Afternoon edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
Odisha's government doctors have ended their strike after assurances from the state government regarding their demands on service conditions and workplace safety.
Key points
- The Odisha Medical Services Association (OMSA) called off its strike after a constructive discussion with the Health Minister.
- The government has assured the formation of a committee within three days to discuss all 10 demands of the doctors.
- Remuneration for dental doctors will be hiked immediately, and other demands will be addressed in a time-bound manner.
- Key demands include Dynamic Assured Career Progression, implementation of a three-year exit policy in tribal regions, and cadre restructuring.
Background & context
Government doctors often go on strike to press for better service conditions, pay parity, and improved working environments. Issues like career progression, safety, and infrastructure are common points of contention.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The strike involved the Odisha Medical Services Association (OMSA).
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Governance, Welfare Schemes and Issues Arising Out of Their Design and Implementation.
Why in news?
Bihar announced plans to set up 100 Fast Track Courts (FTCs) to expedite the resolution of crime cases and strengthen the justice delivery system.
Key points
- Bihar Chief Minister announced the establishment of 100 FTCs.
- The aim is to resolve and control crime cases promptly and ensure speedy disposal.
- Emphasis on coordination between judiciary, police, and executive for effective justice delivery.
- Focus on citizen-centric implementation of new criminal laws: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA).
Background & context
Fast Track Courts (FTCs) were established in India to clear the backlog of pending criminal and civil cases. The concept gained traction post the 12th Finance Commission recommendations. New criminal laws were enacted to reform the penal code, criminal procedure, and evidence law.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Bihar plans to set up 100 Fast Track Courts.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Governance, Indian Judiciary, Law and Order.
Why in news?
Meghalaya's initiative of farm collectivisation through Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) has transformed roadside vendors into exporters, significantly increasing their collective income.
Key points
- Farmers in Meghalaya are organized under Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) like Jirang Organic Agro Farmers Producer Company Limited.
- Each farmer is assigned a unique 'farmer code' which includes organic certification and location details.
- This collectivisation has led to a dramatic increase in collective income, from ₹1.5 lakh to over ₹1.17 crore for one FPC.
- Farmers are now able to export produce like Khasi Mandarin oranges and pineapples, and supply to major Indian retail brands.
Background & context
Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) are promoted in India to empower farmers by improving their bargaining power, access to technology, finance, and markets. The concept aims to aggregate small and marginal farmers into efficient collectivities.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Jirang Organic Agro Farmers Producer Company Limited in Meghalaya is an example of successful farm collectivisation.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper III: Agriculture, Economy, Rural Development.