Weaknesses of the Cooperative Movement in India

1. Structural and Operational Inefficiencies

• Many cooperatives lack a strong organizational structure, leading to poor management.
• Example: Inefficient decision-making processes can result in unmet needs of members.

2. Political Interference

• Excessive government control undermines the autonomy of cooperatives.
• Politicians often manipulate cooperative elections for personal gain, harming members’ interests.

3. Inadequate Capital Formation

• Cooperatives struggle to access financial resources, relying heavily on government funding.
• Example: Agricultural credit societies often remain underfunded, limiting their operational capacity.

4. Poor Governance

• Weak governance structures lead to a lack of transparency and accountability.
• Example: Misappropriation of funds is common in some sugar cooperatives.

5. Limited Market Access

• Many cooperatives find it difficult to reach wider markets or adopt new technologies.
• Example: Handloom cooperatives may miss online sales opportunities, affecting their growth.

These weaknesses hinder the effectiveness of the cooperative movement in fostering economic development in India.

Five Pillars of ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat’

1. Economy

• Focus on Self-Reliance: The initiative aims to boost local production and reduce dependency on imports, enhancing economic resilience.

2. Infrastructure

• Strengthening Foundations: Investments in infrastructure development like roads, railways, and digital connectivity are crucial for supporting growth and efficiency.

3. Technology-Driven System

• Innovation and Progress: Emphasizing technology in agriculture, manufacturing, and services helps improve productivity. For example, the e-NAM platform connects farmers directly to markets.

4. Vibrant Demography

• Leveraging Human Resources: India’s young population is a valuable asset. Skill development programs aim to prepare them for emerging job opportunities.

5. Demand

• Boosting Consumption: Encouraging local consumption of goods is vital for economic recovery, helping businesses thrive and creating jobs.

These pillars together form a comprehensive strategy for transforming India into a self-reliant nation.

Cataclastic Metamorphism

Definition

Cataclastic metamorphism occurs when rocks are transformed due to intense pressure and friction, usually during tectonic movements like faulting.

Key Characteristics

• Grain Size: The rock grains are crushed and fragmented, resulting in a granular texture.
• High Pressure: Typically occurs in regions where tectonic plates collide, leading to increased stress on the rocks.

Example

• Fault Zones: In areas where two plates slide past each other, such as the San Andreas Fault, rocks can exhibit cataclastic features.

This type of metamorphism highlights how dynamic Earth processes can alter rock formations dramatically.

Main Reasons Behind Energy Crisis

1. Depleting Resources

• Fossil Fuels: The over-reliance on non-renewable energy sources like coal, oil, and natural gas is causing these resources to run out.

2. Rising Demand

• Population Growth: Increasing population leads to higher energy consumption, straining available resources.

3. Geopolitical Conflicts

• Instability: Conflicts in oil-rich regions disrupt supply chains and lead to price volatility.

These factors contribute to the ongoing energy crisis, impacting economies and daily life.

Ayushman Bharat Programme

The Ayushman Bharat Programme is a flagship health initiative by the Government of India aimed at providing affordable healthcare.

Key Features:

• Health Insurance: Covers medical expenses up to ₹5 lakh per family annually.
• Target Beneficiaries: Aims to support low-income families, ensuring access to quality healthcare.

This program enhances health facilities and reduces financial burden on families during medical emergencies.