Why in the News?

There has been a sharp rise in the deletion of workers from job cards under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) in India. In 2022-23 alone, over 5.53 crore workers were removed from job cards, marking a 247% increase from the previous year (2021-22). This surge has raised concerns about the right to work and transparency in the implementation of the scheme.

Key Features of MGNREGA Job Cards

The MGNREGA Job Card is a vital document under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). It serves as both an entitlement card and a tracking tool for ensuring the implementation of the scheme.

1. Unique Identification:

   • Each job card is assigned a unique identification number, which helps in distinguishing it from others and ensures proper tracking in the MGNREGA Management Information System (MIS).

2. Household Details:

   • The job card contains detailed information about the adult members of the household who are eligible for work under the scheme. This includes names, gender, age, and their eligibility for employment.

3. Work Eligibility:

   • The card entitles the household to 100 days of guaranteed wage employment per financial year for adult members who are willing to engage in unskilled manual labor. This provision ensures livelihood security, especially in rural areas.

4. Wage Disbursement:

   • The job card tracks work done by each individual, records the wages earned, and maintains payment details. It helps ensure transparency in wage disbursement, which is linked to the Aadhaar-based payment system in many cases.

5. Monitoring Tool:

   • The job card acts as a monitoring tool for tracking the progress of work, ensuring that the work is completed on time and that wages are paid. It helps in assessing the implementation of the program at the Gram Panchayat level and provides feedback on the progress of various works.

6. Issued by Gram Panchayat:

   • Gram Panchayats (local self-government bodies) are responsible for issuing MGNREGA job cards. They verify eligibility and maintain records of the households in their jurisdiction that are entitled to participate in the scheme.

Importance of the MGNREGA Job Card

• Legal Guarantee: It serves as a legal guarantee of employment, allowing rural households to demand work when they need it.

• Entitlement: It formalizes the right to work under MGNREGA, ensuring that rural residents are not excluded from the scheme arbitrarily.

• Transparency and Accountability: By maintaining accurate records of work and wages, the job card ensures transparency and accountability in the implementation of MGNREGA.

Key Provisions for Deletion of MGNREGA Job Cards

Under the MGNREGA Act, job cards can be deleted only under specific conditions:

1. Permanent Migration: If a household permanently moves out of the concerned Gram Panchayat.

2. Duplicate Job Cards: If a job card is found to be a duplicate.

3. Forged Documents: If the job card was issued based on fraudulent or forged documents.

4. Reclassification of Area: If a Gram Panchayat is reclassified as a Municipal Corporation, job cards in that area are deleted.

5. Other Reasons: Reasons like “Duplicate Applicant,” “Fake Applicant,” or “Not Willing to Work” may also lead to deletion, as per the MGNREGA Management Information System (MIS).

Role of Aadhaar-Based Payment System (ABPS)

The surge in deletions coincided with the implementation of ABPS. This system mandates that workers link their Aadhaar numbers to their job cards. If workers did not properly link their Aadhaar numbers or if the linkage was incorrect, their job cards were deleted.

Key issues related to ABPS and job card deletion include:

• Incorrect Aadhaar Linkages: Workers whose Aadhaar numbers were either not linked or incorrectly linked faced deletions.

• Lack of Verification: The deletion process often lacked proper verification, leaving workers at risk of wrongful removal from job cards without sufficient evidence.

Due Process for Deletion

The MGNREGA Act mandates that before a worker’s name is deleted, they must be given a chance to be heard. The process should involve:

• Two independent persons for verification.

• Reasons for deletion must be independently verified.

• Action documentation should be shared with the Gram Sabha or Ward Sabha for transparency.

Implications of Deletion of MGNREGA Job Cards

The deletion of job cards raises several concerns:

1. Violation of Right to Work: If workers are deleted due to reasons like "not willing to work," it undermines their legal right to work, especially when they may have actually worked or requested work in the same year.

2. Inconsistent Procedure: There is inconsistency in the deletion process, especially with the classification of villages becoming urban areas. According to the Act, all job cards should be deleted in an urbanized area, but only some workers face deletion.

3. Bypassing Gram Sabha Approval: The MGNREGA Act mandates that deletions be reviewed and approved by the Gram Sabha. However, many deletions happen without this necessary review, violating the Act’s provisions.

4. Wrongful Deletions: A large number of deletions occur without proper verification or due process. In some cases, workers were deleted for reasons that were either incorrect or fabricated (e.g., being labeled as "not willing to work").

5. Impact on Vulnerable Populations: Many of the workers affected by these deletions come from vulnerable communities with limited livelihood options. Deleting their job cards often worsens their economic condition, especially in the context of high rural unemployment.

6. Data-Driven Concerns: The increase in deletions correlates with the government’s push for compliance with ABPS, suggesting that some deletions might be motivated by incentives related to the Aadhaar linkage rather than genuine issues with workers’ eligibility.

What is the MGNREGA Scheme?

The MGNREGA is a flagship employment scheme introduced in 2005 aimed at providing wage employment in rural areas. The main features of the scheme include:

• Objective: To ensure livelihood security by providing at least 100 days of wage employment to adult members of rural households willing to engage in unskilled manual labor.

• Target Group: The scheme targets rural households that seek employment, prioritizing women (at least one-third of the wage seekers should be women).

• Registration: Households apply to their Gram Panchayat, which issues job cards after verification.

• Work Availability: Work must be offered within 15 days of the application, and ideally within 5 kilometers of the worker’s village.

• Unemployment Allowance: If work is not provided within 15 days, workers are entitled to an unemployment allowance, which is one-fourth of the wage rate for the first 30 days and half for the rest.

• Works Under MGNREGA: Includes tasks related to water conservation, afforestation, irrigation, rural connectivity, and sanitation, among others.

MGNREGA and SDGs

The scheme contributes to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:

• SDG 1 (No Poverty): By providing wage employment, it helps alleviate poverty.

• SDG 5 (Gender Equality): Promotes gender equality by ensuring that at least one-third of beneficiaries are women.

• SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation): Supports projects related to water conservation and sanitation.

Way Forward

To address the issues surrounding MGNREGA job card deletions, the following steps are necessary:

1. Strengthening Verification Processes: Ensure that all deletions are carried out in compliance with the MGNREGA Act and Master Circular to minimize wrongful deletions and protect workers’ rights.

2. Audit and Oversight: Set up independent audits or third-party agencies to periodically review deletion records and the reasons for job card removals. This will enhance transparency and reduce the scope for arbitrary decisions.

3. Grievance Redressal: Establish a clear and efficient system for workers to file complaints and seek redressal if their job cards are wrongfully deleted.

4. Empowering Gram Sabhas: Ensure that all deletions are reviewed and approved by the Gram Sabha, in line with the mandates of the MGNREGA Act.

5. Upgrading the MIS: Enhance the Management Information System to improve tracking of deletions, with real-time notifications and strong reporting features for better monitoring.

6. Data Analytics: Use data analytics to detect trends and irregularities in deletions, enabling timely interventions and corrective actions.

Conclusion

While MGNREGA has been instrumental in providing employment and enhancing livelihood security in rural India, the recent surge in job card deletions raises serious concerns about transparency and workers' rights. Strengthening the verification process, ensuring due process, and enhancing oversight mechanisms are essential steps to ensure that the scheme achieves its intended goals and protects the rights of its beneficiaries.

Rising Digital Arrests and Cyber Scams in India

Why in News?

In 2024, India has witnessed a significant increase in digital arrests, with over 92,000 victims defrauded under the guise of resolving tax or legal issues. Cybercriminals are impersonating law enforcement officials and government agencies, leading to substantial financial losses.

Key Facts About Digital Arrests

1. Overview:

   • Digital arrest scams involve cybercriminals pretending to be law enforcement agencies (such as CBI, Enforcement Directorate, Narcotics Bureau, etc.) to convince victims that they are involved in criminal activities and must pay a sum to avoid legal consequences or arrest.

   • Victims are tricked into transferring money to resolve alleged charges related to money laundering, cybercrime, or drug trafficking.

2. Modus Operandi:

   • Initial Contact: Scammers often start with phone calls or emails, followed by audio and video calls from purported law enforcement locations (e.g., airports, police stations, or courts).

   • Fake Documentation: Scammers send fake arrest warrants, legal notices, and official-looking documents via email or messaging apps.

   • Manipulative Tactics: They use AI-generated voices, fake social media profiles, and images of officials like police officers, lawyers, or judges to appear legitimate.

3. Trapping Victims:

   • Victims are falsely accused of severe crimes, with fabricated evidence used to bolster the scam.

   • The perpetrators rely on fear and panic to push victims into compliance without questioning the legitimacy of the claims.

   • Lack of knowledge and social stigma often prevent victims from verifying the claims, making them more susceptible to manipulation.

Status of Cyber Scams in India

1. Rise in Complaints and Losses:

   • Cyber scams in India have risen dramatically in recent years. According to the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), complaints increased from 1,35,242 in 2021 to 11,31,221 in 2023.

   • The total monetary loss due to cyber frauds from 2021 to September 2024 amounted to ₹27,914 crore.

2. Types of Cyber Scams:

   • Stock Trading Scams: The largest source of losses, totaling ₹4,636 crore.

   • Ponzi Schemes: Caused ₹3,216 crore in losses.

   • Digital Arrest Frauds: Contributed ₹1,616 crore in losses.

3. New Money-Siphoning Tactics:

   • Cybercriminals have adapted to modern methods like fintech cryptocurrencies, CBDCs, ATMs, and e-wallets to launder stolen money.

   • The I4C has frozen around 4.5 lakh mule accounts, often used for laundering cybercrime funds.

Key Government Initiatives Related to Cyber Scams in India

1. National Cyber Security Policy:

   • Focuses on creating a robust framework for cybersecurity across the country.

2. CERT-In (Computer Emergency Response Team - India):

   • Helps in responding to and mitigating cybersecurity threats.

3. Cyber Swachhta Kendra:

   • Aims to create awareness and provide tools for safeguarding systems against cyber threats.

4. Cyber Crime Coordination Centre:

   • Aims to improve coordination between law enforcement agencies to handle and prevent cybercrime.

5. Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023:

   • Provides a framework for data protection and regulating how personal data is handled.

6. National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal:

   • A citizen-centric initiative under I4C to enable individuals to report cybercrimes and have them addressed by the concerned law enforcement agencies.

Challenges in Addressing Cyber Scams

1. Anonymity and Privacy:

   • Cybercriminals use VPNs and encrypted messaging apps to hide their identity, complicating the investigation process.

2. International Scope:

   • Cyber scams often operate across borders, making enforcement and prosecution more complex. A significant portion of cybercrimes originates from Southeast Asia and China.

3. Advanced Cybercrime Tactics:

   • Fraudsters continuously evolve their methods, using social engineering, AI-generated voices, and advanced malware to deceive and bypass security systems.

4. Regulatory Fragmentation:

   • Differing laws and regulations between countries hinder the creation of effective international strategies to combat cybercrime.

5. Growing Digital Market:

   • With the rise of e-commerce, digital payment systems, and cryptocurrencies, new types of scams such as fake online stores, card skimming, and fraudulent payment schemes are emerging.

Types of Cyber Scams

1. Phishing: Fraudsters trick victims into revealing sensitive information through fake emails or messages.

2. Lottery/Prize Scams: Victims are told they have won a prize and must pay processing fees.

3. Emotional Manipulation: Scammers on dating apps or social platforms build relationships to ask for money.

4. Job Scams: Fake job offers ask job seekers for personal details or money to secure a position.

5. Investment Scams: Offer unrealistic returns on stocks, cryptocurrencies, or Ponzi schemes.

6. Cash-on-Delivery (CoD) Scams: Fake online stores accept CoD orders but deliver counterfeit goods.

7. Fake Charity Appeals: Scammers exploit emotional stories to collect donations for non-existent causes.

8. Credit Card Scams: Fraudsters offer loans with quick approval and then disappear after collecting fees.

Way Forward to Combat Digital Arrest Scams

1. Digital Safety Protocol:

   • Stop: Remain calm and avoid giving out personal information.

   • Think: Verify the legitimacy of calls or messages; legitimate agencies don’t conduct inquiries or demand payments over calls.

   • Take Action: Report incidents immediately to the National Cyber Crime Helpline (1930) or the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.

2. Cybersecurity Best Practices:

   • Use firewalls and regularly update software to defend against cyber attacks.

   • Implement two-factor authentication and data encryption for added security.

3. Heightened Monitoring:

   • Banks should monitor suspicious activities, especially in low-balance accounts, and alert authorities when large transactions occur.

4. Awareness Campaigns:

   • Educate the public on common cyber scams and encourage reporting incidents promptly.

5. International Cooperation:

   • Strengthen cross-border collaborations to share intelligence, harmonize regulations, and improve coordination in handling cybercrimes.

By following these strategies, India can better combat the rising threat of cyber scams, including digital arrests, and safeguard its citizens from financial and emotional harm.

Miniature Paintings: Cultural Legacy and Contemporary Relevance

Why in News?

A recent exhibition in New Delhi celebrated the evolving global significance and interpretations of South Asian miniature paintings, featuring works from 20 artists. The exhibition highlighted the dynamic cultural relevance of this traditional art form, showcasing its continued evolution and impact in the contemporary world.

What are Miniature Paintings?

1. Definition and Origins:

   • The term ‘miniature’ originates from the Latin word ‘minium’, meaning red lead used in Renaissance illuminated manuscripts.

   • These small, detailed artworks typically measure no more than 25 square inches, often depicting subjects at 1/6th of their actual size. They are known for exaggerated features such as bulging eyes, pointed noses, and slim waists.

2. Early Miniatures:

   • Evolution: Early miniature paintings were less refined, characterized by minimal decoration. Over time, they became more detailed, and their subjects varied, often focusing on royal portraits, religious themes, and courtly life.

   • Mediums: Early miniatures were painted on materials like palm leaves, cloth, and paper.

3. Prominent Schools of Early Miniature Art:

   • Pala School of Art (750–1150 AD): Focused on Buddhist manuscripts, executed on palm leaves or vellum. These paintings are known for sinuous lines and subdued tones, often depicting solitary figures.

   • Apabhramsa School of Art: Originating in Gujarat and Rajasthan, it initially focused on Jain themes but later incorporated Vaishnava subjects. This school dominated Western Indian painting from the 11th to 15th centuries.

Miniature Paintings During Different Indian Eras

1. Delhi Sultanate:

   • Under the Delhi Sultanate, miniature paintings combined Persian elements with traditional Indian styles. The Nimatnama, a cookery book from the reign of Nasir Shah, is an example of this hybrid style.

2. Mughal Era:

   • Mughal miniature paintings were inspired by Persian art but developed their unique characteristics, particularly focusing on rulers, hunting scenes, and court life.

   • Techniques: The Mughal era introduced the technique of foreshortening, where objects appear smaller or closer than they are in reality.

   • Contributions of Mughal Rulers:

     • Akbar: Founded the Tasvir Khana (a royal studio) and patronized calligraphy.

     • Jahangir: Mughal miniature painting peaked, focusing on naturalistic themes like flora and fauna.

     • Shah Jahan: Introduced a new style inspired by European art, emphasizing stillness and pencil sketching, using more gold and brighter colors.

3. Miniatures in South India:

   • Tanjore Paintings: Famous for their decorative style, these were patronized by the Maratha rulers in the 18th century.

   • Mysore Paintings: These paintings predominantly depict Hindu deities, often using multiple figures, with one figure dominating in size and color.

4. Regional Schools of Art:

   • Rajasthani Schools: Includes the Mewar, Kishangarh, and Jaipur schools, each known for distinct styles and themes, such as romantic legends or religious depictions.

   • Pahari Paintings: Originating in the sub-Himalayan region, these include the Dogra, Basholi, and Kangra schools, each with a unique focus on religious and royal themes.

5. Modern Period:

   • Company Paintings: Emerged during British colonial rule, blending Indian styles with European elements.

   • Bengal School of Art: A reactionary movement against colonial art styles, promoting indigenous forms of expression.

   • Cubist Style of Painting: Influenced by European Cubism, it deconstructed objects into abstract forms.

Socio-Economic Impact of Reviving Miniature Painting

1. Economic Opportunities:

   • Reviving interest in miniature paintings provides employment opportunities for artists, contributing to local economies through the sale of artworks and participation in exhibitions.

   • Local economies in regions with a rich tradition of miniature painting, such as Rajasthan, benefit from art exhibitions and tourism related to these art forms.

2. Cultural Tourism:

   • Miniature paintings serve as a key driver for cultural tourism, attracting visitors to galleries, museums, and cultural festivals. This contributes significantly to the local economy and helps preserve traditional art forms.

3. Community Engagement:

   • Workshops and exhibitions promote awareness about traditional arts, encouraging community participation.

   • Educational programs are vital to passing on skills to younger generations, ensuring the sustainability of this art form.

How Paintings Reflect the Cultural Identities of Their Time

1. Historical Context:

   • Miniature paintings often reflected the socio-political landscape of their time, with subjects varying from royal courts to religious themes.

   • They served as a medium for storytelling, representing both sacred and secular narratives.

2. Regional Diversity:

   • Indian miniature paintings varied widely in terms of style, subject matter, and technique, reflecting the local socio-religious context.

   • Example: The Apabhramsa School focused on Jain and Vaishnava themes, while Mughal and Rajput schools depicted royalty and religious themes.

3. Government and Cultural Initiatives:

   • Projects like ‘Ghar Ghar Museum’ promote the preservation of local art by encouraging community-based museums, fostering cultural identity and pride.

4. Contemporary Interpretations:

   • Modern artists reinterpret traditional themes to address contemporary issues such as identity, politics, and social justice.

   • Artists like Abanindranath Tagore were instrumental in promoting indigenous art forms, resisting Western influences, and connecting art with national identity.

Actionable Strategies for Supporting the Growth of Miniature Painting

1. Government Support:

   • Governments can offer grants, subsidies, and art funds to financially support miniature painters. Encouraging research and facilitating training programs can help preserve and revitalize traditional painting styles.

2. Educational Initiatives:

   • Incorporating miniature painting in school curricula and providing formal training programs can foster a deeper appreciation of this art form.

   • Partnerships with art institutions can combine traditional techniques with contemporary approaches.

3. International Collaborations:

   • Global platforms such as art galleries, international art fairs, and exhibitions can provide exposure for Indian artists and help them connect with a wider audience.

4. Digital Platforms:

   • Leveraging online platforms can expand the market for miniature paintings globally. Social media campaigns can raise awareness and educate new audiences about this traditional art form's significance and history.

Conclusion

Miniature painting is not just an art form but a cultural legacy that connects India’s rich history, diverse regional traditions, and socio-political context. The resurgence of interest in miniature art offers economic and cultural benefits, while simultaneously preserving India’s artistic heritage. Through government support, educational initiatives, and international collaborations, this ancient form of expression can thrive in the modern world, ensuring its relevance and vibrancy for future generations.

In News
The Centre has approved ₹3,295 crore in interest-free loans for tourism infrastructure development across states. These funds are part of the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme, with a focus on developing tourism infrastructure in the country. The loans are long-term, interest-free, and will be repaid over 50 years, aiming to boost local economies, create jobs, and enhance India's global tourism branding.

Key Developments in the Tourism Sector:

1. Tourism Infrastructure Investment

   • The Centre has approved ₹3,295 crore in interest-free loans under the SASCI scheme for infrastructure projects.

   • These loans are aimed at developing iconic tourist centers, promoting sustainable tourism, and improving the overall tourism experience.

   • States are encouraged to develop lesser-known destinations such as Bateshwar (Uttar Pradesh), Ponda (Goa), Gandikota (Andhra Pradesh), and Porbandar (Gujarat), enhancing regional tourism.

2. Tourism Sector Growth

   • India’s tourism sector has witnessed significant growth, with 76.17 million direct and indirect jobs created in 2022-23, an increase from 70.04 million in 2021-22.

   • The government has allocated ₹2,479 crore in the FY25 budget to continue tourism development.

3. Global Ranking

   • India ranks 39th among 119 countries in the Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) for 2024, reflecting improvements in:

     • Prioritization of Travel & Tourism

     • Safety & Security

     • Health & Hygiene

4. Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs)

   • India recorded 9.24 million FTAs in 2023, a 43.5% increase compared to 2022 (6.44 million).

   • Foreign exchange earnings from FTAs grew by 65%, reaching ₹2.3 lakh crore in 2023.

   • Measures such as promoting adventure tourism, easier access to e-visas, and a 24×7 multilingual tourist helpline are expected to further boost these numbers.

5. Domestic Tourism

   • Domestic tourism has also shown remarkable growth, with 2,509.63 million Domestic Tourist Visits (DTVs) recorded in 2023, compared to 1,731.01 million in 2022.

Government's Initiatives to Promote Tourism:

• Adventure Tourism & Niche Tourism: The government is focusing on expanding adventure and niche tourism (e.g., ecotourism, heritage tourism).

• Technological Integration: Technological innovations, including digital infrastructure, are being used to enhance tourist experiences.

• Infrastructure Development: The government has invested approximately ₹7,000 crore ($1 billion) to improve tourism infrastructure, which includes building roads, improving connectivity, and creating better accommodation facilities.

• Domestic Tourism Programs:

  • Dekho Apna Desh: Encourages Indians to explore domestic tourism destinations.

  • PRASHAD: Promotes religious tourism by developing infrastructure around pilgrimage centers.

  • Vibrant Village Programme: Aims to boost tourism in border areas.

  • SWADESH 2.0: Supports the development of lesser-known tourist spots.

  • Udaan Scheme: Promotes air connectivity to underserved regions.

Challenges Facing the Tourism Sector:

1. Infrastructure Deficiencies

   • Poor connectivity in remote areas, limited quality accommodation in rural destinations, and inadequate basic amenities are key barriers to the sector’s growth.

2. Safety and Security Concerns

   • Issues such as crime, health risks from diseases, and political instability in certain regions can deter international tourists.

3. Environmental Impact

   • Pollution in urban areas, overtourism in popular destinations, and damage to wildlife and ecosystems in sensitive areas pose challenges to sustainable tourism development.

4. Cultural Sensitivities

   • Tourists may inadvertently disrespect local customs, and the rise in tourism can threaten the preservation of cultural heritage sites.

5. Marketing and Promotion

   • Despite the “Incredible India” campaign, the country still faces challenges in effectively promoting its diverse tourism attractions. There is also a need for better branding and awareness.

6. Skill Development

   • There is a lack of trained professionals in the tourism industry, including guides, hoteliers, and service staff, along with language barriers for international tourists.

Conclusion and Way Forward:

• Tourism as an Economic Driver:
  India’s tourism sector has grown significantly due to government initiatives, infrastructure development, and global branding. It plays a vital role in job creation, economic growth, and social inclusion.

• Focus on Sustainable Tourism:
  The government is prioritizing sustainable tourism to preserve India’s natural and cultural resources. Technological integration and infrastructure development are expected to further enhance the sector.

• Vision for 2047:
  India aims to become a developed country by 2047, with tourism being a key driver in this transformation. Continued efforts in promoting responsible tourism, enhancing the visitor experience, and improving sector skills are essential to achieving this goal.

India’s tourism sector is on an upward trajectory, with substantial investments and initiatives designed to enhance its global standing. However, addressing infrastructure gaps, environmental sustainability, and cultural sensitivities will be crucial for ensuring that growth remains inclusive and responsible.

Odisha Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024

Context
The Odisha government has introduced a new law, the Odisha Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024, to combat cheating and other unfair practices in public examinations. This legislation is intended to tackle growing concerns about malpractices, which have serious repercussions for the integrity of the education system in the state.

Key Features of the Bill

1. Purpose of the Law

   • The law aims to deter individuals, organized groups, or institutions from engaging in unfair practices that compromise the fairness of public examinations. This includes any actions that give an unfair advantage to candidates or undermine the examination process.
   • It seeks to address cheating, paper leaks, impersonation, and other forms of corruption during exams, which have often led to widespread systemic issues in the education sector.

2. Current Gaps in Legislation

   • Prior to this bill, Odisha did not have a specific law to prevent cheating or malpractices during public examinations, which has allowed these issues to persist without stringent legal deterrence.

Recent Cases of Examination Malpractices

Examination malpractices have been a recurring issue in India, with several high-profile cases:

• In 2018, the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reported over 2,000 cases of examination malpractices across the country.
• In Bihar, four individuals were arrested for leaking question papers of the National Eligibility Cum Entrance Test (NEET) (Undergraduate).
• In Uttar Pradesh, the Review Officer/Assistant Review Officer exams were cancelled due to a question paper leak.

These incidents demonstrate the widespread nature of the problem, leading to significant financial, psychological, and systemic damage.

Impact of Examination Malpractices

1. Undermines Educational Integrity

   • Widespread cheating erodes the credibility of the entire examination system, casting doubt on the fairness and legitimacy of educational assessments.

2. Devaluation of Qualifications

   • When exams are compromised, the value of qualifications awarded by educational institutions diminishes, which affects students' employability and their future prospects.

3. Loss of Trust

   • Public trust in the education system and its ability to provide a fair and credible assessment process is significantly undermined.

4. Psychological Impact on Students

   • Students who work hard feel demotivated and discouraged when they see others gaining unfair advantages through malpractices.

5. Delays and Cancellations

   • Malpractices often lead to delays and cancellations of examinations, causing long-term disruptions to the academic careers of thousands of students.

6. Additional Financial Burden

   • The government incurs additional costs when it has to reconduct exams due to malpractice-related issues, putting further strain on public resources.

Provisions of the Odisha Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024

1. Definition of Unfair Means
   The Act provides a broad definition of "unfair means," including:

   • Leaking Question Papers or Answer Keys
   • Assisting Candidates (unauthorized communication, providing solutions during exams)
   • Tampering with Computer Networks or Resources
   • Impersonating Candidates
   • Conducting Fake Examinations or issuing fake documents
   • Tampering with Documents related to merit lists or rankings

2. Penalties and Punishments
   The Bill introduces stringent penalties for various offences:

   • Individuals:

     • Imprisonment ranging from 3 to 10 years, depending on the severity of the offence.
     • Fines up to ₹1 crore for organized crimes.

   • Service Providers (e.g., exam facilitators):

     • Fines up to ₹1 crore for involvement in malpractices.
     • Banning from conducting public examinations for 4 years.
     • Personal liability for directors/management involved in the malpractice.

   • Organized Crimes:

     • Imprisonment from 5 to 10 years and a minimum fine of ₹1 crore.
     • Property attachment and forfeiture of the institution involved in organized crime.

3. Investigation and Legal Process

   • All offences under this Act are cognisable, non-bailable, and non-compoundable, ensuring swift legal action.
   • The investigation will be handled by officers not below the rank of Deputy Superintendent or Assistant Commissioner of Police.
   • The Central Government may transfer the investigation to a Central Investigating Agency if necessary.

Importance of the Bill

• Tackling Systemic Issues: The Bill addresses the root causes of examination malpractices and aims to restore credibility and fairness in the public examination system.
• Protection of Students' Interests: By implementing stricter penalties, the government aims to protect the interests of genuine candidates and ensure a level playing field for all.
• Restoring Public Confidence: By establishing stringent legal provisions, the government hopes to rebuild public trust in the examination process and prevent widespread malpractice in the future.
• Deterrence for Organized Crime: The harsh penalties, including property forfeiture and severe fines, are intended to deter organized criminal networks involved in examination malpractices.

Conclusion

The Odisha Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024 marks a significant step in addressing the growing problem of examination malpractices in the state. With its stringent provisions and severe penalties, the law aims to deter both individuals and organized groups from engaging in cheating, paper leaks, and other forms of unfair practices, ultimately protecting the integrity of the public examination system and safeguarding the interests of honest students.