NATIONAL FOOD SECURITY ACT
1. Context
The Union Food and Public Distribution Department on Wednesday published a draft of the proposed amendments to the National Food Security Act (NFSA). The draft is uploaded on the department’s website. The public can comment on the amendments till July 13.
2. About the food inflation rate in India
- As of September 5, 2023, the food inflation rate in India is 8.88%.
- This is based on the All-India Consumer Price Index for Agricultural Products (CPI-AP), which measures the change in prices of a basket of food items consumed by rural and urban households.
- The CPI-AP food inflation rate was 7.03% in June 2023 and 5.38% in July 2022.
3. The reasons for cereal inflation
There are several reasons why cereal inflation is high in India. These include:
- The Russia-Ukrainian war has disrupted global wheat exports. India is a major importer of wheat, and the war has led to a shortage of wheat in the global market, which has pushed up prices.
- A poor monsoon season in India has damaged crops. The monsoon season is crucial for agriculture in India, and a poor monsoon season can lead to lower crop yields, which can also push up prices.
- Higher transportation costs: The cost of transporting food has been rising due to higher fuel prices. This has also contributed to the rise in cereal prices.
- Lower domestic production: The production of cereals in India has been declining in recent years. This is due to several factors, including the lack of investment in agriculture, the ageing farmer population, and climate change.
- Government policies: The government has imposed export restrictions on wheat and rice, which has limited the supply of these cereals in the market and pushed up prices.
3. National Food Security Act, 2013
- The National Food Security Act, 2013 (NFSA) is an Act of the Parliament of India that aims to provide food and nutritional security in the human life cycle approach, by ensuring access to an adequate quantity of quality food at affordable prices for people to live a life with dignity and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.
- The Act was enacted on July 5, 2013, and came into force on September 1, 2013.
- It covers two-thirds of the population of India, which is about 813 million people.
3.1. Salient features
- The Public Distribution System (PDS) is now governed by provisions of the National Food Security Act, 2013 (NFSA).
- Coverage under PDS is de-linked from the erstwhile 'poverty estimates'.
- The Act provides coverage for nearly 2/3rd of the country's total population, basis Census 2011 population estimates.
- 75% of the Rural and 50% of Urban population is entitled to receive highly subsidised foodgrains under two categories of beneficiaries Antodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) households and Priority Households (PHH).
- State/UT-wise coverage is determined by the erstwhile Planning Commission (now NITI Ayog) based on the 2011-12 Household Consumption Expenditure survey of NSSO.
- The Act entitles 35 kg of foodgrain per AAY Household per month, whereas 5 Kg of foodgrain per PHH Person per month.
- Identification of beneficiaries/households under NFSA is done by the respective State/UT Government, which is required to frame its own criteria.
- Highly subsidised Central Issue Prices of Re.1, Rs.2 and Rs.3 for Coarse-grains, Wheat and Rice respectively, kept unchanged till June 2019.
- No reduction in foodgrains allocation to any State/UT under NFSA. Allocation gaps if any, are covered with Tide-Over allocation
- Eldest woman of the beneficiary household (18 years or above) is considered as 'Head of Family' to issue ration cards.
- Grievance redressal mechanisms, through State Food Commissions, DGROs, and Vigilance Committees at different levels are provisioned for Women's Empowerment.
- Provisions for disclosure of records relating to PDS operations, placing of beneficiaries' list in public domain/portals, for enhanced transparency
- Assistance to States/UTs for meeting expenditure on intra-state transportation & handling of foodgrains and FPS Dealers' margin
3.2. The eligibility criteria
Rural areas:
- Households with an annual income of less than Rs. 10,000 per annum.
- Households with at least two adult members who are unable to work due to old age, disability, or illness.
- Households that depend on agriculture for their livelihood and have an annual income of less than Rs. 5000 per annum.
- Households that have been identified as Below the Poverty Line (BPL) by the state government.
Urban areas:
- Households with an annual income of less than Rs. 15,000 per annum.
- Households with at least two adult members who are unable to work due to old age, disability, or illness.
- Households that depend on non-agricultural activities for their livelihood and have an annual income of less than Rs. 10,000 per annum.
- Households that have been identified as Below Poverty Line (BPL) by the state government.
4. Conclusion
- All NFSA beneficiaries, before January 2023, were getting 10 kg of rice or wheat per month practically free of cost.
- Since that more or less met their entire requirement the last national sample survey of 2011-12 revealed the per capita cereal consumption at 11.22 kg for rural and 9.28 kg for urban India they hardly had to buy grain from the open market.
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For Prelims: National Food Security Act, inflation, Below Poverty Line, All-India Consumer Price Index for Agricultural Products, Russia-Ukrainian war, Public Distribution System, Antodaya Anna Yojana, Priority Households, Planning Commission, NITI Ayog,
For Mains:
1. Evaluate the impact of poor monsoon seasons and climate change on cereal production in India. How can these challenges be addressed to ensure food security for the population? (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. With reference to the provisions made under the National Food Security act, 2013 consider the following statements: (UPSC 2018)
1. The families coming under the category of 'below poverty line (BPL)' only are eligible to receive subsidized food grains.
2. The eldest woman in a household, of age 18 years or above, shall be the head of the household for the purpose of issuance of a ration card.
3. Pregnant women and lactating mothers are entitled to a 'take-home ration' of 1600 calories per day during pregnancy and or six months thereafter.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 B. 2 only C. 1 and 3 D. 3 only
Answer: B
2. With reference to the National Food Security Act, which of the following statement is/are correct? (UPPSC 2019)
I. It will cover up to 75 percent rural and 50 percent urban population.
II. Special focus on nutritional support to women and children.
III. Eldest woman of above 18 years of age will be head of household.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
A. I and II are correct
B. II and III are correct
C. I, II and III are correct
D. None of these
Answer: C
3. In a given year in India, official poverty lines are higher in some States than in others because (UPSC 2019)
A. Poverty rates vary from State to State
B. Price levels vary from State to State
C. Gross State Product varies from State to State
D. Quality of public distribution varies from State to State
Answer: B
4. With reference to inflation in India, which of the following statements is correct? (UPSC 2015)
A. Controlling the inflation in India is the responsibility of the Government of India only
B. The Reserve Bank of India has no role in controlling the inflation
C. Decreased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation
D. Increased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation
Answer: C
5. With reference to India, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2010)
1. The Wholesale Price Index (WPI) in India is available on a monthly basis only.
2. As compared to Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers (CPI(IW)), the WPI gives less weight to food articles.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: C
6. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2020)
1. The weightage of food in Consumer Price Index (CPI) is higher than that in Wholesale Price Index (WPI).
2. The WPI does not capture changes in the prices of services, which CPI does.
3. Reserve Bank of India has now adopted WPI as its key measure of inflation and to decide on changing the key policy rates.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 only C. 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
7. Who among the following is the head of the standing committee on economic statistics set up by Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MOSPI)? (SSC CGL 2020)
A. Krishnamurthy Subramanian
B. Manmohan Singh
C. Pronab Sen
D. Raghuram Rajan
Answer: C
8. As per Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, which state of India has the highest per capita income as of Sep 2019? (SSC CPO 2019)
A. Goa B. Punjab C. Tamil Nadu D. Gujarat
Answer: A
9. The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has revised the base year index of Eight Core Industries having a combined weight of about 40.27 percent in the Index of Industrial Production. Which one of the following is not one of the Eight Core Industries? (CDS 2022)
A. Coal
B. Refinery products
C. Rubber products
D. Cement
Answer: C
10. Read the following passage and answer the question that follows. Your answers to these items should be based on the passage only. (UPSC 2021)
Policymakers and media have placed the blame for skyrocketing food prices on a variety of factors, including high fuel prices, bad weather in key food producing countries, and the diversion of land to non-food production. Increased emphasis, however, has been placed on a surge in demand for food from the most populous emerging economics. It seems highly probable that mass consumption in these countries could be well poised to create a food crisis.
With reference to the above passage, the following assumptions have been made:
1. Oil producing countries are one of the reasons for high food prices.
2. If there is a food crisis in the world in the near future, it will be in the emerging economies. Which of the above assumptions is/are valid?
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: D
11. India has experienced persistent and high food inflation in the recent past. What could be the reasons? (UPSC 2011)
1. Due to a gradual switchover to the cultivation of commercial crops, the area under the cultivation of food grains has steadily decreased in the last five years by about 30.
2. As a consequence of increasing incomes, the consumption patterns of the people have undergone a significant change.
3. The food supply chain has structural constraints.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
12. With reference to inflation in India, which of the following statements is correct? (UPSC 2015)
A. Controlling the inflation in India is the responsibility of the Government of India only
B.The Reserve Bank of India has no role in controlling the inflation
C. Decreased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation
D. Increased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation
Answer: C
13. With reference to the Agreement at the UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015, which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC 2016)
1. The Agreement was signed by all the member countries of the UN and it will go into effect in 2017
2. The Agreement aims to limit greenhouse gas emissions so that the rise in average global temperature by the end of this century does not exceed 2°C or even 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
3. Developed countries acknowledged their historical responsibility in global warming and committed to donate $ 1000 billion a year from 2020 to help developing countries to cope with climate change.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 and 3 only B. 2 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
14. The Public Distribution System, which evolved as a system of management of food and distribution of food grains, was relaunched as _______ Public Distribution System in 1997. (SSC JE EE 2021)
A. Evolved B. Transformed C. Tested D. Targeted
Answer: D
15. Under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana, up to what quantity of rice and wheat can be purchased at a subsidised cost? (FCI AG III 2023)
A. 35 kg B. 40 kg C. 30 kg D. 25 kg E. 50 kg
Answer: A
16. Among the following who are eligible to benefit from the "Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act"? (UPSC 2011)
A. Adult members of only the scheduled caste and scheduled tribe households.
B. Adult members of below-poverty line (BPL) households.
C. Adult members of households of all backward communities.
D. Adult members of any rural household.
Answer: D
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MADDEN-JULIAN OSCILLATION
1. Context
After remaining largely inactive for more than a week, the monsoon finally picked some strength and momentum beginning Monday. Maharashtra, for instance, received its first good rainfall of the season on Tuesday.
2. What is the Madden-Julian oscillation?
- The Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO) is one of the most important atmospheric phenomena in the tropical region of the Earth. It is a large-scale pattern of atmospheric circulation characterized by alternating periods of enhanced and suppressed rainfall that travels eastward around the equator.
- Unlike cyclones, which are localized weather systems, or seasonal climate phenomena such as the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), the MJO is an atmospheric disturbance that continuously moves across the tropical oceans, influencing weather conditions over vast geographical areas.
- The phenomenon was first identified in 1971 by meteorologists Roland Madden and Paul Julian, after whom it is named. Their research showed that tropical rainfall and atmospheric pressure exhibit a recurring pattern that moves eastward around the globe over a period of about one to two months.
- The MJO originates most frequently over the tropical Indian Ocean, where warm ocean waters provide the energy necessary for the development of deep convection.
- The system then moves eastward across the maritime continent, including Indonesia, into the tropical Pacific Ocean and, on some occasions, continues into the Atlantic Ocean before gradually weakening. The entire cycle generally takes between 30 and 60 days, although it may sometimes extend to nearly 90 days.
- The MJO consists of two distinct phases: the active (enhanced) phase and the suppressed phase. During the active phase, warm, moist air rises from the Earth's surface, leading to the formation of extensive cloud cover, heavy rainfall, and intense thunderstorm activity.
- This upward movement of air releases large amounts of latent heat, strengthening atmospheric circulation. In contrast, the suppressed phase is characterized by sinking air, which inhibits cloud formation and results in clear skies, reduced rainfall, and relatively dry weather conditions.
- As the MJO moves eastward, these two phases travel together, causing alternating wet and dry periods in tropical regions.
- One of the reasons the MJO is scientifically important is that it serves as a bridge between short-term weather events and long-term climate variability.
- While ordinary weather systems usually last for only a few days, and climate phenomena like ENSO persist for several months or even years, the MJO operates on an intra-seasonal timescale, making it highly valuable for forecasting weather several weeks in advance.
- The MJO has a profound influence on the Indian monsoon. When its active phase is located over the tropical Indian Ocean and surrounding regions, convection increases significantly, leading to enhanced monsoon rainfall over India.
- This often results in active monsoon spells with widespread precipitation. Conversely, when the suppressed phase dominates the region, rainfall decreases, leading to weak or break monsoon conditions.
- Therefore, meteorologists closely monitor the MJO to improve monsoon forecasts and assess the likelihood of heavy rainfall or prolonged dry spells.
- The influence of the MJO is not limited to the Indian monsoon. It also plays a major role in the formation and intensification of tropical cyclones over the Indian Ocean, the Pacific Ocean, and even parts of the Atlantic Ocean.
- During its active phase, the atmosphere becomes more unstable, humidity increases, and vertical wind conditions become more favourable for cyclone development. As a result, periods of increased cyclone activity often coincide with the passage of the active MJO phase.
- Apart from affecting tropical weather, the MJO also influences atmospheric circulation in higher latitudes through a process known as teleconnection.
- Changes in tropical convection caused by the MJO can alter jet stream patterns, influencing winter storms, cold waves, heat waves, and heavy rainfall events in regions far away from the tropics, including North America, Europe, and East Asia. Thus, despite being a tropical phenomenon, its impacts extend across the globe.
- The MJO is often confused with the El Niño–Southern Oscillation, but the two are fundamentally different.
- The MJO is a moving atmospheric disturbance that travels continuously around the globe and lasts only a few weeks to a couple of months. ENSO, on the other hand, is a coupled ocean-atmosphere phenomenon centred over the equatorial Pacific Ocean and typically persists for several months to two years or more.
- While ENSO changes sea surface temperatures significantly, the MJO primarily affects atmospheric circulation and rainfall without producing major long-term changes in ocean temperatures.
- An easy way to understand the MJO is to imagine the tropical atmosphere as a giant circular race track. The active phase of the MJO resembles a moving cluster of rain-bearing clouds that travels steadily around this track, bringing heavy rainfall and thunderstorms wherever it passes.
- Behind this active phase follows the suppressed phase, which brings relatively dry and clear weather. This continuous movement creates alternating periods of wet and dry conditions across tropical regions
3. How does the Madden-Julian oscillation affect India?
- The Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO) has a significant influence on India's weather, particularly the Southwest Monsoon, tropical cyclones, and extreme rainfall events.
- Since the MJO is a moving region of enhanced and suppressed convection (thunderstorm activity), its position relative to India determines whether the country experiences increased rainfall or dry conditions.
- The MJO usually originates over the tropical Indian Ocean and moves eastward across the maritime continent and the Pacific Ocean. When the active phase of the MJO is located over the Indian Ocean and the region surrounding India, it strengthens the upward movement of warm, moist air.
- This leads to increased cloud formation, widespread thunderstorms, and heavy rainfall over many parts of the country. As a result, the southwest monsoon becomes more vigorous, producing active monsoon conditions and above-normal rainfall.
- On the other hand, when the suppressed phase of the MJO moves over the Indian Ocean, the atmosphere experiences downward movement of air, reducing cloud formation and rainfall.
- During this period, India often witnesses breaks in the monsoon, where rainfall decreases significantly for several days despite the monsoon season being in progress. Such breaks can affect agricultural activities by reducing soil moisture and delaying crop growth.
- The MJO also influences the onset and progress of the southwest monsoon. A strong active MJO phase over the Indian Ocean during late May or early June can support the timely onset and rapid advancement of the monsoon across the Indian subcontinent.
- Conversely, if the active phase is located far away over the Pacific Ocean during this period, the onset may be delayed or the monsoon may initially remain weak.
- Another important impact of the MJO is on extreme rainfall events. When its active phase coincides with other favourable weather systems such as low-pressure areas or monsoon depressions over the Bay of Bengal or the Arabian Sea, rainfall intensity can increase dramatically.
- This may result in widespread flooding, landslides in mountainous regions, and urban flooding in major cities. Many episodes of exceptionally heavy monsoon rainfall in India have been linked to a strong active phase of the MJO.
- The MJO also plays a crucial role in the formation and intensification of tropical cyclones over the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. During its active phase, the atmosphere becomes more unstable, humidity increases, and vertical wind conditions become more favourable for cyclone development.
- Consequently, the probability of cyclogenesis and cyclone intensification rises when the active MJO is present over the northern Indian Ocean. In contrast, the suppressed phase generally inhibits cyclone formation by creating less favourable atmospheric conditions.
- India's agricultural sector is particularly sensitive to the MJO because agriculture depends heavily on the distribution of monsoon rainfall.
- An active MJO phase can provide beneficial rainfall for crops such as rice, cotton, sugarcane, and pulses. However, if the rainfall becomes excessive, it may damage standing crops through flooding and waterlogging. Similarly, an extended suppressed phase can reduce rainfall, leading to moisture stress and lower agricultural productivity.
- The MJO also affects temperature patterns across India. During the active phase, increased cloud cover and rainfall generally reduce daytime temperatures and provide relief from heat. During the suppressed phase, clear skies allow greater solar heating, often resulting in hotter daytime conditions and, in some seasons, the development of heat waves.
- Meteorologists in India, especially at the India Meteorological Department, closely monitor the MJO because it is one of the most reliable indicators for extended-range weather forecasting.
- Since the MJO evolves over several weeks, it helps forecasters predict active and weak phases of the monsoon, the likelihood of heavy rainfall, and the potential for tropical cyclone formation about two to four weeks in advance.
- This information is valuable for agriculture, water resource management, disaster preparedness, and reservoir operations.
4. What is the difference between Madden-Julian oscillation and ENSO?
- The Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO) and the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) are two of the most important climate phenomena affecting global weather.
- Although both originate in the tropical regions and influence rainfall, temperature, monsoons, and tropical cyclones, they differ significantly in their nature, duration, movement, and impacts.
- Understanding these differences is essential for interpreting weather and climate variations across the world.
- The Madden–Julian Oscillation is primarily an atmospheric phenomenon. It consists of a moving zone of enhanced and suppressed cloud formation and rainfall that travels eastward around the equator.
- The MJO originates over the tropical Indian Ocean and usually moves across the maritime continent, the tropical Pacific Ocean, and sometimes into the Atlantic Ocean. The complete cycle generally takes 30 to 60 days, making it an intra-seasonal weather phenomenon.
- In contrast, ENSO is a coupled ocean-atmosphere phenomenon. It develops due to changes in sea surface temperatures and atmospheric pressure across the equatorial Pacific Ocean. ENSO has three phases: El Niño, La Niña, and the neutral phase.
- Unlike the MJO, ENSO does not move continuously around the globe. Instead, it remains centred over the equatorial Pacific Ocean and influences global climate through changes in ocean temperatures and atmospheric circulation.
- An ENSO event typically lasts 9 to 12 months, although some events may continue for nearly two years.
- Another major difference lies in the timescale. The MJO is a short-term oscillation that affects weather patterns over several weeks. Meteorologists use it to forecast rainfall, tropical cyclones, and monsoon activity two to four weeks in advance.
- ENSO, on the other hand, operates over much longer periods and is used for seasonal climate forecasting, helping predict rainfall and temperature anomalies several months ahead.
- The movement of these two phenomena also differs considerably. The MJO is a travelling disturbance that continuously propagates eastward around the equator.
- Wherever its active phase passes, it enhances cloud formation, thunderstorms, and rainfall, while the following suppressed phase brings drier conditions.
- ENSO does not travel in this manner. Instead, it represents large-scale warming (El Niño) or cooling (La Niña) of the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, with atmospheric circulation adjusting to these ocean temperature changes.
- The influence of the two systems on the Indian monsoon is also different. A favourable active phase of the MJO over the Indian Ocean can strengthen the southwest monsoon for several weeks, leading to active monsoon spells and heavy rainfall.
- However, once the MJO moves away, its influence diminishes. ENSO affects the overall seasonal strength of the monsoon. During El Niño years, India often experiences weaker monsoon rainfall and an increased likelihood of drought, while La Niña years generally favour stronger monsoon rainfall and wetter-than-normal conditions.
- Although this relationship is not absolute, it remains one of the most important factors influencing India's seasonal rainfall.
- The MJO also has a strong influence on tropical cyclone formation because its active phase creates favourable atmospheric conditions for cyclone development over the Indian Ocean, western Pacific, and other tropical basins.
- ENSO also affects cyclone activity, but mainly by altering ocean temperatures and large-scale wind patterns over an entire cyclone season rather than over a few weeks.
- An important distinction is that the MJO is primarily driven by changes in atmospheric convection, whereas ENSO is driven by interactions between the ocean and the atmosphere, especially variations in sea surface temperatures and trade winds across the Pacific Ocean.
- Although they are different phenomena, the MJO and ENSO can interact with each other. For example, repeated strong MJO events can sometimes influence the evolution of El Niño or La Niña conditions by affecting westerly wind bursts over the Pacific Ocean.
- Similarly, the background conditions created by ENSO can modify the strength and behaviour of the MJO.
5. Why is the Southwest Monsoon critical for Kharif agriculture in India?
- The Southwest Monsoon is the backbone of India's agricultural economy and plays a decisive role in the success of the Kharif cropping season. Kharif crops are sown with the onset of the monsoon, generally during June and July, and harvested between September and October.
- Since a large proportion of India's cultivated land is still dependent on rainfall rather than irrigation, the timing, amount, and distribution of monsoon rainfall directly determine agricultural productivity, food security, and rural livelihoods.
- The southwest monsoon provides nearly 70–75% of India's annual rainfall, making it the primary source of water for agriculture.
- As the monsoon winds reach the Indian subcontinent from the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, they bring widespread rainfall across most parts of the country.
- This rainfall replenishes soil moisture, enabling farmers to prepare fields and sow Kharif crops such as rice, maize, cotton, soybean, groundnut, millets, pulses, and sugarcane.
- The onset of the southwest monsoon marks the beginning of the Kharif agricultural season.
- A timely arrival allows farmers to sow seeds at the optimum time, ensuring proper germination and healthy crop establishment. If the monsoon is delayed, sowing operations are postponed, shortening the growing season and often reducing crop yields. In severe cases, farmers may have to shift to short-duration or drought-resistant crop varieties.
- Apart from the onset, the distribution of rainfall throughout the season is equally important. Crops require water at different stages of growth, including germination, vegetative growth, flowering, and grain filling.
- Well-distributed rainfall ensures a continuous supply of moisture during these critical stages.
- However, prolonged dry spells or breaks in the monsoon can lead to moisture stress, poor plant growth, and lower productivity.
- Conversely, excessive rainfall within a short period can cause waterlogging, flooding, and root damage, affecting crop health and yield.
- The southwest monsoon is particularly important because nearly half of India's net sown area remains rain-fed, despite significant expansion of irrigation facilities. Farmers in these regions rely almost entirely on monsoon rainfall.
- Consequently, a good monsoon generally leads to higher agricultural production, while a weak or deficient monsoon often results in drought, crop failure, and financial distress among farming communities.
- Monsoon rainfall also replenishes reservoirs, lakes, rivers, ponds, and groundwater aquifers, which provide irrigation water during the later stages of the Kharif season and for the subsequent Rabi cropping season. Adequate reservoir storage ensures sufficient water availability for irrigation, drinking water, hydropower generation, and industrial use throughout the year.
- The performance of the Kharif season has a significant impact on India's food security. Crops such as rice and pulses constitute staple food items for millions of people.
- A successful monsoon leads to higher food grain production, improved food availability, and stable market supplies. In contrast, poor monsoon performance may reduce agricultural output, creating supply shortages and increasing dependence on buffer stocks or imports.
- The southwest monsoon also influences the Indian economy. Agriculture supports a substantial share of the country's population, particularly in rural areas. A normal monsoon generally increases farm incomes, boosts rural demand for goods and services, and supports overall economic growth.
- Conversely, a deficient or erratic monsoon can reduce agricultural income, lower rural consumption, and adversely affect sectors such as fertilizers, farm machinery, consumer goods, and banking.
- The monsoon has an important bearing on inflation, especially food inflation. Good rainfall usually leads to abundant production of cereals, vegetables, fruits, and pulses, helping stabilize food prices. On the other hand, deficient rainfall often reduces agricultural output, leading to higher food prices and contributing to overall inflationary pressures in the economy.
- The southwest monsoon also supports allied activities such as animal husbandry, fisheries, and horticulture. Adequate rainfall improves pasture availability for livestock, replenishes ponds used in inland fisheries, and provides favourable conditions for the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, and plantation crops. Thus, its benefits extend well beyond crop production.
6. Way Forward
An IMD bulletin on Wednesday forecast low to moderate rainfall activity in the areas covered by the monsoon — which is only around half of the country’s landmass. Around this time in June, the monsoon normally covers almost the entire country.
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For Prelims: Indian and World Geography
For Mains: eneral Studies I: Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc
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Previous Year Questions
1.With reference to Ocean Mean Temperature (OMT), which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC CSE, 2020)
1. OMT is measured up to a depth of 26ºC isotherm which is 129 meters in the south-western Indian Ocean during January-March. 2. OMT collected during January-March can be used in assessing whether the amount of rainfall in monsoon will be less or more than a certain long-term mean. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Answer (b)
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Source: Indianexpress
INDIA-BANGLADESH
1. Context
Moving to improve bilateral relations, India on Thursday announced the resumption of tourist visas for Bangladeshi nationals after a nearly two-year suspension.
2. The Evolution of India-Bangladesh Ties
- The genesis of India's relationship with Bangladesh traces back to the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War when India played a crucial role in providing military and material support for Bangladesh's fight for independence from Pakistan.
- However, in the aftermath, relations faced challenges as military regimes took control, leading to a rise in anti-India sentiment in the mid-1970s.
- Issues such as boundary disputes, insurgency, and water-sharing disputes contributed to the strained ties.
- The situation persisted for several decades until Sheikh Hasina assumed power in 1996, ushering in a new era in bilateral relations.
- Under her leadership, a significant milestone was reached with the signing of a treaty on the sharing of Ganga waters.
- Since then, India and Bangladesh have successfully fostered cooperation in various areas, including trade, energy, infrastructure, connectivity, and defence.
3. India-Bangladesh Economic Ties
- Over the past decade, bilateral trade between India and Bangladesh has demonstrated consistent growth.
- Bangladesh has emerged as India's largest trade partner in South Asia, with bilateral trade surging from $10.8 billion in 2020-21 to $18 billion in 2021-2022.
- However, a slight dip occurred in 2022-23 due to the impact of the pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war.
- In return, India stands as Bangladesh's second-largest trade partner, with exports amounting to $2 billion in the Indian markets.
- In 2022, both countries successfully concluded a joint feasibility study on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
- This agreement, designed to reduce or eliminate customs duties on traded goods and streamline trade norms, is expected to unlock broader social and economic opportunities.
- The CEPA gains added significance as Bangladesh is poised to lose its Least Developed Country (LDC) status after 2026, thereby forfeiting its duty-free and quota-free market access in India.
- Dhaka is keen to finalize a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with New Delhi and simultaneously pursue the China-backed Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). This dual-track approach raises concerns for India.
4. India's Infrastructural Investments in Bangladesh
- As a significant development partner for Bangladesh, India has been actively contributing to various infrastructure and connectivity projects.
- Since 2010, India has provided Lines of Credit totalling over $7 billion. A milestone in this collaboration was achieved last year when Prime Minister Modi and Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the Akhaura-Agartala rail link, connecting Bangladesh and the northeast through Tripura.
- This link grants India access to Chattogram and Mongla ports in Bangladesh, facilitating cargo movement and poised to stimulate small-scale industries while fostering the development of Assam and Tripura.
- In the energy sector, Bangladesh imports nearly 2,000 megawatts of electricity from India.
- The BIMSTEC Master Plan for Transport Connectivity is instrumental in connecting major transport projects in India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Thailand, thereby establishing a comprehensive shipping network.
- India's focus is likely to be on the Matarbari Port, situated approximately 100 km from Tripura, being developed by Bangladesh.
- This port will play a pivotal role in establishing a crucial industrial corridor, connecting Dhaka with the northeastern part of India.
5. Navigating Challenges in the India-Bangladesh Relationship
- Several points of tension mark the diplomatic landscape between India and Bangladesh.
- Foremost among them is the impending Teesta dispute, which holds a central position in the agenda of the Hasina-led government.
- This dispute revolves around the equitable sharing of Teesta's waters, with Bangladesh seeking a fair distribution.
- Another source of contention is the Rohingya issue. The Hasina government aims for the peaceful repatriation of Rohingyas to Myanmar, but talks with the military junta have proven unsuccessful thus far.
- Bangladesh seeks India's cooperation to influence Myanmar, but the Modi government, with ties to the junta, asserts its intention to deport Rohingyas from its mainland.
- Cross-border terrorism and infiltration pose additional threats to internal security. The rise of majoritarian forces adds complexity to the already intricate landscape.
- While violence against Muslims has increased in India in recent years, Prime Minister Hasina has consistently condemned these attacks and expressed dissatisfaction with comments by Indian leaders concerning "illegal" immigrants.
6. Global Influences on the India-Bangladesh Relationship
- The Awami League government under Sheikh Hasina has faced vocal criticism from the U.S., particularly concerning "democratic backsliding."
- In 2021, the Biden administration imposed sanctions on a Bangladeshi anti-crime and anti-terrorism task force, citing human rights violations.
- Tensions escalated further as the U.S. announced a policy to restrict visas for Bangladeshis deemed responsible for undermining the election process in the country. This external pressure has implications for the global ties of Bangladesh.
- Adding to India's concerns is the deepening relationship between Bangladesh and China, marked by substantial Chinese investments in infrastructure in recent years.
- According to the Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, China has undertaken the construction of 12 highways, 21 bridges, and 27 power and energy projects in Bangladesh.
- However, Prime Minister Hasina has asserted that her government is "very much careful" about its partnership with China.
7. The Way Forward
Despite challenges, the India-Bangladesh relationship boasts strong potential for further growth. Open communication, constructive dialogue, and focus on shared interests are crucial for navigating the complexities and ensuring a prosperous future for both nations.
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For Prelims: India-Bangladesh, Free Trade Agreement, Rohingyas, Teesta River, BIMSTEC, Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement
For Mains:
1. Assess the role of China's growing influence in Bangladesh and its implications for the India-Bangladesh relationship. How can India navigate this complex geopolitical landscape? (250 Words)
2. Discuss the potential benefits of the BIMSTEC Master Plan for Transport Connectivity for India, Bangladesh, and the broader region. What are the key considerations for effective implementation and ensuring equitable benefits? (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. With reference to river Teesta, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2017)
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 2. Consider the following countries: (UPSC 2018)
1. Australia
2. Canada
3. China
4. India
5. Japan
6. USA
Which of the above are among the free-trade partners' of ASEAN?
A. 1, 2, 4 and 5 B. 3 , 4, 5 and 6 C. 1, 3, 4 and 5 D. 2, 3, 4 and 6
3. Increase in absolute and per capita real GNP do not connote a higher level of economic development, if (UPSC 2018) (a) Industrial output fails to keep pace with agricultural output. 4. The SEZ Act, 2005 which came into effect in February 2006 has certain objectives. In this context, consider the following: (UPSC 2010)
Which of the above are the objectives of this Act? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
5. A “closed economy” is an economy in which (UPSC 2011) (a) the money supply is fully controlled
6. Consider the following pairs:(UPSC 2016)
Community is sometimes mentioned in the news In the affairs of
1. Kurd Bangladesh
2. Madhesi Nepal
3. Rohingya Myanmar
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
A. 1 and 2 B. 2 only C. 2 and 3 D. 3 only
7. With reference to the BIMSTEC, which of the following statements is/are true? (UPPSC 2022)
1. P. M. Narendra Modi addressed the 5th BIMSTEC Summit on 30th March 2022.
2. 5th Summit of BIMSTEC had been chaired by India.
Select the correct answer from the code given below:
A. Neither 1 nor 2
B. Both 1 and 2
C. Only 2
D. Only 1
8. Which of the following statement/s is/are true about the three-day international Seminar on 'Climate Smart Farming System' for BIMSTEC countries held during December 11-13, 2019? (UPPSC 2020)
1. It was held at Katmandu, Nepal.
2. It was aimed to have experience sharing for more resilience to climate change through an ecological approach to enable the improvement of tropical small-holding farming systems.
Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
A. Only 1 B. Only 2 C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
9. The term 'Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership; often appears in the news in the context of the affairs of a group of countries known as (UPSC 2016)
A. G20 B. ASEAN C. SCO D. SAARC
10. Recently, with which one of the following countries did India sign the 'Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement' ? (UPSC CAPF 2022)
A. Egypt B. Israel C. South Africa D. United Arab Emirates
Answers: 1-B, 2-C, 3-C, 4-A, 5- D, 6-C, 7-D, 8-B, 9-B, 10- D
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Source: The Hindu
EARTHQUAKE
1. Context
Venezuela is grappling with its deadliest earthquake disaster in decades after twin powerful earthquakes struck within seconds of each other, flattening buildings around Caracas, killing at least 164 people and leaving hundreds trapped beneath rubble.
2. What is an Earthquake?
- An earthquake is an intense shaking of the ground caused by movement under the earth’s surface. It happens when two blocks of the earth suddenly slip past one another, according to USGS.
- This releases stored-up ‘elastic strain’ energy in the form of seismic waves, which spreads through the earth and cause the shaking of the ground.
- An earthquake is the sudden shaking or trembling of the earth’s surface caused by the release of energy stored in the earth’s crust.
- This energy is usually released when rocks deep underground break or slip along faults due to accumulated stress, sending out seismic waves that make the ground vibrate
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The earth’s crust is made of huge slabs of rock called tectonic plates, which are constantly moving slowly.
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When these plates grind against, collide, or move past each other, stress builds up at their boundaries or within faults.
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Once the stress exceeds the strength of rocks, they break suddenly, releasing energy in the form of seismic waves.
3. How do exactly Earthquakes Occur?
- As we know, the earth’s outermost surface, crust, is fragmented into tectonic plates. The edges of the plates are called plate boundaries, which are made up of faults.
The tectonic plates constantly move at a slow pace, sliding past one another and bumping into each other. - As the edges of the plates are quite rough, they get stuck with one another while the rest of the plate keeps moving.
- Earthquake occurs when the plate has moved far enough and the edges unstick on one of the faults.
- The location below the earth’s surface where the earthquake starts is called the hypocenter, and the location directly above it on the surface of the earth is called the epicenter.”
4. Earthquake waves
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The release of energy during an earthquake generates waves which are called Earthquake Waves. Earthquake waves are basically of two types body waves and surface waves.
Body waves: They are generated due to the release of energy at the focus and move in all directions traveling through the body of the earth. Hence, the name body waves. The body waves interact with the surface rocks and generate a new set of waves called surface waves.
Surface waves: These waves move along the surface. The velocity of waves changes as they travel through materials with different densities. The denser the material, the higher the velocity. Their direction also changes as they reflect or refract when coming across materials with different densities.
There are two types of body waves. They are called P and S-waves.
P-waves or ‘primary waves’ move faster and are the first to arrive at the surface. The P-waves are similar to sound waves. They travel through gaseous, liquid, and solid materials.
P-waves vibrate parallel to the direction of the wave. This exerts pressure on the material in the direction of propagation. As a result, it creates density differences in the material leading to stretching and squeezing of the material.
S-waves or secondary waves arrive at the surface with some time lag. They can travel only through solid materials. This characteristic of the S-waves is quite important. It has helped scientists to understand the structure of the interior of the earth.
The direction of vibrations of S-waves is Perpendicular to the wave direction in the vertical plane. Hence, they create troughs and crests in the material through which they pass. Surface waves are considered to be the most damaging waves.
5. Measuring of Earthquakes
- The earthquake events are scaled either according to the magnitude or intensity of the shock.
- The magnitude scale is known as the Richter scale. The magnitude indicates the energy released during the quake. It is expressed in absolute numbers 0-10.
- The intensity scale is named after Mercalli, an Italian seismologist. The intensity scale indicates the visible damage caused by the event. The range of intensity scale is from 1-12.
6. Turkey and Syria lie in a seismically active region
- The region where the earthquake struck lies along a well-known seismic fault line called the Anatolia tectonic block that runs through northern, central, and eastern Turkey.
- It is a seismically active zone-though not as active as, say, the Himalayan region which is one of the most dangerous regions in the world from the perspective of earthquakes.
- Large earthquakes, of magnitude 5 or higher, have not been very frequent in recent years. According to USGS, only three earthquakes of magnitude 6 or more have happened in the region since 1970. The last major quake in this area came in January 2020.
- The seismicity in this region is a result of interactions between the African, Eurasian, and Arabian plates. The Arabian plate is known to be pushing northward, which results in a slight westward movement for the Anatolian plate, where Turkey is located.
- The earthquake happened around the near-vertical fault line on the eastern Anatolian block, close to the Syrian border.
7. Shallow Earthquakes cause much greater damage
- Earthquakes in Turkey emerged from relatively shallow depths which made them devastating. The first earthquake, of magnitude 7.8, originated 17.9 km below the earth's surface.
- All the subsequent ones, including one of 7.5 magnitudes, emerged from even closer to the surface.
- Shallow earthquakes are generally more devastating because they carry greater energy when they emerge on the surface.
- Deeper earthquakes lose much of their energy by the time they come to the surface. The deeper quakes spread farther though- the seismic waves move conically upwards to the surface even as they lose energy while traveling greater distances and hence cause less damage.
8. Can earthquakes be predicted?
- An accurate prediction of an earthquake requires some sort of a precursory signal from within the earth that indicates a big quake is on the way.
- Moreover, the signal must occur only before large earthquakes so that it doesn’t indicate every small movement within the earth’s surface. Currently, there is no equipment to find such precursors, even if they exist.
- Theoretically, it is possible to offer a lead time of a few seconds between the time of the origin of the earthquake and the time it reaches the Earth’s surface.
- Seismic waves travel significantly slower than the speed of light between 5 and 13 km
per second. So if the earthquake is detected as soon as it is triggered, information about it can be related a few seconds ahead of it reaching the ground. - Such systems are already in use in some locations to issue alerts about earthquakes. However, these are not predictions. The alerts are issued post-event.
- Attempts to find reliable predictors of earthquakes have not been fruitful so far. Scientists have been able to map the areas that are earthquake-prone, and are likely to generate earthquakes in the future, but there is no way to predict when.
For Prelims & Mains
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For Prelims: Earthquake, Tectonic plates, Hypocenter, Epicenter, Body waves, Surface waves, P-waves or ‘primary waves’, S-waves or secondary waves, Richter scale, and Seismic waves.
For Mains: 1. What is an Earthquake? How do exactly Earthquakes Occur? Discuss the effects of Earthquakes.
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Previous Year Questions
1.Consider the following: (2013)
Which of the above are responsible for bringing dynamic changes on the surface of the earth? (a) 1, 2, 3 and 4 only |
Source: The Indian Express
CENTRAL CONSUMER PROTECTION AUTHORITY(CCPA)
1. Context
From juices to breads, the “100%” label is a near-ubiquitous marketing tool meant to assure consumers of a product’s unadulterated quality.
2. The Consumer Protection Act, 2019-Key Highlights
The Consumer Protection Act of 2019 introduces several key highlights aimed at safeguarding consumer rights and interests:
- This Act provides for the establishment of the CCPA to promote, protect, and enforce consumer rights. The CCPA has the authority to investigate, recall unsafe goods, order discontinuation of unfair trade practices, and impose penalties for misleading advertisements affecting consumers
- The Act enumerates the rights of consumers, including the right to be informed, right to choose, right to be heard, right to seek redressal, and the right to consumer education
- It prohibits unfair trade practices such as false advertising, misleading information, deceptive packaging, and selling goods/services that pose a danger to consumers' lives and safety
- The Act introduces the concept of product liability, holding manufacturers, sellers, and service providers accountable for any harm caused by defective products or deficient services
- The Act establishes Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions at the district, state, and national levels to expedite the resolution of consumer disputes. These commissions provide simple, speedy, and cost-effective dispute resolution mechanisms
- It includes provisions specifically addressing consumer rights and liabilities related to e-commerce transactions and direct selling, ensuring adequate protection for consumers engaged in online purchases and transactions
- The Act emphasizes the importance of consumer awareness and education through outreach programs, campaigns, and educational initiatives to empower consumers with knowledge about their rights and responsibilities
- The penalties for misleading advertisements, unfair trade practices, and violations of consumer rights have been increased, along with provisions for compensating consumers for any loss or injury suffered due to a defective product or deficient service
3.What is State Consumer Protection Council?
The State Consumer Protection Council (SCPC) is a pivotal body established under the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, and continued under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, in India. This council operates at the state level and works towards safeguarding consumer rights and promoting their interests within the respective state.
Here's a breakdown of the SCPC's key functions:
Composition:
- Each SCPC is headed by the Minister-in-charge of Consumer Affairs in the state government.
- It includes other official and non-official members representing various interests, such as:
- Members of the state Legislative Assembly
- Representatives from consumer organizations
- Representatives from farmers, manufacturers, traders, and industrialists
- Experts in consumer affairs and law
Responsibilities:
- The SCPC organizes awareness campaigns to educate consumers about their rights and responsibilities. It also disseminates information about consumer laws and redressal mechanisms.
- The SCPC receives and investigates consumer complaints against unfair trade practices, defective goods and services, and misleading advertisements. It can recommend action against businesses violating consumer rights.
- The SCPC advises the state government on matters related to consumer protection. This includes proposing new laws, policies, and initiatives to strengthen consumer rights within the state.
- The SCPC monitors the market for unfair trade practices and emerging consumer issues. It may conduct research and studies to identify and address emerging consumer concerns.
- The SCPC coordinates with the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) and other consumer protection agencies to ensure effective enforcement of consumer rights across the country
4. What is the Central Consumer Protection Authority?
The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) is a significant regulatory body established under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, in India. This authority is designed to protect, promote, and enforce consumer rights more effectively.
The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) is a quasi-judicial regulatory body established under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, in India. It plays a pivotal role in promoting, protecting, and enforcing consumer rights at the national level.
Functions:
The CCPA is empowered with a wide range of functions to safeguard consumer interests, including:
- It can investigate unfair trade practices, misleading advertisements, and violations of consumer rights. Additionally, it has the authority to prosecute entities found guilty of such offenses.
- The CCPA can order the recall of unsafe or defective products from the market. It can also direct businesses to issue refunds or replacements for defective products or services.
- The CCPA can impose significant penalties on businesses found indulging in unfair trade practices, misleading advertisements, or violating consumer rights.
- It can file class-action suits on behalf of groups of consumers affected by the same unfair practice.
- The CCPA can issue guidelines and standards for product safety and service quality.
- It can undertake initiatives to raise awareness about consumer rights and educate consumers about redressal mechanisms.
- The CCPA collaborates with State Consumer Protection Councils (SCPCs) to ensure effective consumer protection across the country.
Structure:
The CCPA is headed by a Chief Commissioner and three other Commissioners, all appointed by the Central Government. It also has a team of supporting staff that assists in carrying out its various functions.
5.Way forward
The Committee, therefore, desire that the Central Government should see that the mandates of Section 6(3) and 8 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 are fulfilled in each of the states of the North East so that consumers in the region feel assured of their rights and have a sense of belonging with the rest of the country,” the committee said in its report on “Initiatives in the North East in the Field of Consumer Rights Protection”
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For Prelims: Current events of national and international importance
For Mains: General Studies II: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation
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Previous Year Questions
1. Which of the following statements about the 'Consumer Protection Act 2019' is not true? (UGC NET 2020)
A.It has widened the definition of consumer
B.It provides for E-filing of complaints
C.It establishes Central Consumer Protection Authority
D.It ignores mediation as an alternate disputes resolution mechanism
Answer (D)
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Source: Indanexpress
