Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Republic Day Tableaux
Mains level: Not Much
Introduction
- The Defence Ministry’s proposal for a rollover plan for States and UTs to showcase their tableaux at the Republic Day parade comes amid ongoing controversies and complaints from various states.
- The plan aims to ensure that every State and UT gets an opportunity to participate within a three-year cycle, addressing the issue of limited slots (approximately 15) available each year.
Selection Process for Republic Day Tableaux
- Participants: State Governments/UT Administrations/Central Ministries/Departments are eligible to send tableaux.
- Application Process: Interested parties submit a concept note and design blueprints to the Ministry of Defence (MoD) by a specified deadline.
- Expert Committee Evaluation: The MoD appoints a committee of experts in art, culture, and related fields to evaluate the proposals in two stages:
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- Stage 1: Initial assessment of proposals and design sketches, with possible rejections or suggestions for modifications.
- Stage 2: Evaluation of three-dimensional models, leading to final selection or further modifications.
Criteria for Selection
- Factors Considered: Visual appeal, thematic relevance, detailing, accompanying music, use of local artists, and adherence to the year’s overarching theme.
- 2024 Theme: “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) and “Bharat: Loktantra ki Matrika” (India: the Mother of Democracy).
- Guidelines: The MoD specifies guidelines, including the use of young designers, electronic displays, robotics, 3D printing, augmented/virtual reality, and eco-friendly materials. Conformity to these guidelines is encouraged.
Controversies and Rejections
- Opposition-Ruled States’ Concerns: States like Karnataka, Punjab, and West Bengal have expressed dissatisfaction over their tableaux being rejected.
- Centre’s Stance: The Centre has maintained its decision without providing specific reasons for rejection.
- Possible Reasons for Rejection: Misalignment with the broader theme, as suggested by MoD sources regarding Punjab and West Bengal’s proposals.
- Political Allegations: A politician claimed that the Delhi government’s exclusion lacked justification, intending to showcase the state’s governance model.
Conclusion
- Navigating Challenges: The new rollover plan and selection process aim to balance equitable state representation with adherence to thematic and aesthetic guidelines.
- Addressing Discontent: While the plan seeks to mitigate annual complaints, it also raises questions about transparency and political considerations in the selection process.
- Future Prospects: Ensuring a transparent, inclusive, and theme-compliant selection process is crucial for maintaining the integrity and celebratory spirit of the Republic Day parade.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Amaterasu
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- In a significant scientific breakthrough, Japanese scientists discovered an ultra-high-energy cosmic ray in May 2021, which he named ‘Amaterasu’ after the Japanese sun goddess.
Discovery of Amaterasu
- Event Identification: Dr. Toshihiro Fujii, an astronomer at Osaka Metropolitan University, discovered the cosmic ray named Amaterasu.
- Measurement: Amaterasu had an energy of 240 exa-electron-volt (EeV), an extremely high level.
- Comparison with Man-Made Accelerators: This energy is about 40 million times higher than that of protons accelerated by the Large Hadron Collider (LHC).
Mystery of Amaterasu’s Origin
- Unusual Origin: Amaterasu appears to have originated from an empty part of the universe.
- Dr. Fujii’s Theories: Possible explanations include an unidentified source, interaction with a strong magnetic field, or the need for new physics models.
- Previous Records: The “Oh My God” particle, detected in 1991 with an energy of 320 EeV, remains the most energetic cosmic ray recorded.
Nature and Impact of Cosmic Rays
- Composition: Cosmic rays are streams of energetic particles, including protons and alpha particles, originating from outer space and the sun.
- Interaction with Earth: Most cosmic rays lose their energy in Earth’s atmosphere, preventing harmful high-intensity rays from reaching the surface.
- Historical Significance: Studies of cosmic rays since the 1930s have led to the discovery of many subatomic particles, although their sources and high energy remain a mystery.
Types and Origins of Cosmic Rays
- Galactic Cosmic Rays (GCR): Originating from beyond our solar system, possibly from supernovae.
- Solar Cosmic Rays: Emitted by the sun, primarily in solar flares, consisting mainly of protons.
- Composition Analysis: Studies show a helium-to-hydrogen nuclei mass ratio in cosmic rays similar to the early universe’s composition.
Implications of High-Energy Cosmic Rays
- Ultra-high-energy cosmic Rays (UHECRs): These are extragalactic particles with energies exceeding 1 EeV.
- Limitations in Space Travel: UHECRs with more than 60 EeV energy face suppression due to interaction with cosmic microwave background (CMB) radiation, limiting their travel distance to 50-100 megaparsecs.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Political Split and Merger
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- Maharashtra Assembly Speaker ruled that the ruling faction of a political party was the legitimate and real, having the support of the majority of the party’s MLAs.
Anti-Defection Law in India
- Rise of Political Instability: The late 1970s saw rampant floor-crossing by legislators, epitomized by the phrase “Aaya Ram Gaya Ram” after MLA Gaya Lal’s frequent party changes in 1967.
- Legislative Efforts: Various bills, including the 32nd and 48th Constitution Amendment Bills, were introduced to address defections but lapsed or were not passed.
- Enactment of the Law: The 52nd Amendment in 1985, under Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, introduced the Tenth Schedule to the Constitution, embedding the anti-defection law.
Features of the Anti-Defection Law
[A] Disqualification Criteria:
- Members of Political Parties: Disqualification occurs if a member voluntarily gives up their party membership or defies the party’s directive without prior permission, which is not condoned within 15 days.
- Independent Members: Disqualification occurs if they join a political party after election.
- Nominated Members: Disqualification occurs if they join a political party after six months from taking their seat in the House.
[B] Exceptions:
- Merger: A member is not disqualified if their original party merges with another party, and at least two-thirds of its members agree to the merger.
- Presiding Officers: Members who become presiding officers can relinquish party membership and rejoin it after their term without facing disqualification.
[C] Decision Makin:
- Deciding Authority: The presiding officer of the respective House is the authority to decide on disqualification matters, subject to judicial review as established in the Kihoto Hollohan case (1991).
- Rule-making Power: The presiding officer can formulate rules for implementing the Tenth Schedule, subject to the approval of the House.
- Procedure for Disqualification: The presiding officer acts upon a defection case upon receiving a complaint. The accused member must be given a chance to explain, and the matter can be referred to a committee for inquiry.
- Position of Speaker: Party whips do not apply to the Speaker. However, questions of disqualification under the law concerning the Speaker or Chairman are decided by a member elected by the House.
Judicial Interpretations and Election Commission’s Role
- Key Judgments: The Kihoto Hollohan case (1991) made the Speaker’s decision on defection subject to judicial review. Other significant cases include Ravi Naik vs Union of India and G. Viswanathan Vs. The Hon’ble Speaker, Tamil Nadu, which clarified aspects of voluntary membership relinquishment and expulsion.
- Election Commission’s Guidelines: The EC resolves intra-party disputes based on majority support in both organizational and legislative wings and may freeze party symbols in unresolved cases.
Challenges and Criticisms
- Discriminatory Features: The law is criticized for not differentiating between dissent and defection and for its approach to individual versus group defections.
- Absence of Time Limit: The lack of a mandated timeframe for decisions on defection cases has led to manipulation and delays.
- Impact on Democratic Functioning: Critics argue that the law restricts legislators’ freedom and weakens legislative checks on the executive.
Debate on Repeal or Amendment
- Arguments for Repeal: Some argue for the law’s repeal, citing its failure to prevent defections and its hindrance to representative democracy.
- Arguments against Repeal: Proponents believe it ensures government stability, recognizes party systems, and reduces corruption.
- Suggested Amendments: Recommendations for amendments include limiting the law’s scope, enhancing decision-making processes, and promoting intra-party democracy.
Expert Recommendations
- Dinesh Goswami Committee (1990) and Law Commission (170th Report, 1999): Suggested amendments include limiting disqualification and involving the President/Governor and EC in decision-making.
- Constitution Review Commission (2002): Proposed barring defectors from holding public office and invalidating their votes in toppling governments.
- Election Commission’s Proposal: Recommended that decisions under the Tenth Schedule should be made by the President/Governor based on the EC’s binding advice.
Way Forward
- Amending the Law: Amendments should address existing shortcomings, such as defining “voluntarily giving up membership” and removing distinctions in disqualification criteria.
- Enhancing Democratic Functioning: Reforms should focus on promoting intra-party democracy and regulating the use of whips.
- Voter Responsibility: The electorate’s role in holding defectors accountable through the ballot remains crucial.
Conclusion
- Navigating Political Stability and Democracy: The anti-defection law seeks to balance political stability with democratic representation and legislative accountability.
- Adapting to Contemporary Politics: As political dynamics evolve, so must the legal frameworks, ensuring their relevance and effectiveness.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Tea cultivation in India
Mains level: Not Much
Introduction
- Echoes of the Past: India’s tea industry is facing challenges similar to the “dark phase” of 2002-07, as noted by the Tea Association of India (TAI).
- Key Concerns: Stagnant prices, oversupply, demand-supply gap, and a trend towards cheaper teas are major issues impacting the industry.
Historical Context and Recent Developments
- Previous Crisis: The industry suffered a significant slump during 2002-07 due to regulatory challenges, falling demand, competition from cheaper international teas, and export quality concerns.
- Current Scenario: Despite India’s economic strides, the tea industry struggles with stagnant prices and increasing input costs, leading to estate closures and reliance on subsidies.
Demand-Supply Imbalance and Quality Concerns
- Oversupply Issues: The meeting highlighted the critical problem of oversupply leading to an imbalance between availability and consumption.
- Quality Decline: To make tea more affordable, there has been a decline in quality, resulting in a “race to the bottom.”
Proposed Measures and Tea Board of India’s Role
- Repositioning Tea: TAI suggests repositioning tea to enhance its perception and consumption patterns.
- Regulatory Steps: Measures include regulating tea waste sold domestically, restricting import of low-quality teas, and promoting tea’s health benefits.
- Potential Impact: Regulating waste could reduce supply by 15-20 million kg, and limiting imports could remove an additional 30 million kg of low-quality teas.
Tea Industry Statistics and Trends
- Production and Export: India’s tea production increased by 39% from 2008 to 2022, with a slight projected increase in 2023. However, exports till October 2023 decreased by 2% compared to 2022.
- Import Increase: Tea imports rose from 27 million kg in 2021 to 30 million kg in 2022.
Overview of the Indian Tea Industry
- Global Standing: India is the second-largest tea producer and the fourth-largest exporter globally, with a significant domestic consumption market.
- Employment and Regulation: The industry directly employs 1.16 million workers, with the Tea Board of India regulating cultivation.
- Main Growing Regions: The Northeast, including Assam, and north Bengal are major tea-growing areas, with significant cultivation in the Nilgiris in south India.
Challenges and Issues
- Global Competition and Quality Decline: Competition from countries like Kenya and the demand for organic tea have affected India’s market position.
- Worker Conditions and Small Tea Growers: Poor worker conditions and challenges faced by small tea growers, including pricing and recognition issues, are significant concerns.
- External Factors: Global events like the Russia-Ukraine war have further compounded problems for the industry.
Tea Board of India Initiatives
- Establishment: The Tea Board was set up under the Tea Act 1953 and functions as a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce. Headquarters are located in Kolkata, the Board is reconstituted every three years.
- Promotional Efforts: The Board undertakes various initiatives to promote packaged Indian tea and subsidizes participation in international fairs.
- Promotional Activities: The Board supports packaged Indian tea promotion and subsidizes participation in international fairs.
- Tea Development and Promotion Scheme: This scheme aims to enhance productivity, quality, worker welfare, and market promotion.
- Support for Small Growers: The Board has formed SHGs, FPOs, and FPCs to assist small tea growers.
Way Forward
- One District One Product (ODOP) Program: This program can help promote Indian tea.
- Improving ‘AROMA’: ‘AROMA’ stands for Assistance to small growers, Re-energizing infrastructure, Organic and GI tea promotion, Modernization of supply chains, and Adaptability to climate change.
- Supporting Small Farmers: Enhancing production, quality, and sustainability while focusing on high-value markets is crucial for the industry’s growth.
Try this PYQ from 2022
Consider the following States:
- Andhra Pradesh
- Kerala
- Himachal Pradesh
- Tripura
How many of the above are generally known as tea-producing States?
(a) Only one State
(b) Only two States
(c) Only three States
(d) All four States
Post your answers here.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Section 92 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016
Mains level: need for a more robust and enforceable framework within the Model Code of Conduct
Central Idea:
The Election Commission of India issued guidelines advising political parties on using disability-sensitive language and practices. These guidelines cover inclusive communication, accessible information, and integrating people with disabilities (PwDs) within party structures. The aim is to counter derogatory remarks and stereotypes against PwDs in politics. However, concerns about the effectiveness of these guidelines arise, demanding further refinement and their inclusion in the Model Code of Conduct.
Key Highlights:
- The guidelines address disability-inclusive communication, information accessibility, and inclusion within political party frameworks.
- Recent derogatory remarks by political leaders underscore the necessity for these guidelines.
- Derogatory language contributes to attitudinal barriers under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
- The guidelines are advisory, lacking uniformity and needing a more definitive mandate.
- Absence of these guidelines in the Model Code of Conduct reduces their enforceability.
- Ambiguities in language usage and terminology require clarification to avoid misinterpretation.
- Political inclusion of PwDs is not addressed in the draft National Policy for PwD.
- Lack of data on legislators with disabilities and the absence of a disability column in election forms hinder political inclusion.
Key Terms:
- Disability-sensitive language
- Inclusive communication
- Attitudinal barriers
- Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016
- Model Code of Conduct
- Derogatory remarks
- National Policy for Persons with Disabilities
- Political inclusion
Key Phrases:
- “Advisory guidelines”
- “Attitudinal barrier”
- “Model Code of Conduct”
- “Political inclusion”
- “Derogatory remarks”
- “Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016”
- “National Policy for Persons with Disabilities”
Key Quotes:
- “These guidelines are only an ‘advisory,’ though the phraseology of a few guidelines is in mandatory language.”
- “Instances have underlined the need for these guidelines, such as derogatory remarks by political leaders.”
- “Political inclusion is an ignored aspect within the Indian realm of disability.”
Key Statements:
- “A uniform mandate under all three heads is needed for effective implementation.”
- “Guidelines must be included within the Model Code of Conduct to enhance their enforceability.”
- “The lack of data has contributed significantly to the political exclusion of PwDs.”
Key Examples and References:
- A Raja’s derogatory comparison of Sanatan Dharma to people with leprosy and HIV in September 2023.
- Lack of a disability column in nomination forms and affidavits filed by contestants during elections.
Key Facts:
- The guidelines cover disability-inclusive communication, information accessibility, and inclusion within party frameworks.
- Section 92 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, is mentioned as a punitive measure for breaching guidelines related to disability-inclusive communication.
Critical Analysis:
The article critically examines the advisory guidelines, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. It emphasizes the need for a more robust and enforceable framework within the Model Code of Conduct and addresses ambiguities in language usage.
Way Forward:
- Refine and make the guidelines mandatory under all three categories.
- Incorporate guidelines into the Model Code of Conduct for enhanced enforceability.
- Provide a detailed list of disability-sensitive words and phraseology.
- Include a chapter on political inclusion in the National Policy for Persons with Disabilities.
- Introduce a disability column in election nomination forms to collect data on legislators with disabilities.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Na
Mains level: Historical evolution of the purdah system in various parts of the world, including India
Central Idea:
The article focus into the ongoing discourse around the hijab/veil, examining recent political events in India and the global conversation on the subject. It raises questions about the right of Muslim women to choose their attire, the role of the state in regulating religious clothing, and the intersection of Islamic principles with government policies. The central argument posits that criticisms of the hijab often lack genuine concern for gender equality, being influenced by historical Western colonial biases, and mirroring the majoritarian agenda of Hindutva.
Key Highlights:
- Karnataka Chief Minister’s stance on the hijab issue is presented as a case of vote bank politics by the Congress, reinforcing BJP’s accusations.
- The global debate involves Western leaders advocating for bans, while Muslim women protest against enforced veiling in countries like Iran.
- The article questions the Western perception of Islam’s treatment of women, attributing bias to a colonial mindset.
Key Challenges:
- Balancing individual freedom of choice with state regulations on religious attire.
- Navigating the intersection between Islamic provisions and state policies.
- Addressing the influence of Western colonial perceptions on the discourse around Muslim women’s rights.
Key Terms:
- Hijab/Veil: Islamic head covering worn by some Muslim women.
- Hindutva: Ideology advocating the cultural and political dominance of Hindus in India.
- Vote Bank Politics: Political strategy to gain support from specific religious or ethnic groups.
- Colonial Mindset: Biased perspectives influenced by historical colonial experiences.
Key Phrases:
- “Vote bank politics” – Refers to the alleged manipulation of Muslim sentiments for political gain.
- “Western colonial project” – Describes historical biases influencing perceptions of Islam.
- “Gender freedom” – The concept of freedom regarding gender roles and choices.
Key Quotes:
- “For Europe, Islam was a lasting trauma.” – Edward Said, highlighting the historical impact of colonialism on Western perceptions of Islam.
- “There is no inherent value placed on man and woman…no pre-ordained system of hierarchy.” – Amina Wudud, on interpreting Islamic provisions for gender equality.
Key Statements:
- The Congress government’s indecision on the hijab issue is portrayed as an example of vote bank politics.
- The author suggests a parallel between the Hindutva majoritarian agenda and Western colonial objectives in their disregard for equal rights.
Key Examples and References:
- French President Nicolas Sarkozy’s push for a total ban on the Islamic veil in 2010.
- British Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s controversial remarks on Muslim women wearing burqas in 2019.
- Examples of successful Muslim women in India, such as Parveen Babi and Zeenat Aman, who did not conform to hijab norms.
Key Facts and Data:
- Historical evolution of the purdah system in various parts of the world, including India.
- Instances of Western leaders advocating for bans on the Islamic veil.
Critical Analysis:
- The author critiques the perceived bias in Western views on Islam, attributing it to a colonial mindset.
- The alignment of Hindutva’s majoritarian ideology and Western colonial objectives is questioned.
- The article challenges the sincerity of concerns about gender equality by highlighting selective concerns based on political agendas.
Way Forward:
- Advocate for a nuanced understanding of cultural practices and religious choices.
- Encourage open dialogue between religious communities and policymakers to address concerns.
- Emphasize the importance of respecting individual choices while ensuring a balance with societal norms.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: National Rural Employment Guarantee Act
Mains level: Role of Vikalp Sangam in proposing alternative solutions
Central Idea:
The article discusses the pressing issues faced by India, including unemployment, social unrest, ecological degradation, and threats to democratic rights. It emphasizes the need for alternative approaches and policies to address these challenges and highlights a People’s Manifesto released by Vikalp Sangam, a platform representing various movements and organizations working towards positive change.
Key Highlights:
- The article outlines the multifaceted crises in India, such as unemployment, ecological collapse, and erosion of democratic rights.
- It introduces Vikalp Sangam, a national platform fostering alternative initiatives for a just, equitable, and sustainable India.
- The People’s Manifesto aims at the 2024 general election and advocates policy shifts in areas like the economy, decentralization, accountability, and social inclusion.
- Practical examples on the Vikalp Sangam website illustrate successful community-driven solutions to challenges like unemployment and rural development.
- The manifesto calls for economic reforms, curbing the black economy, and wealth redistribution through measures like basic income and pension for all workers.
- It addresses concerns about the increasing authoritarianism, calls for decentralization, and the need to protect institutions like the Election Commission and media from political interference.
Key Challenges:
- Resistance to policy changes from established political and economic interests.
- The need for widespread awareness and acceptance of alternative approaches.
- The challenge of implementing grassroots initiatives on a larger scale.
- Overcoming political polarization and ensuring bipartisan support for key manifesto points.
Key Terms/Phrases:
- Vikalp Sangam
- People’s Manifesto
- Alternative pathways
- National Rural Employment Guarantee Act
- Decentralization
- Black economy
- Basic income
- Environmental impact assessment
- Forest Rights Act
- Climate crisis
Key Quotes/Statements:
- “Hope lies in the many initiatives to resist the forces of destruction and to construct alternative pathways.”
- “The People’s Manifesto for a Just, Equitable and Sustainable India.”
- “In about a decade, Vikalp Sangam has convened over 30 physical assemblies, published 1,500 stories of positive change…”
- “The manifesto demands curbs on the enormous black economy, reduction in the ratio of highest and lowest salaries, greater wealth and inheritance taxation of the rich…”
- “The manifesto urges a national land and water policy that protects important ecological functions…”
Key Examples and References:
- Unemployment protests, Joshimath sinking, dam burst in Sikkim, and conflicts in Manipur.
- Vikalp Sangam’s website with stories of rural revival and positive change.
- Adivasi village, Mendha Lekha in Maharashtra, and Dalit women farmers in Telangana as examples of successful local initiatives.
- Residents’ associations in Bhuj town implementing local decision-making.
Key Facts/Data:
- 85 people’s movements and civil society organizations released the People’s Manifesto.
- Vikalp Sangam has convened over 30 physical assemblies and published 1,500 stories of positive change.
- The manifesto recommends reserving 6% of GDP for education and 3% for health.
- The Vikalp Sangam process compiled hundreds of practical examples of alternative approaches.
Critical Analysis:
- The article effectively outlines the challenges faced by India and the role of Vikalp Sangam in proposing alternative solutions.
- The manifesto covers a broad spectrum of issues, but the challenge lies in its implementation and acceptance by political authorities.
- The emphasis on community-led solutions and decentralized decision-making aligns with sustainable development principles.
- The article lacks a detailed analysis of potential opposition or criticism to the proposed manifesto.
Way Forward:
- Raise awareness and garner public support for the People’s Manifesto.
- Engage with policymakers and political leaders to incorporate key recommendations into their agendas.
- Strengthen grassroots movements and community-led initiatives.
- Foster collaborations between government, businesses, and civil society to address the highlighted issues.
- Continuously monitor and evaluate the progress of alternative approaches to ensure their effectiveness.
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