UPSC Insights SECURE SYNOPSIS : 30 JULY 2024
Kartavya Desk Staff
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: Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc.
Topic: Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc.
Q1. Examine the criteria used by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to declare a heatwave. How do these criteria reflect the geographical and climatic diversity of India? 10M
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: DTE
Why the question: Despite unprecedented heatwave deaths, Finance Commission ruled against expanding disaster list, cited current coverage sufficiency: Union minister tells Parliament Key Demand of the question: To detail the specific criteria used by the IMD to declare a heatwave and to analyze how these criteria account for India’s varied geography and climate. Structure of the Answer: Introduction: Briefly introduce the concept of a heatwave and its significance in meteorological and public health contexts. Body: Firstly, mention criteria for Declaring a Heatwave by the IMD – temperature threshold, time duration, additional factors. Next, mention the reflection of Geographical and Climatic Diversity in Criteria. Conclusion: Conclude by suggesting the need for continued refinement of these criteria in response to changing climate patterns and to enhance public safety and preparedness.
Why the question:
Despite unprecedented heatwave deaths, Finance Commission ruled against expanding disaster list, cited current coverage sufficiency: Union minister tells Parliament
Key Demand of the question:
To detail the specific criteria used by the IMD to declare a heatwave and to analyze how these criteria account for India’s varied geography and climate.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction:
Briefly introduce the concept of a heatwave and its significance in meteorological and public health contexts.
• Firstly, mention criteria for Declaring a Heatwave by the IMD – temperature threshold, time duration, additional factors.
• Next, mention the reflection of Geographical and Climatic Diversity in Criteria.
Conclusion:
Conclude by suggesting the need for continued refinement of these criteria in response to changing climate patterns and to enhance public safety and preparedness.
Introduction
Heatwaves are becoming increasingly frequent and intense in India, necessitating a robust framework for identification and response. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has established specific criteria for declaring a heatwave, tailored to account for the diverse climatic and geographical regions of the country.
IMD Criteria for Declaring a Heatwave:
• Temperature Thresholds: A heatwave is declared when the maximum temperature reaches at least 40°C in the plains, 37°C in coastal areas, and 30°C in hilly regions.
• Temperature Deviation: An area can be declared as experiencing a heatwave if the actual maximum temperature departs from the normal temperature by at least 4.5°C to 6.4°C.
• Severe Heatwave: If the deviation exceeds 6.4°C or more above normal, the situation is classified as a “severe heatwave.”
• Duration and Spatial Extent: The IMD also considers the duration and spatial extent of high temperatures across multiple days and regions when declaring a heatwave.
India Meteorological Department (IMD) regarding heatwaves reflecting Geographical Diversity:
• Varied Temperature Thresholds: The IMD’s criteria are designed to accommodate India’s diverse geography. The lower temperature threshold in coastal (37°C) and hilly regions (30°C) reflects the cooler climates of these areas compared to the plains (40°C). This differentiation acknowledges that what may be considered normal in one region could be extreme in another.
• This differentiation acknowledges that what may be considered normal in one region could be extreme in another.
• Normal Temperature Variability: The criteria also take into account the variability in normal temperatures across different regions. E.g. a temperature of 40°C may be common in parts of northern India during summer but would be significantly above normal in coastal or hilly regions, thus justifying a lower threshold.
• E.g. a temperature of 40°C may be common in parts of northern India during summer but would be significantly above normal in coastal or hilly regions, thus justifying a lower threshold.
• Local Climatology: The IMD criteria are sensitive to local climatology, ensuring that the definition of a heatwave is relative to what is normal for a particular area. This helps in better public communication and targeted advisories, as a rise in temperature can have different implications depending on regional climate norms.
• This helps in better public communication and targeted advisories, as a rise in temperature can have different implications depending on regional climate norms.
Climatic Considerations
• Adaptation and Acclimatization: The criteria consider regional acclimatization to temperature. Populations in the northern plains may be more acclimatized to higher temperatures compared to those in coastal or high-altitude regions, justifying different thresholds.
• Impact on Public Health: By considering deviations from the normal temperature, the IMD’s criteria are also aligned with public health impacts. Sudden increases in temperature, even if not extreme by absolute standards, can lead to significant health risks, especially in regions not typically prone to high heat.
Conclusion
By using region-specific temperature thresholds and considering deviations from local norms, these criteria ensure that heatwave warnings are both relevant and accurate, facilitating better preparedness and response measures.
Topic: Population and related issues
Topic: Population and related issues
Q2. Critically analyze the debate around conducting a caste-based Census in India. What are the arguments for and against such a Census, and how might it impact social justice policies? 15M
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: The Hindu
Why the question: There is growing demand for a caste-based census to be conducted by the Centre to precisely understand the economic well-being of the marginalised communities’ Key Demand of the question: To provide a critical analysis of the arguments for and against a caste-based Census in India and to discuss the potential impact of such a Census on social justice policies. Structure of the Answer: Introduction: Introduce the context of caste in India, highlighting its historical and social significance. Body: Firstly, mention the Arguments for a Caste-Based Census- Data for Policy Making, Social Justice and Affirmative Action, Representation and Inclusion. In second part, Provide Arguments Against Conducting a Caste-Based Census: Risk of Reinforcing Caste Divisions, Political Manipulation, Administrative and Logistical Challenges, etc. At last, write the Impact on Social Justice Policies – covering both positive and negative aspect. Conclusion: Conclude by suggesting that any decision on conducting a caste-based Census should be accompanied by robust safeguards to ensure that it promotes social justice without exacerbating social divisions.
Why the question:
There is growing demand for a caste-based census to be conducted by the Centre to precisely understand the economic well-being of the marginalised communities’
Key Demand of the question:
To provide a critical analysis of the arguments for and against a caste-based Census in India and to discuss the potential impact of such a Census on social justice policies.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction:
Introduce the context of caste in India, highlighting its historical and social significance.
• Firstly, mention the Arguments for a Caste-Based Census- Data for Policy Making, Social Justice and Affirmative Action, Representation and Inclusion.
• In second part, Provide Arguments Against Conducting a Caste-Based Census: Risk of Reinforcing Caste Divisions, Political Manipulation, Administrative and Logistical Challenges, etc.
• At last, write the Impact on Social Justice Policies – covering both positive and negative aspect.
Conclusion:
Conclude by suggesting that any decision on conducting a caste-based Census should be accompanied by robust safeguards to ensure that it promotes social justice without exacerbating social divisions.
Introduction
The demand for a caste census in India has been a long-standing issue among various political parties. The last official caste census was conducted in 1931, and despite a Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) in 2011, the caste data was not released due to anomalies. Advocates argue that a new caste census is essential for effective policy-making and equitable distribution of welfare services.
Arguments for conducting a caste-based Census in India
• Evidence-based Policy-making: Current policies rely on data from the 1931 census, which includes areas that are now part of Pakistan and Bangladesh. An updated census would reflect the true status of various castes today. Quantifiable Data: A caste census would provide data to support reservation in education and employment based on current socio-economic conditions. Historical Injustice: Continuing to use outdated data perpetuates historical injustices, as the socio-economic conditions of castes have changed over time. Understanding Deprivation Levels: The census would offer insights into the educational levels, occupations, household assets, and life expectancy of different castes.
• Quantifiable Data: A caste census would provide data to support reservation in education and employment based on current socio-economic conditions.
• Historical Injustice: Continuing to use outdated data perpetuates historical injustices, as the socio-economic conditions of castes have changed over time.
• Understanding Deprivation Levels: The census would offer insights into the educational levels, occupations, household assets, and life expectancy of different castes.
• Equitable Distribution of Opportunities: Affirmative Action: Data from the census would help ensure that affirmative action policies benefit the most deprived castes. Supreme Court Directive: In the Indra Sawhney judgment (1992), the Supreme Court ruled that higher levels of caste-based reservation should be based on verifiable socio-economic data collected every 10 years. Sub-categorization of OBCs: The Justice Rohini Commission found significant disparities in the distribution of reservation benefits among OBCs, which can be addressed with accurate data.
• Affirmative Action: Data from the census would help ensure that affirmative action policies benefit the most deprived castes.
• Supreme Court Directive: In the Indra Sawhney judgment (1992), the Supreme Court ruled that higher levels of caste-based reservation should be based on verifiable socio-economic data collected every 10 years.
• Sub-categorization of OBCs: The Justice Rohini Commission found significant disparities in the distribution of reservation benefits among OBCs, which can be addressed with accurate data.
Arguments against conducting a Caste Census:
• Vote Bank Politics: Caste is a sensitive issue in elections, and a census could shift the focus from development to identity politics. However, avoiding the census due to potential voter manipulation is not a valid reason.
• However, avoiding the census due to potential voter manipulation is not a valid reason.
• Caste Polarization: Historical misuse of caste data by colonial administrators to reinforce divisions is a concern. However, with proper safeguards, this risk can be mitigated.
• Context-specific Nature of Caste: Caste structures and hierarchies vary across regions, making it difficult to establish objective criteria for determining caste.
• Administrative Difficulties: The process is cumbersome due to the complex and overlapping nature of caste, sub-caste, and clan/gotra distinctions. The 2011 SECC highlighted the challenges in accurately tabulating caste data due to these complexities.
• The 2011 SECC highlighted the challenges in accurately tabulating caste data due to these complexities.
Impact of conducting a caste census on social justice policies:
• Affirmative Action and Reservations: Accurate caste data could lead to a more nuanced and effective implementation of reservation policies. E. It could also aid in addressing the “creamy layer” issue in OBC reservations by providing a clearer picture of socio-economic status within castes.
• E. It could also aid in addressing the “creamy layer” issue in OBC reservations by providing a clearer picture of socio-economic status within castes.
• Welfare Schemes and Resource Allocation: With detailed data, the government could design more targeted welfare schemes, ensuring that resources reach those who need them most. This could include education, healthcare, and employment programs tailored to specific caste groups.
• This could include education, healthcare, and employment programs tailored to specific caste groups.
• Political Representation and Advocacy: Comprehensive data could influence political representation, as it would provide evidence of the actual size and needs of various caste groups. This could empower marginalized communities to advocate for their rights and representation.
• This could empower marginalized communities to advocate for their rights and representation.
• Social and Economic Equity: A caste-based Census could help address long-standing social and economic inequalities by providing a factual basis for affirmative action and other social justice measures. However, it could also lead to increased caste-consciousness, which may either foster inclusion or exacerbate divisions, depending on how the data is utilized and perceived.
• However, it could also lead to increased caste-consciousness, which may either foster inclusion or exacerbate divisions, depending on how the data is utilized and perceived.
Conclusion
A scientifically conducted caste census can significantly improve the targeting of welfare services and the equitable distribution of reservation benefits. However, it is crucial to recognize that a caste census alone cannot solve the problem of unemployment, and creating better employment opportunities remains essential.
General Studies – 2
Topic: Global Groupings/agreements involving India
Topic: Global Groupings/agreements involving India
Q3. QUAD has a role in preserving free and open Indo-Pacific region, but it has its own challenges. Analyse (10M)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: The Hindu, Insights on India
Why the question: The Quad intends to expand the Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA) into the Indian Ocean Region. Key Demand of the Question: Analyze the role of QUAD in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region and examine the challenges it faces. Directive: Analyze- Examine in detail both the role of QUAD in the Indo-Pacific region and identify its challenges Structure of the Answer: Introduction: Briefly introduce the QUAD (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) and its purpose. Body: First part: Role of QUAD Promote maritime security and freedom of navigation. Enhance regional cooperation through joint exercises and dialogues. Address regional challenges like China’s assertiveness and territorial disputes. Second part: Challenges Faced Divergent national interests among member countries. Diplomatic tensions with China. Limited military and economic resources compared to China’s influence. Coordination and implementation issues within the group. Conclusion: Emphasize the need for continued collaboration and strategic alignment to overcome challenges.
Why the question:
The Quad intends to expand the Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA) into the Indian Ocean Region.
Key Demand of the Question:
Analyze the role of QUAD in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region and examine the challenges it faces.
Directive:
Analyze- Examine in detail both the role of QUAD in the Indo-Pacific region and identify its challenges
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction:
Briefly introduce the QUAD (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) and its purpose.
First part: Role of QUAD
Promote maritime security and freedom of navigation.
Enhance regional cooperation through joint exercises and dialogues.
Address regional challenges like China’s assertiveness and territorial disputes.
Second part: Challenges Faced
Divergent national interests among member countries.
Diplomatic tensions with China.
Limited military and economic resources compared to China’s influence.
Coordination and implementation issues within the group.
Conclusion:
Emphasize the need for continued collaboration and strategic alignment to overcome challenges.
Introduction:
The QUAD was initially established in 2007, but has gained renewed traction recently due to concerns over China’s assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific. Its primary aim is to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific, emphasizing international law, freedom of navigation, and peaceful dispute resolution.
Role of the QUAD:
• Security: The QUAD enhances regional security through joint military exercises and intelligence sharing.
• For example, the Malabar naval exercise improves coordination among member
• Economic Prosperity: The QUAD fosters economic growth by promoting infrastructure and investment, countering China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
• Example: The Blue Dot Network certifies projects to ensure transparency and sustainability.
• Supply Chain Resilience: In response to COVID-19, the QUAD focuses on diversifying and securing critical supply chains, launching the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) in 2021.
• International Law: Adhering to international laws like UNCLOS, the QUAD supports freedom of navigation and counters coercive actions.
• Maritime Security Capacity Building: The QUAD aids regional nations in maritime law enforcement, such as providing patrol vessels to Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
• Example: indo pacific Maritime Domain Awareness Initiative.
• Implications for India:
• Security and Defense: The QUAD enhances India’s security through cooperation on intelligence and maritime awareness, bolstering its deterrence and protecting trade routes.
• Countering China’s Influence: By aligning with the QUAD, India can balance China’s influence and safeguard regional stability.
• Regional Connectivity: The QUAD supports India’s connectivity projects, such as the International North-South Transport Corridor and Chabahar Port.
The QUAD faces several challenges:
• Lack of Formal Structure: It lacks a permanent secretariat or decision-making body, affecting its efficiency.
• China’s Suspicion: China views the QUAD as a containment strategy, complicating constructive engagement and potentially increasing tensions.
• Imbalanced Cooperation: Differences in financial resources, strategic awareness, and military capabilities among members can hinder effective cooperation.
• Geopolitical Challenges: Regional issues like territorial disputes and non-traditional security threats require sustained coordination, which may be challenging.
• Example: Differing opinions on Israel- Palestine war and Russia-Ukraine War.
Conclusion:
To address the challenges, it is required to strengthen commitment and engagement, delivering concrete outcomes and strengthen strategic and military cooperation. The QUAD’s vision complements India’s goals for stability, security, and economic growth, making its active participation crucial for advancing these objectives and fostering a prosperous Indo-Pacific.
Topic: Indian Constitution and its features
Topic: Indian Constitution and its features
Q4. The Constitution expressly makes fundamental rights enforceable, while “Directive Principles of State Policy” (DPSP) are regarded as goals that the state is expected to work towards. In this context, discuss the tension between Fundamental rights and DPSP. (15M)
- •*Difficulty level: Moderate
- •Reference: Insights on India *
Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of GS-paper 2. Key Demand of the Question: Discuss the tension between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) in the Indian Constitution. Directive: Discuss- describe key differences between Fundamental rights and DPSP and present an analysis of how conflicts arise between them. Structure of the Answer: Introduction : Briefly define Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP). State their significance in the Indian Constitution. Body: First part: Key differences between Fundamental rights and DPSP Second part: Tension Between Fundamental Rights and DPSP Article 39 (a) and 39 (b), Minerva Mills case Conflict Examples: Case law where Fundamental Rights were in conflict with DPSP (e.g., Kesavananda Bharati case). Instances where state policies influenced by DPSP were challenged on grounds of infringing Fundamental Rights. Third part: Resolution Mechanisms Constitutional provisions for reconciliation (e.g., the balance between Fundamental Rights and DPSP as interpreted by the judiciary). Role of the judiciary in interpreting and harmonizing the two. Conclusion: Emphasize the need for a balanced approach to ensure both Fundamental Rights and DPSP are respected.
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of GS-paper 2.
Key Demand of the Question:
Discuss the tension between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) in the Indian Constitution.
Directive:
Discuss- describe key differences between Fundamental rights and DPSP and present an analysis of how conflicts arise between them.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction :
Briefly define Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP). State their significance in the Indian Constitution.
First part: Key differences between Fundamental rights and DPSP
Second part: Tension Between Fundamental Rights and DPSP
Article 39 (a) and 39 (b), Minerva Mills case
Conflict Examples: Case law where Fundamental Rights were in conflict with DPSP (e.g., Kesavananda Bharati case).
Instances where state policies influenced by DPSP were challenged on grounds of infringing Fundamental Rights.
Third part: Resolution Mechanisms
Constitutional provisions for reconciliation (e.g., the balance between Fundamental Rights and DPSP as interpreted by the judiciary).
Role of the judiciary in interpreting and harmonizing the two.
Conclusion:
Emphasize the need for a balanced approach to ensure both Fundamental Rights and DPSP are respected.
Introduction:
Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) are enshrined in Part-III and Part-IV of the Indian constitution to guide governance. Fundamental Rights are enforceable legal guarantees safeguarding individual freedoms and equality, while DPSP are non-justiciable goals aimed at promoting socio-economic justice and welfare.
Key Differences Between Fundamental Rights and DPSP:
• Nature and Enforceability:
• Fundamental Rights: Enforceable through courts; include rights such as equality, freedom of speech, and protection against discrimination.
• DPSP: Non-justiciable; represent ideals for social and economic reform, such as promoting welfare and reducing inequality.
• Purpose:
• Fundamental Rights: Focus on individual liberties and protection from state interference.
• DPSP: Aim at achieving broader societal goals and guiding state policy towards economic and social justice.
• Legal Status:
• Fundamental Rights: Have legal backing and can be enforced directly in courts.
• DPSP: Serve as guiding principles but cannot be directly enforced in courts.
Tension Between Fundamental Rights and DPSP:
In Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973), the Court held that while DPSP are important, they must not violate the basic structure of Fundamental Rights. This landmark ruling underscored the primacy of Fundamental Rights over DPSP in cases of conflict.
In Minerva Mills Case (1980), the Supreme Court emphasized the balance between Fundamental Rights and DPSP, asserting that neither can be absolutely superior to the other. The case reinforced the need for harmony between individual rights and socio-economic objectives.
Article 39(b) vs. Right to Property:
• Article 39(b) directs the State to ensure equitable distribution of wealth and resources to serve the common good.
• Right to Property (Fundamental Right until the 44th Amendment Act of 1978) allows individuals to own and acquire property.
• Keshavananda Bharati Case (1973): The Supreme Court upheld the validity of constitutional amendments that could affect Fundamental Rights if they align with the DPSP, emphasizing that while Fundamental Rights are crucial, they must accommodate the DPSP’s objective of equitable resource distribution.
Article 39(a) vs. Economic Freedoms:
• Article 39(a) mandates the State to secure adequate livelihood for all citizens.
• Economic Freedoms under Fundamental Rights include the freedom to trade and occupation.
• Indira Sawhney Case (1992): The Supreme Court supported affirmative action policies aimed at social and economic upliftment under DPSP, which may affect economic freedoms. It acknowledged that policies promoting equitable distribution and upliftment might limit certain economic freedoms but are justifiable for achieving broader socio-economic goals.
Resolution Mechanism:
Courts use a principle of harmonious construction to align the application of Fundamental Rights and DPSP. They assess whether policies promoting DPSP are implemented in a manner that does not unduly infringe upon Fundamental Rights.
Conclusion:
While Fundamental Rights are essential for protecting individual freedoms, DPSP can, in specific contexts, take precedence to achieve broader socio-economic objectives. The judiciary plays a pivotal role in balancing these rights and principles, ensuring that policies designed to advance DPSP do not disproportionately infringe upon Fundamental Rights. This balance is crucial for fostering both individual liberties and collective welfare.
General Studies – 3
Topic: Disaster Management
Topic: Disaster Management
Q5. Explain why drowning is considered a neglected public health crisis. Discuss the global and national measures being implemented to address it. (250 Words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: The Hindu,
Why the question: The article emphasizes the increasing prevalence of drowning incidents (including the recent case of drowning in the Rau’s IAS Library in Delhi) due to various socio-economic and environmental factors, highlighting the need for urgent and comprehensive public health interventions. Key Demand of the question: To explain the reasons behind the high incidence of drowning deaths and the steps taken at both global and national levels to prevent them. Directive word: Explain – Clarify the reasons for the neglect of drowning as a public health issue and outline the measures being implemented to address it. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Define drowning as a major cause of death and mention its prevalence globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Body: Mention the factors contributing to the high incidence of drowning: rising sea levels, urbanization, poverty, risky livelihoods, and lack of safety measures. In the above point, highlight the specific vulnerabilities of children and adolescents. Describe global efforts, including the WHO’s Global Report on Drowning Prevention, UN resolution on drowning prevention, and country-specific initiatives like Australia’s water safety plans, Vietnam’s swimming lessons, and Bangladesh’s “Anchal” model. Next, mention India’s recent strategic framework for drowning prevention, focusing on data collection and multi-sectoral responses. Conclusion: Conclude with a way forward.
Why the question:
The article emphasizes the increasing prevalence of drowning incidents (including the recent case of drowning in the Rau’s IAS Library in Delhi) due to various socio-economic and environmental factors, highlighting the need for urgent and comprehensive public health interventions.
Key Demand of the question: To explain the reasons behind the high incidence of drowning deaths and the steps taken at both global and national levels to prevent them.
Directive word: Explain – Clarify the reasons for the neglect of drowning as a public health issue and outline the measures being implemented to address it.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Define drowning as a major cause of death and mention its prevalence globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
• Mention the factors contributing to the high incidence of drowning: rising sea levels, urbanization, poverty, risky livelihoods, and lack of safety measures.
• In the above point, highlight the specific vulnerabilities of children and adolescents.
• Describe global efforts, including the WHO’s Global Report on Drowning Prevention, UN resolution on drowning prevention, and country-specific initiatives like Australia’s water safety plans, Vietnam’s swimming lessons, and Bangladesh’s “Anchal” model.
• Next, mention India’s recent strategic framework for drowning prevention, focusing on data collection and multi-sectoral responses.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a way forward.
Introduction:
As per the NCRB -Accidental Deaths and Suicides, eighty persons die of drowning each day in India, which accounts for 7.4% of all unnatural deaths. Recently Rau’s IAS basement flood incident where 3 aspirants drowned has reignited the debate on drowning incident negligence.
Drowning is a neglected public health crisis because:
• Lack of awareness: Drowning is often under-recognized as a critical public health issue, leading to insufficient funding and attention.
E.g. Swimming is neglected at the school level.
• Invisibility in health policies: It is frequently excluded from national health policies and priorities, overshadowed by more visible health crises.
E.g. No policy covers drowning as a health crisis.
• Fragmented data: Inadequate data collection and reporting on drowning incidents hinder effective policy-making and resource allocation.
E.g. the Centre reported, there were 38,000 drowning deaths reported in 2023 in India.
• Limited resources: Resource constraints and competing health priorities result in limited investment in drowning prevention measures and public education.
• Complexity of solutions: Addressing drowning requires multi-faceted solutions involving community engagement, infrastructure improvements, and education, which can be challenging to implement effectively.
E.g. the Urban flooding of Chennai has taken many lives in the recent past.
The reasons behind the recurring drowning cases are:
• Risky behavior: Adolescents often engage in risky behaviors such as swimming alone or near hazardous areas without understanding the dangers.
E.g. the WHO reported that 24% of deaths are under the age category below 25yrs.
• Vulnerable livelihoods: risky livelihoods such as fishing or agricultural work near water bodies face heightened drowning risks due to a lack of training and safety equipment.
• Urbanization: leads to poorly planned infrastructure, inadequate drainage systems, and increased flood risks, contributing to drowning incidents.
E.g. 2024 Delhi Rau’s incident drowned 3 UPSC aspirants.
• Rising sea levels: Increased coastal flooding due to rising sea levels exacerbates drowning risks in vulnerable coastal communities.
E.g. Maldives and Lakshadweep were named as the drowning islands due to sea level rise.
• Lack of safety measures: including poor water safety education, lack of barriers, and insufficient supervision, contribute significantly to drowning incidents.
E.g. the Bhushi dam incident killed 5 members of the family in 2024.
Global efforts to address drowning:
• WHO’s global status report: The World Health Organization is preparing a Global Status Report on Drowning to provide a global overview, highlight effective prevention strategies, and guide international efforts.
• UN resolution on drowning prevention: The United Nations has passed resolutions promoting national policies and international cooperation for effective drowning prevention.
• Australia’s water safety plans: Australia implements comprehensive water safety plans, including public education, swimming training, and facility safety audits.
• Vietnam’s swimming lessons: Vietnam offers nationwide swimming lessons for children to equip them with essential water safety skills.
Bangladesh’s “Anchal” Model: Bangladesh uses the “Anchal” model, focusing on community-based drowning prevention through education and local initiatives.
India’s recent strategic framework for drowning prevention:
• Strategic framework: India has introduced a strategic framework focusing on comprehensive drowning prevention measures and regulations.
E.g. ‘National Emergency Life Support’ provider course manual covers drowning.
• Data collection: Emphasis on data collection to understand drowning incidents and high-risk areas.
• Multi-sectoral responses: Advocates for multi-sectoral responses involving government, NGOs, and communities for coordinated prevention efforts.
• Public awareness: Focuses on public awareness campaigns and education to promote water safety and prevent drowning.
Conclusion:
It is essential to incorporate water safety education and swimming skills into curricula for children and adolescents to mitigate risks. By prioritizing drowning prevention and enhancing safety measures, we can significantly reduce the incidence and impact of this often-overlooked issue.
General Studies – 4
Topic: Corporate Governance
Topic: Corporate Governance
Q6. “In the realm of corporate governance, the management of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds plays a crucial role in aligning a company’s ethical standards with its social commitments”. Elucidate [10M]
Difficulty level: Medium
Reference: The Hindu Business Line
Why the question: Efforts are being made to provide CSR funds amounting to ₹500 crore to voluntary organizations in Kerala over the next three years, as announced at the National NGO Confederation’s first Social Innovation Summit. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Begin by writing a definition of corporate governance. Body: First, explain regarding corporate governance and its elements. Then, briefly explain what you mean by CSR. Lastly, address what role CSR plays in a company’s social commitment and ethical standards towards the public. Use examples to justify your points. Conclusion: Summarize the above discussion in brief or write significance.
Why the question:
Efforts are being made to provide CSR funds amounting to ₹500 crore to voluntary organizations in Kerala over the next three years, as announced at the National NGO Confederation’s first Social Innovation Summit.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction: Begin by writing a definition of corporate governance.
Body:
• First, explain regarding corporate governance and its elements.
• Then, briefly explain what you mean by CSR.
• Lastly, address what role CSR plays in a company’s social commitment and ethical standards towards the public.
• Use examples to justify your points.
Conclusion:
Summarize the above discussion in brief or write significance.
Introduction:
Corporate governance refers to the systems, principles, and processes by which a company is directed and controlled. It encompasses the mechanisms through which organizations are accountable to their stakeholders, including shareholders, employees, customers, and the community at large.
Key elements of corporate governance include:
• Board of directors: The board provides strategic direction, oversight, and accountability. It ensures that the company’s activities align with its mission and objectives.
• Transparency and disclosure: Companies are expected to provide clear, accurate, and timely information about their operations, financial performance, and governance practices.
• Accountability: This involves holding individuals and teams responsible for their actions and decisions, ensuring that they act in the best interests of the company and its stakeholders.
• Ethical behavior: Corporate governance requires adherence to ethical standards, including integrity, fairness, and compliance with laws and regulations.
• Stakeholder engagement: Effective governance involves engaging with various stakeholders and considering their interests and concerns in decision-making processes.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a concept where companies integrate social and environmental concerns into their business operations and interactions with stakeholders. CSR goes beyond profit-making to include efforts aimed at contributing positively to society.
It helps bridge the gap between corporate practices and societal expectations through:
• Enhancing reputation: CSR initiatives can significantly enhance a company’s reputation by showcasing its commitment to societal values and ethical behavior. This can lead to increased customer loyalty and positive public perception.
E.g. Tata firms run Tata Medical Center in Kolkata provides cancer treatment to underprivileged patients.
• Building trust: By actively engaging in CSR activities, companies build trust with stakeholders. This trust is crucial for maintaining long-term relationships and securing a company’s social license to operate.
E.g. Infosys Foundation, the CSR arm of Infosys, supports various initiatives in education, healthcare, rural development, and arts and culture.
• Fostering ethical practices: CSR encourages companies to adopt ethical practices by integrating social and environmental considerations into their business strategies. This alignment helps ensure that business operations do not harm society.
E.g. The Reliance Foundation program the “Jio Happiness Program,” aims to improve the quality of life in rural areas.
• Creating positive impact: They support community development, education, healthcare, and environmental conservation, demonstrating a company’s commitment to making a positive difference.
E.g. The HDFC bank program “Parivarthan” spent 750cr on aspiration districts in 2023.
Conclusion:
By investing in meaningful CSR activities, companies can align their operations with societal expectations, thereby enhancing their reputation and contributing positively to the communities in which they operate.
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