Context: Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities through National Divyangjan Finance and Development Corporation (NDFDC, an apex corporation under (DEPwD) is organizing a unique event showcasing the products and craftsmanship of Divyang entrepreneurs/artisans from across the country, ‘Divya Kala Mela’ from 29^th December 2023 – 7^th January 2024 in Surat, Gujrat.

About:

• The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) has initiated the Divya Kala Mela to economically empower Persons with Disabilities (PwD/Divyangjan).
• This event serves as a platform to showcase the products and craftsmanship of Divyang entrepreneurs and artisans from different parts of the country.
• The Divya Kala Mela, Surat is the 12^th one in series starting from 2022 (i) Delhi (ii) Mumbai, 16(iii) Bhopal(iv) Guwahati(v) Indore(vi) Jaipur (vii) Varanasi(viii) Secunderabad (ix) Bengaluru(x) Chennai(xi) Patna.
• The showcased products encompass a range of categories, such as Home Décor & Lifestyle, Clothing, Stationery and eco-friendly products, packaged food and organic products, Toys & Gifts, and Personal Accessories like Jewellery and Clutch Bags.
• The initiative encourages the promotion of local products, providing an opportunity for everyone to support and buy products made by Divyang craftsmen who exhibit remarkable determination.

Context: Making substantial progress towards the government's ambitious Jal Jeevan Mission, approximately 72 per cent of rural households now have access to tap water connections, according to official data.

About:

• Launched in 2019, the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) aims to provide 55 litres of water per person per day to every rural household through Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) by 2024.
• The mission, falling under the Jal Shakti Ministry, seeks to create a mass movement for water, making it a collective priority.
• Objectives of the mission include ensuring the functionality of existing water supply systems, monitoring and testing water quality, promoting sustainable agriculture, and implementing measures for conjunctive use of conserved water.
• Additionally, JJM focuses on SOURCE sustainability through infrastructure development such as rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, and household wastewater management for reuse.

Key features

• Integrated demand and supply-side water management at the local level, emphasizing community-based approaches. The mission includes Information, Education, and Communication as a crucial component.
• Implementation involves Paani Samitis, comprising 10-15 members, including at least 50% women and others from various groups. These committees plan, implement, manage, operate, and maintain village water supply systems. Village action plans are developed, incorporating available Resources, and approved in Gram Sabhas before execution.
• The funding pattern involves a sharing ratio of 90:10 between the Centre and states for Himalayan and North-Eastern States, 50:50 for other states, and 100% for Union Territories.

Jal Jeevan Mission (Urban)

The Jal Jeevan Mission (Urban) was introduced in the Budget 2021-22 under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. Its primary aim is to ensure universal water supply coverage for households in all statutory towns, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal-6.

Complementary Initiative:

This urban mission complements the Jal Jeevan Mission (Rural), which targets the supply of 55 liters of water per person per day to every rural household through Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) by 2024.

Objectives:

Key objectives:

Tap and Sewer Connections:Facilitate the provision of secure tap and sewer connections in urban areas.

Water Body Rejuvenation:

Undertake initiatives for the rejuvenation of water bodies within urban landscapes.

Circular Water Economy:

Establish a circular water economy that promotes sustainable and efficient use of water Resources in urban settings. By focusing on these objectives, the mission strives to enhance water supply infrastructure, promote conservation, and address the water-related needs of urban households, contributing to the broader national goal of ensuring water access and sustainability.

Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen (SBM-G)

• It was launched in 2014 by the Ministry of Jal Shakti to intensify efforts toward achieving universal sanitation coverage, focusing on rural sanitation. As a nationwide campaign, it aimed to eradicate open defecation in rural areas.
• In the first phase, starting in 2014, the rural sanitation coverage was 38.7%. Since then, over 10 crore individual toilets have been built, leading to the declaration of rural areas in all states as Open Defecation Free (ODF) by October 2, 2019.
• SBM-G Phase-II, implemented from 2020-21 to 2024-25, emphasizes sustaining achievements from Phase-I and addressing Solid/Liquid & Plastic Waste Management (SLWM) in rural India. It has a total outlay of Rs. 1,40,881 crores. The SLWM component focuses on four key areas: Plastic waste management, Biodegradable solid waste management (including animal waste management), Greywater (Household Wastewater) management, and Fecal sludge management.

Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off the first two Amrit Bharat Express trains tomorrow, December 30 from the temple town ‘Ayodhya’. Railway officials said these trains are equipped with the latest technology to ensure that passengers do not feel any jerk at any point of the journey.

About:

• The Amrit Bharat Express, previously known as Vande Sadharan, is described as the sleeper version of the high-speed Vande Bharat trains, aiming to revolutionize travel for the common man.
• With a saffron-grey color scheme, it is a cost-effective non-AC sleeper cum unreserved class service.
• The train features a locomotive at each end, with a 6,000 hp WAP5 locomotive manufactured by Chittaranjan Locomotive Works, following an aerodynamic design similar to Vande Bharat trains.
• Manufactured at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, Amrit Bharat trains boast zero-discharge FRP modular toilets.
• The Railways plans to maintain a pocket-friendly base fare, with the first route connecting Ayodhya to Darbhanga and the second anticipated route running from Bengaluru to Malda.
• The 22-coach train includes 12 second-class sleeper coaches, 8 general class coaches for unreserved passengers, and 2 guard coaches.
• Ticket prices for Amrit Bharat Express vary based on distance, with the fare for a 1-50 kilometers journey in a second-class unreserved coach at Rs 30. For a 50-kilometer trip in a sleeper class, the fare is Rs 65, excluding superfast charges, reservation fees for sleeper class coaches, GST, etc.
• The train incorporates improved features like cushioned luggage racks, aesthetically pleasing seats and berths, mobile chargers, zero-discharge FRP modular toilets, aerosol-based fire suppression systems, and radium illumination flooring strips.

The Amrit Bharat Express incorporates new technologies to enhance efficiency and passenger experience.

• It utilizes push-pull technology, involving two engines—one at the front and another at the rear. While the front engine pulls the train, the rear engine simultaneously pushes it, leading to improved acceleration and deceleration, resulting in significant time savings at bridges, curves, and speed-restricted sections.
• The train also adopts distributed power technology, where every second or third coach has a motor running on electricity supplied through overhead equipment. This technology is similar to that used in Vande Bharat trains. The space between coaches is fully covered to address air pressure issues, providing a seamless appearance.
• To ensure a jerk-free experience, the Amrit Bharat Train is equipped with semi-permanent couplers, similar to those used in Vande Bharat trains. These couplers prevent jerks during the train's start or stop, contrasting with older technologies from the 1990s, where passengers felt jerks due to a different type of coupler used to join the coaches.

Amrit Bharat Express: Enhancing Passenger and Loco-Pilot Experience

Passenger-Centric Features:

• The Amrit Bharat Express is designed to be accommodating for disabled passengers, ensuring inclusivity.
• The train prioritizes safety benefits and incorporates features aimed at enhancing the overall passenger experience.
• Modern amenities, such as mobile holders and slider-based window glass, are provided to offer convenience and a contemporary feel to passengers.
• A Passenger Information System is available on board, providing real-time details about upcoming stations.

Loco-Pilot Comfort:

• Special modifications have been made to the train engines to enhance comfort for locopilots.
• The locomotive cabins are fully air-conditioned to ensure a conducive working environment.
• Seat positions have been adjusted to optimize comfort for drivers during train operations.
• Technological advancements have been implemented to control vibrations within the engine, minimizing fatigue for locopilots.

By incorporating these passenger-friendly and loco-pilot-friendly features, the Amrit Bharat Express aims to provide a safe, comfortable, and modern travel experience for all stakeholders involved.

Context: Ration card portability gained traction across India this year, as 28 crore transactions were recorded in the first 11 months of 2023, according to the food ministry.

About:

• Poor migrant workers will have the opportunity to purchase subsidized rice and wheat from any ration shop in the country, provided their ration cards are linked to Aadhaar.
• To be eligible for subsidies supported by the Centre, including rice at Rs. 3/kg and wheat at Rs. 2/kg, migrants must link their ration cards to Aadhaar.
• This scheme aims to ensure that no impoverished individual is deprived of subsidized grains.  Implementation is feasible, as 77% of ration shops in the country already have Point of Sale (PoS) machines, and over 85% of National Food Security Act (NFSA) beneficiaries have Aadhaar-linked cards.
• States have been granted an additional year to deploy PoS machines in remaining ration shops.
• The technological solution involves identifying beneficiaries through biometric authentication on electronic Point of Sale (ePoS) devices at Fair Price Shops (FPSs), allowing them to purchase their entitled quantity of food grains under the NFSA.
• The Annavitran portal facilitates migrant workers and their families in availing PDS benefits outside their district but within their state.
• While an individual can purchase her allocated food grains wherever she is, her family members can obtain subsidized food grains from their home district's ration dealer.

Significance:

Ensuring Food Security for Migrant Laborers: India's existing food security schemes have been limited by domicile-based access, creating challenges for the approximately 37% of the population, equivalent to 36 crore people, who are migrant laborers. The new scheme is crucial for individuals relocating from one place to another, addressing delays in obtaining ration cards and accessing commodities in a timely manner. Through Aadhaar authentication and validated data, the scheme ensures that migrants can access their entitled benefits anywhere in the country.

Empowering Women and Disadvantaged Groups: The One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC) initiative holds particular significance for women and other marginalized communities, recognizing the impact of social identity and contextual factors on Public Distribution System (PDS) access. By offering beneficiaries the freedom to choose their dealer and switch instantly if issues arise, ONORC provides a valuable choice that curtails corruption.

Choice and Curbing Corruption: The ONORC scheme introduces an element of choice, allowing beneficiaries to select their preferred dealer. In case of misconduct or misallocation by a dealer, beneficiaries can swiftly transition to another Fair Price Shop (FPS). The fundamental requirement for the scheme is de-duplication, preventing individuals from being listed as beneficiaries in multiple locations across the country. Aadhaar authentication and biometrics ensure the accuracy of beneficiary targeting, reducing the potential for corruption. The government is establishing a central data repository to cross-check details from state-maintained ration cards, leveraging technology to eliminate corruption and duplication of benefits.

Challenges

• The implementation of the scheme may encounter technical challenges due to its reliance on technology.
• Common individuals may face increased difficulties, and there is a risk of exploitation by middlemen and corrupt Public Distribution System (PDS) shop owners.
• Tamil Nadu has opposed the Centre's proposal, citing undesirable consequences and federalism concerns. Intra-state portability issues and varying rates across states pose challenges.
• Some regional parties express concerns about bearing the cost of additional ration cards, a matter to be resolved between states and the Government of India.
• States raise apprehensions about the cost of additional food grain supply to migrant workers, despite the system being based on entitlements mandated under the National Food Security Act (NFSA).
• The subaltern groups experience inferior services with discriminatory practices such as inadequate information, mixing of inferior grains, extended waiting times, and verbal abuse.

Way forward:

Enhancing Food Security in Emergencies: In cases where emergencies persist, hindering the regular functioning of ration shops, it becomes essential to explore alternative delivery channels to ensure the seamless distribution of food grains to vulnerable populations.

A Holistic Approach to Food Security: It is imperative to view food security within a broader framework that encompasses nutritional security. In this context, the One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC) initiative should facilitate the portability of Integrated Child Development Services, Mid-Day Meals, immunization, healthcare, and other essential facilities to comprehensively address nutritional needs.

Towards a Sustainable Future: Considering long-term perspectives, there is a possibility of transitioning from the Public Distribution System (PDS) to a more fool-proof food coupon system or direct benefit transfer. Under this system, Below Poverty Line families would have the flexibility to purchase essential items like rice, pulses, sugar, and oil from any Kirana store at market prices. Payment could be made either in full through the coupon or with cash, offering a more efficient and inclusive approach.

Context: Seeking to repeal the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867, the Bill contains a unique provision disallowing persons convicted of terrorist acts or unlawful activities, or those who have acted against state security, from publishing periodicals.

Background:

Key features of Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867

• The Press and Registration of Books (PRB) Act 1867 is responsible for overseeing the printing and publishing industry in India, a regulation enacted during the British colonial era that remains in effect with minor modifications.
• With the primary goal of governing the printing and publication of books, newspapers, and magazines, the PRB Act also focuses on preserving copies of these publications and facilitating their registration.
• This legislation plays a crucial role in regulating printing presses and newspapers across India, establishing rules and guidelines to ensure responsible journalism and prevent misuse.
• An essential provision of the PRB Act mandates the registration of all books and newspapers printed in India, requiring publishers to submit copies to relevant authorities for preservation and record-keeping.
• The Act employs a broad definition of the term "book," encompassing not only traditional books but also pamphlets, music sheets, maps, charts, and similar materials.
• Notably, the PRB Act does not cover electronic media, concentrating its regulatory scope on the print media sector and excluding digital news platforms and electronic publications.
• According to the Act, only the District Magistrate (DM) holds the authority to cancel the declaration of a periodical, while the Press Registrar General (PRG) lacks the power to suo motu cancel or suspend the Certificate of Registration it grants.
• The legislation deems an improper declaration of information as a punishable offence, carrying the potential for a prison term of up to 6 months.

Why was this Bill brought in?

•  Firstly, it aims to facilitate "ease of doing business."
• Secondly, the bill targets the elimination of "unnecessary procedural obstacles" faced by publishers.
• Lastly, it aims to relieve publishers and printing press owners from the obligation of submitting a declaration to the District Magistrate (DM) and filing revised declarations with every change in particulars.

Key Features of the Press and Registration of Periodicals (PRP) Bill 2023:

Simplified Registration Process: The bill streamlines the registration process for periodicals by introducing a one-time registration with the Press Registrar General (PRG). This eliminates the need for annual statements and declarations before the District Magistrate (DM).

Inclusion of Digital News Platforms: Unlike the previous act, the new bill extends the registration requirement to digital news platforms. These platforms are now obligated to undergo a one-time registration with the PRG within six months of the act's commencement.

Enhanced Powers for PRG:The PRP Bill grants additional powers to the Press Registrar General. The PRG is now empowered to suspend or cancel the registration of a periodical if it violates any provision of the act or any other legal requirements.

Restrictions on Individuals with Criminal Convictions:Individuals convicted of terrorist acts, unlawful activities, or actions against the security of the state are prohibited from publishing a periodical. The PRG has the authority to refuse registration or cancel the registration of such individuals.

Reduced Punishment for Violations: The bill reduces the punishment for publishing a periodical without a certificate of registration or continuing publication after the suspension or cancellation of registration. The previous act allowed imprisonment of up to six months and a fine, whereas the new bill mandates imprisonment only if the publisher fails to comply within six months of receiving a direction from the PRG.

Establishment of Appellate Authority:Introducing an appellate mechanism, the Press and Registration Appellate Board is created to hear appeals against decisions made by the PRG. The board consists of the chairperson and two members of the Press Council of India (PCI), a statutory body overseeing media ethics and standards. These provisions collectively signify a shift towards a more efficient and comprehensive regulatory framework for periodicals, accommodating the evolving landscape of media, including digital platforms, while strengthening the oversight and enforcement capabilities of regulatory authorities.

How is this Bill different from the 1867 Act?

Exclusion of Books: The 1867 Act was initially established to regulate printing presses and newspapers, emphasizing the preservation and registration of books and newspapers printed in India.Contrary to its original scope, the 2023 Bill removes books from the Act's jurisdiction, now falling under the purview of the HRD Ministry.

Penal Reforms:

• A key feature of the 2023 Bill is the move toward decriminalization, substituting imprisonment penalties with fines. The penalties are notably replaced by a new appellate mechanism headed by the Chairman of the Press Council of India, known as the Press and Registration Appellate Board.
• The 1867 law included imprisonment for offenses such as operating an undeclared press or making false statements. The new law replaces most penal provisions with fines, except for Section 14(4), retaining the option of six-month imprisonment for specific violations.
• The upper limit of fines has undergone a substantial hike, rising from Rs 2,000 to Rs 5 lakh, reflecting a significant shift in the financial consequences of violations.

Empowerment of Press Registrar General (PRG):

• A pivotal change introduced by the new Bill is the transfer of power from the District Magistrate (DM) to the Press Registrar General (PRG). Unlike the limited powers of the "Press Registrar" in the 1867 Act, the PRG under the new law enjoys expanded functions and authority.
• Sections 5 and 6 of the Bill outline the functions and powers of the PRG, encompassing responsibilities such as issuing certificates of registration to periodicals, maintaining records, collecting fees, and managing funds allocated by the Centre for effective Act implementation.
• Under the 1867 Act, a declaration specifying the printer or publisher had to be submitted to the District Magistrate (DM), who then forwarded it to the Press Registrar for the issuance of a registration certificate.

Process of declaration and registration

• The process was considered time-consuming and burdensome, leading to the introduction of a new Bill.
• In the updated process, publishers are no longer required to file a declaration with the DM or local authorities. Instead, printing presses can provide an online "intimation."
• The Bill allows simultaneous processing of title allotment and registration applications, eliminating the need for separate applications from publishers and printers.
• When a registration application is submitted, a "specified authority" must provide its no-objection or comments within 60 days. The final decision on the grant of registration is made by the Press Registrar General (PRG).
• Notably, the requirement for the specified authority's no-objection has been removed for the registration of government-published periodicals.

UAPA provision

• Restriction on publishing periodicals: The UAPA provision in Section 4 prohibits individuals convicted of specific offenses from publishing periodicals.
• Offenses that trigger restriction: -
  •  
  • Terrorist act: Defined as an act with the intent to threaten India's unity, integrity, security, economic security, or sovereignty, or to strike terror among people. –
  • Unlawful activity: Refers to actions supporting claims for secession, separatism, disruption of sovereignty or integrity, and other activities deemed unlawful under the UAPA.
  • Acting against state security: Engaging in actions that compromise national security.
• Basis for definitions: The terms "terrorist act" and "unlawful activity" carry the same meanings as defined in clauses (k) and (o) of Section 2(1) of the UAPA, 1967.

Setbacks faced by the press

Censorship under Lord Wellesley (1799):

• Enacted due to French invasion fears, imposing strict wartime press controls, including pre-censorship.
• Relaxed later by Lord Hastings in 1818, removing pre-censorship.
• Licensing Regulations Instituted penalties for starting or operating a press without a license, later extended to cover various publications.

Press Act of 1835 (Metcalfe Act):

• Repealed the restrictive 1823 ordinance, earning Metcalfe the title "Liberator of the Indian press."
• Mandated precise declarations by printers/publishers about their premises and allowed cessation as required.

Licensing Act during the 1857 Revolt:

• Imposed further licensing restrictions due to the 1857 emergency.
• Augmented existing registration procedures, granting the government power to halt the circulation of any printed material.

Vernacular Press Act, 1878:

• Designed to regulate the vernacular press, suppress seditious writing, and prevent discord among different communities.
• Required printers and publishers of vernacular newspapers to sign a bond refraining from disseminating anti-government or divisive content.

Newspaper (Incitement to Offences) Act, 1908:

• Empowered magistrates to seize press properties publishing objectionable content inciting violence or murder.
• Bal Gangadhar Tilak, a militant nationalist leader, faced sedition charges and was transported to Mandalay, sparking widespread protests and strikes.

Indian Press Act, 1910:

• Local governments could demand security at registration, penalize offending newspapers, and require free copies for scrutiny.

Press Council of India (PCI):

Establishment and Legal Basis: The PCI was established under the PCI Act of 1978, providing the legal framework for its formation and functioning.

Objective and Aim: The primary aim of the PCI is to safeguard the freedom of the press and enhance the standards of newspapers and news agencies operating in India.

Composition:

The PCI is composed of a chairman and 28 additional members, ensuring a diverse representation.

Chairman Selection Process:

The Chairman is appointed through a collaborative process involving the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, and a member elected by the PCI.

Functions and Responsibilities:

The PCI serves several key functions to uphold its objectives, including:

• Assisting newspapers in maintaining their editorial independence.
• Formulating a comprehensive code of conduct for journalists and news agencies to adhere to.
• Contributing to the maintenance of high standards of public taste within the media.
• Promoting a sense of responsibility among citizens regarding media consumption.
• Regularly reviewing developments that may impede the free flow of news.
  The PRP Bill of 2023 aims to enhance transparency and accountability within the media industry, ensuring adherence to various laws concerning national security, public order, defamation, and more. Nonetheless, certain skeptics have expressed apprehensions regarding the potential for the PRG to misuse its authority, raising questions about its impact on media freedom and diversity.

Context: In a special session of Parliament in September, after a wait of nearly three decades, the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam was passed, making possible a more women-friendly House. It envisaged reservation of one-third of the seats in Lok Sabha and state assemblies for women. After presidential assent on September 29, it became law.

Background:

Initiation During Atal Bihari Vajpayee's Tenure: Discussions on the Women Reservation Bill began in 1996 under the leadership of Former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Hindrance Due to Lack of Majority: Despite early efforts, the Bill faced a setback as the government lacked the necessary majority for approval during that period.

Chronology of Attempts: 1996: The inaugural Women Reservation Bill was introduced in Parliament.

1998 – 2003: The government made four attempts to table the Bill, but none succeeded.

2009: Amid protests, the government presented the bill.

2010: The Union Cabinet approved the Bill, and it was successfully passed in the Rajya Sabha (RS).

Anticipated Presentation in 2014: In 2014, there were expectations that the Bill would be introduced in the Lok Sabha (LS) for further consideration. The Women Reservation Bill has witnessed a series of attempts spanning different political tenures, reflecting the persistent endeavor to enact legislation promoting gender representation in political decision-making processes.

Need:

• The Lok Sabha currently comprises 82 women Members of Parliament, constituting 15.2% of the total, while the Rajya Sabha has 31 women members, making up 13%.
• Although there has been a notable increase from the early days of the 1st Lok Sabha, where women constituted only 5%, the current figures remain comparatively lower.
• The recent data from UN Women reveals that Rwanda leads globally in women representation with 61%, followed by Cuba (53%) and Nicaragua (52%).
• Bangladesh (21%) and Pakistan (20%) also surpass India in terms of female representation in parliamentary bodies.
• Despite progress, India's percentage of women MPs is still considerably lower than that of several other countries, indicating room for improvement in gender representation.

Key Features of the Women Reservation Bill:

Reservation in Lower House: The Bill proposes the addition of Article 330A to the constitution, mirroring the provisions of Article 330 for SCs/STs reservation in the Lok Sabha.Reserved seats for women may be allocated to different constituencies within states or Union Territories through a rotational system.

Reservation in Seats Allocated for SCs/STs: Within seats reserved for SCs/STs, the Bill advocates for one-third of the seats to be reserved for women on a rotational basis.

Reservation in State Legislative Assemblies: Introduces Article 332A, mandating the reservation of seats for women in every state Legislative Assembly. Specifies that one-third of seats reserved for SCs/STs should be allotted to women, along with one-third of total seats filled through direct elections to Legislative Assemblies.

Reservation for Women in NCT of Delhi (Article 239AA): Amendments to Article 239AA grant special status to Delhi as the national capital.Ensures that laws framed by Parliament are applicable to the National Capital Territory of Delhi.

Commencement and Duration of Reservation (Article 334A):

Reservation becomes effective after the publication of the census conducted post the Bill's commencement. Delimitation based on the census will determine reserved seats for women. The reservation is initially set for 15 years but can be extended as determined by a parliamentary law.

Rotation of Reserved Seats: Seats reserved for women will undergo rotation after each delimitation, subject to legislation by Parliament.

Arguments against the bill

• The Bill lacks clarity regarding the timing of its implementation, as it states it will come into effect after delimitation is carried out post the first Census following its commencement, without specifying the election cycle when women will receive their rightful share.
• There is a notable absence of women's reservation in the Rajya Sabha and State Legislative Councils in the current Bill, despite the fact that the Rajya Sabha exhibits lower female representation compared to the Lok Sabha. Balanced representation is deemed essential for both the Lower and Upper Houses.

Empowering Female Role Models: A Catalyst for Change

Diverse Role Models:

• President Droupadi Murmu: First tribal head of state, youngest to hold the office, inspiring tribal youth.
• Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman: Presented five consecutive budgets, credited for prudent economic policies.

Changing Aspirations in Small Towns:

• Girls in small towns aspiring beyond traditional roles, rejecting conformity, and aspiring to become entrepreneurs.
• Increased female representation in managerial roles in villages compared to urban areas.

Digital Empowerment:

• Digital penetration providing women with opportunities to pursue diverse dreams.
• Examples include YouTube recipe sharing, Instagram marketing expertise, and online yoga instruction.

Impact of Female Role Models:

• Positive influence of intelligent and strong women in public life encouraging other women.
• Role models like Kiran Bedi and Smriti Irani inspiring girls to join the police services and aim for greater heights.

Cultural Representation:

• Positive portrayal of women in films and series challenging traditional stereotypes.
• Films like Aarya, Pagglait, and Thappad portraying women as heroes, villains, and in-betweeners.

Unveiling Limitless Opportunities:

• Promoting the idea that opportunities are limitless regardless of gender.
• Attention to female role models expected to yield great leaders and positive change.

Global Recognition:

• Recognition of achievements like Nigar Shaji leading India’s first solar mission Aditya L-1, breaking stereotypes.
• The silent revolution unfolding as barriers are broken, and Indian women embrace new horizons. In essence, the evolving narrative of Indian women, driven by diverse role models, digital empowerment, and cultural shifts, signifies a paradigm shift in societal expectations and aspirations. The silent revolution underway indicates a breaking of barriers and a resolute push to shatter the glass ceiling.

Context: The Kerala High Court has expanded the definition of 'procure' in Section 5 of the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956, to encompass individuals seeking the services of prostitutes.

Understanding the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956:

The Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act (ITP), 1956, is aimed at curbing the commercialization of vices and the trafficking of females. While it does not criminalize sex work, it prohibits the operation of brothels.

Legal Framework: Section 2 defines a brothel as any place used for sexual exploitation or abuse for gain. Prostitution, under the act, refers to the sexual exploitation or abuse of individuals for commercial purposes.

Offenses and Penalties (Section 5): Section 5 imposes penalties on those who procure, induce, or take individuals for prostitution, with a punishment of 3–7 years' imprisonment and a fine of Rs 2,000. For offenses against a person's will or involving a child, the maximum sentence can extend to fourteen years or life.

Kerala High Court's Ruling:

Background:

A petitioner faced charges under various sections of the ITP Act for being a customer in a brothel. Seeking discharge, the accused argued against being implicated under the ITP Act.

Court's Interpretation: The Kerala High Court interpreted Section 5, ruling that the term "procure" includes customers. While not declaring the petitioner guilty, the ruling allows charges to be filed, broadening the scope of accountability.

Implications:  The ruling expands the meaning of "procure" in Section 5, asserting that customers can be held liable for procuring individuals for prostitution. Differing opinions among High Courts reflect ongoing legal debates on this matter.

Legal Recognition of Sex Work:

Supreme Court's Perspective: The Supreme Court recognizes sex work as a "profession," entitling practitioners to equal protection under the law. The court emphasizes the rights secured by Article 21, stating that voluntary sex is not a crime.

Fundamental and Human Rights:  Judicial decisions affirm the fundamental and human rights of sex workers, acknowledging their right to dignity and protection under the law. Efforts like the Ujjawala scheme and initiatives by commissions demonstrate a commitment to addressing sex workers' concerns.

Cultural Stigma and Gender Dynamics: Prostitution faces cultural stigma, breaching traditional values. Sex workers, particularly women, endure discrimination and derogatory terms. The profession is seen as degrading and exploitative, especially towards women. Advocates for autonomy argue for women's agency over their bodies and career choices.

Way Forward:

Ongoing Debate: The ethical implications of prostitution remain a subject of debate. Upholding trafficking laws is crucial, regardless of one's stance, to prevent exploitation.

Sensitization Programs: Encouraging open dialogue and educational programs to sensitize communities to diverse perspectives on sex work, considering cultural sensitivities.

Legal Recognition: Emphasizing the legal recognition of equality for all citizens, irrespective of their chosen profession.

• Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has selected Bisathi Bharat of Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh for the National Youth Award (NYA) recently.

It is an award conferred annually to individuals and voluntary organisations serving in the arena of youth development.

• The South Coast Railway (SCoR) Zone is India's 18th railway zone, and its headquarters are in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.

It was announced in 2019 and still not started yet.

• The Union government has now amended the Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules of 2021.
• It is to allow women government servants and pensioners to nominate their children for receiving family pension over their spouse.
• Conditions – At the time of the women’s death, any proceedings for divorce, domestic violence, or dowry demands happen to be pending against the said spouse.

Till now, the rules provided for the family pension to first go to the surviving spouse and the children became eligible to receive it only after the death of the spouse.

Tsunami waves hit several parts of Japan’s coastal areas and urgent evacuation warnings were issued after a 7.6-magnitude earthquake shook the country’s north-central region.

What is Tsunami?

Tsunami– A Japanese word meaning harbour wave.

• • Tsu – harbour; nami - wave.

It is a series of giant ocean waves caused by earthquakes or volcanic eruptions under the ocean.

Submarine earthquakes have generated about 80% of all tsunami events recorded globally.

Physical attributes

• • It can be 100’s of feet tall.
  • It can travel as fast as jet planes over deep waters.
  • It slows down the travel speed on reaching shallow waters.
  • It has a long wavelength and period (time between crests) which can vary from a few minutes to over an hour.

The wavelength is a factor which distinguishes tsunamis from wind waves, a tsunami wavelength can be more than 200 km long which is considerably longer than a wind wave wavelength.

Lifetime of a tsunami – It can be divided into 3 stages namely generation, propagation, and run-up.

The power of a tsunami – It is highly dependent on 2 factors. 

• • The tide – At high tide the tsunami will be able to do much more damage than at low tide.
  • Seafloor morphology – It alters the tsunami height by changing the ratio between their wavelength and wave height.
  • In general, this ratio decreases as the wave travels into shallower water, causing the tsunami to grow in size.  
• Sea depth - As the sea depth decreases, the wavelength decreases and the height increases.
• Size – It is also influenced by the topography of the coastline.
• Numbers – There may be more than one wave and the succeeding one may be larger than the one before.
• That is why a small tsunami at one beach can be a giant wave few kilometres away.

What are factors responsible for the occurrence of Tsunami?

• Earthquake tsunami – When earthquake occurs under the ocean, a large chunk of the ocean floor can suddenly move upward or downward, leading to a sudden displacement of a large volume of water, thereby causing tsunami waves.
• All earthquakes do not cause tsunamis and there 4 conditions necessary for it to cause a tsunami.

• Volcano tsunami– When volcano erupts under the sea, the lava flowing out of the volcano displaces the water around it and that water can become a large wave.
• However, not all volcanic eruptions lead to tsunamis.
• Erosion tsunami – Large erosion of ocean floor displaces the water leading to displacement of water.
• Extra-terrestrial collision– Although no meteor/asteroid induced tsunami has been recorded in recent history, if they strike the ocean, a large volume of water would be displaced to cause a tsunami.
• Landslide tsunami – A landslide along the coast and underwater landslides can also disturb the water and generate a tsunami.The tsunamis generated tend to be relatively localized and typically do less damage than the earthquake generated tsunamis.

What are the effects of tsunami on life and economy?

• The effects of a tsunami depend on the characteristics of the seismic event that generate it
  • The distance from its point of origin
  • Its size (magnitude)
  • The configuration of the bathymetry (the depth of water in oceans) along the coast.
• Loss of Life – Most deaths caused by tsunamis are because of drowning.
• Flooding – They arrive as forceful rapid increase in water levels that results in violent flooding.
• Diseases – Illnesses such as malaria arise when water is stagnant and contaminated.
• Damages to key infrastructures – Objects and buildings are destroyed by the sheer weight of the water, often reduced to skeletal foundations and exposed bedrock.
• Fires – Ruptured tanks or gas lines can damage life and property along with power supply.
• Environmental impacts – It has devastating effect on insects, animals, plants, and natural resources.
• Changes the landscape – By uprooting trees and plants and destroys animal habitats such as nesting sites for birds.
• Waste management issues – It dumps enormous solid waste and disaster debris.
• Salination of water bodies – Infiltration of sea water into freshwater bodies.
• Contamination of drinking water – Seawater along with carried debris contaminate groundwater and other water bodies.
• Radiation issue – There may be radiation resulting from damage to nuclear plants, as it happened in Japan in March 2011.
• Economical losses – Reconstruction and clean up after a tsunami has costs huge.
• Psychological effects – Victims of tsunami events often suffer psychological problems like PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).

What are risks and vulnerability of India with respect to Tsunami?

India is one of the 10 worst disaster prone countries in the world.

• Vulnerability profile – Of the 7516 km long coastline, close to 5700 km is prone to tsunamis.
• The geo-centric movement inside the ocean floor makes the coastal region prone to tsunami.
• Tsunamigenic zones in Indian Coast - Both the east and west coasts of India and the island regions are likely to be affected by tsunamis from the 5 potential source regions
  • The Andaman-Nicobar Sumatra island arc
  • Indo-Burmese zone,
  • Nascent Boundary (in the central Indian Ocean)
  • Chagos archipelago
  • Makran subduction zone
• Urbanization increases vulnerability – For instance, about 25% of the Indian population lives within 50 km of the coastal line and these people are vulnerable to river flooding, and coastal surges following cyclones or tsunamis.
• Tsunami in Indian Ocean occurred on 26^th December 2004, the hardest hit areas were on the Southern coast of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

What are the mechanisms for preparedness to reduce the risk as per NDMA?

• Awareness generation – State and District Disaster Management Authority (SDMAs & DDMAs) will conduct regular public awareness campaigns for familiarising communities in coastal areas with the tsunami early warning mechanisms.
• Early warnings - Effective dissemination of tsunami alert and warning messages to the concerned agencies and coastal vulnerable communities.

Indian National Centre of Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) is the Nodal agency for Tsunami related early warning system.

• Capacity building – It involves effective emergency response by involving local police network, civil defence volunteers, home guards, State and National Disaster Response Force.
• Education – NDMA has initiated the efforts in collaboration with nodal agencies like the UGC, AICTE, MCI, ICAR, etc. to include DM in the educational curricula.
• Training – National Institute of Disaster Management at the national level have been tasked to train administrative personnel from all Ministries and departments in DM.
• Research & development - For better tsunami risk management. 
• Structural Mitigation measures – A brief guidance on design and construction of new structures as well as strategies for protecting lifeline and priority structures from Tsunamis.
• Techno-legal regime – It shall be brought through efficient land use practices, bio shields, shelter belt plantation and mangrove regeneration with community involvement.
• Further, it explore the provisions of Disaster Management Act 2005 to mainstream concern of Tsunami risk management in disaster management plans of various levels.

Recently, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has submitted three nominations from India for Wetland City Accreditation (WCA) of Indore (Madhya Pradesh), Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh) & Udaipur (Rajasthan) under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.

WCA – A voluntary scheme that recognizes cities which have taken exceptional steps to safeguard their urban wetlands.

Establishment – During the Ramsar Convention COP12, 2015.

Objectives – To recognize the importance of wetlands in urban and peri-urban environments and to take appropriate measures to conserve and protect these wetlands.

Significance – Cities can gain international recognition and positive branding opportunities for their efforts and provides sustainable socio-economic benefits for local populations. 

It will generate public awareness about wetland conservation and also help in implementation of Amrit Dharohar in India which aims to foster sustainable ecosystem development with the help of local communities.

6 Criteria for getting WEA

• It has one or more Ramsar Sites, or other significant wetlands which provide(s) a range of ecosystem services to the city;
• It has adopted measures for conservation of wetlands.
• It has implemented wetland restoration measures.
• It considers the challenges and opportunities of integrated spatial/land-use planning for wetlands under its jurisdiction.
• It has raised public awareness about the values of wetlands and enabled public participation in decision-making processes.
• It has established a local committee to support the preparation work and the implementation of measures.

The researchers at Indian Institute of Geomagnetism (IIG) have examined the existence of high-frequency plasma waves in the Martian plasma environment.

IIG is an autonomous institute of Department of Science and Technology.

• Plasma waves – A type of electromagnetic wave that propagates through plasma, a state of matter.

Plasma is formed when a gas is heated to high temperatures or subjected to strong electric fields, causing its atoms to become ionised by either losing or gaining electrons.

• In earth – It is observed in the Earth’s magnetosphere as a short-time scale fluctuations in the electric and magnetic field.
• Role – In the energization and transport of the charged particles in the Earth’s magnetosphere.
• Some act as a cleaning agent for the Earth’s radiation belt, which is hazardous to our satellites.
  • Example: Electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves

Plasma waves in Mars

• Recent Study – It was carried out by IIG scientists in collaboration with scientists from Japan, USA, and UAE to understand the existence of plasma waves in unmagnetized planets like Mars.

Mars does not have any intrinsic magnetic field therefore the high-speed solar wind coming from the Sun interacts directly with the Mars atmosphere, like an obstacle in the flow.

• Observation – By using high-resolution electric field data from the MAVEN spacecraft of NASA when it crossed the magnetopause boundary and entered the magnetosheath region.
• Cause – It could be due to electron oscillations with respect to the background magnetic field in the magnetosheath region of the Mars.
  • Langmuir waves – Parallel oscillations
  • Upper-hybrid type waves – Perpendicular oscillations
• 2 distinct wave modes – Either broadband or narrowband type with distinguishable features in the frequency domain.
• Significance – It provides a tool to explore how electrons gain or dissipate energy in the Martian plasma environment.