. Quantum Computing
C. Visible Light Communication Technologies
D. Wireless Communication Technologies
Answer: B
4. Quantum computing uses (ACC 124 CGAT 2021)
A. Qubit
B. Bits
C. Bytes
D. Qubytes
Answer: A
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COMMISSION FOR AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT (CAQM)
In a concerted effort to inform, educate, communicate and spread awareness regarding steps towards air pollution mitigation in the National Capital Region (NCR), the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) successfully concluded its two-day workshop in Faridabad and IEC activity in Gurugram respectively today.
- The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the National Capital Region (NCR) and nearby areas was initially established through an ordinance in 2020, which was subsequently replaced by an Act of Parliament in 2021.
- Its primary mandate is to enhance coordination, conduct research, identify issues, and address challenges related to air quality and associated concerns.
- At its inception, the CAQM comprised 15 members, including current and former officials from the Ministry of Environment and other Union government departments, along with representatives from various State governments, NGOs, and other organizations. Currently, the commission, led by Rajesh Verma, has expanded to 27 members.
- The CAQM succeeded the Environmental Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA), which was created by the Supreme Court in 1998. Unlike the CAQM, the EPCA lacked statutory authority, which experts criticized as limiting its ability to enforce compliance among defiant agencies.
- Nevertheless, several initiatives now overseen by the CAQM, such as the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)—a framework of temporary emergency measures to combat air pollution—were originally implemented under the EPCA's guidance
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Powers of CAQM
The Commission for Air Quality Management in the National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Act, 2021, empowers the CAQM to undertake any necessary measures, issue directives, and address grievances aimed at safeguarding and enhancing air quality in the NCR and surrounding regions. According to Section 14 of the Act, the commission is authorized to take strict action against officials who fail to comply with its directives
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- The Supreme Court recently criticized the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for delays in enforcing stricter anti-pollution measures as Delhi's air quality worsened.
- Despite the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching hazardous levels, the CAQM postponed the implementation of Stage 4 measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), prompting the Court to question the lack of urgency in addressing the crisis.
- The justices emphasized that such measures should be triggered as soon as AQI levels indicate severe pollution to prevent further deterioration.
- The Court also highlighted systemic failures, including inadequate action against stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana, and criticized the CAQM for focusing on meetings without concrete enforcement of rules.
- It warned against scaling down measures prematurely and stressed the need for stricter penalties and immediate action to curb pollution sources effectively
- Although the CAQM formulates strategies and coordinates with various agencies, the actual implementation of these measures rests with the respective agencies.
- A CAQM official noted that the commission has significantly improved coordination and planning efforts.
- For instance, while paddy stubble burning—a major contributor to severe air pollution—occurs primarily in October and November, discussions with State officials begin as early as February and continue throughout the season.
- In 2022, the CAQM collaborated with Punjab and Haryana to develop action plans for managing stubble burning, which are reviewed and updated annually.
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For Prelims: Graded Response Action Plan, National Capital Region (NCR),Environmental pollution(prevention control)Authority (EPCA).
For Mains:
1. What is GRAP? What is the Delhi-NCR action plan as air pollution increases? (250 words).
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HISTORY OF CRIMEA
- The Crimean Peninsula, situated between the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov, has historically been prized for its fertile soil and strategically located ports. In antiquity, it was referred to as Tauris or Taurida by the Greeks, later falling under the control of the Romans, Genoese merchants, and for a short period, the Kievan Rus—the medieval polity considered the forerunner of present-day Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus.
- By the 13th century, Crimea was absorbed into the Mongol Golden Horde and eventually developed into the Crimean Khanate, ruled by the Crimean Tatars—an Islamic community now recognised as the indigenous people of the region. The very name “Crimea” derives from the Tatar term “krym,” meaning rock fortress
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- In 1475, the Ottoman Empire took control of the Crimean Khanate, though the Crimean Tatars continued to flourish in the region. Nearly three centuries later, in 1774, the Ottomans were defeated by Catherine the Great of Russia.
- Although Crimea was formally declared independent, it effectively remained under Russian influence.
- By 1783, the peninsula was fully absorbed into the Russian Empire, leading many Tatars to migrate to Ottoman territories.
- The region soon became a theatre of conflict, most notably during the Crimean War (1853–1856), which pitted Russia against Britain and France.
- Moving into the 20th century, Crimean Tatars set up their own Parliament, a step rejected by the Bolsheviks following their rise under Vladimir Lenin.
- In 1918, the Bolsheviks defeated the Tatars and proclaimed the short-lived Taurida Soviet Socialist Republic, taking its name from ancient Greek references to the area. Soon after, Ukrainian forces backed by Germany expelled the Bolsheviks.
- By 1921, Crimea was reorganised as the Crimean Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic (ASSR) within the Russian Soviet Federated Socialist Republic (RSFSR), the largest constituent of the USSR.
- During World War II (1941–1944), Nazi Germany occupied Crimea until the Soviet Union regained control. Following this, Crimea was downgraded to an oblast, and Joseph Stalin ordered the mass deportation of the Crimean Tatars, accusing them of Nazi collaboration.
- Over 200,000 Tatars were expelled, primarily to Central Asia—most settling in Uzbekistan. Ukrainian sources claim that nearly 46% of those deported perished during this forced exile.
- In 1954, Stalin’s successor Nikita Khrushchev transferred Crimea from the RSFSR to the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic (UkrSSR). By this point, according to scholar Doris Wydra’s 2003 study The Crimea Conundrum, around 90% of the population was ethnically Russian.
- With the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Ukraine emerged as an independent nation, and Crimea was granted autonomous status following a referendum.
- This also enabled the gradual return of Crimean Tatars, a process that had begun in the late 1980s.
- By 2001, as noted in Multilingualism in Post-Soviet Countries, Tatars comprised 12% of Crimea’s population, while Russians made up 58% and Ukrainians 24%.
- Finally, in 2014, under President Vladimir Putin, Russia annexed Crimea, ending its official status as part of Ukraine and sparking an ongoing geopolitical conflict
- In 2013, Ukraine was shaken by massive demonstrations that came to be known as the Euromaidan Revolution. Large crowds filled Kyiv’s central square to oppose President Viktor Yanukovych, who was supported by Moscow, after he declined to sign an agreement that would have deepened Ukraine’s trade and political ties with the European Union.
- By February 2014, Yanukovych had fled the country, and the Ukrainian Parliament appointed an acting president in his place.
- Sensing its weakening grip on Ukraine, Russia swiftly moved to seize control of Crimea.
- In February, Russian forces expanded their presence on the peninsula, occupying key installations, including the Crimean Parliament. Soon after, the Parliament—under Russian influence—conducted a referendum, claiming that 97% of voters supported joining Russia.
- Within days, President Vladimir Putin, citing the referendum outcome, signed an agreement incorporating Crimea into Russia.
- The Kremlin defended the annexation, arguing that it corrected the “historical mistake” of Crimea’s 1954 transfer to Ukraine. Russia also emphasised its cultural and linguistic connections with the peninsula, where the majority of residents spoke Russian.
- Yet, according to Eleanor Knott, Assistant Professor at the London School of Economics, her fieldwork in Crimea (2012–2013) showed that while many locals saw themselves as ethnically Russian, they did not strongly associate with Russian political or cultural life.
- Most considered their primary identity to be “Crimean,” and younger generations often viewed themselves as Ukrainian citizens.
- The annexation was met with strong international condemnation, particularly from the United States, the European Union, and the United Nations, with critics alleging that the referendum had been manipulated.
- In response, Putin issued sharp warnings to the West, invoking Russia’s nuclear arsenal and threatening full-scale war should Ukraine attempt to reclaim Crimea by force
- Most of the international community, reaffirmed by a 2014 UN General Assembly resolution, continues to regard Crimea as an integral part of Ukraine.
- Traditionally, the United States has upheld this position. However, former President Donald Trump has increasingly distanced himself from it.
- Posting on Truth Social, just a day before his scheduled meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders, Trump remarked: “Remember how it started. No getting back Obama given Crimea (12 years ago, without a shot being fired!), and NO GOING INTO NATO BY UKRAINE. Some things never change!!!”
- Crimea’s annexation by Russia occurred during Barack Obama’s presidency in 2014. At that time, Obama declined to provide Ukraine with lethal military aid.
- In a speech delivered on March 26, 2014, he emphasised that “The United States and NATO do not seek any conflict with Russia… Now is not the time for bluster. There are no easy answers, no military solution.”
- Later, in a 2023 interview with CNN, Obama explained that back in 2014 there had been “some sympathy to the view that Russia was representing its interests” in Crimea, especially given the presence of pro-Russian sympathisers within Ukraine’s Parliament.
- He added that alongside then-German Chancellor Angela Merkel, he had worked to unite European leaders to impose sanctions on Moscow in order to deter further advances into Donbas.
- Trump’s more recent comments followed a meeting with Vladimir Putin in Alaska, which ended without any breakthrough on halting the war in Ukraine. Still, the meeting suggested a shift in Trump’s outlook.
- Whereas he had earlier warned Putin of “severe consequences” if a ceasefire was not agreed upon, he now described a peace settlement as the “best way” to end the conflict.
- Placing responsibility on Ukraine, Trump asserted that Zelenskyy could end the war almost immediately if he chose to, though he could also continue fighting
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For Prelims: Ukraine, USSR, Russia-Ukraine War, Commonwealth of Independent States, Rus' land, Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, Tsarist policy of Russification, Ottoman empires,
For Mains:
1. Discuss the evolution of Ukraine and critically analyse factors that led to Russia's war on Ukraine. (250 Words)
2. What is The tsarist policy of Russification Discuss the rise and fall of the USSR. (250 Words)
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CHEMICALLY CONTAMINATED SITES
- According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), contaminated sites are locations where hazardous or other wastes were historically dumped, leading to probable pollution of soil, groundwater, and surface water, posing threats to human health and the environment.
- Many of these sites came up when no regulations existed for hazardous waste management. In certain cases, the industries responsible have either shut down or lack the financial capacity to carry out remediation.
- Such sites may include landfills, open dumps, waste treatment and storage facilities, spill locations, and areas used for handling or storing chemical waste. Across India, 103 such sites have been identified, but cleanup operations have started at only seven of them.
- These remediation efforts involve removing pollutants from soil, groundwater, surface water, and sediments using suitable technologies
- In 2010, the Environment Ministry launched the Capacity Building Program for Industrial Pollution Management Project to design the National Programme for Remediation of Polluted Sites.
- This initiative focused on three main objectives — compiling an inventory of potentially contaminated locations, preparing a guidance document for assessing and cleaning such sites, and creating a legal, institutional, and financial framework for remediation.
- While the first two objectives were achieved, the legal framework remained incomplete. The rules announced on July 25 form part of this long-pending codification.
- Under these rules, district administrations must submit half-yearly reports on “suspected contaminated sites.”
- The State Pollution Control Board or a designated ‘reference organisation’ will review these reports and provide a preliminary assessment within 90 days. This will be followed by a detailed survey within the next three months to confirm whether the site is indeed contaminated.
- The process includes measuring levels of suspected hazardous chemicals — currently 189 substances are listed under the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016.
- If contamination levels exceed safety limits, the site’s location will be made public, and access will be restricted. A panel of experts, serving as the ‘reference organisation,’ will then prepare a remediation plan. Additionally, the State board will have 90 days to identify the parties responsible for the pollution
- Chemically contaminated sites can have far-reaching and long-lasting impacts on both the environment and human health. When hazardous substances seep into the soil, they disrupt its natural composition, reducing fertility and affecting the ability of plants to grow.
- Contamination often extends below the surface, polluting groundwater — a vital source of drinking water for many communities — making it unsafe for consumption and daily use. In rivers, lakes, or ponds connected to these sites, toxic chemicals can accumulate, harming aquatic ecosystems, killing fish, and entering the food chain.
- For humans, the risks can range from mild health issues such as skin irritation, respiratory problems, or headaches to severe and chronic illnesses like organ damage, developmental disorders in children, and cancers, depending on the type and concentration of pollutants.
- Some contaminants persist in the environment for decades, meaning that even long after industrial activity has ceased, the dangers remain.
- These sites also reduce the usability of surrounding land, limiting agricultural activities, lowering property values, and in some cases forcing communities to relocate.
- Over time, such contamination can degrade biodiversity, alter natural habitats, and impose heavy economic and social costs on the affected regions
- Bhopal Gas Tragedy, Madhya Pradesh (1984 – Ongoing Contamination)
The Bhopal disaster is India’s most infamous industrial accident, but what’s less discussed is the lingering contamination. After the methyl isocyanate (MIC) leak from the Union Carbide plant, the site was abandoned with tonnes of hazardous waste left untreated. Over the decades, toxic chemicals seeped into the soil and groundwater, affecting around 42 communities in the area. Even today, residents face higher rates of cancer, birth defects, and chronic respiratory illnesses. Groundwater is still considered unsafe for drinking in nearby localities.
- West Bokaro Coalfields, Jharkhand
Open dumping of mine overburden and coal washeries waste has led to heavy metal contamination of soil and water in the West Bokaro region. Studies have found elevated levels of iron, manganese, and other metals in streams and groundwater. The contamination has degraded agricultural productivity and impacted aquatic biodiversity.
- Eloor–Edayar Industrial Belt, Kerala
This 3-km stretch on the banks of the Periyar River houses around 250 chemical industries. Years of untreated effluent discharge have led to mercury, lead, and cadmium contamination in river sediments and fish. The pollution has impacted local fishing communities and reduced the Periyar’s capacity as a source of potable water.
- Durgapur Industrial Belt, West Bengal
Decades of steel, cement, and chemical production have led to severe soil and groundwater contamination in and around Durgapur. Fly ash dumps and slag heaps have leached toxic substances, causing skin ailments and gastrointestinal problems in nearby populations.
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For Prelims: Disaster Management, Chemically Contaminated Sites, Methyl isocyanate (MIC)
For Mains: GS III - Disaster Management
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GRASSLAND BIRD CENSUS
Among the significant findings was the identification of a breeding colony of the endangered Finn’s Weaver, a bird unique to the Brahmaputra floodplains. The study focused on ten priority species that are either globally threatened or endemic to this region:
| Species Name | Scientific Name | IUCN Status |
|---|---|---|
| Bengal Florican | Houbaropsis bengalensis | Critically Endangered |
| Swamp Francolin | Ortygornis gularis | Near Threatened |
| Indian Grassbird | Graminicola bengalensis | Near Threatened |
| Finn’s Weaver | Ploceus megarhynchus | Endangered |
| Swamp Grass Babbler | Laticilla cinerascens | Endangered |
| Jerdon’s Babbler | Chrysomma altirostre | Vulnerable |
| Slender-billed Babbler | Argya longirostris | Vulnerable |
| Black-breasted Parrotbill | Paradoxornis flavirostris | Vulnerable |
| Marsh Babbler | Pellorneum palustre | Vulnerable |
| Bristled Grassbird | Schoenicola striatus | Vulnerable |
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Grasslands, dominated by the Poaceae family which includes between 10,000 to 12,000 species, span large portions of the Earth's surface and support rich biodiversity. These ecosystems are typically found in regions with low to moderate rainfall, ranging from 600 to 1,500 mm annually.
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Often underestimated, grasslands are even more beneficial than forests in several ways. They deliver crucial ecosystem functions such as water and carbon storage, nutrient recycling, and climate regulation. Importantly, they also sustain both human agriculture and livestock, alongside wild herbivores — which in turn support carnivores by serving as their prey base.
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In India, grasslands cover nearly 25% of the country’s land area. These include diverse types such as the alpine meadows in the Himalayas, the chaurs at their base, the terai grasslands along the floodplains of the Ganga and Brahmaputra rivers, the floating phumdis of Manipur (home to the famous “dancing deer”), the dry savannas of central and western India, and the sholas in the Western Ghats.
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Globally, grasslands are known by various names depending on the region. The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) notes that they are referred to as ‘savannah’ in Africa, ‘cerrado’ in South America, ‘prairie’ in North America, ‘steppe’ in Central Asia, and ‘meadow’ in the United Kingdom.
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What makes grasslands unique is their resilience — they can continue to grow even after being grazed by animals. This quality allows them to support a diverse range of wildlife. For instance, Kaziranga and Manas host species like the one-horned rhinoceros and wild water buffalo in their moist grasslands, the terai supports swamp deer, and the rare Sangai deer flourishes on the floating islands of Loktak Lake in Manipur.
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Despite their importance, most of India’s grasslands — like its wetlands — lack formal protection. A UNCCD report released last year on rangeland degradation revealed that less than 5% of the country’s grasslands are in protected zones. Furthermore, India’s grassland area reduced significantly from 18 million hectares in 2005 to just 12 million hectares by 2015
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On July 29, Tuesday, authorities released the 2024 summary report titled ‘Status of Tigers in the Kaziranga Tiger Reserve’, based on the Phase IV monitoring efforts carried out across the Eastern Assam, Nagaon, and Biswanath Wildlife Divisions. This assessment was conducted under the directives of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).
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The latest count recorded 148 tigers within the reserve — a notable increase from 104 in 2022, 99 in 2018, and 96 in 2014. According to Reserve Director Sonali Ghosh, this growth positions Kaziranga as having the third-highest tiger density globally, following Corbett Tiger Reserve in Uttarakhand and Bandipur Tiger Reserve in Karnataka.
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The monitoring exercise lasted 103 days and employed 293 pairs of camera traps spread over 1,307.49 square kilometres. These traps captured 4,011 tiger images from 242 different sites. Based on the unique stripe patterns on their right flanks, 148 adult tigers were identified — comprising 83 females, 55 males, and 10 whose gender could not be determined.
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While the increase in population is encouraging, the report also highlights ongoing threats to Kaziranga’s tigers, including habitat loss, conflicts with humans, and the impact of expanding agriculture and infrastructure around the reserve
- Kaziranga National Park holds immense ecological, cultural, and conservation significance in India and globally. Located in the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River in Assam, Kaziranga is celebrated for its remarkable biodiversity, particularly as the single largest habitat of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros.
- In fact, it is home to more than two-thirds of the world's population of this species, making it the cornerstone of rhino conservation in South Asia.
- Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, Kaziranga is not just a sanctuary for rhinos but also a thriving ecosystem that supports tigers, elephants, wild water buffalo, swamp deer, and numerous bird species.
- It is part of the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot and represents one of the last remaining undisturbed natural areas in the Brahmaputra Valley floodplain.
- What sets Kaziranga apart is its dynamic riverine ecosystem shaped by annual floods, which sustain its vast expanses of grasslands, wetlands, and forests. These natural cycles create ideal conditions for a diverse range of flora and fauna, particularly large herbivores. This, in turn, supports a healthy population of carnivores, including one of the highest tiger densities in the world.
- Kaziranga is also significant from a conservation policy perspective. It is one of the first protected areas in India to implement rigorous anti-poaching strategies and community engagement models. The park’s success in wildlife protection has become a case study in how conservation can be balanced with tourism and local livelihoods.
- Moreover, Kaziranga plays a vital role in climate regulation, water retention, and flood mitigation in the region. It acts as a natural buffer during the Brahmaputra’s monsoon overflow, absorbing excess water and reducing downstream damage. The park is also an important carbon sink, contributing to climate resilience in northeast India.
- In essence, Kaziranga is not just a wildlife reserve; it is a living landscape that reflects the intricate relationship between nature, people, and policy. Its continued protection is essential for maintaining ecological balance, conserving endangered species, and supporting the broader environmental and economic health of the region
- The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Government of India. It was established in 2006 under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, as amended by the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act, 2006
- The NTCA was created to strengthen tiger conservation efforts in India and to implement the Project Tiger program more effectively. Its formation followed concerns about declining tiger populations and the need for a more focused, accountable, and legally empowered body to oversee their protection
- NTCA has the power to issue binding directions to states regarding tiger conservation. It also coordinates with law enforcement agencies, forest departments, and international organizations to curb wildlife crime and illegal trade in tiger parts
- The NTCA plays a central role in India's tiger conservation success, helping the country maintain over 70% of the world’s wild tiger population. Through data-driven conservation, policy advocacy, and strict protection measures, NTCA has helped reverse the decline in tiger numbers, as reflected in the results of All India Tiger Estimations
Key Features of Project Tiger:
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Tiger Reserves:
Specially designated protected areas known as tiger reserves were established. India began with 9 reserves in 1973; as of now (2024), there are over 53 tiger reserves across 18 states. -
Core-Buffer Strategy:
Each tiger reserve is divided into:-
Core Zone: Strictly protected; human activity is prohibited.
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Buffer Zone: Sustainable use area where conservation and local livelihoods coexist.
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Monitoring & Research:
Uses scientific methods like camera traps, pugmark tracking, and radio telemetry. The All India Tiger Estimation is conducted every four years. -
Community Participation:
Local communities are involved through eco-development programs to reduce dependence on forest resources and promote conservation awareness. -
Rehabilitation and Relocation:
Voluntary relocation of villages from core areas to reduce pressure on tiger habitats
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🐅 Tiger’s Conservation Status – Know the Protection Levels!
🔖 Under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 🌍 IUCN Red List Classification 🌐 CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) |
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For Prelims: Kaziranga National Park, Indian Forests Act, 1927, Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
For Mains:
1. What are the prohibitions for visitors in case of National Parks, Discuss the laws governing National Parks and Tiger reserves
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ORDANARILY RESIDENT
- The Election Commission (EC) prepares the electoral rolls in accordance with the Representation of the People Act, 1950 (RP Act). According to Section 19 of this Act, an individual must be "ordinarily resident" in a particular constituency to be eligible for inclusion in its voter list.
- Section 20 further defines the concept of "ordinary residence." It clarifies that merely owning or occupying a home in a constituency does not qualify someone as ordinarily residing there.
- On the other hand, someone who is temporarily away from their usual residence is still considered ordinarily resident.
- The law also extends this status to certain categories of individuals such as: (a) members of the Union’s armed forces, (b) members of a State’s armed police serving outside their home State, (c) those employed by the Government of India in positions abroad, and (d) persons holding constitutional posts as declared by the President in consultation with the EC.
- These individuals and their spouses are deemed ordinarily resident in the place where they would have lived had they not been posted elsewhere.
- In 2010, Section 20A was introduced to allow non-resident Indians (NRIs) who have moved abroad for extended periods to register as voters in the constituency corresponding to the address listed in their passports.
- The Registration of Electors Rules, 1960 (RER), framed by the Central Government in consultation with the EC, lays down the rules for creating and updating electoral rolls, including the addition or removal of names, in line with the RP Act
- The criterion of being ‘ordinarily resident’ in a constituency is intended to ensure that voters have a genuine connection to the area, thereby upholding the principle of representative accountability. It also serves as a safeguard against fraudulent voter registrations.
- In the 1999 Manmohan Singh case, the Gauhati High Court interpreted ‘ordinarily resident’ as someone who habitually lives in a particular place. This residence must be of a lasting nature, not just temporary or incidental.
- The individual must intend to live there permanently, and their presence in that location should be such that a reasonable observer would consider them a resident.
- This definition becomes complex in the context of migrant workers. According to the 2020–21 Periodic Labour Force Survey, about 11% of India’s population migrated for employment, which equates to nearly 150 million potential voters.
- Many of these workers engage in seasonal migration, returning to their home regions for part of the year.
- Migrant construction and security workers often reside in makeshift accommodations near their work sites, moving frequently between jobs within or across States.
- Nevertheless, they tend to vote in their home constituencies, where their families reside and their assets are located. Even though they do not live there continuously, their connection to the area aligns with the legal and judicial understanding of ‘ordinary residence’.
- While any migrant can choose to register to vote in their new location, strictly enforcing the ‘ordinary residence’ requirement to remove them from their original constituency’s rolls risks undermining democratic participation.
- Many migrant workers are reluctant or unwilling to register at their temporary work locations, and a rigid application of the rule could lead to their effective disenfranchisement
While the Constitution of India lays down the foundational principles of elections, such as universal adult franchise and the existence of the Election Commission, it does not go into the specifics of how elections should be conducted. The Representation of the People Act, 1951 (RPA 1951), fills this gap. It was passed by the Indian Parliament in July 1951, shortly before the first general elections in independent India.
The Act outlines the complete legal framework for elections and ensures free and fair electoral practices. It complements the earlier Representation of the People Act, 1950, which deals primarily with the preparation of electoral rolls and the allocation of seats in the legislatures
The RPA 1951 deals with several vital aspects of the electoral process:
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Conduct of Elections
The Act provides a legal basis for the conduct of elections to the Lok Sabha (House of the People), Rajya Sabha (Council of States), State Legislative Assemblies, and Legislative Councils. It details how constituencies should be demarcated, how candidates should file their nominations, and the procedures for voting, counting, and declaring results. -
Qualifications and Disqualifications
The Act lays down the qualifications required to become a member of Parliament or a State Legislature. It also sets out disqualifications based on certain grounds such as holding an office of profit, being of unsound mind, being an undischarged insolvent, or being convicted of certain criminal offenses.For example, under Section 8 of the Act, individuals convicted of certain crimes, including corruption, terrorism, and rape, are disqualified from contesting elections for a specified period.
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Election Disputes and Petitions
The Act provides a mechanism for addressing disputes related to elections. Any election petition challenging the result of an election must be filed in the appropriate High Court. The Act outlines the process for hearing such petitions, the time limits, and possible outcomes, including setting aside an election or declaring another candidate as duly elected. -
Model Code of Conduct and Electoral Malpractices
While the Model Code of Conduct is not part of the Act itself, the RPA 1951 provides statutory backing to punish electoral offenses like bribery, impersonation, booth capturing, or promoting enmity between groups. It ensures that the electoral process is not distorted by unfair practices. -
Regulation of Political Parties and Candidates
The Act regulates the registration of political parties and requires them to follow certain norms. It also lays down rules for the disclosure of election expenses by candidates. There is a ceiling on the maximum amount a candidate can spend during the campaign, and failure to comply with this requirement may lead to disqualification. -
Role of Election Commission
The Act empowers the Election Commission of India to supervise, direct, and control the entire process of elections. It authorizes the Commission to cancel elections in the event of malpractices, disqualify candidates, and enforce electoral laws
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The RPA 1951 has undergone several amendments over the years to respond to the changing nature of Indian democracy. These include provisions for Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), efforts to decriminalize politics, steps to increase transparency in political funding, and enabling overseas Indian citizens (NRIs) to vote. One of the most notable amendments was the 2002 introduction of the requirement for candidates to disclose their criminal records, assets, liabilities, and educational qualifications, enhancing transparency and informed voting |
The Representation of the People Act allows service voters, individuals holding designated official positions, and non-resident Indians (NRIs) to remain registered as voters in their original constituencies, even if they are no longer residing there permanently. Although the comparison may not be exact, it is important to recognize that many labourers—whether they migrate temporarily or for longer periods—do so due to limited employment opportunities in their home regions. Despite relocating for work, they often maintain strong ties with their native place and prefer to keep their voting rights in that constituency.
To support this preference, there is scope to amend the Representation of the People Act or the Registration of Electors Rules in a way that safeguards the electoral rights of migrant labourers. There should be efforts to develop inclusive and practical systems that facilitate their participation in elections. Meanwhile, concerns about duplicate voter registrations in multiple constituencies by migrants can be addressed independently through linking voter records with Aadhaar
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For Prelims: Indian Polity and Governance-Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc.
For Mains: General Studies II: Parliament and State legislatures structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these.
1. Discuss the significance of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, in ensuring the decriminalization of politics. Evaluate the effectiveness of the Act in preventing individuals with a criminal background from entering the electoral process. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. According to the Representation of the People Act, 1951, in the event of a person being elected to both houses of Parliament, he has to notify within ______ days in which house he intends to function. (Delhi Police Constable 2020)
A. 22 B. 10 C. 20 D. 15
Answer: B
2. The Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 extends to (MPPSC 2018)
A. whole of India
B. whole of India except the State of Jammu and Kashmir
C. Union Territories
D. only the- State of Jammu and Kashmir
Answer: A
3. Under the Protection of Civil Rights Act 1955, all offences are (MPPSC 2013)
A. Cognizable B. Bailable C. Compoundable D.Punishment with imprisonment and fine both
Answer: A
4. The right to vote is in which article of the Indian Constitution? (Bihar Forest Guard 2019)
A. Article 322 B. Article 324 C. Article 326 D. Article 330
Answer: C
5. Right to vote and to be elected in India is a (UPSC 2017)
A. Fundamental Right B. Natural Right C. Constitutional Right D. Legal Right
Answer: C
6. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2017)
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 3 only Answer: D 7. The Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) system was used for the first time by the Election Commission of India in (UPSC CAPF 2019) A. North Paravur Assembly Constituency, Kerala
B. Noksen Assembly Constituency, Nagaland
C. Mapusa Assembly Constituency, Goa
D. Nambol Assembly Constituency, Manipur
Answer: B 8. In which of the following options, Electronic Voting Machines were used for the first time during general elections all over India? (Rajasthan Police Constable 2020) A. 2014 B. 1999 C. 2004 D. 2009 Answer: C 9. Which one of the following statements about 'personal liberty' is not correct? (UPSC CAPF 2021)
A. State does not have the authority to deprive any person within the territory of India of his/her personal liberty without any rational basis.
B. Basis of depriving a person of his/her personal liberty must be in accordance with procedures established by law.
C. Personal liberty can be secured by the judicial writ of Habeas Corpus.
D. The majority view of the Supreme Court in A. K. Gopalan vs. State of Madras case invented 'due process of law'.
Answer: D
10. Consider the following statements about Electoral Bond Scheme 2018: (RPSC RAS 2018) (A) The aim of this scheme is to bring about transparency in the funding process of political parties.
(B) Only the political parties recognized by the Election Commission which secured not less than one per cent of the votes polled in the last general election to the House of People or the Legislative Assembly of the State shall be eligible to receive the Electoral Bonds.
(C) Electoral Bonds shall be valid for fifteen calendar days from the date of issue.
(D) The Electoral Bond deposited by an eligible political party in its account shall be credited on the same day.
Which of the above statements are correct? A. Only (A) and (B) B. (A), (B), (C) and (D) C. Only (B), (C) and (D) D. Only (A), (C) and (D) Answer: B Mains1. Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in the light of the evolution of the Model Code of Conduct. (UPSC 2022) |
Source: The Hindu
BRAHMAPUTRA RIVER AND CHINA'S BRIDGE
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Source: The Hindu- Chinese Premier Li Qiang has formally inaugurated the construction of a massive hydropower dam in Nyingchi City, situated in the Tibet Autonomous Region along the lower course of the Brahmaputra River, which is locally called the Yarlung Zangbo.
- This significant move, reported by China’s state-run media, signals the beginning of a strategically and environmentally impactful project in a region of geopolitical sensitivity, particularly due to its proximity to India’s northeastern border.
- The project is being described as one of the largest hydropower developments globally, both in scale and investment. It involves the construction of five cascade hydropower stations, a system designed to maximize energy output by building multiple dams along the river’s flow.
- The total estimated investment for the project is about 1.2 trillion Yuan (approximately USD 167.8 billion), underscoring China’s long-term commitment to clean energy infrastructure and regional development in Tibet.
- At present, China’s Three Gorges Dam on the Yangtze River holds the record as the world's largest dam, boasting an installed capacity of 22.5 gigawatts. However, the newly announced project is likely to surpass it in terms of complexity and strategic relevance.
- The chosen location near the dramatic "Great Bend" of the Yarlung Tsangpo is particularly favorable for hydropower generation.
- Here, the river plunges about 2,000 meters within a short distance of 50 kilometers, offering immense potential for energy extraction through gravitational force.
- This development has broader implications beyond energy. It may influence water flow into the Brahmaputra basin, a lifeline for millions in India and Bangladesh, prompting concerns over transboundary river management and ecological impacts.
- While China insists the project is purely for energy purposes, its location in a seismically active and environmentally fragile zone continues to raise international attention and calls for cooperative water governance among the riparian nations
- The proposed Chinese dam is strategically located near the sharp U-turn of the Brahmaputra River—an area often referred to as the “Great Bend”—where the river dramatically curves before entering India’s Arunachal Pradesh and later flowing into Bangladesh, where it is known as the Jamuna.
- This particular stretch is not only geographically significant but also hydrologically sensitive. Alterations in the river’s natural flow at this point could disrupt the hydrological balance downstream, affecting water availability in both India and Bangladesh.
- Such disruptions may have serious consequences for the agricultural sector, which is heavily dependent on the seasonal flow of the Brahmaputra. Rice and jute cultivation, in particular, are highly water-sensitive, and changes in flow patterns could lead to reduced irrigation potential, crop failure, or delayed sowing seasons.
- Moreover, the river supports millions of livelihoods, especially in the Assam and Bangladesh floodplains, where fishing and farming are key economic activities.
- Environmental experts are also concerned about the dam's impact on the Eastern Himalayas, a globally recognized biodiversity hotspot. This region is home to countless endemic and endangered species, and changes in river ecology could disturb aquatic habitats, migratory routes, and forest ecosystems.
- Additionally, the area is prone to seismic activity, raising the risk of dam-related disasters such as landslides or reservoir-induced earthquakes.
- While China underscores the importance of this mega-project as a vital component of its renewable energy strategy—intended to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable development—it has not entered into any formal water-sharing treaty with India or Bangladesh.
- As a result, India and Bangladesh, being lower riparian states, are especially vulnerable to unilateral upstream activities. The absence of a transparent and cooperative water management framework raises geopolitical tensions, as such projects could be used to exert strategic leverage or cause ecological stress during droughts or conflicts.
- Given the transboundary nature of the Brahmaputra, many experts advocate for enhanced regional cooperation, joint river basin management, and early warning systems to ensure that hydropower development does not come at the cost of ecological and social stability across South Asia
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The Brahmaputra River is an international river system, with its basin covering an area of approximately 5,80,000 square kilometers. This vast catchment spans across four countries: China accounts for the largest share at 50.5%, followed by India with 33.3%, Bangladesh with 8.1%, and Bhutan contributing 7.8%.
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Within India, the Brahmaputra basin occupies about 1,94,413 square kilometers, making up roughly 5.9% of the nation’s total land area. The basin extends over several northeastern and eastern states including Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim, and West Bengal.
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The river has its source at the Chemayungdung Glacier, situated to the east of Mansarovar Lake in the Kailash mountain range in Tibet. In Tibet, it is known as the Yarlung Tsangpo, and it flows eastward for nearly 1,200 kilometers before curving southward.
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Near Namcha Barwa, the river takes a dramatic U-shaped turn—often referred to as the Great Bend—and enters India via Arunachal Pradesh, just west of Sadiya town. Here, the river is called the Siang or Dihang.
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As it flows southwest, the Siang is joined on the left bank by major tributaries such as the Dibang and Lohit, after which it takes the name Brahmaputra.
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On its right bank, the river receives important tributaries like the Subansiri (an antecedent river), Kameng, Manas, and Sankosh. The Brahmaputra continues its journey into the Bangladesh plains near Dhubri in Assam, eventually flowing southward.
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In Bangladesh, after the Teesta River merges from the right bank, the Brahmaputra is referred to as the Jamuna. It later converges with the Padma River, and the combined flow drains into the Bay of Bengal.
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All tributaries of the Brahmaputra within Indian territory are rain-fed, receiving intense rainfall during the southwest monsoon. This makes the region highly prone to seasonal flooding, riverbank erosion, and shifting of river channels, particularly in Assam.
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The river’s topography also makes it ideal for hydropower generation. In its Tibetan course of about 1,700 kilometers, the Brahmaputra descends nearly 4,800 meters, averaging a slope of 2.82 meters per kilometer. However, this gradient decreases drastically to 0.1 meter per kilometer once the river enters the Assam Valley, resulting in slower flow and increased sedimentation
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According to Ashok Kantha, former Indian Ambassador to China, India and China have established a broad-based Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate cooperation on transboundary rivers, along with two separate agreements specifically addressing the Brahmaputra and Sutlej rivers.
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The MoU concerning the Sutlej was prompted by the Parechu incident, which had highlighted the need for consistent hydrological data sharing. However, China did not agree to provide year-round data, and the agreement has since expired and awaits renewal.
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The MoU on the Brahmaputra, which is designed to be renewed every five years, expired in 2023. According to the Jal Shakti Ministry, the renewal process is underway through official diplomatic exchanges.
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The broader umbrella agreement, signed in 2013, remains in force as it has no expiration clause. Despite this, the Ministry’s website notes that no active cooperation is currently taking place under this framework. Additionally, an Expert Level Mechanism established in 2006—intended to support annual bilateral meetings—has experienced periodic disruptions.
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In light of these limited cooperative structures, the 1997 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Non-Navigational Uses of International Watercourses is seen as a potential guiding framework for equitable and sustainable management of shared water resources between nations
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For Prelims: UN Convention on the Law of the Non-Navigational Uses of International Watercourses (1997), Transboundary River Agreements
For Mains: GS Paper II: International Relations
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Related Question
1.The Brahmaputra River is known as “Yarlung Tsangpo” in which of the following countries?
A) India B) China C) Bhutan D) Bangladesh Answer: B) China |
EMPLOYMENT LINKED INCENTIVE (ELI)
- As per the Ministry of Labour, the Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) scheme aims to support the creation of over 3.5 crore new jobs within a span of two years.
- The Central Government anticipates that approximately 1.92 crore newly hired workers will benefit from the scheme, which will be active from August 1, 2025, to July 31, 2027. The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) will oversee its implementation.
- Under this scheme, new employees earning up to ₹1 lakh per month will receive an EPF wage benefit of up to ₹15,000 in two parts. The first part will be transferred after six months of continuous employment and the second after completing one year, both paid directly into their bank accounts.
- Additionally, part of the incentive will be placed in a fixed-period deposit account that the employee can access later.
- For employers registered with EPFO, an incentive of up to ₹3,000 per month per new employee will be provided for maintaining employment for at least six months, and this will continue for two years. In the case of manufacturing units, the incentive period will be extended to the third and fourth years
Incentives for First-Time Employees:
- This component of the scheme focuses on individuals entering formal employment for the first time and registered under EPFO. Eligible employees—those earning up to ₹1 lakh per month—will receive an EPF wage benefit equivalent to one month’s salary, capped at ₹15,000, disbursed in two phases.
- The first installment will be given after completing six months of service, while the second will be granted after 12 months, along with successful completion of a financial literacy program. To promote saving habits, a part of the benefit will be placed in a fixed-term deposit account, which the employee can access at a later time.
- Approximately 1.92 crore first-time workers are expected to benefit from this segment of the scheme.
Part B – Employer Incentives:
- This segment provides financial support to employers across all sectors, with particular emphasis on the manufacturing industry.
- Employers hiring workers with salaries up to ₹1 lakh will receive government support of up to ₹3,000 per month for each new hire, provided the employee remains continuously employed for at least six months.
- In the manufacturing sector, this incentive will be extended to cover the third and fourth years as well.
- Eligible establishments must be registered with EPFO and are required to hire at least two additional workers if they employ fewer than 50 people, or five additional workers if their workforce is 50 or more, all on a sustained basis for a minimum of six months
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Incentive Payment Mechanism
Under Part A of the scheme, payments to first-time employees will be processed through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system using the Aadhaar Bridge Payment System (ABPS). For Part B, financial support to employers will be credited directly to their accounts linked with PAN. The ELI Scheme aims to stimulate employment generation across all sectors, with a special focus on the manufacturing industry. It also seeks to support young individuals entering the workforce for the first time. A key objective of the initiative is to promote workforce formalization by bringing millions of young workers under the umbrella of social security |
The Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme holds significant value in India’s efforts to promote inclusive and sustainable job creation. It serves as a strategic intervention to boost formal employment, particularly in the post-pandemic recovery phase. By offering direct benefits to both employees and employers, the scheme addresses multiple socio-economic objectives:
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Job Creation at Scale:
With a target of generating over 3.5 crore jobs in two years, the ELI Scheme aims to stimulate employment across sectors, especially in the labour-intensive manufacturing industry. -
Encouraging First-Time Employment:
The scheme provides financial incentives to individuals joining the formal workforce for the first time, making it easier for young jobseekers to find sustainable employment. -
Boosting Formalization:
By linking benefits to registration under the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), the scheme encourages the transition from informal to formal employment, extending social security coverage to millions. -
Support for Employers:
Incentives to employers—up to ₹3,000 per employee per month—reduce the cost of hiring and retaining workers, particularly beneficial for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). -
Focus on Manufacturing Growth:
With extended incentives for manufacturing units up to four years, the scheme aligns with the government’s broader goals of strengthening the manufacturing sector and achieving self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat). -
Encouraging Financial Literacy and Savings:
By linking part of the benefits to financial literacy programs and placing a portion in deposit instruments, the scheme promotes responsible financial behaviour among young workers.
- India witnessed substantial employment growth in the financial year ending March 2024, adding around 4.67 crore jobs. This positive trend has continued into 2024–25, with both formal and informal sectors contributing to the rise, as per official statistics.
- According to the latest Annual Survey released by the Ministry of Statistics, employment in the country’s unincorporated sector grew by a strong 10.01% between October 2023 and September 2024 compared to the previous year.
- The survey highlights that the “Other Services” category alone accounted for over 12 crore new jobs during this period—an increase of more than one crore compared to the prior year—indicating a notable expansion in the labour market.
- Among all segments, “Other Services” recorded the fastest annual growth at 17.86%, followed by the manufacturing sector, which grew by 10.03%.
- The unincorporated non-agricultural sector remains a critical component of India's economic fabric. It provides employment to millions, significantly contributes to GDP, and supports the formal economy by supplying essential goods and services—thereby reinforcing the domestic value chain.
- Meanwhile, the formal sector has also maintained its upward trajectory in job creation during the first half of the current fiscal year. Government data released in November shows an increase in enrollments across key social security schemes.
- Registrations under the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF), which generally applies to larger enterprises and higher-income employees, rose by 2.3%, reaching 6.1 million from April to September 2024 compared to the same period the previous year.
- The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), which serves smaller firms, saw a sharper rise of 5.2%, with 9.3 million new enrollments. Likewise, the National Pension System (NPS) recorded a 6.8% increase, reflecting a growing shift of workers into more stable and formal employment opportunities
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For Prelims: Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme, Aadhaar Bridge Payment System (ABPS)
For Mains: GS II - Governance
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