Polity and Governance

SAMVIDHAAN SADAN – THE CONSTITUTION HOUSE

On 19.09.2023, the Indian Parliamentarians shifted to new parliament from the old parliament. On this occassion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, requested to name the old parliament as SAMVIDHAAN SADAN i.e The constitution house where the constitution of India was discussed and adopted by great politicians after the independence of India Samvidhan Sadan_Constitution House Parliament of India

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Aadhar – India’s Unique Identity

aadhar

The Supreme Court in its 2018 judgement had held that Aadhaar could be used for welfare, but it recognised a fundamental right to privacy and struck down Section 57 of the Aadhaar Act that enabled private entities to use Aadhaar authentication to establish identity for delivering services. As an Indian, you must have very well known about Aadhar Card. It has revolutionized India’s identification system. But what exactly is Aadhar, and why does it matter so much? This blog deeply explores Aadhar’s purpose, mechanics, and implications. Come with us on this exciting voyage as we demystify our unique identity system! What is Aadhar ? Aadhar is a 12-digit unique identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) since 2009. Launched in 2009, its purpose is to provide every Indian resident with an identity that can be electronically verified. It utilizes biometric and demographic data as verification points for accuracy and security purposes. How Does Aadhar Work? Aadhar operates through a rigorous process, including data collection, verification, and issuing unique identification numbers (UIN). Here’s a simplified breakdown: Data Collection: Individuals submit biometric (fingerprint and iris scan) and demographic (name, address, and date of birth) information securely stored within the UIDAI database.  Once submitted data is checked against existing records to eliminate duplicates and errors, biometric information undergoes matching to ensure its uniqueness, and once verification is successful, a unique Aadhar number will be generated and issued to each individual. Benefits of Aadhar Implementing Aadhar has provided numerous advantages to both Indian citizens and the government alike, including many key advantages: Efficient Public Distribution System Aadhar facilitates the targeted delivery of welfare benefits by eliminating intermediaries and providing direct benefit transfers directly. This reduces leakages while reaching intended beneficiaries more efficiently. Financial Inclusion Aadhar is a digital identity proof to open bank accounts and utilize various financial services, providing easy and secure access to credit, insurance, and other financial products for the underprivileged. Simplified KYC Process Aadhar has transformed the Know Your Customer (KYC) process across sectors, cutting down paperwork and time-consuming procedures while streamlining onboarding processes in telecom, insurance, and banking services. Criticism of Aadhar Aadhaar, India’s unique identification system, was initially implemented to streamline government services and promote financial inclusion while combatting identity fraud. But with the increasing digitalization of this system has come concerns about misuse of Aadhaar data. This essay examines some key issues concerning Aadhaar misuse and its potential implications for individuals and society. Data Breaches and Security One of the major concerns related to Aadhaar is its vulnerability to data breaches. With sensitive personal information stored on Aadhaar, such as biometric data, any unauthorized access or hacking could lead to devastating results, including identity theft and financial fraud affecting millions worldwide. Several instances of data breaches have already been reported, exposing millions to identity theft and financial fraud risks. Identity Theft and Financial Fraud Aadhar has transformed the Know Your Customer (KYC) process across sectors, cutting down paperwork and time-consuming procedures while streamlining onboarding processes in telecom, insurance, and banking services. Misuse of Aadhaar can lead to identity theft and financial fraud. With Aadhaar being linked with various services and accounts, untrustworthy individuals could exploit the system to access sensitive data for fraudulent activities that cause significant monetary loss, damage to their credit histories and reputations, and damage to individuals themselves. Concerns Over Privacy Aadhaar raises serious privacy issues for its participants. The massive collection of personal data without sufficient safeguards raises serious privacy issues that put individuals’ fundamental right to privacy at risk, with the potential for intrusive surveillance or profiling, breaching fundamental liberties. This puts their personal information under constant surveillance by the government while making people vulnerable to constant monitoring or misuse of personal data. Exclusion and Discrimination Another significant disadvantage of Aadhaar misuse is the potential for exclusion and discrimination. With more services and entitlements mandating its usage, those without Aadhaar may face difficulty accessing them; furthermore, technical glitches or authentication failures have been reported as a denial of essential services to marginalized communities, further compounding social inequalities. Unauthorized Access of Personal Data Misuse of Aadhaar may include unwarranted access to personal information by service providers, companies, or government agencies for targeted advertising, profiling, or selling personal data without individual consent – activities that violate individuals’ rights while weakening trust in Aadhaar systems. GST Frauds The Government has mandated Aadhar-enabled verification for GST Registration, i.e., the authorized person’s identity at the time of GST Registration is established through Aadhar verification. In case of the absence of Aadhar verification, field officers have to visit the registered place for verification. There have come instances where a farmer or tea seller has been issued GST notices and demanded Crore of Rupee for GST tax evasion. On investigations, it has been found that their aadhar and pan have been misused by someone to obtain a GST Registration in their name and commit GST fraud. This has made the lives of low-income group individuals a disaster. Penalties for Non-Linking The mandatory linking of Aadhaar to various services and the consequent penalties for non-linking have raised a big question for the government. There have been instances where a student has to pay a Rs 1000 penalty for non-linking his aadhar with a pan card even when he has no Income and no Income tax return is required to be filed by him. Further, there have been cases where a BPL individual was denied to withdraw money from his bank account because he did not link his account with Aadhar when he needed emergency money. People are denied essential services, which are part of their right to life and have been penalized hefty money. Consequences and Solutions Misuse of Aadhaar can have serious repercussions for individuals, including financial losses, privacy invasion, and exclusion from essential services. To address these concerns effectively, robust security measures, strict adherence to privacy laws, and an enabling regulatory framework must be put in place to avoid unapproved access and data breaches;

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Webland AP – How to apply for Land Registration, Mutation and more

webland

Introduction In today’s fast-paced world, people have little time to spare on tedious paperwork and long queues to access land-related services. But what if we told you that you can do all of it from the comfort of your own home or office? Yes, that’s right! Thanks to the Webland Andhra Pradesh portal, you can now complete all your land-related work online without any hassle. So, what is Webland Andhra Pradesh, and how can you benefit from it? Let’s dive in and explore the many advantages of this portal! Advantages of Webland Andhra Pradesh Convenience: One of the most significant advantages of Webland Andhra Pradesh is its convenience. You no longer have to stand in long queues or take time off work to visit government offices to complete your land-related work. All you need is a computer or a mobile phone with an internet connection to access the portal from anywhere and at any time. Time-Saving: Another advantage of Webland Andhra Pradesh is that it saves time. With just a few clicks, you can complete tasks that would otherwise take hours or even days to complete. This means that you can now spend more time on other important tasks or with your loved ones instead of running around for land-related work. Transparency: Webland Andhra Pradesh provides transparency in the land registration process. You can access all the details related to your land, such as land ownership, registration, mutation, and more, with just a few clicks. This eliminates the need for middlemen and reduces the chances of fraudulent activities. Easy Access to Information: With Webland Andhra Pradesh, you can access all the information related to your land at your fingertips. The portal provides a single platform to access all the land-related services offered by the government. You can also access various reports related to your land, such as the Land Distribution Report, Pahani Request, and Pattadar Pass Book, among others. Digitalization: The government’s initiative to digitize land records through Webland Andhra Pradesh has made it easier to manage and maintain land records. All the land-related data is now available online, making it easier to access, update, and track the records. Services available at Webland Webland Andhra Pradesh offers a range of services related to land registration, mutation, and other land-related activities. Here are some of the services you can access on the portal: Land Registration: You can register your land online by filling in the application form available on the portal. You will need to provide details such as the location, survey number, and extent of the land, among others. Mutation: You can apply for mutation of your land on the Webland Andhra Pradesh portal. Mutation is the process of transferring the ownership of land from one person to another. Land Conversion: You can apply for land conversion on the portal. Land conversion is the process of changing the use of the land from agricultural to non-agricultural or vice versa. Land Valuation: You can also access the land valuation service on Webland Andhra Pradesh. This service provides the market value of your land, which is useful when selling or buying land. Webland Andhra Pradesh – Login and Application Procedure Services on Webland Andhra Pradesh: Visit the official website of Webland Andhra Pradesh. Click on the ‘Login’ button available on the homepage. Enter your login credentials, such as your username and password. Once you are logged in, you can access all the services offered by Webland Andhra Pradesh. To apply for land-related services, select the service you require and fill in the required details. Make the necessary payments and submit the application. Once the application is submitted, you can track the status of your application online. How to Login to Webland? To log in to Webland Andhra Pradesh, you need to follow these steps: Visit the official website of Webland Andhra Pradesh. Click on the ‘Login’ button available on the homepage. Enter your login credentials, such as your username and password. Click on the ‘Login’ button to access the portal. If you do not have an account on Webland Andhra Pradesh, you can create one by clicking on the ‘Register’ button available on the homepage. Follow the steps and fill in the required details to create an account. Download Land Distribution Report via Webland Andhra Pradesh The Land Distribution Report is an essential document that contains details such as the owner’s name, land survey number, land area, and more. Here’s how you can download the Land Distribution Report via Webland Andhra Pradesh: Visit the official website of Webland Andhra Pradesh. Log in to your account using your username and password. Click on the ‘Land Distribution Report’ option available under the ‘Services’ tab. Enter the required details such as the district name, Mandal name, village name, and survey number. Click on the ‘Get Report’ button to generate the report. Once the report is generated, you can download it and save it for future reference. Check Pahani Request Online in Webland Pahani is a document that contains details such as land ownership, survey number, and more. You can apply for a Pahani request online through Webland Andhra Pradesh. Here’s how you can check your Pahani request online: Visit the official website of Webland Andhra Pradesh. Log in to your account using your username and password. Click on the ‘Pahani Request’ option available under the ‘Services’ tab. Enter the required details such as the district name, Mandal name, village name, and survey number. Click on the ‘Get Pahani’ button to generate the report. Once the report is generated, you can download it and save it for future reference. Pattadar Pass Book on Webland Pattadar Pass Book is a document that contains details such as land ownership, survey number, and more. You can apply for a Pattadar Pass Book request online through Webland Andhra Pradesh. Here’s how you can access your Pattadar Pass Book on Webland Andhra Pradesh: Visit the official website of Webland Andhra Pradesh. Log in to your account using your username and password. Click on the ‘Pattadar Pass Book’ option available under

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foscos

foscos

Introduction The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is responsible for ensuring the safety and quality of food products sold in India. To do so, they have introduced a new methodology for the FoSCoS User ID, which stands for Food Safety Compliance System User ID. This new system will impact both existing and new licensed/registered food business operators (FBOs) in India. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key details of this new methodology, the guidelines for applying for a new FSSAI license/registration, and the benefits of the new FoSCoS User ID. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo. FSSAI Introduces New Methodology for FoSCoS User ID The FSSAI has introduced a new methodology for the FoSCoS User ID to simplify the registration process for FBOs. Under this new system, FBOs will receive a unique FoSCoS User ID, which will be linked to their FSSAI license/registration number. This system will help to streamline the compliance process and provide a better user experience for FBOs. Synopsis of FSSAI Notification The FSSAI has issued a notification on 17th September 2021, stating that all FBOs will have to comply with the new FoSCoS User ID system by 31st December 2021. The notification highlights the key details of the new system and the guidelines for applying for a new FSSAI license/registration. FoSCoS User ID for Existing Licensed/Registered FBOs Existing licensed/registered FBOs will have to create a new FoSCoS User ID, which will be linked to their FSSAI license/registration number. To do so, they will have to follow the guidelines provided by the FSSAI and submit the necessary documents. The FSSAI has provided a step-by-step guide on their website to help existing FBOs with this process. FoSCoS User ID for FBOs whose applications for new license/registration are under processing FBOs who have applied for a new FSSAI license/registration will also have to create a new FoSCoS User ID. This new system will ensure that the FBOs can easily comply with the safety standards and regulations, while also providing them with a better user experience. Guidelines For Applying New FSSAI License/Registration The FSSAI has provided guidelines for applying for a new FSSAI license/registration. These guidelines include the following steps: Determine the category of your FBO (Central/State license or registration). Submit the necessary documents and pay the fee online. Wait for the FSSAI to conduct an inspection of your FBO. Receive your FSSAI license/registration number. Create a new FoSCoS User ID and link it to your FSSAI license/registration number. Benefits of New Methodology for FoSCoS User ID The new methodology for the FoSCoS User ID will provide several benefits for FBOs in India. These benefits include: Streamlined compliance process: The new system will simplify the compliance process for FBOs and provide them with a better user experience. Improved safety standards: The new system will help to ensure that all FBOs comply with the safety standards and regulations set by the FSSAI. Better data management: The new system will provide a centralized platform for FBOs to manage their compliance data, which will improve the efficiency and accuracy of data management. Reduced paperwork: The new system will reduce the paperwork required for compliance, which will save time and resources for FBOs. Faster approvals: The new system will help to streamline the approval process for FSSAI license/registration, which will result in faster approvals for FBOs. Updating of Email ID and Phone Number in FoSCoS User ID It is important for FBOs to keep their contact information up to date in their FoSCoS User ID. This will help the FSSAI to contact the FBO in case of any compliance issues or updates. To update their contact information, FBOs can log in to their FoSCoS User ID and make the necessary changes. FAQs What is the FoSCoS User ID? The FoSCoS User ID stands for Food Safety Compliance System User ID. It is a unique ID provided to FBOs in India to manage their compliance data. Do all FBOs need to create a new FoSCoS User ID? Yes, all FBOs in India need to create a new FoSCoS User ID, as per the new methodology introduced by the FSSAI. How do I apply for a new FSSAI license/registration? You can apply for a new FSSAI license/registration by following the guidelines provided by the FSSAI. These guidelines include submitting the necessary documents and paying the fee online. What are the benefits of the new FoSCoS User ID system? The new FoSCoS User ID system will provide several benefits for FBOs in India, including streamlined compliance process, improved safety standards, better data management, reduced paperwork, and faster approvals. Can I update my contact information in my FoSCoS User ID? Yes, you can update your contact information in your FoSCoS User ID by logging in to your account and making the necessary changes. Conclusion The new methodology for the FoSCoS User ID introduced by the FSSAI will help to simplify the compliance process for FBOs in India. It will also ensure that all FBOs comply with the safety standards and regulations set by the FSSAI. By creating a centralized platform for data management, the new system will improve the efficiency and accuracy of compliance data management. FBOs should take the necessary steps to create their new FoSCoS User ID and comply with the new system by 31st December 2021.

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The Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM)

Are you looking to know about The Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister or do you want to become a part of it ? This blog will help you understand everything about The Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, its structure, function and composition   The Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) is a group of economists and experts who provide advice and recommendations to the Prime Minister of India on economic issues. The council was established in 2017, with the goal of providing independent and impartial advice to the Prime Minister on economic matters. The EAC-PM is headed by the Chairman and includes a mix of economists and experts from academia, research institutions, and the private sector. The council is tasked with providing advice on a wide range of economic issues, including macroeconomic policy, fiscal policy, monetary policy, trade and investment, and inclusive growth. One of the key responsibilities of the EAC-PM is to provide the Prime Minister with a balanced and objective analysis of the Indian economy. This includes providing regular updates on the state of the economy, identifying key challenges, and recommending policy measures to address these challenges. The council also conducts research and analysis on specific economic issues, and provides recommendations for policy action to the Prime Minister. In addition to its advisory role, the EAC-PM also plays an important role in fostering greater economic understanding and awareness among the public. The council regularly interacts with stakeholders and the public, and communicates its findings and recommendations through reports, presentations, and public events. The EAC-PM has made a number of important contributions to the Indian economy since its establishment. For example, the council has provided valuable insights and recommendations on issues such as macroeconomic stability, fiscal consolidation, and monetary policy. The council has also played an important role in promoting economic growth and job creation, and in ensuring that the benefits of growth are shared more widely across society. In conclusion, the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister is a critical institution that provides valuable advice and recommendations to the Prime Minister on key economic issues. The council’s work is essential to ensuring that the Indian economy continues to grow and prosper, and that the benefits of growth are shared more widely across society.

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Understanding the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution: A Comprehensive Breakdown

The Constitution of India, as the supreme law of the land, provides a framework for the functioning of the country. One of the key features of the Indian Constitution is the federal structure, which divides the powers and responsibilities between the Union (Central) government and the State governments. The Seventh Schedule is a crucial part of this federal structure, as it clearly demarcates the powers and responsibilities of the Union and the States. In this blog, we will take a deep dive into the Seventh Schedule and understand its significance and relevance in the functioning of India’s constitutional machinery Background and Significance of the Seventh Schedule The Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution was created to ensure a clear and efficient distribution of powers between the Union and the States, to avoid conflicts and overlap of responsibilities. The concept of the Seventh Schedule was derived from the Government of India Act, 1935, which was the last pre-independence constitution of the British Indian Empire. The Schedule encompasses three lists – the Union List, the State List, and the Concurrent List – that provide for specific areas of governance for the Union and State governments The Union List (List I) The Union List comprises 97 items that fall under the exclusive legislative and executive domain of the Union government. These items include subjects of national importance, such as defense, foreign affairs, atomic energy, and currency. The primary objective of having a Union List is to ensure a unified approach towards subjects that require a comprehensive and uniform policy at the national level. The State List (List II) The State List consists of 66 items, which are primarily under the jurisdiction of the State governments. These items include subjects like police, public health, agriculture, and local government. The State List is crucial for accommodating regional diversity and allowing the States to address local issues according to their unique circumstances. The Concurrent List (List III) The Concurrent List features 47 items, on which both the Union and State governments can legislate. These items include subjects like criminal law, bankruptcy, marriage and divorce, and bankruptcy. In case of any conflict between the Union and State laws on subjects mentioned in the Concurrent List, the Union law prevails. The Residuary Powers Apart from the three lists, the Constitution also provides for residuary powers. These powers encompass any subject that is not explicitly mentioned in any of the three lists. The residuary powers are vested with the Union government, as mentioned in Article 248 of the Constitution of India Amendments and Adaptations Over the years, the Seventh Schedule has undergone numerous amendments to accommodate the changing needs and priorities of the nation. These amendments have involved the addition, deletion, or modification of subjects in the lists to ensure a more efficient distribution of powers and responsibilities. It can be amended as provided under Article 368 of Constitution. It requires special majority of the Parliament (majority of the total membership of the House and by a majority of not less than two-thirds of the members of the House present and voting) and also the consent of half of the state legislatures by a simple majority. Rationale for emphasis on Strong centre in Indian Federal Setup The Partition Episode: There was an imminent need for a strong Centre and the choice was made in light of partition to secure the unity of India against separatists tendencies in the future. The Princely States problem: The princely states accounted for 40% of the territory and 30% of the overall population of the sub-continent and merging them all, into a single entity needs a Strong Centre. To enable balanced growth: At the time of independence, India was among the poorest nations in the world, which prompted the need for the collective utilization of the country’s resources. The diversity of the country: As per the Constituent Assembly, the diverse nature of the country needed a common approach in many aspects to unify the regions better. National security and defense: A strong center is necessary to ensure that the country’s borders are secure and that the armed forces are able to defend the nation against external threats. Concerns with the current seventh schedule Unachieved Balance of Growth: While the Centre was made powerful to make the required balance in development of states, there is a clear demarcation existing between states in terms of growth and human indicators even after 75 years of independence. Demotes cultural autonomy of the states: The Unity in diversity was hailed as a distinct feature of the country, several states have claimed that their unique features and traditions are at stake, due to excessive interference from the centre. Misplaced entries in the list: Several entries were transferred from the States list to the concurrent list like Education and are yet to be provide a significant reason for its transfer and the States continue to be the sole provider of the Primary and Secondary education in most cases. Union legislations on State subjects: The Union Government has made many legislations like The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, 2005, National Food Security Act, 2013, Gram Nyayalayas Act, 2008 etc.. which have references to entries in the states list. Way Forward As per the Sarkaria Commission’s recommendations: – Residuary powers should be transferred to concurrent list than with Centre.– States should be consulted before the union government exercises powers under the concurrent list.– When making laws on concurrent subjects, the union should legislate with a light touch i.e. as is necessary to ensure uniformity in basic issues of national policy, while leaving the details for state governments. Consultation with states through Inter-State Council: As per the Venkatachaliah Commission’s recommendation, individual and collective consultation with the states should be undertaken through the Inter-State Council over legislations in Concurrent lists. Reinvigoration of forums for consultation: Forums for consultation between union and state governments like the Zonal Councils need to be reinvigorated and be used as a podium for effective discussion. Conclusion The

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