Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: YashoBhoomi
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- PM inaugurated the first phase of the world-class ‘YashoBhoomi’ India International Convention and Expo Centre (IICC) in Dwarka, Delhi.
About YashoBhoomi
- YashoBhoomi is the second convention facility to offer top-notch amenities for exhibitions and conferences, following the Bharat Mandapam, which hosted world leaders during the recent G20 Summit.
- It represents PM’s vision to create world-class infrastructure in India for hosting conventions, meetings, and exhibitions, greatly benefiting from its operational status in Dwarka.
Key Features of YashoBhoomi
- Expansive Project: Also known as the India International Convention and Expo Centre, YashoBhoomi spans an impressive 8.9 lakh square meters, with a built-up area exceeding 1.8 lakh square meters.
- Capacity and Facilities: This conference center boasts a remarkable capacity of accommodating 11,000 guests. It comprises 15 convention rooms, including the main auditorium, the grand ballroom, and 13 meeting rooms.
- Auditorium and Ballroom: The main auditorium can seat 6,000 people, while the grand ballroom can accommodate an additional 2,500. There is also seating for up to 500 people in a large open space.
- Exhibition Hall: A massive exhibition hall, spanning over 1.07 lakh square meters, is a prominent feature of YashoBhoomi.
- Metro Connectivity: On the same day as the inauguration of the new metro station in Dwarka Sector 25, YashoBhoomi will be connected to the Delhi Airport Metro Express line.
- Architectural Splendor: The conference center incorporates elements inspired by Indian civilizations, including terrazzo floors with brass inlays resembling rangoli patterns, suspended sound-absorbing metal cylinders, and illuminated pattern walls.
- Sustainability Focus: YashoBhoomi is committed to sustainability, featuring rooftop solar panels, a state-of-the-art wastewater treatment system enabling 100% wastewater reuse, rainwater harvesting, and Green Cities Platinum certification from CII’s Indian Green Building Council (IGBC).
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Pralay Ballistic Missiles
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Defense Ministry has granted approval for the acquisition of a regiment of ‘Pralay’ ballistic missiles, earmarked for deployment along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the Line of Control (LoC).
- It is the first time that a ballistic missile will be inducted into the services for conventional operations.
Pralay Missile: Key Features
| Strike Range |
150 to 500 kilometers |
| Payload Capacity |
350 kg to 700 kg conventional warhead |
| Warhead Variability |
High explosive preformed fragmentation warheads, penetration-cum-blast (PCB) warheads, runaway denial penetration submunitions (RDPS) |
| Classification |
Quasi-ballistic surface-to-surface missile |
| Maneuverability |
Mid-flight trajectory alteration capability |
| Propulsion |
Solid propellant rocket motor with advanced guidance systems |
| Global Comparisons |
Comparable to China’s Dong Feng 12 and Russia’s Iskander missile |
| Development History |
Development was initiated around 2015, with significant progress during the tenure of General Bipin Rawat as Chief of Army Staff |
Strategic significance
- Longest Range: ‘Pralay’ will emerge as the longest-range surface-to-surface missile within the Army’s inventory.
- Strategic Role: ‘Pralay,’ in conjunction with the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, will play a central role in India’s planned Rocket Force, augmenting the nation’s strategic posture.
- Imperative: China and Pakistan have already deployed ballistic missiles for tactical purposes, prompting India’s acquisition of ‘Pralay’ missiles.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: H1B Visa
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- Indian-American Republican presidential contender Vivek Ramaswamy vows to overhaul the H-1B visa program.
- The H-1B visa, highly sought-after among Indian IT professionals, permits US companies to employ foreign workers for specialized roles requiring theoretical or technical expertise.
Why discuss this?
- The H-1B visa are highly sought-after category used by Indian professionals in the US as many use them as a precursor for permanent residency.
- However, the waiting periods for the employment-based green card for Indians can stretch into decades.
- The US embassy in India has already processed over 9 lakh non-immigrant visa currently and is expected to pass the one million mark soon.
Understanding H-1B Visa Program
- The H-1B visa program is crafted to facilitate the entry of skilled foreign workers into the United States, enabling them to work for American companies.
- It is particularly sought after by Indian IT professionals as it permits U.S. companies to employ foreign workers in specialized roles demanding theoretical or technical expertise.
- Despite its popularity, the H-1B visa program faces criticisms for extended waiting periods and the use of a lottery system for selection.
Ramaswamy’s Perspective
- Personal Experience: Ramaswamy acknowledged his own immigrant experience and contended that the H-1B system is detrimental to all parties involved.
- Merit-Based Reform: He advocated for replacing the lottery system with a meritocratic admission process, describing the current system as a form of indentured servitude that primarily benefits sponsoring companies.
- Eliminating Chain Migration: He also emphasized the need to eliminate chain-based migration, arguing that family members who join immigrants are not merit-based contributors to the country.
Historical Context and Comparisons
- Resonance with Trump: Ramaswamy’s stance on H-1B visas draws parallels with Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign.
- Hard stance: Despite hiring foreign workers under H-1B visas for his businesses, Trump initially adopted a hardline stance on these workers before later softening his rhetoric.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Trends in Indian Parliament
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- India’s parliamentary journey spanning 75 years reflects a dynamic and evolving landscape of political representation, legislative processes, and societal changes.
- From shifting demographics to parliamentary practices and electoral dynamics, this retrospective analysis sheds light on the fascinating facets of India’s parliamentary evolution.
Key Trends in Indian Parliament
| Youth Representation |
- Despite a growing youth population, the number of MPs aged 35 and below in the Lok Sabha is at a record low.
- In the First Lok Sabha, there were 82 such MPs, but in the 17th Lok Sabha, there are only 21.
- This decline contrasts with India’s youthful demographic, where around 66% of the population is under 35.
|
| Women’s Turnout and Representation |
- Women’s voter turnout has consistently risen since 1962, even surpassing male turnout in 2019.
- Number of women candidates has increased, from 45 in 1957 to 726 in 2019.
- However, women’s representation in the Lok Sabha remains low, with just 14.36% of the total seats occupied by women in 2019.
- Women’s reservation Bill, aimed at increasing women’s representation to 33%, has faced hurdles in passing.
|
| Missing Deputy Speaker |
- 17th Lok Sabha is set to become the first in independent India without a Deputy Speaker, breaking from tradition.
|
| Declining Parliamentary Sittings |
- Between 1952 and 1974, the Lok Sabha consistently held over 100 sittings annually, but this trend has declined.
- Pandemic in 2020 led to a significant decrease in sittings.
- Average sitting time per day has also decreased over the years.
|
| Bills Passed and Ordinances Issued |
- Both Houses of Parliament are passing fewer bills compared to earlier decades.
- Highest number of bills passed occurred during the Emergency in 1976, while the lowest was in 2004.
- An increase in ordinances issued by the Union government has coincided with fewer parliamentary sittings.
|
| Voter Enrollment and Parties in the Fray |
- Number of voters has increased six-fold from 1951 to 2019, resulting in a higher number of polling stations.
- Nos. of parties participating in Lok Sabha polls has multiplied over the years, with 673 parties in 2019 compared to 53 in 1951.
- Number of contestants has also grown significantly.
|
| Vote Share and Majority Trends |
- Out of 17 Lok Sabha elections held so far, 10 have resulted in clear majorities, while 7 have been fractured mandates.
- Recent trends show that the winning party typically receives a higher vote share than the runner-up since 2004.
|
| Changing Focus on Questions |
- Time allocated for questions in the Lok Sabha has decreased over the years.
- First Lok Sabha dedicated 15% of its time to questions, whereas the 14th Lok Sabha allocated only 11.42%.
- Data for the 15th, 16th, and 17th Lok Sabhas is not available for comparison.
|
Conclusion
- As India’s Parliament embarks on its journey of 75 years, these trends provide a fascinating glimpse into the evolving dynamics of the nation’s highest legislative body.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Bima Sugam
Mains level: Bima Sugam, Benefits for customers
Central idea
- The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) is poised to introduce Bima Sugam, a groundbreaking initiative set to transform the insurance landscape in India. IRDAI envisions Bima Sugam as the UPI moment for the insurance sector, aiming to establish it as the world’s largest online marketplace for insurance products and services.
What is Bima Sugam?
- Bima Sugam is an innovative online platform developed by This platform is designed to revolutionize the insurance sector in India by providing a comprehensive and user-friendly solution for insurance-related activities.
Key aspects and developments regarding Bima Sugam
- Comprehensive Insurance Marketplace: Bima Sugam serves as a comprehensive online marketplace where customers have access to a wide range of insurance options offered by various insurance companies. It covers all types of insurance requirements, including life insurance, health insurance, and general insurance, which encompasses policies such as motor and travel insurance.
- Efficient Claim Settlement: Bima Sugam focuses on enhancing the efficiency of claim settlements. Whether policyholders need to make claims related to health coverage or death benefits, the platform enables paperless claim processing based on policy numbers.
- Data Storage: Details and information about insurance schemes are expected to be stored within the platform through an insurance repository. This repository acts as a centralized database for insurance policies, making it convenient for customers to access and manage their policy information.
- Budget Increase: The overall budget allocated for the development and implementation of Bima Sugam has been increased to Rs 200 crore, a substantial increase from the initial budget of around Rs 85 crore. This increased budget reflects the significance and scale of the project.
- Committee Appointment: IRDAI has appointed a dedicated committee to oversee the creation and deployment of the Bima Sugam platform. The committee is tasked with ensuring that the platform is developed effectively and meets the objectives set by IRDAI.
- Request for Proposals (RFPs): IRDAI plans to issue requests for proposals (RFPs) soon to select a suitable service provider for the Bima Sugam platform. These service providers will serve as technological partners responsible for creating and operating the platform, offering a one-stop solution for all insurance-related services.
What is its role and utility for customers?
- Single Window for Insurance Needs: Bima Sugam serves as a single, centralized platform where customers can fulfill all their insurance needs. It offers a diverse range of insurance options, including life insurance, health insurance, and general insurance (such as motor and travel insurance). This eliminates the need for customers to visit multiple websites or deal with various agents to explore and purchase insurance policies.
- Streamlined Policy Selection: The platform simplifies the process of selecting the right insurance policy. Customers can easily compare and evaluate various insurance schemes from different insurers, helping them make informed decisions. This streamlined approach ensures that customers can identify policies that align with their specific requirements and preferences.
- Efficient Claim Settlement: Bima Sugam places a strong emphasis on efficient claim settlement processes. Customers can initiate and track claims related to health coverage or death benefits through the platform. The use of policy numbers and paperless processing speeds up the claim settlement process, reducing hassles for customers during critical times.
- Paperless Transactions: With the platform’s paperless transactions, customers can access, manage, and store their insurance policies electronically. This not only reduces the need for physical documentation but also contributes to environmental sustainability. Policyholders can view and retrieve their policy details conveniently online.
- Cost Savings: Bima Sugam is expected to lower the commissions associated with insurance policies, resulting in cost savings for customers. Additionally, the overall cost of purchasing insurance policies is likely to decrease, making insurance more affordable and accessible.
- Real-time Data Access: Insurance companies can access validated and authentic customer data in real-time through the platform. This enhances insurers’ ability to offer personalized services and respond promptly to customer inquiries and needs.
- User-Friendly Interface: The platform is designed with a user-friendly interface, making it accessible and easy to navigate for customers of varying levels of technological proficiency. This ensures that a wide range of users can benefit from its services.
What the IRDAI says about Bima Sugam?
- Electronic Marketplace Protocol: IRDAI describes Bima Sugam as an electronic marketplace protocol. It envisions this platform as a means to universalize and democratize insurance by providing a digital infrastructure for seamless service delivery.
- Integration with India Stack: The Bima Sugam will be connected with India Stack, which is a set of application programming interfaces (APIs). These APIs enable governments, businesses, startups, and others to utilize India’s unique digital infrastructure for delivering services efficiently.
- Empowering Insurance Stakeholders: The IRDAI Chairman, Debasish Panda, said that Bima Sugam will enable and empower all stakeholders across the insurance value chain. This suggests that the platform aims to benefit not only customers but also insurers, intermediaries, and agents by streamlining processes and improving access to data.
Implementation of the Bima Sugam
- Initial Target: Initially, IRDAI aimed to have Bima Sugam up and running by January 2023.
- First Postponement: The implementation timeline was postponed, and the platform’s launch was rescheduled for August 1. This delay indicated that more time was needed to develop and prepare the platform for public use.
- Latest Implementation Date: The implementation of Bima Sugam has been postponed once again, with the new target for its launch set for June 2024. This suggests that the platform is still under development, and IRDAI is working to ensure its readiness before its official release.
Conclusion
- Bima Sugam represents a significant leap forward in the Indian insurance sector, promising convenience, transparency, and cost-efficiency for customers while revolutionizing the way insurers conduct business. As its implementation date approaches, stakeholders eagerly anticipate the positive impact this transformative platform will have on the insurance industry and financial security for millions of Indians.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Quantum computing and its applications
Mains level: Quantum computing
What’s the news?
- In a quantum leap, global investments in quantum computing soared to US$35.5 billion in 2022, with its game-changing potential across industries.
Central Idea
- Quantum computing is a rapidly advancing field that has garnered substantial investment from both the public and private sectors. The growth in this field has been driven by extensive international collaboration among governments and private sector entities, reflecting the novelty and complexity of quantum technology.
What is Quantum Technologies Flagship?
- The Quantum Technologies Flagship is a significant initiative established by the European Union (EU) in 2018. It is part of the EU’s Horizon 2020 (now Horizon Europe) program and has been allocated a budget of approximately 1 billion euros.
- The primary objective of this initiative is to consolidate European leadership in the field of quantum technologies over a period of ten years.
Key Objectives and Components of the Quantum Technologies Flagship
- Research and Development: The Quantum Technologies Flagship focuses on advancing research and development in the domain of quantum technologies. This includes quantum computing, quantum cryptography, and other quantum-related fields.
- Collaboration: The initiative aims to facilitate collaboration among various stakeholders, including research institutions, private sector companies, and public institutions. This collaborative approach is intended to accelerate progress in quantum technology.
- International Cooperation: The International Cooperation on Quantum Technologies (InCoQFlag) project, which is a crucial part of the Quantum Technologies Flagship. It seeks to establish partnerships and collaboration with countries that are significant investors in quantum technologies, such as the United States, Canada, and Japan.
- Technology Sharing: The Quantum Technologies Flagship promotes the sharing of quantum technologies, infrastructure, skills, and knowledge with international partners. This sharing is facilitated through various activities, including workshops and networking sessions.
- Long-Term Vision: The initiative has a long-term vision spanning a decade. It aims to position Europe as a leader in quantum technology research and development. This long-term commitment is designed to ensure that Europe remains at the forefront of quantum technology.
AUKUS Quantum Arrangement
- The AUKUS Quantum Arrangement is part of the broader AUKUS (Australia, United Kingdom, United States) agreement, which is a trilateral security arrangement established in September 2021.
Key Points About the AUKUS Quantum Arrangement:
- Quantum Technology Focus: The AUKUS Quantum Arrangement places a strong emphasis on the development and integration of quantum technologies. These technologies encompass a wide range of applications, including quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum cryptography.
- Advanced Military Capabilities: One of the key pillars of the broader AUKUS agreement is to enhance joint advanced military capabilities and interoperability among Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
- Investment in Cutting-Edge Quantum Capabilities: The AUKUS Quantum Arrangement aims to accelerate investments in what is often referred to as generation-after-next quantum capabilities. This signifies a focus on cutting-edge and future-oriented quantum technologies that go beyond current developments.
- Strategic Competition and Technological Advantage: The arrangement acknowledges the importance of maintaining a strategic and technological advantage, especially in the fields of quantum computing and cryptography. It recognizes the competitive nature of the international landscape, particularly in relation to China, and seeks to stay ahead in quantum technology.
- National Security Implications: Quantum technologies have significant implications for national security, including secure communication, advanced encryption, and enhanced computational capabilities. Therefore, the AUKUS Quantum Arrangement aims to strengthen the three countries’ capabilities in these areas.
Quad’s commitment to emerging technologies
- Commitment to emerging technologies: The Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue), consisting of the United States, Japan, India, and Australia, has shown a commitment to emerging technologies, including quantum computing and other cutting-edge fields.
- Critical and Emerging Technology Working Group: In 2021, the Quad leaders established a Critical and Emerging Technology Working Group. The primary aim of this working group is to ensure that standards and frameworks for key technologies, including 5G, AI, and quantum computing, are governed by shared interests and values among the Quad countries.
- Quad Investors Network (QUIN): QUIN was launched in May 2023 as part of the Quad’s commitment to emerging technologies. While the article does not provide extensive details, QUIN comprises a network of investors who seek to encourage investments in novel technologies.
- Quad Centre of Excellence in Quantum Information Sciences: The Quad Centre of Excellence in Quantum Information Sciences was established in June 2023. This center’s primary objective is to facilitate collaboration among researchers and institutions across the Quad countries. It aims to drive greater technological cooperation, market access, and cross-border investments in the field of quantum information sciences.
CERN Quantum Technology Initiative
- The CERN Quantum Technology Initiative is a comprehensive R and D and academic program initiated by the European Council for Nuclear Research (CERN). CERN, known for its contributions to particle physics and the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), is now expanding its focus to include quantum technologies.
key details about the CERN Quantum Technology Initiative:
- Initiation Year: The CERN Quantum Technology Initiative was initiated in the year 2020.
- Scope of the Initiative: This initiative aims to establish collaborations among CERN’s 23 member states and international initiatives in the field of quantum technologies. It encompasses a broad spectrum of quantum technology-related research and development activities.
- Research and Development Goals: The primary objectives of the CERN Quantum Technology Initiative are as follows:
-
- Develop new computing, detector, and communication systems based on quantum technologies.
- Advance knowledge and understanding of quantum systems and information processing.
- Assess the potential impact of quantum technologies on future programs and research fields.
- Prepare the skills and resources required for future generations of researchers to further investigate the application of quantum technologies to specific research domains.
- Application Areas: The initiative’s activities extend to various research fields, including:
-
- Computational chemistry
- Materials science
- High-energy physics
- Space applications
- Collaborations: The CERN Quantum Technology Initiative involves collaborations with international partners and initiatives in the quantum technology domain. Additionally, CERN is one of the partners of the Open Quantum Initiative, a global center for quantum technology.
Private sector initiatives
- IBM: IBM has committed to developing a 100,000-qubit quantum computer over the next decade through a US$100-million initiative in collaboration with the University of Tokyo and the University of Chicago. It also collaborates with Indian institutions and quantum startups.
- Google: Google, claiming quantum supremacy in 2019, partners with various quantum startups and invests in Australian infrastructure, research, and partnerships. It actively explores new quantum computing applications.
- D-Wave: Based in Canada, D-Wave is the world’s first company to commercially offer quantum computers. It works extensively with NASA and Google, launching its cloud service in India and collaborating with the Australian Department of Defence.
- Infosys: Infosys pioneers quantum computing and related technologies, collaborating with Australian quantum cybersecurity firm QuintessenceLabs and Amazon Web Services to establish Quantum Living Labs.
Significance of International cooperation in the field of quantum computing and related technologies
- Shared Knowledge and Expertise: Quantum technology is a highly complex and rapidly evolving field. International cooperation enables countries to pool their knowledge, expertise, and resources, fostering accelerated progress and innovation.
- Resource Sharing: By collaborating internationally, countries can share the financial burden and access shared resources, making it more cost-effective to undertake ambitious quantum projects.
- Addressing Global Challenges: Quantum technologies have the potential to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges, such as climate change, cybersecurity, and healthcare.
- Standardization and Compatibility: Collaborative efforts can lead to the development of common standards and protocols for quantum technologies.
- Security and Cybersecurity: Quantum technologies also pose security challenges, particularly in the context of cryptography. International cooperation is essential for devising quantum-resistant encryption methods and strengthening global cybersecurity efforts to protect sensitive information from quantum threats.
- Economic Benefits: Quantum technologies have the potential to drive economic growth and create high-tech jobs. International collaboration expands market opportunities, fosters economic synergies, and bolsters the quantum industry globally.
Impediments to international cooperation in the field of quantum computing
- Growing Dominance of China:
- China’s significant investment in quantum technologies and its Thousand Talents Plan have led to concerns about its growing dominance in the field.
- There have been allegations of scientists illicitly sharing technology and research findings with China, which has raised suspicions and contributed to a more cautious approach among countries regarding international collaboration.
- Intellectual Property Concerns: Intellectual property (IP) concerns are a major hurdle to international cooperation. Countries and companies are wary of sharing their quantum technology innovations due to fears of IP theft or loss of competitive advantage.
- Exclusion from Initiatives: Some countries, such as the United Kingdom, Israel, and Switzerland, have reportedly been excluded from international quantum technology initiatives due to concerns about intellectual property rules.
- Competitive Race: The pursuit of developing practical quantum computers has created a competitive race among nations. Each country aims to outpace others in quantum technology development, leading to a reluctance to share information and collaborate.
- Need for Ethical and Legal Frameworks: While international cooperation is crucial, the article emphasizes the need for clear ethical and legal frameworks to govern the exchange of quantum technology-related information.
Way forward
- International Dialogue and Collaboration: Countries and organizations involved in quantum computing should continue to engage in open dialogue and collaboration. Building trust through sustained communication is essential to address concerns and foster cooperation.
- Establish Clear Ethical and Legal Frameworks: There is a need to develop clear ethical and legal frameworks that govern the exchange of quantum technology-related information. These frameworks should address intellectual property, data sharing, and cybersecurity concerns while promoting responsible conduct in the field.
- Inclusive Collaboration: Initiatives should aim for inclusivity, ensuring that countries with varying levels of technological development have opportunities to participate. Exclusionary practices should be avoided to promote a global approach to quantum technology development.
- Resource Allocation and Sharing: Collaborating nations should work together to allocate resources efficiently and fairly. Resource sharing can help balance the financial burden of quantum research and development.
- Emphasize Mutual Benefits: Emphasize the mutual benefits of international cooperation. Highlight how collaboration can lead to faster advancements, shared knowledge, and solutions to global challenges, such as climate change and cybersecurity.
Conclusion
- Quantum computing represents a transformative technological frontier with vast potential. Striking a balance between protecting intellectual property and fostering global cooperation is essential to maximize the benefits of quantum technology for humanity’s future.
Also read:
National Quantum Mission: Unlocking India’s Potential in Quantum Technology
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Khalistan movement, India-Canada relations
Central idea
- Relations between India and Canada have reached a new low, with allegations of Canadian leniency towards Khalistani supporters and accusations of India’s involvement in a recent killing. This isn’t a recent issue but a longstanding tension that dates back to the mid-20th century. The modern-day discord between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau over Khalistani extremism has exacerbated these historical strains.
Historical Roots of Khalistan Movement in Canada
- Establishment of Khalistan Office: Surjan Singh Gill established the ‘Khalistan government in exile’ office in Vancouver in 1982, issuing Khalistani passports and currency.
- Militancy’s Impact: The militancy in Punjab in the early 1980s had repercussions in Canada, leading to the emergence of organizations like the International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF), the Babbar Khalsa, and the World Sikh Organisation.
- Air India Kanishka Bombing: The Babbar Khalsa orchestrated the bombing of Air India Kanishka in 1985, resulting in 331 civilian deaths.
Recent Developments
- Strained Relations: Relations between India and Canada have deteriorated due to Canada’s alleged leniency toward Khalistani supporters. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, designated as a terrorist by India, in Surrey in June.
- Tensions Over Khalistan: Tensions related to Khalistan extremism have been ongoing for years, with Trudeau’s appointment of Sikh ministers in 2015 sparking controversy and accusations of his proximity to Khalistan sympathizers.
- Incidents Fueling Tensions: Various incidents, such as the refusal of meetings by Punjab Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh and Trudeau’s cool reception during his India visit, have exacerbated the India-Canada rift.
- Report on Sikh Extremism: Canada released a report in 2018 mentioning ‘Sikh extremism’ and Khalistan as threats, but later revised the report, removing these references, which caused further strain.
- Alliance with NDP: In March 2022, Trudeau’s Liberal Party formed an alliance with the New Democratic Party (NDP), led by Jagmeet Singh, who openly endorsed the Khalistan Referendum on Canadian soil.
- G20 Summit Concerns: During the recent G20 summit in New Delhi, PM Modi expressed strong concerns about continuing anti-India activities of extremist elements in Canada.
Sikh Community’s Influence
- Political Influence: Canada’s Sikh community, constituting approximately 2 percent of the population, has gained significant political influence. This is evident through the election of Sikh Members of Parliament and their active involvement in Canadian politics.
- Representation in Canadian Parliament: Sikh Canadians have been elected to important political positions, including Members of Parliament. In 2019, there were 18 Sikh MPs in the Canadian parliament, surpassing the number of Sikh MPs in India.
- Cultural Impact: Sikh festivals, notably Vaisakhi, are widely celebrated in Canada and have become integral to the country’s multicultural tapestry.
- Social Activism: Sikh organizations in Canada are known for their social and humanitarian initiatives, including providing free meals (langar) to those in need. This commitment to community welfare is a notable aspect of their influence.
- Business and Economic Contributions: Sikh Canadians have made significant contributions to Canada’s business and economic landscape, with many Sikh-owned businesses playing key roles in the country’s economy.
Changing Political Landscape
- Varied Responses: Canada’s stance on the Khalistan movement has shifted over the years, with some governments engaging with Khalistanis while others sought reconciliation with India.
- Strong Relations under Stephen Harper: During Stephen Harper’s tenure as Canadian PM, Canada and India enjoyed strong relations, marked by high-level visits and agreements.
- Efforts at Reconciliation: Both the Modi and Harper governments initially made efforts toward reconciliation, including removing individuals from blacklists and engaging with radicals.
Consequences and Perspectives
- Impact on Bilateral Relations: The tensions related to Khalistan have strained India-Canada bilateral relations, affecting diplomatic interactions and cooperation in various areas such as trade, counter-terrorism, and education.
- Security Concerns: Both countries have expressed concerns about the presence and activities of Khalistani extremists on their respective soils, which have led to heightened security measures and intelligence sharing.
- Asylum Claims: The increase in asylum claims by Indian nationals in Canada, particularly from Punjab, is seen as a consequence of the Khalistan-related tensions. This has created a complex immigration challenge for Canadian authorities.
- Shift in Focus: The article suggests that Canada’s focus on Khalistan has sometimes overshadowed other important aspects of the bilateral relationship, potentially hampering broader cooperation.
- Changing Perceptions: The research paper mentioned in the article indicates that interest in the Khalistan movement in Canada is waning, especially among younger generations. This shift in perceptions could impact the future of the movement.
Way Forward
- Diplomatic Engagement: The way forward in resolving the tensions related to Khalistan may involve sustained diplomatic engagement and dialogue between India and Canada to address each other’s concerns and find common ground.
- Counter-Terrorism Cooperation: Both countries can enhance their cooperation on counter-terrorism measures, intelligence sharing, and law enforcement efforts to counter any extremist activities effectively.
- Community Outreach: Canadian authorities can engage with the Sikh community to better understand their concerns and perspectives while ensuring that Canada’s commitment to multiculturalism and diversity is respected.
- Balanced Foreign Policy: Canada can aim for a balanced foreign policy that addresses the aspirations of its Sikh community while maintaining strong diplomatic relations with India, a significant global partner.
- Promotion of Dialogue: Encouraging dialogue and understanding among different communities and advocacy groups within Canada can contribute to peaceful coexistence and reduce tensions related to Khalistan.
- Addressing Root Causes: Exploring the root causes of extremism and radicalization within the Sikh community and working together to address them can be a proactive step toward preventing future tensions.
Conclusion
- The enduring strain in India-Canada relations over Khalistan remains a complex issue rooted in historical events and contemporary political dynamics. Resolving these tensions will require nuanced diplomacy and a deeper understanding of the evolving nature of the Khalistan movement within Canada.
Also read:
Khalistani Movement in Canada
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