Month: January 2024

How did Lakshadweep’s distinct cultural landscape emerge?

Post author By balancedreport
Post date January 10, 2024

The Prime Minister’s recent visit to Lakshadweep has pushed the islands into the national spotlight.

About

	Details
Location	In the Arabian Sea, off the southwestern coast of India.
Geographical Formation	Formed by coral activities and have a coral atoll structure.
Formation as UT	Formed as a Union Territory of India in 1956.
Total Islands	Comprises 36 islands, including atolls, coral reefs, and submerged banks.
Inhibition	10 of the 36 islands are inhabited.
Capital	Kavaratti is the capital of the Union Territory.
Area	Total area of 32 sq km.

Lakshadweep’s Cultural Uniqueness

Diverse Influences: The islands exhibit a distinct blend of cultural influences from Malayalis, Arabs, Tamils, and Kannadigas.
Islamic Practice: The form of Islam practiced here differs from that of the rest of India, reflecting the islands’ unique ethnic and linguistic heritage.

Historical Foundations: A Hindu Society Prior to Islam

Early Settlers: According to scholar Andrew W Forbes, the initial settlers were most likely Malabari mariners, possibly castaways.
Hindu Influence: Evidence suggests a pre-Islamic Hindu community, including buried idols and traditional melodies evoking old Hindu traditions.

Conversion to Islam: A Gradual Process

Arab Invasion: Regular contact with Arab merchants and sailors resulted in the gradual conversion of islanders to Islam, which differed from Islamic practices on the Indian mainland.
Islam Can Be Introduced Peacefully: According to historian Mahmood Kooria, the arrival of Islam in the region, including Lakshadweep, was marked by minimal political turmoil, mostly through trade relations.

Insulation from Mainland Influences on Cultural Development

Control by the Arakkal Kingdom: The islands were ruled by the Arakkal kingdom of Kannur, Kerala’s only Muslim dynasty, in the 16th century.
Interactions with European Powers: Despite confrontations with European powers, the islands retained a level of security and isolation.
British rule further isolated Lakshadweep, allowing its culture to evolve independently of mainland India.
Linguistic variety: The islands’ seclusion is mirrored in their linguistic variety, with the predominant languages being Malayalam, Jazari, and Mahl.

Matrilineal Society: A Distinctive Aspect of Islam in Lakshadweep

Matriliny in Islamic Culture: The Islamic civilization of Lakshadweep is characterised by matriliny, or tracing descent and property through the mother’s line.
Contrary to customary Islamic customs, anthropologist Leela Dube emphasises the compatibility of matriliny with Islam in Lakshadweep.
Kerala’s Impact: Historian Manu Pillai connects the matrilineal legacy to Kerala’s cultural patterns, where matriliny was practiced by the Nairs and Namboodiris.
Broader Indian Ocean Context: According to Kooria, matriliny is frequent among Muslims in the Indian Ocean region, implying a broader cultural context.

Religious and sociological perspectives

Islanders say their matrilineal practice is compatible with Islam, citing Prophet Muhammad’s life with his first wife, Khadija.
Sociological Point of View: Dr. N P Hafiz Mohamad emphasises that matriliny is an important part of the islanders’ Islamic practice.

Conclusion

Preservation of Distinctive Traditions: Lakshadweep’s relative isolation has aided in the preservation of its distinct cultural and religious customs.
The islands reflect a remarkable synthesis of numerous cultural and religious elements, producing a separate identity within the Indian subcontinent.
Significance in Indian Ocean Culture: The cultural practices of Lakshadweep, notably its matrilineal society, illustrate the connectivity and diversity of cultures throughout the Indian Ocean region.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-culture/lakshadweep-cultural-landscape-islam-9100400/

Economics

The first advance estimates of India’s GDP are now available

Post author By balancedreport
Post date January 9, 2024

Growth Forecast: According to the government’s First Advance Estimates (FAEs), India’s GDP would rise by 7.3% in fiscal year 2023-24.
When compared to the previous year: This rate of growth is slightly greater than the 7.2% recorded in 2022-23.

What exactly is the Gross Domestic Product (GDP)?

GDP is the total monetary worth of all goods and services produced inside a country’s borders over a specified time period, usually a year.
GDP is separate from Gross National Product (GNP), which quantifies the value of goods and services generated by a country’s nationals regardless of location of production.

First Advance Estimates of GDP

Introduction and Timing of the First Advance Estimates of GDP: The First Advance Estimates (FAE) were introduced in the fiscal year 2016-17 and are announced at the beginning of January.
Estimates are the initial official forecasts of GDP growth for the fiscal year, which are published before the year ends.
statistics Exclusion: Notably, the FAE do not include formal GDP statistics for the third quarter (October to December), which is provided at the end of February along with the Second Advance Estimates (SAE).

Significance of FAE

FAE Election Year Context: With Lok Sabha elections scheduled for April-May, the FAEs take on added significance, even if a full-fledged Union Budget will not be delivered this year.
Budgetary Importance: Because the SAE are announced after the budget is finalised, the FAE are critical for the Union Finance Ministry’s budgetary planning for the next fiscal year.
Concentrate on Nominal GDP: The emphasis in budgeting is on nominal GDP (the observable variable), encompassing both absolute level and growth rate.
Real GDP vs. Nominal GDP: Real GDP is a derived number that is corrected for inflation, whereas all budget calculations begin with nominal GDP.

GDP Growth Evaluation

Real GDP Growth: By March 2024, real GDP (adjusted for inflation) is estimated to reach over Rs 172 lakh crore.
In comparison to Modi’s tenure, The GDP has increased from Rs 98 lakh crore at the beginning of Prime Minister Modi’s first term to around Rs 140 lakh crore at the start of his second term.
Trends in Growth Rates: The projected 7.3% growth rate for 2023-24 is greater than most estimates, indicating a robust economic recovery. However, growth has slowed significantly under Modi’s second term compared to his first.

Factors Influencing India’s Growth

Private Final Consumption Expenditure (PFCE): PFCE, which accounts for over 60% of GDP, is predicted to expand by 4.4% this year.
Gross Fixed Capital Formation (GFCF): Investment spending has increased by 9.3% this year, making it the second-largest growth engine.
Government Final Consumption Expenditure (GFCE): Growth in government spending has been slower this year, at 3.9%.
Net exports are declining, indicating a larger import-than-export rate, which has climbed by 144% this year.

Concerns and Difficulties

Private spending: Private spending is subdued, particularly in rural India.
Investment Spending: The government continues to fuel a sizable amount of investment spending, while private consumption remains muted.
Government expenditure: Government expenditure growth has been relatively moderate in Modi’s second term.
Net Exports: The negative rise in net exports, albeit a slight improvement over the previous two terms, nonetheless implies a trade imbalance.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-economics/gdp-data-advance-estimates-9099092/

International Relations

The Impact of the Red Sea Crisis on Global and Indian Trade

Post author By balancedreport
Post date January 9, 2024

Attacks by Yemen’s Houthi militia have made the Red Sea, a vital maritime route via the Suez Canal, hazardous for cargo ships since November.
Alternative Route: As a result of this, ships are now taking the lengthier Cape of Good Hope route, hurting global trade and increasing expenses.

About

	Details
Location	Between Africa (Egypt, Sudan, Eritrea, Djibouti) and Asia (Saudi Arabia, Yemen).
Connection	The Bab el Mandeb strait and the Gulf of Aden connect it to the Indian Ocean.
Length	Approximately 2,250 km long.
Width	The width varies from 355 km at its broadest point to 20 km at the Tiran Strait.
Maximum Depth	About 7,254 feet (2,211 m) in the central median trench.
Unique Features	One of the saltiest bodies of water on the planet. Notable for its diverse environment, which includes huge coral reefs.
Climate	The neighbouring desert and high evaporation rates contribute to its extreme salinity.
Economic Importance	Major shipping route; oil-rich region with substantial petroleum resources on the sea’s borders.

Impact on Indian Trade

Shipping Routes Change: As a result of the attacks, over 90% of India’s western hemisphere freight is being redirected through the Cape of Good Hope.
Contractual Implications: Depending on the type of buyer-seller contract, the impact varies, with certain consignments being held up due to increasing freight expenses.
Freight Cost Increase: Freight costs have increased dramatically, up to sixfold in some circumstances, affecting all consignments, particularly low-value, high-volume cargo and perishables.

What this means for India’s imports

Increased Import Prices: The lengthier transit time and crises may result in higher import costs and a need for better inventory management.
Impact on Fuel costs: Given India’s reliance on crude oil and petroleum product imports, the crisis may have an impact on initiatives to cut fuel costs.
Tanker Market Dynamics: Despite increasing freight prices on affected routes, tanker rerouting has not been widespread.

Global and Indian Reaction

The UN and the US have condemned the Houthi attacks, and the US is requesting additional cooperation for ‘Operation Prosperity Guardian’ to secure safe sea lanes.
Monitoring in India: The Indian government is keeping a careful eye on the situation, with the Commerce Secretary addressing potential consequences with officials and trade organisations.

Sector-Specific Impact

Commodities Most Affected by Sector-Specific Impact: Chemicals, polymers, and petrochemicals are particularly hard hit due to their inability to absorb freight increases.
High-Value Goods Alternatives: Airlifting is an alternative for high-value, low-volume commodities, however most affected goods are huge in volume.

Source: https://m.economictimes.com/news/economy/foreign-trade/red-sea-crisis-impacts-indias-exports-on-higher-shipping-insurance-costs/articleshow/106581816.cms

Social Issues

Why is child marriage so prevalent in West Bengal?

Post author By balancedreport
Post date January 9, 2024

Recent Study Findings: A Lancet report highlighted the persistent problem of child marriage in India, which is particularly prevalent in places such as West Bengal.
Bihar, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra are known for having high incidence of underage marriages, particularly among girls.

The Lancet Study’s Major Findings

The survey found that one in every five females in India is married before reaching the legal marriage age, with significant differences between states.
West Bengal has had a huge surge in child weddings, with over 500,000 more girls married as youngsters.

Impact of Child Marriage

Human Rights Impact of Child Marriage: Child marriage is recognised as a kind of sexual and gender-based violence and a violation of human rights.
Health Consequences: The practice has a negative impact on maternal and child health, as proven by baby fatalities in Murshidabad.

West Bengal Policy Interventions

Kanyashree Prakalpa initiative: A conditional cash transfer initiative aimed at encouraging teenage girls’ education and avoiding child marriage.
Rupashree Prakalpa: A monetary incentive plan for girl marriage that sometimes contradicts Kanyashree’s goals.

The Difficulties of Combating Child Marriage

Educational Progress vs. Child Marriage: Increased female school attendance in West Bengal has not resulted in a decrease in child marriage rates.
Correlation Between Literacy and Child Marriage: High literacy rates in some regions have not resulted in a drop in child marriage, reflecting complicated underlying issues.
Migration patterns and social conventions both contribute to the continuance of child marriage, with families marrying off daughters before relocating for work.

Law and regulation implementation

Inadequate Law Enforcement: Despite existing legislation like as the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA), 2006, enforcement in West Bengal remains lax in comparison to other states.
Proposed Amendments: Efforts are underway to raise the legal marriage age for women to 21 years, with the bill referred to a Parliamentary Standing Committee.

Looking Ahead: Change Strategies

A Comprehensive Approach Is Required: Child marriage must be addressed through a multifaceted approach combining panchayats, schools, local communities, and political will.
District Action Plans: The West Bengal government’s call for district action plans is a step in the right direction, but effective execution and social campaigns are required.
Law Enforcement and Public Awareness: Raising public awareness and strengthening law enforcement are critical to reducing child marriage rates in West Bengal and across India.

Conclusion

Child marriage is a big issue in India, particularly in regions such as West Bengal, despite policy initiatives.
Balancing Incentives and Enforcement: While schemes such as Kanyashree and Rupashree try to solve the issue, it is critical to balance incentives with severe law enforcement.
Collaborative Change Efforts: To effectively oppose child marriage and protect the rights of young girls, a collaborative effort involving all stakeholders, as well as a strong political commitment, is required.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/why-is-child-marriage-still-high-in-west-bengal-explained/article67716959.ece#:~:text=%E2%80%9CThere%20is%20a%20significant%20migratory,said%2C%20explaining%20the%20vicious%20cycle.

Highlights from Newspaper

Dietary Diversity Is Declining Despite Biodiversity Focus

Post author By balancedreport
Post date January 9, 2024

Despite global emphasis on biodiversity, the world’s food has become increasingly homogeneous, with staples such as rice, wheat, maize, and sugar accounting for more than half of global calorie intake.
Supermarkets follow suit, with a limited assortment of vegetables, indicating a reduction in “dietary diversity.”

Dietary Issues and Diversity

Nutritional Quality: A varied diet that includes a variety of food groups improves nutrition. However, the prevalence of monoculture (the vast cultivation of a single crop) reduces “agricultural biodiversity.”
Importing varied food groups from remote locations is costly and environmentally damaging.

Contributors to India’s Nutritional Variety

Farming on a Small Scale with Agroforestry: Smallholder farmers, herders, and tribal populations engaged in agroforestry contribute greatly to India’s nutritional variety.
Regional Varieties: These small-scale gardeners supply a diverse range of native vegetables and crops that differ by location in India.

Local Varieties with High Nutrient Content

South India: Iron and calcium-rich leafy greens such as Green Amaranth (Tamil, kuppi keerai; Hindi, junglee chaulayi) and Leucas (Tamil, thumbai; Sanskrit, Drona pushpi); starchy tubers such as East Indian arrowroot (Tamil, kuva or ararut-kizhargu; Hindi, tikhur).
Central India: Madhuca or Indian butter tree edible blossoms and oil-rich seeds (Tamil, illupai; Hindi, mahua); Khejri pods (Tamil, parambai) utilised in local cuisine and preventing desertification.
Northeast India: Indigenous Jhum farming, which grows a range of crops on the same soil and provides dietary variety but is disappearing in practice.

Jhum Cultivation

Contrary to modern agriculture, jhum cultivation is a diverse agricultural practice. Jhum farming, which is used in Northeast India, includes producing numerous food crops at the same time, providing dietary diversity but declining in popularity.
Decline in Practice: According to research, there has been a considerable decrease in Jhum cultivation areas, with a shift towards monoculture crops such as areca nut, black pepper, and rubber.

Consumer Choices and Influence

Consumer Preferences: Consumer preferences have a considerable impact on the availability and production of varied wild food species.
Incorporating lesser-known fruits such as wood apples (velam pazham) and jamuns (nagai) into diets can improve nutritional quality while also supporting local growers.

Conclusion

Recognition of the value of Dietary Diversity: Recognising the value of dietary diversity is critical for nutrition, environmental sustainability, and sustaining small-scale agriculture.
Embracing Local Varieties: Embracing local, diversified food options can improve diets while also contributing to agricultural biodiversity preservation, harmonising with global initiatives to emphasise biodiversity.

Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8163071/

Science & Tech

ISRO Tests Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell in Space Successfully

Post author By balancedreport
Post date January 7, 2024

In orbit, the Indian orbit Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully tested a 100 W class Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell based Power System (FCPS).
The FCPS was a component of the POEM3 orbital platform, which was launched by PSLV-C58 on January 1, 2024.

Concerning the FCPS Experiment

The experiment’s primary goal was to evaluate the operation of Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel cells in space and provide data for future mission designs.
Power Generation: During the test, 180 W of power was generated utilising Hydrogen and Oxygen gases, providing significant information on the power system’s performance.

About Polymer Electrolyte Membrane (PEM) Fuel Cells

	Details
Basic Principle	Converts hydrogen’s chemical energy into electrical energy, creating water and heat as byproducts.
Key Components	Bipolar Plates Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA) Platinum-based Catalyst Gas Diffusion Layers (GDLs)
Operation	Hydrogen Oxidation: Hydrogen molecules (H2) are divided into protons (H+) and electrons (e-) at the anode.Proton Conduction: The PEM lets only protons to travel through to the cathode, preventing electrons from passing through. Electron Flow: An electric current is created when electrons pass through an external circuit to the cathode. Oxygen Reduction: Oxygen molecules (O2) from the air interact with protons and electrons at the cathode to create water (H2O).Heat Production: The reaction produces heat, which can be used to heat some applications.
Types of Membranes	Membranes made of perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) (common) Membranes based on hydrocarbons (alternative)
Advantages	Power density is high. Operating temperatures in the 60-80°C rangePure hydrogen produces no emissions.

Space and Society Applications

Multipurpose Space Use: Fuel cells are ideal for human space missions since they provide critical power, water, and heat from a single device.
Benefits to Society: They offer a high potential for societal applications, including as replacements for conventional car engines and standby power systems.
Benefits over Batteries: Fuel cells have comparable range and refuelling periods to conventional engines and are projected to provide emission-free transportation.

Source: https://www.gasworld.com/story/isro-successfully-tests-hydrogen-fuel-cell-in-space/2132178.article/#:~:text=The%20project%20saw%20ISRO%20test,vehicle%20on%201st%20January%2C%202024.

Governance

India’s ‘Deep Tech’ Policy will be approved by the Cabinet

Post author By balancedreport
Post date January 7, 2024

The Indian government is about to pass a new ‘deep tech’ strategy. The final version of the policy is ready for Cabinet approval after public comments on the draft were received in July 2023.

Understanding ‘Deep Tech’

Definition and Scope: ‘Deep tech’ refers to startups that create intellectual property based on new scientific advances, with the goal of having a substantial impact. AI, ML, Blockchain, Quantum Computing, and so on.
According to Startup India, there are 10,298 firms in various deep tech sub-sectors as of May 2023.
Exclusion criteria: Deep tech companies do not include businesses based on easily repeatable ideas.

Draft National Deep Tech Startup Policy (NDTSP) 2023

Policy Objectives: The NDTSP intends to address deep tech firms’ fundraising, talent acquisition, and growing R&D operations concerns.
Strategic Approach: The policy is intended to foster deep tech innovation, economic growth, and societal development.

India’s Deep Tech environment

Global Ranking: With over 3000 deep tech enterprises, India ranks third internationally in the startup environment.
Sector Expansion: These companies are diversifying into industries such as agriculture, life sciences, chemistry, aerospace, and green energy.

Prospects and Policy Foundations

Public Consultation: Following talks with stakeholders in the deep tech ecosystem, the draft policy was released for public feedback until September 15.
Key Elements: The policy prioritises securing India’s economic future, transitioning to a knowledge-driven economy, strengthening national capabilities, and supporting ethical innovation.

Elements of Policy and Recommendations

Funding and Innovation: The policy calls for financial assistance in the form of grants, loans, and venture capital, as well as regulatory simplifications and academic-industry partnership.
Talent Development: STEM education, training opportunities, and attracting international talent are all priorities.
Access to Infrastructure and Technology: Establishment of deep tech incubation centres, testing facilities, and shared infrastructure resources.
Public Procurement and Market Opportunities: Encouraging government agencies to use deep technology solutions and facilitating access to foreign markets.
Establishing a consistent IP framework and implementing cybersecurity safeguards are two ways to protect intellectual property.

Conclusion

The NDTSP has the potential to transform India’s deep tech ecosystem by supporting technical innovation and economic progress.
Measuring Success: The effectiveness of the policy will be measured by its influence on startups, the depth of innovation, and societal transformation.
Deep Tech Democratisation: The concept attempts to make deep tech benefits available to all members of society by utilising research-driven achievements for national advancement.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/deeptech-policy-to-be-presented-for-approval-soon-science-advisor/article67710467.ece#:~:text=on%20January%205.-,In%20July%202023%2C%20the%20government%20unveiled%20a%20draft%20of%20the,no%20precise%20definition%20as%20yet.

Governance

The Cabinet has approved the Prithvi Vigyan Earth Sciences Scheme

Post author By balancedreport
Post date January 7, 2024

The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister, has approved the “Prithvi Vigyan (Prithvi)” initiative, a major Ministry of Earth Sciences project.
The initiative, which has a budget of Rs 4,797 crore, is scheduled to run from 2021 to 2026.

Concerning the Prithvi Vigyan Scheme

Programme Consolidation: The Prithvi scheme brings together five existing sub-schemes:

Atmosphere and Climate Research-Modelling Observing Systems and Services (ACROSS),
Ocean Services, Modelling Application, Resources and Technology (O-SMART),
Polar Science and Cryosphere Research (PACER),
Seismology and Geosciences (SAGE), and
Research, Education, Training, and Outreach (REACHOUT).

The goal of this integration is to improve our understanding of Earth’s systems and to utilise scientific knowledge for societal, environmental, and economic benefits.

Goals and Focus Areas

Comprehensive Observations: To watch the Earth System’s vital signs and changes, the plan emphasises long-term monitoring across the atmosphere, ocean, geosphere, cryosphere, and solid earth.
Predictive Model Development: It focuses on developing models for weather, ocean, and climate risks as well as advancing climate change knowledge.
Exploration Initiatives: Exploration of the Polar Regions and the high seas is a critical component aimed at discovering new phenomena and resources.
Technological Advancements: The project also emphasises the development of technology for the long-term utilisation of oceanic resources for societal purposes.

Role of the Ministry of Earth Sciences

Provision of Critical Services: The Ministry of Earth Sciences is responsible for providing critical services pertaining to weather, climate, ocean and coastal states, hydrology, seismology, and natural hazards.
Disaster Management Assistance: These services are critical for issuing predictions and alerts for natural catastrophes, assisting in disaster preparedness and risk mitigation.

Earth System Sciences Take a Holistic Approach

Earth System Sciences encompasses the study of the atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere, cryosphere, and biosphere, as well as their intricate interactions.
Integrated Research Efforts: The Prithvi project attempts to address these components thoroughly, improving understanding and providing India with trustworthy services.

Impact and Prospects for the Future

Taking on Major Challenges: The combined research and development efforts of the programme will address key difficulties in domains such as meteorology, climate, oceanography, cryospheric studies, and seismology.
Sustainably Using Resources: It investigates sustainable methods of utilising both living and nonliving resources, with the goal of promoting national development and environmental conservation.

Source: https://www.narendramodi.in/cabinet-approves-overarching-scheme-%E2%80%9Cprithvi-vigyan-prithvi-%E2%80%9D-of-the-ministry-of-earth-sciences-577807#:~:text=The%20Union%20Cabinet%20Chaired%20by,cost%20of%20Rs.%204%2C797%20crore.

Highlights from Newspaper

Vandalism and Kannada Signboard Controversy in Bengaluru

Post author By balancedreport
Post date January 7, 2024

Activists in Bengaluru staged a protest against non-Kannada signboards, resulting in destruction throughout the city.

Kannada Signboards Issue

Kannada Signboards Demand: The problem began in the early 2000s, when Bengaluru established as a global IT hub. In 2002, then-Chief Minister S.M. Krishna issued a directive for Kannada billboards that lacked legal backing.
Legal Obstacles: Attempts to compel Kannada signboards were thwarted by the High Court, which stayed and overturned similar rules in 2009 and 2014.

Legislation and Protests: Recent Developments

Kannada Language Comprehensive Development Act, 2022: The Act, passed by the State Legislature in 2022, requires Kannada to be used on 60% of all signboards.
KRV’s Campaign: KRV advocated for the introduction of this standard, which sparked the protest and subsequent damage.
Ordinance of the State Government: The state government intends to issue an ordinance clarifying the 60:40 regulation for signboards, with a compliance deadline of February 28.

The Effect on Commercial Establishments

Businesses are concerned about the new legislation, fearing increasing vigilante actions and financial difficulties as a result of signboard alterations.
Retailers’ opposition: The Retailers Association of India and other industry groups have spoken out against the mandate, noting its impact on Bengaluru’s cosmopolitan nature and brand image.

Political Changes

The topic has gained political relevance ahead of the legislative elections, with both the Congress and the BJP adopting views on it.
Kannada as a Political Plank: Despite political agreement on the language’s promotion, Kannada has not been a successful political issue in the state.

Concerns about Bengaluru’s Image

Bengaluru is in jeopardy: Bengaluru’s reputation as a worldwide investment destination may suffer as a result of the vandalism and linguistic debate.
Requests for Government Action: Industry executives and civic groups have asked the government to take steps to repair trust and protect the city’s welcoming character.

Conclusion

Sensible Policy: The government must promote Kannada while keeping Bengaluru’s cosmopolitan and investor-friendly image.
Addressing Vandalism: To prevent additional harm to Bengaluru’s brand and social cohesion, strong action against vandalism and a balanced approach to language policy are required.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/watch-what-is-the-kannada-signboard-controversy-all-about/article67709148.ece

Polity

Supreme Court Legal Services Committee Chairman is Justice BR Gavai

Post author By balancedreport
Post date January 6, 2024

Justice BR Gavai is the next Chairman of the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee (SCLSC), succeeding Justice Sanjiv Khanna.

Understanding the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee:

Constitution and Purpose: The SCLSC, formed under Section 3A of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, strives to provide free legal services to the weaker sections of society in cases under the Supreme Court’s jurisdiction.
The committee is chaired by a sitting Supreme Court judge and includes members with necessary experience and qualifications, all of whom have been nominated by the Chief Justice of India (CJI).

SCLSC

Composition and Functioning Current Members: The SCLSC now consists of Chairperson BR Gavai and nine other members chosen by the CJI.
Staffing and administration: In collaboration with the CJI, the Committee may appoint officers and workers in accordance with the Centre’s principles.

In India, there is a demand for legal services.

The Indian Constitution, particularly Article 39A, emphasises the state’s obligation in ensuring that all individuals, regardless of economic or other impairments, have access to legal justice.
Historical Development: The notion of legal assistance evolved in India over decades, with substantial progress noted by the founding of a national committee in 1980 under Justice PN Bhagwati.

The Legal Services Authorities Act and Its Provisions

Statutory Framework: The 1987 Act establishes a legal framework for providing free and competent legal services to qualified groups such as women, children, SC/ST, EWS, and others.
The National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) was established in 1995 to regulate legal aid programmes and to develop legal services policies.
The Act envisions a nationwide network for legal aid in India, with State Legal Services Authorities (SLSAs) and District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs) administering these services at the state and district levels, respectively.

State and district legal services authorities’ roles

Implementation at the State Level: Each SLSA, directed by the Chief Justice of the appropriate High Court, carries out NALSA’s policy and offers free legal services.
District and Taluk Legal Services Committees: DLSAs and Taluk Legal Services Committees, respectively chaired by district and senior civil judges, undertake legal awareness programmes and provide a variety of legal services.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/i-t-searches-a-form-of-extra-constitutional-power/article67702915.ece#:~:text=A%20notable%20example%20of%20this,money%2C%20bullion%2C%20and%20jewellery.