Archives: News

Why India is at risk of becoming a ‘diminishing democracy’

Explained | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure

Why in the News?

In her book “Democracy on Trial: Majoritarianism and Dissent in India”, Zoya Hasan points out that, though India’s democracy is strong in elections, it has struggled with fairness and freedoms due to growing majoritarianism since 2014.

What factors contribute to the erosion of civil liberties in India?

Majoritarian Politics: Since a decade ago, India’s democracy has seen a shift toward majoritarianism, with the rights of minorities, particularly Muslims, facing marginalization.
- This tilt toward majoritarian views fosters unequal treatment, weakening the universal protection of civil liberties and undermining the democratic principles of inclusion and equality.
Compromised Media Landscape: Traditionally, media acted as a watchdog on power, but now it frequently functions as a government advocate.
- This shift has narrowed public discourse on civil rights and accountability, reducing the media’s role in preserving civil liberties.
Legislation Targeting Minorities: Laws such as the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) are seen as religiously discriminatory, especially when considered with the National Register of Citizens (NRC).
- Such laws challenge the Constitution’s guarantee of equal rights for all citizens, placing undue pressure on certain communities and further eroding civil liberties.

Role of Political Institutions in Undermining Democracy:

Judicial Autonomy and its Challenges: While the judiciary has traditionally been a pillar of democracy, recent trends indicate compromised judicial independence.
- There are instances where courts appear reluctant to challenge the executive because political pressure may be impacting judicial autonomy, thereby diminishing an essential check on power.
Media’s Decline as a Check on Power: Media independence has weakened as corporate and political influences have taken root, limiting its role in holding power to account.
Legislative and Executive Power Dynamics: The increasing concentration of power within the executive, combined with a legislative body that often aligns with the ruling agenda, limits checks and balances.

Impact of Political Polarization on Democratic Processes:

Divisive Identity Politics: Identity-based polarization is intensifying, with significant events such as the Ayodhya dispute and the Shaheen Bagh protests illustrating how political narratives can frame majority identities against minority rights.
Silencing of Dissent: Governmental responses to protests, like those against the CAA, often include the use of force, indicating reduced tolerance for opposition.

Steps taken by the Election Commission of India:

Voter Education and Awareness Campaigns: The ECI has launched extensive voter education campaigns to promote awareness about the electoral process, emphasizing the importance of informed voting.
Monitoring and Regulation of Political Parties: The ECI has increased scrutiny over political parties’ funding and activities to ensure transparency.
Strengthening Electoral Laws: Recent amendments to electoral laws have been made to enhance the integrity of elections.
Use of Technology: The ECI has implemented technology-driven solutions such as Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) to ensure transparency and reliability in the voting process.

Way forward:

Strengthening Institutional Independence: Reinforce the autonomy of key institutions like the judiciary, media, and law enforcement through stricter legal safeguards and transparent appointment processes.
Promoting Inclusive and Balanced Governance: Establish mechanisms to ensure equal representation and protection for all communities, addressing grievances through impartial review processes. Implementing inclusive governance policies can help counter majoritarian biases and foster a more cohesive democratic environment.

Mains PYQ:

Q To enhance the quality of democracy in India the Election Commission of India has proposed electoral reforms in 2016. What are the suggested reforms and how far are they significant to make democracy successful? (UPSC IAS/2017)

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Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

[pib] Four replicas of Konark Wheels at Rashtrapati Bhavan

Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

Why in the News?

Four replicas of the Konark wheels, made of sandstone, have been installed at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre and Amrit Udyan.

About Konark Wheels

	Details
Design	The temple is designed in the shape of a huge chariot drawn by 7 horses and features 24 wheels.
Dimensions of Wheels	Each wheel has a diameter of 9 feet 9 inches with 8 wider spokes and 8 thinner spokes.
Symbolism of Wheels	The wheels represent various time-related aspects: • 7 horses symbolize the days of the week. • 12 pairs of wheels signify 12 months. • 24 wheels represent 24 hours in a day. • 8 spokes symbolize prahars (three-hour periods).
Architectural Features	• The wheels are intricately carved, showcasing designs of foliage, animals, and figures of women in various poses. • Rims of the wheels have decorative carvings.
Sun Dial Functionality	Two of the wheels function as a sundial, accurately indicating time from sunrise to sunset using the shadow cast by the axel.
Modern Representation	Featured in Indian currency, specifically in the old Rs. 20 and new Rs. 10 notes, representing Odisha’s rich cultural heritage. Rs. 10 note released by the RBI on January 5, 2018, features the Konark Wheel on its reverse side.

Its significance

The Konark Wheel, serving as an ancient sundial, symbolizes the advanced understanding of timekeeping and astronomy in 13th-century India.
Its intricate carvings reflect exceptional craftsmanship and cultural significance, embodying the cycle of life and the worship of Surya, the Sun God.
Its depiction on Indian currency highlights its enduring legacy and significance in promoting national identity and tourism in Odisha.

Back2Basics: Konark Sun Temple

konark

Approximately 64 km from Bhubaneswar.
Built in the 13th century (around 1250 CE) during the reign of King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty.
Dedicated to Surya, the Sun God.
Exemplifies Kalinga architecture, known for its intricate stone carvings and elaborate sculptures.
Constructed from Khondalite stone, which is durable and intricately carved.
Designed as a chariot with 7 horses and 24 wheels.
Structure originally included a sanctum (deul) and a jagamohan (assembly hall) that have largely collapsed but were once adorned with exquisite carvings.

PYQ:

[2017] Which of the following is/are famous for Sun temples?

1. Arasavalli

2. Amarakantak

3. Omkareshwar

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

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Languages and Eighth Schedule

Maithili missed out on Classical Status

Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

Why in the News?

While five languages were granted classical status earlier this month, Maithili was not considered as the Bihar government had not officially forwarded the proposal, despite ongoing demands for its inclusion.

Maithili missed out on Classical Status

About Maithili Language

Maithili belongs to the eastern sub-group of the Indo-Aryan branch of languages.
- It is believed to have evolved from Magadhan Prakrit.
- The poet Vidyapati (14th century) popularized Maithili, establishing its importance in literature and folk culture.
It was added to the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution in 2003, making it one of the 22 officially recognized languages of India.
- It is an optional subject in the UPSC exams, providing an opportunity for candidates to take it as a paper.
- It was granted second official language status in Jharkhand in 2018.
It is spoken primarily in Bihar and Jharkhand in India, with a significant presence in Nepal.
- According to the 2011 Census, there are around 12 million Maithili speakers in India.
- It is the second most spoken language in Nepal, especially in the Terai region.
Mithilakshar, also known as Tirhuta, is the original script used for writing Maithili.
- It belongs to the same family as Bangla, Assamese, Odia, Tibetan, and Nepali scripts.
- The script’s oldest records date back to 950 AD, found in Sahodara stone inscriptions.

About Eighth Schedule:

	Details
Purpose	Lists the official languages of India as recognized by the Constitution.
Relevant Articles	Part XVII (Articles 343 to 351) of the Constitution outlines provisions for official languages.
Key Constitutional Provisions	• Article 344(1): Mandates the formation of a Commission by the President to recommend steps to promote Hindi after five years of the Constitution’s commencement. • Article 351: Promotes the development of Hindi as a medium to represent India’s composite culture.
Languages in the Eighth Schedule	Currently includes 22 languages: Initially Included (14 languages): Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Nepali, Oriya, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu. Later Additions: Sindhi (21st Amendment, 1967), Konkani, Manipuri, Nepali (71st Amendment, 1992), Bodo, Dogri, Maithili, Santhali (92nd Amendment, 2003).
Official Language Status	Hindi (in Devanagari script) is the official language of India, with English as an additional official language for administrative purposes.

PYQ:

[2014] Consider the following languages:

Gujarati
Kannada
Telugu

Which of the above has/have been declared as ‘Classical Language/Languages’ by the Government?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

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The Crisis In The Middle East

United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA)

Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Important International Institutions

Why in the News?

Israel’s Knesset has banned the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from operating within its borders, citing alleged ties between UNRWA staff and Hamas.

What is Israel’s Knesset?

The Knesset is Israel’s unicameral parliament, established in 1949.
It consists of 120 members, elected every four years through proportional representation, and is responsible for legislation, government oversight, and electing the president.

About UNRWA:

	Details
Full Name	United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA)
Establishment	Established by the UN General Assembly in 1949.
Primary Purpose	To provide relief, healthcare, and education for Palestinian refugees displaced after the 1948 Arab-Israeli war.
Headquarters	Originally in Beirut, moved to Vienna in 1978, and relocated to Gaza in 1996.
Mandate Renewal	The mandate has been renewed repeatedly, currently extended until June 30, 2026.
Fields of Operation	Operates in Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem.
Beneficiaries	Supports over five million Palestinian refugees and their descendants displaced in 1948 and 1967.
Services Provided	• Education • Healthcare • Social services • Infrastructure improvement • Microfinance • Emergency assistance
Funding Sources	Primarily funded by voluntary contributions from UN member states, with limited funding from the UN Regular Budget for staffing costs.
Leadership	Led by a Commissioner-General, appointed by the UN Secretary-General with General Assembly approval.
Controversies	• Disputed mandate regarding descendants of original refugees. • Allegations of staff affiliations with militant groups.
Global Response	Condemned by the international community regarding bans and criticisms, with calls to support UNRWA’s humanitarian role.

Its role and significance:

Humanitarian Aid: UNRWA provides essential support, including food, shelter, healthcare, and education to over five million Palestinian refugees.
Education and Empowerment: Operates schools for 500,000 children and supports microfinance programs to promote economic self-sufficiency.
Crisis Response: Plays a vital role in emergency situations and advocates for the rights of Palestinian refugees on an international level.

PYQ:

[2015] Amnesty International is:

(a) an agency of the United Nations to help refugees of civil wars

(b) a global Human Rights Movement

(d) an inter-governmental agency to cater to medical emergencies in war-ravaged regions

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Disasters and Disaster Management – Sendai Framework, Floods, Cyclones, etc.

TN declares Heatwaves a State-specific Disaster

Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Disaster Management

Why in the News?

The Tamil Nadu government has officially declared heatwaves a State-specific disaster.
- It announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹4 lakh for families of individuals who die from heat-related causes, including those involved in relief operations.

Key Details of the Declaration

Purpose: This declaration allows the government to provide immediate relief to those affected by extreme heat, especially during the severe temperatures of April and May 2024.
Funding: Relief efforts will be supported by the State Disaster Response Fund.
Other State-specific disasters in TN: Sea erosion, lightning, thunder, whirlwinds, and gale winds as State-specific disasters to ensure relief assistance for those impacted by these events.

Note:

Kerala in March this year, declared man-animal conflict as a state-specific disaster, becoming the first state in the country to do so.
Once an issue is declared a state-specific disaster, the onus to deal with it shifts to the state disaster management authority, which, powered by the Disaster Management Act, can take quicker and more decisive action.
Also, district collectors can directly intervene in their capacity as the chairman of the district disaster body.

heatwave

About Heatwaves:

	Details
Definition	A heatwave is a prolonged period of excessively hot weather, relative to the usual climate of a region.
Occurrence	Typically occurs in India between March and June.
Declaration by IMD	Plains: The maximum temperature is at least 45°C Hills: The maximum temperature is at least 30°C Coastal regions: The maximum temperature is at least 37°C and the departure from normal is at least 4.5°C
Formation	• High-Pressure Systems: Develop when high pressure settles over a region for days or weeks. • Air Sinking: Forces air to sink, warming and drying it. • Increased Radiation: Fewer clouds lead to higher surface temperatures. • Surface Winds: Warm air from lower latitudes or continental winds intensify heat.
Criteria for Declaring a Heatwave	At least two stations in a meteorological subdivision must meet one of the following criteria for two consecutive days (declared on the second day): Based on Departure from Normal: – Heat Wave: Temperature departure of 4.5°C to 6.4°C above normal. – Severe Heat Wave: Temperature departure of >6.4°C above normal. Based on Actual Maximum Temperature (plains only): – Heat Wave: Maximum temperature reaches 45°C or higher. – Severe Heat Wave: Maximum temperature reaches 47°C or higher.
Duration	Typically lasts a minimum of four days but can extend to seven or ten days. Longest Recorded Spell: May 2015, lasting from 18 to 31 May.
Impact of Heatwaves	• Heat Strokes: Increased risk, especially for the elderly and those with chronic illnesses. • Increased Healthcare Costs: Higher hospital visits and death rates from related illnesses. • Reduced Productivity: Extreme heat affects the output of over 1 billion workers. • Risk of Wildfires: Heat domes can lead to wildfires. • Effect on Vegetation: Prolonged heat damages crops and leads to droughts. • Increased Energy Demands: Higher electricity usage for cooling, driving up rates.

PYQ:

[2013] Bring out the causes for the formation of heat islands in the urban habitat of the world.

[2013] The annual range of temperature in the interior of the continents is high as compared to coastal areas. What is / are the reason / reasons?

1. Thermal difference between land and water

2. Variation in altitude between continents and oceans

3. Presence of strong winds in the interior

4. Heavy rains in the interior as compared to coasts

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

(a) 1 only

(b) 1 and 2 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

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Microfinance Story of India

[pib] Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY)

Schemes | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth

mudra

Why in the News?

The Centre has doubled the limit of Mudra loan amount under the PMMY to Rs 20 lakh from Rs 10 lakh under a new ‘Tarun Plus’ category to promote entrepreneurship in the country.
- This higher loan limit is available to entrepreneurs who have previously taken and successfully repaid loans under the existing ‘Tarun’ category.

About Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY):

	Details
Launch	Launched on April 8, 2015, by Prime Minister.
Objective	To provide financial assistance and support to non-corporate, non-farm small and micro-entrepreneurs through collateral-free loans. Non-corporate, non-farm small and micro-entrepreneurs are individuals or entities that operate small-scale businesses outside the corporate and agricultural sectors. These include self-employed workers, small retail shops, artisans, repair services, and other informal sector businesses, often with limited capital and workforce.
Recent Update	Loan limit increased from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh under the new Tarun Plus category, announced in July 2024.
Loan Categories	• Shishu: Loans up to Rs 50,000 • Kishore: Loans between Rs 50,000 and Rs 5 lakh • Tarun: Loans between Rs 5 lakh and Rs 10 lakh • Tarun Plus: Loans between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 20 lakh
Loan Performance (2023-24)	• 66.8 million Loans sanctioned totaling Rs 5.4 trillion. • Over 487.8 million loans worth Rs 29.79 trillion sanctioned since launch.
NPA Statistics	• NPA of public sector banks under Mudra loans decreased to 3.4% in FY24, down from 4.77% in 2020-21. • Gross NPA for scheduled commercial banks at 2.8% as of March 2024.
Target Beneficiaries	Aims to empower women, minorities, and marginalized communities by facilitating easy access to credit.
Technological Intervention	MUDRA Card: An innovative credit product that offers an overdraft facility and can be used like a debit card for transactions. MUDRA MITRA App: A mobile application providing information about MUDRA and its schemes, guiding loan seekers to approach banks for availing loans.

PYQ:

[2016] Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana is aimed at:

(a) Bringing the small entrepreneurs into formal financial system.

(b) Providing loans to poor farmers for cultivating particular crops.

(d) Funding the voluntary organizations involved in the promotion of skill development and employment generation.

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Women empowerment issues – Jobs,Reservation and education

Solar, a game changer in women’s empowerment

Explained | Indian Society | Mains Paper 1: Role Of Women & Women Organization
Why in the News?

Rooftop solar (RTS) can transform India’s energy landscape by providing a sustainable, decentralized, and affordable solution for rising electricity needs and could empower consumers (women and other sections of society) toward greater self-reliance.

How does solar energy contribute to women’s economic empowerment?
- Income Generation and Financial Independence: Solar technology enables women to generate income directly, especially in rural areas where traditional energy sources are scarce or costly.
  - For instance, solar-powered pumps have empowered women salt farmers in Gujarat’s Little Rann of Kutch, who, after shifting from diesel to solar, saw a 94% income boost and lower CO₂ emissions.
- Employment Opportunities: The solar photovoltaic (PV) industry, employing around 4.9 million people in 2022, has been particularly impactful for women, who make up about 40% of its workforce.
- Empowerment Programs: Initiatives like Barefoot College in India and Solar Sister in Africa train women as solar engineers. These programs enhance skills, improve self-reliance, and create employment in remote communities.
What are the broader social implications of women’s involvement in the solar sector?
- Community Well-being and Social Development: Women’s participation in the solar sector promotes local economic growth and strengthens social structures.
- Leadership and Decision-Making: When women lead or actively participate in renewable energy projects, they often advocate for inclusive policies and better community engagement.
- Gender-Sensitive Energy Policies: Women’s involvement highlights the need for energy policies that address the unique needs of women, improving both economic participation and social inclusion.
What challenges do women face in the renewable energy sector, and how can these be addressed?
- Access to Training and Financing: Women often face limited access to training and funding.
  - Overcoming these barriers requires accessible, affordable training programs in solar technology, as well as microfinance schemes specifically for women-led renewable energy projects.
- Gender Bias and Occupational Segregation: The renewable energy sector, like many others, is affected by gender biases that can limit women’s roles to lower-level positions.
  - To address this, it’s important to promote women’s leadership and equal opportunities through gender-sensitive hiring practices and mentorship programs.
- Policy and Regulatory Gaps: Energy access policies frequently lack a gender perspective, which limits their reach and inclusiveness.
  - Integrating gender-focused policies in energy and rural development sectors can enhance the socio-economic impacts of solar energy for women.
Conclusion: Governments should integrate gender-focused policies within renewable energy frameworks, ensuring accessible financing options and training programs specifically for women. Microfinance schemes and subsidies for women-led solar projects can foster broader participation.

Mains PYQ:

Q Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by our government for this purpose? (UPSC IAS/2020)
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Fertilizer Sector reforms – NBS, bio-fertilizers, Neem coating, etc.

What challenges does India face in fertilizer imports?

Explained | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Agriculture and related issues

Why in the News?

As the crises in Ukraine and Gaza persist, experts and policymakers are increasingly concerned about further rises in the costs of components essential for producing petroleum-based chemical fertilizers.

Current Scenario of Fertilizer Imports:

India’s domestic fertilizer production capacity does not meet the full demand, requiring substantial imports to bridge the gap.
- Urea: Approximately 20% of India’s urea requirement is met through imports.
- Diammonium Phosphate (DAP): Around 50-60% of DAP demand is fulfilled by imports.
- Muriate of Potassium (MOP or Potash): 100% of India’s MOP demand is met through imports, as there is no domestic production.
The Standing Committee on Chemicals and Fertilizers (August 2023) expressed concern about India’s dependence on imports for fertilizers, recommending an increase in domestic production capacity.

How did the conflict in Ukraine impact the Global Fertilizer Market?

Market Instability: Ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza are disrupting the stability of the global fertilizer market, particularly affecting the prices of oil and petroleum-based fertilizers.
Supply Chain Disruptions: These conflicts affect global supply chains, particularly for fertilizer-producing countries such as Russia, which has been a significant source of fertilizer imports for India.
Price Volatility: Higher oil prices due to geopolitical tensions in Ukraine and Gaza indirectly drive up costs of fertilizers, as these are often by-products of petroleum.

Its effects on India

Rising Import Costs: Increased global fertilizer prices lead to higher import costs for India, putting pressure on the fertilizer subsidy budget.
Potential Supply Constraints: India’s reliance on imports from conflict-affected regions like Russia and West Asia (including the Middle East) poses risks of reduced fertilizer availability.
Budget Strain: India’s fertilizer subsidy allocation for 2023-24 was ₹1.79 lakh crore, with substantial amounts dedicated to both indigenous and imported fertilizers.
Need for Self-Reliance: The conflicts underscore the importance for India to reduce dependency on imports by increasing domestic production capacity, promoting alternatives like nano urea, and exploring sustainable practices like natural farming.

Steps taken by the government:

New Investment Policy (NIP): NIP supports new urea manufacturing units by PSUs and private companies, boosting production capacity from 207.54 LMTPA in 2014-15 to 283.74 LMTPA.
Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS): The government included Potash from Molasses under NBS in 2021, encouraging local production and reducing import dependency.
Public-Private Joint Ventures: PSUs and private firms collaborate in urea production, establishing units like the Ramagundam Fertilizers in Telangana and Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan plants in northern states.

Way forward:

Boost Domestic Production: Increase India’s fertilizer production capacity through investment in domestic infrastructure and support for nano urea and alternative sustainable fertilizers to reduce import dependency.
Adopt Policy Reforms: Implement policies promoting self-reliance in fertilizers, with targeted subsidies and incentives for private, public, and cooperative sectors to enhance production and ensure affordable supply amidst global market volatility.

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Foreign Policy Watch: United Nations

India and Spain slam attacks on UN troops in Lebanon

Explained | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

Why in the News?

During mid-October, 34 UNIFIL troop-contributing Nations condemned attacks on peacekeepers and urged respect for UNIFIL’s mission. Although not listed, India expressed full alignment with the joint statement.

About UNIFIL:

UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) is a peacekeeping mission established in 1978, focused on monitoring the cessation of hostilities, supporting Lebanese stability, and ensuring security along the Lebanon-Israel Blue Line.

What prompted the condemnation from India and Spain regarding the attacks on UN peacekeepers?

Repeated Targeting of Peacekeepers: Peacekeepers, including Indian personnel, faced direct attacks, such as IDF tank fire on UNIFIL positions and deliberate disabling of surveillance systems. Spain, along with other European countries, condemned these attacks as “unjustifiable.”
Violation of International Norms: These attacks on UN peacekeeping personnel and facilities violated the UN mandate, undermining the peacekeepers’ protection under international humanitarian law. Both India and Spain view this as a significant breach of norms that safeguard the sanctity of UN missions.
Response to Escalating Risk to Peacekeepers: Statements from both India and Spain emphasized the need for respecting UN premises’ “inviolability” and maintaining safety for peacekeepers amidst escalations, underscoring the importance of ensuring the protection and security of peacekeepers.

What is the significance of UNIFIL’s role in Lebanon, and how do India and Spain view it?

Peacekeeping and Stability: UNIFIL is crucial in mediating and maintaining peace along the Blue Line between Israel and Lebanon. Its presence serves as a stabilizing force, helping prevent spillovers of conflict, which is essential for regional peace.
India’s Role as a Major Contributor: With 903 personnel deployed, India plays a substantial role in peacekeeping efforts, reflecting its commitment to UN missions and highlighting the need for global respect toward UN mandates.
Spain’s Support for UNIFIL’s Mission: Spain aligns with other European countries in reinforcing UNIFIL’s role in regional stability. By condemning attacks, Spain emphasizes the importance of this mission in Lebanon and, by extension, its support for UN peacekeeping mandates globally.

How do these events relate to broader geopolitical tensions in the region?

Regional Escalations and Proxy Conflicts: The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, particularly in Lebanon, feeds into broader geopolitical dynamics involving Israeli security concerns, Lebanese stability, and Iran’s influence through Hezbollah.
Impact on Global Diplomacy: The hostilities and targeting of UN peacekeepers may strain diplomatic relations, as countries urge Israel to respect international norms and safeguard peacekeepers. This may influence the UN Security Council’s approach, emphasizing a unified international stance against actions threatening UN missions.
Pressure on Multinational Cooperation and Regional Security: The events underscore the risks of operating in volatile zones where multinational peacekeeping efforts face direct threats.

Way forward:

Strengthen Diplomatic Engagement: India should actively engage with the UN Security Council and regional stakeholders to advocate for stringent measures ensuring the protection of UN peacekeepers and upholding the sanctity of UN mandates in conflict zones.
Enhance Contingency Protocols for Peacekeepers: India should work with UNIFIL and other troop-contributing countries to strengthen on-ground security protocols and response mechanisms.

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AYUSH – Indian Medicine System

9th National Ayurveda Day

Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

Why in the News?

On the occasion of the 9th Ayurveda Day, Prime Minister will launch several healthcare projects valued at Rs 12,850 crore.
- The focal theme for Ayurveda day-2024 has been decided as ‘Ayurveda Innovations for Global Health’.

About Ayurveda:

	Details
Origins	• Rooted in four Vedas (5000–1000 BCE). • References in Ramayana and Mahabharata epics. • Fully developed by 1000 BCE with Charaka Samhita and Susruta Samhita.
Foundational Texts	• Brhattrayi (Three Major Treatises): • Caraka Samhita (internal medicine) • Susruta Samhita (surgery) • Astanga Sangraha and Astanga Hrdaya (Vrddha Vagbhata and Vagbhata, 6th-7th century CE). • Takshashila and Nalanda universities attracted foreign students.
Global Influence	• Spread through Buddhism to Tibetan and Chinese medicine. • Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans adopted concepts via trade and interactions. • 8th century CE saw Nagarjuna study medicinal use of metals.
Integration of Modern Techniques	• 16th century saw inclusion of modern diagnostics and treatment for new diseases.
Revival in India (19th-20th Cent.)	• 1827: First Ayurveda course at Government Sanskrit College, Calcutta. • 20th Century: Ayurveda colleges spread under regional patronage. • 1970s: Ayurveda revived, with academic research, publications, and global symposia.
Current Status	• Structured undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral education. • Strong network of practitioners and manufacturers. • Developed infrastructure for community outreach.
Global Influence	24 countries recognize Ayurveda legally. Collaborative platforms include: • SCO Expert Working Group on Traditional Medicine • BIMSTEC Taskforce on Traditional Medicine • BRICS High-Level Forum on Traditional Medicine. • Ayurveda products exported to 100+ countries.
WHO Standards and Milestones	• ICD-11 Integration: WHO included Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani in ICD-11 TM Module 2. • WHO set global standards for practice and training. • GCTM, Jamnagar (Gujarat): Focuses on Ayurveda research, education, and practice.
Philosophical Foundations	• Historical evidence dates to the first millennium BCE. • Knowledge passed from gods to sages and then to human physicians. • Central concepts align with Samkhya, Vaisheshika, Buddhism, and Jainism. • Emphasis on balance and maintaining natural urges.

Initiatives and Programs by the Govt.

National Ayush Mission (2014): Aimed at promoting the development and growth of Ayush systems (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) in the country, focusing on strengthening educational institutions and enhancing the quality of services.
Ayurveda Research Portal (2021): Promotes research in Ayurveda by providing a digital platform for researchers, practitioners, and institutions to access data, funding opportunities, and collaborative initiatives.
Ayush Grid (2020): A digital initiative aimed at enhancing the accessibility of Ayush services and information through online platforms, connecting practitioners, patients, and educational institutions.

PYQ:

[2019] How is the Government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies?

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Archives: News

Why in the News?

What factors contribute to the erosion of civil liberties in India?

Role of Political Institutions in Undermining Democracy:

Impact of Political Polarization on Democratic Processes:

Steps taken by the Election Commission of India:

Way forward:

Mains PYQ:

Why in the News?

About Konark Wheels

Its significance

Back2Basics: Konark Sun Temple

PYQ:

Why in the News?

About Maithili Language

About Eighth Schedule:

PYQ:

Why in the News?

What is Israel’s Knesset?

About UNRWA:

Its role and significance:

PYQ:

Why in the News?

Key Details of the Declaration

Note:

About Heatwaves:

PYQ:

Why in the News?

About Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY):

PYQ:

Why in the News?

How does solar energy contribute to women’s economic empowerment?

What are the broader social implications of women’s involvement in the solar sector?

What challenges do women face in the renewable energy sector, and how can these be addressed?

Mains PYQ:

Why in the News?

Current Scenario of Fertilizer Imports:

How did the conflict in Ukraine impact the Global Fertilizer Market?

Its effects on India

Steps taken by the government:

Way forward:

Why in the News?

About UNIFIL:

What prompted the condemnation from India and Spain regarding the attacks on UN peacekeepers?

What is the significance of UNIFIL’s role in Lebanon, and how do India and Spain view it?

How do these events relate to broader geopolitical tensions in the region?

Way forward:

Why in the News?

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