Since President Lai Ching-te took office in Taiwan, China has reacted strongly to his pro-independence remarks by using sophisticated tactics against his Democratic Progressive Party.
Background of the China-Taiwan issue
The conflict has its roots in the Chinese Civil War (1927-1950) between the Nationalist Party (Kuomintang) and the Communist Party of China. After the Communist victory in 1949, the Nationalist government retreated to Taiwan, establishing the Republic of China (ROC) there, while the Communist Party proclaimed the People’s Republic of China (PRC) on the mainland.
China claims Taiwan as a breakaway province that must eventually be reunified with the mainland, while Taiwan sees itself as a distinct, democratic entity. This dispute over Taiwan’s political status is at the heart of the ongoing tensions between China and Taiwan.
The strategic importance of Taiwan lies in its location in the “first island chain” in the western Pacific, as well as its dominance in the global semiconductor industry. Control over Taiwan would enhance China’s ability to project power in the region and potentially threaten US interests, while Taiwan’s independence is seen as crucial by the US and its allies
What Are the Coercive Measures China Has Imposed on Taiwan?
Military Pressure: China’s People’s Liberation Army Eastern Theater Command (PLA ETC) conducts regular training drills and simulated invasion scenarios to demonstrate its military capability. These include 3D animation videos depicting missile attacks on Taiwan, aiming to intimidate and exert psychological pressure.
Grey-Zone Warfare: Continuous sorties by PLA fighter jets, UAVs, and strategic fighters over and around Taiwan. These operations are designed to wear down Taiwan’s defence forces through sustained pressure and intelligence gathering.
Economic Coercion: China suspended preferential tax rates for 134 chemical imports from Taiwan, which were previously granted under the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA). This move was a retaliation against pro-independence statements by Taiwan’s new president, Lai Ching-te, and Taipei’s restrictions on over 2,000 Chinese imports.
China’s Ideology and Political Tactics
Cognitive Warfare: Deployment of ideological narratives within Taiwan to influence public opinion. For instance, Chinese citizens dropped fliers via drones on Kinmen Island, promoting messages against Taiwan’s independence and framing it as a dead end.
Propaganda: These cognitive warfare tactics aim to initiate public discussions and garner attention for the Chinese cause, leveraging social media to propagate Beijing’s ideological stance.
Carrots and Sticks Approach(Political Tactics)
Carrots: Favorable treatment towards Taiwan’s opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), which holds relatively pro-mainland views. The KMT engages with Communist Party of China (CPC) officials, maintaining communication and collaboration that the DPP lacks. The KMT’s interactions with CPC officials have sometimes led to investigations under Taiwan’s ‘anti-infiltration law’.
Sticks: Coercive economic measures targeting Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) to seek political concessions. The suspension of preferential tax rates for Taiwanese chemical imports is one such tactic.
Conclusion: Taiwan must navigate China’s multifaceted ‘grey-zone’ tactics through resilience in defense, strategic alliances, and international advocacy to safeguard its sovereignty and democratic identity amid escalating pressures.
Mains PYQ:
Q South China Sea has assumed great geopolitical significance in the present context. Comment. (UPSC IAS/2016)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Pivot to South Asia
Why in the news?
A weak performance by green and left-wing parties, coupled with gains by the far-right, could lead the EU to adopt a more protectionist stance and a less environmentally focused foreign policy.
What happens in the EU parliament?
Legislative Role and Trade Agreements: The European Parliament must approve all EU free trade agreements. For instance, it is currently involved in negotiations with Southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines. This approval process ensures that any trade agreement aligns with EU standards and regulations.
Policy Shifts Due to Election Results: The recent gains by far-right factions in the European Parliament could shift legislative priorities. For example, a more nationalist Parliament may prioritize protectionist policies over liberal trade agreements, potentially imposing tariffs or restrictions on imports from Southeast Asia, as seen with past tariffs on Cambodian and Myanmar rice.
Influence on Environmental and Human Rights Policies: With the Greens and Liberals losing seats, the European Parliament may place less emphasis on environmental sustainability and human rights. This shift could affect initiatives like the Just Energy Transition schemes with countries like Vietnam and Indonesia, which rely on EU support for their green agendas. Reduced focus on these areas could hinder such cooperative efforts.
Changes in the Commission
Commission Presidency and Coalition Dynamics: Ursula von der Leyen, the incumbent European Commission President from the centre-right European People’s Party (EPP), faces a challenging re-election. She needs to secure 361 votes from Members of the European Parliament (MEPs).
Shift in Policy Focus: The composition of the new Commission will significantly influence EU policy directions. If von der Leyen allies with the Greens, there could be an intensification of green policies and environmental initiatives, such as the European Green Deal.
Leadership and Foreign Policy Changes: The departure of EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell opens the field for new candidates vying to lead the European External Action Service (EEAS). The new leadership could reshape the EU’s foreign policy approach, with potential changes in emphasis on development cooperation and international relations, including those with Southeast Asia. This could affect ongoing initiatives like the Just Energy Transition partnerships with countries like Vietnam and Indonesia.
Pivot to South Asia
Strategic Partnership and Economic Interests: Southeast Asia is an increasingly important economic partner for the EU. The region’s growing markets and economic dynamism offer significant trade opportunities. For instance, the EU is negotiating free trade agreements with countries like Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines, which could enhance trade flows and economic cooperation. Strengthening ties with Southeast Asia helps the EU diversify its trade partners and reduce reliance on traditional markets.
Environmental and Green Transition Initiatives: Southeast Asia is a crucial region for the EU’s global environmental goals. The EU has invested in green transition initiatives, such as the Just Energy Transition schemes in Vietnam and Indonesia, providing over €20 billion in concessional loans and investments. These initiatives support Southeast Asian countries in adopting sustainable energy practices and combating climate change.
Geopolitical and Security Considerations: Southeast Asia’s strategic location and geopolitical significance make it a vital region for the EU’s foreign policy. By engaging more deeply with Southeast Asia, the EU can strengthen its influence in a region where other major powers, such as China and the United States, are also vying for influence.
Conclusion: The EU’s evolving policies and leadership will shape its economic, environmental, and geopolitical engagement with Southeast Asia, highlighting the region’s strategic importance and potential for cooperation.
Mains PYQ:
Q Africa was chopped into states artificially created by the accident of European competition. Analyse. (UPSC IAS/2013)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Significance of Preventive health care
Why in the news?
FOGSI launched a detailed immunization plan for women in Mumbai, featuring essential vaccines and recommended dosages, presented by women’s health advocate Kajal Aggarwal.
About the Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (FOGSI)
The Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (FOGSI) is a prominent professional organization dedicated to advancing the field of obstetrics and gynaecology in India.
Foundation and Scope: FOGSI was established in 1950 and currently represents over 34,000 obstetricians and gynaecologists across India. It serves as a unified platform for healthcare professionals specializing in women’s health.
Objectives: The primary objective of FOGSI is to promote the study and practice of obstetrics and gynaecology through education, research, and advocacy. It aims to improve the standards of healthcare delivery for women in India.
Significance of Preventive Health Care
Early Detection and Intervention: Preventive healthcare emphasizes regular screenings, vaccinations, and health checks to detect potential health issues early. This proactive approach allows healthcare providers to intervene early, often before symptoms appear, which can lead to better treatment outcomes and lower healthcare costs.
Promotion of Health and Well-being: By focusing on preventive measures such as healthy lifestyle choices, vaccination against preventable diseases, and routine health screenings, individuals can maintain optimal health and well-being. Preventive healthcare encourages behaviours that reduce the risk of chronic illnesses and promote longevity.
Reduction of Healthcare Burden: Investing in preventive healthcare can alleviate the burden on healthcare systems by reducing the prevalence and severity of diseases. By preventing illnesses before they occur or progress, fewer resources are needed for acute care, hospitalizations, and long-term management of chronic conditions.
Accessing ‘Vulnerable Period’
Postpartum Period: The postpartum period, typically defined as the first six weeks after childbirth, is a critical vulnerable period for women. During this time, the body undergoes significant physiological changes, including hormonal fluctuations and potential immune system alterations. These changes can increase susceptibility to infections and other health complications, necessitating close monitoring and appropriate medical interventions.
Menopausal Transition: Menopause marks a significant transition in a woman’s life when reproductive hormone levels decline, leading to various physical and psychological changes. This period can be accompanied by symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and changes in bone density. Due to these changes, women may be more vulnerable to conditions like osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.
Chronic Illness Management: Women with chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or autoimmune disorders may experience periods of vulnerability related to their specific health challenges. Fluctuations in hormone levels, stress, and lifestyle factors can exacerbate these conditions or increase the risk of complications. Healthcare strategies during these vulnerable periods often include personalized treatment plans, regular monitoring, and patient education to optimize disease management and promote overall well-being.
Conclusion: FOGSI’s launch of a women’s immunization schedule underscores their commitment to advancing women’s health through proactive care, addressing vulnerable periods like postpartum and menopause, and promoting disease prevention and management strategies.
Mains PYQ:
Q In order to enhance the prospects of social development, sound and adequate health care policies are needed particularly in the fields of geriatric and maternal health care. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2020).
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NEET, NTA
Mains level: The National Testing Agency responds to the various charges against the conduct of the exams.
Why in the news?
On June 13, the Union government informed the Supreme Court that the scorecards of 1,563 candidates who received compensatory marks in the NEET-UG 2024 exam, held on May 5, will be cancelled.
About National Testing Agency:
National Testing Agency (NTA) has been established as a premier, specialist, autonomous and self-sustained testing organization to conduct entrance examinations for admission/fellowship in higher educational institutions.
The NTA was established in 2017 by the Ministry of Education.
NTA is responsible for conducting the
Joint Entrance Examination – Main (JEE Main)
National Eligibility cum Entrance Test-Undergraduate (NEET-UG)
National Eligibility Test (NET)
Common Management Admission Test (CMAT)
Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test (GPAT).
The NTA is chaired by an eminent educationist who will be appointed by the Ministry of Education.
Why has the Union government told the Supreme Court that it will cancel the scorecards of candidates who have been awarded grace marks?
Technical Issues During Exam: The cancellation stems from petitions challenging the award of grace marks to 1,563 candidates from six NEET centers due to technical issues that did not allow them the full 3.2 hours to complete the exam.
Compensatory Marks Controversy: Grace marks were awarded based on a court order and the recommendation of a committee constituted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). This move was challenged as arbitrary and lacking transparency.
Skewed Results: The committee found that the compensatory marks led to a skewed situation, thus recommending the cancellation of the scorecards for these candidates and conducting a re-test on June 23.
How did the National Testing Agency respond to the various charges against the conduct of the exams?
Formation of Committee: In response to the allegations, the NTA constituted a four-member committee to investigate the truth behind the claims, including the award of grace marks and other issues related to the conduct of NEET 2024.
Admission of Irregularities: The NTA admitted that the grace marks caused confusion and contributed to skewed results. They acknowledged technical issues and the improper awarding of grace marks.
Panel Recommendations: The panel recommended limiting grace marks to the attempted questions and concluded that it would be best to cancel the test for the affected 1,563 students.
Explanations for High Scores: NTA officials attributed the unusually high number of perfect scores (67 students scoring 720/720) to an ‘easy paper’, but still took steps to address the fairness and validity of the results by planning a re-test.
Addressing Other Allegations: The NTA’s response included acknowledging various logistical issues such as slow distribution of question papers, wrong OMR sheets, and technical delays, and they aimed to ensure better planning and execution in future exams.
Way forward:
Calls for a Re-test for All Candidates: Students and education experts argue that if the exam can be cancelled for 1,563 candidates, it should be cancelled for all 23 lakh candidates to maintain fairness. They believe that the logical step is to conduct a re-test for everyone who took the May 5 exam.
Restoring Faith in the System: The dissatisfaction expressed on social media highlights a loss of faith in the examination system. To restore confidence, students demand comprehensive measures to address the flaws and ensure a fair and transparent testing process for all candidates.
Improving Examination Conduct: For an exam of NEET’s scale and history, it is expected that organizational issues should be resolved. The NTA and government agencies need to enhance measures to prevent fraud, ensure the timely distribution of materials, and apply proper judgment to address any technical issues during the exam, aiming for a smooth and reliable process in future examinations.
Mains PYQ:
Q National Education Policy 2020 is in conformity with the Sustainable Development Goal-4 (2030). It intends to restructure and reorient the education system in India. Critically examine the statement. (UPSC IAS/2020)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Mount Canlaon, Cold Lava Mudflows
Why in the News?
After Mount Canlaon erupted in the Philippines, cold lava started flowing through streets and rivers.
It was followed by ashfall, and dangers like floods and mudflows downstream.
What is Cold Lava?
Cold lava, also known as “lahar,” is a mixture of water and rock fragments that flows rapidly down the slopes of a volcano, often triggered by heavy rainfall or volcanic eruptions.
The mixture forms a concrete-like substance that destroys everything in its path.
This can also include smooth, glassy textures or rough and jagged textures.
Another example of cold Lava in the world
Mount Merapi, Indonesia (2023): An eruption of Mount Merapi resulted in the deaths of at least 23 climbers and spewed ash up to 3,000 meters into the air, covering towns and villages
How harmful is Cold Lava?
Rain can carry cold lava down the slopes of a volcano during an eruption and into the path of nearby towns or villages.
According to the United States Geological Survey, cold lava has the power to crush and bury things in its path.
It also moves quickly like wet concrete and is considered more destructive than hot lava.
About Mount Canlaon
Mount Canlaon, located in the Philippines, is an active stratovolcano known for its frequent eruptions and volcanic activity.
It is situated on the island of Negros in the Visayas region of the Philippines.
It is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, known for its high volcanic activity.
It poses hazards such as ash fall, lava flows, pyroclastic flows, and lahars (mudflows) that can endanger nearby communities and agriculture.
PYQ:
[2021] Discuss about the vulnerability of India to earthquake-related hazards. Give examples including the salient features of major disasters caused by earthquakes in different parts of India during the last three decades.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Joshimath, Kosiyakutoli, Adi Shankaracharya
Why in the News?
The Centre approved the Uttarakhand government’s proposal to rename Joshimath tehsil to Jyotirmath and Kosiyakutoli tehsil to Pargana Shri Kainchi Dham.
This decision aims to enhance the religious and cultural significance of these areas, boosting their status as major destinations for religious tourism.
About Jyotirmath
Jyotirmath, also known as Jyotir Peeth, is one of the four cardinal mathas established by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century to promote Advaita Vedanta philosophy.
Adi Shankaracharya performed penance under the Amar Kalpavriksha tree here, symbolising his attainment of divine knowledge (Jyoti).
Evolution to Joshimath:
Name Transition: Originally known as Jyotirmath, the town gradually adopted the name Joshimath over time, influenced by regional languages and dialects.
Cultural Evolution: The shift from Jyotirmath to Joshimath reflects a cultural and linguistic evolution rather than a specific historical event.
About Adi Shankaracharya (c 788 CE-820 CE)
Details
Philosopher and Theologian
Prominent advocate of ancient Hinduism, known as Sankara (Jagatguru).
Birthplace
Kaladi in Ernakulam, Kerala, soon to be declared a national monument.
Guru
Govinda Bhagavatpada, from whom he learned extensively.
Philosophies
Advocated Advaita Vedanta and established Dashanami Sampradaya.
Advaita Vedanta
Non-dualistic philosophy asserts the identity of Atman (self) and Brahman (ultimate reality).
Maya (creative energy) of Brahman creates the world.
Liberation through understanding Brahman and overcoming Avidya (ignorance).
Key Disciples
Padmapada, Totakacharya, Hasta Malaka, and Sureshwara – played crucial roles in spreading his teachings.
Contributions
Introduced the Shanmata system and restored the Dashanami structure.
Established four Mathas (monastic institutions) across India.
Authored commentaries on major Hindu scriptures and composed hymns.
Mathas Established
Sri Sringeri Sharada Peetam (Karnataka), Jyotir Matha (Uttarakhand),
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Kavli Prize
Why in the News?
The winners of the 2024 Kavli Prize were announced, recognising achievements in astrophysics, neuroscience, and nanoscience.
About Kavli Prize
The Kavli Prize celebrates outstanding achievements in astrophysics, neuroscience, and nanoscience.
It is established in honour of Norwegian-American businessman and philanthropist Fred Kavli (1927-2013).
Awarded biennially, the prize recognizes researchers whose work pushes the boundaries of human knowledge and enhances our understanding of the universe, the brain, and nanoscale phenomena.
About Fred Kavli
Fred Kavli, born in Erejsford, Norway, immigrated to California in 1956 and quickly made a mark in the engineering field.
His entrepreneurial journey began in 1958 with the founding of Kavlico, a pioneering company known for its precision pressure sensors used across diverse industries, from aviation to consumer electronics.
The Kavli Foundation:
In 2000, after selling Kavlico for $340 million, Fred Kavli established the Kavli Foundation.
This philanthropic organisation supports fundamental research aimed at improving global quality of life.
The foundation operates 20 institutes worldwide dedicated to astrophysics, neuroscience, nanoscience, and theoretical physics.
Prize Structure and Prestige:
Comparison with Nobel Prize: The Kavli Prize mirrors the Nobel Prize in its prestige and international recognition but differs by not limiting awards to achievements within the preceding year, allowing broader scope and longevity in selection criteria.
Award Ceremony: Each Kavli Prize includes a $1 million cash award per field, a scroll, and a 7 cm diameter medal. The ceremony, held at the Oslo Concert Hall and attended by global scientific leaders, features a red-carpet event, emphasizing its significance in the scientific community.
Selection Process:
Committees: Three international committees nominate and review candidates, providing a unanimous recommendation to the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters.
Nominees: Nominees come from prestigious institutions worldwide, ensuring a diverse and comprehensive evaluation process.
Winners of the 2024 Kavli Prize:
Field
Winners
Contributions
Astrophysics
David Charbonneau (Harvard University), Sara Seager (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)
Pioneering methods for detecting atomic species in planetary atmospheres and measuring their thermal infrared emission, are crucial for identifying molecular fingerprints in atmospheres of exoplanets.
Nanoscience
Robert Langer (MIT), Armand Paul Alivisatos (University of Chicago), Chad Mirkin (Northwestern University)
Langer: Nano-engineering for controlled drug delivery systems.
Alivisatos: Development of semiconductor quantum dots for bio-imaging.
Mirkin: Concept of spherical nucleic acids (SNAs) for applications in gene regulation and immunotherapy.
Mapping brain functions related to facial recognition using neuroimaging and neuronal recording techniques, identifying brain centers and neural architectures involved in face processing.
PYQ:
[2021] The Nobel Prize in Physics of 2014 was jointly awarded to Akasaki, Amano and Nakamura for the invention of Blue LEDs in the 1990s. How has this invention impacted the everyday life of human beings?
[2018] Discuss the work of ‘Bose-Einstein Statistics’ done by Prof. Satyendra Nath Bose and show how it revolutionized the field of Physics.
[2008] Nobel Prize-winning scientist James D. Watson is known for his work in which area? (2008)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Longitude Prize, AMR
Why in the News?
Sysmex Astrego, a Sweden-based diagnostic company, won the £10 million Longitude Prize for developing a high-tech UTI (Urinary Tract Infection) test called the PA-100 AST System.
What is Antimicrobial Resistance?
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites change so that medicines no longer work against them.
This makes infections harder to treat and can lead to more severe illness and even death.
AMR can occur naturally through genetic changes or when one type of microorganism picks up resistance from another.
It can also occur randomly due to mutations or when resistant genes spread between different organisms.
The main reasons for AMR are antibiotics incorrectly or too often, not having access to clean water and good hygiene, not doing enough to prevent infections, and people not knowing how to use antibiotics properly.
Global Impact of AMR
Global Threat: Antibiotic-resistant infections caused nearly 1.3 million deaths in 2019, with projections to exceed cancer-related deaths by 2050.
Economic Impact: The global economy faces potential losses of up to 4 trillion by 2030 and 100 trillion by 2050 due to the AMR crisis.
About the Longitude Prize
The Longitude Prize, valued at £8 million (₹85 crore), was recently awarded for its profound implications in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
The prize launched in 2014, aims to revolutionize infection management globally.
Historical Context:
Origins: Established in 1714 to solve the maritime longitude problem, demonstrating the critical need for accurate navigation.
Modern Application: The 21st-century Longitude Prize addresses pressing global challenges like AMR, incentivizing innovative solutions.
Goal of the Prize:
Aims to replace current lab-based diagnostic methods with rapid tests that guide targeted antibiotic therapies, combating AMR effectively.
About PA-100 AST System
Technology Breakthrough: Developed by Sysmex Astrego, this system uses a phenotypic test that identifies UTI bacteria and performs antibiotic susceptibility testing in under 45 minutes.
Operation: A single-use cartridge processes less than half a milliliter of urine, using microfluidic traps and phase-contrast imaging in a shoe box-sized reader instrument.
Clinical Impact: Provides rapid “sensitive” or “resistant” results for antibiotics, aiding doctors in immediate, accurate treatment decisions at the point of care.
Current Challenges in UTI Diagnosis
Limited Accuracy: Current options include urine dipstick tests for quick results but limited accuracy (50-60%) and lab cultures with 2-3 day turnaround times.
Impact on Treatment: Delayed diagnosis often leads to empirical antibiotic use, contributing to antibiotic resistance worldwide.
Significance for India
Healthcare Burden: In India, millions seek treatment for UTIs annually, impacting lives and healthcare systems significantly.
Potential: Rapid, accurate point-of-care tests could revolutionize UTI management globally, saving lives and reducing healthcare costs.
PYQ:
[2014] Can overuse and free availability of antibiotics without a Doctor’s prescription be contributors to the emergence of drug-resistant diseases in India? What are the available mechanisms for monitoring and control? Critically discuss the various issues involved.
[2019] Which of the following are the reasons for the occurrence of multi-drug resistance in microbial pathogens in India?
Genetic predisposition of some people
Taking incorrect doses of antibiotics to cure diseases
Using antibiotics in livestock farming
Multiple chronic diseases in some people
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) 2, 3 and 4
