UPSC Insights SECURE SYNOPSIS: 15 JUNE 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.
1. Tribal revolts in India, driven by a multitude of factors, despite their failure, significantly raised awareness, inspired future resistance, and contributed to policy changes. Examine.
Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India
Introduction
The Tribal population, being conservative, was interested in retaining the existing salient features of their society. Tribal movements were inspired by revolutionary tendencies. They wanted to make use of the situation to fight and eliminate evils and ill-tendencies that existed in the contemporary tribal society. Before British influence, tribals had depended on the forest for food, fuel and fodder. They practiced shifting cultivation (jhum, podu, etc.), taking recourse to fresh forest lands when their existing lands showed signs of exhaustion. The colonial government changed all this.
Marking the 124th death anniversary of revolutionary tribal leader Birsa Munda, Jharkhand Chief Minister Champai Soren paid his tributes.
Tribal revolts and rebellions : Causes
• Imposition of Land revenue Settlement. For instance, Famine, enhanced land revenue demands and economic distress goaded the Chuar aboriginal tribesmen of the Jungle Mahal of Midnapore district and also of the Bankura district (in Bengal) to take up arms.
• British policies and acts like the establishment of the Forest department in 1864, Government Forest Act (1865) and Indian Forest Act (1878) which restricted the activities of tribals in forest areas led to their ire against the British. : Koya revolt against British for denial of tribal’s rights over forest areas.
• Extension of settled agriculture. E.g.: : The British expansion on their territory led to an uprising by the martial Pahariyas of the Raj Mahal Hills in 1778.
• New excise regulations which imposed a ban on tribals to make their own liquor, an important trait of their culture.
• Large scale transfer of forest land. : large-scale transfers of land from Kol headmen to outsiders like Hindu, Sikh and Muslim farmers and money-lenders who were oppressive and demanded heavy taxes.
• Restrictions on shifting cultivation in forest. For e.g.: Khasi and Garo rebellions against occupation of hilly land and ban on shifting cultivation.
• Introduction of the notion of private property.
• Exploitation by low country traders and money lenders. E.g.: Santhal rebellion against moneylenders and traders. The Ulgulan uprising against money lenders
• Work of Christian Missionaries and against the interference of other religions such as Hinduism, Islam and Christianity. g: Tana Bhagat Movement
Significance in raising moral quotient of national movement
• The uprisings helped create an united notion against the oppressive nature of British rule.
• It laid bare the colonial rule of East India company.
• It played an important role in bringing the tribal people together and imparting to them the consciousness of belonging to one country.
• The Tribal rebellions in India took place for social, cultural and political reasons, particularly against the acquisition of their land and exerted their rights over forest resources.
Conclusion
It is evident that the colonial rule even, during the days of the east India Company witnessed numerous uprising and disturbances. These varied grievances reached their climax in the revolt of 1857, which in spite of targeting certain groups of Indians remains the prominent uprising against the British before the beginning of the Indian Freedom movement.
2. Changes in climate patterns like El Nino-Southern Oscillation, Indian Ocean Dipole can make air pollution worse. Examine.
Reference: Down to Earth
Introduction
The effects of climate change and the environment on human health are not lesser than those of genomics and lifestyle patterns and they have been increasing over the past decades. The study by researchers from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore highlighted the role of climate variability phenomena like El Nino-Southern Oscillation, Indian Ocean Dipole and North Atlantic Oscillation in exacerbating PM2.5 pollution levels.
El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO)
• El Niño: El Niño is a climate phenomenon characterized by the warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. It disrupts global weather patterns, leading to extreme events such as droughts, floods, and storms. During El Niño, regions like Australia experience reduced rainfall, affecting agriculture and water availability.
• El Niño is a climate phenomenon characterized by the warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean.
• It disrupts global weather patterns, leading to extreme events such as droughts, floods, and storms.
• During El Niño, regions like Australia experience reduced rainfall, affecting agriculture and water availability.
• La Niña: La Niña is the opposite phase of El Niño, characterized by cooler sea surface temperatures in the same region. It often leads to increased rainfall in some areas, causing flooding and landslides.
• La Niña is the opposite phase of El Niño, characterized by cooler sea surface temperatures in the same region.
• It often leads to increased rainfall in some areas, causing flooding and landslides.
Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD)
• Positive IOD (pIOD): A positive IOD occurs when the western Indian Ocean becomes warmer than the eastern Indian Ocean. It influences monsoon patterns, affecting rainfall distribution over the Indian subcontinent. During a positive IOD, regions like India may experience droughts due to reduced monsoon rainfall.
• A positive IOD occurs when the western Indian Ocean becomes warmer than the eastern Indian Ocean.
• It influences monsoon patterns, affecting rainfall distribution over the Indian subcontinent.
• During a positive IOD, regions like India may experience droughts due to reduced monsoon rainfall.
Air Pollution
• Wildfires and Particulate Matter: Climate patterns can exacerbate wildfires. For example: El Niño conditions can lead to drier vegetation, increasing the risk of wildfires. Smoke from wildfires releases fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which poses health risks. Temperature inversions trap pollutants close to the ground, worsening air quality.
• Climate patterns can exacerbate wildfires. For example: El Niño conditions can lead to drier vegetation, increasing the risk of wildfires. Smoke from wildfires releases fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which poses health risks.
• El Niño conditions can lead to drier vegetation, increasing the risk of wildfires.
• Smoke from wildfires releases fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which poses health risks.
• Temperature inversions trap pollutants close to the ground, worsening air quality.
• Reduced Rainfall and Atmospheric Cleansing: Decreased rainfall limits the natural cleansing of the atmosphere. Rainfall helps remove pollutants from the air, but reduced precipitation hinders this process.
• Decreased rainfall limits the natural cleansing of the atmosphere.
• Rainfall helps remove pollutants from the air, but reduced precipitation hinders this process.
Impact:
• Health Implications: Air pollution from wildfires and particulate matter affects respiratory health. Vulnerable populations, such as children and the elderly, suffer the most.
• Air pollution from wildfires and particulate matter affects respiratory health.
• Vulnerable populations, such as children and the elderly, suffer the most.
• Economic Losses: Droughts impact agriculture, leading to crop failures and economic losses. Wildfires damage ecosystems, property, and infrastructure.
• Droughts impact agriculture, leading to crop failures and economic losses.
• Wildfires damage ecosystems, property, and infrastructure.
Measures needed for mitigation
• Air Quality Management: Implement strict emission controls for industries, vehicles, and power plants. Monitor air quality and issue advisories during wildfire events.
• Implement strict emission controls for industries, vehicles, and power plants.
• Monitor air quality and issue advisories during wildfire events.
• Reforestation and Afforestation: Trees absorb pollutants and mitigate climate impacts. Reforesting fire-prone areas can reduce wildfire risk.
• Trees absorb pollutants and mitigate climate impacts.
• Reforesting fire-prone areas can reduce wildfire risk.
• Water Conservation and Harvesting: Efficient water management can mitigate drought effects. Promote rainwater harvesting and sustainable water use.
• Efficient water management can mitigate drought effects.
• Promote rainwater harvesting and sustainable water use.
• Climate-Resilient Agriculture: Develop drought-resistant crop varieties. Promote climate-smart farming practices.
• Develop drought-resistant crop varieties.
• Promote climate-smart farming practices.
Way Forward
• Integrated Approaches: Collaborate across sectors (climate, health, agriculture) for holistic solutions. Address both climate patterns and air pollution simultaneously.
• Collaborate across sectors (climate, health, agriculture) for holistic solutions.
• Address both climate patterns and air pollution simultaneously.
• Public Awareness: Educate communities about climate resilience and pollution reduction. Encourage individual actions to reduce emissions.
• Educate communities about climate resilience and pollution reduction.
• Encourage individual actions to reduce emissions.
Conclusion
Tackling the complex interplay between climate patterns, air pollution, and their impact requires concerted efforts at local, national, and global levels.
3. The Speaker of the Lok Sabha is pivotal in the parliamentary system of India, acting as a facilitator, administrator, and guardian of the house’s decorum and integrity. Discuss.
Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India
Introduction
The Speaker is the presiding officer of the Lok Sabha (House of the People), the lower house of the Parliament of India. The speaker is elected generally in the very first meeting of the Lok Sabha following general elections. Serving for a term of five years, the speaker chosen from sitting members of the Lok Sabha (House of the People), and is by convention a member of the ruling party or alliance.
As the 18th Lok Sabha prepares to meet, the TDP and JD(U), key allies of the BJP in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), are said to be jockeying for the post of Speaker.
Functions and powers of Lok Sabha speaker:
• Speaker of Lok Sabha is basically the head of the house and presides over the sittings of Parliament and controls its working.
• The constitution has tried to ensure the independence of Speaker by charging his salary on the consolidated Fund of India and the same is not subject to vote of Parliament.
• While debating or during general discussion on a bill, the members of the parliament have to address only to the Speaker.
• Whenever there is a joint sitting of both houses of Parliament (Lok Sabha & Rajya Sabha),the Speaker of the Lok Sabha presides over this meeting.
• In the normal circumstances the Speaker does not cast his vote over any matter in Lok Sabha. But whenever there is a tie on votes between the ruling party and opposition, the Speaker at that time can exercise his vote.
• It is the Speaker who decides the agenda of various discussions.
• The speaker has the power to adjourn or suspend the house/meetings if the quorum is not met.
• The Speaker ensures the discipline and decorum of the house. If the speaker finds the behaviour and a member of Parliament is not good, he/she can punish the unruly members by suspending.
• The Speaker decides whether a bill brought to the house is a money bill or not. In the case Speaker decides some bill as a money bill, this decision cannot be challenged.
• Speaker is the final and sole authorityto allow different types of motions and resolutions such as No Confidence Motion, Motion of Adjournment, Censure Motion
• The Speaker of Lok Sabha does not leave the office just after dissolution of the assembly. He continues to be in the office till the newly formed assembly takes its first meeting and elects the new Speaker.
Importance of office of Speaker:
• The office of the Speaker occupies a pivotal position in our parliamentary democracy.
• It has been said of the office of the Speaker that while the members of Parliament represent the individual constituencies, the Speaker represents the full authority of the House itself.
• She symbolizes the dignity and power of the House over which she is presiding.
• In the Lok Sabha, as in the United Kingdom, the Speaker is the supreme authority; she has vast powers and it is his primary duty to ensure the orderly conduct of the business of the House.
• Every textbook of constitutional law points out the two essential qualities of a Speaker: Independence and impartiality.
• GV Mavlankar, the first Speaker, observed: “Once a person is elected Speaker, he is expected to be above parties, above politics. In other words, he belongs to all the members or belongs to none. He holds the scales of justice evenly, irrespective of party or person”.
• Pandit Nehru referred to the Speaker as “the symbol of the nation’s freedom and liberty” and emphasised that Speakers should be men of “outstanding ability and impartiality”.
• MN Kaul and SL Shakdher, in their book Practice and Procedure of Parliament, refer to him as the conscience and guardian of the House.
• As the principal spokesperson of the Lok Sabha, the Speaker represents its collective voiceand speaks for the House as a whole.
• Her unique position is illustrated by the fact that she is placed very high in the Warrant of Precedence in our country, standing next only to the President, the Vice-President and the Prime Minister.
• In India, through the Constitution of the land, through the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha and through the practices and conventions, adequate powers are vested in the office of the Speaker to help her in the smooth conduct of the parliamentary proceedings and for protecting the independence and impartiality of the office.
• The Constitution of India provides that the Speaker’s salary and allowances are not to be voted by Parliament and are to be charged on the Consolidated Fund of India.
• Therefore, it is expected that the holder of this office of high dignity has to be one who can represent the House in all its manifestations.
However, there have been many instances when the Speaker’s office has been in the dock:
• Appointment and tenure: The structural issues regarding the manner in which the Speaker is appointed and his tenure in office. Usually, the speaker is from the ruling party and this makes it a more of a political liability on speaker to favour his party.
• Lack of Tenure security: With no security in the continuity of office, the Speaker is dependent on his or her political party for re-election. This makes the Speaker susceptible to pulls and pressures from her/his political party in the conduct of the proceedings of the Lok Sabha.
• Anti-defection law: In recent times, there are number of instances where the role of speaker has been criticized for decision on membership of MLAs under the anti-defection law and their ruling have been challenged in courts. The Tenth Schedule says the Speaker’s/Chairperson’s decision on questions of disqualification on ground of defection shall be final and can’t be questioned in courts. It was anticipated that giving Speakers the power to expel legislators would prevent unnecessary delays by courts and make anti-defection law more effective.
• Discretionary power: There are various instances where the Rules vest the Speakers with unbridled powers such as in case of declaration of bill as money bill (Lok Sabha Speaker). This discretionary power comes under criticism when Aadhar bill was introduced in Lok Sabha as Money Bill.
• Referral to DSRCs: The Speaker is also empowered to refer the Bill to a Standing Committee. As per prevailing practice house members or speaker usually refers all important bills to the concerned Departmentally Related Standing Committees for examination and report. But in recent time speaker uses its discretionary power to pass many important bills on day after introduction of bill without proper discussion and references.
• Increased disruptions: Frequent disruptions reduced the time required for important discussions and compel speaker to allocate less time for discussion. This often questions the impartiality of speaker as he allegedly provides more time to ruling party. Also, it is alleged that speaker took harsh punishment against the disrupting member of opposition compared to government
• Elections: The position of the Indian Speaker is paradoxical. They contest the election for the post on a party ticket. Yet they are expected to conduct themselves in a non-partisan manner, while being beholden to the party for a ticket for the next election.
• Political Aspirations: The position is often used to woo the political parties by favouring them to harbour political ambitions. The need for re-election also skews incentives for the Speaker. The fear of losing the position in case of not favouring their political parties also pushes them to compromise neutrality.
Measures needed to ensure Speaker’s impartiality:
• The Page Committee, headed by V.S. Page, suggested that if the Speaker had conducted himself or herself in an impartial and efficient manner during the tenure of his or her office, he or she should be allowed to continue in the next Parliament.
• Anyone seeking the office of the Speaker might be asked to run for election on an independent ticket.
• Any Speaker should be barred from future political office, except for the post of President, while being given a pension for life.
• Following the UK model of Speaker where the Speaker elect compulsorily resigns from the party membership. This will ensure neutrality of the office.
• The Speaker should be allowed to recommend a range of disciplinary actions like cuts in salary, reduction in speaking time for the member based on the recommendation of the parliamentary committee.
• The Speaker can arrange informal sessions with the members who frequently disrupt the house. He can try to resolve their grievances if any with respect to the conduct of the house.
• A code of ethics for MPs must be formed to clearly define cases for suspension and dismissals.
• Power must be given to speaker to form a parliamentary committee to recommend removal of MPs regularly disrupting the house. The decision of the committee must be subject to judicial review.
• Ethics committee of Lok Sabha need to be given more mandate like other mature democracies
Conclusion:
The office of the Speaker in India is a living and dynamic institution which deals with the actual needs and problems of Parliament in the performance of its functions. It is in her that the responsibility of conducting the business of the House in a manner befitting the place of the institution in a representative democracy is invested.
The founding fathers of our Constitution had recognized the importance of this office in our democratic set-up and it was this recognition that guided them in establishing this office as one of the prominent and dignified ones in the scheme of governance of the country smoothly.
4. India can prevent cross-border terrorism through improved border controls, defence capabilities with targeted operations, and public awareness. Discuss.
Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India
Introduction
India has one of the longest and most varied of international borders. Historical and political reasons have left India with an artificial unnatural border. Border Management is an integral approach towards borders in which along with security enhancement, infrastructure & human development is undertaken. The challenge of coping with long-standing territorial and boundary disputes with China and Pakistan, combined with porous borders along some of the most difficult terrain in the world, has made effective and efficient border management a national priority.
Issues and threats posed by each neighboring country to India:
Indo-Pakistan Border:
• Indo-Pakistan Border (3,323 Km) runs along the states of Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab and J&K. Direct accessibility of the borders and some technological developments enabling quick passage of information and transfer of funds has changed the focus and tenor of border security.
• Cross-Border Terrorism from Pakistan has exacerbated due to non-recognition of boundaries by its terrorist groups and their success in acquiring legitimacy due to religious or ethnic identity.
• Inadequate Cooperation from Pakistan has made the management of border further difficult for India.
• Multiple operations were launched on June 10 to track at least two to three Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) militants involved in the Katra bus attack, which left nine pilgrims dead and over 33 injured.
Indo-Bangladesh Border:
• The Indo-Bangladesh Border (4,096 Km) passes through West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram.
• The entire stretch consists of plains, riverine belts, hills & jungles which make illegal migration very easy.
• Illegal Migration across this border poses serious security threats and acts as a fertile ground for organisations like the Inter-Services Intelligence of Pakistan to penetrate and expand their activities.
• Also, poor law and order situation at the border, has led to smuggling of arms and drugs. Supply of arms help in sustaining any conflict.
Indo-China Border:
• India shares a long land border with China (3,488 Km) in the Indian states of Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh.
• Although this border remains relatively aloof from illegal migrations, this border remains a cause of constant vigil for Indian forces.
• India has a longstanding border dispute with China running back to British era in Aksai Chin and Arunachal Pradesh.
Indo-Nepal Border:
• India-Nepal Border (1,751 Km) is an open border in the sense that people of both the countries can cross it from any point, despite the existence of border check posts at several locations.
• Anti-India organizations use this border to plant their people in the territory of India.
• Also, smuggling of gold, small arms, drugs and fake currency helps terrorists in executing an attack.
Indo-Bhutan Border:
• This border (699 km) passes through states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, West Bengal and Sikkim.
• Illicit establishment of camps by militant outfits in the dense jungles of south-east Bhutan helps insurgents from India in executing anti-India activities.
Indo-Myanmar Border:
• The northeast states of Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram share the border with Myanmar (1,643).
• Some of the insurgents groups like the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) and ULFA operate from Myanmar, which threatens the security of India as well as Myanmar.
Solutions for addressing cross border terrorism:
• Infrastructure along with border has to be improved – rail connectivity along with road connectivity has to be provided for quick mobilization.
• Building of additional checkpoints and Border posts along major and minor trade routes connected with borders
• Building of floating bridges, walls & electrical fences where there is high probability of infiltration.
• Taking up of joint Border management with Countries like Myanmar, Bhutan and Nepal.
• Improving healthcare, physical infrastructure and digital connectivity in villages around borders thus making them stakeholder in Border Management.
• Madhav Godbole task force recommendations on border management need to be implemented.
• It had recommended that the CRPF should be designated as the primary national level counter-insurgency force. This would enable the other central paramilitary forces like the BSF and Indo-Tibetan Border Police to return to their primary role of better border management.
• It had also recommended that all paramilitary forces managing unsettled borders should operate directly under the control of the army and that there should be lateral induction from the army to the paramilitary forces so as to enhance their operational effectiveness.
• The principle of ‘single point control’ must be followed if the borders are to be effectively managed.
• The advances in surveillance technology, particularly satellite and aerial imagery, can help to maintain a constant vigil along the LAC and make it possible to reduce physical deployment.
Conclusion:
Keeping a strong vigil on its border is very important for any nation to check any kind of illegal activities or intrusion through them. For India, the task becomes difficult where terrain and climate is very complex across some of its border areas. Focussing on improved technology will help in making the task easier for the security forces and make its borders more secure.
5. Evaluate the various benefits and risks associated with the Agnipath scheme. Suggest reforms that are needed in the scheme.
Reference: Indian Express/
Introduction
Agnipath Defence Policy Reform is a government scheme launched to recruit young men and women in the Indian Armed forces. The Agnipath scheme was announced by the defence Minister Rajnath Singh on June 14th 2022.
The government on Tuesday unveiled its new Agnipath scheme for recruiting soldiers across the three services. The new defence recruitment reform, which has been cleared by the Cabinet Committee on Security, will come into effect immediately, and the soldiers recruited under the scheme will be called Agniveers.
About the Agnipath scheme
• Agnipath is a new defence recruitment model that would allow “patriotic and motivated” youth to serve in the armed forces for a period of four years.
• The process of recruitment will commence in 90 days.
• The plan is to recruit about 45,000-50,000 personnel below officer rank in the three services every year through a biannual exercise with a six-month gap.
• As per the Agnipath scheme, this year there will be a planned intake of about 46,000 young men and women.
• Soldier recruited through Agnipath scheme will be known as ‘Agniveers’.
• This scheme will be the only form of recruitment of soldiers into the three defence services Armed Force, Indian Navy and Air Forces, hereon.
• Enrolment of Agniveers to all three services will be through a centralized online system, with special rallies and campus interviews at recognised technical institutes such as the Industrial Training Institutes, and the National Skills Qualifications Framework. The Model is based on an all-India merit-based selection process.
Objectives
• It aims at providing an opportunity to the patriotic and motivated youth with the ‘Josh’ and ‘Jazba’ to join the Armed Forces.
• It is expected to bring down the average age profile of the Indian Armed Forces by about 4 to 5 years.
• The scheme envisions that, the average age in the forces is 32 years today, which will go down to 26 in six to seven years.
Various benefits to Youth
• Upon the completion of the 4-years of service, a one-time ‘Seva Nidhi’ package of Rs 11.71 lakhs will be paid to the Agniveers that will include their accrued interest thereon.
• They will also get a Rs 48 lakh life insurance cover for the four years.
• In case of death, the payout will be over Rs 1 crore, including pay for the unserved tenure.
• The government will help rehabilitate soldiers who leave the services after four years. They will be provided with skill certificates and bridge courses.
• Furure Ready Soldiers: It will create “future-ready” soldiers.
• More Employment Opportunities: It will increase employment opportunities and because of the skills and experience acquired during the four-year service such soldiers will get employment in various fields.
• Higher Skilled Workforce: This will also lead to availability of a higher-skilled workforce to the economy which will be helpful in productivity gain and overall GDP (Gross Domestic Product) growth.
Issues related to the scheme
• Difficult to Find Another Job:The ‘Agnipath’ scheme opens the way for recruitment of about 45,000 soldiers into Army, Navy and Air Force in the first year but on a short-term contract of four years. After the completion of the contract, 25% of them will be retained and the rest will leave the forces. The four years of service will mean other jobs will be out of reach after that, and they will be left behind their peers.
• The four years of service will mean other jobs will be out of reach after that, and they will be left behind their peers.
• No Pension Benefit: Those hired under the ‘Agnipath’ scheme will be given a one-time lumpsum of a little more than Rs 11 lakh when they end their four-year tenure. However, they do not receive any pension benefits. For most, seeking a second job is essential to support themselves and their families.
• However, they do not receive any pension benefits. For most, seeking a second job is essential to support themselves and their families.
• Training May Remain Unutilized: Forces will lose experienced soldiers. The jawans joining the Army, Navy and Air Force will be given technical training so that they are able to support the ongoing operations. But these men and women will leave after four years, which could create a void.
• The jawans joining the Army, Navy and Air Force will be given technical training so that they are able to support the ongoing operations. But these men and women will leave after four years, which could create a void.
Conclusion
Despite the reservations, there is potential for future employment to these youth as the defence industry is ready to take off in a huge manner in India. Once this happens, the industry will have readily skilled youth for the jobs and hence there is also future to these youths. At the same time, national security is ensured.
6. Meerabai significantly impacted the Bhakti movement through her devotional bhajans, challenging traditional gender roles and inspiring countless followers with her unwavering spiritual devotion. 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.
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.
Contributions of Meerabai to Bhakti movement
• Mirabai embraced the Bhakti movement wholeheartedly.
• She identified herself as Krishna’s spouse, transcending societal divisions.
• Gender, caste, and class boundaries held no sway over her devotion.
• She cared for the poor and marginalized, embodying compassion and equality.
• Mirabai composed soul-stirring bhajans (devotional songs) expressing her love for Krishna.
• These bhajans were deeply emotional, lyrical, and resonated with spiritual longing.
• Through her verses, she transcended societal boundaries and connected directly with the divine.
• Challenging Traditional Gender Roles: At a young age, Mirabai was married to a prince from Mewar. Her in-laws disapproved of her devotion to Krishna, considering it excessive. Following advice from poet Tulsidas, she left her husband and family to pursue her spiritual calling.
• Unconventional Widowhood: Instead of following the norm of sati (self-immolation), Mirabai refused to burn herself on her husband’s funeral pyre. She rejected seclusion and chose to worship Krishna openly. Her devotion defied the traditional role of a widowed Rajputi princess.
Mirabai’s Legacy and Spiritual Liberation:
• Symbol of Devotion: Her unwavering love for Krishna made her an icon of pure devotion.
• Spiritual Revolution: Mirabai’s songs ignited a spiritual revolution across India. Her emotional verses resonated with seekers, inspiring them to connect with the divine.
• Her emotional verses resonated with seekers, inspiring them to connect with the divine.
• Resistance and Survival: Despite attempts on her life by her late husband’s family, she miraculously survived. Poisonous snakes, poisoned drinks, and drowning failed to deter her.
• Poisonous snakes, poisoned drinks, and drowning failed to deter her.
• Metaphysical Realm: Mirabai broke free from traditional spiritual norms. She elevated her devotion beyond societal constraints, reaching the metaphysical realm.
• She elevated her devotion beyond societal constraints, reaching the metaphysical realm.
• Legacy: Her legacy continues to inspire people worldwide to find their divine nature and celebrate life’s joys.
Significance:
• Spiritual Freedom: Mirabai’s life exemplifies liberation from societal expectations.
• Courage and Resilience: Her resilience in the face of adversity inspires courage.
• Unity in Devotion: She emphasized devotion over divisions, uniting people through love for Krishna.
• Eternal Love: Mirabai’s bhajans echo through time, reminding us of eternal love and devotion.
Conclusion
Mirabai’s unwavering commitment to Krishna and her defiance of norms make her a beacon of spiritual liberation—a timeless reminder that devotion transcends earthly boundaries.
7. India’s poor performance on the Global Gender Gap report is attributed to several factors. Improving political participation of women is pivotal for achieving gender equality and has far-reaching impacts on society. Discuss.
Reference: Down to Earth
Introduction
India has slipped two places on the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Global Gender Gap index to 129th place, while Iceland retained its top position in the rankings published on June 12, 2024.
Within South Asia, India was ranked fifth after Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bhutan, while Pakistan was ranked last. Globally, Sudan was ranked last on the index of 146 countries, while Pakistan slipped three places to 145th.
India figured among the economies with the lowest levels of economic parity, alongside Bangladesh, Sudan, Iran, Pakistan, and Morocco. All of them registered less than 30% gender parity in estimated earned income.
Other findings from report
• India showed the best gender parity in terms of enrolment in secondary education, while it scored well on political empowerment of women at 65th rank globally.
• With regard to parity in the number of years with female/male heads of state for the last 50 years, India was ranked 10th.
• With a population of more than 140 crore, India has closed 64.1% of its gender gap in 2024 and the decline of two places from 127th last year, mainly happened due to small declines in ‘Educational Attainment’ and ‘Political Empowerment,’ parameters, while ‘Economic Participation’ and ‘Opportunity’ scores slightly improved.
• The WEF said India’s economic parity score has trended upwards for the past four years.
• In the Political Empowerment subindex, India scored within the top-10 on the head-of-state indicator, but its scores for women’s representation at the federal level, in Ministerial positions (6.9%) and in Parliament (17.2%), remain relatively low.
• The WEF said the world has closed 68.5% of the gender gap, but at the current pace it will take another 134 years — equivalent to five generations — to achieve full gender parity.
• Since last year, the gender gap has closed by 0.1 percentage points.
Factors Leading to Gender Gap:
• Low Female Labor Force Participation: Globally, only 55% of adult women participate in the labor market, compared to 78% of men. In India, women face barriers such as social norms, caregiving responsibilities, and lack of safe workplaces.
• Globally, only 55% of adult women participate in the labor market, compared to 78% of men.
• In India, women face barriers such as social norms, caregiving responsibilities, and lack of safe workplaces.
• Wage Disparity: Women still receive 34% less wages than men for the same work. The gender pay gap affects women of different ethnicities and races differently.
• Women still receive 34% less wages than men for the same work.
• The gender pay gap affects women of different ethnicities and races differently.
• High Dropout Rates Among Girls: Girls from lower socioeconomic backgrounds often lack access to education. Lack of toilets in schools and proper menstrual hygiene management facilities contribute to dropout rates.
• Girls from lower socioeconomic backgrounds often lack access to education.
• Lack of toilets in schools and proper menstrual hygiene management facilities contribute to dropout rates.
• Gender-Based Violence: Violence against women sets them back economically and perpetuates inequality. Discriminatory social norms and laws contribute to this issue.
• Violence against women sets them back economically and perpetuates inequality.
• Discriminatory social norms and laws contribute to this issue.
Role of Improving Political Participation:
• Inclusive Governance: Women’s active political participation ensures diverse perspectives in decision-making. Inclusive policies benefit society as a whole.
• Women’s active political participation ensures diverse perspectives in decision-making.
• Inclusive policies benefit society as a whole.
• Empowerment: Political representation empowers women, giving them a voice in shaping policies. It challenges traditional gender roles and stereotypes.
• Political representation empowers women, giving them a voice in shaping policies.
• It challenges traditional gender roles and stereotypes.
• Equitable Policy-Making: Women bring unique insights and priorities to policy discussions. Gender-sensitive policies address specific needs and promote equality.
• Women bring unique insights and priorities to policy discussions.
• Gender-sensitive policies address specific needs and promote equality.
Steps to Overcome Gender Gap:
• Education and Skill Development: Ensure equal access to quality education for girls. Skill-building programs can enhance employability.
• Ensure equal access to quality education for girls.
• Skill-building programs can enhance employability.
• Workplace Policies: Implement maternity leave policies that support working mothers. Promote flexible work arrangements and equal pay for equal work.
• Implement maternity leave policies that support working mothers.
• Promote flexible work arrangements and equal pay for equal work.
• Role Models and Mentoring: Encourage more female role models and mentors. Representation matters for inspiring future generations.
• Encourage more female role models and mentors.
• Representation matters for inspiring future generations.
• Transparent Pay Structures: Eliminate wage disparities by ensuring transparent salary structures. Regular audits can identify and rectify gender-based pay gaps.
• Eliminate wage disparities by ensuring transparent salary structures.
• Regular audits can identify and rectify gender-based pay gaps.
• Political Participation: Encourage women to participate in local and national politics. Quotas or reserved seats can increase representation.
• Encourage women to participate in local and national politics.
• Quotas or reserved seats can increase representation.
Way Forward:
• Holistic Approach: Address gender inequality across education, health, and economic sectors. Recognize intersectionality (race, ethnicity, caste, etc.) in policy formulation.
• Address gender inequality across education, health, and economic sectors.
• Recognize intersectionality (race, ethnicity, caste, etc.) in policy formulation.
• Legal Reforms: Strengthen existing laws and enforce them rigorously. Promote gender-sensitive legislation.
• Strengthen existing laws and enforce them rigorously.
• Promote gender-sensitive legislation.
• Awareness and Sensitization: Educate society about gender equality. Challenge stereotypes and discriminatory practices.
• Educate society about gender equality.
• Challenge stereotypes and discriminatory practices.
• Corporate Responsibility: Companies should promote diversity and equal opportunities. Mentorship programs can foster women’s leadership.
• Companies should promote diversity and equal opportunities.
• Mentorship programs can foster women’s leadership.
• Community Engagement: Grassroots initiatives can empower women at the local level. Encourage women’s participation in community decision-making.
• Grassroots initiatives can empower women at the local level.
• Encourage women’s participation in community decision-making.
Conclusion
Achieving gender equality requires concerted efforts from governments, organizations, and individuals. By addressing systemic barriers and promoting women’s active participation, we can bridge the gap and create a more equitable world.
8. The India-U.S. relationship, strong in strategic and economic ties, faces challenges like trade disputes and human rights concerns, requiring careful diplomacy to maintain resilience and mutual benefit. Analyse.
Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India
Introduction
India USA have seen ascendance of relationship in the 21st century, which was crystalised by 2008 India Nuclear Civil Nuclear Agreement. Various factors, including LPG reforms, rise of China, increasing influence of Indian community in USA are the factors behind this. Also, the shared values of democracy, rule of law, human rights, religious freedom bind the countries together.
Its been a year since Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the United States, where U.S. President Joseph Biden rolled out the red carpet and the U.S. offered to restart the decade-old plan to transfer technology for jet engines to India.
India and USA relations aligned with each other
• Security: Combat terrorism and weapons of mass destruction Protect global commons like sea routes and sea lanes of communication. Eg:India has mentioned Taiwan issue in public for the first time while USA has been passing through South China sea and Taiwan straits to protect freedom of navigation in high seas. Recently, India and the US have agreed to co-produce the Stryker armoured vehicles that will give a big boost to India’s defence preparedness against China.
• Eg:India has mentioned Taiwan issue in public for the first time while USA has been passing through South China sea and Taiwan straits to protect freedom of navigation in high seas.
• Recently, India and the US have agreed to co-produce the Stryker armoured vehicles that will give a big boost to India’s defence preparedness against China.
• Global cooperation:International Cooperation through platforms like UN, ASEAN, G-20, IMF, Quad. Quad security dialogue has been initiated to reign in China’s dominance in the region.
• Defence cooperation: Defence agreements Iike LEMOA, COMCASA, Industrial Security Agreement and BECA; Bilateral military exercises like Yudh Abhyaas, Vajra prahar, etc have been taking place every year.
• Space cooperation: Indo-US science and technology cooperation agreement; Joint Microwave remote sensing satellite named NISAR.
• Diaspora and people to people ties: Strength of Indian diaspora in US is around 4.5 million which is around 1% of its population. Indian diaspora is a source and agent of soft power, an effective public diplomacy tool and is acknowledged for its work ethos, discipline, non-interference and peaceful living with the locals.
Divergences and friction areas
• Tariffs war: Since 2018 both countries were engaged in tariffs war. E.g. In 2018, the US imposed additional tariffs of 25% on steel and 10% on aluminium imports from various countries, including India. India’s refusal to remove the 20% tariffs on ICT products caused the trade deal between India and USA to delay which remains still pending.
• WTO disputes: India USA are involved in WTO disputes on issues like, Capping prices of medical devices by India, greater Indian market access for American agriculture and dairy products etc.
• IPR: India is also on U.S.’s “Priority Watch List” which identifies countries posing challenges to American intellectual property rights. Also, The US wants India to strengthen patent regulations, and to ease the limitations American companies investing in India face.
• USA tensions with Iran, Russia: Putting unilateral curbs on Russian and Iranian imports into India through CAATSA would impinge on India’s relations with Iran, Russia, both relations in which India has strong stakes.
• Divergence of interests in Afghanistan: In the backdrop of Afghan Peace deal, U.S. left Afghanistan. Decades of work was scrapped as Taliban took over and freedom of people and the developmental work India did is hampered.
Conclusion
Despite the differences in some areas, the upward trajectory in India USA relations indicates a sense of greater nuance to the need for institutionalisation of bilateral ties — towards not only graduating the bilateral dynamic away from over-dependence on chemistry between the top political leadership, but also design frameworks in a manner that maximise convergences between the two countries.
The changing geopolitics, and increased Chinese aggression necessitates closer cooperation between India USA. Thus, the relationship is two-sided. Just as India benefited from US inputs during Doklam and recent India China standoff, the US has benefited from Indian defence spending.
9. The debate over including heatwaves as a notified disaster under India’s Disaster Management Act, 2005, underscores the urgent need for formal recognition to improve preparedness and mitigate the growing impacts of extreme heat events. Examine.
Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India
Introduction
A heatwave is a period of unusually hot weather that typically lasts two or more days. During a heatwave, temperatures rise significantly above average, often exceeding normal levels for a given area. These extreme conditions can have severe impacts on human health, agriculture, energy consumption, and the environment.
The ongoing spell of extreme heat in many parts of the country has once again reopened discussions on the inclusion of heatwaves as one of the notified disasters under the Disaster Management (DM) Act, 2005.
Causes of Increasing Heatwaves in India:
Climatic Factors:
• High-Pressure Systems and Atmospheric Circulation: Heatwaves form when a high-pressure area in the upper atmosphere strengthens and remains over a region for several days to weeks. This traps heat near the Earth’s surface, leading to abnormally high temperatures.
• Heatwaves form when a high-pressure area in the upper atmosphere strengthens and remains over a region for several days to weeks.
• This traps heat near the Earth’s surface, leading to abnormally high temperatures.
• Transportation of Hot, Dry Air: Favorable atmospheric conditions involve the prevalence of hot, dry air over a region. The absence of moisture prevents temperatures from moderating.
• Favorable atmospheric conditions involve the prevalence of hot, dry air over a region.
• The absence of moisture prevents temperatures from moderating.
• Cloudless Skies: Clear skies allow maximum insulation, intensifying heatwave conditions.
• Clear skies allow maximum insulation, intensifying heatwave conditions.
• Large Amplitude Anti-Cyclonic Flow: Heatwaves typically originate over Northwest India and then move progressively south and east. Prevailing winds during the season are westerly to northwesterly.
• Heatwaves typically originate over Northwest India and then move progressively south and east.
• Prevailing winds during the season are westerly to northwesterly.
Anthropogenic Factors:
• Climate Change: Accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere contributes to increased temperatures. Global warming exacerbates heatwave frequency and intensity.
• Accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere contributes to increased temperatures.
• Global warming exacerbates heatwave frequency and intensity.
• Urbanization and Heat Islands: Urban areas experience higher temperatures due to concrete structures, asphalt roads, and reduced green cover. Urban heat islands intensify local heatwaves.
• Urban areas experience higher temperatures due to concrete structures, asphalt roads, and reduced green cover.
• Urban heat islands intensify local heatwaves.
Need for Inclusion Under DM Act, 2005:
• Formal Recognition: Heatwaves are not currently included as a notified disaster under the DM Act. Formal recognition would lead to better preparedness, resource allocation, and coordinated response efforts.
• Heatwaves are not currently included as a notified disaster under the DM Act.
• Formal recognition would lead to better preparedness, resource allocation, and coordinated response efforts.
• Health Burden Reduction: Declaring heatwaves as a disaster allows states to use disaster response funds for compensation, relief, and preventive measures. Timely interventions can reduce health-related burdens, including heat-related illnesses and fatalities.
• Declaring heatwaves as a disaster allows states to use disaster response funds for compensation, relief, and preventive measures.
• Timely interventions can reduce health-related burdens, including heat-related illnesses and fatalities.
• Economic and Social Impact Mitigation: Recognizing heatwaves enables targeted policies to minimize economic losses, lost work capacity, and labor productivity. Coordinated efforts can address social vulnerabilities during extreme heat events.
• Recognizing heatwaves enables targeted policies to minimize economic losses, lost work capacity, and labor productivity.
• Coordinated efforts can address social vulnerabilities during extreme heat events.
Bottlenecks to Inclusion:
• Perceived Common Occurrence: Historically, heatwaves were not considered unusual weather events but regular occurrences during summers. Lack of formal recognition stems from their frequent occurrence.
• Historically, heatwaves were not considered unusual weather events but regular occurrences during summers.
• Lack of formal recognition stems from their frequent occurrence.
• Finance Commission’s Decision: The Finance Commission has been cautious about expanding the list of notified disasters. Convincing authorities to include heatwaves remains a challenge.
• The Finance Commission has been cautious about expanding the list of notified disasters.
• Convincing authorities to include heatwaves remains a challenge.
Measures to Tackle Heatwaves in India:
• Early Warning Systems: Improve heatwave forecasting and disseminate alerts through media channels. Raise public awareness about preventive measures.
• Improve heatwave forecasting and disseminate alerts through media channels.
• Raise public awareness about preventive measures.
• Heat Action Plans: Develop and implement localized heat action plans. Provide heat-proof shelters, especially in vulnerable areas.
• Develop and implement localized heat action plans.
• Provide heat-proof shelters, especially in vulnerable areas.
• Promote Green Spaces: Increase urban green cover to mitigate urban heat islands. Plant trees and create parks to provide shade and cool the environment.
• Increase urban green cover to mitigate urban heat islands.
• Plant trees and create parks to provide shade and cool the environment.
• Access to Drinking Water: Ensure easy access to clean drinking water during heatwaves. Hydration is crucial to prevent heat-related illnesses.
• Ensure easy access to clean drinking water during heatwaves.
• Hydration is crucial to prevent heat-related illnesses.
• Health Infrastructure Preparedness: Strengthen health facilities to handle heatwave-related cases. Address power shortages during heatwaves to maintain health services.
• Strengthen health facilities to handle heatwave-related cases.
• Address power shortages during heatwaves to maintain health services.
Conclusion:
Recognizing heatwaves as a disaster under the DM Act is essential for better preparedness, timely response, and minimizing the adverse effects on health, economy, and society. By implementing targeted measures, India can tackle heatwaves effectively and protect its population during extreme weather events.
10. Deforestation is continuing unabated and it needs a comprehensive strategy integrating sustainable economic and technological measures to harmonize development and environmental protection. Examine.
Reference: Down to Earth , Insights on India
Introduction
Indiscriminate felling of trees as a result of urbanization, industrialization, mining operations, and use of wood for domestic and other purposes have caused heavy depletion of forests. This is called deforestation. Deforestation results in conversion of forest land to non-forest use.
Raising ambition, accelerating action: Towards enhanced Nationally Determined Contributions for forests noted major gaps in forest protection, management and restoration in terms of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC).
Causes of Deforestation
• Agriculture:As per UNFCCC, agriculture is the direct cause of deforestation. Subsistence farming, commercial agriculture, shifting cultivation and industrial logging all cause deforestation.
• Developmental Projects like hydroelectric projects, reservoirs etc. require immense deforestation.
• Raw Material requirements
• Overgrazing by cattle
• Other causes like mining, overpopulation and urbanization, floods, forest fires due to climate change etc.
Impacts of Deforestation
Environmental Impacts:
• Deforestation is a contributor to global warming, and is often cited as one of the major causes of the enhanced greenhouse effect as it causes carbon stores held in soil to be released.
• Deforestation affects wind flows, water vapor flows and absorption of solar energy thus clearly influencing local and global climate.
• The water cycle is also affected by deforestation. Trees extract groundwater through their roots and release it into the atmosphere. When part of a forest is removed, the trees no longer transpire this water, resulting in a much drier climate.
• Increase in the rate of soil erosion. This can further lead to flooding in rivers and makes the soil susceptible to landslides.
• Removal or destruction of significant areas of forest cover has resulted in a degraded environment with reduced biodiversity.
• Deforestation can destroy genetic variations (such as crop resistance) irretrievably.
Economic Impacts:
• A short-term economic gain made by conversion of forest to agriculture, or overexploitation of wood products, typically leads to a loss of long-term income and long-term biological productivity.
Social impacts
• It has led to eviction of tribals and forest dwellers rendering them homeless and destitute.
• Many people dependent on forests for livelihood are deprived of their earnings.
Measures needed to stop deforestation
• The first and foremost task to conserve forests is to protect the existing forests from the merciless and reckless cutting of trees by greedy economic men. This task may be achieved through government legislation and by arousing public interest in the importance of the forest resources. The National Forest Policy of India has also laid down certain basic principles for proper management and conservation of the forest resources of the country such as – Classification of forests according to functional aspects into protected forests, reserved forests, village forests, etc. Expansion in the forest cover by planting trees in order to ameliorate the physical and climatic conditions for the welfare of the people, Provision for ensuring progressive increasing supplies of fodder for animals and timber for agricultural implements and firewood to local inhabitants nearer to the forests, Opposition to the reckless extension of agricultural land at the cost of forest land, Extension of the forested area by the massive plan of tree plantation on a large-scale at war-footing so as to bring 33 percent of the country’s *geographical area under forest etc.*
• Classification of forests according to functional aspects into protected forests, reserved forests, village forests, etc.
• Expansion in the forest cover by planting trees in order to ameliorate the physical and climatic conditions for the welfare of the people,
• Provision for ensuring progressive increasing supplies of fodder for animals and timber for agricultural implements and firewood to local inhabitants nearer to the forests,
• Opposition to the reckless extension of agricultural land at the cost of forest land,
• Extension of the forested area by the massive plan of tree plantation on a large-scale at war-footing so as to bring 33 percent of the country’s *geographical area under forest etc.*
• *An important measure of effective conservation of natural forest is to adapt the scientific and judicious method of cutting of trees by following a selective approach. *Only mature and desired trees should be cut and unwanted trees of low economic value should be avoided.
• To cover more and more wasteland and already deforested land with forests through vigorous planning of afforestation. Forests should not be replaced by commercially important fruit orchards.
• For example, the cultivation of apples in many parts of the Himalayas in general and Himachal Pradesh (India) in particular has done great damage to the original stands of natural forests.
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