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CURRENT AFFAIRS – 14/03/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 14/03/2024

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  1. CURRENT AFFAIRS – 14/03/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 14/03/2024

SC to hear plea to include CJI on EC selection panel

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Hindu

The Supreme Court has agreed to urgently hear a plea regarding the filling of two vacancies of Election Commissioners in the Election Commission of India (ECI) after ArunGoel’s unexpected resignation ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

Key Highlights

  • A plea filed by NGO Association for Democratic Reforms raises concerns about potential unfair advantage in the appointment process, particularly due to recent changes in the law governing the appointments of ECs.
    • The NGO is seeking a halt on implementing the new law.
    • A Bench headed by Justice Sanjiv Khanna has agreed to consider the plea filed by the NGO.
  • Arguments Presented by the NGO:
    • The NGO argues that recent changes in the law give the Executive the power to appoint two Election Commissioners, which could lead to biased appointments and unfair advantage for the Executive.
    • The role of the Election Commission in ensuring free and fair elections is crucial, and thus, appointments to the commission must be perceived as fair and free from governmental influence.
    • The NGO asserts that the Chief Justice of India (CJI) should be reinstated as a member of the selection committee responsible for appointing ECs.
    • This is in accordance with a previous Supreme Court judgment in the AnoopBaranwal case of March 2, 2023, which emphasized the importance of a transparent and unbiased appointment process.
  • Significance of the Issue:
    • The issue at hand holds significant implications for the integrity of the electoral process in India.
    • Ensuring fair and impartial appointments to the Election Commission is crucial for maintaining the credibility of the electoral system and upholding democratic principles.
  • Background of Anoop Baranwal vs. Union of India Case:
    • In March last year, a Constitution Bench led by Justice K.M. Joseph (now retired) issued a landmark judgment in the AnoopBaranwal case.
    • The ruling mandated that the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and two Election Commissioners (ECs) be appointed by the President based on the recommendations of a committee comprising the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, or the leader of the single largest party in Opposition, and the Chief Justice of India (CJI).
    • The court emphasized the necessity of ensuring the “fierce independence, neutrality, and honesty” of the Election Commission (ECI).
    • It argued that breaking the government’s monopoly and its “exclusive control” over appointments to the highest poll body was imperative for upholding the integrity of the electoral process.
  • Government’s Response:
    • Despite the court’s directive, the government introduced a new law, The Chief Election Commission and other Election Commissions (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023, to countermand the judgment.
    • This law replaced the CJI with a Cabinet Minister on the selection committee, thereby granting the Centre a dominant role in the appointments process.

About the Election Commission

  • Constitutional Provisions Regarding Election Commission:
    • Article 324 of the Constitution outlines the structure of the Election Commission of India (ECI), comprising the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and such number of Election Commissioners (ECs) as determined by the President.
    • The ECI holds the responsibility for managing electoral rolls and conducting elections at various levels, including Parliament, State Legislatures, and offices of the President and Vice-President.
    • The President is tasked with appointing the CEC and ECs, subject to provisions laid down by an Act of Parliament.
  • Historical Context and Constituent Assembly Debates:
    • During the discussions in the Constituent Assembly, the issue of the executive’s role in appointing the CEC and ECs was deliberated upon.
    • B.R. Ambedkar highlighted the importance of ensuring that the election machinery remains beyond the control of the government.
    • The members of the Constituent Assembly decided to leave the appointment mechanism of the ECI to the discretion of Parliament.
  • 1991 Act and Appointment Process:
    • In 1991, Parliament enacted the Election Commission (Conditions of Service of Election Commissioners and Transaction of Business) Act, which set the salary of the CEC and ECs at par with that of a Supreme Court judge.
    • However, the Act did not specify the appointment process, which continued to be determined by the President.
  • Supreme Court Intervention in 2023:
    • In March 2023, the Supreme Court, while examining the appointment process of the CEC and ECs, ruled that their appointment should not be solely at the discretion of the Executive.
    • The Court emphasized the need for the ECI to function independently of Executive control.
    • It mandated a selection process until Parliament formulates a law on the matter.
    • The Court directed that appointments should be made by the President based on the recommendations of a Selection Committee.
    • This committee includes the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, and the Chief Justice of India.
  • In response to the Supreme Court’s directive, the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service And Term of Office) Bill, 2023, was introduced in the Rajya Sabha on August 10, 2023.
  • This bill aimed to repeal the 1991 Act and provides for the appointment process and conditions of service for the CEC and ECs in accordance with the Supreme Court’s ruling.

About the Chief Election Commission and other Election Commissions (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023

  • The Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023 is an Act of the Parliament of India that regulates the appointment, conditions of service, and term of office of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners.
  • The Act was passed by both chambers of the Parliament on December 21, 2023, and received assent from President DroupadiMurmu on December 29, 2023.
  • Key provisions of the Act include:
    • The appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and other Election Commissioners by the President based on the recommendations of a Selection Committee chaired by the Prime Minister.
    • Selection Committee:
      • This committee consists of the Prime Minister, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and a Union Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime Minister
      • Recommendations of the Selection Committee will be valid even when there is a vacancy in this Committee.
    • The salary, allowances, and terms of service of the CEC and other ECs are identical to those of the Cabinet Secretary.
      • Under the 1991 Act, it was equivalent to the salary of a Supreme Court Judge.
    • The Act restricts re-appointment, limiting their tenure to only one term.
    • The legislation establishes a mechanism for appointment through a search committee and a Selection Committee involving key political figures.
    • Search Committee:
      • A search committee, headed by the Minister of Law and Justice, prepares a panel of five persons for consideration by the Selection Committee.

India’s R&D funding, breaking down the numbers

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : The Hindu

The announcement in the interim Budget for 2024-25 of a ₹1 lakh crore corpus to enhance the research and innovation ecosystem in India has sparked enthusiasm within scientific and research communities.

  • The decision to rebrand the slogan ‘Jai Jawan Jai Kisan’ to ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan, Jai Vigyan, Jai Anusandhan’ by the Prime Minister is aimed at reinforcing the foundation of research and innovation for development.
  • Research and innovation play a crucial role in driving economic growth, technological advancement, and global competitiveness.

Key Highlights

  • Assessment of R&D Funding Landscape:
    • India’s R&D expenditure as a percentage of GDP remains comparatively lower, standing at 0.64%.
    • This is behind major developed and emerging economies like China, Germany, South Korea, and the United States.
  • Research Output and Innovation:
    • Despite the lower R&D expenditure, India excels in producing academic talent, annually generating an impressive number of PhDs, ranking third globally after the United States and China.
    • India’s research output is substantial, with over 3, 00,000 publications in 2022, ranking third globally.
    • Additionally, India secures the sixth position globally in patent grants, with 30,490 patents granted in 2022, indicating the nation’s evolving innovation landscape and potential for further growth in intellectual property creation.
  • Government Dominance in R&D Investment:
    • In India, Gross Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) is primarily propelled by the government sector, encompassing contributions from the central government (43.7%), State governments (6.7%), Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) (8.8%), and the public sector industry (4.4%).
    • Contrarily, the private sector industry’s contribution remains modest, accounting for only 36.4% during the period of 2020–21.
    • Collaboration among the government, business enterprises, and HEIs is crucial to maximize the positive impact of science, technology, and innovation on economic growth and technological advancement.
  • Investment Distribution in R&D:
    • As per the R&D statistics (2022-23) provided by the Department of Science and Technology, India’s total investment in Research and Development (R&D) reached $17.2 billion in 2020-21.
    • Of this sum, 54% ($9.4 billion) is allocated to the government sector, predominantly utilized by key scientific agencies such as the Defence Research and Development Organisation (30.7%), the Department of Space (18.4%), the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (12.4%), and the Department of Atomic Energy (11.4%).
  • Private Sector Involvement and Challenges:
    • Despite the significant government contribution, the participation of private industries in R&D lags behind compared to other economies.
    • Indian businesses represent only 37% ($6.2 billion) of the country’s GERD.
    • This is in contrast to the global trend where business enterprises typically contribute over 65% of R&D expenditure.
    • Leading innovative economies like China, Japan, South Korea, and the U.S. witness a substantial portion (>70%) of R&D funding from private industries, driven by market forces and profit motives.
    • In these economies, R&D activities are often conducted in HEIs.
    • India’s R&D ecosystem has its advantages in terms of efficiency but could benefit more from stronger involvement of private enterprises and enhanced industry-academia collaboration.
    • Such collaboration facilitates knowledge transfer and fosters innovation, essential for driving sustainable economic growth and technological advancement.
  • Challenges and Solutions:
    • Encouraging private sector involvement in R&D is a complex issue with no single solution.
    • A comprehensive strategy involving various stakeholders is necessary to address challenges and unlock the potential of R&D for India’s economic growth and competitiveness.
    • Learning from the R&D ecosystems of other developed countries while leveraging India’s strengths in streamlined decision-making and strategic alignment could be instrumental in optimizing the R&D landscape.
    • National Deep Tech Startup Policy (NDTSP):
      • Initiatives like the NDTSP signal a strong commitment to technological progress and innovation.
      • This policy has the potential to incentivize private sector engagement in India’s R&D ecosystem.
      • Despite the significant time and technical uncertainties involved in Deep Tech’s creation, allocating resources to safeguard intellectual property and tackle technical obstacles can unlock untapped markets.
    • Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) Act:
      • The recent enactment of the ANRF Act highlights the government’s dedication to catalyzing research and innovation as the cornerstone of development.
    • Interim Budget and Policy Signals:
      • The interim Budget, coupled with initiatives like the NDTSP and ANRF Act, sends positive signals regarding India’s commitment to incentivizing private sector-led research and innovation, particularly in burgeoning industries.
      • These initiatives reflect a proactive approach towards addressing the challenges and unlocking the potential of R&D for India’s economic growth and competitiveness.

About the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) Act, 2023

  • The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) Act, 2023 is a significant legislation passed by the Parliament of India to regulate research and development in various fields, including natural sciences, engineering, technology, environmental sciences, health, agriculture, and more.
  • Establishment and Purpose:
    • The ANRF Act establishes the Anusandhan National Research Foundation to provide strategic direction for research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in diverse scientific disciplines.
    • It aims to promote, monitor, and support research activities across India.
  • Repeal of Previous Legislation:
    • The ANRF Act repeals the Science and Engineering Research Board Act, 2008, and dissolves the SERB (Science and Engineering Research Board).
  • Implementation:
    • The ANRF Act came into force on February 5, 2024, following a gazette notification.
    • AbhayKarandikar, Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), was appointed as the interim CEO of ANRF.
  • Funding:
    • The ANRF is envisioned as a research funding organization with an initial corpus of ₹50,000 crore, with a significant portion expected to come from the private sector.
    • Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman allocated ₹2,000 crore towards ANRF for the financial year 2024-25.
  • Organizational Structure:
    • The Department of Science and Technology (DST) will be the administrative department of NRF, led by a Governing Board comprising eminent researchers and professionals.
    • The Prime Minister will serve as the ex-officio President of the Board.
  • Role in Research Ecosystem:
    • The ANRF aims to provide high-level strategic direction for research activities in India across various scientific domains.
    • It emphasizes fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaboration among different stakeholders to drive scientific progress and societal impact.

The Karnataka civil engineers Bill, its pathway

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source :  The Hindu

The recently passed Karnataka Professional Civil Engineers Bill aims to enhance professionalization and construction standards within the state.

  • While the goal is commendable, the methods proposed in the bill may lead to confusion, unnecessary restrictions, impracticalities, and may not align with international best practices.

Key Highlights

  • Key Provisions of the Bill:
    • The Bill establishes four key elements:
      • defining a civil engineer,
      • specifying engineering designs,
      • imposing restrictions on who can offer engineering design services, and
      • outlining procedures for implementation.
    • Qualification and Registration Requirements:
      • According to the Bill, individuals with a diploma or degree in civil engineering, obtained from institutions in India or abroad, are eligible to be recognized as civil engineers.
      • However, they must register with the Karnataka Council of Professional Civil Engineers within one year from the enactment of the Act.
      • Furthermore, they need to obtain certification as a ‘professional civil engineer’ in Karnataka.
      • Degree holders require one year of experience, while diploma holders need two years of experience to qualify for certification.
    • Scope of Engineering Designs:
      • Only certified professional civil engineers are authorized to offer engineering designs, which encompass a wide range of disciplines including civil, structural, geotechnical, and environmental engineering designs and drawings.
      • Additionally, conceptual plans, master plans, layout plans, and other designs for buildings and infrastructure fall under this mandate.
    • Supervision and Certification Requirements:
      • The Bill stipulates that any building exceeding 50 square meters in plinth area or taller than the ground floor, or constructed with non-load-bearing masonry structure, must be supervised, executed, or certified solely by professional civil engineers.
      • Government authorities are directed not to permit construction unless certified by registered professional civil engineers.
    • Critique of the Bill:
      • While the intention behind the Bill is noble, critics argue that the stringent requirements may create confusion, unnecessary restrictions, and impracticalities in the construction industry.
      • The mandate for strict gatekeeping by professional civil engineers could potentially hinder progress and innovation in construction practices, and may not align with international best practices in the field.
      • Overlaps in Professional Services:
        • The provisions of the Karnataka Professional Civil Engineers Bill need to be reconsidered for several reasons.
        • Firstly, the bill defines engineering designs in a restrictive manner, overlooking the overlaps between professional services in the building industry.
        • This approach contradicts a ruling by the Supreme Court of India, which highlighted the challenges of excluding related professionals from offering overlapping services.
      • Supreme Court Precedent:
        • In 2020, the Supreme Court addressed a similar situation involving architects, emphasizing that various professionals, including architects, civil engineers, and others, contribute to different aspects of construction services.
        • The Court cautioned against favoring one group over others through absolute prohibitions, as it would lead to considerable confusion.
        • The Court acknowledged the essential role of diverse professions in the construction process, advising against a hard and exclusionary regulatory approach.
      • Comparison with Gujarat Professional Civil Engineers Act, 2006:
        • The Gujarat Professional Civil Engineers Act, 2006, which shares similarities with the Karnataka bill, adopts a more restrained approach.
        • It limits registered professional civil engineers to certifying engineering designs without explicitly defining such designs.
        • However, even this limited version may face legal challenges.
        • Additionally, anecdotal evidence suggests that compliance with regulations in practice may be lacking.
      • Global Perspectives on Regulation:
        • Concerns about Restrictive Regulations:
          • Many countries are cautious about regulations that restrict competition, reinforce monopoly tendencies, raise prices, and work against user interests.
          • Instead, they often support the self-regulation of professions to maintain a balance between regulation and competition.
        • Evaluation of Engineering Licensing Practices:
          • A study on engineering licensing and professional practice across various countries found that there is no hard evidence suggesting that stringent engineering licensure provides economic gains to societies.
          • Additionally, large firms employing numerous engineers and architects could easily counteract restrictive provisions, making them challenging to implement effectively.
        • Alternative Approaches to Professional Regulation:
          • Professional councils worldwide are cognizant of the complexities involved and do not seek to restrict their services excessively.
          • Instead, they focus on protecting titles such as ‘chartered engineer’ or ‘architect’ by establishing rigorous processes that emphasize high academic standards and practical experience.
        • Emphasis on Title Protection and Rigorous Certification:
          • These councils mandate additional peer interviews or examinations as non-negotiable requirements, ensuring that only competent individuals earn professional titles.
          • Users are assured of the credibility of certified professionals, leading them to voluntarily seek their services.
        • Examples from the United Kingdom:
          • In the United Kingdom, the Engineering Council clarifies that there are no restrictions on practicing as an engineer, but it protects titles awarded to qualified professionals.
          • Similarly, the Architects Registration Board protects titles while reserving certain high-risk constructions for licensed individuals.
          • However, the Karnataka Bill seeks absolute protection of services without stringent licensing requirements, lacking examinations and sufficient experience prerequisites.
        • Flexible Approach to Competence Determination:
          • Determining which professional is more competent for a specific service cannot be based on a bright-line rule.
          • Instead, it should be decided on a case-by-case basis, considering factors such as education, experience, and specialized knowledge.
        • Emphasizing Usefulness and Certification:
          • Rather than focusing on controlling professional turfs, an effective solution lies in influencing the demand side by continuously demonstrating the usefulness of professionals and certification.
          • This approach ensures that professionals are sought after based on their competence and expertise rather than arbitrary restrictions on service provision.

India and the European Free Trade Association deal

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : The Hindu

India has recently signed a Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), comprising Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.

  • This agreement, which has been in negotiations since 2008 but gained momentum after resuming talks, offers significant opportunities for Indian services firms and professionals, along with potential benefits for consumers and producers.

Key Highlights

  • The TEPA aims to enhance market access for Indian services firms, facilitating easier visa rules to tap into other European markets using EFTA countries as a base.
  • Professionals such as architects, accountants, and nurses can also anticipate more opportunities.
  • Additionally, the agreement seeks to attract $100 billion of fresh foreign direct investment into India over 15 years, aiming to create a million jobs.
  • Potential Benefits for Indian Consumers and Producers:
    • Indian consumers can expect cheaper imports of wines and chocolates, while producers may gain access to cheaper machinery.
    • Notably, India’s tariff cuts are linked to investment inflows, with a full assessment of outcomes expected after 20 years.
  • Significance of the TEPA for India:
    • The swift conclusion of the TEPA signifies India’s commitment to trade agreements, marking the second major pact in recent years after the deal with the United Arab Emirates.
    • It also signals India’s departure from its previous aversion to trade pacts, exemplified by its withdrawal from the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership in 2019.
  • Symbolic Importance and Inclusion of Non-Trade Issues:
    • The TEPA holds symbolic significance beyond trade flows, indicating India’s willingness to embrace free trade amid global protectionist trends.
    • Moreover, it marks the first time India has agreed to include non-trade issues such as labor, human rights, environment, and gender in an economic agreement.
    • While the necessity of including these issues can be debated, it reflects a positive stance towards potential allies like the European Union (EU) that prioritize such concerns.

About the European Free Trade Association (EFTA)

  • The European Free Trade Association (EFTA) is an intergovernmental organization established in 1960 by the EFTA Convention, comprising four member countries: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
  • Initially formed by seven nations as an alternative to the European Economic Community (EEC), EFTA aimed to create a free-trade area among countries not part of the EEC.
    • The initial members were Austria, Denmark, Norway, Portugal, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
    • Over time, membership has evolved, with countries like Finland, Iceland, and Liechtenstein joining as full members or associates.
    • Notably, some countries like Britain and Denmark later left EFTA upon joining the EEC (now part of the European Union).
  • The headquarters of EFTA is located in Geneva, Switzerland.
  • Objectives:
    • EFTA’s primary objective is to promote free trade and economic cooperation among its member states.
    • It aims to achieve this by eliminating tariffs, quotas, and other barriers to trade among its members.
    • EFTA negotiates and maintains free trade agreements with countries and regions outside the EU.
  • Relationship with the European Union:
    • While EFTA member states are not part of the EU, they have close economic ties with the EU through the European Economic Area (EEA) Agreement and bilateral agreements.
    • The EEA Agreement allows EFTA countries (except Switzerland) to participate in the EU’s internal market, providing for the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people.

Note: EFTA has signed free trade agreements with several countries and regions outside the EU, including Canada, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Singapore, and South Korea, among others.

About the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership

  • The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is a significant trade agreement involving 15 signatories:
    • Australia, Brunei, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, South Korea, and Thailand.
  • Negotiations for the agreement began in 2012 and were signed on November 15, 2020.
  • The RCEP aims to deepen economic activities among the existing ten-member ASEAN trade bloc with five other East Asian economies and Australia and New Zealand.
  • The agreement seeks to unify and enhance economic cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region.
  • Key points about the RCEP include:
    • The agreement creates the world’s largest free trade zone covering 28% of global GDP, 28% of global trade, and 29% of the global population.
    • RCEP aims to boost intra-regional trade among its members and promote regional development.
    • The agreement eliminates tariffs and non-tariff barriers between member countries, simplifying trade rules and reducing compliance costs for exporters.
  • The agreement entered into force on January 1, 2022, after being signed by the 15 member countries.

Higher engagement, better learning

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Hindu

The Annual Status of Education Report 2023 highlights a concerning learning deficit in India, despite high enrollment rates (86.8%) in educational institutions among individuals aged 14-18.

  • A significant proportion (one-fourth) of students struggle to read fluently at a Class 2 level in their regional languages.

Key Highlights

  • India has grappled with a learning deficit for years, with limited progress despite increased awareness through initiatives like Pratham’s annual surveys.
  • Despite enrollment, many students fail to learn effectively due to low attendance and lack of engagement in public schools.
  • Challenges in Public Schools:
    • Attendance remains low in public schools, contributing to poor learning outcomes.
    • Teachers often attribute this to student absenteeism, leading to a cycle where unmotivated teachers further disengage students.
    • Classrooms often lack meaningful engagement, with teachers primarily focusing on students in the front rows and resorting to rote learning methods.
    • Students spend hours copying from the blackboard, while teachers prioritize other tasks over teaching.
    • Although activities may appear active, students are not emotionally or cognitively engaged.
    • True learning occurs when students are emotionally and cognitively engaged in meaningful classroom activities.
    • However, traditional rote learning methods fail to equip students with the necessary skills for the rapidly changing world.
  • Call for Reform:
    • India’s education system requires a shift towards fostering cognitive and emotional engagement in classrooms to address the learning deficit effectively.
    • Rote learning methods must be supplemented with interactive and practical learning experiences to equip students with diverse skills necessary for success in the modern world.
    • Ideal Classroom Scenario:
      • In an ideal classroom scenario, every student is actively engaged through random participation, peer discussion, problem-solving, and hands-on learning experiences.
      • The teacher remains present to provide real-time feedback, fostering a happy and collaborative learning environment.
    • Importance of Teacher Participation:
      • Effective student engagement hinges on active teacher participation.
      • Teachers play a crucial role in facilitating meaningful learning experiences for all students, regardless of their backgrounds or abilities.
      • When teachers actively engage students, learning outcomes significantly improve.
    • Challenges in Implementation:
      • Despite the clear benefits of student engagement, various challenges hinder its widespread implementation in classrooms.
      • Inadequate teacher allocation, systemic governance issues, outdated teaching practices, and lack of teacher support and coaching are among the many factors contributing to this challenge.
    • Need for Systemic Changes:
      • Addressing these challenges requires systemic changes within the education system.
      • While some teachers demonstrate passion and dedication, systemic issues persist, impacting overall learning outcomes.
      • Many educators were not themselves taught in engaging ways, leading to a lack of emphasis on student engagement in teaching practices.
      • Shift from One-Way Communication:
        • Teaching traditionally involves one-way communication, with limited feedback from students during lessons.
        • This lack of feedback makes it challenging for teachers to customize their teaching to meet individual student needs effectively.
      • Transforming Teacher Education:
        • Theoretical Nature of Teacher Training:
          • Teacher education and training in India primarily focus on theoretical aspects, lacking practical application and engagement.
          • Seminars often follow a one-way communication format, offering little opportunity for participants to practice teaching techniques.
        • Need for Engaging Learning Environment:
          • To enhance teacher effectiveness, it’s essential to view teachers as learners themselves and provide them with an engaging learning environment.
          • Adopting a 70% practice and 30% theory approach can effectively equip teachers with practical skills while experiencing learner engagement firsthand.
        • Importance of Coaching and Support:
          • Teachers require ongoing coaching and support to effectively implement new teaching practices.
          • Despite the significance of their role, many teachers lack the necessary support system in schools, hindering their ability to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.
        • Focus on Student Engagement:
          • Student engagement is paramount in driving better learning outcomes.
          • Structured lessons, quality teacher-student relationships, and student autonomy are key components that contribute to higher engagement and improved learning outcomes.
        • Shift from Right to Education to Right to Learning:
          • While discussions around the Right to Education have been prevalent, there’s a need to shift the focus towards ensuring the Right to Learning for every student.
          • Simply enacting educational policies without fostering an environment conducive to effective learning will lead to continued disappointment, as highlighted by recurring findings in reports like the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER).

About the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER)

  • The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) is a nationwide household survey conducted by the NGO Pratham in rural India.
  • Established in 2005, the survey aims to understand the enrollment and learning outcomes of children in rural areas.
  • ASER is the largest citizen-led survey in India, providing representative estimates of enrollment status and basic reading and arithmetic levels of children aged 3-16 years.
  • Key features of the ASER include:
    • Enrollment Rates:
      • The ASER 2023 report reveals that 86.8% of 14-18-year-olds are enrolled in an educational institution.
      • However, there are notable differences by age, with 3.9% of 14-year-olds and 32.6% of 18-year-olds not enrolled.
      • Most students in the 14-18 age group are enrolled in Arts/Humanities streams, with more than half (55.7%) in Class XI or higher studying in this stream.
    • Gender Differences:
      • There are gender differences in enrollment, with fewer females (28.1%) enrolled in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) stream compared to males (36.3%).
    • Vocational Training:
      • Only 5.6% of youth are taking vocational training or related courses, with most taking short duration courses of six months or less.
    • Basic Abilities:
      • Approximately 25% of the youth cannot read a Class II level text fluently in their regional language, and more than half struggle with simple 3-digit by 1-digit division problems.
    • Underutilization of Digital Technology:
      • Despite high smartphone availability in rural households (95%), the use of smartphones for educational purposes remains limited.
      • This underutilization of digital technology poses a challenge to leveraging technology for educational advancement
    • The ASER 2023 report highlights the need for improvements in education policies and interventions to address issues such as low enrollment rates, gender disparities, and inadequate vocational training.

On judges and bureaucrats joining politics

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Hindu

The recent resignations of a judge from the Calcutta High Court and a senior IPS officer in West Bengal, who subsequently joined political parties, have reignited concerns regarding the appropriateness of independent constitutional authorities and other senior government officials affiliating with political parties post their tenure.

  • The Constitution establishes a system of checks and balances between various branches of the government, ensuring accountability and independence.
  • Independent bodies like the judiciary, Election Commission, Public Service Commission, and Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) are entrusted with constitutional duties free from government interference.

Key Highlights

  • Guarantees of Independence:
    • To maintain independence, these institutions are provided with fixed tenures, financial autonomy, and stringent removal procedures.
    • After demitting office, judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts, as well as the CAG and Public Service Commission members, face restrictions on engaging in certain activities to prevent favoritism towards the government during their tenure.
    • Upon leaving office, Supreme Court judges are barred from practicing law in India, while High Court judges face similar restrictions except for appearances before certain courts.
    • Additionally, the CAG and Public Service Commission members are prohibited from taking up employment with the Central or State governments after retirement.
    • These restrictions aim to prevent any potential biases or conflicts of interest during the tenure of these positions, ensuring impartiality and integrity in decision-making.
  • Political Posts and Activities:
    • In contrast to post-retirement restrictions, there are no constitutional barriers to joining political parties, contesting elections, or holding political posts after leaving independent constitutional positions.
    • Several instances illustrate individuals transitioning from independent constitutional roles to political involvement.
    • This includes Supreme Court judges contesting elections, a Chief Election Commissioner becoming a Rajya Sabha member and Minister, and retired Chief Justices of India being nominated to the Rajya Sabha or appointed as Governors of States.
    • Similarly, numerous bureaucrats have entered politics after resigning from service or retiring, highlighting the fluidity between bureaucratic and political spheres in India.
  • Recommendations for Cooling-Off Period:
    • In 2012, the Election Commission proposed the implementation of a cooling-off period for top bureaucrats after retirement, suggesting a delay before they could join political parties or contest elections.
    • This recommendation aimed to preserve the neutrality and independence of these individuals.
    • Rejection of Recommendation:
      • However, the Union government rejected this proposal, citing concerns about its compatibility with constitutional provisions and democratic principles.
      • The Attorney General provided an opinion supporting this decision, emphasizing the right of every citizen to contest elections and questioning the necessity of such restrictions.
      • While rules exist to prevent senior bureaucrats from immediately taking up commercial employment after retirement to avoid conflicts of interest, extending similar restrictions to political activities may not be legally justifiable.
      • The Attorney General argued that such restrictions could violate democratic principles enshrined in the Constitution.
    • Balancing Independence and Public Perception:
      • Despite legal considerations, there is a recognition of the importance of maintaining the perception of independence and neutrality, especially for judges, independent constitutional authorities, and senior bureaucrats.
      • This principle of justice being seen to be done applies beyond their official tenure.
    • Proposal for Cooling-Off Period:
      • To address these concerns, it is suggested to implement a cooling-off period of at least two years before retired officials can join political parties or hold political posts.
      • This would align with principles of justice and integrity, fostering public confidence and mitigating allegations of favoritism or quid pro quo.
    • Impact on Public Confidence:
      • Such a measure would enhance public trust in the integrity of former officials and reinforce democratic values.
      • By providing a buffer between retirement and political engagement, it would ensure a smoother transition and reduce perceptions of undue influence or conflicts of interest.

SC stops Assam govt. move to de-notify rhino habitat

(General Studies- Paper II and III)

Source : The Hindu

The Supreme Court, on March 13, intervened in the Assam government’s decision to withdraw a notification from 1998, which established the Pobitora wildlife sanctuary.

  • This sanctuary is home to a significant population of rhinoceroses, making it an important conservation area in the country.

Key Highlights

  • Freezing the Withdrawal:
    • A Bench comprising Justices B.R. Gavai and Sandeep Mehta issued an order preventing any further action regarding the withdrawal of the notification dated March 17, 1998, constituting the sanctuary.
    • The Court deemed the State government’s move to withdraw the notification as inappropriate.
  • Assam Cabinet’s Decision:
    • The Assam Cabinet had decided on March 10 to retract the 1998 notification issued by the State Forest Department, citing concerns over the unilateral issuance of the notification without consultation with other relevant departments or authorities.
    • The government justified its decision by highlighting that the declaration of the sanctuary was made without adequately addressing the rights of the local communities residing in villages within the area, including Thengabhanga, Murkata, and Mayong.
    • These communities, belonging to marginalized groups, have inhabited the region since before Independence.
    • Government’s Committee and Withdrawal:
      • After withdrawing the 1998 notification declaring the Pobitora wildlife sanctuary, the government established a committee to assess the rights and claims of forest dwellers in the region.
      • This move aimed to facilitate a more informed decision regarding the sanctuary’s status.
    • Legal Clarifications:
      • During the court proceedings, Justice Gavai emphasized that any withdrawal of a notification for a wildlife sanctuary requires permission from the National Board of Wildlife and is subject to Supreme Court orders prohibiting dereservation of protected areas.
    • Order and Future Proceedings:
      • While the court ordered a stay on the withdrawal of the 1998 notification, it clarified that this decision wouldn’t hinder the state from taking steps to protect the rights of forest dwellers.
      • Additionally, the court directed the state to submit a detailed counter affidavit for further consideration at the next hearing.

About the Pobitora wildlife sanctuary

  • Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Morigaon district of Assam, India.
  • Established in 1987, it covers an area of 38.85 km2 (15.00 sq mi) and is known for its dense population of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros.
  • The sanctuary is situated on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra River and provides grassland.
  • Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is home to one of the largest Indian rhinoceros populations in Assam, with a population density higher than any other protected area in the world.
  • Biodiversity:
    • The sanctuary is rich in biodiversity, with a variety of mammals such as golden jackal, wild boar, feral water buffalo, barking deer, Indian leopard, and rhesus macaque.
    • It is also an Important Bird Area, hosting more than 2000 migratory birds and various reptiles.
  • Grassland Vegetation:
    • The grassland vegetation of Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary consists of at least 15 grass species, including Cynodondactylon, whip grass, vetiver, ravennagrass, Phragmiteskarka, southern cutgrass, and signalgrass.
  • Conservation Efforts:
    • Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is considered a success story in terms of conservation and protection of the land of the Rhino, with the Government of India including it in the Indian Rhino Vision 2020 (IRV) program.