UPSC Insights SECURE SYNOPSIS: 8 JULY 2024

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: factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world (including India).

Topic: factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world (including India).

Q1. Given the significance of semiconductors, India should develop a strong domestic semiconductor industry to meet its needs, promote innovation, and strengthen national security. Discuss.

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Economic times

Why the question: The article discusses the potential of India to become a global player in the semiconductor industry. Key Demand of the question: To write about applications of semiconductors and how the government can create a thriving domestic semiconductor industry. Structure of the Answer: Introduction: Begin by giving context. Body: In the first part, discuss the various applications of semiconductors – computers, phones, server farms, missiles and in their guidance systems, warplanes, submarines, aircraft carriers, satellites etc. Next, write about the steps needed to create a robust domestic industry for semiconductors – tackling R&D problems, funding, and solving intellectual property issues. Mention various measures already initiated by the government in this regard. Conclusion: Conclude with a way forward.

Why the question:

The article discusses the potential of India to become a global player in the semiconductor industry.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about applications of semiconductors and how the government can create a thriving domestic semiconductor industry.

Structure of the Answer:

Introduction:

Begin by giving context.

• In the first part, discuss the various applications of semiconductors – computers, phones, server farms, missiles and in their guidance systems, warplanes, submarines, aircraft carriers, satellites etc.

• Next, write about the steps needed to create a robust domestic industry for semiconductors – tackling R&D problems, funding, and solving intellectual property issues. Mention various measures already initiated by the government in this regard.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward.

Introduction

Semiconductor chips are the basic building blocks that serve as the heart and brain of all modern electronics and information and communications technology products. These chips are now an integral part of contemporary automobiles, household gadgets and essential medical devices such as ECG machines.

Significance of semiconductors for:

Meeting domestic needs-

• High demand and Import dependency: India is one of the largest consumers of electronic devices, leading to a high demand for semiconductors. Currently, India imports nearly all of its semiconductor requirements, making it highly dependent on global supply chains. E.g. In 2021, India’s semiconductor market was valued at USD 15 billion and is projected to reach USD 63 billion by 2026.

• E.g. In 2021, India’s semiconductor market was valued at USD 15 billion and is projected to reach USD 63 billion by 2026.

• Economic Growth and Job Creation: Establishing a domestic semiconductor industry would generate significant economic growth and job opportunities. E.g. It is estimated that for every job created in semiconductor manufacturing, around 4.89 jobs are generated in other sectors.

• E.g. It is estimated that for every job created in semiconductor manufacturing, around 4.89 jobs are generated in other sectors.

• Boost to ancillary industries: The growth of the semiconductor industry will have a cascading effect on ancillary industries such as electronics manufacturing, telecommunications, and IT services, thereby strengthening the overall industrial ecosystem.

Promotion of Innovation:

• R&D and Innovation: A robust semiconductor industry would foster research and development (R&D) in advanced technologies. This can lead to innovation in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT), propelling India to the forefront of the global technological landscape.

• This can lead to innovation in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT), propelling India to the forefront of the global technological landscape.

• Start-up Ecosystem: A domestic semiconductor industry would provide a significant boost to India’s start-up ecosystem, encouraging entrepreneurship and the development of new technologies and applications.

National security:

• Strategic Independence: Semiconductors are critical to national security, as they are used in defense equipment, communication systems, and cybersecurity infrastructure. A domestic industry would reduce dependency on foreign suppliers, ensuring strategic autonomy.

• A domestic industry would reduce dependency on foreign suppliers, ensuring strategic autonomy.

• Supply Chain Resilience: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains. By developing its semiconductor industry, India can mitigate risks associated with supply chain disruptions, ensuring a stable supply of critical components.

• Cybersecurity: Manufacturing semiconductors domestically would enhance cybersecurity, as it reduces the risk of tampering and espionage associated with foreign-made components. This is crucial for safeguarding sensitive data and infrastructure.

• This is crucial for safeguarding sensitive data and infrastructure.

Challenges:

• Inadequate fiscal support: the level of fiscal support currently envisioned is minuscule when one considers the scale of investments typically required to set up manufacturing capacities in the various sub-sectors of the semiconductor industry.

• High Cost of Semiconductor fabs: A semiconductor fabrication facility, or fab, can cost multiples of a billion dollars to set up even on a relatively small scale and lagging by a generation or two behind the latest in technology.

• Limited Allocation for Comprehensive Support: Even granting that India’s Production Linked Incentive scheme intends to give only 50% of the cost of setting up at least two greenfield semiconductor fabs by way of fiscal support, not much of the current scheme outlay of approximately $10 billion is likely to be left to support other elements including display fabs, packaging and testing facilities, and chip design centres.

• Resource-intensive nature of Chip Fabs: Chip Fabs are also very thirsty units requiring millions of litres of clean water and an extremely stable power supply.

• Existing Capabilities and Gaps: India has a decent chip design talent but it never built up chip fab capacity. The ISRO and the DRDO have their respective fab foundries but they are primarily for their own requirements and also not as sophisticated as the latest in the world.

Way Forward

• Given the long gestation periods and rapid technology changes, India must out-strategize on design and functionality as the end product will be out only after three-four years from the moment work begins, by which point the prevailing chip shortage would have been resolved, while technology would have advanced further.

• Apart from incentivising more FDI in electronics to deepen our supply chains through incentive schemes, we need to focus on encouraging Indian manufacturers and start-ups to enter and master complex R&D and manufacturing verticals. We can then ensure that valuable Intellectual Property is created and owned by Indian companies.

• We can then ensure that valuable Intellectual Property is created and owned by Indian companies.

• The semiconductor industry is changing fast as new-age technologies require innovation at the design, material, and process levels.

• Indian engineers have contributed immensely to this area in multinational companies. We must encourage them to set up their design start-ups with handsome government grants and tax incentives.

• Premier research institutions such as the Indian Institute of Science should also be asked to work aggressively on R&D in chip designing and manufacturing.

• Further, the government must focus on emerging technologies like LiDAR and Phased Array in which incumbents do not have a disproportionate advantage and the entry barrier is low. By working aggressively in new cutting-edge technologies, India can ensure that it becomes

• By working aggressively in new cutting-edge technologies, India can ensure that it becomes

• India needs to push for a Quad Supply Chain Resilience Fund to immunise the supply chain from geopolitical and geographic risks.

• India and Taiwan have started negotiations for a free-trade agreement and setting up a semiconductor manufacturing hub in an Indian city, signalling their resolve to further expand the two-way economic engagement.

Conclusion

By leveraging its large pool of skilled engineers, vibrant start-up ecosystem, and strategic policy support, India can emerge as a significant player in the global semiconductor industry, driving economic growth and ensuring national security.

Topic: World History

Topic: World History

Q2. Discuss the role of historical events, such as the 1953 CIA-sponsored coup and the Iran-Iraq War, in shaping the political landscape of contemporary Iran.

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: The Hindu

Why the question: The above article discusses the significance of key historical events that shaped contemporary Iran. Key Demand of the question: Examine the influence of the 1953 CIA-sponsored coup and the Iran-Iraq War on the political landscape of contemporary Iran. Structure of the Answer: Introduction: Introduce the significance of historical events in shaping the political landscape of a country. Body: 1953 CIA-Sponsored Coup: Describe the events of the coup, detailing the CIA and MI6’s involvement in overthrowing Mossadegh and reinstating the Shah. Discuss the immediate political effects, including the Shah’s consolidation of power, the establishment of a more authoritarian regime, increasing anti-Western sentiment, political repression, and the eventual rise of revolutionary movements. The Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988): Explain the causes, Describe the major events and phases of the war, then write its impact on Iran’s political landscape Conclusion: Conclude by writing about the lasting influence of these events on Iran’s political dynamics, national identity, and foreign policy.

Why the question:

The above article discusses the significance of key historical events that shaped contemporary Iran.

Key Demand of the question:

Examine the influence of the 1953 CIA-sponsored coup and the Iran-Iraq War on the political landscape of contemporary Iran.

Structure of the Answer:

Introduction:

Introduce the significance of historical events in shaping the political landscape of a country.

• 1953 CIA-Sponsored Coup: Describe the events of the coup, detailing the CIA and MI6’s involvement in overthrowing Mossadegh and reinstating the Shah. Discuss the immediate political effects, including the Shah’s consolidation of power, the establishment of a more authoritarian regime, increasing anti-Western sentiment, political repression, and the eventual rise of revolutionary movements.

• Discuss the immediate political effects, including the Shah’s consolidation of power, the establishment of a more authoritarian regime, increasing anti-Western sentiment, political repression, and the eventual rise of revolutionary movements.

• The Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988): Explain the causes, Describe the major events and phases of the war, then write its impact on Iran’s political landscape

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing about the lasting influence of these events on Iran’s political dynamics, national identity, and foreign policy.

Introduction

The political landscape of contemporary Iran is a complex tapestry woven from a series of historical events that have significantly influenced its governance, foreign relations, and internal dynamics. Two pivotal events in this context are the 1953 CIA-sponsored coup and the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988) that profoundly impacted Iran’s political structure, national identity, and regional posture.

1953 CIA-sponsored coup:

• Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh, a nationalist, sought to nationalize Iran’s oil industry, previously controlled by the British-owned Anglo-Iranian Oil Company (AIOC). This move was perceived as a threat to Western economic interests.

• This move was perceived as a threat to Western economic interests.

• In August 1953, a covert operation, code-named Operation Ajax, orchestrated by the CIA and British intelligence, led to the overthrow of Mossadegh. *The Shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, who had fled Iran, was reinstated.*

• *The Shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, who had fled Iran, was reinstated.*

Impact:

• Impact on Governance: The coup marked the beginning of the Shah’s autocratic rule, characterized by modernization efforts and repression of political dissent. It also led to the establishment of SAVAK, the Shah’s secret police, which brutally suppressed opposition.

• It also led to the establishment of SAVAK, the Shah’s secret police, which brutally suppressed opposition.

• Long-term Consequences: The coup fostered deep-seated resentment towards the United States and Britain, seen as external meddlers in Iran’s sovereignty. This anti-Western sentiment became a cornerstone of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, which overthrew the Shah and established the Islamic Republic under Ayatollah Khomeini.

• This anti-Western sentiment became a cornerstone of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, which overthrew the Shah and established the Islamic Republic under Ayatollah Khomeini.

Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988):

• Origins: The war began with Iraq’s invasion of Iran, driven by territorial disputes, fears of Shia insurgency inspired by Iran’s Islamic Revolution, and Saddam Hussein’s ambition to establish regional dominance.

• Course of the War: The war was prolonged and devastating, involving trench warfare, chemical weapons, and significant civilian casualties. Both sides suffered heavy losses, with estimates of over a million casualties.

• Both sides suffered heavy losses, with estimates of over a million casualties.

Impact:

• Domestic Impact: The war galvanized national unity and bolstered the regime’s legitimacy, portraying the conflict as a defence of the revolution. It also led to the militarization of society and the rise of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which became a powerful political and economic force in post-war Iran.

• It also led to the militarization of society and the rise of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which became a powerful political and economic force in post-war Iran.

• Economic Consequences: The war severely strained Iran’s economy, leading to infrastructure damage, loss of oil revenue, and long-term economic challenges. This economic strain influenced subsequent political and economic policies.

• This economic strain influenced subsequent political and economic policies.

• Foreign Relations: The war solidified Iran’s adversarial stance towards Iraq and heightened its sense of encirclement by hostile neighbours. It also influenced Iran’s pursuit of a deterrent military capability, including its controversial nuclear program.

• It also influenced Iran’s pursuit of a deterrent military capability, including its controversial nuclear program.

Conclusion

The coup entrenched anti-Western sentiments and laid the groundwork for the Islamic Revolution, while the Iran-Iraq War shaped Iran’s internal dynamics, military policies, and regional posture. These events underscore the interplay of external interventions and internal responses in shaping Iran’s path.

General Studies – 2

Topic: Indian Constitution—historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.

Topic: Indian Constitution—historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.

Q3. Compare and contrast the major features of the constitutions of India and Britain. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

•Reference: IE, Insights on India*

Why the question: United Kingdom (UK) elects new Prime Minister (PM) Key Demand of the question: To write about salient features of the Indian constitution and the nature of federalism in India. Compare and contrast – provide a detailed comparison of the two types, and their features that are similar as well as different. One must provide for detailed assessment of the two. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Begin by mentioning the legacy of the British on the Indian constitution Body: In the first part, write about the major differences between the Indian and British constitutions. Written constitution, Nature of federation, Citizenship, Sovereign power, Judicial review etc. Next, write about similarities between the Indian and British constitutions – Rule of Law, Independence of Judiciary, Parliamentary system etc, Conclusion: Conclude by summarising the major observations.

Why the question:

United Kingdom (UK) elects new Prime Minister (PM)

Key Demand of the question:

To write about salient features of the Indian constitution and the nature of federalism in India.

Compare and contrast – provide a detailed comparison of the two types, and their features that are similar as well as different. One must provide for detailed assessment of the two.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by mentioning the legacy of the British on the Indian constitution

In the first part, write about the major differences between the Indian and British constitutions. Written constitution, Nature of federation, Citizenship, Sovereign power, Judicial review etc.

Next, write about similarities between the Indian and British constitutions – Rule of Law, Independence of Judiciary, Parliamentary system etc,

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising the major observations.

Introduction:

The Indian Constitution, adopted in 1950, is a unique blend of various constitutional principles from around the world, with a significant influence from the British Constitution. This borrowing draws on the strengths and experiences of British constitutional practice while tailoring it to India’s diverse and complex socio-political landscape.

Body:

Differences between major features of the Indian and UK constitutions:

Feature | India | UK

Nature of the Constitution | India has a comprehensive, written constitution that serves as the supreme law of the land. | The UK does not have a single written constitution. Instead, its constitutional framework is based on statutes, conventions, judicial decisions, and historical documents.

Sovereignty | While the Indian Parliament has significant legislative powers, the Constitution grants the judiciary the authority to review and invalidate laws that violate constitutional provisions. | The UK Parliament is supreme and can make or repeal any law. There is no judicial review of parliamentary legislation.

Head of State | The President of India is the ceremonial head of state, elected by an electoral college for a five-year term. | The UK has a hereditary monarch who acts as the ceremonial head of state.

Fundamental Rights | The Indian Constitution includes a detailed list of Fundamental Rights guaranteed to all citizens. | The UK does not have a single document outlining Fundamental Rights, but rights are protected through statutes like the Human Rights Act 1998 and common law.

Judiciary | The Indian judiciary is independent of the executive and legislature, with the Supreme Court at the apex. | The UK judiciary is also independent, though it cannot review the constitutionality of primary legislation passed by Parliament.

Amendment process | The Indian Constitution has a mix of rigid and flexible elements, requiring different levels of approval depending on the nature of the amendment. | The British Constitution can be amended by a simple majority in Parliament, reflecting its flexible nature.

Cabinet | The Indian cabinet system is based on the UK political system without a shadow cabinet. | The UK has a shadow cabinet system composed of major opposition.

Speaker | The Speaker in India is not required to resign from their political party. | In the UK, there is a convention where once a speaker, always a speaker, once a person is appointed as a speaker, he gives a formal resignation from his political party.

Legal responsibility | Under the Indian constitution, there is no mention of the legal responsibility of the minister. | In the UK, every order of the king for any public act is countersigned by a minister.

Nature of federalism | India has a federal system of government with a bias towards a unitary system. | The British Parliament holds all governing powers and is the supreme authority.

However, there are also many similarities between the Indian and UK constitutions:

• Parliamentary System of Government: Both India and the UK operate under a parliamentary system where the executive is accountable to the legislature.

• Bicameral Legislature: Both countries have a bicameral legislature. India has the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States), while the UK has the House of Commons and the House of Lords.

• Rule of Law: Both constitutions uphold the principle of the rule of law, ensuring that all individuals and institutions are subject to and accountable under the law.

• First-Past-The-Post Electoral System: Both India and the UK use the first-past-the-post (FPTP) electoral system for parliamentary elections.

• Judicial Independence: The judiciary in both countries is independent of the executive and legislature. Judges are appointed based on merit and are expected to interpret laws impartially.

• Committees in Legislature: Both legislatures have committees that scrutinise bills, policies, and government actions.

Conclusion:

Thus, the constitutional systems of India and the United Kingdom, though both rooted in a parliamentary democracy, exhibit striking differences in their historical development, structure, and function.

General Studies – 3

Topic: Indian Economy: BoP

Topic: Indian Economy: BoP

Q4. India’s Balance of payments (BoP) has become more resilient due to reforms, yet vulnerabilities have emerged from increased exposure to the global economy through liberalized trade and investment. Analyse. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: InstaPedia, IE

Why the question: Last week, data from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) showed that India’s current account registered a surplus during the fourth quarter (Jan-Mar) of the 2023-24 financial year. This was the first time in 11 quarters that India had witnessed a surplus. Key Demand of the question: To write about BoP and India’s vulnerabilities with regard to its BoP. Directive word: Analyse – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and presenting them in a summary. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Begin by defining BoP and its various components. Body: First, in brief, elaborate on the evolution of India’s BoP and various crises faced with respect to BoP. Next, write about the various reforms undertaken to strengthen India’s BoP scenario and write about their impact. Next, write about the present vulnerabilities with respect to India’s BoP and the steps needed to prevent it from any adverse impact. Conclusion: Conclude by writing a way forward.

Why the question:

Last week, data from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) showed that India’s current account registered a surplus during the fourth quarter (Jan-Mar) of the 2023-24 financial year. This was the first time in 11 quarters that India had witnessed a surplus.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about BoP and India’s vulnerabilities with regard to its BoP.

Directive word:

Analyse – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and presenting them in a summary.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by defining BoP and its various components.

First, in brief, elaborate on the evolution of India’s BoP and various crises faced with respect to BoP.

Next, write about the various reforms undertaken to strengthen India’s BoP scenario and write about their impact.

Next, write about the present vulnerabilities with respect to India’s BoP and the steps needed to prevent it from any adverse impact.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

Introduction:

Recent data from the RBI showed that India’s current account registered a surplus. This was the first time in 11 quarters that India had witnessed a surplus. BOP is a comprehensive record of all economic transactions between residents of one country and the rest of the world over a specific period.

India BoP Crisis in 1991: Foreign exchange reserves were just adequate to finance 15 days of imports. There were many factors that led to the BOP crisis like Fiscal Deficit, Gulf War I, and Rise in Prices. This led to the focus of the government on the BOP reforms since 1991.

India BOP has become resilient due to various reforms like:

• 1991 Roa Mohan LPG reforms: Which opened up the economy to liberalised trade and investment Liberalising Industrial Policy:Abolition of industrial license permit raj, Reduction in import tariffs, etc. Beginning of Privatisation:Deregulation of markets, Banking reforms, etc. Globalisation:Exchange rate correction, liberalising foreign direct investment

• Liberalising Industrial Policy:Abolition of industrial license permit raj, Reduction in import tariffs, etc.

• Beginning of Privatisation:Deregulation of markets, Banking reforms, etc.

• Globalisation:Exchange rate correction, liberalising foreign direct investment

• Diversification of Exports: This has enhanced the stability of export earnings, contributing positively to the current account balance of the BoP.

• Foreign Exchange Reserves: Reforms facilitated greater inflows of FDI. These reserves act as a cushion against external shocks, providing stability to the BoP. Eg: Increased number of automatic approval investments in India.

• Eg: Increased number of automatic approval investments in India.

• Improved Export Competitiveness: Reduced tariffs and trade barriers have made Indian goods more competitive in global markets, boosting export volumes and earnings.

Some of the positive impacts of the various BOP reforms in India can be seen through:

• Export Growth: India’s exports have shown significant growth post-liberalisation. India has intermittently achieved trade surpluses. Eg: India’s merchandise exports grew from $18.2 billion in 1991-92 to $400.4 billion in 2020-21

• Eg: India’s merchandise exports grew from $18.2 billion in 1991-92 to $400.4 billion in 2020-21

• Increase in Forex Reserves: India’s foreign exchange reserves have grown substantially providing a robust buffer against external shocks. Eg: the RBI report shows as of June 2024, India’s forex reserves stood at around $652 billion.

• Eg: the RBI report shows as of June 2024, India’s forex reserves stood at around $652 billion.

• FDI and FPI Inflows: India has been a recipient of significant foreign direct investment (FDI) and portfolio investment (FPI), contributing to forex reserve accumulation. Eg: India’s FDI inflows stood at $44 bn in FY24.

• Eg: India’s FDI inflows stood at $44 bn in FY24.

• Sustainable Debt Levels: India has managed to keep its external debt levels at sustainable levels relative to GDP. At the end of 2023, it was 18.7% of GDP only.

On the other hand, there are a few negative impacts and vulnerabilities too in BOP reforms:

• Despite improvements, India has periodically faced current account deficits (CAD). Eg: In FY24, India recorded a CAD of $23.2 billion.

• Eg: In FY24, India recorded a CAD of $23.2 billion.

• The liberalised exchange rate has exposed the Indian Rupee to fluctuations. Rapid depreciation of the Rupee has increased the cost of imports leading to inflationary pressures. Eg: Rupee rose to 83Rs per dollar in FY 2024.

• Eg: Rupee rose to 83Rs per dollar in FY 2024.

• Integration into the global economy exposed India to external economic shocks, such as global financial crises or geopolitical tensions.

• MSME-like sectors, particularly those that were protected under the pre-liberalisation era, have faced challenges in adapting to increased competition and globalisation.

Measures that can be taken to overcome the vulnerabilities in BoP are:

• Enhanced Export Competitiveness: Invest in technology and innovation to improve productivity and quality in export-oriented industries.

• Import Substitution: Encourage domestic production of goods that are currently imported through policies such as import substitution industrialisation (ISI).

• Promoting Long-term Investment Flows: Policies should aim to create a conducive business environment and improve infrastructure in India.

• Managing Currency Fluctuations: Intervention in foreign exchange markets and hedging mechanisms for businesses exposed to currency risk.

Conclusion:

RBI recently has established ambitious objectives to prepare for India’s rapidly expanding economy, aiming for capital account liberalization, internationalization of the Indian rupee (INR), widespread adoption of digital payments, and the globalization of India’s financial sector over a span of several years to ensure readiness for the future is the move in the right direction.

Topic: Internal Security: Indigenous Defence Industry in India

Topic: Internal Security: Indigenous Defence Industry in India

Q5. Indigenous defence industry is a vital objective for India given its security environment and strategic objectives. Shed light on the potential, success achieved, and challenges in this regard. (250 Words)

Difficulty Level: High

Reference: TH

Why the question? Defence production hit record high of nearly ₹1.27 lakh crore in 2023-24: Defence Ministry. Key Demand of the Question: Discuss the importance of Indigenous defence production, highlight successful initiatives, and analyze the challenges hindering further progress. Structure of the Answer: Introduction: Briefly give the status of the indigenous defence industry in India. Body: Potential of Indigenous Defence Industry: Mention the economic benefits, strategic importance and national security imperatives, employment generation, and technological advancements associated with a robust indigenous defence sector. Success Achieved: Detail significant achievements such as the development of critical defence systems like INS Vikrant, Arihant submarine, and various missile programs under IGMDP. Challenges in Indigenous Defence Production: Mention the challenges like the lack of a strong domestic manufacturing base, dependence on imports, and bureaucratic hurdles. Conclusion: Conclude with a way forward.

Why the question?

Defence production hit record high of nearly ₹1.27 lakh crore in 2023-24: Defence Ministry.

Key Demand of the Question: Discuss the importance of Indigenous defence production, highlight successful initiatives, and analyze the challenges hindering further progress.

Structure of the Answer:

Introduction:

Briefly give the status of the indigenous defence industry in India.

• Potential of Indigenous Defence Industry: Mention the economic benefits, strategic importance and national security imperatives, employment generation, and technological advancements associated with a robust indigenous defence sector. Success Achieved: Detail significant achievements such as the development of critical defence systems like INS Vikrant, Arihant submarine, and various missile programs under IGMDP. Challenges in Indigenous Defence Production: Mention the challenges like the lack of a strong domestic manufacturing base, dependence on imports, and bureaucratic hurdles.

• Success Achieved: Detail significant achievements such as the development of critical defence systems like INS Vikrant, Arihant submarine, and various missile programs under IGMDP.

• Challenges in Indigenous Defence Production: Mention the challenges like the lack of a strong domestic manufacturing base, dependence on imports, and bureaucratic hurdles.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward.

Introduction:

Defence indigenisation refers to the strategic objective of a country to develop and enhance its own industrial and technological capabilities for producing essential defence equipment and systems. As per the Defence Ministry report, Defence production has hit a record high of nearly ₹1.27 lakh crore in 2023-24.

The objectives of defence indigenisation typically include:

• Strategic Independence: Indigenisation ensures that critical defence supplies are not subject to external disruptions or sanctions.

• Cost Efficiency: Developing Indigenous defence capabilities can potentially lower costs over the long term.

• Technological Advancement: It fosters the growth of a robust defence industrial base capable of developing cutting-edge technologies.

• Sovereignty and Security: It enhances the ability to defend territorial integrity and protect national interests effectively.

India possesses significant potential in Indigenous defence production, driven by several factors and initiatives aimed at strengthening its defence industrial base:

• Growing Defense Budget: India has consistently increased its defence budget, allocating significant funds for procurement along with R&D in defence. Eg: In FY2024-25 defence allocation is 6.2lkh crore rupees.

• Eg: In FY2024-25 defence allocation is 6.2lkh crore rupees.

• Established Defense Industry: India has a well-established defence industrial base, including PSUs like HAL, DRDO & BEL in defence manufacturing.

• Government Support and Policies: The Indian government has launched initiatives such as ‘Make in India’ in defence, aimed at promoting indigenous production. E.g.: Establish of 2 defence corridors in UP and Tamil Nadu.

• E.g.: Establish of 2 defence corridors in UP and Tamil Nadu.

• Strategic Partnerships: India has partnered with global defence manufacturers for joint ventures, technology transfer, and co-production. Eg: co-production of GE-F414 jet engines by General Electric for Tejas.

• Eg: co-production of GE-F414 jet engines by General Electric for Tejas.

• Export Potential: Defense products have the potential for export to international markets. This includes armoured vehicles, aircraft components, missiles, and electronic systems, among others.

India’s success so far in Defence Indigenous production are:

• Current Status of Exports and Trend:The year 2022-2023 saw a remarkable rise, reaching ₹16,000 crore a ten-fold increase from ₹1,521 crore in FY 2016-17 despite pandemic disruptions.

• Export Deals with Countries: India now exports to over 85 Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs) in Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and West Asia. Eg: India and the Philippines have agreed on the export of BrahMos Missile.

• Eg: India and the Philippines have agreed on the export of BrahMos Missile.

• Defence collaborations: India has collaborated with major defence partners to nurture the indigenous productions of defence. Eg: the iCET initiative with the USA is one of the recent successes.

• Eg: the iCET initiative with the USA is one of the recent successes.

However, the challenges remain for India with respect to the indigenisation of defence too like:

• India has relied on imports for critical defence technologies, such as fighter jets and submarines, due to limitations in domestic R&D and production capabilities. Eg: SIPRI reports that Indian imports have risen by 4.7% since 2014.

• Eg: SIPRI reports that Indian imports have risen by 4.7% since 2014.

• Lengthy procurement and bureaucratic delays have hindered the timely acquisition of defence equipment and technologies, impacting indigenous production efforts.

• Limited budget allocations and restricted investments in R&D and modernisation of defence manufacturing infrastructure, slowing down indigenisation efforts.

• Complex regulatory frameworks and policy inconsistencies have created uncertainties for private sector participation and foreign investments. Eg: FDI restriction in defence investments.

• Eg: FDI restriction in defence investments.

• International sanctions, export control regimes, and geopolitical tensions impact technology transfer and collaboration agreements. g.: USA sanctions on India over the Chabhar port deal.

• g.: USA sanctions on India over the Chabhar port deal.

Some of the measures that can be taken to strengthen India’s defence production are:

• Comprehensive Export Packages: Enhance export deals by offering not only weaponry but also comprehensive training and efficient maintenance services.

• Boost Private Sector Participation: Increase the involvement of private sector companies in defence production to at least 50% of the total defence manufacturing through incentives. Eg: Rafale agreement which nudges Adani firm for maintenance.

• Eg: Rafale agreement which nudges Adani firm for maintenance.

• Focus on High-Value Weapon Systems: India should prioritize the export of advanced weapon systems such as Aircraft Carriers, Arjun Mark 2 tanks and LCA-Tejas.

• Defense Modernisation Fund:A non-lapsable Defense Modernisation Fund as proposed in the budget 2023-24 would help to bridge the gap between projected requirements and budget allocations.

Conclusion:

By implementing these measures, India can significantly enhance its defence export capabilities, achieve the target of becoming a net defence exporter, and reach the ambitious goal of US $5 billion in defence exports by 2025.

General Studies – 4

Q6. What do understand by the following ethical terms?

• Moral muteness. Nonmaleficence Beneficence

• Moral muteness.

• Nonmaleficence

• Beneficence

Difficulty Level: Difficult

Why the question: The question is part of the General studies paper – 4 modelled based on PYQ of UPSC. Key Demand of the question: Define the term and write your own understanding of the term. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Introduction is not needed for such question. Body: In the body for each term first write the definition. Explain what it means to you in simple words. Write one or two examples concerning the ethical terms. If you add quotes it is an added advantage. For each term write the significance of it or write about the importance of the term in real life. Conclusion: No need to write any conclusion for such questions.

Why the question:

The question is part of the General studies paper – 4 modelled based on PYQ of UPSC.

Key Demand of the question:

Define the term and write your own understanding of the term.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Introduction is not needed for such question.

• In the body for each term first write the definition. Explain what it means to you in simple words.

• Write one or two examples concerning the ethical terms. If you add quotes it is an added advantage.

• For each term write the significance of it or write about the importance of the term in real life.

Conclusion:

No need to write any conclusion for such questions.

a) Moral muteness: This occurs when people witness unethical behaviour and choose not to say anything. It can also occur when people communicate in ways that obscure their moral beliefs and commitments.

E.g., refusing to interfere during road rage incidents.

Impact of moral muteness:

• Ethical Decision-Making: Hinder ethical decision-making processes by avoiding or delaying the acknowledgement of moral dilemmas or ethical issues.

• Personal Integrity: Compromise personal integrity when individuals refrain from expressing or acting on their moral beliefs due to fear, social pressure, or indifference.

• b) Nonmaleficence: the moral principle that one should refrain from harming others (“first, do no harm”). It highlights the importance of preventing harm as a fundamental ethical duty.

E.g., individuals avoid the plastic throw culture to reduce harm to the environment.

Significance of Moral Nonmaleficence:

• Public Policy and Advocacy: It influences public policies and advocacy efforts that aim to protect vulnerable populations and prevent harm from environmental hazards.

• Professional Standards: It fosters trust between professionals and the public, demonstrating a commitment to ethical practices and the well-being of those served.

• c) Beneficence: principle that one should help others further their important and legitimate interests, either as those persons understand them or as we conceive them. The failure to increase the good of others when one is knowingly in a position to do so is morally wrong.

E.g., India provides assistance to earthquake victims in Turkey through Operation Dost.

The Significance of Beneficence:

• Conflict Resolution: It provides a framework for evaluating ethical dilemmas and making decisions that prioritize the well-being and interests of individuals or groups.

• Promoting Goodness: Beneficence underscores the importance of taking positive actions to benefit others, whether through acts of kindness, assistance, or altruistic behaviour.

Conclusion:

Moral muteness, nonmaleficence, and beneficence act as the pillars of an individual moral compass to make them an ethically upright individual in society.

Join our Official Telegram Channel HERE

Please subscribe to Our podcast channel HERE

Follow our Twitter Account HERE

Follow our Instagram ID HERE