Daily Current Affairs 03 February 2024 – IAS Current Affairs

Current Affairs 03 February 2024 focuses on the Prelims-Mains perspective. Major events are :

Schemes for Welfare of Farmers Overview

Source: PIB
GS II: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation

Overview

1. Schemes for Welfare of Farmers Overview
2. Central Sector Schemes
3. Centrally Sponsored Schemes

Why in the News?

Based on the information given by the Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare. Schemes for Welfare of Farmers Overview focused article for both prelims and mains.

Schemes for Welfare of Farmers Overview

• Details of schemes being run by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare for welfare/increasing incomes of farmers and the achievements made therein.
• In Schemes for Welfare of Farmers Overview, the scheme is divided into Central Sector Schemes and Centrally Sponsored Schemes.
• The aims, target, focus and Status of the scheme are explained.

Schemes for Welfare of Farmers Overview – Central Sector Schemes

Central Sector Schemes are those that are implemented by a central agency and 100% funded by the centre on subjects within the union list.

• Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)
  • PM-KISAN is a central sector scheme
  • It launched on 24th February 2019
  • Aim: To supplement the financial needs of land-holding farmers, subject to exclusions.
  • Fund: Under the scheme, the financial benefit of Rs. 6000/- per year is transferred in three equal four-monthly instalments into the bank accounts of farmers’ families across the country, through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mode.
  • Status: Rs. 2.81 lakh crores have been transferred to more than 11 crores beneficiaries (Farmers) through various instalments.
• Pradhan Mantri Kisan MaanDhan Yojana (PM-KMY)
  • Launched on 12th September 2019 to provide security to the most vulnerable farmer families.
  • PM-KMY is a contributory scheme for small and marginal farmers (SMFs).
  • Aim: Under the scheme, farmers can become members of the scheme by paying a monthly subscription to the Pension Fund.
  • Similarly, the amount will be contributed by the Central Government.
  • The applicants between the age group of 18 to 40 years will have to contribute between Rs. 55 to Rs. 200 per month till they attain the age of 60.
  • PMKMY takes care of the farmers during their old age.
  • The scheme provides a Rs. 3,000 monthly pension to the enrolled farmers once they attain 60 years of age
  • Status: So far 23.38 lakh farmers have enrolled under the scheme.
• Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)
  •  PMFBY was launched in 2016.
  • Aim: To provide a simple and affordable crop insurance product to ensure comprehensive risk cover for crops to farmers against all non-preventable natural risks
  • It is from pre-sowing to post-harvest and to provide adequate claim amounts.
  • The scheme is demand-driven and available for all farmers.
  • A total of 5549.40 lakh farmer applications were insured under the scheme since 2016-17.
  • Fund released: Rs 150589.10 crore has been paid as a claim.
• Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS)
  • Aim: The Interest Subvention Scheme (ISS) provides concessional short-term agri-loans to farmers practising crop husbandry and other allied activities like animal husbandry, dairying and fisheries.
  • ISS is available to farmers availing short-term crops.
  • Loans up to Rs.3.00 lakh at an interest rate of 7% per annum for one year.
  • An additional 3% subvention is also given to the farmers for prompt and timely repayment of loans.
  • The benefit of ISS is also available for post-harvest loans against Negotiable Warehouse Receipts (NWRs) on crop loans for a further period of six months.
  • As of 05-01-2024, 465.42 lakh new KCC applications have been sanctioned with a sanctioned credit limit of Rs. 5,69,974 crore as part of the drive.

The Negotiable Warehouse Receipt (NWR) system was launched in 2011 allowing the transfer of ownership of a commodity stored in a warehouse without having to deliver it physically. These receipts are issued in negotiable form, making them eligible as collateral.

• Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF)
  • Agri Infra Fund was launched under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Package.
  • Aim: AIF was introduced with a vision to transform the agriculture infrastructure landscape of the country.
  • Duration of fund: Fund of Rs. 1 lakh crore under the scheme will be disbursed from FY 2020-21 to FY2025-26
  • Support under the scheme will be provided for the duration of FY2020-21 to FY2032-33.
  • As on 31-12-2023, Rs.33.209 Crores have been sanctioned for 44,912 projects under AIF.
  • These sanctioned projects have mobilized an investment of Rs 56.471 Crores in agriculture sector.
• National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM)
  • It was launched in 2020 under Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.
  • Aims: Overall promotion and development of scientific beekeeping & to achieve the goal of “Sweet Revolution”.
  • Madhukranti portal has been launched for online registration of Beekeepers/ Honey Societies/ Firms/ Companies.
  • Status: To date 23 lakh bee colonies registered on Portal.
    • 160 Projects sanctioned under (Mini Mission)MM- I, II & III of Rs. 202.00 crores.
• Market Intervention Scheme and Price support Scheme (MIS-PSS)
  • Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare implements the Price Support Scheme (PSS) for procurement of pulses, oilseeds and copra.
  • Target: Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) for procurement of agricultural and horticultural commodities which are perishable and are not covered under the Price Support Scheme (PSS).
  • Aim: To protect the growers of these commodities from making distress sales in the event of a bumper crop during the peak arrival period when the prices tend to fall below economic levels and cost of production.
• Namo Drone Didi
  • Aim: To provide drones to 15000 Women Self Help Group (SHGs) a rental services to farmers for agriculture purpose (application of fertilizers and pesticides) for the period from 2024-25 to 2025-26.
  • It has an outlay of Rs. 1261 Crores.
  • Under this Scheme, Central Financial Assistance @ 80% of the cost of drone and accessories/ancillary charges upto a maximum of Rs. 8.0 Lakhs will be provided to the women SHGs for the purchase of drones.
  • Balance amount as loan under National Agriculture Infra Financing Facility (AIF)
  • Interest subvention @ 3% on the Agriculture Infra Financing Facility (AIF) loan will be provided to the Cluster Level Federations (CLFs).
  • The scheme will also provide sustainable business and livelihood support to SHGs and they would be able to earn additional income of at least of Rs. 1.0 lakh per annum.
• Farmer Producer Organization (FPO)
  • Aim: established to form and promote 10,000 new FPOs.
  • Implementing Agencies: Small Farmers Agri-business Consortium (SFAC), National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), and National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD).
  • Fund: FPOs being provided financial assistance up to Rs.18.00 lakh per FPO for 03 years.
    • Provision has been made for matching equity grants up to Rs.2,000 per farmer member of FPO with a limit of Rs.15.00 lakh per FPO.
    • A credit guarantee facility of up to Rs.2 crore of project loan per FPO from eligible lending institutions to ensure institutional credit accessibility to FPOs.
    • Further, Rs.25 Lakhs are given to CBBOs for hand-holding each FPO over five years.
  • Status: 10,000 FPOs have been allocated to various Implementing Agencies (IAs) out of which 6319 FPOs have been registered across the country.

Schemes for Welfare of Farmers Overview – Centrally Sponsored Schemes

Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) are schemes that are implemented by state governments of India but are largely funded by the central government with a defined state government share.

• Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana
  • Aim: promote organic farming by combining traditional wisdom and modern science in a value-chain approach.
  • Ensure sustainability, enhance long-term soil fertility, conserve resources, and produce safe and healthy food.
  • Focus: PKVY aims at supporting and promoting organic farming, in turn resulting in improvement of soil health.
• Rastriya Krishi Vikas Yojana
  • Aim: The scheme focuses on the creation of pre & post-harvest infrastructure in agriculture and allied sectors that help in the supply of quality inputs, market facilities, etc to farmers.
  • It provides flexibility and autonomy to states to implement projects as per the local farmers’ needs and priorities from a bouquet of activities in agriculture and allied sectors.
  • Under RKVY Agri-startup Programme, since 2019-20, 1524 Startups have been selected and Rs. 106.25 crore released as grants-in-aid for funding the Start-ups.
• Soil Health Card (SHC)
  • Soil health card provides information to farmers on the nutrient status of their soil.
  • It also recommends an appropriate dosage of nutrients to be applied to improve soil health and fertility.
  • The indicators are typically based on the farmer’s practical experience and knowledge of local natural resources.
  • To develop the soil fertility map, the Government of India has decided to conduct 5 Crore Soil Samples across the country during years 2023-24 to 2025-26.
• Rainfed Area Development (RAD)
  • RAD is being implemented since 2014-15.
  • RAD adopts an area-based approach in cluster mode for promoting an Integrated Farming System (IFS)
  • It focuses on multi-cropping, rotational cropping, inter-cropping, and mixed cropping practices with allied activities like horticulture, livestock, fishery, apiculture etc.
  • This helps farmers not only in maximizing the farm returns for sustaining livelihood but also to mitigate the impacts of drought, flood or other extreme weather events.
  • An amount of Rs. 1673.58 crores has been released and an area of 7.13 lakh hectare has been covered under the RAD programme from the year 2014-15 to till date.
• Per Drop More Crop (PDMC)
  • Aim: To increase water use efficiency at the farm level through Micro Irrigation technologies i.e. drip and sprinkler irrigation systems, the Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) scheme was launched during 2015-16.
  • The Micro Irrigation helps in water saving as well as reduced fertilizer usage through fertigation, labour expenses, other input costs and overall income enhancement of farmers.
  • It also supports micro level water harvesting, storage, management etc. activities as Other Interventions (OI) to supplement source creation for Micro Irrigation.
  • OI activities allowed on need basis up to 40% of the total allocation for North East States, Himalayan States, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh and up to 20% for other States.
  • An area of 78 lakh hectare has been covered under Micro irrigation through the PDMC scheme from 2015-16 to 2022-23.
• Micro Irrigation Fund (MIF)
  • A Micro Irrigation Fund (MIF) with an initial corpus of Rs 5000 crore has been created with NABARD.
  • Aim: The objective to facilitate the States in mobilizing the resources for expanding coverage of Micro Irrigation.
  • Under the funding arrangement, NABARD lends to the States/UTs at a 3% lower interest rate than the corresponding cost of fund mobilized by NABARD from the market.
  • The interest subvention on the loan under MIF is borne by Centre under PDMC.
  • Status: Projects with loans under MIF worth Rs 4710.96 crore have been approved so far.
    • Loans amounting Rs.2812.24 crore has been disbursed to States of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan.
  • The Ministry provides interest subvention on the loan availed by the States which is met from PDMC Scheme.
  • As per the Budget 2021-22, the corpus of the fund is to be doubled to Rs.10000 crores.
  • MIF is now merged with PDMC.
• Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY)
  • Aim: To increase soil fertility and thereby help in the production of healthy food through organic practices without the use of agrochemicals.
  • The scheme is implemented in a cluster mode with a unit cluster size of 20 hectares.
  • A group shall comprise a minimum of 20 farmers (maybe more if individual holdings are less).
  • Farmers in a group can avail of the benefit of a maximum of 2 ha as per the provision of PKVY.
  • Status: 25 such clusters are converted into one large cluster of about 500 ha area to facilitate marketing of organic produce.
  • The scheme assists Rs. 31,500 per ha to states, out of which i.e., Rs. 15,000 is given as incentives to a farmer directly through DBT.
• Sub-Mission on Agriculture Mechanization (SMAM)
  • Implemented w.e.f April, 2014.
  • Aim: Objectives of Increasing the reach of farm mechanization to small and marginal farmers.
  • Creating hubs for hi-tech& high-value farm equipment, creating awareness among stakeholders through demonstration and capacity-building activities and Ensuring performance testing and certification at designated testing centres located all over the country.
  • Status: Till date Rs. 6748.78 Crore have been released to State Governments.
    • Distributed more than 15,75,719 agricultural machinery & equipment’s including Tractors, Power Tillers, Self-Propelled Machineries and Plant Protection Equipment.
    • Established 23472 nos of Custom Hiring Centres, 504 nos of Hi-Tech Hubs and 20597 nos. of Farm Machinery Banks.
•  Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH)
  • It was launched during 2014-15.
  • Aim: Holistic growth of the horticulture sector covering fruits, vegetables, root and tuber crops, mushrooms, spices, flowers, aromatic plants, coconut, cashew, cocoa and Bamboo.
  • Major components: include plantation infrastructure development, the establishment of new orchards and gardens for fruits, vegetables, spices and flowers, rejuvenation of unproductive, old, and senile orchards, protected cultivation, promotion of organic farming, pollination support through beekeeping, horticulture mechanization, post-harvest management (phm) and marketing infrastructure etc.
  • Status:
    • Under MIDH since 2014-15 to 2023-24 (as on 31.10.2023) an additional area of 12.95 lakh ha. of identified horticulture crops has been covered
    • 872 nurseries established for the production of quality planting material, 1.41 lakh ha. of old and senile orchards has been rejuvenated
    • 52069 ha. been covered under organic practices
    • 3.07 lakh ha. has been covered under Protected Cultivation
• Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY):
  • The scheme was launched by the Department of Agriculture & Cooperation, Ministry of Agriculture in January, 2006.
  • Aim: To provide all agricultural farms in the country with access to some form of protected irrigation, allowing them to produce more crops per drop.
  • Promoting appropriate technological interventions like drip & sprinkler irrigation technologies and encourage the farmers to use water-saving and conservation technologies.
  • Based on a comprehensive planning process at the district/state level, PMKSY is strategized by focusing on end-to-end solutions in the irrigation supply chain, such as water sources, distribution networks, efficient farm-level applications, extension services on new technologies and information, and so on.
  • Components and Amount released till 2o23
    • Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme with pari passu implementation of Command Area Development & Water Management Rs. 18,727.78 crore.
    • Har Khet Ko Pani – Surface Minor Irrigation and Repair, Renovation and Restoration of water bodies Rs. 4,010.32 crore.
    • Har Khet Ko Pani – Ground Water Development Rs. 764.89 crore.
    • Per Drop More Crop Rs. 16688.71 crore.
    • Watershed Development Rs. 9,559.07 crore.
  • Beneficiaries: The number of targeted beneficiaries under different components of PMKSY is estimated to be about 2.68 crore.
  • So far no project involving the reuse of treated water is being provided financial assistance by this Ministry under PMKSY.

UNESCO 1970 Convention

Source: Indian Express
GS II: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate

Overview

1. News in Brief
2. About UNESCO 1970 Convention 
3. Need for UNESCO 1970 Convention 

Why in the News?

The issue of repatriating artefacts taken from Southeast Asia during colonial times is gaining traction, with European museums facing pressure to return looted treasures.

News in Brief

• During Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet’s state visit to France in January, President Emmanuel Macron pledged support for returning more Khmer artefacts and for technical assistance to expand the National Museum of Cambodia.
• France’s National Museum of Asian Art had agreed to return the head and body of a seventh-century Khmer statue, which had been taken in the 1880s, to Cambodia on a five-year loan agreement.
• Berlin followed suit and agreed to return to the southern African nation of Namibia artefacts taken during a genocide in the early 20th century.
• Last July, two museums in the Netherlands, including the Rijksmuseum, handed back hundreds of artefacts to Indonesia and Sri Lanka, former Dutch colonies.

About UNESCO 1970 Convention 

• 1970 UNESCO Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property. 
• It is the principal legal source when a country claims to have its possessions returned. 
• This convention “does not apply retrospectively, so it does not include the peak phase of colonialism 
• It provides a common framework for the States Parties on the measures to be taken to prohibit and prevent the import, export and transfer of cultural property. 
• Articles 7-Return stolen cultural property and 13 of the 1970 convention provide the provisions for restitution. 
• The requesting State has to provide all the evidence to support its claim. 
• There are a total of 142 parties in the UNESCO 1970 Convention.

Need for UNESCO 1970 Convention 

• A very large number of countries would need to be involved in any such agreement. 
• Since the 15th century, almost every region of the world has been part of colonial structures, at least for a certain period of time. 
• Cultural objects and collections brought to Europe originate from a variety of different acquisition contexts, each of which potentially involves specific forms of handling. 

About United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

UNESCO is the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. It seeks to build peace through international cooperation in Education, the Sciences and Culture. UNESCO’s programmes contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals defined in Agenda 2030, adopted by the UN General Assembly in 2015.

• Headquarters: Place de Fontenoy, in Paris
• The Organization has 193 Members and 11 Associate Members.
  • All Member States have established a National Commission for UNESCO.
  • Most Member States have established Permanent Delegations to UNESCO

Importance of UNESCO

• UNESCO develops educational tools to help people live as global citizens free of hate and intolerance.
• UNESCO works so that each child and citizen has access to quality education.
• By promoting cultural heritage and the equal dignity of all cultures, UNESCO strengthens bonds among nations.
• UNESCO fosters scientific programmes and policies as platforms for development and cooperation.
• UNESCO stands up for freedom of expression, as a fundamental right and a key condition for democracy and development.
• Serving as a laboratory of ideas, UNESCO helps countries adopt international standards and manages programmes that foster the free flow of ideas and knowledge sharing.

GHAR (GO Home and Re-Unite) Portal

Source: PIB
GS II (National Security and Challenges): Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security

Overview

1. News in Brief
2. GHAR – GO Home and Re-Unite (Portal for Restoration and Repatriation of Child)
3. National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR)

Why in the News?

The Ministry of Women and Child Development developed the Track Child Portal which enables tracking of the missing and found children in all States/UTs including Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, North Eastern States and Jharkhand.

News in Brief

• The Track Child portal is implemented with the support and involvement of various stakeholders namely Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Railways, State Governments/ UT Administrations, Child Welfare Committees, Juvenile Justice Boards, National Legal Services Authority, etc.
• Standard operating procedures have been issued for the TrackChild Portal.

GHAR – GO Home and Re-Unite (Portal for Restoration and Repatriation of Child)

National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), has developed and launched a portal namely  GHAR – GO Home and Re-Unite (Portal for Restoration and Repatriation of Child). The GHAR portal has been developed to digitally monitor and track the restoration and repatriation of children according to the protocol.

TrackChild portal

• The Ministry of Women and Child Development is implementing a Centrally Sponsored Scheme.
• TrackChild portal has been designed and developed adhering to the guidelines provided in the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2000 and Model Rules 2007.
• Advisories have been issued to all States and UTs including the Director General of Police of all States & UTs and other stakeholders regarding the implementation of the TrackChild portal.
• The TrackChild portal is also integrated with the CCTNS or Crime and Criminal Tracking & Network Systems of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• It allows interoperability in terms of matching F.I.Rs of missing children with a database of TrackChild to trace and match missing children by the concerned State/UT police.
• One component of the TrackChild Portal has Khoya-Paya where any citizen can report for any missing or sighted children.
• The Software also provides facilities for mapping of vulnerable locations, i.e. those which have a large number of children reported missing so that corrective action can be taken in these areas.
• Monitoring by senior officers of the action being taken by the Police to trace the missing children has also been streamlined through the software.

The following are the salient features of the portal

• Digital tracking and monitoring of children who are in the Juvenile Justice system and have to be repatriated to another Country/State/District.
• Digital transfer of cases of children to the concerned Juvenile Justice Board/Child Welfare Committee of the State.
• It will help in speedy repatriation of children.
• Where there is a requirement for a translator/interpreter/expert, a request will be made to the concerned State Government.
• Child Welfare Committees and District Child Protection Officers can ensure proper restoration and rehabilitation of children by digitally monitoring the progress of the case of the child.
• A checklist format will be provided in the forms so that the children who are being hard to repatriate or children who are not getting their entitled compensation or other monetary benefits can be identified.
• A list of Government-implemented schemes will be provided so that at the time of restoration the Child Welfare Committees can link the child with the schemes to strengthen the family and ensure that the child remains with his/her family.

Bilateral Investment Treaty India-UAE

Source: PIB
GS II: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests

Overview

1. News in Brief
2. About the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT)

Why in the News?

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today has given its approval for signing and ratification of Bilateral Investment Treaty between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the United Arab Emirates.

News in Brief

• The Treaty is expected to improve the confidence of the investors.
• Especially large investors, increasing Foreign Investments and Overseas Direct Investment (ODI) opportunities.
• This may have a positive impact on employment generation.
• The approval is expected to increase investments in India.
• It is likely to help in realizing the goal of Atmanirbhar Bharat by encouraging domestic manufacturing, reducing import dependence, increasing exports etc.

About the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT)

• The rules and conditions for private investment by citizens and businesses of one state in another are outlined in an agreement between the two nations.
• It is a component of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development’s International Investment Agreements (IIAs) (UNCTAD).
• It is anticipated to boost chances for foreign direct investment and investments, boost investor confidence, and positively affect the creation of jobs.
• These treaties are designed to protect foreign investments and promote economic cooperation between the signatory countries.

How Does Bilateral Investment Treaty Work?

• Investment Protection
  • BITs typically include provisions that protect foreign investors from discriminatory treatment and unfair or arbitrary actions by the host government.
  • These protections may include guarantees of fair and equitable treatment, protection against expropriation without adequate compensation, and provisions for the free transfer of funds related to investments.
• Dispute Resolution
  • BITs often include mechanisms for the settlement of investment disputes between investors and the host government.
  • This may involve procedures for negotiation, mediation, or arbitration, providing investors with a means to seek redress if they believe their rights under the treaty have been violated.
• Promotion of Investment
  • BITs can also serve as a signal to investors that the signatory countries are committed to creating a favorable investment climate.
  • By providing legal certainty and protection for investments, these treaties can help attract foreign investment and stimulate economic growth.
• Strengthening Economic Relations
  • BITs can contribute to closer economic ties between the signatory countries by providing a framework for cooperation and investment.
  • They can also help facilitate technology transfer, knowledge sharing, and other forms of economic exchange.
• Negotiation and Scope
  • The terms of BITs are negotiated between the two countries involved, and the scope of the treaty can vary depending on the priorities and interests of the parties.
  • Some BITs may focus primarily on investment protection, while others may include additional provisions related to environmental or labour standards, intellectual property rights, or other issues.

Multidimensional Poverty in India

Source: UNDP
GS II (Policies and Developmental Studies):  Issues relating to the development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources

Overview

1. News in Brief
2. About Multidimensional Poverty in India

Why in the News?

With the pursuit of ‘Sabka ka Saath’ in these 10 years, the Government has assisted 25 crore people to get freedom from multidimensional poverty.

News in Brief

• In her Interim Budget speech, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said 25 crore Indians had been pulled out of poverty over the past decade.
• This number appeared in a discussion paper, Multidimensional Poverty in India Since 2005-06, published by NITI Aayog on Jan 15.
• The paper was written by Ramesh Chand, Member, NITI Aayog, and Yogesh Suri, Senior Adviser, NITI Aayog, with technical inputs from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Oxford Policy and Human Development Initiative (OPHI).

India’s National MPI is a contribution towards measuring progress for target 1.2 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that aims to reduce “at least by half the proportion of men, women and children of all ages living in poverty in all its dimensions according to national definitions” by 2030.

About Multidimensional Poverty in India

• Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), developed by Sabina Alkire and James Foster, was adopted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in their Human Development Report.
• It captures overlapping deprivations in health, education and living standards (UNDP, 2010).
• NITI Aayog in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) developed the National Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI).

What is Multi-Dimensional Poverty?

• Multidimensional poverty in India refers to a condition where individuals or households experience deprivation across multiple dimensions of well-being, such as health, education, living standards, and access to basic services.
• Unlike traditional measures of poverty that focus solely on income or consumption levels, multidimensional poverty indices take into account various factors that contribute to poverty and deprivation.

Globally, the MPI uses 10 indicators covering three main areas: (i) health, (ii) education, and (iii) standard of living.

• Health dimension includes nutrition and child & adolescent mortality indicators.
• Education dimension includes years of schooling and school attendance indicators.
• Standard of living dimension includes six household-specific indicators: housing, household assets, type of cooking fuel, access to sanitation, drinking water, and electricity.

• Factors contributing to multidimensional poverty in India include
  • Healthcare: Limited access to healthcare services, high infant mortality rates, malnutrition, and prevalence of diseases contribute to multidimensional poverty.
  • Education: Despite efforts to improve access to education, disparities in educational attainment persist, particularly in rural areas and among marginalized communities. Lack of quality education perpetuates intergenerational poverty.
  • Living standards: Inadequate housing, lack of access to clean water and sanitation facilities, and poor infrastructure in many parts of the country contribute to multidimensional poverty.
  • Employment and Livelihoods: Unemployment, underemployment, and informal employment with low wages are widespread, particularly in rural areas. Lack of decent work opportunities contributes to poverty and vulnerability.
  • Social Exclusion: Marginalized groups such as Dalits, Adivasis, women, and religious minorities face discrimination and exclusion, limiting their access to resources and opportunities.
  • Environmental Factors: Climate change, environmental degradation, and natural disasters exacerbate poverty, particularly in vulnerable communities reliant on agriculture and natural resources for their livelihoods.

What are the findings of Multidimensional Poverty in India?

• The steep decline in poverty headcount ratio from 24.85% in 2015-16 to 14.96% in 2019-21.
• In numbers 13.5 crore people out of multidimensional poverty.
• The fastest decline of multidimensional poverty in rural areas declined from 32.59% in 2015-16 to 19.28% in 2019-21.
• Reduction in the incidents of poverty in Urban areas from 8.65% in 2015-16 to 5.27% in 2019-21.
• The Intensity of poverty, which measures average deprivation among people living in multidimensional poverty, reduced from 47.14% to 44.39% during the survey period 2015-16 (NFHS-4) and 2019-21 (NFHS-5).
• Bihar, with 33.76%, followed by Jharkhand with 28.81%, and Meghalaya with 27.79% are the states with the highest proportion of the population experiencing multidimensional poverty.
• UP, Bihar, MP, and Odisha recorded the steepest decline in number of MPI Poor.

About United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN’s global development network. It works in about 170 countries and territories, helping to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities, and build resilience so that communities and countries can sustain progress.

UNDP’s Function

• Poverty Reduction: UNDP supports countries in developing and implementing strategies to reduce poverty through sustainable and inclusive development approaches.
• Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): UNDP plays a crucial role in supporting countries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aim to address various global challenges, including poverty, inequality, climate change, and peace and justice.
• Governance and Rule of Law: UNDP works to strengthen governance structures, promote the rule of law, and build accountable institutions to ensure inclusive and equitable development outcomes.
• Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability: UNDP supports countries in addressing climate change impacts, building resilience to natural disasters, and promoting sustainable management of natural resources.
• Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment: UNDP promotes gender equality and women’s empowerment by supporting initiatives that address gender-based discrimination, promote women’s participation in decision-making processes, and ensure equal access to resources and opportunities.
• Crisis Response and Recovery: UNDP provides support to countries affected by conflicts, disasters, and other crises, helping them to recover and rebuild resilient societies.
• Innovation and Partnerships: UNDP promotes innovation and partnerships to find sustainable solutions to development challenges, working with governments, civil society, the private sector, and other stakeholders.

C- CARES Portal

Source: PIB
GS II: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation

Overview

1. News in Brief
2. About the C-Cares 
3. Coal Mines Provident Fund Organization (CMPFO) 

Why in the News?

Union Minister of Coal, Mines and Parliamentary Affairs launched a web portal of CMPFO namely C- CARES developed and designed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), an R&D organization under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology on 31st January, 2024.

News in Brief

• This marks a significant leap in the digitization journey of CMPFO aiming to address the long-standing issue of digitizing its records and work processes. 
• The digital transformation is aligned with the vision of a Digital India.  
• Ministry of Coal to embrace digital transformation for the benefit of all stakeholders. 

About the C-Cares 

• With the launch of the portal, settlement of PF and pension claims will now be processed and settled online.  
• It will facilitate faster processing, transparency in operations, better record management and monitoring. 
•  It will also instil confidence in the subscribers and pensioners. 
• The portal, C-CARES, will allow CMPF subscribers and coal companies to login and perform various functions tailored to their needs.  
• While the subscribers can access and view their individual details and subscription status, the coal management can submit contribution details, subscribers’ particulars and claims for online settlement and payment through the portal.  
• It will also ensure paperless working, timely and accurate settlement of claims, reduction in processing time and grievance redressal. 
• The portal being a public service platform is intended to benefit the CMPF subscribers who are working in the coal sector as well as its pensioners. 

Coal Mines Provident Fund Organization (CMPFO) 

• It is an autonomous organization. 
• It is under the aegis of the Ministry of Coal established in the year 1948. 
• It is for administering Provident Fund and Pension schemes to provide social security to the coal sector workers.  
• The Organization is presently rendering services to about 3.3 lakh Provident Fund subscribers and 6.1 lakh pensioners of the coal sector. 

World Wetland Day 2024 (WWD)

Source: PIB
GS III:  Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment

Overview

1. News in Brief
2. About World Wetlands Day 
3. India’s Achievements
4. About Amrit Dharohar initiative

Why in the News?

The Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEF&CC) in collaboration with Government of Madhya Pradesh, organised a national event at Sirpur Lake, Indore through Indore Municipal Corporation and Environmental Planning & Coordination Organisation (EPCO), Government of Madhya Pradesh to celebrate World Wetlands Day (WWD) 2024.

News in Brief

• The event was inaugurated by Dr Mohan Yadav, the Chief Minister, of Madhya Pradesh and Dr Musonda Mumba, Secretary General, the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.
• Three publications were also released during the event including revised guidelines for
  • National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA)
  • Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool: A Practitioner Guide
  • Compendium on Phyto-diversity of Ramsar Sites in India.

About World Wetlands Day 

• World Wetlands Day is celebrated every year on 2 February.  
• This day marks the date of the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands on 2 February 1971, in the Iranian city of Ramsar on the shores of the Caspian Sea. 
• India is a party to the Convention since 1982 and on the eve of WWD 2024. 
• The Standing Committee of the Convention has approved the themes for World Wetlands Day as follows: 
  • 2024: Wetlands and human wellbeing 
  • It highlights how wetlands contribute to flood protection, clean water, biodiversity and recreational opportunities, all of which are essential for human health and prosperity 

Previous Year Themes 

• 2022: Wetlands action for people and nature,  
• 2023: Wetland restoration 

India’s Achievements

• India has increased its tally of Ramsar sites (Wetlands of International Importance) to 80 by designating five more wetlands as Ramsar sites.  
• Three of these sites, Ankasamudra Bird Conservation Reserve, Aghanashini Estuary and Magadi Kere Conservation Reserve are located in Karnataka whereas two, Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary and Longwood Shola Reserve Forest are in Tamil Nadu. 
•  With the addition of these five wetlands to List of Wetlands of International Importance, the total area covered under Ramsar sites is now 1.33 million ha which is an increase of 5,523.87 ha from existing area (of 1.327 million ha.  
• Tamil Nadu continues to have maximum number of Ramsar Sites (16 sites) followed by Uttar Pradesh (10 sites).  

About Amrit Dharohar initiative

• Amrit Dharohar initiative, part of the 2023-24 budget announcement, was launched by MoEF&CC in June 2023.
• It aims to promote the unique conservation values of the Ramsar Sites in the country while generating employment opportunities and supporting local livelihoods.
• This initiative is to be implemented over three years in convergence with various Central Government ministries and agencies, State Wetland Authorities, and a network of formal and informal institutions and individuals, working together for a common cause. 

List of Ramsar Site in India

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