• Jallikattu, a traditional bull-taming sport deeply rooted in Tamil culture, is particularly popular in the districts of Madurai, Tiruchirappalli, Theni, Pudukkottai, and Dindigul, collectively known as the Jallikattu belt.
• Celebrated during the Tamil harvest festival, Pongal, in the second week of January, Jallikattu boasts a rich history spanning over 2,000 years.
• Beyond its competitive aspect, Jallikattu serves as a cultural event honouring bull owners who meticulously rear these animals for breeding purposes.
• The sport involves contestants attempting to tame a bull for a prize, with the bull owner emerging victorious if the contestant fails.
• While the sport's origins can be traced back to an era when agriculture was heavily reliant on animal power, the mechanization of the farm sector has diminished the monetary benefits for bull owners.
• Nonetheless, Jallikattu events continue to attract participants and spectators alike, with prizes evolving to include grinders, refrigerators, and small furniture in addition to traditional dhotis, towels, betel leaves, bananas, and a cash prize of Rs 101.

3. Significance of Jallikattu in Tamil Culture

• Jallikattu holds a pivotal role in Tamil culture, especially for the peasant community, as it serves as a traditional method to safeguard their pure-breed native bulls.
• In an era dominated by artificial processes in cattle breeding, Jallikattu emerges as a crucial means to preserve male animals that would otherwise find utility solely in meat production or ploughing.
• The native cattle breeds integral to Jallikattu, such as Kangayam, Pulikulam, Umbalachery, Barugur, and Malai Maadu, assume cultural prominence.
• These breeds not only contribute to the essence of the event but also elevate the status of their owners, who command local respect for their role in preserving these premium breeds.

• Animal rights concerns have sparked legal battles surrounding Jallikattu since the early 1990s in India.
• A 1991 notification issued by the Environment Ministry prohibited the training and exhibition of bears, monkeys, tigers, panthers, and dogs.
• This notification was challenged by the Indian Circus Organization in the Delhi High Court, leading to the exclusion of dogs from the ban in 1998.
• In 2007, Jallikattu came under legal scrutiny when the Animal Welfare Board of India and the animal rights group PETA filed petitions in the Supreme Court against Jallikattu and bullock cart races.
• However, the Tamil Nadu government managed to circumvent the ban by enacting a law in 2009, which received the Governor's approval.
• The issue resurfaced in 2011 when the central government under the UPA regime added bulls to the list of animals prohibited for training and exhibition.
• In May 2014, just days before the BJP's election victory, the Supreme Court banned Jallikattu, citing the 2011 notification.

5. The Current Legal Status of Jallikattu

• The legality of Jallikattu remains a subject of ongoing legal debate, with a case currently pending before the Supreme Court of India.
• While the Tamil Nadu government has legalized Jallikattu events within the state, this decision has been challenged in court.
• In 2017, following the death of Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa, massive protests erupted across Tamil Nadu in opposition to the Supreme Court's ban on Jallikattu.
• These protests, culminating in a 15-day-long uprising in Chennai, highlighted the cultural significance of Jallikattu for the people of Tamil Nadu.
• In response to these protests, the Tamil Nadu government issued an ordinance amending the central Act, effectively legalizing Jallikattu within the state.
• This ordinance was subsequently ratified by the President of India. However, animal rights group PETA challenged the constitutionality of the state's move, leading to the current legal impasse.
• The central question at the heart of the Jallikattu debate is whether the tradition can be protected as a fundamental cultural right under Article 29(1) of the Indian Constitution guarantees the right for any distinct group of citizens within India to conserve their language, script, or culture.
• Similar to Tamil Nadu, the state of Karnataka has also enacted legislation to legalize a comparable bull-taming sport called Kambala.
• While Maharashtra attempted to do the same, its efforts were initially challenged in court before eventually being approved as law.
• Despite these legal developments, Jallikattu remains banned in all other Indian states, including Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, and Maharashtra, due to the 2014 Supreme Court ban order.
• The ongoing legal battles surrounding Jallikattu underscore the complex interplay between cultural traditions, animal welfare concerns, and constitutional rights.

CHABAHAR PORT

1.Context

2.Why is Chabahar back in the news?

• Ahead of the visit to Iran, where Mr Sonowal met with senior Ministers as well as officials connected to the Shahid Beheshti terminal project development.
• An official statement said that the visit would be a chance to "Strengthen ties and the maritime relationship" between the two countries.
• Due to the pandemic, there were fewer visits from India to Iran and vice-versa.
• This visit will also highlight the importance of Chabahar as a gateway for Indian Trade with Europe, Russia and the CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) Countries.
• Mr Sonowal reviewed the progress in the work on the terminal and handed over six mobile harbour cranes to improve efficiency and invigorate the potential of chabahar in the loading and unloading operations at the port.

3.India's strategic vision

1. To build India's first offshore port and to project Indian infrastructure prowess in the Gulf,
2. To circumvent trade through Pakistan, given the tense ties with India's neighbour and build a long-term, sustainable sea trade route and 
3. To find an alternative land route to Afghanistan, which India had rebuilt ties with after the defeat of the Taliban in 2001.

4.Trilateral Agreement 

• In 2016, Prime Minister Narendra Modi travelled to Tehran and signed the agreement to develop Chabahar port, as well as the trilateral agreement for trade through Chabahar with Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani.
• Since the India Ports Global Chabahar Free Zone (IPGCFZ) authority took over the operations of the port in 2018.
• It has handled 215 vessels, 16, 000 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) and four million tons of bulk and general cargo, the government said in Parliament last month.

5.Chabahar Route

• In the last few years, a fourth strategic objective for the Chabahar route has appeared, with China's Belt and Road Initiative making inroads in the region.
• The government hopes to provide Central Asia with an alternate route to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) through Iran for Future Trade.

6.Reasons for the delay

• Since the beginning, the development of the Shahid Beheshti terminal in Chabahar, as well as surrounding infrastructure, has hit geopolitical roadblock after roadblock.
• The biggest issue has been over Iran's relationship with western countries, especially the United States.
• In years when Western sanctions against Iran increased and the Chabahar project has been put on the back-burner, while in the years when nuclear talks that resulted in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2015 came into being, the Chabahar port has been easier to work on.
• In 2018, the U.S. Trump administration put paid to India's plans by walking out of the JCPOA and slapping new sanctions on dealing with Iran.
• This led to the Modi Government "Zeroing out" all its oil imports from Iran, earlier a major supplier to India, causing a strain in ties.
• Even though the U.S. made a special "carve-out" on sanctions for Chabahar.
• On the ground, has been difficult to source equipment for the port construction from infrastructure companies that continue to fear secondary sanctions, as well as to engage in shipping and insurance companies for trade through Chabahar.

7.Ties with Taliban

• The Modi Government also snapped ties with Afghanistan after the Taliban takeover in August 2021, which put an end to the Humanitarian aid of wheat and pulses that were being sent to Kabul via Chabahar.
• When India restarted Wheat aid to Afghanistan this year, it negotiated with Pakistan to use the land route instead.
• With the government now reopening the Indian Embassy in Kabul and Establishing ties with the Taliban government.
• The Chabahar route may once again be employed, another reason for the recent flurry of activity at the Iranian port the terminal that India has pinned so many hopes on.

GIG ECONOMY

 

 

1. Context

 

Amid the ongoing debate about working conditions of gig workers engaged with delivery aggregators such as Blinkit, Swiggy and Zomato, the Ministry of Labour and Employment has intervened to ask the companies to drop the “10-minute delivery” deadline.

 

2. What is the gig economy?

 

The gig economy refers to a labor market characterized by short-term contracts or freelance work, as opposed to permanent jobs. It includes a wide range of activities, from ride-sharing and food delivery to freelance writing and graphic design. Workers in the gig economy are typically independent contractors who perform specific tasks or projects, often mediated through digital platforms. This economy offers flexibility and autonomy for workers but also presents challenges such as lack of job security, benefits, and consistent income

 

3.What is the difference between the formal and informal labour markets?

 

Subject	Formal Labor Market	Informal Labor Market
Regulation	Regulated by government laws and policies	Not regulated by formal labor laws
Job Security	Generally offers job security	Often lacks job security
Benefits	Provides benefits like health insurance and retirement plans	Rarely provides benefits
Legal Protections	Employees have legal protections and must adhere to standards	Workers lack legal protections
Income	Regular and predictable income	Irregular and uncertain income
Employment Contracts	Jobs usually involve formal contracts	Work is often done without formal contracts
Examples	Corporate jobs, government positions	Freelance work, informal vendors, day labourers

 

 

4. What is the current state of the labour market in India?

 

• Maintaining the impressive growth rates of recent years into the medium to long term, while expanding the consumption base, will be difficult given that a significant portion of the country's workforce remains stuck in low-productivity jobs.
• Recent government surveys indicate that the number of informal businesses in the country has increased from 57.6 million in 2010-11 to 63.4 million in 2015-16, and further to 65 million in 2022-23
• If the economy were generating more productive employment opportunities, both the number of informal firms and the workforce within them would be significantly decreasing.
• Combining the 110 million workers in non-farm informal businesses with the approximately 230 million engaged in agriculture accounts for almost two-thirds of the labor force still employed in low-productivity jobs in less efficient sectors—sectors that now contribute an even smaller share of the total economic value added than before.
• This is in addition to those informally employed in construction and the formal parts of the economy.
• In the absence of low or semi-skilled job opportunities in the more productive formal manufacturing sector, and without the necessary education to enter more skilled formal employment in both manufacturing and high-end services, their only alternatives are precarious forms of employment in the gig economy.”
• The issue of job scarcity has long been a part of India's development narrative, not limited to the current administration.
• However, recent changes include the youth bulge, increasing labor force participation rate—particularly among women driven into the workforce by financial distress—the declining share of value added by the informal sector, and the growing capital intensity in production sectors that contribute more to value addition and are labor-intensive by nature
• The consequences of failing to create a sufficient number of more productive jobs, and the resulting deepening labor market duality, are likely to be manifested in various ways, including reduced social mobility and high-income inequality.
• As others have noted, this will determine whether the country follows the path of East Asia or takes the route of Latin America

5. What are the causes of the rising gig economy in India?

 

• The proliferation of smartphones and the internet has facilitated the growth of digital platforms that connect gig workers with customers. Apps and websites have made it easier to find and offer short-term jobs
• India has a large youth population that is tech-savvy and open to flexible work arrangements. The gig economy offers opportunities that appeal to the younger generation seeking autonomy and varied work experiences
• The formal sector has not been able to generate enough jobs to match the growing labor force. As a result, many individuals turn to gig work for income, as it often requires lower barriers to entry compared to traditional employment
•  Financial distress and the need for supplementary income have pushed more people towards gig work. This includes individuals who may already have a job but need additional income to meet their financial needs
• The gig economy offers flexibility in work hours and the choice of assignments, which attracts individuals who prefer non-traditional work arrangements over the constraints of full-time employment.
• Companies are increasingly outsourcing tasks to freelancers to reduce costs associated with full-time employees, such as benefits and office space. This shift towards a more flexible workforce model has contributed to the growth of gig work
• The ability to work remotely has opened up international opportunities for gig workers. Indian freelancers can now find work with companies around the world, broadening their employment prospects
• The regulatory framework in India is still catching up with the gig economy, providing a more lenient environment for gig platforms and workers compared to the heavily regulated formal sector
• The gig economy allows workers to leverage diverse skill sets and explore multiple career paths simultaneously. This appeals to individuals looking to diversify their professional experience
• There is growing consumer demand for services that gig workers provide, such as food delivery, ride-hailing, home services, and freelance professional services. This demand fuels the expansion of gig opportunities

6.What are the advantages and disadvantages of the gig economy?

 

Advantages	Disadvantages
Workers can choose their own hours and work location	Gig workers often face uncertain income and job stability.
Diverse Opportunities	No Employment Benefits
Access to a variety of job types and industries	Absence of benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave
Increased Income Potential	Income Variability
Potential to earn more by taking multiple gigs or high-paying tasks	Earnings can be unpredictable and inconsistent.
Opportunity to develop and diversify skill sets.	Many gig workers are not protected by labor laws and regulations
Easier entry into the workforce without extensive qualifications.	Limited opportunities for career advancement and long-term growth
Greater control over the type of work undertaken and methods of working	Flexibility can lead to overworking and blurred boundaries between work and personal life
Ability to work for international clients and companies	Gig workers may miss out on the social aspects and support networks found in traditional workplaces
Companies can save on costs related to full-time employees (benefits, office space, etc.).	Potential for gig workers to be underpaid and overworked without proper oversight
Can quickly adapt to changing market demands and consumer needs	Limited access to training and professional development resources

 

7. What are the challenges associated with the gig economy?

• Gig workers often face unpredictable and inconsistent income, making financial planning difficult
• Gig workers typically do not receive traditional employment benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and unemployment benefits
• The temporary and project-based nature of gig work means that workers lack job security and can be easily terminated
• There is often a lack of clear legal frameworks to protect gig workers, leading to issues with worker rights, minimum wage enforcement, and job classifications.
• The flexibility of gig work can lead to overworking and difficulty in maintaining a work-life balance, as the lines between personal and professional time can become blurred.
• Gig workers can be vulnerable to exploitation, including low pay, long hours, and lack of proper working conditions, without sufficient oversight and protection
• Gig workers may miss out on the social interactions and support networks that come with traditional workplaces, leading to feelings of isolation and lack of community
• There are limited opportunities for career advancement, professional development, and skill enhancement in the gig economy
• Gig workers often lack access to training and development programs that can help them improve their skills and advance their careers
• Gig workers are usually responsible for managing their own taxes, which can be complex and burdensome without proper knowledge and resources
• Reliance on digital platforms and technology can pose challenges, including the need for constant internet access and the risk of being affected by platform changes or technical issues
• Without formal workplace regulations, gig workers may face unsafe working conditions and lack proper health and safety protections

 

 

For Prelims: Gig Economy For Mains: GS III- Gig Economy and Associated Problems around

 

 

Source: Indianexpress

 

 

URBAN COOPERATIVE BANKS

 

 

1. Context

 Two decades after the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) stopped granting licenses for new urban co-operative banks (UCBs), the central bank has proposed reopening the licensing window. The move would favour granting UCB licenses to co-operative credit societies.

 

2. Urban Cooperative Bank

• Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs) are financial institutions that operate in the urban and semi-urban areas of India.
• These banks are essentially cooperative credit societies that provide financial services to their members, who are both customers and owners of the bank. 

• Urban Cooperative Banks are regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) under the Banking Regulation Act, of UCBs are an integral part of the cooperative credit structure in India, working alongside other cooperative institutions like Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) and District Central Cooperative Banks (DCCBs).1949.
• RBI issues guidelines and regulations to ensure the sound functioning of UCBs and to protect the interests of depositors
• There are two main types of UCBs: Scheduled UCBs and Non-Scheduled UCBs. Scheduled UCBs are those included in the Second Schedule of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934.
• Scheduled UCBs are eligible for facilities provided by RBI, such as borrowing from the central bank, among others

3.Urban Cooperative Banks History

The history of Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs) in India traces back to the cooperative movement that gained momentum during the early 20th century. The cooperative banking sector, including UCBs, played a crucial role in meeting the financial needs of urban and semi-urban communities. Here's a brief overview of the history of Urban Cooperative Banks in India:

Early 20th Century:

• • The cooperative movement in India, inspired by the ideas of leaders like Raiffeisen and Schulze-Delitzsch, gained prominence in the early 20th century.
  • The primary objective was to address the financial needs of small farmers and urban communities by promoting the concept of self-help and mutual cooperation.

Cooperative Societies Act, 1912:

• • The Cooperative Societies Act, 1912, laid the legal foundation for the formation and functioning of cooperative societies, including cooperative credit societies and banks.
  • The Act provided a framework for the registration, management, and operation of cooperative societies.

Formation of Urban Cooperative Banks:

• • Urban Cooperative Banks emerged as a specific category of cooperative banks catering to the financial requirements of urban and semi-urban areas.
  • These banks were typically formed by groups of individuals, traders, and businesses in urban localities who came together to address their banking needs through mutual cooperation.

Growth and Expansion:

• • Over the decades, Urban Cooperative Banks witnessed growth and expansion, serving as important financial intermediaries for local businesses and residents.
  • Many UCBs were formed to support specific communities, trade groups, or industrial sectors within urban areas.

Regulation and Supervision:

• • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) started regulating and supervising cooperative banks, including Urban Cooperative Banks, to ensure stability and protect the interests of depositors.
  • UCBs were brought under the purview of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

Scheduled Urban Cooperative Banks:

• • Some well-managed and financially sound Urban Cooperative Banks were granted scheduled status, making them eligible for certain privileges and facilities provided by the RBI.

4. Differences between Urban Cooperative bank and Commercial bank

Feature	Urban Cooperative Bank	Commercial Bank
Ownership Structure	Cooperative (Owned by members)	Shareholders (Owned by investors)
Formation	Formed by local communities, often with a specific focus or community affiliation	Incorporated as public or private companies for profit
Operational Area	Primarily operates in urban and semi-urban areas	Operates in diverse locations, including urban, semi-urban, and rural areas
Governance	Governed by cooperative principles with democratic control, each member has one vote	Governed by a Board of Directors, elected by shareholders based on the number of shares held
Regulatory Authority	Regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949	Regulated by the RBI for scheduled banks and other financial regulators (e.g., SEBI, IRDAI)
Membership	Open to individuals and cooperative societies within specified localities	Open to the general public and corporate entities, with no geographical restrictions
Deposit Insurance	Covered by the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC) up to a certain limit	Covered by DICGC or similar insurance up to a certain limit
Borrowing Facilities	May have restrictions on borrowing from the RBI and other financial institutions	Eligible for various borrowing facilities from the RBI and interbank markets
Nature of Activities	Focus on meeting the credit needs of local communities, especially small businesses and individuals	Diverse range of financial services, including retail and corporate banking, investment services, etc.
Profit Distribution	Profits are shared among members in proportion to their transactions with the bank	Profits are distributed among shareholders in proportion to the number of shares held
Scheduled Status	Some well-managed UCBs may achieve scheduled status, making them eligible for certain privileges	Commercial banks are typically scheduled banks by default, with access to RBI facilities
Purpose	Emphasis on financial inclusion, community development, and supporting local businesses	Primarily focused on profitability, shareholder value, and serving a wide range of customers
Examples	Cosmos Cooperative Bank, Saraswat Cooperative Bank	State Bank of India, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank

5. Challenges faced by Urban Cooperative banks

Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs) in India, like other financial institutions, face various challenges that can impact their operations, financial health, and ability to serve their members.

The following are the challenges faced by UCB:

• Many UCBs grapple with governance and management challenges, including issues related to transparency, accountability, and efficiency.
• Weak governance structures can lead to poor decision-making and operational inefficiencies
• Non-performing assets (NPAs) can be a significant challenge for UCBs. Inadequate credit risk management practices may result in a higher proportion of bad loans.
• Economic downturns or changes in local economic conditions can impact the asset quality of UCBs
• Maintaining adequate capital to support lending activities and absorb potential losses is crucial for UCBs.
• Financial instability can arise if there is a mismatch between assets and liabilities or if the bank faces a sudden surge in withdrawal requests
• Adherence to regulatory norms and compliance requirements, as set by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), is a challenge for UCBs.
• Failure to meet regulatory standards can lead to penalties, restrictions on operations, or even regulatory interventions

• UCBs, especially smaller ones, may face challenges in adopting and integrating modern banking technologies. This can impact their efficiency, customer service, and competitiveness.
• Cybersecurity threats pose a risk, and UCBs need to invest in robust IT infrastructure to safeguard customer data
• Some UCBs may be heavily dependent on specific sectors or communities, leading to limited diversification.
• Lack of diversification can expose UCBs to concentration risk, especially if the local economy is adversely affected.
• UCBs face competition from larger commercial banks and other financial institutions, which may have more extensive resources and capabilities.
• Staying competitive in terms of interest rates, customer service, and product offerings is a constant challenge

6. Way forward

Urban Cooperative Banks is intertwined with the broader cooperative movement in India and has been shaped by legislative changes and regulatory interventions over the years. The sector has played a vital role in providing banking services to urban and semi-urban communities and contributing to financial inclusion.

 

 

Previous Year Questions 1.With reference to ‘Urban Cooperative Banks’ in India, consider the following statements: (UPSC CSE 2021) They are supervised and regulated by local boards set up by the State Governments. They can issue equity shares and preference shares. They were brought under the purview of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 through an Amendment in 1966. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Answer: (b)

Source: Indianexpress

 

 

LINE OF ACTUAL CONTROL (LAC)

 

 

1.Context

In response to a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, a Chinese government spokesperson reaffirmed the country’s claims to the Shaksgam Valley.

Pic credits: TRT WORLD

 

2.About Line of Actual Control (LAC)

• The Line of Actual Control (LAC) is the de facto boundary that separates Indian-controlled territory from Chinese-controlled territory. Unlike a formally demarcated international border, it is not clearly marked on the ground or mutually agreed upon in precise terms by both countries. The concept of the LAC emerged after the 1962 India-China war, when hostilities ended without a final settlement of the border dispute.
• Stretching for about 3,488 kilometers, the LAC runs through three main sectors: the western sector in Ladakh, the middle sector covering parts of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, and the eastern sector that spans Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim.
• Each side has its own perception of where the LAC lies, which often leads to overlapping claims and occasional standoffs between Indian and Chinese troops. The absence of a mutually recognized border has made this line one of the most sensitive and contested frontiers in the world.
• Over the years, both countries have signed various agreements to maintain peace and tranquillity along the LAC, emphasizing restraint and confidence-building measures. However, due to differing interpretations of the line, confrontations and incursions have continued to occur.
• The recent clashes, particularly in eastern Ladakh in 2020, highlighted the fragile nature of the arrangement and the pressing need for a clearer understanding between the two sides.
• Thus, the LAC represents more than just a boundary; it is a reflection of unresolved historical disputes and ongoing geopolitical tensions. While it serves as the working line that separates the territories under Indian and Chinese control, its ambiguous character keeps it at the center of India-China relations

It is divided into three sectors:

 

The eastern sector which spans Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim, The middle sector in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, and the western sector in Ladakh

 

3.The disagreement

• The alignment of the LAC in the eastern sector is along the 1914 McMahon Line, and there are minor disputes about the positions on the ground as per the principle of the high Himalayan watershed
• This pertains to India’s international boundary as well, but for certain areas such as Longju and Asaphila
• The line in the middle sector is the least controversial but for the precise alignment to be followed in the Barahoti plains.
• The major disagreements are in the western sector where the LAC emerged from two letters written by Chinese Prime Minister Zhou Enlai to PM Jawaharlal Nehru in 1959, after he had first mentioned such a ‘line’ in 1956.
• In his letter, Zhou said the LAC consisted of “the so-called McMahon Line in the east and the line up to which each side exercises actual control in the west”
• After the 1962 War, the Chinese claimed they had withdrawn to 20 km behind the LAC of November 1959
• During the Doklam crisis in 2017, the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson urged India to abide by the “1959 LAC”
• India rejected the concept of LAC in both 1959 and 1962. Even during the war, Nehru was unequivocal: “There is no sense or meaning in the Chinese offer to withdraw twenty kilometres from what they call ‘line of actual control’

4.India's agreement to LAC

• LAC was discussed during Chinese Premier Li Peng’s 1991 visit to India, where PM P V Narasimha Rao and Li reached an understanding to maintain peace and tranquillity at the LAC. 
• India formally accepted the concept of the LAC when Rao paid a return visit to Beijing in 1993 and the two sides signed the Agreement to Maintain Peace and Tranquillity at the LAC
• The reference to the LAC was unqualified to make it clear that it was not referring to the LAC of 1959 or 1962 but to the LAC at the time when the agreement was signed
• To reconcile the differences about some areas, the two countries agreed that the Joint Working Group on the border issue would take up the task of clarifying the alignment of the LAC

5. How is the LAC different from the Line of Control with Pakistan?

• The LoC emerged from the 1948 ceasefire line negotiated by the UN after the Kashmir War. It was designated as the LoC in 1972, following the Shimla Agreement between the two countries. It is delineated on a map signed by DGMOs of both armies and has the international sanctity of a legal agreement.
• The LAC, in contrast, is only a concept – it is not agreed upon by the two countries, neither delineated on a map or demarcated on the ground.
• The Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China and the Line of Control (LoC) between India and Pakistan are both contested frontiers, but they differ fundamentally in their origin, status, and legal recognition.
• The LAC is not an internationally agreed boundary; it is simply the line that separates the territories controlled by India and China after the 1962 war. It came into existence informally as the ground reality of troop positions after hostilities, and while both countries recognize its existence, they do not agree on its precise alignment.
• This makes the LAC fluid and ambiguous, often leading to different interpretations and military face-offs. It is essentially a de facto line, with no official international recognition or treaty-based acceptance.
• In contrast, the LoC is a formally delineated line that divides the territories of India and Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir. It originated from the ceasefire line drawn after the first India-Pakistan war of 1947–48, and was given its current name under the 1972 Simla Agreement.
• Unlike the LAC, the LoC is demarcated on maps, jointly surveyed, and broadly agreed upon by both sides, even though the underlying sovereignty dispute over Jammu and Kashmir remains unresolved.
• The LoC is under constant military monitoring, heavily fortified, and frequently the site of ceasefire violations, but it has legal standing as part of an international agreement.
• To put it simply, the LAC is undefined and disputed in interpretation, while the LoC is defined and agreed upon, though still contested in terms of territorial claims. The LAC reflects ambiguity and lack of settlement between India and China, whereas the LoC represents a ceasefire line formally negotiated between India and Pakistan

 

6. Way Forward

The two leaders met on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit here — this is Modi’s first visit to China in seven years. The two sides agreed on a “fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable resolution” of the border issue, and flagged the importance of a multipolar world, free trade and “role of their two economies to stabilise world trade

 

For Prelims: LAC, LOC For Mains: 1.What is this ‘line of control’? Is this the line China have created by aggression. Comment 2.What we know about the clash between Indian and Chinese soldiers in Arunachal Pradesh

 

Previous Year Questions 1.The Line of Actual Control (LAC) separates  (Karnataka Civil Police Constable 2020) A.India and Pakistan B.India and Afghanistan C.India and Nepal D.India and China Answer (D) 2.LAC (Line of Actual Control) is an effective border between India and ______. (SSC CHSL 2020) A.Pakistan B.Bhutan C.Sri Lanka D.China Answer (D)

 

 

 

Source:indianexpress

 

 

COMMISSION FOR AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT (CAQM)

 

 

1. Context

 

In view of deteriorating air quality in Delhi, the Sub-Committee on the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in NCR and Adjoining Areas convened a meeting today

2. Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)

 

• 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

 

 

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

 

 

3. Supreme Court on CAQM

 

• 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

 

4. Challenges

 

• 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.

5. Way Forward

 

Discussing the challenges faced, the official acknowledged that while the commission has focused heavily on tackling stubble burning in the past, there is now a shift towards addressing multiple pollution sources. Moving forward, greater emphasis will be placed on controlling dust and vehicular emissions alongside agricultural pollution

 

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).

 

Source: The Hindu

 

 

LION-TAILED MACAQUE

 

 

 

1. Context

 

The lion-tailed macaque is a symbol of the fragile interconnectedness of life in the Western Ghats. A mascot of the Silent Valley Movement, it is today one of India’s rarest and most endangered primates

 

2. About Lion Tailed Macaque

 

• The Lion-tailed Macaque, also known as the Wanderoo, is an Old World monkey found in the Western Ghats of South India
• Lion-tailed macaques are covered in black fur with a striking grey or silver mane that surrounds their face, present in both sexes. Their tail, which is how they got their name, is long, thin, and hairless with a black, tufted tip resembling a lion's tail
• They are social animals that live in groups of 4 to 30 individuals. These groups typically consist of a few adult males and roughly twice as many females and offspring.
• One of the males will be the alpha male, or leader, of the group. Interestingly, unlike females who tend to stay within the same troop throughout their lives, males will often change groups by joining another and taking over through dominance
• Lion-tailed macaques are rain forest dwellers, favouring the upper canopy of tropical moist evergreen forests and monsoon forests.
• They are diurnal creatures, meaning they are active during the day. They spend roughly half of their day foraging for food and the other half resting or searching for new foraging areas

3. Overview of Lion Tailed Macaque

 

Category	Details
Physical Characteristics	Appearance: Lion-like tail with a tuft of fur, silver-grey mane, black body fur.
	Size: Males (5-10 kg), Females (3-6 kg).
	Lifespan: About 20 years in the wild, up to 30 years in captivity.
Habitat and Distribution	Habitat: Tropical rainforests at elevations between 600 and 1500 meters.
	Geographical Range: Endemic to the Western Ghats of India.
Behavior and Diet	Social Structure: Troops of 10 to 20 individuals, with a dominant male.
	Diet: Omnivorous, prefers fruits, seeds, leaves, flowers, and insects.
	Activity: Diurnal and arboreal, excellent climbers, rarely come to the ground.
Reproduction	Breeding: Peaks during the monsoon season.
	Gestation: About 6 months, typically resulting in a single infant.
Conservation Status	IUCN Red List: Endangered.
	Threats: Habitat loss due to deforestation, agriculture, logging, and human settlement expansion.
	Conservation Efforts: Habitat protection, wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, reducing human-wildlife conflict.
Importance in Ecosystem	Ecological Role: Seed dispersal, indicating a healthy, biodiverse forest.

 

 

4. Habitat of Lion-Tailed Macaque

 

The Lion-tailed Macaque inhabits tropical rainforests, primarily at elevations between 600 and 1500 meters. They are endemic to the Western Ghats of India, a biodiversity hotspot known for its dense, evergreen forests with a complex canopy structure. These macaques prefer undisturbed primary forests but can occasionally be found in secondary forests. They are predominantly arboreal, spending most of their time in the upper canopy. The primary threats to their habitat include destruction due to deforestation, agriculture, logging, and human settlement expansion. This habitat loss and fragmentation significantly impact their population and survival

 

5. Characteristics of Lion Tailed Macaque

 

• The Lion-tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus) possesses several distinct characteristics:
• They have a striking appearance with a mane of silver-grey hair surrounding their face, which contrasts with their black body fur. Their tail, resembling a lion's with a tuft of fur at the end, is a notable feature
• Males are larger than females. Males typically weigh between 5 to 10 kg, while females weigh between 3 to 6 kg
• In the wild, Lion-tailed Macaques live for about 20 years, but they can live up to 30 years in captivity
• These primates are endemic to the Western Ghats of India, inhabiting tropical rainforests at elevations of 600 to 1500 meters
• They live in small troops of about 10 to 20 individuals, usually with a single dominant male, several females, and their offspring. The troops are territorial and maintain a defined home range.
• Omnivorous, their diet primarily consists of fruits, seeds, leaves, flowers, and insects. They have a preference for ripe fruits and are known for their foraging habits.They are diurnal and arboreal, spending most of their time in the trees. They are excellent climbers and rarely come to the ground
• The breeding season varies, peaking during the monsoon season. The gestation period is about six months, resulting in the birth of a single infant. The young are primarily cared for by the mother but receive attention from other group members as well
• The Lion-tailed Macaque is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. They face significant threats from habitat destruction due to deforestation, agricultural expansion, logging, and human settlement

6. Behaviour of the Lion-Tailed Macaque

 

The behaviour of the Lion-tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus) is quite distinctive and reflects their adaptation to the dense, tropical rainforests of the Western Ghats in India.

 

Here are the key aspects of their behaviour:

•  Lion-tailed Macaques are active during the day (diurnal). They spend the daylight hours foraging, socializing, and traveling within their territory
• These macaques are highly arboreal, meaning they spend most of their time in the trees. They are adept climbers and rarely descend to the ground, preferring the safety and resources of the upper canopy
• They live in small social groups, or troops, typically consisting of 10 to 20 individuals. Each troop usually has a single dominant male, multiple females, and their offspring. The social hierarchy within the group is well-defined, with the dominant male often playing a key role in group dynamics and defense
• Lion-tailed Macaques are territorial animals. They maintain and defend a specific home range against other groups. Territorial disputes can involve vocalizations and displays of aggression to ward off intruders
• These macaques use a variety of vocalizations, facial expressions, and body postures to communicate with each other. Vocalizations include calls to alert the group to potential dangers, coordinate movements, and express social bonds
• Their diet is omnivorous, with a preference for fruits, seeds, leaves, flowers, and insects. They spend a significant portion of their day foraging for food, which they often find in the upper canopy. Their foraging behavior is crucial for seed dispersal, contributing to forest regeneration
• The breeding season peaks during the monsoon, although it can vary. After a gestation period of about six months, females give birth to a single infant. The mother is primarily responsible for the infant's care, but other group members also engage in alloparenting, providing additional support and protection
• Grooming is an essential social activity among Lion-tailed Macaques. It helps to strengthen social bonds, reduce tension, and maintain hygiene by removing parasites and dirt from their fur
• Their arboreal nature helps them avoid many ground-based predators. However, they remain vigilant against aerial predators and potential threats from the ground. Alarm calls are used to warn group members of danger
•  In the wild, they live around 20 years, and up to 30 years in captivity. Younger macaques learn crucial survival skills through observation and interaction with older, more experienced group members

 

Conservation of Lion-Tailed Macaque   The Lion-tailed Macaque, with its dwindling population, is classified as "Endangered" by the IUCN. Thankfully, there are conservation efforts underway to protect these primates and their habitat. The biggest threat to lion-tailed macaques is habitat loss. Deforestation for agriculture, timber, and human settlements is shrinking the rainforests they call home.  This habitat fragmentation also disrupts their ability to move freely between forest patches Key Organizations Involved Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Indian government agencies such as the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) Local NGOs and community groups

 

7. Way Forward

Conserving the Lion-tailed Macaque requires a multi-faceted approach involving habitat protection, community involvement, legal enforcement, and continuous research. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, NGOs, local communities, and international organizations are essential to ensure the survival of this unique and endangered primate

 

 

Previous Year Questions 1.In which of the following States is lion-tailed macaque found in its natural habitat? (UPSC CSE 2013) 1. Tamil Nadu 2. Kerala 3. Karnataka 4. Andhra Pradesh Select the correct answer using the codes given below. A.1, 2 and 3 only B.2 only C.1, 3 and 4 only D.1, 2, 3 and 4 Answer (A) The Lion-tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus) is found in its natural habitat in the Western Ghats of India. The Western Ghats span several states, including Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. However, it is not naturally found in Andhra Pradesh

Source: The Hindu