Jan 03 2025

In a case that could significantly impact corruption cases lodged before 2018, the Supreme Court is set to decide whether offering a bribe is punishable under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (PCA), even if the public official refuses the offer.

About the Case

Bribery

  • Issue: The issue in this case is whether offering a bribe (even if it is refused) is punishable under the PCA 1988, both before and after the 2018 amendments.
    • The case involves a person, who in 2016 offered a Rs. 2 lakh bribe to a police officer in Orissa and was subsequently charged under Section 12 of the PCA.
  • Main legal argument: Whether the mere act of offering a bribe constitutes “abetment” under the PCA before the 2018 amendment.

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About Bribery

  • Bribery is the act of giving, offering, receiving, or soliciting something of value to influence actions of a public official or another person in charge of a public or legal duty.
  • The Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, specifically addresses bribery and corruption, with significant amendments in 2018 to include offering a bribe as a standalone offense.
    • Pre-2018 PCA: Offering a bribe was not explicitly punishable unless it led to abetment under Sections 7 or 11 of PCA.
    • Post-2018 PCA Amendment: Offering a bribe became a distinct and punishable offense, even if the bribe was not accepted.

Key Legal Provisions of PCA Related to Bribery

  • Section 7: Punishes public officials accepting gratification other than legal remuneration in exchange for performing or refraining from performing official duties.
    • Focuses on the demand and receipt of bribes by public officials.
  • Section 11: Penalizes officials accepting valuable items related to their public functions without adequate consideration.
  • Section 12: Punishes the abetment of offenses under Sections 7 and 11.
    • Covers both successful and unsuccessful attempts to bribe.
  • 2018 Amendment:
    • Introduced provisions specifically criminalizing the act of offering a bribe, even if not accepted.
    • Created the new offense of “bribing a public servant,” closing previous legal loopholes.

Judicial Views on Bribery

  • Kishor Khachand Wadhwani v. The State Of Maharashtra (2019): The Bombay High Court held that before 2018, offering a bribe did not constitute an offence
    • The court stated that the 2018 amendment explicitly introduced the “offence relating to bribing a public servant.” 
    • Additionally, the court noted that an offence under Section 7 required a “demand” from the public servant.
  • Ghanshyam Aggarwal v. The State (2020): The Madras High Court argued that offering a bribe alone was already punishable under Section 165A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which was replaced by the PCA. 
    • The court concluded that the mere act of offering a bribe constitutes a substantive offence and that the 2018 amendment merely clarified this position.

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Reasons Why People Bribe

  • To Access Basic Services: People face institutional inefficiencies or deliberate delays, forcing them to pay bribes to access essential services like healthcare, education, or welfare benefits.
    • BriberyA 2020 survey by Transparency International revealed that 39% of Indians reported paying bribes to access public services, including healthcare and education.
  • To Expedite Processes: Bureaucratic inefficiencies and red tape compel citizens to bribe officials to avoid prolonged delays in services like issuing licenses, registrations, or approvals.
    • A 2024 survey by LocalCircles revealed that approximately 66% admitted to paying bribes to government officials in the past year to facilitate processes and avoid delays.
  • To Avoid Harassment: Individuals bribe to escape harassment or undue obstacles created by officials, often under threat of legal or administrative action.
    • A Transparency International survey (2020) revealed that 42% of Indians paid bribes to police officers to avoid fines or arrest.
  • To Gain Undue Advantage: Individuals and businesses use bribes to secure unfair benefits, such as contracts, favorable decisions, or approvals.
    • In October 2024, CBI arrested five CGST officials in Mumbai for allegedly demanding a ₹50 lakh bribe to settle a tax evasion case and prevent a businessman’s arrest.
  • To Circumvent Regulations: Bribes are used to bypass legal or regulatory hurdles, often to secure illegal or unethical advantages.
  • To Secure Employment: In competitive job markets, individuals are forced to pay bribes to secure employment or promotions.
    • The Vyapam Scam (2013) involved bribery for government jobs and medical college admissions in Madhya Pradesh.
  • To Protect Livelihoods: Small business owners and farmers bribe to avoid disruptions caused by local authorities or bureaucratic hurdles, ensuring continuity of their work.
    • Farmers have reported paying bribes to access subsidies or loans, fearing denial of support if they resist.

Corruption comes from the never-ending greed. The fight for corruption-free ethical society will have to be fought against this greed and replace it with ‘what can I give’ spirit”. Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

Ethical Implications of Bribery

  • Undermines Integrity and Trust: Bribery erodes the integrity of public officials and institutions, leading to a loss of trust among citizens. It compromises ethical governance and creates skepticism about the fairness of public administration.
    • The 2019 PDS Scam in Karnataka exposed officials diverting food meant for the poor into black markets, eroding trust in public welfare schemes.
  • Encourages Corruption: Bribery fosters systemic corruption by normalizing unethical practices and reducing accountability.
    • The Commonwealth Games Scam (2010) in India involved large-scale corruption, with bribes paid to officials and contractors inflating costs for infrastructure projects.
  • Inequality and Unfair Practices: Bribery creates an unequal playing field, where those unable or unwilling to pay bribes are at a disadvantage.
    • The 2018 Global Corruption Barometer revealed that 56% of Indians felt excluded from accessing services due to bribery demands.
  • Erosion of Meritocracy: Decisions influenced by bribes undermine principles of meritocracy, leading to inefficiencies and a lack of competence in institutions.
    • Recruitment scams, such as SSC paper leaks, replace meritorious candidates with those who pay bribes.
  • Hampers Development: Bribery diverts public funds from development projects and welfare schemes into private pockets.
    • The World Bank estimates that corruption costs developing countries $1.26 trillion annually, reducing resources for critical projects.
  • Loss of Credibility: Bribery damages the credibility and reputation of public institutions, weakening citizens’ trust in governance.
    • In November 2024, U.S. prosecutors charged Gautam Adani and associates in a $265 million bribery case, raising concerns over the Adani Group’s transparency and corporate governance.
  • Moral Degradation: Bribery normalizes unethical behavior, causing moral degradation in society and weakening personal and organizational values of accountability and honesty.
    • The normalization of bribes for school admissions in India fosters unethical behavior in future generations.
  • Harm to Vulnerable Groups: Bribery disproportionately affects marginalized and vulnerable groups, limiting their access to basic services and opportunities.
    • Rural families often pay bribes to access government schemes like MGNREGA, defeating the purpose of empowering the poor.

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Ethical Dilemmas in Bribery

An ethical dilemma arises in bribery when individuals are forced to choose between conflicting moral principles, often due to systemic pressures or personal circumstances. 

  • Integrity vs. Survival: A poor individual must decide whether to pay a bribe to access essential services like healthcare, education, or food rations.
    • A farmer may face an ethical conflict in paying a bribe to secure a crop loan to avoid losing their livelihood.
  • Upholding Ethics vs. Career Advancement: Employees may face pressure to pay or accept bribes to secure promotions, contracts, or job security.
    • In the Vyapam Scam (2013), individuals faced ethical conflicts over paying bribes to secure government jobs.
  • Loyalty to Organization vs. Public Welfare: Public officials might be asked to accept bribes to favor private entities, benefiting their organization but harming public interest.
    • A civil servant approving substandard contracts due to political or organizational pressure.
  • Breaking the Law vs. Solving Immediate Problems: Individuals may feel compelled to offer bribes to expedite delayed legal processes, like obtaining permits or licenses.
    • A small business owner may bribe to speed up a clearance for their livelihood.
  • Whistleblowing vs. Retaliation: Witnesses to bribery often face ethical conflicts between exposing corruption and fearing personal or professional retaliation.
    • An employee may hesitate to report a superior demanding bribes, fearing job loss or harassment.
  • Protecting Relationships vs. Reporting Corruption: Individuals might refrain from reporting bribery by friends, colleagues, or family members to avoid damaging personal or professional relationships.
    • A contractor might avoid reporting a corrupt official they’ve worked with to maintain business ties.

Various Philosophical Perspectives on Corruption or Bribery

  • Utilitarian Perspective: Actions are judged based on their outcomes. If bribery results in the greatest happiness for the greatest number, it may be seen as justified.
    • Example: Paying a bribe to expedite life-saving medical treatment may align with utilitarian principles but undermines systemic equity.
  • Deontological Perspective: Actions are inherently right or wrong, regardless of their consequences. Bribery is intrinsically unethical as it violates moral duties of honesty and fairness.
    • Example: A government official refusing to take a bribe despite severe personal hardships exemplifies adherence to moral duty.
  • Virtue Ethics: Focuses on the character and virtues of the individual. Bribery is seen as corrupting personal integrity and societal moral fabric.
    • Example: An individual rejecting bribery reflects virtues like honesty, integrity, and justice.
  • Social Contract Theory: Society operates on implicit agreements to uphold laws and fairness. Bribery breaches this social contract, weakening institutional trust.
    • Example: Citizens paying bribes to access basic services illustrate the erosion of social contracts.
  • Kantian Ethics: Actions must be universally applicable. Bribery cannot be universalized without leading to chaos, making it ethically unacceptable.
    • Example: Kantian ethics would condemn bribery, even if it expedited critical disaster relief. 
  • Gandhian Perspective: Advocates for moral purity, truth, and non-violence in personal and public life. Bribery is inherently unethical as it violates the principle of truthfulness.
    • Example: Gandhi’s emphasis on self-discipline and integrity highlights the moral degradation caused by bribery.

Suggestions for Curbing Bribery

  • Strengthen Whistleblower Protection: Implement robust laws and mechanisms to protect individuals who report bribery from retaliation.
    • Establish confidential reporting channels and provide legal safeguards for whistleblowers.
  • Promote Transparency in Processes: Simplify bureaucratic procedures and reduce discretionary powers to minimize opportunities for bribery.
    • Digitize public services like property registration or welfare schemes to ensure accountability and transparency.
  • Encourage Ethical Leadership: Promote leaders who demonstrate integrity and discourage corrupt practices in organizations and institutions.
    • Incorporate ethical leadership training in public administration and corporate governance programs.
  • Strengthen Legal and Institutional Frameworks: Enforce stringent anti-corruption laws and ensure timely punishment for offenders to deter bribery.
    • Fast-track corruption cases and impose penalties that include confiscation of illicit gains.

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United Nations Initiatives on Corruption and Bribery:

  • The UN Declaration Against Corruption and Bribery in International Commercial Transactions (1996) encourages integrity in both public and private sectors.
  • The International Code of Conduct for Public Officials (1996) provides guiding principles on loyalty, fairness, impartiality, and transparency.
  • The UN Convention Against Corruption (2003) offers a legal instrument for asset recovery and combating corruption globally.

ADB-OECD Anti-Corruption Action Plan for Asia Pacific:

  • Signed by India, this plan promotes regional cooperation in corruption prevention.

Global Networking:

  • Encourages partnerships between governments, private sectors, and civil societies for anti-corruption efforts.

  • Incorporate International Cooperation: Leverage global frameworks and partnerships to tackle corruption on a broader scale.
  • Incorporate Ethics Education: Introduce ethics training in schools, colleges, and workplaces to foster a culture of honesty and accountability.
    • Include real-world scenarios and ethical dilemma workshops to equip individuals with decision-making skills.
  • Encourage Social Accountability: Empower communities to monitor public projects and report discrepancies through social audits.
    • Use platforms like Right to Information (RTI) for public participation in governance.
  • Foster a Culture of Zero Tolerance: Publicly recognize and reward ethical behavior in governance and corporate sectors.
    • Awards for ethical public servants and corporate leaders who reject corrupt practices.

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Conclusion

Bribery undermines trust, meritocracy, and ethical governance, perpetuating inequality and corruption. The Supreme Court’s pending decision on whether offering a bribe, even if refused, constitutes an offense under the pre-2018 PCA will clarify ambiguities in corruption laws, shaping the legal framework and enforcement against bribery in India.

Recently, Kerala Chief Minister, at the inaugural event of the 92nd Sivagiri pilgrimage criticized attempts to associate social reformer Sree Narayana Guru with the Sanatana Dharma ideology. 

About Sivagiri Madhom

  • Establishment: Sivagiri Madhom is a major spiritual and reformist center in Kerala, founded in 1904 by Sree Narayana Guru.
  • Known for its inclusive teachings, focusing on the upliftment of marginalized communities.

Madhom

  • In Kerala, a “Madhom” is a traditional institution (Mutt/ Muth) of higher learning, primarily focused on the study of Vedas and Vedanta. 
  • These institutions played a crucial role in preserving and transmitting Hindu philosophical and religious knowledge for centuries.

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Sivagiri Row

  • Significance: 
    • Symbolizes Kerala’s social renaissance against caste oppression.
    • Hosts the annual Sivagiri pilgrimage, attracting leaders and pilgrims across political and social spectrums.
    • Advocates for ending caste-based dominance in priesthood and other societal practices.
    • The Madhom is closely tied to the Ezhava community, which forms 23% of Kerala’s population and plays a significant political role.
    • The Madhom maintains equidistance from political parties, ensuring balanced engagement with leaders from all sides.

About Sree Narayana Guru

  • Life and Philosophy: Sree Narayana Guru, born into an Ezhava family in a caste-ridden society, was a visionary social reformer in Kerala.
    • He advocated equality with the slogan, “One Caste, One Religion, One God for All.” 
    • He opposed caste-based injustice and sought to uplift oppressed communities.
  • Sivagiri RowTemple Consecration: In 1888, Guru consecrated a Shiva idol by the Aruvippuram river, challenging caste restrictions on temple worship.
  •  At Kalavancode, he installed mirrors instead of idols, symbolizing the divine within individuals.
    • These actions were much earlier to the Temple entry movements of the 1920s.
  • Sivagiri Madhom: Sivagiri Madhom, established by Guru, is now a major pilgrimage center for the Ezhava community. It reflects his enduring commitment to social equality and spiritual awakening.
  • SNDP Yogam: Guru founded the Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana (SNDP) Yogam in 1903 to promote education and social upliftment among oppressed castes.
    • He later disassociated from the organization, disillusioned by its limited focus on the Ezhava community.
  • Advaita Vedanta and Ashrams: In 1913, Guru established the Advaita Ashram at Aluva, advocating the principle “Om Sahodaryam Sarvatra” (all are equal in the eyes of God). 
    • He is celebrated as a re-evaluator of Advaita Vedanta.
  • Literary Works: Guru’s writings include Advaitha Deepika, Asrama, and Thevarappathinkangal, which emphasize his spiritual and reformist ideals.

The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has amended rules for selecting experts for the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC).

Conflict of Interest Provisions

  • Amendments to Rules
    • Expert members must disclose any interests conflicting with their duties.
    • They must ensure conflicts do not influence committee decisions.
    • Members with associations related to matters under discussion must disclose these and recuse themselves unless requested otherwise by the committee.
  • Past Allegations: In 2013, activists alleged a Technical Expert Committee member had ties with an organization funded by Monsanto, raising conflict of interest concerns.
    • Monsanto is one of the pioneers in GM crops. It developed India’s First and only GM crop allowed for cultivation i.e. Bt Cotton.
  • Supreme Court’s Role: In July 2023, the Supreme Court directed the Centre to create a national policy on GM crops. Delivered a split verdict on the 2022 GEAC approval for GM mustard:
    • One judge deemed the approval “vitiated” due to inadequate public interest considerations and lack of FSSAI health studies.
    • Another judge upheld the approval but emphasized the need for strict government monitoring and conflict resolution processes.

GM Mustard (DMH-11)

  • Dhara Mustard Hybrid-11 (DMH-11)  is a genetically modified hybrid variety of the mustard species Brassica juncea.
  • Characteristics: This variant is herbicide tolerant (HT).
  • Parent Varieties of GM Mustard
    • Indian Mustard: ‘Varuna’
    • East European Mustard: ‘Early Heera-2’
  • Cross-Breeding: The GM mustard is created by crossing these two varieties.
  • Genetic Modification in Mustard
  • Barnase and Barstar: Two genes are used in the modification.
  • Source: These genes come from the soil bacterium Bacillus amyloliquefaciens.
  • Purpose of Modification
    • High-Yield Hybrids: The genes help create high-yielding commercial mustard hybrids.
    • Genetic Purity: The “bar gene” maintains the genetic purity of hybrid seed.

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About Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC)

Statutory Status: GEAC is constituted under the 1989 Rules for hazardous microorganisms and genetically engineered organisms, framed under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

    • It functions under the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEF&CC).
  • Functions
    • Approves large-scale use of hazardous living microorganisms and recombinants for research and industrial production.
    • Appraises proposals for the environmental release of genetically engineered organisms, including field trials.
    • GEAC clearance is mandatory for GM crop releases.
  • Composition: The composition of the GEAC has been prescribed in Rules 1989 as given below:
    • Chairman- Special Secretary/Additional Secretary, MoEF&CC; Co-Chairman – Representative of Department of Biotechnology.
    • Members: Representative of concerned Agencies and Departments, namely, Ministry of Industrial Development, Department of Biotechnology and the Department of Atomic Energy.
    • Expert members: Director General of Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Director General of Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Director General of Council of Scientific and Industrial Research(CSIR), Director General of Health Services, Plant Protection Adviser, Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine and storage, Chairman of  Central Pollution Control Board(CPCB)and three outside experts in individual capacity.
    • Member Secretary: An official of theMoEF&CC.
    • The committee may co-opt other members/experts as necessary.
  • The Committee meets monthly to review applications.
Additional Reading: GM Mustard

Recently the Unified District Information System for Education (UDISE+) maintained by the Ministry of Education released data on Indian Schools.

Key Findings of UDISE+ 2023-24:

  • Electricity Connection :Of the total 14.71 lakh schools, 10.17 lakh schools are government-run out of which 9.12 lakh schools have Functional electricity, while 1.52 lakh schools lack functional Electricity.
  • Solar Panel Installation: only 1.54 lakh schools (10.5%) of the total number of 14.71 lakh schools having solar panel facilities. In government schools, out of 10.17 lakh schools, only 89,746 (8.8%) have installed solar panels
  • Accessibility for Differently abled: Out of 10.17 lakh government schools, only 3.37 lakh schools have disabled-friendly toilets, which accounts for 33.2% of schools. However, only 30.6% of them are functional.
  • Overview of Science Lab facilities: Among the total schools having secondary sections (2.86 lakh), only 1.6 lakh have an integrated science laboratory facility. Among the 1.19 lakh government secondary schools (59,972), 50.2% schools have a science lab facility.
  • Co-Curricular Activities: Only 17.5% schools have co-curricular activity rooms/arts and crafts, that is, 2.57 lakh schools out of 14.71 lakh total schools.
  • Enrolment Trends: A total of 24.8 crore students were enrolled during the 2023-24 academic year, marking a consistent decline over the past three years.
    • Pre-primary and higher secondary levels (Classes 11 and 12) showed an increase in enrolment for 2023-24.
    • The highest dropout rates were observed at the secondary level (Classes 9 to 12).
    • Zero-dropout rates were recorded at the foundational level (pre-primary to Class 2) due to direct admissions from Anganwadi centers and standalone private pre-primary schools into Class 1.
    • Regional Disparities: States such as Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra reported the highest declines in enrolments.
      • Assam, Odisha, and Karnataka face underutilized school infrastructure due to low student-to-school ratios.
    • Gender Representation: Boys constitute 51.9% of enrolments, while girls account for 48.1%.

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About Unified District Information System for Education (UDISE+)

  • UDISE+ was developed by the Department of School Education & Literacy (DOSEL) and has been operational since 2018-19.
  • Purpose: It serves as an online portal to collect and maintain data related to schools, teachers, enrolments, and infrastructure for all recognized schools across India.
  • Data Collection Process
  • Data is captured through the Data Capture Format (DCF), compiled by the Head Teacher or Head Master.
  • It undergoes a three-stage verification process at the block/cluster, district, and state levels.
  • Final certification is provided by the State Project Director (SPD).
  • Significance: UDISE+ is the only pan-India and most trusted database for school education in the country.

Initiative of Government to improve School Education

Scheme

/Programme

Key Features Statistics/Highlights
Samagra Shiksha Integrated scheme covering pre-primary to senior secondary. 

Aligns with NEP 2020. Focus on foundational literacy, inclusive education, teacher training, vocational education, and quality learning outcomes.

Supports foundational literacy, internships, vocational education, and holistic progress cards.
PM POSHAN Improves nutritional status of children from Balvatika to Class VIII in government and aided schools.

Encourages regular school attendance among disadvantaged groups.

Covers children in government and aided schools, supporting classroom concentration and attendance.
National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scholarships for students of Classes IX to XII from economically weaker sections. 

Aims to reduce dropouts at Class VIII and encourage completion of secondary education.

For students studying in government, aided, and local body schools.
ULLAS Promotes adult education for non-literates aged 15+ through volunteerism.

Content accessible in local languages on the DIKSHA platform.

Implemented through UDISE-registered government/aided schools.
PM SHRI Schools Centrally sponsored initiative to develop 14,500 schools as examples of NEP 2020 implementation. 

Focuses on innovative pedagogy, zero dropout rates, and pupil-teacher ratio compliance.

Includes 10,077 schools (839 Kendriya Vidyalayas, 599 Navodaya Vidyalayas, and 8,639 state/local government schools).
UP, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh top in school numbers under the scheme.

The Supreme Court of India has reaffirmed that no person can be deprived of their property without adequate compensation, highlighting the constitutional and human right status of property ownership. 

  • The Bench emphasized the importance of fair compensation in land acquisition cases.

Key Highlights of the Judgement 

  • The verdict pertains to a case involving the acquisition of land for the Bengaluru-Mysuru Infrastructure Corridor Project (BMICP).
    • Landowners argued they had not been compensated despite losing possession of their properties.
  • Issue: The Special Land Acquisition Officer (SLAO) initially used 2011 market rates to determine compensation, leading to disputes over delays and inadequate valuation.

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Judicial verdicts related to Right to Property

Vidya Devi Case (2020): The Supreme Court ruled that the state cannot acquire private land through adverse possession without following proper legal procedures. This upholds the right to property and emphasizes due process.

Bella Banerjee Case (1954): This case dealt with the scope of Article 19(1)(f) of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the right to property. The court clarified the limitations on this right, allowing for reasonable restrictions in the public interest.

Jilubhai Nanbhai Khachar v. State of Gujarat (1995): This case addressed the issue of compensation for land acquired by the state. The court emphasized the need for fair and just compensation to landowners when their property is taken for public use.

  • Delay in Compensation: The court criticized the “lethargic attitude” of State officials, noting landowners had been deprived of compensation for nearly 22 years.
  • Market Valuation Adjustment: In a significant decision, the court shifted the valuation date to April 22, 2019, instead of 2003, acknowledging the impact of inflation and the time value of money.Fairness and Justice: The court stated that using outdated market rates would be a travesty of justice and undermine constitutional provisions under Article 300-A.

Constitutional Provision: Right to Property

  • Article 300-A: Right to Property is no longer a Fundamental Right since the 44th Amendment to the Constitution in 1978, but it remains a constitutional right.
  • Meaning of Removal from Fundamental right: The removal of the right to property as a fundamental right and its reclassification as a constitutional right has reduced its level of protection and the remedies available to individuals.
    • As  a fundamental right under Part III of the Indian Constitution, individuals could directly challenge violations in the Supreme Court under Article 32, ensuring strong and immediate enforcement. The state also faced stricter scrutiny before interfering with this right. 
    • Presently , as a constitutional right under Article 300A, violations must be challenged in High Courts under Article 226. This shift gives the state more flexibility in regulating or expropriating property for public purposes.
  • Authority of Law: Article 300-A mandates that property can only be taken by the State with legal authority and due procedure.
  • Scope of Article 300 A: The Supreme Court has observed that the right to property as enshrined under Article 300A of the Constitution extends to persons who are not citizens of India.
    • The expression person in Article 300-A covers not only a legal or juristic person but also a person who is not a citizen of India

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Broader Implications of the Judgement

  • Human Rights Perspective: The right to property, while no longer fundamental, is essential in a welfare state and must be safeguarded with fair processes.
  • Timeliness of Compensation: The court underscored the need for prompt determination and disbursal of compensation in land acquisition cases.
  • Precedent for land Acquisition: This judgment sets a precedent for ensuring justice in land acquisition and reaffirms the importance of adequate compensation to uphold citizens’ constitutional rights.
Additional Reading: Land Acquisition in India

The gas supply to Europe via Ukraine, Russia’s oldest gas route to Europe operational for over 40 years, ceased on January 1, 2025, after Ukraine’s Naftogaz refused to renew its five-year transit deal with Gazprom.

  • The decision comes amid ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, which began in February 2022, and decades of tension following Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014.

About the Ukraine Gas Route

  • The Soviet-era Urengoy-Pomary-Uzhgorod pipeline brings gas from Siberia via the town of Sudzha – which is now under the control of Ukrainian military forces  in Russia’s Kursk region
  • It then flows through Ukraine to Slovakia.
  • In Slovakia, the gas pipeline splits into branches going to the Czech Republic and Austria.

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Implications of the Halt

  • Declining Volumes: Russia once supplied 35% of Europe’s gas, with a peak delivery of 201 billion cubic meters (bcm) in 2018.
    • By 2023, supplies through Ukraine dwindled to 15 bcm, a significant drop from 65 bcm in 2020.
  • Gas ExportsFinancial Implications: Russia is set to lose about $5 billion annually in gas sales through Ukraine.
    • Ukraine will lose approximately $800 million to $1 billion in transit fees each year.
  • Countries Most Affected
    • Austria previously relied heavily on the Ukrainian transit route but has diversified its gas sources and prepared for the transition.
    • Slovakia, which received about two-thirds of its gas from Gazprom, has secured alternative contracts with global suppliers like BP, Eni, ExxonMobil, RWE, and Shell.
    • Moldova faces significant challenges, relying on Russia for 2 bcm of gas per year, much of which is used in the breakaway region of Transdniestria to generate power.
      • The Moldovan government plans to reduce gas consumption by one-third and seek alternative energy sources.

Alternative Supply Sources for Europe

  • Diversification: The European Union has drastically reduced its dependence on Russian gas, leveraging alternatives like:
    • Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) from the United States, Qatar, and other countries.
    • Pipeline imports from Norway and North Africa.
  • Remaining Routes: Other major Russian gas routes, such as Yamal-Europe (via Belarus) and Nord Stream (via the Baltic Sea), are no longer operational.
    • The TurkStream pipeline remains an option, supplying gas to Turkey and parts of Central Europe, but capacity is limited.
  • Strategic Adjustments in Europe
    • Infrastructure and Collaboration: Slovakia could receive gas supplies from Hungary, Austria, the Czech Republic, and Poland.
    • The Czech Republic is prepared to provide Slovakia with transit and storage capacity.
    • EU’s Assurance: The European Commission stated that Ukraine’s gas supply security would remain unaffected, as it no longer uses Russian transit gas.

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Long-Term Consequences

  • Russia’s Declining Influence: Russia’s market share in Europe has plummeted to 8% from 35%, marking a significant loss of influence.
    • Moscow now faces competition from LNG suppliers and pipeline exporters, which have captured its former market share.
  • Energy Security in Europe: The EU’s push for energy independence has been accelerated, with long-term diversification strategies likely to make Russian gas exports to Europe increasingly irrelevant
  • Global Impact: This could potentially raise energy costs for vulnerable regions reliant on Russian gas, such as parts of Asia and Eastern Europe.

Scientists are deploying two telescopes under the Mediterranean Sea to detect high-energy neutrinos, also called ghost particles.

What Are Neutrinos?

  • Neutrinos are tiny particles similar to electrons but have no electric charge.
  • Underwater TelescopesThey are one of the fundamental building blocks of the universe.
  • Neutrinos were detected for the first time in 1959
  • Neutrinos are the second most abundant subatomic particles in the universe, after photons.
    • They are incredibly numerous, with about 1 billion neutrinos passing through a single cubic centimetre of space every second.
    • They are known as “ghost particles” because they barely interact with anything.
  • Sources of Neutrinos
    • Neutrinos are produced when heavy particles transform into lighter ones, a process called “decay.”

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Indian Neutrino Observatory (INO)

  • It is a project to build a world class underground lab to study fundamental scientific concepts. 
  • Objective: Its main study is focused on the study of neutrinos. 
  • Funded by: Department of Atomic Energy and the Department of Science and Technology.

    • These neutrinos originate from distant and exotic cosmic events like:
      • Supernovae
      • Gamma-ray bursts
      • Colliding stars
    • While neutrinos are abundant, scientists focus on rare, high-energy neutrinos traveling at incredible speeds.

Importance of Studying High-Energy Neutrinos

  • Exploring Hidden Regions of Space
    • High-energy neutrinos can penetrate dusty regions in space, such as the centre of the Milky Way.
    • Unlike visible light, which is absorbed or scattered by dust, neutrinos pass through, revealing hidden cosmic mechanisms.
  • Understanding Cosmic Rays and Dark Matter
    • They provide clues about how cosmic rays are produced.
    • They may also shed light on dark matter, one of the universe’s greatest mysteries.
  • Unlocking New Discoveries
    • Studying neutrinos could lead to the discovery of unknown phenomena that scientists cannot yet imagine.

Challenges in Detecting Neutrinos

  • Rare Interaction with Matter
    • Neutrinos barely interact with other particles, making them extremely hard to detect.
    • Despite billions of neutrinos passing through us every second, only one might interact with a human body in an entire lifetime.
  • High-Energy Neutrinos Are Rare
    • High-energy neutrinos are uncommon and originate from rare cosmic events like supernovae and gamma-ray bursts.
    • Even advanced observatories like IceCube, operational since 2011, have detected only a limited number of these particles.
  • Need for Large Detection Volumes
    • Neutrino detection requires a huge volume of transparent material, such as ice or water, to observe the faint flashes of light they produce.
  • Requirement for a Dark Environment
    • Detection relies on observing Cherenkov radiation, faint light flashes produced when neutrinos interact with water or ice molecules.
    • A dark environment is crucial to minimize interference from other light sources.
  • Light Absorption and Scattering
    • Materials like ice and water affect light differently:
      • Ice scatters light more, making it harder to trace the exact source of neutrinos.
      • Water absorbs light more, reducing the amount available for analysis.

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About the Telescopes

  • These telescopes are part of the Cubic Kilometre Neutrino Telescope (KM3NeT) project.
  • Purpose of the Telescopes
    • Studying Space Neutrinos: One telescope will detect high-energy neutrinos originating from outer space.
    • Analyzing Atmospheric Neutrinos: The other will focus on neutrinos generated in Earth’s atmosphere.
  • The KM3NeT telescopes are similar to the IceCube Neutrino Observatory in Antarctica, which also studies high-energy neutrinos.
  • Difference:
    • IceCube is embedded in the frozen ice, while KM3NeT telescopes are placed underwater in the Mediterranean Sea.

Key Benefits of Underwater Telescopes

  • Clearer Detection: Water scatters light less, improving neutrino tracking.
  • Cosmic Exploration: Studies hidden phenomena like supernovae and gamma-ray bursts.
  • Large Volume: Deep-sea water enables effective neutrino detection.
  • Better than Ice: Water-based telescopes offer clearer conditions than ice ones.

Researchers from IIT-Guwahati and the Bose Institute, Kolkata have developed an advanced injectable hydrogel for localized cancer treatment.

About hydrogel

Hydrogel

  • Hydrogel is a water-based, three-dimensional polymer network that can absorb and retain fluids. 
  • Hydrogels may be classified based on their 
    • sources (natural or synthetic hydrogel), 
    • polymeric compositions (homo-polymer, co-polymer and multi-polymer hydrogels), 
    • physical structure (amorphous, semi-crystalline and crystalline hydrogels), 
    • cross-linkers (physical and chemical cross-linked hydrogels)
  • Examples : cellulose, chitosan, collagen, alginate, agarose, hyaluronic acid, gelatin, and fibrin

Key Features of the Hydrogel

  • Made of ultra-short peptides that are biocompatible and biodegradable.
  • Mimics living tissues due to its water-based, three-dimensional polymer structure.
  • Enhances drug uptake by cancer cells, induces cell cycle arrest, and promotes cell death.
  • The hydrogel offers a controlled release of anti-cancer drugs that protect healthy cells from harm.

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How the Hydrogel Works?

  • Precision Drug Delivery: Designed to release drugs directly at the tumor site, minimizing harm to healthy tissues.
  • Responsive to Tumor Environment: Triggers drug release in response to high levels of glutathione (GSH), a molecule abundant in tumor cells.

Applications of Hydrogel 

  • Medical:  Helps deliver drugs in a controlled way. 
    • It promotes healing, prevents infections, and keeps wounds moist. 
  • Hygiene products:  Helps create smooth texture in personal care products. 
    • It keeps skin hydrated. 
  • Agriculture:  helps in growth of the plant through absorption of water in the soil. 
  • Environmental uses: removes contaminated elements from the water..
    • Clean up oil spills. 
  • Industrial uses: Hydrogel is used in sensors and actuators which reacts when ph. Humidity or temperatures change. 
    • It stores energy by holding water.

Air India to become the first Indian airline to roll out Wi-Fi Internet connectivity services on board domestic and international flights.

  • Wi-Fi will be available free of charge on the airline’s Airbus A350, Boeing 787-9, and select Airbus A321neo aircraft
  • Nelco in partnership with Panasonic Avionics Corporation will provide the service to select Air India’s domestic flights

In-Flight Internet Service

How In-flight Wifi Works?

  • Multiple Wi-Fi antennas are located inside the aircraft cabin, which get signals from passengers’ devices. 
    • The signals are sent to an on-board server from these in-cabin antennae
  • Technologies For providing in-flight Internet Connectivity: In-flight connectivity systems primarily use two kinds of technologies requiring special antennae and other equipment to be installed on the aircraft
  • Air-to-ground (ATG) technology:
    • Working: An antenna is usually placed around the plane’s belly which picks up signals from the nearest tower on the ground or ground receiver, to provide connectivity on board the aircraft.
    • Limitation: The availability of nearby ground towers is the biggest limitation as network could break if the flight passes over water body, deserted land, or sparsely populated areas
  • Satellite -based connectivity:
    • The Internet is transmitted to aircraft from ground stations through satellites using antennae mounted on top of the aircraft’s body.
    • Advantage: It offers wider coverage as it is useful in providing connectivity when the aircraft is flying over regions without ground towers.

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  • The Flight and Maritime Connectivity (Amendment) Rules, 2024:
    • As per the new notified rules, in-flight passengers will be allowed to use internet services through Wi-Fi only after electronic devices are permitted for use in the aircraft ie. (after reaching  an altitude of 3,000 meters in Indian airspace)
      • The current safety protocols restrict electronic device use during critical phases of flight (takeoff and landing) and upto 3000meters to avoid interference with terrestrial mobile networks.
  • Concerns: 
    • Lack of Encryption: Many in-flight Wi-Fi networks don’t use strong encryption standards, which can make it easy for hackers to intercept communications.
    • Rogue Networks: Malicious actors can create fake Wi-Fi networks that look legitimate, tricking passengers into connecting.
    • Malware: Rogue networks can deliver malware to your device while you’re browsing the internet.
    • Man-in-the-middle attacks: Hackers can intercept communication between your device and the network, gaining access to sensitive data.
    • Device Vulnerabilities: many travelers have unpatched systems with all ports and protocols enabled and listening, putting their devices at risk to attacks by other travelers.

150 years of India Meteorological Department (IMD)

Context: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) will complete 150 years of service on January 15 2025.

About India Meteorological Department (IMD)

  • IMD is one of the earliest government departments created for systematic observation, regular reporting, and scientific forecasting of weather in the Indian subcontinent.
    • IMD serves as one of the six Regional Specialized Meteorological Centres of the World Meteorological Organization.
  • Establishment: IMD was established in 1875 with Mr. H. F. Blanford appointed as the Meteorological Reporter to the Government of India.
  • Nodal Ministry: IMD is an agency under the Ministry of Earth Sciences
  • Headquarters: It is situated in Delhi
    • It has six Regional Meteorological Centres (RMCs) catering to six regions of the country
  • Objective: IMD is mandated to make meteorological observations, weather forecasting, and seismology for the Indian Subcontinent.
  • Evolution:
    • The first Daily Weather Report in 1878 was prepared
    • 1886: The port warning system was expanded to cover all Indian ports, bolstering maritime safety.
    • 1890: IMD assumed the role of Rainfall Registration Authority, standardising rain measurement through the adoption of a common rain gauge type.
    • 1947-1959: Commencement of Radar age and Flood Met Services
    • 1960-1983: Commencement of the Global Satellite era and Global monitoring and better forecasting up to 24 hours
    • 2004-2023: Rapid advancement in observation, communication and modelling facilities, paradigm shift in forecasting accuracy and services
  • Functions: 
    • Meteorological Observation: IMD provide meteorological information for optimum operation of weather-sensitive activities like agriculture, irrigation, shipping, aviation, offshore oil explorations, etc.
    • Warnings and Forecast: It warns against severe weather phenomena like tropical cyclones, heavy rains and snow, cold and heat waves, etc. causing destruction of life and property.
    • Cyclone forecasting and Naming: It is the regional nodal agency for forecasting, naming, and providing warnings about tropical cyclones in the Indian Ocean north of the Equator.
    • Seismic Observations: It is also responsible for setting up monitoring centres at key locations for earthquake monitoring and measurements.

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Pallas’s Cat

Context: Shefiq Basheer Ahammed, a Kerala wildlife photographer, had his 2017 Mongolia trip to photograph the elusive Pallas’s cat featured in a CBSE textbook.

About Pallas’s Cat

  • The Pallas’s cat (Otocolobus manul), also known as the Manul, Steppe Cat, or Rock Wildcat, is one of the smallest wildcats globally, often referred to as the “small ghost of the mountain.”
  • Appearance: These well-furred cats are adapted to cold Asian steppes, with coats ranging from grey to brown and even orange-red, changing with the seasons.
    • Their rounded ears are set low on their heads, enhancing their ability to camouflage in rocky terrains.
  • Behavior: Pallas’s cats are nocturnal and elusive, with exceptional camouflage skills that make them nearly invisible in their natural habitats.
  • Habitat: Primarily inhabiting the steppe grasslands of Mongolia, China, and the Tibetan Plateau, they thrive in regions with extreme climates, minimal rainfall, and wide temperature ranges.
    • Their range extends across Central Asia, from the Caspian Sea through Iran, Afghanistan, and northern India to central China, Mongolia, and southern Russia.
    • Ladakh is home to three felids: Snow leopard, lynx and Pallas’s cat.
      • Among these three cats, Pallas’cat or manul is the smallest one that resides in the cold deserts of Ladakh.
  • Conservation Status
    • IUCN Red List: Least Concern 
    • CITES: Listed under Appendix II.
    • Wildlife Protection Act of India: Schedule I.
    • Included in the list of migratory species to be conserved under the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) during COP14 in 2020.

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