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  • Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

    Artistic Richness of the Indian Constitution: A Visual Journey

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

    Constitution

    Introduction

    • The Indian Constitution, renowned as the world’s lengthiest written Constitution, is not just a legal document but a treasure trove of artistic richness.
    • It features intricate hand-painted images and elaborate borders across all its 22 parts, making it the most visually appealing Constitution globally.

    Narrative Scheme of Paintings

    • Historical Representation: The paintings within the Constitution depict various periods in Indian history, from the Indus Valley civilization to the freedom struggle. Additionally, scenes from the epic tales of Ramayana and Mahabharata are featured.
    • Geographical Diversity: These illustrations also capture India’s diverse geography, from the desert with marching camels to the grandeur of the Himalayas.

    The Appointment of Artists

    • Selection of Nandalal Bose: Nandalal Bose, a renowned artist and close associate of Mahatma Gandhi, was entrusted with the task of illustrating the Constitution in October 1949, just before the final session of the Constituent Assembly.
    • Collaborative Effort: Bose collaborated with family members, students, and fellow artists, including Kripal Singh Shekhawat, A Perumal, and Direndrakrishna Deb Burman.
    • Calligraphy: While the Constitution itself was handwritten by calligrapher Prem Behari Narain Raizada in a flowing italic style, the Hindi version’s calligraphy was masterfully crafted by Vasant Krishan Vaidya.

    Notable Artistic Contributions

    • Preamble and National Emblem: The Preamble page features intricate patterns sketched by Beohar Rammanohar Sinha and bears his signature, while Dinanath Bhargava sketched the National Emblem, the Lion Capital of Ashoka.
    • Payment for Artists: Records suggest that the artists who painted the historical scenes were paid Rs 25 for each page.

    Ideation of Artwork

    • No Direct Correlation: Nandalal Bose’s artwork in the Constitution does not have a direct correlation with the text, as he did not illustrate the content of the Constitution itself. Instead, he crafted a visual narrative of India’s history as he envisioned it.
    • Changes and Adjustments: A preliminary plan was drawn up for the artwork, which underwent changes with additions and deletions. For instance, a scene featuring ‘portraits of Akbar and Shahjahan with Mughal architecture’ was replaced with an image of Akbar.

    Borrowing from History and Religion

    • Diverse Representations: The artwork includes depictions of the Bull Seal from the Indus Valley region, scenes from the lives of hermits and ascetics, Buddha in meditation, Mahavir, sculptures from Mahabalipuram, and the descent of the Ganga to Earth.
    • Incorporating Epics: Scenes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana are featured in the artwork, symbolizing India’s rich mythological heritage.
    • Homage to Tagore: Three landscapes within the Constitution pay tribute to Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore and his composition of the National Anthem, celebrating India’s diverse geographical landscapes.

    Celebrating Monarchs and Freedom Fighters

    • Emperor Ashoka: Part VII features Emperor Ashoka seated on an elephant, propagating Buddhism.
    • King Vikramaditya and Tipu Sultan: Part IX showcases a scene from King Vikramaditya’s court, while Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi shares the page with Tipu Sultan in Part XVI.
    • Gandhi and Freedom Fighters: Mahatma Gandhi appears twice, leading the Dandi March and visiting Noakhali in Bangladesh. Subhas Chandra Bose is depicted saluting the flag with members of the Azad Hind Fauj.

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  • Women Safety Issues – Marital Rape, Domestic Violence, Swadhar, Nirbhaya Fund, etc.

    Delhi HC upholds Ban on Sapinda Marriages: Legal Insights

    Prelims Only | Indian Society | Mains Paper 1: Salient features of Indian Society

    Introduction

    • The Delhi High Court recently dismissed a challenge to the constitutionality of Section 5(v) of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 (HMA), which prohibits sapinda marriages among Hindus unless custom permits.
    • The court’s decision affirms the legal restrictions on such marriages and emphasizes the importance of regulating marital choices.

    For Aspirants with Sociology Optional, this article is of immense importance under: “Systems of Kinship- Family, household, marriage” in both Paper I and Paper II.

    Understanding Sapinda Marriages

    • Definition: Sapinda marriages involve individuals closely related within specified degrees, as per Section 3(f)(ii) of the HMA.
    • Prohibition: The HMA prohibits sapinda marriages within a certain range of lineal ascent, ensuring that marriages do not occur between individuals with a common lineal ascendant within the defined limits.

    Legal Framework

    • Void Marriages: Sapinda marriages that violate Section 5(v) and lack an established custom permitting them are declared void, meaning they are considered invalid from the outset.
    • Customary Exception: The sole exception to this prohibition arises when both parties’ customs permit sapinda marriages, as defined in Section 3(a) of the HMA.
    • Custom Criteria: To qualify as a custom, it must be continuously observed, uniform, reasonable, and not opposed to public policy, gaining legitimacy among Hindus in a particular area or community.

    Grounds for Challenging the Law

    • Constitutional Challenge: The petitioner contended that Section 5(v) violated the right to equality under Article 14 of the Constitution by requiring proof of custom for sapinda marriages.
    • Lack of Proof: The woman argued that sapinda marriages exist even without documented custom, and the consent of both families validated the marriage.

    High Court’s Decision

    • No Established Custom: The Delhi HC found no stringent proof of an established custom supporting sapinda marriages, which is crucial under the law.
    • Regulation of Marriages: The court upheld the idea that the choice of a marriage partner can be subject to regulation.
    • No Violation of Equality: The petitioner failed to provide compelling legal grounds to challenge the prohibition against sapinda marriages on grounds of violating the right to equality.

    International Perspectives

    • European Laws: In several European countries, laws related to incestuous relationships are less stringent compared to India, allowing marriages between consenting adults.
    • Examples: France, Belgium, Portugal, and Italy have different laws regarding incestuous relationships and marriages.
    • US Laws: In the United States, incestuous marriages are banned in all 50 states, but some states allow incestuous relationships between consenting adults.

    Conclusion

    • The Delhi HC decision reaffirms the legal framework regulating sapinda marriages in India and emphasizes the importance of established customs in permitting such unions.
    • It also highlights the differing legal approaches to incestuous relationships and marriages in various countries.

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  • Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

    Historical Insights: Gyanvapi Structure Controversy

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

    Gyanvapi

    Introduction

    • The Gyanvapi Structure sin Varanasi has been the center of a longstanding controversy regarding its historical origin and the existence of a Hindu temple preceding its construction.
    • The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has recently concluded that a Hindu temple indeed existed at the site before the mosque’s construction, relying on scientific studies, textual evidence, and historical accounts.

    Gyanvapi: Historical Background

    • Temple’s Existence: The ASI’s findings suggest that a substantial Hindu temple once stood adjacent to the Kashi Vishwanath temple, which is believed to have been demolished during the reign of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.
    • Persian Chronicles: The primary source for this claim is Saqi Mustaid Khan’s Maasir-i-Alamgiri, a Persian chronicle written shortly after Aurangzeb died in 1707. It mentions Aurangzeb’s orders to destroy temples and schools of the “infidels.”
    • Aurangzeb’s Policy: Historians interpret this as part of Aurangzeb’s broader policy against Hinduism, marked by the destruction of temples and discriminatory measures, such as customs duties.

    Historical Interpretations

    • Selective Targeting: Some historians argue that the 1669 decree was not a blanket order to destroy all temples but targeted institutions where certain teachings took place, especially in Benares (now Varanasi).
    • Conflict with Shivaji: It is suggested that Aurangzeb ordered the destruction of the Kashi temple as retribution following Chhatrapati Shivaji’s escape from Mughal custody.
    • Religious Cloth: The Gyanvapi Mosque incorporates a part of the ruined temple’s wall, possibly serving as a religious statement of the consequences of opposing Mughal authority.

    Expert Opinions and Legal Implications

    • ASI Report: The ASI’s extensive report provides expert evidence but can be contested in court during the ongoing legal battle.
    • Witnesses and Cross-Examination: The civil suit involves witnesses from various fields, including historians, archaeologists, and religious experts, who will be cross-examined.
    • Court Determination: The courts will decide whether the ASI report can be conclusively relied upon and assess the significance of the existence of a Hindu temple in determining the mosque’s religious character.

    Legal and Constitutional Aspects

    • Maintainability Issue: The preliminary issue of whether the suit can be filed depends on the fate of the Places of Worship Act, 1991, which aims to maintain the religious character of places of worship as of August 15, 1947.
    • Relevance of ASI Report: The relevance of the ASI report could change significantly if the 1991 law is altered or struck down. Currently, the law is considered a fundamental feature of the Constitution, safeguarding secularism.
    • Secularism and Non-Retrogression: The Places of Worship Act is seen as essential in upholding the principles of secularism and non-retrogression, core elements of India’s Constitution.

    Conclusion

    • The controversy surrounding the Gyanvapi Mosque underscores the complexities of historical interpretation and legal implications.
    • The ASI’s findings, while significant, are part of an ongoing legal process, and the final determination will have far-reaching consequences on the historical narrative and religious character of the site.

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  • Nobel and other Prizes

    With Bharat Ratna to Karpoori Thakur, the BJP is co-opting social justice agenda

    op-ed snap | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Our Father Karpoori Thakur - Rediff.com

    Central Idea:

    The article examines the political significance of the Bharat Ratna awarded to the late Karpoori Thakur, a legendary backward-caste leader, and its implications in the context of the BJP’s Hindutva agenda and the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The author questions whether the Hindutva agenda can successfully co-opt the social justice agenda, particularly by winning the support of lower-caste Hindus. The juxtaposition of events like the temple inauguration at Ayodhya and the Bharat Ratna announcement raises the critical question of whether a homogenized Hindu identity can overcome the deep-rooted hierarchical divisions within Hindu society.

    Key Highlights:

    • The timing of the Bharat Ratna announcement for Karpoori Thakur, a backward-caste leader, and the Ayodhya temple inauguration raises questions about the BJP’s strategy leading up to the Lok Sabha elections.
    • The article explores the challenge of reconciling the Hindutva agenda with the social justice agenda, particularly in gaining support from lower-caste Hindus.
    • The BJP’s dependence on state power for the success of the Hindutva agenda is discussed, emphasizing the significance of electoral majorities in achieving political goals.
    • The author highlights the complexities of caste dynamics, including internal distinctions, rivalries, and the need for credible rhetoric of implicit equality in electoral politics.

    Key Challenges:

    • The challenge of reconciling the Hindutva agenda with the hierarchical divisions and inequalities within the Hindu caste system.
    • The difficulty in securing electoral majorities without support from lower-caste Hindus.
    • The tension between electoral politics requiring equality rhetoric and the caste system perpetuating explicit inequalities.

    Key Terms:

    • Hindutva
    • Lok Sabha elections
    • Bharat Ratna
    • Ayodhya
    • Caste dynamics
    • Electoral majorities

    Key Phrases:

    • “Homogenized Hindu identity”
    • “Hierarchical divisions within Hindu society”
    • “Caste dynamics in electoral politics”
    • “Credible rhetoric of implicit equality”

    Key Quotes:

    • “Will the almost-successful Hindutva agenda seal its victory by co-opting and engulfing the social justice agenda?”
    • “The juxtaposition of these two events invites attention to the central question facing our polity today.”
    • “The only tried and trusted constituency for Hindutva are the Hindu ‘upper’ castes.”

    Key Statements:

    • “Elections remain the only durable and legitimate route to state power.”
    • “The Bharat Ratna to Thakur is a shrewd move because it is costless and yet offers multiple gains.”
    • “The BJP is trying to recruit other castes or caste-clusters to an essentially upper-caste political programme.”

    Key Examples and References:

    • Reference to the Bharat Ratna announcement for Karpoori Thakur and the Ayodhya temple inauguration.
    • Comparison of Thakur’s political agenda in the 1970s with the BJP’s current agenda.

    Critical Analysis:

    • The article critically analyzes the BJP’s strategy, questioning its alignment with Thakur’s legacy and highlighting the disparities between Thakur’s popular-leftist caste agenda and the BJP’s rightist communal agenda.
    • The complexities of caste dynamics and electoral alliances are discussed, emphasizing the challenges in gaining support from different caste segments.
    • The contrast between Thakur’s policies, such as the sub-division of the backward caste quota, and the BJP’s current approach is examined.

    Way Forward:

    • The article suggests that the BJP’s attempts to co-opt lower-caste Hindus need to align with a genuine social justice agenda, acknowledging the complexities of caste dynamics.
    • There is an implicit call for a balanced approach that addresses the historical inequalities within the Hindu caste system while navigating the intricacies of electoral politics.

    This comprehensive analysis provides insights into the complex intersection of Hindutva, social justice, and electoral dynamics, emphasizing the need for a nuanced and inclusive approach in Indian politics.

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  • Agricultural Sector and Marketing Reforms – eNAM, Model APMC Act, Eco Survey Reco, etc.

    Has the economy improved in the NDA’s second term?

    op-ed snap | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    Central Idea:

    The discussion between D.K. Srivastava and G. Vijay analyzes the economic performance of the BJP-led government in its second term, focusing on policy prescriptions, the impact of major reforms such as GST and corporate income tax changes, and the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by the GST Council, the government’s emphasis on infrastructure development, and the performance of the agricultural sector over the past five years.

    Key Highlights:

    • The Indian economy faced challenges in 2019 due to GST implementation issues and corporate income tax reforms, leading to a weak fiscal situation.
    • The COVID-19 pandemic caused a sharp contraction, followed by a rapid recovery with GDP growth rates exceeding expectations.
    • Recovery was K-shaped, impacting contact-intensive sectors and large service sectors, resulting in a focus on infrastructure expansion for long-term growth.
    • The digitization of the economy through the UPI platform was highlighted as a positive outcome, especially for small-scale industries in the informal sector.
    • The GST story was deemed incomplete, with concerns about revenue autonomy for State governments and challenges in GST reform.
    • The government’s capital expenditure increase in the last budget aimed at income generation and employment growth, but concerns were raised about the quality of employment generated.
    • The agricultural sector performed well in terms of growth, except for the current year, but challenges such as supply chain shocks and inflation in key food items were discussed.

    Key Challenges:

    • Unresolved issues in GST reform, including revenue neutrality and loss of revenue autonomy for State governments.
    • Quality of employment generated by capital-intensive infrastructure projects and the persistently high unemployment rate.
    • Inconsistent policies in the agricultural sector, with challenges like bans on exports and uncertainties affecting production decisions.

    Key Terms:

    • GST (Goods and Services Tax)
    • UPI (Unified Payments Interface)

    Key Phrases:

    • “K-shaped recovery”
    • “Last mile delivery”
    • “Jobless growth”
    • “Centre-State relations”
    • “Capital stimulus”
    • “Job creation elasticities”
    • “Unprotected informal sector employment”

    Key Quotes:

    • “Between 2014 and 19, we provided a rejuvenated Centre-State dynamic, cooperative federalism, GST Council, and a strident commitment to fiscal discipline.”
    • “The government stood out as a performing government, a government whose signature was in the last mile delivery.”

    Key Statements:

    • Recovery from the economic challenges post-2019 was marked by robust GDP growth, particularly in FY22 and FY23.
    • The GST Council faced criticism for incomplete reform, loss of revenue autonomy for State governments, and politicization of resource distribution.

    Key Examples and References:

    • Demonetization in 2016 and its long-term impact on economic contraction.
    • The increase in capital expenditure in the last budget and its purported aim of income generation and employment growth.

    Critical Analysis:

    The discussion highlights the positive aspects of economic recovery, infrastructure development, and agriculture sector growth. However, challenges such as the quality of employment, unresolved GST issues, and inconsistent policies in agriculture are critically analyzed. The impact of global challenges, supply-side issues, and the need for a balanced approach between capital stimulus and consumption stimulation are emphasized.

    Way Forward:

    • Address GST reform issues to ensure revenue autonomy for State governments.
    • Evaluate the employment impact of infrastructure projects and focus on generating quality employment.
    • Maintain a balance between capital stimulus and consumption stimulation to address external sector challenges.
    • Implement consistent and supportive policies in the agricultural sector to address supply chain shocks and inflation.
    • Continue efforts to digitize the economy for inclusive growth and last-mile delivery.

    This comprehensive analysis provides insights into the economic performance of the BJP-led government, covering various dimensions and offering suggestions for future considerations.

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  • Reclaiming the Republic, and the Constitution

    op-ed snap | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    In India: secularism or multiculturalism? | openDemocracy

    Central Idea:

    The article emphasizes the threat to India’s secular fabric and cultural diversity posed by the current political agenda, particularly the push towards a theocratic state under the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). It underscores the importance of reasserting the constitutional principles of a pluralistic and tolerant India, in contrast to the growing dominance of a unidimensional cultural and religious identity.

    Key Highlights:

    • The “Objective resolution” of the Indian Constitution adopted in 1947 forms the basis of the Preamble, but recent state-sponsored events challenge the constitutional commitment to secularism.
    • The BJP’s agenda is criticized for promoting a theocratic state and diminishing India’s rich cultural diversity by imposing a singular identity.
    • The article laments the erosion of the concept of “unity in diversity,” replacing it with a vision of one nation, one market, one language, and one official religion.
    • The Constitution’s recognition of and respect for diversities and differences, both politically and culturally, is highlighted as the foundation of India’s progress.

    Key Challenges:

    • The political effort to centralize and homogenize cultural and religious practices, particularly in favor of Hindutva, poses a challenge to India’s historical pluralism.
    • The erosion of tolerance and the imposition of a singular identity may lead to suspicion and animosity among different religious and cultural groups.
    • The celebration of a ‘Hindu Rashtra’ contradicts the constitutional principles of a secular state, potentially endangering India’s hard-fought independence.

    Key Terms:

    • Hindutva: The political ideology that seeks to establish the hegemony of Hindus and the Hindu way of life.
    • Theocratic: Relating to a system of government in which religious leaders control the state.
    • Pluralism: The coexistence of diverse cultural, religious, or ethnic groups within a society.
    • Constitution: The fundamental legal document outlining the structure and principles of a government.

    Key Phrases:

    • “Flattening of multidimensions”: Describes the attempt to impose a unidimensional cultural and religious identity, eroding India’s diverse cultural landscape.
    • “Unity in diversity”: Formerly celebrated, this concept is criticized for being replaced by a vision of singular identity.
    • “One nation, one market, one colour, one language, one election”: Illustrates the push towards homogenization in various aspects of Indian society.

    Key Quotes:

    • “Will Indians place the country above their creed or will they place creed above country?”
    • “Our independence will be put in jeopardy a second time and probably be lost forever.”
    • “When power outstrips ability, we will fall on evil days.”

    Key Statements:

    • The Indian Constitution recognizes and incorporates space for diversities and differences in both politics and culture.
    • The celebration of a ‘Hindu Rashtra’ is in direct contradiction to the Indian Constitution.
    • The Constitution is seen as a guarantee of the right to live with liberty, equality, and justice.

    Key Examples and References:

    • The consecration of the temple in Ayodhya and the state-sponsored events on January 22, 2024, are cited as instances where the secular principles of the Constitution were violated.
    • Mention of diverse celebrations of Dusshera, representing different cultural practices across India.

    Key Facts and Data:

    • The Indian Constitution was adopted 75 years ago, emphasizing tolerance and solidarity as foundational principles.
    • The celebration of the 75th year of the Republic coincides with concerns about the erosion of secular principles.

    Critical Analysis:

    The article critically examines the current political agenda’s impact on India’s cultural diversity and constitutional values. It highlights the dangers of sidelining pluralism and secularism in favor of a singular identity, emphasizing the need for citizens to assert the constitutional republic over a ‘Hindu Rashtra.’

    Way Forward:

    • The article calls for a reassertion of the constitutional principles of a pluralistic and tolerant India.
    • Citizens are urged to make choices that align with the values of the Constitution, ensuring a diverse and inclusive nation.
    • A collective duty is emphasized in retaining the values that have shaped India’s social democracy for 75 years.

    In summary, the article advocates for a return to the constitutional principles that have guided India for 75 years, safeguarding the nation’s pluralism and diversity against the current trend towards a unidimensional cultural and religious identity

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  • Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

    Health Ministry announces new treatment regimen for Leprosy

    Prelims Only | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

    Leprosy

    Introduction

    • The Central government of India has given its approval for a new treatment regimen aimed at hastening the eradication of leprosy in the country.
    • The move, based on the latest global scientific research and endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO), seeks to transition from a two-drug regimen to a three-drug regimen for Pauci-Bacillary (PB) leprosy cases.

    New Leprosy Treatment Regimen

    • Objective: The primary goal is to halt the transmission of leprosy at the sub-national level by 2027, aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, three years ahead of schedule.
    • Transition from Two to Three Drugs: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has approved a shift from the existing two-drug regimen for six months to a three-drug regimen for Pauci-Bacillary (PB) cases.
    • Scientific Basis: This decision is grounded in the latest globally accepted scientific research studies and evidence-based practices.
    • WHO Endorsement: The World Health Organization (WHO) has committed to supply the revised drug regimen starting April 1, 2025, signifying international recognition and support for this approach.

    Key Implementation Steps

    • Three-Drug Regimen: The WHO-recommended treatment regimen includes dapsone, rifampicin, and clofazimine, collectively referred to as MDT. MDT is highly effective in killing the pathogen and curing the patient.
    • Advance Requisitions: All States and Union Territories are instructed to submit their requisitions for anti-leprosy drugs a full year in advance to ensure a smooth transition.
    • Unified Implementation Date: The revised classification of leprosy and the treatment regimen for both Pauci-Bacillary (PB) and multi-bacillary (MB) cases in India will come into effect simultaneously on April 1, 2025.

    Understanding Leprosy

    • Leprosy Overview: Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by the Mycobacterium leprae bacteria, primarily affecting the skin and peripheral nerves.
    • Transmission: It spreads through droplets from the nose and mouth during close contact with untreated cases.
    • Curability: Leprosy is curable with multi-drug therapy (MDT).

    Distinction between PB and MB Cases

    • PB Cases: These individuals have fewer visible bacteria and show no signs of advanced disease in biopsies.
    • MB Cases: They have visible bacteria and may exhibit more advanced disease in biopsies.

    Significance of the New Regimen

    • Eradication Target: The adoption of this new treatment regimen is expected to accelerate India’s progress towards leprosy eradication by 2027, reinforcing the country’s commitment to combat this disease.
    • Previous Funding: The WHO has been providing free MDT, initially funded by the Nippon Foundation and later through an agreement with Novartis. This regimen is known as ‘Uniform MDT,’ simplifying administration and manufacturing processes.

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  • Indian Army Updates

    Operation Sarvashakti launched

    Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Various Security Forces, Agencies & Their Mandates

    Introduction

    • The Indian Army has initiated Operation Sarvashakti in the Rajouri-Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir to combat rising terrorist threats targeting security forces.
    • This article explores Operation Sarpvinash, a similar military operation conducted in the same region over two decades ago, shedding light on its objectives, significance, and historical context.

    Operation Sarvashakti: The Need for Action

    • Escalating Threats: Recent years have witnessed three major terrorist attacks in the area, resulting in the loss of 20 soldiers.
    • Foreign Terrorist Presence: The region is known for hosting foreign terrorists, making it a significant security concern.
    • Enhancing Troop Presence: Operation Sarvashakti involves deploying additional troops to increase the density, thereby improving the chances of encounters with terrorists.

    Reflecting on Operation Sarpvinash

    • Counter-Insurgency in 2003: Operation Sarpvinash was conducted by Indian forces in response to the growing insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir.
    • Extensive Troop Deployment: Over about three months, around 10,000 troops from the 15 Corps and 16 Corps participated in the operation.
    • Aerial Support: Mi-17 helicopters facilitated troop transport to Hilkaka, a village seized by terrorists, while Lancer attack helicopters neutralized concrete bunkers built by infiltrators.
    • Decisive Outcomes: The operation led to the elimination of nearly 100 terrorists, significant arms and ammunition seizures, including explosives, and the dismantling of 40-50 terrorist hideouts.

    Origins of Operation Sarpvinash

    • Post-Kargil War Scenario: With the Kargil war of 1999 fresh in memory and the aftermath of the December 2001 Parliament attack, Operation Parakram involved a substantial military mobilization along the Pakistan border.
    • Preparation in 2003: Operation Sarpvinash preparations began after intelligence reports indicated the presence of over 300 foreign terrorists who had infiltrated the Line of Control (LoC) and established secure camps in Surankote and Hilkaka.
    • Terrorist Control: These terrorists, affiliated with various Pakistan-based outfits, had created a demilitarized zone and asserted dominance, including the establishment of multiple hideouts and bunkers.

    Strategic Significance

    • Crucial Location: The areas south of Mendhar leading to the Pir Panjal range through Hilkaka offer the shortest infiltration route from across the LoC into the Kashmir valley.
    • Infiltration Potential: Controlling this region provides a potential conduit for personnel during a Pakistani military operation and facilitates terrorist infiltration.
    • Natural Cover: Dense forests and steep mountain slopes offer natural concealment, allowing terrorists to evade Indian forces during searches and engage them strategically.

    Post-Sarpvinash Scenario

    • Period of Peace: Following Operation Sarpvinash, the region experienced relative peace until 2017-18, despite ongoing terrorist incidents in the Kashmir valley.
    • Recent Escalations: However, since 2021, this area has witnessed a resurgence of high-intensity attacks on security forces.

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  • Primary and Secondary Education – RTE, Education Policy, SEQI, RMSA, Committee Reports, etc.

    Why India’s runaway Coaching Centres need Regulating?

    Explained | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

    coaching

    Introduction

    • The recent government guidelines on regulating the coaching industry have stirred debate and raised questions about the state of education in India.
    • This article delves into the reasons behind the need for these guidelines and the potential impact on various stakeholders.

    Coaching Chaos: What’s the Issue?

    • Early Enrolment Scrapped: The government’s guidelines stipulate that students below 16 years of age should not be enrolled in coaching centers, restricting enrolment to post-secondary school (standard 10) examination.
    • A Shift in Education: This rule has caused concern as coaching centers have evolved into an alternative education pathway. Students as young as 10-12 years old are prepared for highly competitive exams, such as engineering, medical, and civil service, with low success rates.
    • Proliferation of Coaching Centers: Coaching centers are especially popular in states like Bihar, Rajasthan, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh.

    The Need for Regulation: Why?

    • Rising Student Suicides: The alarming increase in student suicides, with 26 reported cases in Kota alone in 2023, underscores the immense pressure on schoolchildren.
    • Government’s Concerns: The Department of Higher Education, under the Ministry of Education, expressed the need for regulations in light of issues like student suicides, fire incidents, inadequate facilities, and teaching methodologies.
    • Emergence of ‘Dummy Schools’: The rise of ‘dummy schools’ linked to coaching centers, where physical attendance is not mandatory, has raised concerns. Parents often uproot their families and take loans to relocate to coaching hubs in pursuit of quality education.

    Wider Implications: Who Else Will Be Affected?

    • Ecosystem Impact: Coaching hubs like Kota have an entire ecosystem supporting institutes, students, and families, including middlemen, hostels, and hotels. All of these entities stand to lose out.
    • Real Estate Implications: Families relocating to coaching hubs contribute to local real estate income. Regulation may impact this aspect.
    • Impact on ‘Dummy Schools’: Dummy schools will face closure due to the new regulations.

    Perspectives from the Coaching Centers

    • Coaching Federation of India’s Response: The Coaching Federation of India (CFI), representing over 25,000 coaching institutes, may legally contest the minimum age requirement, seeking a reduction from 16 years to 12 years.
    • Competitive Stress Concerns: Large coaching institutes express concerns that the regulations may intensify competitive stress among students, offering them less time for preparation.
    • Regulatory Effectiveness: There is apprehension that the regulations may not effectively oversee smaller private coaching centers, making it challenging to monitor mom-and-pop establishments.

    Education’s Dependent Dynamic

    • Coaching Dependency: The guidelines shed light on the prevailing reliance on coaching institutes. They supplement students’ regular schooling and often require additional hours of study outside the classroom.
    • Misleading Promises: The guidelines also highlight how institutes sometimes make misleading promises or guarantee high scores, emphasizing that ranks and marks have eclipsed holistic student development.

    Conclusion

    • The government’s new guidelines have ignited a critical discussion about the coaching industry and its role in the Indian education landscape.
    • The regulations aim to address pressing concerns while acknowledging the evolving dynamics of education in the country.

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  • Russian Invasion of Ukraine: Global Implications

    Turkey finally backs Sweden’s NATO bid

    IOCR | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Important International Institutions

    Introduction

    • Sweden’s quest to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has achieved a significant breakthrough with Turkey’s parliament endorsing its membership.
    • This crucial development underscores the evolving dynamics in global politics and Sweden’s response to regional security challenges.

    About NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)

    Formation Established on April 4, 1949
    Members Consists of 30 member countries
    Headquarters Located in Brussels, Belgium
    Mission Safeguard freedom and security through political and military cooperation
    Key feature: Article 5 Mutual defense provision, attack on one is an attack on all
    Operations Involved in peacekeeping and crisis management operations worldwide
    NATO-Russia Relations Complex relationship with Russia, involving cooperation and tensions
    Evolving Security Challenges Adapts to address evolving security challenges like terrorism, cyber threats, and hybrid warfare

    Sweden’s Neutrality and Shift in Stance

    • A Two-Century Neutrality: Sweden has maintained a neutral position for over two centuries, staying out of conflicts, including both World Wars and the Cold War.
    • EU and NATO Collaboration: Despite joining the European Union and cooperating with NATO, Sweden had not previously indicated an intent to join the military alliance.
    • Changing Landscape: Sweden’s neutrality had to be reconsidered in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, prompting public opinion in favor of NATO membership.

    Turkey’s Opposition and Resolution

    • Two Years of Opposition: Turkey and Hungary had opposed Sweden’s NATO membership for nearly two years.
    • Turkish Concerns: Turkey raised concerns about Sweden’s perceived leniency toward groups classified as terrorists, including the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK).
    • Freedom of Speech Controversy: Quran-burning protests in Sweden, protected under freedom of speech laws, further strained relations with Turkey.
    • Recent Reforms: Sweden made several efforts to address Turkey’s concerns, tightening anti-terrorism laws, cracking down on PKK activities, and easing restrictions on arms sales to Turkey.
    • Positive Developments: Sweden also pledged support for Turkey’s European Union membership bid.

    Hungary’s Influence and Response

    • Following Turkey’s Lead: Hungary, under Prime Minister Viktor Orban, had been seen as aligning with Turkey in opposing Sweden’s NATO bid.
    • Grievances with Sweden: Hungary expressed dissatisfaction with Sweden’s criticisms of the rule of law and democratic state under Orban.
    • Russia-Friendly Stance: Orban maintained a more Russia-friendly stance compared to other NATO nations.
    • Invitation for Cooperation: Following Turkey’s approval, Orban invited Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson to Budapest to discuss future security and defense cooperation as allies and partners.

    Sweden’s Contribution to NATO

    • Baltic Sea Territory: Sweden’s NATO membership will extend the alliance’s presence along almost the entire Baltic Sea coastline, except for the part under Russian control.
    • Strategic Bases: This expansion provides NATO with strategic bases in proximity to Russia, streamlines supply lines, and facilitates the defense of assets in the Baltic Sea.
    • Modern Military: Despite its relatively small military size, Sweden possesses modern and experienced armed forces with advanced aircraft and submarine capabilities.
    • Global Missions: Sweden’s military has participated in previous NATO missions, adding to the alliance’s operational capabilities.

    Conclusion

    • Sweden’s NATO membership approval signifies a significant shift in its longstanding neutrality, driven by changing geopolitical dynamics and regional security concerns.
    • As Sweden joins the alliance, it brings strategic advantages to NATO’s posture in the Baltic Sea region and enhances the collective defense capabilities of the alliance.

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