Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Impact of Globalisation on the economy;
Why in the News?
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted that over the past 25 years, globalisation has led to job losses and dissatisfaction in many societies, as trade has become both globalised and weaponised.
How is trade being weaponised in global politics?
- Trade is increasingly being used as a strategic tool by countries, intertwined with national security concerns. Nations impose tariffs, subsidies, and other economic measures as defensive actions to protect domestic industries and geopolitical interests.
- Technologies and supply chains are viewed through a national security lens, leading to greater control over economic interactions.
Note: Economic and military power comes under hard power.
What implications does this weaponization of trade have for India and its foreign relations?
- Rising Protectionism: India has responded to this trend by imposing over 30 anti-dumping measures against Chinese goods in 2024 alone. These defensive actions are meant to shield Indian industries from what is perceived as China’s predatory pricing strategies.
- Impact on Global Supply Chains: As global supply chains become more transnational, India’s ability to secure its interests, especially in high-tech sectors, becomes crucial.
- India is balancing its integration into the global economy while protecting critical sectors from foreign influence, especially from China.
- Foreign Relations: India’s foreign policy is increasingly being shaped by economic security concerns.
- Trade disputes, such as those with China, have prompted a re-evaluation of economic partnerships and collaboration within frameworks like the Indo-Pacific to reduce dependency on potentially adversarial nations.
What historical context informs India’s current approach to trade and international relations?
- China’s Entry into WTO (2001): India, like many other countries, faced economic repercussions when Chinese goods flooded global markets after China joined the WTO. This led to job losses and industrial competition.
- Globalization and Job Losses: The rapid globalization of the past 25 years has contributed to domestic job losses and dissatisfaction in various sectors in India.
- Strategic Autonomy: India’s foreign relations have historically been guided by a principle of strategic autonomy.
- This informs its cautious stance on fully integrating into global supply chains without safeguarding critical industries, and influences its desire to promote reforms in Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) to suit developing nations’ needs.
Way forward:
- Strengthening Domestic Industries: India should continue enhancing self-reliance through initiatives like Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, focusing on boosting high-tech sectors and reducing dependency on foreign imports, especially from adversarial nations like China.
- Diversifying Trade Partnerships: India must deepen economic ties with friendly nations and regional alliances such as the Indo-Pacific, while advocating for reforms in global trade systems like the WTO and MDBs to ensure fair competition and support for developing economies.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Regional issues in Africa;
Why in the News?
On September 26, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) initiated a significant offensive against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Khartoum and Bahri. As a result, the conflict, which had been relatively calm for several months, has reignited with increased intensity.
What is the extent of the war?
- Duration and Scope: The civil war has lasted for over 18 months, initially erupting from a power struggle between the two military factions—the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). What began in Khartoum has spread to various regions, including Omdurman, Bahri, Port Sudan, El Fasher, and areas in Darfur and Kordofan.
- Casualties and Displacement: The UN reports over 20,000 fatalities since the conflict began. Additionally, the International Organization for Migration estimates 10.89 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) as of October 1.
- Worsening Humanitarian Crisis: Access to aid and healthcare has become severely restricted, particularly in Darfur.
- The UN has declared famine in specific camps like Zamzam, affecting nearly 500,000 IDPs. Currently, 25.6 million people—more than half of Sudan’s population—face critical food insecurity.
How have ethnic tensions and rivalries played a part in the war?
- Ethnic Conflict: The war has evolved beyond a military rivalry, intensifying along ethnic lines. The RSF, composed of predominantly Arab militias, has been involved in targeting non-Arab communities, such as the Masalit, particularly in the Darfur region.
- Militia Involvement: Various regional ethnic militias have taken sides in the conflict, complicating the dynamics further. The SAF has allied with the Sudanese People’s Liberation Movement, while the RSF has garnered support from Arab militias.
- Historical reason: Ethnic tensions are rooted in historical grievances, exacerbating violence and leading to retaliatory attacks between communities, which have fueled the conflict.
What are the implications for the region?
- Mass Displacement: Over two million refugees have fled to neighboring countries, including Chad, South Sudan, and Ethiopia. This has strained resources in host countries and raised concerns about a potential migrant crisis in Europe.
- Ethnic Clashes in Neighboring Regions: The instability in Sudan has triggered ethnic violence along the borders with South Sudan and Ethiopia, particularly in contested areas like Abyei and El Fashaga.
- Economic Impact: The ongoing conflict jeopardizes essential infrastructures, such as oil pipelines from South Sudan to the Red Sea, threatening regional economic stability.
- Cross-Border Tensions: A lack of effective governance in Sudan has led to increased ethnic tensions and clashes in border regions, which could have wider implications for regional security and stability.
Way forward:
- Facilitate Peace Talks: India can leverage its diplomatic relations with the conflicting factions (SAF and RSF) to encourage dialogue and support peace initiatives through multilateral platforms like the African Union and the UN.
- Strengthen Regional Alliances: India can collaborate with neighbouring countries (Chad, South Sudan, Ethiopia) to manage the refugee crisis and promote stability through joint security initiatives.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Urbanisation in the eco-sensitive zone;
Why in the News?
The Maharashtra government allocated 255.9 acres of salt pan land across three parcels in Mumbai’s eastern suburbs for rental housing under the Dharavi Redevelopment Project.
What is Salt pans?
- Salt pans are low-lying coastal areas used for salt cultivation, acting as natural sponges that absorb rainwater and support diverse ecosystems while mitigating flooding.
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What is the Maharashtra government doing to relocate people?
- Allocation of Land for Housing: The Maharashtra government has issued a Government Resolution (GR) allocating 255.9 acres of salt pan land for the construction of rental housing as part of the Dharavi Redevelopment Project. This land is to be used for slum rehabilitation and affordable housing for economically weaker sections.
- Lease Agreement: The land parcels will be leased to the Maharashtra government for 99 years, with the objective of providing housing for residents displaced from Dharavi.
- Involvement of Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV): The Dharavi Redevelopment Project Private Limited (DRPPL), in which an Adani Group entity holds 80% stake and the State government has a 20% stake, is responsible for the construction and resettlement of laborers working on the land.
- Concessional Rate for Land: The land is being provided at a concessional rate of 25% of the prevailing market rate, making it more accessible for development.
Why is the move controversial?
- Environmental Concerns: Urban planners and environmentalists have raised concerns about the lack of an impact assessment study before developing large parcels of salt pan land.
- Risk of Ghetto Formation: Critics argue that relocating residents to different parts of the city, rather than in-situ rehabilitation (keeping them in their original areas), could lead to the formation of ghettos and further social segregation.
Are salt pan lands ecologically important?
- Ecological Role: Salt pan lands are vital as salt marshlands that serve as holding ponds, absorbing rainwater and acting as natural sponges, thereby helping to mitigate flooding.
- Biodiversity: These areas support diverse flora and fauna, contributing to the ecological balance of coastal regions.
- Natural Defense: The salt pan lands provide a coastal area’s natural defense against flooding and other environmental hazards, highlighting their importance in maintaining regional ecological health.
Way forward:
- Integrate Environmental Assessments with Development Planning: The Maharashtra government should implement a framework that integrates environmental impact assessments into the planning process for the Dharavi Redevelopment Project.
- Adopt a Community-Centric Approach to Resettlement: The government should engage with affected communities to explore in-situ rehabilitation options and gather input on their housing needs.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Battle tanks;
Mains level: Significance of Tank in war;
Why in the News?
The Ukraine war has highlighted the versatility of battle tanks, demonstrating that armor remains crucial on modern battlefields, alongside long-range firepower.
What are the difficulties in Ladakh due to high terrain and altitude?
- High Altitude Challenges: At altitudes of 13,000-15,000 feet, oxygen levels are low, causing rarefied air, which affects the performance of engines and machines, including tanks. Temperatures can dip to as low as -40 degrees Celsius.
- Logistics and Transportation: Transporting tanks and heavy machinery to these high-altitude regions is a Herculean task due to the terrain. Once deployed, they are kept operational throughout, with maintenance facilities set up in forward areas like Nyoma and Daulat Beg Oldi.
Threat from China:
- Chinese Deployment: The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has enhanced its firepower and mechanised units along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). This includes the deployment of the ZTQ 15 (Type 15) light tanks and Type 96A second-generation tanks.
- Modernisation and Mobilisation: China has also introduced modern wheeled Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and assault vehicles such as the CSK series to the region, indicating a significant military upgrade along the LAC.
- Tactical Proximity: During the 2020 stand-off, Chinese and Indian tanks came within 100 metres of each other, demonstrating the heightened tensions and the tactical threats in Eastern Ladakh.
What are the Indian Army’s future plans to fortify the border areas?
- Indigenous Development: The Indian Army is developing the Zorawar light tank, specifically designed for high-altitude warfare.
- T-90 and BMP Upgrades: India is enhancing the capabilities of existing T-90 tanks and BMP-2 armoured carriers
- Long-term Projects: Plans are underway for Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCV) and Future Infantry Combat Vehicles (FICV) to replace current tanks and BMPs, with induction expected by 2030.
- Procurement Plans: The Army is also evaluating the U.S. Stryker infantry combat vehicle and has initiated the process to procure 100 more K9 Vajra Howitzers to bolster long-range firepower.
- Enhancing Infrastructure: Since 2012, India has significantly improved its infrastructure along the LAC, enabling long-term deployment of troops, tanks, and artillery in the region.
Conclusion: The government should continue expanding logistical infrastructure along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), improving transportation, maintenance facilities, and supply chains to support long-term troop and equipment deployment in challenging terrain.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: EnviStats India 2024 Report and its highlights
Why in the News?
- The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has released the “EnviStats India 2024: Environment Accounts” Report.
What is the EnviStats India 2024 Report?
- The EnviStats India 2024 Report, released by the MoSPI, is the 7th consecutive publication.
- It compiles environmental-economic accounts based on the System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (SEEA) Framework.
- This framework provides a global standard for integrating environmental data with economic statistics, offering insights into the country’s natural resources, ecosystems, and environmental sustainability efforts.
Key Highlights:
|
Details |
| Protected Areas (SDG 13 & SDG 15) |
– 72% increase in the number of Protected Areas (2000-2023)
– 16% increase in the area of Protected Areas, reflecting biodiversity conservation efforts. |
| Mangrove Cover (SDG 13 & SDG 15) |
– 8% increase in mangrove cover (2013-2021), highlighting positive growth in coastal ecosystem protection. |
| Ocean Accounts (SDG 14: Life below Water) |
– Introduced for the first time, covering the extent and condition of ocean ecosystems. |
| Energy Use & Physical Asset Accounts (SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy & SDG 13: Climate Action) |
– Includes Physical Asset Accounts and Physical Supply and Use Tables for Energy, aligned with SEEA-Energy Framework, and data from ministries like Coal and Petroleum. |
| Soil Nutrient Index (SDG 2: Zero Hunger) |
– Updated data on Soil Nutrient Index based on the Soil Health Card 2023-24, reflecting soil health and agricultural sustainability. |
| Biodiversity & Species Richness (SDG 15: Life on Land) |
– Data on faunal and floral diversity, including endangered species like Leopards and Snow leopards, connecting to biodiversity conservation. |
Policy Recommendations
The EnviStats India 2024 Report suggests several policy directions based on its findings:
- Biodiversity Protection: Strengthen community-led conservation and expand protection of critical ecosystems.
- Ocean Ecosystem Management: Use Ocean Accounts for sustainable marine resource management and pollution control.
- Soil Health: Encourage sustainable farming practices and better soil management, leveraging Soil Health Cards for improved productivity.
- Integrated Planning: Focus on species conservation, habitat restoration, and genetic conservation through data-driven planning.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Rani Durgavati and her contemporaries
Why in the News?
Madhya Pradesh CM chaired a meeting in honour of the 16th century tribal queen Rani Durgavati on her 500th birth anniversary.
Rani Durgavati (1524-1564)
- Rani Durgavati was born in 1524 in the Chandela dynasty of Mahoba (present-day Uttar Pradesh).
- She married Dalpat Shah, son of Gond King Sangram Shah of the Garha-Katanga kingdom.
- After her husband’s death in 1550, she ruled the kingdom as regent for her young son, Bir Narayan.
- Her role against the Mughals:
- Rani Durgavati expanded her kingdom and ruled with prosperity, shifting her capital to Chauragarh for strategic advantage.
- In 1564, the Mughal general Asaf Khan, under Emperor Akbar, attacked her kingdom.
- She led her forces bravely and initially defeated the Mughals in a strategic battle at Narhi.
- To avoid capture, she sacrificed her life, becoming a symbol of courage and resistance.
Her contributions
- Rani Durgavati is remembered for her bravery, administrative skills, and martyrdom.
- She carried out public works, including the construction of Ranital, a reservoir near Jabalpur.
- Celebrated as a symbol of self-determination, especially for tribal communities.
- She is honored in Indian history as a patriotic ruler who resisted Mughal expansion, with various political and cultural tributes dedicated to her legacy.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Features of the Dravidian style of temple architecture
Why in the News?
- The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), has recently finished copying inscriptions at three temples in Thirukurungudi, located in Tirunelveli district.
About the 3 temples mentioned:
Nambi Rayar Temple (Thirukoshtiyur Temple)
- It is a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located in Thirukoshtiyur, near Sivaganga in Tamil Nadu.
- It is one of the 108 Divya Desams (sacred Vishnu temples).
- It is known for its association with Ramanuja, one of the most important figures in Vaishnavism, who learned the sacred mantra “Ashtakshara” here.
- The temple has a five-tiered rajagopuram (temple tower) and is built in Dravidian style.
Thirumalai Nambi Temple (Thirumaliruncholai Temple)
- It is a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located in Thirumaliruncholai, also known as Azhagar Kovil, near Madurai, Tamil Nadu.
- This temple is also one of the 108 Divya Desams.
- Thirumalai Nambi, who was a saint and a scholar, was closely associated with this temple and served as a priest here.
- The temple is set in a hilly region and has intricate carvings and sculptures in traditional Dravidian architecture.
Aniliswarar Temple
- It is a Shaivite temple located in Anilivandhan Kottai, near Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu.
- The temple architecture is traditional with a smaller gopuram (temple tower) compared to the larger, more well-known temples.
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About Dravidian Style of Architecture
|
Details |
| Flourished |
8th century to the 13-14th century AD |
| Enclosure |
Temples are enclosed within a compound wall, unlike Nagara temples. |
| Notable Features |
- Gopuram (Entrance Gateway): The front wall has an elaborate gateway tower called Gopuram, which serves as the main entrance to the temple complex.
- Vimana (Main Tower): Vimana or temple tower has a stepped pyramid-like structure that rises geometrically, unlike the curving shikhara in North Indian temples.
- Temple Tank: It is common to have a large water reservoir or temple tank enclosed within the temple complex.
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| Shapes of Temples |
- Square (Kuta or Caturasra)
- Rectangular (Shala or Ayatasra)
- Elliptical (Gaja-prishta or Vrittayata)
- Circular (Vritta)
- Octagonal (Ashtasra)
|
| Notable Temples |
The Pallavas, early builders of Dravidian temples, started with rock-cut temples and later shifted to structural temples.
- Mahabalipuram: Narasimhavarman I (Mamalla) initiated construction, and Narasimhavarman II (Rajasimha) built the Shore Temple.
- The Shore Temple houses three shrines for Shiva and Vishnu.
The Rajarajeswara or Brahadeeshwarar Temple at Thanjavur, built by Rajaraja Chola in 1009 CE, is the largest and tallest of Indian temples. It features large Gopurams with elaborate sculptures. |
| Significance |
Temples were not only religious centers but also key administrative hubs, controlling large areas of land and resources, especially during the 8th-12th centuries. |
PYQ:
[2012] The Nagara, the Dravida and the Vesara are the:
(a) Three main racial groups of the Indian subcontinent
(b) Three main linguistic divisions into which the languages of India can be classified
(c) Three main styles of Indian temple architecture
(d) Three main musical Gharanas prevalent in India |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Cerebral palsy
Why in the News?
- The World Cerebral Palsy Day was celebrated on October 6 with the theme ‘#UniquelyCP’.
- It celebrates the uniqueness of individuals living with cerebral palsy by emphasizing that they are not defined by their disability.
About Cerebral Palsy:
|
Details |
| Condition |
A group of neurological disorders affecting movement, muscle tone, and posture. |
| Cause |
Abnormal brain development, usually before birth; can also occur due to injury during birth or early childhood. |
| Types |
– Spastic CP: Stiff muscles, difficulty with movement (most common, 70-80% of cases).
– Dyskinetic CP: Uncontrolled movements affecting limbs.
– Ataxic CP: Poor balance and coordination.
– Mixed CP: Combination of symptoms from different types. |
| Symptoms |
Motor skill difficulties (crawling, walking); Muscle stiffness or looseness; Poor coordination and balance; Speech or swallowing difficulties; Seizures in some cases. |
| Diagnosis |
Physical examination, MRI scans, developmental monitoring (usually diagnosed within first 2 years). |
| Risk Factors |
Premature birth; Low birth weight; Multiple births; Maternal infections; Lack of oxygen during birth. |
| Treatment |
– Physical, occupational, and speech therapies.
– Medications to reduce muscle stiffness.
– Surgery in severe cases. |
| Life Expectancy |
Normal life expectancy in many cases, depending on severity and associated complications. |
| Prevention |
Some causes are preventable with proper maternal care, but many are not. |
| Policy Support |
Niramaya Health Insurance Scheme:
- Coverage: Up to ₹1,00,000/- for treatments, surgeries, and therapies for persons with disabilities.
- Eligibility: Covers individuals with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation, and Multiple Disabilities.
- Annual Renewal: Requires yearly renewal with different fees for BPL and APL categories.
- Easy Application: Enrollment and claims processed online via Registered Organizations (ROs).
|
PYQ:
[2020] 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. |
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