GI Tag to Majuli masks, Manuscript and Narasapur Crochet Lace Craft

For Prelims: Majuli Masks, Majuli Manuscript Painting, Crochet Lace Craft, Geographical Indications (GI) tag

For Mains: Intellectual Property Rights, Protection of Traditional Knowledge

Source: TH

Why in News?

The traditional crochet lace craft of Narasapur in Andhra Pradesh receives a Geographical Indications (GI) tag to preserve its unique identity amidst competition from machine-made lace from China.

• Similarly, Majuli masks and manuscript painting in Assam gain GI recognition, enhancing their cultural significance and safeguarding against decline.
• These GI tags aim to rejuvenate and promote traditional crafts, ensuring their continued legacy and heritage preservation.

What are the Key Highlights About Narasapur Crochet Lace Craft?

• Narasapur Crochet Lace Craft:
  • The crochet lace craft originated in 1844 and endured challenges like the Indian famine (1899) and the Great Depression (1929). By the early 1900s, more than 2,000 women were involved in lace crafting in the Godavari region, highlighting its cultural importance.
  • The craft involves transforming thin cotton threads into intricate artefacts using delicate crochet needles of varying sizes.
    • Artisans use a single crochet hook to create loops and interlocking stitches, forming delicate lace patterns.
  • Narsapur's hand-made crochet industry produces a diverse range of products made of lace— garments, home furnishings and accessories including Doilies, Pillow covers, Cushion covers, Bedspreads, Table-runners, Table cloths, Hand purses, Caps, Tops, Stoles, Lampshades, and Wall hangings.
  • Narsapur's crochet lace products find their way to global markets, with exports reaching destinations such as the UK, USA, and France.
• Geographical Indication (GI) Tag:
  • The Department of Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry registered the craft in the Geographical Indications Registry (GIR), certifying that the craft is geographically limited to 19 mandals in West Godavari and Dr. B.R.Ambedkar Konaseema districts in the Godavari region.
    • Narsapur and Palacole are the major trade points for lace products in West Godavari district. In Konaseema region, Razole and Amalapuram are known for the craft.
• Challenges Faced by Narasapur Artisans:
  • The craft market has been stagnant since the Covid-19 pandemic, resulting in a lack of new orders and decreased production.
  • While over 15,000 women are associated with the craft, only around 200 are actively involved in regular production.
  • Machine-made lace products from China have dominated the market, posing a significant threat to the demand for Narasapur lace products.

What are Majuli masks and Majuli Manuscript Painting?

• Majuli Masks:
  • Majuli masks are intricately crafted masks made by hand using traditional techniques.
  • The handmade masks are traditionally used to depict characters in bhaonas (a traditional form of entertainment, with religious messages), or theatrical performances with devotional messages under the neo-Vaishnavite tradition, introduced by the 15^th-16^th century reformer saint Srimanta Sankardeva.
    • The masks can depict gods, goddesses, demons, animals and birds — Ravana, Garuda, Narasimha, Hanuman, Varaha Surpanakha all feature among the masks.
  • Made from a variety of materials including bamboo, clay, dung, cloth, cotton, and wood, the masks can vary in size from covering just the face to encompassing the entire head and body of the performer.
  • Traditional practitioners are modernizing Majuli mask-making by moving beyond the confines of sattras (Monastery) to embrace contemporary contexts.
    • Sattras were founded by Srimanta Sankardev and his disciples to serve as centres of religious, social, and cultural reform.
    • Majuli, with its 22 sattras, is a hub for these cultural practices. The mask-making tradition is predominantly found in four sattras: Samaguri Sattra, Natun Samaguri Sattra, Bihimpur Sattra, and Alengi Narasimha Sattra.

• Majuli Manuscript Painting:
  • The manuscript paintings of Majuli are a form of religious art closely linked to the island's Vaishnavite culture, centred around worship.
  • One of the earliest examples of this art form is attributed to Srimanta Sankardev, depicting the Adya Dasama of the Bhagwat Purana in Assamese. It continues to be practised in every sattra in Majuli.
  • Majuli Manuscript Painting are inspired by the Pala school of Painting art.
    • Pala art refers to the style of Buddhist art that developed in the Pala Empire of eastern India (8^th-12^th centuries). It is characterized by its vibrant colors, detailed work, and emphasis on religious themes.

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UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Years Questions (PYQs)

Prelims

Q. Which of the following has/have been accorded ‘Geographical Indication’ status? (2015)

1. Banaras Brocades and Sarees
2. Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma
3. Tirupathi Laddu

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Ans: (c)

Q. India enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 in order to comply with the obligations to (2018)

(a) ILO
(b) IMF
(c) UNCTAD
(d) WTO

Ans: (d)

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Mains

Q. How is the Government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies? (2019)

Temple Discoveries Highlight Chalukya Expansion

For Prelims: Badami Chalukyan, Mudimanikyam village, Gandaloranru, Jogulamba temples at Alampur, submerged sites of Yeleswaram, Architectural Design of Chalukya Period, Aihole Inscription of Pulikesin II.

For Mains: Key Features Related to the Chalukya Dynasty

Source: TOI

Why in News?

Archaeologists from the Public Research Institute of History, Archaeology, and Heritage (PRIHAH) have unearthed two ancient temples dating back to the Badami Chalukyan period, along with a rare inscription, in Mudimanikyam village of Nalgonda district, Telangana.

What are the Major Highlights of the Recent Excavation?

• Temples: Located at the end of the village, the two temples date back to between 543 AD and 750 AD, corresponding to the rule of the Badami Chalukyas.
  • They showcase unique architectural styles, blending Badami Chalukyan and Kadamba Nagara style in the Rekha nagara format.
  • In one temple, a panavattam (base of a Shiva lingam) in the sanctum sanctorum has been found.
  • In another, a Vishnu idol was recovered.
• Inscription: The discovery also includes an inscription, labeled as 'Gandaloranru', dating back to the 8^th or 9^th Century AD.
• Significance: Previously, the Jogulamba temples at Alampur and the submerged sites of Yeleswaram were considered the farthest reaches of the Badami Chalukya influence.
  • The new discovery extends the known boundaries of the Chalukya kingdom significantly.

What are the Key Features Related to the Chalukya Dynasty?

• About: The Chalukya dynasty governed significant territories in southern and central India from the 6^th to the 12^th centuries.
  • It comprised three distinct dynasties: the Chalukyas of Badami, the Eastern Chalukyas, and the Western Chalukyas.
  • The Chalukyas of Badami, originating in Vatapi (modern Badami in Karnataka), ruled from the early 6^th century until the mid-8th century, reaching their zenith under Pulakeshin II.
  • After Pulakeshin II's reign, the Eastern Chalukyas emerged as an independent kingdom in the eastern Deccan, centred around Vengi (in present-day Andhra Pradesh) until the 11^th century.
  • The rise of the Rashtrakutas in the 8^th century overshadowed the Chalukyas of Badami in the western Deccan.
    • However, their legacy was revived by their descendants, the Western Chalukyas, who ruled from Kalyani (modern Basavakalyan in Karnataka) until the late 12^th century.
• Foundation: Pulikesin I (c. 535-566 CE) is credited with fortifying a hill near Badami, laying the foundation for the Chalukya dynasty's ascendancy.
  • The city of Badami was formally founded by Kirtivarman (566-597), serving as the epicentre of Chalukya power and culture.
• Polity and Administration: The Chalukyas implemented a structured administrative system, dividing their realm into political units for effective governance.
  • These divisions included Vishayam, Rastram, Nadu, and Grama.
• Religious Patronage: The Chalukyas were notable patrons of both Saivism and Vaishnavism.
  • Beyond mainstream Hinduism, the Chalukyas also patronized heterodox sects, such as Jainism and Buddhism, exemplifying their commitment to religious diversity.
    • Ravikirti, the poet-laureate of Pulikesin II, was a Jain scholar.
    • According to the traveller Hiuen Tsang, there were many Buddhist centres in the Chalukya territory wherein more than 5000 followers of the Hinayana and Mahayana sects lived.
• Architecture: Historically, in Deccan, Chalukyas introduced the technique of building temples using soft sandstones as medium.
  • Their temples are grouped into two: excavated cave temples and structural temples.
    • Badami is known for both structural and excavated cave temples.
    • Pattadakal and Aihole are popular for structural temples.
• Literary: Chalukya rulers utilised Sanskrit for official inscriptions, showcasing their commitment to classical literature and language.
  • Despite Sanskrit's prominence, the Chalukyas also acknowledged the significance of regional languages like Kannada, recognizing them as the language of the people.
• Painting: Chalukyas adopted the Vakataka style in painting. Paintings are found in a cave temple dedicated to Vishnu in Badami.

Aihole Inscription of Pulikesin II:

• Situated in the Megudi temple at Aihole, Karnataka, the Aihole inscription provides invaluable insights into Chalukya history and achievements.
  • Aihole is considered as the cradle of Indian temple architecture.
• Crafted by the renowned poet Ravikriti, the inscription is a lyrical tribute to the Chalukya dynasty, particularly King Pulakesin II, lauded as the embodiment of truth (Sathyasraya).
• The inscription chronicles the Chalukya dynasty's triumphs over adversaries, including the renowned defeat of Harshavardhana.

Growing Obesity in India

For Prelims: World Health Organization, Body Mass Index, Obesity, Mission Poshan 2.0, Mid-Day Meal Scheme, Poshan Vatikas

For Mains: Malnutrition, Steps to Tackle Malnutrition in India, Government Policies & Interventions

Source: TH

Why in News?

A recent study published in The Lancet has shed light on the alarming increase in obesity rates among children, adolescents, and adults over the past few decades worldwide.

• This comprehensive analysis was conducted by the NCD Risk Factor Collaboration (NCD-RisC) in collaboration with the World Health Organization.
• The study looked at body mass index (BMI) to understand how obesity and underweight have changed worldwide from 1990 to 2022.

Note

• NCD-RisC is a network of health scientists around the world that provides rigorous and timely data on major risk factors for non-communicable diseases for all of the world’s countries.

What are the Key Highlights of the Study?

• India’s Statistics:
  • Obesity:
    • The Lancet revealed that in 2022, 12.5 million children (7.3 million boys and 5.2 million girls) aged between 5-19 years in India were classified as grossly overweight, marking a significant increase from 0.4 million in 1990.
    • In the prevalence of obesity category for girls and boys, India ranked 174^th in the world in 2022.
    • Among adults, in women, the obesity rate increased from 1.2% in 1990 to 9.8% in 2022 and men from 0.5% to 5.4% in the same period.
  • Undernutrition:
    • The prevalence of undernutrition has also remained high in India, as a result, India has become one of the countries with a high “double burden,” of Malnutrition.
      • 13.7% of women and 12.5% of men were underweight.
    • Thinness, a measure of being underweight in children, in Indian girls is the highest in the world, with a prevalence of 20.3%.
      • It was the second highest in Indian boys, with a prevalence of 21.7%.
• Global:
  • The total number of children, adolescents and adults worldwide living with obesity has surpassed one billion.
    • In total, 159 million children and adolescents, and 879 million adults were obese in 2022.
  • The combined burden of underweight and obesity has increased in most countries, driven by an increase in obesity, while underweight and thinness remain prevalent in South Asia and parts of Africa.
  • In 2022, the combined prevalence of underweight and obesity was highest in island nations in the Caribbean Polynesia and Micronesia, and countries in the Middle East and North Africa.
  • The countries with the highest combined prevalence of thinness and obesity in 2022 were Polynesia, Micronesia and the Caribbean for both sexes and Chile and Qatar for boys.
    • Combined prevalence was also high in some countries in South Asia, such as India and Pakistan, where thinness remained prevalent despite having declined.
• Factors Contributing Obesity:
  • Women are more prone to gaining weight because they often don't have time for exercise and prioritise their family's nutrition over their own.
  • They also tend to get less sleep due to household responsibilities.
  • Additionally, unhealthy junk food is cheaper and more readily available than nutritious options, leading to increased obesity rates, even among those with lower incomes in places like Tamil Nadu, Punjab, and Goa.

What are Overweight, Thinness, and Obesity?

• Body Mass Index:
  • BMI is a measure of weight-to-height commonly used to classify underweight, overweight, and obesity in adults.
  • It is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by the square of height in meters (kg/m²).
    • For example, an adult weighing 58 kg and standing 1.70 m tall will have a BMI of 20.1 (BMI = 58 kg / (1.70 m * 1.70 m)).
• Obesity and Overweight:
  • Overweight and obesity are defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that presents a health risk.
  • Overweight is a condition of excessive fat deposits and Obesity is a chronic disease that occurs when the body stores excess calories as fat.
    • Obesity is a major risk factor for chronic diseases like cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, musculoskeletal disorders, and certain cancers.
    • Childhood obesity is associated with serious health complications and an increased risk of premature onset of related illnesses.
  • Obesity is one side of the double burden of malnutrition, and today more people are obese than underweight in every region except the South-East Asia Region.
• Thinness and Underweight:
  • Thinness and Underweight refers to having a lower-than-normal body weight relative to height. It is often associated with insufficient calorie intake or underlying health conditions.
  • Underweight is one of the four broad sub-forms of undernutrition.
    • An adult is considered underweight if their BMI is less than 18 kg/m². School-aged children and adolescents are considered underweight if their BMI is two standard deviations below the mean.
    • Undernutrition manifests in four broad forms: wasting, stunting, Underweight, and micronutrient deficiencies.
  • Being underweight can lead to various health problems, including osteoporosis, skin, hair, or teeth issues, frequent illnesses, fatigue, anaemia, irregular periods, premature births, impaired growth, and increased mortality risk.

What are India’s Initiatives Related to Nutrition?

• Eat Right Mela
• Fit India Movement
• Eat Right Station Certification
• Mission Poshan 2.0
• Mid-Day Meal Scheme
• Poshan Vatikas
• Anganwadi
• Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme
• Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY)

Way Forward

• Obesity and underweight should not be considered in isolation, because the underweight-obesity transition can occur rapidly, leaving their combined burden unchanged or higher.
• The focus has to be on programmes that enhance healthy nutrition, such as targeted cash transfers, food assistance as subsidies or vouchers for healthy foods, free healthy school meals, and primary care-based nutritional interventions.
• There is an urgent need for supporting weight loss in those with obesity.
• Prevention and management are especially important because the age of onset of obesity has decreased, which increases the duration of exposure.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)

Prelims

Q. Which of the following is/are the indicators/ indicators used by IFPRI to compute the Global Hunger Index Report? (2016)

1. Undernourishment
2. Child stunting
3. Child mortality

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) 1 and 3 only

Ans: (c)

Q.2 With reference to the provisions made under the National Food Security Act, 2013, consider the following statements: (2018)

1. The families coming under the category of ‘below poverty line (BPL)’ only are eligible to receive subsidized food grains.
2. The eldest woman in a household, of age 18 years or above, shall be the head of the household for the purpose of issuance of a ration card.
3. Pregnant women and lactating mothers are entitled to a ‘take-home ration’ of 1600 calories per day during pregnancy and for six months thereafter.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 3 only

Ans: (b)

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Mains

Q. How far do you agree with the view that the focus on lack of availability of food as the main cause of hunger takes the attention away from ineffective human development policies in India? (2018)

Parliamentary Privileges and Related Cases

For Prelims: No-Confidence motion, Parliamentary Privileges, Supreme Court (SC), Articles 105 and 194 of the Constitution.

For Mains: Parliamentary Privileges, Parliament and State Legislatures.

Source: IE

Why in News?

Recently, the Supreme Court (SC) overturned a 25-year-old majority opinion in the P V Narasimha Rao v State (CBI/Spe) Case, 1998 also known as the JMM (Jharkhand Mukti Morcha) bribery case. The SC stated that the bribery is not protected by parliamentary privileges.

• The previous ruling had stated that lawmakers who accepted bribes could not be prosecuted for corruption if they followed through with voting or speaking in the House as agreed.

What was P V Narasimha Rao Case and Recent Ruling of Supreme Court?

• Case Background:
  • In the 1993 P V Narasimha Rao case, certain members (MPs) of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) were accused of accepting bribes in exchange for voting against a No-Confidence motion.
  • This case highlighted allegations of corruption within the parliamentary system, raising concerns about the integrity of legislative processes and the accountability of elected representatives.
• Court’s Observation in 1998 Case:
  • The Supreme Court's ruling in 1998 established immunity for MPs (Members of Parliament) and Member of Legislative Assembly (MLAs) from prosecution in bribery cases as long as they fulfilled their end of the bargain.
    • The Supreme Court held that the bribe takers who cast their vote against the no-confidence motion were immune from criminal prosecution under Parliamentary Privilege (Article 105(2)).
  • This decision underscored the importance of stability in governance and the functioning of parliamentary democracy.
  • The court's observation prioritised the smooth operation of the government over individual accountability, suggesting that prosecuting lawmakers for bribery could potentially disrupt the stability of the government.
• Court’s Observation in 2024 Case:
  • The 7-Judge Constitution Bench overturned the 5-Judge Bench verdict of P.V. Narasimha Rao v. State Case, 1998.
    • Wherein it was established that the Member of Parliaments and Member of Legislative Assemblies enjoyed immunity if they cast vote in the House after taking bribes for it.
  • The SC emphasised the detrimental impact of bribery on democratic principles and governance.
  • The court highlighted that accepting a bribe is a separate criminal act, unrelated to the core duties of lawmakers within the Parliament or legislative assembly.
    • The Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, deals with ‘offence relating to public servant being bribed’.
  • Therefore, the immunity provided under Articles 105 and 194 of the Constitution does not extend to cases of bribery.
    • This decision signifies a shift towards prioritising accountability and integrity in governance over stability alone, aiming to uphold the ideals of a responsible, responsive, and representative democracy in India.

What are the Parliamentary Privileges?

• About:
  • Parliamentary privileges are special rights, immunities and exemptions enjoyed by the members of the Parliament and their committees.
    • These privileges are defined in Article 105 of the Indian Constitution.
    • Article 194 guarantees same privileges to the Members of Legislative Assemblies of states.
  • Under these privileges, the members of Parliament are exempted from any civil liability (but not criminal liability) for any statement made or act done in the course of their duties.
  • Parliament has not made any special law to exhaustively codify all the privileges. They are rather based on five sources:
    • Constitutional provisions
    • Various laws made by Parliament
    • Rules of both the Houses
    • Parliamentary conventions
    • Judicial interpretations
• Privileges of Individual Member:
  • Freedom of Speech in Parliament (Article 105(1))
  • Immunity to a Member from any proceedings in any court in respect of anything said or any vote given by him in Parliament or any Committee thereof [Article 105(2)].
  • Immunity to a person from proceedings in any court in respect of the publication by or under the authority of either House of Parliament of any report, paper, votes or proceedings (Article 105(2)).
  • Prohibition on the Courts to inquire into the validity of any proceedings in Parliament on the ground of any alleged irregularity of procedure. [Article 122(1)].
  • Freedom from arrest of Members in civil cases during the continuance of the meeting of the House or of a Committee thereof and forty days before its commencement and forty days after its conclusion (Section 135A of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908).
• Collective Privilege of House:
  • Right of the House to receive immediate intimation of the arrest, detention, conviction, imprisonment and release of a Member.
  • Immunity from arrest and service of legal process within the precincts of the House without obtaining the permission of the Chairman/ Speaker.
  • Protection of publication of the proceedings of a secret sitting of the House.
  • The evidence tendered before a Parliamentary Committee and its report and proceedings cannot be disclosed or published by anyone until these have been laid on the Table of the House.
  • Members or officers of the House cannot give evidence or produce in courts of law, documents relating to the proceedings of the House without the permission of the House.

Note

• The Supreme Court in the State of Kerala Vs. K. Ajith Case, 2021, observed, that “privileges and immunities are not gateways to claim exemptions from the general law of the land, particularly as case of, the criminal law which governs the action of every citizen.”
• In July 2021, the Supreme Court rejected the Kerala government’s plea to withdraw criminal cases against its MLAs who were charged in the assembly.

What are the International Practices Regarding Parliamentary Privileges?

• The United Kingdom:
  • The Parliament at Westminster enjoys similar privileges, including freedom of speech, immunity from arrest, and the right to regulate its own proceedings.
  • These privileges are established through a combination of statute, common law, and precedent.
• Canada:
  • The Parliament of Canada also has established privileges for its members, including freedom of speech, immunity from arrest, and the right to punish breaches of privilege.
  • These privileges are outlined in the Constitution Act, 1867 and the Parliament of Canada Act.
• Australia:
  • The Parliament of Australia follows similar principles, with privileges enshrined in its Constitution. Members enjoy freedom of speech, immunity from arrest, and the right to regulate their own proceedings.

What is the Need to Codify Parliamentary Privileges?

• Need to Codify Parliamentary Privileges:
  • Clarity and Precision: Codification would provide a clear and precise definition of parliamentary privileges. It would specify what constitutes a violation of privileges, eliminating any ambiguity.
    • A statute would establish a precise threshold beyond which no penalty may be meted out for privilege violations.
  • Enhanced Accountability: Clearer guidelines for parliamentary privilege would facilitate better accountability mechanisms, enabling parliamentarians to exercise their privileges responsibly while also subjecting them to appropriate scrutiny and oversight.
  • Modernization and Adaptation: Codifying parliamentary privilege would provide an opportunity to update and modernize existing laws to reflect contemporary governance practices and societal norms, ensuring that legislative privileges remain relevant and effective in a rapidly evolving political landscape.
  • Checks and Balances: Codification would introduce checks and balances on privileges, preventing their misuse. It would curb unnecessary curtailment of press freedom.
• Need not to Codify Parliamentary Privileges:
  • Risk of Encroachment on Parliamentary Autonomy: Codifying parliamentary privilege could potentially lead to encroachments on the autonomy of the legislature by subjecting parliamentary affairs to greater judicial scrutiny or government intervention.
  • Against Constitutional Mandate: Article 122 deals with the restrictions on courts not to inquire into proceedings of Parliament. It further states the following: The validity of any proceedings in Parliament shall not be called in question on the ground of any alleged irregularity of procedure.
  • Loss of Flexibility: Codification may restrict the flexibility of parliamentary privilege, making it challenging to adapt to unforeseen circumstances or changing political dynamics that may require a more nuanced approach to legislative affairs.
  • Complexity and Lengthy Process: The process of codifying parliamentary privilege could be complex and time-consuming, requiring extensive deliberation and consensus-building among stakeholders, including legislators, legal experts, and civil society organizations.

Way Forward

• Parliamentary privileges are given to members to ensure smooth functioning. However, these privileges must align with fundamental rights, as MPs represent citizens.
• If privileges conflict with these rights, democracy loses its essence. MPs should use privileges responsibly and avoid misuse.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQ)

Prelims

Q. Which of the following are the discretionary powers given to the Governor of a State? (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 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Ans: (b)

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Mains

Q. What do you understand by the concept of “freedom of speech and expression”? Does it cover hate speech also? Why do the films in India stand on a slightly different plane from other forms of expression? Discuss. (2014)

Thailand’s Concern over India’s Agriculture Subsidy

For Prelims: World Trade Organisation (WTO), Public Distribution System (PDS), Peace Clause, Minimum Support Price (MSP), Cairns Group

For Mains: Thailand’s Concern Over India’s Agriculture Subsidy, WTO reforms, Issues with Subsidy Boxes, India’s suggestions on WTO reforms.

Source: IE

Why in News?

Recently, Thailand's ambassador to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) accused India of exporting rice at unfairly low prices funded by Government Subsidy. .

• Thailand stated that India’s Public Distribution System (PDS), under which the government procures essential food items from producers and sells them to the public at low rates, is not for the people but for “capturing” the export market.

What are Thailand’s Concerns Regarding India’s Agriculture Subsidy?

• Trade Distortion and Impact on Global Food Prices:
  • Thailand views India's Public Stockholding Programme (PSH) as highly subsidised, distorting global food prices.
    • Trade distortion is a situation where prices and production are higher or lower than levels that would usually exist in a competitive market.
  • Subsidized agricultural production can lead to overproduction and lower prices, making it difficult for unsubsidized competitors like Thailand to compete in the global market.
• Violation of WTO Regulations:
  • India's breach of the de minimis limit for rice subsidies is a violation of WTO regulations. This breach not only affects the competitive landscape but also undermines the principles of fair trade established by the WTO's Agreement on Agriculture.
    • The WTO norms say that the support given should be within the 10% de minimis limit. India informed the WTO that the value of its rice production in 2019-20 was USD 46.07 billion while it gave subsidies worth USD 6.31 billion or 13.7%, as against the permitted 10%.
• Desire for Agricultural Trade Liberalization:
  • As part of the Cairns Group, Thailand advocates for agricultural trade liberalization.
  • The group seeks to reduce trade barriers and subsidies that distort global agricultural markets, including lobbying against India to dismantle or reduce the scope of its Minimum Support Price (MSP) scheme.

Development Box:

• Article 6.2 of the Agriculture Agreement under WTO, allows developing countries additional flexibility in providing domestic support.
• The type of support that fits into the developmental category are measures of assistance, whether direct or indirect, designed to encourage agricultural and rural development and that are an integral part of the development programmes of developing countries.
• They include investment subsidies which are generally available to agriculture in developing country members, agricultural input subsidies generally available to low-income or resource-poor producers in developing country members, and domestic support to producers in developing country members to encourage diversification from growing illicit narcotic crops.

What is India’s India's Concerns Related to WTO Subsidy Norm?

• Comparison with Developed Countries:
  • India emphasises the stark difference between the subsidies it provides to farmers compared to developed countries like the US and EU (European Union).
  • While India's subsidy per farmer is relatively low at USD 300, the subsidies provided by the US and EU can be as high as USD 40,000 per farmer.
    • This comparison highlights the disparity in support provided to farmers between developed and developing countries.
• Breach of De Minimis Limit:
  • India acknowledges that it breached the 10% de minimis limit for subsidies, which triggered the "peace clause" established in 2013.
  • The interim peace clause was put in place in 2013 under the Bali Agreement to protect developing countries from being challenged for breach of subsidy levels.
  • However, India has questioned the way subsidies are calculated at the WTO, saying it is calculated at a fixed and outdated 1986-88 price, which overestimates the subsidy.
  • India is seeking to change it at the WTO negotiations on agriculture.
• Need for Permanent Solution:
  • India, along with a group of developing countries, advocates for a permanent solution regarding public stockholding for food grains.
  • This solution aims to provide greater flexibility to developing countries in providing farm support without facing challenges for breaching subsidy levels.

What are Cairns Group and G-33 Group?

• Cairns Group:
  • Established: 1986 in Cairns, Australia
  • Members: 19 agricultural exporting countries, including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Pakistan, and New Zealand.
    • India is not a Member of Cairns Group.
  • Stance: Advocates for liberalization of agricultural trade, meaning they generally support reducing tariffs, subsidies, and other trade barriers that hinder the free flow of agricultural products across borders. They believe this will benefit all countries by promoting efficiency and economic growth.
• G-33 Group:
  • Established: Prior to the 2003 Cancun ministerial conference
  • Members: Originally 33 developing countries, currently around 48, including India, China, and Cuba.
  • Stance: Advocates for special treatment for developing countries in agricultural trade negotiations.
    • They argue that developing countries need more flexibility to protect their domestic agricultural sectors and ensure food security, even if it means maintaining some trade barriers.
    • They are also concerned about the potential negative impacts of full trade liberalization on their livelihoods and rural development.

What is the WTO’s Peace Clause?

• As an interim measure, the WTO members agreed on a mechanism called the 'Peace Clause' in December 2013 and pledged to negotiate a permanent solution.
• Under the Peace Clause, WTO members agreed to refrain from challenging any breach in the prescribed ceiling by a developing nation at the dispute settlement forum of the WTO.
• This clause will stay till a permanent solution is found to the food stockpiling issue.

Way Forward

• India should continue engaging in negotiations within the WTO framework to push for its demands for a permanent solution on public stockholding. This may involve bilateral discussions with key stakeholders and active participation in WTO meetings and negotiations.
• India can strengthen alliances with other developing countries that share similar concerns and demands regarding agricultural subsidies and support mechanisms. By forming coalitions such as the G-33 group, India can amplify its voice and leverage collective bargaining power within WTO negotiations.
• India should continue advocating for its position on agricultural subsidies and support mechanisms through policy forums, research institutions, and international platforms. This includes highlighting the importance of food security and the need for flexibility in providing farm support for developing countries.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Prelims:

Q1. India enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 in order to comply with the obligations to (2018)

(a) ILO
(b) IMF
(c) UNCTAD
(d) WTO

Ans: (d)

Q2. The terms ‘Agreement on Agriculture’, ‘Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures’ and ‘Peace Clause’ appear in the news frequently in the context of the affairs of the (2015)

(a) Food and Agriculture Organization
(b) United Nations Framework Conference on Climate Change
(c) World Trade Organization
(d) United Nations Environment Programme

Ans: (c)

Q3. In the context of which of the following do you sometimes find the terms ‘amber box, blue box and green box’ in the news? (2016)

(a) WTO affairs
(b) SAARC affairs
(c) UNFCCC affairs
(d) India-EU negotiations on FTA

Ans: (a)

Q4. Consider the following statements: (2017)

1. India has ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) of WTO.
2. TFA is a part of WTO’s Bali Ministerial Package of 2013.
3. TFA came into force in January 2016.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Ans: (a)

Q5. With reference to Trade-Related Investment Measures (TRIMS), which of the following statements is/are correct? (2020)

1. Quantitative restrictions on imports by foreign investors are prohibited.
2. They apply to investment measures related to trade in both goods and services.
3. They are not concerned with the regulation of foreign investment.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 only

Ans: (c)

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Mains

Q1. WTO is an important international institution where decisions taken affect countries in a profound manner. What is the mandate of WTO and how binding are their decisions? Critically analyse India’s stand on the latest round of talks on Food security. (2014)

Q2. “The broader aims and objectives of WTO are to manage and promote international trade in the era of globalization. But the Doha round of negotiations seem doomed due to differences between the developed and the developing countries.” Discuss in the Indian perspective. (2016)

Q3. What are the key areas of reform if the WTO has to survive in the present context of ‘Trade War’, especially keeping in mind the interest of India? (2018)

DefConnect 2024

For Prelims: Self-Reliance, iDEX-Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO), Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX.

For Mains: DefConnect 2024, Government Initiatives Regarding Indigenization and Defence.

Source: PIB

Why in News?

Recently, the Ministry of Defence has organised DefConnect 2024, aimed at promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and Self-Reliance in defense production.

• The event serves as a platform to showcase the latest advancements in defense technology, foster collaboration between the public and private sectors, and encourage investment in defence startups

What are the Key Highlights of the DefConnect 2024?

• Technology Showcase:
  • The event features a technology showcase organized by iDEX-Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO), where various startups present cutting-edge innovations in areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Cybersecurity, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, and Wearable Technology.
  • This showcase underscores the potential of the Indian innovation ecosystem to contribute to defence technology.
• Panel Discussions:
  • DefConnect 2024 hosts panel discussions on pertinent topics related to defense innovation and entrepreneurship.
  • These discussions provide insights into the Indian defence landscape, future trends, opportunities for startups, and strategies to promote diversity and inclusion in the sector.
• Felicitation of Women Entrepreneurs:
  • In recognition of the contributions of women entrepreneurs to the defense innovation ecosystem, DefConnect 2024 features a special felicitation ceremony for women entrepreneurs associated with iDEX.
• iDEX Internship Program:
  • As part of efforts to nurture young talent and groom the next generation of innovators, DefConnect 2024 launches a rolling internship program under the iDEX initiative.
  • This program aims to provide hands-on experience and mentorship to aspiring innovators in defense technology.
• Launch of Initiatives:
  • DefConnect 2024 witnesses the launch of various initiatives aimed at promoting innovation and self-reliance in defence production, such as the ADITI (Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX) Scheme and DISC 11 (Defense India Startup Challenge).
  • These initiatives underscore the government's commitment to fostering a vibrant defense innovation ecosystem.

Note

• Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX):
  • iDEX, launched in 2018, is an initiative taken by the government to contribute towards modernization of the Defence Industry.
  • It aims to promote innovation and technology development in Defence and Aerospace by engaging Industries (which includes MSMEs, start-ups, individual innovators, R&D institutes & academia).
  • iDEX will be funded and managed by Defence Innovation Organization (DIO), and will function as the executive arm of DIO.
  • iDEX Prime is a specific program under the broader iDEX initiative, focusing on larger, more complex challenges requiring greater financial support.
  • Funding: iDEX Prime offers significantly higher grants compared to other programs under iDEX.
  • There are different editions of iDEX Prime catering to specific needs:
    • iDEX Prime (X): This edition has larger challenges and grants compared to the regular iDEX Prime.
    • iDEX Prime (SPRINT): This edition focuses on faster development cycles and shorter deadlines for specific problem statements from the Indian Navy.
• Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO):
  • Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO), is a not for profit organisation formed under section 8 of the Companies Act 2013.
  • It is funded by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). It provides high-level policy guidance to iDEX.

What is Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX (ADITI) scheme?

• About:
  • The ADITI scheme worth Rs 750 crore for the period 2023-24 to 2025-26 falls under the iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) framework of Department of Defence Production (DDP), Ministry of Defence.
  • Under the scheme, start-ups are eligible to receive grant-in-aid of up to Rs 25 crore for their research, development, and innovation endeavours in defence technology.
  • The scheme will nurture the innovation of youth, and help the country leap forward in the field of technology.
    • In the first edition of ADITI, 17 challenges – Indian Army (3), Indian Navy (5), Indian Air Force (5) and Defence Space Agency (4) - have been launched.
• Objective:
  • It aims to develop about 30 deep-tech critical and strategic technologies in the proposed timeframe.
  • It also envisages to create a ‘Technology Watch Tool’ to bridge the gap between the expectations and requirements of the modern Armed Forces and the capabilities of the defence innovation ecosystem.

What is the Significance of State of the Art Technology in Defence?

• Strategic Advantage:
  • Cutting-edge technology provides a strategic advantage to nations in terms of defence capabilities.
  • Advanced weaponry, surveillance systems, communication networks, and cyber capabilities can significantly enhance a country's ability to deter potential threats and protect its interests.
• Operational Effectiveness:
  • State-of-the-art technology enables military forces to operate more efficiently and effectively.
  • This includes precision-guided munitions, advanced reconnaissance and surveillance systems, and sophisticated command and control systems, all of which contribute to mission success and minimise collateral damage.
• Adaptability and Flexibility:
  • In modern warfare, adaptability and flexibility are crucial. State-of-the-art technology allows for rapid adaptation to changing threats and environments.
  • Systems that can be upgraded or reconfigured quickly provide a significant advantage in dynamic situations.
• Force Multiplier:
  • Advanced technology acts as a force multiplier, enabling smaller forces to achieve disproportionate effects. With the right technology, a smaller, well-equipped force can effectively counter a larger, less advanced adversary.
• National Sovereignty and Autonomy:
  • Relying on indigenous state-of-the-art technology enhances a nation's sovereignty and autonomy. Dependence on foreign suppliers for critical defense technology can compromise national security interests and limit strategic decision-making.

What are Government Initiatives Regarding Defense?

• First Negative Indigenisation
• Positive Indigenisation List
• New FDI Policy in Defence Sector
• Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020
• Defence Industrial Corridors

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Years Question (PYQ)

Q. Atal Innovation Mission is set up under the (2019)

(a) Department of Science and Technology
(b) Ministry of Labour and Employment
(c) NITI Aayog
(d) Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship

Ans: (c)

Exp:

• The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) is a flagship initiative set up by the NITI Aayog to promote innovation and entrepreneurship based on a detailed study and deliberations on innovation and entrepreneurial needs of the country.
• AIM is envisaged as an umbrella innovation organization that would play an instrumental role in alignment of innovation policies between Central, State and sectoral innovation schemes incentivizing the establishment and promotion of an ecosystem of innovation and entrepreneurship at various levels – higher secondary schools; science, engineering and higher academic institutions; SME/MSME industry, corporate and NGO levels.
• Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer.

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Mains

Q. What is the significance of Indo-US defence deals over Indo-Russian defence deals? Discuss with reference to stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (2020)

Q. ‘What introduces friction into the ties between India and the United States is that Washington is still unable to find for India a position in its global strategy, which would satisfy India’s National self-esteem and ambitions’. Explain with suitable examples. (2019)

e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi

Source: PIB

Recently, the Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution launched the ‘e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi’ (Digital Gateway) of Warehousing Development and Regulatory Authority (WDRA) to leverage technology for easing farmers' warehousing logistics and ensuring fair prices for their produce.

• The 'e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi' platform simplifies the digital process, allowing farmers to store their produce at any registered WDRA warehouse for up to six months at 7% interest per annum.
  • This initiative, featuring a no collateral, extra security deposit policy, aims to prevent distress sales by farmers, enabling better post-harvest storage opportunities.
• The Minister highlighted that the integration of e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi and e-NAM enables farmers to leverage interconnected markets, extending benefits beyond government Minimum Support Price (MSP).
• WDRA was established in October 2010, under the Warehousing (Development and Regulation) Act, 2007, with the aim of developing and regulating warehouses, promoting negotiability of warehouse receipts, and facilitating orderly growth of the warehousing business in India.
  • WDRA operates as a statutory authority under the Department of Food and Public Distribution, with its headquarters located in New Delhi.

Read more: Minimum Support Price (MSP)

World Hearing Day

Source: PIB

• National institutes and Regional Centers, under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, conducted awareness programs to promote an inclusive society and empower individuals to overcome hearing challenges.
• World Hearing Day (WHD) is celebrated on the 3^rd March each year to raise awareness on how to prevent deafness and hearing loss and promote ear and hearing care across the world.
  • Globally, over 80% of ear and hearing care needs remain unmet.
• Theme of WHD 2024: Changing mindsets: Let's make ear and hearing care a reality for all!
  • Normal hearing range: 0-20 dBHL (Decibel Hearing Level).
  • A person who is not able to hear as well as someone with normal hearing – hearing thresholds of 20 dB or better in both ears is said to have hearing loss.
    • Hard of hearing refers to people with hearing loss ranging from mild to severe. Deaf' people mostly have profound hearing loss, which- implies very little or no hearing.

Read More: World Hearing Day

Quality Control Order on Viscose Staple Fibre

Source: IE

Significant shifts have occurred in the textile supply chain in less than a year since the enforcement of a strict Quality Control Order (QCO) on viscose staple fibre (VSF) in India.

• VSF imports dropped by 65% after the enforcement of the QCO in April 2023.
  • VSF is a natural, biodegradable, semi-synthetic fibre that has similar characteristics to cotton. It's made from wood or cotton pulp and is versatile, easily blendable, and light and breathable.
  • It is widely used in apparel, home textiles, dress material, knitted wear and non-woven applications.
• A QCO is a non-tariff trade barrier that bars manufacturers, importers, and distributors from storing or selling a product without a licence from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) that certifies specific quality standards being met.
  • The implementation of QCO holds significant importance in regulating the influx of sub-quality and cheaper imports to ensure customers get quality products
  • Small and medium-sized spinning mills faced challenges due to restricted access to cheaper VSF imports.
• Industry representatives advocate for reversing QCOs on raw materials, proposing enforcement solely on finished products.

Read more: Quality Control Orders

Dry Ice

Source: DTE

Recently, mistaking dry ice for a mouth freshener at a Gurugram restaurant caused a severe incident, emphasising the lethal nature of the substance.

• Dry Ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide, is commonly used as a cooling agent for food products like ice cream, frozen desserts etc. But it poses a significant health risk if not handled properly.
  • It sublimes into carbon dioxide gas, which, if inhaled in large quantities, can lead to breathlessness (hypercapnia) and other serious complications.
• According to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dry ice must never be touched or ingested due to its potential to cause severe damage to both skin and internal organs.
• Dry ice's unique sublimation property, transitioning from solid to gas, makes it versatile for various applications:
  • It is crucial for preserving perishable items like food and medical supplies during transport, maintaining ultra-low temperatures.
  • It also finds use in industrial cleaning processes like dry ice blasting.

Read more: Food Safety and Standards Authority of India