Lokpal of India adopts a New Motto
Context: The Full Bench of Lokpal of India has adopted a new motto “Empower Citizens, Expose Corruption”.
About the Lokpal
- The Lokpal is a statutory anti-corruption body established under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.
- Composition: Consists of a Chairperson and up to 8 members, with at least 50% being judicial members.
- 50% of members must belong to SC/ST/OBC, minorities, or women.
- Appointment Process: Appointed by the President based on recommendations from a Selection Committee.
- Term and Removal: Members serve 5 years or until age 70 (whichever is earlier).
- Can be removed by the President only after a Supreme Court inquiry recommends it for misconduct.
- Jurisdiction: Covers the Prime Minister (except on matters related to national security, atomic energy, and international relations).
- Includes Ministers, MPs, Group A/B/C/D government employees.
- Superintendence Powers: Lokpal has the power of superintendence & direction over any central investigation agency including CBI for cases referred to them by Lokpal.
- Foundation Day: The Lokpal of India celebrated its first Foundation Day on 16 January 2025.
- Chairperson: The current Chairperson of the Lokpal of India is Justice Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar.
PASSEX
Context: Recently, The Indian Navy and the United Kingdom’s Royal Navy carried out a high-intensity PASSEX (joint naval exercise) in the North Arabian Sea.
About India-U.K. Naval Exercise
- The Indian Navy was represented by the stealth frigate INS Tabar, a submarine, and a P-8I maritime patrol aircraft.
- The United Kingdom’s Carrier Strike Group included the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales and the frigate HMS Richmond.
- Significance
- This naval exercise is significant as the North Arabian Sea is a critical maritime corridor for global trade.
- Conducting such joint drills promote shared commitments by both the nations.
- It also increases maritime stability, safeguard sea lines of communications, and ensure presence of credible naval at the Indo-pacific region.
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