CARE 20th December 2024 Current Affairs

Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – Care (20-12-2024)

News at a Glance

Environment and Ecology:  ​ Why the first-ever satellite tagging of a Ganges dolphin is significant

Climate change and biodiversity loss are connected: Key takeaways from NEXUS report

What are ‘Sacred Groves’?

International Relations: India and France sign MoU for new National Museum

Polity and Governance: What is a joint committee of Parliament, to be set-up for ‘One Nation, One Election’ Bills?

Why the first-ever satellite tagging of a Ganges dolphin is significant

Source: Indian Express

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/ganges-river-dolphin-project-dolphin-conservation-9734143/

UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3 Environment and Ecology

Context: Tagging of the First Ganges River Dolphin

Why in News

The first-ever tagging of a Ganges river dolphin in Assam under Project Dolphin marks a critical step in understanding the species’ migratory patterns.

Key Highlights

• The recent tagging of the first-ever Ganges river dolphin (Platanista gangetica) in Assam marks a significant step in India’s ongoing conservation efforts under Project Dolphin, launched in 2020.
• This initiative aims to ensure the long-term survival of India’s National Aquatic Animal by studying its behavior and addressing threats to its habitat.

Key Insights About the Ganges River Dolphin

The Ganges river dolphin belongs to the family Platanistidae, which includes two species:

• Ganges river dolphin (India, Nepal, and Bangladesh).
• Indus river dolphin (Pakistan and parts of India).

Until the 1970s, both were considered a single species.

Physical Characteristics:

• Length: Males (2–2.2 m); Females (2.4–2.6 m).
• Weight: Between 70–90 kg.
• Diet: Includes fish, invertebrates, and other aquatic organisms.

Behavior:

• Typically found alone or in small groups.
• Known for their shyness, especially around boats.

Cultural Importance:

The Ganges river dolphin, often called “susu” or “shushuk,” is deeply rooted in cultural traditions. It is sometimes depicted as the vahana (vehicle) of Goddess Ganga.

Population and Habitat

Historically, the Ganges river dolphin inhabited a wide range of river systems, including:

• India: Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli-Sangu systems.
• Nepal: Sapta Koshi and Karnali rivers.
• Bangladesh: Numerous tributaries within its riverine network.

Decline in Populastion:

According to WWF, their numbers have dwindled to 3,500–5,000 individuals, and the species is now extinct in large parts of its original range.

Major Threats to Survival

1. Dams and Barrages:
   • Fragment river systems, restricting migration and breeding.
   • Limit access to prey and disrupt habitats.
2. River Pollution:
   • Industrial and agricultural runoff harms aquatic ecosystems.
   • Depletes the species’ food base.
3. Poaching and Fishing Nets:
   • Dolphins are poached for their oily blubber.
   • Accidental entanglement in fishing nets further reduces populations.
4. Habitat Shrinkage:
   • Drying rivers and reduced navigability hinder survival.

Conservation Efforts

1. Wildlife Act Protection (1986)

The Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, included Gangetic dolphins under Schedule I, providing:

• Protection against hunting.
• Establishment of sanctuaries like the Vikramshila Ganges Dolphin Sanctuary in Bihar.

2. Conservation Action Plan (2010–2020)

This plan:

• Identified threats such as river traffic and habitat depletion.
• Proposed mitigation strategies to address declining populations.

3. National Aquatic Animal Declaration (2009)

The declaration raised awareness and promoted community involvement in conservation.

4. Project Dolphin (2020)

Inspired by Project Tiger, this initiative focuses on:

• Monitoring dolphin populations.
• Addressing habitat degradation and anthropogenic threats.
• Utilizing modern technology, such as satellite-enabled tagging.

Tagging and Its Implications

The tagging of the Ganges river dolphin is a pioneering effort in India. The lightweight tags emit satellite signals when the dolphin surfaces, enabling researchers to gather critical data:

• Seasonal and migratory patterns.
• Habitat utilization in fragmented river systems.
• Impacts of environmental changes on their range and distribution.

According to the Wildlife Institute of India, these findings will facilitate evidence-based conservation strategies, crucial for reversing population decline.

Umbrella Species Approach

Under Project Dolphin, the Ganges river dolphin is treated as an umbrella species. Protecting this species leads to:

• Conservation of aquatic ecosystems.
• Preservation of biodiversity in riverine habitats.
• Enhanced benefits for human populations dependent on healthy river systems.

Conclusion

• The first tagging of the Ganges river dolphin is a historic step toward its conservation.
• By leveraging advanced technology and community participation, Project Dolphin aims to secure a thriving future for the species and ensure the health of India’s freshwater ecosystems.
• However, achieving these goals requires sustained efforts, stricter pollution control, and continuous habitat restoration.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q1. With reference to the conservation of the Ganges river dolphin, consider the following statements: 1.  The Ganges river dolphin is classified as ‘Critically Endangered’ under the IUCN Red List. 2.  It is protected under Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. 3.  The Vikramshila Ganges Dolphin Sanctuary is located in Uttar Pradesh. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 only b) 2 only c) 1 and 3 only d) 2 and 3 only

Q.   Which one of the following is the national aquatic animal of India? (2015) (a) Saltwater crocodile (b) Olive ridley turtle (c) Gangetic dolphin (d) Gharial Ans: (c)

Answer – 1 – B Explanation – Statement 1 is incorrect: The Ganges river dolphin is classified as ‘Endangered’ under the IUCN Red List, not ‘Critically Endangered.’ Statement 2 is correct: It is protected under Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.  Statement 3 is incorrect: The Vikramshila Ganges Dolphin Sanctuary is located in Bihar, not Uttar Pradesh. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

Climate change and biodiversity loss are connected: Key takeaways from NEXUS report

Source: The Hindu

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-climate/nexus-report-ipbes-9732764/

UPSC Relevance:   GS3 Environment and Ecology Context: Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)

Why in News

The IPBES Nexus Report emphasizes the interlinkages between global challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, and food insecurity, advocating integrated, nature-positive approaches for sustainable solutions.

Background

The report by the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) is a critical step in addressing interconnected global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, food insecurity, water scarcity, and health risks. Here is a detailed explanation:

Key Highlights of the Report

1. Interlinkages Between Major Global Challenges

The IPBES Nexus Report emphasizes the strong interconnections between these five major challenges, which often cascade and compound each other. Addressing these issues in isolation could not only prove ineffective but also have counterproductive outcomes.
For example:

• Increasing food production to combat hunger might intensify biodiversity loss and water scarcity.
• A singular focus on combating climate change could inadvertently restrict measures for biodiversity conservation and food security.

2. Economic Activities and Their Adverse Impacts

The report highlights the detrimental effects of current economic practices on biodiversity, climate change, food security, water, and health:

• The unaccounted costs of these impacts are estimated to be $10-25 trillion annually.
• Over 58 trillion dollars of global GDP (more than half) depends moderately to highly on nature. Degradation of biodiversity directly affects productivity and economic output.

3. Transformative Changes Needed

The simultaneous Transformative Change Report by IPBES calls for a new approach based on the following principles:

• Equity and justice: Ensure fair access to resources and decision-making.
• Pluralism and inclusion: Incorporate diverse knowledge systems, including indigenous and local perspectives.
• Respectful human-nature relationships: Foster reciprocal care between humans and ecosystems.
• Adaptive learning and action: Continuously evolve strategies based on scientific evidence and experiences.

4. Urgency and Economic Benefits of Action

• The report stresses the need for immediate action, as delays would double costs within a decade.
• Immediate adoption of nature-positive economic models could unlock over $10 trillion in business opportunities and create about 400 million jobs by 2030.

What is IPBES?

IPBES is an international organization akin to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), but for biodiversity and ecosystems. It:

• Consolidates existing scientific knowledge on biodiversity without producing new research.
• Informs global environmental frameworks, including:
  • UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
  • Ramsar Convention on Wetlands
  • Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety
  • Convention on Combating Desertification (CCD)

First Report (2019):

• Warned that 1 million species (out of 8 million globally) face extinction due to human activities.
• Highlighted that 75% of Earth’s land and 66% of marine areas had been significantly altered.
• Laid the foundation for the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (2022), which includes targets like:
  • Protecting 30% of land, freshwater, and oceans by 2030.
  • Restoring 30% of degraded ecosystems by 2030.

Key Findings of the Latest Nexus Report

1. Integrated Solutions Needed:
   • Responses to these challenges must be harmonized. Synergistic approaches should maximize benefits across all areas.
2. Examples of Synergistic Solutions:
   • Restoring carbon-rich ecosystems like forests, mangroves, and soils.
   • Promoting sustainable, healthy diets.
   • Managing biodiversity to reduce risks of zoonotic diseases.
   • Relying on nature-based solutions for climate mitigation and resource conservation.
3. Sustainable Economic Systems:
   • Current systems still incentivize activities harmful to biodiversity. Transformative shifts in economic policies are necessary.
4. Cost of Inaction:
   • Continued biodiversity loss leads to direct economic losses by reducing ecosystem services critical for GDP and employment.

How Biodiversity Loss Leads to Economic Costs

1. Ecosystem Services and GDP:
   • Over 58% of global GDP relies on biodiversity for ecosystem services such as clean water, fertile soil, and pollination.
   • Biodiversity loss reduces these services, affecting industries like agriculture, forestry, and fisheries.
2. Negative Subsidies:
   • Trillions of dollars are spent annually on subsidies that encourage biodiversity-harming practices, such as deforestation and overfishing.
3. Global Decline in Biodiversity:
   • The rate of biodiversity loss is 2-6% per decade, threatening long-term economic sustainability.

Conclusion: A Call for Immediate Action

The IPBES Nexus Report emphasizes a harmonized, integrated approach to address the interconnected global challenges. Actions focusing on sustainable production, conservation, and pollution reduction can yield significant ecological and economic benefits. The transformative approach proposed by IPBES offers an opportunity to balance human well-being and nature’s health, securing a sustainable future for all.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q2 With reference to the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), consider the following statements: 1.  IPBES is often compared to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) but focuses on biodiversity and ecosystems. 2.  It produces new scientific research to address biodiversity challenges. 3.  IPBES reports inform international agreements like the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A) 1 and 2 only B) 1 and 3 only C) 2 and 3 only D) 1, 2, and 3

Q.   In the context of India’s preparation for Climate-Smart Agriculture, consider the following statements: (2021) The ‘Climate-Smart Village’ approach in India is a part of a project led by the Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS), an international research programme. The project of CCAFS is carried out under Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) headquartered in France. The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) in India is one of the CGIAR’s research centres. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (d)

Answer 2– B Explanation – Statement 1 is Correct. IPBES is similar to the IPCC in its purpose of synthesizing scientific knowledge, but it focuses specifically on biodiversity and ecosystems, unlike the IPCC, which focuses on climate change. Statement 2 is Incorrect. IPBES does not produce new scientific research. Instead, it compiles, assesses, and synthesizes existing knowledge on biodiversity and ecosystems, much like the IPCC. This makes its reports more comprehensive and authoritative but based on already available data. Statement 3 is Correct. IPBES reports provide the scientific basis for various international agreements, including the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the Convention on Combating Desertification (CCD), and others. Its assessments are crucial for policy formulation in biodiversity-related multilateral processes. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

What are ‘Sacred Groves’?

Source: DownToEarth

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/forests/explained-what-are-sacred-groves

UPSC Relevance: GS3 Environment and Ecology

Context: Sacred Groves and the Supreme Court Judgement

Why in News

The Supreme Court has directed the protection of Rajasthan’s sacred groves, emphasizing their cultural, spiritual, and ecological significance in preserving biodiversity and combating environmental degradation.

What is Wealth Tax?

• Sacred groves are forest patches or ecosystems preserved by communities due to their cultural, spiritual, and ecological significance. They are often associated with local deities, ancestral spirits, or sacred beliefs.
• These groves remain in their natural or near-natural state, preserved through traditions, social taboos, and religious sanctions.

The worship of nature and reverence for specific plants or forests are common across human civilizations. For example:

• The Yggdrasil in Norse mythology,
• The Sidrat al-Muntahâ in Islam, and
• The Bodhi Tree in Buddhism are some examples of sacred flora symbolizing divinity.

Sacred groves demonstrate an intrinsic relationship between human societies and the environment, where the divine is seen in the elements of nature.

Sacred Groves in India

India has a rich tradition of sacred groves that dates back to prehistoric times:

• Historical Roots: The reverence for plants and trees can be traced to early human societies, including rock art in Bhimbetka and Harappan practices that held the peepal and shami trees sacred.
• Geographical Spread: Sacred groves are found across India, with various names and forms:
  • Dev Vans in Himachal Pradesh,
  • Bugyals in Uttarakhand,
  • Orans in Rajasthan,
  • Mawphalang in Meghalaya,
  • Sarpa Kavu in Kerala,
  • Kovil Kavu in Tamil Nadu,
  • Saranas in Central India.

These groves are integral to religious practices, community life, and ecological conservation.

Ecological Importance of Sacred Groves

Sacred groves are vital not just culturally but also environmentally:

1. Biodiversity Hotspots:
   Sacred groves serve as refuges for rare, endangered, and threatened plant and animal species.
2. Ecosystem Services:
   These patches regulate microclimates, conserve soil and water, and act as carbon sinks.
3. Repositories of Biological Wealth:
   Groves host genetic resources and species that contribute to the biodiversity of the region.
4. Cultural and Spiritual Significance:
   They strengthen the bond between communities and the environment, fostering conservation ethics.

Despite their significance, sacred groves are under threat from modernization, land use changes, and the erosion of cultural practices.

The Supreme Court’s Judgement

On December 18, 2024, the Supreme Court of India delivered a landmark judgement directing the protection of sacred groves, particularly in Rajasthan.

Key Highlights of the Judgement:

1. Recognition of Cultural Heritage:
   The Court recognized sacred groves as an integral part of India’s cultural and ecological heritage.
2. Directive to Protect Sacred Groves:
   The judgement emphasized that the state (and the nation) must protect these groves, ensuring their preservation for future generations.
3. Significance for Rajasthan:
   Rajasthan’s orans (sacred groves in the Thar Desert) were given special focus due to their ecological importance in preventing desertification and conserving biodiversity in an arid region.

Why is This Judgement Important?

1. Preservation of Ecological Integrity:
   The judgement is a step forward in conserving India’s rich ecological resources, ensuring that sacred groves remain undisturbed and thrive in their natural state.
2. Strengthening Cultural Practices:
   The ruling acknowledges the role of traditional practices in conservation, reaffirming the importance of cultural values in sustainable development.
3. Inspiration for Other States:
   The decision sets a precedent for the protection of sacred groves across India, inspiring other states to prioritize the preservation of these ecosystems.
4. Combating Environmental Challenges:
   Sacred groves play a role in mitigating climate change and biodiversity loss. Their preservation contributes to India’s ecological and environmental goals.

Conclusion

• The Supreme Court’s judgement on protecting sacred groves is a monumental step in safeguarding India’s ecological and cultural heritage.
• Sacred groves exemplify the harmonious coexistence of humanity with nature, and their preservation is vital not just for India but for the global environment.
• As Malhotra and his colleagues noted, the weakening of these institutions needs to be addressed, and this judgement paves the way for ensuring their continuity in a rapidly modernizing world.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q3. With reference to sacred groves in India, consider the following statements: 1.  Sacred groves are forest patches preserved through cultural and religious traditions. 2.  They are found only in the Himalayan and Northeastern regions of India. 3.  Sacred groves serve as biodiversity hotspots, protecting rare and endangered species. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A) 1 and 3 only B) 2 and 3 only C) 1, 2, and 3 D) 1 only

Consider the following pairs: (2013) Tribe State 1. Limboo (Limbu) Sikkim 2. Karbi Himachal Pradesh 3. Dongaria Kondh Odisha 4. Bonda Tamil Nadu Which of the above pairs are correctly matched? (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 and 4 only (c) 1, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Ans: (a)

Answer 3– A Explanation – Statement 1 is correct: Sacred groves are preserved through religious and cultural traditions. Statement 2 is incorrect: Sacred groves are found across India, including Rajasthan (orans), Kerala (sarpa kavu), and Tamil Nadu (kovil kavu). Statement 3 is correct: Sacred groves are biodiversity hotspots that protect rare and endangered species. Therefore, option A is the correct answer.

India and France sign MoU for new National Museum

Source: The Hindu

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-and-france-sign-mou-for-new-national-museum/article69005459.ece#:~:text=India%20and%20France%20on%20Thursday,Block%20in%20the%20national%20capital

UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2- International Relations

Context: Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the development of the new National Museum

Why in News

India and France signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the development of the new National Museum

Overview

• Recently, India and France signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop the Yuga Yugeen Bharat Museum, which is set to become the largest museum in the world.
• This collaboration signifies a landmark moment in cultural diplomacy and architectural innovation.

Key Highlights of the Agreement

Development on the Lines of the Louvre

• The Yuga Yugeen Bharat Museum will be developed in the historic North Block and South Block of Delhi, following the model of the world-famous Louvre Museum in Paris.
• France’s expertise in transforming government buildings into cultural landmarks (e.g., the Louvre, Grand Palais, and Hotel de la Marine) will play a critical role in the project.

Signatories and Leadership

• The MoU was signed by:
  • Herve Barbaret, Director General and CEO of France Museums.
  • B.R. Mani, Director General of the National Museum of India.
• External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat witnessed the signing.

Cultural and Diplomatic Significance

• Mr. Jaishankar hailed the initiative as a vital step in international cultural cooperation, strengthening the strategic partnership between India and France.
• Minister Shekhawat emphasized the adaptive reuse of historic buildings, preserving architectural heritage while creating vibrant cultural spaces.

Vision for the Yuga Yugeen Bharat Museum

• Adaptive reuse involves repurposing the historic North and South Blocks to transform them into state-of-the-art museum spaces while preserving their heritage.
• The museum will mirror France’s ‘Grand Projects’ initiative, which successfully converted government buildings into cultural landmarks.

Planned Features

• The museum will showcase India’s diverse heritage across millennia, celebrating the essence of “Yuga Yugeen Bharat” (Eternal India).
• It will serve as a vibrant cultural hub, contributing to tourism and soft power.

Comprehensive Feasibility Study

• The feasibility study, led by France Museums Development, will involve:
  • Case studies of successful museums worldwide.
  • Interpretative planning to ensure effective storytelling through exhibits.
  • Building programming to integrate modern technology into museum spaces.

Historical Context of the MoU

• The current MoU builds upon a 2020 Letter of Intent, which focused on museum and heritage cooperation.
• During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France in 2023, a follow-up agreement outlined areas of technical collaboration for the museum.

Strengthening India-France Relations

• India and France share a strong strategic partnership rooted in mutual respect and cooperation across fields like defense, culture, and technology.
• This cultural collaboration underpins their roles as key poles in a multi-polar world, reflecting shared values.

Future Prospects

• The MoU sets the foundation for further cultural and technological collaborations.
• Prime Minister Modi is expected to visit France in February 2025 for an event focusing on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and innovation in culture, underscoring the growing importance of technology in heritage conservation.

Significance for India

1. Largest Museum in the World: Once completed, Yuga Yugeen Bharat will elevate India’s position on the global cultural map.
2. Cultural Diplomacy: The project reinforces India’s cultural soft power while strengthening ties with France.
3. Tourism and Economy: The museum will attract tourists from across the globe, contributing to India’s cultural tourism and economy.
4. Heritage Preservation: The adaptive reuse of North and South Blocks showcases a sustainable model for conserving architectural heritage.

This initiative represents a fusion of tradition, modernity, and international collaboration, cementing India’s vision of celebrating its eternal and timeless heritage.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q4.  With reference to the proposed Yuga Yugeen Bharat Museum, consider the following statements: It will be the world’s largest museum and will be developed through the adaptive reuse of historic buildings in Delhi. The project is being developed in collaboration with France, which is renowned for transforming government buildings into cultural landmarks like the Louvre. The Yuga Yugeen Bharat Museum will primarily focus on displaying Indian military history. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A) 1 and 2 only B) 1 and 3 only C) 2 and 3 only D) 1, 2, and 3

Q. Recently, a series of uprisings of people referred to as ‘Arab Spring’ originally started from 2022 A Egypt B Lebanon C Syria D Tunisia Ans: D

Answer 4- A Explanation Statement 1 is correct: The Yuga Yugeen Bharat Museum will be the largest in the world and will be developed by repurposing the North and South Blocks in Delhi. Statement 2 is correct: The project involves collaboration with France, which has expertise in adaptive reuse projects like the Louvre. Statement 3 is incorrect: The museum will focus on showcasing India’s diverse heritage and cultural legacy, not specifically military history. Therefore, option A is the correct answer.

­­­What is a joint committee of Parliament, to be set-up for ‘One Nation, One Election’ Bills?

Source: The Hindu

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/everyday-explainers/joint-committees-parliament-jcp-onoe-9734376/

UPSC Relevance: GS2 Polity and Governance

Context: joint committee of Parliament

Why in News

The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) is a parliamentary body set up to examine specific issues or bills, comprising members from both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

What is a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC)?

• A Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) is a special committee formed by the Parliament of India to examine specific issues, bills, or subjects in detail.
• It is composed of members from both the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and Rajya Sabha (Council of States).
• The committee is typically set up when a motion is passed in one House and agreed upon by the other House. The composition of the JPC reflects the balance between the ruling party and opposition parties, with members drawn from both sides.

How is a JPC Set Up?

• Motion Passed in Parliament: The creation of a JPC begins when either the Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha passes a motion to form a committee. The motion is then agreed upon by the other House.
• Appointment of Members: The members of the committee are decided by Parliament. The committee generally consists of members from all political parties represented in Parliament. The number of members may vary depending on the task at hand.

What Can a JPC Do?

• The powers and mandate of a JPC depend on the specific motion under which it is constituted. Typically, a JPC can:
• Examine Bills: It may be formed to examine bills in detail, suggest amendments, and provide recommendations. For example, the JPC on the Personal Data Protection Bill of 2019 scrutinized the proposed law to ensure it was well-rounded and addressed privacy concerns effectively.
• Investigate Irregularities: A JPC may also be tasked with investigating specific matters, such as financial scams, regulatory loopholes, or allegations of corruption. A JPC can scrutinize documents, summon individuals for questioning, and conduct inquiries to uncover the facts related to the subject under investigation.
• Example: The JPC on Securities and Banking Transactions investigated irregularities in financial transactions.
• Submit Reports: Once the JPC completes its investigation or review, it submits a report with recommendations to Parliament. This report can suggest actions, reforms, or legislative changes.
• Example: The JPC that investigated the Bofors scam submitted a detailed report on the alleged irregularities in the contract.

Powers of a JPC

• Investigative Powers: The JPC can summon individuals and ask them to testify or produce documents related to its investigation. This gives the JPC the power to conduct a thorough inquiry into the issue it is assigned.
• Confidentiality: The proceedings of a JPC are typically confidential to protect the integrity of the investigation. However, if the committee’s findings are in the public interest, the information may be disclosed.
• Recommendations: The JPC has the power to make recommendations, but these are not binding on the government. While the government is not legally obligated to act on the recommendations, it must respond to them and report back on the actions taken. The committee may also submit an Action Taken Report to Parliament on how the government has acted on the JPC’s recommendations.

Examples of JPCs

• Several JPCs have been set up to investigate or examine different issues, including:
• Telecom Licenses and Spectrum Allocation: This JPC investigated issues surrounding the allocation and pricing of telecom licenses and spectrum, particularly concerning the 2G spectrum scam.
• Stock Market Scam: A JPC was set up to investigate irregularities in the stock market, focusing on financial crimes and regulatory failures.
• Bofors Scandal: A JPC was constituted to investigate the Bofors scandal, a major corruption case involving defense procurement.
• Pesticide Residues and Safety in Beverages: A JPC looked into the presence of pesticide residues in soft drinks and fruit juices, aiming to ensure public health standards.
• Office of Profit: A JPC examined the constitutional and legal status of the office of profit, determining whether elected officials could hold certain offices without violating constitutional provisions.

Powers of the Government in Relation to JPC Recommendations

• While the recommendations of a JPC have persuasive value, they are not legally binding on the government. The government may decide to implement the suggestions or may choose to investigate further. Once the government provides its response to the recommendations, it submits an Action Taken Report to Parliament, allowing for accountability and follow-up on the JPC’s findings.

Importance of JPCs

• In-depth Examination: JPCs allow for a thorough, cross-party examination of issues, especially complex bills or matters that require detailed scrutiny, beyond what is possible in the main sessions of Parliament.
• Transparency and Accountability: By investigating allegations of irregularities, corruption, or policy failures, JPCs promote transparency and help hold government bodies and private entities accountable.
• Public Interest: In cases where public interest is at stake (e.g., safety standards, financial scams), JPCs play a critical role in addressing concerns and making recommendations that can affect policy or legislation.
• In the case of the ‘One Nation, One Election’ Bills, the JPC is tasked with examining the proposals in detail. The bills are being referred to a JPC for scrutiny, where members will evaluate their implications and provide recommendations to Parliament. This process is crucial in ensuring that the bills are well-vetted before they become law.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q5.  With reference to Joint Parliamentary Committees (JPCs), consider the following statements: 1.  A JPC is formed by a motion passed by both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, and its members are selected by Parliament. 2.  The primary function of a JPC is to examine issues in detail, scrutinize documents, summon individuals for questioning, and submit a report with recommendations. 3.  The recommendations of a JPC are legally binding on the government, which is required to implement them. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A) 1 and 2 only B) 2 and 3 only C) 1 and 3 only D) 1, 2, and 3

Q.    With reference to the Parliament of India, which of the following Parliamentary Committees scrutinizes and reports to the House whether the powers to make regulations, rules, sub-rules, by-laws, etc., conferred by the Constitution or delegated by the Parliament are being properly exercised by the Executive within the scope of such delegation? (2018) (a) Committee on Government Assurances (b) Committee on Subordinate Legislation (c) Rules Committee (d) Business Advisory Committee Ans: (b)

Answer 5- A Explanation Statement 1 is correct: A JPC is formed after one House of Parliament passes a motion, and its members are decided by Parliament. Statement 2 is correct: JPCs examine issues in detail, scrutinize documents, and summon individuals for questioning. They also submit reports with recommendations. Statement 3 is incorrect: While the recommendations of a JPC are persuasive, they are not legally binding on the government. The government is only required to report on actions taken based on the recommendations. Therefore, option A is the correct answer.

 

 

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