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CURRENT AFFAIRS – 23/01/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 23/01/2024

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  1. CURRENT AFFAIRS – 23/01/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 23/01/2024

With just two speakers, a language in Kerala with no script is on the brink of extinction

(General Studies- Paper I)

Source : TH

The remote colony of Kookanam, near Karivellurgrama panchayat, is facing the imminent loss of its unique language, Madhika, spoken by the Chakaliya community.

  • P. Narayanan, 87, and his niece Rajputhri, the last fluent speakers of Madhika, fear that the language, devoid of a script, will disappear with them.

Key Highlights

  • Despite its similarities to Kannada, Madhika is a distinct blend of Telugu, Tulu, Kannada, and Malayalam, bewildering listeners with its diverse influences.
  • The younger generation, opting for mainstream languages like Malayalam taught in schools, shows little interest in preserving this linguistic relic.
  • Narayanan and Rajputhri acquired the language from their forebears, making them the last living link to the past.
  • The community’s nomadic history, worshipping Thiruvenkatramana and Mariamma, involves migration from the hilly regions of Karnataka to northern Malabar centuries ago.
  • Recognized initially as Scheduled Tribe and later included in the Scheduled Caste category in Kerala, the Chakaliya community faces neglect and social stigma.
  • Social activists attribute the language’s decline to the associated untouchability, preventing participation in traditional events.
  • Many within the community, seeking to dissociate from a history of dehumanizing treatment, prefer Malayalam over Madhika.
  • The absence of documentation puts Madhika at risk of extinction, as it is largely influenced by Havyaka Kannada, an old form of Kannada.

About Kannada

  • Kannada, formerly known as Canarese, stands as a prominent Dravidian language spoken predominantly in Karnataka, southwestern India.
  • With approximately 44 million native speakers and an additional 15 million non-native speakers in Karnataka, it holds cultural significance with its diverse dialects.
  • Belonging to the Dravidian language family, Kannada exhibits regional variations, including Mysore-Kannada, Dharwad-Kannada, and Mangalore-Kannada, each associated with specific cultural centers.
  • Within these regional divisions, Kannada features several dialectical subdivisions such as Havyaka, Badaga, Nadava, Koosa, etc., showcasing local influences mixed with other linguistic forms.
  • These variations contribute to the linguistic diversity within the state.
  • Script and Evolution:
    • The written characters of Kannada are derived from the ancient Brahmi script, which propagated throughout India through the edicts of Ashoka.
    • The earliest form of the Kannada script dates back to the Halmidi inscription in 450 A.D.
    • The script has undergone continuous evolutionary changes over 2,000 years, and the present Kannada script is the result of this gradual transformation.
    • Kannada has served as the court language for various dynasties in south and central India, including the Kadambas, Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Yadava Dynasty, Western Ganga dynasty, Wodeyars of Mysore, Nayakas of Keladi, Hoysalas, and the Vijayanagaraempire.
    • It has been the official and administrative language of the state of Karnataka and holds scheduled status in India.
    • Recognized among the country’s designated classical languages, Kannada has played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural and historical narrative of the region.

A revival of the IMEC idea amid choppy geopolitics

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : TH

The ongoing Yemen conflict has significantly shaken the shipping industry’s confidence in the Suez Canal as the primary route for east-west trade.

  • Faced with uncertainties, shippers are increasingly considering longer voyages around Africa.
  • The conflict has also heightened the relevance of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as an alternative trade route, especially given the challenges arising from the Gaza war.

Key Highlights

  • IMEC as a Viable Alternative:
    • The Yemen conflict has bolstered the case for viable alternatives to the Suez Canal.
    • The IMEC, connecting Al Haditha in Saudi Arabia to Haifa in Israel, gains significance as a potential route.
    • However, critics raise concerns about the geopolitical complexities, particularly given the historical tensions in the region, including the Arab Street’s potential resistance to a major trade link between Saudi Arabia and Israel.
  • Challenges and Developments:
    • Rail projects like Etihad Rail and the Gulf Railway are already underway in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, aligning with IMEC’s goals.
    • The memorandum of understanding for IMEC was announced in September, promising further details within 60 days, but the Gaza war has impacted the scheduled stakeholder meetings.
    • Geopolitical considerations pose significant challenges to the realization of IMEC.
    • Turkey, excluded from the project, has expressed displeasure and proposed an alternative route through Iraq to access the Mediterranean.
    • Analysts anticipate a transformed West Asia post-Gaza war.
    • The political dynamics and the possible return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency are seen as influential factors shaping the future of global projects, with uncertainties about U.S. commitment to initiatives like IMEC.
  • The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) presents a multi-faceted impact encompassing containerisation, hydrogen transportation, and India’s logistics ambitions.
  • The corridor aims to carry hydrogen pipelines, aligning with the global push towards decarbonization.
  • Hydrogen sourced from fossil fuels, particularly from Gulf nations, is seen as a transitional fuel until green processes like electrolysis become more widespread.
  • Containerisation and India’s National Logistics Policy:
    • For India, the appeal of IMEC lies in its emphasis on containerisation through rail and road networks.
    • Containerisation is seen as a catalyst for quicker trade and reduced port costs.
    • India’s National Logistics Policy, unveiled in 2022, aims to bring down logistics costs to global levels by 2030, making enhanced containerisation a key component in achieving this goal.
    • Currently, around 70% of containers in India are transported by road, but industry experts suggest an optimal split of 30% road, 30% rail, with the remainder utilizing coastal and inland shipping.
    • While road transport is faster, rail movement of containers is more cost-effective.
    • The dedicated rail freight corridors linked to IMEC ports, such as Mundra and the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT), are expected to enhance container movement efficiency.
    • However, concerns arise as the dedicated rail freight corridors largely bypass southern India.
    • Containers from the south often reach the Colombo transshipment container terminal via ports like Chennai and Tuticorin/Thoothukudi.
    • IMEC could potentially benefit southern India by integrating dedicated freight corridors into an all-India network, leading to a 40% reduction in delivery schedules as promised by IMEC.
  • As the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) gains prominence, addressing key bottlenecks becomes crucial for its success.
    • One significant bottleneck is Haifa’s current limitations as India’s primary gateway to the West.
    • Despite Adani’s stake in Haifa port, its container traffic is considerably lower than Mundra or the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT).
    • Coordination with Adani-owned Mundra is vital for effective planning and capacity expansion.
    • Adani’s influence in both ports could facilitate strategic planning to boost Haifa’s container traffic and align it with the scale of India’s current container exports.
  • Financing Strategies and International Collaboration:
    • IMEC’s success hinges on robust financing strategies.
    • Ammar Malik, leading the Chinese development finance program for the Belt & Road Initiative at AidData, suggests that IMEC is likely to attract funding from the United States, Europe, Saudi Arabia, and India.
    • He points to the United States International Development Finance Corporation’s funding for Adani Ports-owned Colombo deepwater container terminal as a potential template for financing Haifa.
    • This indicates a collaborative approach involving various stakeholders.

About the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC)

  • The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) is a strategic economic corridor planned to enhance economic development and connectivity by fostering integration between Asia, the Persian Gulf, and Europe.
  • The corridor spans from India to Europe, passing through key countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, and Greece.
  • Key Components of IMEC:
    • The IMEC aims to strengthen economic ties and facilitate seamless connectivity between India, the Middle East, and Europe.
  • Corridor Structure:
    • East Corridor: This segment connects India to the Arabian Gulf, forming the initial leg of the IMEC.
    • Northern Corridor: Extending from the Gulf to Europe, this corridor completes the second leg of the IMEC.
  • Transport Infrastructure:
    • The IMEC will include a railroad network to facilitate efficient land transportation.
    • Integration of maritime and rail networks to enhance connectivity.
    • A well-developed road network to support comprehensive land transportation.
  • Additional Infrastructure:
    • The corridor will feature an electricity cable to support energy connectivity.
    • Integration of a hydrogen pipeline for efficient energy transportation.
    • Implementation of a high-speed data cable for advanced communication infrastructure.

Note: The Port of Haifa is the largest of Israel’s three major international seaports, the others being the Port of Ashdod, and the Port of Eilat.

Supreme Court to Examine Jurisdiction of Border Security Force (BSF) in Border States

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : TH

The Supreme Court of India has decided to examine the extension of jurisdiction of the Border Security Force (BSF) from 15 km to 50 km along the Indo-Pakistan border, sparking a dispute between the state of Punjab and the central government.

  • A three-judge Bench, led by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud, will assess whether all border states should be treated uniformly in demarcating the BSF’s area of control.
  • The court has scheduled a hearing for the third week of April on Punjab’s legal challenge against the Centre, accusing it of encroaching upon the state’s legislative domain and diminishing the powers of its police force.

Key Highlights

  • Background:
    • Punjab challenges the constitutional validity of a notification issued in October 2021 by the Centre, invoking Section 139 of the BSF Act, 1968.
    • The notification extends the BSF’s jurisdiction to 50 km, aiming to enhance control over trans-border crimes in collaboration with state police.
    • Section 139 grants the Centre the authority to confer powers and duties on BSF members regarding Central Acts.
    • Punjab contends that the Centre’s notification constitutes an arbitrary exercise of power under Section 139.
    • The state argues that the extension of BSF jurisdiction amounts to unconstitutional interference with Punjab’s authority over its police and the maintenance of public order.
  • The Supreme Court will investigate whether the Centre’s notification violates the constitutional framework and encroaches on the state’s powers.
    • The court will assess whether increasing the BSF’s jurisdiction to 50 km exceeds the ‘local limits of area adjoining the borders of India’ as outlined in Section 139.
    • Additionally, the Bench will deliberate on the factors that should be taken into account when demarcating the BSF’s jurisdiction in border areas within a state.
  • Legal Arguments and Jurisdiction Variances:
    • Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Union government, highlighted that the BSF’s jurisdiction varies, citing examples such as 80 km in Gujarat and 50 km in Rajasthan.
    • The Centre contends that the extension aims to enhance the policing of crimes related to illegal entry into the country and offenses under the Passport Act.
    • Punjab’s Advocate General countered, asserting that BSF jurisdiction should consider factors such as topography and population concentration.
    • Advocate ShadanFarasat, representing Punjab, argued that unlike larger states like Gujarat and Rajasthan, a 50 km jurisdiction in Punjab would encompass cities and towns, potentially infringing on the state’s powers related to public order and police.
  • Factors for Consideration:
    • The court will decide on factors to be considered when determining the BSF’s jurisdiction in a border area within a state, taking into account variations in geography, population, and other relevant aspects.

About the Border Security Force (BSF)

Moto- जीवन पर्यन्त कर्तव्य

  • The Border Security Force (BSF) is a paramilitary force in India that operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
  • Established on December 1, 1965, in the aftermath of the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965, the BSF is tasked with guarding India’s land borders during peacetime and preventing trans-border crimes.
  • The primary responsibility of the BSF is to ensure the security of India’s borders, particularly along the land borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh.
  • It plays a crucial role in preventing illegal infiltration, smuggling, and other cross-border activities.
  • The head of BSF, designated as the Director-General (DG), is an officer of the Indian Police Service.
  • Since its inception, the BSF has significantly expanded, growing from 25 battalions in 1965 to 192 battalions currently.
  • With a sanctioned strength of 270,000 personnel, it includes an air wing, navy, artillery regiment, and specialized units.
  • As the world’s largest border security force, the BSF is considered the First Line of Defence for Indian territories.

Tax contribution by States needs to be revisited

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : TH

The Finance Commission in India plays a crucial role in recommending the distribution of Union tax revenue among states.

  • The distribution formula, which determines each state’s share, historically considered various factors, with tax contribution being a significant determinant until the 10th Finance Commission.
  • However, since then, tax contribution has been excluded from the formula.
  • It is argued for the reinstatement of tax contribution, asserting that it serves as a measure of efficiency.

Key Highlights

  • Historical Perspective:
    • In the early Finance Commissions, states argued for higher shares based on their contributions to Union tax revenue.
    • Tax contribution was a determinant in the distribution formula until the 10th Finance Commission.
    • Over time, the Finance Commission’s distribution formula evolved, considering principles of equity and efficiency.
    • Equity emphasizes larger shares for revenue-scarce states and those with higher expenditures, while efficiency rewards states efficient in revenue collection and spending rationalization.
    • Since the 10th Finance Commission, tax contribution was dropped from the distribution formula.
  • Challenges in Determining Contribution:
    • Identifying the origin of income for income tax revenue or the consumption location for Union excise duties has been challenging.
    • Successive Finance Commissions assigned 10% to 20% weight to income tax revenue collection but faced difficulties due to collection not being a clear indicator of contribution.
  • The Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime is suggested as an opportune time to reintroduce tax contribution into the distribution formula, aligning with the principles of equity and efficiency.
  • Efficiency Indicator:
    • It is contended that a state’s tax contribution serves as a valid efficiency indicator, reflecting its level of development and economic structure.
    • In the early Finance Commissions, tax contribution was assigned only 10% to 20% weight as an efficiency indicator.
    • Population, a chief indicator of a state’s expenditure needs, received 80% to 90% weight in income tax distribution.
    • Since the 10th Finance Commission, a single distribution formula for both income tax and Union excise duties has been recommended, favoring more than 75% weight for equity indicators.
    • Since 2000, efficiency indicators like tax effort and fiscal discipline have been included in the distribution formula, each with a weight of around 15%.
    • Tax effort is the ratio of a state’s own revenue to its Gross Domestic Product, and fiscal discipline relates to the proportion of own revenue to revenue expenditure.
    • Tax effort and fiscal discipline, while important, face challenges due to discretionary tax policies and unexpected changes in actual tax bases.
    • The stability of tax contribution as an objective measure of efficiency can said to be more significant.
  • GST as a Stable Measure:
    • The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is proposed as a stable and effective measure of efficiency, suggesting a reconsideration of its weightage in the distribution formula.
    • GST, being a consumption-based destination tax, is equally divided between State and Central governments.
    • This uniform division allows for accurate estimation of tax contribution from each state, with little variation in tax efforts under the GST system.
  • Petroleum Consumption as an Indicator:
    • Outside the GST framework, petroleum consumption is proposed as another indicator of tax contribution.
    • Union excise duty and sales tax on petroleum products, along with customs duty on imports, contribute to the national exchequer, and relative shares of petroleum consumption remain stable across states.
  • Both GST contribution and petroleum consumption ratios are seen as fair and accurate measures of states’ contributions to the national exchequer.
    • These ratios are considered indicative of differences in the incomes, both personal and corporate, accrued to the residents of a state, as consumption is linked to income.
    • The importance of including these indicators in the distribution formula, emphasizing their stability and relevance in reflecting a state’s efficiency in contributing to the national good.
  • Ratio Comparison:
    • The share of Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) and Union excise duty constitutes 30% of states’ share in Central tax revenue, while the similar ratio for personal and corporate income taxes is 64% in 2021-22.
  • This makes a persuasive case for the 16th Finance Commission to consider and include these ratios as efficiency measures in the distribution formula, proposing a weightage of at least 33%.

About the Finance Commission

  • The Finance Commissions are established under Article 280 of the Indian Constitution, with the primary objective of defining financial relations between the central and state governments.
  • The First Commission was established in 1951 through The Finance Commission (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1951.
  • This legislation provided the foundational framework for subsequent Finance Commissions.
  • Finance Commissions are constituted periodically, typically every five years, in accordance with the constitutional mandate.
  • The total number of Finance Commissions constituted since the promulgation of the Indian Constitution in 1950 is fifteen.
  • Each Finance Commission operates under specific terms of reference, which differ for every commission.
  • According to the constitution, a Finance Commission is comprised of a chairman and four other members.

Note: Recently, the Government of India, with the approval of the President of India, has constituted the Sixteenth Finance Commission, in pursuance to Article 280(1) of the Constitution.

  • Dr Arvind Panagariya, former Vice-Chairman, NITI Aayog, and Professor, Columbia University will be the Chairman.

Criteria for Devolution

  • The share of states in the central taxes for the 2021-26 period was recommended to be 41%, same as that for 2020-21.
    • This is less than the 42% share recommended by the 14th Finance Commission for 2015-20 period.
  • The significant criteria include:
    • Income Distance:
      • Income distance measures the disparity in income between a state and the state with the highest income.
      • The income of a state is calculated as the average per capita Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) over the three-year period from 2016-17 to 2018-19.
      • States with lower per capita income receive a higher share to promote equity among states.
    • Demographic Performance:
      • The Finance Commission uses 2011 population data, as per its Terms of Reference, in making recommendations.
      • Demographic performance evaluates states based on their efforts to control population growth, with states having a lower fertility ratio scoring higher.
    • Forest and Ecology:
      • This criterion assesses states based on the share of their dense forest in the total dense forest area of all states.
      • Recognizes and rewards states for their contributions to preserving and maintaining ecological balance through forest conservation.
    • Tax and Fiscal Efforts:
      • Tax and fiscal efforts are gauged by the ratio of average per capita own tax revenue to the average per capita state GDP over the three years from 2016-17 to 2018-19.
      • Rewards states with higher efficiency in tax collection, promoting fiscal responsibility.

On equal access to benefits for all SCs

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : TH

The Union government has established a high-level committee of secretaries, led by the Cabinet Secretary, to assess and devise an equitable method for distributing benefits, schemes, and initiatives among the more than 1,200 Scheduled Castes (SCs) in India.

  • This move is prompted by the demand for sub-categorization of SCs, particularly raised by the Madiga community in Telangana.
  • The Madiga community, constituting a significant portion of SCs in Telangana, has long claimed exclusion from government benefits meant for SCs due to dominance by the Mala community within the same category.

Key Highlights

  • Background and Significance:
    • The committee’s formation follows a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in December 2023, responding to demands for SC sub-categorization, notably from the Madiga community.
    • The Madiga community has asserted that despite their numerical strength, they are denied government benefits, including reservations, due to the dominance of the Mala community within the SC category.
    • While the committee’s genesis is linked to the Madiga community’s concerns, it has a broader mandate to address similar issues faced by SC communities across the country.
    • The focus is on finding alternative approaches to address their grievances.
  • State-Level Initiatives and Legal Landscape:
    • Several states, including Punjab, Bihar, and Tamil Nadu, have attempted to introduce reservation laws at the state level to sub-categorize SCs.
    • However, legal challenges have hindered their implementation.
    • A seven-judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court is anticipated to commence hearings on the permissibility of sub-categorization for SCs and STs.
  • Committee’s Mandate and Objectives:
    • The committee has a specific mandate to explore alternative measures to address grievances faced by SC communities who feel crowded out by relatively dominant sections within their category.
    • While triggered by the PM’s commitment to the Madiga community, the committee’s scope extends beyond one community or state, aiming to address similar challenges faced by SC communities nationwide.
  • Key Objectives:
    • The committee will explore ways to channel the benefits of various government schemes and initiatives toward SC communities more effectively.
    • It will examine the feasibility of designing special initiatives for specific SC communities that require targeted attention.
    • The panel aims to refocus existing programs and schemes to ensure a more even distribution of benefits among SC communities.
    • The committee comprises Secretaries from key ministries, including Home, Law, Tribal Affairs, Social Justice, and the Department of Personnel and Training, along with the Cabinet Secretary.
    • The committee will determine the criteria for shortlisting SC communities requiring special attention.
    • It will assess the extent to which special initiatives need to be designed for each identified community.
    • The panel will formulate a delivery mechanism to implement and ensure the effectiveness of these initiatives.
  • Timeline and Future Considerations:
    • Although no specific deadline has been set, the committee is urged to present its findings at the earliest.
    • While the sub-categorization of the SC quota is not within its immediate scope, the panel is not restricted from forming an opinion on the matter, providing valuable insights for government consideration if necessary.
  • Earlier Demand:
    • The Madiga community’s demand for sub-categorization was initially raised in 1994.
    • In 2005, the Union government sought legal opinions on sub-categorization.
    • The then Attorney General suggested that a constitutional amendment was possible with “unimpeachable evidence” of the necessity.
  • Opposition by NCSC and NCST:
    • Both the National Commissions for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes opposed constitutional amendments.
    • Emphasis was placed on prioritizing existing schemes and benefits for SCs rather than setting aside a quota within a quota.
    • Articles 341 and 342 of the Constitution grant the President powers to notify SC and ST lists and Parliament powers to create these lists, with no explicit instruction on sub-categorization.
    • NCST and NCSC argued that Article 16(4) already allowed states to create special provisions for under-represented backward classes.
  • The Attorney General emphasized the necessity of “unimpeachable evidence” to support sub-categorization, highlighting the need for a mechanism to gather empirical data.

About National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC):

  • The NCSC was constituted under Article 338 of the Constitution of India and later modified by the 89th Amendment Act of 2003.
  • The commission typically consists of a chairperson, a vice-chairperson, and three other members.
  • They are appointed by the President of India.
  • Functions:
    • NCSC works to safeguard the interests of SCs and ensures that they are not subjected to discrimination or exploitation.
    • The commission monitors the implementation of various welfare programs, policies, and legislation meant for the benefit of SCs.
    • NCSC has the authority to investigate specific complaints regarding deprivation of rights and safeguards of SCs.
  • The commission has the powers of a civil court while trying a suit and can summon and enforce attendance of witnesses and compel the discovery and production of documents.

About the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST)

  • The NCST was established under Article 338-A of the Constitution through the 89th Amendment Act of 2003.
  • Similar to NCSC, the NCST consists of a chairperson, a vice-chairperson, and three other members, appointed by the President of India.
  • Functions:
    • NCST works to protect the rights and interests of STs, ensuring they are not subject to discrimination or exploitation.
    • The commission monitors the implementation of various welfare measures, developmental programs, and constitutional safeguards for STs.
    • Similar to NCSC, NCST has the authority to investigate specific complaints regarding the deprivation of rights and safeguards of STs.
    • The commission possesses the powers of a civil court and can undertake investigations, inquire into specific complaints, and perform other functions to safeguard the rights of STs.

Why was FCRA registration for several NGOs cancelled?

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : TH

The Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, 2010 (FCRA) registration for two prominent non-governmental organizations (NGOs), Centre for Policy Research (CPR) and World Vision India (WVI), has been cancelled in the current month.

  • The monitoring and implementation of FCRA are overseen by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

Key Highlights

  • The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is responsible for monitoring the implementation of the FCRA.
  • Thousands of NGOs faced registration renewal in 2020-2021.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic and 2020 FCRA amendments affected the renewal process.
    • The MHA extended relief until September 30, 2021, for NGOs with registration expiring between September 29, 2020, and September 30, 2021.
    • The MHA extended the renewal deadline multiple times, with the latest extension until March 31, 2024.
  • FCRA Purpose and Regulations:
    • FCRA is aimed at regulating foreign donations to prevent adverse effects on India’s internal security.
    • The Act, initially enacted in 1976, was replaced by a new legislation in 2010 and further amended in 2020.
    • NGOs, associations, or groups intending to receive foreign donations must register under FCRA.
    • The registration is initially valid for five years and can be renewed if the NGO complies with all norms.
    • Registered groups under FCRA can receive foreign contributions for social, educational, religious, economic, and cultural programs.
  • FCRA Registrations: Statistical Overview
    • Since 2015, over 16,000 NGOs in India have had their Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) registrations cancelled due to violations.
    • As of January 22, 2022, there were 16,989 active FCRA-registered NGOs in the country.
    • Nearly 6,000 NGOs ceased operations from January 1, 2022, either due to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) refusing to renew their applications or NGOs not applying for renewal.
    • A 2012 report by the MHA highlighted the vulnerability of the NGO sector to money laundering and terrorist financing risks.
    • In 2023, a record number of 1,111 associations were granted fresh FCRA registrations.
    • Nearly half of the fresh FCRA registrations under the religious category were for Christian NGOs.
    • Out of 1,615 applications received for FCRA registration in 2021 and 2022, 722 applications were granted clearance, while 225 applications were rejected.
    • Foreign Contribution Received:
      • A total of 13,520 associations received ₹55,741.51 crore in foreign contributions in the financial years 2019-2020, 2020-21, and 2021-22.
    • CPR and WVI FCRA Registrations Cancelled:
      • The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) cancelled the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) registrations of Centre for Policy Research (CPR) and World Vision India (WVI).
      • The MHA alleged that CPR diverted foreign donations to fund protests, legal battles against developmental projects, and misused funds affecting India’s economic interests.
      • CPR published a report on air pollution, and the MHA cited the publication of policy reports as equivalent to current affairs programming, violating FCRA Section 3.
      • WVI’s FCRA registration was cancelled for violations spanning from 2012-13 to 2020-21.
      • World Vision India is noted as the highest recipient of foreign donations among all NGOs registered under the FCRA in 1986.

About Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA)

  • The FCRA was first enacted in 1976 to address concerns related to foreign funding and its potential impact on internal security.
  • The primary objective was to monitor and control the inflow of foreign contributions to prevent misuse and safeguard national interests.
  • Key Provisions of the Initial FCRA (1976):
    • Organizations and individuals intending to receive foreign contributions were required to register under FCRA.
    • The enforcement and administration of FCRA were overseen by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
    • FCRA laid down specific terms and conditions under which foreign contributions could be accepted and utilized.
  • The FCRA underwent a significant amendment in 2010, resulting in the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, 2010.
    • Strengthened reporting mechanisms.
    • Defined permissible activities for foreign-funded NGOs.
    • Introduced provisions for suspension and cancellation of registration.
    • Expanded the scope of regulatory authorities.
  • Further amendments were made to FCRA in 2020, bringing additional changes to the regulatory landscape.
    • Redefined the term “public servant” to include employees of organizations receiving foreign funding.
    • Imposed restrictions on the transfer of foreign contributions to other entities.
    • Tightened regulations regarding utilization of foreign contributions for administrative expenses.

North Korea and South Korea: Spiking tensions

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : TH

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un’s recent declaration of South Korea as an enemy state and the abandonment of the idea of peaceful reunification signals a shift to a more aggressive stance by Pyongyang.

  • This move follows months of increased war rhetoric and a series of weapons tests, including a claimed medium-range hypersonic missile launch and tests of underwater, unmanned, nuclear-capable drones.

Key Highlights

  • While Kim’s actions appear provocative, they are partially fueled by perceived security threats from the growing military convergence between South Korea, Japan, and the U.S.
  • The three nations recently linked their missile radar data, and joint military exercises trigger strong reactions from North Korea.
  • Kim’s recent actions indicate a desire to alter the existing status quo on the Korean Peninsula.
  • North Korea’s weapons tests and military activities are seen as responses to perceived security threats, including joint military exercises and increased collaboration between South Korea, Japan, and the U.S.
  • Despite past diplomatic engagements, especially in 1994 and during the Trump administration, North Korea’s leaders remain hesitant to give up nuclear weapons due to geopolitical uncertainties.

The Korean Peninsula: Overview and Geopolitical Context

  • Geographic Location:
    • The Korean Peninsula is situated in East Asia, extending southward from the Asian mainland.
    • Bordered by China to the northwest and Russia to the northeast.
    • Surrounded by the Yellow Sea to the west and the Sea of Japan (East Sea) to the east.
  • Division into North and South:
    • The peninsula is divided into two countries: North Korea (officially the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, DPRK) and South Korea (officially the Republic of Korea, ROK).
    • The division resulted from the end of World War II, with the Korean War (1950-1953) solidifying the separation along the 38th parallel.
  • Korean War (1950-1953):
    • The Korean War, a conflict between North Korea (supported by China and the Soviet Union) and South Korea (backed by the United States and other Western allies), ended in an armistice.
    • The Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) was established along the 38th parallel, serving as a buffer zone.
    • The DMZ is a heavily fortified area separating North and South Korea.
    • It is one of the most tense and militarized borders globally, with limited access and strict regulations.
  • Capital Cities:
    • Pyongyang: Capital of North Korea.
    • Seoul: Capital of South Korea.
  • Political Systems:
    • North Korea: Led by a single-party system with the ruling Kim family, following a socialist ideology.
    • South Korea: Functioning as a democratic republic with a multi-party system.