DATE: 27-02-2024

SUBJECT: YOJANA AND KURUKSHETRA

 Topic
1. The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023 Conception and
Development
2. Government e-Marketplace (GeM) Leading the Digital Wave: Transforming Public
Procurement
3. Indo-African Relationship Amidst South-South Cooperation
4. Reform, Perform & Transform through Agri-Startups
5. Startups as the Engine of Growth for North-East India
6. Supporting Women-led Startups
7. Redefining the Food Processing Sector through
Startups
1. The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions)
Act, 2023 Conception and Development
Basics
● Change 183 rules in 42 Central laws managed by 19 government
departments.
● These rules address a variety of issues, including the environment, farming,
media, industry, trade, technology, copyright, food safety, etc.
● The primary purpose of this measure is to make minor rule violations less
significant by substituting criminal penalties with fines or administrative
proceedings.
Key Objectives:
Reduce fear of imprisonment: The act aims to remove imprisonment provisions for
minor technical or procedural defaults, encouraging compliance without the threat
of jail time.
Promote trust-based governance: It fosters a more trust-based relationship
between citizens, businesses, and the government by focusing on fines and
penalties instead of imprisonment.
Ease of doing business: By decriminalizing minor
offenses, the act aims to simplify compliance
processes and reduce unnecessary burdens on
businesses.
Key provisions:
● Decriminalization: Removes imprisonment provisions from specific offenses in
various laws, including the Legal Metrology Act, Companies Act, and
Consumer Protection Act.
● Increased fines: The act increases fines and penalties for the remaining
offenses to deter non-compliance.
● Allow offenders to settle cases by paying without going to court.
Key provisions:
● Adjudicating officers: Introduces designated officers to adjudicate offenses
and impose penalties.
● Appeal mechanism: Establishes an appeal process for individuals aggrieved
by the adjudicating officer's decisions.
Potential impacts:
Positive impacts:
● Reduced burden on the judicial system
● Improved compliance through non-criminal measures
● Increased trust and cooperation between citizens, businesses, and the
government
● Enhanced ease of doing business
Potential impacts:
Negative impacts:
● Concerns about the effectiveness of fines without the threat of imprisonment
● Potential for misuse of power by adjudicating officers
● Lack of clarity on specific procedures and implementation
 Prelims Question
Which of the following statements is/are CORRECT regarding the Jan Vishwas
(Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023?
(a) It aims to simplify the process of company registration in India.
(b) It replaces imprisonment with alternative measures for minor offences across
various sectors.
(c) It was solely focused on Providing Income tax support
(d) It aims to empower the tribals by providing health care support.
2. Government e-Marketplace (GeM) Leading the
Digital Wave:
Transforming Public Procurement
Traditional Challenges in Public Procurement
● Opaque and time-consuming processes
● Limited competition and potential for bias
● Lack of transparency and accountability
● Inefficient use of public resources
Basics
● It acts as an online platform for government departments and public sector
units (PSUs) to procure goods and services from a wide range of sellers.
Key Features of GeM
● E-bidding: Open and transparent bidding process for all users.
● Demand Aggregation: Combining similar requirements from different buyers
for better deals.
● GeM operates under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
Key Features of GeM
● MSME Participation: Dedicated programs and incentives for MSMEs.
● Grievance Redressal Mechanism: Prompt and effective resolution of seller
concerns.
Key Features of GeM
● Real-time Tracking: Visibility into order status and delivery updates.
Objectives
● Increase transparency and reduce corruption in public procurement.
● Promote competition and ensure fair price discovery.
● Expand market access for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
● Simplify and expedite the procurement process.
● Enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of public spending.
Benefits of GeM
For Government:
● Reduced procurement costs and time.
● Improved quality of goods and services.
● Streamlined and automated processes.
● Data-driven decision making.
● Enhanced compliance and accountability.
Benefits of GeM
For Sellers:
● Wider market access and participation.
● Level playing field and fair competition.
● Transparent and simplified procedures.
● Timely payments and reduced paperwork.
Conclusion
● GeM is a game-changer in public procurement in India.
● It promotes transparency, efficiency, and fair competition.
● Benefits both government agencies and sellers.
● Contributes to improved public services and a more accountable government.
 Prelims Question
Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the Government e-
Marketplace (GeM)?
1. GeM is an online platform for public procurement, offering goods and services
to government buyers.
2. GeM operates under the Ministry of Finance, Government of India.
3. It facilitates transparent and efficient procurement processes and promotes
the use of e-commerce in government procurement.
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1 and 3 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1, 2, and 3
3. Indo-African Relationship amidst South-
South Cooperation
The Indo-African Relationship
A South-South Powerhouse
South-South Cooperation
Principles of South-South cooperation
● Mutual respect and equality.
● Self-reliance.
● Knowledge sharing and capacity building.
● South-driven solutions.
Historical Ties: Indo-Africa
● Share a long history of colonialism and anti-colonial struggles, fostering a
sense of solidarity and shared values.
● India actively supported African decolonization movements and the fight
against apartheid.
Pillars of Cooperation
● Political and strategic cooperation.
● Economic and trade ties.
● Development assistance and capacity building.
● Education and cultural exchange.
● Maritime security and peacekeeping
Opportunities
● Digitalization and technological advancements.
● Africa's demographic dividend.
● Expanding trade and investment partnerships.
● Leveraging shared strengths for global influence.
Challenges
● Trade imbalances.
● Infrastructure gaps.
● Capacity development needs.
● Geopolitical complexities.
The Way Forward
● Encouraging private sector participation.
● Focusing on innovation and technology.
● Addressing climate change and sustainability challenges.
● Promoting regional integration.
 Prelims Question
Consider the following statements about
International South-South Cooperation:
1. It refers to collaboration among developing
countries to achieve shared development
goals.
2. India has played a leading role in promoting
South-South Cooperation initiatives.
Which of the statements given above is/are
correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) None of the above
4. Reform, Perform & Transform through Agri-
Startups
Basics
● Agriculture contributes around 18% to India’s
GDP and 55% of the population relies directly
on agriculture for their livelihood.
● There are numerous challenges that hinder
its growth and income potential for farmers.
● However, a promising force for change is
emerging in the form of Agri-Startups
Government Reforms Facilitating Startups:
● Make in India (2014)
● Startup India (2016):
● Atal Innovation Mission (AIM):
Reforming the System: through Agri-Startups
● Market Access and Transparency:

● Financial Inclusion:

● Land & Resource Management:

Performing for Enhanced Efficiency:
● Precision Farming:

● Supply Chain Optimization:

Transforming for Future Growth:
● Sustainable Agriculture:

● Empowering Rural Communities:

Challenges
● Digital Divide:

● Infrastructure Development:

● Investment and Funding:

5. Startups as the Engine of Growth for
North-East India
Overview of India’s Startup Landscape:
● North-East India, with its rich natural resources, diverse culture, and talented
youth, holds immense potential for growth.
● Startups, with their innovative spirit and agility, can be a powerful engine
driving this region's economic development.
The Untapped Potential of North-East India
● Rich in natural resources: Diverse flora and fauna, fertile land, vast water
resources
● Young and vibrant population: High literacy rate, entrepreneurial spirit
● Strategic location: Connects India to Southeast Asia, gateway to the East
The Rise of the Startup Ecosystem
● Growing number of startups:
● Focus on diverse sectors: Agriculture, tourism, healthcare, IT, handicraft
● Government support: Initiatives like Startup India, ASCEND workshops
Challenges Faced by North-Eastern Startups:
● Limited access to funding
● Lack of skilled manpower
● Limited mentorship support
The Road Ahead
● Strengthening the ecosystem: Continued government support, fostering
collaboration and mentorship
● Building infrastructure: Improving connectivity, access to technology and
funding
● Showcasing success stories: Inspiring future generations of entrepreneurs
6. Supporting Women-led Startups
Basics
● The number of women-led startups has increased from 6,000 in 2017 to
80,000 in 2022 (a 1233% increase).
● The share of VC funding to women-led startups increased from 11% in 2017
to 20% in 2022.
Challenges Faced by Women Entrepreneurs
● Access to funding: Women-led startups often face difficulty securing funding
from investors.
● Lack of mentorship and networking opportunities: Women entrepreneurs may
have limited access to experienced mentors and networking opportunities.
● Societal biases and stereotypes: Gender bias and societal expectations can
create roadblocks for women entrepreneurs.
Government Schemes for Supporting Women-led Startups:
● Mudra Yojana for Women/Mahila Udhyami Yojana: Offers loans up to Rs 10
lakh without collateral for women entrepreneurs in non-corporate, non-
farming, and non-agriculture-based businesses headed by women
entrepreneurs.
● Stand-Up India (SUI) Scheme: Facilitates bank
loans between Rs. 10 lakh and Rs. 1 crore to at
least one Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled
Tribe (ST) borrower and at least one woman
borrower per bank branch for greenfield
enterprises.
Government Schemes for Supporting Women-led Startups:
● Mahila Samridhi Yojana: A microfinance scheme for women from backward
classes by the National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development
Corporation (NSFDC) under the Ministry of Social Justice.
● Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP): Hosts information, workshops, and
campaigns for women entrepreneurs.
The Benefits of Supporting Women-led Startups
● Economic growth: Studies have shown that increased female
entrepreneurship can lead to significant economic growth.
● Innovation and diversity: Women entrepreneurs bring diverse perspectives
and experiences to the table, leading to more innovative solutions and a more
robust startup ecosystem.
● Social impact: Women-led startups often focus on addressing social and
environmental challenges, creating a positive impact on society.
Way Forward:
● There is a need for more effective implementation of schemes to benefit
female entrepreneurs and ensure equal access to all entrepreneurship
support schemes.
● Additionally, there is a need for non-financial support such as technology
upgrades and skill training, as well as more schemes supporting
entrepreneurship in the digital economy.
7. Redefining the Food Processing
Sector through Startups
Basics of Food Processing Industries
● The food processing sector acts as a vital link
between agriculture and industries, reducing
wastage and ensuring value addition.
● It’s one of the fastest growing sectors in India at
10.3% compared to the overall manufacturing
sector’s 5.1% growth.
● The food processing sector is a “sunrise sector” in
India with tremendous entrepreneurial potential
Addressing Challenges:
● Minimizing Post-Harvest Losses:

● Improving Supply Chain Efficiency:

Empowering Rural Communities:
● Creating Job Opportunities:

● Supporting Women Entrepreneurs:

Empowering Rural Communities:
● Make in India: Food processing is a priority sector under this initiative.

● Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana

● Government agencies like the Agricultural and Processed Food Products

Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitate exports and collaborations
with other countries.
 Prelims Question
Which government initiative aims to promote food processing in India by providing
financial assistance, technology upgrades, and infrastructure development to the
food processing units?
a) Make in India
b) Swachh Bharat Abhiyan
c) Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana
d) National Skill Development Mission
THANK YOU