APPSC Daily Current Affairs 13th March 2026
Relevance: GS Paper III – Agriculture, Food Security & Inclusive Development (Millet’s promotion, tribal livelihoods, sustainable agriculture) GS Paper I – Indian Culture (Traditional food systems and tribal culture)
For Prelims:
- Araku Kouni, Tribal Millet Menu, Alluri Sitarama Raju (ASR) District, Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC), Haritha Restaurants, Indian Culinary Institute Tirupati, Millets (Korra, Ragi, Samalu).
For Mains:
- Millets promotion, tribal livelihoods, sustainable agriculture, nutritional security, culinary tourism, indigenous food systems.
Why in News?
The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N. Chandrababu Naidu, launched ‘Araku Kouni’, the state’s first tribal millet-based food menu, during the Collectors’ Conference at the State Secretariat.
The initiative aims to promote traditional millet-based diets and highlight the culinary heritage of tribal communities in Andhra Pradesh.
About the ‘Araku Kouni’ Initiative
‘Araku Kouni’ is a tribal millet-based food menu inspired by traditional recipes of indigenous communities living in Alluri Sitarama Raju (ASR) district.
The initiative focuses on:
- Promoting traditional tribal food culture
- Encouraging healthy and nutritious millet consumption
- Supporting tribal farmers and local livelihoods
- Developing culinary tourism in the Araku region
The menu will initially be introduced in Haritha restaurants across ASR district and later expanded to other tourism centres across the state.
Key Features of the Tribal Millet Menu
The Araku Kouni menu includes traditional millet-based dishes such as:
- Korra Payasam
- Ragi Chapati
- Samala Pulihora
- Kantla Ambali
- Corn Vada
- Toor Dal Curry
Important Characteristics
- Recipes sourced from tribal communities of the Araku region.
- Ingredients grown in natural environments without chemical fertilisers or pesticides.
- Focus on nutritional value and traditional cooking methods.
Institutions Involved
Several institutions collaborated in developing the initiative.
Key Contributors
Alluri Sitarama Raju District Administration
- Led the initiative and coordinated implementation.
Indian Culinary Institute, Tirupati
- Documented recipes, nutritional value, and calorific index.
Tribal Anganwadi Workers
- Helped identify traditional recipes and local food practices.
Department of Tourism & APTDC
- Responsible for introducing the menu in Haritha tourism restaurants.
Significance of the Initiative
Promotion of Millets
- Millets such as Korra, Ragi and Samalu are highly nutritious and climate-resilient crops.
Tribal Livelihood Support
- Encourages cultivation of traditional crops by tribal farmers, improving rural incomes.
Nutritional Security
Millets provide high fibre, minerals, and essential nutrients, supporting healthy diets.
Cultural Preservation
Promotes indigenous food traditions and tribal culinary heritage.
Tourism Development
The initiative supports culinary tourism, attracting visitors interested in authentic tribal cuisine.
Conclusion
The Araku Kouni millet menu represents an innovative initiative to integrate tribal food traditions, nutrition, sustainable agriculture, and tourism promotion. By mainstreaming millet-based diets and supporting tribal communities, the programme contributes to inclusive development and preservation of indigenous cultural heritage.
CARE MCQ
Q. With reference to the ‘Araku Kouni’ initiative, consider the following statements:
- It is a tribal millet-based food menu launched in Andhra Pradesh.
- The recipes are derived from indigenous communities of Alluri Sitarama Raju district.
- The initiative aims to promote chemical-intensive agriculture in tribal regions.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
Answer: (b) Only two
Explanation
Statement 1 – Correct: ‘Araku Kouni’ is Andhra Pradesh’s first tribal millet-based food menu.
Statement 2 – Correct: Recipes were sourced from tribal communities in Alluri Sitarama Raju district.
Statement 3 – Incorrect: The initiative promotes naturally grown millet crops without chemical fertilisers or pesticides, not chemical-intensive farming.
Relevance: GS Paper II – Polity and Governance
For Prelims:
- Women’s Reservation Bill, Women voter turnout, Lok Sabha women MPs, Lokniti–CSDS survey, electoral participation, political candidature.
For Mains:
- Gender equality in politics, women’s representation in Parliament, nomination bottleneck, political autonomy, structural barriers in politics, democratic participation.
Why in News?
Women’s participation in India’s electoral process has increased dramatically over the past six decades. Women now vote almost in equal numbers as men, and in several State elections they even surpass male turnout. However, this rise in voter participation has not translated into equivalent political representation or decision-making power. This creates a democratic paradox: high electoral participation but limited political representation for women.
Women as Voters: Changing Electoral Trends
In the early decades after Independence, women’s electoral participation was significantly lower than men’s.
Early Gender Gap
- 1967 Lok Sabha election
- Male turnout: 66.7%
- Female turnout: 55.5%
- Gap: 11.2 percentage points
- 1971 election
- Gender gap widened to 11.8 points
These disparities were caused by structural factors such as:
- Lower female literacy
- Restricted mobility
- Household responsibilities
- Limited political outreach to women
Declining Gender Gap in Voting
From the 1980s onward, the gender gap steadily declined.
- 2009 Lok Sabha election – Gap reduced to 4.4 points
- 2014 election – Gap reduced to 1.5 points
- 2019 and 2024 elections – Women voted almost at the same rate as men
This shows a major transformation in women’s political engagement.
Trends in State Assembly Elections (1990–2025)
State elections show a similar pattern of convergence.
Early Period
- In the early 1990s, women’s turnout was 4–5 percentage points lower than men.
Gradual Convergence
- 2005–07 elections – Gap declined to –1.8 points
- 2008–10 elections – Gap reduced to –1 point
Reversal After 2011
Women began voting more than men.
- 2011–13: +1.13 percentage points
- 2015–16: +2.82 percentage points
- 2020–25: +1.6 percentage points
Overall, State elections show long-term convergence followed by a modest female advantage in turnout.
Women’s Participation Beyond Voting
Although women vote in large numbers, their participation in campaign activities remains lower than men.
Campaign Participation (2009–2024)
- Attendance at election rallies
- Women increased from 9% (2009) to about 16% in recent elections
- Men’s participation remains almost double
- Door-to-door campaigning and processions
- Women participation increased from 5–6% to about 11%
Thus, while women are becoming more visible in public political activities, their involvement in campaign mobilisation remains limited.
Family Permission and Social Norms
The Lokniti–CSDS Women and Politics Survey (2019) reveals that many women require family approval to engage in political activities such as:
- Attending election rallies
- Meeting candidates
- Participating in campaign work
This indicates that gender differences in political participation are shaped not only by interest but also by social and familial constraints.
Representation of Women in Parliament
Women remain significantly underrepresented in legislatures.
Women MPs in Lok Sabha
- 1952: 22 women MPs
- 1977: 19 women MPs
- 2009: 59 women MPs
- 2014: 62 women MPs
- 2019: 78 women MPs (highest)
- 2024: 74 women MPs
Even at its peak, women accounted for only about 14% of Lok Sabha members, despite forming nearly half of the electorate.
The Nomination Bottleneck
Limited political representation is partly due to fewer nominations given to women by political parties.
Female Candidates in Lok Sabha Elections
- 1957: 45 women candidates
- 1996: 599 candidates
- 2014: 668 candidates
- 2019: 726 candidates
- 2024: 800 candidates
Despite growth in numbers, women still constitute a small share of total candidates, as male contestants number in the thousands.
Success Rate of Women Candidates
Political parties often claim that women are less “electable”. However, electoral data contradicts this claim.
Success Rate Comparisons
- 1957
- Women: 49%
- Men: 33%
- 1962
- Women: 47%
- Men: 25%
- 2019
- Women: 11%
- Men: 6%
- 2024
- Women: 9%
- Men: 6%
These figures show that women candidates often perform as well as or better than male candidates when given opportunities.
Political Autonomy and Socialisation
Even when women vote, their decisions are not always independent.
- 2014: 51% women voted independently
- 2024: 50% reported independent voting
Political Attitudes within Families
- 52% of women believe it is important to share the same political views as their family members.
Perceptions of Political Opportunities
Women perceive several structural disadvantages in politics.
Survey findings indicate:
- 58% believe women from political families have better chances of entering politics.
- 57% believe women from wealthy backgrounds have an advantage.
- 44% believe political parties prefer male candidates.
- A similar proportion think voters also favour male candidates.
Structural and Social Barriers
Women identified several obstacles to political participation.
Major Challenges
- Patriarchal social structures – 22%
- Household responsibilities – 13%
- Lack of confidence, awareness or experience – 12%
- Cultural norms – 7%
- Financial and institutional barriers – 6%
These factors demonstrate that women’s underrepresentation is shaped by both social norms and institutional constraints.
Significance of the Women’s Reservation Bill
The Women’s Reservation Bill provides a structural mechanism to address gender imbalance in legislatures by reserving seats for women.
If implemented effectively, it can:
- Increase women’s presence in Parliament and State Assemblies.
- Encourage political parties to promote women leaders.
- Strengthen gender equality in decision-making institutions.
Way Forward
To strengthen women’s political empowerment, the following measures are necessary:
- Effective implementation of the Women’s Reservation Bill.
- Increased party nominations for women candidates.
- Training programmes to build political leadership skills.
- Financial support mechanisms for women candidates.
- Social awareness to reduce patriarchal barriers.
Conclusion
India has witnessed a remarkable transformation in women’s electoral participation, with voter turnout now nearly equal to men. However, this progress has not translated into proportional political representation. Structural barriers, limited nominations, and social norms continue to restrict women’s access to political power. Bridging this gap requires institutional reforms, greater political inclusion, and societal change to ensure that women’s electoral participation results in meaningful representation.
UPSC PYQ
Q. Which among the following countries was the earliest to give women the right to vote?
(UPSC CSE 2003)
A. Iceland
B. India
C. New Zealand
D. USA
Answer: C
Explanation
New Zealand – Correct
- New Zealand became the first self-governing country in the world to grant women the right to vote in 1893.
- The reform was largely influenced by the women’s suffrage movement led by Kate Sheppard.
CARE MCQ
Q. Consider the following countries:
- USA
- Sri Lanka
- Japan
- India
Placing the earliest first, arrange the above countries in the chronological order in which they granted universal adult franchise.
A. 1, 2, 3, 4
B. 2, 3, 4, 1
C. 1, 3, 4, 2
D. 3, 4, 1, 2
Answer: A
Explanation
USA – 1920 (First)
- Universal suffrage for women was established through the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution (1920).
- It prohibited denial of voting rights based on sex.
Sri Lanka – 1931 (Second)
- Sri Lanka (then Ceylon) introduced universal adult franchise in 1931 under the Donoughmore Constitution.
- It was one of the earliest countries in Asia to grant voting rights to all adults.
Japan – 1945 (Third)
- Japan granted universal suffrage to both men and women in 1945 after World War II during democratic reforms.
India – 1950 (Fourth)
- India adopted universal adult franchise with the Constitution of India in 1950, allowing every citizen above the voting age to vote regardless of caste, gender, or property.
Relevance: GS Paper II – Polity and Governance – Parliament and State Legislatures – Structure, Functioning, Conduct of Business and Powers & Privileges.
For Prelims:
- Speaker of Lok Sabha, Article 94(c), Removal of Speaker, Rules of Procedure (Lok Sabha Rules 200–203), Money Bill certification, Anti-defection law, Deputy Speaker.
For Mains:
- Parliamentary democracy, neutrality of Speaker, parliamentary conventions, legislative accountability, separation of powers in legislature.
Why in News?
A no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla was moved by Opposition members during the Budget Session of Parliament.
Although the motion is unlikely to succeed, it has revived the debate on the neutrality, accountability, and constitutional role of the Speaker in India’s parliamentary democracy.
Constitutional Position of the Speaker
The Speaker of the Lok Sabha is the presiding officer of the lower house of Parliament and occupies a central role in ensuring the smooth functioning of parliamentary democracy.
Constitutional Provisions
- Article 93 – Election of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha.
- Article 94 – Provides conditions for resignation or removal of the Speaker.
- Article 100 – Voting procedures in the House (Speaker has a casting vote in case of a tie).
The Constitution expects the Speaker to act impartially and rise above party politics once elected.
Powers and Functions of the Speaker
The Speaker exercises wide procedural and administrative powers.
Key Functions
1. Presiding Over Proceedings
Maintains order and ensures orderly debate in the Lok Sabha.
2. Interpretation of Rules
Interprets the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business.
3. Disciplinary Powers
Can suspend or discipline members for disorderly conduct.
4. Certification of Money Bills
The Speaker’s decision regarding whether a bill is a Money Bill is final.
5. Anti-Defection Decisions
Acts as the authority deciding disqualification under the Tenth Schedule.
6. Protection of Members’ Rights
Safeguards parliamentary privileges and rights of MPs.
These powers make the Speaker one of the most influential constitutional authorities in Parliament.
Procedure for Removal of the Speaker
The Constitution provides a strict procedure to ensure the stability of the office.
Constitutional Provision
Article 94(c) – The Speaker can be removed by a resolution passed by a majority of all the members of the Lok Sabha.
Procedure
- A written notice must be submitted to the Secretary-General of Lok Sabha.
- Minimum 14 days’ notice is required.
- The motion must be supported by at least 50 members to be admitted for discussion.
- Rules 200–203 of Lok Sabha Rules govern the procedure.
- The Speaker can participate in the debate and vote initially, but cannot exercise a casting vote in case of a tie.
The stringent process ensures that the Speaker cannot be removed easily due to political pressure.
Rare No-Confidence Motions Against Speakers
Such motions are extremely rare in India’s parliamentary history.
Previous Attempts
| Year | Speaker | Result |
| 1954 | G.V. Mavalankar | Motion failed |
| 1966 | Hukam Singh | Motion failed |
| 1987 | Balram Jakhar | Motion failed |
These examples show that removing a Speaker is politically and procedurally difficult.
Debate on the Present Motion Against the Speaker
Opposition MPs have raised several concerns regarding the functioning of the Speaker’s office.
Key Allegations by Opposition
- Mass suspension of MPs, including the suspension of 100 Opposition members in December 2023.
- Microphones switched off during speeches of Opposition members.
- Failure to appoint a Deputy Speaker for the last 12 years.
- Restrictions on discussions related to certain issues raised by the Opposition.
The Opposition argues that Parliament must allow both government authority and opposition voice.
Government’s Response
The ruling side argues that the Speaker must maintain discipline and decorum in the House, especially when disruptions occur.
Issues and Challenges in the Speaker’s Office
Several structural and political challenges affect the functioning of the Speaker.
1. Perception of Politicisation
- Decisions related to Money Bills and anti-defection cases are often seen through a partisan lens.
2. Weakening of Parliamentary Conventions
- Traditionally, Speakers maintained strict neutrality, but political competition has weakened these conventions.
3. Rising Parliamentary Disruptions
- Frequent confrontations between ruling and opposition parties lead to procedural deadlocks.
4. Delay in Appointment of Deputy Speaker
- The absence of a Deputy Speaker in Lok Sabha for over a decade raises concerns regarding institutional balance.
5. Erosion of Public Trust
- Allegations of bias can reduce public confidence in parliamentary institutions.
Way Forward
To strengthen the credibility of the Speaker’s office, several reforms may be considered.
1. Reinforcing Neutrality
- Political parties must reaffirm the tradition that the Speaker acts above party politics.
2. Greater Transparency
- Clear explanations for major procedural decisions can reduce allegations of bias.
3. Strengthening Parliamentary Conventions
- Reviving established conventions can improve trust between government and opposition.
4. Codification of Best Practices
- Guidelines regarding discretionary powers of the Speaker may help reduce disputes.
5. Regular Institutional Dialogue
- Consultations between government and opposition can improve legislative productivity.
Conclusion
The office of the Speaker is a cornerstone of India’s parliamentary democracy, responsible for ensuring fair debate and maintaining institutional balance. While the high constitutional threshold protects the Speaker from political pressure, the credibility of the office ultimately depends on perceived neutrality and adherence to parliamentary conventions. Strengthening transparency and restoring trust among political actors are essential for preserving the dignity of Parliament.
UPSC PYQ
Q. With reference to the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, consider the following statements: While any resolution for the removal of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha is under consideration— (UPSC 2024)
- He/She shall not preside.
- He/She shall not have the right to speak.
- He/She shall not be entitled to vote on the resolution in the first instance.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A) 1 only
B) 1 and 2 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A) 1 only
Explanation
This provision comes from Article 96 of the Constitution of India.
- Statement 1 – Correct:
When a resolution for the removal of the Speaker is under consideration, the Speaker shall not preside over the sitting of the House, though he/she may remain present. - Statement 2 – Incorrect:
The Speaker can speak and participate in the proceedings of the House during the debate on the removal resolution. - Statement 3 – Incorrect:
The Speaker can vote in the first instance on the resolution but cannot exercise a casting vote in case of a tie.
Constitutional Source:
- Article 96(1) – Constitution of India (Speaker or Deputy Speaker not to preside while a resolution for his/her removal is under consideration).
CARE MCQ
Q. With reference to the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, consider the following statements:
- The Speaker can be removed by a resolution passed by a majority of all the members of the Lok Sabha.
- During the debate on a motion for his/her removal, the Speaker cannot participate in the proceedings.
- The decision of the Speaker regarding certification of a Money Bill is final.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) NoneAnswer: (b) Only two
Explanation
Statement 1 – Correct: Article 94(c) provides that the Speaker can be removed by a majority of all the members of Lok Sabha.
Statement 2 – Incorrect: During the debate on the motion for removal, the Speaker may participate and vote initially, but cannot exercise a casting vote in case of a tie.
Statement 3 – Correct: The Speaker’s decision regarding Money Bill certification is final
