IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON YOUTH

Humans are sociable creatures by nature. To thrive in life, we need the companionship of others,
and the strength of our ties has a big impact on our mental health and happiness. Being socially
connected to others can help you cope with stress, worry, and depression, boost your self-esteem,
bring comfort and joy, prevent loneliness, and even add years to your life. Lack of good social
ties, on the other side, can jeopardize your mental and emotional well-being.
Many of us nowadays rely on social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, YouTube,
and Instagram to find and communicate with one another. A social media platform is an online
platform that users use to develop social networks or social interactions with others that share
similar personal or professional interests, hobbies, backgrounds, or in-person connections.
Young people are heavily influenced by social media. It's becoming clear that social media has
become an important part of people's daily life. Social media is used by the vast majority of
people on the planet.
Social media has grown in popularity and growth over the last two decades to the point where
many researchers are now interested in understanding more about these social platforms and
their effects on the community. As a result of technology breakthroughs, people are being pushed
to accept alternate lives. Despite the fact that almost everyone in the community has access to at
least one social media platform, youth and teenagers are the most active and passionate users of
these platforms, even going so far as to socialize while in class or even at church.
In this context, experts have discovered that social media sites have a significant impact on the
morality, conduct, and even education of our kids in society. The impact of social media on
today's youths is both positive and negative. There's no doubting that online and social media use
has become increasingly important in today's youth's lives. There has been much debate
regarding the dangers of social media use since its inception. However, it is important that you
assist your youngster in appreciating the benefits and drawbacks of social media while also
ensuring his/her online safety.

The positive aspects of social media

1. Encourages social interaction

The primary goal of social networking sites is to allow people to connect with one another
regardless of distance or other limitations. It has the potential to improve relationships. Young
people can establish new acquaintances and keep old ones by communicating and sharing
experiences online on a regular basis. It bridges the gap between friends by allowing someone in
India, for example, to network and connect with a buddy in the United States. This, in turn, helps
to develop links between classmates who relocated to other areas of the world after graduation,
such as those between high school or college friends who migrated to different regions of the
world after graduation. Social media can provide a virtual alternative for kids who fail to develop
social relationships in the real world, preventing them from feeling lonely.
2. Positive effects on mental health
Use of social media increases the production of oxytocin, a hormone that decreases stress and
enhances emotions of happiness. Online conversations are frequently simpler than in-person
encounters since they involve little to no emotion and are less time consuming. The satisfaction
and enjoyment we derive from likes and favorable comments are frequently the consequence of
minimal effort and time. Naturally, if the comments are unfavorable or the number of likes is
judged insufficient, it may have a negative impact on mental health. Instagram recently made the
amount of likes for posts accessible only to the profile owner in response to user feedback, and
Facebook is expected to follow suit. This helps to address the issue of kids (and people in
general) assessing their peers based on the number of likes they receive for a post or comparing
themselves to others based on the number of likes.

3. Offers educational opportunities

Children can learn through watching films, looking at photos, and reading blogs, all of which
have educational value. Social networking sites can also help students debate homework and
assignment subjects and serve as a resource for research and fact-gathering.

4. Contributes to globalization
The emergence of social media has resulted in a shrinking of the planet. We are no longer
constrained by physical distance or geographical boundaries. Teenagers may now communicate
easily with people from all over the world and reap the benefits of exposure to different cultures
and views. It also keeps them up to date on the events happening around the globe.

5. It encourages inventiveness
Many social media applications allow users to express themselves creatively. Not only can you
share your work, such as photographs, films, written works, and graphics, but other users can
also provide feedback and comments, which can help you grow self-esteem and confidence.
Additionally, youngsters can build pages and groups on social media platforms based on their
careers, faith, and other aspects of their lives, which leads to additional connections and chances
for their specific disciplines. This may even result in the creation of new job prospects for
unemployed teenagers. Adolescents report that social media platform make their lives more
joyful, efficient, and easier, and that it has also become a way of life for them, according to
multiple interviews performed on a regular basis.

While social media has numerous benefits, it also has significant drawbacks. It's crucial to
remember that social media will never be a substitute for human interaction in the real world. It
takes face-to-face interaction with others to release the hormones that reduce stress and help you
feel happier, healthier, and more optimistic. Spending too much time on social media, despite the
fact that it is intended to bring people closer together, can instead make you feel lonelier and
more isolated—as well as exacerbate mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
The negative aspects of social media
Social networking has grown so important to today's generation that it has become a priority.
They are engrossed in social media sites and neglect all of the important things in their lives,
such as family, sports, and education. Despite the fact that social media sites appear to connect
more people and keep them up to date, they lead to social isolation. The number of face-to-face
contacts is limited because youngsters spend the majority of their time on these online social
networks.
According to a review of several research conducted by various scientists, social isolation can
create a variety of repercussions in these youngsters, including physical, emotional, mental, and
psychological disorders. This can result in depression, anxiety, and a range of other problems. It
also leads to misspellings and the misuse of words and tenses due to the use of abbreviations and
abbreviated versions. This has a significant detrimental influence, particularly on students,
because it immediately impacts their language abilities, resulting in bad language grades.
1. The risks for the reward
The nature of social media is that it is self-reinforcing. It works by releasing dopamine, a "feel-
good chemical" associated with enjoyable experiences like sex, food, and social engagement,
into the brain's reward region. The platforms are made to be addictive, and they have been linked
to anxiety, despair, and even physical illnesses.
"Consider a slot machine: if players knew they would never win money by playing the game,
they would never play." The promise of a future reward motivates people to use machines. The
same may be said for social media platforms. One cannot predict how many likes a photo will
receive, who will 'like' it, or when it will receive likes. Because of the unclear conclusion and the
possibility of a desired outcome, users can remain engaged with websites. People share content
in the hopes of receiving favorable comments in order to increase their self- esteem and
experience a sense of belonging in their social circles. When such content is combined with the
structure of potential future reward, you have a recipe for continuously monitoring platforms.

2. Feelings of missing out

Another factor that makes surfing through social media so enticing is FOMO, or fear of missing
out. You may be concerned about missing a message, inside joke, or other information that
connects you to your peers when your friends and classmates use social media. Constant
checking and scrolling, on the other hand, can be damaging to homework and studying.
Procrastination, poor knowledge retention, and elevated stress levels are all possible outcomes of
distraction. When you read posts of other people having a nice time, you could feel excluded,
lonely, or anxious. It can be challenging to get out and form true social ties and in-person
meetings when you have access to the entire digital world. When feasible, instead than
conversing behind a screen, try to see your pals in person.

3. The vulnerability of the digital age

The sooner kids begin to use social media, the larger the influence it has on their mental health.
This is particularly true for women. While teen males are more likely to act aggressively
physically, females are more likely to act aggressively in relationships by excluding others and
making nasty statements. Such negative contacts are more likely to occur as a result of social
media.

4. Feelings of inadequacy in your life or appearance

Social media distorts appearances and reality, in addition to offering a lens through which young
people may see missed chances. At a time when teen bodies are changing, social media sites
such as Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat make it more likely for them to see unrealistic,
filtered photos. Even if you are aware that the photos you see on social media have been
manipulated, they can still make you feel insecure about your own appearance or what is going
on in your own life. When a filter is applied to the digital world, it can be difficult for teens to
determine what is genuine and what isn't, which comes at a physically and emotionally tough
time for them.
We're also well aware that most people only talk about the good things in their lives, rarely the
bad. However, you can't help but feel envious and unhappy when you look at a friend's
photoshopped photos of their exotic beach vacation or read about their exciting new job
advancement.

5. Cyber-bullying
When someone or a group of individuals utilises technology to bully someone socially,
psychologically, or physically, this is known as cyberbullying. If a youngster is being bullied
online, he or she should seek help right once. Approximately 10% of students report being
bullied on social media, and many others have received derogatory comments. Twitter and other
social media platforms can be hotbeds for spreading harmful rumors, lies, and abuse that can
leave emotional scars.

6. May jeopardize safety

Regrettably, social media gives predators a forum to seduce and abuse youngsters. Users can
create fictitious profiles, putting children at risk of conversing with strangers who could
harm them. It exposes youngsters, such as those under the age of eighteen, to online predators
who can lure them to engage in sexual acts such as lesbianism and other sorts of sexual
misconduct. It also exposes these teenagers to pornographic material that is shared in some
online social circles. Due to which, many girls are forced to drop out of school due to early
pregnancies. This can also lead to the transmission of sexually transmitted illnesses like HIV,
which can result in the premature death of our youth. These teenagers' morality is also being
tampered with because they now have access to immoral material and films.

7. Lack of focus
Youths' productivity suffers as a result of spending long hours on social networking sites
conversing. due to which, the kids become less self- sufficient and rely on their parents and
families for support. Long periods of time spent on social media could be better spent on useful
tasks that allow one to earn a job or even obtain an education, such as using online tutorials and
research resources.
Misleading information and news are also encouraged on social media platforms, with the goal
of tarnishing other people's names or other organizations of interest, such as political or religious
organisations. As a result, there are clashes and animosity between the persons involved, which
can lead to divides within tribes or between people of different races and tribes. It can also lead
to people joining cults and illuminati groups, which can lead to the murder of people in society,
particularly loved ones, as a sacrifice to these cults.

To summaries, social networking has both positive and harmful consequences on our youth.
Individuals must determine whether or not to use the sites in the future, or whether or not to
cease or even moderate their use. It is the responsibility of their parents to counsel and educate
their children on current issues such as the use of social media, as well as warn them about the
dangers of misusing or overusing it. Social media studies should be included as one of the
courses in the education curriculum, so that students understand the necessity of being cautious
when using social media.

Keeping your teen safe

These are some of the important steps that every parent should take to encourage ethical social
media use and mitigate some of its negative impacts on their children.

1. Set sensible boundaries

Discuss with your teen how to keep social media from interfering with his or her activities, sleep,
food, or homework. Encourage them to follow a sleep ritual that excludes the use of electronic
media, and keep cellphones and tablets out of their rooms. Follow these rules to set a good
example.

2. Keep an eye on your teen's social media profiles

Let your teen know that you'll be reviewing his or her social media accounts on a frequent basis.
You should aim to do it once a week at the very least. Make certain you complete the task.

3. Describe what isn't acceptable

Encourage your kid not to gossip, spread rumors, bully, or harm someone's reputation, whether
online or off. Discuss what is proper and safe to publish on social media with your teen.
4. Encourage your pals to interact with you in person
This is especially crucial for teenagers who are prone to social anxiety. Encourage physical
activity as well as off-line pursuits. Encourage them to engage in physical activities and interests
that need real-world interaction to keep them away from social media. Exercise is beneficial for
reducing anxiety and tension, as well as raising self-esteem and enhancing mood, and it may be
done as a family. The less friends, likes, or shares your child has on social media, the better his
or her mood and sense of self- worth will be.

5. Teach your child that social media does not portray people's life accurately
They should not use social media to compare themselves or their lives to others. People only
share what they want the rest of the world to see. Images are either edited or carefully posed and
selected. Furthermore, having fewer social media friends does not imply that your child is less
popular or deserving.

6. Consult your child's health care practitioner

If you suspect your teen is exhibiting signs or symptoms of anxiety or sadness as a result of
social media use, you should consult your child’s health care practitioner.

The rise and rise of trolls

October 15, 2020, 7:19 PM IST Ekta Kumar in Voices, India, TOI
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Ekta Kumar

The writer is a chartered accountant.

It took us thousands of years to figure out how to live with one another. Laws and social norms,
developed slowly and painfully, enabling us to form societies. Armed with rulebooks, and a list of
do’s and don’ts, we try and exist in relative peace. Unfortunately, this is true only for the real
world. The online space is still a jungle.
The world-wide web might have started as a lofty idea, a medium for the free flow of information
and exchange of ideas. But it wasn’t long before the more bestial nature of man began to creep in.
Bullies have always existed, antagonising and hurting those around. But the internet gave them
wings.

The rise and rise of trolls has been well documented. The digital space gives us access and
anonymity. It is a lethal combination for those looking to make trouble. There was a time when
trolls and their vitriol was contained within niche chatrooms and group forums. But the arrival of
social media, unleashed them right into our lives. Now they are everywhere. Their presence is
increasingly getting normalised.

The range of troll behaviour is vast. From harmless jokes and memes, to calling names, and
goading children into suicide. Politicians, Bollywood superstars, sportsmen, celebrities, activists,
journalists have all been targeted at some point or the other. It is not just individuals, companies,
events and communities have been also been attacked. Everyone and everything is fair game.

They entertain us, amuse us, and shock us. They are politically powerful, they get celebrities to
apologise, and companies to backtrack. Trolls lurk in every digital corner, and the numbers are
only growing. They are ferocious when demanding their pound of flesh – and increasingly, they
seem to be getting it. The latest is Tata owned Tanishq jewellery that had to withdraw its
advertisement featuring a hindu-muslim marriage, after severe backlash on social media.

Emotion is the best way to getting attention, and there are studies that show fear and anger work
really well in getting people to engage. Trolls reproduce and amplify conflicts between different
groups. They grow bigger, uniting those with similar ideologies and dividing society along the
way. Tanishq is a perfect example.

‘Controversial’ is certainly not what comes to mind if you watch the commercial. It is a feel good,
fuzzy, warm, let us live happily kind of story. But controversial is it has become, for venturing into
sensitive territory.

The Indian chapter of the International Advertising Association has called it ‘very unfortunate’.
That is putting it mildly. Every incident like this, has big repercussions, that spill over to the real
world.

Not wanting to take chances, a tanishq store in Gujarat stuck an apology at the door. That was an
obvious reaction, taken in response to a direct threat. But what of the countless others?

There will be many brand managers and companies who will re-evaluate their messaging and
marketing content keeping this incident in mind. Who will really have the courage (and the
resources) to risk depicting love between two fragile communities, when there are safer options.

The self-censorship is not just restricted to tv commercials, or religious narratives. Imagine the
scale of online abuse today. Trolls are increasingly dominating and shaping public discourse, in
every sphere.
Every single day, in the vast wild internet, women, minorities, people of colour and the LGBTQ
community are abused, harassed, and threatened. The disproportionate targeting of these groups
reflects an underlying social and cultural tensions. The term ‘troll’ is nowadays inextricably mixed
up with identity, religion and politics, that snowballs into a larger, more vicious force.

Trolls can be terrifying. They hunt in packs, altering social cohesion and bullying others into
submission. There are many who choose to drop out of the conversation. We are already seeing a
slow erosion of public discourse – we hesitate to put out our views on a sensitive subject, or a
picture in shorts. 40% of indian women fear online trolls when they access the internet (Nielson).
Everyday we hear of high profile dropouts, and people being swept away by algorithms and hate
talk.

Will trolls be shaping the internet culture. Is this going to be the new normal?

It is only been a few years since the birth of the internet, and we are still in the process of
navigating, managing and understanding how it works. There are no rules, not yet. Law
enforcement agencies across the world are struggling to adapt. And any attempt to control or
moderate is not an easy task. Social norms in the digital space is still evolving. There has to be a
way to keep us connected and talking. It took time for us to get civilised in the real world.
Hopefully we will learn much faster online.

Recently, the Indian government introduced a new amendment to the Information Technology
(Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, or IT Rules, which gives
the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) unrestricted power to create
a "fact check unit" to identify false or misleading online content.

Failure by social media intermediaries to prevent users from hosting or publishing flagged
information may result in the withdrawal of their "safe harbour" immunity, which could expose
them to criminal prosecution. This could have negative implications on freedom of speech and
civil liberties in India.

The new regulation grants the Union government the power to determine what information is
false and exercise censorship through intermediaries. This goes against the principles of free
information and freedom of speech guaranteed by the constitution.

The spread of misinformation and fake news is a significant problem in the age of the internet. It
can have serious consequences for individuals, communities, and even nations. In India, the
government has attempted to address this issue through amendments to the IT Rules. However,
concerns have been raised about the impact of these amendments on freedom of speech and
expression.
What are the IT Rules?

 The IT Rules derive their authority from the Information Technology Act, 2000,which
provides legal recognition for electronic commerce.
 Safe Harbour Provision:
o The Act provides a "safe harbour" for intermediaries that observe due diligence in
discharging their duties and follow guidelines prescribed by the state.
 Intermediaries:
o Section 79 of the Act grants immunity to intermediaries, as long as they follow due
diligence and state-prescribed guidelines.
o Intermediaries include social media platforms like WhatsApp, Twitter, Facebook, and
Instagram.
 First Originator:
o The IT Rules impose obligations on intermediaries and require social media platforms
to provide technological solutions to identify the first originator of any information on
their service, under certain circumstances.
 The IT Rules have been subject to several sets of challenges, and petitions are pending
consideration in the Supreme Court of India.
What are the New Regulations?

 The 2021 IT Rules replaced the previous guidelines and sought to regulate
intermediaries and digital news media.
 Social media platforms were required to provide technological solutions to identify
the first originator of any information, risking privacy.
 The amendments introduced in April 2023 give the government power to decide for
itself what information is bogus and exercise wide-ranging powers of censorship by
compelling intermediaries to take down posts deemed fake or false.
 The new regulations threaten freedom of speech and civil liberties in India by restricting
speech through executive order rather than legislation.
o Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution grants every citizen the right to freedom of
speech and expression, which can only be limited through reasonable
restrictions made by law on the grounds stipulated in Article 19(2).
 Fake news and misinformation are not grounds on which speech can be limited, and the
amendments made to the IT Rules do not caveat the restraints they place in any manner.
 The Fact Check Unit has limitless powers to decide what information is false and compel
social media intermediaries to act based on these findings, which are open-ended and
undefined.
What are the Concerns?

 Lacks Clear Definitions:

 o The amendment fails to define fake news and allows the government's fact-check unit to
declare the veracity of any news "in respect of any business" that involves the state.
o The use of undefined words, especially the phrase "any business", gives the
government unchecked power to decide what people can see, hear, and read on the
internet.
 Not a Standard Practice:
o A comprehensive parliamentary legislation on fake news, grounded in Article 19(2),
would have been a more constitutionally committed campaign against fake news.
 In France, an independent judge is responsible for making declarations to
counter the spread of misinformation during elections.
o A lawfully enacted statute would have demanded consideration of less restrictive
alternatives to removing misinformation.
 Removable of Information:
o Intermediaries will remove information deemed false by the Fact Check Unit, leaving
only the state to determine what is true.
o The new regulation gives the government the power to decide what information is bogus
and exercise censorship by compelling intermediaries to take down posts deemed fake or
false.
 Lesser Rights:
o The rights of the press and individuals to question authority and speak truth to power will
be diminished, and civil liberties will be curtailed.
 Violates the Supreme Court's Judgment:
o Shreya Singhal vs Union of India (2015), Supreme Court held that a law that limits
speech can neither be vague nor over-broad.
What Should be the Way Forward?

 Technology Solutions:
o Instead of relying solely on censorship, the government and intermediaries can invest in
technology solutions to tackle misinformation and fake news.
o For instance, algorithms can be developed to identify and flag false information, and
fact-checking websites can be promoted.
 Self-Regulation:
o Intermediaries can adopt self-regulatory measures to prevent the spread of fake news
and misinformation.
o This can include setting up internal committees to monitor content and flag any false
information and working with fact-checking websites to ensure accuracy.
 Public Awareness:
 o It is essential to create awareness among the public about the dangers of censorship
and the importance of free speech.
o This can be done through Social media campaigns, workshops, and discussions in
schools, colleges, and other public forums.
 Collaborative Approach:
o The government, intermediaries, and civil society organizations can work together to
develop a collaborative approach to tackle the problem of fake news and misinformation.
o This can include setting up a joint task force to identify and remove false information
and promoting media literacy among the public.

Drishti Mains Question

Critically analyze the new amendments introduced by the Union government to the Information
Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, and discuss
their impact.

The impact of online classes on students

Priyanka Prakash @Expressons4bDEC 02, 2021, 16:19 IST

No one imagined that Covid-19 would turn our world upside down and would bring major
changes to our lifestyle. The virus has spread everywhere like a wild forest fire due to which
numerous changes were accepted by people all over the world, and it took some time for
everyone to adapt to the new normal.
Online learning is rapidly becoming one of the most effective ways to impart education. The
impact of the virus was so strong that online education became a seemingly ubiquitous part of
our growing world, which resulted in the closure of schools and no further physical interaction of
teachers with students. Fortunately, soon enough most of the schools and educational institutions
moved to online mode to resume their studies. As a result, education has changed dramatically,
with the distinctive rise of e-learning, whereby teaching is undertaken remotely on digital
platforms instead of physical classrooms.
Online classes and technology have emerged as a superhero during the lockdown days. We have
all been under house arrest but are still connected with the world of education. Due to the
lockdown, students have not been able to stay connected with the outer world and the lack of
exposure is evident. The only reprieve for the students’ mental well-being has been the transition
to online classes. Teachers made sure that the learning for students was not compromised, so
they took a great leap forward to find solutions and create new learning environments for their
students to ensure that learning never stops. With little time to prepare, curriculums were
modified, new lesson plans were created, activities were planned, all so that their students remain
actively involved through online learning.
For students, online classes have become an imminent trend in the education sector around the
globe. Digital learning has provided easy access to the files and folders that can now be
organised and saved without any physical damage. With one click, students can access their
notes and assignments without the fear of misplacing or spoiling them. With advanced
technology, this mode of learning has not only been simpler but fun and engaging as well.
Technology-enabled learning is beneficial and has proven to be more engaging as it helps in
making those subjects interactive and fun which are traditionally considered dull by students. It
became very convenient for the students to attend classes from anywhere in the world as both
classes and learning content was easily accessible at home. Integration of the learning platforms
with new-age interactive applications has made online classes more convenient for both students
and teachers as more students are able to express their views at the same time using certain
online applications. Students have been more particular with their online submission as they are
notified on a regular basis and it is an effortless task for the teachers to track down the students
who have failed to submit their assignments on time. Online learning has helped students to
become independent learners before they make their way into the real world. Students got
opportunities to explore new learning applications and platforms during the class, which helped
them to develop new skills and capabilities accelerating their growth trajectory. Some of the
students have been responding well to the active learning environment created online by the
teachers whereas others need a push in fits and starts.
Most of the private and public schools have made a smooth transition to online platforms such as
Zoom, Google classrooms, Microsoft teams, etc. while many still find it a herculean task. The
challenges of online learning are multifaceted. Online learning has played a crucial role during
the pandemic, but its consequences can not be ignored. Online classes can not be accessed by
every student due to the unavailability of smartphones, laptops, and network. Unfortunately, the
less privileged part of our society has been more on the receiving end of this. This may increase
the class and demography-based disparity with respect to access to quality education.
One of the biggest challenges of online learning that many students face is the struggle to focus
for long durations on screen. Not to mention, there is a plethora of distracting content available
online which attracts and distracts the students more often than not. To avoid this and help the
students stay focused on the class, the teachers have made strenuous efforts and designed their
online classes to be crisp, engaging, and interactive. Online classes are not completely reliable as
internet connectivity plays a vital role. While access to the internet has drastically improved over
the past few years, in some parts of the country, people still lack access to decent internet speed
and connectivity. Inconsistent internet connectivity has emerged as one of the top excuses for the
students to dodge some important requirements such as an active visual presence which is
imperative for due vigilance. With the cameras turned off there is a disconnection between the
teachers and students. It is observed widely that students would log into the class and then get
distracted with other activities. Given that students are free from the regulations and boundaries
of an appropriate classroom environment, it is perceived that the curriculum is not given
importance by the students. The notebook work may have been taken lightly. There are high
chances of the students distracting themselves while learning online. Traditional classroom
education offers the benefit of face-to-face interactions with peers which are typically moderated
by a teacher. Physical classroom interaction provides children, especially those in their early
developmental years, with a stable environment for social interactions, helping them develop
skills like empathy and cooperation. It helps them in their overall development and real-life
situations.

I believe that learning never stopped, in fact, it evolved itself not just to survive but to thrive and
technology has proven to be the most important enabler of the same which in itself is an
invention that is an outcome of learning. Technology has helped in learning and learning has led
to the advancement of technology. Students need both parents’ and teachers’ guidance as they
navigate through this difficult time to learn more and more. Both offline learning and e-learning
would go hand-in-hand and online education will eventually become an integral component of
school education. Somewhere in the future, education is going to be hybrid. During Covid,
technology has become a part of academics and is here to stay. Online applications and programs
have helped both teachers and students to develop new skills and capabilities that supported them
and enhance their knowledge. Online teaching can not replace the position of traditional
classroom teaching and we will need to get back to traditional teaching after the pandemic ends.

In the fiscal year 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) documented bank frauds exceeding
302.5 billion rupees, equivalent to INR 30,000 cr. While this marked a decrease from the 1.3
trillion rupees reported in 2021, signifying a reversal in the trend of escalating bank frauds in
India over the past decade, both in terms of the total number of frauds and their monetary
value[1], the current figure is still staggering and citizens need to keep caution to protect their
financial interest.
An additional study revealed a notable 69% of online fraud cases among Indian consumers in
2021, as reported in the Microsoft 2021 Global Tech Support Scam Research. The data from the
Reserve Bank of India (RBI), while potentially excluding numerous undetected frauds, indicated
a total value of scams amounting to 60,414 cr in the fiscal year 2021–2022 [2].

Financial Scams in India

In the landscape of India’s financial sector, 2023 has been marked by a surge in sophisticated
scams that exploit evolving technologies and capitalize on unsuspecting individuals. From the
pervasive rise of UPI-related frauds to the cunning schemes enticing victims with unrealistic
investment returns, the financial realm has witnessed a diverse array of fraudulent activities. QR
code scams, part-time job deceptions, and the alarming emergence of courier scams targeting the
youth have added new dimensions to the threat landscape.

Additionally, the omnipresence of malware-driven cybercrimes and the persistent challenge

posed by tech support scams further underscore the need for heightened vigilance in navigating
the intricate landscape of financial transactions. This overview delves into the top financial
scams of 2023, shedding light on the methods, trends, and impacts that define the evolving face
of financial fraud in the country.

UPI Scam Update

The advent of UPI transactions marked a significant milestone in digital payments in India.
However, fraudsters quickly adapted, devising various schemes to exploit unsuspecting
consumers. UPI-related frauds pose a substantial threat to the Indian payment ecosystem, with
tactics ranging from disguising collect requests as fraudulent cashback offers and QR codes to
creating spoofed VPAs for refunds and disaster support.

In the realm of online fraud, perpetrators create deceptive websites enticing victims to invest in
stocks or cryptocurrencies. Telegram and WhatsApp groups are utilized to mass-invite
individuals for investment purposes, deceiving victims into believing they are making reliable
investments in stocks, businesses, or cryptocurrencies.

 In the fiscal year 2022–2023, reported UPI fraud cases exceeded 95,000, a notable
increase from the 84,000 cases reported in 2021–2022, as per the Ministry of Finance [3].
A staggering 55% of all digital payment frauds in India are associated with UPI
transactions[4].

 An insightful report revealed that 50% of these scams have an average ticket size of less
than Rs 10,000. Additionally, 48% of the scams fall within the ticket size range of
$10,000 to $1,000,000, with only 2% involving a ticket worth more than INR
10,00,000[4].
  Identity-related frauds, particularly account-related frauds, dominate across industries. In
2021, account-related fraud constituted 65% of all frauds in the financial services
industry, encompassing account creation and takeover. The e-commerce sector saw
account-related frauds accounting for 54% of all reported frauds [4].

 The cumulative impact of various scams, including UPI fraud, bank frauds, and email
scams, resulted in a staggering financial loss exceeding INR 200 cr in 2023. Moreover,
the recovery of cheated funds has been dismal, with only 2% to 8% of the lost money
being successfully recovered.

Digital Banking and Credit Card Frauds

With the rising popularity of digital transactions, the occurrence of online banking and credit
card fraud has become increasingly pervasive. Common tactics employed by fraudsters include
phishing attacks, identity theft, and fraudulent transactions utilizing pilfered card details.

 In the fiscal year 2023, the banking system recorded a total of 13,530 fraud cases.
Notably, in May 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reported the highest incidence of
digital frauds within the realm of digital payments for the year.

 Of the total reported fraud cases, nearly 49%, equivalent to 6,659 cases, fell under the
digital payment – card/internet – category [5]. This underscores the substantial impact and
prevalence of digital fraud in the specific domain of card and internet-based transactions.

Bank Frauds’ Overview

Bank frauds encompass a range of deceptive activities, including loan frauds, cheque frauds,
forged documents, and unauthorized transactions, all contributing to significant financial losses
for both financial institutions and individuals.

 In the year 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) documented bank frauds exceeding
3,500 cr Indian rupees. This marked a decline from the substantial figure of over 1.3
trillion rupees reported in 2021 [6]. The observed decrease reflects a noteworthy shift in the
trend of these fraudulent activities.

 A broader perspective on the issue reveals that between June 1, 2014, and March 31,
2023, Indian banks detected approximately 65,017 frauds, resulting in a staggering loss
of Rs 4.69 lakh cr . This information, reported by the Reserve Bank of India, underscores
the prolonged and significant impact of bank frauds on the financial landscape [7].
QR Code Scam Alert

The prevalence of QR code scams is on the rise in India, with fraudsters employing deceptive
tactics to lure victims into scanning fraudulent QR codes, resulting in the direct theft of funds
from their bank accounts.

 Bengaluru, particularly, has witnessed a concerning surge in QR code-related cybercrime

cases. Disturbingly, police statistics reveal that a significant 41% of the more than 50,000
reported cybercrime incidents in the silicon city of India, Bengaluru, were attributed to
QR code scams[8]. This alarming statistic underscores the growing threat and impact of
QR code-related fraud in the region.

 The period between 2017 and May 31, 2023, saw an escalation in incidents connected to
QR code frauds, misleading links, and the unauthorized use of debit/credit card
information for illicit transactions [8]. This timeframe highlights the ongoing and evolving
nature of QR code scams as a prevalent form of cybercrime affecting individuals and
financial security.

Investment Scam Warning: Unrealistic Returns Ahead

Investment scams continue to lure individuals with enticing opportunities that promise quick and
guaranteed returns. These fraudulent schemes prey on people’s aspirations for high returns and
often involve fictitious companies or fake investment products.

 Various scams, including those related to stocks, personal loans, cryptocurrencies, and
other investment avenues, have witnessed a surge since the Covid-19 outbreak,
particularly affecting the working class in India.

 In a notable incident in July 2023, a massive INR 712 cr Chinese investment fraud was
exposed in Hyderabad, revealing a fraudulent scheme that preyed on unsuspecting
investors[9]. Orchestrated by Chinese operators based in Dubai, this scheme is estimated
to have siphoned off a staggering INR 712 cr from individuals across the country [9]. The
incident serves as a stark reminder to exercise caution and skepticism when confronted
with investment opportunities promising unrealistic returns.

Part-time Job Scam Alert

Online scammers are leveraging direct messages and social media feeds to lure individuals with
enticing promises of easy part-time work and extra cash. Exploiting people’s trust, these
scammers deceptively persuade victims to invest money, only for them to lose substantial
amounts once a significant investment is made.
  According to a report from the Delhi police, as of April 30, 2023, they received 467
complaints about internet fraudsters advertising part-time work—an alarming increase
from the 32 complaints reported in 2020 [10]. This surge in complaints underscores the
escalating prevalence of scams targeting individuals seeking part-time employment.

 Online frauds preying on uninformed job seekers are witnessing a rise, exacerbated by
the increasing inflation and worsening unemployment situation. India’s unemployment
rate, now exceeding 8%, surpasses the global average of 5.8% [10]. It serves as a stark
reminder for individuals to exercise caution and thorough verification when encountering
online offers of part-time work to avoid falling victim to these deceptive scams.

Courier Scam Advisory

A concerning trend in the form of a new courier scam is emerging, with cyber fraudsters
specifically targeting young individuals, causing both worry and distress. These scammers reach
out to victims, claiming that courier parcels, allegedly containing drugs or other illegal items, are
being sent in their names to foreign countries.

 The Bengaluru Police have recorded 163 instances of such courier scams in 2023, with
48 of them concentrated in the South-East division alone. The cumulative financial loss
from these scams has exceeded INR 5 cr . The scam typically initiates with a call from a
number posing as a FedEx “customer service executive “[11].
 This deceptive tactic preys on individuals’ concerns and fears, emphasizing the
importance of awareness and caution. Residents, particularly young people, are advised
to verify any unexpected communication from courier services and to refrain from
providing personal information or making any financial transactions without thorough
verification.

Malware Warning: Protecting Against Digital Threats

Fraudsters are increasingly employing deceptive tactics, such as fake customer support, cashback
links, or emails, to convince unsuspecting consumers to install malware, screen mirroring, or
remote access apps. Once installed, these malicious applications compromise the device,
allowing unauthorized access to financial information.

Subsequently, fraudsters exploit this access to conduct transactions and dupe consumers by
siphoning funds from their accounts or cards.

 An insightful survey reveals the alarming impact of economic crimes on digital

platforms, constituting approximately 57% of all fraud incidents in India. Furthermore,
these cybercrimes have cost more than 26% of Indian businesses more than $1 million [12].
This underscores the critical need for heightened cybersecurity measures in the digital
landscape.
  Tech support scams have become particularly pervasive, with 7 out of 10 consumers
falling victim to such schemes [12]. Vigilance and caution are paramount in safeguarding
personal and financial information from these evolving digital threats. Individuals are
urged to exercise discretion when encountering unexpected communication or requests
for installations, verifying the authenticity of sources to mitigate the risk of falling prey to
these malicious activities.

How to Protect Yourself Against Financial Frauds in India

Protecting yourself from financial scams in India, or anywhere else, requires vigilance,
awareness, and caution. Financial scams can take many forms, from phishing emails and phone
calls to Ponzi schemes and fraudulent investment opportunities. Here are some steps you can
take to safeguard your finances:

1. Educate Yourself: Knowledge is your best defense. Stay informed about common scams
and fraud tactics. Government agencies and financial institutions often provide
information about current scams and how to avoid them.
2. Verify Identities: Be cautious when sharing personal or financial information. Verify the
identity of anyone who asks for sensitive information. Legitimate organizations will not
ask for your password or PIN through email or over the phone.
3. Use Strong Passwords: Create strong and unique passwords for your online accounts,
including banking and financial services. Use a combination of letters, numbers, and
special characters, and avoid using easily guessable information like birthdays or
common words.
4. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Whenever possible, enable 2FA for your
online accounts. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification
step, such as a text message or app notification.
5. Be Cautious with Emails: Be skeptical of unsolicited emails, especially those that ask
for personal or financial information. Check the sender’s email address for legitimacy,
and avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments.
6. Beware of Phone Calls: Scammers often impersonate banks or government agencies
over the phone. Do not provide sensitive information to callers who claim to be from
such organizations. Instead, call the official number listed on the organization’s website
to verify.
7. Protect Your Devices: Keep your computer, smartphone, and other devices updated with
the latest security patches and antivirus software. Regularly update your operating system
and applications.
8. Secure Wi-Fi Connections: Avoid conducting sensitive financial transactions on public
Wi-Fi networks. If you must use public Wi-Fi, consider using a VPN to encrypt your
internet connection.
 9. Check Your Bank Statements: Regularly review your bank and credit card statements
for any unauthorized or suspicious transactions. Report any discrepancies to your bank
immediately.
10. Research Investment Opportunities: Be wary of investment opportunities that promise
high returns with little risk. Always research and verify the legitimacy of investment
offers and consider consulting with a financial advisor.
11. Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect that you’ve encountered a financial scam,
report it to the appropriate authorities. In India, you can report financial fraud to the local
police, the Cyber Crime Cell, and organizations like the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
12. Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest scams and fraud alerts through news
sources, government websites, and consumer protection agencies.
13. Seek Legal Advice: If you believe you’ve been a victim of a financial scam, consider
consulting with a legal professional or financial advisor to explore your options for
recovery.

Remember that scammers often employ various tactics to deceive individuals, so it’s essential to
remain cautious and skeptical when dealing with financial matters. Always prioritize your
financial security and take proactive steps to protect yourself from scams.

What to Do When Stuck in a Fraud

In a recent conversation with Forbes Advisor India, the Director General of Police (DGP) of
Uttarakhand Ashok Kumar, spoke about cyber frauds in India and the imperative steps needed to
mitigate their impact.

Recognizing the escalating threat landscape, Kumar explained the step-by-step process that one
needs to follow on instances of cyber fraud. The discussion encompassed the pivotal role of
promptly notifying and collaborating with financial institutions, engaging with the National
Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (NCRP), and liaising with local law enforcement, including Cyber
Thanas and regular police stations. This collaborative approach, discussed with Kumar, forms
the basis of a strategic response to cyber fraud incidents, emphasizing the importance of timely
action, thorough documentation, and coordinated efforts to combat this evolving challenge.

In case of being stuck in a cyber fraud, Kumar suggests you must:

Contact Your Bank:

 Call your bank: Notify your bank’s customer service immediately. Report the incident
and provide details of the fraudulent activity. Request them to freeze or block any
compromised accounts or cards to prevent further unauthorized transactions.
 Lodge a Complaint with NCRP (National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal):

 Visit the NCRP website: Go to the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal
at https://www.cybercrime.gov.in/ .
 Register an account: If you don’t have an account, register on the portal.
 File a complaint: Lodge a detailed complaint, providing as much information as possible
about the cyber fraud. Include details such as the nature of the fraud, financial losses, and
any relevant communication.

Contact Cyber Thana or Local Police Station:

 Visit the nearest Cyber Thana or police station: Report the cyber fraud to the local
police, especially if there’s a local jurisdiction involved.
 File a First Information Report (FIR): Provide the necessary details to file an FIR.
Make sure to get a copy of the FIR, as it is an important legal document.

Provide Documentation:

 Gather evidence: Collect all relevant documentation, including transaction records,

emails, messages, and any other communication related to the fraud. These will be crucial
for the investigation.

Contact Other Relevant Authorities:

 Contact regulatory bodies: If the fraud involves specific sectors like securities or
insurance, consider reaching out to the respective regulatory authorities.
 Contact CERT-In (Indian Computer Emergency Response Team): In case of a
significant cybersecurity incident, you can also report the incident to CERT-In.

Monitor Your Accounts:

 Regularly check your accounts: Keep a close eye on your bank and other financial
accounts for any unusual activity. Report any additional suspicious transactions promptly

Why in News?

Recently, the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) draft report was approved by the Uttarakhand
Cabinet and is likely to be tabled in the state assembly on 6 th February 2024, as a bill for
enactment.

 The UCC drafting committee was led by retired Supreme Court judge Ranjana Prakash
Desai.
 The UCC is a proposed set of common laws for all residents of Uttarakhand, regardless of
their religion, caste, or gender.
Note

 Article 162 of the Indian Constitution indicates that the executive power of a State extends
to matters with respect to which the Legislature of the State has power to make laws. In view
of the provisions of Entry 5 of the Concurrent List of the Seventh Schedule, the
constitution of a Committee to introduce and implement Uniform Civil Code (UCC) per se
cannot be challenged as ultra vires.
o Entry 5 of the Concurrent List deals with “marriage and divorce; infants and
minors; adoption; wills, intestacy, and succession; joint family and partition; all
matters in respect of which parties in judicial proceedings were immediately before the
commencement of this Constitution subject to their personal law.
 This implies that the state government of Uttarakhand can enact UCC within its
territory.
What are the Key Highlights of Uttarakhand's UCC Draft Report?

 The UCC aims to replace distinct personal laws of every religion, focusing on marriage,
divorce, adoption, and inheritance, guided by Article 44 of the Constitution.
o Article 44 of the Indian Constitution is a Directive Principle of State Policy (DPSP). It
states that the state should try to establish a uniform civil code for all citizens
throughout India.
o This code would be a single set of personal laws that would apply to all citizens,
regardless of religion.
 Some of the key proposals put forth by the committee include the prohibition of polygamy,
nikah halala, iddat (a mandatory period of waiting to be observed by women following the
dissolution of a Muslim marriage), triple talaq, and child marriage, uniform age for girls'
marriage across all religions, and mandatory registration of live-in relationships.
 The draft UCC aims to focus on gender equality by treating men and women equally in
matters such as inheritance and marriage.
o The Code is also likely to extend an equal property share to Muslim women against
the existing 25% share accorded under Muslim personal laws.
o The minimum age for marriage for men and women is set to remain the same,18 years
for women and 21 years for men.
 Scheduled tribes (STs) have been exempted from the purview of the bill. The tribal
population in the state, which is around 3%, had been voicing its dissent against UCC in the
wake of the special status accorded to them.
What are the Concerns Regarding the UCC Draft Report for Uttarakhand?

 The UCC draft report may infringe upon the fundamental rights of religious freedom and
personal liberty guaranteed by the Constitution of India.
 o Some critics argue that the UCC draft report does not respect the diversity and pluralism
of India, and imposes a uniform code that may not suit the customs and practices of
different communities.
 The UCC draft report may affect the rights and interests of the STs of Uttarakhand.
o Some activists claim that the UCC draft report does not adequately address the issues
and aspirations of the STs, and may erode their cultural identity and autonomy.
What is the Uniform Civil Code?

 About:
o The UCC is mentioned in Article 44 of the Constitution as part of the Directive
Principles of State Policy, that the state should work to establish a uniform civil code
for all citizens across India.
 However, the Constitution's framers left it to the government's discretion to
implement the UCC.
o Goa is the only state in India with a UCC, following the Portuguese Civil Code of
1867.
 Supreme Court of India Stance on UCC:
o Mohd. Ahmed Khan vs Shah Bano Begum Case,1985:
 The Court observed that “it is a matter of regret that Article 44 has remained a
dead letter” and called for its implementation.
 Such a demand was reiterated in subsequent cases such as Sarla Mudgal v. Union
of India, 1995, and John Vallamattom v. Union of India, 2003.
o Jose Paulo Coutinho v. Maria Luiza Valentina Pereira Case, 2019:
 The Court hailed Goa as a “shining example” where “the uniform civil code is
applicable to all, regardless of religion except while protecting certain limited
rights” and accordingly urged for its pan-India implementation.
 Law Commission's Stance:
o In 2018, the 21st Law Commission headed by former Supreme Court judge Justice
Balbir Singh Chauhan submitted a consultation paper on “Reforms of family law”
wherein it observed that the “formulation of a Uniform Civil Code is neither
necessary nor desirable at this stage”.
 It underscored that secularism should coexist with the prevailing plurality in the
country. It however recommended that discriminatory practices and
stereotypes within existing personal laws should be amended.
o Acknowledging the lapse of more than three years since the issuance of the initial
consultation paper. In 2022, the 22nd Law Commission headed by Justice (Retd) Rituraj
Awasthi, issued a notification seeking opinions from various stakeholders, including the
public and religious organisations, on the UCC.
Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) introduced in India in 1982 allow the citizens to vote
electronically and ease the job of the Election Commission of India in counting the votes.
Aspirants preparing for the IAS Exam should be aware of this topic.
The Election Commission of India and issues related to Voting are very important when it comes
to UPSC Exams or any other Government Exams. These topics of the UPSC Syllabus come
under the Indian Polity and Governance part of the General Studies Paper-2 section.

What is an EVM – Electronic Voting Machine?

27,006

 EVMs are electronic voting machines which enable the voter with a button for each
choice of candidate. It is attached by a cable to an electronic ballot box.
 It comprises two units – control unit and balloting unit. They are connected by a 5-metre
cable.
 The EVM runs on a 6-volt single alkaline battery fixed in the control unit.
 It can even be used in areas that have no electricity.
 The control unit is with the Election Commission selected polling officer.
 The Balloting Unit is in the voting section into which the voter enters to cast their vote in
secret by pressing the button against the name and sign of the candidate of their choice.
Read in detail about the Election Commission of India.

Pros & Cons of EVM

Pros Cons

Environmentally friendly Security

 Less use of paper  Not easily, but can be hacked and

 No printing
 Easier to store and
transport
 Higher shelf life
tampered with.
 The time gap between the voting and
the counting of votes is a risk to
possible tampering, as the ballots are
physically stored after votes
Efficient Technical Issues

 Faster counting of  Malfunction in the software can give

votes out errors.
 No bogus votes  Hardware can cause issues too if the
 No invalid votes EVM is not handled with care.
 Easy to install and
use
 Can be used by the
State Legislative
Assembly as well as
Parliament.
Security Authenticity

 Not easily tampered  Citizens/voters can’t verify their votes.

Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT)

 VVPAT is an independent verification printer machine and is attached to electronic

voting machines.
 It allows voters to verify if their vote has gone to the intended candidate.
 When a voter presses a button in the EVM, a paper slip is printed through the VVPAT.
The slip contains the poll symbol and name of the candidate.
 It allows the voter to verify his/her choice.
 After being visible to the voter from a glass case in the VVPAT for seven seconds, the
ballot slip will be cut and dropped into the dropbox in the VVPAT machine and a beep
will be heard.
 VVPAT machines can be accessed by polling officers only.

Seven wrestlers have filed allegations of sexual harassment against the Wrestling Federation of
India President. As a result, the Supreme Court has issued a notice to the Delhi Police to register
an FIR against him. However, the Solicitor General has requested a preliminary inquiry before
registering the FIR. In this article, we examine this issue strictly from the point of view of
the UPSC exam. The issues related to law and polity which you must be aware of pertaining to
this issue in news are discussed here.

What is an FIR?

 An FIR (First Information Report) is a report filed by the police when they receive
information about a cognizable offence, a crime in which the police can arrest the
accused without a warrant.
What is the regulation for filing an FIR in cases of sexual harassment?
  As per Section 154 (1) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, the police are authorized to
file an FIR once they receive information regarding a cognizable offence.
 Cognizable offences under the Indian Penal Code include sections related to sexual
harassment and sexual assault.

What happens once an FIR is registered?

 After an FIR is registered, the police will initiate an investigation into the alleged
offence.
 They may question the accused, collect evidence, and prepare a chargesheet to submit to
the court.
 If the police determine that the allegations in the FIR are baseless or insufficient, they
may file a closure report to close the case.
 The further legal process depends on the evidence gathered during the investigation.
What happens when the police refuse to file an FIR?

 Section 166A of the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013, inserted on the
recommendation of the Justice J S Verma Committee, punishes a public servant with
rigorous imprisonment for a minimum of six months and a maximum of two years if he
refuses to record information related to a cognizable offence without any reasonable
cause.
What happens when the alleged offence is committed outside the jurisdiction of the police
station?

 In such cases, the police can file a ‘Zero FIR’ and transfer it to the police station
concerned.
What are the FIR provisions under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences
(POCSO) Act?

 The POCSO Act mandates reporting of sexual offences against children. Section 19
requires the registration of an FIR, and Section 21 punishes failure to report or record
such an offence with imprisonment, a fine, or both.
What are the remedies if the police refuse to file an FIR?

 Section 154 (3) allows an aggrieved person to send information to the Superintendent of
Police if the police in charge refuses to file an FIR.
 Alternatively, under Section 156 (3), a complaint can be filed before a magistrate who
can order registration of the case at the police station.
Can a preliminary inquiry be conducted before the registration of an FIR?

 The Lalita Kumari vs Government of UP and Others Case decided in 2013 concluded that
registration of an FIR under Section 154 of the CrPC is mandatory if the information of a
cognizable offence is received.
  However, the police officer may conduct a preliminary inquiry to test the veracity of the
information before registering the FIR

hy in News?

Recently, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed strict restrictions on Paytm Payments
Bank Ltd (PPBL). This move comes after an audit report highlighted persistent non-
compliances and supervisory concerns within the bank.

What are the Key Restrictions Imposed on PPBL?

 Background: Section 35A of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, confers authority upon
the RBI to issue directives to banks and undertake necessary actions to prevent the
operations of any banking entity from being conducted in a manner detrimental to the
interests of depositors or prejudicial to the bank's own interests.
o In this case, sources indicate concerns over dubious transactions involving significant
sums of money between Paytm and its associated banking entity prompted the RBI to
take action against the business.
 PPBL reportedly had numerous non-compliant accounts lacking proper KYC
verification, with thousands of instances where a single PAN was used to open
multiple accounts.
o Additionally, transactions exceeding regulatory limits in minimum KYC prepaid
instruments raised red flags about potential money laundering activities.
 Key Restrictions:
o Deposit Bar: PPBL is barred from accepting further deposits, top-ups, or credit
transactions into its accounts or wallets from 29th February, 2024.
 This also applies to its prepaid instruments for FASTags and National Common
Mobility Cards (NCMC) cards.
o Service Limitations: The ban extends to banking services such as Aadhaar Enabled
Payment System, Immediate Payment Service, bill payments, and UPI transactions.
 The bank must settle all pipeline and nodal account transactions by 29th March, with
no further transactions permitted thereafter.
o Closure of Nodal Accounts: PPBL is directed to terminate nodal accounts of its parent
company and Paytm Payments Services before 29th February, 2024.
Note

Nodal accounts serve as specialized bank accounts established by businesses, acting as financial
intermediaries.

 These accounts are designed to hold funds collected from participating banks on behalf of
consumers, with the primary purpose of later transferring these funds to specific merchants.
What are Payment Banks?

 About:
o Payment banks are a specialized type of bank introduced by the RBI in 2014. They are
designed to promote financial inclusion by offering basic banking services to the
unbanked and underbanked population.
o They were introduced on the recommendations of the Nachiket Mor committee set up
by the RBI to examine financial services for small businesses and low-income
households.
o Example: Airtel Payments Bank, India Post Payments Bank, etc.
 Licensing Requirements: They are licenced under Section 22 (1) of the Banking
Regulation Act, 1949
o They fall under the differentiated bank license category of RBI as they are restricted
from offering the full range of services provided by commercial banks.
 RBI grants two types of banking licenses: universal bank licenses and
differentiated bank licenses.
 Features:
o Reserve Requirements: They are required to maintain the Cash Reserve Ratio
(CRR) and Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR).
 Minimum 75% of its demand deposit balances in Statutory Liquidity Ratio eligible
G-securities/ T-bills with maturity up to one year.
 Maximum 25% in current and time/ fixed deposits with other scheduled commercial
banks apart from maintaining CRR requirements
o Minimum Paid-up Capital: The minimum paid-up equity capital has been fixed
at Rs 100 crore.
 The promoter’s minimum initial contribution to the paid-up equity capital shall be at
least 40% for the first 5 years.
o Prohibited Services: They are prohibited from conducting lending operations or issuing
credit cards.
 Therefore, they are also exempt from priority sector lending regulations that
typically apply to traditional banks.
o Rural Outreach Requirements: At least 25% of a Payments Bank’s physical access
points have to be in rural centers.
 Major Activities Performed by Payment Banks:
o Accepting deposits from individuals and small businesses, up to a certain limit (currently
set at Rs 2 lakh per account).
o Providing remittance services, and facilitating domestic money transfers.
o Issuing ATM/debit cards, prepaid payment instruments, and other electronic payment
methods.
 o Offering internet banking services, including online fund transfers and bill payments.

Farmers Protest 2024 and Delhi Chalo Champignon| Why Farmers Are Marching to
Delhi?
 Delhi Chalo: These forums gave a call of “Delhi Chalo” to remind the government of
the promises to farmers.
 Demand “MSP Guarantee”: The Minimum Support Price (MSP) assurance is one of
the main issues and farm unions are demanding a statutory status to MSP.
 Negotiations: A government delegation has held negotiations with the protesting
farmers, but the talks have not yielded results yet.
Background of Farmers Protest 2024
 The Government Had Brought Three Farm Laws in 2020


o The Farmers’ Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation)
Act: Provides for setting up a mechanism allowing the farmers to sell their farm
produce outside the Agriculture Produce Market Committees (APMCs).
o The Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance and
Farm Services Act: Allows farmers to do contract farming and market their produce
freely.
o The Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act: Fees items such
as foodgrains, pulses, edible oils and onion for trade except in extraordinary (read
crisis) situations.
 Fears of Farmers
o Lesser buying by the government agencies in the approved mandi’s due to outside
APMC trade of farm produce.
o The MSP system would become irrelevant.
 o Farmers would not have any assured income and would be at the mercy of big
corporations.
 Farmers Protests: These laws were met with unprecedented protests by farmers at Delhi
borders for over a year and were eventually withdrawn in 2021. The farmers have now
resumed the protest.
Farmer’s Demands in Recent Farmers Protest 2024
Legal Status to MSP: Enactment of legislation conferring mandatory legal status to MSP based
on the MS Swaminathan Commission’s recommendation. Some of the other demands
include:
 Debt Waiver: Full debt waiver for farmers and labourers;
 Implementation of the Land Acquisition Act of 2013: with provisions for written
consent from farmers before acquisition, and compensation at four times the collector
rate;
 Withdrawal from WTO: India should withdraw from the World Trade Organization
(WTO) and freeze all free trade agreements;
 Pension support: Pensions for farmers and farm labourers;
 Employment under MGNREGA: 200 (instead of 100) days’ employment under
MGNREGA per year, daily wage of Rs 700, and scheme should be linked with farming;
MS Swaminathan Committee
 The late MS Swaminathan was hailed as the ‘Father of India’s Green Revolution. He was
recently conferred the Bharat Ratna.
 He chaired the National Commission on Farmers (NCF).
 The NCF had recommended: C2+50 percent formula for MSP i.e MSP should be at least 50 per
cent more than the weighted average cost of production.
 It recommended adding ‘Agriculture‘ in the Concurrent List of the country’s Constitution.
 Diversion of ‘prime’ agricultural land and forest to the corporate sector for non-agricultural
purposes should not be allowed.
 Increasing investment in agriculture-related infrastructure and credit availability to farmers
 It also suggested promoting conservation farming.
About Minimum Support Price (MSP)
 Introduction: It was introduced in the mid-sixties when India was food-deficit.
 Definition: MSP for a crop is the price at which the government is supposed to
procure/buy that crop from farmers if the market price falls below it.
 Objective:
o To ensure that farmers receive a certain “minimum” remuneration so that their costs of
cultivation can be recovered.
o To incentivise the production of certain crops for the food security of India.
 Announced by: They are announced by the Union government based on
the recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP).
 Factors Taken into Consideration: The CACP considers the following factors such as:
o The demand and supply of a commodity;
o Its cost of production;
o The market price trends (both domestic and international);
o Inter-crop price parity;
 o Ratio of prices of farm inputs and farm outputs); a minimum of 50 per cent as the margin
over the cost of production; and
o The likely implications of an MSP on consumers of that product.
 Coverage of crops under MSP: The Government announces MSP for 23
crops however,
o It is not legally bound to pay MSP.
o It effectively procures only a third of these crops.
 Status of MSP: It does not have any statutory/legal backing. Access to it, unlike
subsidised grains through the PDS, isn’t an entitlement for farmers. The farmers cannot
demand MSP as a matter of right.
 MSP for Sugarcane: The only crop where MSP payment has some statutory element
is Sugarcane. This is due to its pricing being governed by the Sugarcane (Control)
Order, 1966 issued under the Essential Commodities Act.
o The responsibility to make Fair and Remunerative Price’ (FRP) payment to farmers
within 14 days of cane purchase lies solely with the sugar mills.
Commission for Agricultural Costs & Prices (CACP)
 The Commission for Agricultural Costs & Prices (CACP) is an attached office of the Ministry of
Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India.
 It considers the following costs for MSP calculation:
o A2: All paid-out costs directly incurred by the farmer in cash and kind on seeds, fertilisers,
pesticides, hired labour, leased-in land, fuel, irrigation, etc.
o A2+FL: A2 plus an imputed value of unpaid family labour.
o C2: It is a more comprehensive cost that factors in rentals and interest forgone on owned land and
fixed capital assets, on top of A2+FL.

Issues Related to Farmers

 Price Volatility: Farmers often face price volatility, especially during peak harvest season. The
sudden increase in supply can lead to a drop in prices, impacting the income of farmers who may
not receive adequate returns for their produce.
 Stock Limits: The stock limits under the Essential Commodities Act and restrictions under
Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act keep the farm gate prices low.
 Priority on Low Food Inflation: The emphasis on keeping food inflation low might sometimes
conflict with the objective of ensuring fair remuneration for farmers. The Government’s anti-
inflationary policies of low import duties also depress the prices.
Reasons For Not Giving MSP a Legal Backing
There are various issues due to which the Governments have been reluctant to give MSP a legal
guarantee:
 Heavy Subsidy Burden on the Government: The rising food bill under the existing
MSP system of the government translates into an increase in fiscal deficit in the annual
budget.
  Foodgrain Management: The Government does not have the physical resources to
purchase, store and market large quantities of produce, if it must procure the same
due to absence of buyers willing to pay the MSP.
 Consistent Increase in MSPs: Rising procurement means the Food Corporation of
India (FCI) godowns are overflowing, and rising MSP means that the FCI cannot
sell its stocks in the international market at a profit.
 Sale Outside APMC: Most of the sales of crops covered under MSP are not sold in
the APMCs. So, there is no record of purchaser or seller farmers.
o For these transactions, it is not possible to guarantee the MSP. Many small and
marginal farmers sell their produce to village traders who are outside the ambit
of Agricultural Produce Marketing Committee (APMCs).
Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC)
It refers to a statutory body established by state governments in India to regulate and oversee the
marketing and trade of agricultural produce within designated market areas.
This regulatory mechanism offers several benefits:
 Fair Pricing: It establishes fair pricing mechanisms to ensure that farmers receive reasonable
compensation for their efforts and investments.
 Elimination of Middlemen: who might exploit farmers, ensuring that farmers receive better
returns for their products.
 Reduced Market Charges: By regulating market charges and fees, it contributes to improved
market efficiency and reduces unnecessary financial burdens on farmers.
 Protection of Producers’ Interests: The APMC ensures that the interests of producer-sellers
(farmers) are safeguarded, preventing them from being coerced into distress sales.
Way Forward
 Build Consensus: Continuous talks between the Government and the farmers should be
held so that a consensus can be built to ensure that the income of farmers is safeguarded.
 Income Support: Many economists believe it is better to give farmers “income”, instead
of “price”, support. This means transferring a fixed sum of money annually into their
bank accounts, whether on a per-farmer (as in the Centre’s PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi)
or per-acre (the Telangana government’s Rythu Bandhu) basis.
 Representation in Expert Committee: One of the issues of farmers was that the state
of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh were not represented in the committee. The
Government should ensure that adequate representation should be given to all the
stakeholders in the committee .
 Strengthen the Agricultural Marketing System: APMC should be strengthened as per
the changing requirements of the country to ensure higher value to the farmers through
remunerative prices of their produce by taking advantage of the domestic and export
opportunities.
 Setting up of State Farmers Commissions: This was recommended by the National
Commission for Farmers. The State level Farmers’ Commission should be set up in all
the states with representation of farmers for ensuring dynamic government response to
farmers’ problems.
 Strengthening of Agricultural Infrastructure: Overall improvement in the agricultural
infrastructure is the need of the hour. The farmers should be provided with better
 logistical and storage facilities along with real time information on weather and market
conditions. These will enable them to make an informed decision.
Context:
 This article is based on a news “There was no humanity’: Man who helped MP rape
victim who went door to door seeking help” which was published in the Indian
Express. Recently, a minor girl was raped in Madhya Pradesh’s Ujjain district and was
in search of help while no one came to her aid. The icident highlighting the urgent need
for enhanced women safety measures.
Relevancy for Prelims: Women safety, National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), UNICEF,
NCRB, Cyber-violence, Cyber Crime Prevention against Women and Children (CCPWC), and
Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012.

Relevancy for Mains: Issues Associated with Women Safety in India, Sexual Harassment at
Workplace, Measure Taken to Improve Women Safety, and laws relating to women safety in
India.
Dark Realities of Women Safety in India
 Similar instances were seen in other places in India as well. For instance, two tribal
women were paraded naked in Manipur, a teen girl stabbed on the streets of Delhi etc.
 ‘Police’ and ‘Public Order’ are State subjects under the Seventh Schedule to the
Constitution of India. State Governments are thus responsible for safety and security of
the citizens including women and girls.
About Women Safety

 According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) 2021 data, India saw a total
of 4,28,278 instances of crimes against women in 2021.
 As per the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), around 30% of women in
India between the ages of 15-49 have experienced physical, sexual or domestic violence.
 Women safety involves strategies, practices and policies which aim to reduce violence
against women, including women’s fear of crime.
 The most common forms of gender-based violence includes:
o Domestic violence including partner violence.
o Sexual violence including rape, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation and trafficking.
o Women safety in public spaces including public transportation.
  Other recurrent forms of violence are forced evictions from property, femicide,
missing women, honor crimes, harmful traditional practices, violence against women in
times of war, murder and gun violence.
Issues Associated with Women Safety in India:
Women Safety: Sexual Harassment at Workplace

 Women often face harassment in workplaces, hindering their professional growth.

 The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and
Redressal) Act, 2013 (PoSH) was introduced to handle such challenges.
 The PoSH Act defines sexual harassment to include unwelcome acts such as physical
contact and sexual advances, showing pornography, and any other unwelcome physical,
verbal, or non-verbal conduct of a sexual nature.
 It also lists down five circumstances that would constitute sexual harassment if they are
connected to the above-mentioned acts:
o Implied or explicit promise of preferential treatment in employment.
o Implied or explicit threat of detrimental treatment in employment.
o Implied or explicit threat about present or future employment status.
o Interference with work or creating an intimidating or offensive or hostile work
environment.
o Humiliating treatment likely to affect health or safety.
 Pre-Birth:
o Female Foeticide: It is the intentional killing of baby girls in a fetus by undergoing
abortion, due to the son-meta preference and from the low value associated with the
birth of females.
 Infancy and Childhood:
o Deep-Rooted Gender Inequality: Traditional gender roles and patriarchal
norms contribute to the perpetuation of unequal power dynamics. Gender Disparities in
Education: Limited access to quality education can perpetuate cycles of inequality and
limit women’s economic and social mobility.
o Child Marriage: According to the UNICEF, one in three of the world’s child
brides live in India. Despite legislations prohibiting child marriages, it is still carried
openly in several regions. For instance, Akshay tritiya (Hindu festival) is popular for
mass child marriages in India.
 Adolescence and Adulthood:
o Online abuse: Online harassment, abuse, and trolling is a common practice making the
internet unsafe for women. New challenges related to the women safety are
cyberbullying, online harassment, and revenge porn are also rising.
 For instance, Sulli deals is a website which auctioned muslim women pictures and had
more than 100 twitter accounts of women.
o Domestic Violence: Cruelty by husband is amongst the top crimes against women.
Cultural norms and stigma often deter victims from reporting incidents, and inadequate
legal frameworks contribute to a lack of justice.
o Sexual Violence:
 Nearly one-third of women in India have experienced physical or sexual violence, finds
the NFHS-5 report.
  According to the NCRB, India lodged average 86 rapes daily, 49 offences against women
per hour in 2021.
o Honor Killings: Act of murder committed by male family members against female
family members who are perceived to have brought dishonor upon the family.
 Elderly:
o Lack of Access to Healthcare: Limited access to healthcare facilities and cultural taboos
surrounding women’s health contribute to health disparities.
Also read: UN Guidance call to protect Children’s Rights
What are the legal measures for women safety?
 The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018: It was enacted to prescribe more stringent
penal provisions including death penalty for rape of a girl below the age of 12 years.
The Act also mandates completion of investigation and trials within 2 months each.
Various special laws relating to women safety in India, includes:

 Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005

 Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961
 Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986
 Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013
 Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006
 Juvenile Justice (care and protection of children) Act, 2015
 Commissions for Protection of Child Rights Act, 2005
 Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012
 Commission of Sati (Prevention) Act, 1987.
 The Maharashtra Assembly passed the Shakti Criminal Laws (Maharashtra
Amendment) Act to approve death penalty for heinous offences of rape and gangrape.
 Movements and campaigns like #CallItOut because #ItsNotOK campaign, #MeToo
movement, facilitate knowledge transfer and coordinate efforts towards the prevention of
harassment against women.
 Justice Verma Committee: It was formed days after the horrific Nirbhaya gangrape
case in Delhi. It recommended enhanced punishment, including imprisoning one for the
remainder of his life in grave cases like rape.
o The Commission had argued against executions, viewing it as a regressive step even in
rarest of rare cases.
 Preventing Online Abuse: New IT Rules to deal with Cyber-violence, Cyber Crime
Prevention against Women and Children (CCPWC) Scheme.
 Railway Protection Force: Meri Saheli initiative ensures security of lady passengers
that are traveling by train by a dedicated Mahila officers team.
 Pink booths: They have been established in areas of Delhi with high footfall to provide
women with safe public zones.
Also read: Child, law, and Consensual Sex
Way Forward related to Women safety in India:
 Leadership and Income Generating Skills: Assist women in the sustainable
establishment of income generating activities to be undertaken in or near the home.
 For instance, Self Help Groups (SHG) such as Mahila Arthik Vikas MahilaMandal,
o
UMED Abhiyan under Maharashtra’s have proven beneficial in the development of
women entrepreneurship.
 Women’s Role in Decision-Making: There is evidence that having more women in
public and private decision making increases the general level of public sector
effectiveness and accountability in a country.
 Women’s Access to Health Services: Address issues related to reproductive health,
maternal deaths, malnutrition and noncommunicable diseases through quality and
affordable health services under universal health coverage.
o For instance, access to contraception can help in ensuring good sexual and
reproductive health. Involving Men in Women Safety: Men have their share of
responsibility in creating a safe and inclusive environment for all, including women.
Why in News?

Chandrayaan-3 has made history by becoming the first mission to soft-land on the lunar
south pole, a region that has never been explored before. The mission aimed to demonstrate safe
and soft lunar landing, rover mobility, and in-situ scientific experiments.

 India now joins the United States, Russia, and China as one of the few countries to
successfully land on the Moon.
How did Chandrayaan-3 Prevail Over Obstacles Encountered in the Previous Mission?

 Chandrayaan-3's successful landing came after the setback of the Chandrayaan-

2 mission's landing failure in 2019.
o The Vikram lander of Chandrayaan-2 had lost control and communication during
descent, leading to a crash on the lunar surface.
 Lessons from the Chandrayaan-2 mission were applied to Chandrayaan-3, focusing on
a "failure-based" design approach to anticipate and mitigate potential issues.
o Critical changes included strengthening the lander's legs, increasing fuel reserves, and
enhancing landing site flexibility.
Why did Chandrayaan-3 Choose Moon's Near Side for Landing?

 Chandrayaan-3 aimed to investigate "permanently shadowed regions" near the South

Pole for potential water-ice and resources.
o The Vikram lander's controlled descent achieved one of the closest approaches to the
Moon's South Pole.
 While a notable achievement, Vikram's landing occurred on the Moon's near side, unlike
China's Chang'e 4 on the far side.
o The near side, visible from Earth due to synchronous rotation, covers 60% of the
Moon.
o The far side, though not always in darkness, remained hidden until the Soviet
spacecraft Luna 3 captured images in 1959.
  Astronauts aboard the Apollo 8 mission in 1968 became the first humans to observe
the far side directly.
 The near side boasts smoother surfaces and numerous 'maria' (large volcanic plains), while
the far side features massive craters from asteroid impacts.
o The lunar crust on the near side is thinner, causing volcanic lava to flow and fill craters
over time, creating flat terrains.
 The decision to land on the near side was driven by the mission's primary goal of a
controlled soft landing.
o Landing on the far side would require a relay for communication due to the lack of
direct line-of-sight with Earth.
What are the Intended Actions for Chandrayaan-3 after its Landing?

 Chandrayaan-3 is expected to operate for at least one lunar day (14 Earth days) on the
lunar surface.
o The Pragyan rover will move around the landing site within a radius of 500 meters,
conducting experiments and sending data and images to the lander.
o The Vikram lander will relay the data and images to the orbiter, which will then
transmit them to Earth.
 Lander and Rover modules are collectively equipped with advanced scientific payloads.
o These instruments are designed to conduct comprehensive investigations into diverse
facets of lunar characteristics, encompassing terrain analysis, mineralogical
composition, surface chemistry, atmospheric attributes, and crucially,
the exploration for water and potential resource reservoirs.
o The propulsion module that carried the lander and rover configuration till 100 km
lunar orbit also has a Spectro-polarimetry of Habitable Planet Earth (SHAPE)
payload to study the spectral and Polari metric measurements of Earth from the lunar
orbit.
What are ISRO's Future Expeditions?

 Chandrayaan-4: Navigating the Path of Lunar Evolution

o Building upon past missions, Chandrayaan-4 emerges as a potential candidate for a
sample return mission.
 If successful, it could mark the next logical step after Chandrayaan-2 and 3, offering
the capability to retrieve lunar surface samples.
o The mission holds promise for advancing our understanding of the Moon's composition
and history.
 LUPEX: Lunar Polar Exploration (LUPEX) mission, a collaborative effort
between ISRO and JAXA(Japan), is poised to explore the Moon's polar regions.
o It will be specifically designed to venture into permanently shaded areas.
o Investigating the presence of water and assessing the potential for a sustainable long-
term station are among LUPEX's objectives.
 Aditya-L1: Aditya L1 will be the first space based Indian mission to study the Sun.
 o The spacecraft shall be placed in a halo orbit around the Lagrange point 1 (L1) of the
Sun-Earth system, which is about 1.5 million km from the Earth.
o Observing the sun's corona, emissions, solar winds, flares, and coronal mass
ejections are the primary focus areas of Aditya-L1.
 XPoSat (X-ray Polarimeter Satellite): It is India’s first dedicated polarimetry mission to
study various dynamics of bright astronomical X-ray sources in extreme conditions.
o The spacecraft will carry two scientific payloads in a low earth orbit.
 NISAR: NASA-ISRO SAR (NISAR) is a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) observatory being
jointly developed by NASA and ISRO.
o NISAR will map the entire globe in 12 days and provide spatially and temporally
consistent data for understanding changes in Earth’s ecosystems, ice mass, vegetation
biomass, sea level rise, ground water and natural hazards including earthquakes,
tsunamis, volcanoes and landslides.
 Gaganyaan: Gaganyaan mission aims to send humans to space and return them safely to
Earth. The mission will consist of two unmanned flights and one manned flight, using
the GSLV Mk III launch vehicle and a human-rated orbital module.
o The manned flight will carry three astronauts, including a woman, for up to seven
days in low Earth orbit.
 Shukrayaan 1: It is a planned mission to send an orbiter to Venus, the second planet from
the Sun. It is expected to study Venus’s geological and volcanic activity, emissions on the
ground, wind speed, cloud cover, and other planetary characteristics.

Why in News ?

Recently, The Supreme Court has delivered its long awaited verdict rejecting petitions to
legalise same-sex marriage and delved deeper on the provisions of the Special Marriage Act,
1954 to examine the issue thoroughly, which have convergence and interrelationship
with homosexuality.

What is the Observation of the Supreme Court (SC)?

 Against Constitutional Validity:

o A five-judge Constitution Bench of the apex court headed by Chief Justice of
India ruled in a 3:2 verdict against giving constitutional validity to same-sex marriages.
 Domain Of Parliament:
o The CJI, in his opinion, concludes that the court can neither strike down or read
words into the Special Marriage Act (SMA) 1954 to include same sex members within
the ambit of the SMA 1954.The top court said it is for Parliament and state
Legislature to formulate laws on it.
 Other Observations:
 o However, at the same time, the SC says the relationship of marriage is not a static
one.
o SC holds that queer persons have an equal right and freedom to enter into a “union”.
o All five judges on the Bench, agreed that there is no fundamental right to
marry under the Constitution.
CJI and Justice Kaul (Minority Opinions): Favoured extension of Civil Union to same-sex
couples:

 A ‘civil union’ refers to the legal status that allows same-sex couples specific rights and
responsibilities that are normally conferred upon married couples. Although a civil
union resembles a marriage, it does not have the same recognition in personal law as
marriage.
What is the Legality of Same-Sex Marriages in India?

 The right to marry is not expressly recognized either as a fundamental or constitutional

right under the Indian Constitution but a statutory right.
 Though marriage is regulated through various statutory enactments, its recognition as a
fundamental right has only developed through judicial decisions of India’s Supreme
Court. Such declaration of law is binding on all courts throughout India under Article
141 of the Constitution.
 Earlier Views of Supreme Court on Same-Sex Marriages:
o Marriage as a Fundamental Right (Shafin Jahan v. Asokan K.M. and others 2018):
 While referring to Article 16 of the Universal Declaration of Human Right and
the Puttaswamy case, the SC held that the right to marry a person of one’s choice is
integral to Article 21 of the Constitution.
 Article 16 (2) in the Indian constitution provides that there cannot be any
discrimination on grounds only of religion, race, caste, sex, descent, place of
birth, residence or any of them.
 The right to marry is intrinsic to the liberty which the Constitution guarantees
as a fundamental right, as the ability of each individual to take decisions on matters
central to the pursuit of happiness. Matters of belief and faith, including whether to
believe are at the core of constitutional liberty.
o LGBTQ Community Entitled to all Constitutional Rights (Navjet Singh Johar and
others v. Union of India 2018):
 The SC held that members of the LGBTQ community “are entitled, as all other
citizens, to the full range of constitutional rights including the liberties protected
by the Constitution” and are entitled to equal citizenship and “equal protection of
law”.
What is the Special Marriage Act (SMA) 1954?

 About:
 o Marriages in India can be registered under the respective personal laws Hindu Marriage
Act, 1955, Muslim Personal Law Application Act, 1937, or under the Special
Marriage Act, 1954.
o It is the duty of the Judiciary to ensure that the rights of both the husband and wife are
protected.
o The Special Marriage Act, 1954 has provisions for civil marriage for people of India
and all Indian nationals in foreign countries, irrespective of religion or faith followed by
either party.
o When a person solemnized marriage under this law, then the marriage is not governed
by personal laws but by the Special Marriage Act.
 Features:
o Allows people from two different religious backgrounds to come together in the bond
of marriage.
o Lays down the procedure for both solemnization and registration of marriage, where
either of the husband or wife or both are not Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, or Sikhs.
o Being a secular Act, it plays a key role in liberating individuals from traditional
requirements of marriage.
What are the Arugments in Favour of Same Sex Marriage?

 Equal Rights and Protection Under the Law: All individuals, regardless of their sexual
orientation, have the right to marry and form a family.
o Same-sex couples should have the same legal rights and protections as opposite-sex
couples.
o Non-recognition of same-sex marriage amounted to discrimination that struck at the
root of the dignity of LBTQIA+ couples.
 Strengthening Families and Communities: Marriage provides social and economic
benefits to couples and their families which will also benefit the same-sex people.
 Cohabitation as a Fundamental Right: The Chief Justice of India (CJI) acknowledged
that cohabitation is a fundamental right, and it is the government's obligation to legally
recognize the social impact of such relationships.
 Biological gender is not ‘absolute: The Supreme Court of India says that biological gender
is not absolute, and that gender is more complex than just one's genitals. There is no
absolute concept of a man or a woman.
 Global Acceptance: Same-sex marriage is legal in many countries around the world, and
denying this right to individuals in a democratic society goes against the global principles.
o In 32 countries, same-sex marriage is legal.
What are the Arugments Against Same Sex Marriage?

 Religious and Cultural Beliefs: Many religious and cultural groups believe that marriage
should only be between a man and a woman.
 o They argue that changing the traditional definition of marriage would go against the
fundamental principles of their beliefs and values.
 Procreation: Some people argue that the primary purpose of marriage is procreation, and
that same-sex couples cannot have biological children.
o Therefore, they believe that same-sex marriage should not be allowed because it goes
against the natural order of things.
 Legal issues: There are concerns that allowing same-sex marriage will create legal
problems, such as issues with inheritance, tax, and property rights.
o Some people argue that it would be too difficult to change all the laws and regulations to
accommodate same-sex marriage.
 Issues with Adoption of Childrens: When queer couples adopt children, it can lead
to societal stigma, discrimination, and negative impacts on the child's emotional and
psychological well-being, especially in Indian society where acceptance of the LGBTQIA+
community is not universal.
What Could be the Way Forward?

 Raise Awareness: The purpose of awareness campaigns is to promote equality and

acceptance of all sexual orientations and expand public opinion about the LGBTQIA+
community.
 Legal Reforms: Amendments in the Special Marriage Act, 1954 to allow same-sex
couples to legally marry and enjoy the same rights and benefits as opposite-sex couples.
o Meanwhile bring the contract like agreement so that homosexual people can enjoy
similar rights like heterosexuals.
 Dialogue and Engagement: Engaging in a dialogue with religious leaders and communities
can help bridge the gap between traditional beliefs and modern attitudes towards same-
sex relationships.
 Legal Challenges: The Indian LGBTQIA+ community can challenge the constitutionality of
the current laws that prevent same-sex marriage in court. Such legal challenges can help
establish a legal precedent that will pave the way for the legalization of same-sex marriage.
 Collaboration: The legalisation of same-sex marriage requires a concerted effort from all
stakeholders, including the LGBTQIA+ community, the government, civil society, and
religious leaders.
o By working together, we can create a more inclusive society where everyone has the
right to love and marry whomever they choose, regardless of their gender.
Why in News?

The 18th G20 Summit was held in New Delhi, India on September 9th and 10th, 2023. The
summit was the first time India hosted the G20 Leaders' Summit.

 The theme of the summit was "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam", which means "The world is
one family".
 G20 Leaders' New Delhi Declaration achieved unanimous consensus, addressing diverse
global issues, from Russia-Ukraine tensions to sustainable development, food security, and
launching the Global Biofuel Alliance.
What are the Major Outcomes of G20 Summit 2023?

 Admittance of the African Union (G20 now G21):

o The G20 leaders agreed to admit the African Union as a permanent member of the
G20, which is a major step towards increasing the representation of developing countries
in the forum.
o The Impact of AU's Inclusion in G20:
 The AU's membership in the G20 offers an opportunity to reshape global trade,
finance, and investment and would provide a greater voice to the Global South
within the G20.
 It allows African interests and perspectives to be heard and recognized within the
G20.
 Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA):
o About:
 GBA is an India-led initiative that aims to develop an alliance of governments,
international organizations, and industry to promote the adoption of biofuels.
 The initiative seeks to position biofuels as a key component of the energy transition
and contribute to job creation and economic growth.
 It will help accelerate India’s existing biofuels programs such as PM-
JIVANYojna, SATAT, and GOBARdhan scheme.
 As per IEA, there will be 3.5-5x biofuels growth potential by 2050 due to Net
Zero targets, creating a huge opportunity for India.
o Formation and Founding Members:
 The alliance was launched with nine initiating members: India, the US, Brazil,
Argentina, Bangladesh, Italy, Mauritius, South Africa, and the United Arab
Emirates.
 GBA Members constitute major producers and consumers of biofuels. USA
(52%), Brazil (30%) and India (3%), contribute about 85% share in production
and about 81% in consumption of ethanol.
 19 countries and 12 international organizations have already agreed to join.
 G20 Invited Countries supporting GBA:
 Bangladesh, Singapore, Mauritius, UAE
 Non-G20 supporting GBA:
 Iceland, Kenya, Guyana, Paraguay, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Uganda, and Finland
 International Organizations:
  World Bank, Asian Development Bank, World Economic Forum, World LPG
Organization, UN-Energy for All, UNIDO, Biofutures Platform, International
Civil Aviation Organization, International Energy Agency, International Energy
Forum, International Renewable Energy Agency, World Biogas Association.
 India – Middle East – Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC):
o A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Governments of
India, the US, Saudi Arabia, the European Union, the UAE, France, Germany and Italy
to establish the IMEC.
o IMEC is part of a broader initiative called the Partnership for Global Infrastructure
Investment (PGII).
 The PGII was initially introduced during the G7 summit in the UK in June 2021.
 PGII aims to finance infrastructure projects in developing countries through
a combination of public and private investments.
o IMEC is a significant infrastructure project connecting India, the Middle East, and
Europe.
o The project aims to establish a network of transport corridors, including railways
and sea lanes.
o IMEC is seen as a response to China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), providing an
alternative infrastructure network.
 G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion Document:
o The G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion document prepared by the World
Bank has lauded the transformative impact of India's Digital Public
Infrastructure(DPI) over the past decade under the Central Government.
o The document emphasizes the following initiatives that played a greater role in shaping
the DPI landscape:
 Rapid Financial Inclusion:
 India's DPI approach achieved 47 years' worth of financial inclusion progress
in just 6 years.
 Jan Dhan-Aadhar-Mobile (JAM) Trinity boosted the financial inclusion rate
from 25% in 2008 to over 80% within 6 years.
 Regulatory frameworks, national policies, and Aadhaar-based verification
complemented DPIs.
 Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojna (PMJDY) Success:
 PMJDY accounts tripled from 147.2 million (March 2015) to 462 million
(June 2022).
 Women own 56% of these accounts, exceeding 260 million.
 PMJDY drove savings among low-income women, attracting over 12 million
customers by April 2023.
  Government to Person (G2P) Payments:
 India's digital G2P architecture facilitated USD 361 billion transfers to
beneficiaries from 53 ministries via 312 schemes.
 Achieved total savings of USD 33 billion by March 2022, equivalent to 1.14%
of GDP.
 Unified Payments Interface (UPI) Dominance:
 May 2023 witnessed over 9.41 billion UPI transactions, valued at Rs 14.89
trillion.
 UPI transactions in FY 2022–23 neared 50% of India's nominal GDP.
 Private Sector Efficiency:
 DPI streamlined private organizations' operations, reducing complexity, costs,
and time.
 Some NBFCs achieved 8% higher SME lending conversion rates, 65% savings
in depreciation costs, and 66% cost reduction in fraud detection.
 Banks' customer onboarding costs in India dropped from USD 23 to USD
0.1 with DPI use.
 Lower Compliance Costs for KYC:
 Reduced compliance costs from USD 0.12 to USD 0.06, making lower-income
clients more attractive.
 Cross-Border Payments:
 UPI-PayNow linkage enables faster and cheaper cross-border payments with
Singapore.
 Account Aggregator Framework:
 Enabled 1.13 billion accounts for data sharing with 13.46 million consents
raised.
 Data Empowerment and Protection Architecture (DEPA):
 Provides individuals control over their data, fostering innovation and
competition.
What are the Other Key Highlights of G20 Summit 2023?

 Tripling the Global Renewable Energy Capacity By 2030:

o G20 countries promised to work towards tripling the global renewable
energy capacity by 2030.
 If met, this single step could avoid carbon dioxide emissions by seven billion
tonnes between now and 2030, according to an assessment by the International
Energy Agency (IEA).
 Aligns with global efforts to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
 o Represents a significant shift away from fossil fuels towards cleaner energy
alternatives.
o The declaration acknowledges that current climate action is insufficient and highlights
the need for trillions of dollars in financial resources to achieve the objectives of
the Paris Agreement.
o Expanding renewable energy capacity on this scale could avoid about 7 billion tonnes of
CO2 emissions between 2023 and 2030.
 Commitment to Global Food Security and Nutrition:
o The G20 leaders recognize the importance of addressing rising commodity prices,
including food and energy prices, which contribute to cost-of-living pressures.
o They aim to eliminate hunger and malnutrition, acknowledging that global challenges
like poverty, climate change, pandemics, and conflicts disproportionately affect
vulnerable populations, particularly women and children.
o The G20 declaration highlights the human suffering and impacts of the war in Ukraine
on global food and energy security, supply chains, inflation, and economic stability.
o G20 leaders called for the full, timely implementation of the Black Sea grain
initiative.
o The agriculture working group during the G20 Presidency reached a historic consensus
on two aspects: Deccan G20 High-level principles on Food Security and Nutrition
and the Millet initiative called MAHARISHI.
 The seven principles under the high-level principles on food security and nutrition
include humanitarian assistance, increasing food production and food security
net programs, climate-smart approaches, inclusivity of agriculture food
systems, one health approach, digitalization of the agriculture sector, and
scaling responsible public and private investment in agriculture.
 MAHARISHI (Millets And OtHer Ancient Grains International ReSearcH Initiative)
aims at advancing research collaborations and generating awareness about millets
and other ancient grains during International Years of Millets 2023 and after.
o The G20 committed to promoting transparent, fair, and rule-based trade in agriculture,
food, and fertilizer. They pledged not to impose export restrictions, reduce market
distortions, and align with WTO rules.
o The G20 leaders emphasize the importance of strengthening the Agricultural Market
Information System (AMIS) and the Group on Earth Observations Global
Agricultural Monitoring (GEOGLAM) for greater transparency.
 This includes expanding AMIS to include vegetable oils and enhancing collaboration
with early warning systems to avoid food price volatility.
 Note:
o AMIS is an inter-agency platform to enhance food market transparency and policy
response for food security.
  It was launched in 2011 by the G20 Ministers of Agriculture following the global
food price hikes in 2007/08 and 2010.
o GEOGLAM enhances market transparency and food security by providing timely
agricultural information worldwide.
o The GEOGLAM policy mandate initially came from the Group of Twenty (G20)
Agriculture Ministers during the French G20 Presidency in 2011.
 Small Arms and Terrorist Safe Havens:
o The 2023 New Delhi Declaration builds upon previous G20 declarations, especially
the 2015 Turkiye declaration, which strongly denounced terrorism. Unlike the 2022
G20 Bali Leaders Declaration, which primarily focused on the financing of terrorism
and the strengthening of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the New Delhi
Declaration encompasses a wider range of concerns.
o The G20 leaders, in the New Delhi Declaration, clearly condemn terrorism in all its
forms and manifestations.
o The declaration supports the FATF's efforts to enhance global asset recovery networks
and recover criminal proceeds.
 Healthcare Resilience and Research:
o The G20 New Delhi Leaders' Declaration places significant emphasis on healthcare and
prioritizes the need to build a resilient healthcare system.
o It commits to strengthening the global health architecture to create more resilient,
equitable, sustainable, and inclusive health systems. The World Health
Organization (WHO) is at the core of this effort.
o The goal is to enhance primary healthcare, the health workforce, and essential health
services to levels better than pre-pandemic within the next two to three years.
o In addition to addressing ongoing epidemics like tuberculosis and AIDS, the G20
recognizes the importance of research on long Covid.
o India’s G20 presidency also pushed for the integration of evidence-based traditional
medicine practices with modern medicine.
o There is an emphasis on adopting a one-health approach, which tracks diseases in
animals, plants, and humans within the same mechanism, with a particular focus on
tackling antimicrobial resistance.
 Finance Track Agreements:
o India's G-20 presidency has laid the foundation for a coordinated and comprehensive
policy and regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies.
o The emergence of global consensus on crypto asset regulation was emphasized.
o G-20 leaders have recognized the pressing need for more robust and
effective Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) to address the high developmental
demands globally.
 o The India Stack model of digital public infrastructure for financial inclusion is
acknowledged as a promising approach.
o The G-20 leaders' New Delhi Declaration underscores the monitoring of risks
associated with the rapid developments in the crypto-asset ecosystem.
 India-Mercosur Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA):
o India and Brazil agreed to work together for the expansion of India-Mercosur PTA to
promote economic ties.
 Mercosur is a trading bloc in Latin America, comprising Brazil, Argentina,
Uruguay and Paraguay.
o The India-Mercosur PTA came into effect on June 1, 2009, aimed to eliminate customs
duties on a limited number of goods agreed between India and the Mercosur bloc.
 Climate Financing Commitment:
o The declaration emphasizes a substantial increase in climate financing, calling for a
"quantum jump" from billions of dollars to trillions of dollars.
o It underscores the need for significant financial resources, including USD. 5.8-5.9 trillion
in the pre-2030 period for developing countries and USD 4 trillion per year for clean
energy technologies by 2030 to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
 India’s Cultural Showcase:
o Bharat Mandapam (inspired from Anubhav Mandapam).
o Bronze statue of Lord Nataraja (Chola style).
o Konark Chakra of Odisha’s Sun Temple and Image of Nalanda University (used as
iconic backdrops).
o Thanjavur Paintings and Dhokra art.
o Brass statue of Lord Buddha sitting under Bodhi tree.
o Diverse musical heritage (Hindustani, Folk, Carnatic, Devotional).
 Transition of G20 Presidency:
o Prime Minister of India handed over the customary gavel of the G20 chair to Brazilian
President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who will officially take over the presidency on
December 1, 2023.
What are the Latest India-US Collaboration at G20 Summit 2023?

 India and the United States are strengthening their technology partnership, focusing
on resilient semiconductor supply chains, and telecom infrastructure.
 India supports the US 'Rip and Replace' pilot project, aligning with the removal of
Chinese telecom equipment.
 India and the US reaffirmed their commitment to deepen and diversify the India-US
Major Defence Partnership through expanded cooperation in new and emerging domains
such as space and artificial intelligence (AI).
 GE F-414 Jet Engine Agreement:

o The US recently completed the notification process for a commercial agreement

between General Electric Aerospace and Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) to
manufacture GE F-414 jet engines in India.
o This agreement marks a significant step in defence cooperation between the U.S. and
India, highlighting India's commitment to enhancing its domestic defence manufacturing
capabilities.
here have been violent communal clashes in Manipur due to the Manipur High Court (HC)
directing the State to pursue a 10-year-old recommendation to grant Scheduled Tribe
(ST) status to the non-tribal Meitei community.

 The violence escalated after the All-Tribal Student Union Manipur (ATSUM) organized a
"tribal solidarity rally" against the alleged move to include the Meiteis on the ST list.
What is Manipur’s ethnic composition?

 The State is like a football stadium with the Imphal Valley representing the playfield at the
centre and the surrounding hills the galleries. The valley, which comprises about 10% of
Manipur’s landmass, is dominated by the non-tribal Meitei who account for more than
64% of the population of the State and yields 40 of the State’s 60 MLAs.
 The hills comprising 90% of the geographical area are inhabited by more than 35%
recognised tribes but send only 20 MLAs to the Assembly.
 While a majority of the Meiteis are Hindus followed by Muslims, the 33 recognised
tribes, broadly classified into ‘Any Naga tribes’ and ‘Any Kuki tribes’ are largely
Christians.
What is the Meitei argument to support demand of ST status?

 The Scheduled Tribe Demand Committee of Manipur (STDCM) began demanding ST status
for the Meiteis in 2012.
o The Meiteis were recognised as a tribe before the merger of the State with the Union
of India in 1949. The ST status is needed to “preserve” the community and “save the
ancestral land, tradition, culture, and language” of the Meiteis.
 In 1972, the union territory of Manipur became 19th state of India.
o The Meiteis need constitutional safeguards against outsiders, stating that
the community has been kept away from the hills while the tribal people can buy
land in the “shrinking” Imphal Valley (Apprehension of Meities that creation
of Greater Nagalim would lead to shrinking of Manipur’s geographical area).
 The Meitein/Meetei have been gradually marginalised in their ancestral land.
o Their population was 59% of the total population of Manipur in 1951 and has now been
reduced to 44% as per 2011 Census data.
 The Naga and Kuki movements fuelled Meitei nationalism. Concerns over demographic
change and shrinking of traditional Meitei areas started to surface in the 1970s.
 During the period 2006-12 came the demand for an Inner Line Permit (ILP) in
Manipur, to bar outsiders. The free movement of the Kuki-Zomi across Manipur’s
porous border with Myanmar fanned fears of demographic change.
o The growth rate of Manipur’s population had jumped from 12.8% in the 1941-51 period
to 35.04% during 1951-61 and to 37.56% in 1961-71 after the permit system was
abolished.
 In Manipur, the government is the largest employer and the reservation for STs in jobs
amounts to an unfair advantage.
 o Infrastructure development (like railways that would open Manipur further) has made
insecurities worse.
Why are tribal groups against ST status for Meiteis?

 The Meiteis have a demographic and political advantage and are also more academically
advanced.
o ST status to the Meiteis would lead to loss of job opportunities and allow them to
acquire land in the hills and push the tribals out.
 The language of the Meitei people is included in the Eighth Schedule of the
Constitution and many of them have access to benefits associated with the SC, OBC or
EWS status.
 Kukis and Nagas point out that tribal areas are 90% of state’s geographical area, but the bulk
of its budget and development work is focused on the Meitei-dominated Imphal valley.
The Process of Inclusion in the ST List

 State governments starts recommendation for inclusion of the tribes in the list of ST.
 After the recommendation of the state govt, Tribal Affairs Ministry reviews and sends them
to the Registrar General of India, Under the Home Ministry for approval.
 After approval, it is sent to the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes and then sent to
the Cabinet for a final decision.
 Once the cabinet finalizes it, then it introduces a bill in the parliament to amend the
Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950, and the Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) Order,
1950.
 After the amendment bill is passed by both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, the President’s
office takes the final decision under Articles 341 and 342 of the Constitution.
What led to the recent Unrest?

 While the forest eviction and demand for ST status for Meiteis have been the most
prominent recent triggers, the divide between the Meiteis and tribals on several issues has
widened over the past decade.
 Issues in Delimitation Process: In 2020, as the Centre began the first delimitation
process in the state since 1973, the Meitei community alleged that the Census figures used in
the exercise did not accurately reflect the population break-up.
o Tribal groups (Kuki and Nagas) on the other hand said they had grown to 40% of the
state’s population and were underrepresented in the Assembly.
 Intrusion of Migrants from Neighbour Area: The February 2021 coup in Myanmar has
led to a refugee crisis in India’s Northeast. Meitei leaders have alleged that there has been
a sudden mushrooming of villages in Churachandpur district.
 The Drugs Problem: Some tribal groups with vested interests are trying to scuttle govt’s
crusade against drugs.
 o The anti-drug drive was started by destroying poppy fields. “Illegal settlers” related to
the Kuki-Zomi of Manipur, growing drugs on cleared lands.
 Recent Unrest: The first violent protest erupted over the eviction of the residents of a Kuki
village.
o 38 villages in the Churachandpur-Khoupum Protected Forest area (in
Churachandpur and Noney districts) are “illegal settlements” and its residents are
“encroachers (encroaching reserved and protected forests and wildlife sanctuaries for
poppy plantation and drugs business”).
o Kuki groups have claimed that the survey and eviction is a violation of Article 371C, as
kukis are residents of Hill Area.
 Article 371C provides for the creation of a committee of the Manipur
Legislative Assembly consisting of the members elected from the Hill Areas of the
state and Governor shall have responsibility for proper functioning of that
committee.
 At the State level there is Hill Area Committee constituted under the Manipur
Legislative Assembly (Hill Areas Committee) order, 1972. The Hill areas
Committee comprises of all MLAs elected from the hill areas of the State as its
members.
o The state government withdrew from the suspension of operations agreements with two
Kuki extremist groups accused of inciting the protesters.
Geography of Manipur and History of Violence in Manipur

 There are 16 districts in Manipur, but the state is commonly thought of as divided into
‘valley’ and ‘hill’ districts. Today’s valley districts of Imphal East, Imphal West,
Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching were part of the erstwhile kingdom of Kangleipak,
ruled by the Ningthouja dynasty.
 The Manipur valley is encircled by skirts of low hills (hill areas comprise the bulk of
Manipur’s geographical area), live 15 Naga tribes and the Chin-Kuki-Mizo-Zomi group,
which includes the Kuki, Thadou, Hmar, Paite, Vaiphei and Zou peoples.
 The Kangleipak kingdom, then a British protectorate, was repeatedly raided by Naga
tribes who came down from the northern hills. The British political agent in Manipur
brought the Kuki-Zomi from the Kuki-Chin hills of Burma to protect the valley from
plunder by acting as a buffer between the Meiteis and the Nagas.
o The Kukis, like the Nagas, were fierce headhunting warriors — and the Maharaja gave
them land along the ridges, where they could act as a shield for the Imphal valley below.
 Kuki-Meitei divide: The hill communities (Naga & Kuki) and the Meiteis have had
ethnic tensions since the kingdom era. The Naga movement for independence in the 1950s
triggered insurgencies among the Meiteis and Kuki-Zomi. The Kuki-Zomi groups militarised
in the 1990s to demand a state within India called ‘Kukiland’(a state within India). This
alienated them from the Meiteis, whom they had earlier defended.
o In 1993, Hindu Meiteis clashed with Pangals (Muslims), and also there was horrific
violence between the tribal Nagas and Kukis, which saw more than a hundred Kukis
massacred in a single day by Nagas, and thousands driven from their homes.
 District of Churachandpur: Kuki-Zomi-dominated Churachandpur (a Myanmar bordered
District) has mostly Christian population. It is the country’s poorest district (as per the
Panchayati Raj Ministry in 2006) and it remains abjectly poor.
o In 2015, as the Meiteis of the valley protested demanding ILP in Imphal city, equally
intense protests were seen in Churachandpur countering the demand and protesting
the introduction of laws.
Way Forward

 Need to evaluate the criteria for ST status (to Meities) in line with recommendations given
by several Committees, like:
o The Lokur Committee (1965) recommended 5 criteria for identification, namely,
primitive traits, distinct culture, geographical isolation, shyness of contact with the
community at large, and backwardness.
o Bhuria Commission (2002-2004) focused on a wide range of issues from
the 5th Schedule to tribal land and forests, health and education, the working of
Panchayats and the status of tribal women.
o A High-Level Committee (HLC) in 2013, under chairmanship of Prof. Virginius
Xaxa was constituted to study the 5 critical issues related to tribal communities: (1)
livelihood and employment, (2) education, (3) health, (4) involuntary displacement and
migration, (5) and legal and constitutional matters.
 Bring more surveillance along the border areas to prevent the incursion of the migrants from
Myanmar. Strengthening economic and diplomatic ties with neighboring countries can help
enhance regional stability and security.
 Need to maintain the identity of the people along the border areas to identify the local
residence. Signing Peace settlement agreements with the local insurgent group to maintain
the peace in the region.
 The repeal of AFSPA, the controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act 1958, is
necessary to improve the human rights situation in the region. The government should ensure
that the legal system is fair and transparent to prevent the misuse of power by security forces.
 The government should foster the participation of the people of the region in the decision-
making process to instill a sense of ownership and belonging.

hy in News?

Recently, the Ministry of Education (MoE) has introduced comprehensive guidelines to

regulate coaching centers and manage the unregulated growth of private coaching centres.

What are the Major Guidelines for the Coaching Centres?

 Age Restrictions: Coaching centers are prohibited from enrolling students below 16 years
of age. Student enrolment is allowed only after completing the secondary school
examination.
 Tutor Qualification: Tutors must have at least a graduation qualification, and the hiring of
individuals convicted of moral turpitude is prohibited. Moral turpitude means an act done
contrary to honesty and good morals of the society.
 Avoiding False Promises and Assurance: Coaching institutes cannot make misleading
promises, guarantee ranks, or assure good marks.
o Misleading advertisements about coaching quality, facilities, or results are strictly
prohibited.
 Updated Website: Coaching centers are required to have a website with updated
information on tutor qualifications, courses, duration, hostel facilities, and fees.
 Mental Well-being: In response to rising student suicides, the guidelines emphasize the
need for coaching centres to prioritize mental well-being.
o This includes establishing a counseling system, providing information about
psychologists and counsellors, and training tutors in mental health issues.
 Fee Regulations: Tuition fees must be fair and reasonable, and refunds should be provided
on a pro-rata basis if a student leaves a course prematurely.
 Inclusive Policies: Coaching institutes must refrain from discriminating based on religion,
race, caste, sex, place of birth, or descent.
o Special efforts can be taken to increase the representation of female students, those with
disabilities, and marginalized groups.
 Infrastructure Standards: A minimum of one square metre per student during a class.
o Coaching center buildings must comply with fire safety codes, building safety codes,
and other relevant standards.
o Buildings and surroundings must also be Divyang-friendly, following the provisions of
the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
 Government Oversight: The government proposes the registration of new and existing
coaching centers within three months of the guidelines taking effect.
o State governments are tasked with monitoring coaching centre activities and
ensuring compliance with registration eligibility.
 Penalties: In case of violation of any of the terms and conditions of registration or general
conditions, the coaching centre shall be liable for penalties as follows:
o Rs 25,000/- for first offense
o Rs. 1,00,000/- for the second offense
o Revocation of registration for subsequent offense.
Note

According to the Ministry of Education, coaching means tuition, instructions or guidance in

any branch of learning imparted to more than 50 students but does not include counseling,
sports, dance, theatre and other creative activities.

In a significant political move, Rahul Gandhi, a prominent leader of the Indian National
Congress, has embarked on the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, a 66-day-long journey spanning from
Thoubal in Manipur to Mumbai. Commencing on January 14, 2024, and concluding on March
20, 2024, this campaign is strategically designed to cover a vast expanse of the country,
encompassing 14 states and 85 districts. Unlike its predecessor, the Bharat Jodo Yatra, this
iteration employs a hybrid mode of transportation, incorporating buses for longer distances to
accommodate time constraints and health concerns of senior party leaders.

What is Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra?

Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra is a political campaign led by Indian National Congress leader Rahul
Gandhi, initiated on January 14, 2024, from Thoubal, Manipur, and concluding on March 20,
2024, in Mumbai. Spanning 14 states and 85 districts, the 66-day-long journey covers 6,200
kilometers, aiming to engage voters ahead of the 2024 general elections. Focused on social
justice and unity, the campaign addresses issues such as economic disparity, ethnic clashes, and
highlights the Congress party’s commitment to addressing the concerns of citizens across diverse
regions.

Objective of Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra

Social Healing in Manipur: Initiate the process of mending wounds in Manipur post the 2023
ethnic clashes, symbolizing unity and healing.
Promotion of Social Justice: Prioritize social justice by addressing the need for a caste census
and advocating for equitable development opportunities for the Other Backward Classes (OBCs).

Counter BJP Narrative: Provide an alternative narrative to counter the Bharatiya Janata Party’s
(BJP) agenda, particularly in response to the grand inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.

Focus on Unemployment and Inflation: Address and provide solutions for the critical issues of
unemployment and inflation, resonating with the concerns of the electorate.

Electoral Engagement: Strategically engage with voters across 355 Lok Sabha seats, covering
approximately 65% of the parliamentary seats in the nation.

Alliance Building: Secure support from leaders of the Congress-led Indian National
Developmental Inclusive Alliance in their respective constituencies.

Comprehensive National Reach: Span a diverse range of states, from Manipur to Maharashtra, to
create a comprehensive and inclusive national outreach ahead of the 2024 general elections.

Hybrid Mode for Efficiency: Utilize a hybrid mode of transportation, incorporating buses for
longer distances, to efficiently cover the planned route within the time constraints and health
considerations of senior party leaders.

Highlight Economic Disparities: Bring attention to economic disparities and societal divisions,
offering a comprehensive approach to address citizens’ social, economic, and political concerns.

Tagline – “Nyay Ka Haq Milne Tak”: Reinforce the commitment to justice with the tagline
“Until we get our right to justice,” emphasizing the pursuit of fairness and equity for all citizens.

Challenges for Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra

Time Constraints: Limited time for a 66-day journey covering a vast expanse may pose
challenges in thorough engagement.

Health Concerns: The hybrid mode was adopted due to health concerns of senior party leaders,
which might affect the overall physical engagement.

Political Opposition: The campaign may face resistance and opposition from rival political
parties, hindering its smooth progression.

Logistical Hurdles: Coordinating transportation, accommodation, and events across 14 states and
85 districts demands meticulous planning to overcome logistical challenges.

Public Reception: The success of the Yatra hinges on public reception; gaining traction in
diverse regions with varying political landscapes presents a significant challenge.
Counter-Narrative Efforts: Effectively countering the narrative set by rival political parties,
particularly the BJP, requires strategic communication and messaging.

Unemployment and Inflation Concerns: Addressing these critical issues requires nuanced
policies and clear communication to win over the electorate.

Electoral Landscape: Navigating the complexities of different states and constituencies demands
a tailored approach to resonate with diverse voter sentiments.

Media Scrutiny: The Yatra will face intense media scrutiny, necessitating careful management of
public relations and messaging.

Maintaining Momentum: Sustaining enthusiasm and engagement over the entire 6,200-kilometer
journey poses a challenge in maintaining the Yatra’s momentum and impact.

Significance of Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra

Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra holds immense significance as a strategic political move by Rahul
Gandhi and the Indian National Congress. The campaign aims to bridge societal divides by
addressing issues like economic disparity, ethnic clashes, and promoting social justice. Its reach
across 14 states and 85 districts underscores its comprehensive national engagement, impacting
diverse regions. The Yatra also serves as a platform to counter rival political narratives,
particularly in response to the BJP’s initiatives, making it a crucial endeavor in shaping public
opinion ahead of the 2024 general elections.

Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra UPSC

Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, led by Rahul Gandhi, spans 14 states, covering 6,200 km over 66 days,
addressing issues like economic disparity and ethnic clashes. Aiming for social justice, the
campaign counters the BJP narrative and prioritizes concerns like unemployment. Challenges
include time constraints, health issues, political opposition, and logistical hurdles. Despite media
scrutiny, the Yatra’s significance lies in bridging societal divides, engaging diverse regions, and
shaping public opinion for the 2024 elections.... Read more at:
https://www.studyiq.com/articles/bharat-jodo-nyay-yatra/