The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) launched Chakshu, a new platform that allows telecom subscribers to report fraudulent or spam callers.
Chakshu Platform
Chakshu (meaning eyes), which can be found at sancharsaathi.gov.in/sfc, allows citizens to proactively report questionable communications, according to the DoT.
The government will work with commercial firms such as Truecaller to improve the platform’s functionality.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is also developing an app for the ‘Chakshu’ platform.
Features of the platform
It include reporting options. Users can report a variety of frauds, including those involving bank accounts, payment wallets, SIM cards, gas and electricity connections, KYC updates, impersonation, and sextortion.
Enhanced Reporting Mechanism: Chakshu provides a comprehensive framework for reporting fraudulent actions, allowing telecom users to resolve a variety of complaints.
PM Modi presided over the start of core-loading at the indigenous Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) in Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, marking a watershed milestone in India’s nuclear energy history.
This ceremony represents a big step forward in India’s ambitious nuclear power programme, signalling the start of stage II.
Why are we discussing this?
As of 2024, nuclear power accounts for around 3.11% of India’s total electricity generation.
Nuclear power remains India’s fifth-largest source of electricity, after coal, gas, hydroelectricity, and wind power.
About India’s 3-stage Nuclear Power Program
Description
Timeline
Stage 1
Relies on pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWRs) using natural uranium as fuel.
Initiated in the 1950s;Operational since the 1960s
Stage 2
Focuses on developing fast breeder reactors (FBRs) using plutonium-239 produced in Stage 1.
Initiated in the 1970s;Development phase
Stage 3
Involves the development of thorium-based reactors utilizing India’s significant thorium reserves.
Initiated in the late 1980s/early 1990s;Research & Development phase
What is Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR)?
Energy generation: The PFBR is a fast breeder reactor that produces more nuclear fuel than it uses, allowing for long-term energy generation.
Operationalization Milestone: The start of core-loading is critical since it marks the second step of India’s three-stage nuclear power programme, which aims to achieve nuclear energy self-sufficiency.
Technical specifications: The PFBR, which is designed to use plutonium-239 (Pu-239) in conjunction with uranium-238 (U-238), is a significant step forward in Indian nuclear technology.
Technical insights into PFBR operations.
Core Functionality: Unlike pressurised heavy water reactors (PHWRs), which use natural uranium, the PFBR uses Pu-239 and U-238 to generate energy.
Cooling Mechanism: The primary coolant is liquid sodium, which facilitates heat transfer and power generation via secondary circuits.
Challenges and Delays.
Historical Aspect: The PFBR project experienced significant delays and cost overruns due to technical complications and logistical challenges.
Sanctions Impact: Sanctions imposed on India following the ‘Smiling Buddha’ nuclear test in 1974 hampered the project, forcing changes in fuel type and operational factors.
Human Resource Constraints: The retirement of experienced project professionals, combined with decision-making delays, contributed to project difficulties.
Financial Implications: The project’s escalating expenditures, estimated to reach ₹6,800 crore by 2019, highlight financial and administrative challenges.
Procurement Challenges: Audit investigations found procurement inefficiencies, with average delays of 158 days per order, worsening project deadlines and costs.
Future Perspectives and Technological Innovations
The role of small modular reactors (SMRs): SMRs appear as a viable alternative, providing improved safety features and operating flexibility, albeit with regulatory changes.
Stage II Expansion: The PFBR’s 500 MWe capacity paves the way for future FBR developments that match with India’s energy diversification and decarbonisation objectives.
Regulatory imperatives: Addressing concerns about safety and regulatory monitoring is critical to maintaining public trust and operational integrity.
Conclusion
As India navigates the hurdles of nuclear power development, the PFBR demonstrates scientific prowess and strategic insight.
While problems remain, the trajectory of stage II demonstrates India’s commitment to using nuclear energy for sustainable development and energy security.
With continuous innovation and regulatory change, India is on track to realise its ambition of a strong and self-sufficient nuclear energy sector.
Recent Congressional hearings, including Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s public apology, have shone light on the disturbing surge in online child exploitation, raising global worries about children’s safety on social media platforms.
Parents and campaigners around the world are putting pressure on tech firms to boost accountability and provide safer online environments for children, stressing issues that go beyond privacy concerns and include larger security dangers.
Risks for Children’s Online Safety
UNICEF Report findings: A UNICEF report titled ‘The Metaverse, Extended Reality, and Children’ highlights substantial concerns connected with virtual settings, such as exposure to explicit content, cyberbullying, and data privacy violations, which might have serious consequences for children’s well-being.
Emerging dangers: Virtual environments and games, while not entirely immersive, provide risks such as exposure to inappropriate content and exploitation, raising concerns about the ethical implications of children’s digital activities.
Children’s Issues Online
Children may encounter inappropriate content such as violence, pornography, or hate speech.
Online Predators and Grooming: Children are at danger of encountering online predators who use social media and gaming platforms to develop relationships and groom them for exploitation.
Cyberbullying: Children can be victims of cyberbullying, which involves using digital technology to harass, threaten, or humiliate others.
Privacy Concerns: Because of a lack of understanding of privacy settings, children may unwittingly share personal information online.
Excessive screen time and continuous use of digital devices can lead to addictive behaviours in children, affecting their mental and physical health, academic performance, and social connections.
Challenges Posed by Generative AI
Generative AI presents both opportunities for creativity and learning, as well as hazards such as the spread of misinformation and bad content that may negatively impact children’s cognitive development.
Vulnerability to disinformation: Children with developing cognitive abilities are especially vulnerable to disinformation spread by AI-generated content, raising worries about the impact on their views and behaviours.
Measures in India: The DPDP Bill, 2023
The DPDP Bill defines minors as people under the age of 18. This concept recognises that children are especially vulnerable and deserve enhanced protection for their personal information.
Data Processing Obligations: The bill imposes three particular conditions on data processing businesses that handle children’s data:
Getting verifiable parental consent: As previously stated, businesses must obtain proper authorization from a parent or guardian before processing a child’s data.
Not harming children: Data processing activities should not endanger or exploit minors in any way.
Not tracking or aiming ads at children: Entities are not permitted to track children’s online activity for targeted advertising purposes.
Exemptions: The measure authorises the government to exclude certain companies from parental consent requirements, as well as tracking and targeting adverts for particular objectives. However, any exemptions must be in the best interests of the kid.
Future Prospects
To ensure the well-being and privacy of children, tech businesses should prioritize’safety by design,’ including principles from the Convention on the Rights of the Child into their platforms.
legislative Intervention: Governments must regularly examine and update legislative frameworks to handle developing difficulties in child safety online, such as countering harmful content and behaviour.
Community Engagement: Maintaining current policies and practices that safeguard children offline should be extended to the digital arena, encouraging stakeholders to work together to create a safer online environment for children.
Despite a key Supreme Court judgement in 2017, the article criticises India’s continued judicial deference in interpreting privacy regulations. It emphasises the need for proportionality and stricter judicial review in executive acts by focusing on the unfettered power granted to tax authorities under Section 132 of the Income Tax Act.
Highlights:
The Supreme Court decision in 2017 upheld the fundamental right to privacy but had no impact on the interpretation of associated statutes.
Section 132 of the Income Tax Act gives tax agents considerable rights, including the ability to conduct searches without a judicial permission.
Recent occurrences, such as a lawyer’s raid, have raised concerns about the abuse of these powers and the absence of controls.
Challenges:
The continuance of a culture of judicial deference to executive power in statutory interpretation.
Section 132 of the Income Tax Act grants tax authorities vast and unregulated authority.
In executive acts, there is a lack of proportionality and strict judicial review, suggesting potential abuse of power.
Key Terms:
Judicial Deference
Section 132 of the Income Tax Act
Proportionality
Fundamental Right to Privacy
Executive Authority
Key Phrases:
“Culture of justification”
“Judicial Deference”
“Doctrine of proportionality”
“Wednesbury rule”
Key Quotes:
“The promised culture of justification is rarely on show, replaced by a culture of judicial deference.”
“Search and seizure powers must adhere to the doctrine of proportionality, ensuring a balance between means and violated rights.”
Examples and resources:
The Gujarat High Court is investigating income-tax officers in connection with a lawyer’s search.
The evolution of income-tax legislation, including the 1961 Act and following Supreme Court decisions.
Statements of importance:
“Post-Puttaswamy, there ought to be no place for the Wednesbury rule, especially when fundamental rights are at stake.”
“The state’s power to search and seize must be subject to the doctrine of proportionality.”
Critical Analysis:
The paper addresses the inconsistency in judicial interpretation following the Puttaswamy case, emphasising the necessity for a more stringent assessment of executive activities, particularly in matters concerning privacy rights. It calls the applicability of the Wednesbury rule into question and pushes for a more balanced and justified approach.
Way Forward:
In light of the Puttaswamy decision, advocate for a reevaluation of Section 132 of the Income Tax Act.
In executive acts, especially those impacting basic rights, emphasise the significance of proportionality and judicial scrutiny.
In order to prevent against arbitrary executive excesses, a more complete and balanced approach to reading statutes is required.
After charges of abuse and threats during the World Cup final, students in Jammu and Kashmir were charged under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
Police in Jammu and Kashmir used a’softer section’ of UAPA, alleging the act of ‘terrorising’ individuals with pro-India or anti-Pakistan emotions.
What is UAPA?
The purpose of UAPA is to provide the government the authority to investigate and prosecute terrorist actions, as well as to designate entities as “unlawful” or “terrorist” organisations or persons.
Enactment: Introduced in 1967 in response to National Integration Council proposals to combat national division. Initially concentrated on separatist actions without mentioning terrorism.
Terrorism and the Evolution of UAPA (2004):
Following the removal of POTA, the UAPA was revised to cover terrorism. It defined terrorism, related sanctions, and included measures for confiscating “terrorism proceeds.”
Amendments made after September 11, 2001: expanded the definition of terrorism, imposed stricter bail conditions, and prolonged police and judicial prison durations. It also made bail more difficult to obtain and, in some situations, transferred the burden of evidence to the accused.
Economic Security (2012): Included economic security under terrorism, classifying crimes such as money counterfeiting as terrorist acts. It also extended the period during which an organisation might be deemed illegal.
Individual Designation (2019): Enabled the government to designate people as terrorists, while also expanding the NIA’s authority.
The ‘Softer’ Provision: Section 13
Section 13 of the UAPA is a “softer” provision that deals with penalties for “unlawful activities” rather than “terrorist activities.” It contains up to seven years in jail for engaging in, advocating for, abetting, or instigating illegal conduct.
Implications: Despite being labelled “softer,” this clause nonetheless carries hefty fines and makes obtaining bail difficult.
Concerns and criticism
Ambiguous provisions: The act’s broad and ambiguous provisions, particularly those added after 2008, allow for a broad interpretation of what constitutes terrorism or illegal conduct.
Concerns about Human Rights: The legislation has been criticised for potentially infringing human rights, such as the right to a fair trial and the assumption of innocent.
Use Against Dissenters: There have been reports of UAPA being used against activists, journalists, and demonstrators, raising worries about its potential use to stifle dissent.
@the end
The Need for Scrutiny in Balancing Security and Rights: The implementation of UAPA, particularly its’softer’ elements, necessitates close analysis to ensure that it does not violate basic rights while addressing security concerns.
Amendments debate: Current UAPA debates centre on striking a balance between national security demands and the preservation of individual rights and freedoms.
The President’s inauguration of INS Vindhyagiri, the final vessel in the Project 17A (Alpha) frigates series, was a watershed moment for India’s maritime power and self-reliance.
The introduction of the sixth vessel in the Project 17A Frigates class, INS Vindhyagiri, continues India’s naval tradition.
INS Vindhyagiri Facts
The sixth ship in the Project 17A Frigates series, INS Vindhyagiri, demonstrates India’s dedication to indigenous defence technologies and self-reliance.
INS Vindhyagiri, like INS Nilgiri, Udaygiri, Himgiri, Taragiri, and Dunagiri, takes its name from a mountain range in Karnataka.
These frigates are an evolution of the Project 17 (Shivalik Class) Frigates, with enhanced stealth, superior armaments, and cutting-edge sensors.
Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, India, constructs it.
Important characteristics
Utilises a cutting-edge propulsion system that allows for speeds of more than 28 knots, ensuring swift responsiveness and agility in a variety of operational settings.
It is outfitted with cutting-edge stealth characteristics that improve its ability to function discreetly and avoid detection.
Over 75% of the equipment and systems used are sourced locally, including Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Recent events in Manipur have brought the Assam Rifles (AR) to the forefront, raising concerns about its role, management, and operation.
The Assam Rifles, India’s oldest paramilitary force with a rich history, have provoked controversies regarding their jurisdiction and the ministries under which they operate due to their unique structure and dual authority.
The Assam Rifles: A Distinctive Role
AR is one of six central armed police forces (CAPFs) overseen by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). It protects the Northeastern regions and the Indo-Myanmar border, as well as assisting the Indian Army in preserving peace and order.
AR is unique in that it functions under dual administration: administrative control from the MHA and operational control from the Indian Army. This distinguishes it from other CAPFs.
AR has around 63,000 members spread throughout 46 battalions and maintains a disciplined structure similar to the Indian Army. The force is led by an Indian Army Lieutenant General, and its upper ranks are manned by Army officers.
Contributions and historical significance:
Ancient Origins: AR is India’s oldest paramilitary unit, having been founded in 1835. It began as the Cachar Levy and grew into the Assam Rifles, gaining praise for its service.
AR served in both World Wars, as well as the Sino-Indian war of 1962. Its efforts in global conflicts as well as anti-insurgency activities highlight its broad functions.
AR’s combat participation in WWII, counter-Japanese activities, and contribution to India’s peacekeeping missions in Sri Lanka demonstrate its versatility and bravery.
Controversial Encounter in Manipur
Accusations and Escapes in a Controversial Manipur Encounter: Manipur Police filed a FIR against the AR, charging interference with their duty. The AR is accused of facilitating the escape of alleged Kuki insurgents. A video of the heated argument raises suspicions of conspiracy.
Dissatisfied Citizens: AR has been called out in Manipur, with the Meira Paibis seeking their removal and the state BJP appealing to the Prime Minister, citing partiality. These incidents highlight the complexities of AR’s presence in the region.
Tensions and Charges
Recent Incident: A confrontation erupted when Assam Rifles trucks prevented Meitei-dominated Bishnupur district state police troops from accessing Kuki-Zomi region. There were allegations that the Assam Rifles’ actions allowed suspected Kuki insurgents accused of killing three Meitei men to flee.
Bias Perceptions: Some members of the Meitei community believe that the Assam Rifles favour the Kuki-Zomi community. These impressions, along with claims of inaction during confrontations, have strained relations even further.
Protests and Demands: Meira Paibis, a Meitei woman activist, led protests seeking the expulsion of Assam Rifles from Manipur. They believe that the Meiteis are being targeted by Indian security personnel.
Suspicion of Collusion: Meitei activists wonder how suspected militants crossed the buffer zone and committed the killings. They criticise the perceived apathy of Assam Rifles men during Kuki-Zomi attacks.
Long-standing grievances: Meiteis express concern over illegal immigration from Myanmar, in addition to the ongoing violence. They allude to the Assam Rifles’ historical responsibility and alleged passivity on the Indo-Myanmar border.
AFSPA’s Historical Tension
Tensions in the Past: The Assam Rifles have had tense ties with the people of Manipur, particularly during counter-insurgency operations under the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA).
Symbolic Opposition: The 2004 incident in which 12 Meitei women protested naked in front of the Assam Rifles Headquarters underlined the region’s deep-seated complaints and tensions.
Control Tug of War:
Both the MHA and the Ministry of Defence (MoD) want complete control over AR. The MHA advocates for complete border-guarding cooperation, whereas the Army believes in preserving the current structure, which has proven to be effective.
Previous Proposals: In 2013 and 2019, discussions were undertaken to consolidate AR with BSF and ITBP. The Army’s demand for control has resulted in continual discussions.
@the end
The Assam Rifles represent a history of service that spans decades and obstacles.
As the debate over control rages on, the AR’s role as border protectors and historians remains unwavering, a testimony to their fortitude and bravery.
Authorities are investigating Havana Syndrome, a peculiar collection of mental health problems suffered by US intelligence and embassy workers in India.
What is Havana Syndrome?
The phrase “Havana Syndrome” first appeared in Cuba in late 2016, when US diplomats at the newly opened US embassy in Havana reported symptoms such as cerebral pressure, headaches, and confusion. The cause of these symptoms aroused first suspicions of a “sonic attack” staged by Cuban intelligence.
Following the Cuban event, American personnel stationed in China, Russia, Poland, Georgia, Taiwan, Colombia, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Austria, and even Washington DC, including near the White House, reported identical symptoms.
India’s Havana Syndrome
As of July 2023, the 2021 event involving a US intelligence official in India was the country’s only reported case of Havana Syndrome.
Indian Security Organisation: According to Indian security officials, they are not aware of any agency that possesses such microwave-based counter-espionage equipment.
Given India’s good relations with the US, officials believe it is improbable that an Indian agency or foreign force would target US leaders in this fashion.
The Possible Origins of Havana Syndrome
Microwave Exposure: According to scientific evidence and medical exams of the patients, high-powered microwaves may have injured or interfered with the neurological system, resulting in the described symptoms.
The disease was thought to be produced by high-powered microwave rays emitted through a specialised device known as a “microwave weapon.”
Counter-Intelligence Tactic: Since the Cold War, both Russia and the United States have experimented with employing microwaves as a counter-intelligence tactic.
Debunking the Havana Syndrome Theory:
Inadequate Evidence: Despite years of data collecting and experimentation, the United States has yet to find conclusive evidence supporting the existence of a “microwave weapon.”
Amplified Psychological Illness: Some medical specialists believe the syndrome is a psychological disease exacerbated by fear of being targeted.
Relationship Impact: In 2023, a report from various US security agencies suggested that foreign foes were unlikely to be behind the “anomalous health incidents,” which may have harmed US-Cuba ties.
Conclusion
The enigmatic Havana Syndrome continues to confound researchers and politicians around the world, with no conclusive evidence of its origins or causes.
As India investigates the matter in response to the current plea, the global enigma surrounding Havana Syndrome continues to be a source of concern for intelligence agencies and governments alike.
Three more Scorpene submarines will be purchased through the Buy (Indian) category. The submarines will be built in Mumbai by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL).
Submarines Scorpene and Project-75
Project-75: MDL is already developing six Scorpene class submarines using technologies transferred from the French defence industry under Project-75.
Submarines Commissioned: Five of the six Scorpene submarines have been commissioned, with the sixth scheduled to be commissioned early next year.
Delays and Challenges: Project-75 experienced considerable delays, with the first submarine slated to be delivered in 2012.
Additional Submarines Are Required
Addressing Delays and Strengthening the Fleet: Three additional submarines are required to compensate for Project-75’s delayed deliveries and to bolster India’s submarine fleet.
Current Fleet Status: The Indian Navy presently operates 16 conventional submarines, but it need at least 18 submarines to conduct its full range of activities.
Refit Obstacles: At any one time, approximately 30% of submarines are being refitted, significantly limiting the number of operational submarines.
Job Creation: Purchasing new submarines with a larger indigenous component will provide job prospects and strengthen MDL’s submarine building capabilities.
Capabilities of Scorpene Submarines
Attack Submarines: Scorpene submarines are built as traditional attack submarines capable of targeting and sinking enemy naval vessels.
Weapons and Surveillance: They are equipped with surveillance and intelligence-gathering devices and can unleash a variety of torpedoes and missiles.
Specifications: Scorpene submarines are approximately 220 feet long and 40 feet tall. When above, they can reach speeds of 11 mph and 20 knots when submerged.
Diesel-Electric Propulsion: These submarines use diesel-electric propulsion systems, which have a 50-day endurance.
In comparison, nuclear submarines
Current Nuclear Submarines in India: India presently operates two Arihant-class nuclear-powered submarines (SSBMs).
Nuclear submarines have theoretically limitless endurance and can operate for up to 30 years without refuelling. They can also travel at faster rates.
Nuclear submarines are expensive to run and necessitate specialised knowledge.
Innovations in Conventional Submarines: Diesel-electric technology has increased the range and stealth of conventional submarines dramatically.
Air Independent Propulsion (AIP): Adding AIP systems to Scorpene submarines will improve their endurance and stealth.
@the end
India’s decision to purchase three new Scorpene submarines increases its naval capability while also strengthening the domestic manufacturing sector.
These submarines will help satisfy the needs of a growing fleet and increase operational readiness.
Empowering the Central Government: In India, the impending data protection Bill may give the Centre the authority to lower the age of consent from 18 to allow access to Internet services without parental supervision.
Exemptions for Specific Companies: If a company can process data in a “verifiably safe” manner, the Bill may exempt it from further duties to protect children’s privacy.
Why is this in the news?
Departure from Previous Bill: This is a departure from the previous data protection Bill, which set the age limit at 18 years.
Adherence to international laws: The adjustment is in line with data protection standards in the Western world, such as the EU and the United States.
A Clause’s Journey: Changing the Definition of Child
Justice BN Report of the Srikrishna Committee: The committee’s 2018 report advocated getting parental consent for individuals under the age of 18, but stated that if adjustments were made, the age of consent may be reduced.
Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019: The recommendation was retained in the PDP Bill, 2019, which classified a kid as an individual under the age of 18.
Recommendations of the Joint Committee of Parliament: In its final recommendations in late 2021, the Joint Committee advocated lowering the age of consent to 13/14/16 years.
The drafted Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2022, classified children as those under the age of 18, which irritated social media corporations.
Final Change: According to reports, the data protection Bill headed to Parliament’s Monsoon session has amended the definition of a child to an individual who has not reached the age of eighteen or a lower age notified by the Central Government.
Global Children Definitions for Data Regulations
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) of the European Union: The age of consent is fixed at 16, but member states can reduce it to as young as 13. There are specific safeguards in place for children’s personal data.
The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) of the United States requires parental authorization to process personal data for children under the age of 13.
The Privacy Act of Australia, 1988: The Act protects personal information regardless of age, although organisations must evaluate an individual’s capacity to consent on an individual basis.
Personal Information Protection Law (PIPL) of China requires entities handling personal data of individuals under the age of 14 to acquire parental agreement, and children’s data is classified as sensitive.
Conclusion
The reduction of the consent age in India’s data protection Bill mirrors international developments in data protection rules.
Countries have diverse definitions of children and different processes for gaining parental approval.
The final amendment to the Bill reflects a series of conversations and deliberations on defining the age of minors in India’s data protection law, addressing business stakeholders’ concerns, and complying with international norms.
