UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 19th November 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS2/International Relations

What is the Eastern Maritime Corridor (EMC)?

Source: Economic Times

Why in News?

The Chennai-Vladivostok eastern maritime corridor has recently become operational, facilitating the transportation of oil, food, and machinery, as stated by the Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways.

Overview of the Eastern Maritime Corridor (EMC)

• The EMC, connecting Chennai to Vladivostok, aims to enhance maritime trade between India and Russia.
• This corridor significantly shortens the cargo transit time, reducing it by up to 16 days.
• Distance is cut down by approximately 40%, leading to improved transportation efficiency.

Current Route Comparison

• The traditional route from Mumbai to St. Petersburg spans 8,675 nautical miles (16,066 km).
• Currently, it takes around 40 days for a large container ship to reach Russia's Far East via Europe.
• In contrast, the EMC route from Chennai to Vladivostok is only 5,647 nautical miles (10,458 km).

Logistical Benefits

• The EMC provides a substantial savings of 5,608 km in distance, leading to reduced logistical costs.
• This improvement enhances the efficiency of cargo transportation between India, Russia, and other Asian countries.

Geographical Route Details

• The EMC traverses significant water bodies, including:
  • Sea of Japan
  • East China Sea
  • South China Sea
  • Malacca Straits
  • Andaman Sea
  • Bay of Bengal

Potential Stops Along the Route

• The route allows for various stops if necessary, including:
  • Dalian
  • Shanghai
  • Hong Kong
  • Ho Chi Minh City
  • Singapore
  • Kuala Lumpur
  • Bangkok
  • Dhaka
  • Colombo
  • Chennai

GS2/International Relations

G20 Summit in Rio begins

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

The G20 summit commenced at the Modern Art Museum in Rio de Janeiro, hosted by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Prominent leaders, including India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Joe Biden, and China's Xi Jinping, are engaging in discussions concerning trade, climate change, and international security. Prime Minister Modi addressed the opening session focusing on 'Social Inclusion and the Fight against Hunger and Poverty.'

Key highlights of the speech delivered by PM Modi

• Overview
  • The G20 is a coalition of finance ministers and central bank governors from 19 countries along with the European Union, established in 1999.
  • In response to the global financial crisis of 2008, it was elevated to a forum for Heads of State and Government in 2008.
  • It operates as a forum rather than a legislative body, meaning its agreements and decisions do not have legal status but can influence national policies and foster global cooperation.
• Members
  • The G20 comprises 19 countries and the EU, including:
    • Argentina
    • Australia
    • Brazil
    • Canada
    • China
    • France
    • Germany
    • India
    • Indonesia
    • Italy
    • Japan
    • Mexico
    • Russia
    • Saudi Arabia
    • South Africa
    • South Korea
    • Turkey
    • United Kingdom
    • United States
  • Special Invitees include guest nations and organizations like the United Nations and the World Bank that participate in G20 summits.
• Aims/Objectives
  • Economic Stability: To promote global economic growth and financial stability.
  • Sustainable Development: To advance policies addressing climate change and fostering equitable development.
  • Crisis Management: To coordinate responses to financial and health crises, such as COVID-19.
  • Global Collaboration: To enhance multilateral cooperation on trade, investment, and innovation.
  • Inclusivity: To ensure representation of both advanced and emerging economies, especially from the Global South.
• Achievements (Examples)
  • Financial Crisis Mitigation (2008): Coordinated international efforts to address the global financial crisis and avert a deeper recession.
  • Paris Agreement Support (2015): Contributed significantly to building international consensus on climate change objectives.
  • Debt Relief for Developing Nations (2020): Initiated the Debt Service Suspension Initiative (DSSI) during the pandemic to assist vulnerable countries.
  • COVID-19 Pandemic: Played a role in vaccine distribution and formulating economic recovery plans through global collaboration.
  • In March 2020, G20 leaders committed to injecting $5 trillion into the global economy to mitigate the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
  • Digital Transformation (2023): Focused on developing digital public infrastructure to address the global digital divide during India's G20 presidency.
• Key Highlights of PM Modi’s Speech at the G20 Summit
  • Focus on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Commended Brazil's agenda for prioritizing SDGs and the concerns of the Global South.
  • Highlighted the continuity of India's G20 presidency theme: “One Earth, One Family, One Future.”
  • India’s Achievements in Poverty Alleviation and Food Security:
    • Successfully lifted 250 million individuals out of poverty over the past decade.
    • Provides free food grains to 800 million citizens.
    • 550 million people benefit from the world's largest health insurance scheme.
    • Promotes a 'Back to Basics and March to Future' strategy for enhancing food security.
  • Global Contributions and Collaboration: Strengthened food security in Africa, offering humanitarian assistance to Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
  • Supported Brazil’s initiative to form a 'Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty.'
  • Support for the Global South: Stressed the need to address issues faced by the Global South, particularly in relation to food, fuel, and fertilizer shortages resulting from global conflicts.
  • Women-Led Development and Nutrition: Emphasized India’s initiatives aimed at promoting women-led development and focusing on nutrition as a critical aspect of food security efforts.
  • Contentious Ukraine War Discussions:
    • Negotiating a joint statement has been difficult, especially regarding the situation in Ukraine.
    • European leaders are advocating for stronger language following a recent Russian airstrike, while President Biden announced that the US would ease restrictions on Ukraine's use of US-made weapons for strikes within Russia.
  • Brazil’s G20 Agenda:
    • Brazil's agenda prioritizes sustainable development, taxing the wealthy, combating poverty, and reforming global financial institutions.
    • Anticipated resistance from the incoming US administration regarding taxation reforms may pose challenges.
  • Climate and Energy Commitments:
    • President Biden promised financial support to the World Bank’s International Development Association and announced a clean energy partnership with Brazil.
    • In contrast, Xi Jinping promoted the Belt & Road Initiative, despite Brazil's decision not to participate.
  • Trade Tensions and Economic Policies:
    • Trade negotiations were overshadowed by concerns of an escalating US-China trade conflict, with plans for new tariffs being discussed.
    • Efforts to implement a tax on the wealthy faced opposition, particularly from Argentina.

GS3/Environment

Genus Koima

Source: DTE

Why in News?

A team of researchers has identified a new genus of freshwater fish named Koima, which is native to the Western Ghats.

About Genus Koima:

• The name "Koima" originates from the Malayalam language, specifically referring to loaches.
• This genus includes two known species that were previously classified under the genus Nemacheilus.

Features of genus Koima:

• It is characterized by a distinct coloration with a yellowish-brown base.
• There is a single row of black spots along the lateral line.
• All fins are hyaline (transparent).
• There is no uniform banding pattern on the dorsal side of the fish.

Habitat:

• Koima species are found in several rivers of the Western Ghats, including the Kunthi, Bhavani, Moyar, Kabini, and Pambar rivers.

Species belonging to Genus Koima:

• Koima remadevii:
  • This species is typically found in fast-flowing streams with rocky substrates, including rocks, boulders, and gravel.
  • It thrives in areas with scattered sand and silt patches.
  • Koima remadevii seeks refuge in the spaces between rocks and under boulders, which provides protection from strong water currents.
  • Currently, it is only documented from its type locality in the Kunthi River, located within the Silent Valley National Park.
• Koima monilis:
  • This species inhabits various tributaries of the Cauvery River.
  • It occupies a range of microhabitats, from large rivers to small, rapidly flowing streams.
  • Koima monilis can be found at elevations ranging from 350 to 800 meters.

GS2/Governance

Grievance Redressal Assessment And Index

Source: PIB

Why in news?

Recently, the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology has launched the Grievance Redressal Assessment and Index (GRAI) 2023.

About Grievance Redressal Assessment And Index:

• GRAI was conceptualized and developed by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), under the Government of India, following recommendations from the Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions.
• The primary aim of GRAI is to provide a comparative analysis of organizations, highlighting both strengths and areas needing improvement in their grievance redressal mechanisms.
• The inaugural edition of GRAI, which is GRAI 2022, was released on June 21, 2023.
• A total of eighty-nine Central Ministries and Departments were evaluated and ranked using a detailed index based on four key dimensions:
  • Efficiency
  • Feedback
  • Domain
  • Organizational Commitment
• The assessment employed data collected from the Centralised Public Grievance Redressal and Management System (CPGRAMS) for the year 2023.
• Top rankings were achieved by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, the Office of the Comptroller & Auditor General of India, and the Department of Investment & Public Asset Management in Groups A, B, and C, respectively.
• The report provides a comprehensive two-dimensional analysis (both vertical and horizontal) to identify the root causes affecting the efficacy of grievance redressal across various Ministries and Departments, presented in an easily interpretable color-coded format.
• Additionally, the report outlines technical partnerships that DARPG has engaged to assist Ministries and Departments in effectively utilizing CPGRAMS as a tool for grievance redressal.
• It also offers a clear roadmap and recommendations for Ministries and Departments to capitalize on CPGRAMS and its features, such as IGMS 2.0 and TreeDashboard, to improve grievance management.
• The suggested roadmap emphasizes the integration of advanced technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), to enhance data analysis, predictive analytics, and preventive actions, along with updates to the ATR formats for improved reporting.
• Key recommendations include capacity building for Grievance Redressal Officers (GROs), increasing accountability through regular audits, and extending CPGRAMS integration to the third tier of government.

GS3/Science and Technology

Postage Stamp released on Sickle Cell Eradication – 2047

Source: PIB

Why in news?

Madhya Pradesh marked a significant milestone in public health by unveiling a commemorative postage stamp dedicated to the initiative aimed at eradicating sickle cell anaemia by the year 2047.

What is the Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)?

• Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a genetic disorder characterized by the abnormal shape of red blood cells, which resemble a crescent or sickle. This shape impairs blood circulation and can lead to serious health complications.
• Complications associated with SCD include chronic anaemia, organ damage, painful episodes known as sickle cell crises, and a reduced lifespan.
• The disease predominantly affects marginalized tribal populations in India.

Symptoms:

• Chronic anaemia, which is a low red blood cell count.
• Painful episodes or crises that can occur suddenly.
• Delayed growth and puberty in children.

Treatment:

• Current treatments include blood transfusions, which are used to manage severe anaemia.
• Hydroxyurea is a medication that can help reduce the frequency of pain episodes.
• Advanced treatment options like gene therapy and stem cell transplantation may offer long-term solutions for some patients.

India’s Mission:

• The Union Budget for 2023-24 announced a national mission to eradicate sickle cell anaemia by 2047, which will emphasize awareness and screening for individuals aged 0-40.
• The Anaemia Mukt Bharat Strategy aims to provide bi-weekly iron and folic acid supplementation to all children under five years old, facilitated by ASHA workers.

What are the key facts about the Initiative?

• Aims and Objectives:
  • Complete eradication of sickle cell anaemia by 2047.
  • Increase awareness and screening in tribal communities.
  • Ensure accessible diagnosis and treatment, utilizing tools like High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC).
  • Provide genetic counseling to prevent the disease.
  • Implement technology-driven monitoring through a mobile app and the National Sickle Cell Portal.
• Features of the Program:
  • Newborn screening and prenatal diagnostics will be conducted at AIIMS Bhopal.
  • The initiative will expand nationwide to 17 states by the target year of 2047.
  • Advanced testing capabilities using HPLC machines will be employed.
  • Community engagement will be promoted via support groups and educational initiatives.
• Implementation:
  • Collaborations will be formed with institutions like AIIMS Bhopal and Sankalp India, as well as other healthcare providers.
  • The program will be rolled out in phases, beginning with regions with high prevalence rates in Madhya Pradesh.
  • Government funding will support infrastructure improvements and technological development.
  • Digital technology will facilitate data collection and case management for effective monitoring.

GS3/Environment

Thai sacbrood Virus

Source:Frontiners

Why in News?

Research has revealed the transmission of pathogens between managed honey bee populations and wild pollinators, a phenomenon known as pathogen spillover and spillback.

Overview of Thai Sacbrood Virus:

• Thai sacbrood virus poses a significant threat to the Asiatic honey bee population.
• The viral strain affecting western honey bees is less harmful compared to that of the Asiatic honey bee.
• The infection caused by this virus primarily results in the mortality of bee larvae.

Geographical Spread:

• Between 1991 and 1992, an outbreak of the Thai sacbrood virus led to the loss of approximately 90% of Asiatic honey bee colonies in South India.
• The virus resurfaced in 2021 in Telangana and has also been identified in other countries such as China and Vietnam.

Key Facts about Indian Bees:

• India is home to over 700 species of bees, including four native honey bee varieties:
  • Apis cerana indica (Indian honey bee)
  • Apis dorsata (Giant rock bee)
  • Apis florea (Dwarf honey bee)
  • Trigona sp. (Stingless bee)
• Western honey bees were introduced to India in 1983 to enhance honey production.

Understanding Pathogen Spillover:

• Pathogen spillover refers to the event when a pathogen, specific to one species, successfully infects a different, susceptible host.
• An example of this is the transmission of the Nipah virus from bats to pigs.

Understanding Pathogen Spillback:

• Pathogen spillback occurs when a pathogen is transmitted from a new host species back to its original host.
• An example is the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from humans to wild-caught bats.

GS2/International Relations

Key Facts about Sudan

Source: World Vision

Why in News?

In a move strongly condemned by the UK and US, Russia has vetoed a draft UK-backed UN Security Council resolution calling for a ceasefire in Sudan.

About Sudan:

• Sudan is located in northeastern Africa.
• It shares borders with South Sudan, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Egypt, Libya, Chad, and the Central African Republic.
• The country extends from the Sahara desert in the north down to the forests of West Africa, including the Congo River basin.
• Sudan has a significant coastline along the Red Sea, which is crucial for access to the Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea via the Suez Canal.
• Capital: The capital city, Khartoum, is situated approximately at the center of the country, at the confluence of the Blue Nile and White Nile rivers.
• Currency: The currency used is the Sudanese pound (SDG).

Colonial Rule:

• Sudan experienced Egyptian occupation in the early 19th century.
• An agreement established a joint British-Egyptian administration in 1899, effectively making Sudan a British colony.
• Since gaining independence from Anglo-Egyptian control in 1956, military regimes with Islamic-oriented agendas have predominantly influenced the country's politics.
• Sudan was the largest country in Africa until the secession of South Sudan in 2011, encompassing an area that was over 8% of Africa and nearly 2% of the global land area.
• A significant portion of Sudan is characterized by deserts and arid grasslands, with vast plains and plateaus dominating the landscape.

Current Crisis:

• A power struggle erupted in April 2023 between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, which was triggered by a planned transition to civilian governance.
• This conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and has initiated the world's largest displacement crisis.
• Currently, one-third of Sudan's population is facing acute food insecurity, with projections indicating that this number may rise to 40%.

GS3/Environment

Should Fossil Fuels Be Regulated Like Nuclear Weapons?

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

A growing coalition of governments and civil society organizations is advocating for a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty (FF-NPT), aimed at phasing out fossil fuels and promoting a just transition to renewable energy.

About:

• The FF-NPT was conceptualized in 2016 and officially launched in 2019, proposing to make it legally binding for nations to cease fossil fuel extraction, reduce existing production, and manage a just transition to renewable energy.
• Inspired by international treaties that regulate nuclear weapons, this initiative aims to address the escalating climate crisis by limiting fossil fuel production and ensuring equitable access to energy globally.
• Originating around the time of the Paris Agreement, the FF-NPT has received endorsements from notable figures, including former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon, indigenous communities, and small island states.
• Recent developments include discussions at COP29 to the UNFCCC in Baku, where 10 additional countries joined the talks on FF-NPT, although their names have not been disclosed.
• The treaty has been supported by 13 Small Island Developing States in the Pacific, such as Vanuatu and Tuvalu, along with major coal-producing nations like Colombia.
• A collective endorsement from 25 members of the Global Alliance for Banking on Values marks a significant financial sector backing for this initiative.

Need and Significance of the FF-NPT:

• Need:
  • Proponents argue that despite its importance, the Paris Agreement does not directly address fossil fuel production.
  • Tzeporah Berman, chair of the FF-NPT initiative, noted alarming global emissions trends at COP29, predicting that fossil fuel emissions in 2024 could exceed 2015 levels by 8%.
  • 2024 is anticipated to be the hottest year on record, with ongoing fossil fuel production incompatible with the target of limiting global warming to 1.5°C.
  • Current policies may lead to a temperature increase of up to 3°C, posing catastrophic risks to humanity.
  • As fossil fuel emissions continue to rise, the threat to the planet's future intensifies.
• Significance:
  • The proposed treaty is designed to reinforce the Paris Agreement, particularly through initiatives such as the New Collective Quantified Goal, which aims to establish new financial targets to support climate actions in developing nations after 2025.
  • It also seeks to enhance Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and Just Transition Work Programmes.

Understanding the FF-NPT Framework and Challenges:

• Framework:
  • The FF-NPT is built on three core pillars:
    • Non-proliferation: Preventing the increase in coal, oil, and gas production through international collaboration.
    • Fair phase-out: Reducing existing fossil fuel production equitably, prioritizing wealthier nations with historically high emissions.
    • Just transition: Promoting the adoption of renewable energy and diversifying economies to ensure that no community, worker, or nation is left behind.
  • Since its official launch in 2019, the FF-NPT has encountered significant financial challenges, particularly in supporting climate-vulnerable nations to transition away from fossil fuels.
  • Without adequate funding, developing nations struggle to shift to renewable energy or mitigate the impacts of climate change.

India's Position on the FF-NPT and Way Ahead for the FF-NPT:

• India's position:
  • Although India has not been deeply involved, the significance of the FF-NPT initiative is acknowledged.
  • As a major fossil fuel consumer, India’s emissions are projected to increase by 4.6% in 2024, according to the Global Carbon Project.
  • Advocates believe that India could gain from the treaty, ensuring justice and equity during the global energy transition.
• Way ahead:
  • The treaty must align with the goals of the Paris Agreement, supporting financial mechanisms like the...

Conclusion:

• The FF-NPT presents a bold vision for addressing the climate crisis by regulating fossil fuel production similarly to nuclear disarmament.
• With growing support from governments, financial institutions, and vulnerable nations, the initiative highlights the urgent need for global cooperation and equitable solutions.
• However, both financial and political hurdles must be addressed to transform this vision into a legally binding reality.

GS1/Indian Society

Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana

Source: Mint

Why in news?

Within a short span of three weeks following its launch, over 1 million senior citizens have registered for the Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana (AVVY). This scheme is designed specifically for senior citizens, providing them with essential health coverage.

About

• Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana is a pension scheme paired with an insurance policy aimed at senior citizens in India.
• It is important to differentiate this from the Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PM-VVY). The former is specifically focused on healthcare benefits.

Features and Provisions

• Offers cashless health coverage up to ₹5 lakh annually for senior citizens aged 70 and above.
• Beneficiaries receive an Ayushman Vay Vandana Card, allowing them to access free treatment at empaneled hospitals across India.
• Coverage encompasses a wide range of services including medical consultations, treatments, pre- and post-hospitalization expenses, and complex procedures like angioplasty.

Structural Mandate

• The scheme is administered under the PM-JAY framework, ensuring effective implementation and integration with India's health insurance system.
• It operates in both urban and rural empaneled hospitals, providing nationwide accessibility.
• A centralized digital system monitors treatments, patient details, and expenses, promoting transparency and accountability.
• Specifically tailored for senior citizens, it addresses their distinct healthcare needs.

Aims and Objectives

• Aims to provide universal healthcare for senior citizens, ensuring they have access to vital medical treatments without financial burden.
• Seeks to diminish out-of-pocket expenses for elderly individuals and their families.
• Encourages preventive healthcare and early medical intervention for age-related health issues.

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to all Indian citizens who are aged 70 and above.
• No income or family size restrictions are imposed, making it accessible to all senior citizens regardless of their economic conditions.
• Beneficiaries are required to register under PM-JAY to obtain the AVV Card and avail themselves of the benefits.

GS3/Science and Technology

One Day One Genome Initiative

Source:PIB

Why in news?

The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC) have launched the 'One Day One Genome' initiative, highlighting India's vast microbial diversity.

• This initiative aims to bring attention to the unique bacterial species present in India, focusing on their significant contributions to the environment, agriculture, and human health.
• It is coordinated by the Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council-National Institute of Biomedical Genomics (BRIC-NIBMG), which operates under the Department of Biotechnology.
• The initiative will release a fully annotated bacteriological genome isolated from India, making it freely accessible to the public.
• Accompanying this release will be detailed graphical summaries, infographics, and genome assembly/annotation details.
• These resources will provide insights into the scientific and industrial applications of these microbes.
• The goal is to enhance the accessibility of microbial genomics data, benefiting the general public and researchers, which in turn encourages discussions and innovations that can improve community and ecosystem well-being.

Role of microorganisms

• Microorganisms are vital for maintaining ecosystem balance.
• They contribute significantly to various biogeochemical cycles, soil formation, mineral purification, and the breakdown of organic waste and toxic substances.
• Microorganisms also play a role in methane production, supporting the overall homeostasis of our planet.
• In agriculture, they are essential for nutrient cycling, nitrogen fixation, and enhancing soil fertility.
• They assist in pest and weed control and help plants respond to environmental stress.
• Microbes have symbiotic relationships with plants, aiding in nutrient and water absorption.
• Interestingly, the human body contains more microbial cells than human cells, which are crucial for digestion, immune function, and even mental health.
• While pathogenic microorganisms are responsible for infectious diseases, non-pathogenic ones are crucial for our defense against such diseases.

GS2/Governance

CAG flags 42% resource-expenditure gap, 37% staff vacancy

Source: Indian Express

Why in news?

The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has highlighted significant financial and operational challenges faced by urban local bodies (ULBs) in 18 states, which cater to 241 million residents. A notable finding is a 42% gap between their income and expenditures, with merely 29% of the budget allocated for development activities.

Key Findings of the Report

• Resource-Expenditure Gap: ULBs in 18 states experience a significant disparity between income and expenditures, with only 29% of spending directed towards development initiatives.
• Revenue Dependence: These bodies generate only 32% of their revenue independently, relying largely on funds from the Union and state governments, and manage to collect just 56% of their property tax demands.
• Staff Shortages and Limited Recruitment Powers: ULBs face an average staff vacancy rate of 37%, with 16 states granting them limited or no autonomy to recruit personnel.
• Incomplete Implementation of the 74th Amendment: Although on average 17 out of 18 functions have been devolved, compliance remains inadequate, particularly in critical sectors like urban planning and fire services.

Implications of the Resource-Expenditure Gap

• Reduced Development Expenditure: Only 29% of expenditures are directed towards essential programs, negatively impacting urban services such as sanitation, housing, and infrastructure.
• Increased Dependence on Grants: With only 32% of revenue sourced independently, ULBs depend heavily on transfers from state and Union governments, compromising their financial autonomy.
• Poor Service Delivery: Limited resources impede ULBs' ability to address urban challenges, leading to issues in housing, waste management, and public health services.
• Impact on Urban Planning: Financial constraints restrict investments in urban planning and vital services, resulting in unregulated growth and increasing vulnerabilities.

Impact of the 37% Staff Vacancy Rate on Government Operations

• Operational Inefficiency: Vacant positions hinder timely service delivery and maintenance of urban infrastructure, leading to governance inefficiencies.
• Overburdened Workforce: Remaining staff face increased workloads, risking burnout and diminished productivity.
• Limited Capacity for Resource Mobilization: Shortages in tax collection staff contribute to only 56% of property tax demand being realized, limiting revenue generation.
• Weak Local Governance: A lack of sufficient personnel to manage devolved functions impedes the execution of urban development policies and schemes.

What are Urban Local Bodies?

• The formation and operations of ULBs are governed by the 74th Amendment to the Constitution of India, enacted in 1992, which establishes a framework for urban self-governance.
• ULBs are classified into three categories: Municipal Corporations (for large cities), Municipalities (for smaller towns), and Nagar Panchayats (for transitional areas).

Measures for Improving Resource Mobilization and Management (Way Forward)

• Enhancing Own Revenue Generation: ULBs should improve revenue collection, especially in property tax, where they currently realize only 56% of the demand. Implementing technology, such as GIS, could enhance collection efficiency.
• Financial Management Training: Providing training to ULB officials on financial management can improve budgeting practices, ensuring effective allocation of funds towards development projects.
• Strengthening Autonomy: Granting ULBs greater autonomy in recruitment and financial decisions would enable them to address local needs more effectively and enhance service delivery.
• Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): Encouraging partnerships with private sector entities can leverage additional resources for urban development, while sharing the risks of large-scale investments.
• Community Engagement Initiatives: Involving citizens in budgeting processes can foster transparency and accountability, leading to better resource allocation aligned with community priorities.

Mains PYQ

Analyse the role of local bodies in providing good governance at the local level and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of merging rural local bodies with urban local bodies. (UPSC IAS/2024)

UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 19th November 2024