Category: Strategy Sessions

“Laws are made for people, not people for laws.”– Albert Einestine

In public administration, focusing solely on formality and ignoring the substance of the matter often leads to injustice. A perceptive civil servant prioritizes the spirit and intent behind laws and policies over rigid procedural compliance, ensuring fairness and justice. 

Dangers of Mindless Adherence to Form

1. Injustice to Vulnerable Groups: Blind adherence to rules can deny access to benefits for those lacking resources or documentation. Eg: Denying ration cards to homeless individuals without a permanent address.
2. Bureaucratic Delays leading to inefficiency and slow public service delivery. Eg: Eg: In the 2014 Kashmir floods, delays in distributing relief due to incomplete paperwork 
3. Loss of Public Trust: People may lose faith in the system if rigid rules result in unfair outcomes.
4. Corruption Facilitation: Complex processes encourage bribes as shortcuts, exploiting the vulnerable. Eg: Vohra Committee – Politician-Bureaucrat-Corporate Nexus
5. Stifling Innovation: Eg: Halting creative educational methods due to rigid compliance with outdated curricula.
6. Undermining Public Welfare: Public welfare programs may be inefficient if focus remains on formalities rather than outcomes. Eg: Exclusion error under PDS
7. Increased Litigation: Eg: Litigations in PPP Projects.
8. Moral Disengagement: Eg: Deporting refugees due to missing paperwork, ignoring the ethical responsibility of offering asylum in life-threatening situations.

Perceptive Civil Servant’s Approach to True Intent

1. Outcome-Oriented Action: Focus on achieving the intended result of the law, rather than getting bogged down by rigid rules. Eg: Aruna Sundararajan (IAS) as a Telecom Secretary, rolled out BharatNet to connect rural areas
2. Empathy and Compassion (Ethics of Care): Eg: Prasanth Nair (IAS) launched several citizen-centric initiatives like Compassionate Kozhikode for compassion-driven governance.
3. Judicious Flexibility: adjust deadlines and processes when it benefits public welfare. Eg- Smita Sabharwal (IAS) launched the Ammalalana program in Telangana, integrating public feedback into governance
4. Proactive Problem-Solving (Pragmatism): Pragmatism encourages practical solutions over strict theoretical application. 
5. Holistic Decision-Making: While following the law is important, the true duty is to the public, meaning civil servants must balance legality with morality. Eg: Vinod Kumar (IAS) simplified the flood compensation process, ensuring people received immediate relief without excessive paperwork.
6. Balancing Rules with Intent: A perceptive civil servant ensures that laws serve the common good, not just formal compliance. Eg- Eg: U. Sagayam ensured that drought relief was delivered promptly, even if recipients lacked all necessary documentation

“The strictest law sometimes becomes the severest injustice.” – Benjamin Franklin. A perceptive civil servant looks beyond rigid formalities, ensuring that governance serves its higher purpose—equity and fairness.

As Heraclitus said, “The only constant in life is change.” Justice, at its core, is a fluid concept, shaped by evolving social norms, legal systems, and cultural values. Therefore, justice must be continuously re-examined to ensure it remains fair and relevant to current circumstances.

Contextual Nature of Justice and Need for scrutiny

1. Changing Social Norms: Eg: Slavery was considered legal centuries ago, but today, it’s universally condemned. Similarly, Same-sex marriage is legalized in many regions after social advocacy.
2. Legal Reforms: Eg- The SC’s judgment in the Navtej Singh Johar case (2018) decriminalized homosexuality or Triple Talaq judgment (2017)
3. Technological Changes: New emerging form of justice like Right to Privacy, Right to be Forgotten etc. Eg- Eg: AI ethics and regulations
4. Economic Shifts:  Eg: Feudal land ownership systems were once considered just in many societies but are now seen as perpetuating inequality, leading to land reforms.
5. Cultural Movements: raise awareness of injustices previously accepted. Eg: The #MeToo movement redefined acceptable workplace behavior, pushing for more accountability.
6. Changing Political Structures – Eg: Colonialism was once justified by many Western powers as a means of “civilizing” other societies, but today, it is widely viewed as an injustice that led to the exploitation and oppression of people.

Universality of Justice

1. Moral Absolutes: Some principles of justice remain constant, regardless of context. Eg: Murder is universally considered a crime, regardless of the time period.
2. Natural Rights: Certain human rights, like the right to life and liberty, are universal and timeless. Eg: Freedom from slavery is a universally accepted standard.
3. Global Ethical Standards: Ethical principles such as fairness and equality transcend time and culture. Eg: Equality before the law remains a cornerstone of justice systems globally.

Way Forward for Adapting Justice to Changing Contexts

1. Constant Review of Laws: Eg.  Repealing old laws, new criminal codes, labor codes are right steps in this regard.
2. Judicial Flexibility: Courts should interpret laws with a context-sensitive approach rather than rigidly applying outdated precedents. Eg: S.C. verdict on the right to privacy 
3. Ethical Oversight: Eg: The formation of ethics boards in scientific research ensures that advancements in areas like genetics or AI do not violate principles of justice.

By balancing evolving societal norms with universal ethical principles, we ensure a fair and equitable justice system for all. As Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”

Immanuel Kant contrasts the nature of legal guilt and moral responsibility. While law is a system of rules and guidelines enforced externally through institutions like courts and law enforcement, Ethics go beyond what is required by law and address positive moral duties.

Difference Between Law and Ethics

Aspect	Law	Ethics
Focus	Governs external actions and behaviors	Governs internal intentions and moral reasoning
Accountability	Guilty when violating legal rights	Guilty for unethical thoughts, regardless of actions
Enforcement	Enforced by the state or legal authority	Self-enforced, driven by personal conscience or social influence
Consequences	Legal penalties such as fines or imprisonment	Social disapproval or personal guilt
Objective	Maintain social order and protect individual rights	Guide individuals toward moral integrity

Application of the Quote in Various Fields

1. Ethical Guilt in Thought: Ethics goes beyond actions to consider intentions. Thinking about harming others, even without acting, reflects poor moral judgment. Eg: Contemplating cheating
2. Character Over Consequences (Virtue Ethics): emphasizing pure motives over the mere absence of harmful actions. Eg: Donating to charity solely for tax benefits may be legal but is ethically questionable if done without genuine compassion.
3. Individual Level: laws dictate behavior, while ethics guide intentions. Someone may avoid breaking the law but have unethical desires. Eg- Edward Snowden, while breaking U.S. laws on surveillance, acted out of ethical concerns about the government’s overreach on privacy.
4. Social Level: Societies rely on laws to maintain order, but ethics shape moral expectations. Law-abiding citizens might still fail in their ethical responsibilities to the community.
5. Political Level: Politicians are bound by laws, but their ethical obligations extend beyond mere legal compliance, requiring decisions that reflect public interest. Eg-  Lobbying is legal in many countries, but politicians who receive donations from corporations may ethically compromise their integrity
6. Economic Level: Businesses must follow legal regulations, but ethically they should also act responsibly toward employees, customers, and the environment. Eg- Ben & Jerry’s openly supports social causes like LGBTQ+ rights to align corporate policies with ethical values.
7. Healthcare: In healthcare, professionals follow legal standards, but their ethical duties extend to providing compassionate care. Eg- Euthanasia is illegal in many countries, but ethically, some healthcare professionals may believe it aligns with the patient’s right to die with dignity.

As Mahatma Gandhi said, “Morality is the basis of things and truth is the substance of all morality.” Ethics and law must coexist, as law maintains order while ethics elevates individuals to a higher moral standard. Together, they ensure a just and morally responsible society.

“Faith without action is dead.” While faith provides the vision and moral compass, strength ensures resilience and the capacity to act. Only through the combination of both can significant achievements be realized.

Limitations of Faith

1. Inactivity: Faith without strength can lead to passivity, where belief alone doesn’t produce results. Eg: A person believing in climate change action but not participating in solutions.
2. Dependency: Excessive faith may lead to over-reliance on external forces without taking personal action.
3. Frustration: Faith without progress can result in despair when no tangible outcome is seen.

Limitations of Strength

1. Aimlessness: Strength without a guiding belief can lead to wasted effort. Eg: An athlete training hard without a clear goal can lose motivation.
2. Misuse of Power: Uncontrolled strength without a moral compass can harm others. Eg- Watergate Scandal
3. Temporary Success: Strength alone may lead to short-term results but lacks the purpose for long-term achievement.

The Need for Both Faith and Strength

1. Balanced Action: Faith directs action, while strength ensures execution. Eg: Martin Luther King Jr. believed in civil rights but also took strong actions through protests, leading to significant social change.
2. Endurance in Hard Times: Eg: Malala Yousafzai had faith in education’s power, but her strength to recover and continue advocating after being attacked made her a global icon.
3. Long-term Vision: Faith provides long-term focus, while strength allows consistent effort. Eg: Wright brothers had faith in human flight and the strength to overcome multiple failures to invent the airplane.
4. Moral Compass: Eg: Abraham Lincoln combined his faith in equality with strength in leadership to abolish slavery.
5. Inspiring Others: Eg: Mother Teresa combined faith in serving the poor with the strength of lifelong dedication, inspiring millions to contribute to her mission.

Faith and strength, when isolated, are limited in their ability to achieve lasting success. Together, they form a powerful combination that drives both personal and collective achievements.

Swami Vivekananda emphasizes the importance of learning from others while maintaining individuality. He encourages absorbing knowledge and wisdom from diverse sources and adapting it uniquely to one’s own life. This approach fosters personal growth while upholding ethical integrity and authenticity.

“Learn everything that is good from others”

1. Embrace a Growth Mindset: Recognize that others have valuable experiences and knowledge to offer. Eg: Mahatma Gandhi learned the principles of non-violence from Tolstoy and Hinduism
2. Open-Minded Learning: Be willing to seek out lessons from different cultures, perspectives, and individuals. Eg- Steve Jobs sought design inspiration from Buddhism and Japanese aesthetics
3. Humility in Learning: Accept that we don’t know everything and can always improve by learning from others. Eg- APJ Abdul Kalam

“Bring it in, and in your own way absorb it”

1. Personalize Knowledge: Eg- Bruce Lee absorbed multiple martial arts forms but synthesized them into his unique philosophy, Jeet Kune Do.
2. Integrate Creatively: Combine new ideas with your own approach, giving them a personal touch. Eg- Pablo Picasso’s Cubist style.
3. Make It Meaningful: Absorb lessons in a way that aligns with your values and purpose.

“Do not become others”

1. Maintain Authenticity: While learning from others, stay true to who you are and your core values. Eg- Gandhi’s simple attire during his visit to Britain
2. Avoid Imitation: Learning should be transformative, not a process of copying others’ lives or methods. Eg- Sanskritization of corruption
3. Celebrate Individuality: Use what you’ve learned to enhance your unique identity rather than replace it. Eg- Transgender community

“Be yourself; everyone else is already taken” –  Oscar Wilde.  By staying true to who we are and not simply imitating others, we contribute to the world with our distinct creativity and individuality.

“The earth provides enough to satisfy every man’s needs, but not every man’s greed.” – Gandhi

Human Greed in the Name of Development Threatening Life:

• Uncontrolled Resource Exploitation: Large-scale deforestation, mining, and extraction for industrial purposes. Eg. Amazon rainforest has lost 17% of its area.
• 
• Rising Carbon Emissions: IPCC reports that global temperatures have risen by 1.2°C since the pre-industrial era, causing more frequent and severe natural disasters.
• Loss of Biodiversity: WWF estimates a 60% decline in wildlife populations since 1970, primarily due to habitat loss and pollution.
• Social Inequality in Environmental Impact: According to UNEP, vulnerable communities face the greatest risk from rising sea levels, heatwaves, and food shortages.
• Violation of Environmental Ethics: violation of the principles of non-maleficence and deep ecology. 
• Unsustainable Urbanization: Rapid urban expansion consumes land, leading to overcrowded cities with poor living conditions.
• Future Generations at Risk: Short-term economic gains undermine long-term environmental sustainability, leaving future generations to bear the consequences.

Biodiversity Loss (IPBES Global Assessment Report on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services)The average abundance of native species in most major land-based habitats has fallen by at least 20% since 1900. At least 680 vertebrate species and more than 9% of all domesticated breeds of mammals had become extinct by 2016more than 41,000 animals worldwide are threatened with extinction, including 41% of all amphibians, almost 33% of reef-forming corals, 27% of the world’s mammals, more than a third of all marine mammals, and 13% of all known bird species. (IUCN)

Measures to Protect Life and Restore Equilibrium:

1. Government – Deontology (Duty Ethics)

1. Policy Implementation: laws like carbon taxes and incentives for renewable energy. Eg: Sweden’s carbon tax.
2. Infrastructure Investment: Prioritize building green infrastructure, such as public transportation systems. Eg: bike-friendly infrastructure in Netherlands.
3. Strengthening Environmental Regulations: Stronger enforcement of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA)
4. Ecocentrism: Prioritizing ecosystem health over individual resource use. Eg: Norway’s protection of the Lofoten islands from oil exploration preserves marine ecosystems critical to biodiversity, despite potential economic gains from drilling.
5. People (Virtue Ethics)

1. Adopt Sustainable Lifestyles: by using renewable energy, recycling, and limiting resource consumption to ensure Intergenerational Equity.
2. Community-Based Conservation: Engaging local communities in conservation efforts, like the Chipko Movement in India, Great Green Wall in Africa
3. Businesses 

1. Sustainable Practices by investing in clean technologies and adopting circular economy practices. Eg: IKEA has committed to using only renewable and recycled materials by 2030.
2. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Eg: Patagonia donates a percentage of profits to environmental causes and focuses on sustainable production.
3. Global Community 

1. International Agreements: Eg: Over 190 nations committed to limiting global warming to below 2°C at the 2015 Paris Climate Summit.
2. Technology and Resource Sharing: Eg: The Green Climate Fund assists developing countries in climate adaptation and mitigation efforts.

Securing a nature-positive world by 2030 must be our guiding star in order to maintain equilibrium between the humanity and the environment

Western nations often advocate for peace, democracy, and human rights while being major global arms suppliers, creating cognitive dissonance and conflicting beliefs. This contradiction reflects commerce without morality, one of Gandhi’s seven sins. 

Ethical Concerns of Double Standards in Global Arms Trade

1. Promotion of Peace vs. Arms Supply: Eg. U.S. provides arms to Ukraine and Israel while calling for peace in global forums.
2. Support for Democracy vs. Arms Sales to Authoritarian Regimes: While promoting democracy, countries like U.K. (BAE Systems) and France (Dassault Aviation) sell arms to regimes like Saudi Arabia, contributing to the Yemen conflict
3. Economic Interests Over Global Stability: In 2022, U.S. arms exports totaled $44.5 billion.
4. Selective Peace Advocacy (selective moralism): The U.S. supports Israel while advocating for peace in other regions, and Russia supplies arms to Iran and Syria. 
5. Perpetuation of Violence: Rather than fostering peace, weapon industries fuel ongoing violence and suffering.

Ethical considerations of the powerful nations to stop continuation of ongoing conflicts

1. Respect for International Law: Eg: The UN-approved intervention in Libya (2011) upheld global legal standards for military action.
2. Human Rights Protection: Eg: NATO’s Kosovo intervention (1999) aimed to stop ethnic cleansing and protect civilians.
3. Promotion of Democracy: Eg: U.S. support for South Korea’s democracy in the 1980s enabled peaceful democratic transition.
4. Humanitarian Aid and Peacekeeping: Eg: The UN mission in Sierra Leone helped stabilize the region post-civil war.
5. Non-Interference and Sovereignty: Eg: India respected Sri Lanka’s sovereignty during its civil war while promoting peace.
6. Promoting Diplomacy Over Military Action: Eg: The Iran Nuclear Deal (2015) avoided military conflict through diplomacy.
7. War Ethics: Eg: The Geneva Conventions guided ethical conduct in wars, like the Gulf War.

The Need for Action Over Mere Advocacy

1. Transparency in Arms Deals
2. Investing in Peacebuilding Initiatives: Eg- Norway’s investment in peace mediation efforts, like those in Sri Lanka
3. Accountability for Governments:  Eg- Protests in the U.K. over arms sales to Saudi Arabia 
4. Prioritizing Human Rights: aligning foreign policy with ethical principles of harm minimization and human dignity.
5. Strengthening Arms Control and Ethical Warfare through international treaties like the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT).

“Talking about peace while fueling war with weapons is like extinguishing fire with gasoline.” Thus, Powerful nations must align their actions with their values as peace requires consistent action, not just rhetoric.

Mackenzie defines ethics as a set of moral principles that guide human action in a way acceptable by society. According to William Lillie, “Ethics is a normative science of the conduct of human beings living in societies which judges this conduct to be right or wrong, good and bad.”

key dimensions of ethics that influence human actions

1. Meta-Ethics: Questions the meaning of “right” and “wrong.” Eg: Immanuel Kant developed the categorical imperative, arguing for universal moral principles.
2. Prescriptive (Normative) Ethics: Establishes rules for right or wrong actions. Eg: Martin Luther King Jr. advocated for non-violence based on justice and equality.
3. Descriptive Ethics: Observes actual ethical behavior. Eg: Max Weber studied how different societies define morality and authority.
4. Applied Ethics: Uses ethical principles in real-world situations. Eg- Bioethics which pertains to euthanasia, abortion or research on human embryos. Business ethics which includes good corporate governance, protection of whistleblowers etc.

Dimensions Shape Ethical Decision-Making In The Professional Context

1. Consequentialism (Outcomes): Maximizing positive outcomes for all stakeholders. Eg: The Jan Dhan Yojana improved financial inclusion by opening 53 Cr bank accounts, ensuring economic empowerment and social equity.
2. Deontology (Duties and Rules): Following moral duties and codes regardless of consequences. Eg: Civil servants enforcing Model Code of Conduct during elections, ensuring free and fair elections, even when faced with political pressure.
3. Rights and Justice: Ensuring fairness and protecting individual rights. Eg: The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) ensures the right to work.
4. Virtue Ethics (Character): Guided by virtues like honesty and empathy. Eg: Kiran Bedi, as a senior police officer, demonstrated integrity by introducing prison reforms, focusing on rehabilitation over punishment.
5. Common Good: Decisions are made with societal welfare in mind. Eg: The Aadhaar program facilitating better delivery of government services and reducing corruption.
6. Transparency and Accountability:Eg: GeM (Government e-Marketplace) ensures transparent public procurement and reducing corruption.
7. Corporate Governance – incorporating ESG Norms into corporate strategy.

Challenges

1. Conflicting Stakeholder Interests: Eg: Deciding between cutting costs and ensuring employee welfare.
2. Global Cultural Variations: Differing ethical standards across regions can complicate uniform ethical practices in multinational organizations.
3. Transparency: Maintaining transparency can conflict with confidentiality or expose organizations to public scrutiny.
4. Cost of Compliance: Implementing ethical practices or ESG standards can be expensive, particularly for smaller businesses.

Way Forward

1. Develop Clear Ethical Guidelines: transparent codes of conduct and code of Ethics
2. Integrate Ethics with Technology: Leverage AI and data analytics for decision-making while addressing ethical concerns such as bias, privacy, and fairness.

As Albert Schweitzer said, “Ethics is nothing else than reverence for life.” This reverence guides professionals to make decisions that respect humanity, promote fairness, and ensure accountability.

“AI is the future of government efficiency, transparency, and citizen service, but it must be used responsibly, with accountability and safeguards.” – Sundar Pichai

According to report by McKinsey, artificial intelligence can increase global GDP growth by 16 percent by 2030, questions remain about its fairness, potential biases, and the erosion of human responsibility in governance.

Application of AI for administrative rational decision making

Policy Formulation

1. Data-Driven Decision: Eg: AI predicts disease outbreaks by analyzing health data.
2. Policy Impact Simulation: Eg: AI models simulate the economic impacts of tax reforms.
3. Sentiment Analysis: Eg: AI tools gauge public opinion on social media regarding policy proposals.

Policy Implementation

1. Resource Allocation: Eg: Urban planners use AI to optimize public transport systems based on population growth predictions.
2. Service Delivery: AI automates routine tasks, improving responsiveness and efficiency. Eg: Ask Disha chatbot of Indian Railway.
3. Process Automation: Eg: AI automates document verification for passport applications.

Monitoring

1. Fraud Detection: Eg: AI in tax systems flags suspicious filings for further investigation.
2. Decision Support Systems (DSS): use for real-time monitoring and resource allocation. Eg: AI helps disaster management teams allocate resources efficiently during emergencies.
3. Transparency and Accountability: by documenting the rationale for decisions and maintaining audit trails. 

Singapore’s Smart Nation initiative using AI in public administration to enhance urban living, governance, and public services.

Ethical issues might arise as noted by National Strategy for AI (NSAI)-2018

1. Algorithmic Bias: Eg: Amazon’s recruitment AI was found to favor men over women.
2. Humanity: Virtual assistants (e.g., Alexa) may reduce human-to-human interaction, impacting social relationships.
3. Evil Genies: AI chatbots like Microsoft’s Tay inadvertently promoted hate speech due to poor programming.
4. Singularity: Worries about superintelligent AI surpassing human control, as seen in debates on AI safety.
5. Accountability: It’s often unclear who is responsible for AI-driven decisions—developers, administrators, or the system itself.
6. Transparency (Black Box Problem) – Eg: AI used in welfare programs might deny benefits without clear reasons, leading to lack of trust.
7. Fairness:  Eg: AI in public services could favor urban areas over rural regions due to data imbalances.
8. Privacy Issues: Eg: AI-based surveillance systems might misuse citizens’ private data for unintended purposes.
9. Autonomy: Eg: Automated decision-making in refugee applications may overlook individual circumstances, reducing human compassion.

Way forward

1. International collaboration – OECD AI Principles,Australia AI Ethics Guidelines, EU Artificial Intelligence Act can provide a guiding light in this regard.
2. Promoting inclusive AI which will prioritize equity, diversity and accessibility, benefitting all segments of society is very essential. Eg- Eg. RESPONSIBLE AI #AIFORALL of NITI Aayog.

Adherence to UNESCO’s ‘Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence’ and Ethical Impact Assessment (EIA) of AI projects is essential for Ethical use of AI.

While social media platforms and encrypted messaging services have become integral to communication, enabling users to connect across the globe, the Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report (DBIR) highlighted that more than 30% of data breaches involved social media and online services in 2020.

Security challenges posed by Social media and encrypting messaging services:

1. Cybercrime and Financial Fraud: Encrypted services allow cybercriminals to carry out phishing, financial fraud, and money laundering without detection. Eg- 2020 Twitter hack, where prominent accounts were compromised to promote a Bitcoin scam
2. Misinformation and Disinformation: A study published in the journal Health Affairs found that 30% of tweets containing misinformation about COVID-19 were retweeted, amplifying false narratives.
3. Radicalization and Extremism: Global Terrorism Index (2020) highlighted that 30% of all extremist recruitment happens via social media platforms.
4. Organized Crime Networks: Criminal groups use encrypted messaging to coordinate activities such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, and weapons smuggling. Eg- use of Signal and WhatsApp to coordinate drug trafficking operations
5. Cross-border Jurisdiction Issues: Social media platforms operate globally, but law enforcement is limited by jurisdictional boundaries, making it hard to tackle crimes that involve actors in multiple countries.
6. Privacy vs. Security Conflict: End-to-end encryption ensures user privacy, but it also hampers authorities’ ability to monitor and prevent criminal activities.

Measures adopted at various levels:

1. Global Initiatives

1. OECD guidelines on internet policy-making emphasizing freedom of expression, protection of privacy, and security while holding platforms accountable for illegal content.
2. EU Digital Services Act: Imposes stricter regulations on platforms to curb illegal content, misinformation, and increase accountability.
3. National-Level Efforts
4. India’s Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021:

• Requires platforms to trace the origin of unlawful content.
• Mandates prompt removal of objectionable content.
• Appoints grievance officers for user complaints.

2. The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023: Focuses on user data protection and holding platforms accountable for data breaches.
3. The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C): Coordinates law enforcement responses to cybercrimes and social media threats.
4. Platform-Specific Measures

1. Content Moderation Algorithms: Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram use AI to detect and remove harmful content, including terrorism, hate speech, and misinformation.
2. Regulation of Encrypted Messaging: Governments globally are pressuring companies like WhatsApp to provide backdoor access to encrypted communications in cases involving terrorism, child exploitation, or criminal activities.

Other remedies that can be adopted:

1. Strengthening Cyber Forensics: Investment in AI-based monitoring systems to trace patterns of suspicious behavior.
2. Global Cybersecurity Cooperation on data-sharing and cyber threat intelligence. Eg. Five Eyes Alliance
3. Improved Cybersecurity Frameworks to include early detection mechanisms for cyber threats. Eg- Cyber Swachhta Kendra
4. Technological Innovation: Develop privacy-preserving tools that ensure encryption while enabling limited lawful access through protocols like “homomorphic encryption”.
5. Mandatory Identity Verification to prevent the anonymous spread of misinformation, fake news and online harassment, while safeguarding individual privacy.
6. Independent Oversight Bodies: Eg- The UK’s Ofcom is mandated under Online Safety Bill to ensure that online platforms meet safety standards and protect users from harmful content. 

A well-defined National Social Media Policy, alongside the SOCMINT model can help in fostering a safer online environment, promoting user trust, and enhancing the capacity to combat threats thereby significantly contributing to national security and societal well-being.

The India-China border extends over 3,400 km and includes contentious zones like the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and McMahon Line. The India-Pakistan border, spanning over 3,300 km, includes the Radcliffe Line and the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir.

Conflicting Issues and Security Challenges Along the Border:

India-China Border

1. Territorial Disputes:

• Aksai Chin, a region in eastern Ladakh, was seized by China during the 1962 Sino-Indian War.
• 
• Arunachal Pradesh: China claims Arunachal Pradesh, particularly the Tawang region, as part of its territory, referring to it as “South Tibet.” 
• Doklam Plateau: China’s road construction in this area whichnis close to Siliguri Corridor (India’s “Chicken’s Neck”).
• Security Challenges:

1. Frequent Standoffs: Galwan Valley clash in June 2020, marking the first fatalities on the LAC in over four decades.
2. Military Build-up including the deployment of advanced weapons systems, airbases, and enhanced surveillance infrastructure.
3. Infrastructure Race: China has developed G219 Highway and airbase facilities in Ngari-Gunsa, Hotan, and Kashgar to support rapid military mobilization. In response, India has also developed 73 strategic roads including Darbuk-Shyok-DBO Road and Atal Tunnel.

India-Pakistan Border

1. Territorial Disputes:

1. Kashmir Issue: Following the partition in 1947, Pakistan controls part of Kashmir (referred to as Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir or PoK).
2. Siachen Glacier: India controls most of the glacier, but Pakistan claims it, leading to regular military clashes in the harsh terrain.
3. Security Challenges:
   • Cross-Border Terrorism: Pakistan-based militant groups frequently infiltrate the Indian side of the LoC like Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
   • Ceasefire Violations: Despite the 2003 ceasefire agreement, numerous instances of ceasefire violations along the LoC, resulted in casualties on both sides.
   • Infiltration and Smuggling: The border areas are also prone to cross-border drug smuggling via drones.

Developments under the Border Area Development Programme ( initiated in 1986-87): 

1. BADP now covers 111 border districts in 17 States to meet special development needs of border population with focus on people living within 50 kilometers of the International Border.
2. Infrastructure Development: Zojila Tunnel and Sela Tunnel have been initiated to ensure all-year connectivity. Projects such as the Bairabi-Sairang Railway Line in Mizoram have been funded to enhance connectivity to remote border areas.
3. Security Enhancements:  Fencing along the Indo-Pakistan border in Punjab and Rajasthan, coupled with the construction of border outposts (BOPs), has improved border security and reduced cross-border infiltration.
4. Special Focus on North-East and Jammu & Kashmir: Development of healthcare, educational institutions, and sanitation in districts like Poonch, Rajouri, and Kupwara, where local populations face regular cross-border skirmishes.

Developments under Border Infrastructure and Management (BIM) scheme: 

It is a Central Sector Scheme comprising of projects aimed at infrastructure development of India’s international borders, which is being implemented by BM-I Division.

1. Logistics and Mobility Enhancements: Helipads and airstrips in sensitive border regions like Ladakh have been upgraded to ensure quick evacuation and rapid deployment of forces.
2. Communication Infrastructure: Mobile towers have been erected in border areas of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, Investments have been made in satellite communication systems.
3. Community Engagement and Development: Water supply schemes in remote villages of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh funded under BIM have provided access to clean drinking water.

Measures that can further strengthen the effectiveness:

1. Recommendations of the Shekatkar Committee: Creation of Joint Services Command, to improve inter-services coordination and enhance operational effectiveness.
2. Kargil Review Committee recommended enhancing surveillance mechanisms along the borders, and establishing robust communication networks to ensure seamless connectivity.
3. The Standing Committee on Home Affairs: prioritizing the construction of border roads under the Bharatmala Project, ensuring connectivity to remote and strategic areas.

The dual focus on security and development is essential to transform vulnerable border regions into areas of strategic resilience and inclusive growth, ensuring long-term stability and national strength.

Urban flooding refers to the inundation of land or property in densely populated areas due to heavy rainfall, overflowing rivers, poor drainage systems, or other water-related incidents.The climate change is causing over 64% of Indian sub-districts witnessing more heavy rainfall days in the last decade.

Causes of Urban Flooding:

Natural Causes include:

1. Natural meteorological phenomenon like cyclones, cloud bursts, etc. is a primal factor. E.g., Cyclone Tauktae in Mumbai.
2. Monsoon bursts lead to heavy rainfall in a short period. E.g., In 2005 Mumbai witnessed 37 inches of rainfall only in 24 hours.
3. Climate change-induced sea level rise: In February 2021, McKinsey India said in a report that by 2050, Mumbai will witness a 25% increase in the intensity of flash floods accompanied by a half-meter rise in the sea level.

Anthropogenic causes include:

1. Concretization of Indian cities leading to a reduction in water absorption capacity. E.g., Mumbai saw a 99.9% increase in built-up area in the last 27 years.
2. Outdated and overwhelmed drainage systems: E.g. The last drainage master plan for Delhi was created in 1976, leading to frequent flooding.
3. Encroachment and destruction of natural water bodies: E.g., Bengaluru has lost 79% of its water bodies, reducing its flood resilience.
4. Deforestation and Loss of Green Spaces: The removal of forests and wetlands reduces the land’s ability to absorb water, causing rapid runoff into urban areas.Eg: Bengaluru’s urban flooding
5. Solid Waste and Debris: Improper waste disposal clogs drainage systems, blocking water flow and leading to waterlogging. Eg: In Mumbai, plastic waste clogging drains exacerbated the 2005 floods.
6. Unplanned Development in Ecologically Sensitive Areas: 2013 Kedarnath floods, exacerbated by unplanned development, resulted in massive destruction, highlighting the dangers of such encroachment.

Two major floods in the last two decades in India:

1. Mumbai Floods (July 2005):  

1. Mumbai experienced a record-breaking 944 mm of rainfall in 24 hours. 
2. Other Reasons – poorly maintained and antiquated stormwater drainage system, extensive encroachment on natural watercourses like the Mithi River, and blocked drainage due to improper waste management.
3. Over 1,000 people lost their lives due to flooding, landslides, and other related incidents.
4. Chennai Floods (December 2015): 

1. The city received around 494 mm of rainfall in a single day.
2. Other factors – unplanned urbanization on wetlands and floodplains, including large-scale construction on areas like Pallikaranai marshlands. Poor urban planning and blocked stormwater drains worsened the impact.
3. The release of excess water from the Chembarambakkam Reservoir further aggravated the flooding. 

Policies and frameworks in India that aim at Tackling Floods:

1. National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Guidelines on Urban Flooding (2010):

1. Creation of an Urban Flooding Management Plan for each city.
2. Preparation of a Rainwater Harvesting Policy to improve water absorption and reduce surface runoff.
3. Creation of capacity-building programs for urban local bodies (ULBs) to implement better flood management practices.
4. Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT):

1. Promotion of green infrastructure, such as parks and wetlands, which act as natural buffers to absorb excess rainwater.
2. Encouragement of urban planning that integrates flood risks, ensuring that new urban developments are resilient to floods.
3. Smart Cities Mission(2015):

1. Promotion of sustainable urban development, such as the restoration of water bodies
2. Use of geospatial technologies for flood risk mapping and planning.
3. National Building Code (NBC):

1. Restricts construction in floodplains.
2. Mandates the inclusion of stormwater management systems in new developments.
3. Encourages the use of permeable materials for roads and pavements to reduce surface runoff.

Effective measures include adopting “Sponge City” concept used in China along with other non-structural measures can help realise goal of SDG-11.

According to the Hyogo Framework for Action (UNISDR, 2005), disaster resilience is ‘the capacity of a system, community or society potentially exposed to hazards to adapt, by resisting or changing in order to reach and maintain an acceptable level of functioning and structure’.

Determination of Disaster Resilience:

1. Quantitative assessments: Using indicators like the Disaster Resilience Index (DRI) or the Baseline Resilience Indicators for Communities (BRIC).
2. Qualitative evaluations: Resilience also depends on the continuous sharing of knowledge, experiences, and innovations between communities, governments, and international organizations.
3. Risk mapping: A key element in determining disaster resilience is the ability to identify potential hazards (e.g., earthquakes, floods, cyclones) and assess the vulnerability of communities, infrastructure, and ecosystems to those hazards.
4. Capacity analysis: The effectiveness of response mechanisms, including the availability of emergency services (e.g., ambulances, rescue teams), evacuation plans, and medical facilities, determines how well a community can react during a disaster.

Various Elements of Resilience Framework

• Risk Assessment: Identifying and evaluating potential hazards (natural or man-made), vulnerabilities, and exposure to risks. Eg: Seismic risk assessments in earthquake-prone areas.
• 
• Prevention and Mitigation: Implementing strategies to reduce the severity and likelihood of disasters, such as building codes, land-use planning, and environmental protection. Eg: Flood barriers, earthquake-resistant construction.
• Preparedness: Ensuring that communities and organizations have disaster plans, emergency response training, and early warning systems in place to respond effectively. Eg: National disaster drills, community awareness programs.
• Response: Immediate actions taken during or after a disaster to minimize harm, including emergency services, evacuation plans, and resource mobilization. Eg: Deployment of disaster response teams, distribution of relief supplies.
• Recovery: Post-disaster efforts to restore normal functioning through rebuilding infrastructure, restoring livelihoods, and improving resilience for future disasters.
• Adaptation and Learning: Evaluating the effectiveness of response and recovery efforts, learning from past disasters, and adapting policies and systems to better handle future events.
• Risk Governance and Policy Implementation Strong institutional frameworks and Integration of disaster risk reduction (DRR) into development planning. Eg: NDMA guidelines.
• Community Engagement in planning and decision-making and strengthening social networks and mutual aid systems. Eg- Self-help groups during floods in Kerala (2018).

Global Targets of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction:

1. Substantially reduce global disaster mortality by 2030, aiming to lower the average per 100,000 global mortality rates in the decade 2020–2030 compared to the period 2005– 2015.
2. Substantially reduce the number of affected people globally by 2030, aiming to lower the average global figure per 100,000 in the decade 2020–2030 compared to the period 2005–2015
3. Reduce direct disaster economic loss in relation to the global gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030
4. Substantially reduce disaster damage to critical infrastructure and disruption of basic services, among them health and educational facilities, including through developing their resilience
5. Substantially increase the number of countries with national and local disaster risk reduction strategies
6. International cooperation with developing countries through adequate and sustainable support to complement their national actions for implementation of the present framework by 2030
7. Substantially increase the availability of and access to multi-hazard early warning systems and disaster risk information and assessments to people. 

Initiatives like Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) complement the Sendai Framework’s vision by emphasizing the need to design and maintain infrastructure systems that can withstand extreme events like floods, earthquakes, and cyclones.

Asteroids are rocky, airless remnants from the early solar system, primarily orbiting between Mars and Jupiter in the Asteroid Belt. There are around 1.3 million known asteroids, and in recent years, tracking efforts have intensified due to the potential threats they pose to Earth.

Threat of Asteroids Causing Extinction

1. In NASA’s fifth biennial Planetary Defense Interagency Tabletop Exercise, it has found that a potentially hazardous asteroid has a 72% chance of hitting Earth, highlighting potential gaps in Earth’s preparedness to prevent such an event.
2. Historical Evidence: asteroid impact caused the extinction of dinosaurs 66 million years ago, as seen in Chicxulub crater in Mexico.
3. Near-Earth Objects (NEOs): According to NASA (2023), over 30,000 NEOs have been discovered with about 2,300 classified as “potentially hazardous.”
4. Impact Consequences: Even small asteroids (e.g., 20 meters wide) can cause significant damage. Eg- If Bennu impacted Earth, it would release the energy equivalent to the detonation of 1.4 billion tons of TNT.
5. Extinction-Level Threat: Asteroids over 1 km in size can cause global climatic effects. However, NASA estimates such impacts occur every 500,000 years, making the risk relatively low but not negligible.
6. Disasters: The kinetic energy from an asteroid impact can cause earthquakes, tsunamis, and hurricanes, which can be global in impact. 

Counter Argument

1. Atmospheric Protection: Earth’s atmosphere provides a natural shield, burning up most smaller asteroids before they reach the surface. 
2. Astronomical and Statistical Odds: The chances of a civilization-ending asteroid (larger than 10 km) hitting Earth are one in several million per year.

Strategies developed to prevent such a catastrophe:

1. Early Detection Systems:

1. NASA’s Near-Earth Object Observations (NEOO) program and ESA’s Space Situational Awareness Program continuously monitor potential threats.
2. ISRO has launched the Network for Space Object Tracking and Analysis (NETRA), which tracks space debris and NEOs. 
3. Deflection Techniques:

1. DART Mission (2022): NASA’s Double Asteroid Redirection Test successfully altered the orbit of an asteroid, demonstrating the feasibility of deflection.
2. Gravity Tractor where a spacecraft can use gravitational attraction over time to gradually change an asteroid’s trajectory.
3. Planetary Defense Coordination: International collaboration under the United Nations fosters information-sharing and readiness through bodies like the International Asteroid Warning Network (IAWN).

The findings from the OSIRIS-REx mission will provide valuable insights not only into the nature of asteroids but also into the broader context of planetary defense and the importance of continued vigilance in monitoring the skies.

The world population is projected to reach approximately 9.7 billion by 2050, significantly increasing demand for freshwater resources. UNESCO notes that, 30% of the world’s aquifers are being over-exploited, particularly in regions like the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia.

Reasons for Shortage of Clean and Safe Fresh Water:

1. Climate Change Impacts:

1. Droughts: The United Nations reported that the number of severe droughts globally has increased by over 29% since the 1970s.
2. Glacial Retreat: glaciers in the Himalayas have lost more than 40% of their mass over the past 40 year
3. Groundwater Depletion

1. Over-extraction: In Ogallala Aquifer(US) water levels dropped by as much as 30 meters.
2. Agricultural Use: Agriculture accounts for 80% of global freshwater withdrawals, with some regions, like South Asia, relying heavily on groundwater for irrigation.

3. Inadequate Water Supply: in India according to NITI Aayog, 40% of urban households lack access to piped water.
4. Water Quality Issues:

1. Contaminated Water Sources: CPCB reported in 2021 that 70% of India’s surface water is contaminated due to industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, and untreated sewage.
2. Health Risks: According to WHO, waterborne diseases like diarrhea, cholera, and dysentery affect 2.3 billion people annually.

Alternative Technologies which can solve this issue:

1. Solar Desalination – uses solar energy to evaporate and condense seawater, producing freshwater. This process mimics the natural water cycle, where the sun’s energy evaporates water, which is then condensed into clean water.

1. Merits: Environmentally friendly, using renewable energy and Suitable for remote, off-grid locations.
2. Demerits: Limited water output compared to conventional desalination plants and  Initial investment costs for solar infrastructure are high.

2. Atmospheric Water Generation (AWG) – extracts water from the moisture in the air through condensation. Devices can be designed to capture water by cooling the air or by using desiccants that absorb moisture.  

1. Merits: Produces clean drinking water from the atmosphere, reducing dependence on surface or groundwater and Can be used in off-grid locations with solar-powered AWG units.
2. Demerits: Limited output in areas with low humidity and High energy demand for cooling and dehumidification processes.
3. Fog Harvesting – capturing water droplets from fog using large mesh nets. The droplets condense on the mesh and are collected in containers for use.

1. Merits: Provides water in arid, foggy regions where other sources are limited and Low-tech and low-energy solution, relatively inexpensive to set up.
2. Demerits: Only viable in regions with frequent fog and Limited water output, making it impractical for large-scale use.

A combination of these solutions, along with improved water management and policy frameworks, is essential for ensuring water security and achieving SDG 6.

Buffer stocks are reserves of essential commodities, aimed at stabilizing agricultural prices and ensuring food security. India currently maintains over 80 million tonnes of buffer stock, well above the norm set by the Buffer Stocking Policy (around 30-40 million tonnes), managed primarily by the Food Corporation of India (FCI). 

Importance of buffer stocks for stabilizing agricultural prices:

1. Mitigating Price Volatility: According to the RBI Report, despite adverse climatic conditions and international disruptions, buffer stocks helped contain food inflation at average of 5.9%.
2. Mitigating Global Supply Disruption (2022-23): Even during the Russia-Ukraine war, buffer stocks helped stabilize the market by releasing 18 lakh tonnes of wheat in early 2023.
3. Stabilizing Farmers’ Incomes: In 2021-22, FCI procured 43 million tonnes of wheat and 58 million tonnes of rice, stabilizing farmer incomes during surplus production.
4. Public Distribution System (PDS): Buffer stocks support the National Food Security Act (NFSA), ensuring food supply to 67% of India’s population at subsidized rates, and controlling inflation for essential goods.
5. Export Management: In times of surplus, the government can release surplus grains for export. Conversely, during shortages, restricting exports ensures price stabilization.
6. Meeting Emergency Needs – Buffer stocks help meet food requirements during natural calamities or crises. Eg- Garib Kalyan Yojana during COVID

Challenges Associated with Storage of Buffer Stocks:

1. Wastage and Quality Degradation: As per Ministry of Consumer Affairs, more than 25000 Metric Tonnes (MT) of food grains were wasted in the last five years in FCI godowns.
2. Excess Procurement:  In 2020-2021, India held about 90 million metric tons of food grains particularly due to the open procurement policy, far exceeding the buffer norms.
3. Management and Leakages:  Shanta Kumar Committee highlighted that 46% of PDS grains do not reach the intended beneficiaries due to inefficiencies and corruption.
4. Mismatch Between Procurement and Regional Needs:  Procurement is concentrated in states like Punjab, Haryana, and UP, whereas Bihar and West Bengal often face shortages.
5. Inadequate Storage Infrastructure and obsolete technology: Using temporary facilities like Covered and Plinth (CAP), lacking modern technology for temperature control, pest management, and moisture regulation.    
6. Financial burden on the government due to high costs of procurement, storage, and management, especially during years of large-scale purchases, straining the budget.

Recommendations to revamp storage of buffer stocks:

1. Ashok Gulati Committee (2011): revision of buffer stock norms based on actual requirements for the PDS and emergency situations.
2. Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) Report on FCI (2013): use of Technology to digitize inventory management systems, allowing real-time tracking of food stocks at FCI warehouses.
3. Shanta Kumar Committee (2015): It suggested decentralizing the procurement process by encouraging states to take up procurement based on their regional capabilities. 

India’s “World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan” aims to create 70 million tons of modern storage through cooperatives, enhancing rural capacity, improving grain handling, and reducing post-harvest losses by building silos and warehouses in underserved areas.

Irrigation is critical to Indian agriculture, which accounts for 80% of the country’s freshwater consumption. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, about 52% of India’s net sown area is irrigated, but inefficiencies in the system have hampered agricultural productivity. 

Major challenges faced by Indian irrigation system in recent times:

• Groundwater exploitation: According to CGWA, India extracts nearly 25% of global groundwater annually. Punjab and Haryana groundwater tables deplete by 33% in the last two decades.
• 
• Inefficient Water Use: Due to electricity subsidies and Traditional methods like flood irrigation, still used in 85% of irrigated areas.
• Poor Infrastructure: Canal systems, which cover around 40% of irrigated land, suffer from leakages and evaporation losses, leading to about 30-40% wastage (Central Water Commission).
• Unequal Distribution: Punjab, with 98% irrigation coverage, contrasts with underdeveloped infrastructure in eastern and southern states. (NITI Aayog).
• Low Adoption of Modern Techniques: As per ICAR, only 6% of India’s irrigated land uses drip or sprinkler systems, mainly due to high initial costs and lack of awareness.

Measures taken by the government for efficient irrigation management:

1. National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA): to promote sustainable agriculture practices, enhance water use efficiency, and encourage adoption of new irrigation technologies.
2. Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY): aims to improve irrigation coverage, enhance water efficiency, and promote modern irrigation techniques such as drip and sprinkler systems.
3. Command Area Development & Water Management (CADWM): Improves irrigation efficiency by repairing and upgrading canal systems  across 17 million hectares (CWC).
4. Atal Bhujal Yojana: With a budget of ₹6,000 crores, this scheme focuses on sustainable groundwater management in stressed regions, aiming to reduce over-extraction in 78 districts.
5. Jal Shakti Abhiyan: A water conservation campaign targeting 256 water-stressed districts, focusing on rainwater harvesting and recharging groundwater (NITI Aayog).

State Led initiatives:

1. Mission Kakatiya(Telangana)-for rejuvenation of tanks and micro-irrigation sources.
2. Jalyukt Shivar Abhiyan(Maharashtra)-promotes water conservation and management by constructing farm ponds, percolation tanks, and check dams.
3. Krishi Bhagya(Karnataka)-promotes the adoption of micro-irrigation systems, rainwater harvesting, etc.

Therefore, as recommended by the Ashok Dalwai Panel, a substantial investment in modern irrigation infrastructure, including drip and sprinkler systems, and the need to revisit water pricing policies to increase water-use efficiency and agricultural productivity.

India’s vast geography and diverse regions make efficient air connectivity a critical element in driving economic growth, enhancing national integration, and ensuring equitable development across the country. The UDAN Scheme was launched with the objective of connecting small and medium cities with big cities through air service.

Need for expanding the regional air connectivity in India:

1. Decongesting Overloaded Metros: Major urban airports like those in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru are experiencing severe congestion due to increased passenger traffic.
2. Economic and Trade Development: Improved air connectivity can further boost initiatives like “Making Districts as export hubs” thereby facilitating local economies.
3. Promoting Tourism: Unlocking Tourism Potential, especially in states like Northeast India, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Rajasthan.
4. Enhancing National Security: Improved connectivity, particularly in border and strategic areas such as Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, is critical for national security.
5. Disaster Management and Relief: Regions prone to natural disasters, such as floods, earthquakes, and landslides, benefit from rapid response and evacuation efforts when accessible by air.

The Government’s UDAN Scheme

Key features:

1. Subsidized Airfare: airfares for a 500 km flight are capped at ₹2,500 for a one-hour journey.
2. Viability Gap Funding (VGF): To incentivize non-commercially viable regional routes.
3. Development of Airports: Particularly in unserved and underserved areas by improving infrastructure, including runways, terminals, and navigational aids.
4. Public-Private Partnership (PPP): Encourages private sector participation in developing regional airport infrastructure.

Achievements of UDAN Scheme:

1. As per Ministry of Civil Aviation, UDAN scheme is operating over 2.8 lakh flights and serving 1.43 crore passengers as of August 31, 2024. 
2. Increased Regional Connectivity: The scheme has launched operations on 583 routes, linking 86 airports, including 13 heliports and 2 water aerodromes. 
3. Affordable Air Travel: India has emerged as the third-largest domestic aviation market, with the total number of air passengers handled at Indian airports reaching 37.6 crore in FY24—a year-on-year increase of 15%. 
4. Growth in Regional Aviation: Airlines such as Star Air, Trujet, and Air India Regional have expanded their operations under the scheme. Eg- Akasa Air ordering 200 aircraft within 17 months
5. Development of Infrastructure: Airports, such as those in Jharsuguda (Odisha), Kishangarh (Rajasthan), and Pakyong (Sikkim), have been operationalized.
6. Boost to Regional Economies and Tourism: To promote tourism, 46 important tourist spots have been selected under UDAN Scheme.

Issues	Way Forward
Out of the 479 airport routes that were revived by the Union Government, 225 have ceased operations.	Enhancing Financial Viability: Implementing revenue-sharing models to incentivize the operationalization of less profitable routes.
As per CAG Report, there is excessive collection of Regional Air Connectivity Fund (RCF) and delay on the part of RACFT in raising RCF levy claims on the airline operators.	Streamlining Regulatory Processes: Expediting the process of obtaining regulatory clearances from agencies like the DGCA , state governments, and airport authorities.
AAI’s Viability Gap Fund’s claims approved through self-certification led to non-compliance to several scheme provisions. (CAG Report)	Focus on Sustainable Practices and leveraging technology: Adopting fuel-efficient technologies to reduce carbon footprints and Data Analytics for Route Optimization

India can draw inspiration from the “Regional Connectivity Scheme” (RCS) in the United Kingdom whose emphasis on PPP and operational efficiency, can help realising the vision of ‘New India’.

As per recommendations of 2nd National Commission on Labour, 29 labor laws in India have been consolidated into Four comprehensive labor codes which aim at boosting the ease of doing business, while also extending social security to millions of workers, particularly in the informal and gig economy.

1. Code on Wages: Standardized wage and bonus payments.
2. Industrial Relations Code: Streamlines dispute resolution and labour relations.
3. Occupational Safety, Health, and Working Conditions Code: Ensures safe and healthy working conditions.
4. Code on Social Security: Expands social security benefits.

Merits of Labour Codes:

1. Simplification and Rationalization of Laws: The consolidation of 29 laws into 4 codes reduces the complexity of compliance Uniform definitions E.g. simplifying payroll calculations.
2. Promoting Formalization and Social Security: Code on Social Security brings gig and platform workers (e.g., delivery workers, app-based drivers) under the social security net 
3. Minimum floor wage: to be determined by the Central government based on the minimum living standards and level of skills of workers based on which state governments shall identify a minimum wage rate, to be revised every 5 years or earlier. 
4. Minimise exploitative practices – Provisions for overtime wages twice the normal wages on an hourly or part-of-hour basis as well as coverage of Employees’ State Insurance (ESI). 
5. Flexibility in Hiring and Firing: The Industrial Relations Code allows firms with up to 300 workers (previously 100) to hire and fire employees without requiring government permission.
6. Improved Worker Safety and Health Standards: The Occupational Safety, Health, and Working Conditions Code mandates stricter safety norms, such as proper ventilation, cleanliness, and adequate lighting at workplaces.
7. Easier Resolution of Industrial Disputes: The Industrial Relations Code mandates the formation of Grievance Redressal Committees for companies with 20 or more workers and allows faster resolution through tribunals.
8. Changes in EPF & gratuity: the Employee Provident Fund (EPF) and gratuity contributions are now applicable to both organised and unorganised sectors. Further, the codes permit a 1-year service for employees to collect gratuities from earlier 5 years.
9. Gender Equality – The Code of Wages prohibits discrimination in remuneration and recruitment of employees for work of similar nature.
10. Maternity benefits: the SS Code continues to ensure 26 weeks of paid maternity leave along with creche facilities funded by the employer.

Demerits of Labour Codes:

1. Lack of Uniformity Across States: Labour is a concurrent subject in India, this could lead to lack of uniformity in implementation across different regions.
2. Delegated Legislation – Standing Committee on Labour has noted that the Acts delegates various aspects for rule-making by the government. Eg-  defining the entitlements 
3. Concerns about Gig and Informal Workers’ Security: the Code on Social Security does not provide clear mechanisms for ensuring comprehensive coverage and enforcement.
4. Impact on Trade Unions and Collective Bargaining: A requirement that 75% of workers in a company must vote for a strike before it is legally recognized can dilute the role of trade unions        
5. Weakening of Workers’ Rights and Protections: The increased threshold for government permission for layoffs is criticized for potentially weakening job security.
6. Power to government to modify or reject tribunal awards – it raises the question of conflict of interest, as government may modify an award made by the Tribunal in a disputes it is a party.  
7. Provisions on fixed term employment – unequal bargaining powers between the worker and employer could affect the rights of workers as the power to renew contracts lies with employer.

Progress so far in this regard:

1. Publication of draft rules: over 20 states have published draft rules, but final notifications are still awaited in most cases.
2. Implementation: Implementation has been delayed due to state-level preparations and ongoing consultations with stakeholders. 
3. Centre has already enforced few provisions like Central Advisory Board and establishment of an employee’s and his family members’ identities through respective Aadhaar numbers.

Reasons For Delay 

1. Some states are yet to publish rules to set the codes in motion 
2. Talks between the Union labour ministry and unions have stalled  
3. Centre is inclined to take all stakeholders on board for which there needs agreement on key provisions.

Way Forward

1. Labour Market Information System (LMIS): to pinpoint skill shortages, training needs, and disseminate new job opportunities.
2. Comprehensive Economic Reforms: upgrading infrastructure, skilling the workforce, and maintaining a consistent export-import policy to bolster investment and job creation.

India can draw on Denmark’s “flexicurity” system which combines labor market flexibility with comprehensive social security, to ensure ensure ‘Ease of Doing Business’ and realise target of VIKSIT BHARAT 2047.

Data has emerged as ‘New Oil.’ As  technology has become the defining paradigm of the 21st century, the DPDP Act, India’s first data protection act, establishes a framework for the processing of personal data in India.

Context of the DPDP Act, 2023:

1. Rise in Digital Data Usage: as per Nokia’s Mobile Broadband Index (MBiT), Indian users on average consumed 24.1 gigabytes (GB) of data per capita per month in 2023 
2. Judicial Interpretation: Recognition of the Right to Privacy as a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution emphasizes the need for a data protection law to protect personal information in the digital age.
3. Global Trends: India’s DPDP Act mirrors global efforts to regulate data processing, such as the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). 
4. Previous Data Protection Drafts:  The DPDP Act, 2023, builds on earlier drafts of data protection bills (such as the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019), which faced multiple revisions due to concerns over government exemptions, data localization, and compliance costs for businesses.
5. Rise in cyber crime – As per NCRB, in May 2024, the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) recorded an average of 7,000 cybercrime complaints per day. This is a 60.9% increase from 2022 to 2023 and an 113.7% increase from 2021 to 2023.
6. Use of Data in government schemes like Aadhar, DBT etc. 

Salient Features of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023:

1. Applicability: The DPDP Act applies to the processing of digital personal data in India, whether collected online or offline and later digitized. It also applies to data processing outside India if the data pertains to providing goods or services to data principals (individuals) within India.
2. Key Stakeholders: Data Principal (DP), Data Fiduciary, Data Processor
3. Penalty for Infringement: The Act imposes financial penalties for non-compliance, ranging from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 250 crores, but does not impose criminal penalties.
4. Conflict with Existing Laws: The DPDP Act’s provisions are additional to existing laws. In case of conflict, the DPDP Act will take precedence to the extent of the conflict.
5. Data Protection Board of India (DPBI):

1. An independent body responsible for resolving disputes related to privacy and data protection.
2. It has the authority to impose penalties for non-compliance and breaches of the Act.
3. Appeals against DPBI orders can be made to the High Court, which can also take up breaches suo moto
4. Citizen’s Rights:

1. Right to Information: The DP has the right to know how their data is being used.
2. Right to Correction and Erasure: The DP can request corrections or erasure of their personal data.
3. Grievance Redressal: The DP has the right to approach authorities for grievances related to data breaches or misuse.
4. Right to Nominate: In case of death or incapacity, the DP can nominate someone to exercise their rights

Issues	Way Forward
Lack of Standardization: Inconsistent data formats and standards across different departments.	Establishing a clear implementation framework to ensure effective coordination.
Fragmented Systems results in data silos, making it difficult to share and access data across departments.	Developing decentralized, reliable databases to ensure that governance decisions are rooted in accurate and comprehensive data.
Inaccurate or outdated data Eg- Issues with the accuracy of data in land records	Opening of data “silos” to capture the potential wealth of data sharing between governmental offices, corporations and citizens.

By carefully choreographing a dance between data localization, infrastructure development, and technological innovation, India can pave the way for a data-driven future that is both innovative and accountable.