Polity & Governance

1991 Water Accord

The 1991 Water Accord is an inter-provincial agreement in Pakistan that allocates water from the Indus River system among its provinces – Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan. It was created to resolve disputes over water distribution and ensure equitable access for irrigation and drinking water. The accord specifies provincial shares and mechanisms for conflict resolution. Despite its intent, the agreement has been a source of tension, especially during droughts or reduced river flows. The accord’s implementation challenges have contributed to political disputes and calls for revisions amid changing water availability and population growth.

Why in news?

Reduced river flows due to India’s treaty suspension risk reviving inter-provincial water disputes in Pakistan under the 1991 Water Accord.

Aircraft Act of 1934

The Aircraft Act of 1934 was enacted by British colonial rulers to regulate aviation in India primarily for military and administrative control, not commercial growth. It governed air traffic, licensing, and safety but was outdated by the late 20th century. The Act did not anticipate private sector participation or rapid technological advances. It lacked provisions for passenger rights and efficient air traffic management. Despite India’s expanding aviation industry, the Act remained the legal backbone until 2024, causing bureaucratic delays and inefficiencies. It was finally replaced by the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam in 2024 to modernize aviation law in India.

Why in news?

The Aircraft Act of 1934 was replaced by the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024, marking reform in India’s aviation regulatory framework after nearly a century.

Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam 2024

The Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam 2024 is India’s new aviation law that replaces the colonial-era Aircraft Act of 1934. It streamlines licensing, improves air traffic management, and enhances passenger compensation for delays and cancellations. The Act aims to support the growth of private and public airlines and position India as a global aviation leader. However, it does not address the need for specialised aviation arbitration, leaving a gap in dispute resolution. The law focuses on regulatory modernization but lacks provisions for handling international aviation disputes effectively within India’s legal system.

Why in news?

The Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam 2024 was introduced to overhaul India’s aviation laws but has been criticized for not reforming arbitration mechanisms for aviation disputes.

Bluecraft

Bluecraft is a research and analytics firm specializing in public policy evaluation and governance impact assessments in India. It uses data-driven methodologies to analyze government schemes, focusing on fiscal efficiency, social equity, and technological integration. Bluecraft’s recent report assessed the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system’s impact from 2009 to 2024, quantifying savings and improvements in welfare delivery. The firm collaborates with government bodies and think tanks to develop performance indices like the Welfare Efficiency Index. Bluecraft’s insights influence policy reforms by identifying systemic bottlenecks and recommending data-backed solutions for inclusive governance.

Why in news?

Bluecraft released a comprehensive report evaluating DBT’s decade-long impact, providing data on savings, beneficiary growth, and systemic improvements in Indian welfare programs.

Business Advisory Committee

The Business Advisory Committee (BAC) is a parliamentary committee in India responsible for allocating time for various legislative business in the Lok Sabha. It comprises the Speaker and representatives from major political parties. The BAC decides the schedule for debates, discussions, and the duration of Question Hour and Zero Hour. It plays important role in managing the efficient functioning of the House. The committee meets regularly during sessions to adjust the agenda based on the urgency and importance of matters raised by members. Its decisions are influential but not binding on the Speaker.

Why in news?

The Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla assured the extension of Zero Hour during a BAC meeting, enabling more MPs to speak on public issues on April 3, 2025.

Chardham Mahamarg Project

The Chardham Mahamarg Project is an ambitious infrastructure initiative by the Government of India aimed at improving road connectivity to the four sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites of Uttarakhand – Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. It involves constructing tunnels, bridges, and highways to reduce travel time and enhance safety in the mountainous terrain. Initiated in the late 2010s, the project includes multiple tunnels like the Silkyara Tunnel. It is expected to boost tourism, local economy, and disaster resilience. The project integrates modern ...