[Mission 2024] Insights SECURE SYNOPSIS: 4 May 2024
Kartavya Desk Staff
NOTE: Please remember that following ‘answers’ are NOT ‘model answers’. They are NOT synopsis too if we go by definition of the term. What we are providing is content that both meets demand of the question and at the same
Answer the following questions in 150 words:
General Studies – 1
1. Female Bhakti saints in medieval India made significant contributions to religious, social, and cultural spheres. Discuss.
Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India.
Introduction
Bhakti was accepted as a means to attain moksha along with jnana and karma. The Bhakti Movement originated in the seventh-century in Tamil, South India (now parts of Tamil Nadu and Kerala), and spread northwards. It swept over east and north India from the 15th century onwards, reached its peak between the 15th and 17th century CE. The Bhakti Saints moved against the austerities propagated by the Buddhist and Jain schools and professed that ultimate devotion to god was the means to salvation.
The Bhakti movement in medieval India witnessed the emergence of remarkable female saints who made significant contributions to religious, social, and cultural spheres. These women, through their devotion, poetry, and spiritual experiences, challenged norms, advocated for equality, and left an indelible mark on Indian history.
• Popularizing the Bhakti Movement: Meera Bai: A Rajput princess from Rajasthan, Meera Bai’s unwavering devotion to Lord Krishna transcended societal boundaries. Her soul-stirring bhajans and poems continue to resonate across generations. Andal (Godadevi): A Tamil saint-poetess, Andal’s passionate love for Lord Vishnu found expression in her Tiruppavaiand Nachiyar Tirumozhi. Her verses celebrate divine union and devotion.
• Meera Bai: A Rajput princess from Rajasthan, Meera Bai’s unwavering devotion to Lord Krishna transcended societal boundaries. Her soul-stirring bhajans and poems continue to resonate across generations.
• Andal (Godadevi): A Tamil saint-poetess, Andal’s passionate love for Lord Vishnu found expression in her Tiruppavaiand Nachiyar Tirumozhi. Her verses celebrate divine union and devotion.
• Challenging Social Norms: Akka Mahadevi: A 12th-century Kannada saint, Akka Mahadevi defied conventions by renouncing worldly life and embracing nakedness. Her vachanas (devotional poems) express her intense love for Lord Shiva. Lal Ded (Lalleshwari): A mystic poetess from Kashmir, Lal Ded’s verses blend devotion with social critique. She questioned ritualistic practices and emphasized inner spirituality.
• Akka Mahadevi: A 12th-century Kannada saint, Akka Mahadevi defied conventions by renouncing worldly life and embracing nakedness. Her vachanas (devotional poems) express her intense love for Lord Shiva.
• Lal Ded (Lalleshwari): A mystic poetess from Kashmir, Lal Ded’s verses blend devotion with social critique. She questioned ritualistic practices and emphasized inner spirituality.
• Advocacy for Equality and Empowerment: These female saints rejected traditional roles, transcending societal expectations. They sought direct communion with the divine, challenging male-dominated religious spaces. Their teachings emphasized that devotion was not bound by gender, caste, or social status. Their courage inspired other women to seek spiritual liberation.
• These female saints rejected traditional roles, transcending societal expectations. They sought direct communion with the divine, challenging male-dominated religious spaces.
• Their teachings emphasized that devotion was not bound by gender, caste, or social status. Their courage inspired other women to seek spiritual liberation.
• Enriching Regional Traditions: Mirabai: A devotee of Lord Krishna, Mirabai’s bhajans in Rajasthani and Braj Bhasha enriched North Indian devotional music. Her songs are sung even today during festivals and celebrations. Karaikkal Ammaiyar: A Tamil Shaivite saint, she composed powerful hymns in praise of Lord Shiva. Her verses reflect her unwavering devotion and spiritual wisdom.
• Mirabai: A devotee of Lord Krishna, Mirabai’s bhajans in Rajasthani and Braj Bhasha enriched North Indian devotional music. Her songs are sung even today during festivals and celebrations.
• Karaikkal Ammaiyar: A Tamil Shaivite saint, she composed powerful hymns in praise of Lord Shiva. Her verses reflect her unwavering devotion and spiritual wisdom.
• Legacy of Social Justice and Spiritual Leadership: These women saints advocated for compassion, love, and justice. Their teachings transcended religious boundaries, emphasizing the universality of devotion. Their spiritual leadership inspired social reforms, challenging oppressive practices. They championed the cause of women’s rights and dignity.
• These women saints advocated for compassion, love, and justice. Their teachings transcended religious boundaries, emphasizing the universality of devotion.
• Their spiritual leadership inspired social reforms, challenging oppressive practices. They championed the cause of women’s rights and dignity.
Conclusion
The female bhakti saints of India during the medieval period were torchbearers of devotion, courage, and social transformation. Their legacy continues to inspire generations, reminding us that spirituality knows no gender and that love for the divine can lead to profound realization.
2. In the Himalayan region, land sinking can occur due to various natural and human-induced factors. Examine.
Reference: Indian Express
Introduction
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), subsidence is the “sinking of the ground because of underground material movement”. It can happen for a host of reasons, man-made or natural, such as the removal of water, oil, or natural resources, along with mining activities. Earthquakes, soil erosion, and soil compaction are also some of the well-known causes of subsidence.
A Joshimath-type land sinking has taken place in the remote Pernote village in Raman district on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway causing damage to over 50 houses and four electricity towers.
Man-Made Causes of Land Sinking:
• Tectonic Activity: Earthquakes and crustal movements can lead to localized subsidence.
• Glacial Melting: As glaciers retreat, the land they once pressed down rebounds, causing adjacent areas to sink.
• Groundwater Extraction: Excessive pumping of groundwater weakens soil and rock layers, resulting in subsidence.
• Deforestation: Removal of trees reduces soil stability and can lead to land sinking.
• Mining: Subsurface mining methods (e.g., pillar extraction) cause intentional void collapse, resulting in surface subsidence.
• Urbanization: Heavy construction and urban development overload the land, leading to compaction and sinking.
Natural Causes of Land Sinking:
• Landslides: Mass movement downslope due to gravity can cause localized subsidence.
• Erosion: Soil erosion by water or wind gradually removes material, leading to land sinking.
• Sedimentation: Accumulation of sediment in river deltas or coastal areas can compress underlying layers, causing subsidence.
Challenges and Risks:
• Urban Vulnerability: Cities built without considering load-bearing capacity experience rapid subsidence.
• Sea Level Rise: Sinking land combined with rising sea levels exacerbates flooding risks.
• Localized Impact: Subsidence affects specific regions, often clustered around urban areas or agricultural zones.
Way Forward
• Local Solutions: Communities can take control of land subsidence: Efficient Water Management: Promote water conservation and sustainable groundwater use. Climate-Resilient Urban Planning: Factor subsidence risk into city development. Green Corridors: Create green spaces to absorb excess water and stabilize soil. Rainwater Harvesting: Capture rainwater to recharge aquifers. Innovative Construction: Use lightweight materials and consider subsidence risks.
• Efficient Water Management: Promote water conservation and sustainable groundwater use.
• Climate-Resilient Urban Planning: Factor subsidence risk into city development.
• Green Corridors: Create green spaces to absorb excess water and stabilize soil.
• Rainwater Harvesting: Capture rainwater to recharge aquifers.
• Innovative Construction: Use lightweight materials and consider subsidence risks.
• Global Cooperation: Addressing subsidence requires local action but also global awareness and collaboration.
• Research and Monitoring: Invest in ongoing research, monitoring, and early warning systems.
General Studies – 2
3. Census data is indispensable for governments in making informed decisions, planning for the future, and addressing the diverse needs of their populations. Analyse.
Reference: Live Mint , Insights on India
Introduction
A census is the procedure of systematically acquiring and recording information about the members of a given population. Census provides information on size, distribution, socio-economic, demographic and other characteristic of countries population.
The Census was first started under British Viceroy Lord Mayo in 1872. It helped in framing new policies, government programs to uplift areas of improvement in the community. The first synchronous census in India was held in *1881. Every ten years: Since then, censuses have been undertaken uninterruptedly once every ten years.*
Study of India’s experience under colonial rule by Dylan Sullivan and Jason Hickel concludes that data from the Census of India reveal that between 1880 and 1920 approximately 100 million Indians died due to British policy in India.
Without a reliable and dynamic database, governments will find it hard to reach the poorest of households in need of state support. They will have to either rely on extra-official agents to help identify the poorest lot, or devise quasi-universal schemes to cut down exclusion errors.
Need for census
• The census provides information on size, distribution and socio-economic, demographic and other characteristics of the country’s population.
• The data collected through the census are used for administration, planning and policy making as well as management and evaluation of various programmesby the government, NGOs, researchers, commercial and private enterprises, etc.
• Census data is also used for demarcation of constituencies and allocation of representation to parliament, State legislative Assemblies and the local bodies.
• Researchers and demographers use census data to analyze growth and trends of population and make projections.
• The census data is also important for business houses and industries for strengthening and planning their business for penetration into areas, which had hitherto remained, uncovered.
Importance of Census
• Utility in Administration and Policy The population census provides the basic data for administrative purposes. One of the most basic of the administrative uses of census data is in the demarcation of constituenceis and the allocation of representation on governing bodies. Detailed information on the geographic distribution of the population is indispensable for this purpose. The Census also gives information on the demographic and economic characteristics of the population at the district level.
• The population census provides the basic data for administrative purposes. One of the most basic of the administrative uses of census data is in the demarcation of constituenceis and the allocation of representation on governing bodies. Detailed information on the geographic distribution of the population is indispensable for this purpose. The Census also gives information on the demographic and economic characteristics of the population at the district level.
• Utility of Census data for Research Purposes: The population census provides indispensable data for scientific analysis and appraisal of the composition, distribution and past and prospective growth of the population.
• The population census provides indispensable data for scientific analysis and appraisal of the composition, distribution and past and prospective growth of the population.
• Utility of Census data in Business and Industry: The census data has many important uses for individuals and institutions in business and industry. It is very difficult to make a full assessment of the multiplicity of ways in which trade and business make use of the census data.
• The census data has many important uses for individuals and institutions in business and industry. It is very difficult to make a full assessment of the multiplicity of ways in which trade and business make use of the census data.
• Census as frame for Sample Surveys: The rapidity of current changes in the size and other characteristics of populations and the demand for additional detailed data on social and economic characteristics which are not appropriate for collection in a full-scale census, have brought about the need for continuing programmes of intercensal sample surveys to collect current and detailed information on many topics which are usually investigated at ten-year intervals in the population censuses.
• The rapidity of current changes in the size and other characteristics of populations and the demand for additional detailed data on social and economic characteristics which are not appropriate for collection in a full-scale census, have brought about the need for continuing programmes of intercensal sample surveys to collect current and detailed information on many topics which are usually investigated at ten-year intervals in the population censuses.
• Utility of Census data in Planning: The census data is indispensable for social and economic planning of the Country. The Planning Commission utilises the Census data on the distribution of population by age, sex classified by rural and urban regions, cities, town areas and social groups to analyse the growth of consumer demand and savings in the process of development.
• The census data is indispensable for social and economic planning of the Country. The Planning Commission utilises the Census data on the distribution of population by age, sex classified by rural and urban regions, cities, town areas and social groups to analyse the growth of consumer demand and savings in the process of development.
• Utility of Population Census to Electoral Rolls: Some countries have taken advantage of the enumeration for a population census to collect, at the same time, information needed for the establishment of electoral rolls. This procedure is not generally advisable because of the deleterious effect the secondary purpose might have on the quality of the census results.
• Some countries have taken advantage of the enumeration for a population census to collect, at the same time, information needed for the establishment of electoral rolls. This procedure is not generally advisable because of the deleterious effect the secondary purpose might have on the quality of the census results.
• Utility of Population Census to other types of Censuses: Certain information collected as part of a population census, or incidential to it, can be most useful in conducting and/or utilizing the results of housing, agricultural or establishment censuses taken at about the same time or near about as the population census.
• Certain information collected as part of a population census, or incidential to it, can be most useful in conducting and/or utilizing the results of housing, agricultural or establishment censuses taken at about the same time or near about as the population census.
• Utility of population census to civil registration and vital statistics: Census data serve as denominators for the computation of vital rates, especially rates specific for characteristics normally investigated only at the time of the census.
• Census data serve as denominators for the computation of vital rates, especially rates specific for characteristics normally investigated only at the time of the census.
Challenges and Experiences:
• Cost of Conducting Census One of the biggest challenges associated with conducting census in poor countries is the enormous financial costs of conducting the exercise. It is no secret that it is extremely costly to conduct a census.
• One of the biggest challenges associated with conducting census in poor countries is the enormous financial costs of conducting the exercise. It is no secret that it is extremely costly to conduct a census.
• High Illiteracy Rate in a Nation has a Negative Impact on the Conducting of Census Countries with large proportions of their populations being illiterates face a great challenge during the conducting of censuses.
• Countries with large proportions of their populations being illiterates face a great challenge during the conducting of censuses.
• Inadequate Infrastructural Facilities in Certain Areas There are certain places in the world where it is very difficult undertaking efficient population census because of poor infrastructural facilities such as bad roads, inaccessible roads or insufficient roads that connect various towns and villages.
• There are certain places in the world where it is very difficult undertaking efficient population census because of poor infrastructural facilities such as bad roads, inaccessible roads or insufficient roads that connect various towns and villages.
• Traditional and Religious Beliefs can Interfere with the Census Exercise In many underdeveloped parts of the world where traditional beliefs are the order of the day, census officers face serious challenges when they reach these places and try counting the people.
• In many underdeveloped parts of the world where traditional beliefs are the order of the day, census officers face serious challenges when they reach these places and try counting the people.
• Corruption Interferes with Census Corruption during census can make it difficult to have an efficient population census exercise that provides accurate population figures.
• Corruption during census can make it difficult to have an efficient population census exercise that provides accurate population figures.
• Insufficient Census Experts Another problem associated with conducting censuses in certain parts of the world is the insufficient number of professionals with the knowledge and experience of conducting census.
• Another problem associated with conducting censuses in certain parts of the world is the insufficient number of professionals with the knowledge and experience of conducting census.
• Insufficient and Ineffective Census Educational Campaign How effective an educational campaign on census is prior to the census taking place determines how successful the census exercise eventually becomes.
• How effective an educational campaign on census is prior to the census taking place determines how successful the census exercise eventually becomes.
• Poor Demographic Maps Because of demographic maps that aren’t reliable, it becomes very difficult for the authorities to know all the remote areas (especially the very remote areas) in the country and go there to conduct the census exercise.
• Because of demographic maps that aren’t reliable, it becomes very difficult for the authorities to know all the remote areas (especially the very remote areas) in the country and go there to conduct the census exercise.
Way forward
• Census data is first time being collected by mobile hence specific training should be given to the collectors
• Also public must be aware about the methodology
• Method must be developed to tackle the problem faced in earlier phases
Conclusion
Census is a major pillar for development and hence, Centre, States as well as local bodies must help for smoother process of Collection of data.
General Studies – 3
4. Organic farming holds great potential for sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation, but it also comes with certain limitations. Analyse.
Reference: Down to Earth , Insights on India
Introduction
According to FSSAI, ’Organic farming’ is a system of farm design and management to create an ecosystem of agriculture production without the use of synthetic external inputs such as chemical fertilizers, pesticides and synthetic hormones or genetically modified organisms. FAO suggested that Organic agriculture enhances agro-ecosystem health, including biodiversity, biological cycles and soil biological activity.
Advantages of Organic farming
• Compared with conventional agriculture, organic farming uses fewer pesticides, reduces soil erosion, decreases nitrate leaching into groundwater and surface water, and recycles animal wastes back into the farm.
• Sustainable and environmentally friendly production method, which has particular advantages for small-scale farmers
• Organic agriculture contributes to poverty alleviation and food security
• Increasing yields in low-input areas
• Conserving bio-diversity and nature resources on the farm and in the surrounding area
• Increasing income and/or reducing costs
• Producing safe and varied food
• Provide several ecosystem services and being sustainable in the long term
• Farmers in India’s poorest region are recording record rice yields by growing organically
Limitations of Organic farming
• Due to relatively small volumes, the costs of organic food products are relatively high. According to the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, productivity on an average dips by 6.7 per cent in the first year, and the government needs to have a plan in place to support farmers during the transition.
• The cost of cultivation increases as it takes more time and energy to produce than its chemical-intensive counterpart.
• High demand and low supply has further created an inflationary pressure on organic food products.
• Pest attack on organic crops is another reason cited by the farmers for low productivity and demanded education and training to deal with it.
• Specialised farmer training costs, higher processing and inventory holding costs, and increased packaging, logistics and distribution costs add to the price of end products.
• The absence of organic food products across all segments in the market is a concern
• There is low awareness at the producer level on the difference between conventional farming and organic farming.
• At the consumer level, there is confusion between natural and organic products and limited understanding of the health benefits of organic food products
• Consumers are faced with a plethora of decisions around brands —imported or domestic, product quality, authenticity of claims and certifications.
• Even as farmers are struggling to find a better market, the existing certification systems for organic food are making things difficult for them. The certification systems are not only cumbersome and time-consuming, but also expensive.
Way forward
• Supply-demand mismatch can be eased fundamentally by making organic production mainstream with location-specific hybrid production strategies
• Investments in achieving operations excellence by companies will facilitate lowering the cost of organic food products
• In order to sustain consumer trust, maintaining an accurate audit stream, and preventing cross-contamination with conventional goods would be crucial.
• Consumers should consume responsibly and stakeholders should prevent wastage along the supply chain.
• The Government must rope in agricultural scientists and international research institutions to develop organic herbicides.
• It is critical for companies involved in the organic food business to increase awareness among consumers in non-metro cities
• People across all income groups should have access to organic food.
• Establishing community-supported agricultural farms or with “grow your own food” programmes
Conclusion
Organic agriculture is the best insurance policy that India can have with better performance on productivity, environmental impact, economic viability and social well-being. Focusing only on higher yields at the expense of other sustainability pillars (economics, environment and society) is not the food production system that India needs. What India needs is an integrated system that gives equal importance to all sustainability dimensions across the value chain and thus helps establish a healthy and well-fed society.
Value addition
*State of organic farming in India:*
• India is home to 30 per cent of the total organic producers in the world, but accounts for just 2.59 per cent (1.5 million hectares) of the total organic cultivation area of 57.8 million hectares, according to the World of Organic Agriculture 2018 report.**
• India is the largest exporter of organic cotton worldwide.
• More than 30% of world’s organic producers are in India
• India exporting over 300 products in 20 different categories.
• India exported 1.35 million metric tons of “certified organic” food in the year of 2015-16.
• Oilseeds comprised half of India’s overall organic food export, followed by processed food products at 25%.
• Current Indian organic market is estimated at more than Rs. 4000 crore and it is likely to increase to 10,000 to 20,000 crore by 2020.
• Indian organic market has a combined annual growth rate of 25% compared to 16% global growth rate.
• Most organic farmers are struggling due to poor policy measures, rising input costs and limited market, says a study by the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) and global consultancy firm Ernst & Young.
*Government Initiatives to Promote Organic Farming:*
• Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North East Region (MOVCD). The scheme aims to develop certified organic production in a value chain mode to link growers with consumers and to support the development of the entire value chain.
• Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY): Under PKVY, Organic farming is promoted through adoption of organic villages by cluster approach and Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) certification.
• Certification Schemes: Participatory Guarantee System (PGS). National Program for Organic Production (NPOP Soil Health Card Scheme
• Participatory Guarantee System (PGS).
• National Program for Organic Production (NPOP
• Soil Health Card Scheme
• Agri-export Policy 2018
• One District – One Product (ODOP)
• PM Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PM FME)
• Zero Budget Natural Farming
5. The poultry industry in India is a vital contributor to the economy. Despite its growth and potential, the poultry industry in India faces several challenges. Examine.
Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India
Introduction
India is the world’s third largest egg producer and sixth largest broiler producer. Commercial poultry farms contribute 75% of egg production, while household/backyard poultry farms contribute the remaining 25%, and broiler production is 4.9 million MT (4th in Broiler Production). The layer market grows at a rate of 6-7 percent per year, while the broiler market grows at a rate of 8-10 percent per year. The country’s total poultry feed production stands at 24 million tonnes. The Indian poultry industry is worth INR 1.25 lakh crore (USD 18.5 billion). According to the 20th Livestock Census, India has 851.8 million poultry birds. About 30% of this comes from ‘backyard poultry,’ or small and marginal farmers. Poultry farms raise chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese for meat and eggs.
The current outbreak of H5N1 was a disaster waiting to happen, as experts have been sounding alarm bells on the unsafe conditions at industrial livestock production for more than 10 years now.
The poultry industry in India, in particular, represents a massive success story. It has undergone a paradigm shift in structure and operation and what was largely a backyard venture before the 1960s has been transformed into a vibrant agribusiness with an annual turnover of INR 30 000 crores.
Potential of the poultry sector:
• The development goes beyond size – extending to efficiency, superiority and quality.
• Labour: Poultry sector, besides providing direct or indirect employment to nearly 3 million people is a potent tool for subsidiary income generation for many landless and marginal farmers.
• Nutritional security: For a distressed farmer’s family, food provided by livestock is the only source of nutrition required for survival and also provides nutritional security.
• Reliable source of income: Further, landless labourers derive more than 50 per cent of their income from livestock especially from poultry.
• Asset: Livestock are important asset for a distress farmer which can be encashed at any moment and may help him to come out of debt trap.
Undoubtedly, this remarkable growth is an outcome of several factors, such as active developmental support from the state and central government, research and development support from research institutes, application of new technologies, international collaboration and private sector participation.
Challenges posing Poultry industry
• Outbreaks of diseases such as Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) result in the culling of poultry, cancellation of orders, and price increases, all of which have a significant impact on the industry.
• Another issue is alack of raw materials. The price of soybean meal has risen, forcing feed manufacturers to make dietary changes for birds.
• Another issue is a lack of human resourcesdue to the lack of veterinarians and researchers in areas where expertise knowledge is required.
• The Indian poultry sector is still unable to reap the benefits of the international market. The major factor affecting the poultry sector in India is a lack of adequate cold storage and warehouses.
• The majority of the production is done in the unorganized sector as backyard poultry for extra income.
• Increasing the level of antibiotics in poultry products has long-term negative consequences, such as drug resistance in humans.
• Lack of comprehensive regulating authority to maintain hygiene and the granting of business licences.
• The proximity of the birds to their waste and other birds increases the risk of agents such as salmonella for consumers.
Way forward:
• Measures should be taken to increase the meat production efficiency of different species of animals using the improved management practices.
• Adoption of improved shelter management practices can reduce the environmental stress.
• New breeds should be developed for meat production with higher feed conversion efficiency, faster growth and disease resistant.
• Health management practices should be followed for prevention of diseases and economic loss to the farmers.
• Regular prophetic health measures should be carried out against infectious diseases. Regular screening of animals should be carried out against disease such as tuberculosis, brucellosis, salmonellosis etc.
• The livestock market yard should have basic facilities for feeding, watering and holding animals for days.
• By vertical integration with meat processing industries the middle men can be eliminated, which will ultimately increase the profit of farmers.
• There is need for modernizing the quality control laboratories of the State Government, apart from need for strict laboratory inspection of meat and meat products, training programs for meat workers regarding hygiene and sanitation need to be organized regularly.
• Modernization of abattoirs, setting up of rural abattoirs and registration of all slaughter houses in cities/towns are essential for quality meat production.
• The setting up of large commercial meat farms have been recommended to address the traceability issues necessary for stringent quality standards of CODEX.
Conclusion
Poultry rearing has always been an integral component of livestock production system in India. The concept of composite farming production system with crop, livestock, fish and poultry production has been practiced for centuries in India. However, poultry production in India has taken a quantum leap in the last four decades, emerging from an entirely unorganized and unscientific farming practice to commercial production system with state-of-the-art technological interventions.
Answer the following questions in 250 words(15 marks each):
General Studies – 1
6. Sundarbans, are one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world. Its resource richness is unparalleled, making it an invaluable ecological asset. Discuss the resource richness and major issues faced by the Sundarbans.
Reference: Down to Earth , Insights on India
Introduction
The Sundarbans, a unique and dynamic ecosystem, sprawls across the Bay of Bengal delta, straddling India and Bangladesh. This vast mangrove forest, covering approximately 40,000 square kilometers, is a treasure trove of natural resources and biodiversity.
For most of the world, the Sundarbans evoke a sense of awe for their flora and fauna. The innumerable rivers, mangrove swamps, tidal backwaters, islands, creeks and forests depict nature at its most pristine and its most savage. There are Bengal tigers, saltwater crocodiles, bull sharks, venomous snakes, wild boar, monkeys, Bengal monitors and others.
Resource Richness of Sundarbans:
• Mangrove Forests: The Sundarbans is home to one of the largest contiguous mangrove forestsglobally, spanning both countries. These mangroves serve as a natural barrier against cyclones and tidal surges, protecting coastal communities.
• The Sundarbans is home to one of the largest contiguous mangrove forestsglobally, spanning both countries.
• These mangroves serve as a natural barrier against cyclones and tidal surges, protecting coastal communities.
• Biodiversity: The region boasts 373 faunal speciesand 324 floral species. It provides a critical habitatfor endangered species like the Bengal tiger, saltwater crocodile, and Ganges and Irawadi dolphins. The Royal Bengal Tigerfinds its only mangrove habitat here.
• The region boasts 373 faunal speciesand 324 floral species.
• It provides a critical habitatfor endangered species like the Bengal tiger, saltwater crocodile, and Ganges and Irawadi dolphins.
• The Royal Bengal Tigerfinds its only mangrove habitat here.
• Thriving Fisheries: The Sundarbans supports vibrant fisheries, providing livelihoods to local communities. Fish and crab are essential protein sources for inhabitants.
• The Sundarbans supports vibrant fisheries, providing livelihoods to local communities.
• Fish and crab are essential protein sources for inhabitants.
• Tourism Attraction: Its scenic beauty, mangrove boat safaris, and unique ecosystemdraw tourists. Visitors explore its mangrove creeks, spotting wildlife and experiencing its natural wonders.
• Its scenic beauty, mangrove boat safaris, and unique ecosystemdraw tourists.
• Visitors explore its mangrove creeks, spotting wildlife and experiencing its natural wonders.
Concerns in the Region:
• Climate Change: Rising sea levels, increased salinity, and extreme weather events threaten the Sundarbans. Permanent submergenceof landmass due to climate change affects biodiversity and human settlements.
• Rising sea levels, increased salinity, and extreme weather events threaten the Sundarbans.
• Permanent submergenceof landmass due to climate change affects biodiversity and human settlements.
• Deforestation and Pollution: Unsustainable exploitationof forest resources leads to habitat degradation. Chemical pollutionfrom industries contaminates rivers and water ecosystems.
• Unsustainable exploitationof forest resources leads to habitat degradation.
• Chemical pollutionfrom industries contaminates rivers and water ecosystems.
• Human-Wildlife Conflicts: Proximity to mangroves exposes communities to tiger attacksand other hazards. Loss of livelihoodsdue to conflicts impacts local well-being.
• Proximity to mangroves exposes communities to tiger attacksand other hazards.
• Loss of livelihoodsdue to conflicts impacts local well-being.
Efforts Needed:
• Climate-Resilient Policies: Implement policies to address climate change impacts. Afforestation, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable resource managementare crucial.
• Implement policies to address climate change impacts.
• Afforestation, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable resource managementare crucial.
• Community Engagement: Involve local communities in conservation efforts. Promote alternative livelihoodsto reduce dependence on forest resources.
• Involve local communities in conservation efforts.
• Promote alternative livelihoodsto reduce dependence on forest resources.
• Research and Monitoring: Continuously assess the ecosystem’s health. Mitigate human-wildlife conflictsthrough awareness and safety measures.
• Continuously assess the ecosystem’s health.
• Mitigate human-wildlife conflictsthrough awareness and safety measures.
Way Forward:
• Transboundary Cooperation: India and Bangladesh must collaborate for effective conservation. Integrated managementacross borders is essential.
• India and Bangladesh must collaborate for effective conservation.
• Integrated managementacross borders is essential.
• Nature-Based Solutions: Mangrove restoration, afforestation, and sustainable agricultureare key. Promote eco-tourismwith responsible practices.
• Mangrove restoration, afforestation, and sustainable agricultureare key.
• Promote eco-tourismwith responsible practices.
• Empower Local Communities: Education, healthcare, and livelihood diversificationare critical. Inclusive policiescan ensure a sustainable future for the Sundarbans.
• Education, healthcare, and livelihood diversificationare critical.
• Inclusive policiescan ensure a sustainable future for the Sundarbans.
Conclusion
Safeguarding the Sundarbans requires collective efforts, balancing ecological conservation with human well-being.
General Studies – 2
7. Trade unions provide a collective voice for workers, empowering them to address grievances collectively rather than individually. Analyse.
Reference: The Hindu
Introduction
Trade unions, also known as labor unions, are organizations formed by workers from related fields. Their primary purpose is to protect and promote the interests of their members. Trade unions remain vital for workers’ welfare, but sustained efforts are necessary to address emerging challenges and ensure a harmonious balance between labor and management interests
Importance of Trade Unions
• Collective Bargaining: Collective bargaining is the process of negotiating terms such as salaries, working hours, and conditions between trade unions and employers. Trade unions stand in for workers during these negotiations, striving to improve pay, benefits, and working conditions. In India, trade unions have successfully negotiated better wages and benefits for organized sector workers.
• In India, trade unions have successfully negotiated better wages and benefits for organized sector workers.
• Legal Representation: Trade unions provide legal protection to workers facing unfair treatment from employers. Workers can seek legal assistance through unions when needed.
• Generating Self-Confidence Among Workers: Unions empower workers by fostering self-confidence and solidarity.
• Promoting Safe Working Conditions: Unions advocate for safe workplaces, reducing accidents and stress-related health issues.
• Link Between Management and Workers: Unions bridge the gap between management and workers, facilitating communication.
• Advocacy for Labor Laws and Policies: Unions influence government policies related to labor laws, minimum wages, and worker safety. They have shaped legislation, including the Industrial Disputes Act and the Trade Unions Act.
• They have shaped legislation, including the Industrial Disputes Act and the Trade Unions Act.
Challenges Faced by Trade Unions:
• Leadership: Effective leadership is crucial for union success.
• Financial Troubles: Maintaining financial stability can be difficult.
• Multiplicity of Unions: Multiple unions can lead to fragmentation.
• Intra-Union Rivalry: Internal conflicts weaken collective strength.
• Politicization: Political affiliations can impact union decisions.
• Illiteracy: Raising awareness among workers is essential.
• Apathy of Workers and Role of Management: Engaging workers and collaborating with management pose challenges.
Conclusion
Trade unions have made significant strides in advocating for workers’ rights, securing better wages, and improving working conditions. However, they face limitations such as internal divisions, financial constraints, and the need for continuous worker engagement. A balanced approach involves recognizing their achievements while acknowledging areas for improvement.
8. Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) has significantly expanded access to healthcare services for millions of beneficiaries who were previously excluded due to financial constraints. Critically examine its performance.
Reference: The Hindu
Introduction
The Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission touted as “India’s largest scheme to scale-up health infrastructure” was launched by Prime Minister recently. It is aimed at ensuring a robust public health infrastructure in both urban and rural areas, capable of responding to public health emergencies or disease outbreak.
Healthcare provisions in India is grossly inadequate and access to healthcare is highly inequitable. Lack of efficient public healthcare and burden of out-of-pocket health expenditures reduces people’s capacity or disables them from investing in the human capital of their children.
PM-JAY has issued 34.27 crore cards. About 6.5 crore have received treatment and there are over 30,000 empanelled hospitals. However, over the past year, hospitals in some States have reported they are owed hundreds of crores in dues, and some are reportedly turning away or taking in fewer PMJAY patients.
PM-JAY: Features and Significance
• PM-JAY is the world’s largest health insurance/ assurance scheme fully financed by the government. Launched in February 2018, it offers a sum insured of5 lakh per family for secondary care (which doesn’t involve a super specialist) as well as tertiary care (which involves a super specialist). Under PMJAY, cashless and paperless access to services are provided to the beneficiaries at the point of service, that is, hospital. Health Benefit Packages covers surgery, medical and day care treatments, cost of medicines and diagnostics. Packaged rates (Rates that include everything so that each product or service is not charged for separately). These are flexible but the hospitals can’t charge the beneficiary more once fixed.
• Launched in February 2018, it offers a sum insured of5 lakh per family for secondary care (which doesn’t involve a super specialist) as well as tertiary care (which involves a super specialist).
• Under PMJAY, cashless and paperless access to services are provided to the beneficiaries at the point of service, that is, hospital.
• Health Benefit Packages covers surgery, medical and day care treatments, cost of medicines and diagnostics.
• Packaged rates (Rates that include everything so that each product or service is not charged for separately).
• These are flexible but the hospitals can’t charge the beneficiary more once fixed.
• Beneficiaries: It is an entitlement-based scheme that targets the beneficiaries as identified by latest Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) data.
• Once identified by the database, the beneficiary is considered insured and can walk into any empaneled hospital.
• Funding: The funding for the scheme is shared – 60:40 for all states and UTs with their own legislature, 90:10 in Northeast states and Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal and Uttarakhand and 100% Central funding for UTs without legislature.
• Nodal Agency: The National Health Authority (NHA) has been constituted as an autonomous entity under the Society Registration Act, 1860 for effective implementation of PM-JAY in alliance with state governments. The State Health Agency (SHA) is the apex body of the State Government responsible for the implementation of AB PM-JAY in the State.
• The State Health Agency (SHA) is the apex body of the State Government responsible for the implementation of AB PM-JAY in the State.
• Beneficial for Poor: In around the first 200 days of implementation, PM-JAY has benefitted more than 20.8 lakh poor and deprived people who received free treatment worth more than Rs. 5,000 crores.
• During Covid-19: A key design feature of PM-JAY from the beginning of the scheme is portability, which helps to ensure that a PM-JAY-eligible migrant worker can access the scheme’s services in any empanelled hospital across the country, irrespective of their state of residence.
Challenges in healthcare
• Finance: At about 1.3% of the national income, India’s public healthcare spendingbetween 2008 and 2015, has virtually remained stagnant. This is way less than the global average of 6 per cent. It is a herculean task to implement a scheme that could potentially cost Rs 5 lakh per person and benefit 53.7 crore out of India’s 121 crore citizenry, or roughly about 44% of the country’s population. Over 70 per cent of the total healthcare expenditure is accounted for by the private sector.
• Crumbling public health infrastructure:Given the country’s crumbling public healthcare infrastructure, most patients are forced to go to private clinics and hospitals. There is a shortage of PHCs (22%) and sub-health centres (20%), while only 7% sub-health centres and 12% primary health centres meet Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS) norms.
• High Out of Pocket Expenditure: Reports suggest that 70% of the medical spending is from the patient’s pockets leading to huge burden and pushing many into poverty. Most consumers complain of rising costs. Hundred days into the PMJAY, it remains to be seen if private hospitals provide knee replacement at Rs 80,000 (current charges Rs 3.5 lakh) bypass surgery at Rs 1.7 lakh (against Rs 4 lakh).
• Insurance:India has one of the lowest per capita healthcare expenditures in the world. Government contribution to insurance stands at roughly 32 percent, as opposed to 83.5 percent in the UK. The high out-of-pocket expenses in India stem from the fact that 76 percent of Indians do not have health insurance.
• Doctor-Density Ratio: The WHOreports the doctor-density ratio in India at 8 per 10,000 people as against one doctor for a population of 1,000. To achieve such access, merely increasing the number of primary and secondary healthcare centres is not enough.
• Shortage of Medical Personnel:Data by IndiaSpend show that there is a staggering shortage of medical and paramedical staff at all levels of care: 10,907 auxiliary nurse midwives and 3,673 doctors are needed at sub-health and primary health centres, while for community health centres the figure is 18,422 specialists.
• Rural-urban disparity:The rural healthcare infrastructure is three-tiered and includes a sub-center, primary health centre (PHC) and CHC. PHCs are short of more than 3,000 doctors, with the shortage up by 200 per cent over the last 10 years to 27,421. Private hospitals don’t have adequate presence in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities and there is a trend towards super specialisation in Tier-1 cities.
• Social Inequality: The growth of health facilities has been highly imbalanced in India. Rural, hilly and remote areas of the country are under served while in urban areas and cities, health facility is well developed. The SC/ST and the poor people are far away from modern health service.
• Poor healthcare ranking:India ranks as low as 145th among 195 countries in healthcare quality and accessibility, behind even Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
• Commercial motive:lack of transparency and unethical practices in the private sector.
• Lack of level playing field between the public and private hospitals: This has been a major concern as public hospitals would continue receiving budgetary support. This would dissuade the private players from actively participating in the scheme.
• Scheme flaws: The overall situation with the National Health Mission, India’s flagship programme in primary health care, continues to be dismal. The NHM’s share in the health budget fell from 73% in 2006 to 50% in 2019 in the absence of uniform and substantial increases in health spending by States.
Conclusion
Making good use of technology and innovation can further reduce the overall cost of healthcare. AI-powered mobile applications can provide high-quality, low-cost, patient-centric, smart wellness solutions. The scalable and inter-operable IT platform for the Ayushman Bharat is a positive step in this direction.
General Studies – 3
9. Inequality in India stems from various factors, both historical and contemporary. Hence, targeted interventions should focus on vulnerable groups to ensure equitable access to social services and support systems. Analyse.
Reference: The Hindu
Introduction
In India there are many types of inequality but can be mainly categorised as economic and social inequality. The other types such as political and gender inequalities are extensions of socio-economic inequalities.
If we look at our own growth dividend from 1980 to 2016, a 66% share is estimated to have gone to the top 10%, 23% to the middle 40%, and the bottom 50%’s gain has been a measly 10%. This is a worrying statistic, showcasing gross inequality in India.
Causes of Inequality in India
• Historical reasons: Discrimination against certain sections of the society since historic times. This has affected their choice, opportunity, and accessibility to education, employment and health. Though policies like Reservation have been implemented since Independence, they were successful only in the economic and political sphere that too to a limited section of people but failed largely in social upliftment.
• Gender inequality: Females were always treated to be subordinate and weaker to males. Girl education is considered to be a burden on the family and women have limited choices in employment. Women comprise over 42 per cent of the agricultural labour force in the country, yet they own less than 2 percent of its farm land according to the India Human Development Survey (IHDS).
• Women comprise over 42 per cent of the agricultural labour force in the country, yet they own less than 2 percent of its farm land according to the India Human Development Survey (IHDS).
• Large-scale informal employment: 80% of the Indian labour force is employed in the informal sector. Informal sector jobs are more insecure without regular pay and social security benefits. This increases the wage gap between formal and informal sectors. A huge proportion of the population is still dependent on agriculture but the share of agriculture to the total GDP is falling.
• Informal sector jobs are more insecure without regular pay and social security benefits.
• This increases the wage gap between formal and informal sectors.
• A huge proportion of the population is still dependent on agriculture but the share of agriculture to the total GDP is falling.
• Inter-state inequalities: Growth has been different across sectors and regions. For examples, Green Revolution has disproportionately benefitted Western and Southern India when compared to Eastern India.
• Globalization: Studies show that globalization and opening up the economy has benefited the rich more than the poor, thus raising the inequality. Global platforms like WTO have resulted in increased trade competitiveness affecting the returns of local investors and producers.
• Global platforms like WTO have resulted in increased trade competitiveness affecting the returns of local investors and producers.
• According to the paper by famous Economist Thomas Piketty, tax progressivity which is a tool to contain the rise in inequality was progressively reduced. Wage inequality dispersion also increased in many sectors, as privatizations removed government-set pay scales, which were less unequal.
• Wage inequality dispersion also increased in many sectors, as privatizations removed government-set pay scales, which were less unequal.
• Lack of skill development and jobless growth: There is also no inclusive growth and the welfare schemes have not trickled down and benefitted the most vulnerable in the nation.
Steps needed to ensure equitable society
• Constitutional Provision: Enforcement of Constitutional Guarantee of equality as enshrined in fundamental rights. Articles 14, 15 and 16 form part of a scheme of the Constitutional Right to Equality. Article 15 and 16 are incidents of guarantees of Equality, and gives effect to Article 14.
• Women Empowerment: For gender equality policies like affirmative action by reserving seats in legislatures, increasing reservation at Local self-government both at Urban and village level to 50% in all states, strict implementation of The Equal Remuneration act,1976 to remove wage gap, making education curriculum gender sensitive, raising awareness about women right, changing social norms through schemes like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao etc.
• Progressive Taxes: Additional public resources for public services by progressive taxes on wealthy more and by increasing the effective taxation on corporations, more importantly broadening the tax base through better monitoring of financial transactions.
• Economic Policies: By ensuring universal access to public funded high-quality services like public health and education, social security benefits, employment guarantee schemes; inequality can be reduced to great extent.
• Employment Generation: The failure to grow manufacturing sectors like Textile, Clothing, automobiles, consumer goods etc. is the important reason of rising inequalities. The Labor-intensive manufacturing has the potential to absorb millions of people who are leaving farming while service sector tends to benefit majorly urban middle class.
• The Labor-intensive manufacturing has the potential to absorb millions of people who are leaving farming while service sector tends to benefit majorly urban middle class.
Conclusion
Inequality is corrosively divisive. A high level of inequality is anti-growth because the losers are prone to lack of trust and violence. Once it is clear that the dividends of economic growth are going to a relatively small group, opposition to growth can spring up. This can add to the existing fault lines in the society. The only way ahead is inclusive growth while ensuring Sabka Saath and Sabka Vikas in letter and spirit.
10. The evolution of the India’s service sector after economic reforms in 1991 has been instrumental in driving economic development, fostering innovation, and improving standards of living. Discuss.
Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India
Introduction
India’s aspiration to become a $5-trillion economy is predicated on the growth of its international trade to $2 trillion by 2030, equally contributed by merchandise and services. The Government expects services exports to overtake merchandise and manufacturing, or at least be on par. This is possible only if services are viewed from the same prism as manufacturing in terms of fiscal encouragement and incentives.
Evolution of India’s Service Sector Post-1991 Reforms:
• Macro-Level Impact: Economic Development: The service sector’s growth has been a driving force behind India’s economic development. It contributes significantly to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employment. Innovation Hub: Services like IT, finance, and consulting have fostered innovation. India’s prowess in software development, BPOs, and digital solutions is globally recognized. Higher Standards of Living: The sector provides diverse job opportunities, leading to improved living standards for millions.
• Economic Development: The service sector’s growth has been a driving force behind India’s economic development. It contributes significantly to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employment.
• Innovation Hub: Services like IT, finance, and consulting have fostered innovation. India’s prowess in software development, BPOs, and digital solutions is globally recognized.
• Higher Standards of Living: The sector provides diverse job opportunities, leading to improved living standards for millions.
• Micro-Level Resilience During Covid-19 Crisis: Digital Transformation: The service sector swiftly adapted to remote work and digital platforms during the pandemic. Education Continuity: Online learning platforms enabled students to attend classes seamlessly. Healthcare Services: Telemedicine and e-pharmacies played a crucial role in healthcare delivery. E-Commerce and Delivery Services: E-commerce platforms ensured essential supplies reached households.
• Digital Transformation: The service sector swiftly adapted to remote work and digital platforms during the pandemic.
• Education Continuity: Online learning platforms enabled students to attend classes seamlessly.
• Healthcare Services: Telemedicine and e-pharmacies played a crucial role in healthcare delivery.
• E-Commerce and Delivery Services: E-commerce platforms ensured essential supplies reached households.
Service Sector’s Role in Achieving a $5 Trillion Economy:
• Contributing to GDP: The service sector aims to contribute $3 trillion to the economy. Sectors like IT, finance, tourism, and healthcare play a pivotal role.
• The service sector aims to contribute $3 trillion to the economy. Sectors like IT, finance, tourism, and healthcare play a pivotal role.
• Employment Generation: The sector employs millions directly and indirectly. Skill development and job creation are vital.
• The sector employs millions directly and indirectly. Skill development and job creation are vital.
Focusing on Services sector to achieve 5 trillion economy in India
• Around 50 per cent and more of services exports are contributed by IT-ITES.
• Services sectors beyond IT require careful nurturing, especially capex-intensive sectors like hospitality, healthcare and education.
• India needs to move beyond Business Process Outsourcing and work towards adopting new age technologies such as artificial intelligence, block chain, machine learning and engage with the rest of the world on equal terms.
• Improving tourism sector is also a key. The goal should be to triple arrivals. For that, we need to embark on a crash programme to enhance infrastructure.
• The government provides attractive incentives, including direct taxation for green field projects in the manufacturing sector. The same blueprint must be initiated for the services sectors, especially in the building of hotels, hospitals and universities.
• To quadruple services exports over the next 7-8 years is surely a herculean task and certainly not achievable unless there is a strategic road map with the right sort of government intervention.
• The burden cannot be only on the IT sector, which at present contributes around 55 per cent of total services exports.
• Other sectors will have to bring exponential growth to the table.
Measures for Further Leverage:
• Investment in Digital Infrastructure: Strengthen broadband connectivity, especially in rural areas. Promote digital literacy and awareness.
• Strengthen broadband connectivity, especially in rural areas.
• Promote digital literacy and awareness.
• Skill Enhancement: Upskilling and reskilling programs for service professionals. Encourage vocational training aligned with industry needs.
• Upskilling and reskilling programs for service professionals.
• Encourage vocational training aligned with industry needs.
• Ease of Doing Business: Simplify regulations for startups and small businesses. Streamline licensing and approvals.
• Simplify regulations for startups and small businesses.
• Streamline licensing and approvals.
• Export Promotion: Boost service exports (IT, tourism, education). Facilitate cross-border service trade agreements.
• Boost service exports (IT, tourism, education).
• Facilitate cross-border service trade agreements.
• Innovation Ecosystem: Support research and development in service sectors. Foster collaboration between academia and industry.
• Support research and development in service sectors.
• Foster collaboration between academia and industry.
• Sustainable Practices: Green services (renewable energy, eco-tourism) contribute to environmental goals. Encourage circular economy models.
• Green services (renewable energy, eco-tourism) contribute to environmental goals.
• Encourage circular economy models.
Way Forward:
• Policy Continuity: Ensure consistent policies that encourage investment and growth. Avoid abrupt changes that disrupt business confidence.
• Ensure consistent policies that encourage investment and growth.
• Avoid abrupt changes that disrupt business confidence.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborate to enhance infrastructure (digital, transport, healthcare). Jointly address skill gaps.
• Collaborate to enhance infrastructure (digital, transport, healthcare).
• Jointly address skill gaps.
• Inclusive Growth: Focus on rural service delivery (health, education, financial services). Bridge urban-rural divides.
• Focus on rural service delivery (health, education, financial services).
• Bridge urban-rural divides.
• Global Competitiveness: Benchmark against global service hubs. Attract foreign investment.
• Benchmark against global service hubs.
• Attract foreign investment.
• Resilience Building: Prepare for future disruptions (pandemics, technological shifts). Diversify service offerings.
• Prepare for future disruptions (pandemics, technological shifts).
• Diversify service offerings.
• Ethical Practices: Uphold integrity, transparency, and consumer rights. Build trust in service delivery.
• Uphold integrity, transparency, and consumer rights.
• Build trust in service delivery.
Conclusion
India’s service sector is not just an economic contributor; it’s a catalyst for progress. By embracing innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable practices, we can propel India toward its $5 trillion dream.
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