THE HIDDEN COST OF GREENWASHING INDIAN RAILWAYS TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU The Indian Railways is on a mission to electrify its entire broad-gauge network, aiming to create a "green railway" and achieve net-zero carbon emissions. While the initiative appears to align with environmental goals, it raises concerns about economic inefficiency, environmental impact, and wastage
CHALLENGES IN THE FUNCTIONING OF PARLIAMENT IN INDIA The former Vice President of India recently emphasized the need for improving parliamentary functioning by transitioning from confrontational politics to meaningful and constructive debates. Ensuring parliamentary decorum and building consensus are critical for strengthening democracy and maintaining public trust. Challenges in the Functioning of Parliament Frequent Disruptions
GLOBALISATION AND ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR INDIA Globalisation refers to the growing interconnectedness of nations through trade, technology, culture, and communication. This phenomenon has been shaping the global landscape for centuries, evolving in response to technological advancements and geopolitical shifts. Recent events such as the Russia-Ukraine war, tensions in the Middle East, and strained relations between
AI SURVEILLANCE IN INDIA TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU India is rapidly adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered surveillance systems. However, the absence of robust legal frameworks raises serious concerns about privacy, transparency, and civil liberties, especially the right to privacy under Article 21. Key Developments in AI Surveillance In 2019, India announced plans for the
MISUSE OF INDIAN LAWS: CHALLENGES AND WAY FORWARD Indian laws aimed at safeguarding individuals, particularly women, against crimes such as dowry harassment and domestic violence, have played a significant role in protecting vulnerable groups. However, misuse of these laws has also surfaced, leading to concerns about fairness and gender neutrality. Recent cases, including a PIL
VIJAY DIWAS AND THE 1971 BANGLADESH LIBERATION WAR On 16th December 2024, India observed Vijay Diwas, marking the 53rd anniversary of its victory in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. This war led to the creation of Bangladesh and showcased India’s strategic, humanitarian, and military prowess. The day is commemorated to honor the sacrifices of the
SECTION 6A OF THE CITIZENSHIP ACT TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, introduced after the 1985 Assam Accord, offers a distinct path for migrants from East Pakistan to gain Indian citizenship. While upheld by the Supreme Court in 2024, it faces criticism for cultural, demographic, and constitutional concerns. Background
MAOIST INSURGENCY IN INDIA: STRATEGIES AND CHALLENGES Maoist insurgency, also known as Naxalism, has been a significant challenge to India’s internal security. It is rooted in social, economic, and political issues, particularly in tribal and rural areas. The union home minister recently paid homage to martyrs of this conflict and declared a goal to eliminate
SWITZERLAND'S WITHDRAWAL OF MFN CLAUSE IN DTAA WITH INDIA Switzerland has decided to withdraw the application of the Most-Favoured-Nation (MFN) clause in its Double Tax Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) with India. This move, effective from January 2025, will impact the withholding tax rates applicable to Indian entities. What is the MFN Clause in DTAA? DTAA Background:
DOMICILE-BASED RESERVATIONS IN PRIVATE SECTOR JOBS Domicile-based reservation policies in the private sector have become a contentious issue in India. These laws aim to prioritize locals for employment, citing high unemployment among residents and a perceived loss of jobs to migrant workers. While these measures may appear beneficial for local populations, they raise concerns about
ONE NATION, ONE ELECTION: KEY PROPOSALS AND IMPLICATIONS The government has taken significant steps to implement "One Nation, One Election" by introducing two Constitution Amendment Bills: "The Constitution 129th Amendment Bill 2024" and "The Union Territories Laws Amendment Bill 2024." These bills aim to synchronize elections to the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies, ensuring efficiency
INDIA AS THE ‘HIGHEST TARIFF MAJOR ECONOMY’ TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU India is known for imposing high tariffs on imports, making it the "highest tariff" major economy. This issue has sparked discussions about the need to reduce tariffs to promote equitable trade. The U.S. has emphasized fair and balanced trade practices to further enhance
