Lokpal of India adopts a New Motto

Context: The Full Bench of Lokpal of India has adopted a new motto  “Empower Citizens, Expose Corruption”.

About the Lokpal

• The Lokpal is a statutory anti-corruption body established under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.  
• Composition: Consists of a Chairperson and up to 8 members, with at least 50% being judicial members.
  • 50% of members must belong to SC/ST/OBC, minorities, or women.  
• Appointment Process: Appointed by the President based on recommendations from a Selection Committee.
• Term and Removal:  Members serve 5 years or until age 70 (whichever is earlier).  
  • Can be removed by the President only after a Supreme Court inquiry recommends it for misconduct.  
• Jurisdiction: Covers the Prime Minister (except on matters related to national security, atomic energy, and international relations).  
  • Includes Ministers, MPs, Group A/B/C/D government employees.
• Superintendence Powers: Lokpal has the power of superintendence & direction over any central investigation agency including CBI for cases referred to them by Lokpal.
• Foundation Day: The Lokpal of India celebrated its first Foundation Day on 16 January 2025.
• Chairperson: The current Chairperson of the Lokpal of India is Justice Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar.

PASSEX

Context: Recently, The Indian Navy and the United Kingdom’s Royal Navy carried out a high-intensity PASSEX (joint naval exercise) in the North Arabian Sea. 

About India-U.K. Naval Exercise

• The Indian Navy was represented by the stealth frigate INS Tabar, a submarine, and a P-8I maritime patrol aircraft.
• The United Kingdom’s Carrier Strike Group included the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales and the frigate HMS Richmond.
• Significance 
  • This naval exercise is significant as the North Arabian Sea is a critical maritime corridor for global trade. 
  • Conducting such joint drills promote shared commitments by both the nations.
    • It also increases maritime stability, safeguard sea lines of communications, and ensure  presence of credible naval at the Indo-pacific region.

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