[Mission 2024] Insights SECURE SYNOPSIS: 28 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

Answer the following questions in 150 words:

General Studies – 1

1. Give an account of folk theatre of India. As societies modernize and urbanize, traditional folk theatre is facing a decline in popularity. Analyse.

Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India

Introduction

India boasts of a rich tradition of folk theatre in various parts of India. The traditional folk theatre reflects the various aspects of the local lifestyle including social norms, beliefs and customs. While the Sanskrit theatre was more urban-oriented and sophisticated in its treatment of the play, folk theatre had rural roots and the rustic flavour was reflected in the dramatic style involved.

Folk theatre has been used extensively in India to propagate critical social, political and cultural issues in the form of theatrical messages to create awareness among the people. As an indigenous form it breaks all kinds of formal barriers of human communication and appeals directly to the people. Each folk theatre form has a particular community, language, area and way of life.

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                Indian folk theatre can be broadly classified into three categories as follows:

• Ritual Theatre. Ex: Ramman, Raslila, Ramlila etc
• Theatre of entertainment. Ex: Bhavai, Jatra, Maach, Tamasha etc
• South Indian Theatre. Ex: Yakshagana, Bayalata, Kuruvanji.

Types Entertainment Folk theatre of India:

This form of theatre was more secular in its narration and storytelling. They focused more on stories of love, valour and the sociocultural traditions and were meant primarily as means of entertainment for the rural masses. Some forms of it are:

• Bhavai: Bhavai is a popular folk theatre form of Gujarat and Rajasthan, mainly in the regions of Kutchh and Kathiawar. This form incorporates an extensive use of dance to narrate a series of small plays, known as Vesha or Swanga, each with its own plot. The theme of the play is generally romantic.
• Daskathia:is a form of folk theatre popular in the region of Odisha. In this form, there are two narrators – Gayaka, who is the chiefsinger and Palia, who is the co-narrator. The narration isaccompanied by a dramatic music composed using a woodenmusical instrument called kathia.
• Garodas: This is a popular art form of the ‘Garoda’ community of Gujarat. It uses painted pictures to narrate stories of romance and valour.
• Jatra: is a popular folk theatre of Eastern India. It is generally anopen-air performance that was initiated by Vaishnava saint SriChaitanya. During his travels through rural Bengal, he used themedium of Jatra to propagate the teachings of Krishna. Later,variants such as Rama Jatra, Shiv Jatra and Chandi Jatra also came into existence that narrated stories of Puranic legends.
• Dashavataris the most developed theatre form of the Konkan and Goa regions. The performers personify the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu-the god of preservation and creativity. The ten incarnations are Matsya (fish), Kurma (tortoise), Varaha (boar), Narsimha (lion-man), Vaman (dwarf), Parashuram, Rama, Krishna (or Balram), Buddha and Kalki. Apart from stylized make-up, the Dashavatar performers wear masks of wood and papier mache.
• Tamaashais a traditional folk theatre form of Maharashtra. It has evolved from the folk forms such as Gondhal, Jagran and Kirtan. Unlike other theatre forms, in Tamaasha the female actress is the chief exponent of dance movements in the play. She is known as Murki. Classical music, footwork at lightning-speed, and vivid gestures make it possible to portray all the emotions through dance.
• Maachis the traditional theatre form of Madhya Pradesh. The term Maach is used for the stage itself as also for the play. In this theatre form songs are given prominence in between the dialogues. The term for dialogue in this form is bol and rhyme in narration is termed vanag. The tunes of this theatre form are known as rangat.
• Bhand Pather, the traditional theatre form of Kashmir, is a unique combination of dance, music and acting. Satire, wit and parody are preferred for inducing laughter. In this theatre form, music is provided with surnai, nagaara and dhol. Since the actors of Bhand Pather are mainly from the farming community, the impact of their way of living, ideals and sensitivity is discernible.

Challenges faced

• The primary reason is that with a few exceptions, major performances in folk theatre have become aged.
• Artists still continue to perform on plots of religious folklore or local tale of the region.
• It is appreciable task that helps in conversation of tradition, which seems to be in danger amidst totalitarian expansion of globalization.
• But, art requires experimentation to sustain itself; otherwise it becomes static and grows distant from public.
• The audience has evolved with the time but the theatres still continue with their old themes and styles has led to loss of popularity of the theatres among the people.
• The electronic media also posed a threat to the folk culture and theatre as people prefer watching television than going out to watch plays.
• Most of the actors and actresses involved in the theater have low-income opportunities, which discourages them from joining.

Way forward

• Many national and international researches held on the role of Folk Theatre and Development suggested the integration of folk theatre forms with Mass Media for quicker transmission of information as it was motivating the rural audience.
• Also, the government cultural bodies must provide sufficient funds and grants to attract young talent both as professionals as well as amateurs towards this art.
• Moreover, research should also be promoted in folk theatre to foster progression, experimentation and novelty in this form.

Conclusion

Thus, the development of traditional theatre forms is based on such local and regional peculiarities which are not bound and restricted by social and economic divisions, limitations, etc. Traditional art forms have influenced classical art forms and vice-versa. It is an eternal journey in the sphere of ‘culture’.

2. Regionalism poses governance and administrative challenges as different regions seek to assert their distinct identities and interests within the broader Indian context. Analyse.

Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India

Introduction

Region as a geographical unit, is delimited form each other. Region as a social system, reflects the relation between different human beings and groups. Regions are an organised cooperation in cultural, economic, political or military fields. Region acts as a subject with distinct identity, language, culture and tradition.

Regionalism is an ideology and political movement that seeks to advance the causes of regions. As a process it plays role within the nation as well as outside the nation i.e. at international level. Both types of regionalism have different meaning and have positive as well as negative impact on society, polity, diplomacy, economy, security, culture, development, negotiations, etc.

At the international level, regionalism refers to transnational cooperation to meet a common goal or to resolve a shared problem or it refers to a group of countries such as-Western Europe, or Southeast Asia, linked by geography, history or economic features. Used in this sense, regionalism refers to attempts to reinforce the links between these countries economic features.

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Regionalism and its broad aspects

• Diversity of Cultures and Languages: India is incredibly diverse in terms of languages, cultures, and traditions. There are 22 officially recognized languages and hundreds of dialects spoken across the country. Managing this linguistic diversity can be a significant administrative challenge.
• Historical Context: Many regions in India have a long history of distinct cultural and linguistic identities. For example, states like Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Maharashtra have rich cultural heritages that predate the formation of the Indian nation-state. Balancing these historical identities with the broader national identity can be complex.
• Economic Disparities: Different regions of India have varying levels of economic development. Southern states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu tend to be more economically developed compared to some northern states like Bihar or Uttar Pradesh. Addressing these disparities while ensuring equitable growth is a critical governance challenge.
• Political Representation: Regionalism often translates into political movements seeking to protect or advance the interests of a particular region. This can lead to regional political parties gaining prominence and sometimes complicating national-level politics.
• Resource Allocation: Deciding how resources (such as funds, infrastructure projects, etc.) are allocated among different states and regions can be contentious. Striking a balance that ensures fair distribution while also addressing specific regional needs is a delicate task.
• Policy Formulation and Implementation: Policies that work well in one region may not necessarily be effective in another due to differences in local needs, cultures, and economic structures. Tailoring policies to suit each region’s requirements is a challenge.
• Security and Law Enforcement: Different regions may have distinct security concerns, ranging from separatist movements to communal tensions. Law enforcement agencies need to navigate these unique challenges while maintaining national integrity.
• Infrastructure Development: Planning and executing infrastructure projects that benefit all regions, especially those that are geographically remote or economically disadvantaged, requires careful strategizing and resource allocation.
• Cultural Sensitivities: Respecting and preserving the unique cultural identities of various regions while promoting a sense of national unity is a delicate balance.
• Education and Language Policies: Choosing which languages to emphasize in education and government can be a sensitive issue, as it relates to cultural identity and access to opportunities.

Governance and administrative challenges posed by regionalism in India

• Linguistic Reorganization of States: It was the demand of Potti Sriramulu, a freedom fighter and a devoted follower of Mahatma Gandhi, that led to the creation of Andhra Pradesh state and linguistic recognition of the states in India.
  • To achieve this end, he died in 1952 after not eating for 52 days in support of a Telugu-speaking state. Sriramulu’s death forced Jawahar Lal Nehru to agree to the various demands from other parts of the country with similar demands.
  • Consequently, in 1954, a States Reorganisation Committee was formed with Fazal Ali as its head, which recommended the formation of 16 new states and 3 Union Territories based on the language.
• Demand for Dravida Nadu:Going back to the journey of Regionalism in India, it is well noticeable that it emerged with Dravidian Movement, which started in Tamil Nadu in 1925.
  • This movement, also known as ‘Self-Respect Movement’ initially focused on empowering Dalits, non-Brahmins, and poor people. Later it stood against imposition of Hindi as sole official language on non-Hindi speaking areas.
  • But it was the demand of carving out their own Dravidastan or Dravida Nadu, which made it a secessionist movement. As early as 1960s the DMK and the Nan Tamil organized a joint campaign throughout Madras state demanding its secession from India and making it an independent sovereign state of Tamiland.
  • DMK proposed that the states of Madras, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Mysore should secede from the Indian union and form an independent “Republic of Dravida Nadu”
• Telangana Movement: In the years after the formation of Andhra Pradesh state, people of Telangana expressed dissatisfaction over how the agreements and guarantees were implemented. Discontent with the 1956 Gentleman’s agreement intensified in January 1969, when the guarantees that had been agreed on were supposed to lapse/
  • Student agitation for the continuation of the agreement began at Osmania University in Hyderabad and spread to other parts of the region. Government employees and opposition members of the state legislative assembly threatened “direct action” in support of the students. This movement since then finally resulted last year one separate state of Telangana.
  • It should be noted that roots of disparity in two regions was in colonial rule. Andhra was under direct rule of crown while Telangana was ruled by Nizam of Hyderabad, who was not so efficient ruler. So over time Andhra got more developed in comparison to Telangana.
• Shiv Sena against Kannadigas: In 1966, Shiv Sena, in Maharashtra, launched its agitation against Kannadigas in the name of Marathi pride. The first targets of its agitation were South Indians who were the workers of Udupi hotels in Mumbai. This agitation was labelled to be a retaliation of the lathi-charge on Marathi speaking people in the border areas.
• Bodoland Demand within Assam: The Bodo agitation is led by the Assam Bodo Students Union which is demanding a separate state and has resorted to wide scale violence and series of crippling bandhs to pursue their demand.
  • One of the basic reason Assam agitations is because of the expansion of education, particularly higher education, but not industrialization and other job creating institutions is increasing the army of educated youths in the backward regions. These frustrated young men are allured by the movements against the inflow of people from other countries and states.
  • On the other hand these unemployed youths are also attracted by the caste, communal and other sectional agitations fighting for the protection of rights on sectarian lines.
• Khalistan Movement: It was during the era of 1980s that Khalistan movement with its aim to create a Sikh homeland, often called Khalistan, cropped up in the Punjab region of India and Pakistan. In fact this demand has also the colours of communalism, as there demand is only for Sikhs.
• Inter-State Disputes: Another form of regionalism in India has found expression in the form of interstate disputes. There are disputes boundary disputes for example between Karnataka and Maharashtra on Belgaum where Marathi speaking population is surrounded by Kannada speaking people, between Kerala and Karnataka on Kasargod, between Assam and Nagaland on Rengma reserved forests. There is a dispute over Chandigarh in Punjab and Haryana.
  • The first important dispute regarding the use of water source was over the use of water resources of three rivers mainly Narmada, Krishna and Cauvery in which states of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Maharashtra were involved. Disputes also arose between use of Cauvery waters among the states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka.
  • Another dispute arose among the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh over the use and distribution of waters of the Krishna River.
  • Disputes between Punjab, Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh overt the use of waters of Ravi River. The Electricity sharing issue between Punjab and Delhi is another example of this.
• Creation of new States in 2000: In 2000, the Government of India, pursuant to legislation passed by Parliament during the summer, created three new states, Chhattisgarh, Uttaranchal, and Jharkhand, reconstituting Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, respectively. Both the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress party supported the formation of the states. The basis for creating the new states is socio-political and not linguistic.

Conclusion

Indian is a melting pot of cultures and unity in diversity has been our strength. Regionalism can co-exist with Nationalism, but the former must not trump the latter. Schemes such as ‘Ek Bharat Shresht Bharat’ must be encouraged to bridge the fault lines in the Indian society.

General Studies – 2

3. Evaluate the various challenges and concerns associated with the Dam Safety Act of 2021 to ensure the protection and safety of dams across the country.

Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India

Introduction

The Dam Safety Act, 2021 provides for the surveillance, inspection, operation and maintenance of all specified dams across the country. It aims to interfere and regulate the entire functioning of dams including its safety.

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Extra information: Provisions of the bill

• Surveillance of dams: 
  • The Bill provides for the surveillance, inspection, operation, and maintenance of all specified dams across the country. 
  • These are dams with height more than 15 metres, or height between 10 metres to 15 metres with certain design and structural conditions.
• The National Committee on Dam Safety (NCDS):
  • Its functions include evolving policies and recommending regulations regarding dam safety standards; 
  • It will be chaired by the National Water Commissioner.
• The National Dam Safety Authority:
  • Its functions include implementing policies of the National Committee, providing technical assistance to State Dam Safety Organisations (SDSOs), and resolving matters between SDSOs of states or between a SDSO and any dam owner in that state.
• A State Committee on Dam Safety & State Dam Safety Organisation.  
  • These bodies will be responsible for the surveillance, inspection, and monitoring the operation and maintenance of dams within their jurisdiction.
• Hazard classification
  • The Bill provides for regular inspection and hazard classification of dams. It also provides for drawing up emergency action plans and comprehensive dam safety reviews by an independent panel of experts. There is provision for an emergency flood warning system to address the safety concerns of downstream inhabitants.
• Obligation of Dam Owners:
  • Dam owners are required to provide resources for timely repair and maintenance of the dam structure along with related machinery.
• Penal Provisions:
  • The Bill has penal provisions involving offences and penalties, for ensuring compliance with the provisions.

Pros of the act

• The Bill will help all the States and Union Territories of India to adopt uniform dam safety procedures. These procedures will not only protect the dams but also human life, livestock and property.
• Dam owners will have to provide a dam safety unit in each dam.
• The dam safety unit will be required to inspect the dam before and after the monsoon session, and also during and after natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods.
• The bill requires dam owners to prepare emergency action plans. Risk-assessment studies will also have to be undertaken by owners, regularly.
• At specified, regular intervals, and in the event of either a modification to the dam’s structure or a natural event that may impact the structure, dam owners will have to produce a comprehensive safety evaluation by experts.

Issues in the act

• Huge workload: National Dam Safety Authority will have to look after more than 5,000 dams across all over India. So it will face a huge workload.
• Water is a state subject: Many states view the Dam safety bill as encroaching upon the States domain to manage their dams, and violating the principles of federalism enshrined in the Constitution.
• Against federalism: Act is a legislation passed by the Union through brute majority to blatantly usurp the States’ power.
• Centre’s control: Act usurped the power of the State governments and placed the operation of specified dams under the control of the Centre.
• Specified dam: Certain terms including the word ‘dam’ in the Act, had been deliberately defined vaguely to give unbridled power to the Centre to treat any dam as a ‘specified dam’. If this definitions were followed, almost all dams in the country would fall under the purview of the Act.
• Entry 56 of Union list: The power of the Centre under Entry 56 of Union list was only with respect to inter-State rivers or river valleys and nothing more. Entry 56 cannot be stretched to include dams and embankments exclusively within the control of the States.
• Power over the subject ‘interstate river and river valley’ cannot be confused with the control over dams.

Way Forward

• Dam safety is dependent on many external factors. So, the government has to consult environmentalists and take the environmental angle for the Dam Safety Bill.
• The government should consider the selection of a dam on the basis of age, as this is the major issue.
• The government has to strengthen the functioning and coordination of state irrigation departments and the Central Water Commission.
• Considering climate change, the government has to think about the issue of water carefully and proactively. So, local factors, such as climate and catchment areas, need to be taken into consideration. Further, there is a need to integrate urban-rural planning with dam safety.
• A Standing Committee recommended a penal provision for dam failures on authorities. The government has to incorporate this into law. Along with that, the government has to increase the capacity building of locals and associated institutions

General Studies – 3

4. How is climate change impacting air pollution? Evaluate the policy measures taken in India to tackle air pollution.

Reference: Indian Express

Introduction

The intricate relationship between climate change and air pollution constitutes a pressing concern in the realm of environmental challenges. These intertwined issues form a complex web, where the consequences of one significantly impact the other. Climate change, driven by global shifts in temperature and weather patterns, exerts a substantial influence on air quality, further exacerbating pollution levels.

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Climate change and air pollution

• Increased Wildfires and Dust Storms: Climate change can lead to more frequent and severe wildfires and dust storms. These events release large amounts of particulate matter and pollutants into the air, contributing to air pollution.
• Changing Weather Patterns: Altered weather patterns, such as prolonged droughts or heavy rainfall, can affect air quality. For instance, droughts can lead to dust and soil erosion, while heavy rainfall can wash pollutants into water bodies, later releasing them into the air.
• Warmer Temperatures and Ozone Formation: Higher temperatures can lead to increased ground-level ozone formation. This secondary pollutant forms when pollutants from vehicles and industries react in the presence of sunlight.
• Altered Atmospheric Conditions: Changes in atmospheric conditions can influence the dispersion and transport of pollutants. For example, stagnant air masses can trap pollutants near the ground, leading to higher concentrations.
• Impacts on Health and Agriculture: Climate change-related events like heatwaves and changing precipitation patterns can directly impact human health and agricultural practices, which can indirectly affect air quality.

Policy Measures in India to Tackle Air Pollution:

• India has recognized the severity of its air pollution problem and has taken several policy measures to address it.
• National Clean Air Programme (NCAP): The NCAP is a comprehensive framework aimed at improving air quality in Indian cities. It sets specific targets for reducing PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations over a certain period.
• Implementation of Bharat Stage VI Emission Standards: Upgrading to BS VI standards for vehicles has been a significant step in reducing vehicular emissions. However, challenges related to enforcement and compliance still exist.
• Promotion of Electric Mobility: Initiatives to promote electric vehicles (EVs) and charging infrastructure are steps in the right direction. However, the transition to EVs needs to be accelerated, and charging infrastructure needs further expansion.
  • FAME I and FAME II implementation boosting EV manufacturing.
• Regulations on Industrial Emissions: Policies like emission standards for industries have been put in place. However, effective enforcement and regular monitoring are crucial to ensure compliance.
• Implementation of Dust Control Measures: Introducing measures to control dust emissions, especially in construction and mining activities, is important. However, enforcement remains a challenge.
• Introduction of Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP): GRAP provides a structured approach to combat severe air pollution episodes. Its effectiveness depends on timely implementation and adherence by all stakeholders.
• Public Awareness and Education: Raising public awareness about air pollution and its impacts is critical. More efforts are needed to educate the public on measures they can take to reduce their own contributions to pollution.
• Research and Data Collection: Continued research and data collection on air quality are essential for evidence-based policymaking. This includes the expansion of monitoring networks and data sharing.

Conclusion

While India has made commendable efforts to tackle air pollution, there’s a need for sustained and intensified action. This includes stronger enforcement mechanisms, a focus on sustainable transportation, and broader public engagement. Additionally, addressing the interplay between climate change and air pollution will require comprehensive policies that consider both issues in tandem.

5. Highlight the challenges posed by the proliferation of terrorist groups. Examine the need for international cooperation and a coordinated response to counter terrorism effectively.

Reference: Indian Express

Introduction

The Hamas attach on innocent civilians attending a music festival in Israel is a gruesome reminder that terrorism still looms large over the world.  Amorphous terror groups, newer cyber linked terrorism, increasing lone wolf attacks are all adding to the ominous threats of violence. India has borne the brunt of terrorism and has witnessed serious loss of life and property in senseless violent explosions in large cities in the past few decades.

As the world shrinks with technological and communication changes, terrorists, weapons and funds are also able to move across national boundaries easily. International co-operation between law enforcement authorities in this area is a sine qua non for combating such cross border challenges

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Challenges posed by proliferation of terrorist groups

• Transnational Networks: Many terrorist groups operate across borders, making it difficult for individual nations to address the threat in isolation. This necessitates a coordinated international response.
• Ideological Radicalization: Terrorist groups often exploit grievances, real or perceived, to recruit members. Addressing the underlying causes of radicalization requires a multifaceted approach involving social, economic, and political reforms.
• Sophistication of Tactics: Terrorist groups are increasingly employing sophisticated tactics, including cyberattacks, chemical weapons, and suicide bombings. Combating these requires a high level of technological expertise and intelligence-sharing among nations.
• Financing and Funding: Terrorist organizations often rely on a complex network of financing, including illicit activities, donations, and state sponsorship. International cooperation is vital to track and disrupt these funding sources.
• Weapons Proliferation: Access to advanced weaponry and explosives has become a major concern. International agreements and cooperation are necessary to regulate arms sales and monitor the movement of dangerous materials.
• Safe Havens and Sanctuaries: Terrorist groups often find refuge in countries with weak governance or political instability. This requires coordinated efforts to strengthen the capacity of such states to counter terrorism.
  • Pakistan is a safe haven for LeT, Jaish-e-Moh, Taliban and so many other terror outfits and it uses them against India and other neighbours. It harbored Taliban ultimately leading to Taliban takeover of the country.
• Information Sharing and Intelligence Coordination: Timely and accurate intelligence is crucial in preventing terrorist attacks. Effective information sharing mechanisms among nations are essential to identify and neutralize threats.
• Legal and Jurisdictional Challenges: Prosecuting terrorists can be complicated when they operate across multiple jurisdictions. International legal frameworks and agreements are necessary to facilitate the extradition and prosecution of terrorists.
• Humanitarian Concerns: Counter-terrorism efforts must balance security imperatives with respect for human rights. Ensuring due process, protecting civilians, and providing humanitarian assistance to affected populations are critical considerations.
• Media and Propaganda Influence: Terrorist groups use media and propaganda to recruit and spread fear. International cooperation is required to counter these narratives effectively.

Need for international cooperation

• Global Nature of Threats: Terrorism is a global challenge that transcends national boundaries. To effectively combat it, nations must work together to share intelligence, expertise, and resources.
  • The rise of ISIS in Iraq and Syria exemplified the need for international cooperation. A coalition of over 60 countries came together to combat the group, sharing intelligence, conducting airstrikes, and providing support to local forces.
• Resource Sharing: No single nation may have all the necessary resources to combat terrorism comprehensively. International cooperation allows for a pooling of resources and expertise, making efforts more effective.
  • After the 9/11 attacks, there was a significant increase in intelligence sharing among countries. This led to the apprehension and neutralization of key al-Qaeda operatives in various parts of the world.
• Prevention of Safe Havens: Coordinated action prevents terrorist groups from finding safe havens in countries with weak governance or political instability, which can lead to regional and global security risks.
  • Boko Haram, based in West Africa, posed a serious threat to Nigeria and neighboring countries. The Multi-National Joint Task Force (MNJTF), consisting of troops from Nigeria, Niger, Chad, Cameroon, and Benin, was established to combat the group.
• Harmonizing Legal Frameworks: Common legal frameworks and extradition agreements facilitate the apprehension and prosecution of terrorists across borders.
• Counteracting Radicalization: International efforts can address the root causes of terrorism, such as political instability, economic inequality, and social grievances, through collective policies and initiatives.
• Enhancing International Norms: A unified approach to counter-terrorism sets international norms and standards, sending a clear message that terrorism is unacceptable and will be met with a strong response.
  • International Law Enforcement Collaboration: INTERPOL serves as a platform for police forces around the world to share information, coordinate operations, and apprehend criminals, including terrorists.
• Reducing Duplication and Overlap: Cooperation reduces duplication of efforts and ensures that resources are allocated efficiently.

Conclusion

The challenges posed by the proliferation of terrorist groups are complex and require a unified, global response. International cooperation is crucial for sharing intelligence, coordinating efforts, harmonizing legal frameworks, and addressing the underlying causes of terrorism. A coordinated approach ensures a more effective response and helps maintain international peace and security.

Answer the following questions in 250 words(15 marks each):

General Studies – 1

6. The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 marked a significant step towards inclusivity and accessibility. Yet, a holistic approach that involves government bodies, civil society, and individuals is necessary to ensure the full realization of the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all aspects of society. Analyse.

Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India

Introduction

According to Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, “Person with disability” means a person with long term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairment which, in interaction with barriers, hinders his full and effective participation in society equally with others. According to Census 2011, India is home to 26.8 million people with disabilities and that is a huge underestimation.  

There is compelling global evidence that media accessibility features are useful for all, including the hearing and the sighted, albeit in different ways. The Billion Readers initiative has shown that features like Same Language Subtitles or Captions will advance the reading literacy and language skills of one billion TV viewers.

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Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016: A landmark step for disabled

• It becomes the duty of the Union, states as well as Union Territories to take up the matter.
• It is also important to ensure that all government buses are disabled friendly in accordance with the harmonized guidelines.
• Disability has been defined based on an evolving and dynamic concept.
• The types of disabilities have been increased from 7 to 21. The act added mental illness, autism, spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, chronic neurological conditions, speech and language disability, thalassemia, haemophilia, sickle cell disease, multiple disabilities including deaf blindness, acid attack victims and Parkinson’s disease which were largely ignored in earlier act. In addition, the Government has been authorized to notify any other category of specified disability.
• It increases the quantum of reservationfor people suffering from disabilities from 3% to 4% in government jobs and from 3% to 5% in higher education institutes.
• Every child with benchmark disability between the age group of 6 and 18 years shall have the right to free education.
• Government funded educational institutions as well as the government recognized institutions will have to provide inclusive education.
• Stress has been given to ensure accessibility in public buildingsin a prescribed time frame along with Accessible India Campaign.
• The Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities and the State Commissioners will act as regulatory bodies and Grievance Redressal agencies, monitoring implementation of the Act.
• A separate National and State Fundbe created to provide financial support to the persons with disabilities.

Shortcomings of the act

• The Bill strangely makes the clauses on non-discrimination in employment mandatory only in government establishments.
• The Bill continues with the 1995 act’s provision of having a chief commissioner and state commissioners. Neither the commissioners nor any of the members of their advisory committees are required to be Persons with Disabilities.
• Despite a Supreme Court judgment in 2013 that reservations should be decided on the basis of the total number of vacancies in a particular cadre, rather than the posts identified by the government to be filled by persons with benchmark disabilities, the bill has stuck to the latter.
• Also, like it does for the institutions wanting to be registered as ones for PWDs, the bill does not specify the time frame for a certificate of disability to be issued. This gives PWDs no way to address the trials and tribulations they face when tackling the bureaucracy in receiving what has been their right for years now.
• The amended bill does define public buildings and public facilities and services towards making such infrastructure accessible to PWDs in a “barrier-free” manner. However, for all the benefits that this bill strives to provide, basic issues of accessibility, including to information and communication technology, and certification of disability remain a distant unfulfilled dream in the absence of any political will.

Way forward

• Although RPWD Act, 2016 is a rights-based legislation, the success of the statute will largely depend on the proactive measures taken by the respective state governments on its implementation.
• It is time to leverage this vast human capital. It is hoped that the proposed new law, a robust rights-based legislation with a strong institutional mechanism, shall ensure enjoyment of rights by persons with disabilities on an equal basis with the non-disabled citizens of India.
• Many disability certificates can now be issued by primary health care doctors after specific training, which will be a boon to many disabled patients in rural areas. However, the disability guidelines should have also given the power of certification to the private practising doctors, so that the shortage of human resources could have been taken care of, with adequate checks and balances.
• Considering the sociocultural prejudices against them, and the inability, rather the refusal, to keep in mind the needs of PWDs, this bill, as was the fate of the 1995 act, will go only so far to ensure for them the rights that should have been a given. Till they are treated as second-class citizens, and not recognised as capable individuals in their own right, India will continue to be an unjust and inequitable society.

Conclusion

                Until each of us is firmly committed to the idea of implementing the two fundamental changes sketched above, we will continue to live in an environment in which, even as we sing praises of the disabled who achieve success despite the obstacles placed on their path, we do not pause to reflect on what it is that makes it so hard for them to succeed in the first place and what we can do to reverse this state of affairs.

Value addition

Major provisions of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016:

• Disabilities covered:
  • Disability has been defined based on an evolving and dynamic concept.
  • The types of disabilities have been increased from existing 7 to 21 and the Central Government will have the power to add more types of disabilities.
  • Persons with “benchmark disabilities” are defined as those certified to have at least 40 per cent of the disabilities specified above.
• Rights and entitlements
  • Responsibility has been cast upon the appropriate governments to take effective measures to ensure that the persons with disabilities enjoy their rights equally with others.
  • Additional benefits such as reservation in higher education (not less than 5%), government jobs (not less than 4 %), reservation in allocation of land, poverty alleviation schemes (5% allotment) etc. have been provided for persons with benchmark disabilities and those with high support needs.
  • Every child with benchmark disability between the age group of 6 and 18 years shall have the right to free education.
  • Government funded educational institutions as well as the government recognized institutions will have to provide inclusive education to the children with disabilities.
  • For strengthening the Prime Minister’s Accessible India Campaign, stress has been given to ensure accessibility in public buildings (both Government and private) in a prescribed time-frame.
• Guardianship
  • The Act provides for grant of guardianship by District Court under which there will be joint decision – making between the guardian and the persons with disabilities.
• Establishment of Authorities
  • Broad based Central & State Advisory Boards on Disability are to be set up to serve as apex policy making bodies at the Central and State level.
  • Office of Chief Commissioner of Persons with Disabilities has been strengthened who will now be assisted by 2 Commissioners and an Advisory Committee comprising of not more than 11 members drawn from experts in various disabilities.
  • Similarly, the office of State Commissioners of Disabilities has been strengthened who will be assisted by an Advisory Committee comprising of not more than 5 members drawn from experts in various disabilities.
  • The Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities and the State Commissioners will act as regulatory bodies and Grievance Redressal agencies and also monitor implementation of the Act.
  • District level committees will be constituted by the State Governments to address local concerns of PwDs. Details of their constitution and the functions of such committees would be prescribed by the State Governments in the rules.
  • Creation of National and State Fund will be created to provide financial support to the persons with disabilities. The existing National Fund for Persons with Disabilities and the Trust Fund for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities will be subsumed with the National Fund.
• Penalties for offences
  • The Act provides for penalties for offences committed against persons with disabilities and also violation of the provisions of the new law.
  • Any person who violates provisions of the Act, or any rule or regulation made under it, shall be punishable with imprisonment up to six months and/ or a fine of Rs 10,000, or both. For any subsequent violation, imprisonment of up to two years and/or a fine of Rs 50,000 to Rs five lakh can be awarded.
  • Whoever intentionally insults or intimidates a person with disability, or sexually exploits a woman or child with disability, shall be punishable with imprisonment between six months to five years and fine.
  • Special Courts will be designated in each district to handle cases concerning violation of rights of PwDs.

General Studies – 2

7. When civil servants are perceived as neutral and free from political influence, it enhances public trust in government institutions. Neutrality enables them to focus on the merit of policies and programs, making decisions based on their professional expertise rather than political considerations. Discuss.

Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India

Introduction

Civil service neutrality refers to political impartiality. Neutrality is not being biased in providing facts, feedback, opinions, etc. to the political executive or diligently carrying out tasks ordered by the government, irrespective of which political party’s government is in power.

Body:

A civil servant is needed to be politically neutral

• Neutrality depicts that public officials are not slaves to either the politicians or any other authority other than the moral authority of the Constitution.
• It shows that the principle of neutrality implies a measure of independence both from the partisan interests of the government of the day and the exogenous agenda that prompts certain social groups to cow others down to humiliating vulnerability.
• Bureaucracy should be neutral in terms of ideology and politics. So that there will not be an affinity to a particular class or ideology.
• For a genuine public official, commitment to constitutional principles is not only a lifelong project but, more importantly, it can be carried out without any political or ideological mediation.
• If bureaucracy won’t be neutral then it cannot lend its whole-hearted support to the existing political system, and to the economic and political system if any radical changes are introduced.
• Without neutrality, there can be a close nexus between bureaucracy and large-scale enterprises which could further lead to crony capitalism.
• By and large, the spirit of neutrality imbedded by civil servants enables them to perform their duties in a detached and impartial manner.

Way forward

• As a civil servant, one has the responsibility towards public and must adhere to constitutional principles keeping his conscience intact. His primary job is to perform Nishkama Karma (selfless and desire less duty).
• Independent Civil Services Board should be set up, as it directed by the Supreme Court to take care of all service matters with objectivity and independently of political consideration.
• Earnestly implementing RTI Act, especially the pro-active disclosure clause so as to bring transparency in official functioning, breaking the unholy nexus.
• Effective performance appraisal of civil servants by independent body and aligning it with their promotions, incentives and other service conditions.

Conclusion

Impartiality forms an essential foundational values for civil services. Impartiality ensures equality without any bias and prejudices in the general.

8. India-Canada relations have been historically characterized by diplomatic cooperation, trade ties, and a shared commitment to democratic values. However, recent events have led to a rift between the two nations. Examine.

Reference: The Hindu

Introduction

India-Canada bilateral ties are underpinned by shared values of democracy, pluralism, expanding economic engagement, regular high level interactions and long-standing people-to-people ties. India and Canada have longstanding bilateral relationship based on shared democratic values, the multi-cultural, multi-ethnic and multi-religious nature of two societies and strong people-to-people contacts.

Current tensions between India and Canada escalated when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, designated as a terrorist by India. India rejected the allegations and accused Canada of sheltering Khalistani extremists.

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India- Canada Bilateral Relations:

Rift in relations between India and Canada:

Way forward

• India’s growing economy offers opportunities for a G-7 country such as Canada, e.g. the emergence of a significant middle-class consumer population, improvement in the business climate, a booming service sector and a robust demand for natural resources
  • Canada, being an advanced and resource-rich economy can cement better ties with India for a win-win situation
• Energyis another area of emerging cooperation for the two countries
  • According to the Oil Processing and Exporting Countries (OPEC), World Oil Outlook Report 2040, India’s oil demand will double by 2040
  • In times of growing pressure from the US to cut oil imports from Iran, Canada could be an alternative energy source for India
• The infrastructure and transportsectors, too, are potential areas of cooperation and investment.
  • India’s ambitious ‘smart cities’ initiative creates opportunities for Canadian firms, to undertake infrastructure projects in various Indian cities
  • Also, Canada’s experience in developing environment-friendly urban infrastructure can prove beneficial for India

Conclusion

                              While India-Canada relations have faced challenges, there is a growing recognition of the potential benefits and opportunities in various areas of cooperation. Efforts are being made to deepen understanding and strengthen the bilateral relationship between the two nations.

General Studies – 3

9. The Rashtriya Gokul Mission plays a significant role in addressing the challenges in the livestock sector, including genetic improvement, productivity, and the conservation of indigenous cattle breeds. Examine.

Reference: Down to Earth , Insights on India

Introduction

The Rashtriya Gokul Mission is an initiative launched by the Government of India in December 2014 with the aim of conserving and developing indigenous cattle breeds in the country. It specifically focuses on enhancing the productivity and genetic improvement of cattle, thereby contributing to the overall growth and sustainability of the livestock sector.

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About Rashtriya Gokul Mission

• It was initiated in 2014 with a focus on the conservation and development of indigenous breeds and improve their genetic makeup.
• The scheme is implemented on 100% grant-in-aid basis. The components include:
• Establishment of integrated indigenous cattle centres – Gokul Gram
• Establishment of breeder’s societies – Gopalan Sangh
• Gopal Ratna award to Farmers and Kamadhenu award to breeders’ societies
• National Kamdhenu Breeding Centres are being established as Centres of Excellence
• Provision for capital subsidy up to Rs. 200 lakh for setting up breeding farm with at least 200 milch cows/ buffalo using latest breeding technology.
• E-Pashu Haat– An e-market portal connecting breeders and farmers to provide quality- disease free bovine germplasm
• Pashu Sanjivni: An Animal Wellness Programme with the provision of animal health cards along with UID identification

 Significance

• Genetic Improvement
  • Selective Breeding Programs: The mission emphasizes the implementation of selective breeding programs to improve the genetic potential of indigenous cattle breeds. This involves identifying high-performing animals and using them for breeding to pass on desirable traits to future generations.
  • Artificial Insemination (AI): The mission encourages the widespread adoption of artificial insemination techniques to ensure controlled breeding and to introduce superior genetics into the population.
  • Embryo Transfer Technology (ETT): ETT is employed to multiply the progeny of high-quality animals, thereby accelerating the genetic improvement process.
• Productivity Enhancement
  • Nutrition Management: The mission aims to improve the nutritional status of cattle through better feeding practices and the promotion of balanced diets. This helps in enhancing milk and meat production.
  • Healthcare and Disease Management: The program includes measures to ensure better healthcare for cattle, including vaccination drives and disease control measures. Healthy animals are more productive.
• Conservation of Indigenous Breeds
  • Identification and Documentation: The mission identifies and documents indigenous cattle breeds, recognizing their unique genetic traits, adaptability to local environments, and cultural significance.
  • Conservation Centers and Facilities: It establishes Gokul Grams and integrated indigenous cattle centers to serve as hubs for the conservation and development of native cattle breeds.
  • Preventing Genetic Erosion: By promoting and preserving indigenous breeds, the mission helps prevent genetic erosion, which occurs when certain breeds are lost or diluted due to crossbreeding with exotic or high-yielding breeds.
• Livelihoods and Rural Economy
  • Empowering Farmers: The Rashtriya Gokul Mission empowers farmers, especially those in rural areas, by providing them with access to better livestock management practices, improved breeds, and market linkages for their products.
  • Income Diversification: Improved livestock productivity contributes to income diversification for farmers, reducing their dependence on traditional agriculture alone.
• Sustainability and Environmental Impact:
  • Adaptability to Local Environments: Indigenous breeds are often better adapted to local climates and conditions, making them more sustainable in the long run.
  • Reduced Environmental Footprint: By prioritizing indigenous breeds, the mission supports a more sustainable approach to livestock farming, as these animals often require fewer external inputs and have lower environmental impacts compared to exotic breeds.

Conclusion

The revised scheme of NLM coupled with the Rashtriya Gokul Mission and the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund has the potential to dramatically enhance the productivity and traceability standards of our livestock.

Value addition

Livestock sector in India

• Animal rearing has multidimensional potential. India is the highest livestock owner of the world.
• Animal husbandry refers to livestock raising and selective breeding. It is the management and care of animals in which the genetic qualities and behaviour of animals are further developed for profit.
• It is a major risk mitigation approach for small and marginal farmers, particularly across the rain-fed regions of India.
• It is at the centre of poverty alleviation programs from equity and livelihood standpoints.
• Livestock productivity has been identified as one of the seven sources of income growth by the Inter-Ministerial Committee under the government’s target of doubling farmers’ income by the year 2022.
• As per the 20th Livestock Census, the total Livestock population is 535.78 million in the country showing an increase of 4.6% over Livestock Census-2012.
• A large number of farmers depend upon animal husbandry for their livelihood. It supports the livelihood of almost 55% of the rural population.
• As per the Economic Survey-2021, the contribution of Livestock in total agriculture and allied sector Gross Value Added (at Constant Prices) has increased from 24.32% (2014-15) to 28.63% (2018-19).
• For instance, Operation Flood, launched in 1970, helped dairy farmers direct their own development, increased milk production, augmented rural incomes and ensured reasonable prices for consumers.

10. Gaganyaan mission would mark a historic achievement for India. Despite the technical and financial challenges associated with human spaceflight, it underscores the importance of India’s endeavours in advancing its space capabilities. Discuss.

Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India

Introduction

Mission Gaganyaan is India’s first Human Space Flight Programme which aims to make India the fourth nation in the world to launch a Human Spaceflight Mission. So far, only the USA, Russia and China have launched human spaceflight missions.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) commenced the first uncrewed developmental flight of its ‘Gaganyaan’ human spaceflight mission from Sriharikota, designated TV-D1. The launch vehicle, a single-stage rocket, carried a crew module fit with a crew-escape system (CES) to an altitude of 12 km. There, the CES detached itself with the crew module from the rocket and climbed up to 17 km. In response to a command, the CES separated from the crew module, leaving the module to reorient itself before dropping over the Bay of Bengal. Its descent was slowed first by drogue parachutes and then by the main parachutes. Finally, the module splashed into the Bay a short distance from Sriharikota, where the Indian Navy hauled it out..

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Aims & Objectives of the Mission:

• Enhancement of science and technology levels in the country
• A national project involving several institutes, academia and industry
• Improvement of industrial growth
• Inspiring youth
• Development of technology for social benefits
• Improving international collaboration

Relevance of a Manned Space Mission for India:

• Boost to industries: The Indian industry will find large opportunities through participation in the highly demanding Space missions. Gaganyaan Mission is expected will source nearly 60% of its equipment from the Indian private sector.
• Employment: According to the ISRO chief, the Gaganyaan mission would create 15,000 new employment opportunities, 13,000 of them in private industry and the space organisation would need an additional manpower of 900.
• Technological development: Human Space flights are frontier field in the science and technology. The challenges the Human Space Flights provide to India, and the benefits accruing from taking up those missions will be very high and will lead to further thrust for technological developments in India
• Spurs research and development: It will boost good research and technology development. With a large number of researchers with proper equipment involved, HSF will thrust significant research in areas such as materials processing, astro-biology, resources mining, planetary chemistry, planetary orbital calculus and many other areas
• Motivation: Human space flight will provide that inspiration to the youth and also the national public mainstream. It would inspire young generation into notable achievements and enable them to play their legitimate role in challenging future activities
• Prestige: India will be the fourth country to launch human space mission. The Gaganyaan will not only bring about prestige to the nation but also establish India’s role as a key player in the space industry

Challenges:

• For a manned mission, the key distinguishing capabilities that ISRO has had to develop include the ability
  • to bring the spacecraft back to Earth after flight
  • to build a spacecraft in which astronauts can live in Earth-like conditions in space
• India is yet to perfect fool-proof launch vehicle technology, the basic requirement for a manned space mission.
• The Polar Satellite launch vehicle and the Geosynchronous Launch vehicle, the two Indian spacecraft deployed to launch satellites and modules into space, are yet to be man-rated.
• India does not even have the facilities to train astronauts.
• ISRO has not been able to put in place India’s own Global Positioning System in spite of completing the NavIC due to dysfunctional atomic clocks in the satellites, rendering the fleet a dud.
• The launchpad at the Sriharikota spaceport, the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, will have to be enhanced for the human mission.
• While the launch vehicle, crew module, re-entry technology, crew escape system are in place, monitoring and tracking systems, Environmental Control & Life Support System (ELCSS), space suit and crew support systems are still in the developmental phase.

Way forward

• It is important to ensure engagements at political level to obtain long term commitment for India’s human space flight missions
• Financial implications of a long-term human space-flight programme development should be assessed and the returns and benefits should be clearly articulated
• It is important to overcome the technological challenges to ensure a safe, successful manned space mission. International collaboration in this domain can help India ensure a robust technology for its HSF programme.
• Selection of Indians for astronauts will be an important step. Procedures and specifications for astronauts and a rigorous selection process is suggested.

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