Today's Brief 17-23/02/2024

1. Digital Services Act: The Digital Services Act (DSA) is a regulation in EU law that aims to update the Electronic Commerce Directive 2000 regarding illegal content, transparent advertising, and disinformation. It was submitted along with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) by the European Commission to the European Parliament and the Council on 15 December 2020.

The DSA was adopted by the European Parliament and the Council on 23 April 2022 and entered into force on 20 May 2022. It will become fully applicable 15 months after its entry into force, on 17 February 2024.

The DSA has a number of objectives, including:

• To create a safer online environment for users by tackling illegal content, such as hate speech, terrorism, and child sexual abuse material.

• To protect users' fundamental rights, such as freedom of expression and privacy.

• To ensure transparency and accountability of online platforms.

• To foster innovation and competition in the digital economy.

The DSA applies to a wide range of online intermediaries, including:

• Online platforms, such as social media platforms, video-sharing platforms, and online marketplaces.

• Very large online platforms (VLOPs), which are platforms with more than 45 million active users in the EU.

• Very large online search engines (VLOSEs), which are search engines with a market share of more than 30% in the EU.

The DSA imposes a number of obligations on online intermediaries, depending on their size and type. 

These obligations include:

• Taking measures to remove illegal content.

• Assessing the risks of illegal content and harmful activities on their platforms.

• Reporting serious risks to the authorities.

• Providing users with clear and transparent information about their content moderation policies.

• Cooperating with law enforcement authorities.

The DSA also introduces a number of new measures to address specific concerns, such as:

• A requirement for VLOPs to conduct risk assessments and put in place measures to mitigate the risks of the spread of disinformation.

• A requirement for online platforms to allow users to flag content that they believe is illegal or harmful.

• A requirement for online platforms to provide users with a way to appeal decisions to remove their content.

The DSA is a significant piece of legislation that will have a major impact on online platforms and users in the EU. It is important to note that the DSA is still in its early stages of implementation, and it is not yet clear how it will be interpreted and enforced in practice.

2.Sangam: You're right! The "Sangam: Digital Twin" initiative is a recent development in India, launched by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). It aims to revolutionize infrastructure planning and design through the use of digital twin technology. Here's what I know about it so far:

Goals:

• Develop innovative solutions: Sangam seeks to demonstrate practical implementation of cutting-edge technologies like AI, 5G, IoT, and digital twins for infrastructure projects.

• Facilitate collaboration: It aims to bring together public entities, infrastructure planners, tech giants, startups, and academia to break down silos and work together.

• Transform infrastructure: Ultimately, Sangam hopes to pave the way for more efficient, effective, and sustainable infrastructure development.

Structure:

• Proof of Concept (PoC): The initiative is currently in a PoC phase, focusing on one major Indian city.

• Two Stages: The PoC has two stages:

• Stage 1: Exploration and creative exploration of potential use cases.

• Stage 2: Practical demonstrations of specific use cases.

• Open to all: Sangam welcomes Expressions of Interest (EoI) from various stakeholders.

Potential benefits:

• Improved planning: Digital twins can provide insights for better design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure.

• Reduced costs and time: Simulation and optimization through digital twins can lead to cost savings and faster project completion.

• Enhanced sustainability: The initiative could promote the development of more sustainable infrastructure solutions.

3.E-Jagriti Portal: The e-Jagriti Portal is an initiative of the Department of Consumer Affairs, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution, Government of India. It is a single-window platform for consumers to file complaints against businesses and track their progress. The portal also provides information on consumer rights and laws, as well as tips on how to avoid scams and protect oneself from unfair trade practices. 

The e-Jagriti Portal was launched in 2016 and has since been used by over 10 million consumers. The portal has been praised for its ease of use and transparency. It has also been credited with helping to resolve consumer complaints more quickly and efficiently.

The e-Jagriti Portal is a valuable resource for consumers in India. It provides a convenient and effective way to file complaints against businesses and track their progress. The portal also provides valuable information on consumer rights and laws. I would recommend that all consumers in India visit the e-Jagriti Portal and familiarize themselves with its features.

Here are some of the key features of the e-Jagriti Portal:

• Online complaint filing: Consumers can file complaints against businesses online through the portal.

• Case tracking: Consumers can track the progress of their complaints through the portal.

• Information on consumer rights and laws: The portal provides information on consumer rights and laws, as well as tips on how to avoid scams and protect oneself from unfair trade practices.

• Dispute resolution: The portal provides a platform for consumers and businesses to resolve disputes through mediation and arbitration.

• Consumer awareness: The portal provides information on consumer awareness and education programs.

The e-Jagriti Portal is a valuable resource for consumers in India. It provides a convenient and effective way to file complaints against businesses and track their progress. The portal also provides valuable information on consumer rights and laws. 

4.Aadhaar as Date of Birth Proof:  The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) did indeed issue a directive in December 2023 requesting all agencies using Aadhaar for identity authentication to remove it from the list of acceptable documents for date of birth (DoB) verification. 

Why the Directive?

• Aadhaar is primarily an identity document, and the date of birth recorded on it is based on the documents submitted during enrollment. These documents may not always be definitive proof of DoB, particularly in cases where the original documents might be unavailable or inaccurate.

• Relying solely on Aadhaar for DoB verification can lead to potential issues like:

• Misrepresentation: Individuals could potentially use incorrect DoB information on their Aadhaar for fraudulent purposes.

• Exclusion: People who lack access to definitive DoB documents might be unfairly excluded from services due to not having Aadhaar accepted for verification.

• Privacy concerns: Using Aadhaar for DoB verification can raise privacy concerns, as it may expose unnecessary personal information.

Current Status:

• Following the directive, several agencies like the Employees' Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) have removed Aadhaar from their list of DoB proof documents.

• However, some agencies might still be accepting Aadhaar for DoB verification due to a lack of awareness or clear implementation guidelines.

• The UIDAI is expected to issue further clarifications and guidelines to ensure consistent implementation across all agencies.

Recommendations:

• Always carry alternative documents like birth certificates, school leaving certificates, or voter IDs as DoB proof when interacting with government agencies or service providers.

• Check the specific requirements of the organization you are dealing with to confirm their accepted DoB verification documents.

• If you encounter an instance where Aadhaar is still being accepted for DoB verification, you can politely remind them about the UIDAI directive and suggest alternative documents.
  

5. Bharatiya Bhasha Samiti: This is indeed an interesting development in the ongoing dialogue regarding the promotion of Indian languages in education. Here's a breakdown of what we know so far:

Key Points:

• Advocacy for Indian languages: The Chairman of Bharatiya Bhasha Samiti, a government committee tasked with promoting Indian languages, has emphasized the importance of including these languages in education. This aligns with the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020), which advocates for mother tongue-based multilingual education.

• Digital platforms: The Chairman also mentioned the availability of textbooks in Indian languages on digital platforms soon. This could offer several advantages, including easier access to learning materials, wider reach, and potential cost-effectiveness.

Further Considerations:

• Implementation details: It's important to understand the specific languages, grade levels, and subjects for which textbooks will be available digitally. This will provide a clearer picture of the scope and impact of this initiative.

• Language diversity: India has a vast number of languages, and ensuring representation for all within this initiative will be crucial. It's worth considering how the committee plans to address this diversity.

• Infrastructure and accessibility: Access to digital devices and internet connectivity can vary across different regions and demographics. Ensuring equitable access to these digital learning materials is key for the success of this initiative.

• Teacher training and support: Teachers play a crucial role in effective language learning. Providing them with necessary training and support in teaching through Indian languages will be essential.

Overall:

This initiative holds potential for advancing the use of Indian languages in education, potentially enhancing learning outcomes and fostering cultural identity. However, careful planning, implementation, and addressing accessibility and inclusivity concerns will be critical for its success.

5. Pradhan Mantri Formalisation Of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme:Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme (PMFME)

The PMFME is a centrally sponsored scheme launched in 2020 by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) to support the formalization and growth of micro-food processing enterprises (MFPEs) in India. It aims to address the challenges faced by these enterprises, including lack of access to finance, technology, and markets, and contribute to the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Key features:

• Financial assistance: Provides credit-linked capital subsidies of up to 35% of the project cost, with a maximum limit of ₹10 lakh per individual unit.

• Technical and business support: Offers capacity building training, handholding support, and access to technology and infrastructure.

• Market access: Provides assistance in branding, marketing, and participation in exhibitions and trade fairs.

• Focus on groups and cooperatives: Supports groups, cooperatives, and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) with higher grants and infrastructure development support.

Eligibility:

• Existing micro food processing units with an investment not exceeding ₹1 crore and turnover not exceeding ₹5 crore.

• Individuals above 18 years of age with at least VIII standard pass educational qualification.

• Groups, cooperatives, and FPOs involved in food processing activities.

Benefits:

• Increased access to finance and credit.

• Improved technology and infrastructure.

• Enhanced marketing and branding capabilities.

• Formalization of businesses and compliance with regulations.

• Job creation and income generation.

Impact:

• As of January 2024, the scheme has approved support for over 2.4 lakh MFPEs, exceeding its initial target of 2 lakh units.

• It is estimated to create over 5 lakh jobs and contribute significantly to the growth of the food processing sector in India.

6.Species Threat Abatement And Restoration (STAR) Metric:

The STAR metric, short for Species Threat Abatement and Restoration, is a global framework that quantifies the potential contribution of actions towards reducing species extinction risk. Developed by the Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool (IBAT), it uses data from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™ to identify opportunities to conserve species by either:

• Abating threats: Reducing the factors that endanger species, such as habitat loss, climate change, or invasive species.

• Restoring habitat: Restoring areas where species have declined or disappeared.

Benefits:

• Standardization and Scalability: STAR provides a standardized and scalable way to measure the impact of conservation actions across different locations and species.

• Data-driven approach: It relies on the globally recognized IUCN Red List data for robust and reliable information on species threats and extinction risks.

• Targeted Actions: Helps identify areas where actions can have the most significant impact on reducing extinction risk for multiple species.

• Decision-making: Supports informed decision-making for businesses, governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders regarding conservation investments and activities.

How it works:

• STAR uses a combination of data on species distribution, threats, and extinction risk to calculate a "STAR score" for each pixel on a map.

• Higher scores indicate areas where actions can have a greater impact on reducing extinction risk for multiple species.

• The metric can be applied to various scales, from individual sites to entire landscapes or countries.

Applications:

• Strategic planning: Identifying priority areas for conservation efforts based on their potential to benefit multiple species.

• Project evaluation: Measuring the effectiveness of conservation projects in reducing extinction risk.

• Impact reporting: Demonstrating the positive impact of investments on biodiversity conservation.

• Corporate sustainability: Helping businesses assess and mitigate their impact on biodiversity and contribute to positive conservation outcomes.

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