World Drug Report 2023: Expanding Illicit Drug Markets

The World Drug Report 2023, just released by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), sheds light on the growing problem of drug use and the paucity of treatment options and initiatives. The report emphasises the urgent need for action amid converging global crises and emphasises the rising number of drug injectors, surpassing earlier predictions.

Key findings of the report

Increased Number of People Who Inject Drugs: The report reveals that the global estimate of people who inject drugs in 2021 is 13.2 million, which is 18 percent higher than previously estimated. This significant increase highlights the growing prevalence of drug injection and the need for targeted interventions.

Escalation in Global Drug Use: The report indicates that over 296 million people used drugs in 2021, representing a 23 percent increase compared to the previous decade. This alarming rise in drug use calls for comprehensive measures to address the root causes and consequences of substance abuse.

Surge in Drug Use Disorders: The number of individuals suffering from drug use disorders has skyrocketed, reaching 39.5 million, a staggering 45 percent increase over the past ten years. This finding underscores the urgent need for accessible and effective treatment services to support those grappling with drug-related disorders.

Impact of Drug Trafficking on the Environment and Crime: The analysis highlights that drug trafficking not only poses health risks but also accelerates environmental devastation and crime, particularly in the Amazon Basin.

Treatment Disparities and Access Inequality: Access to treatment for drug use disorders remains highly unequal, with fewer than 20 percent of people receiving the necessary care. The report highlights the disparity in treatment access, particularly for women using amphetamine-type stimulants, with only 27 percent receiving treatment. Addressing these inequalities is crucial for providing equitable support to all individuals in need.

Vulnerability of Youth: The report underscores the vulnerability of youth populations to drug use and substance use disorders in various regions. In Africa, 70 percent of individuals in treatment are under the age of 35.

Specific consequences of drug trafficking

Environmental Devastation: The drug trafficking is accelerating environmental devastation, particularly in the Amazon Basin. The production of illicit drugs contributes to deforestation, pollution, and the use of harmful chemicals, leading to ecological harm and the loss of biodiversity.

Crime and Violence: The drug trafficking contributes to increased crime rates and violence. The competition among drug trafficking networks for control over drug markets and routes can result in violent conflicts and endanger the safety of communities.

Exacerbation of Global Crises: The drug trafficking compounds intersecting global crises, including conflicts and environmental challenges. The illicit drug trade contributes to instability, violence, and environmental degradation, further complicating efforts to address these crises.

India’s Effective Approach to Renewable Energy and Sustainable Development

Climate change has received a lot of attention recently, which has made it vital for India to take mitigation and adaptation measures. Sustainable development is essential to protect lives, livelihoods, and the nation’s infrastructure investments since 1.4 billion people live in places that are vulnerable to the effects of climate change.

Sustainable Development’s evolving dynamics

Awareness and Perception: People are becoming more aware of the significance of sustainable development, and there has been a considerable change in how it is seen. It is increasingly acknowledged as being essential to combating climate change, safeguarding ecosystems, and preserving the wellbeing of both present and future generations.

Science-Based Approach: Sustainable development now emphasizes the integration of scientific concepts and knowledge into development plans and policies. This approach helps in understanding the complex interactions between human activities and the environment, and guides the formulation of effective solutions.

Technological Solutions: There is a growing emphasis on utilizing technological advancements to support sustainable development. Tools and innovations are being developed to link sustainable practices with technological solutions, enabling more efficient resource utilization, renewable energy integration, and environmentally-friendly practices.

Information Asymmetry: Despite progress, information asymmetry remains a challenge at the local and hyper-local governance levels. Efforts are being made to bridge this gap by promoting collaboration between scientific and research bodies and policymakers, ensuring that decision-makers have access to accurate and up-to-date information on the implications of climate change.

Availability of Environmental Data: The increased availability of data on various environmental indicators has transformed the formulation of climate change policies. With better data, policymakers can gain a deeper understanding of the potential impacts and casualties associated with climate change, particularly in terms of adaptation and mitigation strategies.

Policy and Fiscal Incentives: Governments are implementing policies and providing fiscal incentives to promote sustainable practices. These measures, such as subsidies for renewable energy, carbon pricing mechanisms, and support for sustainable infrastructure, aim to drive the adoption of sustainable solutions and transform sectors towards more environmentally-friendly practices.

International Collaboration: Sustainable development is no longer confined to national boundaries. Countries are recognizing the need for international collaboration and partnerships to address global challenges collectively. Initiatives like the International Solar Alliance (ISA) exemplify this trend, where countries work together to promote renewable energy and combat climate change.

Inclusive and Just Transitions: Sustainable development is increasingly seen through the lens of equity, inclusiveness, and justice. Efforts are being made to ensure that the benefits of sustainable practices are shared by all, and that marginalized communities are not disproportionately affected by the transition to sustainable development

India’s comprehensive approach to renewable energy

National Solar Mission: In 2010, India launched the National Solar Mission, which aimed to promote the use of solar energy for power generation. The mission set a target of installing 20,000 megawatts (MW) of grid-connected solar power capacity by 2022. However, this target was achieved four years ahead of schedule, leading to an increased commitment to solar energy.

Solar Power Capacity Expansion: India has witnessed significant growth in solar power capacity over the years. As of March 2023, more than 60,000 MW of solar capacity has been installed, making India one of the leading countries in terms of solar energy deployment.

Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (KUSUM) Scheme: The KUSUM scheme was introduced to promote the use of solar energy in the agricultural sector. Under this scheme, farmers with grid-connected agricultural pumps are provided support to run their water pumps on solar power. The scheme covers two-thirds of the cost, with the central and state governments sharing the expenses. Farmers can use the solar power generated for irrigation and sell any surplus energy to the distribution company.

International Solar Alliance (ISA): India, along with France, spearheaded the formation of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) during the 2015 Paris climate conference. The ISA aims to promote solar energy adoption globally, facilitate collaboration among member countries, and mobilize funds for solar projects.

India’s approach towards Sustainable Development: Various strategies and initiatives

Integration of Science and Policy: India recognizes the importance of integrating scientific concepts and knowledge into development plans and policies, specifically in relation to climate change and its impacts across sectors. Efforts are being made to minimize the information asymmetry on climate change implications between governance institutions and scientific/research bodies.

Data-Driven Decision Making: The availability of comprehensive environmental data is considered crucial for effective climate change policy-making. Improved data on environmental indicators allows for a better understanding of casualties and impacts, especially in adaptation and mitigation strategies.

Emphasis on Technological Solutions: India has shown a focus on leveraging technology as a means to address sustainable development challenges. Integrating technology-based solutions with public policies centered around sustainability is seen as a way to create cascading effects and contribute to good governance.

Policy and Fiscal Incentives: The Indian government has implemented policies and fiscal incentives to support renewable energy, including solar power. These measures have contributed to the transformation of the energy sector and can serve as a roadmap for other sustainable governance initiatives.

Swachh Bharat Mission: India’s Swachh Bharat Mission directly addresses Sustainable Development Goal 6 by focusing on sanitation, cleanliness, and hygiene. It aims to achieve universal sanitation and cleanliness across the country.

Technological Innovation for Carbon Neutrality: India recognizes the role of technology in achieving systemic shifts like carbon neutrality. Market-based mechanisms for carbon pricing and cutting-edge knowledge on carbon sequestration are seen as crucial in increasing transparency, delivering sequestration benefits, and designing compliance and liability frameworks.

Just and Equitable Energy Transition: As India looks to phase out coal, efforts are being made to ensure a just and equitable transition for those employed in the coal ecosystem. The aim is to apply science and policy to provide fair solutions while addressing the needs of affected individuals and communities.

Multi-Institutional Collaboration: Collaboration between public and private sectors is seen as essential for scalable solutions and systemic change. Technological innovation, public participation, and solutions for sustainable development are viewed as opportunities to empower individuals and drive sustainable governance.

Planning for Structural Shifts: India aims to plan for structural shifts and innovation in governance to promote sustainable practices. These shifts are expected to contribute to good sustainable governance, and as India assumes leadership in the G20, it has the potential to inspire and lead in sustainable governance practices.

1947 Partition of Bengal

The recent controversy surrounding West Bengal’s ‘Foundation Day’ has brought attention to the partition of Bengal in 1947.

This event marked a significant chapter in the history of the state, leading to the creation of West Bengal and East Pakistan (later Bangladesh).

Partition of Bengal in 1947: An overview

Demand for a separate Muslim nation-state: The partition of Bengal was a consequence of the Muslim League’s demand for a separate nation-state for Indian Muslims.

Communal violence in Calcutta: The society became deeply divided along religious lines, leading to severe communal violence, particularly in Calcutta in August 1946.

Contours of East Pakistan’s Formation

Partition of India and Pakistan: In June 1947, it was decided to partition India into India and Pakistan. Punjab and Bengal, both with significant non-Muslim minorities, were also partitioned along religious lines.

Boundary Commission and the Radcliffe Line: A boundary commission, chaired by Sir Cyril Radcliffe, was established to demarcate separate districts with Hindu and Muslim majorities. The resulting boundary line is known as the Radcliffe Line.

Concentration of Muslims in East Pakistan

Demographic composition: Bengal had a Hindu majority in the western districts and a Muslim majority in the eastern districts.

Grouping under East Pakistan: The eastern districts were grouped together to form East Pakistan, similar to how Muslims were concentrated in the western districts of Punjab.

Precursor: Curzon’s Partition of Bengal in 1905

Historical context: Lord Curzon partitioned Bengal in 1905, aiming to break the unity of the Bengali-speaking population and create a separate province with a Muslim majority.

Reversal of partition: The partition of 1905 was withdrawn in 1911, restoring the linguistic unity of Bengal while separating Bihar and Orissa from Bengal.

Aftermath of the 1947 Partition

Communal violence and Gandhi’s influence: Bengal witnessed significant communal violence in 1946, particularly in Calcutta and Noakhali. However, the presence of Mahatma Gandhi helped prevent large-scale violence during the partition.

Migration and displacement: Unlike Punjab, migration in Bengal occurred gradually over time, resulting in a continuous trickle of people moving from East to West and vice versa. This led to a large refugee population and the need for rehabilitation and settlements.

Conclusion

The partition of Bengal in 1947 was a complex event with far-reaching consequences.

Understanding this historical context helps shed light on the impact it had on the population and the socio-economic landscape of West Bengal and todays Bangladesh.

President’s Rule not an option in Manipur: MHA

Union Home Minister has said that imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur was not an option and the situation was soon returning to normal.

What is President Rule?

Article 356 of the Indian Constitution, commonly known as President’s Rule, empowers the President to impose central rule in a state where the constitutional machinery has broken down.

While initially intended for extraordinary circumstances, it has often been misused by central governments for political purposes.

Provisions of Article 356:

Imposition of President’s Rule: Article 356 allows the President to withdraw the executive and legislative powers of a state government when it cannot function in accordance with the Constitution.

Triggering factors: The President can invoke Article 356 based on a report from the Governor or suo motu if the constitutional machinery has broken down in the state.

Duration: It can be imposed for six months at a time, with a maximum duration of three years.

Parliamentary approval: Every six months, Parliament’s approval is required to continue the imposition of President’s Rule.

Historical Origins

Inspiration from the Government of India Act, 1935: Article 356 was inspired by Section 93 of this act, which allowed the Governor of a province to assume the powers of the government under certain circumstances.

Controlled democracy: The provision provided some autonomy to provincial governments while enabling British authorities to exercise ultimate power when necessary.

Political Misuse of Article 356

Early instances: During Congress dominance, Article 356 was used against governments of the Left and regional parties in states. Jawaharlal Nehru’s government utilized it six times until 1959, including to dislodge Kerala’s elected communist government.

Increasing misuse: In subsequent decades, Article 356 was used frequently against state governments by various central governments, including those led by Indira Gandhi and the Janata Party.

Landmark Judgment: S R Bommai Case

Landmark Supreme Court ruling: In the 1994 R. Bommai v. Union of India case, the Supreme Court provided detailed guidelines on the use of Article 356.

Specific instances for imposition: The court stated that President’s Rule can be invoked in cases of physical breakdown of the government or a ‘hung assembly.’

Curbing arbitrary use: The judgment emphasized the need to give the state government a chance to prove its majority or instances of violent breakdown before imposing President’s Rule.