Polity & Governance

One Nation, One Data Policy

The One Nation, One Data policy aims to unify and standardize data collection and management across various sectors in India, including education, health, and governance. It seeks to create a centralized data ecosystem to improve transparency, policy-making, and resource allocation. The policy encourages integration of disparate databases into a single platform, promoting data sharing among government agencies. It supports evidence-based decision-making and reduces duplication of efforts. The initiative aligns with Indias digital governance goals and the National Data Governance Framework. It is expected to enhance efficiency and accountability in public services.

Why in news?

Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan mentioned the upcoming adoption of the One Nation, One Data policy in the context of reforming the institutional ranking mechanism for higher education.

Andaman-Nicobar Choke-point

The Andaman-Nicobar choke-point refers to the strategic maritime location near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, controlling key shipping lanes in the Indian Ocean. It is crucial for regional logistics, undersea cable routes, and military operations. The islands lie near the Malacca Strait, a vital global trade artery. India plans to develop this choke-point into a logistics and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) hub for shipping, aviation, and undersea cables. This development aims to enhance Indias maritime security, economic influence, and connectivity in the Indo-Pacific region. The location has been historically underutilized despite its strategic importance.

Why in news?

The Andaman-Nicobar choke-point is central to Indias Tier I roadmap for establishing a reliable Indian Ocean corridor and expanding regional logistics capabilities in 2025.

Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF)

The Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) is a specialized unit established by state of Indias and Union Territories to combat drug trafficking and abuse. Created following directives in 2021, each ANTF operates under the guidance of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB). ANTFs coordinate intelligence sharing, conduct joint operations, and engage in community outreach to reduce drug demand. The task force emphasizes inter-state cooperation and law enforcement synergy. ANTFs also focus on harm reduction strategies alongside supply control. Their creation marked a shift towards a unified, multi-agency approach in India’s anti-drug policy framework, aiming to strengthen enforcement and rehabilitation efforts.

Why in news?

The 2nd National Conference of ANTF Heads from all states and UTs was inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi, focusing on a unified strategy against drug abuse.

Article 143 Advisory Jurisdiction

Article 143(1) of the Constitution of India empowers the President to seek the Supreme Courts opinion on questions of law or fact of public importance. This advisory jurisdiction allows the Court to provide independent advice but the opinion is not binding. The Court may also decline to give an opinion. Historically, the Court has returned references without answering at least twice. This provision is distinct from appeals or reviews and is meant to clarify constitutional doubts. It is a tool for resolving complex legal questions before they escalate into disputes affecting governance or public interest.

Why in news?

President Droupadi Murmu invoked Article 143 to seek the Supreme Courts opinion on the powers of the President and Governors in giving assent to Bills, following a ruling on Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravis delay in granting assent.

Article 19(1)(g) of the Constitution of India

Article 19(1)(g) guarantees the right to practice any profession, or to carry on any occupation, trade, or business, subject to reasonable restrictions. This fundamental right protects economic freedoms but allows the state to impose laws for public interest, morality, or security. Judicial interpretation balances this right against regulatory needs. The clause is often cited in challenges to business restrictions, including bans on online gaming, gambling, or other trades. It is a mainstay for arguments on federalism and economic liberties in Indias constitutional framework.

Why in news?

The ban on online real money games has been challenged as violating Article 19(1)(g), raising constitutional questions about business rights and federal authority.

Article 200

Article 200 of the Constitution of India outlines the Governors options when a Bill is passed by the State legislature – to assent, withhold assent, return the Bill for reconsideration, or reserve it for the Presidents consideration. Unlike Section 75 of the Government of India Act, 1935, Article 200 omits the phrase ...