1. Concerns of Rising ‘1 Person, 1 Family’ Culture: Supreme Court’s Perspective

Context: Recently, the Supreme Court of India raised concerns over the erosion of traditional family values, noting the growing trend of a ‘1 Person, 1 Family’ culture. This shift contrasts sharply with India’s long-held cultural philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—“The world is one family.”

What is Family?

A family is a social group characterized by common residence, economic cooperation, and reproduction. It serves as the primary unit of socialization, profoundly influencing an individual’s behavior, identity, and values.

In Indian society, the family has historically played a central role—not just as a kinship unit, but also as a moral, emotional, and economic anchor. It has fostered interpersonal dynamics, providing emotional security, generational wisdom, and social discipline.

Emergence of the ‘1 Person, 1 Family’ Culture:

Changing Trends:

India, known for its strong joint family system, is experiencing a significant transformation in family structures. The rise of the ‘1 Person, 1 Family’ culture indicates a shift toward nuclear families or solo living.

This trend is particularly noticeable in urban areas, where young professionals, entrepreneurs, and even elderly individuals are choosing solitude or micro-family structures over large, interdependent households.

Key Reasons for the Shift:

1. Rapid Urbanization & Economic Independence:

• Metropolitan cities evolving into global economic hubs, leading to migration and preference for independent living.
• Data Insight: Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Delhi are witnessing the highest surge in single-person living.

2. Changing Aspirations & Individualism:

• Youth now prioritize personal growth, career ambitions, and self-development over family obligations.
• Traditional hierarchical structures are increasingly being challenged.

3. Delayed Marriages & Changing Relationship Norms:

• Growing acceptance of live-in relationships, single parenting, and choosing to remain unmarried.

• Total Fertility Rate (TFR) has dropped to 2.0, below the replacement level, reflecting changing family dynamics.

4. Economic Pressures:

• Rising cost of living and demanding work-life balance make joint family living impractical.

5. Influence of Western Lifestyles:

• Exposure to social media, education, and employment abroad has reshaped lifestyle preferences.

6. Decline in Moral & Ethical Values:

• Increased individualism and materialism have led to reduced emphasis on virtues like empathy, respect, honesty, and sacrifice—critical for harmonious family life.

Challenges of the ‘1 Person, 1 Family’ Trend:

1. Mental Health Concerns: Loneliness and isolation are rising, especially among older adults and remote-working professionals.
2. Financial Pressure: Managing rent, utilities, and daily expenses alone is financially challenging for many.
3. Declining Family Bonds: Weaker intergenerational relationships and a fading sense of collective responsibility may erode the social fabric.

Conclusion:

The Supreme Court’s concerns about the rising ‘1 Person, 1 Family’ culture serve as a wake-up call for society to reflect on the values underpinning familial relationships.While legal frameworks can address specific disputes, cultivating a culture of empathy, respect, and unity within families is essential for preserving the social fabric of the nation.

2. Union Cabinet Approves Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme

Context: The Union Cabinet, led by the Prime Minister, has given the green light to the Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme with a substantial funding of 22,919 crore. This initiative is aimed at making India Atmanirbhar (self-reliant) in the global electronics supply chain.

Objectives of the Scheme:

• Develop a Robust Component Ecosystem: Attracting both global and domestic investments to strengthen the electronics manufacturing framework.
• Boost Domestic Value Addition (DVA): Enhancing capacity and capability to ensure higher value addition within the country.
• Integrate Indian Companies into Global Value Chains (GVCs): Positioning India as a key player in the global electronics ecosystem.

Expected Outcomes:

• Investment Attraction: Targeting a whopping 59,350 crore worth of investments.
• Production Growth: Estimated production output of 4,56,500 crore.
• Job Creation: Anticipating 91,600 direct jobs alongside numerous indirect employment opportunities.
• Duration: Scheme spans over six years with an additional one-year gestation period.

Understanding the Electronics Sector:

The electronics sector encompasses the design, manufacturing, and marketing of electronic components and systems. As one of the fastest-growing industries globally, it plays a pivotal role in shaping the modern economy.

• Strategic Importance: Electronics permeates all sectors, influencing economic and strategic growth.

India’s Electronic Sector: Growth & Potential

• Domestic Production: Increased from 1.90 lakh crore (FY 2014-15) to 9.52 lakh crore (FY 2023-24), showcasing a CAGR of over 17%.
• Exports: Boosted from 0.38 lakh crore (FY 2014-15) to 2.41 lakh crore (FY 2023-24), reflecting a CAGR of more than 20%.
• Global Standing: Second-largest mobile phone producer in the world.
• Semiconductor Momentum: 1.52 lakh crore invested across five landmark projects.
• Future Projections: India’s electronics production is expected to reach USD 300 billion by 2026.

Challenges Hindering Growth:

• Dependence on Imports: Heavy reliance on imported components, particularly semiconductors, elevating costs and increasing supply chain risks.
• Infrastructure Gaps: Lack of adequate infrastructure for large-scale manufacturing and logistics.
• Skilled Labor Shortage: Limited availability of skilled workers for advanced manufacturing and R&D.
• High Capital Investment: Establishing world-class facilities demands substantial investment, posing entry barriers for new players.
• Technology Gaps: Absence of cutting-edge technology in some segments of the value chain.
• Global Competition: Intense competition from established manufacturers and low-cost countries.

Government Schemes Powering the Electronics Boom:

1. Make in India (2014): Aimed at boosting India’s manufacturing sector and economic growth, making the country a global hub for design and manufacturing.
2. Phased Manufacturing Programme (PMP) (2017): Promoted domestic value addition in mobile phones and their parts through increased investment and local manufacturing.
3. Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme (2020): Designed to boost domestic manufacturing of mobile phones, electronic components, and semiconductor packaging.

• Incentives: 3% to 6% on incremental sales over the base year for eligible companies.
• Duration: Five years.

Semicon India Program (2021):

Structured to promote the domestic semiconductor industry with a financial outlay of ₹76,000 crore.

• Future Milestone: India’s first indigenous semiconductor chip expected to be ready for production by 2025.

Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors (SPECS):

Provides a 25% financial incentive on capital expenditure for identified electronic goods contributing to the downstream value chain.

Increased Budget Allocation:

The budget for electronics manufacturing rose from 5,747 crore (2024-25) to 8,885 crore (2025-26), signifying the government’s commitment to growth.

Conclusion: Paving the Path to Global Leadership

India’s rapid evolution into a global electronics manufacturing hub reflects the success of the Make in India initiative. With numerous supportive schemes, the country has significantly bolstered local manufacturing, exports, and investment. The ambitious goal of achieving USD 300 billion in electronics production by 2026 will position India as a major player in the electronics and semiconductor industries.

3. New Study Highlights Major Discrepancies in Child Labour Data in India

Context: A recent study on child labour conducted by Enfold and CivicDataLab, using judicial data from the e-Courts platform, reveals a significant discrepancy compared to data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB). The study shows a considerably higher number of child labour cases across six Indian states.

Key Findings of the Study:

1. Data Discrepancy:

• The study found that judicial data indicates 8 times more child labour cases than reported by the NCRB.
• While the NCRB reported 1,329 cases (2015-2022) under the Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, the e-Courts data reveals 9,193 trials during the same period.
• A total of 10,800 child labour cases were analyzed across six states: Maharashtra, Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh.

2. Flaws in NCRB Data Collection:

• The NCRB follows the “Principal Offence Rule”, which counts only the most serious crime in cases involving multiple offences.
• As a result, minor crimes like child labour may be underreported if they are part of a larger criminal case.

3. Significance of Accurate Data:

• Reliable data is essential for understanding crime trends and developing effective policies to address child labour.
• Researchers and academics can use accurate data to formulate targeted solutions and improve social interventions.

Child Labour: A Persistent Issue in India

Despite numerous government initiatives, child labour remains a pressing issue in India, driven primarily by poverty and lack of education.

Statistics on Child Labour:

• Census 2001: Approximately 1.26 crore working children (age 5-14) out of 25.2 crore total child population.
• Census 2011: Around 10.1 million child labourers (aged 5-14), constituting 3.9% of the total child population in this age group.

Gurupadswamy Committee (1979):

• Established to study child labour and suggest measures to combat it.
• Identified poverty as the main challenge to eradicating child labour.
• Recommended banning child labour in hazardous sectors and regulating work in other areas.
• Advocated for a multi-pronged policy approach.

Impact of Child Labour on Society:

1. Economic Consequences:

• Hindered Growth: Child labour reduces long-term productivity as children miss out on education and skill development.

• Poverty Trap: Working children often perpetuate the cycle of poverty, as lack of education limits employment opportunities in adulthood.
• Skills Deficit: A lack of formal education results in a low-skilled workforce, affecting the nation’s economic future.

2. Social Consequences:

• Social Inequality: Child labour disproportionately affects marginalized and economically disadvantaged children.
• Hindered Progress: Pervasive child labour obstructs efforts to improve education, healthcare, and quality of life.

Challenges in Preventing Child Labour in India:

• Poverty: Families depend on children’s income for survival.
• Educational Barriers: Lack of schools and poor infrastructure hinder children’s access to education.
• Cultural Acceptance: In some regions, child labour is seen as part of family tradition.
• Economic Exploitation: Industries requiring cheap labour often exploit children.
• Migration: Displaced families often push children into work due to economic instability.
• Awareness Gaps: Many families and employers are unaware of the negative impacts of child labour.

Constitutional Provisions and Legal Measures:

Fundamental Rights:

• Article 21A: Guarantees free and compulsory education for children aged 6-14 years.
• Article 24: Prohibits child labour below 14 years in hazardous employment.

Directive Principles of State Policy:

• Article 39(e): Protects children from exploitation and abuse.
• Article 39(f): Ensures children develop in an environment of dignity and freedom.

Key Legislative Measures:

• Child Labour (Prohibition & Regulation) Act, 1986: Bans child labour in hazardous occupations and regulates other sectors.
• Amendment (2016): Prohibits child employment below 14 years in all occupations and extends the prohibition to adolescents (14-18 years) in hazardous jobs.
• National Child Labour Project (NCLP): Provides education, vocational training, and rehabilitation for rescued child labourers.
• Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009: Ensures free and compulsory education for children aged 6-14 years.
• Mid-Day Meal Scheme: Encourages school attendance by offering free meals, reducing the incentive for children to work.

Integrated Child Protection Scheme (ICPS): Supports and rehabilitates children at risk, including those involved in child labour.

Conclusion: Addressing the issue of child labour in India requires accurate data collection, multi-faceted interventions, and community involvement. While legal frameworks exist, effective implementation and awareness are essential to break the cycle of poverty and ensure every child’s right to education and development.

4. National Gene Bank: Preserving India’s Genetic Wealth

5. South Korea: A Nation of Resilience and Natural Beauty

Context: South Korea, with its capital at Seoul, is currently grappling with its worst-ever wildfires, which have devastated vast forested areas and prompted large-scale evacuations. The nation’s swift response reflects its robust disaster management systems, yet the intensity of the fires highlights growing concerns about climate change and forest management.

Political Features:

• Location: Situated in East Asia, South Korea occupies the southern part of the Korean Peninsula.
• Boundaries:
  • North: Bordered by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea).
  • East: Faces the East Sea (Sea of Japan).
  • South: Opens to the East China Sea.
  • West: Bordered by the Yellow Sea.
• Division: North and South Korea are divided along the 38th Parallel, which is marked by the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)—a heavily fortified border spanning approximately 250 km (160 miles).

Did you know? The DMZ is one of the most heavily guarded borders in the world, yet its isolation has allowed it to become a unique wildlife sanctuary, home to endangered species like the Amur leopard and Siberian tiger.

Geographical Features:

• Mountains: South Korea’s landscape is dominated by the Taebaek Mountain range, which runs along the eastern coast and serves as a natural barrier.
• Highest Peak: The nation’s tallest mountain is the extinct volcano, Mount Halla, located on Jeju Island, standing at 1,950 meters (6,398 feet).
• Islands:
  • Jeju Island is the largest and most famous, situated in the Korea Strait.
  • Known for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, stunning volcanic landscapes, and unique cultural heritage.
• Rivers: Major rivers include the Han River, which flows through Seoul, and the Nakdong River, the longest river in South Korea.

Fun Fact: Jeju Island is also home to the Manjanggul Lava Tube, one of the longest lava tunnels in the world, extending over 13 km (8 miles).

Additional Knowledge:

• South Korea is a technological powerhouse, with Seoul often ranked among the world’s most technologically advanced cities.
• The Korean Wave (Hallyu), referring to the global popularity of Korean entertainment and culture, has significantly boosted South Korea’s soft power worldwide.

6. Fixing India’s Highway Black Spots: Urgent Action Required

Context: India’s national highways (NHs) continue to be plagued by hazardous “black spots”—locations notorious for recurring road accidents resulting in grievous injuries and fatalities. A recent report by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism and Culture has criticized the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) for its inadequate progress in addressing this alarming issue.

Background:

India consistently reports one of the highest numbers of road accidents globally. A significant portion of these incidents occur on NHs due to poorly designed or managed segments known as black spots. These are specific areas where a high frequency of accidents and fatalities have been documented over the years.

Despite various measures by MoRTH to mitigate road deaths, glaring execution gaps remain. According to the ministry’s own data:

• Out of 13,795 black spots identified, only 5,036 have undergone long-term rectification.
• This leaves a vast number of dangerous zones unaddressed, posing daily threats to drivers and pedestrians.

What Are Black Spots?

A black spot refers to a hazardous location on a national highway identified by its recurring record of serious road accidents causing severe injuries or deaths across three consecutive years. These spots often arise due to:

• Poor road design
• Lack of signage
• Inadequate lighting
• Sharp curves
• Congested junctions

Parliamentary Panel’s Findings: A Governance Failure:

In its Demands for Grants for FY 2025-26, the panel described the slow progress as a “significant governance failure.” It noted that these black spots are preventable dangers that could be addressed through swift, coordinated intervention.

Led by Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Kumar Jha, the committee expressed deep concern over the gap between MoRTH’s commitments and on-ground realities.

Three-Tier Action Plan for Fixing Black Spots:

The panel proposed a three-tier prioritisation framework to tackle the issue based on:

• Severity: Frequency and seriousness of accidents.
• Complexity: The level of effort required to resolve the problem.
• Population Exposure: Number of users passing through the spot regularly.

The Plan Includes Strict, Time-Bound Interventions:

• Category A (Highest Risk):
  • Temporary safety measures to be deployed immediately.
  • Permanent rectification to begin within 30 days of identification.
• Category B (Moderate Risk):
  • Must be fixed within 90 days.
• Category C (Lower Priority):
  • Deadline of 180 days.

Penalties: Agencies failing to meet these deadlines should face appropriate penalties.

Need for Post-Implementation Audits:

The panel emphasized the importance of continuous monitoring. It recommended conducting safety audits at 3-month and 12-month intervals after rectification to ensure the solutions are effective.

Additionally, it proposed creating a public dashboard displaying:

• Status of each black spot.
• Progress of rectification.
• Responsible implementing agency.

MoRTH’s Targets vs. Reality:

The ministry has set an ambitious target to reduce road fatalities by 95% by 2028. Its roadmap includes:

• Fixing 1,000 black spots in FY 2025–26.
• Eliminating all identified black spots by FY 2027-28 through improved signage, road design, and junction management.

However, Progress Remains Slow:

• While short-term measures (signage, speed breakers, barriers) are implemented quickly, long-term structural fixes (underpasses, road widening, redesign) continue to lag.

Conclusion:

Fixing black spots on national highways is not merely a technical challenge—it is a matter of saving lives. The current pace of work fails to match the ministry’s ambitious targets.

The parliamentary panel’s recommendations provide a clear path forward, emphasizing urgency, accountability, and transparency. Without swift execution and consistent follow-up, the goal of safer roads in India will remain elusive.

Ultimately, behind every black spot, there’s a life that can be saved.