KALINGA VARTA

Politics

Development Push in President Murmu's Home District Places Odisha's Tribal Region at the Centre of National Policy

By Staff Correspondent · Bhubaneswar July 05

The joint visit of President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Rairangpur in Odisha's Mayurbhanj district marked more than a ceremonial occasion. It represented a significant political and developmental milestone, bringing India's highest constitutional office and the Union executive together in the President's home district to launch projects aimed at accelerating growth in one of eastern India's largest tribal regions. During the programme titled "Vikas ra Dhara, Odisha Sara", development projects worth more than ₹47,600 crore were inaugurated or laid for sectors including roads, railways, energy, industrial infrastructure, drinking water, irrigation, health, education and tourism.

The symbolism of the visit extended beyond infrastructure. Rairangpur, a town that rarely featured in the national political discourse until Droupadi Murmu's election as the President of India in 2022, has increasingly emerged as a focal point of discussions on tribal inclusion, regional equity and balanced development. The joint participation of the President and the Prime Minister underscored the growing emphasis on integrating historically underserved tribal districts into India's broader development strategy.

The projects announced during the visit are expected to strengthen Odisha's transport, energy and public service infrastructure. According to official estimates, they cover multiple sectors simultaneously rather than focusing on a single flagship scheme, reflecting an integrated regional development approach. The Prime Minister also announced that Pahadpur, the President's native village, would be developed as a model solar village, linking rural development with India's clean energy transition.

The choice of Mayurbhanj as the venue is significant in demographic and developmental terms. According to the 2011 Census, Scheduled Tribes constitute 58.7 per cent of the district's population, making it one of India's largest tribal-majority districts. Odisha itself has a tribal population of over 95 lakh, accounting for nearly 23 per cent of the State's population, considerably higher than the national average. These figures have long shaped public policy priorities relating to education, healthcare, livelihoods and connectivity in the region.

Recent socio-economic indicators also illustrate the district's development challenges. NITI Aayog's National Multidimensional Poverty Index has shown that although poverty levels have declined substantially across Odisha over the past decade, tribal districts continue to record lower human development outcomes than the State average. Policy experts argue that sustained investment in physical infrastructure must therefore be accompanied by improvements in education, healthcare, digital connectivity and employment generation if long-term regional disparities are to be reduced.

Infrastructure expansion has assumed greater importance because Odisha has emerged as a major destination for public and private investment. The State government has attracted industrial commitments in sectors such as steel, mining, renewable energy and manufacturing, while logistics projects and highway expansion are intended to improve connectivity between mineral-rich districts and industrial corridors. Economists note that improved road and rail infrastructure in northern Odisha could strengthen market access, reduce transport costs and stimulate local enterprise, particularly for tribal communities engaged in agriculture, forest produce and small-scale industries.

The visit also carried political significance. Coming as the Odisha Government completed two years in office, the programme highlighted the increasing coordination between the Union and State governments in implementing infrastructure and welfare initiatives. Political observers view such high-profile visits as opportunities to demonstrate administrative delivery while reinforcing the Centre's emphasis on inclusive regional development. At the same time, analysts caution that the long-term success of these projects will depend not merely on financial allocations but on timely execution, institutional accountability and measurable improvements in citizens' quality of life.

The broader significance of the Rairangpur programme lies in its attempt to reposition tribal development within India's mainstream growth narrative. Rather than treating tribal regions solely through a welfare lens, recent policy initiatives increasingly seek to integrate infrastructure, education, renewable energy, digital services and local economic development into a single framework. Whether this approach succeeds will ultimately be judged by improvements in income, employment, human development and access to public services in districts such as Mayurbhanj.

The events in Rairangpur therefore represent more than the inauguration of public projects. They reflect an evolving model of governance in which infrastructure investment, social inclusion and regional balance are presented as mutually reinforcing objectives. As Odisha continues its economic transformation, the implementation and outcomes of these initiatives will provide an important measure of how development policies translate into tangible improvements for historically underserved communities.

Legal News Report

Legal Desk

Judicial Pendency Raises Fresh Questions on Access to Timely Justice

By Staff Correspondent · Bhubaneswar July 05

The mounting backlog of cases in Indian courts has once again drawn attention to one of the country's most persistent institutional challenges. Despite judicial reforms, technology-driven case management and a steady rise in judge appointments, pendency continues to grow across different levels of the judiciary, raising concerns about citizens' constitutional right to timely justice and the overall efficiency of the justice delivery system.

According to the National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG), Indian courts together have more than 5.6 crore pending cases, including over 4.7 crore before district and subordinate courts. The High Courts account for more than 64 lakh pending cases, while the Supreme Court has over 83,000 pending matters. Although the apex court has improved disposal rates in recent years, fresh filings continue to exceed disposals in several jurisdictions, adding to the existing burden.

The Constitution does not expressly mention the right to a speedy trial. However, the Supreme Court has consistently interpreted Article 21, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty, to include the right to expeditious justice. Landmark decisions such as Hussainara Khatoon v. State of Bihar (1979) and later judgments reaffirmed that prolonged delays undermine public confidence in the rule of law and can amount to a denial of justice.

Judicial experts argue that pendency is not merely the result of inadequate judicial strength. India currently has about 21 judges per million population, far below the 50 judges per million recommended by the Law Commission of India. Vacancies in trial courts and High Courts, repeated adjournments, procedural complexity and increasing litigation involving governments collectively contribute to the growing backlog. Data from the Department of Justice indicate that government departments remain among the country's largest litigants, accounting for a substantial share of pending civil disputes.

Technology has emerged as an important component of judicial reform. Under the e-Courts Mission Mode Project, more than 18,000 district and subordinate courts have been computerised, while e-filing, virtual hearings and digital case records have improved accessibility and administrative efficiency. The Supreme Court and several High Courts now routinely use hybrid hearings, particularly for procedural matters, reducing delays in certain categories of cases.

Despite these initiatives, legal scholars caution that digital reforms alone cannot resolve structural challenges. They argue that judicial vacancies must be filled promptly, infrastructure in trial courts strengthened and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms expanded. Mediation, arbitration and Lok Adalats have shown potential in reducing the burden on regular courts, particularly in civil and commercial disputes.

The issue has significant implications for governance and economic development. Delayed resolution of commercial disputes affects investor confidence, while prolonged criminal trials can compromise the rights of both victims and accused persons. Family disputes, land conflicts and service matters often remain unresolved for years, imposing social and financial costs on litigants.

The challenge before India's justice system is therefore not only to dispose of pending cases but also to improve institutional capacity without compromising judicial independence or fairness. As courts embrace technology and administrative reforms, the long-term credibility of the justice delivery system will depend on whether these measures translate into faster, more accessible and equitable justice for citizens.

Constitutional Law Report

Constitutional Law

Supreme Court Examines Limits of State Control Over Hindu Temples

By Staff Correspondent · Bhubaneswar, July 2026

The Supreme Court's continuing examination of petitions challenging government control over Hindu religious institutions has revived an important constitutional debate on the relationship between State regulation and religious autonomy. The petitions question whether prolonged executive control over Hindu temples is consistent with the guarantees of religious freedom under the Constitution, while States contend that statutory oversight is necessary to ensure transparency, prevent mismanagement and safeguard public assets.

The dispute centres on the interpretation of Articles 25 and 26 of the Constitution. While Article 25 guarantees individuals the freedom to profess, practise and propagate religion, Article 26 grants every religious denomination the right to manage its own affairs in matters of religion, subject to public order, morality and health. The constitutional challenge before the Court seeks clarity on whether continued government administration of temples amounts to permissible regulation or crosses into direct management of religious institutions.

During the proceedings, the Bench examined earlier constitutional precedents that distinguish between religious practices, which enjoy constitutional protection, and secular aspects of temple administration, which the State may regulate in the public interest. The Court indicated that while governments possess statutory powers to intervene in cases of financial irregularities or administrative failures, such intervention cannot become permanent if it effectively displaces the autonomy of religious institutions. The hearings therefore focus not merely on temple administration but on defining the constitutional limits of executive authority.

The issue has implications beyond a single State. According to available government records, thousands of Hindu temples across States such as Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka and Kerala are administered under different legislative frameworks. In Tamil Nadu alone, the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department oversees more than 44,000 temples, besides several charitable institutions and religious endowments. These figures illustrate the extensive role played by State agencies in managing temple properties, finances and administrative affairs.

The constitutional questions raised in the present litigation have evolved through several landmark judgments. In The Commissioner, Hindu Religious Endowments, Madras v. Sri Lakshmindra Thirtha Swamiar of Shirur Mutt (1954), popularly known as the Shirur Mutt case, the Supreme Court held that although the State may regulate the secular administration of religious institutions, it cannot interfere with essential religious practices. Subsequent decisions, including Ratilal Panachand Gandhi v. State of Bombay (1954) and later constitutional rulings, reaffirmed that the autonomy guaranteed under Article 26 remains a fundamental constitutional protection, subject only to reasonable regulatory measures.

Constitutional scholars note that the present proceedings are not confined to questions of religious freedom alone. They also concern the broader principles of constitutional governance, accountability and institutional oversight. Supporters of continued statutory regulation argue that many temples administer extensive movable and immovable assets and receive substantial public donations, making transparent financial management a legitimate governmental objective. Petitioners, however, contend that temporary corrective intervention cannot justify indefinite executive control over religious institutions.

Legal observers point out that the Supreme Court's eventual decision could establish important constitutional principles governing the balance between regulatory authority and institutional autonomy. Any clarification by the Court may influence the interpretation of existing State legislation relating to temple administration and provide guidance on the permissible scope of governmental supervision over religious endowments across India.

The case therefore extends beyond the management of temples. It raises fundamental questions about the constitutional relationship between religion and the State, the protection of denominational rights and the extent to which governments may intervene in the administration of religious institutions while remaining faithful to the constitutional commitment to religious liberty.

Local Governance

Strengthening Local Governance Remains Key to Inclusive Rural and Urban Development

By Staff Correspondent · Bhubaneswar, July 2026

Local self-governments are increasingly emerging as the frontline institutions for delivering public services, implementing welfare programmes and promoting participatory democracy. As India pursues sustainable and inclusive development, experts argue that empowering Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) through greater financial autonomy, improved planning capacity and citizen participation has become essential for effective governance. While constitutional reforms have significantly expanded decentralisation, challenges relating to finances, manpower and institutional capacity continue to limit the full potential of local governments.

The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments established a constitutional framework for democratic decentralisation by assigning elected local bodies responsibility for planning and implementing development programmes. According to the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, India has more than 2.6 lakh Gram Panchayats and nearly 31 lakh elected representatives, of whom over 46 per cent are women, making the country's local governance system one of the largest democratic networks in the world. Experts observe that increased representation has strengthened grassroots participation in decision-making, particularly among women and marginalised communities.

Financial devolution has improved in recent years, although disparities remain across States. The Fifteenth Finance Commission recommended grants exceeding ₹2.36 lakh crore for rural local bodies and ₹1.21 lakh crore for urban local bodies during the award period to strengthen civic infrastructure and essential public services. However, policy analysts note that many local governments continue to depend heavily on grants from higher levels of government because their own revenue generation remains limited. Enhancing local taxation capacity and financial accountability has therefore become a major governance priority.

Digital governance is gradually improving transparency and service delivery. The e-GramSwaraj platform enables online planning, budgeting and monitoring of Panchayat activities, while the SVAMITVA Scheme has issued millions of property cards using drone-based surveys to improve rural property records and reduce land disputes. According to the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, these initiatives have strengthened transparency, improved asset management and enhanced access to institutional credit for rural households.

Urban local bodies face equally complex challenges. Rapid urbanisation has increased demand for drinking water, sanitation, affordable housing, waste management and public transport. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs estimates that India's urban population is expected to exceed 600 million by 2031, placing additional pressure on municipal governance. Programmes such as the Smart Cities Mission, AMRUT and Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) have improved urban infrastructure, yet experts argue that stronger municipal finances and professional administrative capacity remain essential for sustainable urban development.

Governance experts also emphasise that meaningful decentralisation requires active citizen participation. Regular Gram Sabha meetings, social audits, participatory budgeting and community monitoring have strengthened accountability in several States. NITI Aayog has highlighted that local governments are indispensable for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) because they directly deliver many essential public services, including sanitation, primary healthcare, drinking water and local infrastructure.

As India advances towards becoming a developed economy, the effectiveness of governance will increasingly depend on the strength of its grassroots institutions. Experts argue that greater fiscal empowerment, digital innovation, institutional capacity-building and community participation will determine whether local governments can translate constitutional decentralisation into improved quality of life for citizens.

Local Governance

Strengthening Urban Local Governance Becomes Key to Sustainable City Development

By Staff Correspondent · Bhubaneswar, July 2026

Rapid urbanisation, expanding populations and increasing demand for civic services have brought urban local governance into sharper focus across India. Municipal corporations and urban local bodies (ULBs) are facing mounting pressure to improve water supply, sanitation, solid waste management, public health and digital service delivery while ensuring financial sustainability. Urban governance experts argue that strengthening local institutions through greater fiscal autonomy, technological innovation and citizen participation is essential for achieving sustainable and inclusive urban development.

According to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), India's urban population is projected to exceed 600 million by 2031, making efficient municipal governance a critical development priority. The expansion of cities has increased demand for affordable housing, public transport, drainage systems and environmental management. While flagship initiatives such as the Smart Cities Mission and AMRUT (Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation) have improved urban infrastructure, experts believe that institutional capacity at the municipal level requires further strengthening.

Financial constraints remain one of the biggest challenges confronting local governments. The Fifteenth Finance Commission allocated more than ₹1.21 lakh crore as grants to Urban Local Bodies for the period 2021–26 to strengthen civic infrastructure, sanitation and service delivery. However, policy analysts note that many municipalities continue to depend heavily on State government transfers because property tax collection, user charges and other own-source revenues remain limited. Strengthening municipal finances is therefore viewed as essential for improving the quality and sustainability of urban services.

Citizen participation has also emerged as a crucial component of local governance. Digital platforms introduced under the Smart Cities Mission enable residents to register grievances, monitor civic projects and access municipal services online. According to official programme data, the Mission covers 100 cities across India and has completed over 8,000 urban development projects, including improvements in mobility, public spaces, water supply and integrated command-and-control centres. Governance experts argue that digital technologies have improved transparency, although equal attention must be given to bridging the digital divide.

Solid waste management continues to be another major concern. Under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban), urban India has significantly improved door-to-door waste collection and scientific waste processing. Government data indicate that over 97 per cent of urban wards now have door-to-door waste collection, while waste processing capacity has increased substantially over the past decade. Environmental planners, however, emphasise that reducing waste generation, promoting segregation at source and expanding recycling systems remain necessary for achieving long-term sustainability.

Climate resilience has become an increasingly important aspect of local governance. Urban flooding, heatwaves and declining green spaces are affecting cities across the country. NITI Aayog and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) have recommended integrating climate adaptation, disaster preparedness and nature-based solutions into municipal planning. Investments in urban forests, rainwater harvesting, sustainable drainage systems and climate-resilient infrastructure are increasingly viewed as essential components of future city governance.

Experts argue that the effectiveness of urban governance ultimately depends not only on infrastructure investment but also on accountable institutions, professional municipal administration and active public participation. As Indian cities continue to expand, strengthening local governments will remain central to delivering efficient public services, improving the quality of urban life and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

Crime

Fake Appliance Service Call Costs Bhubaneswar Retired Couple ₹2.18 Lakh; Police Renew Cyber Fraud Advisory

By Staff Correspondent

Bhubaneswar, July 2026: A retired couple from Bhubaneswar allegedly lost ₹2.18 lakh after cyber fraudsters posing as customer service executives of a home appliance company tricked them into carrying out a series of online banking transactions on the pretext of booking an air-conditioner repair service. The incident has prompted the Cyber Crime Police to renew public warnings against fraudulent customer-care calls and online financial scams.

According to police officials, the couple had searched online for an authorised service provider after their air-conditioner developed a technical problem. Shortly afterwards, they received a phone call from a person claiming to represent the company's customer care division. The caller asked them to complete a nominal digital payment to register the service request and subsequently instructed them to follow additional banking procedures, claiming these were required for technical verification.

Investigators said the victims unknowingly authorised multiple online transactions, resulting in unauthorised withdrawals amounting to ₹2.18 lakh from their bank accounts. The fraud came to light only after the couple noticed the unexpected debits.

The victims immediately contacted the National Cyber Fraud Helpline (1930) and lodged a complaint on May 12. Acting promptly, investigators initiated efforts to trace the diverted funds. During the preliminary investigation, police tracked part of the money to multiple bank accounts allegedly used in the fraudulent transactions. One suspected beneficiary account was frozen to prevent further transfer of funds, while cyber forensic teams began examining banking records, digital payment trails, mobile phone numbers and internet protocol (IP) logs to identify those involved in the fraud.

Police have registered a case under Sections 318(4) (cheating), 319(2) (cheating by personation) and 61(2) (criminal conspiracy) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023. Officials said the Cyber Crime and Economic Offences Police Station is coordinating with banks and digital payment service providers to trace the remaining funds and identify the operators of the fraudulent accounts. The investigation is continuing.

Police officials observed that cyber fraudsters increasingly impersonate customer-care executives, bank representatives, courier personnel and government officials to gain the confidence of unsuspecting victims. They frequently exploit online searches by creating fake websites and displaying misleading customer-care numbers that resemble those of genuine companies. Cybersecurity experts note that such frauds depend largely on social engineering and psychological manipulation rather than sophisticated hacking techniques.

According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), financial fraud constitutes a significant share of cybercrime complaints reported across the country. The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs advises citizens to verify customer-care numbers only through official company websites and never share one-time passwords (OTPs), UPI PINs, internet banking credentials or other confidential financial information with unknown callers.

Police have urged citizens to report suspected online financial fraud immediately through the 1930 Cyber Fraud Helpline or the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, emphasising that prompt reporting substantially improves the chances of freezing fraudulent transactions and recovering stolen funds.

Crime

Cyber Fraud Networks Expand Across India, Prompting Multi-Agency Crackdown

By Staff Correspondent · Bhubaneswar, July 05

The growing sophistication of cyber fraud has emerged as a major law-and-order challenge across India, with law enforcement agencies intensifying nationwide operations against organised criminal networks targeting citizens through fake investment schemes, impersonation calls, online job offers and digital payment frauds. Recent investigations in several States indicate that cybercrime has evolved from isolated incidents into organised interstate operations, exploiting increasing dependence on digital financial services.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) recently conducted coordinated searches at more than 80 locations across India as part of a nationwide operation against cybercrime syndicates involved in financial fraud, digital impersonation and organised online scams. Investigators seized electronic devices, financial records and digital evidence while probing networks suspected of targeting victims through fake banking alerts, investment platforms and fraudulent government agency calls.

The scale of cyber fraud has also been reflected in recent police investigations. In Gurugram, police arrested three persons from Delhi for allegedly cheating investors of ₹2.53 crore through fraudulent investment schemes promising unrealistic financial returns. In another case, a senior citizen couple in Chandigarh reportedly lost over ₹2 lakh after fraudsters posing as air-conditioner service technicians gained their confidence and manipulated digital payments. Similar incidents involving impersonation of Crime Branch officers and fake employment opportunities have been reported from several States, highlighting the diverse methods adopted by organised cybercriminals.

The Supreme Court of India, while hearing matters relating to cyber fraud, recently described cyber criminals as "parasites who prey on innocent citizens," emphasising the need for stronger enforcement and coordinated institutional action against organised digital crime. Legal experts observe that cyber offences increasingly involve cross-border transactions, encrypted communication and fake digital identities, making investigations more complex than conventional financial crimes.

According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), cybercrime cases have recorded a consistent upward trend over recent years. The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs continues to strengthen intelligence-sharing, digital forensics and interstate coordination, while the national cyber fraud helpline 1930 and the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal enable victims to report online financial fraud promptly, improving the chances of freezing fraudulent transactions.

Cybersecurity specialists believe enforcement alone cannot eliminate digital fraud. Greater public awareness, digital literacy and responsible online behaviour remain essential as India rapidly expands digital payments and internet-based financial services. Officials advise citizens to verify investment offers, avoid sharing banking credentials or one-time passwords, and immediately report suspicious transactions through authorised channels.

As India's digital economy continues to grow, experts emphasise that sustained cooperation among investigative agencies, financial institutions, technology companies and citizens will be crucial to protecting public trust in digital transactions and reducing the social and economic impact of cybercrime.

Crime

Love Trap Online: Bengaluru Teacher Allegedly Loses Over ₹5 Crore in Matrimonial Fraud

By Staff Correspondent · By Staff Reporter

Bhubaneswar, July 05:

A Bengaluru school teacher allegedly lost more than ₹5 crore after falling victim to a matrimonial fraud in which an accused person allegedly used a false identity, established an online relationship and induced her to transfer money on the pretext of financial requirements and investment opportunities. The case has brought renewed focus on the rising misuse of matrimonial platforms by cybercriminals.

Online matrimonial platforms have become an increasingly common target for fraudsters who exploit trust and personal relationships for financial gain. The Bengaluru case is another example of how cybercriminals are moving beyond traditional methods of fraud and using emotional manipulation as a tool to deceive victims.

According to police officials, the victim met the accused through a matrimonial website. The accused allegedly provided misleading personal details and gradually developed a relationship with the woman. After gaining her confidence, he allegedly made several requests involving money transfers, convincing her through false assurances.

The victim reportedly transferred large amounts of money over a period of time believing the representations made by the accused. However, after suspecting that she had been cheated, she approached the cybercrime authorities and lodged a complaint.

During the preliminary investigation, police analysed financial transactions and digital communication records to trace the movement of funds. Investigators found that parts of the money had allegedly moved into bank accounts associated with other individuals. Police are examining the role of these persons and whether they were directly involved in the alleged offence or their accounts were misused.

As part of the investigation, authorities reportedly froze a bank account connected with one of the suspected persons. A criminal case has been registered under provisions relating to cheating, cheating by personation and other applicable cybercrime offences.

Cybercrime experts say matrimonial frauds are particularly difficult because they combine technology with psychological manipulation. In many cases, offenders do not immediately demand money. Instead, they spend considerable time building trust and creating an emotional bond before introducing financial requests.

Investigators face several challenges while handling such cases. Fraudsters often operate through fake profiles, use stolen photographs or documents, and route money through multiple bank accounts to conceal their identity. Recovering funds and establishing the criminal intention of the accused require detailed examination of digital and financial evidence.

Legal experts explain that in cheating cases, investigators must prove that the accused had dishonest intentions at the time of making false representations. Evidence such as chat records, transaction details, identity documents and online activity can play an important role during investigation and trial.

The incident also raises concerns about the security mechanisms of matrimonial websites and social media platforms. Experts have suggested stronger identity verification systems, quicker complaint mechanisms and greater user awareness to prevent misuse of online services.

Police have advised citizens to remain cautious while interacting with unknown persons online. Users of matrimonial websites are encouraged to independently verify personal information, avoid sharing banking details and never transfer money to online acquaintances without proper verification.

The Bengaluru case highlights a changing pattern of cybercrime where criminals exploit human emotions along with digital technology. As online relationships and digital communication continue to expand, awareness and responsible online behaviour remain important measures to prevent financial exploitation.

Health

Rising Burden of Lifestyle Diseases Calls for Preventive Healthcare Strategy

By Staff Correspondent · Bhubaneswar, July 2026

India's healthcare system is witnessing a significant shift as non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases and cancer account for an increasing share of the country's disease burden. While infectious diseases continue to pose public health challenges, medical experts caution that lifestyle-related illnesses have emerged as the principal cause of premature mortality and long-term disability. The growing prevalence of these conditions has prompted policymakers to emphasise preventive healthcare, early screening and community-based interventions alongside curative services.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), non-communicable diseases now account for more than 66 per cent of all deaths in India, reflecting a major epidemiological transition over the past three decades. Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of mortality, followed by chronic respiratory diseases, cancer and diabetes. Public health researchers attribute this trend to rapid urbanisation, sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy dietary habits, tobacco use and rising levels of obesity.

The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) highlights the growing prevalence of risk factors associated with chronic diseases. Among adults aged 15 years and above, 24 per cent of women and 22.9 per cent of men were found to be overweight or obese. The survey also reported that 13.5 per cent of women and 15.6 per cent of men had elevated blood sugar levels or were receiving treatment for diabetes, while hypertension affected a substantial proportion of the adult population. Health experts note that these risk factors increasingly affect younger age groups, placing additional pressure on India's healthcare infrastructure.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that nearly 77 million Indians are living with diabetes, making India one of the countries with the highest number of diabetes cases globally. Cardiovascular diseases alone contribute to approximately 28 per cent of all deaths in the country. Medical professionals argue that delayed diagnosis, poor treatment adherence and limited awareness of preventive healthcare continue to impede effective disease management, particularly in rural and economically disadvantaged communities.

Recognising these challenges, the Government has expanded screening and early detection programmes under the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD). According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, over 250 million individuals have undergone screening for hypertension, diabetes and common cancers through Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and other public health facilities. These initiatives seek to identify high-risk individuals at an early stage and reduce complications through timely medical intervention.

Health economists caution that the burden of lifestyle diseases extends beyond public health. The National Health Accounts indicate that treatment for chronic illnesses accounts for a significant share of household medical expenditure, often resulting in catastrophic out-of-pocket spending. Reduced workforce productivity and long-term treatment costs also have broader economic implications for the country.

Medical experts therefore emphasise that sustained behavioural change is as important as expanding healthcare infrastructure. Regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, tobacco cessation and periodic health screening are regarded as the most effective measures for reducing the incidence of lifestyle-related diseases. They also advocate greater investment in primary healthcare, school-based health education and community awareness campaigns to encourage healthier lifestyles from an early age.

India's demographic transition and increasing life expectancy mean that non-communicable diseases will remain a central public health challenge in the coming decades. While improvements in medical infrastructure have strengthened treatment capacity, experts argue that the long-term success of the healthcare system will depend on its ability to prevent disease rather than merely respond to it. A comprehensive preventive health strategy, supported by public awareness, early diagnosis and equitable access to healthcare services, will therefore be critical to improving population health outcomes.

Education

NEP 2020 Enters Implementation Phase, but Quality and Equity Remain the Real Challenges

By Staff Correspondent · Bhubaneswar, July 2026

Nearly six years after the introduction of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, India's higher education system has entered a crucial phase where the focus has shifted from policy announcements to implementation. Universities are adopting multidisciplinary education, flexible academic pathways and digital learning platforms, while regulators are assessing whether these reforms are translating into better learning outcomes. Educationists, however, argue that the long-term success of the policy will depend not merely on institutional compliance but on improving academic quality, research output and equitable access to higher education.

The latest All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) indicates that implementation has gathered momentum, though progress remains uneven across institutions. Around 56 per cent of universities have introduced the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUP), while 49 per cent have operationalised the Multiple Entry and Multiple Exit (MEME) framework envisaged under the NEP. Participation in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) has reached 55 per cent, suggesting greater institutional emphasis on quality benchmarks. However, only 7 per cent of universities have established apprenticeship cells to strengthen industry-academia collaboration, reflecting the continuing gap between higher education and employability.

Digital academic reforms have become a central feature of implementation. The University Grants Commission (UGC) reports that over three crore students have registered on the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) platform, enabling learners to accumulate and transfer academic credits across recognised institutions. Universities have also begun integrating SWAYAM online courses into regular degree programmes, expanding opportunities for flexible and blended learning. These initiatives are expected to improve student mobility and lifelong learning while reducing rigid disciplinary boundaries.

Despite these reforms, concerns remain regarding institutional preparedness. India currently has more than 1,200 universities and over 47,000 colleges, but their academic and infrastructural capacities differ considerably. Many affiliated colleges continue to experience shortages of permanent faculty, inadequate laboratories, limited digital infrastructure and insufficient research funding. Education policy experts contend that without sustained investment in institutional capacity, the benefits of curricular reforms may remain concentrated in a relatively small number of well-resourced universities.

The NEP has set an ambitious objective of increasing the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education from 27.1 per cent in 2019–20 to 50 per cent by 2035. Achieving this target will require expanding access while maintaining academic standards. According to AISHE, higher education enrolment has already crossed 4.3 crore students, making India one of the world's largest higher education systems. Nevertheless, regional disparities, gender gaps in certain disciplines and unequal access to quality institutions continue to influence educational outcomes.

Research and innovation remain another priority. India's expenditure on research and development is estimated at around 0.7 per cent of GDP, significantly lower than that of many developed economies. Academic leaders argue that universities must strengthen research ecosystems, promote interdisciplinary collaboration and encourage innovation if India is to realise the NEP's vision of becoming a global knowledge hub. Faculty development programmes and international academic partnerships are increasingly viewed as essential components of this transition.

Employability has also emerged as a key measure of educational quality. Industry surveys continue to indicate that employers increasingly value critical thinking, communication skills, digital literacy and interdisciplinary knowledge. Universities are therefore expanding internships, vocational education and skill-based courses to bridge the gap between classroom learning and labour market requirements. However, education economists emphasise that meaningful reform will require continuous curriculum review and closer engagement between academia and industry.

The implementation of the National Education Policy represents one of the most significant reforms of India's higher education sector in decades. Yet its success will ultimately be measured not by the number of regulations adopted but by measurable improvements in learning outcomes, research productivity, graduate employability and equitable access. As institutions continue to adapt to the new framework, the challenge before policymakers is to ensure that reform reaches every classroom, not merely every university statute book.

Feature

Justice Beyond the Courtroom: Can India Make Access to Justice a Reality?

By Staff Correspondent · By Staff Correspondent

Justice is often described as the foundation of a democratic society, yet for millions of Indians it remains a distant aspiration rather than an everyday reality. The Constitution guarantees equality before the law and protection of fundamental rights, but the practical experience of citizens frequently depends on factors such as affordability, geographical location, legal awareness and the capacity of institutions. In recent years, discussions on judicial reform have increasingly moved beyond the issue of case pendency to a broader question: how can the justice delivery system become more accessible, efficient and citizen-centric?

India today possesses one of the world's largest judicial systems, comprising the Supreme Court, 25 High Courts and thousands of subordinate courts. According to the National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG), more than five crore cases are pending across Indian courts, with district and subordinate courts accounting for the overwhelming majority. While pendency has long been viewed as the principal challenge, legal scholars increasingly argue that delays represent only one dimension of a much larger problem involving infrastructure, manpower, affordability and procedural complexity.

The Department of Justice estimates that India has more than 21,000 serving judicial officers, yet the judge-to-population ratio remains significantly below the level recommended by the Law Commission of India. Vacancies in High Courts and subordinate courts continue to affect case disposal despite periodic recruitment drives. According to official data, several High Courts have operated with vacancy levels exceeding 25 per cent, increasing the workload on serving judges and contributing to delays in hearing civil and criminal matters.

The consequences extend beyond court administration. Delayed adjudication affects undertrial prisoners, commercial disputes, family litigation, property conflicts and labour cases. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reports that over 75 per cent of India's prison population consists of undertrial prisoners, many of whom remain incarcerated while awaiting completion of judicial proceedings. Legal experts argue that prolonged detention raises important questions relating to Article 21 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty, including the right to a speedy trial as recognised in several Supreme Court judgments.

Technology has emerged as one of the most significant instruments of judicial reform. Under the e-Courts Mission Mode Project, more than 18,000 district and subordinate courts have been computerised, while electronic filing, virtual hearings and digital case management have become increasingly common. The Supreme Court's digitisation initiatives, live-streaming of Constitution Bench proceedings and online access to judgments have improved transparency and expanded public engagement with the judicial process. Nevertheless, experts caution that digital justice cannot entirely replace physical access, particularly for litigants in rural areas with limited digital connectivity.

Legal aid remains another critical component of access to justice. The National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) provides free legal assistance to economically weaker sections, women, children, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and other eligible groups. During recent years, legal services institutions have organised thousands of legal awareness programmes and National Lok Adalats, disposing of millions of pending and pre-litigation cases through negotiated settlements. While these initiatives have reduced pressure on conventional courts, legal practitioners emphasise that awareness of legal rights remains uneven across different sections of society.

Judicial reform is also closely linked to infrastructure. Government assessments indicate that many district courts continue to function with inadequate courtroom space, limited technological facilities and insufficient support staff. The India Justice Report, which evaluates the capacity of justice institutions across States, has repeatedly highlighted disparities in judicial infrastructure, police modernisation, legal aid and prison administration. Researchers argue that improving justice delivery requires coordinated investment across the entire justice ecosystem rather than focusing exclusively on courts.

The debate has acquired additional significance as India's economy expands. The World Bank and industry bodies have consistently emphasised that timely dispute resolution contributes to investor confidence, contract enforcement and ease of doing business. Commercial courts, arbitration mechanisms and specialised tribunals have therefore assumed greater importance in reducing litigation burdens while providing quicker resolution of business disputes.

However, institutional reform alone cannot address every challenge. Legal education, public legal literacy and simplified procedures remain equally important. Civil society organisations working in legal empowerment observe that many citizens continue to approach the justice system only after disputes have escalated because they lack information about mediation, legal aid and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. Expanding legal awareness at the community level could therefore reduce unnecessary litigation while strengthening citizens' confidence in public institutions.

The judiciary itself has repeatedly acknowledged the need for continuous reform. Successive Chief Justices of India have highlighted judicial vacancies, case management, technology adoption and institutional accountability as priorities for strengthening public confidence. At the same time, constitutional courts have emphasised that access to justice must be understood as a fundamental democratic value rather than merely an administrative objective.

The future of India's justice system will ultimately depend not only on reducing pending cases but also on ensuring that every citizen can seek timely, affordable and effective legal remedies. A responsive judiciary requires competent judges, modern infrastructure, efficient procedures and informed citizens who understand their rights. As India aspires to become a developed nation, strengthening access to justice will remain central to constitutional governance and the rule of law. The measure of judicial reform will not simply be the number of cases disposed of, but whether ordinary citizens experience the justice system as fair, accessible and trustworthy.

Feature

Climate Change and the Global South: Can Sustainable Development Survive a Warming Planet?

By Staff Correspondent · By Staff Correspondent

Climate change is no longer viewed solely as an environmental concern. It has emerged as one of the defining development challenges of the twenty-first century, influencing food security, public health, economic growth, migration and social equity. While every country is experiencing the consequences of rising temperatures, the burden is distributed unevenly. Developing countries across Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Pacific–-the collective Global South–-are contributing relatively less to historical greenhouse gas emissions but are disproportionately affected by climate-related disasters. For countries such as India, climate policy has therefore become inseparable from the broader agenda of sustainable development.

The scale of the challenge is reflected in recent scientific assessments. The United Nations notes that the Earth is already about 1.2°C warmer than the pre-industrial average, while the World Meteorological Organization confirmed 2024 as the hottest year on record, reaching around 1.55°C above pre-industrial levels. The UN Environment Programme estimates that global greenhouse gas emissions reached 57.1 gigatonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2023, indicating that current mitigation efforts remain insufficient to achieve the Paris Agreement targets. Scientists of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) continue to stress that global emissions must be reduced by almost 50 per cent by 2030 compared with 2019 levels if the objective of limiting warming to 1.5°C is to remain achievable.

For the Global South, climate change is fundamentally a development issue. According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), climate impacts threaten to reverse decades of progress in poverty reduction, food security and human development. Countries with limited financial resources often face repeated cycles of floods, droughts, cyclones and heatwaves that damage infrastructure, reduce agricultural productivity and increase public expenditure on disaster response. The challenge is compounded by unequal access to climate finance and technology despite developing countries contributing comparatively less to cumulative global emissions.

Agriculture illustrates this relationship most clearly. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and UNDP observe that agrifood systems are simultaneously contributors to climate change and among its greatest victims. Agriculture and associated land-use activities account for around 30 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, while changing rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts and extreme weather increasingly threaten crop production and rural livelihoods. Joint FAO–UNDP analysis of developing countries' National Adaptation Plans shows that strengthening climate-resilient agriculture has become one of the highest adaptation priorities because food systems remain central to economic stability and nutrition security.

India reflects many of these global concerns. Agriculture continues to support nearly 45 per cent of the country's workforce, yet production increasingly depends on a monsoon system becoming more variable under changing climatic conditions. The India Meteorological Department has reported increasing frequency of heatwaves and extreme rainfall events, while NITI Aayog has repeatedly highlighted water stress and declining groundwater availability as major threats to agricultural sustainability. Climate scientists warn that reduced soil moisture, unpredictable precipitation and rising temperatures could affect yields of staple crops, particularly in rain-fed regions where adaptive capacity remains limited.

Land degradation presents another major concern. The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) estimates that human activities directly influence nearly 70 per cent of the world's ice-free land. The Convention argues that restoring degraded ecosystems can remove approximately three billion tonnes of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere every year, contributing substantially to climate mitigation while improving food security, biodiversity and rural livelihoods. More than 450 million hectares of land have already been pledged globally for restoration by 2030, including over 250 million hectares of farmland, reflecting growing international recognition that healthy land underpins climate resilience.

Climate change is equally a public health challenge. The World Health Organization (WHO) has repeatedly identified climate change as one of the greatest threats to global health in the twenty-first century. Rising temperatures increase heat-related illnesses, while floods and changing weather conditions facilitate the spread of vector-borne diseases and compromise access to safe drinking water. Air pollution, intensified by fossil fuel use, continues to contribute to millions of premature deaths globally each year. Health experts therefore argue that investments in climate adaptation–-such as heat action plans, resilient health infrastructure and early warning systems–-should be viewed as investments in public health rather than environmental expenditure alone.

Innovation will also determine how effectively societies respond. The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has documented rapid growth in green technologies, including renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, battery storage and water-efficient irrigation systems. Yet access to these technologies remains uneven, particularly for lower-income countries. Policymakers increasingly emphasise technology transfer, research collaboration and affordable financing to ensure that innovation contributes to climate justice rather than widening existing inequalities.

Climate finance remains one of the most contentious issues in global negotiations. Developing countries argue that adaptation requires predictable and adequate financial support because they face severe climate impacts despite contributing relatively little to historical emissions. Recent international negotiations have therefore focused not only on mitigation but also on scaling adaptation finance and supporting vulnerable economies through more equitable funding arrangements. The United Nations has estimated that adaptation investment can generate significant economic returns by reducing disaster losses and strengthening long-term resilience.

For India, climate action increasingly reflects the principle that economic development and environmental sustainability need not be mutually exclusive. Expansion of renewable energy, promotion of green hydrogen, restoration of degraded ecosystems, climate-resilient agriculture and improved disaster preparedness indicate an effort to integrate climate considerations into development planning. However, experts caution that successful adaptation will depend as much on strengthening local institutions, improving water governance and supporting vulnerable communities as on technological innovation.

Climate change has therefore become a defining test of sustainable development in the Global South. The challenge is no longer simply to reduce emissions but to build resilient societies capable of protecting livelihoods, ecosystems and future generations. As the world approaches the final years of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the success of global climate policy will ultimately be measured not only by atmospheric targets but also by its ability to safeguard human development, food security and social justice for those most vulnerable to a warming planet.