16th September 2024
Topic: Lokpal forms inquiry wing
Relevance: GS Paper: 2 – Governance
Source: Business Standard
Context
Anti-corruption investigator in order to carry out preliminary investigations into graft-related offenses committed by public servants, Lokpal established an inquiry wing.
Lokpal’s Inquiry Wing
- Section 11 of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act 2013 requires the Lokpal to establish an inquiry wing in order to carry out its mandated duties.
- The wing’s primary objective is to investigate any offense that the designated public servants and functionaries are alleged to have committed that is punishable under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
- The Lokpal chairperson has been given permission to start the selection process in order to appoint a predetermined number of qualified individuals as officers and staff members who will be needed to support the inquiry wing logistically.
Structure of the Inquiry Wing
- The Lokpal bench had approved an organogram that outlined the number of appropriate officers and staff members for the inquiry wing as well as the staffing pattern.
- The Lokpal chairperson will be assisted by a Director of Inquiry, as per the organogram.
- Three Superintendents of Police (SPs)—the general, the economic and banking, and the cyber—will support the director.
- Further support for each SP will come from other staff members and inquiry officers.
Problem with Lokpal
- Operational Delays: Appointment delays impair operational efficiency. For example, the appointment of a new Lokpal was delayed by 21 months after the position became vacant in May 2022.
- Pending Complaints: The Lokpal has a backlog of unresolved complaints, per recent data. 52 graft-related complaints remained pending as of July 2024, demonstrating the institution’s inability to efficiently handle its caseload.
- Jurisdictional Conflicts: When vigilance agencies’ jurisdictions overlap, it can lead to conflicts regarding authority and responsibility in investigations. This can cause delays in taking action against officials who are corrupt.
- Prosecution Wing Not Constructed: The Lokpal Act calls for the creation of a prosecution wing to be led by a Director of Prosecution, but this has not yet been done.
- Political Influence and Interference: There are worries about political influence because political party members make up the Lokpal appointment committee.
- Ambiguity in the Selection of Eminent Jurists: Political decisions can be made by manipulating the nebulous standards for selecting “eminent jurists” and “persons of integrity.”
- Lack of Constitutional Support: The Lokpal’s institutional authority and durability are weakened by its lack of constitutional status.
The Way Ahead
- In India’s ongoing battle against corruption, the Lokpal is still a crucial institution. One of the most important things the Indian government can do to promote an open and accountable culture is to establish a strong and independent Lokpal.
- Through proactive measures and necessary reforms, India can optimize the efficacy of this vital anti-corruption establishment.
- To increase the effectiveness of the Lokpal, more authority must be given to it so that it can independently launch investigations, carry out prosecutions, and impose sanctions.
Also Read Topics & Concepts:
https://www.theweek.in/wire-updates/national/2024/09/11/del12-lokpal-inquiry-wing.html
Mains Model Questions
Q. “Even though it took longer than expected, the first Lokpal’s appointment is a significant step in the fight against government corruption.” Comment.
Introduction:
Five years after the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Acts were passed, Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghosh was named as India’s first Lokpal. The Act called for the appointment of Lokayuktas in the States and a Lokpal at the federal level to investigate allegations of corruption against specific classes of public employees.
Body:
Despite the delay, the Lokpal’s appointment is a significant step in the fight against corruption because –
- The Lokpal has broad authority to investigate claims of corruption made against any individual who is or has been the Prime Minister, a Minister in the Union government, or a Member of Parliament, as well as officials of the Union government under Groups A, B, C and D.
- Additionally, it includes the heads of all boards, corporations, societies, trusts, and autonomous bodies established by parliamentary acts or partially or fully funded by the Center, as well as their officers, directors, and members. Any society, trust, or organization that receives foreign contributions in excess of ₹10 lakhs is also covered.
- In accordance with the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, the Lokpal may, upon receiving a complaint, begin a preliminary investigation. If the complaint is confirmed to be accurate, the Lokpal may file a case in a special court that the Center will establish in addition to requesting that the government discipline the public servant.
- When looking into and pursuing cases under the jurisdiction of any investigation agency, such as the CBI or CVC, Lokpal has the authority to supervise and provide cases under the direction of Lokpal.
Additionally, it gives people the ability to report public officials’ corruption to the Lokpal.
- Nevertheless, the Lokpal institution is subject to certain restrictions. For example, it is not permitted to investigate any allegations of corruption against the Prime Minister if they have to do with public order, atomic energy, international relations, or space.
- The Act further states that any complaint filed more than seven years after the offense was committed may not be investigated or looked into by the Lokpal. This limits Lokpal’s application.
Conclusion:
Notwithstanding its drawbacks, the Lokpal’s appointment is a critical first step in combating corruption and poor governance, which are pervasive in the administrative apparatus. The Lokpal institution may receive constitutional protection in the future.
Topic: One Nation, One Election
Relevance: GS Paper: 2 – Governance
Source: The Week
Context
During its current term, the Union government led by Prime Minister Modi will carry out the “One Nation One Election.”
Background
- In order to lower election frequency and related expenses, simultaneous elections, also known as “One Nation One Election,” are thought to be held concurrently for the Lok Sabha and State legislative assemblies.
- In India, the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies were elected at the same time in 1951–1952, 1957, 1962, and 1967.
- Subsequently, the timeline proved unmanageable, and the Lok Sabha and State legislative assembly elections remain unrealigned.
- In 2014, Prime Minister Modi brought attention to the problem of simultaneous elections, and a committee led by the late President Ram Nath Kovind also conducted research on the subject.
Arguments in Support of a One Nation, One Election
- It will lessen the enormous costs associated with holding separate elections each year.
- The issue of too many elections results in the Moral Code of Conduct being imposed for extended periods of time, which has an impact on regular governance. Elections held at the same time can resolve these problems.
- Concurrent elections will free up critical personnel, who are frequently assigned to long-term election-related tasks.
- There will be a greater emphasis on governance as opposed to perpetual election mode.
Arguments against “One Nation, One Election”
- There are enormous logistical challenges that all states and the federal government must overcome, such as scheduling and resource coordination.
- It might benefit the incumbent in the center or the dominant national party at the expense of regional parties and issues.
Way Forward
- Coordinated polls at all three levels of government will enhance the structure of governance. “Transparency, inclusivity, ease and confidence of voters” will all be improved.
- After reviewing the matter of simultaneous polls, the 22nd Law Commission is anticipated to suggest conducting simultaneous polls starting with the general election cycle of 2029.
Also Read Topics & Concepts:
Mains Model Questions
Q. Critically examine the idea of “One Nation, One Election”, emphasizing both its advantages and disadvantages.
Introduction:
In India, the phrase “One Nation, One Election” (ONOE) refers to the simultaneous holding of national elections for all state assemblies and the Lok Sabha, the lower house of Parliament. According to this idea, the Indian electoral cycle should be set up so that the country’s elections coincide, potentially changing the country’s electoral landscape. The current government is pushing an idea that seeks to create a more focused and efficient electoral system, with the main goal being a decrease in the number and expense of national elections.
Body:
One Nation, One Election’s Advantages
- Savings: It is anticipated that holding the elections simultaneously will save a substantial sum of money compared to holding separate elections.
- Administrative Efficiency: Since elections frequently cause disruptions to regular business, this would improve administrative efficiency across the nation.
- Policy Continuity: Because the Model Code of Conduct will not be strictly enforced during regular elections, there will be continuity in the policies and programs of the federal and state governments.
- Increased Voter Turnout: Since it would be more convenient for voters to cast their ballots all at once, simultaneous elections may increase voter turnout.
One Nation, One Election’s Disadvantages
- Legal and Constitutional Obstacles: Adopting ONOE would require amending the 1951 Representation of the People Act, the Constitution, and the State Assemblies’ and Lok Sabha’s Rules of Procedure. A two-thirds majority in both houses of Parliament and ratification by at least half of the states would be needed for this.
- Possible Danger to Federalism: The idea might make it more difficult to distinguish between local and national problems, which could jeopardize India’s federal system. It might also lessen the emphasis on problems related to local autonomy and governance.
- Effect on Regional Parties: It is feared that local issues may not be adequately addressed and that regional parties would not be able to compete with national parties in terms of election strategy and funding.
- Voter Behavior: Research suggests that if state and central elections were held at the same time, there is a good chance that voters would support the same party, which could have an effect on the democratic process.
Conclusion:
While there are many financial and administrative benefits associated with the concept of “One Nation, One Election,” there are also many drawbacks, mainly with regard to the federal structure of Indian democracy, the function of regional parties, and the possibility of oversimplifying voter options. Political parties, state governments, and the general public, among other stakeholders, must engage in a comprehensive, transparent, and inclusive discourse in order to reach a consensus on these challenges. It is recommended that the government conduct additional research, evaluate existing data, and solicit feedback from diverse stakeholders prior to introducing this revolutionary alteration to the Indian electoral system.
Topic: DPIIT to launch BHASKAR
Relevance: GS Paper: 3 – Economy
Source: PIB
Context
The Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry (BHASKAR) will be launched by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), which is part of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
About
- As a component of the Startup India initiative, this digital platform seeks to improve cooperation between startups, investors, mentors, service providers, and government agencies while also consolidating resources to fortify India’s startup ecosystem.
- The entity must be a private limited company, LLP, or partnership firm that is less than ten years old and has an annual turnover of no more than ₹100 crore in order to be recognized as a startup under the Startup India initiative.
Principal features of the BHASKAR
- Centralized Platform: a single point of contact for information, tools, and resources that supports entrepreneurs from concept to implementation.
- Collaboration and networking: The platform will enable smooth communication and alliances within the ecosystem.
- Personalized IDs: To improve discoverability and customized experiences, every stakeholder will be given a distinct BHASKAR ID.
- International recognition: The program will strengthen India’s standing as an innovation hotspot and promote international cooperation.
Importance
- BHASKAR will support innovation, entrepreneurship, and the creation of jobs by helping to realize the potential of India’s startup ecosystem. The government’s goal of positioning India as a global leader in innovation and economic expansion is in line with this initiative.
India’s Startup Ecosystem
- With more than 1,46,000 recognized startups, India is the third-largest startup hub in the world, behind the United States and China.
- A company is considered a startup by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
- This innovation is being propelled in part by the adoption of cutting-edge technologies like blockchain, data analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI).
Governmental Programs to Encourage Startups
- The 2016 launch of the Startup India initiative, which offers advantages like tax exemptions, streamlined regulations, and funding access through the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS), is critical in fostering the growth of startups.
- Other programs include the Made in India Initiative and the NITI Aayog Atal Innovation Mission (AIM).
Also Read Topics & Concepts:
Mains Model Questions
Q. What steps can be taken to encourage and facilitate the growth of startups in this field while making sure they are in line with national priorities and strategic interests? How can startups play a crucial role in determining the future of the space sector in India? Describe.
Introduction:
The future of the space industry in India is being shaped in large part by startups. As a result of the government’s emphasis on encouraging private sector involvement in space activities, startups have become important forces in the creation of cutting-edge products and services for satellite production, space exploration, and space-based applications.
Body:
The following are a few ways that Indian startups are influencing the future of the space industry:
- Pioneering innovation: New ideas and technologies introduced by startups are pushing the limits of what is feasible in space exploration and space-based services.
- Cutting costs: Compared to established players in the space industry, startups can develop and test new technologies and services at a lower cost because they can operate with relatively low overhead.
- Building capacity: In order for the space sector to continue growing and developing, startups are contributing to the development of specialized skills and human capital.
Among the steps taken to ensure alignment with India’s strategic interests and national priorities are:
- Facilitating financial access: Financial resources and other forms of support can be obtained from the government and other institutions.
- Granting access to capital: Funding and other resources are available from the government and other institutions to assist the expansion and advancement of startups in the space industry.
- Providing regulatory support: In order to facilitate the growth of startups in the space sector, the government can create regulations and policies that are in line with India’s strategic interests and national priorities.
- Promoting cooperation: New businesses can gain from collaborating with both other startups and more seasoned space industry players. Collaboration between these various organizations can result in the creation of new goods and services, and the government can help.
- In order to foster innovation in the space industry, the government should make research and development facilities accessible and encourage the development of new technologies and products.
Conclusion:
While ensuring that their operations are in line with national priorities and strategic interests, these measures can aid in the support and growth of Indian startups in the space sector. India can develop a vibrant and creative space industry if the government offers the required resources, support, and regulatory framework.
Topic: Centre to eradicate Left-Wing Extremism by 2026
Relevance: GS Paper: 3 – Security
Source: Swarajya
Context
- For the fiscal year 2024–2025, the Center has increased funding allocations under the Road Connectivity Project for Left Wing Extremism Affected Areas (RCPLWEA) by twofold.
- Prior to March 2026, the Union Home Minister declared that Left Wing Extremism would be “completely eradicated” throughout the nation.
About RCPLWEA
- Under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), it is a distinct vertical.
- In 44 Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) districts that are the worst affected and adjacent districts in nine states, it aims to provide all-weather road connectivity with culverts and cross-drainage structures. These districts are considered “critical from security and communication point of view.”
- States covered: Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh
- Principal allotments consist of:
– Chhattisgarh: 200 million rupees
– Jharkhand: 200 crore rupees
– Andhra Pradesh: 150 crore rupees
– Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra: Rs 140 crore apiece.
- The project’s objectives are to improve rural livelihoods, promote socioeconomic development, and address strategic security needs in areas affected by LWE that have historically lacked infrastructure.
Associated Other Efforts
- Constitutional Framework: The Indian government supports state efforts against Left Wing Extremism (LWE), but police and public order are state responsibilities.
- National Policy: Developed in 2015, it covers local rights protection, development interventions, and security measures.
- Instilling faith in development and urging youth affiliated with LWE to give up violence and participate in national development initiatives are two more initiatives.
- Initiatives for Development:
- 11,474 km of the 14,395 km of constructed roads have been completed in the last ten years.
- The number of installed telecom towers is 5,139.
- Financial Inclusion: 5,731 Post Offices, 937 ATMs, and 1,007 Bank Branches were opened.
- Skill Development: 49 Skill Development Centers (SDCs) and 46 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) were founded.
- 130 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) in tribal areas are used for education.
- Advancement:
- Reduction of Violence: Deaths decreased by 86% and LWE incidents decreased by 73% from 2010 levels.
- Districts impacted by LWE decreased from 126 in 2013 to 38 in 2024.
- Midway through 2024, 89 reports of LWE violence were made, down from 465 in 2010.
- The financing and operational capacities of LWE have been considerably impacted by the security forces.
- Notable drops in both the incidence and spread of LWE, along with ongoing advancements in development and infrastructure.
Also Read Topics & Concepts:
Mains Model Questions
Q. Discuss about the dangers that Left Wing Extremism (LWE) poses to India. Give a brief explanation of the Government of India’s strategy to address the issues raised by LWE.
Introduction:
In certain regions of the nation, extreme violence has been linked to left-wing extremism or the Naxal movement. These radicals are fighting the state from within. It is thought to be the most significant security issue. Numerous tribal villages have been cut off from the national mainstream by these radical movements. To establish popular rule, they seek the abolition of the state. The police, schools, and other government institutions are targeted by these radicals as symbols of the nation’s authority.
Body:
Threat posed by LWE in India:
- Before the elections, they intimidate the locals and keep them from casting ballots.
- Transgressing the participatory democracy principle.
- They try to establish their own government in the nearby villages and turn to violence through guerrilla tactics.
- They cause obstacles to last-mile connectivity and governance by demolishing the government’s resources, the transportation network, and the roads. More deprivation falls on the poor.
- Urban Naxals cast doubt on the use of force by government apparatus; they occasionally operate under the cover of NGOs or social-work departments.
- They are also connected to politicians, and they use this as a platform to voice their demands through their voices.
- They assault law enforcement and government agencies and amass weaponry and technological equipment in an effort to outwit them technologically.
The Indian government’s strategy to combat LWE:
- The government’s strategy tackles left-wing extremism from all angles, including development, security, protecting local communities’ rights and entitlements, enhancing governance, and managing public perception.
- To increase its engagement with the rest of the nation, the government’s primary goal is to improve connectivity in these areas. Infrastructure improvements, such as building roads, railroads, and airports, as well as installing mobile towers, are underway. National Policy and Action Plan, for instance.
- To increase its influence in the LWE-affected areas, the government is encouraging smart leadership and improved coordination with the State governments.
- A vigorous approach is being used to enhance and modernize the capability of armed forces.
- The government is trying to prevent Left Wing Extremist organizations from receiving funding in an effort to end the movement’s upkeep and continued existence.
- To guarantee militants’ rehabilitation and reintegration into society, the Surrender-cum-Rehabilitation Scheme is being put into place.
Conclusion:
According to reports, the number of districts in the country affected by naxalism has decreased from 165 to 90, and the number of Maoist deaths in the first half of 2018 was at least 122, the highest in the previous eight years. Thus, it is accurate to state that there has been a downward trend in the trajectory of LWE.
Topic: IISc scientists achieve breakthrough in AI hardware
Relevance: GS Paper: 3 – Science & Technology
Source: The Indian Express
Context
- A brain-inspired analog computing platform has been created by researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) that can store and process data in an astounding 16,500 conductance states within a molecular film.
About
- This new technology, which enters the field of neuromorphic or brain-inspired analog computing, marks a substantial advancement over conventional binary computing systems.
- In contrast to traditional computers, which operate according to preset programs, neuromorphic systems are able to learn from their surroundings, which has the potential to advance artificial intelligence.
Transforming hardware for AI
- This neuromorphic platform has the potential to enable sophisticated AI tasks on personal devices like laptops and smartphones, such as training Large Language Models (LLMs) — such as ChatGPT.
- The technology tackles two primary obstacles in the development of AI: inadequate hardware and inefficient use of energy.
- This innovation’s molecular system makes use of the ions’ natural motion to process and store information in a way that is akin to the human brain. The result is a “molecular diary” that performs computer-like functions with much higher energy efficiency and more space-saving capabilities.
Accuracy and effectiveness
- To attain the accuracy required to measure the molecular states, the innovation overcomes major obstacles.
- A new standard for electronic accuracy has been set by a custom circuit board that can measure voltages as small as a millionth of a volt at very high sampling rates.
Future prospects
- The discovery, according to researchers, may establish India as a global leader in technological innovation, especially in the creation of AI hardware.
- This could be a game-changing development for the India Semiconductor Mission, revolutionizing industrial, consumer, and strategic applications.
Also Read Topics & Concepts:
https://iisc.ac.in/events/neuromorphic-platform-presents-huge-leap-forward-in-computing-efficiency/
Mains Model Questions
Q. Discuss about how India’s socioeconomic needs can be met by Artificial Intelligence.
Introduction:
The ability of machines to carry out cognitive functions like thinking, seeing, learning, solving problems, and making decisions is referred to as artificial intelligence (AI).
India has a big part in the AI revolution since it has the second-largest population in the world and the fastest-growing economy. By 2035, artificial intelligence is predicted by experts to boost the US economy by at least $1 trillion.
Body:
By enhancing labor productivity and innovation, stimulating growth through intelligent automation, fostering human-machine collaboration, and disseminating innovation, body AI can contribute to reaching the trillion-dollar goal.
A few of these are already in use, such as smart factories, where people and machines collaborate to produce better results.
- Our farmers’ lives may be improved by AI when combined with robotics, Big Data analytics, the Internet of Things (IoT), and genomics.
In order to address societal needs through AI, NITI Aayog has chosen to concentrate on five industries:
- Healthcare: better access to and cost of high-quality medical care
- Agriculture: raised farmer incomes, improved farm output, decreased waste,
- Education: increased availability and caliber of instruction,
- Smart Mobility and Transportation: better and safer modes of transportation as well as better solutions for traffic and congestion issues. Smart Cities and Infrastructure: effective and connected for the growing urban population.
In order to fulfill the objectives of AIforAll and actually benefit from the large-scale implementation of AI, the following obstacles must be removed:
- Absence of broad knowledge in AI research and application,
- Lack of data ecosystems that facilitate access to intelligent data,
- Costly resources and a lack of awareness regarding AI adoption
- privacy and security, such as the absence of official laws governing data anonymization, and
- lack of a cooperative strategy for implementing and adopting AI.
Conclusion: It is imperative that we provide our people with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to handle the large number of new jobs that will be created.
We must also hold AI accountable. Businesses and the government must collaborate to create a code of ethics – tangible standards and best practices to develop and use intelligent machines.