GOVERNOR'S POWER
1. Context
2. About Governor
- Part VI of the Constitution deals with the states and lists out the role and responsibility of the Governor of states.
- Article 153 provides for a Governor of every state and is the constitutional head of the state.
- The executive power of the State shall be vested in the Governor and shall be exercised by him either directly or through officers subordinate to him in accordance with this Constitution (Article 154).
- Governor performs the same duties as of President, but as the executive head of a State; the work remains the same as of the office of the President of India.
- A Governor is a nominated head and not an elected representative.
- Dual Role of the Governor as head and representative
- Constitutional head of state; and
- Link between Union and State governments. - His dual role makes him a key functionary in the Indian Constitutional system.
3. Powers of Governor
- Under Article 161 the Governor has the following powers –the power to grant pardons, reprieves, respites, or remissions of punishment; the power to suspend, remit or commute the sentence of any person convicted of any offence against any law relating to a matter to which the executive power of the State extends.
- The Governor makes all executive decisions on behalf of the state government (Article 166(1)).
- The Governor appoints the Chief Minister and other cabinet members. They serve at the pleasure of the Governor (Article 164).
- He may create rules for the efficient execution of a state government's work and its distribution among the ministers. (Article 166(3))
- He appoints the state's advocate general and determines his tenure and conditions of service.
- He has the authority to recommend to the President the declaration of a state of constitutional emergency.
- He may request from the Chief Minister any information about the administration of the state's affairs, as well as legislative suggestions (Article 167).
- The governor appoints the state election commissioner and establishes his term of office and working conditions (Article 243K).
4. Friction points between the States and Governor
- In recent years. these have been largely about the selection of the party to form a government, the deadline for proving the majority, sitting on Bills, and passing negative remarks on the state administration.
- Kerala’s government was dismissed based on a report by the Governor. Several state governments have been dismissed since then, including 63 through President’s Rule orders issued by Governors between 1971 and 1990.
- Kerala Governor in 2020 turned down a request to summon a special sitting of the Assembly to debate the three central farm laws.
- In 2018 J&K Governor dissolved the Assembly amid indications that various parties were coming together to form the government. This paved the way for the Centre to later bifurcate the state into two Union territories, by considering the Governor as the government.
- In 2019 Maharashtra Governor quietly invited the BJP leader and administered his oath as CM. This government lasted just 80 hours. Six months later, the governor refused to nominate CM to the Legislative Council.
- Following the Karnataka polls in 2018, Governor Vajubhai Vala invited the BJP to form the government and gave B S Yeddyurappa 15 days to prove the majority. Challenged by Congress and JDS in the Supreme Court, it was reduced to three days.
5. Reasons for the friction between the Governor and the state governments
- There is no provision for impeaching the Governor, who is appointed by the President on the Centre's advice. While the Governor has a 5-year tenure, he can remain in office only until the pleasure of the President.
- There are no guidelines for the exercise of the Governor's powers, including for appointing a CM or dissolving the Assembly. There is no limit set for how long a Governor can withhold assent to a Bill.
- According to the Constitutional expert, although the Constituent Assembly envisaged the governor to be apolitical. But the truth is, politicians, become Governors and then resign to fight elections.
- The CM is answerable to the people. But the Governor is answerable to no one except the Centre. This is the fundamental defect in the Constitution.
6. Reforms Suggested
Several Panels, the Administrative Reforms Commission of 1968 and the Sarkaria Commission of 1988 have recommended reforms such as
- selection of the Governor through a panel comprising the PM, the Home Minister, the Lok Sabha Speaker, and the CM.
- Apart from fixing his tenure for five years
- Recommendations have also been made for a provision to impeach the Governor by the Assembly.
For Prelims & Mains
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For Prelims: Governor, Chief Minister, Article 153, Article 154, Article 164, and Article 243K.
For Mains: 1. In the context of friction between the state governments and the Governor explain the role and powers of the Governor and what reforms have been suggested so far to end the tussle between the state governments and the Governor.
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Previous Year Questions
Which of the following are the discretionary powers given to the Governor of a State? (UPSC CSE 2014)
1. Sending a report to the President of India for imposing the President’s rule 2. Appointing the Ministers 3. Reserving certain bills passed by the State Legislature for consideration of the President of India 4. Making the rules to conduct the business of the State Government Select the correct answer using the code given below
A. 1 and 2 Only
B. 1 and 3 Only
C. 2, 3 and 4
D. 1, 2, 3, 4
Answer (B)
2.Which one of the following suggested that the Governor should be an eminent person from outside the State and should be a detached figure without intense political links or should not have taken part in politics in the recent past? (UPSC CSE 2019)
A.First Administrative Reforms Commission (1966)
B.Rajamannar Committee (1969)
C.Sarkaria Commission (1983)
D.National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution (2000)
Answer (C)
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FOSSIL FUELS
2. About Fossil Fuels
Fossil fuels are hydrocarbon-based energy sources derived from the remains of ancient plants and animals buried and subjected to geological processes over millions of years. The three primary types of fossil fuels are coal, oil (petroleum), and natural gas. These fuels have been pivotal in powering the industrialization and development of modern societies, serving as the mainstay for electricity generation, transportation, and numerous industrial processes.
Challenges regarding Fossil Fuels
Despite their widespread use, fossil fuels pose significant challenges:
- The combustion of fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases, contributing to global warming and climate change.
- Burning fossil fuels releases pollutants that degrade air quality, leading to respiratory issues and environmental damage.
- Fossil fuels are finite resources, and their extraction raises concerns about depletion and environmental degradation, such as oil spills and coal mining impacts.
- Dependence on fossil fuels, often concentrated in specific regions, raises concerns about geopolitical stability and energy security.
- The concept of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 involves balancing the amount of greenhouse gases emitted with an equivalent amount removed from the atmosphere.
- This ambitious target aims to mitigate the impacts of climate change and limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
- Achieving net-zero emissions requires a transition to renewable energy, energy efficiency, and carbon capture technologies.
3. Dubai Consensus
The Dubai Consensus, adopted at COP28 in December 2023, represents a significant step forward in the global fight against climate change.
Dubai Consensus and Fossil Fuels
- The Dubai Consensus, a recent agreement, marks a significant departure by formally acknowledging that emissions from fossil fuels play a central role in driving global warming. Contrary to previous agreements that broadly addressed "greenhouse gas emissions," this marks the first explicit acknowledgement since 1995 that fossil fuels, including coal, oil, and gas, are the primary contributors to climate change.
- Despite the acknowledgement of the role of fossil fuels, particularly coal, in global warming, the Dubai Consensus does not signal an imminent end to the era of fossil fuels. Notably, it's crucial to recognize that the agreement falls short of providing specific timelines or commitments to phase out these fuels entirely.
- The Glasgow Climate Conference in 2021 marked a notable shift when countries, for the first time, agreed to address the impact of coal, the fossil fuel with the most substantial global warming footprint. However, the commitment made was to "phase down" coal rather than "phase out," and it lacked a specific termination year.
- The Dubai Consensus, by encompassing all fossil fuels, acknowledges the necessity of eliminating these energy sources to prevent a 1.5-degree Celsius rise in global average temperatures. However, the absence of concrete timelines reflects the challenges posed by varying energy needs and sources among nations.
- Large developing countries like India and China have raised objections to singling out coal, emphasizing its crucial role in lifting populations out of poverty and ensuring energy security. Both countries have substantial coal reserves, with India being a net importer. The consensus brings parity among fossil fuels, recognizing that all need eventual elimination.
4. Challenges in the Immediate Replacement of Fossil Fuels
The immediate replacement of fossil fuels poses substantial challenges, primarily due to the deeply entrenched and efficient infrastructure supporting the extraction, processing, and distribution of coal, oil, and gas. Over nearly two centuries of industrialization, a sophisticated system has evolved to convert these fossil fuels into electricity, petrol, diesel, and various other combustible products.
- Fossil fuel infrastructure is well-established, encompassing extraction, processing, and distribution networks for coal, oil, and gas.
- Power plants and refineries are optimized for the combustion of fossil fuels, contributing to the reliability and stability of energy supply.
- Fossil fuels offer on-demand availability, providing a consistent and controllable source of energy.
- Natural sources such as solar and wind, while cleaner, face challenges due to intermittency (nighttime for solar, variable wind patterns) and lack of effective energy storage infrastructure.
- Energy storage infrastructure for renewable sources is inadequate to handle the intermittency of solar and wind power, hindering their widespread adoption.
- Developing efficient and scalable energy storage solutions is crucial for transitioning away from fossil fuels.
- National plans, such as India's National Electricity Plan 2022-27, continue to include substantial additions to coal-fired capacity, highlighting the persistent reliance on fossil fuels.
- The infrastructure and investment in new coal-fired power plants reflect the ongoing challenges in immediately replacing fossil fuels.
- The Dubai Consensus acknowledges the necessity of transitioning away from fossil fuels but suggests the potential role of "transition fuels" to facilitate the process while ensuring energy security.
- While the consensus does not define these fuels, natural gas is considered a contender due to its lower emissions compared to coal. However, concerns exist regarding methane emissions associated with natural gas production.
- The COP deliberations face challenges due to the substantial presence of oil and gas manufacturers. Hosting a climate summit in a petro-state adds complexity to addressing the transition from fossil fuels.
- Natural gas, often considered a transition fuel, has advantages in reducing emissions when producing electricity and providing heat. However, criticisms argue that framing natural gas in this context may disproportionately benefit countries with existing production and distribution capabilities.
5. Dubai Consensus on Methane Emissions
- The Dubai Consensus underscores the critical importance of addressing methane emissions, recognizing methane as a potent greenhouse gas with significantly higher heat-trapping capabilities than carbon dioxide. The consensus acknowledges that substantial and accelerated reductions in non-carbon-dioxide emissions, particularly methane emissions, are essential to limit global warming and prevent average temperatures from exceeding a 1.5-degree Celsius increase by the end of the century.
- The agreement emphasizes the need for urgent action, setting a target for humanity to significantly reduce methane emissions by the year 2030. It aligns with the Global Methane Pledge, signed by nearly 150 countries at the COP-27 summit held in Egypt the previous year. The pledge commits countries to cut methane emissions by 30% of 2020 levels by the end of this decade.
- China and the United States, two major global players, have taken specific steps to address industrial methane emissions resulting from natural gas production. This collaborative effort signifies a shared commitment to tackling a significant source of methane release and contributing to the global reduction target.
- India, while resisting external pressure to cut methane emissions, has outlined plans to enhance the efficiency of its energy production processes. The nation contends that a substantial portion of its methane emissions originates from the agricultural sector. Despite resistance, India's commitment to making energy production more efficient aligns with the broader goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
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For Prelims: Fossil Fuels, Cop 28, Net zero emission, air pollution, Dubai Consensus, Global Methane Pladge, India's National Energy Plan, climate change
For Mains:
1. Discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with transitioning away from fossil fuels to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. (250 Words)
2. Discuss the potential economic benefits of transitioning to a green economy. How can this transition create new jobs and opportunities? (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) has announced which country to host the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) in 2023? (SSC CGL 2023) A. UAE B. US C. UK D. Russia
2. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is an international treaty drawn at (UPSC 2010) A. United Nations Conference on the Human Environment, Stockholm, 1972 B. UN Conference on Environment and Development, Rio de Janeiro, 1992 C. World Summit on Sustainable Development, Johannesburg, 2002 D. UN Climate Change Conference Copenhagen, 2009
3. UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change) entered into from - (Sr. Teacher Gr II NON-TSP G.K. 2018) A. 21 March 1994 B. 5 June 1992 C. 12 May 1991 D. 5 June 1993
4. The 'Paris Agreement' adopted in Conference of the Parties (COP 21) in December 2015 will be effective provided the document is signed by: (UPSC CAPF 2016) A. 51 UNFCCC parties accounting for at least 51% of global greenhouse gas emission
B. 51 UNFCCC parties accounting for at least 55% of global greenhouse gas emission
C. 55 UNFCCC parties accounting for at least 55% of global greenhouse gas emission
D. 75 UNFCCC parties accounting for at least 51% of global greeenhouse gas emission
5. The term ‘Intended Nationally Determined Contributions’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of (UPSC 2016) (a) pledges made by the European countries to rehabilitate refugees from the war-affected Middle East
6. With reference to the Agreement at the UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015, which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC 2016)
Select the correct answer using the code given below. (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
7. Consider the following statements with reference to Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD): (RBI Grade B 2022) 1. OECD is an official Permanent observer to the United Nations and is referred to as a think-tank or as a monitoring group.
2. India is not a member of OECD.
3. OECD is funded by its member countries.
Which of the statement given above is/ are correct? A.1 only B.1 and 2 only C.2 and 3 only D.1, 2 and 3 E.2 only Answer: D 8. Which one of the following is associated with the issue of control and phasing out of the use of ozone-depleting substance? (UPSC CSE 2015) A.Bretton woods conference
B. Montreal Protocol
C. Kyoto Protocol
D. Nagoya Protocol
Answer: B
9. Headquarters of the World Meteorological Organization is located in (NDA 2017)
A. Washington
B. Geneva
C. Moscow
D. London
Answer: B
10. With reference to the Agreement at the UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015, which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC 2016)
1. The Agreement was signed by all the member countries of the UN and it will go into effect in 2017
2. The Agreement aims to limit greenhouse gas emissions so that the rise in average global temperature by the end of this century does not exceed 2°C or even 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
3. Developed countries acknowledged their historical responsibility in global warming and committed to donate $ 1000 billion a year from 2020 to help developing countries to cope with climate change.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 and 3 only B. 2 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
11. A new type of El Nino called El Nino Modoki appeared in the news. In this context, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2010)
1. Normal El Nino forms in the Central Pacific ocean whereas El Nino Modoki forms in the Eastern Pacific ocean.
2. Normal El Nino results in diminished hurricanes in the Atlantic ocean but El Nino Modoki results in a greater number of hurricanes with greater frequency.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: B
12. La Nina is suspected to have caused recent floods in Australia. How is La Nina different from El Nino? (UPSC 2011)
1. La Nina is characterized by unusually cold ocean temperature in the equatorial Indian Ocean whereas El Nino is characterized by unusually warm ocean temperature in the equatorial Pacific Ocean.
2. El Nino has an adverse effect on the south-west monsoon of India, but La Nina has no effect on the monsoon climate.
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
13. Consider the following statements: (MPSC 2017)
a. La Nina is a little girl.
b. During the time of La Nina cold water in the ocean rises to the surface.
c. La Nina strengthens the Indian monsoon.
d. During the time of El Nino, trade winds weaken, and warm water moves east in the ocean. Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A. Only a and b B. a, b and c C. Only b and c D. All of the above
Answer: D
14. Which of the following statements regarding 'Green Climate Fund' is/are correct? (UPSC 2015)
1. It is intended to assist the developing countries in adaptation and mitigation practices to counter climate change.
2. It is founded under the aegis of UNEP, OECS, Asian Development Bank and World Bank. Select the correct answer using the code given below.
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: A
15. In the context of any country, which one of the following would be considered as part of its social capital? (UPSC 2019)
A. The proportion of literature in the population
B. The stock of its buildings, other infrastructure and machines
C. The size of population in the working age group
D. The level of mutual trust and harmony in the society
Answer: D
16. The International Development Association, a lending agency, is administered by the (UPSC 2010)
A. International Bank for Reconstruction and Development
B. International Fund for Development
C. United Nations Development Programme.
D. United Nations Industrial Development Organization
Answer: A
Answers: 1-A, 2-B, 3-A, 4-C, 5-B, 6-B, 7-D, 8-B, 9-B, 10-B, 11-B, 12-D, 13-D, 14-A, 15-D, 16-A
Mains
1. Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference? (UPSC 2021)
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EUROPEAN UNION (EU)
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The European Parliament (EP) represents the citizens of EU member states. Its main roles include negotiating EU laws with member state governments, which are represented by the European Council.
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The EP also has the authority to approve the EU budget, vote on international agreements, and decide on the enlargement of the bloc. Additionally, it can approve or reject the appointment of the European Commission president — currently Germany’s Ursula von der Leyen — and the commissioners.
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Unlike national parliaments, the EP does not have the right to propose laws; it can only negotiate those proposed by the executive European Commission.
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The EP consists of 720 Members (MEPs) who are elected every five years. These MEPs then elect their president for a term of two and a half years.
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In 21 member states, individuals aged 18 and above can vote.
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Citizens living in another EU country can choose to vote for candidates either from their home country or from their country of residence.
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In some member states, voters can only choose closed lists where they cannot change the order of preferred candidates, while in others, they can select individual candidates in a preferential system.
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All candidates must be EU citizens. Depending on the country, voters may choose from individual candidates or political parties’ delegates. Once elected, politicians from each nation join the European groups in the Parliament based on their political orientations. Elected individuals cannot hold positions in national governments or other political bodies such as the EU Commission
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What are the member countries of the EU?
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden
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1945-1957: Post-War Integration Efforts
- 1945: After the devastation of World War II, European countries seek to ensure lasting peace and economic stability.
- 1951: The European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) is established by the Treaty of Paris, signed by Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and West Germany. This organization aims to integrate the coal and steel industries of member countries, making war between them "materially impossible."
1957: The Treaties of Rome
- 1957: The Treaties of Rome are signed, establishing the European Economic Community (EEC) and the European Atomic Energy Community (EURATOM). The EEC aims to create a common market and a customs union among its members
960s-1980s: Growth and Challenges
- 1973: The first enlargement of the EEC occurs, with Denmark, Ireland, and the United Kingdom joining the Community.
- 1981: Greece becomes a member, followed by Spain and Portugal in 1986.
- 1986: The Single European Act is signed, aiming to create a single market by 1992, ensuring the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people.
1990s: Political and Economic Union
- 1992: The Maastricht Treaty is signed, formally establishing the European Union. The treaty introduces new forms of cooperation between governments, such as a common foreign and security policy, and lays the foundation for economic and monetary union, including the creation of a single currency.
- 1995: Austria, Finland, and Sweden join the EU.
- 1999: The euro is introduced as the single currency for 11 EU countries, with physical currency (banknotes and coins) entering circulation in 2002.
2000s: Major Enlargement and Institutional Reforms
- 2004: The EU undergoes its largest expansion, with ten new countries (Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia) joining.
- 2007: Bulgaria and Romania join the EU.
- 2009: The Lisbon Treaty comes into force, reforming the EU's institutional structure and increasing its powers in areas such as justice, security, and foreign policy
2010s: Economic Crises and Brexit
- 2010: The eurozone faces a significant debt crisis, prompting reforms and financial support mechanisms to stabilize the economies of member states.
- 2013: Croatia becomes the EU's 28th member state.
- 2016: The United Kingdom votes to leave the EU in a referendum, leading to Brexit.
- 2020: The UK officially leaves the EU on January 31, 2020
- The European Council comprises the heads of state or government of the EU member states, along with the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission. The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy also participates
- The European Council meets at least four times a year, usually in Brussels, Belgium. Additionally, extraordinary meetings can be convened to address urgent issues
- The European Council sets the EU's general political agenda and provides strategic leadership on key issues facing the EU. While it does not legislate or adopt laws, its decisions and recommendations guide the work of other EU institutions
- The European Council operates on the basis of consensus, with decisions typically reached through discussions and negotiations among its members. However, unanimity is not always required for certain decisions, particularly in areas where EU treaties allow for qualified majority voting
India and the European Union (EU) engage in cooperation across various sectors, reflecting their shared interests and objectives.
Some of the key areas of cooperation between India and the EU include:
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Trade and Investment: Both India and the EU are major trading partners. Efforts are underway to enhance bilateral trade relations through negotiations for a comprehensive free trade agreement known as the EU-India Broad-Based Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA). Additionally, initiatives aim to promote investment flows between India and the EU.
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Political Dialogue and Strategic Partnership: India and the EU engage in regular political dialogues to discuss regional and global issues of mutual concern, including security, counter-terrorism, climate change, and sustainable development. They have established a strategic partnership framework to deepen cooperation in these areas.
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Research and Innovation: Collaboration in research and innovation is a growing area of cooperation between India and the EU. Joint research projects, technology partnerships, and academic exchanges are promoted to address common challenges and foster technological innovation.
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Education and Culture: India and the EU cooperate in the fields of education, culture, and people-to-people exchanges. Programs such as Erasmus+ facilitate student and academic mobility between India and EU member states, while cultural events and initiatives promote mutual understanding and appreciation.
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Energy and Climate Change: India and the EU collaborate on energy security, renewable energy, and climate change mitigation efforts. Dialogues and partnerships focus on promoting clean energy technologies, sustainable development, and the implementation of the Paris Agreement on climate change.
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Security and Counter-Terrorism: Cooperation in security and counter-terrorism is a priority for India and the EU. They exchange information, share best practices, and coordinate efforts to combat terrorism, cyber threats, and other transnational security challenges.
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Migration and Mobility: India and the EU engage in dialogue on migration and mobility issues, including legal migration, visa facilitation, and irregular migration management. Cooperation aims to promote safe, orderly, and regular migration flows while addressing challenges related to migration governance.
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Healthcare and Public Health: Collaboration in healthcare and public health is increasingly important, especially in areas such as pandemic preparedness, disease surveillance, and healthcare infrastructure development. India and the EU work together to strengthen health systems and respond to global health challenges.
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For Prelims: Current events of national and international importance
For Mains: GS-II:GS-II: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.
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Previous Year Questions
1.Consider the following statements: (UPSC CSE 2023)
The ‘Stability and Growth Pact’ of the European Union is a treaty that 1. limits the levels of the budgetary deficit of the countries of the European Union 2. makes the countries of the European Union to share their infrastructure facilitie 3. enables the countries of the European Union to share their technologie How many of the above statements are correct (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Answer (a)
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BHARAT STAGE EMISSION STANDARDS (BS NORMS)
- Bharat Stage Emission Standards (BSES) are a series of emission standards established by the Central Government of India to regulate the output of air pollutants from internal combustion engine engines and Spark-ignition engines equipment, including motor vehicles (MCVs), three-wheelers (3Ws) and four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles.
- The standards are based on the European emission standards and are designed to reduce vehicular emissions of particulate matter (PM), oxides of nitrogen (NOx), hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO) and sulfur dioxide (SO2).
- The first BSES norms were introduced in 2000 and have been progressively tightened since then. The current BSES norms, BSVI, were introduced in 2020 and are equivalent to the Euro 6/VI norms.
- The implementation of Bharat Stage standards aims to reduce vehicular pollution and improve air quality.
- These standards become increasingly stringent with each successive stage, requiring vehicles to adopt better emission control technologies. For instance, a move from BS-IV to BS-VI involved a significant reduction in the permissible levels of pollutants, particularly in the case of diesel vehicles.
- The adoption of Bharat Stage emission standards impacts the automotive industry, requiring manufacturers to upgrade engines and exhaust systems to comply with the new regulations. It's a step toward aligning India's vehicular emission norms with global standards to mitigate environmental pollution and improve public health
3. Euro V and Euro VI norms
Euro V and Euro VI are two sets of emission standards for road vehicles in the European Union (EU). They are designed to reduce air pollution from vehicles by setting limits on the amount of pollutants that vehicles can emit.
Euro V
Euro V was introduced in 2009 and applied to all new passenger cars, light commercial vehicles, and heavy-duty vehicles sold in the EU. It tightened the emission limits for nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), and hydrocarbons (HC) compared to the previous Euro IV standards. Euro V also introduced stricter limits for carbon monoxide (CO) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) for certain vehicle categories.
Euro VI
Euro VI is the current set of emission standards for road vehicles in the EU. It was introduced in 2014 and applies to all new passenger cars, light commercial vehicles, and heavy-duty vehicles sold in the EU. Euro VI further tightened the emission limits for NOx, PM, and HC compared to Euro V. It also introduced new limits for black carbon (BC) and particle number (PN).
Key differences between Euro V and Euro VI
The main differences between Euro V and Euro VI are:
- NOx limits: Euro VI limits NOx emissions to 0.08 g/km for gasoline vehicles and 0.4 g/kWh for diesel vehicles, compared to 0.25 g/km for gasoline vehicles and 0.18 g/kWh for diesel vehicles under Euro V.
- PM limits: Euro VI limits PM emissions to 0.0045 g/km for gasoline vehicles and 0.005 g/km for diesel vehicles, compared to 0.005 g/km for both gasoline and diesel vehicles under Euro V.
- HC limits: Euro VI limits HC emissions to 0.075 g/km for gasoline vehicles and 0.10 g/km for diesel vehicles, compared to 0.07 g/km for gasoline vehicles and 0.15 g/km for diesel vehicles under Euro V.
- Real-world driving emissions (RDE) testing: Euro VI introduced RDE testing, which measures emissions from vehicles in real-world driving conditions. This is in addition to the laboratory testing that was used under Euro V.
Impacts of Euro V and Euro VI
Euro V and Euro VI have had a significant impact on air quality in the EU. They have helped to reduce emissions of NOx, PM, and HC from road vehicles, which has improved air quality and reduced the health impacts of air pollution.
Future of Euro VI
The European Commission is currently considering the next generation of emission standards for road vehicles, which are likely to be even stricter than Euro VI. These standards are expected to focus on reducing emissions of NOx, PM, and HC, as well as introducing new limits for other pollutants such as ammonia (NH3)
4. Difference between BS-IV and the new BS-VI
| Subject | BS-IV | BS-VI |
|---|---|---|
| Pollutant Limits | Less stringent compared to BS-VI | Stricter limits on pollutants (NOx, PM, CO, HC) |
| Sulfur Content in Fuel | Higher (50 ppm for both petrol & diesel) | Lower (10 ppm for petrol, 10 ppm for diesel) |
| Emission Control Tech | Basic emission control technology | Advanced systems like SCR, DPF |
| Impact on Vehicles | Required vehicle engine & exhaust upgrades | Introduced newer, more efficient models |
| Onboard Diagnostics | Basic systems | More sophisticated monitoring systems |
| Environmental Impact | Moderate reduction in emissions | Significant reduction in vehicular emissions, improving air quality |
5.Significance of the Bharat Standard Norms
- These norms are crucial for reducing vehicular emissions of harmful pollutants like nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrocarbons (HC). By setting stricter limits with each successive stage, these standards aim to improve air quality and reduce the impact of vehicular pollution on the environment and public health.
- The Bharat Stage norms align India's vehicular emission standards with global benchmarks like Euro norms. This alignment is crucial for international cooperation, facilitating technology transfer, and ensuring that vehicles manufactured in India meet global environmental standards
- The implementation of these norms drives innovation and technological advancements in the automotive industry. Manufacturers need to continually improve engine technology, exhaust systems, and emission control mechanisms to comply with these stringent standards
- Reduced vehicular emissions result in cleaner air, which has a direct positive impact on public health. Lower levels of pollutants contribute to a decrease in respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases, and other health issues associated with poor air quality
- The establishment and enforcement of these standards signify a commitment from the government to address environmental concerns. It involves setting policies and regulations that encourage cleaner fuel usage, adoption of advanced technologies, and compliance from automotive manufacturers
- These standards pave the way for a more sustainable transportation sector by promoting the use of cleaner fuels, encouraging the development of eco-friendly vehicles, and contributing to overall environmental sustainability
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Previous Year Questions
1. Regarding Bharat Stage (BS-VI) vehicular emissions norms, choose the correct statements : (UGC NET 2020)
A. BS (VI) emission norms are equivalent to Euro (VI) norms.
B. BS (VI) norms require the up-gradation of engine and emission control technology
C. BS(VI) norms are applicable to all categories of the vehicles including two, three and four- wheelers.
D. BS (VI) norms do not require any change in fuel quality
Choose the correct answer from the options given below
a)A, B, C, only
b)B, C, D only
c)A, C, D only
d)A, B, C, D - All
Answer (a)
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SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONES (SEZ)
- Special Economic Zones (SEZs) are specifically demarcated geographical areas within a country that are governed by unique economic regulations and business laws, which are different from those applicable in the rest of the country.
- These zones are established with the primary aim of attracting foreign and domestic investment, boosting exports, generating employment, and encouraging industrial growth by providing a more liberal economic environment.
- The concept of SEZs gained momentum globally after their success in countries like China, where regions such as Shenzhen transformed into massive industrial and commercial hubs.
- India adopted the SEZ model in the early 2000s with the enactment of the Special Economic Zones Act, 2005, which provided a comprehensive legal framework for their establishment, operation, and regulation.
- Within an SEZ, companies often enjoy a host of incentives and facilities. These may include tax exemptions on income, customs and excise duties, and relaxed labor and environmental norms. The idea is to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and create an investor-friendly climate that encourages industries, especially those focused on export-oriented production, to flourish.
- Moreover, SEZs are treated as foreign territories for the purpose of trade operations, duties, and tariffs. This means that goods and services entering an SEZ from the rest of the country are treated as exports, and those leaving an SEZ to the domestic tariff area are considered imports. This unique status allows businesses in SEZs to operate with greater flexibility and global competitiveness.
- However, SEZs in India have not been without criticism. While they have succeeded in some areas in boosting exports and creating jobs, concerns have been raised over land acquisition practices, uneven regional development, and the environmental impact of industrialization. Additionally, the promise of large-scale employment and export-led growth has not materialized uniformly across all SEZs.
- In recent years, the Indian government has been looking to revamp and repurpose SEZs to align them with new economic goals, including the Make in India initiative and the promotion of green and digital manufacturing.
- As India aims to become a global manufacturing and logistics hub, SEZs are likely to play a key role, provided regulatory and infrastructural bottlenecks are addressed effectively
- Semiconductors are fundamental to our increasingly digital world, serving as the core components behind technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning—part of a broader trend of growing automation and electronic integration.
- These minute chips enable the processing of large volumes of data, powering devices such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, smart TVs, voice assistants, vehicles, and virtually all modern electronic equipment.
- In 2021, data from the Semiconductor Industry Association indicated that China produced nearly 35% of the global semiconductor output.
- The disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic exposed the vulnerabilities of heavily centralized supply chains, prompting countries, including India, to recognize the strategic risk of relying on a single nation for critical components.
- As a result, many nations began efforts to strengthen and expand their own domestic semiconductor manufacturing capabilities
- On June 9, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry announced that it had recently made several changes to the Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Rules, 2006, aimed at promoting local semiconductor manufacturing.
- One key change involved amending Rule 5, which previously mandated that SEZs dedicated solely to semiconductor or electronic component production must cover a minimum of 50 hectares of contiguous land.
- This requirement has now been eased, reducing the land size threshold to just 10 hectares. This adjustment is expected to lower the entry barrier for companies, enabling smaller investments while still offering access to SEZ incentives like tax breaks, duty-free imports, and infrastructure assistance.
- Another notable revision was made to Rule 7, which earlier required SEZ land to be entirely “encumbrance-free”—meaning it should be free of any legal claims, liens, or disputes and should have a clear and transferable title.
- Given the complexities of India’s land ownership systems and often time-consuming legal procedures, this requirement posed significant delays. The updated rule now gives the Board of Approval the discretion to relax this condition, allowing SEZs to be established more efficiently.
- The third change was to Rule 18, which now permits SEZ units involved in semiconductor and electronic component production to sell within the domestic market upon payment of applicable duties.
- Traditionally, SEZs have focused on exports. This shift not only provides a safeguard against global market volatility but also strengthens domestic supply chains by enabling steady availability of these critical components in the local market
The primary aim of the policy is to:
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Attract global semiconductor manufacturers to set up fabrication (fab) units in India.
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Promote design, fabrication, packaging, and testing of semiconductors.
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Create a skilled workforce for the semiconductor ecosystem.
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Enable India’s transition from being a consumer to a producer of semiconductors.
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Strengthen India’s position in global supply chains and reduce strategic vulnerabilities.
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For Prelims: Semicon India Programme, India Semiconductor Mission, Micron investment, India-USA semiconductor cooperation
For Mains: Self-reliance in technology, strategic industries, manufacturing and innovation, supply chain resilience
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SPECIAL INTENSIVE REVISION (SIR)
- The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the Electoral Rolls is an important exercise undertaken by the Election Commission of India (ECI) to ensure that the voter lists (electoral rolls) are accurate, updated, and inclusive before any major election or as part of the annual revision cycle.
- In simpler terms, the SIR is a comprehensive verification and correction process of the electoral rolls — aimed at including eligible voters, removing ineligible ones, and rectifying errors in the existing list.
- It is called “special” because it involves an intensified, house-to-house verification and greater public participation compared to the routine annual summary revision
- The purpose of the Special Intensive Revision is to maintain the purity, accuracy, and inclusiveness of India’s democratic process. Clean and updated voter rolls are essential for free, fair, and credible elections, as they prevent issues like bogus voting, disenfranchisement, and duplication.
- In summary, the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is a focused, large-scale voter verification campaign conducted by the Election Commission to ensure that the electoral rolls are error-free, inclusive, and reflective of the current eligible voting population. It plays a crucial role in strengthening the integrity and transparency of India’s electoral system
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During the Special Intensive Revision, Booth Level Officers (BLOs) visit households to verify voter details such as name, address, age, and photo identity. This exercise helps identify:
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- Article 324(1) of the Indian Constitution empowers the Election Commission of India (ECI) with the authority to oversee, guide, and manage the preparation of electoral rolls as well as the conduct of elections for both Parliament and the State Legislatures.
- As per Section 21(3) of the Representation of the People Act, 1950, the ECI holds the right to order a special revision of the electoral roll for any constituency, or part of it, at any time and in a manner it considers appropriate.
- According to the Registration of Electors’ Rules, 1960, the revision of electoral rolls may be carried out intensively, summarily, or through a combination of both methods, as directed by the ECI.
- An intensive revision involves preparing an entirely new roll, while a summary revision deals with updating or modifying the existing one
| Aspect | Special Intensive Revision (SIR) | National Register of Citizens (NRC) |
| Purpose | To verify, update, and correct the electoral rolls so that all eligible voters are included and ineligible names are removed | To identify legal citizens of India and detect illegal immigrants |
| Authority / Governing Body | Conducted by the Election Commission of India (ECI) | Conducted under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) |
| Legal Basis | Based on Article 324(1) of the Constitution, Section 21(3) of the Representation of the People Act, 1950, and the Registration of Electors' Rules, 1960. | Governed by the Citizenship Act, 1955 and the Citizenship (Registration of Citizens and Issue of National Identity Cards) Rules, 2003 |
| Scope | Focuses only on Indian citizens aged 18 years and above who are eligible to vote | Covers all residents of India (or a particular state) to determine their citizenship status |
| Nature of the Exercise | A regular, recurring administrative exercise carried out to maintain accurate voter lists | A special, large-scale verification exercise conducted under specific legal or political mandates. |
| Relation to Citizenship | Does not determine citizenship — only eligibility to vote | Directly determines citizenship status |
One of the major concerns is the erroneous deletion of eligible voters from the rolls.
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Mistakes during house-to-house verification or data entry may lead to legitimate voters—especially migrants, daily-wage workers, and marginalized communities—being left out.
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Such exclusions can directly affect voter participation and undermine the democratic process.
Despite the intensive verification, fake or duplicate names often remain due to poor coordination or outdated records.
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Deaths, migrations, or multiple registrations in different constituencies are not always updated accurately.
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This raises questions about the accuracy and credibility of the electoral rolls.
The SIR is a large-scale field operation requiring trained personnel, coordination among departments, and robust data systems.
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Booth Level Officers (BLOs) are often overburdened with multiple duties and may not have sufficient time or training for thorough verification.
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Limited digital infrastructure in rural areas can also hamper real-time data updates.
Electoral roll revisions, especially when conducted close to elections, can spark political allegations of bias or manipulation.
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Parties may accuse each other or the Election Commission of targeting specific communities or constituencies.
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Even unintentional errors can lead to trust deficits in the electoral process.
Addressing these concerns is vital to maintain trust in the Election Commission and uphold the credibility of India’s democratic system
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For Prelims: Special Intensive Revision (SIR), National Register of Citizens (NRC), Election Commission of India (ECI)
For Mains: GS II - Indian Polity
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Previous year Question1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2017)
1. The Election Commission of India is a five-member body.
2. Union Ministry of Home Affairs decides the election schedule for the conduct of both general elections and bye-elections.
3. Election Commission resolves the disputes relating to splits/mergers of recognized political parties.
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
2. 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 the 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
Answer: B
Mains
1.To enhance the quality of democracy in India the Election Commission of India has proposed electoral reforms in 2016. What are the suggested reforms and how far are they significant to make democracy successful? (UPSC CSE 2017)
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