India is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, experiencing increasingly severe floods and disruptions to its agricultural sector but, this vulnerability also presents a unique opportunity for India to pursue a green economic transformation.

India’s Climate Challenges Driving the Green Economy Transition

• Rising Frequency of Extreme Weather Events: India faces frequent floods, heatwaves, and cyclones due to climate change.
  • The 2023 Himachal Pradesh floods caused extensive damage to infrastructure, including energy networks, emphasizing the fragility of fossil fuel-dependent systems.
• Agricultural Vulnerability: Erratic monsoons and rising temperatures impact crop yields, threatening food security and farmer incomes.
  • Climate change could reduce wheat yields by 19.3% by 2050 and 40% by 2080.
• Rising Sea Levels: Coastal cities like Mumbai and Chennai face threats from sea-level rise, endangering livelihoods and infrastructure.
  • Example: By 2050, 36 million Indians could be displaced due to coastal inundation.
• Water Scarcity and Declining Groundwater: Per capita water availability dropped from 5,177 m³ in 1951 to 1,486 m³ in 2022, driven by overuse and climate-induced water stress.
• Dependence on Energy Imports: India’s reliance on imported oil and gas makes it vulnerable to global price fluctuations.
  • Transitioning to renewable energy can reduce India’s current account deficit, as renewable energy generation reached 203.18 GW in October 2024.
• Public Health Impacts: Climate change increases vector-borne diseases and water scarcity, affecting vulnerable populations.
  • 37.7 million Indians are affected by waterborne diseases annually.

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About Green Economy

• As per UNEP, a  green economy is defined as an economy that is low carbon, resource efficient and socially inclusive.
• In a green economy, growth in employment and income are driven by public and private investment into such economic activities, infrastructure and assets that allows reduced carbon emissions and pollution, enhanced energy and resource efficiency, and prevention of the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services.

Significance of Green Energy Transition

• Environmental Sustainability: Reduces greenhouse gas emissions, combating climate change.
• Energy Security: Reduces dependence on fossil fuel imports, enhancing self-reliance.
  • India has abundant solar, wind, and biomass resources.
  • Rajasthan and Gujarat lead in solar energy generation, while Tamil Nadu excels in wind energy.
• Economic Growth: Creates green jobs and attracts investments in new technologies.
  • Renewable energy sectors created 238,000 jobs in solar energy alone in 2023. Decentralized solar and microgrid projects offer rural employment opportunities.
  • India will need 8.5 million jobs in the renewable energy sector by 2050
• Global Commitments: Aligns with India’s goals under the Paris Agreement to reduce emissions intensity by 33-35% by 2030 (from 2005 levels).
• Improved Quality of Life: Reduces air and water pollution, benefitting public health.
• Global Leadership: India is setting an example for other developing nations in balancing economic growth with sustainability.

Challenges in India’s Transition Towards a Green Economy

• High Initial Costs and Financial Barriers: Transitioning to a green economy requires substantial investments.
  • India will require investments of around USD 200 billion to establish renewable energy (RE) generating assets by 2030.
  • NITI Aayog estimates $10.1 trillion by 2070 for net-zero goals, but clean energy investments in 2022 stood at just $17 billion.
  • With heavy investment, India’s fiscal burden could increase, impacting India’s fiscal deficit and public debt levels.
• Technological Dependence on Imports: India heavily relies on importing green technologies like solar panels, batteries, and wind turbines.
  • Dependence increases vulnerability to global trade dynamics and supply chain disruptions.
  • China was India’s main supplier of solar modules in FY24, accounting for 62.6% of India’s total solar imports of $3.89 billion​.
• Social and Employment Challenges: Transition impacts workers in carbon-intensive sectors who lack the skills to transition to green jobs.
  • Coal-dependent states like Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh face employment risks without reskilling programs​.
• Policy and Regulatory Gaps: Fragmented and inconsistent policies hinder long-term green investments.
  • Frequent tariff changes and duties, such as the Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on solar imports, deter investors​.
• Land Acquisition and Community Resistance: Renewable energy projects require vast land, often leading to displacement and protests.
  • The Bhadla Solar Park in Rajasthan and Karnataka’s Pavagada Park faced local resistance over land use and compensation issues​.
• Urban and Waste Management Challenges: Rapid urbanization increases the burden on waste management systems.
  • Only 22-28% of urban waste is processed efficiently​.
• Climate Impacts on Renewable Energy: Erratic weather patterns reduce efficiency and disrupt renewable energy generation.
  • Wind energy projects in Tamil Nadu face decreased output due to unseasonal wind patterns​.
• Limited Public Awareness and Behavior Change: Public engagement in sustainable practices remains low.
  • Only 25% of households are aware of energy efficiency labels like the BEE star rating​.
• Unequal Development Among States: States dependent on carbon-intensive industries lag in adopting green initiatives.
  • Coal-reliant states face greater challenges in transitioning compared to proactive states like Gujarat​.
• International Climate Finance Deficit: India receives limited financial support for its green initiatives.
  • Commitments from international forums like COP29 have fallen short of addressing India’s climate finance needs​.

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Government Initiatives and Commitments Towards a Green Economy in India

• Renewable Energy Expansion
  • National Solar Mission: Part of the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), it targets 100 GW of solar energy capacity by 2022, later expanded to 280 GW by 2030.
  • Green Energy Corridor: Supports the integration of renewable energy into the grid by building transmission infrastructure.
  • Renewable Energy Targets: India aims to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based energy capacity by 2030.
• National Green Hydrogen Mission
  • Launched to promote green hydrogen as an alternative to fossil fuels.
  • Target: 5 million metric tonnes of green hydrogen production annually by 2030.
• Electric Vehicles (EVs) Promotion
  • FAME India Scheme (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles): Supports EV adoption with subsidies for electric cars, buses, and charging infrastructure.
  • The PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) scheme was launched in Oct 2024 for a period of two years to promote the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) across India.
• Circular Economy Initiatives
  • Circular Economy Cell: NITI Aayog established this cell in 2022 to coordinate the implementation of circular economy action plans.
  • Voluntary Vehicle-Fleet Modernization Program (V-VMP) (2021): Aims to phase out old and polluting vehicles.
• Urban Development and Sustainability
  • Smart Cities Mission: Integrates sustainable urban planning with a focus on green buildings, efficient transport, and renewable energy adoption.
  • National Cooling Action Plan (NCAP): Aims to reduce cooling demand by 25-30% by 2037-38 through energy-efficient technologies.
• Afforestation and Ecosystem Restoration
  • National Afforestation Programme (NAP): Aims to increase forest cover on degraded lands by 20 million hectares by 2030.
  • Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes (MISHTI): Promotes mangrove conservation for coastal ecosystem protection.
    • Launched in 2023-24 and will be Implemented over five years from 2023 to 2028. 
• Waste Management
  • Swachh Bharat Mission: Promotes waste segregation and processing to reduce landfill dependency.
    • 97% of wards in India have 100% door-to-door waste collection.
• Green Finance Mechanisms
  • Sovereign Green Bonds: Issued ₹16,000 crores in 2023 to finance renewable energy projects.
  • Creation of a Green Credit Guarantee Fund to support MSMEs in adopting green technologies.
• International Commitments
  • Paris Agreement: India committed to reducing its emissions intensity by 33-35% by 2030 (from 2005 levels) and achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
  • Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement:
    • India aims to create an additional carbon sink of 2.5-3 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent by 2030 through afforestation and tree cover enhancement.
    • Current progress: Achieved an additional 2.29 billion tonnes of carbon sink since 2005.
  • One Sun, One World, One Grid (OSOWOG): Initiative by the International Solar Alliance (ISA), India, France and the United Kingdom to build a global green energy grid.
• Agriculture and Rural Sustainability
  • National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA): Focuses on climate-resilient farming practices like precision agriculture, organic farming, and water-use efficiency.
  • PM-KUSUM Scheme: Promotes solar-powered irrigation systems and off-grid solar pumps for farmers.

Way Forward for India’s Green Economy Transition

• Enhancing Green Finance Mechanisms: India needs innovative financial solutions to bridge the funding gap for green initiatives.
  • Expand issuance of Sovereign Green Bonds.
  • Establish a Green Credit Guarantee Fund for MSMEs.
  • Leverage international climate finance through partnerships with global institutions like the Green Climate Fund.
• Blended Financing: Public capital must be invested judiciously to attract private capital through innovative financial instruments, such as blended financing. 
  • Allow the government to allocate its budget to other important activities.
• Boosting Domestic Green Technology Manufacturing: Reducing dependence on imported renewable technologies is crucial for energy security.
  • Expand the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for solar modules, batteries, and green hydrogen equipment.
  • Invest in R&D for indigenous clean energy technologies.
• Skilling and Workforce Transition: Preparing workers in carbon-intensive industries for green jobs ensures an equitable transition.
  • Implement large-scale reskilling and upskilling programs in renewable energy, EV manufacturing, and sustainable agriculture.
• Strengthening Policy and Governance Frameworks: Streamlining policies can attract long-term investments and improve implementation.
  • Develop a National Green Economy Policy for cohesive action across sectors.
  • Enhance inter-departmental coordination to accelerate renewable energy project approvals.
• Promoting Sustainable Consumption and Circular Economy: Encouraging resource efficiency and reducing waste can drive sustainability.
  • Implement public awareness campaigns on sustainable practices.
  • Strengthen regulations and incentives for recycling, reuse, and waste-to-energy projects.
• Fostering State-Level Green Initiatives: Unequal development among states must be addressed to ensure nationwide progress.
  • Provide fiscal and technical support to coal-dependent states for diversifying their economies.
  • Promote state-specific green energy projects to harness regional strengths, such as solar in Rajasthan or wind in Tamil Nadu.

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Conclusion

India’s transition to a green economy presents both challenges and opportunities, requiring coordinated efforts across policy, finance, and technology. By fostering innovation, promoting inclusivity, and strengthening governance, India can achieve sustainable development while positioning itself as a global leader in the green economy.

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The Congress party challenged amendments to the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961, which restrict public access to certain election-related records.

• The amendments were notified on December 20, 2024, by the Union Law Ministry, modifying Rule 93(2)(a).

Conduct of Election Rules, 1961

• The Conduct of Election Rules, 1961, outlines the procedures for conducting elections in India.
• These rules are formulated as per the provisions of the Representation of the People Act.
• Framework for Elections: The rules provide a detailed framework for the entire electoral process.
• They cover aspects such as nomination of candidates, polling procedures, counting of votes, and declaration of results under various sections and rules.
• Ensures Voter Secrecy: The rules include provisions to protect the secrecy of voters and ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
• Specifies Election Officers’ Duties: Specific duties and responsibilities of election officers are defined to ensure smooth conduct of elections.
• Procedures for Addressing Disputes and Complaints: The rules include detailed procedures for addressing disputes and complaints arising during the election process.

About the Amendment

• Rule 93(2)(a) of the 1961 Conduct of Election Rules: The amended Rule 93(2)(a) specifies that only certain election-related papers explicitly mentioned in the rules are open to public inspection.
  • This change addresses ambiguities in the earlier provisions by restricting access to electronic records not explicitly specified, such as forms and observer reports.
• Provision Before the Amendment: Prior to the amendment, all election-related documents, including CCTV footage and video recordings, were open to public inspection without exception.
• Retention of Candidate Access: Despite the restrictions, candidates retain access to all election records, including electronic materials, ensuring they can verify the election process.
• Judicial Oversight: Materials restricted by the amendment can still be accessed through judicial intervention by approaching the courts in specific cases.
• Need of Amendment: To prevent potential misuse of electronic records, including risks to voter secrecy and manipulation using AI

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Issues Raised Against the Amendments

• Erosion of Transparency: Opposition parties argue the changes reduce transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
  • Public access to CCTV footage and video recordings is essential to ensure free and fair elections.
• Constitutional Concerns: The Election Commission, a constitutional body, cannot unilaterally amend rules that impact citizens’ right to scrutinize election procedures.
  • Critics claim the amendments bypass public consultation.
• Legal Precedent: The Punjab and Haryana High Court recently directed the Election Commission to provide an advocate with video footage and related documents from the Haryana Assembly elections.
  • The amendments seem to counter this ruling, potentially undermining judicial directions.
• Call for Judicial Intervention: Opposition moved the Supreme Court, urging it to restore public access to election-related records.

Electoral Rules in India

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The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with Citi Foundation, have launched the seventh edition of the Youth Co:Lab National Innovation Challenge for 2024-2025.

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About Youth Co:Lab

• Foundation: Youth Co:Lab was founded in 2017 by UNDP and Citi Foundation.
  • It aims to empower youth and promote the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through social innovation and entrepreneurship.
• Launch in India: The initiative was launched in India in 2019 in collaboration with the Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog.
• National Innovation Challenge 2024-2025: This edition focuses on empowering young entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs with disabilities.

Key Achievements of Youth Co:Lab

• Regional Reach: Supported young social entrepreneurs in 28 countries and territories across Asia and the Pacific since 2017.
• Wide Engagement: Engaged over 255,000 participants through national dialogues, regional summits, and innovation challenges.
• Youth Development: Benefited 15,000+ young people through skills development activities and supported 1,700+ youth-led innovation and entrepreneurship teams.
• Collaborative Network: Established a Youth Empowerment Alliance with 210+ ecosystem stakeholders.

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About UNDP

• Establishment: UNDP was established in 1966 by the General Assembly of the United Nations.
• Focus Areas
  • Sustainable development.
  • Democratic governance and peacebuilding.
  • Climate and disaster resilience.
• Funding: UNDP is funded entirely through voluntary contributions from UN member nations.
• Headquarters: Its global headquarters is located in New York, USA.
  • The UNDP Country Office for India is situated in New Delhi.
• Reports Published
  • Human Development Index.
  • Sustainable Development Goals.
  • Gender Inequality Index.

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In a significant reshuffle, President Droupadi Murmu appointed two new governors and reassigned three others, reorganizing the leadership in five states.

About State Governor

• Chief Executive Head of the State: The Governor serves as the chief executive head of the state, adapting principles from the Canadian model.
• Convention on Appointment: The Governor should not belong to the state where they are appointed, ensuring independence from local political influences.
• Consultation with Chief Minister: The President consults the Chief Minister of the state before appointing the Governor to ensure harmonious functioning of the constitutional machinery.
• Appointment: The Governor is appointed by the President via a warrant under the President’s hand and seal.
  • This is a nominated position and not an elected one.
• Tenure: The Governor serves at the pleasure of the President and can be removed at any time.
• Oath of Office
  • The Governor takes an oath administered by the Chief Justice of the state’s High Court.
  • In the absence of the Chief Justice, the oath is administered by the senior-most judge of the High Court.
• Privileges of the Governor: The emoluments and allowances of the Governor cannot be reduced during their term.
  • These are determined by Parliament and include privileges related to the office.

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Legal Precedents

• Surya Narain vs Union of India (1982): The President’s “pleasure” regarding a Governor’s tenure is not subject to judicial review.
• Hargovind Pant vs Raghukul Tilak (1979): The Governor’s role is independent and constitutional, distinct from being an employee of the Central Government.

Constitutional Provisions Related to the Governor

• Article 153: Each state must have a Governor, and one individual can serve as Governor for multiple states.
  • This provision was enabled by the 7th Constitutional Amendment Act of 1956.
• Appointment: The Governor is appointed by the President and is a nominee of the Central Government.
• Articles 157 and 158: These articles define the eligibility criteria for the Governor’s position.
• Article 163: The Governor acts on the advice of the Council of Ministers, led by the Chief Minister, except in matters where they exercise discretionary powers.

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Immunity Available to the Governor

• Criminal Proceedings: The Governor is immune from criminal proceedings during their term, even for personal acts.
• Protection from Arrest: The Governor cannot be arrested or imprisoned during their tenure.
• Civil Proceedings: Civil proceedings can be instituted against the Governor for personal acts, but only after a two-month notice is given.

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Sagar Island in West Bengal, famed for the Gangasagar Mela, faces climate change threats as rising Bay of Bengal sea levels encroach within 450 meters of the Kapil Muni Temple.

About Sagar Island

• It is also known as Ganga Sagar or Sagardwip is located in the Ganges delta, lying on the continental shelf of Bay of Bengal.
• Location: Sagar Island is situated in the Ganges Delta on the continental shelf of the Bay of Bengal.
• Geographical Features:
• • The Muriganga River Batala separates the Sagar and Mahisani Islands.
  • Classified under the sand group category, along with Mahisani and Ghoramara Islands.
• Although part of the Sundarbans, it lacks tiger habitation, mangrove forests, and small river tributaries typical of the rest of the Sundarban delta.
• Religious Significance: Sagar Island is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site.
  • The annual Gangasagar Mela, the world’s second-largest human congregation, is held here during Makar Sankranti

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About Kapil Muni

• Kapil Muni was a Vedic sage and philosopher who lived during the 6th-7th century CE and considered a divine incarnation of Vishnu in some traditions.
• Philosophy:
  • He is the founder of the Samkhya system of Indian philosophy.
  • Samkhya emphasizes a dualism between matter (Prakriti) and the eternal spirit (Purusha).
  • Liberation, according to Samkhya, is achieved through self-knowledge rather than external agents or influences.
• Teachings:
  • Focused on meditation and criticized Vedic gods and rituals.
  • Rejected Brahmanic doctrines and emphasized a process of liberation through bhakti yoga.
• Cultural Influence:
  • Recognized in both Hinduism and Buddhism.
  • His students founded Kapilavastu, a significant city in religious traditions.

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The 50,000-year-old remains of a baby mammoth, nicknamed Yana, have been unveiled by researchers in Russia’s Siberian region.

Key Highlights of the Discovery

• Yana, considered the best-preserved mammoth body ever found, is a female weighing more than 100 kilograms and standing 120 centimetres tall.
• Melting permafrost, influenced by climate change, is leading to the discovery of more prehistoric animal remains.

About Mammoth

• Mammoths are extinct species of the elephantid genus Mammuthus, known for their large size and adaptations to cold climates.
• Scientific Name: Mammuthus primigenius (Woolly Mammoth).
  • Woolly Mammoths were the most widespread  type of Mammoth.
• IUCN Status: Extinct;
• Features:
  • Cold Adaptations: Thick fur, fat layers, and smaller ears to minimize heat loss.
  • Habitat: Inhabited Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America during different epochs and adapted to cold climates of the ice age.
• Time Period: Lived during the Pleistocene Epoch (2.6 million to 11,700 years ago) and into the early Holocene Epoch (starting 11,700 years ago).
• Similarity with Asian Elephants:
  • Genetics: Asian elephants are more closely related to mammoths than to African elephants.

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About Tundra Region

• Tundra Climate Region: Located between 60° and 75° latitude, mainly in Arctic regions of North America, Eurasia, and Greenland.
• Climate: Characterized by long, cold winters with temperatures below 0°C for 6-10 months.
• Vegetation: The region has a treeless expanse covered by sedges, heaths, and dwarf shrubs.
• Formation: The tundra region formed during and after the Ice Age.
• Permafrost: Permafrost is ground that remains frozen for at least two consecutive years, typically found in polar and subpolar regions.
  • It is a common feature of the Tundra Region.
• Carbon storage: Permafrost contains significant amounts of carbon and methane from decomposed organic matter, with estimates suggesting it holds almost double the amount of carbon present in the atmosphere.
• Thawing: As the climate warms, permafrost thaws, releasing greenhouse gases, which further contribute to global warming.

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The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council met for its 55th gathering in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan under the chairmanship of the Union Finance & Corporate Affairs Minister.

Recommendations of the Council

• Changes in GST rates of Goods and Services:

• Other Changes:
  • Taxability of Vouchers:
    • Transactions in vouchers shall be treated neither as a supply of goods nor as a supply of services.
    • Distribution of vouchers on principal-to-principal basis is exempt from GST.
    • Vouchers distributed on principal-to-agent basis, the commission/fee or any other amount charged by the agent for such distribution is taxable under GST.
  • Insertion of new provision for Track and Trace Mechanism: 
    • To insert an enabling provision in CGST Act, 2017 
    • It will be based on a Unique Identification Marking affixed on the said goods or packages and help in tracing specified commodities throughout the supply chain.

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Unaddressed Issues

• Restructuring and Rate Rationalisation for Insurance sector: The proposed rate reduction for life and health insurance premiums would have made opting for insurance policies affordable and enable wider coverage. 
• GST Rate Rationalisation and Inverted Duty Correction: Rationalisation of the present four tax slabs (5%, 12%, 18% and 28%) into 3 tax slabs was deferred again along with the correction for inverted duty structure considering its wider impact on trade and industry.
• Food delivery e-commerce: The decision on revising tax rates for food delivery through e-commerce has been deferred.
• Inclusion of Aviation Turbine Fuel: No consensus has been arrived on this and hence the same remains outside the GST framework at present.

About The GST Council

• Constitutional Body: GST Council is formed under Article 279A of the Indian Constitution.
• Objective: The Council’s primary objective is to ensure efficient GST implementation by deciding on tax rates, exemptions, and administrative procedures.
• Secretariat: The Secretariat of the Council is located in New Delhi, and the Union Revenue Secretary acts as the ex-officio Secretary to the Council.
• Members: 
  • Chairperson: The Union Finance Minister
  • The Union Minister of State in-charge of Revenue or Finance
  • State Representatives: The Minister in-charge of Finance or Taxation or any other Minister nominated by each state government.
  • Permanent Invitee: The Chairperson of the Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC) as a permanent invitee (non-voting) to all proceedings of the Council.
• Decision Making: Every decision of the Council is to be taken by a majority of not less than 3/4th of the weighted votes of the members present and voting at the meeting. 
  • Persuasive Value: The Supreme Court has ruled that recommendations of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council only have persuasive value, and cannot be binding on the Centre and states.
• Weightage of Votes:
  • The vote of the central government shall have a weightage 1/3rd of the total votes cast in that meeting.
  • The votes of all the state governments combined shall have a weightage of 2/3rd of the total votes cast in that meeting.

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The Ministry of Education recently abolished the ‘no-detention policy’ for students in classes 5 and 8 of all government schools.

• The policy was scrapped after an amendment in the Right to Education Act was approved in 2019. 
• It came into effect only after an official notification was released in December 2024. 

About No-Detention Policy

• It was introduced under the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009.
• Section 16 of the RTE Act stipulated that no child from Classes 1–8 could be held back or expelled from school until the completion of elementary education.
• Primary Aim: To reduce dropouts, make learning joyful, and remove the fear of failure among students.

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Reasons for Scrapping the Policy

• Learning Outcomes: The policy led to a decline in academic performance due to a lack of accountability among students.
  • Foundational learning levels across states were observed to be poor.
• High Failure Rates: Many students failed at higher levels, particularly in Classes 10 and 12, due to weak foundational skills.
  • A PRS report published in 2017 noted that the transition rate from primary to secondary education was low, resulting in high dropout rates, especially in Class 10.
• State Feedback: Twenty-three states requested modifications to the policy, citing adverse effects on learning quality.
  • States like Bihar, Rajasthan, and Assam highlighted concerns about the implementation of the policy.
• Concerns Raised by Punjab: The Punjab government in 2014 opposed the No-Detention Policy, citing a “drastic fall in learning outcomes.”
  • Learning Outcome Evaluation System (LOES) (2016): Punjab introduced LOES to evaluate students of Classes 5 and 8 while adhering to the RTE Act.
    • The system allowed students to take exams but did not hold them back; instead, those identified with poor performance received remedial coaching.

Key Provisions of the Amended RTE Rule (2024)

• Criteria for Detention: Students in Classes 5 and 8 who fail year-end examinations can be detained after failing a re-examination.
  • A two-month remedial instruction period will be provided before the re-examination.
• Remedial Measures: Focus will be placed on closing learning gaps through specialized inputs and collaboration between teachers and parents.
  • Teachers will guide both students and their parents to improve learning outcomes.
• Exam Pattern: Competency-based examinations will replace rote learning, with a focus on holistic development.
• School Accountability: School heads are required to maintain records of students who are detained and monitor their progress closely.

Implementation and Applicability

• The amended rules apply to over 3,000 Central Government-run schools, including Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas, and Sainik Schools.
• States have the authority to decide whether to adopt the policy since school education is a State subject.

Current Status in States

• States that have scrapped the policy: States such as Assam, Bihar, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan have done away with the No-Detention Policy for Classes 5 and 8.
• States continuing with the policy: Tamil Nadu and Kerala are among the states that continue to follow the No-Detention Policy.
  • Tamil Nadu’s rationale is to avoid creating barriers for children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and ensure uninterrupted education up to Class 8.

Criticism and Challenges

• High Dropout: The new rules may increase pressure on students, leading to higher dropout rates.
• Administrative Challenges: Implementing remedial measures effectively could pose administrative challenges for schools.
• Disparity: The disparity in educational systems across states may widen, leading to inequities in access to quality education.

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Impact on Education

• Greater focus on learning outcomes: The focus on learning outcomes is expected to improve accountability among schools and students.
• Increased accountability: Teachers and school heads will be more responsible for addressing learning gaps and ensuring remedial measures are implemented effectively.

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Didi ki Libraries

Context: The Community Library and Career Development Centres (CLCDC) in Bihar popularly known as ‘Didi ki Libraries’ are emerging as a local support system for learners in higher education

About The “Didi ki Libraries”

• Didi ki Libraries are free-of-cost libraries set up by the Bihar government under its JEEViKA initiative and is spread across 100 blocks in the State
• Head: Each library is headed by a Vidya Didi (a dedicated cadre of community workers) who are also received honorarium. 
• Aim:  To bridge the inequality gap between disadvantaged rural youth and their urban peers. There is a special focus on empowering girls who face barriers to higher education.
• The Education Department of Bihar supports the initiative by providing books.

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About the JEEViKA Initiative

• JEEViKA or The Bihar Rural Livelihoods Project (BRLP)  is a World Bank-supported initiative under the Bihar government’s Rural Development Department, to promote rural livelihood.
• JEEViKA for Education: It started education-related initiatives in 2018.
• Partnerships: JEEViKA has partnered with Pratham Education Foundation and other non-profit organisations like i-Saksham (focuses on young women’s leadership), and Turn the Bus (working in the digital education space).

Makaravilakku

Context: The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has invited expressions of interest for manufacturing gold lockets of Lord Ayyappa weighing 2, 4, 6, and 8 grams.

• These lockets were  introduced to commemorate the Makaravilakku festival.

About Makaravilakku

• It is an annual event celebrated at the Sabarimala temple in Kerala, India, during Makar Sankranti.
• Features a procession of Thiruvabharanam (Lord Ayyappan’s precious jewels) and 
• It is celebrated in honor of Lord Ayyappa at the Sabarimala temple.
• The festival lasts for seven days and begins on Makar Sankranti, the day when the sun moves to a new phase.
• The main event is the appearance of Makarajyothi, a bright star seen above the Kantamala Hills on Makar Sankranti.
• The festival ends with a ritual called Guruthi, which is an offering to the deities of the forest.
• Connection with Tribal Traditions
  • The rituals of Makaravilakku were first performed by the Malayaraya tribe in the forests of Ponnambalamedu.
  • The Ponnambalamedu temple, where these rituals were performed, is now managed by the Kerala Forest Department and is not open to the public.
  • Tribal Rituals at Ponnambalamedu
    • Tribes perform rituals at the Ponnambalamedu temple on Makaram 1st, when the Sirius star is visible in the sky.
    • Rituals include performing Arathi (a fire ritual) around the idol by circling it three times with camphor and ghee.
      • This ritual resembles the one performed at the Sabarimala Temple.
• Makaravilakku and Makara Jyothi
  • The lamp or light seen in Sabarimala Temple is called Makara Jyothi.
  • Makaravilakku symbolizes the divine encounter of Rama and Dharmashasta (another name for Lord Ayyappan) at Sabarimala.

Veer Bal Diwas

Context: The Ministry of Women & Child will be celebrating and commemorating Veer Baal Diwas and Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar on 26th December, 2024.

About The Veer Bal Diwas

• It has been observed on December 26 since 2022.
• The day is dedicated to honour the courage and sacrifice of children as a tribute to the martyrdom of Baba Fateh Singh and Zorawar Singh (Sahibzadas) the four young sons of Guru Gobind Singh.
• 2024 Event: The national program of Veer Baal Diwas will be held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi 
  • Focus: The focus of the event will be to nurture young minds, foster creativity, and inspire contributions to the vision of Viksit Bharat.
  • The Prime Minister will inaugurate the Suposhit Panchayat Scheme at the event.

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About the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP)

• The PMRBP is India’s highest civilian honour for children as is formerly called the National Child Award for Exceptional Achievement.
• It is annually awarded by the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
• It is awarded annually to children in the age group of 5-18 
• The award is presented to children for exceptional achievements in seven categories ie.
  • Art & Culture, Bravery, Innovation, Science & Technology, Social Service, Sports, and Environment. 
• Award: Each awardee will receive a medal, certificate and citation booklet.

Golden Visa programme

Context: Spain has officially terminated its Golden Visa programme, which allowed non-EU citizens to gain residency by investing in Spanish real estate. 

What is the Golen Visa Programme?

• Introduced in 2013 to boost foreign investment during the financial crisis.
• Allowed non-EU nationals to obtain residency by investing a minimum of €500,000 in Spanish real estate.
• Supported economic recovery post-crisis but faced criticism for its impact on housing affordability.
• It allows individuals and their families to obtain residency or citizenship in a foreign country by making significant investments in its economy. 
  • These investments may include real estate, government bonds, or other approved assets.

Reasons for Ending Spain’s Golden Visa Programme

• Rising Housing Prices : The program increased property demand, particularly in big cities, making homes unaffordable for many Spanish citizens.
• Risk of Misuse; There are Concerns about the program being used for illegal activities like money laundering.
• Shift in Priorities: The government is focusing on addressing local housing needs and social issues over foreign investment.

Lion-Tailed Macaque

Context: A recent study highlights the growing threat to the endangered lion-tailed macaque, endemic to the Western Ghats, due to rising human interaction.

About Lion-Tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus)

• An Old World monkey: Often referred to as bearded monkeys.
• Distinguishing features: Males mark the boundaries of their home ranges using vocal calls.
• Communication: Their communication system includes as many as 17 distinct vocalizations.
• Appearance: A grey mane surrounds their face and they have a lion-like, long, thin, and tufted tail giving them their name.
• Habitat:They are endemic to small and severely fragmented rainforests in the Western Ghats, specifically in Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
  • They are native only to India.
• Threats: The primary threat is the destruction of their rainforest habitat.
• Conservation Status:
  • IUCN: Listed as Endangered.
  • CITES: Included in Appendix I.
  • The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Listed under Schedule I.

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National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)

Context: President of India recently appointed former Supreme Court judge Justice (retd) V Ramasubramanian as the chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).

About National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)

• NHRC is a statutory body that protects and promotes human rights for citizens of India
• Established: It came into existence after India enacted the Protection of Human Rights Act in 1993.
• Selection Committee: The President of India appoints members of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) based on a recommendation of the selection committee, which includes:
  • Prime Minister (Chairman)
  • Speaker of Lok Sabha
  • Union Home Minister
  • Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha
  • Leaders of the Opposition in both Houses of the Parliament
• Membership: It consists of a chairperson, five full-time Members, and seven deemed Members.
  • A person who has been the Chief Justice of India or a judge of the Supreme Court will be a chairman.
  • Two Members: One who is, or has been, a Judge of the Supreme Court of India and one member who is, or has been, the Chief Justice of a High Court.
  • Three Members: One shall be a woman from amongst persons having knowledge of, or practical experience in, matters relating to human rights.
  • Seven Deemed Members: Chairpersons of the National Commission for SC/ST/Minorities/Backward Classes/Women/Protection of Child Rights and the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities serve as ex officio members.
• Tenure: They serve for a term of three years or until they attain the age of 70 years, whichever is earlier.
• Removal: The members can be removed by the President.

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