Polity & Governance

2024 World Population Prospects

The 2024 World Population Prospects is a comprehensive demographic report published by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs. It provides updated estimates and projections of global and national population trends. The report includes detailed age-specific population data, fertility rates, mortality rates, and migration patterns. It serves as a key reference for policy planning in health, education, and economic development. The 2024 edition revised the estimated number of 6- to 17-year-olds upward by 49 million compared to previous estimates, impacting education planning and out-of-school population models worldwide.

Why in news?

Updated population estimates from the 2024 World Population Prospects contributed 62% of the increase in the global out-of-school child population, affecting education monitoring projections.

Amrit Kaal Vision 2047

Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 is a long-term strategic framework launched by the Government of India to guide the countrys development over 25 years, culminating in Indias centenary of independence. It emphasizes sustainable growth, inclusive development, and technological innovation across sectors, including maritime infrastructure. The vision focuses on transforming India into a global economic and strategic power by 2047, with key priorities such as infrastructure modernization, renewable energy, and enhanced logistics. The maritime sectors development, including initiatives like SMFCL, is a critical component of this vision, aiming to boost trade, connectivity, and national security.

Why in news?

The launch of SMFCL aligns with the Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, reinforcing Indias commitment to maritime infrastructure growth and economic transformation.

Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR)

The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) is a non-governmental organization in India founded in 1999 that works to improve transparency and accountability in elections and governance. ADR files Public Interest Litigations (PILs) and petitions to the Supreme Court on electoral reforms and disclosure of candidate information. It played a key role in pushing for the verification of EVMs and VVPAT slips. ADR also provides voter education and publishes detailed candidate affidavits, election expenditure reports, and analysis of election results. Its activism has influenced policies on electronic voting transparency and electoral reforms in India.

Why in news?

ADR petitioned the Supreme Court leading to revisions in the Election Commissions SOP for EVM and VVPAT verification in 2025, advocating for stronger safeguards against electoral fraud.

Bhararisain

Bhararisain is the summer capital of Uttarakhand, located in the Garhwal division. Established to serve as a seasonal seat of government, it helps reduce the administrative load on Dehradun during harsh winters. The location is known for its scenic natural beauty and cultural significance, often associated with spiritual and wellness activities. Bhararisain’s altitude and climate make it conducive to wellness tourism and yoga retreats. The town has been increasingly promoted as a center for policy-making related to yoga and spirituality, reflecting Uttarakhand’s emphasis on integrating governance with cultural heritage.

Why in news?

Uttarakhand Chief Minister launched the states first Yoga Policy from Bhararisain, denoting its role as a center of cultural heritage and yoga policy-making.

Central Water Commission (CWC)

The Central Water Commission (CWC) is an apex technical organization under Indias Ministry of Jal Shakti responsible for water resource management. It oversees flood forecasting, river basin management, dam safety, and hydrological data collection. CWC operates flood monitoring centers and collaborates with meteorological agencies to issue early flood warnings. It has extended the flood forecasting window from 3 to 7 days to improve preparedness. Established in 1945, CWC also develops flood control infrastructure and coordinates with state governments for disaster response and water resource planning.

Why in news?

CWCs flood monitoring centers were reviewed for alignment with national and international standards to enhance flood forecasting and management before the 2025 monsoon.

CPGRAMS

The Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) is an online platform launched by the Government of India to facilitate the redressal of public grievances against government departments. It enables citizens to lodge complaints and track their status electronically. CPGRAMS integrates with various ministries and departments, ensuring timely resolution. Since February 2024, CBIC has ranked among the top 5 central ministries for grievance disposal, with 95-97% of appeals resolved within 30 days. The system promotes transparency and accountability in governance by providing a single-window mechanism for grievance management.

Why in news?

CBICs improved grievance redressal ...