Prelims 2017

in 100
Everything for Prelims
Days

Day 17

NOTE: To get All India Ranking (AIR)

of Free Test, Login at:

www.iasscore.in
 Geography www.iasscore.in

HUMAN SETTLEMENT
Settlements can broadly be divided into two types rural and urban.
Some basic differences between rural and urban areas in general. (i) The major difference between rural and urban
areas is the function. Rural areas have predominantly primary activities, whereas urban areas have domination of
secondary and tertiary activities. (ii) Generally the rural areas have low density of population than urban.
Settlement Hierarchy
i. Isolate dwellings
Such settlement consists of individual units. It can be termed as the initial state of development of

E
a settlement.
An isolated dwelling would only have 1 or 2 buildings or families in it.
ii. Hamlets

OR
When many individual units are cluster together they form hamlets. The grouping may be due to
similar occupation patterns, religion, cultural factors etc. a hamlet has a tiny population (<100) and
very few (if any) service.
SC
iii. Villages
When many hamlets combine they from a village. The reason for such grouping may be due to
interdependencies of one hamlet on another, thus to form a self sufficient unit.
iv. Towns
A town is a larger entity which is more self sufficient, has a stronger economic base.
GS

v. Cities
Where large concentration of people exists, multiple economic activities exist.
vi. Metropolis
A metropolis is a large city, with a population of at least one million living in its urban agglomeration.
vii. Megalopolis
An extensive, metropolitan area or a long chain of continuous metropolitan areas.
RURAL SETTLEMENTS
Geographers have suggested various schemes of classification. If we group settlements found all over the
country, these can broadly be grouped under four categories:
A. Compact Settlements:
These settlements have closely built up area.
Therefore in such settlements all the dwellings are concentrated in one central sites and these inhabited
area is distinct and separated from the farms and pastures.
Notes

1
 www.iasscore.in

Maximum settlements of our country comes under this category. They are spread over almost every
part of the country.
B. Semi- Compact Settlement:
The dwellings or houses are not well-knitted.
Such settlements are characterized by a small but compact nuclears around which hamlets are dispersed.
It covers more area than the compact settlements.
These settlements are found both in plains and plateaus depending upon the environmental conditions
prevailing in that area.
C. Hamleted Settlements:
These type of settlements, are fragmented into several small units.
The main settlement does not have much influence on the other units.
Very often the original site is not easily distinguishable and these hamlets are often spread over the
area with intervening fields.

E
This segregation is often influenced by social and ethnic factors.
OR
D. Dispersed Settlements:
This is also known as isolated settlements.
Here the settlement is characterized by units of small size which may consist of a single house to
a small group of houses. It varies from two to seven huts.
SC

Therefore, in this type, hamlets are scattered over a vast area and does not have any specific pattern.
URBAN SETTLEMENTS
According to the census of India urban areas are those which satisfy the conditions given below:
(a) All places with a municipality corporation, cantonment board or notified town area committee etc.
GS

(b) All other places which satisfy the following criteria:

(i) A minimum population of 5000;
(ii) At least 75 percent of male working population engaged in nonagricultural sector; and
(iii) A density of population of at least 4,000 persons per square kilometer.
Classification of urban settlement
Class Population
Class I 1,00,000 and above
Class II 50,000 99,999
Class III 20,000 49,999
Class IV 10,000 19,999
Class V 5,000 9,999
Class VI less than 5,000
Notes

2
 www.iasscore.in

CONCEPT OF SMART CITIES

90% of the worlds urban population growth will take place in developing countries, with Indian taking a
significant share of that. Urban areas also contribute a higher share of the GDP. The share of the GDP
from urban areas in India has been growing.
While the urban population is currently around 31% of the total population, it contributes over 60%, of
Indias GDP. It is projected that urban India will contribute nearly 75% of the national GDP in the next
15 years. It is for this reason that cities are referred to as the engines of economic growth and ensuring
that they function as efficient engines is critical to our economic development.
This trend of urbanization that is seen in India over the last few decades will continue for some more time.
The global experience is that a countrys urbanization upto a 30% level is relatively slow but the pace of
urbanization speeds up thereafter, till it reaches about 60-65%. With an urban population of 31%, India
is at a point of transition where the pace of urbanization will speed up.
What is a smart city?

E
Smart Cities are those that are able to attract investments. Good infrastructure, simple and transparent online
processes that make: it easy to establish an enterprise and run it efficiently are important features of an

OR
investor friendly city. Without this a city loses attraction as an investment destination. An investor is considered
as someone who helps a city rather than someone who only profits from it.
Pillars of a Smart City
Essentially, its Institutional Infrastructure (including Governance), Physical Infrastructure and Social Infrastructure
SC
constitute the three pillars on which a city rests, The center of attention for each of these pillars is the citizen.
In other words a Smart City works towards ensuring the best for all its people, regardless of social status, age,
income levels, gender, etc.
a) Institutional Infrastructure: Institutional Infrastructure refers to the activities that relate to the planning
and management systems in a city. The new, technology has provided a new dimension to this system
making it efficient and transparent, It includes the systems of governance the sense safety and security,
GS

the opportunities for entertainment and ions, the open spaces and parks that are available.
b) Physical Infrastructure Physical infrastructure refers to its stock of physical infrastructure such as the
urban mobility system, the housing stock, the energy system, the water supply system, sewerage system,
sanitation facilities, (solid waste management system, drainage system, etc. which are all integrated through
the use of technology.
c) Social Infrastructure: Social Infrastructure relates to those that work towards developing the human and
social capital, such as the educational, healthcare, entertainment; etc systems.
Social Infrastructure would include the following:
Education: The city should have good quality educational facilities both for schooling and higher education.
Healthcare: High quality healthcare facilities are important factors in making a city livable and attractive
for people and businesses.
Entertainment: Good entertainment facilities make the people in a city happy. Good sports facilities,
cultural centers, open spaces and plazas allow opportunities for recreation, so important for healthy and
happy living.
Notes

3
 Geography www.iasscore.in

TERMINOLOGY ASSOCIATED WITH POPULATION

A. Birth Rate
Birth rate is the total number of live births in a particular area (an entire country, a state, a district
or other territorial unit) during a specified period (usually a year) divided by the total population of
that area in thousands.
In other words, the birth rate is the number of live births per 1000 population.
B. Death Rate
The death rate is a similar statistic, expressed as the number of deaths in a given area during a given
time per 1000 population.

E
C. Growth Rate
OR
The rate of natural increase or the growth rate of population refers to the difference between the birth
rate and the death rate. When this difference is zero (or, in practice, very small) then we say that the
population has stabilized, or has reachedthe replacement level, which is the rate of growth required
for new generations to replace the older ones that are dying out.
Sometimes, societies can experience a negative growth rate - that is, their fertility levels are below the
SC

replacement rate. This is true of many countries and regions in the world today, such as Japan, Russia,
Italy and Eastern Europe.
On the other hand, some societies experience very high growth rates, particularly when they are going
through the demographic transition described on the previous page.
D. Fertility Rate
GS

The fertility rate refers to the number of live births per 1000 women in the child-bearing age group,
usually taken to be 15 to 49 years.
But like the other rates discussed above (the birth and death rates) this is a crude rate- it is a rough
average for an entire population and does not take account of the differences across age-groups.
Differences across age groups can sometimes be very significant in affecting the meaning of indicators.
That is why demographers also calculate age-specific rates.
The total fertility rate refers to the total number of live births that a hypothetical woman would have
if she lived through the reproductive age group and had the average number of babies in each segment
of this age group as determined by the age-specific fertility rates for that area. Another way of
expressing this is that the total fertility rate is the the average number of births to a cohort of women
up to the end of the reproductive age period (estimated on the basis of the age-specific rates observed
during a given period).
E. Mortality Rates
The infant mortality rate is the number of deaths of babies before the age of one year per 1000 live
births.
Notes

4
 www.iasscore.in

Likewise, the maternal mortality rate is the number of women who die in child birth per 1000 live
births.
High rates of infant and maternal mortality are an unambiguous indicator of backwardness and
poverty; development is accompanied by sharp falls in these rates as medical facilities and levels of
education, awareness and prosperity increase.
F. Life expectancy
This refers to the estimated number of years that an average person is expected to survive. It is
calculated on the basis of data on age-specific death rates in a given area over a period of time.
G. Sex ratio
The sex ratio refers to the number of females per 1000 males in a given area at a specified time
period.
H. Age structure

E
The age structure of the population refers to the proportion of persons indifferent age groups relative
to the total population.

OR
The age structure changes in response to changes in levels of development and the average life
expectancy. Initially, poor medical facilities, prevalence of disease and other factors make for a
relatively short life span. Moreover, high infant and maternal mortality rates also have an impact on
the age structure. With development, quality of life improves and with it the life expectancy also
improves. This changes the age structure: relatively smaller proportions of the population are found
SC
in the younger age groups and larger proportions in the older age groups. This is also refered to as
the aging of the population.
I. Dependency ratio
The dependency ratio is a measure comparing the portion of a population which is composed of
dependents (i.e., elderly people who are too old to work, and children who are too young to work)
GS

with the portion that is in the working age group, generally defined as 15 to 64 years.
The dependency ratio is equal to the population below 15 or above 64, divided by population in the
15-64 age group; the ratio is usually expressed as a percentage. Or in other words, Dependency Ratio
= Population in the age group 0-14 + Population in the age group 60 + or 65 + Population in the age
group 15-59 or 15-64.
Notes

5
 Geography www.iasscore.in

CENSUS 2011
The Indian Census is the most credible source of information on Demography (Population characteristics),
Economic Activity, Literacy & Education, Housing & Household Amenities, Urbanization, Fertility and Mortality,
Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, Language, Religion, Migration, Disability and many other socio-
cultural and demographic data since 1872. Census 2011 will be the 15th National Census of the country. This
is the only source of primary data at village, town and ward level. It provides valuable information for planning
and formulation of polices for Central & State Governments and is widely used by National & International
agencies, scholars, business people, industrialists, and many more. The delimitation/reservation of Constituencies
- Parliamentary/Assembly/Panchayats and other Local Bodies is also done on the basis of the demographic
data thrown up by the Census. Census is the basis for reviewing the country's progress in the past decade,
monitoring the on-going schemes of the Government and most importantly, plan for the future.

E
The Census is a statutory exercise conducted under the provisions of the Census Act 1948 and Rules made
thereunder.
OR
How the Census is conducted?
The Census process involves visiting each and every household and gathering particulars by asking questions
and filling up Census Forms. The information collected about individuals is kept absolutely confidential. In fact
this information is not accessible even to Courts of law. After the field work is over the forms are transported
SC

to data processing centres located at 15 cities across the country. The data processing will be done using
sophisticated software called Intelligent Character Recognition Software (ICR). This technology was pioneered
by India in Census 2001 has become the benchmark for Censuses all around the globe. This involves the
scanning of the Census Forms at high speed and extracting the data automatically using computer software.
This revolutionary technology has enabled the processing of the voluminous data in a very short time and
saving a huge amount of manual labour and cost.
GS

CENSUS 2011 Quick facts

Total population 1.21 billion
Decadal growth rate 17.4%
Density 382
Sex ratio 940
Child sex ratio 914
Literacy 74.04%
Highlights of 2011 Census
A. Population size
According to the provisional population count released within four weeks of completing the Census,
India's total population in 2011 was 1.21 billion, up from 1.03 billion in 2001, thus adding 181 million
people in one decade.
Notes

6
 www.iasscore.in

However, the 2001-2011 decadal growth rate of 17.6 %, compared to 21.5 recorded during 1991-2001,
suggests slowing down of growth. Interestingly, the enumerated population size was larger than most
projections, including that of the Registrar General's office that projected the 2011 population to be 1.19
billion. India is now expected to become the most populous country of the world by 2030 overtaking
China sooner than earlier expected.
India's population size is expected to stabilize at 1.8 billion around 2041.
B. Geographic Distribution
The state of Uttar Pradesh with 199.6 million people is India's most populous state accounting for 16.5%
of country's population. Bihar (103.8) and Maharashtra (112.4) are other two states with more than 100
million people. Other large states are West Bengal with 91, Andhra Pradesh with 85, Madhya Pradesh with
73, and Tamil Nadu with 72 million people.
Nearly 42.4% of Indians now live in formerly undivided Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and
Rajasthan; a proportion that has increased from 40% in 1991.

E
Conversely, the proportion of Indians living in the four southern states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka
and Andhra Pradesh has decreased from 22.5% in 1991 to 20.8% in 2011, causing concerns about their

C.

representation in parliamentary democracy.
Rate of Population Growth OR
Among the major states, Bihar with 25.1% growth rate during 2001-2011is the fastest growing state.
Decadal Growth rates have exceeded 20% in all the core north India states - Bihar, Uttar Pradesh,
SC
Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh (including Jharkhand And Chattisgarh).
Kerala's growth rate during 2001-2011 of 4.9% is indicative of the state reaching stationary population in
the next 10-20 years.
Growth rate around 11-13% is reported by Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, and West Bengal and around 15-16
% by Karnataka, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. Southern states are the harbinger of population stabilization.
GS

D. Literacy
India has witnessed remarkable progress in spread of literacy. Compared to barely 18 percent of India's
population recorded as literate in the first Census after Independence, according to the 2011 Census, that
proportion has gone up to 74 percent.
The achievement among males has been from 27 to 82 percent in the 60 years. From less than one in
10 women counted as literate in 1951, today two out of three women are enumerated as literate.
Nationally, the gender gap in spread of literacy began to narrow first in1991 and the pace has accelerated.
However, there are large state variations in the gender gap with Rajasthan reporting nearly 28 percentage
point gap and other core North Indian states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh and
Jharkhand reporting a gap between male and female literacy rate of more than 20 percentage points.
Compared to 2001, in 2011 male literacy rate increased by 6 percentage points but female literacy
increased by nearly 12 percentage points, which is viewed as a remarkable achievement.
E. Sex Ratio of Population
Female to male sex ratio of population has began to improve - from 927 in 1991 to 933 in 2001 to 940
in 2011.
Notes

7
 www.iasscore.in

The female to male sex ratio of population historically noted in the contiguous area of Punjab, Haryana,
Chandigarh and Delhi, has improved between 2001 and 2011, but it is still below 900 women per 1000
men.
On the other hand, sex ratio close to unity is recorded in the southern states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and
Andhra Pradesh. This phenomenon observed since the beginning of the 20th Century has persisted even
now.
F. Child Sex Ratio
Since 1981 Indian Censuses have made available data on population in the age group 0-6 by sex, as a
byproduct of information on literacy rates which are calculated for 7+ population, enabling calculation of
sex ratio of children in the age group 0-6. (Typically, age data are generated in five year age groups and
thus most populations would provide data on children in the age group 0-4 and not 0-6.)
The Census Commissioner's office has calculated sex ratio of children aged 0-6 from the previous Censuses
of 1961 and 1971 also showing the trend over 50 years (See Table 2).
The child sex ratio has steadily declined from 976 in 1961 to 927 in 2001 and further to 914 in 2011.

E
OR
SC
GS
Notes

8
 Indian Polity www.iasscore.in

THE JUDICIARY STUCTURE IN INDIA

Judiciary is that branch of government which interprets law, settles disputes and administers justice. Laws
are like dead letters without courts to explain and expound their meaning.
Judiciary is the watchdog of democracy, guardian of the constitution as well as champion of liberty.
In India the structure of judiciary is like a pyramid. The Supreme Court is at the apex, below it, there
are High Courts, the next step in the hierarchy are the district courts and at the bottom of the judicial
pyramid are the subordinate courts.
In India, the courts from top to bottom deal with the disputes arising under the laws enacted by the Union

E
Parliament as well as by state legislatures.

OR
SC
GS

THE FUNCTIONS OF THE JUDICIARY

Administration of Justice To apply the law to specific cases or disputes. When it
brought before the courts and renders the appropriate awards
and judgment.
Creation of judge made law When the might appear in conflict under the given
circumstances, judges decided appropriate law on the basis
of their wisdom and common sense. Under the doctrine of
the stare decisis the previous decision of judges are regarded
as binding on forthcoming similar cases.
Notes

1
 www.iasscore.in

Guardian of the Constitution The conflicts of jurisdiction between the central government
and the state governments or between the legislature and the
executive are decided by the court. Any law or executive
order which violates any provision of the constitution is
declared unconstitutional or null and void by the judiciary.
For eg. Judicial review- guaranteeing the fundamental rights
of individuals and ensuring balance between the union and
the units in a federal state.
Protector of Fundamental Rights The judiciary protects the rights of people against the
encroachment of the government or any other association or
individual. The superior courts enforce the fundamental rights
of the people through appropriate writs in the nature of
Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Certiorari, Quo-Warranto etc.
Advisory Function In India the Supreme Court, the highest court of law, may
give advisory opinion on constitutional questions. Such advice
is given even in the absence of an actual dispute, when the

E
chief executive so desires.
OR
Supervisory Function Higher courts, in most cases, are assigned the task of
supervising the work of the lower courts. The High Courts
supervise the work of the subordinate courts in India.
Non-judicial or Administrative Functions Miscellaneous functions like the courts may grant certain
licenses, administer the estates of deceased persons and
SC

appoint receivers. They register marriages; appoint guardians

of minor children and lunatics. In some states, they are
authorized to confer citizenship on aliens. Superior courts are
given the power to exercise control over their officers and
servants.
SUPREME COURT
GS

Independent Judiciary:Sine Qua Non of Democracy (Absolutely needed)

Exist to see that laws made by legislature are intra vires (with the constitution)
Notes

2
 www.iasscore.in

At the apex lie SC:Custodian & interpreter of constitution

Originally 1 CJ & 7 judges, but At present 1 CJ & 30 Judges
Seat:
SC normally seats at New Delhi. However it can be hold its meeting anywhere in India. The decision I this
regard is taken by the CJI in consultation with the President.
Appointment of the Chief Justice of India:
There is no procedure laid down for the appointment of the Chief Justice of India.
A convention was followed to appoint the senior most judge as the Chief Justice until it was broken by
Mrs. Indira Gandhi who appointed justice A. N. Ray as the chief justice superseding three senior justices
of the Supreme Court.
The Supreme Court has laid down in a judgment that only the senior most judge of the Supreme Court
is eligible to become the Chief Justice.

E
At present the convention of appointing the senior most judge as the chief justice prevails.
Appointment of Judges (Art. 124)
OR
Every judge of the Supreme Court shall be appointed by the President after consultation with such judges
of the Supreme Court and of the High Court as the President may deem necessary.
In case of the appointment of a judge other than the chief justice, the chief justice of India shall always
SC
be consulted.
The consultation process has been made systematic, elaborate and effective by the Supreme Court in
various cases known as Supreme Court Judges case.
The Supreme Court has held that the Chief Justice must consult the four senior most judges of the
Supreme Court and if two judges give an adverse opinion, the Chief Justice should not send the
GS

recommendation to the government.

Thus, the word consultation with the judiciary while appointing the Supreme Court judges has been
practically converted into concurrence.
Qualification for appointment as a Judge (Art. 124):
No person shall be qualified for appointment as a judge of the Supreme Court unless he is:-
a citizen of India; and
has been for at least 5 year a judge of a High Court; or
has been for at least 10 years an advocate of High Court; or
is in the opinion of the President, a distinguished jurisdictions. (a highly qualified academia / law professor)
Tenure:
A judge of the Supreme Court holds office until he attains the age of 65 years. No minimum age for
appointment is fixed. A judge may at any time resign his office by writing addressed to the President.
3 years more than that of High court Judge
Notes

3
 www.iasscore.in

He may be removed by the President by an order issued after being presented an address by each House
of Parliament passed by special (also known as double majority) majority.
Such removal can be on the ground of (a) proved misbehaviour or (b) incapacity.
Salary of Supreme Court Judges:
Chief Justice -1 lakh
Other Judges -90,000 (From consolidated fund of India)
Appointment of acting Chief Justice (Art. 126)
In case of absence of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court by any reason, the President may appoint
a judge of the Supreme Court as the acting Chief Justice during such absence.
Ad-hoc Judges (Art. 127)
The Chief Justice with the previous consent of the President can ask a High Court judge after consulting
the chief justice of that High Court to attend at the sittings of the Supreme Court as an ad hoc judge.

E
The ad hoc judge will have all the jurisdiction, powers and privileges of a judge of the Supreme Court.
Attendance of retired Judges (Art. 128)
OR
The chief justice may with the prior consent of the President request a retired judge of the Supreme Court
or a High Court who is qualified to be judge of the Supreme Court to and act as a judge of the Supreme
Court.
The President may determine his allowances. He shall have all the jurisdiction, powers and privileges of
SC

the Supreme Court. But he shall not be deemed to be a judge of the Supreme Court.
Removal of Supreme Court judges Art. 124(4):
The manner of removal of a Supreme Court judge which is an impeachment like process. A judge may be
removed from his office on the ground of (a) misbehavior or (b) incapacity. The removal involves the following
steps:
GS

A motion for presenting an address to the President praying for the removal of a judge must be signed
by at least 100 members of the Lok Sabha (if notice is given in the Lok Sabha).
The Chairman or the Speaker (as the case may be) may consult such persons as he thinks fit and consider
such material as may be available and may admit the motion or refuse to admit it.
If the motion is admitted, a committee consisting of 3 persons will be constituted of whom,
One shall be from among the Chief Justice and judges of the Supreme Court.
One shall be from among the Chief Justice and the judges of the High Court.
One shall be a person who is a distinguished jurist.
If the committee arrives at a finding that the judge is guilty of misbehaviour or suffers from an incapacity,
then the motion for removal of the judge together with the report of the committee will be taken up for
consideration in the House in which it is pending.
The motion must be passed by each House by a majority of the total membership of that House and by
a majority of not less than two-third of the members of that House present and voting. After being so
passed, the address is presented to the President.
Notes

4
 www.iasscore.in

The President passes an order removing the judge.

By order of President, after an address in each house of parliament, supported by a majority of total
membership of the house & passed by a resolution supported by not less than 2/3rd of the members
present & voting.
Lok Sabha: A motion can be preferred before the house if signed by 100 members
Rajya Sabha: A motion can be preferred before the house if signed by 50 members
o Only on grounds of proven misbehavior or incapacity
o Only after giving 14 days prior notice to said Judge against whom the motion is passed
o A 3 persons judicial committee is formed headed by serving judge of SC and 2 others from (SC
or HC or eminent jurists)
o Report of same must be passed by both the houses & President

E
Acting CJ & Ad Hoc Judges

OR
Appointment of Acting CJ - By President if CJ is ill or incapable to serve
Appointment of Ad-hoc Judges - IF there is lack of quorum of Judges of SC to hold or continue any
session in court, CJ of India with previous consent of President & after consultation with CJ of HC
concerned, request in writing the attendance of judges to sit in SC as ad-hoc judges for certain period
(Judges shall be qualified to be judges of SC)
SC
Retired judges of SC can sit in SC as Ad-hoc Judges on request of CJ after consent of President, provided
they fulfill the criteria of SC
Criminal proceedings initiation against a judge of SC or HC requires CJs consent
After retirement, a Judge of SC is prohibited from practising or acting as a judge in any court.
GS

Independence of Supreme Court:

The Constitution secures the independence of the judges of the Supreme Court by the following provisions:
The appointments are made by the President in consultation with the Chief Justice of India.
The judges are to be removed by Parliament through a tough impeachment process. They cannot be
removed by the executive.
Salaries, allowances and pensions of Supreme Court judges are charged on the Consolidated Fund of India
(CFI) and shall not be varied to their disadvantage.
The conduct of a judge cannot be discussed in the parliament or any legislature (Art.121 and 211).
A retired judge of the Supreme Court is prohibited from pleading or acting in any Court or authority in
India.
Supreme Court to be a court record:
The Supreme Court is a Court of record (Art. 129). It means that its record has evidentiary value and cannot
be questioned when produced in a Court. It also means that it has the power to punish for contempt.
Notes

5
 www.iasscore.in

JURISDICTION AND POWER OF SUPREME COURT:

A. Original Jurisdiction
Original jurisdiction of SC is power to hear a case for the 1st time unlike Appellate jurisdiction
Purely federal in character i.e. have exclusive authority to decide any dispute involving a question of law
between:
GOI (Union) v/s state or states
GOI & any state / states on one side & state / states on the other
Two or more states
However, according to 7th amendment, 1956, original jurisdiction of SC does not extends to disputes, arising
out of provisions of a treaty, agreement etc. which was executed before 26th Jan 1950 & is in operation ever
since.
As per article 71, all disputes regarding election of President & vice President are handled by SC

E
Exclusion to original jurisdiction of states (Art.131)
In disputes between center & state due to disputes arising out of provisions of a treaty, agreement etc.
OR
which was executed before 26th Jan 1950 & is in operation ever since
Parliament may by law exclude SCs jurisdiction in disputes with respect to use, distribution & control of
water in any interstate river
Exclusive jurisdiction in following cases:
SC

Between the government of India and one or more states.

Between the government of India and one or more states on one side, and one or more states on the other.
Between two or more states.
The dispute must involve any question of law or fact on which the existence or extent of a legal right
GS

depends.
A legal right is one which is capable of enforcement by a Court law. It must be based on a rule of
positive law and not be a matter of political considerations.
Writ Jurisdiction (Art.32)
A type of original jurisdiction of Supreme court
Jurisdiction of SC to enforce FRs - Every individual has a right to move to SC directly by appropriate
proceedings for the enforcement of his FR, without coming via HC, by means of writs.
B. Appellate Jurisdiction:
Constitutional Matters (Art.132):
Appeal lies to SC if HC certifies that the case involves a substantial question of law as to interpret the
constitution
If HC refuses to give certificate, SC may grant a special leave for appeal if it is satisfied that case does
involve such question
Notes

6
 www.iasscore.in

Civil Matters:
An appeal lies to SC from any any judgement in civil proceeding of HC if it certifies :
that the case involves a substantial question of law of general importance
that in opinion of HC, the said question needs to be decided by SC
Thus, No appeal in case of civil matters lies to SC as a matter of right as it lies only when HC issues a
certificate on above 2 conditions
Criminal Matters (Art.134):
Constitution provides the following provisions as to appeal in criminal matters:
If HC has sentenced someone to death
If HC has withdrawn for trial before itself a case from the lower court & in such trial, lower court has
sentenced the accused to death

E
If HC certifies that the case is fit for appeal to SC, even if HC on appeal has reversed an order of acquittal
of accused & sentenced him to death or life imprisonment or for period not less than 10 years

OR
(Appellate Jurisdiction is not Applicable in cases of Court Martial)
Grant of special leave to appeal - Article 136
Articles 131, and 133 provide for appeals to the Supreme Court from constitutional, civil and criminal matters
SC
respectively.
Under Article 136, the Supreme Court has the power to grant special leave to appeal from any judgement,
decree, determination, sentence or order of a Court or tribunal except military tribunals. In the earlier
articles, the appeals flow only from the determinations of a High Court.
Article 136 puts no such restrictions. Under this article, the Supreme Court may hear an appeal even from
a subordinate court or tribunal. Even where the law does not provide for any appeal, e.g., from Industrial
GS

Tribunals, Election Tribunals, the Central Board of Revenue, the Central Government, the Railway Rates
Tribunal, etc.
Advisory Jurisdiction (Only consultative Role):
President can refer to court either on a question of law or on a question of fact provided it is of public
importance. However, it is not compulsory for court to give its advice.
Further, President is empowered to refer to SC for its opinion regarding disputes, arising out of provisions
of a treaty, agreement etc. which was executed before 26th Jan 1950 & is in operation ever since. In such
case, it is obligatory for the court to give its opinion to President
(In this cases, opinion expresses by SC is only advisory in nature & not binding on President)
C. Revisory Jurisdiction:
Empowered to review any judgment or order made by it with a view to remove any mistake or error that
might have crept in judgment
Even though, judgment have been passed by SC has a binding effect on all the courts of India, but not
on SC itself.
Notes

7
 www.iasscore.in

D. Supreme Court as Court of Record:

Records & judicial proceedings are of evidentiary value before any court
Has power to determine its own jurisdiction
Review of judgements for orders by the Supreme Court (Article 137)
Under this provision the Supreme Court has the power to review its own judgement. Since there is no court
above Supreme Court, its judgement can be reviewed by no court but by itself. A review will lie on the
following grounds:
Discovery of new and important matters or evidence;
Mistake or error apparent on the face of the record; and
Any other sufficient reason.
Transfer of certain cases (Article 139 A):

E
In cases involving the same questions of law having general importance, the Supreme Court may withdraw such
cases and dispose them itself.
OR
Advisory jurisdiction (Article 143):
The power of consulting the Supreme Court by the President on a matter affecting the nation is known
as advisory jurisdiction of the Supreme Court.
If the President at any time feels that a question of law or fact of public importance has arisen which
SC

requires the opinion of the Supreme Court, he may refer the matter to the Supreme Court to seek its
advice.
However, the President is not bound by the advice given by the Supreme Court nor Supreme Court is
bound to tender its advice always.
Transfer of Certain Cases to High Court (Article 228):
GS

If the High Court is satisfied that a case pending in a subordinate Court involves a substantial question of law
as to the interpretation of the Constitution, the High Court will withdraw the case and either determine the
question of law and return the case to the court from where it was withdrawn or dispose of the case itself.
Contempt of court:
(Supreme Court has power to punish its own contempt)
Civil - Willful disobedience to any judge or other processes of the court
Criminal - Publication of any matter or doing any act whatsoever which scandalizes or tend to scandalize
authority of the court or tend to interfere course of any judicial proceedings
Curative Petition:
A review petition may be filed in SC after delivery of its judgment; Court may review the case under its
inherent power but on very restricted grounds
The petition 1st has to circulate to a bench of 3 senior most judges & judges who passed the judgment
complained of.
Notes

8
 www.iasscore.in

Others Powers of SC:

Make rules regarding procedure & practice of court
Can recommend removal of members of UPSC to the President
Power to review the laws passed by the legislature & orders issued by executives & to declare them ultra
vires if they contravene any of the provisions of the constitution
It must be noted that SC can not pronounce upon the constitutionality of any law or executives action
on its own. It can only pronounce judgment, when said law or executive action is actually challenged by
someone
The ultimate authority to interpret the constitution also rest with SC , which has been described as mouth
piece of Indian constitution.
APPOINTMENT & TRANSFER OF JUDGES BY NATIONAL JUDICIAL APPOINTMENTS
COMMISSION

E
Composition of the NJAC 6 members:

OR
Chief Justice of India (Chairperson, ex officio)
Two other senior judges of the Supreme Court next to the Chief Justice of India ex officio
The Union Minister of Law and Justice, ex-officio
Two eminent persons (one of which would be from the SC or ST or OBC or Minority communities or
SC
a woman ), for 3 yrs, not eligible for re-nomination, to be nominated by a committee consisting of :
Chief Justice of India
Prime Minister of India
Leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha ( where there is no such Leader of Opposition, then, the
Leader of single largest Opposition Party in Lok Sabha)
GS

Functions of the Commission:

Recommending persons to president for appointment as:
Chief Justice of India,
Judges of the Supreme Court,
Chief Justices of High Courts and other Judges of High Courts.
Recommending transfer of Chief Justices and other Judges of High Courts from one High Court to any
other High Court.
Ensuring that the persons recommended are of ability and integrity.
Notes

9
 www.iasscore.in

Evolving System:
Pre- 1993- Law ministers selected judges in' consultation with' judiciary.
Post-1993- Judiciary assumed 'primacy' by creating collegiums in Supreme Court and high courts.
NC judge is appointed after a collegium of judges of that court suggests his/ her
name, which then has to be cleared by a three-member SC collegium. The 3 judges
include the CJI and at least one SC judge who has been associated with that particular
HC in the past. SC appointments cleared by 5-member collegium including CJI and
4 other senior most judges.
2014 Proposed National judicial appointments commission seeks to make selection process
more transparent. To have 6 members, inducing law minister, Cell, 2 SC judges and
2 'eminent persons'. At least 5 members will have to agree on each judge's appointment.
2015 NJAC system is ruled over by SC, collegiums system revised and back in practice.

E
OR
SC
GS
Notes

10
 Indian Polity www.iasscore.in

HIGH COURTS
The judiciary in the states consists of a High Court and a system of subordinate courts below it.
The High Court is at the apex of the judiciary in the state.
Article 214 provides for High Court for each state but there can be common High Courts for two or more
states established by Parliament under Article 231.
Under Article 230 the jurisdiction of High Court can be extended to the Union Territories also.
At present there are only 24 High Courts covering all the 29 states and 7 Union Territories.

E
A High Court may also have one or more benches of itself within the area of its territorial jurisdiction.
Indian High court Act, 1861


High courts established at Calcutta, Bombay & Madras
OR
Constitution states that there shall be HC in every state, but, parliament has the power to establish a
common HC for 2 or more states (At present 24 HC for 29 states & 7 UTs)
SC
Strength of HC is flexible (Unlike SC which can be increased by parliament)
President may from time to time appoint judges of HC, keeping in view amount of work before HC.
Jurisdiction and Seats of Courts in India
Court Jurisdiction Seat
GS

Supreme Court
All India High Courts New Delhi
Name of High Court Year Established Jurisdiction Seat
Allahabad High Court 1866 Uttar Pradesh Allahabad (with Bench at
Lucknow)
Hyderabad High Court 1956 Andhra Pradesh, Telangana Hyderabad
Bombay High Court 1862 Maharashtra, Dadra and Bombay (Bench at Nagpur,
Nagar Haveli, Goa, Panaji and Aurangabad)
Daman and Diu
Calcutta High Court 1862 West Bengal, Andaman Kolkata (Circuit Bench at Port
and Nicobar Blair)
Chhattisgarh High 2000 Chhattisgarh Bilaspur
Court
Delhi High Court 1966 Delhi New Delhi
Notes

11
 www.iasscore.in

Guwahati High Court 1948 Assam, Nagaland, Guwahati (Bench at Itanagar,

Mizoram and Aizawl and Kohima)
Arunchal Pradesh
Gujarat High Court 1960 Gujarat Ahmedabad
Himanchal Pradesh 1971 Himanchal Pradesh Shimla
High Court
Jammu & Kashmir 1928 Jammu and Kashmir Srinagar and Jammu
High Court
Jharkhand High Court 2000 Jharkhand Ranchi
Karnataka High Court 1884 Karnataka Bengaluru (Benches at
Dharwad and Kalburgi)
Kerala High Court 1956 Kerala and Lakshadweep Ernakulam
Madhya Pradesh 1956 Madhya Pradesh Jabalpur (Benches at Gwalior

E
High Court and Indore)
OR
Madras High Court 1862 Tamil Nadu and Chennai (Bench at Madurai)
Puducherry
Manipur High Court 2013 Manipur Imphal
Meghalaya High Court 2014 Meghalaya Shillong
SC

Orissa High Court 1948 Odisha Cuttack

Patna High Court 1916 Bihar Patna
Punjab and Haryana 1975 Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh
High Court Chandigarh
Rajasthan High Court 1949 Rajasthan Jodhpur (Bench at Jaipur)
GS

Sikkim High Court 1975 Sikkim Gangtok

Tripura High Court 2013 Tripura Agartala
Uttarakhand 2000 Uttarakhand Nainital
High Court
Appointment of High Court Judges:
Initiation of proposal for appointment of judges of HC must invariably be made by CJ of that HC
Appointment is made with respect to recommendations of NJAC
Composition of the NJAC 6 members
Chief Justice of India (Chairperson, ex officio)
Two other senior judges of the Supreme Court next to the Chief Justice of India ex officio
The Union Minister of Law and Justice, ex-officio
Notes

12
 www.iasscore.in

Two eminent persons (one of which would be from the SC or ST or OBC or Minority communities or
a woman ), for 3 yrs, not eligible for re-nomination, to be nominated by a committee consisting of :
Chief Justice of India
Prime Minister of India
Leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha ( where there is no such Leader of Opposition, then, the
Leader of single largest Opposition Party in Lok Sabha)
Functions of the Commission:
Recommending persons to president for appointment as:
Chief Justice of India,
Judges of the Supreme Court,
Chief Justices of High Courts and other Judges of High Courts.

E
Recommending transfer of Chief Justices and other Judges of High Courts from one High Court to
any other High Court

OR
Ensuring that the persons recommended are of ability and integrity
Appointment of Acting CJ, Additional Judges & Ad Hoc Judges High Court
Appointment of acting CJ By President if CJ is ill or incapable to serve
SC
Appointment of additional judges Duly qualified persons as additional judges , for a period of not
extending 2 years (when President thinks that there is temporary
increase in business of HC)
Ad hoc judges CJ of HC with prior permission to President may request retired
HC judges to sit & act as a judge of HC for a temporary period
GS

Tenure of High Court Judges

62 Years
Any dispute regarding the age of judge of HC is decided by President in consultation with CJ of India
Removal of High Court Judges
HC judge can resign by writing to President; or
By same removal process as in case of SC judges
Salary of High Court Judges
CJ - Rs. 90,000
Others Rs.80,000
From consolidated fund of State
Oath - before Governor (Unlike before President as in case of Supreme Court)
Qualification for High Court Judges
Notes

13
 www.iasscore.in

Must be citizen of India

Must have held a judicial office in territory of India for atleast 10 years or
Must have been an advocate of HC in succession for 10 years
After retirement a judge of HC cannot plead in a court or before any authority in India except in SC or HC
other than in which he held office
Jurisdiction of High Court
A. Original Jurisdiction
In civil cases with amount > 2000
In criminal cases, authorised to them by President Magistrates
B. Appellate Jurisdiction
All HCs entertain appeals in civil & criminal cases from their subordinate courts.

E
They have, however, no jurisdiction over tribunals established by the law relating to armed forces of the
country
OR
C. Writ Jurisdiction:
Jurisdiction to issue writs under HC is larger than the SC.
SC can issue them only where a FR has been infringed whereas a HC can issue them, not only in such
cases but also where an ordinary legal right has been infringed
SC

D. Administrative & supervisory Functions of HC:

HC supervise & controls the working of courts subordinate to them
Frame rules & regulations for transactions of their business. For ex. Transfers, Postings, Promotions etc.
Not applicable in case of tribunals dealing with armed forces
GS

(HC acts as court of records & has power to punish its own contempt)
Superintendence over Courts:
Under Article 227 every High Court has a power of superintendence over all courts and tribunals throughout
the territories in relation to which it exercises jurisdiction. Superintendence covers both administrative as
well as judicial.
The power of superintendence is an extraordinary power to be exercised most sparingly and only in
appropriate cases in order to keep the subordinate courts within the bounds of their authority and not for
making trifle corrections.
The High Court should intervene in cases of gross injustice or non-exercise or abuse of jurisdiction even
though there is no provision for appeal or revision.
Transfer of Certain Cases to High Court (Article 228):
If the High Court is satisfied that a case pending in a subordinate Court involves a substantial question of law
as to the interpretation of the Constitution, the High Court will withdraw the case and either determine the
question of law and return the case to the court from where it was withdrawn or dispose of the case itself.
Notes

14
 www.iasscore.in

Control over the Subordinate Judiciary:

As the head of the judiciary in the State, the High Court has got an administrative control over the subordinate
judiciary in respect of certain matters. The subordinate courts include District Judges of the city, Civil Courts
as well as the Metropolitan Magistrates and Members of the Judicial Services. The control over the judges of
these subordinate courts is exercised by the High Court in the following matters-
The High Court is to be consulted by the Governor in the matter of appointing, posting and promoting
district judges.
The High Court is consulted along with the state Public Service Commission, by the Governor, in
appointing persons to the judicial service of the state.
The control over district courts and courts subordinate thereto, including the posting and promotion of and
the grant of leave to persons belonging to the judicial service and holding any post inferior to the post of
a district judge is vested in the High Court.

E
The initial appointment of a District Judge or Additional District Judge is made by the Governor who has to
act in consultation with the High Court. After he is appointed his posting and promotion is done by the
Governor in consultation with the High Court (Article 233). Normally the High Courts recommendation must

OR
be accepted. Departure from it must be rare and for cogent and compelling reasons.
The posting and promotion of the district judge is done by the Governor in consultation with the High Court
but posting and promotion of persons belongings to state judicial service (other than district judges) exclusively
rests with the High Court (Article 235).
SC
Article 235 expressly states that the control over district court and courts below it vest in the High Court. The
control is administrative, removal or reduction in rank. In the matter of dismissal, removal and reduction also
the High Court may recommend such punishment to the Governor.
Powers to issue writs:
The Supreme Courts and High Courts can issue writs to ensure that rights of the people are not violated
GS

either by State or otherwise.

The Constitution has specifically given the power to issue certain writs to the High Courts.
These Courts can issue writs (which are binding directions of the Court) to any person or authority,
including government of the State concerned.
The writs in the nature of Habeas, Corpus, mandamus, prohibition, quo warranto, and certiorari (explained
in lesson 6) for the enforcement of rights of the people.
This power is exercised in the original jurisdiction of the High Court, and is not derogatory to similar
power of the Supreme Court.
Transfer of Cases to the High Court
If a High Court is satisfied that a case pending in a subordinate court involves a substantial question of
law as to the interpretation of the Constitution, the High Court may withdraw such a case from the lower
court.
After examining the case, the High Court may either dispose it off itself, or may return it to the lower
court with instructions for disposal of the case.
Notes

15
 www.iasscore.in

Superintendence of Subordinate Courts

A High Court has the right of superintendence and control over all the subordinate courts in all the matter
of judicial and administrative nature.
In the exercise of its power of superintendence, the High Court may call for any information from the
lower courts; may make and issue general rules and prescribe norms for regulating the practice and
proceedings of these courts; and it may issue such directions, from time to time, as it may deem necessary.
It can also make rules and regulations relating to the appointment, demotion, promotion and leave of
absence for the officers of the subordinate courts.
Court of Record
A High Court is also a court of record, like the Supreme Court.
Lower courts in a State are bound to follow the decisions of the High Court which are cited as precedents.
A High Court has also the power to punish for its contempt or disrespect.

E
OR
SC
GS
Notes

16
 Indian Polity www.iasscore.in

DISTRICT JUDICIARY
Subordinates courts district courts
Civil cases- district judges,
Criminal cases- session judges
Appointed by Governor in consultation with CJ of HC
In each district of India there are various types of subordinate or lower courts. They are civil courts, criminal
courts and revenue courts. These Courts hear civil cases, criminal cases and revenue cases, respectively.

E
Civil cases pertain to disputes between two or more persons regarding property, breach of agreement or
contract, divorce or landlord - tenant disputes. Civil Courts settle these disputes. They do not award any

OR
punishment as violation of law is not involved in civil cases.
Criminal cases relate to violation of laws. These cases involve theft, dacoity, rape, pickpocketing, physical
assault, murder, etc. These cases are filed in the lower court by the police, on behalf of the state, againt
the accused. In such cases the accused, if found guilty, is awarded punishment like fine, imprisonment or
even death sentence.
SC
Revenue cases relate to land revenue on agriculture land in the district.
Qualifications and Appointment of Judges
Supreme Court
The judges of subordinate courts are appointed by the Governor of India

in consultation with the Chief Justice of the High Court of the

concerned State.
GS

High Courts

These days, in most of the States judicial service officers including

the magistrates are selected through competitive examinations
Subordinate or
held by the State Public Service Commission. They are finally Lower Courts
in Districts
appointed by the Governor.
Any person who has been an advocate for at least seven years or
Civil Criminal Revenue
one who is in the Structure of Government service of the State Courts Courts Courts
or the Central Government is eligible to be a judge of the District
Court provided he/she possess the required legal qualifications. District Judge
District Board of
and District &
Judge Revenue
The Designation System: Sessions Judge

As per the direction of the Supreme Court, a uniform designation Sub-Judge -

Metropolitan
Commissioner,
or I Class
has been brought about in the subordinate judiciarys judicial Family
Magistrate Collector

officers all over the country, namely, district or Additional District

Judges, Civil Judge (Senior Division) and Civil Judge (Junior Munsif
II Class
Tehsildar
Magistrate
Division) in the Civil Courts and in Criminal Courts, Sessions
Judge, Additional Sessions Judge, Chief Judicial Magistrate and
Small Cause
Judicial Magistrate, etc. Court, Lok
III Class
Magistrate
Asst. Tehsildar
Adalat
Notes

17
 www.iasscore.in

The next set of courts is described as courts of District and Sessions Judge, which also includes courts
of the Additional Judge, Joint Judge, or Assistant Judge. The court of the District and Sessions Judge at
the district level is the principal court of original jurisdiction.
It is presided over by an officer called the District and Sessions Judge. As a rule, the same officer is
invested with power under both the statutes and presides over the court, known as the District and
Sessions Court.
Depending upon workload, a district court may have jurisdiction over more than one district- In some
states, there is a court called the Court of Civil and Sessions Judge.
These courts generally have unlimited pecuniary jurisdiction and depending upon the power conferred on
the incumbent officer-in-charge of the court, it can handle criminal cases. In some states, these courts with
unlimited pecuniary jurisdiction are called Courts of Civil Judge (Senior Division) while in other states
they are described as Courts of Subordinate Judge. In addition there are courts known as Small Causes
Courts.
These are set up either under the Provisional Small Causes Act at the district level or under the Presidency
Town Small Causes Court Act in presidencies/metropolitan towns.

E
OR
SC
GS
Notes

18
 Trending Topics www.iasscore.in

LOKPAL AND LOKAYUKTA

The Lokpal is the central governing body that has jurisdiction over all members of parliament and central
government employees in case of corruption. Whereas, the Lokayukta is similar to the Lokpal, but functions
on a state level. Scope of the Lokpal is based on a national government level basis and the scope of the
Lokayukta relied on a state level.
The main function is to address complaints of corruption, to make inquiries, investigations, and to conduct
trials for the case on respective state and central government with having responsibility to help in curbing the
corruption in the central and state government.

E
Salient features of the Act
1. TheLokpalto consist of a Chairperson and a maximum of eight Members, of which fifty percent shall

2.
OR
be judicial Members. Fifty per cent of members ofLokpalshall be from amongst SC, ST, OBCs, Minorities
and Women.
The selection of Chairperson and Members ofLokpalshall be through a Selection Committee consisting
of
SC
a) Prime Minister;
b) Speaker ofLokSabha;
c) Leader of Opposition in theLokSabha;
d) Chief Justice of India or a sitting Supreme Court Judge nominated by CJI;
GS

e) An eminent jurist to be nominated by the President of India

3. A Search Committee will assist the Selection Committee in the process of selection.Fifty per cent of
members of the Search Committee shall also be from amongst SC, ST, OBCs, Minorities and Women.
4. Lokpalsjurisdiction will cover all categories of public servants including Group A, B, C & D officers
and employees of Government.On complaints referred to CVC byLokpal, CVC will send its report of
Preliminary enquiry in respect of Group A and B officers back toLokpalfor further decision.With
respect to Group C and D employees, CVC will proceed further in exercise of its own powers under
the CVC Act subject to reporting and review byLokpal.
5. All entities receiving donations from foreign source in the context of the Foreign Contribution Regulation
Act (FCRA) in excess of Rs. 10lakhsper year are brought under the jurisdiction of Lokpal.
6. Lokpalwill have power of superintendence and direction over any investigation agency including CBI for
cases referred to them byLokpal.
7. A high powered Committee chaired by the Prime Minister will recommend selection of the Director, CBI.
8. Attachment and confiscation of property of public servants acquired by corrupt means, even while
prosecution is pending.
Notes

1
 www.iasscore.in

Enquiry procedure
The Lokpals inquiry wing is required to inquire into complaints within 60 days of their reference. On
considering an inquiry report the Lokpal shall-
(i) order an investigation; (ii) initiate departmental proceedings; or (iii) close the case and proceed against the
complainant for making a false and frivolous complaint. The investigation shall be completed within 6 months.
The Lokpal may initiate prosecution through its Prosecution Wing before the Special Court set up to adjudicate
cases. The trial shall be completed within a maximum of two years.
The recent amendment has amended Section 44.
Now the every public servantshall make declaration of their assets and liabilities in the form and manner as
prescribed by government. It has abolished the previous 30 days timeline.
b) Gives extension of the time given to public servants and trustees and board members of Non-Governmental
Organisations (NGOs) to declare their assets and those of their spouses.

E
OR
SC
GS
Notes

2
 Trending Topics www.iasscore.in

GENDER BUDGETING
Gender Budgeting is a powerful tool for achieving gender mainstreaming so as to ensure that benefits of
development reach women as much as men. It is a tool for gender empowerment. (Gender empowerment
includes opening up access to decision-making processes that make women to perceive themselves as able and
entitled to occupy decision-making space).
Gender Budgeting was introduced by the government in 2005-06 in order to ensure that policy commitments
are backed by financial outlays and that the gender perspective is incorporated in all stages of a policy or a
programme.
The purpose of GB is to ensure the translation of Governments policy commitments on gender equity into

E
budgetary allocations.
The Gender Budgetary allocations of the Union Government are reflected in two parts. The first part- Part A

with 30% to 99% allocation for women. OR

includes Schemes with 100% allocation for women while Part B of the Statement includes Schemes/Programmes

A gender-sensitive budget aims at examining budgetary resource allocations through a gender lens. It is not a
separate budget for women; rather it is a dissection of the government budget to establish its gender-specific
impact and to translate gender commitments into budgetary commitments. It also examines the gendered
SC
incidence of budgetary policies for effective targeting of public spending, and offsetting any undesirable gender-
specific consequences of previous budgetary measures.
There are a range of different actors who can be involved in Gender Budgeting. They have different roles and
carryout different activities. Some of them are:
Ministry of Finance (both at the Centre &State)
GS

Ministry of Women & Child Development/Social Welfare Department

Comptroller and Auditor General of India /Local Audit Departments
Sectoral ministries like Health, Education, Labour, Agriculture, Power, Roadways, Urban Development,
etc.
Researchers, Economists and Statisticians
Civil Society Organizations and Budget Groups
Parliamentarians, Budget Committees of both Houses, and other representatives of the people at district
and sub-district levels.
Media
Development Partners/Donors etc.
But many misleading and patriarchal assumptions limit the scope of Gender Budgeting. Sectors such as Water
Supply, Sanitation, and Food & Public Distribution still remain outside the purview of the Gender Budgeting
Statement.
Notes

3
 Trending Topics www.iasscore.in

MENTAL HEALTH POLICY

Mental health is defined as a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential,
can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution
to her or his community.
The National Mental Health Policy is based, inter-alia, on the values and principles of equity, justice, integrated
and evidence based care, quality, participatory and holistic approach to mental health.
It enlists the comprehensive list of vulnerable groups, which include the poor (who are linked with mental
illnesses in a negative vicious cycle), the homeless (who have no provision for care and support), persons
in custodial institutions (who face a deprivation of personal liberty), orphans, children, the elderly and people
affected by emergencies and various natural or man-made disasters.

E
Its goals and objectives include the following:
OR
to reduce distress, disability, exclusion, morbidity and premature mortality associated with mental health
problems across life-span of a person,
to enhance understanding of mental health in the country,
to provide universal access to mental health care,
SC

to increase access to mental health services for vulnerable groups,

to reduce risk and incidence of suicide and attempted suicide,
to ensure respect for rights and protection from harm of persons with mental health problems, and reduce
stigma associated with mental health problems
to enhance availability and distribution of skilled human resources for mental health.
GS

It also recognises the fact that mental health is linked to many other aspects of life, and thus recommends
allocation of funds not just to the governments health department but also to other sectors such as social
welfare, school education and women and child development.
In addition to the treatment of mental illnesses, the policy also stresses the need to prevent such problems and
promote mental health. It places the onus of such promotion on early childhood care itself, by targeting
anganwadi centres for children below six years of age.
The policy aims to train anganwadi workers and school teachers to help parents and care-givers understand the
physical and emotional needs of children to facilitate and affirmative and positive environment for their
growth. It also proposes teaching mandatory life skills education in schools and colleges that, among other
things, includes discussions on issues of gender and social exclusion.
To bring down rates of suicide in India, the policy talks of setting up crisis intervention centres, training
community leaders to recognise risk factors, restricting access to means of suicide and also framing guidelines
for responsible media reporting of the issue.
Notes