Current Affairs

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New method of visual detection of SARS-CoV-2 can identify the infection at early stage

Context: New method of visual detection of SARS-CoV-2 can identify the infection at an early stage. A new sandwich-based lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA) for the detection of the Receptor Binding Domain (RBD) of severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2(SARS-CoV-2) could provide an efficient substitute for RT-PCR tests.

Need for Rapid and Affordable Covid-19 Testing

RT-PCR tests are time-consuming and require skilled labour and equipment. Not feasible for large-scale on-site testing.
New test kits are needed that are rapid, robust, affordable and can be used for mass testing without skilled personnel. Helps reduce spread by early detection.

Development of Lateral Flow Immunoassay (LFIA) test

Scientists from DBT-NIAB and Gandhi Medical College developed an LFIA test for early on-field detection of SARS-CoV-2. Based on antigen-antibody interaction, doesn't need skilled staff.
With DST-SERB support, scientists cloned a gene for SARS-CoV-2 RBD protein, purified and generated antibodies (Ab) against it. AuNPs-Ab is used as a capture probe for colorimetric detection.
LFIA test works on sandwich format - RBD antigen in sample interacts with AuNPs-Ab to form complex, moves along the membrane and reacts with RBD Ab coated as test line, giving red colour. The control line verifies test functionality.
Different parameters like blocking buffer, and antibody concentration optimized for maximum efficiency. Band intensity was analyzed using a smartphone app for image acquisition/analysis, giving RGB data and intensity trends.

Utility and Cost-Effectiveness

LFIA strips are useful as a portable, point-of-care device for on-site SARS-CoV-2 testing at home or in rural areas. Much cheaper than RT-PCR, benefits the economically disadvantaged.
Mass production of kits can enable large-scale testing. But quality checks and safeguards are needed to ensure accuracy before policy implementation.
If proven highly accurate, LFIA and similar cheap, rapid test kits can revolutionize Covid-19 control strategies in resource-poor settings through early detection and isolation. Can aid in return to normalcy in some activities.

Limitations and Future Prospects

Smartphone image analysis provides qualitative, not quantitative results. So not replace RT-PCR's high accuracy in diagnosis, prognosis and treatment monitoring.
As mutations emerge, new generations of test kits may be needed to detect them. Continuous R&D is required to keep up with an evolving virus.
Sample size and real-world data on test performance are needed to determine suitability. Regulatory approvals are required before mass uptake.
Future prospects: Integrating multiplex detection in one assay; developing rapid confirmatory tests; commercial partnerships for scaling up production at low cost while ensuring quality.

The development of a cheap, rapid lateral flow immunoassay test for SARS-CoV-2 detection is promising for controlling the Covid-19 pandemic through affordable mass testing. However, the test may have limitations in the accuracy and detection of new variants that emerge. Continuous research and policy interventions are needed to enable early, widespread use of fast, low-cost but reliable diagnostics, especially in resource-poor regions bearing high caseloads. New tests that balance speed, cost, accuracy and adaptability will be key to managing coronavirus disease into the future.

PhonePe forays into local commerce with Pincode app on ONDC network

Context: The Walmart-owned fintech company, PhonePe, has declared the launch of an e-commerce consumer application called 'Pincode,' which will be incorporated into India's Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) framework. The Pincode app will initially be accessible in six major categories in Bengaluru (Karnataka), such as groceries, food, pharmaceuticals, electronics, home decor, and fashion. Once the app attains a transaction volume of roughly 10,000 per day, it will be made available in other cities.

Importance of ONDC and E-commerce

ONDC aims to democratize e-commerce by connecting buyers and sellers across platforms. Discuss how it can boost competition, empower small sellers and expand the e-commerce market.
E-commerce has grown rapidly in India due to connectivity, consumer preferences and affordable offerings. Analyze policies and reforms needed to boost e-commerce potential.

Role of Digital Payments and UPI

UPI enables seamless interbank money transfers, boosting e-commerce and financial inclusion. Discuss how UPI formalizes the economy and aids the government's push for a less-cash society.
Transactions on PhonePe app grew from $5 billion in FY19 to $67 billion in FY21, highlighting popularity of UPI.

Importance for India's Economy

A thriving e-commerce market aided by UPI and ONDC can strengthen the economy by enabling small businesses, increasing jobs and improving tax compliance.
Fair e-commerce industry and robust digital infrastructure can boost manufacturing, services and self-reliance. India's e-commerce market is projected to reach $200 billion by 2026.

Opportunities and Challenges

Opportunities: Improving logistics, skilling workforce, protecting consumers, generating employment.
Challenges: Data privacy, security and consumer protection concerns that ONDC must address. Lack of internet connectivity and digital literacy in rural areas.

Data Security and Individual Privacy

While UPI and ONDC facilitate e-commerce, they raise concerns over data misuse. Regulations like data protection laws are important to build trust in digital platforms and protect people's information.
Issues around data localization, privacy rights, and corporate responsibilities India must consider.

Technologies like UPI and ONDC enabling accessibility and inclusion will drive India's progress. Policy and regulatory support around data security, competition and skilling can help realize e-commerce potential. With digital adoption, balancing innovation with consumer rights and privacy is key.

Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC)

Open Network for Digital Commerce or ONDC is an Indian government initiative to promote interoperability between e-commerce platforms. It aims to democratize e-commerce by enabling buyers and sellers on any platform to connect and transact.
Key highlights of ONDC:

ONDC is a private sector-led non-profit network based on an open protocol. It is not an e-commerce platform but a network of e-commerce platforms.
It was incorporated in 2021 by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce.
ONDC will enable e-commerce transactions to happen across platforms through a standardized protocol. This means buyers on one app will be able to purchase from sellers on another app.
It seeks to create a low-barrier network for small retailers and merchants to participate in e-commerce. This can boost competition and market access.
ONDC will cover categories like groceries, food delivery, hotel booking, travel, mobility, etc. It aims to eventually cover all domains.
ONDC is likely to reduce the dominance of major e-commerce players like Amazon and Flipkart in the Indian market. It can create a more competitive and fair e-commerce ecosystem.
For consumers, ONDC may enable lower prices, more options and convenience of transacting across platforms using a single app. However, there are concerns around data privacy, consumer protection, grievance redressal, etc. that ONDC will need to address.ONDC can boost the digitization of small businesses, broaden India's tax base and create new opportunities for entrepreneurs, startups as well as employment in e-commerce.

ONDC aims to promote interoperability and competition in India's e-commerce market. If implemented effectively, it has the potential to empower small businesses, benefit consumers and boost the e-commerce industry.

However, regulatory oversight and safeguards will be critical to address key concerns around its functioning. ONDC signifies India's efforts to build a self-reliant digital economy with homegrown technology solutions.

Resumption of Oil Exports from Northern Iraq to Turkey after a Long-standing Dispute

Context: The article reports on the recent agreement between the Iraqi central government and officials from the semi-autonomous Kurdish region to resume oil exports from northern Iraq through a pipeline to Turkey. The dispute between Baghdad and Irbil over oil revenues has been a longstanding issue, and this deal marks a crucial step towards resolving the conflict.

The Importance of Oil for Iraq's Economy:

Iraq is the second-largest oil producer in OPEC and one of the most oil-dependent economies in the world.
Oil accounts for over 90% of the country's total exports and 60% of its GDP.
While most of Iraq's oil reserves are located in the south, the Kurdish region heavily relies on exports from northern fields.
Thus, halting oil exports from the region has been harming Iraq's revenues.

The Dispute over Oil Revenues:

Iraq filed for arbitration against Turkey in 2014 after the Kurdish region began exporting crude oil through the neighbouring country, sidestepping Iraq's state-owned oil marketing company, SOMO (State Organization for Marketing of Oil (SOMO) is an Iraqi national company responsible for marketing Iraq's oil. It is headquartered in Baghdad, Iraq.).
Iraq claimed that all oil exports had to go through SOMO under a 1973 agreement with Turkey.
The International Chamber of Commerce had ruled in favour of Iraq, leading to the halt of nearly half a million barrels of oil exports last month.

The Deal to Resume Oil Exports:

The agreement reached will allow SOMO to market crude oil in coordination with Kurdish authorities.
The Kurdish region will have full control over oil revenues, but the federal government can audit the account where the funds will be deposited.
While the deal is temporary, it is a crucial step towards ending the long-standing dispute between Irbil and Baghdad and creating a positive and safe atmosphere to finally approve the national oil and gas law.

Impact on India

Energy Security
- As a major oil importer, India depends on a stable and affordable oil supply. Iraq accounts for over 10% of India's oil imports, so the deal allows for continued exports and supply security.
- However, Iraq's overdependence on oil poses risks of supply shocks from geopolitical events. India should diversify oil sources and increase strategic reserves to hedge against disruptions.
Economic Impact
- Fluctuating oil prices affect India's import bill, trade deficit and economy. The deal will support moderate oil prices and benefit India's economy.
- However, Iraq's oil dependence makes its economy and government budget vulnerable to price changes which can weaken an important trade partner.
- Diversifying Iraq's economy could benefit both countries.
- According to OPEC, Iraq holds over 15% of the world's oil reserves. Oil comprises 65% of Iraq's GDP and over 90% of government revenue according to the IMF. Volatility can undermine Iraq's economic stability with ripple effects on India's interests.
Promoting the Rule of Law
- The dispute resolution through arbitration showed Iraq's commitment to following due legal processes. This is important for India to expand trade and investments with partners like Iraq.
- India should encourage Iraq to strengthen contract enforcement, independent judiciary and institutions to uphold rule of law. Reneging on contracts can discourage foreign companies from investing in Iraq's oil industry.
Geopolitical Stability
- The Kurdish dispute highlights ethnic divisions that threaten Iraq's unity if mishandled. Resolving such issues through democratic processes is important for Iraq's stability.
- A destabilized Iraq could undermine India's strategic and energy interests. India should support Iraq's federal government in maintaining stability by promoting inclusiveness and institution-building.

In summary, while the oil deal benefits India and Iraq's economic interests, overreliance on oil and weak institutions threaten long-term stability and prosperity. Diversification, promoting rule of law, dialogue and democratic reforms are key to stability, growth and progress in India-Iraq relations. By cooperating with Iraq's knowledge exchanges in technology, governance and trade, India can advance its strategic priorities in the region.

The resumption of oil exports from northern Iraq through the pipeline to Turkey will benefit Iraq's economy and provide a source of revenue for the Kurdish region. The deal struck on Tuesday marks a crucial step towards resolving the conflict over oil revenues between Baghdad and Irbil.

International Chamber of Commerce

The International Chamber of Commerce or ICC is the world's largest business organization with over 45 million members in over 100 countries. It was founded in 1919 to promote international trade, responsible business conduct and a global approach to regulation.

Key roles and functions of ICC:

Rule Setting: ICC develops voluntary rules, standards and policy recommendations for global business. This includes Incoterms rules for global trade, the ICC Arbitration Rules, the ICC Guidelines for International Investment and the ICC Anti-corruption Compliance Toolkit.

Arbitration and Dispute Resolution: ICC administers over 25,000 international commercial arbitrations each year through the ICC International Court of Arbitration. ICC dispute resolution services aim to facilitate trade by providing appropriate tools for risk mitigation and dispute settlement.

Advocacy and Policy: ICC works with intergovernmental organizations like the UN, WTO and G20 to advocate business priorities and shape global trade policies. ICC also provides business input to governments and regulators on issues like trade facilitation, digital economy, sustainability, anti-corruption, etc.

Network and events: ICC organizes high-level events, forums and local network meetings around the world to enable business leaders and experts to exchange knowledge, strengthen relationships and promote cross-border trade.

Training and Certification: ICC offers online and in-person training in areas such as international arbitration, international commercial mediation, trade finance, and anti-corruption compliance. ICC also administers professional certifications to build expertise in international business regulation and policy.

Market intelligence: ICC provides research and analysis on policy developments, court rulings, and market trends on the environment, banking, digital economy, arbitration, trade, etc. through publications like the ICC Digital Economy Report, ICC Arbitration Bulletin, ICC Trade Register Report, etc.

ICC aims to facilitate cross-border trade and promote responsible international business policies and practices. It plays an important role in global governance by setting voluntary business standards, providing dispute resolution mechanisms, advocating priorities with policymakers and enabling business networks and knowledge exchange. ICC's activities and policy positions have implications for global trade, investments, regulation as well as sustainable development.

India gets elected to UN Statistical Commission

Context: India has been elected to the United Nations Statistical Commission for a four year term beginning January 1, 2024. India secured 46 out of 53 votes in the election to the Commission.

United Nations Statistical Commission

The United Nations Statistical Commission (StatCom), established in 1947, is the highest body of the global statistical system bringing together the Chief Statisticians from member states from around the world.
It is responsible for setting statistical standards and the development of concepts and methods, including their implementation at the national and international level.
The StatCom oversees the work of the United Nations Statistics Division (UNSD) and it is also a Functional Commission of the UN Economic and Social Council.
Since 1999 the Commission meets every year, as set forth by the Economic and Social Council.
Location: Headquarters of the United Nations, New York, United States

Mandate

The terms of reference as set forth in Economic and Social Council resolution in 1946, state that the Commission shall assist the Council:

In promoting the development of national statistics and the improvement of their comparability
In the coordination of the statistical work of specialized agencies
In the development of the central statistical services of the Secretariat
In advising the organs of the United Nations on general questions relating to the collection, analysis and dissemination of statistical information
In promoting the improvement of statistics and statistical methods generally

Elections

The Commission consists of 24 member countries of the United Nations elected by the United Nations Economic and Social Council on the basis of an equitable geographical distribution according to the following pattern

1.African states (5)

2.Asian States (4)

3.Eastern European States (4)

4.Latin American and Caribbean States (4)

5.Western European and other States (7)

The term of office of members is four years.

FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES OF OFFICIAL STATISTICS

The Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics were developed and adopted by the Conference of European Statisticians in 1991, which were subsequently adopted in 1992 at the ministerial level by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe.
In 1994, these Principles were adopted by the United Nations Statistical Commission.
At its forty-second session in 2011, the Statistical Commission recommended the development of an updated preamble, which was presented and adopted in its forty-fourth session in 2013.
The United Nations General Assembly has endorsed the Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics in 2014, in its 68th session.
These principles are considered a basic framework which all statistical activities developed by national and international organizations must follow in recognizing official statistics as a public good.
It is the first time the Fundamental Principles have received such high recognition at global political level.

SC quashes ban on media one

Context: Court lifts telecast ban on Malayalam channel Media One; says unguided and ad hoc use of sealed covers infringes natural justice and open justice.

More on news: The Supreme Court rapped the government for silencing voices in the media who “speak truth to power” by branding them “anti-establishment”, as well as for the state’s “unguided and ad hoc” use of sealed covers in courts to outsmart citizens’ rights to personal liberty, life and profession.

Observations of Supreme Court

The critical views about government policies cannot be termed anti-establishment. The use of such a terminology betrays an expectation that the Press must support the establishment.
An independent Press is vital for the robust functioning of the democratic republic.
The Press has a duty to speak truth to power and present citizens with hard facts.
A homogenised view on issues that range from socio-economic polity to political ideologies will present grave dangers to democracy.
State’s “unguided and ad hoc” use of sealed covers in courts to outsmart citizens’ rights to personal liberty, life and profession.

Public interest immunity (PII)

Though recognising the top court’s power to “secure confidential material in a sealed cover” under Rule 7 of the Supreme Court Rules of 2013, the CJI noted that the state’s frequent reliance on sealed covers to validate its actions in courts had reduced constitutional rights and procedural guarantees of a fair hearing under the law to a “dry parchment”.

The Supreme Court then evolved the “less restrictive” public interest immunity (PII) claims proceedings as an “alternative” to the sealed cover proceedings while dealing with state requests for confidentiality.

Under the alternative PII proceedings, the court would test the relevance of the material the state desires to be kept confidential in ‘public interest’. The court would appoint an amicus curiae in order to “balance the concerns of confidentiality with the need to preserve public confidence in the objectivity of the justice delivery system”.

Though the PII proceedings would be a “closed sitting”, a reasoned order, allowing or dismissing the PII claim of the state, should be pronounced in open court. Even if the PII claim is successful, the court could opt to redact confidential portions of the document or provide both parties with a summary of the contents of the documents.

While PII claims proceedings conceivably impacts the principles of natural justice, sealed cover proceedings infringe the principles of natural justice and open justice

Right to life, liberty and profession Vs Confidentiality

SC questioned the government’s view that it could investigate or collect intelligence on citizens and later claim blanket immunity from disclosure in court.

SC observed that “Intelligence agencies’ reports impact the life, liberty and profession of individuals and entities, and to give such reports absolute immunity from disclosure is antithetical to a transparent and accountable system.

SC reasoned that the argument that intelligence reports may contain confidential information is one thing, but to argue that all such reports are confidential is another. Such an argument is misplaced and cannot be accepted on the touchstone of constitutional values.

Principle of natural Justice

Principles of natural justice refer to the basic principles that are required to be followed while making a decision or taking any action. These principles aim to ensure that the decision-making process is fair, unbiased, and transparent. The following are the key principles of natural justice:

Audi alteram partem - The right to be heard: This principle means that both parties should be given a fair opportunity to present their case before a decision is made. It also includes the right to cross-examine witnesses and evidence.

Nemo judex in causa sua - No one should be a judge in his own cause: This principle requires that the decision-maker should be impartial and not have any personal interest or bias in the matter.

Impartiality: The decision-maker should be unbiased and impartial towards the parties involved in the decision-making process. The decision should be based solely on the facts and evidence presented before them.

Natural justice demands that a person should be informed of the charges against them and should have the opportunity to respond to those charges.

The decision should be based on relevant and admissible evidence.

The decision should be communicated in writing and should include the reasons for the decision.

Bias: Any actual or perceived bias on the part of the decision-maker can render the decision invalid.

The decision should be proportionate and reasonable.

Confidentiality: The decision-making process should be confidential to protect the privacy of the parties involved.

Evidence: Only admissible evidence should be considered while making a decision.

Principle of open justice

Open justice is the principle that legal proceedings should be open and transparent to the public. It is a fundamental principle of the legal system in many countries and is considered essential to the rule of law. The following are the key aspects of open justice:

Public access to court proceedings: Open justice requires that court proceedings are open to the public, unless there are compelling reasons to restrict access. This means that anyone can attend court hearings and access court documents, subject to certain restrictions, such as protecting the privacy of vulnerable witnesses.

Transparency: Open justice also requires that court proceedings are conducted in a transparent manner, with the reasons for the court's decisions being explained to the parties involved and the public. This includes providing written judgments and reasons for decisions, which should be made available to the public.

Accountability: Open justice promotes accountability, by allowing the public to see how decisions are made and how justice is administered. This can help to maintain public confidence in the legal system and ensure that judges and other decision-makers are held accountable for their actions.

Fairness: Open justice promotes fairness, by ensuring that all parties to a legal proceeding have an equal opportunity to present their case and that the decision-making process is conducted in an impartial and transparent manner.

Media access: Open justice also allows the media to report on court proceedings, subject to certain restrictions, such as protecting the privacy of vulnerable witnesses. This allows the public to be informed about legal proceedings and helps to promote accountability and transparency.

Exceptions: Although open justice is a fundamental principle of the legal system, there are some exceptions, such as cases involving national security, confidential information, or the privacy of vulnerable individuals. In such cases, restrictions on public access may be necessary to protect the interests of justice.

Overall, open justice is an essential principle of the legal system, promoting transparency, accountability, and fairness. It helps to ensure that the legal system is accessible to all and that justice is administered in a transparent and impartial manner.

Point of order

Context: Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar rejected a point of order raised
by Opposition leader Mallikarjun Kharge against Union Minister and Leader of the
House Piyush Goyal for his speech in the House targeting Congress leader Rahul
Gandhi.

What is the point of Order?

The Lok Sabha Secretariat describes a Point of order as “an extraordinary process which, when raised, has the effect of suspending the proceedings before the House.
Point of order concerns the procedure and business of the House and the rule book says that “it should relate to arrangement of items already included in the List of Business for the day".
Raising a point of order is “meant to assist the Speaker in enforcing the rules, directions and provisions of the Constitution for regulating the business of the House”.
Thus, it can concern both the application of the rules of the House and even any principles enshrined in the Constitution.
The procedure vis-a-vis a point of order is covered by Rule 376 of the Lok Sabha rules and by Rule 258 in Rajya Sabha.

When is it raised?

The point of order is concerned with rules of procedure vis-a-vis “a breach of order or a transgression of any written or unwritten law of the House", a wide range of issues can be flagged under a point of order.
Further, the test whether a point raised is a point of order or not is not whether the Chair can give any relief but whether it involves such interpretation or enforcement of the rules, etc. and whether it raises a point which the Chair alone can decide.
But there are also issues involved with Point of order as it is “one of the most vexatious parliamentary practices which confronts a presiding officer" as the practice “raises real problems for the presiding officer".
This is because, unlike the procedures for raising questions or flagging issues in Parliament, most of which involve the giving of prior notice by a member or seeking the presiding officer’s permission, a point of order does not need prior notice and is supposed to receive precedence over any matter that the House may be dealing with right then.

The problem for the presiding officer lies in the fact that, until he hears at least a substantial part of a member’s submission, he (the Chair) is not in a position to rule that it is not a point of order.

How is it raised?

To raise a point of order, a member has just to stand up and say ‘Point of Order’, whereupon she or he has to be first identified by the presiding officer.
The member should elaborate on his/her concern only after being identified by the presiding officer. “While formulating her/his point of order, the member should quote the specific rule or the provision of the Constitution relating to the procedure of the House which may have been ignored or neglected or violated.
Further it should be noted that a point of order cannot be raised during the Question Hour, or when the House is taking up any motion.
It may not be used for a member to ask for information, or to explain her/his position, etc.
Also, a point of order regarding an item of business cannot be raised after such business has been disposed of.

Thus it can be concluded that a point of order must refer to procedure and not substantive arguments on a motion.

What happens when it is raised?

The moment a point of order is raised by one member, “the member who is speaking at that time must give way and resume his seat" and it “has the effect of suspending the proceedings before the House".
It is the presiding officer who decides whether “a point raised is a point of order or not". No debate is allowed on a point of order, but the presiding officer may hear the member before giving her/his decision.

International Finance Corporation to stop funding new coal-related infra projects

Context: The International Finance Corporation will stop supporting investments in new coal projects as part of its alignment with the Paris Agreement. The decision comes after a 13-year campaign against IFC's support for a financial intermediary client backing coal in India, which affected communities' livelihoods.

About International Finance Corporation (IFC)

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IFC was founded in 1956 on an idea that the private sector has the potential to transform developing countries.
It is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in developing countries.
It is a member of World Bank Group.
It focuses on economic development and improving the lives of people by encouraging the growth of the private sector in developing countries.

It helps private sector in variety of ways:

Investing in companies through loans, equity investments, debt securities and guarantees.
Mobilizing capital from other lenders and investors through loan participations, parallel loans and other means.
Advising businesses and governments to encourage private investment and improve the investment climate.

World Bank

Background: The Bretton Woods Conference of July 1944 established the framework for post – World War II international economic cooperation and reconstruction. It resulted in the formation of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (World Bank). The World Bank provides loans and grants to low and middle-income countries for capital projects. World Bank comprises of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and International Development Association (IDA), two of five organizations in the World Bank Group.

Mission of World Bank

The World Bank has two goals: end extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity in a sustainable way.

World Bank Group

The World Bank Group consists of five organizations:

The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD): is a global development cooperative owned by 189 member countries. It supports the World Bank Group’s mission by providing loans, guarantees, risk management products, and advisory services to middle-income and creditworthy low-income countries.
The International Development Association (IDA): It was established in 1960 with an aim to reduce poverty by providing zero to low-interest loans (called “credits”) and grants for programs that boost economic growth, reduce inequalities, and improve people’s living conditions. It is the part of the World Bank that helps the world’s poorest countries.
The International Finance Corporation (IFC): is the largest global development institution focused exclusively on the private sector. It helps the developing countries to achieve sustainable growth by financing investment, mobilizing capital in international financial markets, and providing advisory services to businesses and governments.
The Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA): it was created in 1988 to promote foreign direct investment into developing countries to support economic growth, reduce poverty, and improve people’s lives. MIGA fulfils this mandate by offering political risk insurance (guarantees) to investors and lenders.
The International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID): provides international facilities for conciliation and arbitration of investment disputes.

Note: India is a member of all the organizations of World Bank Group except The International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID).

Need for Police Reforms in India

Police Reforms in India

All social, human and economic development depends on the rule of law and maintenance of law and order is a critical function of the government. In this backdrop, the need for police reform is ever more imperative because of the pace with which our society is moving.

There is need to upgrade the skills of our policeman to effectively tackle challenges of 21st century such as cyber-crime and economic offences.

Need for Police Reforms in India?

The Colonial Legacy

Even at present Indian Police is based on colonial law, we all know that most of time British rule used police as their instrument to suppress the voice of freedom fighter and for their personal gain. Our police still functions on feudal style and is still governed by the Police Act 1861 of British times which was authoritarian in nature as it was made in the aftermath of the 1857 Sepoy Mutiny.

Vacancies and an overburdened force

Currently, there are significant vacancies within the state police forces and some of the central armed police forces. As of January 2016, the total sanctioned strength of state police forces across India was 22,80,691, with 24% vacancies (i.e. 5,49,025 vacancies). Vacancies have been around 24%-25% in state police forces since 2009.

A high percentage of vacancies within the police forces exacerbates an existing problem of overburdened police personnel. Police personnel discharge a range of functions related to: crime prevention and response and maintenance of internal security and law and order etc . While the United Nations recommended standard is 222 police per lakh persons, India’s sanctioned strength is 181 police per lakh persons. After adjusting for vacancies, the actual police strength in India is at 137 police per lakh persons. Therefore, an average policeman ends up having an enormous workload and long working hours, which negatively affects his efficiency and performance.

Crime Investigation

Crime investigation requires skills and training, time and resources, and adequate forensic capabilities and infrastructure. However, the Law Commission and the Second Administrative Reforms Commission have noted that state police officers often neglect this responsibility because they are understaffed and overburdened with various kinds of tasks. They also have insufficient legal knowledge and the forensic and cyber infrastructure available to them is both inadequate and outdated.

In India, crime rate has increased by 28% over the last decade, and the nature of crimes is also becoming more complex (e.g., with emergence of various kinds of cybercrimes and economic fraud).Conviction rates (convictions secured per 100 cases) however have been fairly low. In 2015, the conviction rate for crimes recorded under the Indian Penal Code, 1860 was 47%. The Law Commission has observed that one of the reasons behind this is the poor quality of investigations.

Police infrastructure

Modern policing requires a strong communication support, state-of-art or modern weapons, and a high degree of mobility. The CAG and the BPRD have noted shortcomings on several of these fronts.

Weaponry: The CAG has found that weaponry of several state police forces is outdated, and the acquisition process of weapons slow, causing a shortage in arms and ammunition.

Police vehicles: Audits have noted that police vehicles are in short supply. New vehicles are often used to replace old vehicles, and there is a shortage of drivers too. This affects the response time of the police, and consequently their effectiveness. As of January 2015, state marking a 30.5% deficiency against the required stock of vehicles.

Police-public relations

Police requires the confidence, cooperation and support of the community to prevent crime and disorder. For example, police personnel rely on members of the community to be informers and witnesses in any crime investigation. Therefore, police-public relations is an important concern in effective policing. The Second Administrative Reforms Commission has noted that police-public relations is in an unsatisfactory state because people view the police as corrupt, inefficient, politically partisan and unresponsive.

Custodial Death

A total 4,484 death in custody have been in the last two years and 233 in alleged in police encounter across India, Stated Minister of State for Home, Custodial death is perhaps one of the worst crimes in a civilized society governed by the Rule of Law. It is a crime against humanity and violation of human rights, so there is need of reforms for much more accountability.

Important steps taken in India on Police Reforms

Gore Committee on police training (1971-73)- recommended enlarging the content of police training from law and order and crime prevention to greater sensitivity and understanding of human behaviour.
National police commission 1977 - recommended insulating the police from illegitimate political and bureaucratic interference.
Padmanabhaiah Committee 2000 - recommended that constables, and the police force in general, should receive greater training in soft skills (such as communication, counselling and leadership) given they need to deal with the public regularly.
The Police Act Drafting Committee (or Soli Sorabjee Committee)- drafted a new Model Police Act to replace the colonial 1861 Police Act.
Malimath Committee (2003)
The Malimath Committee suggested the setting up of state security commission , to insulate the police from political pressure. The Malimath Committee was given mandate to review the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) 1973.

Prakash Singh Judgement – 2006

Supreme Court directed states and UTs to comply with seven binding directives on police reforms.

1. Constitution of a State Security Commission - as a watchdog body to oversee the functioning of the police, with its recommendations being binding on the State Government.

2. Selection of State DGP from out of a panel prepared by UPSC, and provision for a minimum tenure of two years for the DGP so selected, irrespective of his date of superannuation.

3. A minimum two-year tenure for other police officer, except under specified circumstances.

4. Separation of investigation from law and order, duly ensuring full coordination between the two wings.

5. Creation of Police Establishment Boards to deal with transfers, postings and other service-related matters of police officers, including disposal of their appeals on being subjected to illegal or irregular orders.

6. Constitution of Police Complaints Authorities at the State and District levels to look into complaints against police officers.

7. Constitution of a National Security Commission at the Union level to prepare panels for selection of Chiefs of Central Police Organisations and to review measures to upgrade their effectiveness, etc.

Supreme court also set up three member K.T. Thomas committee (2008)

• To implement decisions of Prakash Singh, Supreme Court in 2008 set up a three-member Monitoring Committee chaired by former SC Judge K.T. Thomas with a two-year mandate to examine compliance state by state and report back to it periodically.

• The committee submitted in 2010 that no state fully complied with the SC and expressed dismay over the total indifference of police towards reforms in its functioning.

Recent Developments

Government has reviewed Model Police Act, 2006 and accordingly has drafted Draft Model Police Bill, 2015. The drafting committee has tried to incorporate the essence for making police more responsive, efficient and citizen friendly.
Most of the states passed new laws or amended their existing laws considering Model Police Act, 2006 drafted by Soli Sorabjee Committee.
In 2018, Supreme Court restrained state governments from appointing Director-General of Police (DGP) without first consulting the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The State government concerned has to send to UPSC the names of the probable officers to be appointed as DGP three months before the incumbent DGP is to retire. This judgment was in line with the recommendations given in Prakash Singh Judgment.
In 2020 - A five-member Committee for Reforms in Criminal Law has been set up by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs chaired by the vice-chancellor of National Law University, Delhi. The mandate of the committee is to recommend reforms in the criminal laws of the country in a principled, effective and efficient manner, which ensures the safety and security of the individual, the community and the nation and which prioritizes the constitutional values of justice, dignity and inherent worth of the individual.

Conclusion

At this time, we need an act which can make police friendly to the public. Police play important role for maintain Rule of law in the state. Hence Police reform aims to transforms the old cultures, policies and practices of police organization so that police can perform their duties with respect of democratic values, human rights. 15 years after the Supreme Court judgment in Prakash Singh case, we must ask what's holding up police reforms? The first priority of the Government should be the reform of the police in India.

A ‘casteless’ society: an aspiration or a myth to cover up privilege?

Context: Despite attempts to create an egalitarian and modern society, the caste system remains a prominent feature of Indian society. Historically, castes, which are often associated with certain occupations, were arranged in a hierarchy, with some castes considered superior to others and thus accorded more power and privileges than others. This system of social stratification and power relations has been a major problem in India as it has led to discrimination and inequality for those belonging to lower castes.

CASTE

Caste is an institution unique to Indian sub-continent. Although it is an institution characteristic of Hindu society, caste has spread to the major non-Hindu communities of Indian sub-continent like Muslims, Sikhs and Christians.

Change in Caste system

Traditional nature of caste system has undergone significant changes in modern-day society. Many features of caste system have been diluted to some extent due to new developments like:

Modern Education instilled values like rationality, justice and equality. Modern educated youth are preferring inter-caste marriages.
Industrialisation gave equal opportunity to all individuals across castes. This destroyed traditional caste-based occupation feature of caste system.
Urbanisation gave anonymity to caste identities of individuals and caste based dietary choices and commensality rules are no more strictly adhered to in urban areas. Ex. Restaurants, Eateries.
Land reforms undertaken by Indian government after Independence has resulted in transfer of Land from upper castes to lower castes. This resulted in economic empowerment and improved status of lower caste groups.
Universal adult franchise; 73rd & 74th Amendment acts together gave political power to lower castes if they have adequate numerical strength
Constitutional rights and Affirmative action like article 14,15, 16 and reservation policies empowered lower castes educationally and economically.

However, despite all these modern forces of changes, caste system continued to exist in Indian society performing some old and new functions

Continuity of Caste

Private realm: Though ritual aspect of Caste system continued but confined to personal sphere.
Though Industrialisation and Modern education gave new economic opportunities. Even today, most manual scavengers are from lower castes and many entrepreneurs are from upper castes.
According to a 2010 study on social discrimination by Oxfam India, Dalits and tribal groups are highly under-represented in better paid and higher status jobs, while they are disproportionately concentrated among those with lower wages in the informal sector.
Caste based Political mobilization Advent of democratic political apparatus like Universal adult franchise made Caste based political mobilization possible and rendered caste-based identity relevant.
New components of status like Education, Income and occupation led to breaking of barriers of sub- caste for the purpose of Marriage. But Marriage between Upper caste and lower caste is still an exception. Ex: Honour killings

Caste assuming new identities

Caste identities have evolved and assumed new dimensions, which have further strengthen the institution of caste system. Following are the examples where association with cast identities have larger incentives vis a vis a casteless society.

The politicization of caste - Perhaps, the most eventful and important sphere of change has been that of politics. From its very beginnings in independent India, democratic politics has been deeply conditioned by caste. Since the 1980s there has been emergence of explicitly caste-based political parties (For ex. Bahujan Samaj Party , BSP). In the early general elections, it seemed as though caste solidarities were decisive in winning elections. But the situation soon got very complicated as parties competed with each other in utilising the same kind of caste calculus.

Concept of Dominant caste - ‘Dominant caste’ is a term used to refer to those castes which had a large population and were granted land rights by the partial land reforms effected after Independence. Once they got land rights, they acquired considerable economic power. Their large numbers also gave them political power in the era of electoral democracy , and this gave rise to demands of reservation by several of these dominant castes. (For ex. Jats in Haryana, Patidars in Gujrat , Marathas is Maharashtra etc)

Invisibility and Visibility of caste identity – For upper people belonging to upper caste , caste identity plays no part in their public lives, and is limited to the personal sphere of religious practice or marriage and kinship. However, For the scheduled castes and tribes and the backward castes – the opposite has happened. For them, caste has become all too visible, because they must compete with an already entrenched upper caste group, they cannot afford to abandon their caste identity for it is one of the few collective assets they have The policies of reservation and other forms of protective discrimination instituted by the state in response to political pressure serve as their lifelines. But using this lifeline tends to make their caste the all-important and often the only aspect of their identity that the world recognises.

Vacancies of judges remain high, cases pile up: India Justice Report

Context: The India Justice Report 2022, says that Indian courts are jammed with cases and are seeing pendency increase by the day. At the same time, they are also functioning with fewer judges than the sanctioned number.

India Justice Report

The India Justice Report is a first of its kind national periodic reporting that brings together, hitherto siloed information, to measure the capacity of four pillars of the justice system - the police, the prison system, the judiciary and legal aid—in each state.
The report is the result of collaboration and research between six organisations:

Centre for Social Justice (IDEAL)
Common Cause
Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative (CHRI)
DAKSH
TISS–Prayas
Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy

Findings of this report

Against a sanctioned strength of 1,108 judges, the High Courts were functioning with only 778 judges.
The subordinate courts were found functioning with 19,288 judges against a sanctioned strength of 24,631 judges.
The number of cases pending per judge is rising in most States over the past five years.

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The report found that the High Courts are clearing more cases annually than the subordinate courts.

Challenges Pertaining to Indian Judicial System

Pendency – One of the essential issues with the Indian legal framework is the pendency of cases. 2.84 crore cases are pending in the subordinate courts, the backlog clogging the High Courts and Supreme Court (SC) is 43 lakh and 57,987 cases, respectively.
Vacancy - There is persistent tussle between the executive and the judiciary over the appointment of Judges of the Supreme court and the High Courts. This has resulted into unwarranted vacancies which further accentuates the issue of pendency. As per the India Justice Report of 2022 Against a sanctioned strength of 1,108 judges, the High Courts were functioning with only 778 judges.
Lack of transparency - Judiciary does not come under the ambit of the Right to the Information Act. In the functioning of the Indian judiciary system, the substantial issues like the quality of justice and accountability are not known to the citizens properly. There is also a need for transparency in the appointment of the judges.
Lack of interaction and information among people and court - For any Judiciary to be fruitful, it is vital that the overall population must know the mechanics of legal. The general public must take part in the court procedures. Indian Judiciary system lacks such linkages and interactions.
Less use of technology – Indian courts have exhibited less use of technology in their functioning. Considering the quantum of work, this non-inclusion of technology in their working further complicates the matters.

Way Forward

Need to Reduce Disposal Time for Cases - Disposal time is measured as the time span between the date of filing and the date when the decision is passed.
Need to better Case Clearance Rate (CCR) - CCR is the ratio of the number of cases disposed of each year to the number of cases instituted in that year, expressed as a percentage. It is mainly used to understand the efficiency of the system in proportion to the inflow of cases.
Streamline Judicial Appointments – by identifying vacancies across sections of lower and higher judiciary.
Shifting Court workloads through creating Special Courts (255th Law Commission) – based on specialised areas such as commercial cases can be transferred to the commercial division and the commercial appellate division of High Courts. Similarly Special Courts within High Courts can be set up to address litigations pertaining to land, crime, Traffic Challans etc.
Merge and rationalize tribunals to enhance efficiency - Appointments to tribunals must be streamlined either through a specialized agency or under the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT).
Need to Create Separate Administrative Cadre in the judicial system – This will relieve the Judges who are also involved in administrative capabilities to take care of the day to day functioning of High Courts as well as Lower Courts under Article 227. Problem – Handling administrative responsibilities by Judges reduce time available for dispensing cases pending in the Courts.
Creating Indian Courts and Tribunal Services (ICTS) – It will focus on the administrative aspects of the legal system. The major roles to be played by ICTS will be provide administrative support functions needed by the judiciary; identify process inefficiencies and advise the judiciary on legal reforms
Creating All-India Judicial Services - merit based all India examination to appoint Judges for Higher Judiciary as per Article 312(3) which was added by the Constitution (Forty-second Amendment) Act, 1976.
Increase number of working days for judiciary to increase productivity – reducing length of summer and winter vacations in High Courts and Supreme Court.
Deployment of Technology to improve efficiency of Courts - One major effort in this direction is the eCourts Mission Mode Project that is being rolled out in phases by the Ministry of Law and Justice. This has allowed the creation of the National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG). The system is already able to capture most cases, their status and progress.
Appointing More Women Judges at all levels – will promote women empowerment and make judgments involving cases of women more gender sensitive.

What was discussed at the UN water conference?

Context: The United Nations held its first water conference in 46 years to address the urgent need for action to achieve the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal for water.

United Nations 2023 Water Conference

The first UN Water Conference in almost five decades held in New York on 22-24 March, co-hosted by the Netherlands and Tajikistan.
It focused on the urgent need for action to meet the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) for water, "Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all".
The conference resulted in 713 voluntary commitments by philanthropic donors, governments, corporations, and NGOs, including a $50 billion commitment from India to improve rural drinking water services.
The conference showcased innovative technologies in wastewater treatment and proposed incubation platforms for water management.

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The Conference has five themes that support the SDG 6 Global Acceleration Framework:

1. Water for Health: Access to 'WASH' (Global Water, Sanitation, & Hygiene) including the Human Rights to Safe Drinking Water and Sanitation.

2. Water for Sustainable Development: Valuing water, the water-energy-food nexus and sustainable economic and urban development.

3. Water for Climate, Resilience and Environment: Source to sea, biodiversity, climate, resilience and disaster risk reduction.

4. Water for Cooperation: Transboundary and international water cooperation, cross sectoral cooperation and water across the 2030 Agenda.

5. Water Action Decade: Accelerating the implementation of the objectives of the Decade for Action, including through the UN Secretary-General’s Action Plan.

Why should we pay attention to the UN 2023 Water Conference?

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Only 1% of the earth's surface water is accessible drinking water, while one in 10 people struggle to access it.
According to the World Bank, climate change-related disasters could displace up to 216 million people from their countries by 2025.
From India to Africa and beyond, girls and young women bear the burden of retrieving water for their families, hindering their educational development.
Meanwhile, a lack of water hygiene has negative health implications – an issue prevalent in developing countries.
The risk of water insecurity poses a grave threat to human life and can cause mass migration across different regions.

About UN Water Conference

The first UN Water Conference was held in Argentina in 1977, was the most important water event in a generation. In particular, it resulted in the first global ‘Action Plan’ which acknowledged that the access to drinking water in sufficient quantities and of adequate quality is a fundamental human right, regardless of a person's developmental, social, or economic circumstances. It led to several decades of global funding and concerted effort to provide drinking water and sanitation for all. The first global 'Action Plan'

Other International Efforts for Water Security

The W12+ Blueprint, a UNESCO platform, is a tool which hosts city profiles and, technologies, and programmes addressing common water security challenges.

'Making Rights Real' an initiative aimed to help marginalized communities and women exercise their rights.
'Water for Women Fund' offered mechanisms for sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene outcomes.

Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI)

Context: Fifth edition of International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure was organised under the aegis of Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.

About Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure

CDRI is a global partnership that aims to promote resilience of infrastructure systems to climate & disaster risks, thereby ensuring sustainable development.
Prime Minister of India launched CDRI during his speech at the UN Climate Action Summit on 23 September 2019.
Objectives of CDRI: CDRI seeks to rapidly expand the development & retrofit of resilient infrastructure towards expanding universal access to basic services, enabling prosperity and decent work.

Functions of CDRI

Raising awareness of the benefits of resilient infrastructure and building linkages with other relevant initiatives to achieve this.
Serving as a platform for knowledge generation and exchange on disaster & climate resilient infrastructure.
Enhancing national and regional standards, codes and guidelines for planning, design, operation & maintenance of infrastructure systems
Enhancing practices and capacities to reduce infrastructure damages and losses from disasters and climate change.
Enabling technological and institutional innovation for resilient infrastructure systems
Making available technical expertise to assist countries to develop resilient infrastructure
Advocating for financial arrangements, including risk transfer, supporting development of resilient infrastructure
Assisting countries to adopt appropriate risk governance arrangements & strategies for resilient infrastructure.

Governance of CDRI: Secretariat of CDRI is located in New Delhi and has three principal bodies: (i) Governing Council (ii) Executive Council (iii) Secretariat.
- Governing Council: Governing Council is the highest policy-making body of CDRI and will have representation from all members of CDRI such that at least two-thirds of the members of the Governing Council represent national governments. Members of. Governing Council shall be co-chaired by representatives of two national governments with India being the permanent co-chair of Governing Council. The other co-chair shall be nominated by rotation by the members of Governing Council, every two years.
- Executive Committee: Managerial body of CDRI that oversees implementation of decisions of Governing Council. It is a 10 member body with Director General being one of the members.
- Secretariat: Secretariat of the CDRI shall be headed by a Director-General appointed by the Governing Council.
Membership: Membership of CDRI is open to national governments, UN Agencies & multilateral banks, private sector, academic & knowledge institutions. Currently, there are 31 member countries of CDRI and 8 member organisations.
Funding: A large share of the estimated fund requirements to cover the core costs over the first five years has been invested by India. There are no obligations on the part of members to make financial contributions to CDRI.

Initiatives under CDRI

Infrastructure Resilience Accelerator Fund (IRAF):
- A US $50 million multi-donor trust fund created by CDRI to support global action on disaster resilience of infrastructure systems, especially in developing countries and small island developing countries.
- IRAF will play a critical role in equipping the Coalition to deliver on improved infrastructure governance, inclusive infrastructure services and diversified knowledge and financing for resilient infrastructure globally.
- IRAF has been established with the support of UNDP & UNDRR and will be managed by UN Multi-Partner Trust Fund Office. IRAF was launched COP 27 of UNFCCC at Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt.
- One of the first initiatives to be supported by IRAF is the Infrastructure for Resilient Island States (IRIS).
Infrastructure for Resilient Island States (IRIS):
- A dedicated initiative co-curated by Small Developing Island States (SIDS) and Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) partners to promote resilient, sustainable, and inclusive infrastructure development in SIDS. IRIS will cater to all SIDS.
- IRIS will design and implement projects considering the demands and absorptive capacities of SIDS and strive to foster SIDS ownership and leadership in the development of resilient, sustainable and inclusive infrastructure.
- In the initial phase, IRIS will prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable SIDS.It was launched during COP 26 of UNFCCC at Glasgow.
- Focus areas of IRIS are:
  - Improved resilience of SIDS infrastructure to climate change & disaster risks.
  - Strengthened knowledge & partnerships for integrating resilience in SIDS infrastructure.
  - Gender equality and disability inclusion promoted through SIDS infrastructure.
Biennial Report on Global Infrastructure Resilience: Flagship report of CDRI focusing on critical challenges faced by infrastructure due to disaster and climate risks. The report will develop a Global Infrastructure Risk Model & Global Infrastructure Resilience Index (GIRI) and advocate pathways for nature based solutions for disaster resilient infrastructure, conduct review of global goals and targets for resilient infrastructure and finance for disaster & climate resilient infrastructure.
International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (ICDRI): Annual conference of CDRI bring together experts and participants from member countries, institutions and organisations to discuss challenges and identify good practices on disaster & climate resilient infrastructure.
DRI Connect: An online platform to connect, learn and collaborate towards improved practices, processes and policies for resilient infrastructure systems.