Scheme for Residential Education for Students in High Schools in Targeted Areas (SHRESHTA)
Context
The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment oversees the implementation of the Central Sector Scheme known as the Scheme for Residential Education for Students in High Schools in Targeted Areas (SHRESHTA).
Key Points
Objective of SHRESHTA Scheme
- Developmental Focus: The primary goal of SHRESHTA is to augment government interventions in areas predominantly inhabited by Scheduled Castes (SC), with a specific emphasis on education and socio-economic improvement.
- Addressing Service Gaps: The scheme seeks to rectify service deficiencies by providing support to grant-in-aid institutions operated by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and residential high schools, ensuring the delivery of high-quality education to SC students.
Implementation Methods
Method 1: SHRESHTA Schools (Top CBSE/State Board Schools)
Selection Process: The selection of meritorious SC students is conducted through the National Entrance Test for SHRESHTA (NETS) administered by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
Admission Criteria: Students are enrolled in the best private residential schools based on merit, with a commitment to completing education up to the 12th standard.
Method 2: NGO/VO Operated Schools/Hostels (EXISTING COMPONENT)
Grant Allocation: Schools/Hostels operated by VOs/NGOs receive grants to cover school fees and residential charges for SC students. The grant amounts are determined based on the type of school and residential arrangement.
Financial Provisions
- Full Fee Coverage: The department covers the entire fee for SC students, encompassing school fees and hostel charges. Admissible fees range from Rs. 1,00,000 to Rs. 1,35,000 for classes 9th to 12th.
- Bridge Course: A 10% fee for a bridge course is included to enhance students’ abilities to adapt to the school environment.
Monitoring Mechanism
- Real-time Data Management: A Data Management Information System (MIS) is established to ensure the real-time collection and dissemination of progress, facilitating improved reporting on output and outcome indicators.
Surveillance Measures: Institutions are mandated to install closed-circuit cameras for live feed availability, and inspection teams conduct field visits to monitor compliance.
Can Southeast Asia afford to retire its coal plants?
Context:
The pursuit of sustainability goals and securing funding poses a challenge for Indonesia and Vietnam, given the prevalence of coal-fired power systems in their approved construction projects.
About Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP):
- Indonesia and Vietnam have disclosed plans to utilize funds from the G7-backed Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) for sustainable development.
- Supported by the International Partners Group and Western private banks, JETP intends to allocate €18 billion to Indonesia and €14.1 billion to Vietnam for their green energy transition.
Indonesia’s Ambitious Roadmap:
Targets and Projects:
- Indonesia aims to increase renewable energy’s share in its power generation to 44% by 2030, a notable rise from the previous target of 34%.
- The Comprehensive Investment and Policy Plan outlines 400 priority projects, seeking substantial investment from JETP donors.
- The plan is currently in draft form, with the Indonesian government actively seeking stakeholder inputs to formulate a final investment plan expected to be released next year.
- Edo Mahendra, Head of Indonesia’s JETP Secretariat, underscores the public’s role, stating that energy transition is a matter of public interest.
Funding Sources for Indonesia:
Government and Development Banks:
- Japan, the US, and European governments and development banks are set to contribute half of the JETP funds, primarily in the form of loans.
- Notable pledges include nearly €1 billion from the European Investment Bank, €500 million from the French Development Agency, and almost €1.3 billion from Germany.
- The remaining €9 billion will come from private financing through the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero, involving key financial institutions such as BlackRock, Bloomberg, Brookfield, and HSBC.
- The initial $10 billion aims to jump-start clean energy investment, with the expectation that the private sector will follow suit.
Vietnam’s Vision at COP28:
Equity Investments and Grants:
Vietnamese officials outlined their vision for utilizing €14.1 billion in equity investments, grants, and concessionary loans from JETP at COP28. The initiative has garnered support from the International Partners Group, private banks, and investors, showcasing a collaborative effort in sustainable development.
Concerns and Controversies:
- Leaked Documents and Disappointments:
Reports indicate that only 2% of the €7.3 billion committed to Vietnam will be in grants, raising concerns about the substantial reliance on loans, some of which are at market rates. Indonesia’s plan has faced criticism for excluding power plants supplying off-grid systems, potentially neglecting significant capacity and future projects in the coal sector.
- Decarbonization Challenges:
Indonesia acknowledges the need for a detailed study and roadmap on decarbonizing off-grid captive power systems, addressing concerns raised by stakeholders. The EU ambassador to Indonesia emphasizes the opportunity to collaborate on off-grid decarbonization pathways.
Regional Dynamics and Future Challenges:
Comparison with China’s Investments:
In contrast to China’s direct investments, there are concerns in Vietnam and Indonesia about the nature of the support they receive through JETP. Critics argue that some proposals may be unambitious, potentially allowing for the continued development of unsustainable energy production.
JETP’s Regional Impact:
South Africa and Senegal have joined the JETP, while India and China grapple with numerous permitted and under-construction coal-fired power stations. The impact of JETP on the region’s sustainability ambitions is a subject of ongoing debate, highlighting the complexities of balancing national interests and environmental commitments.
Way Forward:
As Indonesia and Vietnam navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by JETP, the success of these initiatives depends on effective collaboration, transparent planning, and responsiveness to stakeholder concerns. The region’s journey toward sustainable development underscores the delicate balance between economic growth and environmental responsibility.
Evolution of the rule of 3 in governance
Context:
The concept of separation of powers in constitutional governance provides a foundation for the rule of law throughout history, in modern times, and in contemporary settings.
Historical Evolution of Separation of Powers
Ancient Roots: Early philosophers such as Aristotle and Polybius contributed to the development of the separation of powers in governance.
Montesquieu’s Impact: The 18th-century work “The Spirit of the Laws” by French philosopher Montesquieu played a pivotal role in articulating the significance of the separation of powers.
Locke’s Warning: Philosopher John Locke highlighted the dangers associated with consolidating legislative and executive powers within the same authority.
Modern Interpretations and Application
Constitutional Acknowledgment: Both the US Constitution and India’s Constitution recognize the concept of separation of powers, albeit not in absolute rigidity.
Supreme Court Perspective: India’s Supreme Court acknowledges the doctrine but emphasizes the distinct functions of each branch of government.
Expanded Principles: Legal scholar Jeremy Waldron proposed five principles, which include the division of power, checks and balances, bicameralism, and federalism.
Contemporary Status and Terminological Shift
Relevance in 2023-24: The principle endures under the term “division of powers,” highlighting its continued importance.
Enforceability Challenge: None of these principles are enforceable in written constitutions, with each constitution uniquely dividing power.
Comprehensive Constitutionalism: The editorial underscores the necessity of multiple principles working together for effective constitutional governance.
Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023: Key Features and Changes
Context:
- The Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023, encountered opposition but successfully passed in the Rajya Sabha on August 3.
- Subsequently, it received approval in the Lok Sabha on December 21, completing its legislative journey.
Objectives of the Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill
Abolishment of the 1867 Act: The primary objective of the Bill is to revoke the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867, with the aim of updating the regulatory framework governing periodicals.
Key Inclusions: Notable among its provisions is a clause preventing individuals convicted of terrorism or actions against state security from publishing periodicals.
Reasons for its Introduction: The Bill concentrates on simplifying business processes for publishers by removing procedural obstacles and reducing the administrative burden associated with declarations and filings.
Contrast with the 1867 Act
Exclusion of Books: Unlike the 1867 Act, the 2023 Bill does not encompass books within its scope, as they fall under the jurisdiction of the HRD Ministry.
Penalty System: The new Bill replaces imprisonment with fines for specific violations and introduces an appeals process overseen by the Chairman of the Press Council of India.
Change in Administrative Authority: The power is shifted from the District Magistrate to the newly established Press Registrar General, centralizing the registration and regulation process.
Declaration and Registration Procedures
- Simplified Processes: The Bill simplifies the declaration process by eliminating the need for District Magistrate involvement and allowing online notifications for printing presses.
- Simultaneous Processing: It facilitates simultaneous processing of title allotment and registration applications, streamlining the overall procedure.
- Timely Responses: The designated authority is required to provide feedback within 60 days, expediting the registration process.
UAPA Provision in the Bill
- Restriction on Convicted Individuals: The Bill prohibits individuals convicted of terrorist acts or unlawful activities, as defined under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, from publishing periodicals.
- Addressing Security Concerns: This provision aims to address concerns regarding the potential misuse of periodicals for activities threatening national security or sovereignty.
Conclusion
Modernizing Media Oversight: The Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023, signifies a substantial transformation of India’s media regulatory framework, aligning it with contemporary requirements.
Balancing Business Facilitation and Security: While the Bill strives to make operations easier for publishers, it also incorporates measures to safeguard against security threats.
Potential for Debates and Discussions: The passage of the Bill, despite opposition concerns, indicates ongoing debates on media freedom, security, and regulatory oversight in India’s evolving democratic landscape.
Strategy and Foreign Affairs for India in 2024
Context:
Global Contradictions: Despite widespread calls for peace, 2023 observed the persistence and emergence of significant conflicts, notably involving Russia and Ukraine, as well as in the Gaza Strip.
China’s Position: In the midst of economic challenges, concerns persist over China’s assertive stance, which remains a source of tension for the West and India, contributing to global unrest.
Realities and Challenges in 2023
Middle East Crisis: The Hamas attack disrupted efforts to normalize Israel-Arab relations, prompting a severe response from Israel and derailing the reconciliation process.
India-US Relations Strained: Allegations of an Indian official’s involvement in an assassination plot have strained relations, with India committing to investigate upon receiving relevant information.
War Fatigue in Russia-Ukraine Conflict: The prolonged conflict poses funding challenges for the West, while Russia, despite sanctions, remains resilient, partly due to its close ties with China.
India’s Challenge in the Maldives: The new Maldivian government’s request for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel and termination of agreements complicates India’s strategic position, reflecting its proximity to China.
China’s Ongoing Concern: The border standoff, China’s regional influence, and its connections with Russia and the Maldives continue to be India’s primary strategic worries.
G20 and Global South Role: India’s leadership in the G20 and its efforts to unite the Global South showcase its aspiration to uphold the legacy of Non-Alignment in contemporary circumstances.
Engagement in Kabul: India’s cautious approach to engaging with the Taliban and coordinating consular services underscores a nuanced approach to Afghanistan, balancing security and diplomatic needs.
Anticipating Challenges and Opportunities in 2024
A. Lok Sabha Elections Impact: The election outcome will significantly influence India’s foreign policy, with a stronger mandate potentially leading to more assertive stances and a weaker mandate reflecting coalition considerations.
B. US & Canada Relations: Navigating complexities arising from assassination plot allegations and maintaining robust ties with both nations will be crucial for India.
C. New Government in Pakistan: Post-election dynamics in Pakistan might provide an opportunity for re-engagement, contingent on political developments and India’s strategic choices.
D. Outcome in Bangladesh: India’s interest in the continuity of Sheikh Hasina’s government reflects security and connectivity priorities, with caution towards the opposition.
E. Continued Deadlock with China: The border standoff’s potential escalation remains a critical factor in India’s security and diplomatic strategy, particularly in an election year.
F. West Asia Dynamics: India’s evolving stance in the Israel-Hamas conflict and its implications for its position in the Global South will be closely monitored, with an emphasis on balancing relations and principles.
G. Future of the War in Ukraine: India’s delicate balancing act between economic interests and international pressures, especially in its relationship with Russia, will persist.
H. Trade Pacts and Tech Partnerships: Finalizing trade agreements and enhancing tech partnerships with the West will be key areas of focus, with significant developments expected in 2024.
In Conclusion
Balancing Act: India’s foreign policy in the upcoming years will involve navigating a complex array of global conflicts, bilateral tensions, and internal political dynamics.
Strategic Posture: The outcomes of various global and regional conflicts, coupled with India’s electoral politics, will shape its strategic and foreign policy posture, reflecting a blend of continuity and change.
Decriminalising Medical Negligence: Views from both sides of the bed
Context:
A recent incident in Jamshedpur resulted in the tragic death of a woman due to septic shock following surgery. The deceased’s brother has alleged medical negligence, attributing it to an unauthorized substitution of the surgeon and a lack of postoperative care.
This case has sparked conversations surrounding the legal and ethical dimensions of medical negligence in India, particularly in the context of proposed amendments seeking to shield doctors from criminal prosecution.
Understanding Medical Negligence
Definition and Impact: Medical negligence is characterized by a failure of duty on the part of healthcare professionals, resulting in harm or death to the patient.
Legal Framework: Presently, according to Section 106(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya (Second) Sanhita (BNSS), doctors may face imprisonment and fines if found guilty of negligence. However, potential changes in legislation may alter this framework.
Recent Developments and Legal Provisions
Recent Proposal: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MHA) has suggested exempting doctors from criminal prosecution in negligence cases. This proposal has generated debates and apprehensions among various stakeholders.
Constitutional Rights: Evaluating the proposed changes involves considering constitutional safeguards such as Article 20(3) and Article 21, which protect against self-incrimination and ensure the right to life and liberty.
Role of the Indian Medical Association (IMA)
IMA’s Position: The IMA supports the idea of exempting doctors from criminal prosecution in negligence cases, citing increased harassment and adverse effects on patient care.
Concerns Raised: Additionally, the IMA has drawn attention to the escalating number of medical negligence cases filed against doctors and the economic losses resulting from violence against healthcare professionals.
Ethical and Societal Implications
Power Dynamics: Critics argue that exempting doctors from criminal prosecution could intensify power imbalances in the doctor-patient relationship and contribute to heightened medical malpractice.
Risk to Marginalized Populations: There is a worry that these exemptions may disproportionately affect vulnerable groups, including women, queer individuals, transgender individuals, and rural residents.
Legal and Ethical Challenges
Good Faith Clause: While BNSS clauses offer some protection for acts performed in good faith, the distinction between negligence and accident remains ambiguous.
Bioethicists’ Perspective: Experts emphasize the necessity of a balanced approach that considers the challenges faced by healthcare professionals alongside the rights and safety of patients.
The Path Forward
- Nationwide Discourse: The IMA intends to engage in discussions with the government and the public to advocate for its stance.
- Need for Comprehensive Data: Critics, like Geet, propose conducting a nationwide survey to comprehend the extent of medical negligence, guiding policy decisions.
- Legal Redress for Patients: Ensuring that patients have access to legal remedies and justice is vital for upholding trust in the healthcare system and preventing violence against doctors.
Conclusion
Complex Decision-Making: Exempting doctors from criminal prosecution for medical negligence is a complex issue requiring careful consideration of legal, ethical, and societal factors.
Ensuring Justice and Quality Care: Any alterations to policy must aim to safeguard patients’ rights while acknowledging the challenges faced by medical professionals, fostering a healthcare system that is just, accountable, and dedicated to delivering high-quality care.
Electronic Soil
Context: A recent investigation unveiled notable advancements in barley seedling growth, revealing a 50% average increase in development upon exposure to a pioneering eSoil.
This specialized soil, engineered to enhance root systems, was developed by researchers at Linköping University in Sweden, marking a significant stride in bioelectronic soil development.
Bioelectronic Soil Development:
Scientists at Linköping University devised a distinctive ‘bioelectronic soil’ named eSoil, strategically formulated to expedite plant growth in hydroponic environments, where plants thrive without traditional soil, relying on water-based systems.
Composition of eSoil:
The composition of eSoil involves a combination of organic substances and a conductive polymer known as PEDOT, commonly employed in sensors and OLED displays.
The soil’s conductivity plays a pivotal role in triggering optimal stimulation of plant roots.
Effect on Plant Growth:
- Integration of eSoil into the growth setup for barley seedlings resulted in a 50% surge in average plant growth, facilitated by electrical signals.
- This stimulation employed a minor voltage of 0.5V to electrically activate the roots.
Study Findings:
- The comprehensive study spanned 15 days, concentrating on the influence of electrical signals on barley seedlings.
- Stimulated plants showcased a discernible upswing in biomass compared to their non-stimulated counterparts.
- The impact of stimulation on barley seedlings was characterized as both “steady” and “transient.”
Efficient Nutrient Processing:
A noteworthy observation from the study highlighted the heightened efficiency in nutrient processing by the stimulated plants, particularly in the case of nitrogen, a pivotal nutrient crucial for plant growth.
Japan' Slim lander shows Moon's colossal craters
Context:
- A major milestone has been reached, paving the way for Japan’s inaugural moon landing set for 2024.
- In a remarkable achievement for Japan’s space exploration initiatives, the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) successfully entered lunar orbit on December 25, 2023.
- This accomplishment signifies a significant advancement for Japan, laying the groundwork for its historic moon landing scheduled on January 19, 2024.
The SLIM Mission: Achieving Precision Lunar Landings
Developed by JAXA: The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) is the driving force behind SLIM, an experimental mission aimed at showcasing precise lunar landings. Dubbed the “moon sniper,” the spacecraft carries a price tag of approximately 18 billion yen ($120 million).
Mission Goals: SLIM’s objective is to execute a precise landing within 100 meters of its designated spot inside Shioli, a small crater on the moon’s near side.
Unconventional Moon Journey: SLIM adopted an unconventional, fuel-efficient trajectory on its way to the moon. Launched on September 6, 2023, the spacecraft utilized a lunar flyby and a deep space loop before returning to the moon’s vicinity. This innovative path not only conserved fuel but also contributed to reducing overall mission costs.
Preparations for Lunar Landing:
Optical Navigation System: Upon entering its elliptical lunar orbit, SLIM initiated preparations for its upcoming landing attempt. Equipped with an optical navigation system and aided by maps from Japan’s Kaguya orbiter, SLIM is designed for precise guidance to the designated landing site.
Unique Landing Legs: SLIM features crushable, 3D-printed aluminum lattice landing legs, playing a crucial role in absorbing the impact of touchdown and ensuring proper orientation on the crater slope, enhancing the mission’s overall success.
Scientific Payloads:
Multi-Band Camera: In addition to its precision landing goals, SLIM carries scientific payloads contributing to lunar exploration. The Multi-Band Camera analyzes the composition of lunar minerals, providing valuable insights into the moon’s geological makeup.
Lunar Rovers: SLIM also hosts two small rovers designed for lunar surface exploration and experiments, expanding our understanding of lunar terrain and showcasing Japan’s commitment to technological innovation in space exploration.
Implications for Future Missions:
Revolutionizing Lunar and Planetary Missions: The success of SLIM’s technology has the potential to revolutionize upcoming lunar and planetary missions, offering the capability for targeted landings at scientifically significant sites, opening new avenues for exploration and scientific discovery.
Cost-Effective Space Exploration: SLIM’s innovative trajectory and precise landing technology contribute to the broader goal of cost-effective space exploration. This accomplishment establishes Japan as a significant player in efficiently exploring the moon and beyond.
The Way Forward:
Japan’s SLIM mission represents a notable stride in space exploration, highlighting not only technological expertise but also a commitment to precision and innovation.
As SLIM readies itself for the historic moon landing attempt, the world watches with anticipation, recognizing the potential impact on the future of lunar and planetary exploration.
The success of SLIM could serve as a catalyst for more ambitious and cost-effective missions, ushering in a new era in space exploration.
PM JANMAN
Context:
The Union Cabinet has given its approval to the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM JANMAN), a program designed to provide essential amenities to Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) households and habitations.
Key Points:
PM JANMAN focuses on addressing the fundamental requirements of PVTGs, covering aspects such as housing, water, sanitation, education, health, connectivity, and livelihood opportunities.
As part of the Pradhan Mantri-PVTG Development Mission, the initiative allocates Rs.15,000 crore over a span of three years to uplift PVTG households and habitations.
Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs):
- Originally termed Primitive Tribal Groups in 1960-61, PVTGs were singled out for special attention due to disparities among Scheduled Tribes, with the category being renamed in 2006.
- Encompassing 75 groups in 22,544 villages across 18 states and one Union Territory, PVTGs face challenges such as low literacy rates, pre-agricultural lifestyles, and subsistence economies.
- Population sizes vary widely, ranging from under 1,000 to over 1 lakh, presenting unique challenges for the formulation of development strategies.
Challenges Faced by PVTGs:
- Marginalization: Factors like isolation, low population, and distinctive socio-economic traits result in limited access to basic services, social discrimination, and susceptibility to displacement.
- Economic Struggles: Challenges such as the loss of traditional livelihoods, exploitation by middlemen, and a lack of market knowledge for Non-Timber Forest Produce pose significant threats.
- Political Underrepresentation: The limited political representation hampers their involvement in decision-making processes.
Support Schemes for PVTGs:
Government Initiatives: Programs like the Pradhan Mantri Adi Adarsh Gram Yojana, Integrated Tribal Development Project, Tribal Sub-Plan, and others aim at comprehensive development.
Legislation and Protection: Acts such as the Forest Rights Act 2006, Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act 1989, and Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act 1996 provide legal safeguards.
PM-JANMAN’s Approaches:
- Identification of Challenges: PM-JANMAN addresses outdated criteria for PVTG recognition, emphasizing the need for proper identification through a Human Development Index.
- Participatory Approach: Abandoning a uniform strategy, the initiative adopts a community-based approach, involving PVTGs in decision-making for land rights, social inclusion, and cultural preservation.
- Livelihood Promotion: Focus on skills training, resource provision, and implementation of the Forest Rights Act ensures sustainable development while preserving cultural heritage.
- Health, Nutrition, and Education: Tailored outreach strategies, cultural integration in education, and infrastructure development ensure accessibility in remote areas.
Infrastructure Development: Relaxing guidelines for schemes like Pradhan Mantri Grameen Sadak Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, PM-JANMAN adopts a tola-based approach for development planning tailored to PVTGs’ specific needs.
