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Roads as Symbols of Governance in India
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21 Mar 2025 - 3 min read
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Polity and Governance11-Sep-2025
India’s Journey Towards GST Implementation
India's journey towards tax simplification has been extensive, with a notable emphasis on both direct and indirect taxation. Here’s a comprehensive summary of the article detailing the evolution and reforms of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in India: ### Overview of Taxation in India - India's taxation structure has historically been complex, particularly in indirect taxes due to multiple rates and federal intricacies. - The evolution of GST began with proposals from then Finance Minister V P Singh in 1985, but significant reform only gained traction after the 1991 balance of payments crisis when international conditions necessitated a broader tax base. ### Development of GST - The **Kelkar Task Force** in 2002 aimed to lay the foundations for GST, but political and administrative challenges stalled progress. - **Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration** revived the GST initiative, with Finance Minister Arun Jaitley assuring states of a 14% annual growth in GST revenues over five years, which alleviated concerns regarding revenue losses. - The **GST Council** was created, comprising the Union Finance Minister and state finance ministers, establishing a unique model of pooled sovereignty. ### Launch and Impact of GST - GST was launched in **July 2017**, integrating **17 taxes and 13 cesses** into a unified framework. - The introduction of GST markedly increased the taxpayer base from **66 lakh to over 1.5 crore** within a short time. - GST collections surged from an estimated **Rs 45 lakh crore to Rs 173 lakh crore**, reflecting a **CAGR of 14.4%** over the decade. ### Recent Reforms - In **September 2025**, the GST Council approved significant reforms, compressing four tax slabs into two: **5% and 18%**, alongside a 40% rate for luxury goods. - Essential items like life and health insurance premiums have been exempted, simplifying compliance and administration. - The reduction of tax rates addresses long-standing criticisms of complexity within the GST framework. ### Significance of the Changes - The reforms represent a historic consensus among all state finance ministers, marking a significant achievement in India's federal governance. - The changes are expected to enhance revenue generation by simplifying compliance, fostering taxpayer trust, and improving overall economic buoyancy. - The **Revenue Secretary** anticipates a short-term revenue impact of about **Rs 48,000 crore**, but historical data suggests simpler tax structures lead to better compliance and ultimately higher revenues. ### Broader Implications - The ongoing reformsindicate India’s readiness to engage with stakeholder concerns, prompting questions of cooperation beyond taxation towards areas such as labor and land reforms. - The finance minister has hinted at the potential for **allocating GST revenues** to urban local bodies, reflecting India's rapid urbanization and the need for effective local governance. ### Challenges Ahead - There are still significant reforms to be completed, particularly in ensuring benefits reach small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and consumers. - The article contrasts the current political will with the previous decade of Congress rule, which failed to implement GST due to fears of independence and revenue loss. **Key Points:** - India's tax structure has undergone transformative changes since the inception of GST in 2017. - GST has expanded the taxpayer base significantly while simplifying indirect taxes. - The recent reforms reflect a strong consensus among state leaders and represent a major recalibration of the previous system. - Simplified tax structures are expected to enhance compliance and increase revenue generation. - Future reforms will need to focus on ensuring benefits extend to various economic stakeholders, particularly in urban governance and local administration. The author, a former chairman of the **15th Finance Commission**, emphasizes that these collective efforts signal a supportive collaborative environment capable of achieving further reforms necessary for economic growth.
Polity and Governance11-Sep-2025
India's Digital 2027 Census Innovations
India's upcoming Census in 2027 will mark several significant advancements and firsts in its history, including digital data collection, self-enumeration, and caste-based counting. The Census, set to occur after a six-year delay, will be the 16th of its kind since its inception in 1872 and the eighth since India gained independence. Budgeted at ₹14,618.95 crore by the Office of the Registrar General of India (RGI), the operation will involve over 34 lakh enumerators who will collect data using smartphones. ### Key Features of the 2027 Census - **Digital Format**: This Census will be conducted digitally for the first time, enhancing efficiency and accuracy. - **Self-Enumeration Availability**: Citizens will be able to self-enumerate, marking a shift towards a more participatory approach. - **Caste Enumeration**: Members of individual castes will be counted for the first time since 1931. - **Geotagging of Buildings**: All buildings across India will be geotagged, allowing for precise identification using latitude-longitude coordinates on Geographic Information Systems (GIS). ### Geotagging Explained - **Definition**: Geotagging involves marking buildings with specific geographical coordinates to create a unique locational identity. - **Purpose**: It will improve data accuracy and assist in workload management for enumerators, replacing older methods that relied on hand-drawn sketches. - **Implementation**: The geotagging will be conducted during the Houselisting Operations (HLO) from April to September 2026, with buildings categorized by use (residential, non-residential, etc.). ### Historical and Current Population Data - **Previous Census Data**: The last Census in 2011 recorded a total of 330.84 million houses, with 306.16 million occupied and 24.67 million vacant. The split between rural (220.70 million) and urban (110.14 million) households reflects India's demographic structure. - **Current Population Estimate**: India is projected to have surpassed China, becoming the world's most populous country, with statistics indicating it has over 1.21 billion citizens as of March 2021. ### Implementation of the Census - **Field Enumerator Role**: Enumerators will be responsible for geotagging buildings within assigned Houselisting Blocks (HLBs) using mobile applications. - **New Definitions**: A 'Census House' is identified as a building with a distinct main entrance, which may serve for residential or non-residential purposes. A 'household' is defined as a group living together and sharing meals. ### Economic and Administrative Context - The public expenditure on Census activities reflects India's administrative commitment to robust population data collection, vital for policy-making and resource allocation. - Similar geotagging initiatives have been introduced for housing schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana, demonstrating an expanding reliance on technology for governance. ### Conclusion The 2027 Census aims to capture extensive demographic, social, and economic data, enhancing the understanding of India's population dynamics and aiding effective governance. The integration of digital tools and innovative practices like self-enumeration and geotagging underlines the government's approach to modernize and streamline the decennial exercise. **Important Points**: - 2027 Census to be India's first digital and self-enumerated count. - Caste enumeration will resume after 91 years. - Over 34 lakh enumerators to participate using smartphones for data collection. - Budget of ₹14,618.95 crore allocated for the Census. - Geotagging will provide accurate locational identities for all buildings. - Previous Census recorded 330.84 million houses; current population is estimated over 1.21 billion.
Polity and Governance11-Sep-2025
Supreme Court Upholds FIR Registration
On Wednesday, the Supreme Court upheld a Delhi High Court ruling that mandated the registration of First Information Reports (FIRs) against Neeraj Kumar, a former Joint Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), and inspector Vinod Kumar Pandey regarding allegations stemming from a 2000 incident. The Supreme Court's decision emphasizes accountability in law enforcement, especially among investigating officials. ### Key Points: - **Supreme Court Ruling**: The Supreme Court confirmed the Delhi High Court’s June 26, 2006, decision allowing FIRs against Neeraj Kumar and Vinod Kumar Pandey, stating it is essential to uphold public trust in the justice system by investigating those who conduct investigations. - **Judicial Statements**: Justices Pankaj Mithal and P B Varale noted that prima facie evidence indicated that the CBI officers had committed irregularities or illegalities in their official capacity. The conduct of the officers involved is alleged to be in collaboration with one another. - **Allegations**: The complaints against the officers were filed by Vijay Aggarwal and Sheesh Ram Saini. Aggarwal claimed he was coerced to withdraw a complaint against Kumar, while Saini alleged procedural misconduct, intimidation, and misuse of authority in document seizures by the CBI officers. - **Background of the Case**: Neeraj Kumar retired in 2013 and previously served as the Commissioner of Delhi Police. The allegations of abuse and coercion regarding Aggarwal's complaint were viewed as serious and warranted further investigation. - **High Court's Findings**: The Delhi High Court had raised concerns about abusive conduct and intimidation linked to the officers, which, if established, would represent cognizable offenses under the Indian Penal Code (IPC). - **Preliminary Inquiry by CBI**: The CBI's preliminary inquiry had concluded without finding any grounds for criminal charges against the accused officers. However, the High Court noted that serious allegations should not be overlooked during a preliminary investigation. - **Court's Directive**: The Supreme Court noted that the High Court’s direction for FIR registration was warranted given the refusal of local police to act on the complaints. The Supreme Court stressed that the investigation must not be delayed any further, considering it had already been 23 years since the alleged offenses occurred. - **Investigation Process**: The Supreme Court advised that the investigation should be conducted by the Delhi Police, specifically by an officer of at least the Assistant Commissioner of Police rank, rather than the Special Cell as initially indicated by the High Court. - **Legal Principles Affirmed**: Justice Mithal reiterated the principle that justice must be visible and emphasized the need for timely investigations when serious allegations are raised involving public officials, underlining the importance of accountability in law enforcement. ### Conclusion: The Supreme Court's ruling serves as a robust reinforcement of accountability measures within investigative agencies, marking a significant shift toward ensuring that even those tasked with upholding the law are subject to scrutiny for their actions. By mandating the registration of FIRs and emphasizing the necessity of a thorough investigation, the ruling highlights the importance of integrity in the investigative process and aims to restore public confidence in the justice system.
Polity and Governance11-Sep-2025
Goa to Construct Koti Tirth Corridor
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced the approval of a significant development project known as the ‘Koti Tirth corridor’ during a Cabinet meeting held on a Wednesday. This initiative involves the reconstruction of the Saptakoteshwar temple, which was historically destroyed during the Portuguese colonization of Goa. The new temple will be located at the original site on Divar island, marking an important move in the government’s efforts to restore over 1,000 worship places demolished during Portuguese rule. Key Factual Highlights: - **Project Naming**: Koti Tirth corridor, to include the new Saptakoteshwar temple. - **Historical Context**: The site has connections dating back to the Kadamba dynasty (10th to 14th century), where the original temple was known for its significant rock-cut tank called ‘Koti-Tirth’. - **Destruction Timeline**: - The temple was first destroyed during the Bahmani rule and later rebuilt in 1391 before being destroyed again by the Portuguese in the 16th century. - In 1668, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj commissioned a new temple in Bicholim after the original idol was moved. - **Government Initiatives**: - A high-level committee chaired by the secretary of archaeology has been formed to strategize the development, with oversight from the Goa Infrastructure Development Corporation. - The government allocated a budget of ₹20 crores for the reconstruction of temples destroyed during the Portuguese era, following an assessment that over a thousand temples were lost. - **Expert Committee Recommendations**: - In January 2023, an expert committee was established to evaluate suitable sites for temple reconstruction, suggesting the establishment of a temple memorial (Smarak Devalaya) within the Old Conquests regions, which include modern Salcete, Bardez, and Tiswadi talukas. - The report emphasized the preservation of historical deities and their original sites, which were affected by colonial policies. - **Archaeological Assessment**: - During its evaluation visit to Divar island, the committee identified potential archaeological features at the Saptakoteshwar site, indicating the site's historical significance and potential for further examination and restoration. - **Future Actions**: - The government plans to coordinate further discussions with the expert committee before proceeding. Sawant assured that only one memorial will be erected in the designated area. Through this initiative, the Goa government aims to preserve the rich cultural and devotional heritage of the state, paying homage to the historical significance of the temples that once stood as pillars of the community prior to the extensive destruction during the colonial period. **Bullet Points**: - Goa CM Pramod Sawant announced the Koti Tirth corridor project to reconstruct the Saptakoteshwar temple. - The initiative addresses the destruction of nearly 1,000 temples during Portuguese colonial rule. - Historical ties: Original Saptakoteshwar temple existed during the Kadamba dynasty; destroyed by the Portuguese in the 16th century. - Committee chaired by archaeology secretary to oversee project development. - ₹20 crore budget allocated for restoring temples impacted by colonization. - Expert committee recommended a memorial temple in Old Conquests regions documenting lost deities. - Archaeological potential of the Saptakoteshwar site identified for future conservation. - Government to consult further with the expert committee on plans before proceeding.
Polity and Governance10-Sep-2025
Launch of Gyan Bharatam Mission
The Ministry of Culture of India has announced the launch of the ‘Gyan Bharatam’ Mission, a significant initiative aimed at preserving, digitizing, and disseminating India’s manuscript heritage. The official launch is accompanied by the inaugural Gyan Bharatam International Conference on ‘Reclaiming India’s Knowledge Legacy through Manuscript Heritage’, scheduled to take place from September 11 to 13, 2025, at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. The conference is expected to attract over 1,100 participants, including scholars and cultural practitioners from India and abroad, and will provide a platform for discussion and collaboration aimed at enhancing the preservation and sharing of manuscript heritage. ### Key Details of the Gyan Bharatam Mission: - **Objective**: The mission aims to safeguard and disseminate India's extensive manuscript legacy, aligning with the Prime Minister's vision of a developed India (Viksit Bharat) by 2047, where India can share its historical wisdom and innovations globally. - **Comprehensive Framework**: The initiative will cover various aspects such as: - Identification and documentation of manuscripts via a nationwide register. - Conservation and restoration efforts for fragile texts. - Large-scale digitization using AI-driven tools. - Establishment of a National Digital Repository to facilitate global accessibility of manuscript heritage. - **Research and Collaboration**: The program will involve: - Research, translation, and publication of rare manuscripts. - Capacity building for scholars and conservators. - Development of digital platforms promoting public participation. - Fostering global partnerships for greater involvement in knowledge exchange. - **Contributors**: The mission will engage multiple stakeholders including libraries, religious institutions, and private collectors to ensure comprehensive preservation and accessibility of manuscripts for future generations. ### Gyan Bharatam International Conference: - **Dates**: September 11-13, 2025. - **Participants**: More than 1,100 delegates from various domains will participate, contributing to discussions in eight working groups focusing on topics such as script decipherment, documentation, and legal frameworks. - **Technology Focus**: The introduction of the ‘Gyan-Setu AI innovation challenge’ has begun to attract numerous entries, with shortlisted innovations expected to be showcased during the conference. - **Prime Minister’s Involvement**: The Prime Minister is scheduled to attend the conference on September 12, where he will engage in discussions and address attendees regarding the future of manuscript preservation. The valedictory session on September 13 will be chaired by the Home Minister of India. ### Conclusion: The ‘Gyan Bharatam’ Mission represents a pivotal move towards recognizing and revitalizing India’s manuscript heritage, contributing to the broader objective of cultural preservation and global knowledge sharing. It signifies a commitment to combine traditional wisdom with modern technological advancements, paving the way for future educational advancements. ### Important Points: - Launch of ‘Gyan Bharatam’ by the Ministry of Culture to preserve India's manuscript heritage. - International Conference scheduled from September 11-13, 2025, with participation from over 1,100 attendees. - Goals include documentation, conservation, digitization, and global accessibility of manuscripts. - Commitment to collaborate with various stakeholders and use technology in preservation efforts. - Prime Minister’s participation anticipated to enhance the mission's visibility and impact.
Polity and Governance10-Sep-2025
India's 2027 Census to Innovate
India is set to conduct its next Census in 2027, marking a significant update with several new features and advancements. ### Key Highlights: - **Timeline**: The Census, delayed by six years, will take place from 2027 with preparatory phases scheduled earlier. - **Digital and Self-enumeration**: - The 2027 Census will be the first to be conducted digitally. - For the first time, individuals will have the option for self-enumeration. - **Caste Enumeration**: - This Census will include a count of individuals by caste, a practice not undertaken since 1931. - **Geotagging of Buildings**: - It will be the first Census where all buildings will be geotagged, providing precise location data through latitude and longitude. - Geotagging will occur during the Houselisting Operations (HLO), the first phase of the Census, scheduled for April to September 2026. ### Census Background: - **Historical Context**: The Census has been conducted regularly since 1872, with the 2027 Census being the 16th endeavor and the 8th since India's independence in 1947. - **Population Data**: As of the last Census in 2011, India's population was recorded at 1.21 billion. The nation is now estimated to be the most populous in the world, surpassing China. - **Scope of Data Collection**: The Census collects a wide array of data including: - Housing conditions - Amenities and assets - Demographics (age, sex, disability) - Religion and language - Education, economic activity, and migration ### Financial Aspects: - The Office of the Registrar General of India has requested a budget of ₹14,618.95 crore for the conduct of the 2027 Census. ### Field Operations: - **Personnel Involved**: Over 3.4 million enumerators and field functionaries will participate in the data collection process. - **Technological Use**: Enumerators will utilize their smartphones for data collection, which differs from the handheld tablets used in the previous 2011 Census. ### Building Classification: - The Census will define a 'Census House' as any building or part of a building that has a separate entrance. - The last Census recorded an estimated 330.84 million houses, with 306.16 million occupied and 24.67 million vacant. ### Importance of Geotagging: - Geotagging will enhance accuracy in estimating the number of Census houses, leading to better workload management among field workers. - This approach is a shift from previous methods where notional sketches were drawn manually. ### Conclusion: The upcoming Census is poised to not only record demographic data but also leverage technology for a more precise and efficient enumeration process. The incorporation of digital tools and the inclusion of caste data highlight the evolution of administrative practices in India. ### Important Points: - **First Digital Census**: 2027 Census to be digital. - **Caste Count**: Inclusion of caste data for the first time since 1931. - **Geotagging**: A novel feature, marking exact building locations using GIS. - **Budget**: ₹14,618.95 crore allocated for the Census. - **Personnel Involvement**: Over 34 lakh enumerators expected. - **Data Scope**: Covers demography, housing, education, economic activities, etc. - **Household Definition**: Households defined as groups eating from a common kitchen. This comprehensive update reflects India's commitment to modernizing its data collection and enhancing its governance capabilities through accurate and extensive demographic insights.
Polity and Governance10-Sep-2025
Supreme Court's Aadhaar Ruling Impact
The Supreme Court of India has mandated the Election Commission of India (ECI) to include the Aadhaar card as one of the valid documents for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar. This ruling is viewed as a significant affirmation of the fundamental right to vote, aiming to prevent disenfranchisement of eligible voters. The court intervened after the ECI asserted that Aadhaar serves only as proof of residency and not citizenship, thus deeming it inadmissible. Key Points: - **Judicial Intervention**: On September 10, 2025, the Supreme Court intervened to ensure that the electoral process remains inclusive, ordering the ECI to include Aadhaar in the list of valid identification for verifying eligibility in Bihar’s electoral rolls. - **Fundamental Right to Vote**: The Court emphasized that procedural strictness should not preclude the voting rights of countless citizens, especially those in marginalized communities. - **Inconsistency in ECI's Argument**: The Supreme Court rejected the ECI's rationale of excluding Aadhaar while other documents, such as voter ID, election cards, and bank statements, which similarly do not conclusively prove citizenship, were still considered valid. - **Aadhaar's Prevalence**: Aadhaar cards are held by approximately 90% of the population in Bihar, making it a more practical option for verification compared to other documents, like passports, held by only about 2% of residents. - **Impact of ECI's Actions**: The ECI's previous SIR efforts had already led to the exclusion of over 6.5 million potential voters from the electoral rolls, raising concerns about the demographic and regional imbalances, particularly in representation across women and migrant communities. - **Statistical Anomalies**: An analysis indicated that there were abnormal removals of women, implausible death rates in certain areas, and unusual demographic shifts, particularly concerning migrant workers and married women, revealing significant flaws in the verification and revision process. - **Practical Application of Ruling**: The Supreme Court’s decision addresses concerns raised by civil society about the practicalities of voter verification and emphasizes that Aadhaar can be used with proper verification of its authenticity. - **Broader Implications**: This ruling not only directly affects Bihar but also establishes a legal precedent for electoral roll revisions nationwide, urging that the ECI prioritize thorough and inclusive electoral processes moving forward. - **Call for ECI Reform**: The Court implores the ECI to shift focus from rapid execution of electoral roll revisions to a more humane and precise verification approach, ensuring electoral rolls accurately represent the electorate. The Supreme Court's directive seeks to enhance electoral integrity and inclusivity, reinforcing the framework of Indian democracy and ensuring that the rights of citizens are respected during the electoral roll process.
Polity and Governance10-Sep-2025
Supreme Court Weighs Governor's Authority
On September 10, 2025, Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai led a five-judge Presidential Reference Bench to address significant concerns regarding the prolonged delay by Governors in granting assent to legislative bills, specifically in Opposition-ruled states such as Tamil Nadu and Kerala. The session was prompted by disputes around the role of Governors in the legislative process, following an April 8 court judgment in the Tamil Nadu Governor case, which mandated a three-month timeline for both the President and Governors to decide on bills. **Key Points:** - **Judicial Reference:** The Supreme Court is examining the legitimacy of Governors withholding assent to bills for extended periods, with particular reference to Tamil Nadu’s Governor who delayed ten bills for over four years. - **Judicial Oversight:** Chief Justice Gavai queried the rationale behind prolonged delays experienced by states, highlighting this as a point of contention against the Centre's defense of Governor actions. - **Arguments Presented:** - **Centre's Stance:** Solicitor General Tushar Mehta asserted that the Centre does not support endless delays in assent from Governors and that collaboration between state executives and Governors is vital. - **Opposition’s Counter:** Representatives from Tamil Nadu and other states argued that Governors should not possess unilateral authority to decide the fate of bills, as this undermined democratic processes. P. Wilson, appearing for Tamil Nadu, noted that a Governor should not act as a constitutional court. - **Constitutional Framework:** - **Article 200:** This Article allows Governors power to withhold assent, return bills for reconsideration, or reserve them for the President's consideration. Justices questioned whether this provision allows for indefinite withholding without review. - **Judicial Review Need:** Senior advocates emphasized the necessity of judicial oversight regarding the Governor’s discretionary powers in order to prevent potential misuse that may lead to discrimination or political bias. - **Historical Context and Implications:** Justice Vikram Nath indicated that the court's focus is on the legality of governors’ actions and not on historical trends post the NDA government’s tenure beginning in 2014. - **Broader Implications:** Concerns were raised regarding citizens' rights, highlighting that prolonged gubernatorial inaction could render legislative processes ineffective, thus necessitating a consultative approach. There was a consensus that every legislative action taken by a state should not be undermined by unilateral decisions made by Governors. - **State Representation:** Telangana's advocacy pointed out that judicial review is crucial when comparing bill approvals across states governed by different political factions under similar central mandates. It was argued that current interpretations of constitutional provisions should not dilute state powers or grant excessive discretionary authority to Governors. In summary, the proceedings underscore critical tensions in the distribution of powers between state governments and Governors, with broader implications for the functioning of democracy and constitutional governance in India. The Supreme Court's examination of the issue highlights the necessity for clear guidelines and timelines regarding gubernatorial assent to bills to uphold legislative intent and efficacy. **Important Sentences:** - Chief Justice Gavai questioned prolonged gubernatorial delays in legislative assent, highlighting cases like Tamil Nadu's where bills were stalled for four years. - The court’s April 8 judgment mandated a three-month deadline for Presidents and Governors concerning legislative bills. - Solicitor General Mehta defended the collaborative model, asserting that the Governor's role should not be merely ornamental. - Key arguments emphasize the need for judicial review to prevent potential political bias and uphold the constitutional validity of state-legislated bills. - The discourse surrounding Article 200 focuses on whether current practices align with principles of democracy, speculating the need for reform in gubernatorial practices. - The attorneys stressed that citizens should not face delays to vital legislation, suggesting that indefinite holdings by Governors could render Article 200 ineffective.
Polity and Governance05-Sep-2025
Modi Addresses Military Leaders Conference
**Summary: Combined Commanders’ Conference Address by Prime Minister Narendra Modi** - **Event Overview**: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address the Combined Commanders’ Conference from September 15 to 17, 2025, in Kolkata. This will be his first engagement with top military leadership following the success of Operation Sindoor against Pakistan. - **Focus Areas of the Conference**: - Progress on higher defence reforms, particularly the establishment of three integrated theatre commands aimed at improving the operational efficiency and synergy among the Army, Navy, and Air Force in future conflicts. - Discussion on the lessons learnt from Operation Sindoor, which will influence the evolving military command structure being designed by the Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) under Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan. - **Theatre Commands**: - The theatre commands, once implemented, will alter India’s warfighting architecture by integrating the armed forces under unified command structures tailored to specific geographical areas. - There had been discussions regarding the structure of these commands during the recent ‘Ran Samvaad’ at the Army War College in Mhow, highlighting differing opinions from the Air Chief and Navy Chief. - **Additional Key Themes**: - The conference will also review the advancements towards self-reliance in defence, emphasizing the development of indigenous weapon systems. - Notably, the Prime Minister had announced ‘Mission Sudarshan Chakra’ on Independence Day, aiming to establish an indigenous air defense system by 2035. - On August 19, 2025, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved the procurement of 97 LCA Mark 1A fighter aircraft for the Indian Air Force, reflecting ongoing efforts in self-reliance and modernization of the armed forces. - **Official Participation**: The Prime Minister will deliver his remarks on the second day, followed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on the third day of the conference. - **Conference Frequency**: The Combined Commanders’ Conference is held biannually; this year it was initially planned for April but was rescheduled due to Operation Sindoor. The previous conference took place in 2023 in Bhopal. - **Publication Date**: The article containing this information was published on September 5, 2025. This conference aims to solidify India’s defence reforms while adapting to lessons from recent military operations, furthering the nation’s goal of self-reliance in defence production. **Important Points**: - Prime Minister Modi to address military leadership at Combined Commanders’ Conference in Kolkata (Sept 15-17, 2025). - First address post-success of Operation Sindoor against Pakistan. - Focus on integrated theatre commands for enhanced operational efficiency. - Lessons from Operation Sindoor will inform evolving military command structures. - ‘Mission Sudarshan Chakra’ announced to develop indigenous air defense system by 2035. - CCS approved procurement of 97 LCA Mark 1A fighter aircraft for IAF on August 19, 2025. - Conference is biannual; this year's event was rescheduled from April 2025 due to military operations.
Polity and Governance05-Sep-2025
Concerns Over Great Nicobar Project
### Summary of Allegations Regarding Forest Rights Act Violations in Great Nicobar Island Project **Background:** - Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, serving as the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, has raised concerns over possible violations of the Forest Rights Act (FRA) related to the Great Nicobar Island mega-infrastructure project, estimated to cost ₹72,000 crore. - In August 2022, the administration of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands allegedly certified that the due processes under the FRA had been fulfilled concerning forest land clearances for the project. **Key Allegations:** - The Tribal Council of Little and Great Nicobar has stated in its communication to Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram that the necessary processes under the FRA have not been initiated on the islands, contrary to the representation made to the Centre. - The Council members argue that a Gram Sabha meeting, where consent was allegedly given, did not include legitimate representatives of the Nicobarese and Shompen tribes. Instead, representation was claimed by a local social welfare organization under the control of the administration. - Following the purported consent in August 2022, the Tribal Council officially withdrew their approval, citing a lack of proper engagement in dialogues by the government regarding the project's implications on tribal rights and environmental impact. **Infrastructure Development Proposed:** - The Great Nicobar Island project will comprise a transshipment port, airport, power plant, and township, having raised concerns from the local tribes regarding the diversion of approximately 13,075 hectares of forest land. **Political Response:** - In a letter to Minister Oram, dated September 3, 2025, Rahul Gandhi has expressed his deep concerns about the FRA violations, advocating for adherence to constitutional values of justice and human dignity in development efforts. - He stressed the need for the government to ensure compliance with legal protocols as outlined under the FRA. **Official Stance:** - Minister Jual Oram confirmed that the Ministry would investigate the claims raised by the Tribal Council. Earlier statements indicated that government concerns regarding FRA adherence were still under evaluation. - The Tribal Council reported being unaware of the August 2022 certification until recently, which conflicts with their existing claims that no FRA processes were initiated. **Legal Proceedings:** - The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes has shown concerns regarding the FRA violations regarding the project. - Currently, the Calcutta High Court is hearing a petition disputing the clearances obtained for the infrastructure project. **Legislative Context:** - The Protection of Aboriginal Tribes Act of 1956 allows local administrative authorities to de-reserve tribal forest lands. However, the FRA necessitates a consent mechanism for forest land diversion, highlighting a conflict between these two regulations. **Conclusion:** - The ongoing concerns regarding the FRA violations and tribal rights underline significant challenges in balancing development initiatives with the preservation of indigenous rights and environmental sustainability in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. ### Important Points: - Rahul Gandhi raises concerns about FRA violations in Great Nicobar Island project. - Tribal Council alleges false representation about FRA processes by local administration. - The consent for forest clearance was allegedly obtained through a non-representative Gram Sabha meeting. - The project will involve significant infrastructure, affecting over 13,075 hectares of forest land. - Minister Jual Oram has pledged to review the allegations. - The Calcutta High Court is currently considering a petition against project clearances. - The Protection of Aboriginal Tribes Act and FRA are in conflict regarding forest land management.