PIB Summary- 13th March, 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Tripartite MoU signed among USOF, Prasar Bharati and ONDC: Propelling the mandate for Digital Empowerment for Rural India

Context

The Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) collaborates with Prasar Bharati and Open Network for Digital Commerce to provide bundled broadband, OTT, and e-commerce services for rural India’s development.

Additional information on this news:

• The Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Prasar Bharati and Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) to enhance affordable and accessible digital services in rural India.
• The collaboration aims to bundle broadband services with Over-The-Top (OTT) and e-commerce platforms, utilizing the BharatNet infrastructure under the USOF.
• The initiative aligns with the Government’s vision to foster a conducive environment for digital innovation, emphasizing connectivity, content, and commerce to empower rural India.
• USOF, instrumental in providing high-speed broadband and mobile connections in Gram Panchayats and villages, will ensure efficient broadband services in rural areas. Prasar Bharati will offer bundled OTT services, including linear channels, Live TV, and on-demand content, sourced and produced with its legacy content.
• ONDC, a digital infrastructure leader, will provide technical expertise for enabling digital commerce, extending services to education, health, training, credit, insurance, agriculture, and more.

Digital empowerment of rural India
Significance:

• Inclusive Development: Digital empowerment ensures that rural communities have access to information, education, and opportunities, promoting inclusive development.
• Economic Growth: Digital technologies enable rural entrepreneurs to connect with markets, access financial services, and improve agricultural practices, contributing to economic growth.
• Education: Digital tools facilitate remote learning, improving educational outcomes in rural areas and bridging the urban-rural education gap.
• Healthcare Access: Digital platforms enhance healthcare delivery, providing telemedicine services and access to health information in remote areas.
• Bridges the rural-urban divide: Access to information, education, and essential services.

Challenges:

• Infrastructure: Inadequate digital infrastructure in rural areas poses a significant challenge, limiting access to reliable internet and electricity.
• Digital Literacy: Limited digital literacy among rural populations hinders their ability to leverage technology effectively for personal and economic development.
• Affordability: High costs of devices and data services create barriers to entry for many in rural communities.
• Cultural Barriers: Resistance to change and unfamiliarity with digital tools may impede the adoption of technology in rural settings.

Way Forward:

• Infrastructure Development: Invest in expanding digital infrastructure, ensuring widespread access to high-speed internet and reliable electricity.
• Digital Literacy Programs: Implement comprehensive digital literacy programs to empower rural communities with the skills needed to navigate the digital landscape.
• Affordable Technology: Introduce subsidies and initiatives to make digital devices and services more affordable for rural populations.
• Community Engagement: Foster community engagement to address cultural barriers and build trust in digital technologies.
• Tailored Solutions: Develop and implement customized digital solutions that address the specific needs and challenges of rural India.

Digital empowerment of rural India holds immense potential for transforming lives, fostering economic development, and bridging the urban-rural divide. Addressing challenges through strategic interventions will pave the way for a more inclusive and connected future.

Three Members sworn in to the Lokpal of India, Lokpal of India office now at its full strength of nine members including the Chairperson

Context

The Chairperson, Lokpal of India, Shri Justice Khanwilkar, administered oaths to three new members, including former Chief Justices and a former Chief Election Commissioner, bringing Lokpal to full strength.

Additional information on this news:

• Chairperson, Lokpal of India, Shri Justice Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar administered the oath to new members in a ceremony at Lokpal of India Campus, New Delhi.
• Judicial Members: Shri Justice Lingappa Narayana Swamy and Shri Justice Sanjay Yadav.
• Member: Shri Sushil Chandra, a 1980 batch IRS (IT) officer and former Chief Election Commissioner of India.
• Shri Justice Lingappa Narayana Swamy was the Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court.
• Shri Justice Sanjay Yadav was the Chief Justice of Allahabad High Court.
• Shri Sushil Chandra previously served as Chairperson of the Central Board of Direct Taxes.
• The Lokpal of India now has its full strength of nine members, including the Chairperson.

More about Lokpal of India

• The Lokpal of India, established by the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, serves as an anti-corruption ombudsman.
• Comprising a Chairperson and a maximum of eight members, with at least 50% being judicial members, the Lokpal is appointed through a transparent process.
• Its jurisdiction covers the Prime Minister, Ministers, Members of Parliament, government officials, and employees of government-controlled organizations.
• Endowed with powers to inquire into corruption allegations against public officials, the Lokpal can recommend appropriate actions and initiate investigations based on complaints or suo motu.
• The Lokpal has its Investigation Wing for preliminary inquiries, with subsequent cases referred to investigative agencies for further action.
• In addition to recommending criminal proceedings, the Lokpal can suggest preventive measures and systemic reforms to curb corruption in public administration.
• Appeals against Lokpal decisions can be made to the Supreme Court.
• Challenges faced by the Lokpal include resource constraints and coordination issues with existing anti-corruption bodies.
• Despite challenges, the Lokpal signifies a crucial step in combating corruption, fostering transparency, and ensuring accountability in governance.

India's Index of Industrial Production grows by 3.8% in January 2024

Context

The Quick Estimates of Index of Industrial Production (IIP) for January 2024 reveal a base of 153.0, with sector-specific indices and use-based classifications, undergoing subsequent revisions.

Additional information on this news:

• The Quick Estimates of the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) for January 2024, with a base of 2011-12, stand at 153.0.
• Sector-wise indices for January 2024 are 144.1 for Mining, 150.1 for Manufacturing, and 197.1 for Electricity.
• Use-based classification indices for the same period are 154.2 for Primary Goods, 109.2 for Capital Goods, 163.0 for Intermediate Goods, and 185.0 for Infrastructure/Construction Goods.
• Consumer durables and Consumer non-durables have indices of 120.7 and 163.9, respectively, in January 2024.
• Quick Estimates will undergo revision, following the revision policy of IIP.

Index of Industrial Production (IIP)

• The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) is a key economic indicator that measures the performance of various industrial sectors in a country.
• It reflects changes in the production levels of the industrial sector over a specific period, providing insights into the overall economic activity.
• IIP is calculated based on the volume of production in sectors manufacturing, mining, and electricity.

Eight core industries of IIP: 

1. Crude Oil: Weight: 8.98% 
2. Coal: Weight: 10.33% 
3. Natural Gas: Weight: 6.88%
4. Petroleum Refinery Products: Weight: 28.04% 
5. Fertilizers: Weight: 2.63% 
6. Steel: Weight: 17.92%
7. Cement: Weight: 5.37%
8. Electricity: Weight: 19.85%

The base year for the IIP is typically chosen to serve as a reference point for comparing production changes over time – the current base year for IIP is 2011-12
The index helps in assessing the growth or contraction of industrial output, aiding policymakers and investors in making informed decisions.
It plays a crucial role in economic planning, policy formulation, and monitoring of industrial performance.
A higher IIP indicates industrial growth, while a lower IIP suggests a decline in production.
The IIP is often used by the government, researchers, and analysts to analyze trends and formulate strategies for economic development.

National Commission for Protection of Child Rights celebrates its 19th Foundation Day

Context

National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) celebrates 19th Foundation Day in New Delhi, honoring children’s contributions to Pariksha Parv campaign, with SCPCR members’ presence.

 Additional information on this news:

• NCPCR celebrated its 19th Foundation Day on March 12, 2024, at Jacaranda Hall, Indian Habitat Centre, New Delhi.
• Children from across the nation were invited, recognizing their contributions to the Commission’s Pariksha Parv campaign.
• Chairpersons and Members from all State Commissions for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCRs) attended the event, fostering collaboration and coordination.

National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR)

• The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) is a statutory body established in 2007 under the Commissions for Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, 2005.
• It functions under the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India.
• NCPCR aims to ensure the rights and well-being of children in India and address issues related to their protection and development.
• The commission monitors and reviews the implementation of laws and policies related to children, advocating for their rights.
• NCPCR investigates complaints and violations concerning child rights and recommends remedial measures.
• It collaborates with various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations, to promote child welfare.
• The commission works towards creating awareness and sensitizing the public on child rights and protection issues.
• NCPCR plays a crucial role in policy formulation and advises the government on matters affecting children, contributing to the overall development and protection of children in the country.