[Mission 2023] Insights SECURE SYNOPSIS: 28 February 2023

NOTE: Please remember that following ‘answers’ are NOT ‘model answers’. They are NOT synopsis too if we go by definition of the term. What we are providing is content that both meets demand of the question and at the same

General Studies – 1

Topic: History of the world will include events from 18th century such as industrial revolution, world wars, redrawal of national boundaries, colonization, decolonization, political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism etc.— their forms and effect on the society.

1. The Imphal-Kohima campaign is considered a significant turning point of the second world war in the Far East region. Throw light on India’s contribution to the world war-II. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India

Why the question:

The second world war drew in soldiers and contributions from around the world. Indian blood was spilled in Europe, as it was in Africa, West Asia and Asia

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the Imphal-Kohima campaign as part of world was-II and India’s contribution to it.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by giving context.

Body:

First, write about the significance of Imphal-Kohima campaign – it marked the beginning of the end of Japanese expansion in the region and other outcomes of this battle and it saw the Indian National Army fighting alongside the British Indian Army for the first time etc.

Next, write about the immense participation and contribution of Indian soldiers in the world war-II. Write about the other contributions of India in the world war-II. Give statistics to substantiate.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising.

Introduction

The Second World War was unequivocally the most pivotal global event in 20th-century history. Its political, economic and social consequences are still being played out today.  The Imphal-Kohima campaign is considered a significant turning point of the second world war in the Far East region.

Body

Imphal- Kohima Campaign

• The battle of Imphal was fought between the forces of the Imperial Japanese Army and the British and British Indian forces at Imphal in 1944.
• It was an attempt by the Japanese to invade British-India but were beaten back with heavy losses, forever altering their fortunes in the Eastern theatre of World War 2.
• The outcome of the battle of Imphal was a turning point of one of the most gruelling campaigns of the Second World War (1939-45).
• The decisive Japanese defeat in north-east India became the springboard for the British Fourteenth Army’s subsequent re-conquest of Burma.
• One of the fiercest battles of the Second World War, the Battle of Kohima started on 4 April 1944, in which British and Indian troops fought against the Japanese offensive in the northeast of India.
• The Japanese were defeated which marked the beginning of the Allied push into Burma.
• This battle turned the tide of the war in the eastern theatre and built the grounds for a Japanese retreat.

Course of the war

• In 1944, during the height of the Second World War, the Japanese planned an incursion inito India via Burma. The plan was codenamed Operation U Go.
• The plan was to attack the northeast of India through Burma. There was a British garrison at Kohima, today the capital of the state of Nagaland. The Japanese forces wished to attack the garrison and take Kohima after which they would take Assam and then march on to Delhi.
• But, this was not to be as the British and Indian forces fought valiantly and thwarted the ambitious plans of Japan.
• In March 1944, the Japanese came in through the dense jungles of the region from Burma into India. They attacked Imphal first catching the British by surprise. After this, they eyed Kohima and the garrison stationed there.
• With the odds placed undeniably in favour of the Japanese, they attacked the garrison at Kohima with a view to capturing the town itself.
• However, the British troops held on their strategic positions and troubled the Japanese with their artillery fire.
• Supplies were low on both sides but the soldiers battled on steadfastly.
• British reinforcements arrived in Dimapur to relieve the forces at Kohima. Now the Japanese realised that their position was precarious as they were extremely low on supplies. They began to fall back. The Japanese were also defeated during the in the subsequent Battle of Imphal.
• The Battle of Kohima was one of the fiercest battles of the Second World War but one that India seemed to have forgotten.
• The battle is often referred to as the Stalingrad of the East.

Indian’s contribution to the World-War II

• It is estimated that approximately 2.5 million Indian soldiers served in World War 2.

• Over 36,000 Indian soldiers lost their lives, 34,000 were wounded and 67,000 were taken prisoners of war.

• Indian soldiers of the British Army earned 17 Victoria Crosses, the highest military honour under the British.
• The Indian contribution extended beyond soldiers in the second world war.
• The Indian soldiers, on the ground, fought courageously in every battle and built an envious reputation which the Indian Army has carried forward to this day.
• Their exploits were seen in East and North Africa, Italy, Burma, and as far out as Singapore, Malay Peninsula, Guam, and Indo China.
• The role played by Air Force pilots from India are legendary and well documented.
• In the East, the Indian soldiers, as part of the British Indian Army, fought against the Japanese and were responsible for ultimately securing South East Asia that included Singapore, the Malay Peninsula and Burma.
• Indian men and women of all backgrounds contributed to the war effort in the fight against fascism.
• Indians helped in all aspects of the war effort, including serving on merchant supply ships transporting supplies and food to soldiers in Europe.
• Indian doctors and nurses were heavily involved on British and other countries’ soil.
• The Indian Comforts Fund (ICF) was founded in 1939 at India House in Aldwych and was run by Indian and British women.
• Between 1939 and 1945, the ICF distributed over 1.7 million food packets to soldiers and Asian POWs, in addition to warm clothing and other supplies.

Conclusion

Although India was never involved in the cause of World War II, its participation had a major impact on the outcome of the war and the future course of in the shaping of South Asia and South-East Asia. Throughout WWII and the post-war period, India’s influence stretched from former Burma in the east to Afghanistan in the northwest.

Topic: Social empowerment

2. There are a number of barriers that can prevent women from achieving equality in the workplace. Analyse. What measures must be taken in order to address these barriers and create a more equitable and inclusive workplace for women? (250 words)

Difficulty level: East

Reference: Live Mint , Insights on India

Why the question:

As the labour market currently stands, our female labour force participation rate (FLFPR) is one of the lowest in the world (by World Bank data). Further, it remains in declining mode, having fallen from 30.5% in 2000 to 21.1% in 2019, and 18.6% in 2020, by International Labour Organisation figures

Key Demand of the question:

To write about causes for declining female labour force participation rate (FLFPR), its impact and measures needed to overcome it.

Directive word: 

Analyse – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by giving statistic regarding declining female labour force participation rate (FLFPR) in India despite high growth.

Body:

In the first part, mention the economic causes behind declining female labour force participation rate (FLFPR) – educational enrolment of young women, lack of employment opportunities, effect of household income on participation etc.

Next, mention the social causes behind declining female labour force participation rate (FLFPR) – educational attainment, fertility rates and the age of marriage, Social norms, Violence etc.

Next, write about the impact of the above and suggest steps to overcome the same.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward.

Introduction

The Union Sports Minister constituted an ‘oversight committee’ headed by a lady Olympic medal holder to investigate the charges leveled against the president of the Wrestling Federation of India. The recent case of allegations of sexual harassment some of India’s sportswomen (wrestling) have faced has once again shown the dangers lurking for women at workplace.

The female labour force participation rate was at 9.4 per cent for the period between September-December 2021, according to the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE).

Body

Barriers in creating safe workplace

• Workplace culture
• Lack of female leaders
• Gender stereotypes
• Lack of flexible work practices
• Affordability and accessibility of childcare
• Sexism
• Lack of mentors
• Societal expectations regarding gender roles (e.g. household work/childcare)
• Entrenched boys’ club, the all-male work environment and macho behaviour;
• Workplace design including the one-income earner household model and logistics of school and work hours;
• The confusion between presenteeism and commitment, the association of flexible work with lack of commitment, and the lack of career advancement for part-time employees;
• The difficulty in juggling work and personal life, particularly caring responsibilities for children and aged parents;
• The lack of support among women, women’s lack of self-confidence and lack of sponsorship for women in workplaces;
• Lack of commitment from leaders and executive teams towards gender diversity; and

Unconscious bias.

measures taken for to create safe working place for women

• Legislations in force:
  • Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005
  • Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961
  • Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986
  • Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013
  • Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006
• Government Initiatives: 
  • Nirbhaya Fund for projects for the safety and security of women
    • One-Stop Centre Scheme to provide integrated support and assistance to women affected by violence, both in private and public spaces under one roof
    • the Scheme of ‘Universalisation of Women Helpline’ and
    • the Scheme of ‘Mahila Police Volunteers’
  • Online analytic tool for police called “Investigation Tracking System for Sexual Offences” to monitor and track time-bound investigation in sexual assault cases in accordance with Criminal Law (Amendment) Act 2018.
  • National Database on Sexual Offenders (NDSO) to facilitate investigation and tracking of sexual offenders across the country by law enforcement agencies
• A cyber-crime portal has been launched for citizens 
  • to report obscene content.
  • Cyber Crime Forensic Labs have been set up in several States, and training of over 3,664 personnel, including 410 Public Prosecutors and Judicial Officers in identifying, detecting and resolving cyber-crimes against women and children has been imparted.

Way forward and conclusion

• The numbers matter when it comes to power emanating from the majority.
• One musters courage to voice one’s grievance when there are sufficient numbers in support of the affected person.
• Much would depend on the tooth-to-tail ratioof any organization.
• When the number of women in leadership positions is enough. It generates confidence in subordinate women.
• Unless the mindset of treating men and women as equalsis developed at an early stage of character formation during childhood, the stereotyped power relation between the two would be difficult to change later.
• Theory of criminology known as ‘nature versus nurture: While genes may decide certain features of one’s personality at birth, it is social conditioning and the environment of the family and early schooling which matter the most during the growth of children.
• Unless both parents respect each other and treat their girl and boy child on a par in all respects, they grow up learning this inequality as a normal phenomenon, which may even lead to the development of criminal tendencies in men.
• Unless society as a whole works incessantly to bring about the required changes in the existing socio-cultural and economic structures to eliminate indirect violence, root and branch, the status quo may not change.

General Studies – 2

Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

3. India’s presidency of the G20 (Group of Twenty) provides several opportunities for the country to strengthen its global leadership and contribute to shaping the global economic agenda. Elaborate. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Insights on India

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1 and mentioned as part of Mission-2023 Secure timetable.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the opportunities provided by the G20 presidency for India.

Directive word: 

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by giving context.

Body:

First, in detail, write about the opportunities provided by the G20 presidency for India – Economic growth, tackling climate change, Digital economy, International trade, Global health and demonstrate its leadership on the global stage etc. Cite examples and facts to substantiate.

Next, write about the steps that India must take to leverage the above opportunities.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

Introduction

The G20 is an informal group:19 countries and the European Union, with representatives of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. The G20 Presidency rotates annually: according to a system that ensures a regional balance over time. India has assumed the prestigious G20 presidency and will, later this year, convene the G20 Leaders’ Summit.

Body

Opportunities for India as G20 president

• India is seen as a bright spot in the global economic horizon.It can play a “lighthouse role” by regionalisation and globalising its achievements.
• Just as the ‘Rio principles’ continue to guide climate change, vasudhaiva kutumbakam,or ‘world as one family’, focusing on comparable levels of wellbeing can be the core of a set of universal socio-economic principles for a dialogue between the states.
• The ability to come together and agree on key reformsand means of implementation in the economic, financial and political order could make the difference between the world hurtling into calamity or making exponential progress towards peace, prosperity and environmental sustainability.
• Global agenda: India will have the opportunity to assume centre stage in proposing and setting the global agenda and discourse.
• Global economic growth: The G20 holds a strategic role in securing global economic growth and prosperity as it represents more than 80% of the world’s GDP.
• Leadership potential: India’s leadership potential and diplomatic foresight in organizing such a big event and in arriving at meaningful outcomes will be tested.
• PM’s LiFE initiative: global high-level principles and the creation of an ecosystem of government and businesses covering demand, supply, policy signals and economic framework could be envisaged.
• Assessing and securing low-cost funding(public and private)for the future trajectory of climate-friendly/green development and clean energy technologies could be game changing.
• India’s robust, inclusive and interoperable digital public infrastructure model, which has driven inclusion across finance, health and education, would be of immense value if it were replicated in the Global South.
• PM seeks to drive a veritable “Jan Andolan: A people’s movement based on being “One India” as much as “One Earth, One Family, One Future”.
• India’s G20 presidencyoffers a ray of hope by not just articulating the voice of the “Global South” but by providing leadership.
• India can offer proven solutions and be a transformer of the Global South: From social justice projects, digital transformation, climate and environmental activism to pandemic and disaster relief etc
• Voice of the Global South Summit’ under the theme – ‘Unity of Voice, Unity of Purpose: It essentially envisages bringing together countries of the global south and share their perspectives and priorities on a common platform across a whole range of issues,”
• India’s own domestic experience in lifting a huge mass of people out of poverty and food insecurity adds credible experience to its global efforts in this direction.

Way forward and Conclusion

• The G20 presidency is a watershed moment in India’s history, the history of G20 too will script a new chapter by moving away from a “protocol-driven G20” to a “People’s G20”.
• India needs to promote its specific priorities related to domestic and regional issues such as economic recovery, trade and investment etc
• A clear roadmap and financial resources to bring the world back on a definitive path to achieve the sustainable development goals (SDGs) is the need of the hour.
• India can build on the decisions and mechanisms of previous summits.
• Greater cooperation with many G20 members: such as the European Union, the U.K., and Canada, thereby accelerating their coordination on realizing free trade agreements.
• Invite and engage countries from Africa and South America: To ensure better and more balanced representation at the G20.
• India can find a common ground for setting its G20 agenda by addressing issues of global concern by Mobilizing global solidarity for solutions to pressing problems of humanity.
• India’s multi-alignment can be leveraged to bridge systemic and ideological differences and spark a “mindset change”.
• India can drive consensus on key reforms of the UN, World Bank, IMF etc.
• India has to be central in outlining key priority areas and in ensuring that the forum does not remain just a ‘talk shop’ but translates into a ‘walk shop’ in terms of meaningful actions and outcomes.

Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests

4. ASEAN is an important partner for India in many areas, including economic, strategic, regional security, and diaspora ties. Examine the various obstacles in their partnership. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: Insights on India

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1 and mentioned as part of Mission-2023 Secure timetable.

Key Demand of the question:

To understand the role of strategic partnership with ASEAN and its mutual benefits and limitations for both sides.

Directive word: 

Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must investigate the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by mentioning the historic engagement of India-ASEAN relationship.

Body:

Bring out the importance of geographical proximity of the ASEAN countries and its strategic, security and economic implications to India. Also mention about the sociocultural dynamics, mobilisation of group level funds and promotion of domestic infrastructure projects based on few examples.

Next, write about the inter-link between India’s Indo-Pacific strategy works in tandem with its Act East Policy.

Next, write about various obstacles in their partnership and its implications of the above on India.

Conclusion:

Conclude by stating that a good relation with ASEAN nations is crucial for India, in order for India to look beyond its neighbours, in its global diplomatic journey.

Introduction

India’s relationship with ASEAN has emerged as a key cornerstone of our foreign policy. The relationship has evolved from the ‘Look East Policy’ enunciated in early 1990s, to Strategic Partnership in 2012. Since 2014, India is espousing ‘Act East Policy’ that has enhanced the partnership further.

ASEAN-India Strategic Partnership stands on a strong foundation of shared geographical, historical and civilizational ties. ASEAN is central to our Act East Policy and our wider vision of the Indo-Pacific. India and ASEAN will observe 30 years of their Dialogue Partnership in 2022.

Body

Obstacles in India – ASEAN ties

• Chinese hegemony:
  • The issue of ownership, control, use and exploitation of oil, gas, and mineral and fisheries resources in the South China Sea has emerged as a major dispute between China and several ASEAN nations like Vietnam, Philippines, Brunei and Malaysia.
  • This issue has divided ASEAN and there is no unanimity amongst them.
  • The South China Sea is of economic importance for India as more than 40% of trade is dependent on this region. Fossil fuel resources in this region are also being harnessed by India on a collaboration basis.
  • Maritime security is essential in this region for the protection of India’s national interest.
  • However, India’s effort in this regard is meagre when compared to China’s dominance in the region.
• Indo-Pacific Rivalry:
  • For a long time, the assumption of China as the primary economic partner and the US as the primary security guarantor has been at the heart of the ASEAN balance.
  • Today, that balance is falling apart and the Russia-Ukraine war has further aggravated this tension. This sharpening of major power rivalry in the Indo-Pacific region is threatening the underlying stability on which rested the regional growth and prosperity.
• Economic challenges:
  • India has an unfavourable balance of trade with the ASEAN nations.
  • India has pulled out of the RCEP deal, as it would deepen its trade deficit with China and the ASEAN nations.
  • Improving economic competitiveness at the domestic level and ease of doing business and promoting investment inflows can address this problem.
  • The domestic economic growth can be guaranteed by providing assistance to the MSMEs and improving domestic market connectivity.
  • India should address the issue of land and labour laws so that there is an ease in doing business within the country.
  • Improving infrastructure and promoting technological growth can also solve this problem exponentially.
• Unstable Geoeconomics:
  • The geopolitical tension in the Indo-Pacific is producing geoeconomic consequences where issues of trade and technology cooperation as well as supply chain resilience is at peak.
  • And this is happening at a time when ASEAN remains a divided organisation internally on how to manage these challenges.
• Ineffective Negotiations:
  • Many bilateral deals with these nations are yet to be finalised, leading to the halting of various aspects of diplomatic ties.
  • Increasing the flexible bilateral interaction based on the principle of quid pro quo can assure the win-win situation for both India and ASEAN.

Enhancing India-Asean relation further

• The recent loss of US market by the ASEAN nations can be compensated with the domestic demand in India which has been increasing with the rise of middle class in the country.
• In terms of security challenges, both ASEAN and India are faced with grave vulnerabilities with regard to terrorism and it is in their common interest to work together to build peace and security in the region.
• With the withdrawal of US troops from strategic locations in the region, ASEAN countries justifiably perceive India, with the largest Naval forces in the Indian Ocean and nuclear capabilities, a strategic partner to balance China’s growing power in the region.
• While East Asia is on the verge of entering a phase of lower share of working age population India is entering a phase with a higher share of working age population which can prove to be a human resource base for East Asia.
• Along with East Asian specialization in manufactures, India’s strength in services could result in a formidable strategic combination which may be mutually beneficial for both the sides.
• India has welcomed the Indo-Pacific document by ASEAN and is pushing for early conclusion of code of conduct on South China Sea by ASEAN and China.
• Improving connectivity would mean improved business and tourism ties with the ASEAN nations.
• Strong maritime connectivity between India and ASEAN nations can allow for the realisation of the full potential of India-ASEAN trade.
• Enhancing maritime connectivity would provide cheaper logistics and motivate increased trade of goods and services between the nations.

Conclusion

The region has become strategically important for India due to its growing importance in the world politics. And for India to be a regional power as it claims to be, continuing to enhance its relations with ASEAN in all spheres must be a priority.

Value addition

India-ASEAN relations

• Free Trade Agreement:India signed an FTA in goods in 2009 and an FTA in services and investments in 2014 with ASEAN.
• Apart from this, India has a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) with various countries of the ASEAN region which has resulted in concessional trade and a rise in investments.
• India’s investment in ASEAN during the same period has been more than $40 billion.
• Trade between India and ASEANstood at $65.04 billion in 2015-16 and comprises 10.12 per cent of India’s total trade with the world.
• Connectivity is another important issue of convergence, with India working toward formalizing its transit agreements and establishing better connectivity infrastructure with this region through land, water, and air, example- India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway and the Kaladan Multimodal Project.
• Security: ASEAN platform allows India to discuss non-traditional security issues in Indian Ocean Region (IOR) like piracy, illegal migration, and trafficking of drugs, arms, and human, maritime terrorism, etc. which can only be resolved on a multilateral level.
• India has also scored several diplomatic successes at ARF,including maintaining ties after its nuclear test of 1998, isolating Pakistan during the Kargil War, and lobbying against Pakistan’s entry in the forum till 2002.
• The aggressive rise of China, both economically and militarily, has caused suspicion among the countries in the region. This provides an opportunity to India which seeks to balance China and gain cooperation in the region.

Significance of India- ASEAN strategic partnership and its implications on India

• Economic Significance
  • 3 Cs–Culture, Connectivity and Commerce–will shape India’s ties with the ASEAN bloc.
  • Connecting India’s North-eastern states with ASEAN.
  • India is part of ASEAN led RCEP which aims to create the world’s largest free trade area with more than a third of the global GDP and commerce.
  • For the first time, bilateral trade between ASEAN and India has crossed US$ 80 billion mark.
  • Singapore has become India’s investment and trading hub in the East.
• Security Significance
  • ASEAN occupies a central place in the security architecture of the Indo-Pacific region
  • Maritime cooperation in terms of connectivity, safety and security has gained high attention.
  • India and ASEAN can collaborate to combat terror financing, cyber security threats, tax evasions and many more.
  • India needs ASEAN support in achieving a rules-based regional security architecture.
• Geo-Strategic Significance
  • Partnership with ASEAN nations might help India counter the growing presence of Beijing.
  • ASEAN is seen as the most successful regional organisation next only to the EU
  • To develop connectivity through water, ASEAN and India are working on the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project.
  • ASEAN-India cooperation in maritime domain is one of the key focus areas for growth and development of the Indo-Pacific region.

Topic: Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies.

5. How are the Election Commissioners appointed in India? There have been calls for an independent mechanism for appointment of Election Commissioners outside the exclusive power of the government. Do you think there is a need for it? Comment.  (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India

Why the question:

A Constitution Bench on Thursday is scheduled to pronounce its judgment on petitions seeking an “independent mechanism for appointment of Election Commissioners” outside the exclusive power of the government.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the process of appointment of Election commissioners and need for a independent body to appoint them.

Directive word: 

Comment– here we must express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by writing about Article 324 to 329.

Body:

First, write about the mechanism of appointment of election commissioners in India.

Next, write about the various issues in the appointment of election commissioners in India – fast pace, opaque, no proper criteria, no discussions etc.

Next, write about the need for an independent mechanism for appointment of Election Commissioners. Write about its pros and cons.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a balanced opinion.

Introduction

For the conduct of free and fair elections an independent Election Commission has been provided for in Article 324. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has earned public trust due to its exemplary work as an independent and neutral authority. This achievement has been made possible because as a constitutional authority, the ECI’s autonomy is guaranteed and its functioning insulated from the interference of the executive and judiciary.

The Supreme Court has now given the Opposition and the judiciary a say in the matter, ruling that the CEC and ECs must be appointed by the President on the advice of a committee comprising the PM, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, and the Chief Justice of India.

Body

Appointment of Election Commissioner

• The election commission shall consist of the Chief Election Commissioner and a such number of other election commissioners, if any, as the president may from time to time fix.
• The appointment of the chief election commissioner and other election commissioners shall be made by the President of India.
• The President makes the appointment on the advice of the Union Council of Ministers headed by the Prime Minister.
• They have tenure of six years, or up to the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.
• They enjoy the same status and receive salary and perks as available to Judges of the Supreme Court of India.

Issues with the appointment

• The Constitution does not lay down a specific legislative process for the appointment of the CEC and ECs.
• Appointments to the Election Commission are currently the central government’s prerogative.
• Currently, the Executive enjoys the power to make appointments that affect the ECI’s independenceand make the process of appointing election commissioners partial and biased.
• There have been instances where ECI’s unwillingness to censure the ruling party’s leadersfor violating the Model Code of Conduct while pulling up Opposition leaders during the 2019 general election.
• The Constitution has neither prescribed the qualification of the members of the ECI nor specified the terms of the members of the ECI.
• The Constitution has not debarred the retiring election commissioners from any further appointment by the government.

Way forward

• A CEC of the calibre of TN Sheshan is required to ensure free and fair elections and to strengthen democracy in India. Though such personalities appear occasionally, appointments based on merit can provide close to one.
• There is no reason to change the arm’s length relationship, which the judiciary has respected and maintained with the ECI previously.
• Allow Parliament to decide and debate whether to include the CJI or the Leader of the Opposition on the appointment panel.
• The ECI should be insulated from political and/or executive interferenceto prevent any kind of manipulation in the selection process. 

Conclusion

The ECI ensures the smooth and successful functioning of the democracy. It cannot become arbitrary and partisan as that will lead to the failure of democracy. The ECI needs to continuously reinvent its powers given to it under the Indian Constitution for better functioning. The integrity and independence of the ECI and its process needs to be preserved for a free and fair election in India and to maintain the public’s faith and confidence in the Election Commission of India.

General Studies – 3

Topic: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment.

6. List the actions that the government has taken to combat plastic pollution in the nation. Do you believe that a globally binding agreement on plastics and plastic pollution is the best course of action to deal with this menace? State your opinion. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Down to Earth

Why the question:

The plastic consumption across G20 countries is expected to nearly double by 2050, according to a new report. The volume of plastic consumed across the G20 countries will grow to 451 million tonnes by 2050 from 261 million tonnes in 2019, the report Peak Plastics: Bending the Consumption Curve published February 26, 2023 showed.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about India’s measures against plastic pollution and the need for a legally binding global treaty on plastics and plastic pollution.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by giving statistic about level of plastic in India and globally.

Body:

In the first part, write about measures taken by India – notified phasing out of selected single-use plastic items from July 1, 2022. It has also notified the draft EPR regulations in the subcontinent, which focus on collection targets, recycling targets, reuse and use of recycled content in packaging etc.

Next, write about the pros and cons of having a legally binding global treaty on plastics and plastic pollution.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a balanced opinion on legally binding global treaty on plastics and plastic pollution.

Introduction

The plastic consumption across G20 countries is expected to nearly double by 2050, according to a new report. The volume of plastic consumed across the G20 countries will grow to 451 million tonnes by 2050 from 261 million tonnes in 2019, the report Peak Plastics: Bending the Consumption Curve published recently showed.

Body

Measures taken by India so far to tackle plastic pollution

• India recently released a draft resolution to address plastic pollution, a month ahead of the fifth United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA 5.2) to be held in Nairobi. India’s framework proposed a voluntary approach rather than a legally binding one, unlike drafts presented by some other countries.
• In 2019, the Union government in a bid to free India of single-use plastics by 2022, had laid out a multi-ministerial plan to discourage the use of single-use plastics across the country.
• Currently, the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, prohibits manufacture, import, stocking, distribution, sale and use of carry bags and plastic sheets less than 50 microns in thickness in the country.
• The Environment Ministry has notified the Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules, 2021.
• These rules prohibit specific single-use plastic items which have “low utility and high littering potential” by 2022.
• The permitted thickness of the plastic bags, currently 50 microns, will be increased to 75 microns from 30th September, 2021, and to 120 microns from the 31st December, 2022.
• At the policy level, the concept of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), already mentioned under the 2016 Rules, has to be promoted.
• The Central Pollution Control Board, along with state pollution bodies, will monitor the ban,identify violations, and impose penaltiesalready prescribed under the Environmental Protection Act, 1986.
• The Central Pollution Control Board has reported that 22 States have, in the past, announced a ban on single-use plastic, but this has had little impact on the crisis of waste choking wetlands and waterways and being transported to the oceans to turn into microplastic.
• So far, 22 States and Union Territories have joined the fight to beat the plastic pollution, announcing a ban on single-use plastics such as carry bags, cups, plates, cutlery, straws and thermocol products.
• India has also won global acclaim for its “Beat Plastic Pollution” resolve declared on World Environment Day last year, under which it pledged to eliminate single-use plastic by 2022.

Efforts undertaken by India to ban single-use plastic

• Monitoring by CPCB:The ban will be monitored by the CPCB from the Centre and by the State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) that will report to the Centre regularly.
• Stop raw materials supply: Directions have been issued at national, state and local levels — for example, to all petrochemical industries — to not supply raw materials to industries engaged in the banned items.
• Directions to industries:SPCBs and Pollution Control Committees will modify or revoke consent to operate issued under the Air/Water Actto industries engaged in single-use plastic items.
• Fresh licensing required: Local authorities have been directed to issue fresh commercial licenses with the condition that SUP items will not be sold on their premises, and existing commercial licences will be cancelled if they are found to be selling these items.
• Encouraging compostable plastics:CPCB has issued one-time certificates to 200 manufacturers of compostable plastic and the BIS passed standards for biodegradable plastic.
• Penalty: Those found violating the ban can be penalised under the Environment Protection Act 1986 – which allows for imprisonment up to 5 years, or a penalty up to Rs 1 lakh, or both.
  • Violators can also be asked to pay Environmental Damage Compensationby the SPCB.

Pros of a legally binding global treaty on plastics

• An uniform set of laws applies to all countries thereby boosting the cumulative effort across globe to tackle plastic pollution.
• Strengthens the global drive to curb the plastic pollution of all types – land, marine etc.
• Helps build a financial mechanism to boost the efforts towards fighting plastic pollution.

Cons:

• Not all countries could be able to abide by the treaty as alternative to plastic may be unaffordable or inaccessible or unavailable.
• Goes against the common but differentiated responsibilities principle.

Way forward

• As consumers, we should ensure that all plastic waste leaving our homes is segregated and is not contaminated with food waste.
• Managing plastic waste requires effective knowledge, not only among those who produce the plastic but also among those who handle it.
• The brand owner and manufacturer should try and understand the fates a plastic packaging material would meet after its purpose of packaging has been served.
• Citizens have to bring behavioral change and contribute by not littering and helping in waste segregation and waste management.
• To encourage innovation in development of alternatives to identified single use plastic items and digital solutions to plastic waste management, the India Plastic Challenge – Hackathon 2021, has been organized for students of Higher Educational Institutions and start-ups recognized under Start-up India Initiative.
• Promote alternatives like cotton, khadi bags and bio-degradable plastics.
• Provide economic incentives to encourage the uptake of eco-friendly and fit-for-purpose alternatives that do not cause more harm. Support can include tax rebates, research and development funds, technology incubation, public-private partnerships, and support to projects that recycle single-use items and turn waste into a resource that can be used again.
• Reduce or abolish taxes on the import of materials used to make alternatives.
• Provide incentives to industry by introducing tax rebates or other conditions to support its transition. Governments will face resistance from the plastics industry, including importers and distributors of plastic packaging. Give them time to adapt.
• Use revenues collected from taxes or levies on single-use plastics to maximize the public good. Support environmental projects or boost local recycling with the funds. Create jobs in the plastic recycling sector with seed funding.
• Enforce the measure chosen effectively, by making sure that there is clear allocation of roles and responsibilities.
• Monitor and adjust the chosen measure if necessary and update the public on progress.

Conclusion

The pressure on producers to streamline the collection, recycling and processing of all forms of plastic is bound to grow. Individuals and organizations should now actively remove plastic waste from their surroundings and municipal bodies must arrange to collect these articles. Startups and industries should think of newer ways of recycling plastic.

General Studies – 4

Topic: ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions

7. Resolving an ethical dilemma can be a complex process but it is important to continually reflect on and reassess your decisions and actions to ensure that they align with your ethical values and principles. Analyse.

Difficulty level: Tough

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4 and part of ‘Abstract Thursdays’ in Mission-2023 Secure.

Key demand of the question:

To write about the ways to resolve an ethical dilemma and reflect on it to ensure the solutions is ethical in nature.

Directive word: 

Analyse – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by defining an ethical dilemma.

Body:

Write about the complex process behind resolving an ethical dilemma – Identify the problem, Identify stakeholders, Evaluate options and take action.

Next, write about need to reflect upon your action to consider what you learned from the experience and ensure you made the ethically right choice.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising.

Introduction

Ethical dilemmas are situations in which there is a difficult choice to be made between two or more options, neither of which resolves the situation in a manner that is consistent with accepted ethical guidelines. When faced with an ethical dilemma, a person is faced with having to select an option that doesn’t align with an established code of ethics or societal norms, such as codes of law and religious teachings, or with their internal moral perceptions of right and wrong.

Body:

Examples of ethical dilemma examples include:

1. Taking credit for others’ work.
2. Offering a client a worse product for your own profit.
3. Utilizing inside knowledge for your own profit.

Complex process behind resolving an ethical dilemma

• Gather as much information as possible. Before taking action to solve an ethical issue, you need to have as thorough an understanding of that issue as possible. The problem may not be as straightforward as it first appears.
• Identify the parties involved.Determine who else in the company is involved in this issue. Involvement can be direct or indirect.
• Pinpoint the ethical issues involved.Instead of settling for a general sense that something is wrong, you need to ask yourself which ethical principles are being abused.
• 
  Review the existing standard procedure.Find out if your organization currently has an internal system set up for dealing with ethical issues like this.
• List and evaluate your options.Think of every possible option available to you instead of settling for the most obvious. Write out each of these options and consider the impact each one might have
• Execute the best option.After reviewing all of your options, determine which is best and put it into practice.
• Keep a record as you monitor the outcome.Unfortunately, your work doesn’t end just because you’ve reported the issue. Keep an eye on how things progress to make sure that the issue is genuinely addressed.
• Take things to the next level when needed.If the initial solution you implement doesn’t work, keep trying. Continue through the hierarchy until you’ve exhausted every possibility.

need to reflect upon your action to consider what you learned from the experience and ensure you made the ethically right choice

• Some ethical violations are more obvious than others. For instance, if you caught a coworker stealing expensive equipment, you could make the clear distinction that theft is wrong. In situations dealing with small violations or interdepartmental strife, though, the violation may not be as clear.
• Review the circumstances again and ask yourself which fundamental principle is affected. Possible options include violations of power, integrity, honesty, objectivity, professional competence, confidentiality, or fairness.
• Thus, When we are evaluating our options, we must consider how each one fares in the light of our internal procedures, any external laws involved, and any general ethical values upheld by society as a whole.
• Predict the consequences that will result from each option. This includes both positive and negative outcomes. Understand that, in some circumstances, each option may come with both negative and positive consequences.

Way forward

The best option should address the ethical issue in a productive manner. If multiple ethical values are involved, your solution should usually correct as many violations as possible. Whatever option you choose, be prepared to stand by it. There will always be critics, and there is no guarantee that you can remain anonymous throughout the entire corrective process.

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