Aspirant's Corner

  Universal Basic Income: Definition. Why it is a good idea? What are the associated challenges and way forward In order to counter the increasing economic disparities and ensure sustainable future for all, the concept of Universal Basic Income was introduced, which is seen as an effective option as Universal basic income promises unconditional guaranteed cash transfer to all it’s beneficiaries.  What is Universal Basic Income ? Universal Basic Income (UBI) is a social welfare concept in which all citizens or residents of a country receive a regular, unconditional sum of money from the government, regardless of any other income they might have. UBI is distributed at regular intervals, such as monthly or annually, ensuring a consistent income stream for individuals. The primary goals of UBI include poverty alleviation, reduction of income inequality, and providing individuals with financial security. Proponents argue that it can create a safety net for unpredictable economic condi

  What is Loss and Damage Fund? Associated Challenges and Solutions  To reaffirm their commitment to control climate change and limit global temperature rise, every year COP meetings are held to bring together representatives from the parties to the UNFCCC, as well as observers, non-governmental organizations, and other stakeholders to negotiate agreements and decisions on various aspects of climate change, including mitigation, adaptation, finance, and technology transfer.  What is COP? "COP" stands for the Conference of the Parties. This refers to the annual meetings held as part of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). During these conferences, representatives from the countries that are parties to the UNFCCC gather to assess progress in dealing with climate change, negotiate agreements, and discuss various climate-related issues.  In COP 27 , held in Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt in 2022, creation of a Loss and Damage Fund was finalised to

  Secondary Agriculture: Its Contribution to Country's Growth Secondary agriculture holds significant importance in India as it represents the crucial phase of value addition and processing in the agricultural value chain. This stage not only enhances the economic viability of the agricultural sector by providing additional income sources but also plays a pivotal role in rural development. The growth of agro-processing industries, gives India an opportunity to capitalize on the value inherent in its agricultural output, leading to increased employment opportunities and the development of ancillary services.  What is Secondary Agriculture?   Secondary agriculture refers to the value addition and processing activities that occur after the primary cultivation of crops. In this stage, raw agricultural products undergo various processes to transform into finished goods, creating a diverse range of products such as processed foods, beverages, textiles, biofuels, and more.    By add

  EVs in India: Advantages, Government Schemes, Associated Challenges and Solutions  Faced with growing concerns over air pollution, dependence on fossil fuels, and global climate change the world is undergoing a strategic shift towards sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation. Similarly, the Indian government has also embarked on an ambitious journey to promote the adoption of electric vehicles due to its numerous benefits.  Advantages of Electric Vehicles in India  1) Environment Friendly:  Unlike traditional vehicles with internal combustion engines, electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, thus mitigating air pollution and supporting efforts to combat climate change. Typically, EVs also have a lower overall carbon footprint, especially when charged with electricity generated from renewable sources. This reduces the contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions.  2) Generate Employment Opportunities:  The growth of the electric vehicle industry gener

  Abortion Rights in India: Associated Issues and Ways to Address Them  In India, women's right over her bodily autonomy and reproductive freedom is recognised by Supreme Court of India under Article 21 of Indian constitution, and the abortion right is guaranteed under Medical Termination of Pregnancy (Amendment) Act, 2021. However various conditionalities of laws and the societal stigma associated with women's reproductive freedom act as an impediment to women's access to safe and legal abortion in India.  Issues Associated with the Right to Safe and Legal Abortion in India   1) Issues with Medical Termination of Pregnancy (Amendment) Act: There are some issues with India's MTP act which restricts its effectiveness to give women the required autonomy, and these issues are  M TP act doesn't recognise situation of transgenders. This act doesn't have any provision for abortion at will or socio-economic situation. This act doesn't mention any time lim

 Hunger Crisis in India: Causes and Solutions  India is a food surplus country, however India's 111st rank out of 125 countries in Global Hunger Index 2023 highlights that the food resources of this country are not effectively managed and distributed to ensure food security in the country.  Causes for Hunger Crisis in India  1. Errors in Government Policies : Inefficient supply chains, lack of proper storage, and inadequate transportation contribute to food wastage at various stages of the supply chain. While food is wasted, many people still struggle with hunger. Other errors like inefficient targeting, crop monoculture, corruption and limited focus on nutrition can also contribute to hunger crisis. 2. Unequal Distribution of Resources : Disparities in wealth and resources result in unequal access to food. Wealthier regions or communities have better access to food, while marginalized groups may struggle to meet their basic nutritional needs. Overcrowding of cities due to migrat

 What are deepfakes? It's Applications, Misuse and the Need for Regulations  Deepfake technology is a sophisticated form of artificial intelligence (AI) that utilizes deep learning algorithms to create highly convincing and often deceptive digital content, such as videos, images, or audio recordings. These algorithms analyze and manipulate existing multimedia content to superimpose or replace the likeness and voice of one person with another. Deepfake technologies have various legitimate applications, but focus should be given on creating regulations and guidelines that address misuse and unethical use of this technology.  Applications of Deepfake Technologies Educational Purposes : In education, deepfake technology can be applied in language learning through immersive and dynamic interactions, in making lessons more engaging by bringing historical figures or instructor to life through deepfakes, and can also help in personalized tutoring that adapt to individual learning style

 Caste Census: Advantages and Concerns  The practice of caste system in India has impacted the functioning of Indian society in the past, and it still influences the social, political and economical discourse of our country. In order to address the caste based discrimination in our country, several provisions for affirmative action are given under article 15 and 16 of the Indian constitution, and caste census helps the authority to get the relevant information about status of different caste in the society and help them formulate their policies better. Advantages of Caste Census in India  Better Policy Planning: Based on the latest data from a caste census, policymakers are better equipped with updated information to formulate tailor made policies as per the needs of the people and work for their welfare. Updated Data: Caste census provides latest data about socio-economic conditions of various castes in the society. Highlights the Shortcomings: Data from caste census helps judge th

  Ageing India: Concerns and Solutions  Currently India is enjoying demographic dividend which will eventually turn into an ageing population , as highlighted by the “ India Ageing Report 2023 ”, which shows 1/5th of India's population in 2050 will comprise people aged above 60 years. This will pose certain challenges which need to be addressed.  Challenges Posed by India's Ageing Population Low Labour Force: With the aging population surpassing the working age and children population, a decline will be observed in the availability of the labour force which will impact the country's development. Strain on Healthcare Services : Ageing population faces various ailments ranging from cardiovascular and lifestyle diseases to dementia and cancer, this will put a burden on healthcare resources. Less Consumption in Economy : Less population by the ageing population will hamper the country's growth as it will reduce demand for more production, invention, technological advanceme

  Impact of Globalisation on Youth in India  The idea of “ Vasudaiva Kutumbakam ", the world is one family, is also reflected in the idea of ‘globalisation’, as countries interact, integrate and are interdependent on one another for mutual benefit. This interaction among multiple countries heavily impact the youth of India as it promises emmense possibilities, but also comes at a price.  Various Socio-Economic Impact of Globalisation on Youth in India  Positive Impacts 1.  Aquire knowledge about global issues:  With globalisation, youth are more aware about global ideologies, philosophies, trends and global affairs, and hold diverse perspective about things. 2.  Employment opportunities:  With global partnerships, joint training programs, study abroad programs, etc, more opportunities are available for youth to learn skills from international organisations and procure employment opportunities in both India and abroad. 3.  Urbanization and modernization:  Setting up of MNCs and int