Regulating Construction in Hazard-Prone Areas – Implement stricter Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs).
Community Training & Preparedness – Educate locals, workers, & rescue teams about disaster response.
Relevance for Exam
Disaster Management & Climate Change
Avalanches, glacial melts & landslides in the Himalayan region.
Impact of climate change on mountainous states like Himachal Pradesh.
Infrastructure & Development
Challenges of construction & human activity in fragile ecosystems.
Sustainable infrastructure solutions for high-altitude areas.
Governance & Policy Implementation
Role of NDRF, ITBP, & Indian Army in disaster response.
Need for stronger policies on high-altitude disaster management.
Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)
Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:
Which Indian state recently witnessed an avalanche in Mana village? a) Himachal Pradesh b) Uttarakhand c) Arunachal Pradesh d) Sikkim
What is a major cause of avalanches in the Himalayas? a) Earthquakes b) Unstable snowpacks due to extreme seasonal climate c) Volcanic eruptions d) Air pollution
Which agency is primarily responsible for high-altitude rescue operations in the Indian Himalayas? a) BSF b) NDRF c) Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) d) Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)
How can avalanches be predicted effectively? a) Rainwater harvesting b) Geospatial monitoring & early warning systems c) Afforestation d) Constructing concrete walls
Which of the following is a key measure to improve safety in avalanche-prone areas? a) Reducing infrastructure projects b) Building reinforced, insulated shelters c) Increasing tourism d) Strengthening vehicle traffic
Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:
Discuss the causes and impacts of avalanches in the Himalayan region. Suggest disaster management strategies for mitigation.
How do infrastructure projects in high-altitude areas contribute to environmental instability? Evaluate with reference to Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.
Examine the role of real-time monitoring and early warning systems in preventing disasters like avalanches and landslides.
What are the major challenges in high-altitude rescue operations? Suggest policy measures to strengthen disaster response in the Himalayas.
Climate change is increasing the frequency of glacial disasters in the Himalayas. Discuss its impact on ecology, tourism, and human settlements.
Final Takeaway
Himalayan avalanches are becoming more frequent due to climate change & human activities.
Mana village incident highlights the need for better disaster preparedness, infrastructure, and rescue capabilities.
Sustainable development, early warning systems, and improved worker safety are critical solutions.
Himachal Pradesh and other Himalayan states must strengthen disaster response strategies to minimize risks.
2. Ladki Bahin Yojana – Governance
Why in News?
The Maharashtra government has allocated ₹17,500 crore for the Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, aiming to benefit 2.38 crore women.
Announced in the Economic Survey 2024, the scheme provides financial assistance to economically disadvantaged women aged 21 to 65.
It promotes women’s empowerment, economic rehabilitation, and financial inclusion.
Key Features of the Scheme
Feature
Details
Scheme Name
Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana
Launched By
Maharashtra Government (2024)
Total Budget
₹17,500 crore
Beneficiaries
2.38 crore economically disadvantaged women
Financial Assistance
₹1,500 per month via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)
Implementation Mode
Bank transfer for transparency & efficiency
Eligibility Criteria
Criterion
Requirement
Residency
Must be a permanent resident of Maharashtra
Age Limit
21 to 65 years
Family Income
Not exceeding ₹2.5 lakh per annum
Taxpayer Status
No family member should be an income taxpayer
Excludes women from higher-income families to prioritize economically weaker sections.
Benefits of the Scheme
Poverty Reduction – Provides direct financial aid to improve women’s economic status.
Women’s Empowerment – Ensures financial independence for marginalized women.
Direct cash transfers as a tool for gender equality.
Role of government in addressing women’s financial security.
Economy & Welfare Schemes
Impact of DBT schemes on economic development.
Comparison with other state-level initiatives.
Governance & Public Policy
Challenges in welfare scheme implementation.
Budgetary allocations & fiscal responsibility.
Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)
Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:
Which state launched the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana? a) Karnataka b) Madhya Pradesh c) Maharashtra d) Rajasthan
What is the monthly financial assistance provided under this scheme? a) ₹1,000 b) ₹1,500 c) ₹2,000 d) ₹3,000
Which of the following is NOT an eligibility criterion for the scheme? a) Women aged 21-65 years b) Family income below ₹2.5 lakh per annum c) At least one male member should be employed d) No family member should be an income taxpayer
What is the mode of financial assistance transfer under the scheme? a) Cash distribution b) Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) c) Coupons for essential goods d) Free ration supply
Which of the following is a similar women empowerment scheme in Karnataka? a) Laxmi Bhandar b) Gruha Lakshmi Scheme c) Kanya Sumangala Yojana d) Ladli Laxmi Yojana
Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:
Discuss the significance of direct cash transfer schemes like the Ladki Bahin Yojana in promoting women’s financial empowerment.
Analyze the challenges associated with implementing large-scale welfare schemes targeting women. Suggest solutions to improve efficiency.
Compare the Ladki Bahin Yojana with similar women empowerment initiatives in other states. What lessons can be learned for better policy formulation?
How do welfare schemes aimed at women contribute to poverty reduction and economic development?
Critically evaluate the impact of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) in ensuring transparency and efficiency in government welfare schemes.
Final Takeaway
Ladki Bahin Yojana is a major welfare initiative focused on women’s economic empowerment in Maharashtra.
Provides ₹1,500/month via DBT, benefiting 2.38 crore women from economically weaker sections.
Promotes financial independence & poverty reduction, but challenges exist in budget management & implementation.
Comparable to other women-centric schemes across India, highlighting the role of state governments in social welfare.
3. Plight of Prisoners with Disabilities Needs Attention from the Supreme Court – Governance
Why in News?
The Supreme Court has recognized the lack of disabled-friendly infrastructure in Indian prisons following a petition highlighting the inhumane conditions faced by Professor G. Saibaba and Stan Swamy.
Despite the Persons with Disabilities Act (2016), prisons lack accessibility, medical care, and support systems for disabled inmates.
The court emphasized the urgent need for prison reforms to protect the rights of disabled prisoners.
Challenges Faced by Disabled Prisoners
Challenge
Details
Inaccessible Infrastructure
Lack of ramps, handrails, wheelchair-accessible cells, and assistive devices.
Denial of Medical Care
No proper treatment, physiotherapy, hearing aids, or walking supports.
Psychological Distress
Isolation, mistreatment, and lack of support lead to mental health issues.
Data Deficiency
No official records tracking disabled prisoners’ conditions or numbers.
Legal and Constitutional Safeguards for Disabled Prisoners
Law / Article
Provision
Article 14
Guarantees equality before the law, including disabled prisoners.
Article 21
Ensures right to life & dignity, including humane treatment in prisons.
Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (2016)
Mandates accessible public spaces & medical care, but lacks proper prison implementation.
Model Prison Manual (2016)
Suggests disability-friendly infrastructure & healthcare, but states have not fully implemented it.
Reality Check: Most Indian prisons do not follow these guidelines, leaving disabled prisoners vulnerable.
Key Supreme Court Judgments on Prisoner Rights
Case
Judgment
Upendra Baxi vs. State of U.P. (1983)
Established that prisoners retain fundamental rights even in custody.
Rama Murthy vs. State of Karnataka (1996)
Highlighted poor prison conditions & the need for urgent reforms.
Stan Swamy Case: The denial of a basic sipper cup for the Parkinson’s-afflicted activist brought global attention to the neglect of disabled prisoners.
Past Committees & Recommendations on Prison Reforms
Committee
Year
Recommendations
Mulla Committee
1983
Urged improvement of prisoner welfare & prison conditions.
Krishna Iyer Committee
1987
Recommended special facilities for disabled & aged prisoners.
Implementation Status:Most recommendations remain unimplemented, worsening conditions for disabled inmates.
Rights of disabled individuals & prisoners in India.
Legal & constitutional safeguards for vulnerable groups.
Governance & Public Policy
Implementation gaps in the criminal justice system.
Prison reforms & need for accessible infrastructure.
Ethics & Judiciary
Supreme Court rulings on humane treatment of prisoners.
Ethical concerns regarding neglect of disabled inmates.
Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)
Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:
Which fundamental right guarantees equality before the law for disabled prisoners? a) Article 19 b) Article 14 c) Article 25 d) Article 32
What does the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (2016) mandate? a) Free legal aid for disabled individuals b) Accessible public spaces & medical care c) Free housing for disabled persons d) Abolition of disability quotas in education
Which Supreme Court case ruled that prisoners retain fundamental rights even in custody? a) Upendra Baxi vs. State of U.P. (1983) b) Golaknath vs. State of Punjab c) Keshavananda Bharati vs. State of Kerala d) Vishaka vs. State of Rajasthan
Which committee first recommended welfare measures for disabled prisoners? a) Sarkaria Committee b) Mulla Committee (1983) c) Niti Aayog Committee d) Mandal Commission
The Model Prison Manual (2016) provides guidelines for: a) Reducing jail terms b) Improving prison conditions, including disability-friendly infrastructure c) Increasing police powers d) Surveillance of released prisoners
Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:
Discuss the challenges faced by disabled prisoners in Indian jails and suggest policy measures for their welfare.
Analyze the Supreme Court’s role in ensuring the rights of prisoners with disabilities. How can judicial interventions improve prison conditions?
Evaluate the implementation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (2016) in Indian prisons. What reforms are needed to improve compliance?
Discuss the ethical concerns surrounding the treatment of disabled prisoners in India. How can prison reforms align with human rights principles?
Examine the role of prison committees like the Mulla Committee (1983) and Krishna Iyer Committee (1987) in shaping prison reforms. How effective have these recommendations been?
Final Takeaway
Disabled prisoners face inhumane conditions due to lack of accessibility, medical care, and legal protection.
Supreme Court interventions highlight the urgent need for prison reforms in compliance with Articles 14 & 21.
Policy measures such as infrastructure upgrades, medical support, and legal oversight can improve conditions.
Stronger enforcement of Model Prison Manual (2016) and Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (2016) is essential.
4. What Ails Pre-Clinical PG Courses? – Indian Society
Why in News?
A significant number of postgraduate (PG) medical seats remain vacant, particularly in pre-clinical courses such as Anatomy, Biochemistry, Physiology, Forensic Medicine, Microbiology, and Pharmacology.
At Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre (VIMS), Bengaluru, many pre-clinical PG seats have remained unfilled despite lower fees and job guarantees.
The issue highlights concerns over medical education, career prospects, and healthcare workforce distribution in India.
Major Challenges Affecting Pre-Clinical PG Courses
Challenge
Details
Lack of Job Opportunities
Pre-clinical graduates cannot practice as doctors and are mostly confined to teaching or lab-based roles.
Lower Salary Prospects
Salaries in pre-clinical fields are significantly lower than clinical disciplines like Surgery or Cardiology.
Limited Career Progression
Unlike clinical doctors who can work globally & across various sectors, pre-clinical graduates have fewer career mobility options.
High Capital Requirement for Self-Employment
Setting up independent diagnostic labs is expensive, discouraging entrepreneurial ventures.
Persistent Under-Enrollment
Despite a growing number of PG medical seats, pre-clinical courses face low demand and vacant seats (e.g., only 6 out of 104 MD Anatomy seats were filled in Karnataka in 2024-25).
Key Statistics & Trends
All-India increase in PG medical seats, yet pre-clinical courses face chronic under-enrollment.
Specialization preference:
High demand for Clinical PG courses (Surgery, Medicine, Pediatrics, Radiology).
Low interest in Pre-clinical & Para-clinical courses.
Seat distribution issues:
Certain states face geographic disparities, with some institutions failing to attract students.
Private medical colleges struggle to fill seats, despite reducing tuition fees.
Why Do Students Prefer Clinical PG Courses Over Pre-Clinical?
High demand in hospitals, clinics, and private practice
Limited to teaching, research, or diagnostics
Salary Levels
Higher earning potential
Lower & stagnant salaries
Career Mobility
Can work in multiple healthcare settings
Restricted mostly to academia & labs
Entrepreneurial Scope
Can start own practice or hospital
High investment needed for independent diagnostic centers
Result: Low preference for pre-clinical courses, leading to seat vacancies & under-utilization of resources.
Policy Concerns & Systemic Issues
Imbalance in Medical Specializations – Excess focus on clinical fields leads to shortages in medical educators & researchers.
Impact on Medical Education Quality – Lack of faculty in Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, affecting MBBS & paramedical training.
Health Sector Development – Diagnostic & research fields need strengthening, but low PG enrollment limits innovation & expansion.
Example:Developed countries have robust research & teaching careers in medicine, but India’s system remains clinical-centric.
Possible Solutions & Reforms
🔹 Incentivizing Pre-Clinical Careers
Increase pay scales & incentives for educators & researchers.
Introduce scholarships & loan waivers for pre-clinical students.
🔹 Improving Career Prospects
Expand employment opportunities in research institutes, biotech firms & pharmaceutical companies.
Strengthen government job recruitment for medical educators.
🔹 Curriculum Reform & Innovation
Enhance interdisciplinary training in AI-based diagnostics, genetic research, forensic sciences, etc.
Create specialized fellowships & global exchange programs for pre-clinical subjects.
🔹 Public-Private Collaboration
Encourage private hospitals & research centers to hire more pre-clinical experts.
Promote industry-academia partnerships in biotechnology & pharma sectors.
Relevance for Exam
Health & Education Policy
Medical education reforms & faculty shortages.
Government policies on higher education in healthcare.
Economy & Public Administration
Need for investment in research-based medicine.
Public-private partnerships in medical infrastructure.
Governance & Policy Implementation
Challenges in balancing medical specializations.
Healthcare workforce planning in India.
Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)
Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:
Which of the following is NOT considered a pre-clinical medical subject? a) Cardiology b) Anatomy c) Biochemistry d) Physiology
Why are pre-clinical PG medical courses facing a decline in enrollment? a) High salaries compared to clinical fields b) Limited job opportunities & lower pay scales c) Increased demand for medical teachers d) Government restrictions on private practice
Which of the following is a major policy challenge for pre-clinical PG courses in India? a) Excessive government regulation b) Lack of faculty recruitment & research funding c) Overcrowding in medical colleges d) Ban on biotechnology research
Which of the following reforms can help address the crisis in pre-clinical PG courses? a) Providing better salary incentives for medical educators b) Reducing the number of PG medical seats c) Making pre-clinical courses mandatory for all students d) Stopping private medical education
Which Indian state reported high vacancy rates in pre-clinical PG medical courses in 2024-25? a) Maharashtra b) Tamil Nadu c) Karnataka d) Gujarat
Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:
Analyze the reasons behind the declining interest in pre-clinical PG medical courses in India. Suggest policy measures to address this challenge.
How does the preference for clinical medical specializations over pre-clinical fields impact India’s healthcare system?
Examine the role of medical research & education in strengthening India’s public health system. How can pre-clinical courses contribute to this goal?
Discuss the challenges in the recruitment & retention of medical faculty in India. Suggest solutions to make pre-clinical subjects more attractive to students.
Evaluate the impact of career stagnation & salary disparity on the demand for pre-clinical PG medical courses in India.
Final Takeaway
Pre-clinical PG courses are facing low demand due to limited career options, low salaries, and lack of global mobility.
Vacant seats indicate a systemic issue in medical education, impacting the availability of educators & researchers.
Reforms in pay scales, job creation, and curriculum innovation are needed to revive interest in pre-clinical subjects.
Public-private collaboration & government incentives can make pre-clinical careers more attractive.
5. Issue of Duplicate Voter ID – Polity
Why in News?
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has pledged to eliminate duplicate voter ID numbers within three months following concerns raised by opposition parties over potential voter manipulation.
The Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC) system has been criticized for instances where different individuals possess the same EPIC number, leading to fears of fraud and electoral roll inaccuracies.
The ECI clarified that duplicate EPIC numbers exist due to historical reasons but denied that this necessarily indicates the presence of fake voters.
Key Issues Related to Duplicate Voter IDs
Issue
Explanation
Duplicate EPIC Numbers
Some voters have identical EPIC numbers due to past system errors.
Integrity of Electoral Rolls
Opponents argue that duplicate voter IDs enable electoral fraud.
ECI’s Clarification
Duplicate numbers exist due to pre-ERONET state-level alphanumeric series overlaps, but each voter is registered in only one constituency.
Political Allegations
Parties claim that non-residents are being brought into Bengal to vote using duplicate IDs.
Which of the following best describes the function of the Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC)? a) Confers the right to vote b) Acts as an identity document for registered voters c) Serves as proof of citizenship d) Is mandatory for all elections in India
What is the reason for duplicate EPIC numbers in India? a) Manipulation by political parties b) Pre-ERONET state-level numbering overlaps c) Faulty biometric voter verification d) Lack of voter registration
What initiative has the Election Commission proposed to rectify duplicate voter ID issues? a) Scrapping EPIC cards b) Upgrading ERONET 2.0 to ensure unique voter ID numbers c) Mandatory re-registration of all voters d) Introducing electronic voting
Which of the following statements is true regarding voter ID and voting rights? a) A person can vote from any constituency if they have an EPIC. b) A person can only vote in their registered constituency, even if their EPIC is duplicated c) EPIC numbers are mandatory for voting in India. d) Duplicate EPIC numbers mean the presence of fake voters.
What is the Election Commission’s Manual on Electoral Rolls (2023) guideline regarding EPIC numbers? a) EPIC numbers must match across all states. b) Each EPIC must have a unique alphanumeric identifier c) EPICs are optional for voter registration. d) EPICs must be renewed every five years.
Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:
Discuss the challenges posed by duplicate voter IDs in India’s electoral process. How can the Election Commission address these concerns?
Explain the role of ERONET in managing India’s electoral database. What measures can be taken to ensure unique voter identification?
Evaluate the impact of duplicate voter IDs on electoral integrity. What steps can be taken to prevent voter fraud while maintaining democratic participation?
How does the Election Commission ensure free and fair elections in India? Analyze the significance of electoral roll verification in this process.
The credibility of India’s electoral process depends on the accuracy of voter registration. Suggest policy measures to strengthen voter identification and prevent fraud.
Final Takeaway
The Election Commission is actively working to eliminate duplicate voter ID numbers through ERONET 2.0 upgrades.
Duplicate EPIC numbers do not necessarily indicate fake voters, but concerns over electoral integrity remain.
Ensuring a unique voter ID system is essential for fair elections and public trust.
Strengthening digital governance & verification mechanisms can enhance electoral transparency.
