GS Analyst: Daily Current Affairs

In response to the tragic rape-murder of a woman medic at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, the West Bengal Assembly has passed the Aparajita Woman and Child (West Bengal Criminal Laws Amendment) Bill, 2024. This bill aims to enhance legal measures for protecting women and children by proposing significant amendments to existing criminal laws.

What is the Aparajita Bill?

• The Aparajita Bill seeks to amend the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act 2012, specifically for West Bengal.
• Amendments to Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS):
• Section 64 - Penalties for Rape:
  • Current Provision: Under BNS, a rape convict faces rigorous imprisonment for not less than 10 years, which may extend to a life term.
  • Aparajita Bill Amendment: The bill enhances the penalty to a life sentence for the remainder of the convict’s natural life or death. It also mandates a fine that is fair and reasonable to cover the victim’s medical expenses and rehabilitation costs.
• Section 66 - Penalties for Rape Resulting in Death or Vegetative State:
  • Current Provision: BNS stipulates a jail term of up to 20 years, life imprisonment, or death if rape leads to the victim’s death or a vegetative state.
  • Aparajita Bill Amendment: The bill proposes the death penalty as the sole punishment for such cases, eliminating the options of imprisonment or life term.
• Section 70 - Penalties for Gang Rape:
  • Current Provision: BNS allows for a 20-year jail term, life imprisonment, or death for gang rape.
  • Aparajita Bill Amendment: The bill removes the 20-year imprisonment option, mandating life imprisonment or death for those convicted of gang rape.
• Amendments to the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act: The Bill introduces tougher penalties for child abuse cases, aligning with its broader objective of strengthening protections for children.
• Key Provisions:
  • Capital Punishment: The bill proposes the death penalty for individuals convicted of rape if their actions result in the victim’s death or a vegetative state. For gang rape and rape, it mandates a life sentence lasting for the convict's natural life.
  • Medical Expenses: The bill stipulates that the special rape court will determine the victim’s medical expenses, which will be borne by the convict or their family. Failure to pay can result in recovery through legal means.
  • Time-bound Investigations: The bill mandates that investigations into rape cases must be completed within 21 days from the initial report, a reduction from the previous two-month deadline.
  • Penalties for Repeat Offenders: Repeat offenders would receive a life sentence, meaning they would be imprisoned for the remainder of their natural life.
  • Publication Restrictions: The bill penalizes the unauthorized printing or publishing of matters related to court proceedings with imprisonment of three to five years and a fine.
• Justice Verma Committee strongly opposed the capital punishment. 

Can states make amendments to national laws?

• Article 254(2) of the Constitution allows state legislatures to enact laws that contradict central laws on matters in the concurrent list, provided these laws receive Presidential Assent.
  • The President is not obligated to grant assent, and there is no stipulated time frame for this process.
• West Bengal is not the first state to propose amendments to central laws. Andhra Pradesh's Disha Bill (2019) and Maharashtra’s Shakti Criminal Laws Bill (2020) also sought to impose the death penalty for rape but are yet to receive presidential assent.

In a significant shift in Delhi's administrative framework, the Union Home Ministry has granted the Lieutenant Governor (LG) of Delhi expanded powers. This change centralizes authority previously shared with the Delhi government.

Key Changes:

• Expanded Authority: The LG now has the sole authority to create and oversee various statutory bodies, boards, and commissions. This includes bodies such as the Delhi Commission for Women and the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission.
  • Previously, these functions were collaboratively managed with the Delhi government, but the new directive centralizes this power with the LG.
• Control Over Appointments: The LG is now empowered to appoint members to these statutory bodies and commissions. This marks a departure from previous arrangements where the Delhi government and its officials had a significant role in these appointments.

Legal and Constitutional Basis:

• Article 239 of the Constitution: Article 239 provides the constitutional framework for the administration of Union territories, specifying that the President administers these regions through appointed administrators, such as the Delhi LG. This article supports the recent changes in administrative powers.
• Section 45D of the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi Act: The amendment under Section 45D reinforces the President’s authority to appoint members and constitute bodies for Delhi. The recent notification aligns with this section, assigning the execution of these powers to the LG.

Implications:

• Centralization of Power: The new powers consolidate administrative authority with the LG, potentially reducing the influence of the Delhi government in managing statutory bodies and boards.
• Impact on Governance: This shift may lead to a realignment in governance, affecting how statutory bodies operate and are constituted, potentially impacting policy implementation and local governance.

In recent years, two major economies—the United States and India—decided to cut corporate tax rates with hopes of boosting their economies.

The U.S. Tax Cuts

In 2017, the U.S. government passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. One of its biggest changes was lowering the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%. This meant companies would pay less in taxes, with the goal of encouraging them to invest more in their businesses, create jobs, and improve worker wages.

What Were the Results?

• More Investment: Studies show that the tax cuts led to an increase in investment by around 8-14%. This is a positive outcome because investing more in businesses can lead to new technology and higher productivity.
• Wage Increase: However, wages only went up by less than $1,000 per worker. This is much lower than the $4,000 to $9,000 increase that was initially promised.
• Lower Tax Revenue: The U.S. government’s tax revenue dropped by nearly 41% because of these cuts. This made it harder for the government to fund various services and programs.

The Indian Tax Cuts

In 2019, India reduced corporate tax rates as well. For existing companies, the rate went from 30% to 22%, and for new companies, it dropped from 25% to 15%. The aim was to boost investment and create jobs.

What Were the Results?

• Limited Impact on Jobs: Although unemployment has decreased, much of the new employment has been in less secure jobs. The corporate sector hasn’t significantly contributed to this improvement, and wages have not increased substantially.
• Shift in Tax Burden: With the reduction in corporate taxes, the share of revenue collected from corporate taxes has decreased. The government now relies more on income taxes and Goods and Services Tax (GST) to make up for this loss.
• Increased Revenue: Despite these challenges, corporate tax collections have grown since the pandemic. However, this hasn’t translated into significant benefits for workers or an increase in job security.

What’s the Takeaway?

Both the U.S. and India aimed to stimulate their economies through corporate tax cuts, but the results have been mixed:

• In the U.S., while investment increased, wages didn’t rise as much as expected, and the government saw a big drop in tax revenue.
• In India, the tax cuts didn’t significantly boost job security or wages, and the burden of tax revenue has shifted from corporations to individuals.

Tax cuts alone may not be enough to solve broader economic issues. They need to be part of a larger strategy that includes investments in job creation, wage growth, and sustainable fiscal policies.

In recent years, the growing recognition of environmental sustainability and technological advancement has led to significant innovations in biotechnology. One of the most forward-looking initiatives in India, the BioE3 policy, aims to harness these advancements to transform the nation’s economy and address critical challenges like climate change and resource scarcity.

What is the BioE3 Policy?

• The BioE3 policy is an ambitious strategic framework developed by the Indian government to integrate biotechnology into the economic and environmental fabric of the country.
• The policy envisions leveraging the potential of biomanufacturing and other biotechnological advancements to address current and future challenges.
• Although the immediate economic benefits might not be apparent, the policy is designed to build foundational competencies, promote research, train talent, and prepare India for a future where biotechnology plays a crucial role.
• Similar to India's initiatives (Artificial Intelligence Mission, the Quantum Mission, and the Green Hydrogen Mission), the BioE3 policy represents a strategic effort to stay at the forefront of technological advancements and their applications.

Key Components of the BioE3 Policy

• Biomanufacturing Hubs: These hubs will serve as centers of innovation where industry partners, start-ups, and researchers can collaborate to produce specialized chemicals, smart proteins, enzymes, functional foods, and other bio-products.
• Focus Areas: The policy emphasizes six critical areas:
  • Bio-Based Chemicals and Enzymes: Developing environmentally friendly chemicals and enzymes using biological processes, reducing reliance on traditional, harmful chemicals.
  • Functional Foods and Smart Proteins: Creating advanced food products that offer enhanced nutritional benefits and cater to specific health needs.
  • Precision Biotherapeutics: Innovating in the field of personalized medicine and therapies that are tailored to individual genetic profiles.
  • Climate Resilient Agriculture: Advancing agricultural practices that can withstand climate change and ensure food security.
  • Carbon Capture and Utilization: Employing biological processes to capture and convert CO2 into useful compounds, thus addressing greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Futuristic Marine and Space Research: Developing technologies for life support systems in space and exploring marine ecosystems for novel bio-products.

Benefits for India

• Economic Impact: Biomanufacturing alone is projected to have a significant economic impact, potentially worth $2-4 trillion over the next decade. By investing in biotechnology now, India aims to be a key player in this growing sector, fostering economic growth and job creation.
• Environmental Sustainability: The shift towards bioplastics and bio-based chemicals can significantly reduce environmental hazards associated with traditional plastics and chemicals. Additionally, carbon capture technologies developed through the policy can contribute to climate change mitigation.
• Advancing Technology and Research: By setting up biomanufacturing hubs and focusing on cutting-edge research areas, India positions itself as a leader in biotechnology. This includes advancements in precision medicine, climate-resilient agriculture, and space research.
• Training and Talent Development: The policy aims to educate and train young talent, ensuring that India has a skilled workforce ready to drive future innovations. This proactive approach is crucial for maintaining competitiveness in the global biotech arena.
• Collaborative Efforts: Successful implementation of the BioE3 policy requires collaboration across various government departments and sectors. This multi-faceted approach ensures comprehensive support and integration of biotechnological advancements into national strategies.

Recently, a minor girl was gang-raped in Assam’s Dhing area, allegedly by three Muslim men. This incident sparked significant outrage, and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma made controversial remarks targeting the Muslim community.  The remarks, given their potential to incite communal tensions and their derogatory nature, challenge the boundaries of free speech as articulated by John Stuart Mill (Harm Principle)

Legal and Ethical Concerns:

• Free Speech vs. Hate Speech: While free speech is a fundamental right under the Indian Constitution, it is subject to "reasonable restrictions" for maintaining public order and protecting communal harmony.
  • The remarks made by Sarma raise questions about the boundary between free speech and hate speech. The Indian legal framework does not explicitly define hate speech, leading to ambiguity in its application.
• Hate Speech and Legal Implications: Hate speech, while not clearly defined, is generally understood to include speech that incites violence or discrimination against a particular group. Sarma’s comments could be viewed as hate speech if they are seen to incite hostility or violence against the Muslim community. Indian laws such as Section 153A and 295A of the IPC address such offenses, but enforcement can be inconsistent.

Philosophical Perspective - John Stuart Mill's Harm Principle:

• Mill’s Theory: John Stuart Mill’s "harm principle" suggests that freedom of speech should only be restricted when it causes harm to others. Mill argues that the only legitimate reason for restricting freedom is to prevent harm to others, not to prevent harm to oneself.
  • According to Mill, speech that merely offends or disturbs without inciting violence may not justify restriction.
• Application to Hate Speech: Mill’s perspective implies that while free speech should be protected, there is a legitimate concern when speech incites violence or discrimination. The challenge lies in defining what constitutes harm, especially in cases where speech could potentially lead to societal or psychological harm, as seen in historical instances like the Rwandan genocide.
• While Mill’s harm principle supports minimal restrictions on speech, it also recognizes the need to address speech that causes tangible harm to others. Balancing free speech with preventing harm, particularly in sensitive communal contexts, remains a complex issue requiring careful legal and ethical consideration.

Practical Implications:

• Impact on Community Relations: Sarma’s statements, if viewed as hate speech, could exacerbate communal tensions and contribute to a hostile environment. Such remarks may incite further violence or discrimination against the targeted community, undermining social cohesion.
• State Responsibility and Accountability: When state actors engage in potentially harmful rhetoric, it raises concerns about accountability and the role of regulatory bodies in addressing hate speech. Effective mechanisms are necessary to prevent abuse of free speech and to protect vulnerable communities from incitement and discrimination.

In 2019, Jaipur’s Walled City was honored with UNESCO World Heritage status, recognizing its exceptional architectural and cultural value. To ensure the preservation and enhancement of this historic site, the state government has allocated Rs 100 crore for conservation and development initiatives.

About Jaipur’s Walled City:

• The Walled City of Jaipur was founded in 1727 by Sawai Jai Singh II (the ruler of the Kachwaha Rajput dynasty). The city was designed by Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, a Bengali architect, and was built according to the principles of Vastu Shastra, an ancient Indian system of architecture.
• Architectural Features: It is a prime example of Vedic urban planning, combining ancient Hindu, Mughal, and Western architectural styles.
  • The city’s grid-based layout, characterized by its pink facades, large public squares (chaupars), and colonnaded streets, was pivotal in its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Key landmarks include the City Palace, Jal Mahal, Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, Jaigarh Fort, and Nahargarh Fort. 
• There are 8 gates in Jaipur including the Jorawar Singh Gate, Surajpole Gate, Sanganeri Gate, New Gate, Ajmeri Gate, Chandpole Gate, Ghat Gate, and Samrat Gate.
• Famous dances of Jaipur: Ghoomar, Chari
• Traditional instruments: Sarangi, Ektara, and Jhala

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a two-day visit to Brunei, the first by an Indian PM.  This visit marks 40 years of diplomatic relations between India and Brunei.

Key-highlights of India-Brunei Relations

• The diplomatic relations between India and Brunei were established in 1984 following Brunei’s independence from the British.
• This year marks the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the relationship between the two countries. 
• Common membership: United Nations, NAM and Commonwealth. 
• Brunei is part of India’s ‘Act East’ Policy and Indo-Pacific Vision.
  • The ‘Act East’ Policy was formulated as the next step to the ‘Look East’ Policy which originated in the 1990s.
• Brunei is India’s key partner in the ASEAN region. As Country Coordinator in ASEAN-India relations from July 2012 to June 2015, Brunei played an important role in India’s engagement with ASEAN.
• Brunei is also a participant country in India's Nalanda University endeavour.

The 23rd Law Commission has been constituted for a period of three years, effective September 1, following the conclusion of the term of the 22nd Law Commission on August 31.

About the New Commission

• The new commission will advise the government on complex legal issues.
• It will consist of a full-time chairperson, four full-time members, and the secretaries of the Department of Legal Affairs and the Legislative Department as ex-officio members.
• Appointment of Members: The commission can include serving Supreme Court and High Court judges as its chairperson and members, continuing the precedent set by the 21st and 22nd Law Commissions. However, recent commissions have predominantly been headed by retired judges or former Chief Justices of High Courts.
• The terms of reference include reviewing the judicial administration system to make it more responsive to the demands of the time. Among the goals are eliminating delays, simplifying High Courts rules and implementing a framework for case flow management.
• It also includes examining laws in the context of the Directive Principles, which advocate for a Uniform Civil Code under Article 44 of the Constitution.

Addressing income inequality is a critical global challenge that demands multifaceted strategies and comprehensive policies. Effective approaches to reducing inequality involve progressive taxation, enhancing education, enforcing fair labor laws, investing in infrastructure, and encouraging contributions from the super-rich. Recent data indicates growing inequality in India, with the top 1% holding a significant share of national income, even surpassing levels during British rule.

Strategies for Reducing Income Inequality

• Progressive Taxation: Implementing progressive tax policies can help redistribute wealth by using tax revenue to improve essential services such as health, education, and job creation. This approach aims to reduce economic disparities without penalizing success, focusing on societal benefits.
• Education and Skill Development: Access to quality education and continuous skill development is vital for enhancing employability and income potential. Investing in these areas ensures that individuals are better equipped to compete in the job market and achieve higher earnings.
• Fair Labor Laws: Enforcing fair labor laws is crucial for protecting workers' rights, ensuring minimum wages, safety, and job security. Addressing issues like child labor and exploitation helps ensure that all workers benefit from economic growth.

Investment and Contribution

• Infrastructure Investment: Investing in infrastructure, including water, sanitation, and transportation, can reduce regional disparities and promote inclusive growth. Proper infrastructure supports economic development and enhances living standards.
• Super Rich Contributions: Initiatives like the ‘Giving Pledge’ encourage the super-rich to donate a significant portion of their wealth for public good. Additionally, implementing inheritance taxes in advanced countries helps redistribute wealth more equitably.
• India’s Context: In India, the share of the top 1% in national income is alarmingly high, surpassing levels seen during British rule. Addressing this imbalance requires substantial reforms and initiatives to ensure fairer wealth distribution.

Future Directions and Economic Models

• Decentralization and Local Focus: Adopting a Gandhian model emphasizing decentralization and local resources can drive sustainable development. Investing in small and medium-sized enterprises and local innovations can enhance economic resilience and employment opportunities.
• Tech-Driven Economic Model: The future lies in developing an economic model that integrates technology with decentralization, focusing on inclusion and basic human needs. Embracing digital platforms can improve local production and global market access.
• Lifestyle Changes: Promoting values of sharing and caring over conspicuous consumption aligns with a more equitable and sustainable economic model. Emphasizing happiness derived from community and equitable growth can lead to more inclusive societal development.

Practice Question

Q: “Income inequality is a pressing global issue with far-reaching implications for social stability and economic growth.” Comment

Gita Gopinath, IMF’s Deputy Managing Director, recently highlighted the need for India to create 60-148 million jobs by 2030, emphasizing the necessity for workers to transition from agriculture to other sectors. This view overlooks the potential of agriculture to drive growth and generate desirable jobs. The current state of Indian agriculture presents both challenges and opportunities for revitalization and job creation.

Ecological Challenges and Solutions

• Water Management: Indian agriculture suffers from inefficient water use and over-reliance on groundwater. Expanding irrigation through rainwater harvesting and micro-irrigation, as seen in Gujarat, can boost productivity and sustainability.
• Soil Degradation: Significant portions of Indian soil are degraded due to issues like salinity and nutrient depletion. Addressing soil health through improved practices and technology is essential for revitalizing agriculture.
• Climate Change Adaptation: Adapting to climate change involves developing heat-resistant crops and utilizing technology such as cell phones and drones to enhance farming techniques and efficiency.

Technological and Institutional Innovations

• Crop Diversification: Moving away from monocultures to diverse cropping systems can improve soil health, yield, and profitability. This shift supports a more resilient agricultural sector.
• Institutional Reform: Small farm sizes limit economies of scale. Encouraging cooperative farming and forming groups can improve efficiency and market access, as demonstrated by successful models in Kerala and other states.
• Technological Integration: Utilizing modern technologies, including drones and mobile apps, can provide farmers with crucial information and improve agricultural practices and productivity.

Expanding Opportunities and Synergies

• Livestock and Fisheries: These sectors show significant growth potential and job creation opportunities. The fisheries sector, for example, grew at 10% in 2022-23, providing millions of jobs.
• Farm-Nonfarm Linkages: Strengthening connections between farming and rural non-farm activities like agro-processing and eco-tourism can boost rural incomes and job opportunities.
• Youth Engagement: Making agriculture more appealing to the younger generation through technological advancements and group farming initiatives can attract educated youth to the sector.

Practice Question

Q. Discuss the potential of agriculture as a driver of economic growth and job creation in India. How can technological, ecological, and institutional innovations contribute to transforming the sector to meet future demands?

The Summit of the Future (September 22-23, 2024) represents a pivotal moment for global diplomacy and AI governance. The UN aims to advance the Global Digital Compact (GDC) to address the digital divide, promote Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and enhance international AI governance. This summit comes amidst growing geopolitical contestation, with the U.S. and China proposing contrasting AI resolutions reflecting their strategic interests.

Geopolitical Contestation in AI Governance

• U.S.-Led Resolution: The U.S. resolution advocates for harmonized AI governance, emphasizing ethical principles, data protection, and transparency. It aims to establish global standards that reflect U.S. dominance in AI technology.
• China-Led Resolution: China's resolution focuses on equitable AI benefits, bridging the digital divide, and fostering an open business environment. It positions China as a key player in setting global trade and technology standards.
• Geopolitical Implications: These resolutions reflect broader geopolitical competition between the U.S. and China, highlighting differing priorities in AI governance and impacting global digital policies.

India’s Role and Historical Influence

• UN Engagement: India’s historical engagement at the UN, notably in climate negotiations, underscores its ability to shape global policies. It has championed equity and technology transfer in climate agreements, which it can leverage for AI governance.
• Global South Advocacy: India has led efforts to represent Global South interests, including forming coalitions like the Green Group and BASIC. This legacy positions India to advocate for fair AI governance that addresses developmental disparities.
• Current Initiatives: India’s leadership in forums like the G-20 and GPAI emphasizes fair AI access and equity. It should continue to use these platforms to ensure that AI governance reflects the needs and priorities of developing countries.

Addressing Challenges and Shaping the Future

• Equitable Access: India should advocate for more equitable access to AI technologies and capacity building for developing countries. This includes creating institutional mechanisms for knowledge sharing and supporting under-represented groups.
• Inclusive Frameworks: India should push for comprehensive AI governance frameworks that respect human rights and align with international laws, ensuring that AI systems are inclusive and representative of diverse global perspectives.
• Geopolitical Balance: In the face of U.S.-China dynamics, India’s active participation is crucial to prevent the marginalization of Global South perspectives. Addressing local needs and challenges will help ensure that global AI governance frameworks are effective and equitable.

Practice Question

Q. Analyze the implications of the Summit of the Future for global AI governance. How can India leverage its historical role and current initiatives to influence the development of international AI policies? Discuss the potential challenges and opportunities for ensuring equitable and inclusive AI governance in the context of geopolitical competition.