[Mission 2024] Insights SECURE SYNOPSIS: 6 October 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: Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc.

1. Discuss the factors that cause earthquakes. Why is Japan more prone to earthquakes? How has Japan adapted to it? (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India

Why the question:

On October 6, Japan’s Izu Islands experienced a magnitude 6.1 earthquake at a depth of 10 km, according to the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC).

Key Demand of the question:

To write about causes of earthquakes and reasons how Japan is prone to it and adaptation of Japan in that regard.

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 defining an Earthquake.

Body:

In first part, write about the various natural as well as anthropogenic causes that cause earthquakes.

Next, give a brief about how Japan is more prone to earthquakes than the others. Account for reasons for the same.

Next, write about how Japan has adapted to it.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing about the importance of preparedness to deal with earthquakes.

Introduction

Earthquakes are caused by the sudden release of energy in the Earth’s crust, resulting in seismic waves that generate ground shaking. This release of energy is usually due to the movement of tectonic plates beneath the Earth’s surface.

Body

Factors causing earthquakes

• Tectonic Plate Boundaries: Most earthquakes occur at the boundaries of tectonic plates. These plates are huge slabs of rock that make up the Earth’s lithosphere. There are three main types of plate boundaries:
  • Convergent Boundaries: Plates move towards each other. When an oceanic plate collides with a continental plate, the denser oceanic plate is forced beneath the lighter continental plate in a process called subduction. This often leads to the formation of deep-sea trenches and volcanic activity. When two continental plates converge, they can create mountain ranges.
  • Divergent Boundaries: Plates move away from each other. This happens at mid-ocean ridges, where new crust is formed as magma rises from the mantle.
  • Transform Boundaries: Plates slide past each other. This motion can cause earthquakes along faults, which are fractures in the Earth’s crust.
• Faults: A fault is a fracture in the Earth’s crust along which movement has occurred. When stress along a fault exceeds the strength of the rocks, it can result in an earthquake.
• Volcanic Activity: Some earthquakes are associated with volcanic eruptions. The movement of magma beneath the Earth’s surface can cause the surrounding rock to fracture, leading to an earthquake.
• Human Activities: Certain human activities, such as mining, reservoir-induced seismicity (due to the weight of water in large reservoirs), and the injection or extraction of fluids into/from the Earth’s crust (e.g., hydraulic fracturing or geothermal energy extraction) can induce earthquakes.

Japan susceptibility to earthquakes

• Japan is in a region known as the “Ring of Fire,” which is an area in the Pacific Ocean basin known for its high seismic and volcanic activity.
• This region is characterized by numerous tectonic plate boundaries, including subduction zones where one plate is being forced beneath another.
• Specifically, the Pacific Plate is subducting beneath the North American Plate along the Japan Trench.
• This subduction process is the primary reason why Japan experiences frequent and powerful earthquakes. The energy released during subduction can result in devastating events, including tsunamis.

Measures taken by Japan for adaptation

• Building Codes and Construction: Japan has some of the strictest building codes in the world. Structures are designed and built to withstand seismic forces. This includes features like base isolators and damping systems.
• Early Warning Systems: Japan has an advanced earthquake early warning system. This allows for a few seconds to a few minutes of warning before the strongest shaking arrives, giving people time to take cover.
• Tsunami Preparedness: Due to the close relationship between earthquakes and tsunamis, Japan has an extensive system of tsunami warning and evacuation procedures in coastal areas.
• Education and Preparedness: There is a strong emphasis on earthquake education and preparedness in schools, workplaces, and communities. Regular drills and training exercises are conducted.
• Infrastructure Resilience: Critical infrastructure, such as bridges, highways, and airports, are designed to withstand seismic forces.
• Public Awareness: There are public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about earthquake risks and safety measures.

Conclusion

These efforts serve as a model for other regions prone to earthquakes, showcasing the importance of preparedness, public awareness, and engineering solutions in minimizing the impact of these natural disasters on human lives and infrastructure. Japan’s proactive approach stands as a testament to the power of human ingenuity and collective effort in the face of nature’s formidable forces.

Topic: Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism.

2. When people prioritize their religious, caste or ethnic identity above their national identity, it can create rifts and tensions among different communities undermining national unity. Examine. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: The Hindu

Why the question:

The article discusses the concept of national unity from a three-dimensional perspective. It highlights the importance of emotional, intellectual, and physical aspects in fostering a sense of unity and belonging among the citizens of a nation.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about factors responsible for the growth of communal tendencies and its impact on national unity and our society.

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: 

Begin by defining communalism.

Body:

First, present the case of Communalism in India on the basis of religious, caste or ethnic; Discuss the major factors that contributed towards the emergence and growth of communalism in modern India. Present the current situation.

Next, write about the impact of the above on national unity and society.

Next, present measures to deal with the above.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

Introduction

Communalism is basically an ideology which consists of three elements:

• A belief that people who follow the same religion have common secular interests i.e. they have same political, economic and social interests. So, here socio- political communalities arise.
• A notion that, in a multi-religious society like India, these common secular interests of one religion is dissimilar and divergent from the interests of the follower of another religion.
• The interests of the follower of the different religion or of different ‘communities’ are seen to be completely incompatible, antagonist and hostile.

Body

Factors responsible for growth of Communalism in India:

• A Legacy of Past:
  • On the basis of the “Two Nation” theory of Jinnah, India was partitioned. Communal politics had played its nasty game during the immediate past of independent India. The “Divide and Rule” policy of the British Government served their colonial interest. The partition of India was the ultimate outcome of their politics.
• Presence of Communal Parties:
  • Religion in India has become an important agency of political socialization and it is also reflected in the ideology of a number of political parties. A number of communal and sectarian political parties and organisations are present in India. Muslim League, Jamaat—Islami, Hindu Mahasabha, Akali Dal, Vishwa Hindu Parishad are directly or indirectly responsible for the emergence of communalism.
• Isolation of Muslims:
  • Indian Muslims have developed a tendency of isolationism even long after the creation of Pakistan. They remain aloof from the mainstream of national politics. Most of them are not interested to take part in the secular-nationalistic politics of the country. They insist on to be treated as a separate entity.
• Poverty:
  • Mass poverty and unemployment create a sense of frustration among the people. It generates backwardness, illiteracy, ignorance, etc. The unemployed youth of both the communities can be easily trapped by religious fundamentalists and fanatics. They are used by them to cause communal riots. The weak economic status often breeds communalism.
• Hindu Chauvinism:
  • The growths of Hindu chauvinistic attitudes have further strengthened the communal tensions in India. The Hindu religious groups like Shiv Sena, Hindu Mahasabha, Viswa Hindu Parisad often pressurize the government to take steps suitable to the interest of Hindus. They consider each Muslim as pro-Pakistani and anti-national. To face the possible challenge of other communal forces, they encourage the growth of Hindu communalism.
• Social Cause:
  • The two major communities of India have been suspicious towards each other. The Muslims complain of the threat of Hindu cultural invasion upon their lives and have become more assertive of their rights. Either due to ignorance or insecurity, they do not fully accept the need of family planning and help in increasing population.
• Communalization of Politics:
  • Electoral politics in India has become more expensive and competitive. Different political parties are not hesitating to use any means, fair or foul, for electoral victory. They even create communal tensions and try to take political advantage out of it. Concessions are granted to various minority groups for appeasing them.
• Cross-Border factors:
  • Communal tensions in India sometimes are highly intensified due to the rule of two neighbouring theocratic countries. These countries try to create communal problems in the border states. The communal problems of Punjab and Jammu Kashmir are caused due to provocation of Pakistan. So long as this cross-border factor is not removed, communal problems are likely to stay in India.
• Failure of Government:
  • Both the Union and the State Governments often fail to prevent communalism in the country. Due to lack of prior information, they fail to take any preventive measures. So the communal violence can easily take innocent lives and destroys property. The post-Godhra riot in Gujarat shows the inefficiency of the government to control the communal riot. Failure of immediate and effective steps has been a cause of the continuance of communalism.

Ramification of Communalism:

• Genocides: With mass killings, the real sufferers are the poor, who lose their house, their near and dear ones, their lives, their livelihood, etc. It violates the human rights from all direction. Sometimes children lose their parents and will become orphan for a lifetime.
• Ghettoization and refugee problem are other dimensions of communalism induced violence, whether its inter country or intra country.
• Sudden increase in violence against any particular community causes mass exodus and stampede which in turn kills many number of people. For example, this was seen in the case of Bangalore in 2012, with respect to people from North eastern states, which was stimulated by a rumour.
• Apart from having effect on the society, it is also a threat to Indian constitutional values, which promotes secularism and religious tolerance. In that case, citizens don’t fulfil their fundamental duties towards the nation.
• It becomes a threat for the unity and integrity of the nation as a whole. It promotes only the feeling of hatred in all directions, dividing the society on communal lines.
• Minorities are viewed with suspicion by all, including state authorities like police, para-military forces, army, intelligence agencies, etc. There have been many instances when people from such community have been harassed and detained and finally have been released by court orders guilt free. For this, there is no provision for compensation of such victims, about their livelihood incomes forgone, against social stigmas and emotional trauma of the families.
• Barrier for development: Communal activities occurring frequently do harm the human resource and economy of the country. And then again it takes years for the people and the affected regions to come out the traumas of such violence, having deep impact on minds of those who have faced it. They feel emotionally broken and insecure.
• Terrorism and Secessionism: As seen during the Khalistan movement in Punjab.

Steps to be taken to prevent communalism

• Economic:
  • Poverty is one of the major factors for communal violence. Poverty alleviation measures are thus important for promoting communal harmony.
  • Eradicating the problem of unemployment among the youths, illiteracy and poverty and that too with honesty and without any discrimination.
  • Reducing educational and economic backwardness of minorities like Muslims.
  • This can uplift their socio-economic status and reduce their deprivation compared to Hindus
• Social:
  • The religious leaders and preachers should promote rational and practical things through religion promoting peace and security.
  • Children in schools must be taught through textbooks and pamphlets to maintain brotherhood and respect for all religions
  • Creating awareness in the society about the ill effects of communism through mass media
• Political:
  • Political communism should be avoided recent Supreme court’s directives
  • Identification and mapping of riot prone areas. For Example, Delhi police used drones to monitor to maintain vigil during communal festivals
  • Media, movies and other cultural platforms can be influential in promoting peace and harmony.
  • Social Media should be monitored for violent and repulsive content and taken off immediately.
• Recommendations of Committee on National Integration
  • Joint celebration of community festivals
  • Observing restraint by Hindus while taking processions before the mosques
  • Formation of peace and brotherhood communities at local level to prevent anti-social elements from engaging in communal riots
  • Respect for religious customs, rituals and practices

Conclusion

In a vast country like India which is made up of diverse cultures, backgrounds, religions, identities etc. it really requires to maintain a sense of equality among its citizen to provide a meaning to the term democracy. The core reason behind all these discrimination are based on the nature of unacceptance of diversities. We tend to commit heinous crimes to eradicate the population which chooses a different set of traditions to follow. But these intolerance can lead India to get collapsed from being a secular country to communal. And India is known to the world by the term “diversity”. It is beautiful when the people irrespective of their differences are co-existing.

General Studies – 2

Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

3. The ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine have raised concerns about their potential impact on India-Russia relations, the historical ties and diversified approach of India in its foreign policy could help manage these challenges. Critically analyse. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: Insights on India

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 2 and mentioned as part of Mission-2024 Secure timetable (revision).

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the need to have a change in India-Russia dynamic relations due to recent geopolitical developments.

Directive word: 

Critically analyze – 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 ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a balanced judgment on the topic.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Introduction: 

Begin by giving context of ‘all weather’ friendship between India and Russia.

Body:

In the first part, Highlight the strength of the relationship – Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership, cold war era friendship, the long history, defence partnership, nuclear power plants etc.

Next, bring out the issues in the relationship by dividing them into geopolitical, geostrategic and at bilateral level – Ukraine Issue, Russia-Pakistan, Russia-China, and USA-India, Changes in Afghanistan and issues emanating from them.

Discuss how should India and Russia navigate the tides moving forward.

Conclusion:

Conclude by commenting on their current nature of evergreen friendship.

Introduction

Russia’s war on Ukraine has decisively shaped international opinion. Indian foreign policy is also going to be affected in a profound manner. While there has always remained a pro-Russian popular sentiment in India, rooted in Moscow’s support during the Cold War era, particularly against the pro-Pakistani diplomatic activism by powerful Western countries in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), a majority of Indians today seem taken aback by Russia’s misadventure against a sovereign country.

Body

Background

On February 23, 2023, on the eve of the first anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted a resolution, calling for an end to the war. The resolution was favoured by 141 members and opposed by seven, while 32 states abstained. Unsurprisingly, India was one among the 32. This is in line with the position India has been taking on the Ukraine crisis from the beginning. India has refused to condemn Russia for the invasion; it has refused to join the West’s sanctions; has stepped up buying Russian fuel at a discounted price, and has consistently abstained from UN votes on the war.

• India’s position has triggered sharp responses in the West.
• Before the war, there was much debate among the global strategic commentariat about India’s irreversible shift towards the West.
• However, after the war began, many wondered why the world’s largest democracy did not condemn Russia.
• For some others, India was “financing” Vladimir Putin’s war by buying Russian oil.

Complex issues facing India while balancing Moscow and the West

• ‘China’ problem:There are understandable reasons for India’s (subtle) pro-Russia position.
  • An aggressive Russia is a problem for the U.S. and the West, not for India.
  • North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) expansion is Russia’s problem, not India’s.
  • India’s problem is China, and it needs both the U.S./the West and Russiato deal with the “China problem”
• Geopolitics rather than emotions: There is today asobering recognition in New Delhi about the weakening of the U.S.-led global order and the rise of China as a counter-pole, geographically located right next to India.
  • withdrawal from the region and its decline as the principal system shaper has complicated India’s place in regional geopolitics.
  • Neighbouring China as the rising superpower and Russia as its strategic ally challenging the U.S.-led global orderat a time when China has time and again acted on its aggressive intentions vis-à-vis India, and when India is closest to the U.S. than ever before in its history, throws up a unique and unprecedented challenge for India.
• Beyond all weather friendship:For India, Russian ties are important. It must be recalled that Ukraine was against India during 1998 nuclear tests and had spoken against India with issue of Kashmir.
  • India’s Russia tilt should be seen not just as a product of its time-tested friendship with Moscow but also as ageopolitical necessity.
  • If in the future there is Chinese aggression or Pakistan tries adventurism on India, India will need all hands on the deck. Russia being the most important.
• Russia’s support to solve continental problems: There is an emerging dualism in contemporary Indian strategic Weltanschauung:the predicament of a continental space that is reeling under immense pressure from China, Pakistan and Taliban-led Afghanistan adding to its strategic claustrophobia; and, the emergence of a maritime sphere which presents an opportunity to break out of the same.
• Defence supplies: New Delhi needs Moscow’s assistance to manage its continental difficultiesthrough defence supplies, helping it ‘return’ to central Asia, working together at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) or exploring opportunities for collaboration in Afghanistan.
  • Russia, to put it rather bluntly, is perhaps India’s only partner of consequence in the entire Asian continental stretch.
  • Therefore, having Russia on its side is crucial for India, more than ever.
  • Moscow may or may not be able to moderate Chinese antagonism towards New Delhi, but an India-Russia strategic partnership may be able totemper New Delhi’s growing isolation in a rather friendless region.

Way forward for India

• India’s past record has been maintaining balance between the West and Russia. On January 31, India abstained on a procedural vote on whether to discuss the issue of Ukraine.
• New Delhi had then articulated its position on “legitimate security interests” that echoed with a nuanced tilt towards the Russian position, and had abstained along with Kenya and Gabon.
• Despite abstention, India has reiterated and has called for cessation of violence in no ambiguous terms.
• India has also quoted the international charter on sovereignty, highlighting that all nations must respect the same, intended towards Russia.
• For India, Russian ties are important. It must be recalled that Ukraine was against India during 1998 nuclear tests and had spoken against India with issue of Kashmir.
• Hence strategic autonomy is the way forward as India has been doing.

Conclusion

India’s position also shows the unmistakable indication that when it comes to geopolitics, New Delhi will choose interests over principles. And yet, a careful reading of India’s statements and positions taken over the past few days also demonstrates a certain amount of discomfort in having to choose interests over principles.

However, New Delhi’s response to the recent crisis, especially its “explanation of vote” at the UNSC indicates a careful recourse to the principle of strategic autonomy: India will make caveated statements and will not be pressured by either party. In that sense, India’s indirect support to the Russian position is not a product of Russian pressure but the result of a desire to safeguard its own interests.

Topic: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.

4. The Indian diaspora includes a vast pool of skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and business leaders settled across the globe. Engaging with this talent can lead to knowledge exchange, investment, and economic growth. Analyse. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Insights on India

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 2 and mentioned as part of Mission-2024 Secure timetable (revision).

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the significance of Indian diaspora.

Directive:

Analyse – 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.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Start by giving a statistic related to Indian diaspora abroad.

Body:

First, write in detail about the importance of diaspora- boost the economy by attracting foreign investment and facilitating knowledge transfer. Additionally, it highlights that engaging with the diaspora would enhance India’s soft power by promoting its cultural and intellectual contributions abroad. Cite examples and statistics to substantiate.

Next, in detail, write about the issues faced by the Indian diaspora and cite examples of statistic to substantiate.

Next, write the need to have a coherent policy towards Indian diaspora and its components.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

Introduction

The Indian Diaspora is a generic term to describe the people who migrated from territories that are currently within the borders of the Republic of India. India has the second-largest Diaspora in the world. The overseas Indian community estimated at over 32 million is spread across every major region in the world.

The Indian diaspora, represented by individuals like Vivek Ramaswamy, is achieving remarkable success in various fields, from technology to politics.

Body

Importance of engaging with Indian diaspora

The swiftly growing diaspora is an asset to India. The common perception of NRIs and Diaspora is that they are a product of brain-drain, migrants due to better life conditions in developed countries etc. However, in reality they are a boon to India. Their presence length and breadth varies across the countries of the world.

• High Achievers:
  • From Google CEO Sundar Pichai to Nobel laurete scientist Har Gobind Khorana and Microsoft CEO Sathya Nadella to world’s one among the leading music conductors Zubin Mehta, the list of NRIs and their contribution to the world goes endlessly.
• Influential Positions:
  • A diaspora estimated at over 30 million peoplefills mainstream roles and responsibilities in their adopted countries, helping shape the destiny of these countries.
  • The President of Singapore, Governor-General of New Zealand and prime ministers of Mauritius and Trinidad and Tobago were all of Indian descent.
• Pressure groups:
  • When people of Indian origin are held in high esteem, respect for and understanding of the country go up.
  • The influential Indian diasporaaffects not just the popular attitude, but also government policies in countries where they live, to the benefit of India.
  • India benefits tremendously through these people in luring large multinational companies as well as entrepreneurial ventures.
  • Example: lobbying for the US-India Civilian Nuclear AgreementBill in 2008
• Entrepreneurs across globe:
  • Between 1995 and 2005, over a quarter of immigrant-founded engineering and IT companies in the United States were started by Indians, according to a study by Duke University and the University of California.
  • And Indian expats owned an estimated 35 per cent of the country’s hotels. About 800 companiesare owned by Indians in the UK.
  • These help in providing jobs and livelihoods to many people across world.
• Remittances:
  • A World Bank reportreleased last year said, India was the largest remittance-receiving country in the world, with an estimated $69 billion in 2015.
• Soft Power:
  • The spread of Yoga, Ayurveda, Indian spiritualism, Bollywood, Indian cuisine across the world has made India famous.
  • It has even led to revival of many lost relationshipswith many countries.
  • Example: Central Asian countries like Kazakhstan and Middle Eastern countries.
• Humanitarian Assistance:
  • There are many instances where diaspora has stood up for their Indian kins in times of disaster.
  • Example: during the recent Kerala floods, immense help in the form of men, material and money from diaspora was given. Indian diaspora residing in China’s Shanghai has contributed Rs. 32.13 lakh to the Chief Minister’s distress relief fund for Kerala floods.

Asset in Disguise

• The Diaspora population bring technical and domain expertise to domestic start-ups and often act as angel investors.
• Diaspora Indian faculty abroad volunteer time and resources to help faculty on Indian campuses improve the quality of education — as in the case of member institutions of the Indo Universal Collaboration of Engineering Education.
• This was reflected in advancing projects whether through government arrangements or private commercial deals related to Make in India, Skill India, Digital India, Start Up India as well as those aimed at improving our infrastructure and transportation links and fostering all round sustainable development in urban or energy sectors.
• The diaspora can step up and act as Indian ‘ambassadors’, as it is insufficient and ineffective for a country or its missions abroad to rely only on press releases to change public opinion.
• The diaspora can provide the requisite strategic impulse, which makes it all the more important to unlock their potential.

Conclusion

In recent times, the government has laid a strong foundation by making diplomacy people-centric with government’s constant interaction with the Indian diaspora. The Indian diaspora is the bridge between their nation and India where they can grow simultaneously for betterment of their citizens. The diaspora can provide the requisite strategic impulse, which makes it all the more important to unlock their potential.

General Studies – 3

Topic: Disaster and disaster management.

5. The risk of fire incidents in urban areas has indeed increased over the years, and the rising cost of fire losses is growing at a faster rate than the measures put in place to control them. Examine. Suggest steps to control fire incidents and prevent loss of life and property. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India

Why the question:

A fire incident occurred in a building in Goregaon, Mumbai, resulting in several casualties. Seven people lost their lives, and many others sustained injuries.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the reasons for fire incidents and measures needed to control such ones.

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: 

Begin by giving statistic regarding rising instances of fire accidents.

Body:

First, write about the reasons for the increasing fire hazard incidents – mention the part of lackadaisical safety measures as well ineffective implementation of exist fire safety norms.

Next, write about the measures that are needed to overcome the above and promote fire safety and prevent losses due to fire hazard.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward.

Introduction

In India, although there are many rules and regulations, codes and standards related to fire safety, these are seldom followed. Laxity in fire safety measures caused major fires in many buildings.

A fire incident occurred in a building in Goregaon, Mumbai, resulting in several casualties. Seven people lost their lives, and many others sustained injuries..

Body:

Fire Accidents in India:

• According to National crime records bureau figures 17,700 Indians died and 48 people every day due to fire accidents in 2015.
• Of those who died, 62% were women.
• Maharashtra and Gujarat, the two most highly urbanised states, account for about 30% of the country’s fire accident deaths.
• According to India Risk Surveys 2018, outbreak of fire poses risks to business continuity and operations and ranks India at 3rd position in fire incidents, especially in Northern and Western regions of India.

Lacunae in Fire Safety in India:

• Violation of safety norms and lack of standardisation and regulation is a major cause of fire accidents, as large scale construction of false roofs in commercial buildings and multiplexes is against the national building construction code.
• High rise buildings are more prone to fire accidents as they lack an adequate in-built fire protection system that makes salvaging operations difficult.
• Poorly stored goods, even though they are not flammable, helps to spread fire and hinder fire fighters gain access to the seat of the fire or reduce the effectiveness of sprinkler systems.
• Unclear provisions of fire safety audit in terms of scope, objective, methodology and periodicity of a fire safety audit.
• Lack of adequate resources, preparedness and poor fire services fail to ensure fire safety cover to the population.
• Lack of awareness about the safety arrangements before purchasing or hiring a flat in an apartment or before starting an institution.
• Faulty Wiring: PUF (polyurethane foam) used for plastic insulation carries a high risk of accidental fire as most of the times it is exposed to electrical wiring which on becoming heated due to overloading or short circuit catches fire immediately.

Measures needed:

• Modernisation of Fire safety equipment: the government should provide financial support and assistance in augmenting and modernising the fire departments
• Proper designing of electrical fittings and regular maintenance of wiring (at least once in a year).
• Building awareness among citizens about fire prevention and protection measures by organising firefighting workshop once in six months in localities/Mohallas/schools with the involvement of local councillors/elected representatives.
• Fire service departments should audit critical fire prone installations (like high rise buildings, multiplexes in congested areas) periodically (once in six months) and take appropriate actions against erring establishments.
• Proper demarcation of entry and exit points in crowded buildings, installation of firefighting equipment and their regular maintenance, periodic renewal of No-objection certificates by building owners in order to ensure fire preparedness.

Way forward:

• Fire service is a state subject and has been included as municipal function in the XII schedule of the Constitution. The municipal corporations and local bodies are responsible for providing fire services in many states.
• All State governments should require mandatory compliance with such safety features for any institution handling patients or giving care.
• Certification of facilities through third-party audit should be made compulsory to eliminate conflicts of interest involving official agencies.
• The institutions should also be insured for the highest levels of public liability.
• At a broader level, governments must shed their indifference and work to make all spaces safe.
• In private, public or commercial buildings, official agencies tend to favour tokenism rather than high standards for the safety of occupants and visitors.
• They are ever-willing to “regularise” deviations in construction over time. It is time to fix responsibility for deadly accidents on a single official agency.

Topic: Challenges to Internal Security through Communication Networks, Role of Media and Social Networking Sites in Internal Security Challenges.

6. While internet shutdowns may be considered a tool for maintaining order and security, the negative consequences on rights, the economy, education, and healthcare is significant. Critically examine. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: Indian Express

Why the question:

The article discusses the impact of an internet shutdown in Manipur amidst a conflict situation.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about internet shutdowns in India, its need and necessity etc.

Directive word: 

Critically examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we have to look into 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. When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a fair judgment.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by giving context.

Body:

First, write about the need of an internet shutdown – they are necessary to maintain law and order and ensure national security, recent trends show a rise in shutdown instances, particularly in regions like Jammu and Kashmir.

Next, write about the negative impact of internet shutdowns on rights, economy, education, and healthcare etc.

Next, write about the steps that needed to address the above issue.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward.

Introduction

India emerged as the single biggest offender for a fifth consecutive year, with at least 84 internet blackouts in 2022

Shutdowns could have devastating impact on human lives such as , it may deepen the gender digital divide, disrupting the ability of women to conduct business or access information on reproductive healthcare

Body

Background: Prolonged shutdown in India

Jammu and Kashmir (J&K):

• Prolonged Shutdown: The shutdown in J&K has been characterized by its extended duration, causing significant disruptions to the daily lives of residents. Internet access was severely restricted for an extended period, impacting essential services such as healthcare, education, and livelihoods.
• Lack of Due Process: Concerns have been raised regarding the decision-making process, with instances of shutdowns imposed by district magistrates without higher-level involvement. This raises questions about procedural fairness and the adherence to due process.
• Transparency and Justification: The lack of public information regarding shutdowns in J&K is a cause for concern. The transparency and clarity of justifications for imposing shutdowns are essential for accountability and safeguarding constitutional rights.

Manipur:

• Ongoing Shutdown and VPN Blocking: The Manipur High Court has formed a committee to explore blocking VPN servers while maintaining restrictions on social media websites. However, the feasibility of this solution is questioned as VPNs also play a role in the exercise of freedom of speech and expression.
• Impact on Livelihoods and Services: The need to protect people’s livelihoods is emphasized, given the reliance on the internet for businesses and livelihoods. Ensuring access to critical services like healthcare and education during shutdowns becomes crucial.

Internet shutdown: Reasons cited

• Civil unrest: Internet serves as a medium for the transmission of information through pictures, videos and text that have the potential to cause civil unrest and exacerbate the law and order.
• Fake news: Shutdowns in order to block the flow of information about government actions or to end communication among activists and prevent the spread of rumors and fake news.
• Rumors: Shutdown helps prevent the “spreading of rumors and misinformation using social media platforms which can hinder peace and law and order”.
• Preventive Response: Cutting off the Internet is both an early and preventive response to block restive groups to organize riots against the Government.
• National Interest: The Internet cannot be independent of national sovereignty. Therefore, the necessary regulation of the internet is a reasonable choice of sovereign countries based on national interests.

Critical analysis of internet shutdowns

• Restriction of Fundamental Rights: Internet shutdowns curtail the exercise of fundamental rights, such as freedom of expression, access to information, and the right to privacy. These shutdowns limit people’s ability to communicate, express themselves, and access essential information.
• Economic Consequences: Internet shutdowns have adverse effects on businesses, particularly those that rely on the internet for their operations. E-commerce, online services, and digital platforms suffer financial losses during shutdowns.
• Disruption of Essential Services: Internet shutdowns disrupt access to critical services like healthcare, education, and emergency services. Telemedicine, online education, and remote work become inaccessible, impacting people’s well-being, educational opportunities, and productivity
• Human Rights Violations: Prolonged and arbitrary internet shutdowns can be seen as human rights violations. They limit people’s ability to exercise their rights, stifle dissent, and undermine democratic processes.
• Negative Impact on Education: Internet shutdowns disrupt online education, e-learning platforms, and access to educational resources. This hampers educational progress and has long-term consequences for individuals and societies.
• Psychological and Emotional Impact: The inability to connect with others, access information, and engage in online activities can have psychological and emotional implications.

Way forward

• Protecting Public Order: Maintaining public order is a legitimate concern for governments to ensure safety, security, and the functioning of society. Internet shutdowns may be employed in exceptional situations where there is a real and imminent threat to public safety or when it is necessary to prevent the spread of violence or unrest.
• Proportionality: Any measure taken to maintain public order, including internet shutdowns, should be proportionate to the threat faced. Shutdowns should be targeted, time-limited, and precisely tailored to address the specific concerns, rather than imposing blanket restrictions that impact the entire population.
• Judicial Oversight: Independent judicial oversight is crucial to ensuring that any restrictions on internet access align with constitutional principles and international human rights standards.
• Transparency and Accountability: Governments should provide clear and transparent justifications for internet shutdowns, including detailing the specific risks or threats that justify such measures. Accountability mechanisms should be in place to address any abuses or violations during shutdowns.
• Targeted Measures: Rather than resorting to complete shutdowns, governments should explore alternative measures that target specific content or platforms that pose risks to public order. Content moderation, selective blocking, or targeted interventions can help address concerns without unduly infringing on individual rights or stifling access to essential services.

Conclusion

The impact of shutdowns on livelihoods, education, and the economy underscores the urgency to seek alternative solutions. It is imperative that stakeholders reconsider the necessity and consequences of internet shutdowns to ensure a just and balanced approach to maintaining law and order.

Value addition

Supreme court cases

• Anuradha Bhasin v. Union of India (2020): Recognized the right to access the internet as part of the right to freedom of speech and expression. Emphasized that internet shutdowns must be necessary and proportionate, subject to judicial review.
• Faheema Shirin v. State of Kerala (2020): Reaffirmed the importance of internet access for exercising fundamental rights. Stressed that restrictions on internet access should be temporary, proportionate, and justified with reasons

General Studies – 4

Topic: Case Study

7. Siddu is the dedicated and principled Principal of an esteemed college known for its strong emphasis on academics and ethics. However, the college’s reputation takes a severe hit when a tragic incident unfolds within its walls.

College, known for its rigorous academics and emphasis on diversity, is shaken when a bright first-year male student from the SC/ST community tragically takes his own life due to the trauma of severe ragging by his seniors. The student had attempted to reach out to the Anti-Ragging Committee for help, but the committee’s head brushed off his concerns, advising him to “man up.”

The incident sparks outrage within the student body and the community. The student’s father, devastated by his son’s death, demands justice. However, the situation becomes even more complex when it’s revealed that one of the accused seniors is the son of a powerful local MLA. Pressure mounts on Siddu to handle the situation discreetly and protect the influential student from legal consequences.

The police arrest four of the accused seniors, leaving out the MLA’s son, the fifth student. Public outcry ensues, with media outlets and social media platforms demanding transparency and equal treatment for all involved. As the news spreads, college’s reputation is tarnished, and the institution becomes a focal point for discussions on ragging, discrimination, and justice.

1. 1. 1. What are the options available to Siddu?
      2. Critically analyse the above-mentioned actions?
      3. What course of action should Siddu Choose as the principal?
      4. How should Siddu deal with head of the Anti-Ragging committee?
      5. Analyse the causes behind the evil of ragging? How can it be ended?

Introduction

This event lays bare the insidious nature of ragging – a dehumanizing ritual that has no place within the hallowed halls of education. It not only robs young minds of their innocence and potential but also inflicts scars that may linger long into their futures.

Body

Options available and critical analysis

• Handle the Situation Discreetly: Siddu could choose to comply with the pressure to protect the MLA’s son, possibly by influencing the investigation or trying to settle the matter privately.
  • Critical analysis: While this may provide short-term relief from public scrutiny, it compromises the integrity and reputation of the college. It also perpetuates a culture of impunity, reinforcing the idea that influential individuals can escape accountability.
• Uphold Justice and Transparency: Siddu could choose to ensure that all accused students, including the MLA’s son, face the appropriate legal consequences for their actions, regardless of their connections.
  • Critical analysis: This option aligns with ethical principles and promotes a fair and just society. However, it might result in political pressure, threats, or even personal risks to Siddu, as he would be challenging powerful interests.
• Implement Stricter Anti-Ragging Measures: Siddu can take this tragedy as an opportunity to revamp and reinforce the college’s anti-ragging policies and procedures, ensuring they are more effective and inclusive.
  • Critical analysis: This proactive approach addresses the root cause of the incident and helps create a safer environment for all students. It shows a commitment to preventing future tragedies.

Course of action

• Siddu, as the principled leader of the college, should prioritize justice, transparency, and the well-being of the entire student body.
• He should stand firm against any attempts to influence the investigation and ensure that all students involved face the legal consequences of their actions.
• Additionally, Siddu should actively work towards strengthening the college’s anti-ragging policies and support systems.

Dealing with the Head of the Anti-Ragging Committee:

• Siddu should hold the head of the Anti-Ragging Committee accountable for failing to address the student’s concerns.
• This individual should be reprimanded and replaced with someone who takes their responsibilities seriously.
• It’s crucial to reinforce the importance of promptly and effectively handling complaints related to ragging.
• If the first line of defence against ragging worked, the student may have gotten timely help and would be still alive.

Causes of Ragging and Prevention:

Ragging often stems from a toxic culture of hierarchy, power dynamics, and a lack of empathy. It starts as something fun/comical to those ragging the victim but can become mentally taxing on the victim.

It can be ended through a multi-faceted approach:

• Strict Enforcement of Anti-Ragging Policies: Implement and enforce clear and stringent anti-ragging policies and ensure that students are aware of the consequences.
• Education and Awareness: Conduct workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns to educate students about the harmful effects of ragging and the importance of empathy and respect.
• Strengthening Support Systems: Provide avenues for victims to report incidents anonymously and ensure that complaints are promptly and thoroughly investigated.
• Counseling and Mentoring: Offer counseling services and mentorship programs to help students integrate into the college environment and seek support when needed.
• Inclusive Campus Culture: Foster a culture of inclusivity, where all students feel valued and respected, regardless of their background or affiliations.

Conclusion

By addressing the underlying causes and promoting a culture of empathy and respect, institutions can work towards eradicating the evil of ragging.

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