Current Affairs

Model Answer

Introduction

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming governance by enhancing efficiency, transparency, and service delivery. As discussed in the context of the Paris AI Action Summit, AI presents significant opportunities for countries like India to improve governance and address public challenges.

Role of AI in Governance

AI’s applications in governance are multifaceted. For instance, AI enhances policy formulation by analyzing vast datasets to predict economic trends, which aids in informed decision-making. The automation of public services leads to faster service delivery, as seen with the India Urban Data Exchange (IUDX). In law enforcement, AI tools like predictive policing and facial recognition systems improve safety and crime resolution rates. Moreover, AI contributes significantly to healthcare by enabling early disease detection and managing pandemic responses. In agriculture, AI-driven solutions like ‘Kisan e-Mitra’ enhance productivity and support farmers. Additionally, AI facilitates personalized learning in education and aids climate management through advanced data analytics.

Challenges in Implementing AI in Governance

Despite its advantages, AI faces several challenges in India. Job displacement due to automation threatens millions of low-skilled workers, particularly in labor-intensive sectors. Algorithmic bias may perpetuate existing social inequalities, while privacy concerns arise from AI-powered surveillance systems. Cybersecurity vulnerabilities are heightened as AI-related threats increase. Furthermore, the digital divide exacerbates inequities, limiting AI benefits to urban areas. Lastly, India’s regulatory framework for AI is still in its infancy, leading to potential misuse and ethical concerns.

Measures for a Robust AI Governance Framework

To address these challenges, India must adopt a comprehensive AI governance framework. This includes drafting legislation that balances innovation with regulation, establishing a National AI Regulatory Authority to oversee ethical compliance, and promoting explainable AI practices to enhance transparency. Creating AI sandboxes will allow for safe experimentation, while investing in indigenous AI development will reduce dependence on foreign technologies. Additionally, combating misinformation through regulatory measures will protect democracy and public trust.

Way Forward

In conclusion, while AI holds tremendous potential to enhance governance in India, it is essential to establish a robust regulatory framework that addresses ethical concerns and promotes equitable access. By taking proactive measures, India can position itself as a leader in global AI governance, fostering innovation while ensuring accountability and fairness.

Model Answer

Introduction

Tribal communities in India are integral to the nation’s socio-cultural fabric and biodiversity. Their rich traditions, languages, and sustainable practices contribute significantly to the preservation of the environment. The recent Union Budget 2025-26 reflects a commendable commitment to tribal welfare, with a 46% increase in allocations aimed at enhancing their living standards through initiatives like PM JANMAN and Eklavya Model Schools.

Tribal communities serve as custodians of India’s biodiversity, with nearly 60% of the country’s forest cover located in tribal districts. They play a crucial role in combating deforestation and illegal mining, thus ensuring ecological balance. Additionally, their unique cultural heritage enriches national identity and fosters tourism.

Challenges

However, despite these contributions, tribal communities face significant challenges. Land alienation due to industrial projects and inadequate implementation of the Forest Rights Act have resulted in widespread displacement, pushing many into poverty. Health indicators among tribal populations are alarming, with high rates of malnutrition, sickle cell anemia, and limited healthcare access. Educational barriers, including language difficulties and high dropout rates, further exacerbate their marginalization. Economic marginalization is evident as traditional livelihoods decline due to market exploitation and legal restrictions.

Government Initiatives

• The government has launched various initiatives to address these issues, such as the Forest Rights Act, which aims to empower tribals by recognizing their land rights. However, the implementation remains weak, with only 50% of claims approved.
• Eklavya Model Schools also face challenges in execution, including delays and insufficient infrastructure.

Overall Strategy

• To ensure the sustainable and inclusive development of tribal communities, a comprehensive strategy is essential. First, effective implementation of the Forest Rights Act is crucial to empower tribals and secure their land rights.
• Second, enhancing healthcare access through mobile health units can bridge the gap in health services.
• Strengthening educational opportunities by improving Eklavya Schools and providing vocational training can ensure better outcomes for tribal youth.
• Moreover, promoting sustainable livelihoods through expanded minimum support prices for minor forest produce and encouraging tribal entrepreneurship will help improve economic conditions.
• Finally, involving tribal communities in decision-making processes will ensure that their voices are heard and their needs addressed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the empowerment of tribal communities is vital for achieving inclusive growth in India. By addressing the existing challenges through a holistic approach, we can pave the way for a more equitable future for tribal populations, ensuring that they are active participants in the nation’s development.

मॉडल उत्तर

पर्यावरण नियमों को लागू करने में चुनौतियों का विश्लेषण और उपाय

भारत में पर्यावरण नियमों का प्रभावी कार्यान्वयन अत्यंत आवश्यक है, विशेषकर जब देश विकास की ओर अग्रसर है। हाल ही में दीमा हसाओ की कोयला खनन त्रासदी ने यह स्पष्ट किया है कि भारत में पर्यावरण नियमों का कागज़ पर होना और वास्तविकता में लागू न होना एक गंभीर समस्या है।

चुनौतियाँ:

1. कमज़ोर प्रवर्तन तंत्र: भारत के 4,40,989 उद्योगों में से 6% से अधिक पर्यावरण मानकों को पूरा नहीं करते, जिससे प्रदूषण बढ़ता है।
2. विकास और संरक्षण के बीच संघर्ष: विकास को प्राथमिकता देने से पर्यावरणीय नियमों में ढील दी जाती है, जिससे उनकी प्रभावशीलता कम हो जाती है।
3. अपर्याप्त सार्वजनिक भागीदारी: स्थानीय समुदायों की निर्णय लेने में भूमिका का अभाव है, जिससे उनकी समस्याओं का समाधान नहीं हो पाता।
4. प्रौद्योगिकी का कम उपयोग: उन्नत तकनीकों जैसे IoT और ड्रोन निगरानी का उपयोग सीमित है।
5. न्यायिक अतिक्रमण: न्यायालयों पर अत्यधिक निर्भरता से कार्रवाई में विलंब होता है।

उपाय:

1. प्रवर्तन तंत्र को मजबूत करना: केंद्रीय और राज्य प्रदूषण नियंत्रण बोर्ड को सशक्त बनाना और AI आधारित तकनीकों का उपयोग करना चाहिए।
2. कार्बन क्रेडिट मार्केट का विकास: उच्च प्रदूषण वाले क्षेत्रों के लिए कार्बन ऑफसेट को अनिवार्य बनाना चाहिए।
3. जलवायु-अनुकूल अवसंरचना को बढ़ावा देना: सख्त पर्यावरणीय ऑडिट लागू करना और पारगमनीय विकल्पों में निवेश करना चाहिए।
4. EIA प्रक्रिया में सुधार: सार्वजनिक भागीदारी को बढ़ावा देना और पारदर्शिता सुनिश्चित करनी चाहिए।
5. समुदाय-नेतृत्व संरक्षण: वन अधिकार अधिनियम के तहत स्थानीय समुदायों को निर्णय लेने में शामिल करना चाहिए।

आगे की राह

भारत को पर्यावरण प्रशासन को मजबूत करने के लिए एक संतुलित दृष्टिकोण की आवश्यकता है, जो सतत विकास और जलवायु अनुकूलन को एकीकृत करता है। आर्थिक विकास और पर्यावरण संरक्षण के बीच संतुलन बनाना आवश्यक है ताकि भविष्य की पीढ़ियों के लिए एक स्वस्थ और सुरक्षित पर्यावरण सुनिश्चित किया जा सके।