What is the News? The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting(I&B) has issued the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021. About Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules,2021: The rules amend the Cable Television Network Rules,1994 with the aim to establish a statutory mechanism for citizens to raise grievances with respect to broadcasted content. Key Features of the… Continue reading Govt released Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules,2021
Tag: GOV_0
Declassification of War Histories – Challenges of Credibility
Synopsis: Challenges of credibility in the declassification of war history should be addressed. So that it can help us to analyse lessons learnt by the history and prevent future mistakes. Background Recently, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced the declassification of India’s war history. It enables the archiving, declassifying, and compiling of India’s war histories, which… Continue reading Declassification of War Histories – Challenges of Credibility
Defence Minister Approves New Policy for Declassification of War History
What is the News? The Defence Minister has approved a policy on archiving, declassification, compilation, and publication of war and operations histories. Why do war histories matter? War Histories give an accurate account of events, authentic material for academic research, and help counter rumours. Earlier, reports on wars and operations were never made public. Committees… Continue reading Defence Minister Approves New Policy for Declassification of War History
PRAGATI (Proactive Governance And Timely Implementation) Portal
What is the News? The Prime Minister is monitoring several railway projects through the (Proactive Governance And Timely Implementation) PRAGATI portal. He has observed a lack of progress in key railway projects across the country. About PRAGATI Portal: PRAGATI is a multi-purpose and multi-modal governance platform launched in 2015. Nodal Body: The portal has been… Continue reading PRAGATI (Proactive Governance And Timely Implementation) Portal
Public’s right to information vs. national security interest
Synopsis: This article summarises the opinions and views of the former home secretary of India (G.K. Pillai) and retired Indian diplomat (Syed Akbaruddin). They provide their opinion regarding the public’s right to information vs. national security interest. Background Recently, the Government of India prohibited retired officials of security and intelligence organisations from publishing anything about… Continue reading Public’s right to information vs. national security interest
Issues with NITI Aayog’s SDG India Index 2020-21
Synopsis: Although India has a better score in the latest SDG India Index 2020-21, some procedural changes in the methodology have resulted in an inadequate measurement of economic inequality. Introduction NITI Aayog’s SDG India Index 2020- 21 was released recently. India has improved its overall SDG score from 60 in 2019 to 66 in 2021.… Continue reading Issues with NITI Aayog’s SDG India Index 2020-21
“Vigilance clearance” is mandatory before offering jobs to retired Govt employee: CVC
What is the News? Central Vigilance Commission(CVC) has laid down a procedure for employing a retired official on a contractual or consultancy basis. Under this guideline, government organisations have to get vigilance clearance before employing a retired official. What is the Procedure? The organisations owned or controlled by the Center has to obtain vigilance clearance… Continue reading “Vigilance clearance” is mandatory before offering jobs to retired Govt employee: CVC
NITI Aayog releases “SDG India Index 2020-21”
What is the News? NITI Aayog has released the SDG India Index 2020-21. It is the 3rd edition of SDG India Index. Key Findings of the SDG India Index 2020-21: India’s overall SDG score improved by 6 points — from 60 in 2019 to 66 in 2020-21. This is due to improvement in providing facilities… Continue reading NITI Aayog releases “SDG India Index 2020-21”
Government Amended Pension Rules for Central Civil Services
Synopsis- Center has amended pension rules for Civil services. Restrictions on government servants before and after retirement under CCS conduct rules. Amendment in pension rules and its consequences- The Centre has amended pension rules for civil servants [working in organizations mentioned in the Second Schedule of the RTI Act]. It restricts former officials of… Continue reading Government Amended Pension Rules for Central Civil Services
Controversies Surrounding Administrator of Lakshadweep
Synopsis: The role of the newly appointed administrator of Lakshadweep is under controversy. Some of the recent steps go against the interest of people. Introduction Lakshadweep is a group of 36 islands in the Arabian Sea totaling 32 square kilometers. It has had a calm existence as a Union Territory. But recent governance changes introduced… Continue reading Controversies Surrounding Administrator of Lakshadweep
Collaborative Governance Should be the future of Governance
Synopsis: Outdated nature of public bureaucracy has to be accounted for the ineffective response to the COVID-19 crisis in India. A new public governance model based on collaborative governance need to be institutionalised. What are the issues with Weberian model of Bureaucracy? The Weberian bureaucracy model that India follows suffers from the following challenges. It… Continue reading Collaborative Governance Should be the future of Governance
What is “Article 311” of the Indian Constitution?
What is the News? Recently Mumbai Police Commissioner dismissed a Police officer from service without a departmental enquiry. The commissioner did this by exercising his powers under Article 311(2) (b) Article 311 of the Indian Constitution: Article 311 deals with the dismissal, removal or reduction in rank of persons employed in civil capacities under the… Continue reading What is “Article 311” of the Indian Constitution?
Poor State of Delhi Prisons Demand Urgent Attention
Synopsis: The condition of Delhi prisons has become immensely poor amidst the second wave of Covid 19. They have exceeded their sanctioned capacity and are on the verge of becoming hotspots for mass infections. Considering this, the government should take effective measures for decongesting prisons. Background: Delhi is currently observing over 25000 new Covid 19… Continue reading Poor State of Delhi Prisons Demand Urgent Attention
Failure of Governance in India- Reason Behind the Pandemic Crisis
Synopsis: The article highlights at least 5 instances of Failure of Governance in India, in the past 15 months. This is the reason behind the failure of the center and states in handling the Pandemic crisis. 5 instances of Failure of Governance in India First, the sudden imposition of lockdown during the first Covid-19 wave… Continue reading Failure of Governance in India- Reason Behind the Pandemic Crisis
What is “Maharashtra’s two-child norm” for govt employees?
What is the News? A woman officer from the Maharashtra Prison Department has three children. But she suppressed that information to the authorities during the inquiry. As this is a violation of Maharashtra Civil Services rules, she was dismissed from service recently. About Maharashtra’s two-child norm for Government Employees: Maharashtra’s two-child norm for govt employees… Continue reading What is “Maharashtra’s two-child norm” for govt employees?
“Chandlers Good Governance Index” 2021 Released
What is the News? The Chandler Good Government Index(CGGI) 2021 has been released. About Chandler Good Government Index(CGGI): The Chandler Institute of Governance(CIG) publishes the Chandler Good Government Index(CGGI) . It is an international non-profit organization, with headquarter in Singapore. Objective: The index measures the effectiveness and capabilities of 104 governments around the world in… Continue reading “Chandlers Good Governance Index” 2021 Released
Police Reforms Needed to Ensure Political Neutrality
Synopsis: There is a need to ensure a right balance between the government’s role in appointing or removing the police chief and the need to safeguard the Police’s operational autonomy. Background Recently, the State government removed Param Bir Singh (Mumbai Police Commissioner) from his post. It brings back the focus on the long-overdue reforms require,… Continue reading Police Reforms Needed to Ensure Political Neutrality
“World Press Freedom Index” 2021 Released
What is the News? The World Press Freedom Index 2021 released. About World Press Freedom Index: Published by: Reporters Sans Frontieres (RSF) or Reporters Without Borders since 2002. Purpose: The purpose of the Index is to rank 180 countries and regions according to the level of freedom available to journalists. However, the index neither ranks public… Continue reading “World Press Freedom Index” 2021 Released
SC Directions to CBI in ISRO Espionage Case, 1994
Synopsis – The Supreme Court has ordered the CBI investigation in the Nambi Narayanan ISRO Espionage case. CBI will review the involvement of the Kerala police. What is the ISRO espionage case? In 1994, a Maldivian woman was arrested. She was suspected of selling secrets from ISRO scientists to Pakistan. Mr. Narayanan was arrested along… Continue reading SC Directions to CBI in ISRO Espionage Case, 1994
Degree of Trust in Public Institutions across different castes
Synopsis: The India Human Development Survey (IHDS) tries to ascertain the degree of trust that people across different castes hold in public institutions. A thorough analysis of the data calls for strengthening trust, especially among the vulnerable sections. Background: The IHDS categorizes public institutions into state government, judiciary, and police. Caste categories are divided into… Continue reading Degree of Trust in Public Institutions across different castes
Darbar Move Tradition of Jammu and Kashmir?
What is the News? Darbar move tradition in Jammu and Kashmir discontinues from this year. The move aims to take only sensitive records from Jammu to Srinagar, starting this summer. This is a shift from previous years. Earlier, the entire administration and records would get shifted. About Darbar Move Tradition: Darbar move is the name… Continue reading Darbar Move Tradition of Jammu and Kashmir?
Need for Police Reforms in India
Synopsis: Police reforms require urgent attention. There have been many instances of Police-politician nexus. It is not right for democracy. Background The 21st century witnessed many crises. For instance, One, the 2007-08 financial crisis affected the growth of many economies and the recovery process has been slow. Two, the most recent impact of the Pandemic,… Continue reading Need for Police Reforms in India
An Overview of Kerala Model of Development
Synopsis: Kerala’s model of Development prioritizes spending on Social infrastructure. It provides greater Economic security even during the time of adversities. Background ‘Kerala model’ of governance highlights that Human development welfare measures are effective even with low Economic growth. It has also highlighted the importance of the role of the People’s movement. It pressurizes the… Continue reading An Overview of Kerala Model of Development
CIC Annual Report on “RTI Applications”
What is the News? The Central Information Commission(CIC) released its annual report. The report provides the data on the number of RTI applications received and rejected by public authorities. About CIC Annual Report: The CIC annual report provides the data on the number of RTI applications received and rejected by public authorities. It covers more… Continue reading CIC Annual Report on “RTI Applications”
Inefficiencies in the Aadhaar project
Synopsis: There are many issues regarding the use of Aadhaar for the identification of beneficiaries. So, the central and state governments should allow for an alternative identification mechanism. Background There was mandatory usage of Aadhaar for the identification of beneficiaries for several welfare schemes such as the PDS, the NREGA and LPG subsidy. It was… Continue reading Inefficiencies in the Aadhaar project
Flaws in design of lateral entry policy
Synopsis: The government has approved the policy of lateral entry in civil services. However, it has some flaws over entry requirements, job assignments, number of personnel, and training. This calls for reforming the policy for lateral entrants. Background: The government has often complained about the problems associated with the permanent structure of bureaucracy. Recently, the… Continue reading Flaws in design of lateral entry policy
“MPLAD Scheme” Funds for 2019-20 cleared by Finance Minister
What is the news? The Finance Minister has said that the funds under the MPLAD scheme (Members of Parliament Local Area Development) Scheme for 2019-20 are clear. Note: The government of India has decided to make the MPLADS scheme non-operational for two years(2020-21 and 2021-22). These funds will be used to strengthen the Government’s efforts… Continue reading “MPLAD Scheme” Funds for 2019-20 cleared by Finance Minister
India rated as an “electoral autocracy” by V-Dem Institute
What is the News? Sweden-based Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Institute released a report titled “Autocratisation Goes Viral”. The report has downgraded India from being an “electoral democracy” to an “electoral autocracy”. Note: This report comes after US watchdog Freedom House has downgraded India’s status to “partly free” in its ‘Freedom in the World’ report. About… Continue reading India rated as an “electoral autocracy” by V-Dem Institute
“Sansad TV”: A merger of the LSTV and the RSTV
What is the News? The government of India has announced the merger of the Lok Sabha TV and the Rajya Sabha TV. The channels from now on will be known as Sansad TV. About the Lok Sabha TV(LSTV): The Lok Sabha TV has been in operation since 2006. It was the first Parliamentary channel of… Continue reading “Sansad TV”: A merger of the LSTV and the RSTV
Issue of lateral entry into the bureaucracy – Explained pointwise
Introduction Recently, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has issued an advertisement. It is seeking applications for lateral entry in 30 government posts including joint-secretary level, director level postings. Similarly, in 2019 also, the UPSC recommended the appointment of nine professionals as joint secretaries. There is still a wider debate going on about lateral entry… Continue reading Issue of lateral entry into the bureaucracy – Explained pointwise
Flaws in Corruption Perception Index
Synopsis– Corruption Perception Index as a measure of corruption cannot be used as a base for policymaking. Introduction- Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) is an index published annually by Transparency International [TI] since 1995. The index ranks countries by their perceived levels of corruption as determined by expert assessments and opinion surveys. India’s ranking– 86th with an overall rating of… Continue reading Flaws in Corruption Perception Index
Issue of adultery in Civil Services and Army
Synopsis: SC decriminalized the act of adultery in the Joseph Shine vs Union of India case. However, it is still not clear whether adultery is the right ground for departmental enquiries against Civil Servants or Army officials. Background Members of All India Services (AIS) are governed by a moral code of conduct. It requires them to… Continue reading Issue of adultery in Civil Services and Army
Allowing constructive criticism of Government Policies
Synopsis: India should respect the universal nature of human rights. It should allow constructive criticism of its policies by the Global community. Thus, India should welcome, praise as well as criticism from other nations. Background: The use of military-grade barriers and internet shutdown against Farmer’s protest attracted criticism from global celebrities. However, the government has advised… Continue reading Allowing constructive criticism of Government Policies
Frequent transfer of public servants affect public administration
Synopsis- Frequent transfer of public servants ultimately affect their morale, performance, and also the public administration. Introduction- An analysis of the executive record (ER) sheets of thousands of IAS officers reveals that the frequent transfers in service are normal. But, frequent transfers have an adverse impact on their morale. This will lead to a decline… Continue reading Frequent transfer of public servants affect public administration
“National Urban Digital Mission (NUDM)” and other governance initiatives
What is the News? The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has launched the National Urban Digital Mission(NUDM) and several other initiatives for transforming urban governance. National Urban Digital Mission(NUDM): Launched by: It has been launched by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). In partnership with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology… Continue reading “National Urban Digital Mission (NUDM)” and other governance initiatives
The case of Four Capitals or the Supreme Court bench in South India
Synopsis: The proposal of four capitals may not be feasible in India. However, a Supreme Court Bench in south India can be created. Introduction West Bengal’s CM Mamata Banerjee suggested that there should be four capitals of India. She is of the opinion that Parliament sessions should be held in each of the four capitals in… Continue reading The case of Four Capitals or the Supreme Court bench in South India
Defence Minister launches “E-Chhawani portal”
What is the news? Union Defence Minister has launched the e-Chhawani portal. About the Portal: The portal aims to provide online municipal services to more than 20 lakh citizens across 62 Cantonment Boards. Developed by: The portal developed jointly by eGov Foundation, Bharat Electronics Limited(BEL), Directorate General Defence Estates(DGDE) and National Informatics Centre(NIC). Features: Through… Continue reading Defence Minister launches “E-Chhawani portal”
The need of explicit details of the offences against the children in POCSO Act
Source- The Hindu Syllabus – GS 2 – Indian Constitution—historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure. Synopsis: The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act was enacted especially to protect children from sexual assault. Background In the case of Satish Ragde v. State of Maharashtra, Bombay High Court acquitted the accused… Continue reading The need of explicit details of the offences against the children in POCSO Act
State Reform Action Plan (SRAP), 2019
What is the News? Ministry of Commerce and Industry has informed Lok Sabha about the rankings of States and Union Territories(UTs) under State Reform Action Plan (SRAP), 2019. About State Reform Action Plan(SRAP): SRAP: It is an index that ranks states and Union Territories based on the implementation of the Business Reform Action Plan. Released… Continue reading State Reform Action Plan (SRAP), 2019
Economic Survey 2020-21: “Bare necessities index” introduced
What is the News? The Economic Survey 2020-21 has introduced the Bare Necessities Index(BNI). Facts: Bare Necessities Index(BNI): This index is a means of assessing equity in economic development among states and regions in India. It uses the basic needs approach. Indicators: This index uses 26 indicators on five dimensions of basic necessities— water, sanitation,… Continue reading Economic Survey 2020-21: “Bare necessities index” introduced
“Corruption Perception Index 2020” – India’s Rank Slips to 86th
What is the News? Transparency International(TI) has released the Corruption Perception Index, 2020. About Corruption Perception Index, 2020: Transparency International publishes this index annually, since 1995. The index ranks 180 countries and territories by their perceived levels of public sector corruption. Corruption is measured based on expert assessments and surveys of business people. It uses… Continue reading “Corruption Perception Index 2020” – India’s Rank Slips to 86th
India Justice Report 2020
What is the News? India Justice Report 2020 has been released by TATA Trusts. India Justice Report 2020: Prepared by: The report has been prepared by Tata Trusts along with the Centre for Social Justice, Common Cause, CHRI, DAKSH and, TISS-Prayas and, Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy. Parameters: The report analyzed the performance of 18… Continue reading India Justice Report 2020
Stopping hate on TV is essential to prevent riots: SC
What is the news? The Supreme Court in a recent hearing has said that stopping hate on television is essential for law and order. What was the case? A batch of petitions alleged that certain sections of the media communalized the Tablighi Jamaat congregation. It linked the congregation to a spike in the spread of… Continue reading Stopping hate on TV is essential to prevent riots: SC
The POCSO Act and associated issues
Bombay High Court in Satheesh vs State of Maharastra case acquitted a man of sexual charges under the POCSO ( Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) act. The court cited the stringent Mandatory Minimum Sentence provision in the POCSO act and punished the person based on the IPC section 354 (Outraging the modesty of women).… Continue reading The POCSO Act and associated issues
Criminalisation of government criticisms: Laws and issues
Recently Bihar government decided to categorize defamatory and offensive social media posts against government officials as cybercrime. Bihar Police has issued a circular to implement this order. This is not the first instance when Sedition laws and criminal defamation have been used to silence the critics of the government. Examples of Government silencing critics: First,… Continue reading Criminalisation of government criticisms: Laws and issues
DPIIT launches regulatory compliance portal
Why in News? The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has launched a portal called “Regulatory Compliance Portal”. About Regulatory Compliance Portal: Objective: Portal is aimed at minimizing the regulatory burden on businesses and citizens. For that, it will act as a bridge between citizens, industries and the Government. It will also act as a first-of-its-kind central online… Continue reading DPIIT launches regulatory compliance portal
2nd edition of India Innovation Index-2020
Why in News? NITI Aayog along with the Institute for Competitiveness has released the second edition of the India Innovation Index-2020. Facts: India Innovation Index: The first edition of the index was launched in October 2019. The Index is aimed at providing an effective tool to track the state of innovation at both the national and the state level. Objectives: The… Continue reading 2nd edition of India Innovation Index-2020
One Nation One Ration Card system reform – Tamil Nadu becomes the 11th State to complete the reform
News: Tamil Nadu has become the 11th State in the country to successfully undertake the “One Nation One Ration Card system” reform stipulated by the Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance. Facts: One Nation One Ration Card(ONORC) System: It is an important citizen-centric reform. Its implementation ensures the availability of ration to beneficiaries under the National Food… Continue reading One Nation One Ration Card system reform – Tamil Nadu becomes the 11th State to complete the reform
Dialogue and deliberation with beneficiaries are a prerequisite for Welfare Policymaking
Synopsis: The state and central government can learn from the good practices of Rajasthan on dialogue and deliberation with beneficiaries while policy making to transform from mere governance to good governance. Background The recently enacted Farm laws were passed without any consultation with the farmer community. Even when policies are made in good principles, for effective programme implementation, consultations and… Continue reading Dialogue and deliberation with beneficiaries are a prerequisite for Welfare Policymaking
E-Sampada Mobile App launched
Source: The New Indian Express News: Directorate of Estates, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has launched a new Web Portal and Mobile App named “e-Sampada”. Facts: e-Sampada: It is a mobile application that provides a single window for all services including allotment for over one lakh government residential accommodations, office space allotment to government organisations… Continue reading E-Sampada Mobile App launched
