What’s in today’s article?

• Why in News?
• What is the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS)?
• News Summary Regarding Launch of Recent Rejuvenation Works under ABSS

Why in News?

Western Railway has announced the inclusion of Kandivali and Dahisar railway stations in the recently launched Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS).

What is the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS)?

• It is an ongoing Indian Railways mission launched in February 2023 by the Ministry of Railway sto redevelop railway stations across India.
• It is designed for the ongoing development of railway stations with a long-term perspective.
• It involves the creation of master plans and their phased implementation to improve various aspects of station facilities.
• The development plan takes into account the unique needs of each station, promoting a holistic approach to railway station enhancement.
• The scheme aims to transform railway stations into modern, well-equipped hubs with improved passenger amenities, better traffic circulation, inter-modal integration, and enhanced signage.
• The scheme shall cater for the introduction of new amenities as well as the upgradation and replacement of existing amenities.
• The ultimate goal is to transform these stations into vibrant city centres over the long term.
• Key Features:
  • Modern passenger amenities: This includes providing clean and hygienic waiting areas, restrooms, Special amenities for the disabled, and food and beverage outlets.
  • Improved traffic circulation: This includes creating separate entry and exit points for passengers and vehicles, widening roads and footpaths, and providing adequate parking facilities.
  • Inter-modal integration: This includes providing seamless connectivity between railway stations and other modes of transport, such as buses, taxis, and autorickshaws.
  • Upgraded signage: This includes providing clear and visible signage in multiple languages to guide passengers.
  • Sustainability: This includes using energy-efficient lighting and appliances.
• Eco-friendliness: 
  • Rainwater harvesting systems and green spaces
  • Ballastless tracks, which reduce noise and vibration
  • Roof plazas, where available, provide additional space for commercial activities and passenger amenities

News Summary Regarding Launch of Recent Rejuvenation Works under ABSS:

• The 13 railway stations include Ballari, Ghatprabha, Gokak Road, Alnavar, Gadag, Koppal, Harihar, Arsikere, Mangaluru Jn., Wadi, Kalaburagi Jn. (Gulbarga) and Shahabad.
  • These railway stations in the State are all set to emerge as city centre and urban icons giving a new identity to the town/city in which they are located.
  • The stations will become world class with amenities such as a shopping zone, food court, children’s play area, multi-level parking, physically challenged-friendly facilities, etc.
  • With the integration of multi-modal connectivity, the redeveloped stations will become the centre of socio-economic activities of the region.
• The launch of these 13 stations was part of the all-India launch of laying the foundation stone for work on 508 stations in various States.
• The PM said that the 508 Stations will become world class with an investment of ₹25,000 crore.
• The PM said that ABSS is set to transform and revitalise 1,309 railway stations across the nation and will breathe new life into travel hubs and enhance the overall passenger experience.

Q1: What is Rainwater harvesting?

Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) is a method of collecting and conserving surface runoff rainwater for storage and use or for groundwater recharge. Though simple in principle, numerous variables come into play while implementing an efficient RWH system (climate, humidity, temperature, rainfall pattern, finances etc.).

Source: Western railway adds Kandivali and Dahisar to Amrit Bharat Station Scheme

What’s in today’s article?

• Why in News?
• Invasive Species and Their Threat to Ecosystems
• What is Ballast water?
• Laws regulating movement of ballast water

Why in News?

The Tamil Nadu Water Resources Department (WRD) has informed the National Green Tribunal that it has requested ₹160 crore from Kamarajar Port in Ennore, Tamil Nadu, to address the removal of invasive charru mussels (Mytella strigata) along the coast. These mussels are harming marine ecosystems and obstructing fisher boat movements, impacting livelihoods.

The WRD accuses Kamarajar Port of contributing to the spread of the invasive species by failing to regulate ballast water from ships.

Invasive Species and Their Threat to Ecosystems

• About
  • Invasive species are non-native organisms that are introduced, either accidentally or intentionally, into a new environment where they do not naturally occur.
  • These species often spread rapidly and can cause significant harm to the local ecosystems, economies, and human health.
  • Invasive species can outcompete native species for resources, alter habitats, disrupt food webs, and even lead to the extinction of native species.
  • One of the primary ways invasive species are introduced is through human activities, such as global trade and transportation.
  • For example, ballast water from ships, which is used to stabilize vessels, often contains various marine organisms.
  • When this water is discharged in a new location, it can introduce invasive species to the area.
• Case Study: Charru Mussels (Mytella strigata)
  • About
    • The Charru mussel (Mytella strigata) is an example of an invasive species that has become a significant ecological threat.
    • Native to South America, the charru mussel has spread to other regions, including the coast near Kamarajar Port in Ennore, Tamil Nadu, India.
    • The spread of this species is largely attributed to ballast water discharge from ships, which is not adequately regulated.
  • Threats posed
    • The charru mussel poses a severe threat to marine ecosystems. It reproduces quickly and forms dense colonies, which can outcompete native species for space and resources.
    • The mussels attach to various surfaces, including rocks, other marine organisms, and even man-made structures like boats and docks.
    • This can lead to the displacement of native species, changes in habitat structure, and a reduction in biodiversity.
    • In the Ennore region, the proliferation of charru mussels has also had economic and social impacts.
    • The dense colonies of mussels hinder the movement of fishing boats, affecting the livelihoods of local fishermen.

What is Ballast water?

• Ships require a certain level of immersion in the sea for stability. To maintain this, when cargo is discharged and the ship rises in the water, sea water, known as ballast water, is taken into tanks onboard.
• Conversely, when cargo is loaded and the ship sinks lower in the water, the ballast water is pumped out.

Laws regulating movement of ballast water

• Background
  • Traditionally, there were no restrictions on the intake and discharge of ballast water at various locations, including ports and along coasts.
  • However, since ballast water can carry invasive species that harm ecosystems in other countries, the global shipping industry has moved to regulate ballast water discharge.
    • In India, scientists have recorded nearly 30 invasive species coming from ship ballast water.
    • Among the most harmful in recent times is the charru mussel, Mytella Rigata.
    • In the Pulicat lake in Tamil Nadu, as in Ashtamudi lake in Kerala, this mussel has replaced almost all other species.
    • Its survival rate and egg production is very high. Though of marine origin, it can survive even in fresh water.
• Global regulations
  • The Ballast Water Management (BWM) Convention, enforced by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) since 2017, aims to prevent the spread of harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens through ships' ballast water.
  • Ships must now manage their ballast water to remove or neutralize these organisms before discharge in new locations.
  • Newly built ships with ballast water management systems treat the water with chemicals to eliminate biological organisms.
    • Older ships without such systems are required to exchange ballast water taken in at ports with neutral ocean water during their journey.
  • Countries like Australia and New Zealand are particularly strict in enforcing these regulations to protect their marine ecosystems.
  • Australia, which frequently handles ballast water due to its role as a major raw material supplier, conducts rigorous checks on ships, especially near sensitive areas like the Great Barrier Reef, to prevent ecological damage.
• Situation in India
  • As of July 2024, 97 countries have signed the Ballast Water Management (BWM) Convention of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), but India is not among them.
  • Consequently, ships docking at Indian ports are not obligated to follow the BWM Convention.
  • While Indian ports enforce other rules, such as those related to oil discharge, ballast water remains unchecked.
• Way forward for India
  • Maritime law experts note that ports are facilitators and cannot be held liable unless a law is in place.
  • If there is any evidence that a vessel has pumped out the ballast water that led to the invasive species, then the vessel owner can be held liable if a law is in force.
  • Hence, India must join the BWM Convention to address this gap.

Q.1. What is Charru mussels (Mytella strigata)?

Charru mussels (Mytella strigata) are invasive species native to South America that have spread to other regions, including India, primarily through ballast water discharge from ships. These mussels form dense colonies, outcompeting native species, disrupting marine ecosystems, and hindering fishing activities, thereby posing significant ecological and economic threats.

Q.2. What is International Maritime Organization (IMO)?

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is a specialized United Nations agency responsible for regulating shipping. It sets global standards for maritime safety, security, and environmental performance. Established in 1948, the IMO aims to ensure safe and efficient international shipping while protecting the marine environment through conventions and protocols.

Source: Does India have laws on the movement of ballast water?

What’s in today’s article?

• Why in News?
• Civil Registration System (CRS) in India
• Recent initiatives to strengthen CRS

Why in News?

The Union government's centralised Civil Registration System (CRS) portal, used for registering births and deaths, has been facing technical issues for the past four months, causing delays in the issuance of certificates.

Under the Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Act of 2023, all births and deaths in India from October 1, 2023, must be digitally registered through this portal.

The digital birth certificates will serve as a single document for various services, including education, government jobs, and marriage registration.

Additionally, the centralised database will update the National Population Register (NPR), which has 119 crore residents and serves as a precursor to the National Register of Citizens (NRC) under the Citizenship Act.

Civil Registration System (CRS) in India

• With the enactment of the Registration of Births and Death Act (RBD Act) in 1969, the registration of births, deaths and still births have become mandatory in India.
• The Registrar General, India (RGI) at the Central Government level coordinates and unifies the activities of registration throughout the country.
  • The Chief Registrar is mandated to publish a statistical report on the registered births and deaths during the year.
• However, implementation of the statute is vested with the State Governments.
  • The registration of births and deaths in the country is done by the functionaries appointed by the State Governments.

Recent initiatives to strengthen CRS

• Uniform Software Application for Registration of Births and Deaths
  • A software application for online and offline registration of birth and death has been developed.
  • The application that is presently available in English is being customized in 13 Indian languages.
• Database of Institutions
  • A nationwide database of medical Institutions has been prepared.
  • The plan is to electronically monitor the registration of events occurring in these institutions through an ICT enabled platform.
• Application to Monitor Institutional Events
  • An SMS based application called "Event Monitoring System for Registration" has been developed and is currently under pilot testing.
• Data digitization
  • Project to keep old records in easy to retrieve digital form has been started.
  • This will help in storage of registers in electronic format and allow easy access to the records.
• National Population Register
  • The Civil Registration System has been linked to the NPR.

Q.1. What is Registrar General, India (RGI)?

The Registrar General, India (RGI) is an official government authority responsible for conducting the Census of India and overseeing the registration of births, deaths, and marriages. Established in 1961, the RGI operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs and manages vital statistics and demographic data across the country.

Q.2. What is a National Population Register (NPR)?

The National Population Register (NPR) is a database of all usual residents of India, established under the Ministry of Home Affairs. It includes demographic and biometric details of residents and serves as a precursor to the National Register of Citizens (NRC). The NPR aims to enhance national security and streamline service delivery.

Source: Issuance of birth and death certificates hit as Centre’s portal faces snag | CRS | The Hindu

What’s in today’s article?

• Why in News?
• What is a Joint Parliamentary Committees (JPC)
• JPCs to Investigate Alleged Financial Crimes

Why in News?

The Opposition has demanded a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to investigate the Hindenburg Research allegations against SEBI’s chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch.

What is a Joint Parliamentary Committees (JPC)?

• Background: In India, a structured committee system was introduced in 1993 to provide for greater scrutiny of government functioning by Parliament.
• About a JPC:
  • These are set up by a motion passed in one house of Parliament and agreed to by the other.
  • Its members include MPs from both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha (in proportion to party strengths there, and therefore representation of LS is double that of RS).
  • Therefore, a JPC is an ad-hoc body,which acts as a mini-Parliament to carry out detailed scrutiny of a specific matter within a specific time frame.
• How many JPCs have there been so far?
  • Although a number of joint committees have been formed since Independence, 4 major JPCs have been formed to investigate significant issues that have caused controversy.
  • These are:
    • Joint Committee on Bofors Contracts;
    • Joint Committee to enquire into irregularities in securities and banking transactions;
    • Joint Committee on stock-market scam; and
    • Joint Committee on pesticide residues in and safety standards for soft drinks.
• The details regarding membership and subjects: These are also decided by Parliament. For example,
  • The motion on the stock market scam constituted a JPC of 30 members (20 were from the LS and 10 from the RS).
  • The motion to constitute the JPC on pesticides included 10 members from the LS and 5 from the RS.
  • The terms of reference for the JPC on the stock market scam asked the committee
    • To look into financial irregularities,
    • To fix responsibility on persons and institutions for the scam,
    • To identify regulatory loopholes and
    • To make suitable recommendations.
• How effective have JPCs been?
  • JPC recommendations have persuasive value and the committee cannot force the government to take any action on the basis of its report.
  • The government may decide to launch fresh investigations on the basis of a JPC report.
  • The government is required to report on the follow-up action taken on the basis of the recommendations of the JPC.
  • The committee then submits ‘Action Taken Reports’ in Parliament on the basis of the government’s reply.
  • These reports can be discussed in Parliament and the government can be questioned on the basis of the same.

JPCs to Investigate Alleged Financial Crimes:

• 2G Spectrum (2013): The JPC report cleared the then PM (Manmohan Singh) of any wrongdoing, claiming he had been misinformed about the process the Department of Telecommunications will use to grant licenses for Unified Access Services.
• Share Market Scam (2001): A JPC was formed, when Atal Bihari Vajpayee was PM, and its report recommended sweeping changes in stock market regulations. However, its recommendations were not fully implemented.
• Securities and Banking Transactions (1992):
  • Allegations that “Big Bull” Harshad Mehta had diverted funds from the public sector Maruti Udyog Limited to his own accounts, leading to a 570-point fall in the Sensex.
  • This led to the formation of JPC during the tenure of PM P V Narasimha Rao.

Q.1. What is the Public Accounts Committee (PAC)?

The PAC is constituted by the Parliament of India for the purpose of auditing the revenue and the expenditure of the Government of India. This committee along with the Estimates committee and Committee on Public Undertakings are the 3 financial standing committees of the Parliament of India.

Q.2. Why are parliamentary committees important?

The Parliamentary Committees scrutinises and reports to the House whether the powers to make regulations, rules, sub-rules, by-laws, etc., conferred by the Constitution or delegated by Parliament are being properly exercised by the Executive within the scope of such delegation.

Source: Hindenburg allegations: Cong threatens stir if JPC probe not initiated; BJP calls demand a ‘sham’ | IE

Indian Independence Day marks the day when "We, the People of India" come together to celebrate our hard-fought freedom, unity, and the indomitable spirit of our nation. As the country gears up to commemorate the 78th Independence Day on 15th August 2024, this article offers an in-depth look at the various facets of this significant occasion.

About Indian Independence Day

Indian Independence Day, celebrated annually on 15th August, is a national festival that marks India's liberation from British rule, achieved on August 15, 1947. This day signifies the birth of a free and independent nation and is observed with flag-hoisting ceremonies, parades, and cultural events across the country. It is a day of pride and reflection, honoring the sacrifices of those who fought for the nation’s freedom.

Historical Background of Independence Day of India

The historical significance of Indian Independence Day on August 15th is rooted in the colonial era when India was under British rule.

• Before August 15, 1947, India was governed by the British, and its people were engaged in a prolonged struggle for independence.
• The fight for freedom was long and challenging, marked by immense sacrifices from leaders and citizens alike.
• Key movements in India’s independence struggle included the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22), Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-32), and Quit India Movement (1942).
• After World War II, the British government, weakened and financially strained, became more inclined to grant India independence.
• The path to independence was formalized through negotiations, culminating in the Indian Independence Act of 1947, which partitioned British India into two dominions – India and Pakistan.
• On the midnight of August 14-15, 1947, India officially attained independence.
• Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first Prime Minister, delivered his iconic “Tryst with Destiny” speech, symbolizing the birth of a new nation.
• Indian Independence Day is now celebrated annually, honoring the end of British colonial rule and the emergence of India as a sovereign nation.

Order of Events during Independence Day

Here is a chronological overview of the events that take place during Indian Independence Day celebrations:

Morning Ceremonies

1. Arrival of the Prime Minister - The Prime Minister arrives at the Red Fort in New Delhi, marking the commencement of the celebrations. This historic site is significant as it symbolizes India's independence and serves as the location for the Prime Minister's address to the nation.
2. Guard of Honour - Upon the Prime Minister's arrival, a formal Guard of Honour is presented by the armed forces and police personnel. This ceremonial salute symbolizes respect and highlights the discipline and unity of India’s defense and security forces.
3. Hoisting of the National Flag - The Prime Minister hoists the National Flag at the Red Fort, symbolizing national pride and independence. This moment holds great significance as it represents the sovereignty and unity of the country.
4. National Anthem - Following the flag hoisting, the national anthem, “Jana Gana Mana,” is played, accompanied by a 21-gun salute, a traditional military honor that represents national pride and respect.

Address by the Prime Minister 

• Prime Minister’s Speech - The Prime Minister delivers a speech to the nation, highlighting the government's achievements, paying tribute to freedom fighters, and outlining future goals. The speech aims to inspire and unite the nation by reflecting on past accomplishments and setting the tone for future progress.

78th Independence Day of India 2024

India is set to celebrate its 78th Independence Day on August 15, 2024. This significant milestone will be honored with grand celebrations that pay tribute to India’s enduring spirit, progress, and unity. The events planned will not only commemorate the nation’s journey from independence to its current global standing but also highlight its achievements, honor the legacy of freedom fighters, and celebrate India’s rich cultural diversity. The following sections provide an in-depth look into the various aspects of the 78th Independence Day Celebrations in 2024.

Theme for Indian Independence Day Celebrations 2024

The theme for the 78th Indian Independence Day in 2024 is "Viksit Bharat," reflecting the government's vision of transforming India into a Developed Nation by 2047, marking the 100th year of Independence: 

• This vision emphasizes comprehensive development across sectors like infrastructure, technology, education, and healthcare, aiming to enhance India's global standing.
• The theme highlights a commitment to economic growth, social progress, and sustainable development, fostering a nation where every citizen can thrive.
• It embodies the collective aspiration to build a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient India, honoring its rich heritage while embracing modern advancements.

Major Highlights of 78th Independence Day Celebrations 2024

Here’s a look at how 78th Independence Day Celebrations will look like: 

• Red Fort Ceremony: The iconic Red Fort in Delhi will be the centerpiece of the celebrations, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will unfurl the national flag and deliver a keynote address, highlighting the government's achievements and future plans.
• Grand Military Parade: A spectacular military parade will showcase India’s armed forces, featuring impressive formations, advanced weaponry, and traditional regiments, symbolizing the nation’s strength and unity.
• Nationwide Tree Plantation Drive: As part of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, the Ministry of Defence will lead a massive plantation drive of 15 lakh trees across the country, involving the three Services and related organizations.
• Patriotic Fervor: Homes and public spaces across the nation will be adorned with tricolour decorations, while communities engage in singing patriotic songs, hosting cultural events, and other activities to celebrate India’s journey to independence.
• Cultural Programs: School children will perform cultural dances and songs, showcasing India’s rich heritage and unity through regional traditions, languages, and arts.
• Nationwide Engagement Initiatives: In collaboration with MyGov, the Ministry of Defence will inspire patriotic fervor through activities like Patriotic Dress Competitions, Painting Competitions on Mission LiFE, and Essay Competitions on “Ek Bharat Shreshta Bharat.”
• Awards and Honors: Brave soldiers and citizens who have made significant contributions to the nation will be honored with awards, recognizing their acts of valor, dedication, and exceptional service.
• At Home Reception: The President of India will host an “At Home” reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan, attended by dignitaries such as the Vice President, Prime Minister, and other high-ranking officials, reflecting on the day’s significance.
• State-Level Celebrations: Similar flag-hoisting ceremonies, parades, and cultural programs will be organized across state capitals and district headquarters, extending the spirit of Independence Day to regional and local levels.
• Live Broadcast: Events from the Red Fort will be broadcast live on national television, radio, and extensively covered by print and digital media, allowing citizens across the country to participate virtually.
• Illumination: In the evening, prominent government buildings and monuments will be illuminated with decorative lights, adding to the festive atmosphere and symbolizing the celebration of independence, pride, and unity.

Significance of Indian Independence Day Celebrations

The significance of Indian Independence Day is profound, especially for India, where it symbolizes the end of colonial rule and the birth of a sovereign nation. The key aspects of this celebration are:

• Commemoration of Freedom: Marks the end of British rule on August 15, 1947, celebrating the achievement of national sovereignty and self-governance after years of struggle and sacrifice.
• Honoring Sacrifices: A tribute to the sacrifices of leaders and ordinary citizens who fought for the country’s freedom, recognizing their contributions to India’s independence.
• National Unity and Pride: Serves as a reminder of India’s unity in diversity, fostering a sense of national pride and collective identity across various backgrounds and regions.
• Celebration of Achievements: Provides an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s progress since independence, highlighting advancements in technology, infrastructure, and social development.
• Cultural and Historical Reflection: Includes cultural performances, parades, and ceremonies that showcase India’s rich heritage and historical journey, celebrating cultural identity and milestones.
• Inspiration for Future Goals: Acts as a platform for setting new goals and aspirations, encouraging citizens to contribute to national development and uphold democratic values.
• Public Engagement and Patriotism: Engages the public in patriotic activities, from flag-hoisting ceremonies to cultural programs, enhancing civic pride and encouraging active participation in national celebrations.

Indian Independence Day is more than just a commemoration of a pivotal historical event; it celebrates the enduring spirit, rich heritage, and unity of India. It is a day to honor the sacrifices of freedom fighters, celebrate the progress made over the years, and look forward to a future filled with continued growth and prosperity.

Independence Day FAQs

Q1. Is it 78th Independence Day 2024?

Ans. Yes, 2024 marks the 78th Independence Day of India.

Q2. Is it 77th Independence Day?

Ans. No, 2024 is the 78th Independence Day.

Q3. Is this Independence Day 75th?

Ans. No, the 75th Independence Day was celebrated in 2022.

Q4. What is Independence Day and why do we celebrate it?

Ans. Independence Day commemorates India’s freedom from British rule on August 15, 1947, celebrating national sovereignty and the sacrifices of freedom fighters.

Q5. Who declared independence to India?

Ans. India's independence was officially declared by the British government through the Indian Independence Act of 1947.

Q6. Why was August 15 chosen as Independence Day?

Ans. August 15 was chosen as it marked the end of British rule and was the date when India officially became a free nation in 1947.