Content:
- Use of AI in Supreme Court Case Management
- Prashad Scheme
Use of AI in Supreme Court Case Management
AI in Case Transcription
- AI and Machine Learning (ML) tools are being deployed for transcribing oral arguments in Constitution Bench matters.
- Transcribed arguments are accessible on the Supreme Court website.
- Authorities are considering expanding transcription to regular hearing days (Thursdays).
Relevance : GS 2(Governance , Judiciary ) ,GS 3(Technology)
AI in Judgment Translation
- AI-powered translation tools are used for translating judgments from English to 18 Indian languages.
- The initiative is in collaboration with the National Informatics Centre (NIC).
- Translated judgments are available on the eSCR portal of the Supreme Court.
AI in E-Filing and Defect Identification
- AI-based tools, developed with IIT Madras, are integrated with the electronic filing system.
- These tools identify defects in filings, enhancing efficiency and reducing human intervention.
- A prototype has been provided to 200 Advocates-on-Record for testing and feedback.
AI in Metadata Extraction and Case Management
- AI is being tested for curing defects and extracting data and metadata.
- The tools are planned to be integrated into the Integrated Case Management & Information System (ICMIS).
- The aim is to streamline document management and improve accessibility.
SUPACE: AI for Legal Research
- The Supreme Court Portal Assistance in Court Efficiency (SUPACE) is in its experimental stage.
- SUPACE is designed for:
- Understanding factual matrices of cases.
- Conducting intelligent searches for legal precedents.
- Identifying relevant cases efficiently.
- Deployment depends on procuring advanced processing units like GPUs and TPUs.
AI Not Used in Judicial Decision-Making
- The Supreme Court has clarified that AI tools are not involved in decision-making.
- Their role is limited to support functions like transcription, translation, e-filing, and legal research.
Facts and Figures
- 18 languages supported for AI-based translation.
- 200 advocates testing the defect-identification prototype.
- AI transcription currently limited to Constitution Bench hearings but may expand.
- SUPACE is in the experimental phase, awaiting further technological upgrades.
Prashad Scheme
Overview of PRASHAD Scheme
- Full Form: Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD).
- Objective: Development of pilgrimage tourism infrastructure in an inclusive, integrated, and sustainable manner.
- Key Focus Areas:
- Infrastructure improvement – Tourist facilitation centres, multi-level parking, dedicated parking, ghats.
- Sustainability measures – Solid waste management, solar panels, CCTV surveillance.
- Employment generation – Enhancing local skills and fostering economic opportunities.
- Service enhancement – Cleanliness, security, accessibility.
Relevance : GS 1(Culture ,Heritage) , GS 2(Governance ,Schemes )
Financial Assistance and Scope
- Ministry of Tourism provides funds to State Governments and UT Administrations.
- Sanctioned Projects: 48 projects across 27 States/UTs.
- Development of tourism infrastructure in iconic pilgrimage destinations.
Key Outcomes of PRASHAD Scheme
- Improved pilgrim experience – Upgraded amenities and modern infrastructure.
- Sustainability focus – Use of renewable energy, better waste management, and eco-friendly solutions.
- Enhanced local economy – More employment and tourism-related income.
- Cultural preservation – Strengthening India’s religious and spiritual heritage.
Special Assistance for Capital Investment (SASCI) Scheme
- Objective: Develop iconic tourist centres to a global standard.
- Scope: 40 projects across 23 states, ₹3,295.76 Crore allocated.
- Focus:
- Branding and marketing of Indian pilgrimage sites internationally.
- Infrastructure development with a focus on sustainability.
- Boosting local economies through tourism-related activities.
PRASHAD Scheme’s Contribution to Sustainable Tourism
- Integrated approach combining tourism with economic development.
- Holistic focus on livelihood, accessibility, and security.
- Eco-conscious tourism – Encouraging responsible travel practices.
Notable State-wise Projects and Progress
- Uttar Pradesh – Varanasi (Phase I & II), Mathura-Vrindavan Mega Circuit.
- Madhya Pradesh – Omkareshwar, Amarkantak.
- Gujarat – Somnath, Dwarka, Ambaji Temple.
- Andhra Pradesh – Amaravati, Srisailam, Annavaram Temple Town.
- Tamil Nadu – Kanchipuram, Velankanni.
- Kerala – Guruvayur Temple.
- Bihar – Patna Sahib, Vishnupad Temple.
- Jammu & Kashmir – Hazratbal Shrine.
Challenges and Way Forward
- Challenges:
- Delays in fund utilization – Several projects have low financial progress.
- Coordination issues between Centre and States.
- Balancing infrastructure with environmental concerns.
- Way Forward:
- Faster execution of projects with real-time monitoring.
- Better inter–agency coordination to improve implementation.
- Greater private sector participation in tourism infrastructure.
Conclusion
- PRASHAD and SASCI are key initiatives for transforming India’s pilgrimage tourism.
- Holistic development is ensuring infrastructure, sustainability, and employment generation.
- Further reforms needed to enhance project execution efficiency and global tourism branding.
