UPPSC Monthly Current Affairs: November 2024 | Monthly Current Affairs UPPSC - UPPSC (UP) PDF Download

NIA to Probe Human-Trafficking Syndicate

Why in News?

• The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is investigating a human trafficking syndicate involved in luring youth for cyber fraud activities.

Key Points

• Recent Searches: The NIA conducted searches at 22 locations across six states, including Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi.
• Origin of Investigation: The investigation began from a police report in Gopalganj, Bihar, highlighting an organized syndicate that misleads Indian youth with job offers in foreign countries.
• Method of Trafficking: Trafficked individuals were forced to work in fake call centers engaged in cyber fraud.
• Human Trafficking Explained: Human trafficking involves the illegal trade and exploitation of individuals for purposes such as forced labor, sexual exploitation, or involuntary servitude. It includes the recruitment, transportation, and harboring of individuals through various means of coercion or deception for the purpose of exploitation.
• About the NIA: The NIA is India’s central counter-terrorism law enforcement agency, tasked with investigating offenses that impact the sovereignty, security, and integrity of the country. This includes offenses related to:
• Friendly Relations with Foreign States: Violations affecting India’s relations with other countries.
• Atomic and Nuclear Facilities: Offenses against atomic and nuclear facilities.
• Smuggling and Infiltration: Smuggling of arms, drugs, fake Indian currency, and infiltration across borders.
• International Treaties: Offenses under laws enacted to implement international treaties and agreements.
• Legal Framework: The NIA operates under the NIA Act, 2008, and is empowered to investigate terror-related crimes across states without requiring special permission, under the authority of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

State-of-the-Art Cruise at Mahakumbh’s Grandeur

Nishadraj cruise

The Uttar Pradesh government is preparing for Mahakumbh 2025, adding a new attraction, the Nishadraj cruise.

• Launch of Nishadraj Cruise:
• The Nishadraj cruise, managed by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), has begun its journey from Varanasi to Prayagraj.
• The cruise is equipped with modern amenities, reflecting the state’s commitment to innovation and excellence.
• There is ongoing coordination between the Prayagraj Mela Authority and the Varanasi administration for the cruise’s journey.

Inauguration:

• The Prime Minister is scheduled to visit Mahakumbh on 13th December 2024.
• At Shrungverpur Dham, the PM will unveil statues of Lord Ram and Nishadraj before boarding the Nishadraj cruise for a journey from Arail to the Sangam.
• Upon reaching the Sangam, he will perform a ritual bath and pay homage to the sacred Ganga River.
• The itinerary includes a Ganga Aarti, visits to the Bade Hanuman Temple and Akshayavat, and interactions with prominent saints and spiritual leaders at the Parade Ground.

Inland Waterways Authority of India

• The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) is a statutory body established under the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) Act, 1985.
• It was set up in 1986 under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways to develop and regulate inland waterways for shipping and navigation.
• IWAI is headquartered in Noida, Uttar Pradesh.
• The main functions of IWAI include building necessary infrastructure in inland waterways, surveying the economic feasibility of new projects, and carrying out administration and regulation.
• As per the National Waterways Act, 2016, 111 waterways have been declared as National Waterways.

Uttar Pradesh Focuses on Gems & Jewellery Growth

The Uttar Pradesh government is taking significant steps to enhance the gems and jewellery sector, aiming for economic value addition and export growth.

Uttar Pradesh, known for its rich cultural heritage and skilled craftsmanship, plays a vital role in India’s gems and jewellery industry, with an annual trade exceeding Rs 1 trillion involving over one million traders, retailers, craftsmen, and designers.

Major Hubs:

• Key hubs for gems and jewellery trade in Uttar Pradesh include Meerut, Lucknow, NOIDA Export Processing Zone, Moradabad, Kanpur, and Agra.
• These centers are crucial for manufacturing and exports, contributing significantly to the state’s economy. The organized segment represents about 35% of the overall market, emphasizing the need for structured growth and development.

Government Initiatives & Significance:   

• The Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh has outlined a plan to transform Meerut into a major jewellery manufacturing and trading hub for North India.
• Meerut’s jewellery industry, with an annual turnover exceeding Rs 2,000 crore, employs around 40,000 goldsmiths, gemstone makers, and jewellery traders.
• The proposed hub in Meerut, covering 32,000 square meters, aims to establish the city as a key center for gems, precious stones, and gold jewellery.
• To support this initiative, the government plans to build a modern multi-storey flatted factory complex to promote business growth and encourage startups in the sector.

National and Global Significance:   

• The gems and jewellery sector in Uttar Pradesh is crucial not only for the state but also contributes 10-12% of India’s total merchandise exports.
• The domestic market for gems and jewellery in 2023 was valued at USD 92 billion, highlighting its importance in the national economy.
• Uttar Pradesh’s thriving wholesale jewellery market caters to clients from other states, reinforcing its position as a key player in the industry.

Uttar Pradesh Government Enhances Police and Forensic Capabilities

On November 26th, during the National Conference on Forensic Science and Cybersecurity, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh (UP) emphasized the state's dedication to transparent police recruitment and the establishment of forensic labs at the zonal level.
These initiatives are part of a broader effort to improve law and order, ensure timely justice for victims, and maintain good governance.

Highlights of the Conference

New Criminal Laws:India has recently implemented three new criminal laws:

• Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
• Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023
• Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023

These laws, effective from July 1, 2024, aim to protect citizens by ensuring that no one is declared guilty without proper evidence.

• Challenges and Reforms in Law and Order: Before 2017, Uttar Pradesh faced significant challenges in maintaining law and order, with a high prevalence of hooliganism (vandalism and violence). The current government has identified that over half of the positions within the Uttar Pradesh Police were unfilled during the previous administration, making this issue a key focus for reform.
• Transparent Recruitment and Forensic Labs: The state government has transparently recruited over 154,000 police personnel and has recently initiated the recruitment of an additional 7,200 policemen. Forensic labs, previously limited to four locations, have now been established at the zonal level, with plans for further expansion. These labs are crucial for gathering evidence in criminal cases and ensuring justice.
• Cybersecurity and Forensic Science Initiatives: Today, 1,775 police stations in Uttar Pradesh are equipped with cyber helplines, enhancing the state's ability to tackle cybercrime. Additionally, the Uttar Pradesh State Institute of Forensic Sciences has been established to support forensic investigations and improve the quality of evidence presented in court.

Constitution Day

• Constitution Day, also known as National Law Day or Samvidhan Diwas, is celebrated in India on November 26th every year to honor the adoption of the Constitution of India.
• On August 29, 1947, the Constituent Assembly formed a Drafting Committee chaired by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar to prepare a Draft Constitution for India.
• The Constitution of India was adopted by the Constituent Assembly on November 26, 1949, and came into effect on January 26, 1950.
• The Government of India decided to celebrate November 26th as Constitution Day, and the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment notified this decision on November 19, 2015.
• Constitution Day is observed to promote the significance of the Constitution and the ideas of its chief architect, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.

Farmers Protest Over Land Acquisition Policies

Farmers from various districts in Western Uttar Pradesh gathered outside the Greater Noida Authority office to express their concerns regarding unresolved land acquisition issues.

Leadership and Demands of the Protest

Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU):

• The protest was led by the BKU and received support from the All India Kisan Sabha and Bharatiya Kisan Parishad.
• Farmers are demanding fair compensation, which includes 10% developed land and a 64.7% increase in compensation for acquired land.
• Greater Noida Authority officials stated that these demands have already been forwarded to the Uttar Pradesh government.

Protest Participation and Actions:

• Farmers from around 20 districts, including Bulandshahr, Aligarh, and Agra, participated in the protest, which began with a tractor rally on the Noida-Greater Noida Expressway, causing minor traffic disruptions.
• This protest followed several months of smaller demonstrations outside the Greater Noida Authority Office, which farmers felt had not yielded any significant results.

Future Agitation Plans:

• Farmers plan to continue their agitation at the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) from November 28 to December 1, 2024, and will march to Delhi starting December 2, 2024.

Compensation and Development Allegations:

• Farmers claim that despite relinquishing their agricultural land for the development of Noida, Greater Noida, and the Yamuna Expressway, they have not received the compensation or developed plots they are entitled to.

Irrigation Department Project of UP

The Irrigation Department of Uttar Pradesh has recently commenced the process for widening the road along the Agra Canal into a four-lane stretch.

Project Overview

Objective:

• The aim is to facilitate smoother traffic flow by widening the road along the Agra Canal.

Proposal:

• A memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Faridabad Metropolitan Development Authority (FMDA) has been proposed to formalize the project, estimated to cost Rs 278 crore.

Status and Challenges:

• Progress has been hindered despite government approval due to land ownership formalities.
• Formal permission from the UP Irrigation Department is necessary as they own the land.
• A Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been prepared, and the FMDA’s approval is awaited to sign the MOU and initiate tenders.

Benefits:

• The project will enhance access to Greater Faridabad, Noida, Delhi, Ballabhgarh, and the upcoming Greenfield Expressway to Jewar Airport.
• It will also alleviate congestion on the existing two-lane stretch.

Significance:

• This project addresses long-standing demands for improved infrastructure, promising better regional connectivity and economic growth.

World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW)

Banaras Hindu University organized an awareness program .

• The aim is to educate patients and MBBS students about the correct use and importance of antimicrobial drugs.

Overview of WAAW:

• World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) is observed annually from 18th to 24th November to raise awareness about antimicrobial resistance.
• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi evolve and become resistant to antimicrobial medicines, making infections harder to treat and increasing the risks of disease spread, severe illness, and death.
• Experts stressed that antimicrobial resistance contributes to approximately 300,000 deaths annually and clarified that not every fever is typhoid or requires antibiotics.

Interactive Activities:

• Students used a street play to effectively convey the message of AMR awareness to the audience.
• Proper handwashing techniques were demonstrated emphasizing the role of infection prevention in combating AMR.
• The initiative marked a crucial step in raising awareness and educating the public about the dangers of antibiotic resistance and promoting sustainable practices to address the issue.

Survey on Jama Masjid in Uttar Pradesh

Recently, the Court ordered a survey on the 16th century Mughal era Jama Masjid in Sambhal district of Uttar Pradesh. The order is followed by a petition filed by a senior advocate.

Claims on Historical Conversion:

• The petition alleges that the Jama Masjid in Sambhal was originally a Hari Har temple located in mohalla Kot Purvi and was converted into a mosque in 1529.
• The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) isresponsible for managing and controlling the disputed site.

Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind:

• The Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind highlighted the importance of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act 1991, which preserves the religious character of all places of worship as they existed on August 15, 1947.
• They expressed concerns over the disregard for this legislation in recent judicial actions and emphasized the Supreme Court’s endorsement of the Act in the Ayodhya verdict.

Historical Context of the Jama Masjid:

• The Jama Masjid in Sambhal is one of three mosques constructed during Babur’s reign (1526–1530). The others include the mosque at Panipat and the now-demolished Babri Masjid.
• Historian Howard Crane described the mosque’s architectural features in his work, The Patronage of Babur and the Origins of Mughal Architecture.
• Crane noted a Persian inscription stating that Babur ordered the mosque’s construction in December 1526 through his subedar, Jahangir Quli Khan.

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

• ASI, under the Ministry of Culture, is the premier organisation for the archaeological research and protection of the cultural heritage of the nation.
• The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Act, 1958 governs the functioning of ASI.
• ASI administers more than 3650 ancient monuments, archaeological sites and remains of national importance.
• Its activities include carrying out surveys of antiquarian remains, exploration and excavation of archaeological sites, conservation and maintenance of protected monuments etc.

Historical Background

• The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) was established in 1861 by Alexander Cunningham, who is often referred to as the "Father of Indian Archaeology."

Recent Excavation at Ramgram

Inauguration of Excavation

• A recent archaeological excavation was inaugurated at Ramgram in the Maharajganj district of Uttar Pradesh by the Union Minister of State for Finance.
• The excavation is part of a project led by the ASI, aiming to uncover evidence of Lord Buddha's eighth relic, believed to be buried at this site.

Historical and Spiritual Importance

• Ramgram is one of the eight locations where relics of Lord Buddha were enshrined, making it a site of great significance in Buddhist traditions.
• The site is located within the Sohgibarwa Wildlife Division and is historically linked to the ancient Kolia kingdom.

Ancient Kolia Kingdom

• The Kolia kingdom was an ancient Indo-Aryan clan in northeastern South Asia, known from historical records during the Iron Age.

Potential for Regional Development

• The excavation at Ramgram is expected to develop the site into a significant Buddhist pilgrimage destination.
• This development is likely to boost tourism and stimulate economic growth in the region.

Global Recognition as a Buddhist Pilgrimage Site

• The project aims to integrate Ramgram into the global Buddhist pilgrimage circuit.
• Local authorities anticipate increased visits from international pilgrims and scholars, enhancing the cultural profile of the region.

Sohagi Barwa Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: Maharajganj district, Uttar Pradesh, India.
• Bordering Areas: North - International border with Nepal; East - Bihar's Valmiki Tiger Reserve.
• Establishment: Declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in June 1987.
• Drainage: The sanctuary is drained by rivers including the great Gandak, little Gandak, Pyas, and Rohin rivers.
• Flora: Approximately 75% of the sanctuary is covered with Sal forest and other humid areas, including trees like Jaamun, Gutal, Semal, and Khair. The lower region consists of waterlogged grasslands and patches of Cane forests.
• Fauna: The sanctuary is home to various animals, including Leopard, Tiger, Jungle Cat, Small Indian Civet, Langur, Deer, Blue Bull, Wild Boar, and Porcupine.

27th IEEE WPMC 2024

• Overview: India recently hosted the 27th IEEE International Symposium on Wireless Personal Multimedia Communications (WPMC) 2024 in Greater Noida.
• Focus on 5G and 6G: Indian officials emphasized the country's advancements in telecommunications, transitioning from 5G deployment to exploring the future of 6G technology.
• Theme: The theme of the symposium, “Secure 6G – AI Nexus: Where Technology Meets Humanity,” highlights the intersection of 6G technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
• Venue: The event took place at Sharda University, bringing together experts and leaders from various countries to discuss wireless communication advancements.
• India's Innovation in Wireless Communication: An expert at the symposium noted India’s growing innovation ecosystem and its potential contributions to the global telecommunications sector, including filing around 10 patents related to 6G technology soon.
• Vision for 6G: The Indian government aims to achieve speeds of up to 1 terabit per second with ultra-low latency in 6G, positioning India as a leader in global telecommunications and enhancing socio-economic development.
• Potential of 6G Technology: Experts discussed the transformative potential of 6G, enabling advanced portable devices with high-frequency utilization and minimal latency, marking a significant step in global connectivity.

Cybersecurity Workshop in Uttar Pradesh

Recently, the National e-Governance Division (NeGD) organized a two-day workshop in collaboration with the Government of Uttar Pradesh to enhance cybersecurity awareness and resilience among state government officials.

• The workshop aimed to equip Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) and Deputy CISOs with essential skills to handle and mitigate cyber risks effectively.

Objectives of the Workshop

• Increase understanding of cybersecurity issues, threats, and frameworks.
• Enhance knowledge of the Cyber Resilience Ecosystem and the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in cybersecurity.
• Educate participants on the importance of Cyber Suraksha Kendra for protecting state-level e-governance systems.
• Provide insights into data protection, application security, and endpoint security.
• Train participants in developing Cyber Crisis Management Plans (CCMP) for effective incident response.
• Address challenges in identity and access management to secure government digital systems.

Cybersecurity Training Program by NeGD

• The Cybersecurity Training Program by NeGD is part of the State Capacity Building Scheme, aimed at strengthening cybersecurity resilience among state government officials.
• The program equips CISOs and Deputy CISOs with critical skills to handle and mitigate cyber risks effectively.
• NeGD, established in 2009 by the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, facilitates and catalyzes the implementation of the Digital India Program across Ministries and State Governments.

Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023

• The Digital Personal Data Protection Act aims to protect the digital personal data of individuals in India and regulate the collection, storage, processing, and sharing of such data.
• Key features include the establishment of a Data Protection Board of India to enforce compliance, requiring explicit consent for data collection and processing, and mandating data fiduciaries to implement reasonable security safeguards.

Trees Cut Down for Proposed Kanwar Yatra Route

• The National Green Tribunal (NGT) took suo motu cognizance of a news report about the Uttar Pradesh government's plan to cut down 1,12,722 trees for a proposed Kanwar Yatra route.
• The NGT's interim report revealed that authorities had already cut around 17,600 trees in Ghaziabad, Meerut, and Muzaffarnagar districts to create a new route for the Kanwar Yatra.
• The report indicated that the initial permission allowed for felling a large number of trees, but the target was later reduced significantly.
• The NGT instructed the Uttar Pradesh government to clarify whether the calculation of trees to be cut follows the U.P. Protection of Trees Act, 1976, and to specify if additional vegetation such as plants and bushes also falls under the Act's definition of trees.
• The Kanwar Yatra is a Hindu pilgrimage during the month of Shravana, where devotees of Lord Shiva travel to various pilgrimage sites such as Haridwar, Gangotri, Sultanganj, Prayagraj, Varanasi, and Gaumukh in Uttarakhand. 
• They carry water in kanwars and offer it to Shiva temples across India, including the Kashi Vishwanath temple, Baba Baidyanath Temple, and other shrines like the Pura Mahadev Mandir and Augharnath in Uttar Pradesh, and the famous Baidyanath Temple in Deoghar, Jharkhand. This ritual is known as Jal Abhishek.

Full Motion Simulator Facility Inaugurated in Agra

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has recently inaugurated a C-295 Full Motion Simulator (FMS) facility at Air Force Station Agra, Uttar Pradesh. This advanced simulator is set to play a crucial role in pilot training by allowing a significant portion of training to be conducted in a simulated environment, thereby conserving valuable flying hours on the actual aircraft.

• The C-295 FMS offers pilots near-realistic training experiences, replicating a wide range of missions including tactical airlift, para-dropping, para-trooping, medical evacuation, and disaster relief operations. By simulating critical scenarios, the FMS enhances pilots' preparedness for real-world operations and improves their ability to make quick, high-stakes decisions, ultimately contributing to the overall safety of military flights.
• The introduction of the C-295 aircraft into the IAF under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative signifies a boost for the country’s aerospace industry, marking the beginning of private-sector transport aircraft production in India.

C-295 Aircraft Overview

• The C-295 is a transport aircraft with a capacity of 5-10 tonnes, featuring contemporary technology.
• It is known for its robustness and reliability, making it a versatile and efficient tactical transport aircraft capable of performing various missions.

Key Features

• The aircraft has a flight endurance of up to 11 hours, allowing it to carry out multi-role operations in all weather conditions.
• It is capable of conducting day and night combat missions in diverse environments, from deserts to maritime settings.
• The C-295 is equipped with a rear ramp door for quick reactions and para-dropping of troops and cargo, and it can take off and land from semi-prepared surfaces.

Replacement of Ageing Fleet

• The C-295 aircraft will replace the Indian Air Force’s ageing fleet of Avro-748 planes.
• The Avro-748 planes, which are British-origin twin-engine turboprop military transport and freighter aircraft, have a freight capacity of 6 tonnes.

Deteriorating Water Quality of the Ganga River

Recently, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has raised concerns about the worsening water quality of the Ganga River in Uttar Pradesh due to the discharge of sewage and sullage into the river.

NGT's Findings

• The NGT found a 128 million litres per day (MLD) gap in sewage treatment in the Prayagraj district of Uttar Pradesh.
• There are 25 untapped drains in Prayagraj that discharge untreated sewage into the Ganga, and 15 others discharge into the Yamuna.
• Out of 326 drains in Uttar Pradesh, 247 are untapped and discharge wastewater into the Ganga and its tributaries.

NGT's Directives

• The NGT has ordered the Uttar Pradesh chief secretary to submit an affidavit detailing each drain's sewage, connected sewage treatment plants (STPs), and timelines for making STPs functional.
• The affidavit should also include short-term measures to prevent untreated sewage discharge.

Issues with Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs)

• The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) report indicated that six out of 41 STPs in 16 Ganga-front towns are non-operational.
• Only one of the 35 functional plants complies with regulations.
• The water quality at 41 locations showed faecal coliform levels exceeding safe limits, with some locations indicating severe pollution from untreated sewage.

Role of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)

• The CPCB was constituted in 1974 under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act and is responsible for various functions under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act and the Environment (Protection) Act.
• It provides technical services to the Ministry of Environment and Forests and Climate Change.

Supreme Court Ruling on Aligarh Muslim University’s Minority Status

Background

• The Supreme Court recently made a significant ruling regarding the minority status of the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU).
• This decision came in response to petitions aimed at restoring AMU’s minority status, which had been invalidated by the Allahabad High Court in 2006.

Key Points from the Supreme Court Ruling

• The Court overturned a 1967 Constitution Bench decision that stated AMU could not be considered a minority institution because it was established by a statute and was a central university.
• It was determined that an institution created by a minority community qualifies as a minority educational institution, regardless of its legal constitution.
• The purpose of such institutions is to preserve the community’s cultural fabric, and minority status does not depend on the institution being solely for the community but predominantly benefiting it.
• The Court also found that the loss of administrative control by the community does not strip the institution of its minority character.

Significance of Article 30(1)

• Article 30(1) of the Constitution grants minorities the right to establish and manage educational institutions to preserve their educational and cultural values.
• The right to administer does not require community members to manage the institution but ensures its autonomy to maintain community-specific educational goals.

AMU’s Background and Legal Battle

• AMU was established in 1875 and was granted minority status by Parliament through the AMU (Amendment) Act, 1981.
• However, this provision was invalidated by the Allahabad High Court in 2006, leading to the legal battle for restoration.

Government’s Position

• The Central Government argued that AMU, as an institution of national importance, could not be considered a minority institution due to its national character.
• The government contended that AMU is not limited to any particular religion or community, emphasizing its broader mission.

AMU’s Perspective

• AMU maintained that it was originally established by the Muslim community to provide education and empowerment to its members, reflecting its foundational purpose and commitment to the community.

New Rules for Appointing Police Chief in Uttar Pradesh

The Uttar Pradesh government has introduced new rules for appointing the state’s Director General of Police (DGP).

Details of the New Rules:

• The UP Cabinet approved the Director General of Police, Uttar Pradesh Selection and Appointment Rules, 2024.
• DGPs will be selected by a committee that considers the officer’s service record, experience, and remaining tenure.
• Only officers with at least six months of service left before retirement are eligible for the post.
• Appointed DGPs will serve a minimum of two years.
• The selection committee includes a retired judge, the UP Chief Secretary, a representative of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), and others.

Existing Practice:

• Previously, the state government had to send a list of eligible senior officers to the UPSC three months before the incumbent DGP’s retirement.
• The UPSC would review the list and send a shortlist of three candidates to the state for the final appointment.
• Only officers with a minimum remaining tenure of six months from the date of vacancy creation were eligible for the DGP appointment.
• Once appointed, the DGP would have a minimum tenure of two years.

Reason for New Rules:

• The new rules were introduced in response to a contempt notice from the Supreme Court following multiple petitions challenging the appointment of temporary DGPs.
• The petitions argued that temporary appointments violated Supreme Court directives meant to insulate the police from political influence.
• Unlike 17 other states that have enacted their own Police Acts, Uttar Pradesh had not done so until now.

Supreme Court Upholds Uttar Pradesh Madrasa Education Board Act, 2004

The Supreme Court has partially upheld the constitutional validity of the Uttar Pradesh Madrasa Education Board Act, 2004. This Act gives the state the authority to regulate madrasa education to ensure quality and standards.

Supreme Court’s Findings:

• The Court found provisions related to higher education, particularly at the Fazil (undergraduate) and Kamil (postgraduate) levels, to be unconstitutional.
• These provisions were deemed to conflict with the Union’s exclusive jurisdiction as per Entry 66 of the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution.
• The Act aligns with the state’s responsibility to ensure students in recognized madrasas acquire a minimum level of competency, enabling them to contribute to society and earn a living.

Article 30 and Educational Standards:

• The Court highlighted that while minorities have the right under Article 30 of the Constitution to establish and manage their educational institutions, this right is not absolute.
• The state can impose regulatory conditions to maintain educational standards in minority institutions for aid and recognition.
• The Court interpreted ‘education’ in Entry 25 of the Concurrent List broadly, asserting that madrasas, while imparting religious education, primarily serve an educational purpose.
• The Madrasa Board’s role in conducting exams and issuing certificates further aligns with the educational framework.

Article 21A and Secularism:

• The Supreme Court overturned the Allahabad High Court’s decision that the 2004 Act violated Article 21A (Right to Education) and the principle of secularism in the Constitution.
• The Court clarified that Article 21A should be read in conjunction with the rights of religious and linguistic minorities to establish educational institutions.

Uttar Pradesh Government Expands Sanskrit Scholarship Scheme

• Launch of New Scholarship Scheme: The Uttar Pradesh government has introduced a new scholarship scheme to support Sanskrit education, significantly enhancing eligibility and funding for students.
• Expansion of Beneficiaries: The revised scheme now supports 69,195 students with a budget of Rs. 586 lakh, a substantial increase from the previous scheme that benefited only 300 students.
• Removal of Age Limits: Unlike the previous scheme, which imposed strict age limits, the new scholarship is open to all qualified Sanskrit students across Uttar Pradesh, regardless of age.
• Emphasis on Sanskrit’s Relevance: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted the relevance of Sanskrit to scientific fields such as computer science, encouraging students to view Sanskrit as a language with broad applications in various domains.
• Support for Gurukul-Style Education: The government plans to revive traditional Gurukul-style schools, with improved support for residential facilities and the hiring of qualified teachers to enhance the quality of education in these institutions.
• Establishment of a Vedic Science Center: A Vedic science center will be set up to facilitate research that integrates traditional Sanskrit knowledge with modern scientific inquiry, promoting a harmonious blend of ancient wisdom and contemporary science.

Preparations for Kumbh Mela 2025

Kumbh Mela

• Recently, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh announced plans to enhance the safety and cultural richness of the Kumbh Mela 2025.
• Enhanced Safety Measures: Advanced security and surveillance systems, including drones, will be deployed for crowd control and emergency response.
• Cultural Showcases: Traditional performances and exhibitions highlighting India’s diverse heritage will be featured throughout the Mela.
• Infrastructural Developments: Road expansion, improved sanitation, and upgraded facilities are prioritized to accommodate millions of pilgrims.
• Environment-Friendly Initiatives: Steps will be taken to minimize waste and maintain the cleanliness of the Ganga River and surrounding areas.

Significance of Kumbh Mela

• Kumbh Mela is the largest peaceful gathering of pilgrims where participants bathe or take a dip in a sacred river.
• It is recognized by UNESCO as part of the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
• The festival is held every four years at Prayagraj (confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati), Haridwar (on the Ganges), Ujjain (on the Shipra), and Nasik (on the Godavari), attended by millions regardless of caste, creed, or gender.
• Each location involves different social and cultural activities, making it a culturally diverse festival.
• The event encompasses astronomy, astrology, spirituality, ritualistic traditions, and social customs, rich in knowledge.
• Knowledge and skills related to Kumbh Mela are transmitted through ancient manuscripts, oral traditions, historical texts, and the teacher-student relationship of sadhus in ashrams and akhadas.