The Hindu Newspaper Analysis

Editorial Topic : India’s Urban-Rural Continuum

 GS-1 Mains Exam : Society

Revision Notes

Introduction

India’s rapid urbanization, particularly in Tier II and Tier III cities, presents significant challenges. The existing policy framework often views these challenges as either urban or rural, failing to recognize the interconnectedness of these two spheres. This essay argues for a more holistic approach that considers the urban-rural continuum.

Current Policy Framework

• Financial Decentralization: While the 13th Finance Commission highlighted the need for greater financial autonomy for local bodies, the reality is often different. Tied grants and inflexible funding mechanisms limit the ability of local governments to address specific needs.
• Funding Mismatches: The rise in property tax in cities should be linked to increases in the State Goods and Services Tax. This linkage is crucial to ensure that cities have the resources to meet the growing demands of urbanization.

Government Flagship Initiatives

• AMRUT and Swachh Bharat Mission: These flagship programs, while important, often overlook the urban-rural continuum. For instance, AMRUT initially focused on statutory towns, excluding census towns and urban villages.
• Waste Management Challenges: The flow of waste often transcends urban-rural boundaries, but planning processes often fail to account for this. This is particularly evident in states like Kerala, where a significant portion of the population lives in urban areas.

Way Forward: Governance Models

• Strengthening District Planning Committees: These committees, comprising Zila Panchayats and urban local bodies, can play a crucial role in addressing the challenges of the urban-rural continuum. However, they often lack the necessary autonomy and resources.
• Aligning Ministries: In states like Kerala, where both rural and urban local bodies fall under the same ministry, there is greater flexibility in addressing issues that cross the urban-rural divide.

Conclusion

The urban-rural continuum is a complex reality in India’s rapidly urbanizing landscape. Recognizing this interconnectedness and adopting a more holistic approach is essential for effective governance and sustainable development. This requires strengthening local governance, aligning ministries, and reviewing existing funding mechanisms. By embracing the urban-rural continuum, India can better address the challenges and opportunities of its rapidly changing cities and towns.

 

 

 

The Hindu Newspaper Analysis

Editorial Topic : A Human Touch to India’s Mineral Ecosystem

 GS-3 Mains Exam : Economy

Revision Notes

Introduction

• DMF Establishment: The District Mineral Foundation (DMF) was established in 2015 to address the socio-economic impact of mining.
• Key Stakeholder: Local communities are recognized as key stakeholders in natural resource-led development.

A Transformation

• Financial Growth: DMF corpus has reached ₹1 lakh crore.
• Decentralized Development: Funds are used for community-centric projects.
• Positive Impact: 3 lakh projects sanctioned in 645 districts.
• Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY) Objectives: Developmental and welfare projects in mining-affected areas.

Empowerment and Innovation

• Women Empowerment: DMFs support women entrepreneurship and skill development.
• Technological Advancement: DMFs promote drone technology and other innovative skills.
• National Critical Minerals Mission: Expanding India’s global footprint in minerals.
• Local Welfare: DMFs focus on the well-being of local communities.
• Collaborative Approach: DMFs involve State governments as active partners.
• Financial Good Governance: District Collectors oversee fund allocation.
• National DMF Portal: Digitization for transparency and efficiency.

Innovation at Every DMF

• Inclusive Governance: DMFs promote participation of elected and non-elected representatives.
• Specialized Departments: Some DMFs have dedicated engineering departments.
• Three-Year Plans: DMFs plan projects for targeted goal achievement.
• Standardization: Best practices are being standardized across DMFs.

Way Forward

• Integration with Central and State Schemes: DMFs should align with ongoing programs in aspirational districts.
• Livelihood Support: DMFs can support forest dwellers through plantation and medicinal herb projects.
• Sports Development: DMFs can nurture rural athletes and develop sports infrastructure.
• Whole of Government Approach: DMFs can be leveraged to reach impacted communities.

Conclusion: The Advantage of Convergence

• Cooperative Federalism: DMFs exemplify cooperative federalism.
• Aligned Goals and Resources: Convergence ensures national priorities meet local needs.
• Inclusive Governance: DMFs promote inclusive development.
• Empowering Marginalized Communities: DMFs transform underserved regions.
• Balanced Economic Growth: DMFs balance economic growth with social welfare and rights.