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The Indian Government intends to bring a National Counter Terrorism Policy, emphasising collaborative efforts to combat terrorism and dismantle its ecosystem.

Anti Terror Conference 2024

The Anti-Terror Conference 2024 was organised by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in New Delhi.
The conference serves as a meeting platform for operational forces, technical experts, and agencies to discuss counter-terrorism challenges and national security threats.
Key focus areas include fostering coordination among stakeholders and providing inputs for future policy development under a ‘Whole of the Government approach.’

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Terror Related Incidence In India: At the Anti-Terror Conference-2024, organised by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) the Home Minister highlighted a 70% reduction in terror-related incidents in India over the past 10 years.
Significant Reduction in Violence Through State-Central Collaboration: Due to the joint efforts of state and central governments, violence has been controlled to a great extent in Jammu and Kashmir, Naxal-affected areas and the northeastern states in the last 10 years.
NIA’s Effective Use of UAPA in Terror Cases: The Home Minister highlighted the National Investigation Agency’s (NIA) successful application of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in terrorism cases.
- Of 632 registered cases, chargesheets were filed in 498, achieving a conviction rate of nearly 95%.
Call for State Police to Invoke UAPA: He urged officers from state police forces to utilise the UAPA wherever applicable to strengthen anti-terror efforts.

About Terrorism

Definition of Terrorism: There is no universally accepted legal definition of terrorism.

Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT):

In 1996, India proposed the adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
It is a proposed treaty which intends to criminalise all forms of international terrorism and deny terrorists, their financiers and supporters access to funds, arms, and safe havens.
It is yet to be adopted by the UNGA.

Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) Definition: Terrorism includes actions that:
- Cause death or serious injury.
- Result in significant damage to property, including public infrastructure.
- Intend to intimidate populations or coerce governments or international organisations.
UAPA Definition: The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act is an Indian law aimed at the prevention of unlawful activities associations in India.
- Under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), a terrorist act is one that:

Global Terrorism Index (GTI) 2024:

Published by: The Global Terrorism Index (GTI) is a report published annually by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP).
India’s Rank: India ranks 14th in the GTI 2024 report, dropping one spot from last year.
India is among the top ten countries with the largest decrease in terrorism-related deaths.

- - Threatens India’s unity, integrity, security, or economic stability.Instills fear in people or specific segments, both domestically and internationally.
Factors Contributing to the Rise of Terrorism in India:
- Communal politics: Politicians often exploit religious and ethnic divisions for electoral gain, fostering an environment of distrust and hostility between communities, which can lead to violence and radicalisation.
- Extremist movements: Ideologically driven extremist groups, often motivated by religious or political agendas, use violence to advance their goals.
- Human Rights abuses: State human rights violations, like excessive force and discrimination, fuel resentment and create conditions that foster terrorism.
- High youth unemployment: High youth unemployment, marked by economic instability, increases susceptibility to terrorist recruitment, which offers a sense of purpose and financial gain.

Types of Terrorism:

Domestic Terrorism: Perpetrated by individuals or groups within a country, targeting their own government or citizens.
International Terrorism: Involves actors from different countries, often crossing borders to achieve their goals.
State-Sponsored Terrorism: When governments support or condone terrorism to achieve political objectives.
Left Wing Terrorism: It refers to violent activities carried out by groups that typically advocate leftist ideologies, often focused on issues such as social justice, anti-capitalism, anti-imperialism, and the redistribution of wealth.
Religious Terrorism: Motivated by religious beliefs, aiming to impose specific ideologies or punish those who disagree.
Ethno-Nationalist Terrorism: Driven by ethnic or nationalist groups seeking independence or autonomy. Example: The Tamil Tigers (LTTE) in Sri Lanka
Cyber Terrorism: Involves the use of digital platforms to launch attacks on infrastructure or to spread fear.
Lone Wolf Terrorism: Lone wolf terrorism refers to acts of terrorism carried out by individuals acting independently, without direct support or collaboration from terrorist organisations.
- These individuals are typically self-radicalised and driven by personal ideologies, grievances, or beliefs.

- Poverty and Illiteracy: Poverty and illiteracy create conditions of vulnerability, making individuals more susceptible to extremist propaganda and violence as a means of addressing grievances.
India’s Stance on Good and Bad Terrorist: In the concluding session of the 90th INTERPOL General Assembly in 2022, New Delhi, India rejected the narratives like ‘good terrorism, bad terrorism’ and ‘terrorist attack i.e big or small’.
- Terrorism Vs Insurgency:
- Terrorism: Involves the use of violence or threats to intimidate or coerce a government, society, or group, often targeting civilians to create fear and achieve political, religious, or ideological objectives.
  - Example: 9/11 attacks, bombings in Madrid, or lone-wolf attacks in various countries.
- Insurgency: A rebellion or uprising against an established authority or government, typically involving armed conflict and aimed at overthrowing or challenging the ruling regime.
  - Example: Insurgency In Manipur, India.
Terrorist financing: It refers to the process of providing financial resources or support to terrorist organisations or individuals involved in terrorist activities.
- Examples: Illicit donations, trade based money laundering, drug trafficking, smuggling etc.
- Layering and Integration: Layering involves moving funds through multiple accounts to hide their origin, while integration mixes illicit funds with legitimate activities, like investments, to legitimise and conceal their source.

Key Terror Incidents

9/11 Attacks on the United States (2001): Al-Qaeda hijacked four planes on September 11, 2001, targeting the World Trade Center,killing nearly 3,000 people.
This attack prompted the U.S. to launch the War on Terror, a global military campaign against terrorism.
- 26/11 Mumbai Attacks, India(2008): Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) militants carried out coordinated attacks on multiple locations in Mumbai, killing 166 and injuring over 300.
Nice Truck Attack in France (2016): During Bastille Day celebrations, a truck driven by an attacker drove through crowds, killing 86 people and injuring hundreds.
Beheading of Samuel Paty (2020): A French school teacher was killed for showing caricatures of the Prophet Muhammad in a classroom discussion on freedom of expression.
- Sparked national debates on secularism, free speech, and anti-radicalisation strategies in France.

Key Terror Organisations:

Al-Qaeda: Responsible for 9/11 attacks and numerous global attacks.
- It is motivated by an extremist interpretation of Sunni Islam.
Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT): Based in Pakistan, responsible for 26/11 attacks, aiming to create an Islamic state in Kashmir.
Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM): It is an extremist group based in Pakistan.
Hizb-ut-Tahrir (HuT): HuT aims to establish Islamic state and Caliphate globally, including in India, by overthrowing democratically elected governments through jihad and terrorist activities

Key Features of the National Counter-Terrorism Policy

Unified Strategy For Counter Terrorism: The new policy focuses on streamlining coordination between agencies like National Investigation Agency (NIA), Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), and National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO).
- This “whole-of-government” approach aims to improve intelligence-sharing, enable rapid response, and ensure coordinated action, minimising communication gaps and execution delays.
Focus on Emerging Threats: As cyber terrorism and misinformation rise, the policy includes provisions to counter threats emerging from digital spaces.
Proposal for Model Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and Special Task Force (STF): The government has proposed a model Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and Special Task Force (STF) for states and union territories.
- Standardised Platform to Combat Terrorism: These units, if adopted, will serve as a standardised structure and platform to combat terrorism.
- Flexible SOPs for State Adaptation: Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the model ATS and STF are shared with states, allowing them to adapt as per their needs.

Multi-Agency Centre (MAC):

The Multi-Agency Centre was formed in December 2001 following the Kargil intrusion and the subsequent overhaul of the Indian national security apparatus suggested by the Kargil Review Committee report
It is a counter-terrorism grid under the Intelligence Bureau, involving organisations such as R&AW, armed forces, and state police.
It functions 24/7, facilitating real-time intelligence sharing and coordination between central and state agencies.

- State Rights Remain Intact: Adopting the model ATS and STF will not infringe on states’ rights, preserving their autonomy within the new framework.
Enhanced State-Central Collaboration: The new policy aims to strengthen collaboration between state and central agencies to effectively address terrorism.Challenges Before India to Combat Terrorism:
Organised Crime as a Key Element of Terror Funding: Organised crime plays a significant role in financing terrorist activities.
- These gangs provide logistical support, such as weapons and transportation,
  - assist in money laundering,
  - Facilitate the recruitment,
  - Provide safe havens for terrorists.
- According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank, criminals launder an estimated two to nearly four trillion dollars each year.
Increasing Use of Technology for Terrorist Communication: Example:
- Encrypted Apps, VPN etc: Terrorist groups in India are increasingly using encrypted apps, VPNs, and secure digital tools to evade detection, complicating intelligence gathering and counter-terrorism efforts.
- Narco Drones: Drones are increasingly used to smuggle arms, drugs, and other illicit goods across borders.
Increasing Use Of Social Media in Terror Recruitment: Social media platforms serve as a major tool for the radicalisation, ideological manipulation and recruitment of individuals, particularly youth, into terrorist ideologies.
- Terrorist groups exploit these platforms to spread propaganda, recruit operatives, and coordinate attacks.Cross-Border Smuggling: Terrorist groups exploit porous borders across India to smuggle arms, ammunition, and drugs, using these illicit activities to finance terrorism.

International Declarations Against Terrorism

Brasilia Declaration: It was adopted in the 11th BRICS summit held in Brasilia (Brazil) in 2019.
- It emphasised that terrorism should not be linked to any religion, nationality, or civilization, and affirmed that terrorist acts are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of the underlying motivations.
Delhi Declaration: The G20 Summit’s Delhi Declaration, adopted in 2023, reaffirmed the global commitment to countering terrorism in all its forms.

Evolving Terrorist Tactics: Adapting to new forms of terrorism, including cyber terrorism, radicalization via social media, and the use of advanced technologies by terrorists.Lack of Coordination Among Security Agencies: There is a lack of real-time intelligence sharing and coordination between central and state agencies hampers effective counter-terrorism efforts, despite mechanisms like the Multi-Agency Centre (MAC).

Initiatives Taken To Combat Terrorism In India

‘Zero Tolerance Policy’ against terrorism: The Government upholds a firm zero tolerance approach toward terrorism, reflecting a commitment to completely eradicating terror activities and their support networks.
Creation of NIA: It functions as the Central Counter Terrorism Law Enforcement Agency in India.
- Establishment: It was established through the National Investigation Agency Act, 2008, following the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.
- Increase in the jurisdiction of NIA: The jurisdiction of the NIA has been increased by amending the NIA Act and now it can probe terror cases abroad too.
Establishment of National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID): It is an integrated database for counter-terrorism, connecting the databases of 21 core security agencies in India.
- It enables round-the-clock access to comprehensive intelligence patterns for security agencies.
Amendment of UAPA: By amending the UAPA, authorities now have the power to confiscate properties and declare organisations and individuals as terrorists.
Preparation Of 25-Point Integrated Plan: 25-Point Integrated Plan has been prepared to stop the funding of terrorism, including Jihadi terror and Left Wing Extremism.
Scope of Multi Agency Centre (MAC) was expanded: Scope of Multi Agency Centre (MAC), an intelligence gathering mechanism, was expanded.
- Creation of SOPs: Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) were developed under MAC to address critical areas like cyber security, narco-terrorism, and emerging radical hotspots.
- Prevention of Crimes: The expanded MAC framework has successfully prevented numerous crimes by addressing potential threats before they occurred.
National-Level Terror Database
- National Automated Fingerprint Identification System (NAFIS): Holds over 90 lakh fingerprint records to enhance identification and tracking of terror suspects.
- Integrated Monitoring of Terrorism (IMT): Contains data on 22,000 terrorist cases, aiding in the monitoring and analysis of terror-related activities.
- National Integrated Database on Arrested Narco-Offenders: Tracks over 5 lakh offenders involved in narco-terrorism to counter the nexus between drugs and terrorism.
- National Database of Human Trafficking Offenders: Maintains data on approximately 1 lakh human traffickers, supporting efforts to combat human trafficking linked to terror activities.
Others:
- Terror Funding and Fake Currency (TFFC) Cell: A cell has been constituted in the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to conduct a focused investigation of terror funding and fake currency cases.
- Coordination Group: FICN Coordination Group (FCORD) has been formed by the Ministry of Home Affairs to share intelligence/information among the security agencies of the states/centres to counter the problem of circulation of fake currency notes.

International Initiatives to Counter Terrorism

UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy: The UN General Assembly adopted by consensus the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy on 8 September 2006.
- The strategy is a unique global instrument to enhance national, regional and international efforts to counter terrorism.
- The General Assembly reviews the Strategy every two years, making it a living document attuned to Member States’ counter-terrorism priorities.
United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT): promotes international cooperation in the fight against terrorism and supports the Member States in implementing the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy.
SAARC Convention on the Suppression of Terrorism (1987): A regional agreement among South Asian nations to promote cooperation in combating terrorism and extraditing terrorists within the region.
Financial Action Task Force (FATF): The FATF works to combat money laundering and terrorist financing by setting global standards and ensuring compliance by countries through regular evaluations.
INTERPOL: Facilitates global police cooperation and the exchange of information to fight transnational terrorism, with its secure communication systems enabling swift data sharing among member countries.
United Nation Security Council (UNSC) 1267 committee: It was set up in 1999 (updated in 2011 and 2015) allows any UN member state to propose adding the name of a terrorist or terror group to a consolidated list.
- The 1267 list of terrorists is a global list, with a UNSC stamp
Arab Convention on the Suppression of Terrorism: It was signed at meeting held at the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States in Cairo on 22 April 1998.
The Organisation of African Unity (OAU) Convention on the Prevention and Combating of Terrorism: It was adopted at Algiers on 14 July 1999. It entered into force 6.12.2002.

Way Forward

Balancing Human Rights with Security: There is a need to balance counter-terrorism measures with the protection of civil liberties. This includes safeguarding human rights while ensuring transparency and accountability in security operations to avoid misuse of power.
Continuous Engagement: Engaging local leaders, conducting dialogues, and fostering trust between communities and security agencies will be crucial for effective implementation of National Counter-Terrorism Policy.
Ensuring Policy Accountability and Continuous Improvement: Regular policy reviews and stakeholder engagement will ensure the policy adapts to evolving threats.
- Continuous training, advanced technology upgrades, and adapting to global best practices are vital to sustaining this progress.
Counter-Terrorism Coordination and Strategy: There is a need for a uniform anti-terror structure, with better coordination between counter-terrorism squads and local police at the district level.
- Efforts should be undertaken to further enhance coordination among agencies to strengthen India’s security bastion.
Regulating Social Media and Digital Tools: Strengthening social media regulations and investigating the use of encrypted applications, VPNs, and virtual numbers, alongside tackling narcotics trafficking, is crucial for curbing terrorism and ensuring national security.

Conclusion

India’s upcoming National Counter-Terrorism Policy is poised to strengthen the country’s internal security framework and ensure that terrorism incidents continue to decline.

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Eligibility Rules in Public Appointments Can’t be Changed Midway: SC

GS Paper II Polity

Recently, a five-judge Constitution Bench led by the Chief Justice of India held that the eligibility criteria or ‘Rules of the Game’ for selection of candidates to public services could not be changed midway once the recruitment commenced.

Constitutional Bench

A Constitutional Bench in the Supreme Court of India is a special bench consisting of at least five judges. It is formed to hear and decide cases involving substantial questions of law related to the interpretation of the Constitution.

Strengths:

Authoritative Decisions: Decisions made by a larger bench are considered more authoritative and binding.
Diverse Perspectives: A larger bench allows for a wider range of legal opinions and perspectives.
Impartiality: The larger number of judges reduces the potential for bias or influence.

Sizes:

Minimum: 5 judges
Maximum: There is no fixed maximum limit, but benches of 7, 9, 11, and 17 judges have been constituted in the past for significant constitutional matters.

Key Highlights of the Judgement

Principles of Equality and Non-Discrimination: All recruitment processes must align with fundamental rights, particularly Articles 14 (right to equality) and Article 16 (equal opportunity in public employment), ensuring non-arbitrariness and fair treatment.
No Guaranteed Right to Appointment: Candidates on the select list do not have an absolute right to appointment, even if vacancies exist.
Burden of Proof on State: The state cannot arbitrarily deny appointments and must provide justification if refusing to appoint a selected candidate.
Binding Nature of Rules: Both procedural and eligibility requirements in recruitment rules are binding on the recruiting body, which must adhere strictly to these rules during the process.

Equality before the law & Equal Protection of the Law

Article 14 of the Constitution of India states that the government cannot deny any person in India equality before the law or equal protection of the laws.
This means that all people are treated equally in the eyes of the law, regardless of their status, caste, race, religion, place of birth, or sex.
This is also known as the rule of law.
Article 14 has two parts:
- Equality before the law: A negative concept that implies the absence of any privilege in favor of any person.
- Equal protection of the laws: A positive concept that expects a positive action from the state

Equal opportunity in Public Employment & Prohibition of Discrimination

Article 16 of the Indian Constitution guarantees equal opportunity in public employment and prohibits discrimination based on certain factors:
Equal opportunity: All citizens have an equal chance to apply for and secure government jobs.
No discrimination: Citizens cannot be discriminated against based on religion, race, caste, sex, descent, place of birth, or residence.
Reservations: The government can make reservations for citizens from any backward class, such as the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, or economically weaker sections of citizens.
Residence requirements: Parliament can make laws that require a certain residence within a state or union territory for employment or appointment to a government office.
Exceptions: There may be compelling reasons to reserve certain posts for residents only.

About Rules of the Game

Definition of ‘Rules of the Game’: The term refers to the selection and appointment process, with a clear principle that rules should not be changed midway through the recruitment.
- This is based on a longstanding legal standard against changing the ‘rules of the game’ after recruitment begins.
Two Categories of Rules:
- Eligibility Criteria: Qualifications required to apply.
- Selection Procedure: The method and manner used to select candidates from the eligible pool.

Recruitment Process Guidelines

Recruitment is the entire process of filling up the vacant posts, beginning from advertisement to the appointment and placement of a selected persons in the vacant post.
Process Mandates: Must align with extant rules, remain rational, transparent, and non-discriminatory
Flexibility Within Rules: Recruitment bodies may devise procedures provided they:
- Align with statutory rules.
- Are transparent, non-discriminatory, and non-arbitrary
- Maintain a rational link to the recruitment objectives

Civil Service Recruitment In India

Article 309 of the Indian Constitution empowers the Central Government and State Governments to regulate recruitment and conditions of service of persons appointed to public services and posts through an act of appropriate legislature.
The Parliament made the All India Staffing Pattern Services Act in 1951, which governs the conditions of service of All India Service Officers.
The recruitment and employment of civil servants is regulated by the rules made by the respective governments under the provisions of the constitution

Implication of the Judgement

For Candidates: Assures candidates that eligibility and selection methods remain stable once recruitment begins
For Recruiting Bodies: Reinforces adherence to procedural fairness and constitutionally grounded non-arbitrariness
Binding Nature of Rules: Statutory rules are binding on recruiting bodies
Administrative Instructions: May guide recruitment where formal rules are absent or silent
No Guaranteed Right to Appointment: Placement on the select list does not guarantee appointment

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Ozempic Drug

GS Paper III Science and Technology

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While injectable forms of semaglutide are available around the globe, the oral form, available in India, is helping doctors see results in diabetes control with the added benefit of weight loss.

About Ozempic Drug

Ozempic Drug

Ozempic is a prescription injectable drug known generically as semaglutide.
Working of Ozempic: It mimics the hormone GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar by stimulating insulin release and slowing glucose release from the liver.
FDA Approval: Approved in 2017 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for managing blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes.
- In 2021, the FDA approved another form of semaglutide, Wegovy, for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or weight-related health conditions (e.g., high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol).

Benefits of Semaglutide beyond Diabetes

Blood Sugar Control: Effective in maintaining stable blood sugar levels without causing hypoglycemia, a common side effect of insulin.
Cardiovascular and Renal Health: Reduces risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney-related issues in high-risk patients.
Weight Loss: Reduces weight gain associated with insulin use in diabetic patients.

Concerns regarding Ozempic use

Side Effects: Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, bloating, and more severe risks like pancreatitis and stomach paralysis, which affect tolerability for some patients.
“Ozempic Face”: Rapid weight loss from Ozempic can lead to facial aging and skin sagging, which some patients find concerning.
Cost and Accessibility: Ozempic is expensive, making it difficult for many patients to afford, especially in countries where health insurance may not cover such medications.
Misuse for Weight Loss: Despite FDA approval only for diabetes, many non-diabetic individuals are using Ozempic for weight loss, risking side effects without medical oversight.
Dependency and Rebound Weight Gain: If patients stop using Ozempic, they may regain weight quickly, as the drug requires long-term or lifetime use for sustained results.

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SC Order Will Not Hinder NCRB Data Collection

GS Paper II Polity

Recently the Supreme Court ruled to end caste-based discrimination in prisons, including the removal of caste columns and any caste references from undertrial and convict registers.

Undertrial Prisoners

An undertrial refers to a person who is either currently on trial, held in remand while awaiting trial, or in judicial custody during an investigation, as defined in the 78th Report of the Law Commission.
The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reports that, in 2022, India had 4,34,302 undertrials, representing 76% of the total jail population of 5,73,220.

Key Highlights of the Court Directive: In Sukanya Shantha vs Union of India, SC Struck down provisions in State prison manuals that enabled caste-based discrimination.

Colonial-Era Practices: The court highlighted the continuation of colonial practices like caste-based division of labor, barrack segregation, and biases, especially against denotified tribes and habitual offenders, which were upheld in prison manuals in at least 10 states.
SC directed the removal of caste columns and references in prison registers addressing institutionalized caste discrimination and uphold prisoners’ dignity.
Right to Dignity & Substantive Equality: The court emphasized that the right to dignity applies even to prisoners.
- SC directed states to amend prison manuals and laws to ensure that dignity is upheld for all incarcerated individuals.
Individual Abilities Over Caste: Court stressed assigning roles based on abilities, not caste.
Rehabilitation and Reform: Focus on creating equal opportunities for skill development and rehabilitation, counteracting caste prejudices.
Three-Month Compliance Period: The judgment requires the Centre and states to make the necessary amendments to prison manuals and laws within three months, with compliance reports to be filed with the court.
Clarification on Data Collection: Supreme Court clarified that NCRB data collection on crime statistics would not be impacted.
- NCRB needs to ensure that data on crime can still be collected without referencing caste in individual prison records.

About National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB)

Establishment: Formed in 1986 as an information repository on crime and criminals, the NCRB operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Government of India.
Genesis: NCRB was established based on recommendations from the Tandon Committee, the National Police Commission (1977-1981), and the Task Force of the Home Ministry.
Role: It is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and maintaining crime data, providing valuable insights to help investigators trace crimes and criminals.
Headquarters: New Delhi.
Publications: Key reports include Crime in India, Accidental Deaths & Suicides, and Prison Statistics, detailing national crime trends and patterns.

Functions of NCRB

Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and System (CCTNS): Since 2009, NCRB has been responsible for monitoring, coordinating, and implementing the CCTNS project, a network that links police stations across the country to create a centralized database of crime and criminal information.
National Digital Police Portal: Launched in 2017, this portal provides police officers access to CCTNS data to help track criminals and suspects. It also allows citizens to access services like online complaint filing.

Mulla Committee

In 1980 the Government of India set-up a Committee on Jail Reforms under the Chairmanship of Justice A. N. Mulla.

Key recommendations of Mulla committee included:

Human Dignity: Prisoners should be treated with respect, free from abuse, and protected from deprivation of fundamental rights.
Basic Needs: Ensuring adequate food, water, sanitation, and healthcare.
Legal Rights: Access to legal aid, speedy trials, and the right to challenge unlawful detention.
Rehabilitation: Providing education, vocational training, and counseling to aid reintegration into society.
Communication and Visitation: Allowing reasonable communication with family and friends.
Grievance Redressal: Establishing mechanisms for prisoners to file complaints and seek justice.
Prison Reforms: Improving infrastructure, reducing overcrowding, and promoting humane conditions.

National Database of Sexual Offenders (NDSO): NCRB maintains this database, sharing it regularly with States and Union Territories to aid in monitoring offenders.
Online Cyber-Crime Reporting Portal: NCRB serves as the Central Nodal Agency for this portal, enabling citizens to report cyber-crimes, particularly those related to child pornography and sexual offenses, and upload evidence.
Central Finger Print Bureau: NCRB oversees this national fingerprint repository, storing and maintaining records that support crime investigation and verification processes across India.

Rights of Prisoners in India

Right Against Double Jeopardy (Article 20(2)): A person cannot be prosecuted and punished for the same offense more than once.
Right to Free Legal Aid (Article 22(1)): Every person has the right to be defended by a lawyer, especially in serious criminal cases.
Right to Speedy Trial (Article 22(1)): A person accused of an offense shall be produced before a magistrate within 24 hours of arrest.
- The trial should be completed within a reasonable time.
Right to Humane Treatment (Article 21): Prisoners have the right to live with human dignity.
- They should not be subjected to torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment.
Right to Medical Aid: Prisoners have the right to adequate medical facilities.
Right to Education and Rehabilitation: Prisoners have the right to education and vocational training.
- They should be provided with opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

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Supreme Court Directs Liquidation of Jet Airways

GS Paper III Economy

Recently, the Supreme Court directed the liquidation of Jet Airways to commence as the “last viable resort” to protect the interests of the debt-ridden airline, its creditors, workmen and employees, following the failure of a resolution plan.

Liquidation

Key Highlights of the Case

Supreme court jurisdiction: The court’s plenary powers under Article 142 of the Constitution to direct the airline into liquidation in compliance with the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) of 2016.Speedy Resolution Required: The court emphasized the need for a prompt resolution or, alternatively, a time-bound liquidation to prevent further depreciation of Jet Airways’ assets.
Invocation of Article 142: The court used its plenary powers under Article 142 of the Constitution to mandate liquidation, asserting that over five years had passed with no significant progress on the resolution plan.
Direction to NCLT: The apex court instructed the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) in Mumbai to initiate liquidation, appoint a liquidator, and complete all required formalities.
Performance Bank Guarantee (PBG) and Funds: The Supreme Court criticized the NCLAT’s directive to adjust the PBG against the first payment tranche, calling it legally unsustainable, and allowed creditors to encash the PBG.
- The court also forfeited an additional ₹200 crore infused by the Jalan-Kalrock consortium.

What Is Liquidation?

Liquidation in finance and economics is the process of bringing a business to an end and distributing its assets to claimants.
- It is an event that usually occurs when a company is insolvent, meaning it cannot pay its obligations when they are due.
As company operations end, the remaining assets are used to pay creditors and shareholders, based on the priority of their claims. General partners are subject to liquidation.
The term liquidation may also be used to refer to the selling of poor-performing goods at a price lower than the cost to the business or at a price lower than the business desires.

National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT)

Establishment: Formed on June 1, 2016, under Section 410 of the Companies Act, 2013, NCLAT serves as the appellate authority for NCLT orders.
Structure: Headed by a Chairperson, with Judicial and Technical Members assisting in the adjudication of cases. Members possess expertise in fields such as law, finance, and corporate governance.
Primary Role: Acts as an appellate body to review decisions made by the NCLT, Competition Commission of India (CCI), and Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI).
Function: Handles appeals related to company law matters, insolvency and bankruptcy cases under IBC, and competition law issues.
Objective: Ensures a fair and efficient resolution of corporate disputes, fostering corporate governance and protecting stakeholder interests.

About Jet Airways’ Liquidation

Failed Resolution Plan: Jet Airways, which ceased operations in April 2019, had a resolution plan approved by the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT). However, the plan faced ongoing issues and stalled progress, leading to the Supreme Court’s decision for liquidation.Role of the Jalan-Kalrock Consortium: The consortium, led by Murari Lal Jalan and Florian Fritsch, had committed to infusing funds but fell short of executing the resolution plan to satisfaction.
Creditors’ Claims: The creditor banks, led by the State Bank of India, had claims worth around ₹7800 crore.
- The Supreme Court’s ruling aims to recover and distribute assets to these creditors and other stakeholders, including Jet Airways’ employees.

Provisions for Liquidation under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC)

Liquidation as a Last Resort: The IBC allows liquidation when a corporate debtor’s resolution plan fails, as in the case of Jet Airways, where liquidation is deemed necessary after the lapse of five years with little progress.
Role of Liquidator: The NCLT will appoint a liquidator responsible for the sale of assets and distribution of proceeds to creditors, employees, and other eligible parties.
Asset Protection: The liquidation process aims to protect and maximise the value of Jet Airways’ assets to prevent further depreciation.

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Bengaluru’s first Digital Population Clock

GS Paper III Science and Technology

Bengaluru city’s first digital population clock, which displays real-time estimates of the population of Karnataka and India, was inaugurated at the Institute for Social and Economic Change (ISEC).

Population Clock Features

The clock is strategically placed at the entrance of ISEC to enhance public awareness of India’s rapid population growth.
Real-time Population Count: Continuously updates the population based on real-time data, providing an up-to-the-minute view of the population size.
- Karnataka’s population will update every one minute and 10 seconds, while the national population count will refresh every two seconds.
Demographic Data: Incorporates birth rates, death rates, and migration patterns to calculate the changes in population.
- Also account for other demographic factors such as life expectancy, fertility rates, and mortality rates.
Global vs. National Clocks: Digital population clocks can be global (tracking the world’s population) or country-specific.

Project Collaboration and Objectives

The population clock is a joint initiative between ISEC and the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW).
This clock is part of a larger national project by the MoHFW, setting up population clocks at 18 Population Research Centres (PRCs) across the country.
Objective: It is aimed at raising public awareness on population growth and its implications for sustainable development.
Significance: Intended to provide valuable, authentic data for researchers and scholars interested in demographic trends.

Establishment of Census Data Research Workstation

Alongside the clock, a Census Data Research Workstation has been set up at ISEC, also overseen by the head of the Population Research Centre (PRC) at ISEC.
The workstation offers access to comprehensive census data for researchers and students, enabling in-depth demographic studies and supporting policy planning.
Equipped with advanced software and analytical tools, it facilitates detailed analysis of population trends and their impact on policy and development.

About Population Research Centres (PRCs)

Established by: the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), Government of India.
Mandate: Provide research-based inputs for Health and Family Welfare Programs and Policies.
Focus areas: Family planning, demographic research, biological studies, and qualitative aspects of population control.
Research objectives:
- Understand population trends and dynamics.
- Evaluate the impact of family planning programs.
- Identify factors influencing fertility and mortality.
- Develop evidence-based recommendations for policy and program implementation.
Activities:
- Conduct original research studies.
- Analyze existing data and literature.
- Disseminate research findings through publications and presentations.
- Collaborate with other researchers and institutions.
- Provide technical assistance to government agencies and NGOs.
Network: 18 PRCs across India, located in universities and research institutes.

Contributions:
- Inform policy decisions and program design.
- Strengthen the evidence base for population and health interventions.
- Build capacity in population research and analysis.

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Zambia

Places in News

About Zambia

Zambia

Location: A Landlocked Country located in Africa.
It is located nearly midway between the Equator and the Tropic of Capricorn in the Southern Hemisphere.
Longitudinally, it is located in the Eastern Hemisphere of the world
Capital: Lusaka
Languages: English, Nyanja, Bemba
Neighbouring Countries: Zambia is bordered by eight countries:
- North: Democratic Republic of the Congo and Tanzania
- East: Malawi and Mozambique
- South: Zimbabwe and Botswana
- West: Namibia and Angola
Africa’s Second largest copper producer after the DR Congo.
- While, Peru is the second largest producer of copper in the world, after Chile
located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Zambia, unlike most of its neighbors, has managed to avoid the war and upheaval that has marked much of Africa’s post-colonial history, earning itself a reputation for political stability.

Geographical Features of Zambia

Central Plateau: Elevations between 1,000 to 1,600 meters; main agricultural region, growing crops like maize and tobacco.
Valleys:
- Zambezi Valley (south): Borders Zambia with lower altitudes, diverse wildlife.
- Luangwa Valley (east): Known for rich wildlife, carved by the Luangwa River.
Eastern Highlands (Muchinga Escarpment): Altitudes up to 1,800 meters, higher rainfall, supports coffee cultivation.
Western Sandy Plains: Part of the Kalahari Basin, includes the Barotse Floodplain and Miombo Woodlands.

Rivers and Lakes

Major Rivers:
- Zambezi River: Largest river, originating in Zambia, flows into the Indian Ocean.Victoria Falls is a waterfall on the Zambezi River.
- Kafue and Luangwa Rivers: Key for hydropower, irrigation, and wildlife support.
Notable Lakes:
- Lake Tanganyika: Second deepest freshwater lake, along Zambia’s northern border with Tanzania.
- Lake Bangweulu and Lake Kariba: Important for fishing, transport, and tourism.

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136th Birth Anniversary of CV Raman

Person in News

Recently the 136th birth anniversary of CV Raman was celebrated.

C. V. Raman

About CV Raman

Birth: Chandrasekhar Venkata Raman was born in Tiruchirappalli, Madras Presidency on 7 November, 1888.
Education: He topped his undergraduate degree examination and won the gold medal in Physics at the University of Madras.
He obtained his Masters degree with the highest distinction from University of Madras.
Employment: He began his career as an Assistant Accountant General when he joined the Indian Finance Service in Kolkata.
However, he continued doing research at IACS (Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science).
Career Shift: He resigned from his government job in 1917 and accepted the offer of Palit Chair of Physics at Calcutta University.
Appointment in IISc: He was appointed as the Director of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bangalore in 1933. He served at the IISc till his retirement in 1948.
Awards Received:
- Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930 for his work on the scattering of light and for the discovery of the Raman Effect.
- Bharat Ratna in 1954
- Also received several other awards including the Lenin Peace Prize and the Franklin Medal
- Presented with the Hughes Medal in 1930
In His Honour: National Science Day is celebrated every year to commemorate his discovery of the Raman Effect in 1928.
- Raman Effect is a phenomenon when a stream of light passes through a liquid, a fraction of light scattered by liquid is of a different colour.

C. V. Raman

About Raman Effect

Refers to the phenomenon of a change in the wavelength of light as it is scattered by molecules, resulting in shifts in energy levels.
The Raman Effect is the principle behind Raman Spectroscopy, which is used for molecular characterization and identification in various fields such as chemistry, biology, and materials science.
C.V. Raman discovered the Raman Effect while studying the scattering of light in liquids, not solids, during his research in 1928.

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Glacial Lakes Rise as Glaciers Retreat

GS Paper III Environment

This article sheds light on the glacial lakes, its formation, importance, and color.

What Are Glaciers?

Glaciers

Glaciers are huge, dense ice masses found on mountains that move due to gravity and their own weight.
Structure of Glaciers
- Accumulation Zone: The upper part of the glacier where snow builds up and compresses into ice.
- Ablation Zone: The lower part of the glacier where melting occurs, resulting in loss of ice.
Formation Process:
- Erosion Process: As glaciers move, they grind down rocks, creating a mixture called moraine, which includes everything from large boulders to fine rock dust.
- Lake Formation: When glaciers melt and retreat, the area left behind fills with water, forming glacial lakes.
  - The moraine at the glacier’s end often acts as a natural dam, holding the water in place.

Importance of Glacial Lakes

Glaciers

Water Flow Control: Glacial lakes act as buffers, slowing down the flow of melting glacier water, which helps control water flow downstream.
Effect on Communities: Sometimes, this can cause water shortages or sudden flooding, which impacts nearby communities.
River Flow Regulation: Help maintain steady river flows.
Climate Impact: Aid in countering global warming by storing ice and regulating temperature.

Why do Glacial Lakes Appear Blue?

Blue Color Effect: Glacial lakes often appear bright blue due to light scattering by fine rock particles suspended in the water.
Examples of Glacial Lakes in the Himalayas:
- Gurudongmar Lake: Located in Northern Sikkim, at 5,430 meters above sea level, and feeds into the Teesta River.
- Pangong Tso: A 134-km lake chain in the border region between Ladakh and China.
- Samiti Lake: Found in Sikkim on the way to Mount Kanchenjunga, at around 4,300 meters.

Impact of Global Warming on Glacial Lakes

Rising Risk of Lake Outbursts: As global temperatures rise, glaciers melt faster, leading to higher water levels in glacial lakes and increasing the risk of moraine dam breaks.
South Lhonak Lake as a Case Study:
- Rapid Growth: South Lhonak Lake in Sikkim, which first appeared in satellite images in 1962, has expanded rapidly due to melting glaciers.
- Potential Hazard: Initially only 17 hectares in 1977, the lake’s continuous growth prompted the installation of drainage pipes by 2017.
  - However, these pipes have been insufficient, raising concerns about the risk of glacial lake outbursts that could lead to flooding.

Major Glacial Lakes in India

India’s Himalayan region has many important glacial lakes, each with unique features:

Gurudongmar Lake (Sikkim)
- Elevation: One of the highest lakes in the world at 5,430 meters.
- Water Source: Gets its water from melting glaciers.
- Significance: Holds religious importance for local communities.

Chandra Taal (Himachal Pradesh)
- Location: In the Lahaul-Spiti region at an altitude of 4,300 meters.
- Shape: Known for its beautiful crescent shape and surrounded by snowy mountains.
- Water Source: Fed by glacier melt.

Samiti Lake (Sikkim)
- Trekking Spot: Located along the trekking path to Mount Kanchenjunga.
- Features: Famous for its clear blue water that reflects the surrounding scenery.

Satopanth Tal (Uttarakhand)
- Location: Found in the Garhwal Himalayas, near the Satopanth Glacier.
- Cultural Importance: Sacred to the local people.

South Lhonak Lake (Sikkim)
- Water Source: Gets water from three glaciers.
- Climate Impact: Growing rapidly due to climate change.
- Risk: At risk of flooding, which could affect nearby areas.

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Equity Infusion in Food Corporation of India

GS Paper III Economy

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The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved an equity infusion to the tune of ₹10,700 crore in Food Corporation of India (FCI) by way of conversion of ‘Ways and Means Advance’ to equity in 2024-25.

The equity will be used as working capital for the FCI in this financial year.
Equity Infusion: FCI in the last financial year (2023-24) has seen an increase in equity from ₹4,496 crore in 2019-20 to ₹10,157 crore.
Objective: To enhance the operational capabilities of FCI so that to fulfill its required mandate.

Reasons for Equity Infusion

Enhance Procurement: To enhance FCI’s food grain procurement operations as there was complaints regarding delays in paddy procurement in the kharif harvest season mainly from Punjab and Haryana.
To strengthen FCI’s financial position and meet its working capital requirement.
Reduce subsidy Burden: FCI usually relies on short term borrowings to match the fund shortage. The infusion will fill the gap helping lower the interest burden and ultimately reducing the subsidy of Government of India
- Food subsidy in the period 2014-2024 has increased more than 4 times to Rs 21,56,000 crore from Rs 5,15,000 crore during 2002-2014 period.
Sustainable handling of Stocks: FCI’s average stock holdings over the past five years have been around ₹80,000 crore. The capital boost will enable FCI to handle this growth more sustainably.
Inflation: Inflation due to MSP hikes and increased stock levels has raised the cost of food procurement for FCI requiring additional capital to meet its working capital needs.

About The Food Corporation of India

Established Under: FCI was setup under the Food Corporation’s Act 1964
Objectives: To ensure food security, stabilize food prices, and promote agricultural development within the country by performing certain functions like,
- Procurement: FCI along with other State Agencies undertakes procurement of wheat and paddy under the price support scheme and ensures MSP to the farmers and availability of food grains to the weaker sections at affordable prices.
  - The Procurement function is an effective market intervention keeping the prices under check and also adding to the overall food security of the country.
- Movement: FCI on an average transports 42 to 45 million tonnes of foodgrains across the country in a year in order to,
  - Evacuate stocks from surplus regions
  - Meet the requirements of deficit regions for NFSA/ TPDS and Other Schemes
  - Create buffer stocks in deficit regions.
- Storage: FCI maintains a network of warehouses and Silos to hold stocks of procured foodgrains to meet Public Distribution System and Other Welfare Schemes requirement undertaken by the Government of India.
  - Also, buffer stock is to be maintained for ensuring food security of the nation in times of crisis or calamity
- Distribution: FCI also plays a role in distribution of foodgrains under PDS/NFSA (PMGKAY) & Other Welfare Schemes (PM POSHAN, Annapurna, Welfare Institutions & Hostels, Wheat Based Nutrition Programme and Scheme for Adolescent Girls)
  - FCI ensure an equitable distribution of available foodgrains at reasonable prices to the vulnerable sections of society throughout the year
- Quality Control: Food Corporation of India’s testing laboratories spread across the country for effective monitoring of quality of foodgrains providing quality assurance as per FSS Act 2006, leading to improved satisfaction level to the customers.

Ways and Means Advance (WMA)

These are short-term loans given by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to the central and state/UT governments, helping them meet with temporary budget deficits. The RBI provides this facility as part of its credit policy.
- WMAs can be availed only on the condition of repayment within three months (90 days) and are often issued at the repo rate.
Introduction: The WMA scheme was introduced on April 1, 1997 by replacing the ad-hoc Treasury Bills to cover the temporary finance requirements of the central government.
Purpose: WMAs are used to help governments manage temporary mismatches in their receipts and expenditures.
Act: The scheme is administered through Section 17(5) of the RBI Act, 1934.
Limits: The limits for Ways and Means Advances are decided by the government and RBI mutually and revised periodically
Types: There are two types of WMAs for the State Governments,
- Normal WMA and Special WMA (Special Drawing Facility (SDF)). Special WMAs are 1% point lower in interest rates than Normal WMAs and are exhausted first in exchange for the state’s holdings of government assets
Overdrafts: If the amount is not returned within the 90-day period, it is treated as an overdraft. Interest on overdrafts is usually higher than the repo rate.

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Why is the RBI is Moving its Gold Back from England?

GS Paper III Economy

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has brought back nearly 130 metric tonnes of gold owned by it and kept in the safe custody of the Bank of England and the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) over the last two-and-a-half years.

Bank for International Settlements (BIS)

Established: 1930, headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, with offices in Hong Kong SAR, Mexico City, and multiple Innovation Hub Centres worldwide.
Ownership: Owned by 63 central banks, representing approximately 95% of global GDP.
Mission: To support central banks in achieving monetary and financial stability through international cooperation and to serve as a “bank for central banks.”
Objectives:
- Facilitate international dialogue and cooperation.
- Encourage responsible innovation and knowledge-sharing.
- Provide in-depth policy analysis and competitive financial services.

More on Repatriation of Gold

Background: During the 1990-91 foreign exchange crisis, India pledged part of its gold reserves to the Bank of England to secure a USD 405 million loan.
- After the loan was repaid in 1991, the RBI chose to retain the gold in the UK due to logistical benefits, as overseas gold can be easily utilised for trading, swaps, and earning returns.Financial Implications: This transfer has no impact on India’s GDP, tax collections, or the RBI’s balance sheet, as it merely changes the storage location of the gold without altering the total value of RBI’s assets.
- There are no customs or GST implications, as the gold being repatriated is already owned by India.

Rationale for Gold Repatriation

Cost Efficiency: Saving on custodial fees paid to foreign banks.
Increased Confidence in Domestic Security: India’s economic stability and robust security infrastructure now make it feasible to store more reserves domestically.
Reduced Dependence on Foreign Custodians: Diversifying storage locations enhances strategic control over the nation’s gold assets.

Current Status of Gold Reserves in India

As of end-September 2024, the RBI’s total gold reserves stood at 854.73 tonnes.
- Out of this, 510.46 tonnes (about 60%) are now stored within India.
The remaining reserves include 324.01 tonnes kept with the Bank of England and BIS, while 20.26 tonnes are held as gold deposits.

Impact on Foreign Exchange Reserves

In USD terms, the share of gold in India’s total foreign exchange reserves rose from 8.15% at the end of March 2024 to 9.32% by September 2024.
Over the same period, India’s forex reserves saw a substantial increase, rising from $646.42 billion in March 2024 to $705.78 billion by September 2024

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Millimeter Wave Transceiver for 5G Rural Connectivity

GS Paper III Science and Technology

The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), a key Telecom R&D body under India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT), has signed an agreement with the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee).

About Millimetre Wave Backhaul Technology Project

Project Objectives

Affordable Connectivity: The project aims to provide affordable broadband and mobile services in rural areas, helping reduce the digital divide.
- It also Aims to generate intellectual property rights (IPRs) and develop a skilled workforce for emerging millimetre wave/Sub-THz technology for 5G/6G
Innovative Technology: Focuses on millimetre wave backhaul technology where small cell-based stations connect to a gateway via fibre, using a mixed optical and millimetre wave approach to reduce costs and size.
Boost to Local Manufacturing: Emphasis on polymer and metal materials in the transceiver aims to reduce dependency on semiconductor industries and encourage SME participation in local manufacturing.