[Mission 2023] Insights SECURE SYNOPSIS: 16 June 2023

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: The Freedom Struggle — its various stages and important contributors/contributions from different parts of the country.

1. Given the complexity and interplay of these factors, it is difficult to attribute the partition to any single individual or group. While various leaders, including Jinnah, Nehru, and Gandhi, played significant roles in shaping the events, the partition was the result of a culmination of historical circumstances and complex socio-political dynamics. Critically Comment. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Chapter 37- India’s Struggle for Independence by Bipan Chandra.

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1.

Key Demand of the question:

To critically comment on as to why Partition happened and responsibility of various individuals and organisations for it.

Directive word: 

Critically comment – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary. When ‘comment’ is prefixed, we must express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by mentioning the divisive politics played by the British leading to communal tensions in the Indian society.

Body:

Discuss various factors that led to the Partition of India such as rising religious tensions, socio-economic differences between the Hindus and Muslims, role of British, Muslim League and Congress and important personalities involved and their political strategies.

Conclusion:

Conclude by mentioning that Partition was neither a result of a planned agenda nor by chance. It was cumulative outcome of various factors at play.

Introduction

“Partition” – the division of British India into the two separate states of India and Pakistan on August 14-15, 1947 – was the “last-minute” mechanism by which the British were able to secure agreement over how independence would take place. At the time, few people understood what Partition would entail or what its results would be, and the migration on the enormous scale that followed took the vast majority of contemporaries by surprise.

Body

Factors in play that resulted in the partition of India:

• Divide and Rule:
  • As colonizers, the British had followed a divide-and-rule policy in India.
  • In the census they categorized people according to religion and viewed and treated them as separate from each other.
  • They also were fearful of the potential threat from the Muslims, who were the former rulers of the subcontinent, ruling India for over 300 years under the Mughal Empire.
• Separateness of Muslims by British:
  • To win them over to their side, the British helped establish the Mohammedan Anglo Oriental College at Aligarh and supported the All-India Muslim Conference, both of which were institutions from which leaders of the Muslim Leagueand the ideology of Pakistan emerged.
  • As soon as the league was formed, Muslims were placed on a separate electorate.
  • Thus, the separateness of Muslims in India was built into the Indian electoral process.
• Communal politics:
  • Some scholars  see  Partition  as  a  culmination  of a  communal  politics  that  started  developing  in  the opening  decades  of  the  twentieth
  • They suggest that  separate  electorates  for  Muslims, created  by  the  colonial  government  in  1909  and expanded  in  1919,  crucially  shaped  the  nature  of communal politics.
• Ideological divide:
  • There was also an ideological divide between the Muslims and the Hindus of India.
  • While there were strong feelings of nationalism in India, by the late 19th century there were also communal conflicts and movements in the country that were based on religious identities rather than class or regional ones.
  • Socio-religious movementssuch as Tablighi, Tanzim, Shuddhi, Sangathan all aimed at attacking the religious sentiments of both Hindus and Muslims
• Role of Hindu revivalists:
  • Hindu revivalistsalso deepened the chasm between the two nations. They resented the Muslims for their former rule over India.
  • Hindu revivalists rallied for a ban on the slaughter of cows, a cheap source of meat for the Muslims.
  • They also wanted to change the official script from the Persian to the Hindu Devanagari script, effectively making Hindi rather than Urdu the main candidate for the national language.
• Mistakes in Congress policies:
  • The Congress made several mistakes in their policies which further convinced the League that it was impossible to live in an undivided India after freedom from colonial rule because their interests would be completely suppressed.
  • One such policy was the institution of “Bande Mataram,” a national anthem historically linked to anti-Muslim sentiment, in the schools of India where Muslim children were forced to sing it.
• British Government policies:
  • Pro-Muslim League attitude of the British in the August Offer, 1940
  • Failure of Cripps Missionand its acceptance of autonomy of Muslim majority province
  • Failure ofShimla Conference indirectly sub-served the League’s demands
  • The Cabinet Missionwas the final nail in the coffin. This was followed by Jinnah’s brutal Direct Action Day culminating with the Mountbatten Plan 1947.

However, partition could have been averted:

• If the long term failure of the Congress to draw in the Muslim masses into the national movement and stem the surging waves of Muslim communalism, which, especially since 1937, had been beating with increasing fury had been overcome.
• If the common citizens would have understood the ill-intent of Britishers of pleasing one community over the other.
• If Communal groups like Hindu Mahasabha and Muslim league had been dealt with strictly.

Conclusion

As the noted historian Ramachandra Guha puts it – “the short sightedness of Congress, Jinnah’s ambitions and Britain’s amorality and cynicism had made partition inevitable”. In retrospect, the process of partition could have been implemented better which would have curbed many deaths, horrific incidents and helped maintain friendly relations between the neighbours, India and Pakistan.

General Studies – 2

Topic: Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies.

3. What are the roles and responsibilities of the speaker of Lok Sabha? Comment on the constitutional importance of the speaker’s non-partisan behaviour. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: Times of India

Why the question:

The article highlights a statement made by Lok Sabha Speaker, Om Birla, emphasizing the importance of in-depth debates for passing legislations.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the powers of Speaker and importance of his office and his non-partisan behaviour.

Directive word: 

Comment– here we must express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by mentioning Article 93 of the Indian Constitution.

Body:

First, in detail enumerate the various roles and personalities of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha in the functioning of our parliamentary democracy.

Next, write about the functions performed by the speaker and about his non-partisanship.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising.

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.

Body

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.

General Studies – 3

Topic: Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth.

4. It is crucial for MSMEs to embrace digital transformation and leverage e-commerce to stay competitive in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape. Support the above statement with relevant examples and facts. Also, discuss the importance of India’s e-commerce sector. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: Live Mint

Why the question:

The linked article discusses how India’s e-commerce sector serves as a crucial driver of sustained high growth, particularly during a global economic slowdown and disruptions.

Key Demand of the question:

To write the various benefits from MSME’s adopting e-commerce.

Directive word: 

Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for and against arguments.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by stating statistic regarding the importance of MSME to the Indian economy.

Body:

First, mention the adverse impact of the pandemic and current difficulties faced by MSME’s.

Next, write about the impact that e-commerce can have in MSME’s – economic stability, growth and security, even the smallest MSMEs to showcase their products in any part of the world, removing barriers, providing a large customer base and consequently, ensuring increased revenues, transformation at minimal costs, investment and innovation etc.

Next, write about various obstacles for MSME’s to adapt e-commerce and suggest steps to overcome them.

Next, paint a picture of importance of e-commerce to Indian economy.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising.

Introduction

The MSME sector in India continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience. The sector has sustained an annual growth rate of over 10% for the past few years. The sector has shown admirable innovativeness and adaptability to survive economic shocks, even of the gravest nature.

Body

Significance of MSME

• The significance of MSMEs is attributable to their calibre for employment generation, low capital and technology requirement.
• They are also important for promotion of industrial development in rural areas, use of traditional or inherited skill, use of local resources, mobilization of resources and exportability of products.
• According to the estimates of the Ministry of MSME, the sector generates around 100 million jobs through over 46 million units situated throughout the geographical expanse of the country.
• With 38% contribution to the nation’s GDP and 40% and 45% share of the overall exports and manufacturing output, respectively – they play a role in social and economic restructuring of India.
• The sector is engaged in the manufacturing of over 6,000 products ranging from traditional to hi-tech items.
• MSMEs are likely to play a significant role in the government’s $5 trillion economy vision by 2025, provided technology adoption becomes the key focus for enterprises ahead.

Relevance of Adopting technology by MSMEs

• Adopting technology improves all aspects of their business including engagement with stakeholders, financial management, marketing, supply chain management, product innovation, skill development, employee engagement and other areas.
• The current business landscape across the globe is being led by digital technologies that are transforming the way systems and processes work.
• In fact, it wouldn’t be incorrect to say that unless companies adopt digitization now, they will never be able to gain a competitive advantage.
• An initiative being led by the CII, Digital Saksham embarks on the beginning of a digital adoption movement.
• The goal is to strengthen over three lakh MSMEs through digital adoption, improved business skills and financial inclusion, thus strengthening their competitiveness through digital know-how and acceptance.
• Among existing digital tools, cloud computing has been the prominent go-to solution for small businesses during the pandemic to secure their data and enable a remote work environment.

Concerns / Challenges

• MSMEs face multiple challenges, ranging from limited budgets to a lack of know-how and expertise required in the adoption of digital technologies, security and trust issues.
• Lack of finance prevents MSMEs from investing in innovative projects, improving their productivity, and seizing opportunities for expanding to enter new markets.
• Unavailability of right technology talent, and fundamentally being averse to the adoption of the latest technologies have been and would remain among key challenges.

Way Forward

• Improved access to finance is needed to boost the widespread technological transformation of MSMEs across the country.
• MSMEs need to be better integrated into the digital economy to expand their market access, diversify their customer base and solidify their supply chain.
• They need to become digitally trained rather than outsourcing the digitization work.
• The integration of MSMEs into the digital economy can begin with digital and financial education leading to improved business practices and digital acceptance.
• There is a high demand for digital and cognitive skills, and MSMEs need to react quickly by becoming digitally enabled.
• Focussed effort to provide both funding as well as capability building through R&D for the MSMEs to flourish.
• Industry and the Indian economy along with MSMEs would reap the benefits of leveraging technology, that will have positive ripple effects on the nation’s GDP and the creation of more jobs.

Topic: Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.

5. Discuss the concerns surrounding the approval of Neuralink for humans. Examine the potential risks from the Neuralink project.  (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Indian Express

Why the question:

On May 25, the USFDA approved an implantable Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) for clinical trials in humans.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the potential risks from the Neuralink project.

Directive word: 

Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for and against arguments.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Briefly introduce Neuralink, a company founded by Elon Musk aiming to develop brain-machine interface technology.

Body:

First, explain the neuralink technology in brief.

Next, write about the potential risks associated with it – potential risks to human health, ethical considerations are discussed, including privacy concerns and the potential for misuse or manipulation of neural signals. socioeconomic divide etc.

Next, write about the need for a robust regulatory framework and oversight.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

Introduction

On May 25, the USFDA approved an implantable Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) for clinical trials in humans. The company building the device is Neuralink, a neurotech startup co-founded in 2016, by tech mogul Elon Musk and a group of young neuroscientist-engineers..

Body

About Neuralink

• A relatively low-key start-up compared to other companies headed by Musk, Neuralink’s mission is two-fold: treating brain disorders and eventually, fusing human consciousness with AI.
• The company hopes to build a surgically implantable chip containing several electrodes that essentially allows the brain to convey intent of movement to a device connected via Bluetooth (e.g. a smartphone, to begin with) and then the device decodes the neural data and converts intent to action.
• For example, moving a cursor to a certain point and clicking or pressing a button with a robotic arm

Concerns associated with neuralink

• Data opacity: There is complete data opacity when it comes to backing the claims with evidence.
  • Instead, the company has relied on episodic launch videos and show-and-tell events live-streamed on YouTube, which predictably went viral very quickly.
  • Despite how cool the videos make it out to be, there remain several major safety and viability concerns with Neuralink, even if one does not engage with the obviously murky ethics of creating trans-humans whose consciousness is fused with AI.
• Untested: One major problem with Neuralink is scant published data that support its claims.
  • There is just one article published in 2019, preceding the launch, with Musk and Neuralink sharing the authorship, that too, not in a prominent journal, which describes the chip, the process of implantation of the chip by a surgical robot and shows one exemplar picture of a rodent with the implant.
• Feasibility not supported: However, before a device is approved for use in humans, its feasibility and safety parameters need in-depth pre-clinical assessment in more complex mammals such as pigs, sheep and monkeys. In one of the show-and-tell livestreams, Musk demonstrated a sole monkey, playing a video game with just eye movements.
• Safety of implant: In the case of an invasive surgical implant, questions immediately arise about how safe the materials used in the fabrication of the implants are — how truly inert they are — and despite the coatings on the surface, how stable is the material.
  • Before this is anywhere near implantation in humans, it has to be ascertained that there is no leaching of any harmful chemical in the brain over time and the impact of small everyday actions, like bumping into something, has to be studied.
  • The second concern is the thin wires, which will arguably build more resistance and be susceptible to heat generation.

Potential risks from Neuralink project

• No quantitative data: In the case of Neuralink, except for showing individual animals, and images from a brain (without even disclosing if that brain in question is a rodent, a pig or a monkey) there is no released imaging or quantitative data from their so-called histology unit.
• Mortality: There is no data published about the per cent mortality in experimental animals or the success rate of the surgery. There is pretty much no quantitative data available to the public about the safety of the procedure, or the efficacy of the implant — except what the Neuralink team chooses to display in a purely qualitative fashion.
• Animal rights violation: To make matters worse, a lawsuit by an animal ethics group has revealed several violations of animal welfare by Neuralink with monkeys being used for invasive implant surgeries, and high mortality among animals from surgery-related infections or other complications.
  • The company is also being investigated for the same by federal agencies.
  • Collectively, these events point to a general culture of secrecy about data regarding the safety of the device and its efficacy against non-invasive BCIs, which are also in development.
  • In addition, there is a conscious effort to mitigate the critical eye by dialling up the coolness factor for the general public.
• It is, however, known that Neuralink filed for this approval in 2022 and the FDA rejected the application, citing safety issues with the lithium batteries in the implanted chip and other concerns.
• It is unclear on what basis the FDA revised their decision. In an ideal world, companies would be ethical and the FDA would also be exacting and relentless in their scrutiny before approving a device. However, in reality, neither really applies when it comes to companies with deep pockets that routinely lobby legislators and regulatory authorities to review their products favourably for approvals.

Conclusion

It is, however, known that Neuralink filed for this approval in 2022 and the FDA rejected the The scientific and medical communities need to keep their eyes peeled, despite cautious optimism, because medical history in the US is full of instances when companies prioritise profit over patient safety, and regulatory oversight fails to curb such practices. Before the ethics of creating cyborgs can be debated at length, we need to ensure whether the Neuralink device is safe and offers any actual benefit over non-invasive counterparts.

Topic: Disaster and disaster management.

6. Government preparedness is essential in mitigating the impact of devastating cyclones. Preparedness can significantly reduce the loss of lives and properties, minimize disruptions, and facilitate the recovery process after cyclones. Analyse. (250 words) 

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India

Why the question:

Strong winds and heavy rains pound Gujarat’s coastal belt as cyclone Biparjoy made a landfall near Jakhau Port in Gujarat’s Kutch district after churning across the Arabian Sea for over 10 days,

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the role of government preparedness in cyclone mitigation.

Directive word:

Evaluate – When you are asked to evaluate, you have to pass a sound judgement about the truth of the given statement in the question or the topic based on evidence.  You must appraise the worth of the statement in question. There is scope for forming an opinion here.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by providing context and the increasing frequency of cyclones in India.

Body:

In first part, bring out the economic costs and human costs as a result of devastation caused by the severe cyclones.

Next, write about the role of government preparedness – installing a disaster warning system in the coastal districts, and construction of evacuation shelters in cyclone-prone districts etc.

Next, mention long term measures – Embankments that are resilient to storm surges, improved prevention of flooding from swollen rivers and coastal mangrove habitats regeneration etc.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward as the how the above will help mitigate the impact of devastating cyclones.

Introduction

A cyclone is a large-scale air mass that rotates around a strong center of low atmospheric pressure. Cyclones are characterized by inward spiraling winds that rotate about a zone of low pressure. Tropical cyclones are intense low-pressure areas confined to the area lying between 30° N and 30° S latitudes, in the atmosphere around which high velocity winds blow. Horizontally, it extends up to 500-1,000 km and vertically from surface to 12-14 km.

Strong winds and heavy rains pounded Gujarat’s coastal belt as cyclone Biparjoy made a landfall near Jakhau Port in Gujarat’s Kutch district after churning across the Arabian Sea for over 10 days.

Body

IPCC research shows that the frequency and severity of cyclones will increase due to the warming of oceans and melting glaciers. Of India’s 7,500 kilometre coastline, almost 5,700 kilometres are highly vulnerable to the impacts of tropical cyclones and related hydro-meteorological hazards and consequently to recurrent loss of life and properties. Approximately 40 percent of the total population in the maritime states, lives within 100 kms of coastlines.

Impacts of cyclones

• Economic costs: India lost around 2% of GDP and 15% of total revenue over 1999-2020. According to the Global Climate Risk Index report 2021, India ranks the seventh worst-hit country globally in 2019 due to the frequent occurrence of extreme weather-related events. Moreover, the report showed that India lost around 2,267 human lives, while damages stood at $68,812 million in Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) terms in 2019. In the same year, India ranked first concerning human deaths and economic losses due to extreme weather-related events.
• Coastal Flooding:It is likely to reshape the coastlines and potentially inundate or even submerge many low-lying areas. Cities like Mumbai, Chennai, and Hyderabad are endangered by cyclone storms.
• Destruction of Coastal Biodiversity: Frequent storms can cause destructive erosion, wetland flooding, aquifer and agricultural soil contamination with salt, and lost habitat for biodiversity.
• Dangerous Storm Surges:Higher sea levels are coinciding with more dangerous hurricanes and typhoons leading to loss of life and property.
• Regional Climate: Tropical cyclones can quickly change the environment of the affected areas. They can bring warmer air into hot places. This makes the atmosphere feel very sticky and muggy and rises the temperature dramatically. This can cause heat strokes and other heat related illness to children and the elderly after the storm which is not good.

• Fishing and livelihood: Loss of habitat and Loss of juveniles and brood fishes. Loss of livelihoods of farmers and fishermen: Statistics show that the global average annual losses from cyclones and storm surges are estimated at US$ 80 billion. Small fishermen with no state-of-the-art technology are usually advised to stay off the seas before and during the cyclones.
• Lateral and Inland Migration:Flooding in low-lying coastal areas is forcing people to migrate to the higher ground causing displacement and dispossession and in turn a refugee crisis
• Effect on Communications Infrastructure:The prospect of higher coastal water levels threatens basic services such as internet access.
• Threat to Inland Life:Rising seas can contaminate soil and groundwater with salt threatening life farther away from coasts.
• Tourism and Military Preparedness:Tourism to coastal areas and military preparedness will also be negatively affected by an increase in cyclone storms
• The interesting thing is that the frequency of tropical cyclones has decreased ever so slightly over the last 70 years.

Role of government preparedness

• National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has responsibility of formulating National Guidelines for Management of Cyclonesand India Meteorological Department (IMD) is the nodal agency for providing cyclone warning services to communities and important officials in affected areas.
• The National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP), to be implemented with financial assistance from the World Bank, is envisaged to have four major components:
  • Component A: Improvement of early warning dissemination system by strengthening the Last Mile Connectivity (LMC) of cyclone warnings and advisories.
  • Component B: Cyclone risk mitigation investments.
  • Component C: Technical assistance for hazard risk management and capacity-building.
  • Component D: Project management and institutional support.
• These components are highly interdependent and have to be implemented in a coherent manner.
• Its aim is to undertake suitable structural and non-structural measures to mitigate the effects of cyclones in the coastal states and UTs of India.
• The NDMA had come up with its National Guidelines of Management of Cyclones in 2008. The basic premise of these guidelines is that the mitigation has to be multi-sectoral.

Challenges posing the Cyclone Management in India

• India has a coastline of about 7,516 km, 5,400 km along the mainland, 132 km in Lakshadweep and 1,900 km in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
• On an average, five to six tropical cyclones form every year, of which two or three could be severe.
• More cyclones occur in the Bay of Bengal than the Arabian Sea and the ratio is approximately 4:1. This is now changing due to impact of climate change.
• There is an over-emphasis on a total evacuee figure, particularly in states such as Odisha.
• There exists an inadequate focus on response aspects other than evacuation, such as measures to minimise crop damage, assistance for quick harvest, adequate relief and timely distribution of post-cyclone assistance such as for damaged houses, etc.

Measures needed to tackle such incidences:

Short term measures:

• provide cyclone forecasting, tracking and warning systems
• Construction of cyclone shelters, cyclone resistant buildings, road links, bridges, canals, drains etc.
• Establishing Early Warning Dissemination System (EWDS), and Capacity building for coastal communities.
• Mock drills, and training of local population and police by NDRF and SDRF
• Plantations of strong rooted trees, canopies, mangroves and proper vegetation cover which act as first line of defence.
• Proper drainage system throughout the city to discharge the water as soon as possible to avoid flood like conditions
• Use of NAVIC and RESOURCESAT-2 for disseminating coastal information and helping in disaster management.
• Implementation of National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project

Long term measures:

• The National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP), to be implemented with financial assistance from the World Bank, is envisaged to have four major components:
  • Component A: Improvement of early warning dissemination system by strengthening the Last Mile Connectivity (LMC) of cyclone warnings and advisories.
  • Component B: Cyclone risk mitigation investments.
  • Component C: Technical assistance for hazard risk management and capacity-building.
  • Component D: Project management and institutional support.
• These components are highly interdependent and have to be implemented in a coherent manner.
• The NDMA had come up with its National Guidelines of Management of Cyclones in 2008. The basic premise of these guidelines is that the mitigation has to be multi-sectoral.
• Developing Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) frameworks for addressing the sustainability and optimal utilisation of coastal resources as also cyclone impact minimisation plans.
• Ensuring cyclone resistant design standards are incorporated in the rural/ urban housing schemes in coastal areas
• Implementing coastal flood zoning, flood plain development and flood inundation management and regulatory plans.
• Coastal bio-shields spread, preservation and restoration/ regeneration plans.
• There is a need for private sector participation in designing and implementing policies, plans, and standards.
• Need of Disaster Management program to be inclusive including women, civil society, and academia.

Conclusion

India should prepare to mitigate and deflect the destruction caused by Cyclones. We need to employ technology, strict following of command structure and most importantly the participation and cooperation of local communities in the affected area.

General Studies – 4

Topic: Case Study.

7. Bullfighting, known as “corrida de toros” in Spanish, is a traditional spectacle that dates back several centuries. It is particularly popular in certain regions of Spain, such as Andalusia and Madrid.

Similar to Jallikattu, bullfighting has faced increasing scrutiny from animal rights activists due to concerns about animal welfare. Many argue that the practice is cruel and unnecessary, causing unnecessary suffering to the bulls involved. Animal rights organizations have called for a ban on bullfighting, and several cities and regions have taken steps to restrict or prohibit the practice.

For example, Coslada in Spain declared itself an anti-bullfighting city, expressing opposition to the spectacle. Similarly, in Catalonia, the northeastern region of Spain, bullfighting was banned in 2010 following a campaign by animal rights groups and public support for the ban. However, it’s important to note that while the killing of the bull in the fight was banned, other forms of bullfighting without the lethal component continue to take place in some towns in Catalonia.

On the other hand, there are those who argue that bullfighting is an important cultural tradition and a form of art. Supporters of bullfighting claim that it holds deep historical and artistic value, with bullfighters trained in specific techniques and styles. They argue that the spectacle elicits emotions and is an integral part of Spanish heritage.

Moreover, some proponents of bullfighting argue that the bulls used in these events live relatively better lives compared to animals raised for slaughter. They highlight that fighting bulls typically live longer, free-roaming lives in open pastures, whereas animals raised for meat are often subjected to more confined and industrialized conditions.

This showcases a similar clash between cultural significance and animal rights concerns. It highlights the ongoing debate surrounding

1. 1. What are the ethical issues involved in the above case?
   2. Do you believe that Jallikattu is an ethically wrong practice or a justifiable cultural event? Explain your reasoning.
   3. Share your opinion on traditional practices that involve animals and the challenges of finding a balance between preserving cultural heritage and ensuring the ethical treatment of animals.

(Answer in 250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate.

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4 and part of ‘Case Study Fridays’ in Mission-2022 Secure.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Mention the conflicts between cultural practices and modern-day ethical norms that arise in the society.

Body:

1. Mention the ethical issues and ethical dilemmas involved in the given case study such as cultural conservation v/s animal rights and others issues.
   Mention the pros and cons of continuing the tradition of Jallikattu and frame an argument either in favour or against the practice by giving ethical and practical reasons to support your argument.
   Give your balanced opinion on the issue.

Conclusion:

Conclude by balancing the conservation of traditions at the same time let go of certain aspects of it in the light of present-day ethics.

Introduction

Jallikattu is a traditional bull-taming sport that has been practiced in Tamil Nadu, India, for centuries. The practice involves young men attempting to grab and hold on to the hump of a bull to demonstrate their bravery and skill. While some people argue that Jallikattu is an integral part of Tamil culture and should be preserved, others view it as an unethical practice due to concerns about animal welfare. 

Body

Those who support Jallikattu argue that it is an important cultural event that has historical and religious significance. They believe that it should be protected as a symbol of Tamil identity and heritage. They argue that the bulls involved are revered and well-cared for, as they are considered valuable assets. They also claim that Jallikattu is a demonstration of human skill and courage, rather than cruelty towards animals.

On the other hand, opponents of Jallikattu assert that the practice is inherently cruel and causes unnecessary suffering to the animals involved. They argue that the bulls are often subjected to physical abuse, stress, and injuries during the event. Animal welfare organizations have raised concerns about the use of force, intimidation, and the lack of proper regulation and veterinary care. They advocate for a ban on Jallikattu to prevent animal cruelty.

Finding a balance between preserving cultural heritage and ensuring the ethical treatment of animals is a complex challenge. Cultural practices evolve over time, and societal values and ethics change as well. In cases where traditional practices involve animals, it is crucial to assess the impact on animal welfare and consider potential alternatives or modifications to reduce harm.

In situations like Jallikattu, it is important to engage in open dialogue and collaboration among various stakeholders, including communities, animal welfare organizations, experts, and policymakers. The aim should be to find solutions that respect cultural traditions while safeguarding the well-being of animals involved. This may involve implementing stricter regulations, ensuring proper veterinary care, providing training to participants on humane handling techniques, and exploring non-harmful alternatives or symbolic representations of the traditional practice.

Overall, the debate surrounding Jallikattu and similar traditional practices highlights the importance of striking a balance between cultural preservation and animal welfare. It requires a thoughtful examination of the values and ethics involved, along with a commitment to finding solutions that respect both cultural heritage and the well-being of animals.

2) Education and awareness play a crucial role in striking a balance. Raising awareness about animal welfare and promoting alternative practices that preserve cultural heritage while minimizing harm to animals can help communities transition towards more ethical practices. Providing support for community-led initiatives to develop alternative cultural expressions that do not involve animal exploitation can also be beneficial.

It is important to acknowledge that finding a balance is a gradual and evolving process. It requires ongoing discussions, collaboration, and a willingness to adapt practices to align with evolving ethical standards. Cultural practices can change over time, and respectful engagement with communities can help navigate the challenges and work towards solutions that preserve cultural heritage while ensuring the ethical treatment of animals.

Conclusion

Overall, striking a balance between preserving cultural heritage and ensuring the ethical treatment of animals is a complex task that requires careful consideration of cultural values, animal welfare concerns, and a commitment to dialogue and collaboration.

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