News In Shorts: 03 December 2024

PRAGATI system

Context: Recently, a study done by Oxford University Study Praised India’s PRAGATI System for its fast-tracking projects

More on the news

• Study Title: “From Gridlock to Growth: How Leadership Enables India’s PRAGATI Ecosystem to Power Progress.”
• Authors: Soumitra Dutta and Mukul Pandya.
• Presentation: It was presented at a symposium by the Indian Institute of Management-Bangalore.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

About PRAGATI System

• PRAGATI  stands for Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation of projects.
• Launch Year: 2015.
• Implementing Agency: Prime Minister’s Office (PMO)
• Objective: Close monitoring and timely completion of infrastructure projects.
• Key Features of PRAGATI
  • Collaboration and Coordination
    • Brings together Central and State governments on a single platform.
    • Tackles challenges like land acquisition and inter-ministerial coordination effectively.
  • Technology-Driven Approach
    • Utilizes real-time data, drone feeds, and video conferencing to monitor projects.
    • Facilitates faster decision-making and problem-solving.
  • Accelerated Development: Helped fast-track 340 projects, improving services like roads, railways, water, and electricity.
• Economic Impact of  PRAGATI System
  • Multiplier Effect: According to studies by the RBI and the National Institute of Public Finance and Policy, every ₹1 spent on infrastructure generates ₹2.5 to ₹3.5 in GDP growth.
    • Highlights the role of infrastructure in boosting economic growth.
• Social Impact 
  • Essential Services: Projects related to roads, railways, water, and electricity have improved the living standards of millions of Indians. 
  • Sustainability: Incorporates environmental clearances and promotes green technologies.

Reclassification of packaged drinking water, mineral water

Context: Packaged drinking water and mineral water have been classified as high-risk food by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).

More on the news

• Purpose of the Reclassification
  • Strengthen Consumer Protection: Safeguard public health by ensuring safe and clean drinking water.
    • It implements stricter quality controls and improves consumer safety.
  • Ensure Rigorous Quality Control: Maintain stringent standards in the production of packaged water.
    • This move reflects the FSSAI’s commitment to enhancing food safety and protecting consumers.

Key Changes in Regulations

• Mandatory Annual Inspections
  • All facilities producing packaged drinking water must undergo annual inspections.
  • Applies specifically to central licence holders to reduce health risks.
• Third-Party Food Safety Audits
  • Manufacturers must now complete mandatory third-party audits to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
• Enhanced Quality Standards
  • Producers are required to adhere to higher quality benchmarks under the updated rules.
• Recent Regulatory Context
  • The reclassification follows amendments to the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011.
  • Earlier, mandatory BIS certification was removed for some food products, but stricter controls have now been introduced for packaged water.

Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

One-stop centres for Indian women

Context: The Ministry of Women and Child Development has approved a proposal by the Ministry of External Affairs to establish nine One-Stop Centres (OSCs).

Budget and Funding

• A dedicated budget line has been created by the Ministry of External Affairs for the initiative.
• Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF) will play a crucial role in funding welfare measures for distressed Indian nationals, particularly women.

About nine One-Stop Centres (OSCs)

• It is an initiative for the welfare of women. 
  • Under this initiative, the government addresses unique challenges faced by Indian women, particularly those abandoned or facing legal or financial difficulties.
• Locations of OSCs
  • With Shelter Homes: Seven OSCs to be set up in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, UAE, and Saudi Arabia (Jeddah and Riyadh).
  • Without Shelter Homes: Two OSCs in Toronto and Singapore.

Exercise Agni Warrior (XAW-2024)

Context: The 13th edition of Exercise Agni Warrior (XAW-2024) highlights the deepening defense ties between India and Singapore concluded successfully on 30th November 2024 at Field Firing Ranges, Devlali, Maharashtra.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes

Key Highlights of XAW-2024

• Participating Contingents:
  • Singapore Armed Forces (SAF): 182 personnel from the Singapore Artillery.
  • Indian Army: 114 personnel from the Regiment of Artillery.
• Objectives:
  • Enhance mutual understanding of drills and procedures to achieve joint operational capability under the UN Charter.
  • Demonstrate joint firepower planning and execution, with a focus on New Generation Equipment.