Sri Lankan President’s India Visit

For Prelims:  India’s Neighbourhood First policy, SAGAR Vision, SAARC, Indian Development and Economic Assistance Scheme (IDEAS), Mitra Shakti, SLINEX, Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, Illegal Fishing, Indian Ocean, Katchatheevu Island , Afanasy Nikitin Seamount, BIMSTEC. 

For Mains: Significance of India-Sri Lanka Relations for India’s Strategic Interests and India’s Neighbourhood First Policy. 

Source: TH

Why in News?

Recently, the new Sri Lankan President was on his first visit to India focusing on enhancing trade, energy, and maritime cooperation.  

• Discussions with Indian leaders emphasized Tamil aspirations, economic recovery, and countering Chinese influence, reinforcing India’s Neighbourhood First policy and SAGAR Vision. 

What are the Outcomes of the Recent Visit? 

• Economic and Trade Agreements: Proposed Economic and Technology Cooperation Agreements (ETCAs) aim to integrate services and technology into trade relations was also discussed during the President’s visit to India. 
  • India has agreed to promote Indian Rupee (INR)-Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) trade settlements and undertake capacity-building programs, including the training of 1,500 Sri Lankan civil servants. 
• Energy Partnership: India agreed to supply LNG to Sri Lanka to address immediate energy needs, while both nations announced an energy pipeline with the UAE to enhance regional energy security. 
  • Renewable energy projects like offshore wind power and grid interconnection were prioritized, alongside developing Trincomalee as an energy hub. 
• Infrastructure and Connectivity: Resumption of ferry services and continued development of Kankesanthurai port, housing, and digital infrastructure under India’s "Neighborhood First" policy. 
• Regional Security Cooperation: Both countries committed to deepening security cooperation, particularly in maritime security. 
• Financial Support: India’s financial support, including USD 4 billion for food, fuel, and medicines, was crucial in stabilizing Sri Lanka’s economy during its crisis. 
• Bilateral Cooperation in Global Forums: Sri Lanka sought India's support in its bid to join the BRICS group and in matters related to the United Nations Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf. 

What are Areas of Cooperation Between India and Sri Lanka? 

• Economic Cooperation: India is Sri Lanka’s largest trade partner in SAARC, with bilateral trade reaching USD 5.5 billion in FY 2023-24.  
  • India exports essential goods while Sri Lanka benefits from the India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement.  
• Development Assistance: India has extended Development Assistance to Sri Lanka through Lines of Credit (LOCs) under the Indian Development and Economic Assistance Scheme (IDEAS).  
  • As of 2023, over USD 2 billion in Lines of Credits (LOCs) have been provided to Sri Lanka, supporting key sectors such as railways, hospitals, infrastructure, and power transmission. 
  • India's LOCs, including projects like the Jaffna Cultural Center and Suwa Seriya ambulance services, strengthen Sri Lanka’s socio-economic framework and improve infrastructure and livelihoods. 
• Energy Collaboration: Renewable energy projects, including hybrid systems in Jaffna, reflect India’s push for energy security in the region.  
• Defence and Security: Defence ties include joint military exercises (Mitra Shakti) and naval drills (SLINEX).  
  • The installation of a Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre demonstrates India’s commitment to bolstering Sri Lanka’s maritime capabilities.  
  • Additionally, India has supported Sri Lanka’s counterterrorism and environmental disaster management efforts . 
• Cultural and Educational Exchange: The historical and cultural ties between the nations are reinforced through scholarship programs, restoration of Buddhist temples, and the sharing of Indian technologies in governance and education . 
• Maritime Cooperation: Shared concerns over illegal fishing and sustainable resource management in the Indian Ocean have driven collaborations.  
  • Joint patrols and sustainable fishing initiatives are critical to protecting marine biodiversity and livelihoods . 

 

What are Challenges of Cooperation Between India and Sri Lanka? 

• Fishing Disputes: Indian fishermen's use of bottom trawling sometimes in Sri Lankan waters and in surrounding areas has escalated tensions, causing arrests, fines, and friction in both coastal communities and bilateral diplomacy. 
• Katchatheevu Island Dispute: The ownership and use of Katchatheevu Island remain contentious, with disputes over enforcement of agreements allowing Indian fishing and pilgrimage rights, straining bilateral relations. 
• Ethnic and Political Issues: India’s support for the Tamil population in Sri Lanka has been met with resistance from certain political factions.  
  • The delay in implementing the 13^th Amendment to devolve power to Tamil-majority areas has been a longstanding grievance . 
• Geopolitical Rivalries: China’s increasing influence in Sri Lanka, especially in infrastructure projects like the Hambantota Port, challenges India’s strategic interests. India views Chinese-backed projects as threats to its regional security . 
• Maritime Boundary Issues:The dispute over the Afanasy Nikitin Seamount highlights overlapping claims in international waters, with both nations using international legal mechanisms, potentially leading to diplomatic friction. 

Way Forward 

• Enhancing Dialogue: Strengthening diplomatic engagements to address core issues like fishing rights, Tamil reconciliation, and maritime disputes is crucial.  
  • Regular dialogue through bilateral and regional forums like BIMSTEC can provide a platform for solutions. 
• Economic Integration: Expanding trade agreements and infrastructure linkages, such as ferry services and pipeline projects, will boost economic interdependence. 
  • Collaborative initiatives like the proposed undersea energy cable can enhance shared benefits. 
• Fisheries Management: Promoting sustainable fishing practices through joint initiatives, capacity-building programs, and alternative livelihoods for fishermen can resolve conflict and will also protect marine ecosystems. 
• Leveraging Development Assistance: India should continue its role as a key development partner, focusing on renewable energy, education, and digital governance.  
  • Green debt swaps can align economic recovery with sustainability goals. 
• Balancing Geopolitics: India must counterbalance Chinese influence through strategic investments and diplomatic outreach.  
  • This will ensure that its assistance aligns with Sri Lanka’s long-term interests. 

Drishti Mains Question: 

What are the key areas of economic cooperation and the main challenges in maritime cooperation between India and Sri Lanka?

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs) 

Prelims:

Q. Consider the following statements: (2020)

1. The value of Indo-Sri Lanka trade has consistently increased in the last decade.
2. “Textile and textile articles” constitute an important item of trade between India and Bangladesh. 
3. In the last five years, Nepal has been the largest trading partner of India in South Asia.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 

(a) 1 and 2 only  

(b) 2 only 

(c) 3 only  

(d) 1, 2 and 3 

Ans: (b)

---

Mains: 

Q. In respect of India — Sri Lanka relations, discuss how domestic factors influence foreign policy. (2013)

Good Governance Day 2024

For Prelims: Good Governance Day, World Bank, Rule of Law, Kisan Credit Card, Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, Mission Karmayogi, Viksit Panchayat Initiative, PRI, SWAYAM, Skill India, Aadhaar, RTI Act, 2005, PFMS, MGNREGA, CPGRAMS, Bharat Ratna,  Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. 

For Mains: Good Governance and related challenges, Government Policies & Interventions. 

Source: PIB 

Why in News?  

Good Governance Day is celebrated on 25^th December to raise awareness among citizens about government accountability and effective administration. 

• The theme for 2024 is “India’s Path to a Viksit Bharat: Empowering Citizens through Good Governance and Digitalisation.” 
• It was started in the year 2014 to honor the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. 
• The birth anniversary of Pt. Madan Mohan Malaviya is also observed on 25th December. 

Atal Bihari Vajpayee 

• Birth: Born on 25^th December, 1924, in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, he was a poet and politician. 
• Political Career: He served as India’s Prime Minister three times: briefly in 1996, for 13 months in 1998 and 1999, and full-time from 1999 to 2004. 
• Recognition: In 2015, he was conferred India's highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna. He received Padma Vibhushan in 1994. 
• Key Achievements: 
  • Golden Quadrilateral Project: Network of four national highways that connect Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata. 
  • Economic Reforms: Liberalized India’s economy, fostering industrial growth and foreign investment. 
  • Nuclear Tests of 1998: Established India as a nuclear power, promoting peace and non-aggression. 

Pt. Madan Mohan Malaviya 

 

What Initiatives were Launched on Good Governance Day 2024? 

• New iGOT Karmayogi Dashboard: It allows Ministry/Department/Organization (MDO) leaders and state administrators to monitor the progress and effectiveness of their entities more efficiently. 
• 1600th iGOT Karmayogi Course: It aims to create a learning ecosystem for government employees, promoting continuous development and lifelong learning. 
• Viksit Panchayat Initiative: It aims to strengthen PRIs' ability to deliver quality services, ensure effective governance, and empower Panchayat leaders with essential skills. 
• CPGRAMS Annual Report, 2024: It underscores the progress made in enhancing the effectiveness of public service delivery through a robust grievance redressal mechanism. 

What is Good Governance? 

• About: Good governance is the process of decision-making and the process by which decisions are implemented that are necessary to achieve the goals of development. 
  • According to the World Bank report titled “Governance and Development, 1992”, Good Governance is the manner in which power is exercised in the management of a country’s economic and social resources for development. 
  • The true test of 'good' governance is the degree to which it delivers on the promise of human rights: civil, cultural, economic, political and social rights.  
• Key Attributes: According to the World Bank, good governance has 8 major characteristics.  
  • It is participatory, consensus oriented, accountable, transparent, responsive, effective and efficient, equitable and inclusive and follows the rule of law. 
    • Participatory: Gender-inclusive participation is vital for good governance, whether direct or through representatives or institutions. 
    • Consensus Oriented: Good governance involves mediating societal interests to build consensus on the community's best interests and sustainable development goals. 
    • Accountable: An organization or an institution should be accountable to those who will be affected by its decisions or actions. 
    • Transparent: Transparency means decisions are made according to rules, with information accessible to those affected by them. 
    • Responsive: Institutions should serve all stakeholders within a reasonable timeframe.  
    • Effective and Efficient: Good governance ensures processes and institutions meet societal needs while efficiently using available resources. 
    • Equitable and Inclusive: A society's well-being depends on including all members, especially vulnerable groups, in opportunities to improve or maintain their well-being. 
    • Rule of Law: It requires fair, impartial legal frameworks, supported by an independent judiciary and a corrupt-free police force. 

 

• AB Vajpayee and Good Governance: His tenure saw transformational initiatives like the Kisan Credit Card, Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, and the National Rural Health Program that transformed governance in the country. 

What is the Significance of Good Governance? 

• Economic Growth: Initiatives under good governance provide equal rights and protection to both men and women in the workforce that could boost India’s GDP by USD 770 billion by 2025. 
• Social Development: SWAYAM and Skill India empower marginalized groups with education and employability skills. 
  • Aadhaar integration prevents leakages while direct benefit transfer (DBT) eliminates middlemen in welfare schemes. 
• Strengthening Democracy: Platforms like MyGov allow citizens to voice their opinions and e-Governance helps reduce corruption. 
• Accountability: The RTI Act, 2005 ensures citizens' right to access government information for transparency, while the PFMS tracks fund flows to ensure accountability in public expenditure. 
• Reducing Inequality: Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) promotes financial inclusion for the unbanked population. 
  • MGNREGA provides guaranteed wage employment to rural households. 
• Building Trust: The e-Courts project digitizes court processes for efficiency and accessibility, while CPGRAMS offers a platform to address citizen grievances. 

What are Initiatives for Good Governance in India?  

• Good Governance Index 
• PRAGATI (Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation) 
• Right to Information, 2005 
• National e-Governance Plan 
• e-Court System 
• Public Financial Management System 
• Mission Karmayogi 
• What are the Hurdles with Good Governance in India? 
• Corruption: Corruption costs India 0.5% of its GDP annually and hampers the business environment for investors and organizations, according to the World Bank. 
  • India ranked 93^rd out of 180 countries on the corruption perceptions index for 2023. 
• Lack of Accountability: Lack of accountability erodes citizens' trust in the government, leading to political apathy, lower voter turnout, and diminished civic engagement, weakening institutional legitimacy. 
• Criminalisation of Politics: Politicians with criminal backgrounds weaken efforts to ensure justice and equal treatment for all citizens. 
  • The Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR) reports that 251 (46%) of the 543 newly elected 18^th Lok Sabha members have criminal cases, with 27 convicted. 
• Ineffective Implementation of Laws: India's anti-corruption laws, like the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 are criticized for ineffective enforcement, causing public disillusionment. 

Way Forward 

• Decentralization: Power is concentrated with central and state governments; local bodies like municipalities and panchayats need more functional and financial authority to ensure good governance at ground level. 
• Ethical Standards: Ethical values like integrity, accountability, and selflessness, as recommended by the Nolan Committee (1994), should be instilled in public servants. 
• Gender Equality: Promote gender equality to encourage women’s participation in socioeconomic sectors, ensuring the needs of all society are met. 
• Whistleblower Protection: More protection should be provided to whistleblowers who expose corruption in government ministries/departments.  

Drishti Mains Question: 

Discuss the importance of Good Governance in India. What are the key attributes of Good Governance?

UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question (PYQ) 

Mains 

Q. E-governance is not only about utilization of the power of new technology, but also much about the critical importance of the ‘use value’ of information. Explain. (2018)

Q. The Citizens’ Charteris an ideal instrument of organizational transparency and accountability, but it has its own limitations. Identify the limitations and suggest measures for greater effectiveness of the Citizens’ Charter. (2018)

Centre Scrapped “No Detention Policy”

For Prelims: National Education Policy 2020, National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning 

For Mains: Detention Policy: Arguments in Favour and Against,  Features of National Education Policy 2020, Issues Related to the Education Sector in India, Government Initiatives Related to Educational Reforms 

Source: TH 

Why in News? 

• Recently, the Central Government has abolished the "no-detention" policy for Classes 5 and 8 in schools governed by it including Kendriya Vidyalayas and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas. 
• It was done through a gazette notification titled “Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (Amendment) Rules, 2024”. 
• This amendment allows schools to detain students who fail to meet promotion criteria. 

No-Detention Policy 

• The no-detention policy was introduced under Section 16 of the Right to Education Act (RTE). Section 16 of the Act stipulates two key provisions:  
  • Firstly, no child receiving elementary education shall be expelled from school, and secondly, no child shall be retained in any class. 
  • It prohibited schools from detaining students up to Class 8 to ensure children receive a minimum level of education without the fear of failure, thereby reducing dropout rates. 

What is Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (Amendment) Rules, 2024? 

• The Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, was amended in 2019 to eliminate the no-detention policy. The Rules to implement the amended Act were delayed and passed in 2024 to keep them in sync with the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) following the introduction of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.  
  • Following the RTE amendment Act, 2019, 18 states and UTs, including Assam, Bihar, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu, have abolished the policy.  
    • Haryana and Puducherry are yet to decide, while states like Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh continue to implement it. 
• Key Provisions Under Amended Rules: 
  • Revised Promotion Criteria: Exams and re-exams will assess holistic development, focusing on learning rather than rote memorization.  
    • Students failing in annual exams will receive 2 months of additional instruction and a re-exam opportunity to address learning gaps. 
  • Retention in Case of Non-Promotion: Students failing after re-exams will be retained in the same class. 
  • Specialized Interventions for Detained Students: Class teachers must guide detained students and their parents, providing targeted interventions.  
    • School heads are responsible for monitoring progress and ensuring remedial effectiveness. 
    • Under the NEP, students who are weak in studies should be paid special attention. 
  • Inclusive Learning Approach and Safeguards: The rules prioritize holistic development, ensuring no student is expelled before completing elementary education, in line with the RTE Act. 

What are the Arguments in Favour and Against the No-Detention Policy in School Education? 

• Arguments in Favor: 
  • Reduces Dropouts: The policy aimed to reduce the number of students dropping out of school due to the fear of failure and detention. 
  • Focus on Continuous and Comprehensive Evaluation (CCE): It emphasized CCE, which focuses on continuous assessment of a child's progress in various aspects, rather than a single high-stakes examination.  
    • This holistic approach aimed to reduce exam-related stress and anxiety.   
  • Inclusive Education: The policy promoted inclusive education by ensuring that all children, regardless of their academic performance, stay in school and receive an education. 
  • State Demands: Several states passed resolutions against the policy, emphasizing the need for accountability in elementary education.  
    • By 2019, the RTE Act was amended, allowing states to decide on implementing detention policies for Classes 5 and 8. 
  • Alignment with NEP 2020: The decision to scrap the policy aligns with the objectives of NEP 2020 which emphasizes competency-based learning and accountability in school education. 
  • Global Practices: Countries like Finland emphasize remedial measures and continuous assessment over automatic promotion. 
    • Grade retention in the US is a common practice where students who fail to meet grade-level standards are required to repeat a grade. The policy varies across different grade levels and states. 
• Arguments Against: 
  • Low Learning Outcomes:  The no-detention policy has led to complacency among students and educators, resulting in a decline in education standards as schools focus more on administrative tasks like mid-day meals than on improving learning outcomes. 
    • The ASER 2022 report highlighted that only 20% of Class 3 students in rural India could read a Class 2-level text and as per 2023 report about 25% of the youth cannot read a Class II level text fluently in their regional language. 
      • Over half struggle with division problems, with only 43.3% of 14-18-year-olds able to solve such problems correctly. 
  • High Failure Rates in Higher Classes: As per Education Ministry 65 lakh students failed Classes 10 and 12 in 2023, reflecting foundational learning gaps. 
    • Automatic promotion without necessary skills and knowledge in lower standards leads to increased failure rates in secondary school. 
  • Lack of Accountability: The policy is seen to reduce accountability among students and teachers, as students are automatically promoted to the next grade regardless of their performance.   
  • Does Not Address Root Causes: The policy is criticized for not adequately addressing the root causes of poor learning outcomes, such as inadequate teacher training, lack of infrastructure, and socio-economic factors.   

Right to Education 

• Education was originally a state subject in India under the Government of India Act 1935. However, during the 42nd Amendment Constitutional Amendment 1976, education was moved to the Concurrent List.  
  • Thus now both the central and state governments can legislate on matters concerning education. 
• The Eighty-sixth Amendment Constitution Act, 2002  made the Right to Education a fundamental right under Article 21A for children aged 6-14 years. 
  • It added Article 21A under Fundamental Rights, making education a fundamental right for children aged six to fourteen, mandating free and compulsory education.  
  • In the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP), Article 45 was substituted to emphasize the state's responsibility to provide early childhood care and education until the age of 6.  
  • Additionally, Article 51A was amended to include a duty for parents or guardians to ensure educational opportunities for their children or wards between 6 and 14 years. 
• Later, Parliament passed the Right to Education Act, 2009, enforcing RTE as a fundamental right under Article 21-A. 

Government Initiatives Related to Educational Reforms 

• National Education Policy, 2020 
• National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning 
• Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan 
• PRAGYATA 
• Mid-Day Meal Scheme 
• PM SHRI Schools 
• Samagra Shiksha Scheme 2.0 

Conclusion 

The no-detention policy was a well-intentioned step towards promoting inclusive education and reducing dropouts. However, its implementation has faced challenges and criticisms. While the policy aimed to create a more child-friendly education system, it also inadvertently led to a decline in academic rigor and accountability.   

 Drishti Mains Question: 

Discuss the implications of abolishing the 'no-detention policy' under the RTE (Amendment) Rules, 2024, and its alignment with the National Education Policy 2020. 

 

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ) 

Prelims 

Q. Which of the following provisions of the Constitution does India have a bearing on Education? (2012)

1. Directive Principles of State Policy 
2. Rural and Urban Local Bodies 
3. Fifth Schedule 
4. Sixth Schedule 
5. Seventh Schedule 

Select the correct answer using the codes given below: 

(a) 1 and 2 only 
(b) 3, 4 and 5 only 
(c) 1, 2 and 5 only  
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 

Ans- (d) 

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Mains 

Q1. How have digital initiatives in India contributed to the functioning of the education system in the country? Elaborate on your answer. (2020) 

Q2. Discuss the main objectives of Population Education and point out the measures to achieve them in India in detail. (2021)  

NHRC and Associated Challenges

For Prelims: National Human Rights Commission,Supreme Court,  Protection of Human Rights Act (PHRA), 1993, United Nations (UN)  

For Mains: Role and Functions of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Emerging Human Rights Challenges. 

Source: TH 

Why in News? 

Recently, Justice (Retd.) V Ramasubramanian, a former Supreme Court judge, has been appointed as the Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) by the President of India. 

• The post had been vacant since Justice (Retd.) Arun Kumar Mishra completed his tenure on 1^st June 2024. 

What is the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)? 

• About: 
  • The NHRC of India is an autonomous statutory body established to promote and protect human rights. 
• Establishment: 
  • It was constituted on 12^th October 1993 under the Protection of Human Rights Act (PHRA), 1993, which was later amended in 2006 and 2019. 
  • The Commission was established in conformity with the Paris Principles, which are international standards adopted for promoting and protecting human rights. 
    • The Paris Principles are the set of international standards adopted for the promotion and protection of human rights in Paris (October, 1991) and endorsed by the General Assembly of the United Nations (UN) on 20^th December, 1993. 
    • These principles guide the work of National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) across the world. 

 

• Role and Functions: 
  • Intervention in Court Proceedings: It intervenes in court cases involving allegations of human rights violations, with prior approval from the concerned court. 
  • Review of Safeguards: It analyzes constitutional provisions and existing laws related to human rights protection and proposes measures for their effective enforcement. 
  • Evaluation of Inhibitors to Human Rights: It examines factors, including terrorism, that hinder the enjoyment of human rights and suggest appropriate remedies. 
  • Study of International Instruments: It also analyzes treaties and international conventions on human rights, offering recommendations for their implementation in the Indian context. 
  • Research and Promotion: It undertakes research in human rights and encourages its study across disciplines. 
    • It also promotes human rights literacy and awareness through publications, seminars, media, and other means. 
• Powers of NHRC: NHRC is vested with powers equivalent to those of a civil court as per the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908. These powers include: 
  • Ordering the discovery and production of documents. 
  • Receiving evidence presented through affidavits. 
  • Requisitioning public records or certified copies from any court or office. 
  • Issuing commissions for the examination of witnesses or documents. 
  • Exercising any additional powers prescribed under relevant laws. 
• NHRC Investigation Team: The NHRC has its own investigation team led by a Director General of Police.  
  • It can also utilize the services of Central or State Government officers and collaborate with NGOs for investigations. 

What are the Challenges Related to NHRC? 

• Non-Binding Recommendations: The NHRC can only make recommendations to the government, which are not legally binding. This limits its ability to enforce its decisions and ensure compliance. 
  • The Commission has been referred to as a "toothless tiger," by former Chief Justice H.L. Dattu, who served as its chairperson in 2016, due to its perceived passivity in addressing human rights violations. 
• Jurisdictional Limitations: The NHRC's jurisdiction is limited to human rights violations committed by public and private authorities.  
  • It cannot address violations by private individuals or entities. It also has limited jurisdiction over cases related to armed forces. 
• Lack of Enforcement Power: The NHRC does not have the authority to penalize authorities that fail to implement its recommendations. 
• Resource Constraints: The NHRC often faces resource constraints, including inadequate funding and staffing, which hampers its ability to investigate and address human rights violations effectively. 
• Heavy Workload: The NHRC receives a large number of complaints and petitions, which can overwhelm its capacity to handle cases promptly and thoroughly. 
• Awareness and Accessibility: Many people are unaware of the NHRC's existence and its mandate, which limits the number of complaints it receives.  
  • Additionally, the process of filing complaints can be cumbersome and inaccessible to marginalized communities. 
• Lacking Recognition at Global Stage: The Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), a UN-affiliated body based in Geneva, has deferred the accreditation of India’s NHRC, highlighting concerns regarding its compliance with international standards. 
• Exceptions: The NHRC does not consider cases that are older than one year, anonymous, pseudonymous, or vague.  
  • It also excludes frivolous cases and those related to service matters, as they fall outside its jurisdiction or mandate.  
  • It is also observed that sometimes NHRC takes politically influenced cases and leaves another. 

What Measures Should be Taken to Enhance the Effectiveness of the NHRC? 

• Granting Enforcement Powers: Empowering the NHRC to enforce its recommendations would enhance compliance and ensure greater accountability in addressing human rights violations. 
• Expanding Investigative Authority: The NHRC’s mandate should be extended to include violations by private individuals or entities, especially in the corporate and healthcare sectors. 
• Time-bound Investigations: Introducing time limits for the completion of investigations would expedite justice for victims and ensure timely resolutions of complaints. 
• Increasing Financial Autonomy: Allocating a dedicated, independent budget for the NHRC, free from government control, would increase its operational efficiency and reduce external influence. 
• Addressing Emerging Issues: The NHRC must adapt to emerging human rights challenges such as digital privacy, artificial intelligence, and environmental rights. 
  • Establishing specialized committees or research divisions within the NHRC to address these issues would enable a proactive response to contemporary challenges. 
• Regular Training and Capacity Building: Continuous training and skill development for NHRC members and staff would ensure they are well-equipped to handle complex and evolving human rights cases effectively. 
• Institutional Accountability: India needs to adopt international standards and recognitions from global bodies like UNHRC.  
  • This would ensure that the NHRC's performance is continuously assessed, improving its effectiveness in achieving its mandate. 

Various National Commissions Related to Protection of Vulnerable Sections 

• National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC): 
  • The NCSC was established by Article 338. It consists of a chairperson, a vice-chairperson and three other members appointed by the President. 
• National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST): The NCST was established under Article 338 A. 
  • It consists of a chairperson, a vice-chairperson and three other members appointed by the President. 
• National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC): The 102nd Amendment Act of 2018 elevated the Commission from a statutory body to a constitutional body by inserting Article 338 B. 
  • The Commission consists of a chairperson, a vice-chairperson and 3 other members. 

Note: The aforementioned trio of Commissions (NCSC, NCST, NCBC) possess the authority equivalent to that of a civil court. 

• National Commission for Women (NCW): The NCW was set up as a statutory body in 1992 under the National Commission for Women Act, 1990 to review the Constitutional and Legal safeguards for women. 
  • The Commission shall consist of a Chairperson, 5 Members, at least 1 Member from SC and ST and a Member-Secretary nominated by the Central Government. 
• National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR): The NCPCR has been constituted under the Commission for Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, 2005. 
  • The commission includes a chairperson and 6 members, at least 2 of whom are women. 
• National Commission for Minorities (NCM): The Minorities Commission was renamed and became a statutory body under the National Commission for Minorities Act, 1992. 
  • Section 2 (c) of NCM Act, 1992 stipulates that ‘Minority’ for the purposes of the Act, means a community notified as such by the Central Government. 
    • The government recognized Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, Zoroastrians and Jains as minority communities. 
  • The Commission consists of a Chairperson, a Vice- Chairperson, 5 Members. 
  • Each Member holds office for a period of 3 years. 
• Office of Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities: Section 74 of Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 provides for appointment of a Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities and two Commissioners to assist the Chief Commissioner at the Centre. 

Drishti Mains Question 

What are the key limitations in the functioning of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) with respect to enforcing its recommendations? How can these limitations be overcome? 

 UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs) 

Prelims: 

Q.Other than the Fundamental Rights, which of the following parts of the Constitution of India reflect/reflects the principles and provisions of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948)? (2020)

1. Preamble 
2. Directive Principles of State Policy 
3. Fundamental Duties 

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 

Ans: (d) 

Q. Consider the following: (2011)

1. Right to education 
2. Right to equal access to public service 
3. Right to food. 

Which of the above is/are Human Right/Human Rights under “Universal Declaration of Human Rights”? 

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

Ans: (d) 

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Mains: 

Q.Though the Human Rights Commissions have contributed immensely to the protection of human rights in India, yet they have failed to assert themselves against the mighty and powerful. Analysing their structural and practical limitations, suggest remedial measures. (2021) 

Hydrothermal Vents in Indian Ocean

Source: IE 

Why in News?  

India's Deep Ocean Mission recently achieved a milestone by imaging an active hydrothermal vent 4,500 meters below the Indian Ocean's surface.  

• This breakthrough enhances India's mineral exploration and deep-sea research, offering significant potential for the Samudrayaan mission and future exploration efforts. 

What are Hydrothermal Vents? 

• Definition: Hydrothermal vents are underwater hot springs found near the tectonic plates, where hot water and minerals from beneath the Earth's crust are expelled into the ocean. 
  • Hydrothermal vents were first discovered in 1977 near the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. 
• Formation Process: Seawater percolates down through fissures (cracks that form when tectonic plates spread apart) in the ocean crust near tectonic plates that are either moving apart (spreading ridges) or moving towards one another (subduction zones). 
  • The cold seabed water (about 2°C) comes into contact with hot magma, getting heated up to high temperatures ( 370°C). 
  • The heated seawater reemerges from the ocean floor as hydrothermal fluids, forming the vents. 
    • The seawater at hydrothermal vents can reach over 700°F but does not boil due to the high pressure at the depths. 
• Types of Hydrothermal Vents:  
  • Black Smokers: These vents emit particle-laden fluids, primarily iron sulfides, which form black chimney-like structures. 
  • White Smokers: These vents emit fluids containing barium, calcium, and silicon, forming white chimneys. 
• Significance: The deposits from hydrothermal venting are rich in copper, zinc, gold, silver, platinum, iron, cobalt, nickel, and other valuable minerals and metals. 
  • Hydrothermal Vents create ecosystems where chemosynthetic organisms (organisms that rely on chemicals rather than sunlight for energy) thrive. 
  • Hydrothermal vents, active for up to 30,000 years, support long-term exploration and resource use. 

 

Other Geothermal Features Similar to Hydrothermal Vents 

•  Hot Springs: Like hydrothermal vents, hot springs on land are areas where heated groundwater (heated by geothermal heat from Earth's interior) emerges at the surface. 
  • In volcanic areas, water comes into contact with hot rock heated by magma, producing superheated water. 
  • In non-volcanic areas, the temperature of rocks increases with depth (Geothermal Gradient). Water percolates deep enough to come into contact with hot rocks, circulating to the surface and forming hot springs. 
  • Example: Manikaran (Himachal Pradesh), Gaurikund (Uttarakhand) 
• Geysers: These are geothermal features that periodically eject water and steam due to underground heating. 
  • Geysers require large amounts of groundwater to fill underground cavities in volcanic areas. When heated by nearby magma, the water flashes into steam, causing an eruption of hot water and steam. 
  • Example: Yellowstone National Park (US). 
• Fumaroles: These are openings in the Earth’s crust where volcanic gases and steam are released. 
  • Fumaroles occur when magma passes through the water table, heating the water and causing steam to rise, carrying volcanic gases like hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) to the surface. 
  • Often found near "dying volcanoes" where magma deep underground has solidified and cooled. 
  • Example: Barren Island (Andaman and Nicobar Islands) 
• Mudpots: These are the bubbling pools of mud that form in geothermal areas. 
  • Formed when limited geothermal water mixes with mud and clay. 
  • Example:  Yellowstone National Park (US) 

  

Read more: Underwater Structures in the Indian Ocean 

 UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs) 

Prelims 

Q. Consider the following: (2013)

1. Electromagnetic radiation 
2. Geothermal energy 
3. Gravitational force 
4. Plate movements 
5. Rotation of the earth 
6. Revolution of the earth 

Which of the above are responsible for bringing dynamic changes on the surface of the earth? 

(a) 1, 2, 3 and 4 only 
(b) 1, 3, 5 and 6 only 
(c) 2, 4, 5 and 6 only 
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 

Ans: (d) 

Explanation: 

• The Earth’s surface is dynamic. The Earth’s surface is being continuously subjected to by external forces (exogenic forces) originating above the earth’s surface, mainly induced by the energy of the Sun and by internal forces (endogenic forces) from within the earth. 
• Endogenic Processes 
  • The energy emanating from within the earth is the main force behind endogenic geomorphic processes. 
  • This energy is mostly generated by radioactivity, release of electromagnetic energy, rotational and tidal friction and primordial heat from the origin of the Earth. 
  • This energy is due to geothermal gradients and heat flow from within the earth. 
  • Endogenic process has induced volcanism and associated geothermal phenomena like geysers, hot water springs, etc.; earthquakes; plate movements resulting in the creation of different landforms (mountains, hills, plateaus, etc.) and water bodies (sea, ocean, lake, etc.). 
• Exogenic Processes 
  • The exogenic processes derive their energy from atmosphere determined by the ultimate energy from the Sun, e.g., weathering and erosion. 
  • Temperature and precipitation are the two important climatic elements that control various processes. 
• Seasonal and diurnal variation on Earth is due to revolution and rotation of Earth respectively. 
• Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer. 

Impact of mtDNA Mutations on Age-Related Muscle Loss

Source: TH 

Why in News?  

A recent study published in Genome Research reveals that deletion mutations in mitochondrial Deoxyribonucleic Acid (mtDNA) contribute significantly to muscle loss with age.  

• Researchers found that these mutations impair mitochondrial function, leading to muscle degradation. This discovery offers potential pathways for delaying age-related muscle decline. 

What is Mitochondria? 

• About: Mitochondria are membrane-bound organelles found in the cytoplasm of most eukaryotic cells.  
  • Often referred to as the "powerhouses" of the cell, mitochondria are essential for producing energy needed for various cellular processes.  
  • Mitochondria are inherited exclusively from the mother through the egg cell. 
• Key Functions: 
  • ATP Production: Mitochondria generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy carrier in cells.  
    • ATP is crucial for almost all cellular functions, including muscle contraction, protein synthesis (process by which cells create proteins from DNA), and cell division. 
  • Cellular Respiration: Mitochondria are central to cellular respiration (break down food and release energy in the form of ATP). 
  • Regulating Cell Death: Mitochondria are involved in controlling apoptosis (type of cell death), which is important for maintaining healthy tissues and organs. 
• Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA): Unlike most other organelles, mitochondria have their own DNA, known as mtDNA. 
  • mtDNA is prone to deletion mutations, where parts of the DNA are lost. These mutations can have significant consequences on cellular function. 
    • A deletion mutation in mtDNA makes the molecule smaller and less functional. Mutated mtDNA can outcompete healthy mtDNA during replication, causing a gradual decline in mitochondrial function. 

                   

Feature	Nuclear Genome (DNA)	Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)
Size	3.2 billion base pairs	16,569 base pairs
Shape	Linear, organized into 23 chromosomes	Circular
Genes	~20,000 protein-coding genes and ~15,000–20,000 non-coding genes	13 protein-coding genes, 24 non-coding genes
Inheritance	Inherited from both parents	Inherited only from the mother
Location	Found in the nucleus	Found in the mitochondria
Function	Encodes instructions for making most proteins	Encodes proteins crucial for mitochondrial function

 

Note: A gene is a segment of DNA that is transcribed into messenger RNA (mRNA). The mRNA then moves from the nucleus to the cytoplasm, where the cell uses it to make proteins. 

What are the Key Findings of the Study? 

• mtDNA Mutations: The study identifies that deletion mutations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) play a significant role in the loss of muscle mass with age. 
• Dysfunction and Muscle Loss: Mutations impair mitochondrial function, causing muscle cells to struggle in generating enough ATP, leading to muscle cell death and atrophy. 
  • The study found that mtDNA deletions lead to the creation of chimeric genes (where two different mitochondrial genes fuse and form abnormal sequences).  
    • These chimeric genes disrupt the normal expression of mtDNA, further accelerating mitochondrial dysfunction. 
• Age-Related Changes: Researchers found that older individuals showed a two-fold increase in chimeric mitochondrial mRNA due to mtDNA deletions, which, along with abnormal gene expression, accelerated mitochondrial dysfunction and aging in muscle and brain tissues. 
• Biological Age Indicators: mtDNA deletion mutations and chimeric mRNA are valuable biomarkers for biological aging.  
  • Understanding their role could lead to therapies that prevent or repair these mutations, potentially delaying age-related muscle loss and other aging symptoms. 

 UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs) 

Q1. In the context of hereditary diseases, consider the following statements: (2021) 

1. Passing on mitochondrial diseases from parent to child can be prevented by mitochondria replacement therapy either before or after in vitro fertilization of the egg. 
2. A child inherits mitochondrial diseases entirely from mother and not from father. 

Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 

(a) 1 only 
(b) 2 only 
(c) Both 1 and 2 
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 

Ans: (c)  

National Consumer Day 2024

Source: PIB 

Recently, the National Consumer Day 2024 was celebrated on 24th December with the theme "Virtual Hearings & Digital Access to Consumer Justice." 

• It is observed annually to commemorate the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986. 
  • The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 replaced the Consumer Protection Act 1986. 
• Key Initiatives Launched:  
  • Jago Grahak Jago App and Jagriti App: To empower consumers to identify unfair trade practices, including 'dark patterns'.  
    • Dark patterns are deceptive strategies used by websites and apps to manipulate users into unintended actions. E.g., Hidden costs, Disguised ads etc. 
  • National Legal Metrology e-Mapp: To simplify access to information on consumer rights and legal metrology services. 
  • AI-enabled NCH 2.0: The revamped National Consumer Helpline (NCH) portal offers multilingual support and AI chatbots for efficient grievance resolution. 
  • Organic Food Testing Laboratory: Inaugurated at the National Test House in Guwahati, this facility ensures organic food safety and authenticity. 
• The World Consumer Rights Day is observed on 15th March. 

Read More: Safeguarding the Rights of Consumers 

Collegium Assesses High Court Candidates

Source: HT 

Recently, the Supreme Court collegium conducted interactions with candidates being considered for high court judgeship, going “over and above” the standard screening process. 

• The standard screening process includes assessing judicial work, IB inputs, the chief minister's views via the governor, and the Department of Justice's observations. 
• The move came after controversial remarks on religion by a judge of Allahabad high court at an event that sparked widespread criticism. 
  • It was alleged that his comments breached the Restatement of Values of Judicial Life adopted by the Supreme Court in 1997. 
    • It is a code of judicial ethics that serves as a guide for an independent and fair judiciary, and impartial administration of justice.  
  • It also violated the Bangalore Principles of Judicial Conduct, 2002 that set ethical standards for judges, and regulates judicial behaviour. 
    • It recognizes six core values i.e., independence, impartiality, integrity, propriety, equality, and competence and diligence. 
• Article 217 of the Constitution states that the Judge of a High Court shall be appointed by the President in consultation with the Chief Justice of India (CJI), and the Governor of the State. 

Read More: Restatement of Values of Judicial Life 

Extradition Request for Sheikh Hasina

Source: HT 

Recently, India had received a note verbale (unsigned diplomatic correspondence) from Bangladesh to extradite former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. 

• Sheikh Hasina is accused of mass killings during student protests for which Bangladesh’s interim government wants her to face trial. 
• Hasina could be brought back under the India-Bangladesh extradition treaty of 2013, amended in 2016. 
• Exceptions to the treaty: 
  • Article 6: Extradition may be refused if the offence of which it is requested is an offence of a political character. 
  • Article 8: A person may not be extradited if the accusation against him or her is not “made in good faith in the interests of justice”.  
• 2016 Amendments: Objective was to simplify and hasten the extradition process 
  • Article 10 (3): It removed the need for evidence from the country requesting extradition. 
  • Competent Court: Only an arrest warrant from a competent court is enough for extradition. Hasina faces multiple arrest warrants in Bangladesh. 
• The treaty enabled India to extradite ULFA leader Anup Chetia in 2015. 

Read More: Extradition 

US Territorial Acquisitions and Interest in Greenland

Source: DTE 

Recently, US President-elect Donald Trump has expressed interest in buying Greenland, highlighting ongoing US ambitions in strategically important regions like the Arctic.  

• This move reflects the US's long history of territorial acquisitions, crucial to its growth as a global power. 
• Territorial Acquisitions by the US: 
  • Louisiana Purchase (1803): The US acquired 828,000 square miles of land from France for USD 15 million, doubling its size and securing control of the Mississippi River. 
  • The Gadsden Purchase (1853): A 30,000 square-mile region in Arizona and New Mexico was bought to facilitate a southern transcontinental railroad. 
  • The Alaska Purchase (1867): The US purchased nearly 600,000 square miles from Russia for USD 7.2 million. 
    • Initially seen as a strategic acquisition with low immediate value, it gained importance after the Klondike Gold Rush,1896 (gold was discovered in the Klondike) and became vital to US influence in the Asia-Pacific region. 

 

• Key Facts About Greenland: It is the world’s largest island, is located in the North Atlantic Ocean and is a territory of Denmark.  
  • Greenland features major mountain ranges like the Watkins Range and Stauning Alps, and rivers such as Borglum, and Majorqaq. 
  • Greenland has been a mining nation since the late 1700s, extracting coal and later mining gold, silver, copper, lead, zinc, graphite, and marble. 

Read more: World's Northernmost Island