Topics

1. Film certification mechanism in India
2. State of Semiconductor in India
3. The 2 Degree Celsius goal and Role of India’s leadership
4. India’s Great Power Ambitions: Balancing Domestic Priorities and Global Influence.
5. Cantonment Towns

PRELIMS-FACTOIDS

• Meri Maati, Mera Desh
• PM-DevINE Scheme
• Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation

Film certification mechanism in India

Context:

• The Union Information & Broadcasting Minister has raised concerns and dissatisfaction regarding the Central Board of Film Certification’s (CBFC) approval of the Hollywood film “Oppenheimer.”
• The movie has been embroiled in controversy due to a specific scene that has sparked uproar on social media platforms.
• As a result, the Minister has taken action and instructed officials to remove the contentious scene from the film.

Basics of CBFC

Work role:

• The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) is a statutory body operating under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting in India.
• It holds the responsibility of regulating the public exhibition of films across the country, as mandated by the Cinematograph Act of 1952.

Certification Requirement for Films

• In India, films must obtain certification from the CBFC before they can be screened publicly.
• This certification process ensures that the content of the films aligns with the established guidelines and standards, taking into account cultural sensitivities and public interests.

Composition of the CBFC

• The CBFC is composed of a chairperson and members appointed by the Central Government of India.
• These individuals play a crucial role in assessing and classifying films based on their content, recommending appropriate age-appropriate certifications, and ensuring compliance with the relevant laws and regulations.

Regional Offices and Advisory Panels

• To efficiently carry out its functions, the CBFC has established nine Regional Offices across India.
• Each Regional Office is equipped with Advisory Panels comprising experts from various fields, including cinema, arts, literature, and social sciences.

These Advisory Panels play a significant role in assisting the CBFC in the examination and certification process of films, offering valuable insights and perspectives.

Film Certification Process in India

1. Formation of the Examining Committee

• After the submission of all film materials and requisite fees, a regional officer sets up an Examining Committee to evaluate the film’s content.
• For short films (running time shorter than 72 minutes), the committee comprises a CBFC officer and one advisory panel member, with at least one being a woman.
• For long films (running time longer than 72 minutes), at least two committee members must be women to ensure a diverse perspective.

2. Certification Recommendations

• Each member of the Examining Committee provides a comprehensive written report detailing their recommendations regarding any necessary modifications and the appropriate classification of the film based on its content.

3. Review by the CBFC Chairperson

• The CBFC Chairperson thoroughly reviews the reports submitted by the Examining Committee and proceeds with the certification process based on their recommendations.

Types of Certifications:

• Unrestricted Public Exhibition (U): Films suitable for audiences of all ages and do not require any restrictions on public viewing.
• Parental Guidance for children below age 12 (U/A): Films that may contain content unsuitable for children below 12 years of age but can be watched with parental guidance.
• Adult (A): Films meant for adult audiences (above 18 years) due to their explicit or sensitive content.
• Viewing by specialized groups (S): Films designated for specific audiences or groups, such as educational or cultural purposes.

Controversies and Appeals

Suggested Changes by CBFC

• The CBFC may suggest modifications or deletions to the film’s content before granting certification.
• In case the applicants are dissatisfied with the certification or the proposed changes, they have the option to apply for review to the Revising Committee.

Revising Committee

• The Revising Committee is composed of the CBFC Chairperson and up to nine members from the board and advisory panel.
• This committee reevaluates the film and considers the appeals, making a final decision on the certification.

Appellate Tribunal

• If disagreements persist even after the Revising Committee’s decision, the Appellate Tribunal, an independent body, can be approached for a final and impartial ruling.

Conclusion

• The film certification process in India, overseen by the Central Board of Film Certification, follows a systematic approach involving various committees and steps.
• The aim is to ensure that films adhere to ethical and legal standards while respecting cultural sensitivities and safeguarding the interests of different audience groups.
• In cases of disputes, the option of approaching the Appellate Tribunal ensures a fair and unbiased resolution.

State of Semiconductor in India

Context

Despite facing recent challenges, such as Foxconn Technology Group’s decision to withdraw from a joint venture with Vedanta, Ltd., India remains determined to pursue its semiconductor ambitions.

What are Semiconductors?

• Semiconductors are a specific group of materials that possess a distinct property of electrical conductivity, positioning them between conductors and insulators.
• Unlike conductors that enable unrestricted flow of electricity and insulators that impede electric current completely, semiconductors exhibit an intermediate level of electrical conductivity.

Characteristics of Semiconductors:

1. Electrical Conductivity: Semiconductors exhibit intermediate electrical conductivity between insulators and conductors. They can conduct electricity but not as effectively as conductors. However, their conductivity can be controlled and modified.

2. Band Gap: Semiconductors have a distinct energy band gap that separates the valence band, where electrons are tightly bound to atoms, from the conduction band, where electrons can move more freely. This band gap is narrower than that of insulators but wider than that of conductors.

3. Temperature Dependency: The electrical conductivity of semiconductors is highly dependent on temperature. As the temperature increases, their conductivity also increases. This property is crucial for various electronic applications.

4. Doping: One of the key features of semiconductors is their ability to be intentionally doped with specific impurities. Doping introduces additional charge carriers, either electrons (n-type) or holes (p-type), which can enhance or diminish conductivity, enabling the design of various semiconductor devices.

Semiconductors and Transistors

1. Semiconductor Chip Composition:

• The fundamental building block of a semiconductor chip is the transistor, which is typically crafted from materials like silicon.
• Transistors play a pivotal role in encoding information as binary values (0s and 1s) and manipulating them to create and process data.

2. Three Parts of a Transistor:

• A transistor consists of three essential components: the source, the gate, and the drain.
• The gate plays a crucial role in controlling the flow of current between the source and the drain.
• By manipulating the gate’s state to open or close, data is stored and manipulated within the semiconductor chip.

3. Metal Layers and Connectivity:

• To enable the chip to perform multiple tasks, transistors are interconnected with various metal layers on top of the semiconductor substrate.
• This intricate network of electrical connections facilitates complex operations and computations on the chip.

India’s Semiconductor Journey

1. Sensible Approach:

• India’s strategic decision to commence its semiconductor journey with legacy nodes proves to be a wise move.
• By focusing on legacy nodes initially, the country can position itself for long-term success, especially considering the rising demand for such nodes in applications like electric cars and infotainment systems.

2. Future Potential:

• The continuous improvement and development of India’s semiconductor industry open up vast possibilities for its future growth.
• With the right direction and investment, India has the potential to emerge as a global hub for semiconductor technology, making significant contributions to the global semiconductor landscape.

Conclusion:

India’s emphasis on legacy nodes provides a robust foundation for its semiconductor ambitions.

By embracing these nodes, the nation equips itself for steady growth and establishes its presence as a significant player in the global semiconductor arena.

With a strong commitment to innovation and advancement, India can carve out a prominent role in the world of semiconductors.

The 2 Degree Celsius goal and Role of India’s leadership

Context

• The Paris Agreement’s goal of capping global surface warming at 2 degrees Celsius by 2100 is considered a momentous achievement.
• Despite years of discussions, carbon emissions on a global scale continue to rise without any indication of slowing down.

Questionable Target and Scientific Basis:

• The Paris Agreement’s target of limiting global surface warming to 2 degrees Celsius by 2100 has been hailed as a significant milestone.
• However, after decades of negotiations, global carbon emissions show no signs of slowing down.

• The 2-degree Celsius target lacks scientific backing, having originated from a round number deemed appealing by some politicians.

• Amidst the hype around the 1.5-degree Celsius warming threshold, it is essential to temper alarmist messaging and focus on actionable climate solutions.

Limitations of Earth System Models (ESMs):

• ESMs, the tools used for climate projections, face challenges in accurately reproducing the consequences of 2 degrees Celsius warming at a regional scale like the Indian subcontinent.
• The uncertainties in climate projections are largely due to ESM deficiencies.

• Current projections cannot reliably distinguish between the impacts of 1.5- and 2-degrees Celsius warming, making it challenging to inform climate adaptation policies effectively.

Uncertainties and Tough Choices:

• The COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical events have demonstrated the unpredictability of socioeconomic and geopolitical factors that influence climate change mitigation efforts.
• The uncertainties in population projections and technological promises further complicate the climate crisis.
• Developing countries like India must confront tough choices and develop their tools to assess local impacts and formulate effective adaptation plans.

India’s Leadership Role:

• India should continue its leadership role by demanding improved projections that quantify climate impacts at local scales.

• The U.N. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the global community must be prepared to enhance climate projections to address local challenges effectively.

• India should track climate change and its consequences continuously on a socially relevant timescale to make informed decisions.

Focus on Decarbonization:

• Efforts to reduce emissions have largely failed; therefore, decarbonizing the system presents a more promising solution.

• India can seize opportunities for economic growth by focusing on green technologies and promoting decarbonization.

• Prioritizing non-market goods such as equity, well-being, and biodiversity will be crucial in the country’s climate action.

Conclusion:

 India’s approach to climate targets should be based on robust scientific foundations and pragmatic considerations.

Rather than fixating on arbitrary targets, the focus should be on actionable steps to mitigate climate change and foster sustainability.

As a leader in climate diplomacy, India should advocate for better climate projections and continue its efforts toward decarbonization to ensure a sustainable future.

India’s Great Power Ambitions: Balancing Domestic Priorities and Global Influence.

Context

• India’s ambitious vision to emerge as a global power has ignited discussions, prompting divergent opinions on the appropriate approach.
• While some advocate assertive international engagement, others emphasize the need to address pressing domestic issues.
• Finding a delicate equilibrium between shaping the world order and attending to internal concerns is of utmost importance, as it will not only determine India’s trajectory but also influence the destiny of its burgeoning population.

India’s Transformation: From Poverty to Prosperity

1. India in 1991:

• A Struggling Nation In 1991, India faced significant challenges, with a weak economy and high poverty rates.
• With a foreign exchange reserve of $5.8 billion and a nominal GDP of $270.11 billion, the country’s economic prospects were bleak.
• Around 846 million people, comprising half of the population, lived in poverty. Moreover, the looming prospect of a nuclear conflict with Pakistan and unrest in Kashmir added to India’s difficulties.
• Additionally, strained relations with the United States after the collapse of the Soviet Union further complicated the nation’s global standing.

2. India’s Economic Growth:

• A Remarkable Turnaround Fast forward to 2023, and India’s transformation is nothing short of remarkable.
• Over the years, India’s visionary investments and economic reforms have borne fruit, leading to significant economic growth.
• The foreign exchange reserve has surged to around $600 billion, providing a robust economic base and enhancing financial stability.

3. Diminishing Tensions and New Challenges

• While the fear of war with Pakistan has diminished, new challenges have emerged, particularly in dealing with China.
• India’s strategic position in the global arena has been solidified, thanks to its strong military and possession of over a hundred nuclear weapons.
• As a major player on the world stage, India now enjoys robust relationships with several powerful countries, including the United States.

4. India’s Ascending Economy Driven by innovation, technology, and a growing workforce

• India’s economy has become the world’s fifth-largest.
• It is expected to reach a nominal GDP of $4 trillion soon, a testament to the country’s rapid economic ascent.

5. Visionary Investments and Positive Results

• The key to India’s success lies in its visionary investments made over several decades.
• These strategic initiatives have reaped positive results, enhancing India’s global image and creating a favourable external atmosphere for its rise as an economic powerhouse.

The Reality of India’s Power

India’s Economic Growth and Military Strength

• India, with its robust economic growth and significant military strength, has emerged as a major player in the global arena.
• However, despite these achievements, its GDP per capita remains relatively low at $1,947 in 2021.
• This figure pales in comparison to other major economies, even being outperformed by Bangladesh, a smaller nation with a GDP per capita of $2,227.
• This discrepancy raises questions about the correlation between material power and the well-being of Indian citizens.

Challenges in Infrastructural and Governance

1. Bribery and Ease of Doing Business

• Despite improvements in the ease of doing business, India still grapples with the issue of bribery when starting a business.
• This challenge poses obstacles for entrepreneurs and hinders the overall growth of the economy.

2. Infrastructure and Monsoon Disruptions

• The inadequate state of infrastructure in India has resulted in recurring problems, notably seen during the monsoon season when the capital city, New Delhi, faces significant disruptions.
• These infrastructural challenges impede economic progress and require urgent attention.

3. Deep-rooted Divisions and National Unity

• Regional, Caste, Ethnic, and Religious Divisions
• India is a diverse country with deep-seated regional, caste, ethnic, and religious divisions.
• These divisions have historically posed hurdles to achieving national unity and progress.
• Addressing these internal challenges demands political attention and focus, which could potentially divert efforts from external engagements.

Critics’ Perspective: Resolving Domestic Challenges First

Critics argue that India should prioritize resolving its domestic challenges before actively engaging in global affairs. They emphasize uplifting millions above the poverty line and improving governance as primary objectives.

The Imperative of Global Engagement

While domestic challenges are indeed crucial, India’s status as an emerging great power necessitates engagement on the global stage. Being a mere ‘rule-taker’ is not an option; instead, India must shape international rules to safeguard its economic growth, security environment, and geopolitical interests.

India’s Strategic Role in Global Affairs

Interplay of Domestic Context and International Influence

India’s ability to influence international politics is closely connected to its domestic context. While there are limitations, neglecting global engagement entirely would not be in India’s best interest. Strategic and balanced participation in global issues like debt restructuring, climate change, global trade, and non-proliferation can enhance India’s global standing while complementing its domestic priorities.

Conclusion:

India’s Path to Great Power Status

India’s journey towards becoming a great power is multifaceted and requires a nuanced approach. Striking a balance between addressing domestic priorities and exerting global influence is vital for India’s sustained growth and impact on the world stage.

Proactively Shaping the International Order

By actively shaping the international order and participating in critical global issues, India can assert its influence and contribute positively to the global stage. This proactive approach must, however, be rooted in a strong emphasis on the well-being of its 1.4 billion citizens, ensuring that India’s global role aligns with its domestic objectives.

Responsible and Effective Great Power Status

With thoughtful and strategic actions, India can navigate its great power ambitions responsibly and effectively. By addressing domestic challenges while shaping the global order, India can define its future trajectory, simultaneously uplifting its citizens and making a significant impact on the world stage.

Cantonment Towns

Introduction:

Cantonments in India are proclaimed areas governed by the Cantonments Act, 2006, and fall under the jurisdiction of the Indian central government.

These areas have a unique composition, providing services to both civilians and the military.

The objective of this proposal is to achieve uniformity in municipal laws for Cantonment and adjoining State Municipal areas by considering the excision of certain civil areas and merging them with neighbouring State municipalities.

1. Categories of Cantonments:

Cantonments in India are classified into four categories based on population size:

– Category I: Population > 50,000

– Category II: Population between 10,000 and 50,000

– Category III: Population between 2,500 and 10,000

– Category IV: Population < 2,500

2. Cantonment Authority and Composition:

Cantonment Boards, functioning under the Ministry of Defence, govern these areas. Each Cantonment Board comprises eight members, including:

– 1 Station Commander

– 3 ex-officio members

– 3 nominated military members

– 1 representative of the district magistrate

3. Services Provided by Cantonments:

Cantonments are responsible for providing various essential services to their residents, which include:

• Sanitation services
• Primary education facilities
• Street lighting maintenance
• Water supply management
• Road and bridge upkeep
• Public hospital services

4. Objective: Achieving Uniformity in Municipal Laws:

• The main objective of the proposed plan is to bring uniformity in municipal laws across Cantonments and the neighboring State municipalities.
• To achieve this, certain civil areas within 58 Cantonments would be considered for excision and merged with the adjacent State municipalities.

5. The Process of Excision and Merger:

• The process involves sharing the broad modalities for excision of civil areas in the 58 Cantonments with the respective State Governments.
• Active consultation and concurrence of the State Governments are essential for the successful excision and merger.

6. Public Input and Support:

• Representations from the public, elected representatives, and some State Governments have been received, expressing support for the excision plan.
• Additionally, there are no restrictions on implementing State Government schemes in Cantonment areas, and residents already benefit from various schemes.

7. Timeframe for Implementation:

While a specific implementation timeline has not been provided due to the ongoing need for consultations and consensus-building with the State Governments, the focus remains on achieving a well-planned and collaborative merger process.

Conclusion:

The proposed merger of certain Cantonment civil areas with neighboring State municipalities aims to establish uniformity in municipal laws.

By seeking active consultation and cooperation from the State Governments, this initiative can lead to enhanced governance and improved service delivery for the residents of these areas.

PRELIMS-FACTOIDS

1. Meri Maati, Mera Desh

Introduction

• Meri Maati, Mera Desh is a campaign launched by the Union government as a grand culmination of the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav,’ celebrating 75 years of Indian Independence.

Objective

• This initiative aims to honor and commemorate the sacrifices of martyrs who laid down their lives for the freedom and unity of India.
• It also aims to instil a sense of patriotism and gratitude among the citizens and remove any trace of a colonial mindset.

Activities

The main activities under this campaign are:

• Constructing memorials (Shilaphalakam) in every village or panchayat where freedom fighters, defence personnel, para military forces and police have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.

• Collecting soil (mitti) from different parts of the country and bringing it to Delhi to develop a garden (Amrit Vatika) along the Kartavya Path.

• Planting 75 saplings of indigenous plant species at each memorial site and at the Amrit Vatika.

• Holding ceremonies at each memorial site where people will take a pledge to affirm their commitment to India and upload selfies with soil in their hands on a dedicated website.
• Felicitating freedom fighters, families of martyrs, retired defence personnel and other bravehearts at the panchayat level.

Timeline

• The campaign will be launched on August 9, 2023, the anniversary of the Quit India Movement, and will continue for 21 days till August 30, 2023.
• The final event will be held at the Kartavya Path in Delhi, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to be the chief guest.

2. PM-DevINE Scheme

About

• It is a Central Sector Scheme with 100% Central funding and will be implemented by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) through North Eastern Council or Central Ministries/ agencies.
• It will have an outlay of Rs.6,600 crore for the four year period from 2022-23 to 2025-26 (remaining years of the 15th Finance Commission period).
• It is an additionality to the quantum of resources available for the development of the NER and will not be a substitute for existing Central and State Schemes.

Objectives

• To fund infrastructure convergently, in the spirit of PM Gati Shakti.
• To support social development projects based on felt needs of the NER.
• To enable livelihood activities for youth and women.
• To fill the development gaps in various sectors.

Activities

• The scheme will support infrastructure and social development projects which may be larger in size and will provide an end-to-end development solution instead of isolated projects.
• The scheme will also ensure adequate operation and maintenance of the projects sanctioned under it so that they are sustainable.
• The scheme will limit construction risks of time and cost overrun by implementing projects on Engineering-procurement-Construction (EPC) basis, to the extent possible.
• The scheme will also ensure that there is no duplication of project support under it with any of the other schemes of DoNER or those of any other Ministry/Department.

3. Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO

Introduction

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India. It was established in 1952 under the Employees’ Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952. The EPFO administers a number of social security schemes for employees in the organized sector, including the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF), Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS), and Employees’ Deposit-Linked Insurance Scheme (EDLI).

Functions of EPFO

• To collect and manage the provident fund contributions of employers and employees.
• To invest the provident fund money in safe and productive assets.
• To provide pension and other benefits to members of the EPF and EPS schemes.
• To administer the EDLI scheme.
• To provide information and guidance to members on their social security benefits.

Structure of EPFO

The EPFO is headed by the Central Provident Fund Commissioner (CPFC). The CPFC is assisted by a number of officers and staff.

The EPFO has a three-tier structure:

• Central Board of Trustees (CBT): The CBT is the apex body of the EPFO. It is responsible for the overall policy and management of the EPFO.
• Regional Offices (ROs): The ROs are responsible for the administration of the EPFO schemes in a particular region.
• Sub-Regional Offices (SROs): The SROs are responsible for the day-to-day administration of the EPFO schemes in a particular area.

Benefits of EPFO schemes

• Provident fund: The EPF provides a lump sum amount to members on retirement or death.
• Pension: The EPS provides a monthly pension to members on retirement.
• Insurance: The EDLI provides a death benefit to the dependents of members who die in service.

Conclusion

The EPFO is a vital social security institution that provides a number of benefits to employees in the organized sector. The EPFO schemes help to secure the financial future of employees and their families.