Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: New Education Policy, 2020
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The Parliament Standing Committee on Education presented a report during a special parliamentary session focused on the “Implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP), 2020 in Higher Education.”
Report Highlights
- Salient NEP Features: The report examined the key aspects of NEP’s application in higher education and assessed the progress achieved thus far. The committee engaged with representatives from State governments, Union Ministries, higher education institutions, and stakeholders to compile the report.
- State’s Role: The report emphasized the significance of State governments, as approximately 70% of the country’s 1,043 universities operate under State Acts. Furthermore, 94% of students are enrolled in State or private institutions, while only 6% attend Central higher educational institutions.
Key Issues Discussed
- Rigid Disciplinary Separation: The committee addressed issues such as the inflexible division of disciplines in higher education.
- Limited Access in Disadvantaged Areas: It acknowledged the limited access to higher education in socio-economically disadvantaged regions.
- Language of Instruction: The report highlighted the dearth of higher education institutes (HEIs) offering education in local languages.
- Faculty Shortage: The committee noted the shortage of faculty members in HEIs.
- Lack of Autonomy: Concerns about institutional autonomy and insufficient emphasis on research were also raised.
- Regulatory System: The report identified the regulatory system as ineffective and criticized low standards of undergraduate education.
Recommendations
- Expansion of Multidisciplinary HEIs: The committee recommended that by 2030, every district in India should have at least one multidisciplinary higher education institution.
- Enrolment Ratio Increase: It called for increasing the Gross Enrolment Ratio in higher education, including vocational education, from 26.3% in 2018 to 50% by 2035.
- Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Groups (SEDGs): Actions proposed included allocating suitable funds for SEDGs, setting higher enrolment targets for SEDGs, improving gender balance in HEI admissions, offering more financial assistance and scholarships, ensuring inclusive admission processes and curricula, enhancing employability potential of higher education programs, and developing courses taught in regional languages and bilingually.
- Infrastructure for Physically Challenged: Specific infrastructural enhancements were recommended to support physically challenged students, along with strict enforcement of non-discrimination and anti-harassment rules.
- NEP Implementation in Jammu and Kashmir: The committee commended Jammu and Kashmir for its prompt implementation of NEP in all higher educational institutions from the 2022 academic session. It noted positive changes in teaching methods leading to enhanced lifelong learning opportunities for students.
Funding Enhancement and Diversification
- Effective Use of HEFA: The committee suggested improving the Higher Education Financing Agency (HEFA) to enhance funding for HEIs.
- Diversified Funding Sources: It advised HEFA to diversify funding sources beyond government allocations by exploring partnerships with private sector organizations, philanthropic foundations, and international financial institutions.
- Loan Interest Rates: The committee recommended reviewing and adjusting interest rates on loans provided by HEFA to make them more competitive and affordable for HEIs.
Concerns about MEME Program
- Feasibility Challenges: The panel raised concerns about the feasibility of implementing the multiple entry and multiple exit (MEME) system in Indian institutions.
- Predictability Issues: MEME’s flexible structure, effective in Western educational institutions, might pose challenges in the country. Predicting student entry and exit numbers could disrupt the pupil-teacher ratio.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Development diplomacy, The India-France Development Partnership, Cooperation in Indo pacific
What’s the news?
- In a recent development, the Indo-French partnership, celebrating its 25th anniversary, reaffirmed its commitment to tackling sustainable development challenges in the Indo-Pacific through innovative strategies and regional collaboration.
Central idea
- The Indo-Pacific region has emerged as a critical geographic hotspot for sustainable development in the 21st century. India and France, as resident powers and close allies sharing democratic values and a commitment to multilateralism, play pivotal roles in this context. Their 25-year-old strategic partnership is now geared towards Agenda 2030, as outlined in the ambitious ‘India-France Indo-Pacific Roadmap’ within ‘Horizon 2047.
What is development diplomacy?
- Development diplomacy, also known as development-oriented diplomacy, is a diplomatic approach that seeks to promote and advance a country’s development goals and objectives through its foreign policy and international relations.
- It involves using diplomatic tools, negotiations, and cooperation with other countries and international organizations to address issues related to economic development, poverty reduction, social progress, and sustainability.
The significant role of development diplomacy in shaping global relations
- Bridge Between Foreign Policy and Development Cooperation:
- Development diplomacy is occupying a crucial space that bridges foreign policy and development cooperation.
- This integration of diplomacy and development efforts allows countries to pursue their foreign policy objectives while simultaneously working toward global development goals.
- Benefit for the Global South:
- Development diplomacy is particularly beneficial for countries in the Global South. These nations often face substantial development challenges, including poverty, infrastructure deficits, and limited access to financing.
- Development diplomacy can help them access resources, technology, and expertise from other countries and international organizations.
- India’s successful G20 presidency was a pivotal moment that emphasized the importance of development cooperation on the global stage. During its presidency, India focused on connecting with low-income countries and small island developing states (SIDS).
- This outreach demonstrates how development diplomacy can be a key instrument for building partnerships, addressing common challenges, and fostering solidarity among nations.
- Bridging the North-South Gap:
- Development diplomacy, as exemplified by India’s engagement during its G20 presidency, serves as a means to bridge the gap between the Global North (developed countries) and the Global South (developing countries).
- It promotes cooperation, knowledge sharing, and resource allocation to support sustainable development in regions that need it most.
French Presence in the Indian Ocean
- Overseas Territories: France has several overseas territories and departments in the Indian Ocean, including Réunion Island, Mayotte, and the French Southern and Antarctic Lands (TAAF). These territories are integral parts of France and are located strategically in the Indian Ocean.
- Naval Bases: France maintains important naval bases in the Indian Ocean, notably in Réunion and Mayotte. These bases serve as key hubs for French naval operations in the region, including patrolling and securing maritime routes.
- Military Presence: France deploys military assets to protect its interests and contribute to regional security in the Indian Ocean. This includes naval vessels, aircraft, and troops stationed in the area. These forces are often involved in counter-piracy operations and maritime security efforts.
- Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs): France’s overseas territories in the Indian Ocean have large Exclusive Economic Zones, which grant them jurisdiction over significant maritime areas. These zones are valuable for fisheries, resource exploration, and scientific research.
- Geopolitical Interests: France’s presence in the Indian Ocean is driven by various geopolitical interests. These include ensuring the security of its overseas territories, protecting maritime trade routes, countering piracy and illegal fishing, and participating in regional stability efforts.
- Cooperation with Regional Partners: France collaborates with regional partners and organizations in the Indian Ocean, such as the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) and the African Union, to address common challenges, including environmental protection, security, and economic development.
- Economic Engagement: France is involved in economic activities in the Indian Ocean region, including trade, investment, and development assistance. French companies operate in sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and tourism.
Indo-French Strategic Cooperation
- Geographic Significance: The Indo-Pacific region is highlighted as a critical geographic hotspot for sustainable development in the 21st century, and both India and France are described as resident powers and close allies with significant stakes in the region.
- Shared Values: India and France are characterized as bilateral trade partners who share the core values of democracy and a commitment to multilateralism. Their strategic partnership is noted as being particularly relevant to the Indo-Pacific region.
- Long-Standing Partnership: The partnership between India and France has reached the milestone of 25 years, and both countries express a keen interest in strengthening their cooperation towards achieving Agenda 2030, as outlined in the India-France Indo-Pacific Roadmap within the framework of Horizon 2047.
- Areas of Cooperation: India and France have formulated several mutually beneficial cooperation agreements covering various sectors, including defense, climate, economic, maritime, and civil nuclear domains. Their shared geopolitical interests and developmental agendas are cited as key drivers of this cooperation.
- Diplomatic Peak: The diplomatic relationship between India and France is described as being at its peak, with both nations poised for a policy dialogue to further their cooperation in supporting sovereign efforts and addressing developmental challenges with a focus on sustainability.
- Global Impact: The significance of development diplomacy is significant. Development diplomacy is a crucial tool for many countries in the Global South that lack resources and access to finance.
- G20 Presidency: India’s G20 presidency is highlighted as an opportunity for the country to contribute to and lead global development efforts in the post-pandemic world.
- Data Analysis: India and France are noted for their involvement in data analysis using satellite technologies, although specific details are not provided.
Addressing Challenges in Sustainable Development
- Defining Green Projects: The ambiguity surrounding the definition of green projects poses a significant obstacle to sustainable development. India and France can take the lead in setting clear standards and criteria for such projects, establishing a common framework that encompasses environmental, social, and economic factors.
- Bridging the Start-up Financing Gap: Start-ups are often the breeding ground for innovative, sustainable solutions, yet they face financing hurdles. India and France can collaborate to create dedicated funds and venture capital networks focused on green and sustainable start-ups.
- Enhancing Data Collection and Analysis: Accurate and accessible data is the backbone of informed decision-making. Leveraging their expertise in data analysis and satellite technology, India and France can establish a regional data repository.
- Encouraging Private Sector Engagement: The private sector is a potent force in driving sustainability. Both countries can incentivize businesses by offering tax incentives, subsidies, or preferential treatment to companies that embrace sustainable practices.
- Promoting Regional Cooperation: Sustainable development challenges often transcend borders. India and France can lead by example, initiating regional cooperation efforts. These may include co-funding cross-border infrastructure projects, facilitating knowledge sharing among Indo-Pacific nations.
Conclusion
- The India-France Development Partnership in the Indo-Pacific holds immense promise for realizing Agenda 2030s sustainable development goals. As resident powers and close allies, India and France are well-positioned to lead the way in addressing the region’s development challenges and fostering sustainability.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: SWI report and its findings
Mains level: The relationship between economic growth and employment in India, Reasons, challenges, and framework for change
What’s the news?
- A recent report, SWI 2023, has brought to light the disconcerting disparity between India’s relentless pursuit of GDP growth and the stark reality of inadequate job creation.
Central idea
- In the realm of policy decisions, a fundamental question often arises: Should the focus be on accelerating economic growth or ensuring widespread employment opportunities? A recent report, India is Broken and the State of Working India 2023, draws insights on how India’s growth trajectory impacts employment, emphasizing the need to consider various social factors in this equation.
The State of Working India 2023 (SWI) Report
- SWI 2023, focusing on a long-term perspective, analyzes data from 1983 to 2023, emphasizing social identities like caste, gender, and religion.
- It highlights how GDP growth benefits are distributed unevenly among various segments of society.
- The quality of jobs created is a crucial aspect of distinguishing between regular-wage jobs and self-employment.
The relationship between economic growth and employment in India
- Job Creation Challenge: The report emphasizes that job creation remains one of India’s most significant macroeconomic challenges. Despite the pursuit of high GDP growth, the report suggests that the correlation between economic growth and employment generation has weakened over time.
- Weakening Employment Elasticity: Employment elasticity, which measures the extent to which employment grows when GDP grows by one unit, has consistently declined since the 1980s. This decline indicates that a 1% increase in GDP now results in less than a 1% increase in employment.
- Recent Trends: The period from 2017 to 2021 showed a notable improvement in employment. However, this improvement came with nuances. While employment numbers increased, it’s essential to distinguish between jobs created due to economic growth and those created out of necessity (self-employment).
- Quality of Jobs: The SWI 2023 report underscores the importance of considering the quality of jobs created. Not all employment opportunities are equal, and the report highlights the prevalence of self-employment, which often lacks regular wages and job security.
- Impact on Women: The changing employment landscape disproportionately affects women. Although women accounted for half of the lost employment during the specified period, they received only a third of the increase in formal employment. This shift also saw more individuals turning to self-employment due to economic distress.
- Uncorrelated Growth: The report’s broader takeaway is that over the long run, GDP growth and employment growth have been uncorrelated in India. This suggests that policies solely oriented towards achieving higher GDP growth rates may not necessarily lead to accelerated job creation.
The dominance of GDP growth
- For years, India’s national discourse has been dominated by the pursuit of high GDP growth rates as the primary indicator of economic progress.
- The belief has been that rapid economic growth will naturally lead to increased employment opportunities.
- However, recent developments challenge this conventional wisdom, prompting us to reconsider our priorities.
The US perspective
- In contrast to India’s GDP-centric approach, the United States, the world’s largest economy, places a strong emphasis on employment levels.
- The Chairman of the US Federal Reserve, Jay Powell, consistently highlights the importance of achieving full employment while maintaining price stability.
Why does India not prioritize employment to the same degree?
- Historical Perspective: India’s approach to economic development has been influenced by its post-independence history. When India gained independence in 1947, it faced widespread poverty, and economic growth was seen as a means to uplift the masses.
- Development Paradigm: India adopted a development paradigm that prioritized industrialization and capital-intensive sectors. The belief was that as industries expanded, they would naturally absorb labor.
- Policy Framework: India’s economic policies, especially since the 1991 economic reforms, have largely centered on liberalization, privatization, and globalization. These policies aimed to attract foreign investment and promote private sector growth, often with an emphasis on manufacturing and services. While these policies aimed at increasing overall economic output, they did not always address the issue of employment directly.
- Data Focus: Economic policymakers often rely on GDP growth as a quantifiable and easily measurable metric to gauge economic performance. Employment data can be more complex to collect and interpret, and the focus on GDP growth has made it the primary indicator of success.
- Political Considerations: Political leaders and parties have, at times, used the promise of high GDP growth as a way to gain popular support and demonstrate economic progress to the electorate. This political narrative has reinforced the emphasis on GDP growth.
- Globalization Trends: The global trend toward globalization and competitiveness has also influenced India’s priorities. The country has sought to position itself as a global economic player, and this often involves pursuing policies that align with international economic norms, including a focus on GDP growth.
- Lack of Comprehensive Social Safety Nets: India’s social safety nets and social security systems have historically been limited in coverage and effectiveness. As a result, there may be a perception that focusing on GDP growth is essential to lifting people out of poverty, as job opportunities are seen as the primary means of economic betterment.
A Framework for Change: Rethinking India’s Growth Strategy
- Promote labor-intensive manufacturing:
- Encourage industries that have the potential for labor-intensive manufacturing, such as textiles, electronics assembly, and agro-processing.
- Implement policies and incentives to attract investments in these sectors, as they can create a significant number of jobs.
- Invest in skill development and training.
- Establish comprehensive skill development programs to enhance the employability of the workforce.
- Collaborate with industries to design training programs that align with their specific needs, ensuring that workers are adequately prepared for available job opportunities.
- Support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs):
- Provide targeted support to MSMEs, which often generate substantial employment.
- Simplify regulations and reduce bureaucratic hurdles for MSMEs to encourage their growth.
- Green Manufacturing and Sustainable Industries:
- Explore opportunities in green manufacturing and sustainable industries, aligning with global trends toward environmentally friendly practices.
- Invest in renewable energy, eco-friendly technologies, and sustainable agriculture, which can create employment while contributing to environmental goals.
- Infrastructure Development in Rural Areas:
- Develop infrastructure in rural areas to facilitate economic activities and job creation outside of urban centers.
- Improve connectivity, transportation, and access to markets to boost rural employment opportunities.
- Focus on the formalization of jobs:
- Implement policies that encourage the formalization of employment, including ensuring written contracts and providing benefits to workers.
- Address labor market informality to improve job quality and security.
- Gender-Inclusive Policies:
- Develop and enforce policies that promote gender equality in the workforce.
- Encourage women’s participation in the labor market through initiatives such as affordable childcare facilities and measures to reduce workplace harassment.
- Social Safety Nets:
- Strengthen social safety nets to provide a cushion for workers during periods of economic volatility.
- Ensure that unemployment benefits, healthcare, and retirement provisions are accessible and effective.
- National Employment Policy:
- Develop and implement a comprehensive national employment policy that outlines a long-term vision and strategy for job creation.
- Address both the supply and demand sides of the labor market and promote the quantity and quality of employment.
- Global Trade and Export Promotion:
- Actively engage in global trade and export promotion, which can stimulate economic growth and create jobs.
- Identify and target export-oriented industries with growth potential.
- Decentralized Economic Development:
- Promote economic decentralization by encouraging the development of regional and local economies.
- Invest in infrastructure, skills, and entrepreneurship in underdeveloped regions to reduce regional disparities.
Conclusion
- The time has come for India to reconsider its economic priorities. While GDP growth remains important, a greater emphasis on job creation, especially quality employment, is crucial for sustainable and inclusive development. The findings of the SWI 2023 report offer a compelling case for Indian policymakers to shift their focus towards strategies that prioritize employment generation, ensuring that the benefits of growth are shared by all segments of society.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Digital India Act, 2023
Mains level: AI Governance Challenge and measures
What’s the news?
- India is poised to take center stage in the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with the upcoming Global AI Summit and the GPAI Global Summit.
Central idea
- As AI is projected to contribute significantly to India’s economy, accounting for 10% of its GDP by 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has rightly called for a global framework on the ethical expansion of AI. In this context, it is imperative that India address the unique challenges concerning children and adolescents in the AI landscape.
What is the Digital India Act, 2023?
- The act is new legislation that aims to overhaul the decades-old Information Technology Act of 2000.
- The Act covers a range of topics such as AI, cybercrime, data protection, deepfakes, competition issues among internet platforms, and online safety.
- The Act also aims to address new complex forms of user harm that have emerged in the years since the IT Act’s enactment, such as catfishing, doxxing, trolling, and phishing.
- Creating new regulations around newer technology, including 5G, IoT devices, cloud computing, the metaverse, blockchain, and cryptocurrency
- Reclassifying online intermediaries into separate categories instead of one general intermediary label, each with its own set of regulations
- Removing safe harbor immunity for online intermediaries for purposeful misinformation or other content violations from third parties
- Creating digital standards and laws regarding artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technology
- Criminalizing cyberbullying, identity theft, and unauthorized sharing of personal information without consent.
Addressing the Governance Challenge through the Digital India Act
- Establish a regulatory framework that aligns industry incentives with the well-being of young users.
- Implement measures to combat exploitative AI practices, ensuring the safety and mental health of children and adolescents.
- Provide guidance and tools for families to navigate the digital landscape responsibly.
- Promote inclusivity and fairness by addressing biases and discrimination in AI systems.
- Revise data protection provisions to strike a balance between privacy and personalization, recognizing the unique needs of young users.
Way Forward: Rethinking Child-Centric AI Regulation
- International Best Practices:
- India can draw on international best practices to develop child-centric AI regulations.
- UNICEF’s guidance for policymakers on AI and children, aligned with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, provides a framework for creating an enabling environment that prioritizes children’s well-being, inclusion, fairness, non-discrimination, safety, transparency, explaining ability, and accountability.
- Learning from California’s Age-Appropriate Design Code Act, Indian authorities can push for transparency in digital services by configuring default privacy settings, assessing the impact of algorithms and data collection on children, and using age-appropriate language for user-facing information.
- Research on AI’s benefits and risks for Indian children and adolescents should inform the development of an Indian Age-Appropriate Design Code for AI.
- Establishing institutions for regular dialogue with children and adolescents is crucial.
- Similar to Australia’s Online Safety Youth Advisory Council, these institutions could comprise individuals between the ages of 13 and 24.
- Such entities will help regulators better understand the threats young people face while interacting with AI systems and preserve the benefits they derive from digital services.
Conclusion
- In the era of rapidly evolving AI, India’s regulatory approach must prioritize openness, trust, and accountability over rigid prescriptions. As India progresses towards comprehensive Internet regulation and seeks to lead in global AI governance, safeguarding the interests of its young citizens should remain at the forefront of its policy agenda.
Also read:
Laying the foundation for a future-ready digital India
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Gurez Valley
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The high-altitude passes within the Gurez valley, located in northern Kashmir, are now linked to the Mushkoh valley in the Drass Sector of Kargil, Ladakh. This region was a significant site during the 1999 war.
- The newly established 130-kilometer road has been opened to tourists, and one of its highest passes, Kaobal Gali, situated at an elevation of 4,166.9 meters in Gurez, serves as the vital link connecting these two valleys.
About Gurez Valley
- Found in the Kashmir valley, Gurez is positioned near the Line of Control, which separates it from Pakistan-administered Kashmir’s Astore and Neelum districts.
- The local inhabitants are primarily ethnic Dards/Shins who speak the Shina language and share similar dress and cultural traditions with their counterparts in Pakistani-administered Gilgit-Baltistan.
- The Buduaab village within Gurez valley is known for its Zumba yak, a smaller breed compared to other yaks.
- Gurez valley played a significant role in the Kargil war.
- It is closely situated to the Line of Control (LoC), with the Kishanganga river delineating the border in multiple areas.
- Unique to the Gurez valley is the presence of villages constructed entirely of log houses, devoid of modern urban construction materials.
- The region boasts diverse fauna and wildlife, including species such as the Himalayan brown bear, snow leopard, ibex, musk deer, and marmots.
- With approximately 38,000 inhabitants, the Gurez valley has already welcomed an impressive 50,000 tourists this year.
Back2Basisc: Mushkoh Valley
- Located in Dras, Ladakh, the Mushkoh valley is also renowned as the “valley of wild tulips.”
- The valley gained notoriety due to the fierce battle at Tiger Hill during a conflict between India and Pakistan, resulting in numerous casualties on both sides.
- Mushkoh valley’s meadows are adorned with vibrant wild tulip flowers, and it is home to the endangered Himalayan yew.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Sikh Diaspora
Central Idea
- Canadian PM recently shared evidence with India, alleging the involvement of Indian agents in the killing of pro-Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
- This claim triggered a diplomatic stand-off between Canada and India, with India accusing Canada of sheltering Khalistani terrorists and extremists.
Sikh Diaspora in Canada
- Significant Population: According to the 2021 Canadian census, Sikhs account for 2.1% of Canada’s population, making Canada home to the largest Sikh population outside India.
- Historical Migration: Sikhs have been migrating to Canada for over a century, primarily driven by their involvement in the British Empire’s armed services.
- Expansion of the Empire: Wherever the British Empire expanded, Sikhs migrated, including countries in the Far East and East Africa.
Early Years of Sikh Migration
- Queen Victoria’s Jubilee: Sikh migration to Canada began in 1897 during Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. Kesur Singh, a Risaldar Major in the British India Army, is considered one of the first Sikh settlers to arrive in Canada that year.
- Laborers and Sojourners: The first significant wave of Sikh migration to Canada occurred in the early 1900s, with most migrants working as laborers in British Columbia’s logging industry and Ontario’s manufacturing sector.
- Intent to Remit: Many of the early Sikh immigrants were sojourners, intending to stay for only a few years and remit their savings back to India.
Challenges and Pushback
- Hostility and Prejudice: Sikh migrants faced hostility from locals who perceived them as job competitors. They also encountered racial and cultural prejudices.
- Tightened Regulations: Due to mounting public pressure, the Canadian government imposed stringent regulations, such as requiring Asian immigrants to possess a specified sum of money and arrive only via a continuous journey from their country of origin.
- Komagata Maru Incident: In 1914, the Komagata Maru incident occurred, where a ship carrying 376 South Asian passengers, mostly Sikhs, was detained in Vancouver for two months and then forced to return to Asia. This incident resulted in fatalities.
Turning Point after World War II
- Relaxing Immigration Policy: After World War II, Canada’s immigration policy shifted for several reasons, including a commitment to the United Nations’ stance against racial discrimination, economic expansion, and a need for laborers.
- Importance of Human Capital: Canada turned to third-world countries for the import of human capital, leading to a decline in European immigration.
- Points System: In 1967, Canada introduced the ‘points system,’ focusing on skills as the main criterion for non-dependent relatives’ admission, eliminating racial preferences.
Conclusion
- The history of Sikh migration to Canada spans over a century, marked by challenges, prejudice, and policy changes.
- Today, Canada is home to a thriving Sikh community, showcasing the transformative journey from early struggles to a more inclusive and skill-based immigration system.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Nilgiri Tahr
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- In a continued effort to conserve the Nilgiri Tahr, Tamil Nadu launched Project Nilgiri Tahr last year.
- Now, the state is focusing on establishing a standardized protocol with Kerala for counting the population of this endangered species.
About Nilgiri Tahr
IUCN Conservation Status: Endangered
Wildlife (Protection) Act of India, 1972: Schedule I
- It is endemic to the Nilgiri Hills and the southern portion of the Western Ghats in the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala in Southern India.
- It is the state animal of Tamil Nadu.
- The Nilgiri tahr inhabits the open montane grassland habitat of the South Western Ghats montane rain forests eco-region.
- At elevations from 1,200 to 2,600 metres (3,900 to 8,500 ft), the forests open into grasslands interspersed with pockets of stunted forests, locally known as sholas.
- Eravikulam National Park is home to the largest population of this Tahr.
- It is estimated that there are 3,122 Nilgiri Tahrs in the wild. It has become locally extinct in around 14% of its traditional shola forest-grassland habitat.
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Nilgiri Tahr Conservation Project
- Under The Nilgiri Tahr project, TN government plans to develop a better understanding of the Nilgiri Tahr population through-
- Surveys and radio telemetry studies;
- Reintroduce the Tahrs to their historical habitat;
- Address proximate threats; and
- Increase public awareness of the species.
- The project is to be implemented from 2022 to 2027.
- Furthermore, October 7 will be celebrated as ‘Niligiri Tahr Day’ in honour of E.R.C. Davidar, who was responsible for pioneering one of the first studies of the species in 1975.
Historic significance of Nilgiri Tahr
- There are multiple references to the Nilgiri Tahr in Tamil Sangam literature dating back to 2,000 years.
- The late Mesolithic (10,000-4,000 BC) paintings highlight the significance of the Tahr in folklore, culture and life.
- It was designated as the State animal in recognition of its ecological and cultural significance.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Global Debt
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- Record High: The Institute of International Finance (IIF) reported that global debt reached an all-time high of $307 trillion by the end of June 2023, marking an increase of about $100 trillion over the last decade.
- Debt-GDP Ratio: After seven consecutive quarters of decline, global debt as a share of gross domestic product (GDP) has started rising again, reaching 336%.
Understanding Global Debt
- Global debt encompasses borrowings by governments (sovereign), private businesses, and individuals.
- Governments borrow to cover various expenses and pay interest on past debts, while the private sector borrows primarily for investments.
Drivers of Rising Global Debt
- Historical Trend: Both nominal global debt and the debt-to-GDP ratio have been steadily increasing over the years. The pandemic briefly halted this trend as economic activity slowed, but debt levels have been on the rise again.
- Advanced Economies: Over 80% of the first-half increase in global debt came from advanced economies like the U.S., the U.K., Japan, and France. Among emerging markets, China, India, and Brazil saw substantial debt growth.
- Surge Amid Rising Interest Rates: Despite expectations of declining demand for loans due to rising interest rates, global debt increased by $10 trillion in the first half of 2023. This trend is not unusual as increased savings often lead to higher debt levels when channelled into investments.
Inflation’s Impact on Debt
- Unique Trend: More intriguing than rising debt levels is the preceding seven consecutive quarters of declining global debt as a share of GDP before 2023.
- Inflation’s Role: The IIF attributes this decline to price inflation, which allowed governments to erode their debts denominated in local currencies through inflation. This process, known as inflating away debt, involves central banks creating new currency to pay off government debt, indirectly taxing the economy through rising prices.
Causes for Concern
- Debt Sustainability: Rising global debt levels often raise concerns about debt sustainability, especially in the case of government debt driven by reckless borrowing for populist programs.
- Impact of Rising Interest Rates: As central banks raise interest rates to combat inflation, governments with heavy debt burdens may struggle to service their debt. Rising rates could lead to defaults or attempts to inflate away the debt.
- IIF Warning: The IIF warns that the global financial infrastructure is ill-prepared to handle unsustainable domestic debt levels.
- Private Debt Concerns: Rapidly increasing private debt levels also raise alarms as they are often linked to unsustainable booms that can culminate in economic crises, particularly when such lending lacks genuine savings.
- Looming Financial Crisis: The 2008 global financial crisis serves as a recent example of an economic boom fueled by easy credit policies, such as those by the U.S. Federal Reserve, preceding an economic downturn.
Conclusion
- The surge in global debt warrants attention, given its potential implications for economic stability, sustainability, and the capacity of financial systems to address mounting debt challenges.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: OSIRIS-REx Mission
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The NASA OSIRIS-REx mission has achieved a significant milestone by successfully returning to Earth with an estimated 250 grams (8.8 ounces) of material gathered from the surface of an asteroid.
- These precious samples hold the potential to provide critical insights into differentiating authentic asteroid-origin materials from potential terrestrial contaminants or alterations across various meteorite types.
OSIRIS-REx Mission
(a) Mission Launch and Journey:
- OSIRIS-REx embarked on its journey when it was launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, in 2016.
- Over a span of two years, it traversed space to reach Bennu, a carbon-rich asteroid nestled between Earth and Mars.
(b) Orbiting Bennu:
- The spacecraft reached its destination, Bennu, in December 2018.
- It spent two years in orbit around the asteroid, conducting a comprehensive suite of measurements.
- These measurements encompassed critical aspects such as Bennu’s mass, density, albedo, surface composition, and particle environment.
- The landing site chosen on Bennu was named “Nightingale.”
(c) Notable Discoveries:
- During the reconnaissance phase, the OSIRIS-REx mission uncovered several intriguing findings:
- Bennu is classified as an active asteroid, periodically ejecting material from its surface.
- The surface of Bennu exhibited a considerably rougher terrain than initially expected, featuring numerous boulders exceeding ten meters in diameter.
- Bennu’s bulk density was found to be lower than anticipated, suggesting the presence of substantial empty space within the asteroid’s structure.
- Surface features on Bennu indicated signs of past aqueous activity, and the asteroid’s rotation was observed to be accelerating due to the YORP effect.
Previous such missions
- Previous space missions like Japan’s Hayabusa and Hayabusa2, as well as China’s Chang’e 5, have made substantial contributions to our understanding of celestial bodies and their compositions.
- The return of asteroid samples by OSIRIS-REx marks NASA’s first sample return mission since Stardust in 2006 and Genesis in 2004.
Significance of Sample Return
- The return of material directly from celestial sources, such as asteroids, comets, the solar wind, and the Moon, holds immense scientific significance.
- It provides the means to answer questions that lie beyond the scope of remote observations, landers, rovers, or even meteorites.
- Collecting samples directly from the source ensures the preservation of intricate details that may otherwise be lost during a meteorite’s passage through Earth’s atmosphere and subsequent impact.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Draft Patent Amendment Rules
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- On August 23, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade in India unveiled draft patent amendment rules.
- These changes, if enacted, may have significant implications for pharmaceutical companies and patients, particularly in the global South.
Draft Patent Amendment Rules: Key takeaways
- Financial Burden: A notable modification is the introduction of variable fees for filing pre-grant oppositions, potentially placing a substantial financial burden on civil society organizations and patient groups.
- Maintainability Decision: Of particular concern is the provision granting the controller the authority to determine the maintainability of representation by individuals or civil society organizations seeking to file pre-grant oppositions.
Impact on Public Health Safeguards
- Key Public Health Safeguard: Pre-grant opposition serves as a crucial public health safeguard against practices like patent evergreening and the granting of unwarranted monopolies. It ensures continued accessibility to quality-assured and affordable generic medicines.
- Lobbying for Weakened Safeguards: The draft amendment rules have raised concerns that they may undermine these safeguards and potentially extend patent protection on frivolous grounds. Big pharmaceutical companies have long lobbied to remove critical safeguards from India’s patent laws.
Critiques and Concerns
- Lack of Rational Basis: Critics argue that the rules’ provision for controller-determined maintainability lacks a rational basis and may create more problems. Without clear guidelines, decisions on the eligibility of pre-grant opposition filers could become arbitrary.
- Favouring Corporations: Some believe that the government is aligning with pharmaceutical companies’ interests, as these corporations often seek to limit pre-grant opposition.
- Unique Provision at Risk: Pre-grant opposition, an exceptional provision within the Indian Patent Act, has been crucial in protecting public health interests. Weakening this provision could have dire consequences for patients and the generic drug industry.
Precedents of Successful Opposition
- Past Precedents: Pre-grant opposition filed by patient groups and civil society organizations has led to the rejection of patent extensions pursued by pharmaceutical companies based on weak claims of “novel invention.”
- Notable Instances: Examples include opposition to patents for drugs like Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), Nevirapine, Glivec (imatinib mesylate), Zidovudine/Lamivudine (HIV medicines), and Lopinavir/Ritonavir (HIV medicines).
Potential Ramifications
- Global Implications: The proposed changes could disproportionately impact patients in India and the global South, who heavily rely on India’s production of affordable generic drugs and vaccines.
- Threat to Access: Weakening pre-grant opposition may impede access to essential medicines, putting patients at risk and affecting the generic drug industry.
- Concerns Raised: Experts emphasize that any erosion of this provision within the Indian Patent Act would be a significant change, jeopardizing patients’ ability to access affordable medications and enabling pharmaceutical corporations to exert greater control over the market.
Conclusion
- The draft patent amendment rules have sparked concerns that they may undermine essential safeguards, potentially benefiting pharmaceutical giants while posing a threat to patients’ access to affordable medicines.
- The pivotal role of pre-grant opposition in safeguarding public health interests is at risk, raising questions about the impact on patients in India and beyond.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Tripitaka
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- A team from Buddhavanam Theme Park in Hyderabad embarked on a significant visit to Sri Lanka.
- Their destination: the third-century BC Buddhist rock-cut caves at Mathale, situated on the Colombo-Kandy route.
Why such move?
- The team noted that the teachings of Lord Buddha, known as Tripitaka (Sutra, Vinaya, and Abhidhamma pitakas), were originally transmitted orally.
- However, it was under the auspices of Sri Lankan king Devanampiya Tissa, a contemporary of King Asoka, that these teachings were written on palm leaves in Sri Lanka.
- This event marked the advent of Buddhist literature in India.
About Tripitaka
- The Tripitaka, also known as the Pali Canon, is a collection of sacred Buddhist scriptures that form the foundational texts of the Theravada Buddhist tradition.
- It is divided into three sections, known as the Tripitaka, which literally means “Three Baskets.”
History and significance
- The Tripitaka was orally transmitted from the time of Gautama Buddha in the 5th century BCE until it was eventually written down in the 1st century BCE.
- It holds immense historical and religious significance as it contains the teachings, discourses, rules, and guidelines given by the Buddha and his prominent disciples.
Composition of the Tripitaka:
(1) Vinaya Pitaka (Basket of Discipline):
- Comprises the rules and guidelines for monastic discipline in the Buddhist community.
- Provides detailed instructions on the conduct and behavior expected from monks and nuns.
- Covers various aspects, including ethical guidelines, disciplinary codes, and procedures for resolving disputes.
- Offers insights into the monastic life, the organization of the Sangha (monastic community), and the role of the monastic code in maintaining harmony and ethical conduct.
(2) Sutta Pitaka (Basket of Discourses):
- Contains the discourses and teachings delivered by Buddha and his close disciples.
- Includes a vast collection of discourses covering a wide range of topics, such as ethics, meditation, philosophy, and social issues.
- Consists of individual Suttas (discourses) grouped into different collections or Nikayas, such as the Digha Nikaya (Long Discourses), Majjhima Nikaya (Middle-Length Discourses), Samyutta Nikaya (Connected Discourses), and Anguttara Nikaya (Numerical Discourses).
- Presents the Buddha’s profound teachings on the Four Noble Truths, the Noble Eightfold Path, dependent origination, and other core concepts of Buddhism.
(3) Abhidhamma Pitaka (Basket of Higher Teachings):
- Provides a comprehensive and systematic analysis of Buddhist philosophy and psychology.
- Explores the nature of mind, consciousness, and reality in intricate detail.
- Presents the teachings in a more technical and analytical manner, offering an advanced understanding of Buddhist concepts.
- Divided into seven books, known as the Abhidhamma books, which delve into topics such as consciousness, mental factors, elements, and the path to liberation.
- Offers a deep exploration of the ultimate nature of existence and the workings of the mind.
Features and Characteristics
- Authenticity and Authority: The Tripitaka is regarded as the most authoritative and authentic collection of Buddhist scriptures in the Theravada tradition.
- Canonical Language: The texts are primarily written in Pali, an ancient Indian language close to the language spoken during the Buddha’s time.
- Extensive Coverage: The Tripitaka covers a wide range of topics, offering comprehensive guidance for practitioners in various aspects of life.
- Preservation of Early Buddhist Teachings: The Tripitaka is believed to preserve the original teachings of the Buddha, providing insights into his wisdom and teachings.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Lokmanya' Tilak and associated facts, role, contribution etc
Mains level: Lokmanya Tilak's vision, Nationalistic Ideals, role, contribution
What’s the news?
- The ten-day Ganesh festival, commencing on September 19, is celebrated nationwide with mass participation, a transformation attributed to Bal Gangadhar Tilak’s 19th-century efforts, now symbolizing India’s unity and resilience.
Central idea
- The ten-day Ganesh festival is a spectacle of devotion and festivity celebrated with enthusiasm across India, particularly in the western regions. This grand public event, characterized by mass participation, owes its transformation from a one-day private affair to a colossal celebration to the visionary nationalist leader, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, fondly known as Lokmanya or the Leader of the People.
Tilak’s Nationalistic Ideals
- Advocated Swaraj (self-rule) with unwavering commitment: Bal Gangadhar Tilak was a visionary leader who firmly believed in India’s right to self-rule. At a time when many nationalist leaders were seeking concessions from the British, Tilak boldly asserted that India should have full self-governance, known as Swaraj, as its birthright.
- Fearlessly criticized British exploitation in India: Tilak was an outspoken critic of British colonial rule in India. He fearlessly highlighted the exploitation, economic hardships, and cultural subjugation faced by Indians under British rule.
- Promoted modern civil and political rights: Tilak advocated for the modernization of India’s political and civil rights. He argued for greater political participation and civil liberties for Indians, emphasizing the need for Indians to have the same rights as citizens of other nations.
- Gained popularity through fiery rhetoric and direct language: Tilak’s communication style was marked by fiery rhetoric and direct language. He used newspapers and public speeches to communicate his ideas to a wide audience.
Tilak’s Leadership and Vision
- Emerged as a prominent mass leader in India’s anti-colonial movement: Bal Gangadhar Tilak’s leadership during the late 19th and early 20th centuries made him one of the most prominent figures in India’s anti-colonial struggle.
- Iconic declaration: Tilak’s famous declaration, Swaraj is my birthright, and I shall have it, encapsulated his determination and became a rallying cry for the Indian independence movement.
- Effectively mobilized people against British rule: Tilak’s leadership was instrumental in mobilizing people against British colonial rule. He organized protests, public meetings, and social and cultural events that galvanized support for the nationalist cause.
- Utilized Hindu imagery and symbolism in political campaigns: Tilak recognized the power of symbolism in political mobilization. He used Hindu imagery and symbolism to appeal to the cultural and religious sentiments of the majority of Indians.
The Transformation of the Ganesh Festival
- Shifted the Ganesh festival from a one-day private event: Before Tilak’s intervention, the Ganesh festival was a one-day private affair largely observed by Brahmins and upper castes. However, in 1893, Tilak initiated a transformative change by expanding the festival into a ten-day community celebration.
- Introduced community Ganpati worship in 1893: Tilak introduced the concept of community Ganpati worship during the Ganesh festival, allowing people from all social strata to participate in the festivities.
- Incorporated patriotic songs and propagated nationalist ideas: Under Tilak’s guidance, the Ganesh festival became a platform for singing patriotic songs and propagating nationalist ideas.
- Formation of Ganesh festival societies and increased youth participation: Tilak’s efforts led to the establishment of Ganesh festival societies across Maharashtra, encouraging youth participation and instilling a sense of pride, valor, and patriotism among the youth.
Shivaji Festival and Boycott Campaign
- Initiated the Shivaji festival in 1896 to inspire nationalism: In addition to the Ganesh festival, Tilak introduced the Shivaji festival in 1896 to celebrate the legacy of the Maratha king Shivaji and inspire nationalist sentiments among young Maharashtrians.
- Celebrated the legacy of Maratha King Shivaji: The Shivaji festival paid tribute to Shivaji’s role in resisting foreign rule and promoting Swaraj, instilling pride in Maharashtrians.
- Organized a campaign in Maharashtra to boycott foreign cloth: In 1896, Tilak organized a campaign in Maharashtra to boycott foreign cloth in response to the imposition of an excise duty on cotton by the British colonial administration.
- Efforts galvanized support for the nationalist cause: Both the Shivaji festival and the boycott campaign were instrumental in galvanizing support for the nationalist cause.
Controversies and Criticisms
- Accused of introducing a communal aspect to the freedom struggle: Tilak faced criticism for allegedly introducing communal elements into the freedom struggle, particularly during the communal clashes of 1893.
- Maintained a conservative stance on women’s emancipation and caste reforms: Tilak’s conservative positions on women’s rights and caste reforms were points of contention.
- Criticize the British for favoring Muslims due to fears of a Hindu majority: During the communal clashes of 1893, Tilak accused the British of being partisan towards Muslims out of fear of a growing Hindu majority.
- Left a complex legacy with an enduring impact on India’s nationalist movement: Despite the controversies and criticisms, Bal Gangadhar Tilak left a complex but indelible legacy in India’s struggle for independence, shaping the course of the nationalist movement.
Conclusion
- Bal Gangadhar Tilak’s vision and leadership and his efforts to unite and instill nationalist fervor through this festival continue to shape the way it is celebrated today. Ganesh Chaturthi stands as a symbol of India’s unity and resilience in the face of colonial rule, thanks to the foresight of Lokmanya’ Tilak.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Read the attached story
Mains level: Women’s Reservation Bill
What’s the news?
- In a historic move, Parliament passed the Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-eighth Amendment) Bill, commonly referred to as the women’s reservation Bill.
Central idea
- The Indian Parliament recently ratified the Constitution (128th Amendment) Bill. The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, as the bill is called, seeks to reserve one-third of all seats for women in the Lok Sabha, the State Legislative Assemblies. The bill received overwhelming support in both houses of Parliament and now awaits presidential assent to become law.
What does the bill say?
- Reservation for Women: The primary objective of the bill is to provide 33% reservation for women in both the Lok Sabha and the State Legislative Assemblies across India. This means that one-third of the total seats in these legislative bodies would be reserved exclusively for women candidates.
- Applicability to SCs and STs: The reservation for women extends to seats that are reserved for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies as well. This ensures that women from marginalized communities also have an opportunity to participate in the political process.
- Rotational Reservation: The bill stipulates that the seats reserved for women will be rotated after each delimitation exercise. Delimitation involves the adjustment of territorial boundaries and the allocation of seats based on population changes. This rotation ensures that women candidates have a chance to represent different constituencies over time.
The groundwork for the Women’s Reservation Bill
- The foundation for the Women’s Reservation Bill was established with the enactment of the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments in 1993.
- These amendments introduced the concept of panchayats and urban local bodies into the Indian Constitution.
- Notably, these amendments mandated a one-third (33%) reservation for women in these local governing bodies.
- This marked a significant step toward increasing women’s representation in grassroots politics.
- Building on the provisions of the 73rd and 74th Amendments, some states took progressive steps to further enhance women’s political participation.
- For example, Bihar became the first state to provide 50% reservation for women in panchayat bodies in 2006.
- Over time, more than 20 states adopted a 50% reservation for women at the panchayat level.
- Studies on Women’s Leadership:
- Academic research conducted during this period shed light on the positive influence of women’s leadership in political bodies.
- For example, a 2001 study by Raghabendra Chattopadhyay and Esther Duflo in West Bengal found that women leaders tended to invest more in infrastructure directly relevant to the needs of rural women, such as water supply, fuel availability, and roads.
- Another study conducted in Maharashtra highlighted how all-women panchayats prioritized women’s issues, showcasing the potential benefits of women’s representation in politics.
Previous attempts in the parliament over the years
- The Women’s Reservation Bill, also known as the 81st Constitution Amendment Bill, was first introduced in the Lok Sabha in 1996 by the Deve Gowda-led United Front government. This bill proposed reserving one-third of the seats in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies for women.
- It was referred to a Joint Committee for recommendations but failed to receive approval in the Lok Sabha. The bill lapsed with the dissolution of the Lok Sabha.
- In 1998, the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led National Democratic Alliance government reintroduced the Women’s Reservation Bill in the Lok Sabha.
- However, like the previous attempt, it also lapsed after the government fell in 1999.
- 1999, 2000, 2002, and 2003:
- The Women’s Reservation Bill was reintroduced in the Lok Sabha multiple times between 1999 and 2003.
- However, it faced resistance and failed to secure passage during these years.
- In 2010, the Manmohan Singh-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government tabled the Women’s Reservation Bill in the Rajya Sabha (the upper house of Parliament). This bill aimed to reserve one-third of the seats in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies for women.
- However, the bill was never taken up for consideration in the Lok Sabha and lapsed with the dissolution of the 15th Lok Sabha.
Critical issues and concerns raised by the opposition
- Delay Due to Delimitation:
- The primary concern raised by the opposition is the linkage of women’s reservations with the periodic delimitation exercise. The last delimitation order was issued in 2008, and there is a freeze on seat readjustment until the figures of the first Census held after 2026 become available.
- This has raised concerns that women’s reservations might not be implemented until the 2031 Census figures are available, causing a potential prolonged delay.
- Another significant issue raised by the Opposition is the absence of a separate reservation for OBCs in the Women’s Reservation Bill.
- While the bill provides reservations for SCs and STs, it does not include a specific provision for OBCs, despite their significant population representation.
Assurance and suggestions
- Amit Shah’s Assurance: Home Minister Amit Shah informed Parliament that the census and delimitation exercise would be conducted immediately after the general election due in 2024. This implies that the delimitation process, which has been a concern regarding potential delays in implementing women’s reservations, would be expedited.
- Owaisi’s Suggestion: Asaduddin Owaisi and Syed Imtiyaz Jaleel of the AIMIM suggested that the bill should incorporate separate quotas for Other Backward Classes (OBC) and Muslim women, as these communities are underrepresented in Parliament and legislative assemblies.
Way forward
- Timely Delimitation: The government can work on conducting the delimitation exercise promptly after the general election due in 2024, as stated by Home Minister Amit Shah. This would ensure that women’s reservation becomes a reality sooner.
- Inclusive Consultations: The concerns regarding the absence of a separate reservation for OBCs should be addressed through inclusive consultations and discussions with political parties and stakeholders.
- Research and Data: Continued research on the impact of women’s reservation at various levels of governance can provide evidence of its positive effects.
- Political Consensus: Building consensus among political parties and garnering bipartisan support for the Women’s Reservation Bill is essential. This can be achieved through dialogue, negotiations, and compromise to address the concerns of different parties.
Conclusion
- The passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill is a significant step toward promoting gender equality and women’s participation in the Indian political landscape. While it faces challenges related to delimitation and OBC representation, its historical context and potential benefits make it a pivotal moment in India’s journey towards inclusive and representative governance.
Also read:
Women’s share in Assemblies less than 10% in 20 States
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Delhi declaration , India-Middle East-Europe Corridor
Mains level: India's G- 20 presidency, Diplomatic win, key outcomes, IMEC and its significance
What’s the news?
- A historic shift in Saudi policy and key global developments raise prospects for peace; Israel’s absence at the 2023 G-20 summit draws attention.
Central idea
- The 2023 G-20 summit, held under India’s presidency, demonstrated India’s ability to address complex global challenges despite the group’s limited economic focus. India’s success at the summit, marked by various outcomes, garnered global attention.
Key Outcomes
- Inclusion of the African Union: The G-20 welcomed the African Union, expanding its reach and global inclusivity.
- Clean Energy Initiative: India offered a tangible solution through a biofuel alliance, promoting clean energy globally.
- Substantial Aid for Asia-Africa: Increased aid for Asia-Africa cooperation was pledged, promoting development in the region.
- Economic Corridor Announcement: The most significant surprise was the announcement of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, connecting India to Europe via the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Israel.
- The Delhi Declaration: A joint statement issued by all G-20 members emphasized the need for global cooperation in a fractured international order.
What is the Delhi Declaration?
- The Delhi Declaration is a joint statement issued during the 2023 G-20 Summit held under India’s presidency.
- It serves as a summary of the key agreements, commitments, and principles that member nations of the G-20, a group of major economies, endorse during the summit.
- The declaration typically addresses various global challenges, including economic issues, climate change, geopolitical concerns, and social development.
What makes the Delhi Declaration a diplomatic triumph?
- It is notable because it manages to garner the agreement of major world leaders, even in the context of international power struggles.
- Despite the absence of China’s President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin at the summit, India succeeded in obtaining their agreement for the declaration.
- This reflects India’s diplomatic acumen in bridging divides and fostering consensus among diverse nations.
- Unity Amidst Differences:
- The declaration manages to bring together countries with differing perspectives and interests. It is often challenging to find common ground on complex issues such as territorial disputes or geopolitical conflicts, but the Delhi Declaration demonstrates that the G-20 member nations can set aside differences to agree on a common agenda.
- This unity is seen as a diplomatic success in a world marked by division and discord.
- The Delhi Declaration strikes a balance between addressing global issues and not directly naming certain nations for their actions. In this case, it avoids naming Russia for its aggression against Ukraine but emphasizes the importance of upholding the United Nations charter and principles of territorial sovereignty.
- This balanced approach allows each member to find something in the declaration that aligns with their interests, contributing to its success.
- India’s diplomats and leadership employed effective diplomatic strategies in crafting the Delhi Declaration. By creating a text that caters to the interests of each member, they ensured that all participating nations could claim a win.
- This diplomatic skill in negotiation and consensus-building is viewed as a triumph for India’s presidency.
What is IMEC?
- The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor is an economic initiative aimed at creating a strategic trade and transportation corridor that connects India with the Middle East and Europe.
- It was established through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by the leaders of India, the United States, Germany, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Italy, and the EU on September 10 in New Delhi.
- IMEC envisions the development of a reliable and cost-effective transport network, including railways and ship-to-rail transit, to facilitate the movement of goods and services between India, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, and the European Union (EU).
- It seeks to offer an alternative route for trade between Asia and Europe, reducing transit times and logistics costs compared to existing maritime routes like the Suez Canal.
What makes this initiative a game-changer?
- Geopolitical Significance: The corridor’s establishment is seen as a transformative move in the geopolitics of the region. It directly challenges China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which has been a major driver of China’s influence globally. By offering an alternative route and infrastructure, it diversifies strategic options for countries in the region and potentially reduces their reliance on the BRI.
- Economic Benefits: The corridor has the potential to significantly boost trade and economic ties between India and Europe, two major economic regions. It’s expected to stimulate economic growth, create opportunities for investment, and contribute to prosperity along the corridor.
- Improved Connectivity: The project enhances connectivity between regions, not only economically but also culturally. Enhanced connectivity can foster stability and cooperation among participating countries.
- Diplomatic Significance: India’s success in securing the participation of Middle Eastern countries, including Israel, underscores its diplomatic influence and the importance of its strategic relationships in the region.
- Global Recognition: The corridor’s announcement received international recognition, with leaders like U.S. President Joe Biden acknowledging its significance. This recognition highlights its potential to have a far-reaching impact on the global economic and geopolitical landscape.
- Regional Development: The corridor has the potential to be a catalyst for regional development. It could encourage investment in infrastructure, technology, and industries along the route, leading to job creation and improved living standards for local populations.
- Security Considerations: The corridor’s success is closely tied to regional stability and cooperation. It could incentivize countries in the Middle East, including Israel and Saudi Arabia, to work towards diplomatic normalization and conflict resolution. Achieving peace in the region is crucial for the corridor’s successful realization.
Israel’s Absence from the G-20 and Possible Factors
- Israel’s absence from the 2023 G-20 summit, despite its involvement in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor project, leads to questions about the reasons behind this decision.
- Diplomatic Normalization: Diplomatic normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia may have played a role. The economic corridor project might have been linked to diplomatic normalization efforts, delaying public recognition of Israel’s involvement until full normalization was achieved.
- Avoidance of Domestic Politics: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s failure to publicly acknowledge Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative for the economic corridor could be a result of domestic political considerations. Netanyahu might have wanted to avoid appearing too eager for diplomatic achievements, given his domestic political situation.
- U.S. Administration’s Preferences: The U.S. administration’s avoidance of Netanyahu for eight months due to domestic politics suggests that U.S. preferences or concerns might have influenced Israel’s role in the summit.
- Regional Sensitivities: The complexities of the Middle East and sensitivities surrounding Israel’s involvement with Middle Eastern countries might have influenced the host’s decision on the guest list for the summit.
Way Forward: A Push for Peace
- Saudi Arabia’s Diplomatic Shift: Saudi Arabia’s decision to end its diplomatic boycott of Israel signifies a historic opportunity for progress in the Middle East. This shift should be leveraged to promote peace and stability in the region.
- Influencing Other Nations: Saudi Arabia’s acceptance of Israel could serve as a positive example for other Muslim-majority nations. Efforts should be made to encourage countries like Pakistan, Indonesia, and Malaysia to engage in diplomatic relations with Israel, fostering broader regional cooperation.
- Conditional Diplomacy: Recognizing the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, diplomatic efforts should continue with a commitment to the two-state solution and the well-being of the Palestinian people as key conditions for acceptance. This approach acknowledges the need for a just and lasting resolution.
- Promoting Negotiations: The Peace Day Effort initiated by Saudi Arabia, supported by the Arab League and the European Union, offers a path to incentivize Israeli and Palestinian leaders to come to the negotiating table. International stakeholders should continue to support and facilitate these efforts.
- Addressing Extremism: While pursuing diplomacy, it is crucial to address extremism on both sides of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Counteracting extremism and promoting dialogue and reconciliation are essential components of any sustainable peace process.
Conclusion
- The 2023 G-20 summit under India’s presidency showcased India’s leadership in addressing global challenges. Israel’s absence raised questions, but the path to diplomatic normalization and peace in the Middle East may have played a role. As India continues to drive global cooperation, the world watches with anticipation.
Also read:
India-Middle East-Europe Corridor: The way to a new world order
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Types of Majority Votes
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- In a very rare event, the Parliament passed the women’s reservation bill with a near-unanimous 2/3rd Majority Votes.
- Rajya Sabha gave the green light in an absolute majority vote.
- In Lok Sabha, 454 members voted in favour of the bill that seeks to reserve one-third of seats to women in central and state legislatures.
Types of Majority in Indian Parliament
| |
Description |
Examples of Use |
| Absolute Majority |
More than 50% of the total membership of the house. |
Formation of government at the Center and States. |
| Effective Majority |
More than 50% of the effective strength of the house (total strength minus vacancies). |
Removal of Vice-president in RS, Speaker/Deputy Speaker removal. |
| Simple Majority |
More than 50% of the members present and voting. |
Passing Ordinary/Money/Financial bills, Confidence Motion, etc. |
| Special Majority |
All majorities other than absolute, effective, or simple majority. |
Constitutional amendment bills, National emergency approval, etc. |
Types of Special Majority in Parliament
|
| Article 249 |
2/3rd members present and voting. |
Empowering Parliament to make laws in the state list. |
| Article 368 |
2/3rd members present and voting + more than 50% of the total strength of the house. |
Constitutional amendment bills not affecting federalism. |
| Article 368 + State Ratification |
2/3rd members present and voting + more than 50% of state legislatures by a simple majority. |
Constitutional amendment bills affecting federalism. |
| Article 61 |
2/3rd members of the total strength of the house. |
Impeachment of the Indian President. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Poona Pact
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- Mahatma Gandhi used fasting as a potent tool to press for change during India’s struggle for independence.
- He employed it both as a form of personal penance and as a means to pressure the British authorities to meet his demands.
The Gandhi-Ambedkar Debate
- The 1932 Turning Point: In September 1932, within the walls of the Yerawada Central Jail in Pune, Gandhi initiated a hunger strike against the idea of separate electorates for the harijans (lower castes). This action brought him into a fierce debate with another prominent leader, B.R. Ambedkar.
- The Debate’s Legacy: The “Gandhi-Ambedkar debate” revolved around their differing views on caste and ultimately influenced the reservation system that India has today.
Gandhi’s Changing Views on Caste
- Early Beliefs: In his early years, Gandhi held orthodox views on caste, supporting prohibitions on inter-dining and inter-marriage. He considered caste a crucial part of Hinduism.
- Evolution of Beliefs: As Gandhi became a central figure in India’s freedom movement, his views evolved. Partially influenced by the emerging Dalit movement, he advocated unity and opposed untouchability, referring to untouchables as “harijans” or children of God.
- Important Quote: Gandhi wrote in 1936, “I do know that it [untouchability] is harmful both to spiritual and national good.”
Ambedkar’s Radical Views on Caste
- Ambedkar’s Perspective: B.R. Ambedkar’s stance was more radical than Gandhi’s. He believed that mere reform wouldn’t undo centuries of discrimination. He argued that change would only come when the oppressed themselves rejected their condition, including the divine authority of the shastras (holy scriptures) that upheld caste.
- Political Empowerment: Ambedkar emphasized that political power was essential for lower castes to address their grievances and proposed separate electorates as a form of affirmative action.
- Separate Electorates Explained: Ambedkar’s proposal involved separate electorates for lower castes, allowing them to vote for candidates from their own community as well as in the general electorate. He believed this would empower lower castes.
Gandhi’s Opposition to Separate Electorates
- Gandhi’s Perspective: Gandhi opposed separate electorates, arguing that they did too little for lower castes. He believed that lower castes should aspire to lead, not settle for a small share of seats.
- Concerns: Gandhi feared that separate electorates would divide Hindu society further and play into the hands of British colonial rulers who exploited internal divisions.
- Challenging Times: The rising tensions between Hindus and Muslims at the time also fueled Gandhi’s concerns. Separate electorates for lower castes alongside those for Muslims would weaken the unity of the Hindu community.
The Yerawada Fast and the Poona Pact
- Gandhi’s Hunger Strike: In September 1932, Gandhi embarked on a hunger strike in Yerawada Jail against separate electorates for castes. He called it a “God-given opportunity” to sacrifice his life for the downtrodden.
- Ambedkar’s Dilemma: Ambedkar faced a challenging decision. Giving in to Gandhi’s demands was difficult, as it conflicted with his own ideas. However, Gandhi’s immense popularity and the potential for violence against Dalits pressured him.
- The Poona Pact: Eventually, under duress, Ambedkar signed the Poona Pact, securing reservations for lower castes while putting the idea of separate electorates to rest.
Legacy of the Fast
- Mixed Perspectives: Gandhi’s fast is seen by some as preventing British “divide and rule” tactics. Others view it as coercion, as Ambedkar had little choice but to concede. Ambedkar questioned why Gandhi didn’t fast against untouchability itself.
- Unresolved Tensions: The debate’s legacy endures. While the Poona Pact addressed immediate concerns, it left lingering issues of political representation and social transformation within India’s caste system.
- Ambedkar’s View: Ambedkar later wrote, “The Joint Electorate is… a ‘Rotten Borough’ in which the Hindus get the right to nominate an untouchable to set nominally as a representative of the untouchables but really as a tool of the Hindus.”
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Neuralink
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Elon Musk’s brain implant company Neuralink has announced it is one step closer to putting brain implants in people.
Neuralink’s Vision
- Neuralink uses tiny brain implants to control neural signals for movement.
- These implants translate thoughts into actions via a wireless app.
Science behind Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs)
- They use a tiny chip implanted in the brain.
- This chip reads and sends brain signals to an app, turning thoughts into actions.
- It starts with helping paralyzed individuals control a computer cursor using their thoughts.
- Some BCIs use sensor-filled structures like hairnets to detect brain signals.
- They can stimulate different parts of the brain, which showed promise in treating conditions like depression.
India’s Role in Brain Tech
- C-DAC in India is developing BCIs to capture brain signals that show intentions.
- The All India Institute of Medical Sciences is testing this project.
- BrainSight AI, an Indian startup, maps brain connections to understand neurological conditions.
Indian Innovations and Their Impact
- Indian BCIs, like Neuralink’s, aim to help paralyzed patients move and communicate.
- They could also treat mental disorders like schizophrenia.
- Indian hospitals are testing these technologies.
Challenges Ahead
- Invasive BCIs, like Neuralink’s, face rules and need lots of data.
- Non-invasive BCIs are moving faster.
- Indian institutions are actively testing these technologies and mapping the brain.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Government Bond Index-Emerging Markets (GBI-EM)
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- In a groundbreaking development, JPMorgan has announced the inclusion of Indian government bonds in its Government Bond Index-Emerging Markets (GBI-EM), slated to commence from June 2024.
- This decision could pave the way for substantial inflows of billions of dollars into local currency-denominated government debt.
What is Government Bond Index-Emerging Markets (GBI-EM)?
| Definition |
An index that tracks the performance of government bonds issued by emerging market countries.
It reflects the returns of local-currency-denominated sovereign bonds. |
| Purpose |
To provide a benchmark for measuring the performance of emerging market government bonds, helping investors assess the attractiveness of these bonds for investment. |
| Issuer |
J.P. Morgan |
| Components |
Includes government bonds issued by various emerging market countries.
The composition may change over time based on eligibility criteria. |
| Coverage |
Covers a broad range of emerging market countries and their local currency government bonds.
Different GBI-EM indices may have specific regional or maturity focuses. |
| Currency |
Denominated in the local currencies of the respective emerging market countries. |
India’s inclusion in GBI-EM
- Long-Awaited Discussion: India’s consideration for inclusion in global indexes began in 2013. However, limitations on foreign investments in domestic debt impeded progress.
- Fully Accessible Route (FAR): In April 2020, the Reserve Bank of India introduced select securities exempt from foreign investment restrictions through the “fully accessible route” (FAR), rendering them eligible for inclusion in global indexes.
- Index-Eligible Bonds: Currently, there are 23 Indian Government Bonds (IGBs) with a combined notional value of $330 billion that meet index eligibility criteria, according to JPMorgan.
- Investor Support: Approximately 73% of benchmarked investors voted in favor of India’s inclusion in the index, marking a significant endorsement.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Adi Shankaracharya
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- A monumental 108-foot-tall statue of Hindu saint Adi Shankaracharya, known as ‘Ekatmata Ki Pratima’ (Statue of Oneness), was recently unveiled in Omkareshwar, Khandwa district, Madhya Pradesh.
- This project is part of the government’s efforts to develop Omkareshwar as a prominent religious and tourism destination.
Adi Shankaracharya: A Brief Overview
- Adi Shankaracharya was a prominent Indian philosopher and theologian, often referred to as Sankara (Jagatguru). He was a staunch advocate of ancient Hinduism.
- His birthplace Kaladi in Ernakulam, Kerala, is poised to be declared a national monument.
- He received guidance from his guru, Govinda Bhagavatpada, under whom he diligently studied texts like ‘Gaudapadiya Karika,’ ‘Brahmasutra,’ Vedas, and Upanishads.
- Shankara propagated the philosophies of ‘Advaita Vedanta’ and ‘Dashanami Sampradaya,’ earning him the title ‘Shankaracharya’ among his disciples.
His Philosophy: Advaita Vedanta
- Non-Dualism: Shankaracharya’s philosophy, known as ‘Advaita Vedanta,’ espouses non-dualism.
- Ultimate Reality: It asserts that the world exists due to the creative energy (Maya) of Brahman, the ultimate, transcendent, and immanent God of the later Vedas.
- Identity of Self: In Advaita Vedanta, the transcendental self of the universe (Atman) and the experiencing self (Jiva) are both identical in truth – both are Brahman. However, the individual self appears different, akin to space inside a container seeming distinct from space as a whole.
- Overcoming Error: Mistakes and ignorance lead to a plurality (Avidya), but understanding Brahman eliminates these errors, resulting in liberation from the cycle of reincarnation and worldly servitude.
Disciples of Adi Shankaracharya
Shankaracharya’s four closest disciples played pivotal roles in propagating his teachings:
- Padmapada: Known for his deep devotion and poetry.
- Totakacharya: Devoted to Shankaracharya’s mission and revered for his poetry “Totakashtakam.”
- Hasta Malaka: A child prodigy who astounded Shankaracharya with his understanding of Advaita philosophy.
- Sureshwara: Initially a householder, he became a disciple after losing a philosophical debate to Shankaracharya.
Contributions of Adi Shankaracharya
- Shankaracharya introduced the ‘Shanmata’ system, which emphasized worship of the five principal deities and restored the Dashanami structure.
- He composed numerous devotional and meditative hymns and authored key texts on Advaita Vedanta, including commentaries on major scriptures.
- Adi Shankaracharya revitalized Hinduism at a time when it faced challenges from Jainism and Buddhism, promoting unity and re-establishing traditions.
- He established four monastic institutions (Mathas) in different corners of India, unifying the nation and codifying leadership roles:
- Sri Sringeri Sharada Peetam in Chikmaglur in Karnataka
- Jyotir Matha in the Garhwal region in Uttarakhand
- Kalika Matha in Dwarka in Gujarat
- Govardhana Matha in Puri in Odisha
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Nepal at UN
Central Idea
- Nepal’s Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, commonly known as ‘Prachanda’, addressed the UN General Assembly, highlighting that his nation is nearing the conclusion of its unique peace process.
- He emphasized the importance of completing the remaining transitional justice tasks and sought international goodwill and support.
Why discuss this?
- Challenges in Nepal: Nepal’s peace process is not without hurdles. Many Maoist leaders, including Prachanda, are accused of serious human rights violations during the 1996-2006 civil war, complicating the path to justice. Additionally, Nepal faces diplomatic challenges in balancing relationships with neighboring countries.
- Diplomatic Balancing Act: Prachanda’s upcoming visit to China is seen as an effort to maintain a balance between Nepal’s relationships with China and India. His recent visit to India strengthened ties with the southern neighbor.
- Public Scrutiny and Corruption: Amidst diplomatic endeavors, Nepal’s leaders, both in government and opposition, face public scrutiny for alleged corruption. The government’s credibility has diminished, both domestically and internationally.
Nepal and the United States
- Prachanda’s History: Prachanda’s leadership during the Maoist insurgency led to his inclusion on US global watch lists. However, he has evolved into an important figure facilitating American interests in Nepal due to the country’s strategic location.
- The MCC Nepal Compact: Prachanda played a significant role in Parliament’s endorsement of the $500 million Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Nepal compact grant in February 2022, despite China’s objections. This move led to improved Nepal-US relations.
- Geostrategic Importance: The US has been involved in Nepal’s development sectors for 75 years, particularly through USAID. However, the MCC raised concerns about Nepal’s non-aligned foreign policy and potential implications for relations with China.
Navigating Relations with China
- China’s Influence in Nepal: The economic blockade of Nepal by India in 2015 provided China with an opportunity to deepen its influence in the country. It intervened in Nepal’s politics and played a role in uniting communist parties.
- Changing Dynamics: Nepal’s relationship with India, China, and the US shifted during K.P. Sharma Oli’s tenure as Prime Minister. Trade and transit agreements with China were signed, and Nepal gained access to northern sea routes.
- COVID-19 Impact: The pandemic temporarily halted China’s development projects in Nepal. However, the acceptance of the MCC compact altered Nepal’s perspective on development partnerships with China.
- Prachanda’s Approach: Prachanda and his coalition partners appear cautious about Chinese loans and prefer grants over soft loans mentioned in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) agreements.
Challenges and Considerations
- Concerns in Nepal: The challenge lies in convincing China that the MCC is purely a developmental project without strategic or security implications. Nepal is cautious about falling into a Chinese debt trap.
- Infrastructure Projects: Prachanda may request China to provide grants and possibly waive a loan taken for the Pokhara International Airport, which currently lacks a profitable operational plan.
- China’s Strategy: China aims to expand its presence, investments, and interests in Nepal to counter the influence of the US and India. It may extend its political outreach beyond the communist parties.
View from New Delhi
- India’s Perspective: India has witnessed shifts in its relationship with Nepal, and certain aspects of the bilateral ties have weakened over time.
- Border Concerns: India has concerns about the open border with Nepal, citing potential threats to peace and law and order.
- US-India Cooperation: India and the US share concerns about the influence of major communist parties aligning in Nepal. India sees an opportunity to work with the US to manage China’s influence in the region.
- Watching Prachanda’s China Visit: India closely observes Prachanda’s visit to China to gauge the reception and how effectively he conveys Nepal’s viewpoint during discussions with Chinese leadership.
Conclusion
- Nepal faces challenges in concluding its peace process and navigating its diplomatic relationships.
- The delicate balancing act between China and India, as well as Prachanda’s diplomatic endeavors, play a pivotal role in shaping Nepal’s future on the global stage.
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