In reverse order...
The framework isn't actually a mod. It is just a listing of potential subfolders and what priority to give them, but yes it does need to be there. See the "Creating a Mods Folder/Installing Mods Step by Step Guide" sticky thread in this section for directions.
Yes, it is true that Twallan isn't working on mods any more, but there is a community that has taken it over. The mods are just as safe as they ever were. At most, changes are a little slower due to the new people having to take the time to learn the code.