January 18, 2024 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
Emergency Provisions | Explained
As the term "emergency" makes clear, it describes an unforeseen development that prompts the government to act immediately within its jurisdiction. During an emergency, the state or nation may suspend human civil rights, with the exception of Articles 20 and 21 of the Indian Constitution. The majority of emergencies are caused by malfunctioning administrative equipment.Because the Indian federal system can become unitary in the event that an administrative apparatus fails, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar deemed it to be unique.
The main goal of emergency legislation was to protect the area against foreign invasions, wars, and autocracies combined with anarchy at home. According to the Black Law Dictionary, any emergency necessitates prompt action and notification since it poses a risk to the safety of individuals and their freedom in the area.
Highlights of the Day
1.Indian Government Disburses Rs 4,415 Crore Under PLI Schemes for Key Sectors
The Indian government has disbursed Rs 4,415 crore under the Production-linked Incentive (PLI) schemes for eight sectors, including electronics, IT hardware, and pharmaceuticals, till October in the current fiscal year. The total incentive amount includes Rs 1,515 crore in FY24 and Rs 2,900 crore in 2022-23. The PLI schemes, announced in 2021 with a total outlay of Rs 1.97 lakh crore, aim to attract investments, promote cutting-edge technology, and enhance global competitiveness. While concerns about low job creation in tech-driven sectors were acknowledged, the government emphasized the focus on future job creation.[1].
2. India Proposes Overhaul of Stamp Duty Regime with 'Indian Stamp Bill, 2023
The Indian government has proposed repealing the outdated Indian Stamp Act, 1899, and introduced the draft 'Indian Stamp Bill, 2023' to modernize the stamp duty regime. The Ministry of Finance is seeking public input on the proposed legislation within a 30-day period. The new bill aims to replace the obsolete 1899 Act, aligning stamp duty provisions with contemporary requirements. The current system involves central government levying stamp duties, with states collecting and appropriating them as per constitutional provisions. The move acknowledges the need for a legislative update, as many provisions in the existing Act have become obsolete[2].
3.Supreme Court Urges Vigilance Against Hate Speech in Public Events, Orders Monitoring of Hindu Janajagruti Samiti and BJP MLA T. Raja Singh
The Supreme Court emphasized the impermissibility of incitement to violence and hate speech, directing Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh authorities to monitor public events by Hindu Janajagruti Samiti and BJP MLA T. Raja Singh. The court instructed District Magistrates and Superintendents of Police to investigate allegations of hate speech, allowing for CCTV installation if needed. The petitioner, represented by Kapil Sibal, alleged the Samiti's involvement in anti-Muslim events, while Singh was labeled a "repeat offender." The court, acknowledging past interventions, stressed the balance between fundamental rights and due process, urging fair hearings before issuing orders against hate speech[3].
4.CEEW Study Highlights Growing Rainfall Disparities Across India, Urges Proactive Measures
A comprehensive study by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) reveals that over half of India's tehsils have seen an increase in rainfall, with 11% experiencing a decline, particularly during the critical southwest monsoon. Of concern is the drop in rainfall during key months for crop sowing. The analysis, spanning four decades, highlights that tehsils in the Indo-Gangetic plains and northeastern India are most affected. Additionally, districts, including major cities, have faced both deficient and excessive rainfall. The study emphasizes the need for proactive measures to address the impact of increasingly erratic rainfall on agriculture, water resources, and infrastructure[4].
5.ASER Report Highlights Educational Disparities and Skill Gaps Among Rural Youth
The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) titled 'Beyond Basics' reveals findings from a survey of 14 to 18-year-old rural students in 28 districts across 26 states. While 86.8% are enrolled in educational institutions, significant age-related disparities exist, with 32.6% of 18-year-olds not enrolled. Most students opt for Arts/Humanities streams, and there's a gender gap in STEM enrollment. Only 5.6% take vocational training, with a quarter lacking basic reading and math skills. Digital proficiency correlates with education level, revealing gender disparities. The report underscores challenges in foundational skills and access, emphasizing the need for comprehensive educational improvements[5].
Source: The Hindu | TOI
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Consider the following statements about the Finance Commission of India:
I. The Finance Commission is a quasi-judicial body.
II. It is constituted every five years or at such earlier time as the President considers necessary.
III. The Finance Commission recommends the distribution of the net proceeds of taxes between the Union and the States.
a) Only I
b) I and II
c) II and III
d) I, II, and III
Q2: Consider the following statements about the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI):
I. SEBI is a statutory body.
II. It regulates the monetary policy in India.
III. The Chairman of SEBI is appointed by the President of India.
a) Only I
b) I and II
c) II and III
d) I, II, and III
Q3: Consider the following statements about the Mughal Emperor Akbar:
I. Akbar was the son of Babur and succeeded him to the Mughal throne.
II. He implemented the policy of Sulh-i-kul, promoting religious tolerance.
III. Akbar is known for constructing the Red Fort in Delhi.
a) Only I
b) I and II
c) Only II
d) II, and III
Q4: The Strait of Gibraltar connects the Mediterranean Sea to which other body of water?
a) Atlantic Ocean
b) Indian Ocean
c) Red Sea
d) Black Sea
Q5: The Kessler syndrome is a theoretical scenario related to:
a) Climate change
b) Nuclear reactor accidents
c) Space debris
d) Genetic mutations
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Examine the impact of emergency provisions on the federal structure of India and analyze the safeguards in place to prevent their misuse.
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