UPSC Insights SECURE SYNOPSIS: 16 JULY 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.
General Studies – 1
Topic: Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
Topic: Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
Q1. Discuss the evolution of Odisha temple architecture from simple rock-cut cave shrines to grand and ornate structures. 150 words)
Reference: TH
Why this question Ratna Bhandar, sacred treasury of Puri Jagannath Temple, opened after 46 years. Key demand of the question. The question wants us to write in detail about the origin and evolution of the Odisha style of Indian temple architecture. Directive word Discuss- This is an all-encompassing directive which means that we have to write in detail about the origin of temple architecture in India, how they evolved over time different temple styles in India, their main features etc. Structure of the answer Introduction – Mention in short about Odisha style of temple architecture. Body– Show using examples, how Odisha’s temple architecture evolved from simple rock-cut cave shrines to grand, ornate structures. Early examples include the rock-cut caves of Udayagiri and Khandagiri. The iconic Sun Temple at Konark and the Lingaraja Temple in Bhubaneswar exemplify later, more elaborate designs, highlighting the progression in architectural complexity and artistic detail. Discuss the influence and contribution of various dynasties on the Odisha temple architecture. Conclusion Conclude with a way forward.
Why this question
Ratna Bhandar, sacred treasury of Puri Jagannath Temple, opened after 46 years.
Key demand of the question.
The question wants us to write in detail about the origin and evolution of the Odisha style of Indian temple architecture.
Directive word
Discuss- This is an all-encompassing directive which means that we have to write in detail about the origin of temple architecture in India, how they evolved over time different temple styles in India, their main features etc.
Structure of the answer
Introduction – Mention in short about Odisha style of temple architecture.
Show using examples, how Odisha’s temple architecture evolved from simple rock-cut cave shrines to grand, ornate structures.
Early examples include the rock-cut caves of Udayagiri and Khandagiri. The iconic Sun Temple at Konark and the Lingaraja Temple in Bhubaneswar exemplify later, more elaborate designs, highlighting the progression in architectural complexity and artistic detail.
Discuss the influence and contribution of various dynasties on the Odisha temple architecture.
Conclusion
Conclude with a way forward.
Introduction
The Orissan temples constituted a sub-style of the Nagara style of north Indian temples. The building activity of this sub-regional style continued for nearly one thousand years from the 6th- 7th century to the 15th-16th century AD in unbroken continuity. These temples not only serve as places of worship but also as monumental records of the region’s historical and cultural journey, embodying the artistic and spiritual aspirations of the time.
Evolution of Odisha temple architecture from simple rock-cut cave shrines to grand and ornate structures:
• Early Rock-Cut Cave Shrines (2nd century BCE to 5th century CE): it was simple, primarily rock-cut caves with minimal carvings, serving as monasteries and places of worship for Jain and Buddhist monks. g. Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves, Hathigumpha and Rani Gumpha.
• g. Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves, Hathigumpha and Rani Gumpha.
• Proto-Historic Temples (6th to 8th century CE): this period, coincided with the rule of the Sailodbhavas and early Bhauma-karas and was marked with transition to structural temples using sandstone and granite. Simple layouts with square sanctums and flat roofs. g. Parashurameshwar Temple, Bhubaneswar.
• g. Parashurameshwar Temple, Bhubaneswar.
• Early Medieval Temples (9th to 11th century CE): This phase saw the later Bhauma-karas and the early Somavamsis transforming temple architecture and witnessed the development of Rekha Deula (curvilinear tower) and Pidha Deula (pyramidal roof) styles. It also witnessed the introduction of the Jagamohana (assembly hall). g. Vaital Deula, Mukteshwar Temple.
• It also witnessed the introduction of the Jagamohana (assembly hall).
• g. Vaital Deula, Mukteshwar Temple.
• Medieval Temples (11th to 13th century CE): Architectural maturity was achieved during this period under the Somavamsis and Gangas. Temples featured a Vimana (sanctum tower), Jagamohana, Natamandira (dance hall), and Bhoga-mandapa (offering hall). The structures became larger and more ornate. g. Lingaraj Temple, Bhubaneswar.
• g. Lingaraj Temple, Bhubaneswar.
• Late Medieval Temples (13th to 14th century): This phase is marked by grand scale structures with elaborate ornamentation and integration of secular and divine elements. The temples became more complex and richly decorated. g. Sun Temple at Konark.
• g. Sun Temple at Konark.
• Phase of decadence (14th CE onwards): Under the Suryavamsi-Gajapatis, temple construction declined due to political instability and reduced royal patronage. Temples from this period, exhibit the use of laterite, minimal sculptural decoration and, a preference for pidha deul for both vimana and jagamohana. g. Kapilesvara in Bhubaneswar.
• g. Kapilesvara in Bhubaneswar.
Distinctive Features of Odisha Temples:
• Plan and Elevation: Temples typically have a square ground plan, with rare star-shaped or circular layouts. Vertical offset projections called rathas or pagas classify temples into triratha, pancharatha, saptaratha, and navaratha.
• Vertical Division: Temples consist of three vertical divisions – bada (base), gandi (body), and mastaka (head), further divided into pabhaga, jangha, and baranda.
• Sculptural Abundance: Extensive use of sculptures including human figures, cult icons, and decorative motifs.
Conclusion
Odishan temple architecture influenced other regional styles, contributing to the broader canon of Indian temple architecture. The Kalinga style’s emphasis on verticality, intricate carvings, and symbolic motifs can be seen in various temples across India, demonstrating Odisha’s significant architectural legacy.
General Studies – 2
Topic: Parliament and its functioning
Topic: Parliament and its functioning
Q2. There has been a tendency to circumvent Rajya Sabha by passing legislation and amendments as Money Bills, in recent times. In this context, discuss the features of Money Bills. Also, Explain the powers of Rajya Sabha for different types of bills. (250 words, 15M)
- •*Difficulty level: Moderate
- •Reference: The Hindu, Insights on India *
Why the question: Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud on July 15 agreed to list petitions challenging the Money Bill route taken by the Centre to pass contentious amendments in the Parliament. Key Demand of the question: To explain the characteristics of Money Bills and the specific powers of Rajya Sabha concerning different types of bills. Directive: Discuss – This requires providing a detailed explanation and analysis of the features of Money Bills and the powers of Rajya Sabha regarding various types of bills. Structure of the Answer: Introduction: Briefly introduce Money Bills. Body: First part: Features of Money Bills: Define Money Bills (Article 110). Explain the Speaker’s certification and exclusive origin in Lok Sabha. Mention Rajya Sabha’s limited role (recommendations only, 14-day timeframe). Second part: Powers of Rajya Sabha for Different Types of Bills: Ordinary Bills, Constitutional Amendment Bills, Money Bills, and Financial Bills (Category II). Conclusion: Emphasise the importance of the Rajya Sabha’s role in a healthy and deliberative democracy and the need to prevent misuse of the Money Bill provision.
- •*Why the question:
Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud on July 15 agreed to list petitions challenging the Money Bill route taken by the Centre to pass contentious amendments in the Parliament.
Key Demand of the question:
To explain the characteristics of Money Bills and the specific powers of Rajya Sabha concerning different types of bills.
Directive:
Discuss – This requires providing a detailed explanation and analysis of the features of Money Bills and the powers of Rajya Sabha regarding various types of bills.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction:
Briefly introduce Money Bills.
First part: Features of Money Bills:
Define Money Bills (Article 110).
Explain the Speaker’s certification and exclusive origin in Lok Sabha.
Mention Rajya Sabha’s limited role (recommendations only, 14-day timeframe).
Second part: Powers of Rajya Sabha for Different Types of Bills:
Ordinary Bills, Constitutional Amendment Bills, Money Bills, and Financial Bills (Category II).
Conclusion:
Emphasise the importance of the Rajya Sabha’s role in a healthy and deliberative democracy and the need to prevent misuse of the Money Bill provision.
Introduction:
There has been legal questions concerning amendments made from 2015 onwards in the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) through Money Bills, giving the Enforcement Directorate almost blanket powers of arrest, raids, etc. Though the court had upheld the legality of the PMLA amendments, it left the question of whether the amendments could be passed as money bills.
Body:
Features of Money Bills:
• Definition (Article 110): A bill is deemed a Money Bill if it deals exclusively with matters specified in Article 110, such as the imposition, abolition, remission, alteration, or regulation of any tax.
• Certification: The Speaker of the Lok Sabha certifies whether a bill is a Money Bill. This certification is final and cannot be challenged.
• Inclusion: Money Bills include matters related to the borrowing of money, expenditure from the Consolidated Fund of India, and audit of government accounts.
• Exclusion: They cannot include provisions related to the imposition of fines or other penalties, or payment of fees for licenses.
Powers of Rajya Sabha for Different Types of Bills:
• Ordinary Bills:
• Both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha have equal powers. An Ordinary Bill can originate in either House.
• If the Rajya Sabha passes the bill, it goes to the President for assent. If the Rajya Sabha suggests amendments, the Lok Sabha can accept or reject
• In case of a deadlock, a joint sitting can be called.
• Money Bills:
• Rajya Sabha has limited powers. Money Bills can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha.
• The Rajya Sabha can suggest amendments, but the Lok Sabha can accept or reject these suggestions. The Rajya Sabha must return the Money Bill within 14 days, failing which it is deemed passed.
• Financial Bills:
There are two types of Financial Bills:Type I and Type II.
• Type I: Similar to Money Bills but also includes other matters. These must be introduced in the Lok Sabha and follow the same procedure as Money Bills for the Rajya Sabha’s role.
• Type II: These involve expenditure from the Consolidated Fund of India but do not qualify as Money Bills. These can be introduced in either House and treated like Ordinary Bills.
• Constitutional Amendment Bills:
Both Houses have equal powers. Such bills can be introduced in either House.
Must be passed by a two-thirds majority in both Houses. Rajya Sabha’s concurrence is essential, and there is no provision for a joint sitting in case of disagreement.
Conclusion:
The tendency to classify bills as Money Bills to circumvent the Rajya Sabha undermines the bicameral nature of Parliament. While the Rajya Sabha’s role is limited in the case of Money Bills, it has significant powers in other types of legislation, ensuring a check on the dominance of the Lok Sabha and fostering a comprehensive and deliberative legislative process.
Topic: Government Policies and Interventions, Development processes.
Topic: Government Policies and Interventions, Development processes.
Q3. What are the challenges faced by rural India in border areas? Discuss the role of the Vibrant Villages program in addressing these challenges. (150 words, 10M)
- •*Difficulty level: Moderate
- •Reference: The Hindu, Insights on India *
Why the question: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah reviewed the implementation of the Vibrant Villages Programme, which aims to develop infrastructure and open up villages to tourists along the China border. Key Demand of the question: To discuss the challenges faced by rural areas in border regions and the role of the Vibrant Villages program in addressing these issues. Directive: Discuss – Provide a detailed explanation of the challenges and how the Vibrant Villages program helps mitigate them. Structure of the Answer: Introduction: Write a fact related to rural areas. Census 2011-68%. Body: First part: Challenges faced by rural India in border areas: Mention infrastructure deficits, economic backwardness and limited opportunities, security concerns, isolation and connectivity issues. Second part: Role of Vibrant Villages Program: Mention infrastructure development initiatives, economic opportunity creation through tourism and local crafts, security enhancements, and community engagement efforts. Conclusion: Summarise the impact of the Vibrant Villages program in promoting sustainable development and enhancing security.
Why the question:
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah reviewed the implementation of the Vibrant Villages Programme, which aims to develop infrastructure and open up villages to tourists along the China border.
Key Demand of the question:
To discuss the challenges faced by rural areas in border regions and the role of the Vibrant Villages program in addressing these issues.
Directive:
Discuss – Provide a detailed explanation of the challenges and how the Vibrant Villages program helps mitigate them.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction:
Write a fact related to rural areas. Census 2011-68%.
First part: Challenges faced by rural India in border areas:
Mention infrastructure deficits, economic backwardness and limited opportunities, security concerns, isolation and connectivity issues.
Second part: Role of Vibrant Villages Program:
Mention infrastructure development initiatives, economic opportunity creation through tourism and local crafts, security enhancements, and community engagement efforts.
Conclusion:
Summarise the impact of the Vibrant Villages program in promoting sustainable development and enhancing security.
Introduction:
Recently, the Uttarakhand Rural Development and Migration Commission submitted a report which highlighted that 11 villages near the Indo-China border in Uttarakhand are empty with no residents. This points to the various challenges faced by rural India in border areas.
Body:
Challenges Faced by Rural India in Border Areas:
• Economic Underdevelopment:
• Lack of Infrastructure: Poor connectivity, inadequate roads, and limited access to basic amenities like electricity and clean water hinder economic growth. Indo China border
• Limited Employment Opportunities: Predominantly agrarian economy with minimal industrial or service sector jobs.
• Security Concerns:
• Cross-Border Infiltration: Threats from insurgency and illegal activities. Myanmar and Bangladesh.
• Military Presence: High military presence impacts daily life and can lead to displacement. Jammu and Kashmir.
• Social Challenges:
• Healthcare and Education: Lack of quality healthcare facilities and educational institutions.
• Migration: Youth migration to urban areas for better opportunities. Emigration from the Northeast to Southern states.
• Geographical Isolation:
• Difficult Terrain: Rugged and remote terrain makes access to these areas challenging.
• Climate: Harsh weather conditions affecting agriculture and living conditions.
Role of Vibrant Villages Program:
The program will provide funds for the development of essential infrastructure and the creation of livelihood opportunities in 2967 villages in 19 Districts and 46 Border blocks of 4 states and 1 UT along the northern land border of the country: Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and the UT of Ladakh
• Infrastructure Development: The Vibrant Villages Programme aims to improve infrastructure in border areas by building roads, and bridges, and providing access to electricity and water. This development helps integrate these regions more effectively with the rest of the country.
• Example: The construction of new roads in Arunachal Pradesh has improved connectivity and access to essential services.
• Economic Empowerment: The programme focuses on creating economic opportunities by promoting local industries, providing access to financial services, and facilitating market linkages.
• Example: Initiatives to develop local handicrafts and agro-based industries in border villages have provided new livelihood opportunities.
• Access to Basic Services: Efforts are made to ensure access to healthcare, education, and sanitation facilities. This helps in improving the quality of life and reducing the migration of residents to urban areas.
• Example: Mobile medical units and new educational facilities in border villages have improved health and education outcomes.
• Community Engagement: The programme encourages community participation in development projects. This approach fosters a sense of ownership and sustainability in development initiatives
• Example: Community-driven projects in Ladakh have led to better water management and agricultural practices.
Conclusion:
By fostering inclusive growth and development, the Vibrant Villages program seeks to integrate these regions more effectively with the rest of the country and meet the special developmental needs and well-being of the people living in remote and inaccessible areas.
General Studies – 3
Topic: Disaster and disaster management.
Topic: Disaster and disaster management.
Q4. Examine the multi-dimensional impact of extreme heat on women in India. What steps are needed to mitigate such impact? (250 Words)
Difficulty level: Medium
Reference: TH, Insights on India
Why the question: The article discusses how women are disproportionately harmed by extreme heat, largely because of unequal power dynamics, gender norms, and unequal access to resources Key Demand of the question: To write about the various social, economic, and generational, impacts of extreme heat on women in India and steps needed to mitigate the impact. Directive word: Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must investigate the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Start by defining extreme heat and give data to show its impact on women. Body: In the first part of the body, mention the various impacts on women. Impact: Health risks (heat stress, maternal health) Increased unpaid labour Lower productivity Energy poverty Poor working conditions Mention the government and NDMA measures in this regard. Next, write about the steps that need to be taken: Steps: Climate-friendly urban planning Access to sustainable cooling technologies Fair division of care work Public provisioning of essential services Conclusion: Conclude with a way forward.
Why the question:
The article discusses how women are disproportionately harmed by extreme heat, largely because of unequal power dynamics, gender norms, and unequal access to resources
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the various social, economic, and generational, impacts of extreme heat on women in India and steps needed to mitigate the impact.
Directive word:
Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must investigate the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Start by defining extreme heat and give data to show its impact on women.
In the first part of the body, mention the various impacts on women.
Impact:
• Health risks (heat stress, maternal health)
• Increased unpaid labour
• Lower productivity
• Energy poverty
• Poor working conditions
Mention the government and NDMA measures in this regard.
Next, write about the steps that need to be taken:
Steps:
• Climate-friendly urban planning
• Access to sustainable cooling technologies
• Fair division of care work
• Public provisioning of essential services
Conclusion:
Conclude with a way forward.
Introduction:
The year 2023 was the warmest on record, with temperatures in parts of India breaking records. Women are disproportionately affected by extreme heat due to unequal power dynamics, gender norms, and limited access to resources. This disparity is highlighted in the Global Gender Gap Index, where India ranks 18th from the bottom.
The multi-dimensional impacts of heat waves on women are:
• Maternal health & heat stress: Women are at higher risk of heat-related illnesses and heat stress can lead to complications during pregnancy due to prolonged exposure during domestic tasks and outdoor work. Eg: the National Institute of Health reports heat stress can double stillbirth.
• Eg: the National Institute of Health reports heat stress can double stillbirth.
• Increased unpaid labour: Extreme heat conditions exacerbate care service tasks, increasing their physical strain and time investment. Eg: National Statistical Office 2019 data women spend two and a half times minutes more per day than men in unpaid work.
• Eg: National Statistical Office 2019 data women spend two and a half times minutes more per day than men in unpaid work.
• Lower Productivity: Women’s productivity in agricultural and informal sectors, where they are predominantly employed, decreases during extreme heat events. Eg: Arsht-Rock’s ‘Scorching Divide’ report, the productivity loss due to heatwaves translates to 90 more minutes of care work per day in India.
• Eg: Arsht-Rock’s ‘Scorching Divide’ report, the productivity loss due to heatwaves translates to 90 more minutes of care work per day in India.
• Energy Poverty: Limited access to cooling technologies and electricity in many regions forces women to endure higher levels of discomfort and health risks.
• Poor working conditions: Women in agriculture, construction, and street vending face harsh working conditions during heatwaves, with little to no protection or support, leading to health issues and economic losses. Eg: the ILO report 2023 shows 82% of women in India work in the informal sector.
• Eg: the ILO report 2023 shows 82% of women in India work in the informal sector.
Government and NDMA measures are taken:
• National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA): Awareness: Developed the “Beating the Heat Wave” handbook for state governments and the public. Early warning systems: Established systems and inter-agency coordination to alert residents about extreme temperatures. Capacity Building: Training for healthcare professionals to recognize and respond to heat-related illnesses. Public Awareness: Disseminating protective measures against heat through media, pamphlets, posters, and TV commercials.
• Awareness: Developed the “Beating the Heat Wave” handbook for state governments and the public.
• Early warning systems: Established systems and inter-agency coordination to alert residents about extreme temperatures.
• Capacity Building: Training for healthcare professionals to recognize and respond to heat-related illnesses.
• Public Awareness: Disseminating protective measures against heat through media, pamphlets, posters, and TV commercials.
• Government Initiatives: National Action Plan for Climate Change (NAPCC): Eight national missions for integrated strategies addressing climate change. India Cooling Action Plan (ICAP): Aims to reduce cooling demand by 20-25% and refrigeration demand by 25-30% by 2037.
• National Action Plan for Climate Change (NAPCC): Eight national missions for integrated strategies addressing climate change.
• India Cooling Action Plan (ICAP): Aims to reduce cooling demand by 20-25% and refrigeration demand by 25-30% by 2037.
Steps that can be taken are:
• Climate-friendly urban planning: Develop urban areas with green spaces, improved ventilation, and reflective materials to reduce urban heat islands. Eg: Development of blue-green infrastructures.
• Eg: Development of blue-green infrastructures.
• Access to sustainable cooling technologies: Promote the use of sustainable cooling technologies like solar-powered fans and cool roofs, particularly in low-income and rural areas where women are most affected. E.g.: PM Suryodaya Scheme to provide solar rooftops.
• E.g.: PM Suryodaya Scheme to provide solar rooftops.
• Fair division of care work: Encourage and implement policies that promote the equitable distribution of unpaid care work between men and women. E.g.: “Men can do care work” campaign to raise awareness in society.
• E.g.: “Men can do care work” campaign to raise awareness in society.
• Public provisioning of essential services: Ensure reliable access to water, electricity, and healthcare services, particularly during heatwaves. E.g.: Effective implementation of the Jal Jeevan mission can reduce the workload of women.
• E.g.: Effective implementation of the Jal Jeevan mission can reduce the workload of women.
Conclusion:
Extreme heat disproportionately impacts women in India, exacerbating existing gender inequalities and posing significant health, productivity, and safety challenges, especially in informal and rural settings.
Topic– Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security
Topic– Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security
Q5. What do you understand by ‘Urban Naxalism’? Evaluate its challenges and steps taken to curb them. (250 words)
Reference: NDTV
Why this question Bill On ‘Urban Naxalism’ Tabled In Maharashtra Assembly Key demand of the question The question expects us to define ‘Urban Naxalism’, and give examples to show its presence. Next, mention its challenges and steps taken to curb it. Directive word Evaluate – When you are asked to evaluate, you have to pass a sound judgment about the truth of the given statement in the question or the topic based on evidence. You have to appraise the worth of the statement in question. There is scope for forming a personal opinion here. Structure of the answer Introduction – Define ‘Urban Naxalism’, and give examples to show its presence Body Mention in short how urban naxals are different from traditional naxals. Discuss the challenges emanating from it. Next mention the strategy employed by central and state government to curb it – the government of India’s National Policy and Action Plan, with its emphasis on security and development, is definitely making an impact, Winning Hearts and Minds etc Mention the features of the Maharastra Bill on Urban Naxalism. Conclusion – Give your view on the status of the urban naxal challenge and the way forward for dealing with this
Why this question
Bill On ‘Urban Naxalism’ Tabled In Maharashtra Assembly
Key demand of the question
The question expects us to define ‘Urban Naxalism’, and give examples to show its presence. Next, mention its challenges and steps taken to curb it.
Directive word
Evaluate – When you are asked to evaluate, you have to pass a sound judgment about the truth of the given statement in the question or the topic based on evidence. You have to appraise the worth of the statement in question. There is scope for forming a personal opinion here.
Structure of the answer
Introduction – Define ‘Urban Naxalism’, and give examples to show its presence
Mention in short how urban naxals are different from traditional naxals.
Discuss the challenges emanating from it.
Next mention the strategy employed by central and state government to curb it – the government of India’s National Policy and Action Plan, with its emphasis on security and development, is definitely making an impact, Winning Hearts and Minds etc
Mention the features of the Maharastra Bill on Urban Naxalism.
Conclusion –
Give your view on the status of the urban naxal challenge and the way forward for dealing with this
Introduction:
The Maharashtra government has introduced the Maharashtra Special Public Security Act, 2024, enabling the state to designate any group as illegal through an official Gazette notification. The government cites the increasing threat of Naxalism in urban areas as a significant concern.
The term “urban naxals” broadly refers to individuals in urban areas who support and advocate for Naxalite ideology through activism and advocacy, while active Naxals engage in combat within the jungles and vast Maoist-controlled regions.
Urban Naxalism features:
• Operate in urban areas.
• Engage in intellectual and ideological support for Naxalite movements.
• Use activism, advocacy, and academia to spread Naxalite ideology.
• Focus on influencing public opinion, policy, and urban populations.
Challenges in countering the urban naxalism are:
• Covert operations: Urban Naxals operate under the guise of legitimate activism, making them difficult to identify.
• Use of technology: They leverage digital platforms to propagate ideology and coordinate activities, complicating surveillance efforts. g.: Use of social media to propagate ideas.
• g.: Use of social media to propagate ideas.
• Freedom of speech: Balancing the crackdown on Urban Naxalism with the preservation of democratic rights such as freedom of speech and activism poses legal challenges. g.: the Elgar Parishad event, 2018leading to the arrest of active moist linked intellectuals.
• g.: the Elgar Parishad event, 2018leading to the arrest of active moist linked intellectuals.
• Influence in academia and media: Urban Naxals often have strong footholds in academic institutions and media, which they use to influence public opinion and garner support. Eg: Eminent professors like Varavara Roa were arrested in 2018.
• Eg: Eminent professors like Varavara Roa were arrested in 2018.
• Insufficient resources: Effective monitoring and counteraction require significant resources, including specialized training for law enforcement agencies.’ Eg: Lack of dedicated agency to handle Naxalism and urban Naxalism.
• Eg: Lack of dedicated agency to handle Naxalism and urban Naxalism.
• Coordination among agencies: Lack of coordination, insufficient resources, and information sharing between various security and intelligence agencies can hinder effective action.
The government has taken the following measures:
• Operation Green Hunt: Initiated in 2010, this operation involved the massive deployment of security forces in Naxal-affected areas.
• Prohibition under UAPA: The CPI Maoist and its formations were banned under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, of 1967, aiding in the reduction of Naxal violence.
• Aspirational Districts Programme: Launched in 2018, it aims to transform districts with lower progress in key social areas, significantly reducing violent attacks in Naxalism-affected regions.
• Central government assistance: The government supports states with CAPFs, CoBRA, CIAT schools, and updates to state police intelligence.
• Relief and rehabilitation policy: The government implemented this policy to reintegrate Naxalites into mainstream society, leading to the arrest or death of Central Committee Politburo members of communist parties.
More measures that can be taken are:
• Specialized units: Establish dedicated units within intelligence agencies to monitor and track Urban naxal activities.
• Clear definitions: Develop clear legal definitions and frameworks to distinguish between legitimate activism and activities supporting naxalism.
• Counter-narratives: Launch campaigns to educate the public about the dangers of Urban Naxalism and promote counter-narratives.
• Grassroots initiatives: Implement programs that address the socio-economic grievances that Urban naxals exploit, such as poverty, unemployment, and social injustice.
• De-radicalization programs: Develop de-radicalization programs that offer rehabilitation and reintegration support for individuals influenced by Naxalite ideology.
Conclusion:
The best solution to end the naxalism and urban naxalism to with development. The government along with the strengthening legal framework must focus on resolving the socioeconomic development issue among the affected areas.
General Studies – 4
Q6. “Political violence is always an ethical failure, eroding the foundations of democracy and human rights.” Discuss [10M, 150 words]
Difficulty level: Medium
Reference: CNA
Why the question: Recently USA saw political violence through an attempt on US ex-President Donald Trump. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Begin by explaining political violence or you can link the context of the question with a recent example. Body: First, mention why political violence is an ethical failure. Then explain how it erodes the foundation of democracy and human rights with examples. Lastly, mention a few points on how to shape a politically tolerant society. Conclusion: Summarize the above discussion in brief.
Why the question:
Recently USA saw political violence through an attempt on US ex-President Donald Trump.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction: Begin by explaining political violence or you can link the context of the question with a recent example.
Body:
• First, mention why political violence is an ethical failure.
• Then explain how it erodes the foundation of democracy and human rights with examples.
• Lastly, mention a few points on how to shape a politically tolerant society.
Conclusion: Summarize the above discussion in brief.
Introduction:
As the quote goes “Violence is the last refuge of incompetent”. In the recent political atmosphere, there is a rise of political violence most recently being an attack on US ex-president Donald Trump. It demonstrates the ethical failure of society as a whole.
Political violence is inherently an ethical failure for several reasons:
• Violation of Human Rights: Political violence often involves the infringement of individuals’ rights to life, liberty, and security. It disregards the fundamental ethical principle of respecting the dignity and autonomy of every human being. Eg: Killing another person fails a categorically imperative test.
• Eg: Killing another person fails a categorically imperative test.
• Undermining Democratic Principles: Democracies rely on peaceful processes such as elections, debate, and dialogue to resolve differences and enact change. g.: Against article 19 which provides freedom of expression and participation.
• g.: Against article 19 which provides freedom of expression and participation.
• Damage to Social Fabric: Violence breeds division and hostility within societies, exacerbating existing political and social tensions. Eg: The rise of mistrust can lead to riots and violence like in the West Bengal riots.
• Eg: The rise of mistrust can lead to riots and violence like in the West Bengal riots.
Political violence erodes the foundations of democracy and human rights in several significant ways:
• Undermining Democratic Processes: Political violence disrupts the democratic process by instilling fear, intimidating voters, and suppressing participation. It undermines free and fair elections. Eg: Chamarajnagar LS election riots in 2024
• Eg: Chamarajnagar LS election riots in 2024
• Diminishing Freedom of Expression: Fear of reprisal silences dissenting voices and critical perspectives essential for robust public debate and accountability.
• Threatening the Rule of Law and Justice: Political violence weakens the rule of law by encouraging impunity and undermining judicial independence. E.g.: West Bengal panchayat election riots between political parties.
• E.g.: West Bengal panchayat election riots between political parties.
• Creating Polarization and Divisions: Violence exacerbates social divisions and polarizes communities along political lines. It deepens mistrust and hostility between different groups, hindering efforts towards national unity and inclusive governance. Eg: Communalism and intolerance rise among people.
• Eg: Communalism and intolerance rise among people.
Political violence can be countered with the following actions:
• Kantian Ethics stresses the importance of duty and adherence to moral laws. Upholding the rule of law consistently and impartially deters acts of political violence.
• Promote reconciliation initiatives that address historical injustices and build social cohesion. Establish forums for dialogue between conflicting parties to address grievances and foster understanding. Eg: Local panchayat and meetings among villagers.
• Eg: Local panchayat and meetings among villagers.
• Gandhian Philosophy of nonviolence (Ahimsa) advocates for peaceful resistance and dialogue. Encourage nonviolent forms of protest and political engagement.
• Utilitarianism seeks the greatest good for the greatest number. Identify and address the root causes of political violence, such as poverty, unemployment, and social injustice, to prevent future occurrences. Eg: Development programs like the Aspiration block program.
• Eg: Development programs like the Aspiration block program.
• Rawls’ Theory of Justice emphasizes fairness and the “veil of ignorance” to ensure unbiased decision-making. Policies should be designed to address systemic inequalities that often underlie political violence.
Conclusion:
By integrating these ethical principles and philosophies into strategies to counter political violence, societies can create a more just, peaceful, and resilient political environment.
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