CURRENT AFFAIRS - 08/04/2024

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CURRENT AFFAIRS – 08/04/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 08/04/2024

All-weather road gives a strategic fillip to Ladakh

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : The Hindu

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has recently accomplished a significant feat in Ladakh by establishing the Nimmu-Padam-Darcha road, linking Himachal Pradesh and Leh.

This accomplishment holds crucial implications for bolstering security measures in the region and enhancing India’s strategic depth along its hostile border neighborhood.

Key Highlights

Strategic Importance of the Nimmu-Padam-Darcha Road:
- By connecting remote regions like Zanskar Valley, the road offers a secure route for establishing an ordnance depot, safeguarded from the surveillance of neighboring nations, particularly China and Pakistan.
- This road facilitates surface movement between Leh and Lahaul-Spiti, traversing through the Shinku La Pass, home to the world’s highest tunnel currently under construction.
- Expected to be completed by 2025, this tunnel sits at an elevation of 16,580 feet and is poised to become a vital link in the region’s infrastructure.
- The completion of the Nimmu-Padam-Darcha road marks a significant milestone as it will be the first all-weather road connecting Ladakh to the rest of India.
- Addressing Logistical Challenges and Security Concerns:
  - One of the longstanding concerns for security strategists has been the logistical constraints posed by the absence of all-weather roads in Ladakh, especially during inclement weather conditions.
  - Currently, security forces are compelled to stockpile ration and ammunition well in advance to sustain vigilance along the borders.
  - This initiative by BRO addresses these concerns and augments India’s capabilities to maintain security in the region.
- Enhanced Defence Mobilization and Safety:
  - Upon the completion of the Shinkula tunnel in the Zanskar Valley, the mobilization of troops to Ladakh will witness a significant improvement.
  - This route offers faster and less exposed passage compared to the current routes, which pass through areas surrounded by Pakistan and China.
- Comparison with Existing Routes:
  - The Nimmu-Padam-Darcha road, spanning a distance of 298 km from Manali in Himachal Pradesh, emerges as the third axis for connectivity to Ladakh.
  - Notably, it offers a shorter route compared to the currently operational Manali-Leh road (428 km) and Srinagar-Leh road (439 km), enhancing efficiency and reducing travel time.
- Local Concerns and Discontentment:
  - Despite the strategic advantages, there are concerns among locals regarding the project’s impact on the landscape and cultural heritage of Zanskar.
  - Notable figures such as climate activist SonamWangchuk and advocate Mustafa Haji have expressed apprehensions over potential environmental and cultural repercussions.

Important Passes and Valleys in Ladakh

Ladakh, a region in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, India, is known for its high-altitude landscapes, including mountains, deserts, and valleys.
The region is home to several important passes and valleys that are significant for their cultural, historical, and geographical importance.
Important Passes in Ladakh:
- Khardung La Pass: Located at an altitude of 17,582 feet, Khardung La Pass is one of the highest motorable passes in the world. It connects Leh to the Nubra Valley and is an important gateway for the Indian Army.
- Chang La Pass: At an altitude of 17,590 feet, Chang La Pass is the third-highest motorable pass in the world. It connects Leh to the Pangong Tso Lake and is an important pass for the Indian Army.
- Rohtang La Pass: Located at an altitude of 13,050 feet, Rohtang La Pass connects the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys and is an important pass for the Indian Army.
- Zoji La Pass: At an altitude of 11,578 feet, Zoji La Pass connects the Kashmir Valley with the Ladakh Valley and is an important pass for the Indian Army.
- Fotu La Pass: Located at an altitude of 13,479 feet, Fotu La Pass is the highest pass on the Srinagar-Leh Highway and is an important pass for the Indian Army.
Important Valleys in Ladakh:
- Nubra Valley: Located in the north of Ladakh, Nubra Valley is known for its sand dunes, Bactrian camels, and the Siachen Glacier.
- Zanskar Valley: Located in the south of Ladakh, Zanskar Valley is known for its rugged terrain, deep gorges, and the Chadar Ice Trek.
- Indus Valley: Located in the west of Ladakh, Indus Valley is known for its ancient monasteries, palaces, and the Indus River.
- Suru Valley: Located in the south of Ladakh, Suru Valley is known for its beautiful landscapes, glaciers, and the Kargil War Memorial.
- Markha Valley: Located in the east of Ladakh, Markha Valley is known for its trekking routes, high-altitude villages, and the Hemis National Park.

States offer thousands of hectares of ‘degraded’ forest land for green credits

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : The Hindu

Following the announcement of rules by the Union Environment Ministry for its Green Credit Programme (GCP), several states have taken significant steps towards implementation.

As per reports, ten states have identified parcels of degraded forest land totalling approximately 3,853 hectares.
This land will be made available for various entities, including individuals, groups, and both public and private sector units, to earn and potentially trade green credits.
Among the states involved, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh stand out, collectively contributing up to 40% of the identified forest land available for the programme.

Key Highlights

Mechanism of the Green Credit Programme:
- Under the scheme, registered and approved entities can finance afforestation projects in designated areas of degraded forest and wasteland.
- The responsibility for actual afforestation activities lies with the respective State forest departments.
- Following the planting of trees, a two-year evaluation by the International Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), an autonomous body under the Environment Ministry, determines the value of each planted tree as one ‘green credit’.
Utilization of Green Credits:
- These green credits hold significance for companies that have utilized forest land for non-forest purposes, resulting in the removal of thousands of trees.
- By acquiring green credits, these companies can offset some of their obligations under India’s compensatory afforestation laws.
- This mechanism encourages environmental responsibility and ensures that deforestation activities are mitigated through reforestation efforts.
- Green credits essentially assign a monetary value to afforestation efforts, encouraging private investment in environmental conservation initiatives.
Compensatory Afforestation Laws:
- Compensatory afforestation laws in India mandate that any industry or institution granted permission to clear forest land for non-forestry purposes must provide an equivalent area of non-forest land to forest authorities.
- Additionally, they are required to fund afforestation efforts on the provided land.
- The stipulation is that the allocated land should be as close as possible to the razed forest tracts.
- In cases where contiguous non-forest land is unavailable, twice the amount of ‘degraded’ forest land may be utilized for compensatory afforestation.
- Furthermore, companies must compensate for the ‘net present value’ of the forest ecosystem lost due to the land diversion.
Challenges with Compensatory Afforestation:
- In states like Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, historically known for large-scale forest land diversion for mining activities, acquiring contiguous non-forest land for compensatory afforestation poses significant challenges.
- Despite the existence of the Compensatory Afforestation Fund, which accumulates funds from environmental compensation paid by companies, there are thousands of crores of unspent money due to the unavailability of suitable land for forest regeneration, whether revenue or degraded.
Concerns with Green Credits:
- While the idea of green credits aims to support afforestation activities, experts raise concerns regarding its implementation.
- Linking green credits to compensatory afforestation activities presents challenges, as it could potentially create land banks susceptible to diversion for commercial purposes.
- This contradicts the primary goal of compensatory afforestation laws, which is to discourage forest land appropriation for commercial ventures.
- Thus, there is apprehension that the green credit scheme might inadvertently contribute to increased levels of forest land diversion instead of discouraging it.
Responsibilities of Institutions:
- According to Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), it’s crucial to understand that the green credit scheme does not absolve institutions of their responsibility to provide suitable land for compensation.
- While compensatory afforestation is a significant aspect of the scheme, it also aims to encourage corporate social responsibility actions and promote ecosystem regeneration.
Objectives of the Scheme:
- The green credit scheme serves multiple purposes beyond compensatory afforestation.
- It aims to incentivize corporate social responsibility initiatives and foster ecosystem regeneration.
- This broader perspective suggests that the scheme is designed to address various environmental and social objectives.

About the Compensatory Afforestation Laws in India

Compensatory Afforestation Laws in India, also known as CAMPA (Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority), are a set of regulations and laws aimed at preserving and enhancing the country’s forests.
The laws were enacted under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, which requires that whenever forest land is diverted for non-forest purposes, an equivalent area of non-forest land must be taken up for compensatory afforestation.
The user agencies responsible for such land diversion are also liable to contribute funds for establishing the compensatory forest.
The funds collected are managed by the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act, 2016, which established a National Compensatory Afforestation Fund at the Central level and State Compensatory Afforestation Funds at the State level.
- The National Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority is constituted by the Central Government, and a similar authority is constituted by the State Government for managing the State Fund.
As per the rules, 90% of the CAF money is to be given to the states while 10% is to be retained by the Centre.
The funds can be used for the treatment of catchment areas, assisted natural generation, forest management, wildlife protection and management, relocation of villages from protected areas, managing human-wildlife conflicts, training and awareness generation, supply of wood saving devices, and allied activities.

About the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE)

The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India.
- The ICFRE was formed in 1986 and was converted into an autonomous body in 1991 to address the emerging challenges in the forestry sector.
- The ICFRE has a pan-India presence with its 9 Regional Research Institutes and 5 Centers located in different bio-geographical regions of the country.
The ICFRE is responsible for addressing the research, education, and extension needs of the forestry sector in India.
- The council has a rich history that dates back to the late nineteenth century with the establishment of the Forest School in Dehradun in 1878 and the Imperial Forest Research Institute in 1906.
- The ICFRE was formed as an umbrella organization in 1986 to manage and direct research, extension, and education in the forestry sector in the states under its jurisdiction.
The ICFRE is registered as a Society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, and has a Board of Governors that oversees its functioning.
- The council has a Society Board of Governors, which is responsible for its overall management and administration.
- The ICFRE Society Board of Governors comprises representatives from the Ministry of Environment and Forests, State Forest Departments, and other relevant organizations.
- The ICFRE has a mandate to provide technical assistance to the Ministry of Environment and Forests and State Forest Departments in the development and implementation of forestry programs and policies.
- The council also provides training and education to forestry professionals and conducts research in various aspects of forestry, including conservation, management, and utilization of forest resources.
The ICFRE also has a mandate to promote the use of forest-based products and technologies for sustainable development and to enhance the livelihoods of forest-dependent communities.
The council also promotes the conservation and sustainable management of forests and other natural resources, including wildlife and biodiversity.

Shaping India’s path to inclusive health care

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Hindu

World Health Day, celebrated annually on April 7th, underscores the importance of health equity, a cornerstone of global health and justice.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has enshrined health as a fundamental human right, with this year’s theme being “My Health, My Right.”
The significance of this day is amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic, environmental challenges, and widening socio-economic disparities, highlighting the urgent need for equitable access to healthcare.

Key Highlights

Challenges in Health-Care Access
- Despite more than 140 nations acknowledging health as a constitutional right, a concerning gap persists in accessing essential health services.
- The WHO Council on the Economics of Health for All has reported that over half of the global population lacks complete access to necessary health services.
- This disparity is evident in various socio-economic contexts, pointing to systemic issues that transcend mere legislative recognition.
Understanding Health Equity
- Health equity aims to ensure that every individual has an equal opportunity to attain their optimal health, irrespective of their circumstances.
- It acknowledges the multifaceted impact of social, economic, and environmental factors on health outcomes, emphasizing a holistic approach beyond genetic predispositions.
- The WHO’s mission is to eradicate unjust and preventable health disparities across diverse social and economic strata.
- Addressing Root Causes of Inequities
  - True health equity delves into the underlying causes of health disparities, including poverty, discrimination, and limited access to vital resources such as education, nutrition, clean water, and housing.
  - Merely granting equal access to healthcare is insufficient without addressing these foundational determinants.
  - For instance, a child born into poverty in a rural area may lack access to clean water, nutritious food, and immunizations, setting the stage for long-term health challenges.
  - The convergence of pandemics, climate change, and sociopolitical unrest exacerbates existing health disparities, particularly in diverse countries like India where socioeconomic gaps are wide.
  - Rural areas suffer disproportionately from limited access to healthcare compared to metropolitan regions, compounded by social and economic barriers.
- Comprehensive Strategy for Health Equity
  - Achieving health equity requires a multifaceted approach beyond legislative reforms.
  - It entails addressing the socioeconomic determinants of health to ensure that everyone can lead a healthy life.
  - Governments, communities, and individuals must collaborate to dismantle these barriers and enable each person to realize their health potential.
- India’s Health Equity Challenges
  - India, with its vast and diverse population, grapples with persistent obstacles to achieving health equity, marked by significant variations in healthcare outcomes and access.
  - Despite improvements in healthcare access in recent decades, rural areas still face substantial challenges.
  - Urban Slums and Health Disparities
    - Urban slums, constituting over 17% of metropolitan areas in India according to the 2011 Census, present serious health disparities exacerbated by overcrowding, poor sanitation, and limited access to clean water.
    - Infectious diseases like tuberculosis are 1.5 times more prevalent in slums compared to non-slum areas, as reported by the Indian Council of Medical Research.
  - Caste and Gender Disparities
    - Profound disparities persist across caste and gender lines.
    - Data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS)-5 (2019-21) reveals higher child mortality and lower immunization rates among Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
    - Moreover, women in the lowest wealth quintile experience significantly higher rates of anaemia, reflecting the intersection of caste, gender, and economic status in health outcomes.
  - Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)
    - Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for over 60% of all deaths in India.
    - The Public Health Foundation of India underscores the urgent need for equitable access to treatment and preventive healthcare services, citing potential economic losses exceeding $6 trillion by 2030.
  - Shortage of Healthcare Professionals
    - A critical shortage of doctors exacerbates these challenges, with WHO data indicating a doctor-to-population ratio below the recommended level.
    - While over 75% of healthcare professionals are concentrated in metropolitan areas, which only account for 27% of the population, rural regions suffer from severe shortages.
    - However, considering other medical practitioners might balance this ratio to some extent.
  - Comprehensive Approach Needed
    - Addressing India’s health equity issues necessitates a holistic approach that extends beyond mere improvements in healthcare infrastructure.
    - It requires tackling broader socioeconomic determinants of health to advance towards universal health coverage and a more equitable future.
    - Collaboration among the government, civil society, healthcare providers, and communities is essential to drive meaningful change in India’s healthcare landscape.
  - Working towards Health Equity
    - The National Health Mission (NHM), encompassing both the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) and the National Urban Health Mission (NUHM), plays a pivotal role in bridging the healthcare gap between rural and urban India.
    - Promoting Health Literacy for Equity
      - Elevating health literacy is essential for achieving health equity in India.
      - Integrating health education into NHM empowers individuals to seek equitable care and make informed health decisions.
    - Collaborative Efforts of Public and Private Sectors
      - Public and private healthcare sectors collaborate to provide services to underprivileged communities, emphasizing preventive education, workforce development, and infrastructure enhancement.
      - This joint effort aims to address healthcare disparities comprehensively and ensure equitable access to quality healthcare services.
    - Role of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Civic Societies
      - NGOs and civic societies play a vital role in direct community outreach to identify and address regional health concerns.
      - Collaborating with international and governmental organizations, they tailor health initiatives that are culturally sensitive and responsive to the unique needs of diverse communities, thereby contributing to the advancement of health equity.
    - Support from International Institutions
      - International institutions like WHO, the Global Fund, and Gavi support health initiatives in resource-limited settings, including India.
      - By providing resources and sharing information, these organizations bolster healthcare systems and promote equitable access to healthcare services, particularly in countries facing challenges like India.
    - Innovation and Technical Growth
      - The commercial sector and charitable organizations drive accessibility and affordability in healthcare through innovation and technical advancements, notably in digital health.
      - By leveraging technology, they extend the reach and efficacy of healthcare services, thereby contributing to efforts aimed at achieving health equity.
    - Contribution of Research Institutes and Academic Institutions
      - Research institutes and academic institutions play a crucial role in understanding health inequalities and evaluating the effectiveness of interventions.
      - Their insights inform evidence-based practices and policies, supported by scientific studies, thereby contributing to the development of strategies aimed at addressing health disparities and advancing health equity in India.
    - Role of Local Organizations in Health Equity
      - Organizations with a strong local presence play a vital role in promoting health equity by actively engaging in all stages of health programs, from planning to evaluation.
      - They possess a deep understanding of their community’s needs, ensuring the relevance and effectiveness of interventions.
      - Their involvement ensures that health initiatives are tailored to address specific local challenges and priorities.
    - Enhancing Health Equity through Multisectoral Collaboration
      - Effective collaboration across various sectors, including policymakers, grassroots organizations, healthcare providers, and community leaders, holds immense potential to enhance health equity.
      - By pooling expertise and resources, these partnerships can address systemic barriers to healthcare access and promote a future where high-quality healthcare is a shared reality for all.

About the World Health Organization (WHO)

The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health.
Establishment:
- The WHO was established on April 7, 1948, with headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.
- It was created as a successor to the Health Organization of the League of Nations.
Functions: The WHO performs various functions to fulfill its mandate, including:
- Providing leadership on global health matters.
- Setting norms and standards for health.
- Providing technical support to countries to help strengthen their health systems.
- Monitoring health trends and assessing health data.
- Coordinating responses to health emergencies and outbreaks.
- Conducting research and providing evidence-based guidance on health issues.
Structure:
- The WHO is governed by the World Health Assembly, which meets annually and is attended by delegations from all member states.
- The Assembly elects the Director-General, who serves as the chief executive officer of the organization.
- The Director-General is supported by the WHO Secretariat, which consists of experts and professionals from various fields of public health.

Gone too soon — the subject of youth suicide in India

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Hindu

Suicide is a tragic and complex phenomenon, characterized by the conscious volitional act of ending one’s life.

In India, the issue of suicide is particularly concerning, with the country holding the unfortunate distinction of having the highest number of suicides globally.
According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), 1.71 lakh people died by suicide in 2022, with a recorded suicide rate of 12.4 per 1, 00,000—the highest ever recorded in India.
However, these figures are likely underestimated due to various factors such as inadequate registration systems, lack of medical certification of death, and prevailing social stigma.

Key Highlights

Youth Suicide in India
- Of particular concern is the prevalence of suicide among young people, with 41% of all suicides occurring in individuals below the age of 30.
- Shockingly, suicide is the leading cause of mortality among young women in India, with a young Indian taking their own life every eight minutes.
- This not only represents a loss to families and society but also has significant implications for the economy and the future of the country.
- Youth suicide thus emerges as a major public health challenge in India.
Complexity of Suicide
- Attempting to attribute suicide to a single causative factor is futile, as suicide is a complex behavior influenced by multiple factors.
- In the case of young people, suicide is best understood as multidetermined, resulting from the interaction of biological, psychological, familial, and socio-cultural factors.
- Risk Factors Associated with Youth Suicide
  - A review of adolescent suicides in India reveals a range of risk factors associated with youth suicide.
  - These include mental health problems, negative or traumatic family issues, academic stress, social and lifestyle factors, violence, economic distress, and relationship issues.
  - Additionally, physical and sexual abuse, examination failure, intergenerational conflicts, parental pressures, and caste discrimination have been identified as contributing factors to youth suicide in India.
- Sociocultural Factors Contributing to Female Youth Suicide
  - Specific sociocultural factors contribute significantly to suicide among young girls and women in India.
  - These factors include arranged and early marriages, young motherhood, low social status, domestic violence, and economic dependence.
  - Rigid gender roles and discrimination further exacerbate the risk of suicide among young females.
- Educational Pressures and Examination Stress
  - The educational system in India, characterized by an emphasis on scoring marks and a one-point examination system, contributes significantly to suicides among young people.
  - The pressure from parents, high expectations, and the intense competition to secure seats in colleges drive many individuals to despair.
  - Failure in examinations, which led to 2,095 suicides in 2022 alone, is compounded by societal shame, parental pressure, and the emotional toll of prolonged academic stress.
- Impact of Alcohol, Substance Use, and Internet Addiction
  - Alcohol and substance use are known risk factors for youth suicides, with the last two decades witnessing a notable increase in Internet usage among young individuals.
  - A meta-analysis from 19 states in India revealed that nearly 20% of college students are addicted to the Internet, with one-third of young people experiencing cyberbullying, a significant subset of whom exhibit suicidal tendencies.
  - Excessive social media use, particularly exceeding two hours a day, has been linked to increased suicidal behavior among teens.
- Media Influence on Vulnerable Youth
  - The media plays a significant role in influencing vulnerable young individuals, particularly in sensationalizing suicide cases, especially those involving celebrities.
  - Sensational reporting of suicides can lead to copycat behavior, as evidenced by increased searches on “how to commit suicide” following the death of a popular young male actor in India.
  - This underscores the need for responsible media reporting and awareness campaigns to mitigate the negative impact of media coverage on vulnerable youth.
- Changing Perceptions and Building Skills
  - The belief that suicides are inevitable or solely the result of uncontrollable socioeconomic factors is common.
  - However, for many young individuals contemplating suicide, there are viable solutions to their problems.
  - By teaching problem-solving, impulse control, and emotional regulation skills, along with promoting help-seeking behavior, young people can learn constructive ways to address challenges.
  - Early identification of mental distress and providing care in youth-friendly environments are crucial aspects of suicide prevention.
  - Additionally, adopting a healthy lifestyle, including balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, moderate Internet usage, fostering supportive friendships, and practicing yoga and meditation, can enhance mental well-being and reduce suicidal tendencies among the youth.
  - Addressing Family Environment and Societal Changes
    - Improving the family environment by reducing domestic violence and alcohol consumption, as well as providing economic assistance to those in need, has been proven to mitigate suicidal behavior.
    - Educational reforms, such as implementing alternative assessment methods and encouraging exploration of individual potential, are necessary to alleviate academic pressures contributing to suicides.
    - Furthermore, societal changes aimed at reducing stigma and discrimination based on caste, religion, and sexuality are essential for creating supportive environments conducive to mental health.
  - National Suicide Prevention Strategy
    - The Ministry of Health established a task force in November 2019 to develop a National Suicide Prevention Strategy for India, which was launched on November 21, 2022.
    - The strategy aims to reduce suicide rates by 10% by 2030 and emphasizes collaboration between various ministries, including Health, Education, Information and Broadcasting, and Social Welfare.
    - Leveraging educational institutions and youth organizations, the strategy aims to promote mental health and reduce substance and behavioral addictions through initiatives like school health ambassadors and youth clubs.
  - Implementation and Stakeholder Engagement
    - Disseminating the strategy to all states and stakeholders, along with budgetary allocations, is crucial for its effective implementation.
    - Strategies outlined in the plan must be executed at the state, district, and community levels to achieve tangible results.
    - Political will, intersectoral collaboration, and active community participation are vital for the successful execution of the National Suicide Prevention Strategy and the realization of its objectives.

EC data show number of women candidates grew16-fold from 1957 to 2019

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Hindu

Since 1957, there has been a significant increase in the number of women candidates contesting Lok Sabha elections in India, according to data from the Election Commission.

In 1957, there were only 45 women candidates, but by 2019, this number had risen to 726.
Despite this growth, the percentage of women in Parliament has increased from 4.5% in 1957 to 14.4% in 2019.
Conversely, the number of male candidates has also increased, from 1,474 in 1957 to 7,322 in 2019.

Key Highlights

Men and Women Candidates
- While the number of male candidates has multiplied by five times since 1957, the growth in the number of women candidates has been more substantial, increasing by 16-fold.
- In 1957, women comprised a mere 2.9% of candidates, but by 2019, they made up approximately 9% of the total candidate pool.
- However, the number of women candidates has never surpassed 1,000.
- Success Rates of Male and Female Candidates
  - Despite the increase in women candidates, their success rate has declined consistently over the years.
  - In 1957, 22 out of 45 women candidates won, indicating a success rate of 48.88%.
  - However, by 2019, this success rate had dropped to just 10.74%, with only 78 out of 726 women candidates winning seats.
  - Similarly, the success rate of male candidates has also decreased, from 31.7% in 1957 to 6.4% in 2019.
- Interpreting Trends in Candidate Numbers
  - Experts caution against using the increasing numbers of male and female candidates as indicators of trends in winnability, attributing this rise to the growth in overall candidate numbers despite a consistent number of Lok Sabha seats.
  - According to political analysts, this phenomenon reflects the maturation of Indian democracy and the increasing participation of women in the electoral process.
- Challenges Faced by Women Candidates
  - Despite the increase in the number of women candidates, experts highlight significant disparities in opportunities for women to contest elections.
  - Women’s rights activists notes a substantial gap between the numbers of male and female candidates, attributing this to a lack of political will among parties to provide opportunities for women.