[Mission 2024] Insights SECURE SYNOPSIS: 2 December 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:

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General Studies – 1

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1. Describe in detail the process of rat hole mining and explain the challenges linked to this practice.

Reference: Indian Express. , Insights on India.

Introduction

Rathole mining involves digging of very small tunnels, usually only 3-4 feet high, which workers (often children) enter and extract coal. It is broadly of two types.

• Side-cutting procedure: Narrow tunnels are dug on the hill slopes and workers go inside until they find the coal seam. The coal seam in hills of Meghalaya is very thin, less than 2 m in most cases.
• Box-cutting procedure:A rectangular opening is made, varying from 10 to 100 sq. m, and through that is dug a vertical pit, 100 to 400 feet deep. Once the coal seam is found, rat-hole-sized tunnels are dug horizontally through which workers can extract the coal.

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Background

Two scientific methods of mining — vertical drilling and auger or horizontal drilling — were employed to rescue 41 workers on November 28 after 17 days of being trapped in the partially-collapsed Silkyara tunnel in Uttarakhand. The last leg of the rescue involved rat-hole mining, once used extensively in Meghalaya.

Though many agencies helped make it happen, the courage and tenacity of the rat-hole miners and those who worked for long hours for the cutting operations inside the pipe were truly inspirational. They are the real heroes, along with the 41 trapped workers who displayed unflagging fortitude.

NGT ban on Rathole Mining:

                The National Green Tribunal (NGT) banned it in 2014, and retained the ban in 2015, on grounds of it being unscientific and unsafe for workers.The NGT order bans not only rat-hole mining but all “unscientific and illegal mining”. The court placed much emphasis on a report of O P Singh, professor of environmental studies of North Eastern Hills University of Shillong that explained the grave environmental concerns and health concerns.

Major issues associated with Rathole Mining:

Ecology:

• In their petition to the NGT, Assam’s All Dimasa Students’ Union and the Dima Hasao District Committee complained that rat-hole mining in Meghalaya had caused the water in the Kopili river (it flows through Meghalaya and Assam) to turn acidic.
• No biological lives are seen in the river. The rocks in the river bed turned yellowish, which also indicates flow of acid mine drainage
• Ecologically Sensitive Zones are being degraded due to increased mining activities.
• Entire roadsides in and around mining areas are used for piling of coal which is a major source of air, water and soil pollution.
• Off road movement of trucks and other vehicles in the area caused further damage to the fragile ecology of the area which lies in the Zone 5 seismic area.

Risk to lives:

• During the rainy season, water floods into the mining areas resulting in death of many employees/workers.
• Health hazards due to poisonous gases like Hydrogen Sulphide, Methane can cause instant death of miners.
• The lack of regulations, treacherous work conditions lead to over-work and meagre pay.

Economic:

• According to government reports, the coal mining industry was among the biggest revenue earners for the state, generating about Rs. 700 crore annually, prior to its ban in 2014.
• The value of extracted coal stored in Meghalaya was officially estimated at over Rs. 3,078 crore four years ago.
• The Katoki panel reported that nearly 24,000 illegal mines are present in Meghalaya as interpreted from satellite images.

Reasons for its continuance:

Loopholes in the law:

• The ban has been rendered meaningless by the Supreme court-sanctioned permission to transport “already-mined” coal till January 2019. Mine owners have used this loophole to continue mining operations illegally.
• The State of Meghalaya has promulgated a mining policy of 2012, which does not deal with rat-hole mining, but on the contrary, deprecates it.
• Meghalaya comes under the 6^th Schedule of Constitution. The provisions allow for community ownership of land and autonomy over its use. However they are taken over by private players and tribals are left helpless.

Lack of Political and Executive will:

• The unholy nexus of Politicians and Contractors: About 33% of political candidates have stakes in coal mining and transport companies, thus lobbying against the ban order.
• A committee (headed by Retired Justice B.P. Katoki) appointed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has blamed poor implementation of NGT order by executive.
• The committee revealed that the state government shockingly has no records about the rat-hole mines, number of workers involved and any other data relating to death or injuries to the workers.

Geological Conditions:

• No other method would be economically viable in Meghalaya, where the coal seam is extremely thin unlike that in Jharkhand (where open-cast mining is followed).
• Sustainable extraction methods are likely to be technology-intensive and expensive. Not the preferred option of mine owners, legal and otherwise.

Lack of Alternate Sources of Livelihood:

• It takes long to locate the quarry as local people were scared to divulge information, fearing a backlash from mine owners and lose their livelihood.
• It gives quick money for day-to-day survival.
• It is a cheap method for the mine owners to extract coal and presence of abundance of Migrant labour.

Way Forward:

• The Supreme Court must rectify this situation by banning transport of all coal, or by lifting the ban but enforcing regulation to make the mining non-polluting and safe.
• The State mining policy should include ways of alternative towards Rathole mining.
• The Schedule VI provisions must be implemented in true letter and spirit by granting community ownership rights. Involvement of Autonomous District and Regional Councils to further implement the orders is needed.
• Alternative employment or economic engagement for the coal mine owners and labourers must be provided. g.: MGNREGA.
• Strict implementation of Child labour prevention laws and Right to Education Act for the children involved in mining.
• Use of Satellite imagery and drone technology to find the locations of illegal mines as suggested by BP Katoki committee.
• Involvement of Social Activists, NGO’s and Local communityand education of the people about perils of rathole mining.

Conclusion:

In May 2023, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said the Coal Ministry approved mining leases for four of the 17 prospective licence applicants. This would lead to the commencement of ‘scientific’ mining ensuring minimal environmental impact through sustainable and legally compliant extraction procedures. Anti-mining activists, who are assaulted by miners off and on, said that ‘scientific’ would eventually be a fancy tag in a State where profit has driven coal mining.

 

2. In evaluating Napoleon’s downfall, it is essential to consider both external military factors and internal challenges.

Reference: Indian Express.

Introduction

Despite Napoleon Bonaparte’s early successes in restoring order to France at the beginning of the 1800s, the ten years after he became Emperor would be mired by failures, eventually leading to his downfall.

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Internal challenges

At Tilsit (1807), Napoleon was at the height of his power. But from 1808 to 1814 his power was continuously on the decline. His fall was as rapid as his rise.

• Continental blockade: One of this first moves in attempting to conquer or gain an advantage over much of Europe came with the Continental System. This decree, enacted by Napoleon, was meant to weaken England. In it, he encouraged any countries who were either neutral (meaning they didn’t take sides) or who were allies with France to stop doing business with England. It was his hope that England would suffer economically. The Continental System, however, failed, due in part to the fact that England had natural resources to sustain itself. The country that was weakened, ironically, was France.
• Peninsular war: From 1808 to 1814, France was engaged in the Peninsular War against Spain and Portugal, who were aided in the conflict by Great Britain. Napoleon had set his sights on conquering the Iberian Peninsula and actually succeeded in doing so when he conquered Spain in 1808. He installed his older brother, Joseph as the King of Spain. His short rule lasted from 1808 to 1813.
  • This upset the Spaniards, who had once been allies with France. The Peninsular War turned out to be quite costly, and although the French won against Spain, this was a turning point in Napoleon’s reign: it was a moment in which his previous allies realized how land-greedy he was becoming.
• Russian invasion: On June 24, 1812, the Grande Armée, led by French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, crossed the Neman River, invading Russia from present-day Poland. The result was a disaster for the French.

External military factors

• In 1812, the French under Napoleon embarked on an invasion of Russia. He had hoped to gain political advantage with both Russia and Poland as a result of this invasion, and to defeat Russian troops.
• It was, however, a total disaster.
• Not only was it freezing cold, but the Russians were certainly not open to any engagements with the French.
• They retreated, but not before enacted a “scorched earth” policy, one in which they burned all of the crops as they moved further away from the French.
• This left Napoleon’s troops with little to eat. All totalled, the French army would lose hundreds of thousands of men during the six-month invasion.
• By June of 1815, Napoleon’s list of enemy countries had grown to include Britain, Austria, Prussia, and Russia due to his actions.
• The four countries all braced themselves for what they assumed would be a war with Napoleon’s forces, and when he got wind of this, he thought he might catch them by surprise and try to defeat them.
• He subsequently invaded Belgium, the spark which ignited the Battle of Waterloo. Napoleon and his forces were defeated at this battle, which would mark the final defeat of his reign.

 

Conclusion

The invasion lasted six months, and the Grande Armée lost more than 300,000 men. Russia lost more than 200,000. A single battle (the Battle of Borodino) resulted in more than 70,000 casualties in one day. The invasion of Russia effectively halted Napoleon’s march across Europe, and resulted in his first exile, to the Mediterranean island of Elba.

 

 

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General Studies – 2

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3. Is it time to revisit the criteria for special category status (SCS) and include others into this exclusive category by excluding those who do not need such assistance any longer? Critically analyse.

Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India

 

Introduction

Special Category Status (SCS) a classification given by the Centre to assist development of states that face geographical and socio-economic disadvantages. This classification was done on the recommendations of the Fifth Finance Commission in 1969. It was based on the Gadgil formula.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s Cabinet passed a resolution seeking Special Category Status (SCS) for Bihar, following findings from the “Bihar Caste-based Survey, 2022,” indicating significant poverty.

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Background: Objectives of SCS and reasons for implementation

• The concept of a special category status was first introduced in 1969 when the fifth Finance Commission sought to provide certain disadvantaged states with preferential treatment in the form of central assistance and tax breaks, establishing special development boards, reservation in local government jobs, educational institutions, etc.
• This formula was named after the then Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, Dr Gadgil Mukherjee and is related to the transfer of assistance to the states by centre under various schemes.
• Initially, three states; Assam, Nagaland and Jammu & Kashmir were granted special status but from 1974-1979, five more states were added under the special category. These include Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Sikkim and Tripura.
• In 1990, with the addition of Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram, the states increased to 10. The state of Uttarakhand was given special category status in 2001.
• But after the dissolution of the planning commission and the formation of NITI Aayog, the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission were implemented which meant the discontinuation of the Gadgil formula-based grants.

Various criteria on which SCS is granted

• The rationale for special status is that certain states, because of inherent features, have a low resource base and cannot mobilize resources for development.
• The state which is facing the problem of resources crunch must get the benefit.
• Main key criteria are:
  • Low per capita income
  • Non-viable nature of state finances
  • Economic and infrastructural backwardness
  • Presence of sizeable tribal population
  • Hilly and difficult terrain
  • Strategic location along international borders
  • Low population density
• Must be economically backward with poor infrastructure.

 

Performance of states granted SCS over the years

• States which are granted special category status enjoy several benefits.
• These include :
  • Preferential treatment in getting central funds
  • Concession on excise duty to attract industries to the state
  • A significant 30% of the centre’s gross budget also goes special category states
  • These states can avail the benefit of debt-swapping and debt relief schemes
• In the case of Centrally Sponsored Schemes and external aid, Special Category States get it in the ratio of 90% as grant, and 10% as loans.
• Other states, however, get 30% of their funds as grants f) Special Category States also get tax breaks to attract investment
• A Special Category Status catalyses the inflow of private investments and generates employment and additional revenue for the state.
  • Besides, the State can create more welfare-based schemes from the new savings since the Center bears 90% of the expenditure on all Centrally Sponsored Schemes.
  • Further, more grants from the Center helps in building state infrastructure and social-sector projects.
• The Constitution of India does not include any provision for the categorization of any state as a Special Category Status state.
  • However, in the past, Central Planned Assistance were given to certain states on the ground that they are historically disadvantaged in comparison to others.

Issues with SCS status

• 14th Finance Commission recommendation: The Commission did away with the ‘special category’ status for states, except for the North-eastern and three hill states.
• NDA government which came to power at the Centre in 2014 has been saying that the 14th Finance Commission doesn’t provide for such treatment to Andhra Pradesh.
• The Constitution never mentioned it: The commission appears to have been guided by the fact that the Constitution never categorized some states as special, treating all of them on an equal footing.
• No power to allocate funds: the NITI Aayog, which has replaced the Planning Commission, has no powers to allocate funds. Therefore, the discretion that the ruling party at the Centre had to dole out special favors to states through the Plan panel, no longer exists.

Measures needed

• The Constitution of India does not include any provision for the categorization of any state in India as a ‘special category state.
• However, a wide range of provisions are available to as many as 10 states that have been listed under Articles 371, 371-A to 371-H, and 371-J.
• Some of these states are Maharashtra and Gujarat, Nagaland, Assam, Manipur, Andhra Pradesh, Sikkim, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh and Telangana.
• Moreover, if states are in need of additional support, Centre may give a special package on case-to-case basis.

Conclusion

The intention behind these provisions is to safeguard the interest and aspirations of certain backward regions or to protect cultural and economic interests of the tribal people or to deal with the disturbed law and order in some parts. However, such categorisation leads to States playing victim card for ulterior motives as well. Hence, special packages to states based on merit can be a good way forward. An independent committee with statutory backing and executive powers with representation from states and centre may make a recommendation in this regard.

 

 

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General Studies – 3

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4. The money market is a fundamental component of the Indian financial system, providing a platform for short-term financing and the implementation of monetary policy.

Reference: Live Mint , Insights on India

Introduction

The money market refers to trading in very short-term debt investments. At the wholesale level, it involves large-volume trades between institutions and traders. At the retail level, it includes money market mutual funds bought by individual investors and money market accounts opened by bank customers.

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Background

• An individual may invest in the money market by purchasing a money market mutual fund, buying a Treasury bill, or opening a money market account at a bank.
• Money market investments are characterized by safety and liquidity, with money market fund shares targeted at $1.
• Money market accounts offer higher interest rates than a normal savings account, but there are higher account minimums and limits on withdrawals.

Importance of money market to Indian economy

• Development of Trade and Industry: It is an important source of financing trade and industry, as it provides for short-term funds adequately and quickly
  • The money market, through discounting operations and commercial papers, finances the short-term working capital requirements of trade and industry and facilities the development of industry and trade both — national and international
• Development Of Capital Market: The short-term rates of interest and the conditions that prevail in the money market influence the long-term interest, as well as the resource mobilization in capital market
• Smooth Functioning of Commercial Banks: The money market provides the commercial banks with facilities for temporarily employing their surplus funds in easily realizable assets. The banks can get back the funds quickly, in times of need, by resorting to the money market.
  • It also enables commercial banks to meet their statutory requirements of cash reserve ratio (CRR) and Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR) by utilizing the money market mechanism
• Effective Central Bank Control: A developed money market helps the effective functioning of a central bank. It facilities effective implementation of the monetary policy of a central bank
• Formulation Of Suitable Monetary Policy: Conditions prevailing in a money market serve as a true indicator of the monetary state of an economy.
  • Hence, it serves as a guide to the Government in formulating and revising the monetary policy, depending upon the monetary conditions prevailing in the market
• Non-Inflationary Source of Finance To Government: A developed money market helps the Government to raise short-term funds through the treasury bills floated in the market.
  • In the absence of a developed money market, the Government would be forced to print and issue more money or borrow from the central bank; Both of which would lead to an increase in prices and the consequent inflationary trend in the economy

 

Conclusion

There are several pros and cons of money market investments. Most money market securities are considered extremely low-risk, due to the protection of FDIC insurance, backing by a government or bank, or the high creditworthiness of the borrowers. They are also very liquid, meaning that they can readily be exchanged for cash at short notice.

The tradeoff of having low risk is that these investments also have low returns. Not only do money markets underperform other asset classes, they often don’t even keep pace with inflation. In addition, any fees associated with an account can easily eat into those slim returns.

 

5. Discuss the advantages of optical fibre technology over conventional technologies used for communication. Throw light on their applications.

Reference: The Hindu

Introduction

An optical fibre is a flexible and transparent fibre made by drawing glass (silica) or plastic to a diameter slightly thicker than that of human hair. Optical fibre is the technology associated with data transmission using light pulses travelling along with a long fibre which is usually made of plastic or glass.

Optical fiber works on the principle of total internal reflection. When light travelling in an optically dense medium hits a boundary at a steep angle (larger than the critical angle for the boundary), the light is completely reflected. This is called total internal reflection.

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Design Of An Optical Fibre

Optical fiber is made of a thin glass core (diameter 10 to 100µm) surrounded by a glass coating called cladding, protected by a jacket of plastic.

A Fibre Optic Relay System consists of the following components:

1. The Transmitter – It produces the light signals and encodes them to fit to transmit.
2. The Optical Fibre – The medium for transmitting the light pulse (signal).
3. The Optical Receiver – It receives the transmitted light pulse (signal) and decodes them to be fit to use.
4. The Optical Regenerator – Necessary for long-distance data transmission.

advantages of optical fibre technology over conventional technologies

• Digital signals: Optical fibers are ideally suited for carrying digital information, which is especially useful in computer networks.
• Higher carrying capacity: Because optical fibers are thinner than copper wires, more fibers can be bundled into a given-diameter cable than copper wires. This allows more phone lines to go over the same cable or more channels to come through the cable into your business or home.
• Less signal degradation: The loss of signal in optical fiber is less than in copper wire.
• Less expensive: Several miles of optical cable can be made cheaper than equivalent lengths of copper wire. This saves your provider and you money.
• Thinner: Optical fibers can be drawn to smaller diameters than copper wire. Light signals: Unlike electrical signals in copper wires, light signals from one fiber do not interfere with those of other fibers in the same cable. This means clearer phone conversations or TV reception.
• Low power: Because signals in optical fibers degrade less, lower-power transmitters can be used instead of the high-voltage electrical transmitters needed for copper wires. Again, this saves your provider and you money.
• Non-flammable: Because no electricity is passed through optical fibers, there is no fire hazard.
• Lightweight: An optical cable weighs less than a comparable copper wire cable. Fiber-optic cables take up less space in the ground.
• Flexible: Because fiber optics are so flexible and can transmit and receive light, they are used in many flexible digital cameras for medical imaging in bronchoscopes, endoscopes, laparoscopes; for mechanical imaging used in inspecting mechanical welds in pipes and engines (in airplanes, rockets, space shuttles, cars); and in Plumbing, to inspect sewer lines.

 

Applications

Telephone

Telephone calls are made between different two locations that are near or far away from each other. Implementation of such communication between two different places is a difficult task. Therefore optical fibers are used that make this connection and communication between two far places easy and clear.

Medical Applications

The structure of the optical fibers is very flexible and is of small size. Therefore optical fiber is used in medical applications to view the internal body parts. During the surgery of internal body parts, there is a need to transmit light, therefore, optical fiber is required.

CCTV cameras

Installation of CCTV cameras requires a high initial investment. So CCTV cameras and the applications that make use of them need to work properly for a long period of time. CCTV cameras are therefore installed using fibres optic cables for long use.

Computer Networking

In a network multiple systems are connected together. These systems are connected with the help of fibre optic cables. Fibre optic cables can connect the devices together that belongs to same network or another network. In these connected networks fibre optic cables can transmit the data fastly and efficiently as compared to other copper wires.

Internet

Internet is widely used for every application today. Fibre optic cables are majorly used in internet. Fibre optic cables are used in internet as they can transmit large amount of data and over long distances. Using fibre optic cables provides with advantages such as high transmission, flexibility, low weight etc. Therefore in internet fibre optic cables ae used.

Defence and Space related Applications

The most basic necessity in defence and space related applications is security.Fibre optic cables thus provides with more security of data. In space applications there are various tasks such as communication between satellites, high data transmission etc. This tasks can be performed with grater efficiency by fibre optic cables.

Automobile Industries

Today the automotive industries are expanding very rapidly.For lighting the interior and exterior parts and for providing the security fibre optics is widely used in vehicles. This fibre optic cables can helpt to transmit the light from one part to another and provides with faster communication between them.

Television Cables

The use of fiber optic cables for television is being widely increasing. Fibre optic cables have high speed and high bandwidth therefore they are used for the transmission of high-definition television. As compared with other copper wires fiber optic cables are cheaper but provide more features and benefits.

Mechanical Inspections

On-site inspection engineers use optical fibres to detect damages and faults which are at hard-to-reach places. Even plumbers use optical fibres for the inspection of pipes.

Conclusion

With a goal to securing communication and promoting quantum science, the Government of India announced a national mission in the Union Budget of 2020. The proposed budget for this ‘National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications’ is Rs 8,000 crore over a period of five years. The possibilities of fibre optic networks are growing at an accelerated rate, reaching all the way into our homes. Along with quantum optics, fibre optic communication stands on the cusp of a new era.

 

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

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General Studies – 1

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6. For a culturally diverse country like India, in the name of celebrating tradition and protection of cultural values only leads to the majority/powerful being dominant and aggressive towards the weak. Critically analyse.

Reference: The Hindu

Introduction

At its core, diversity signifies the acknowledgment and celebration of the unique attributes that each individual brings to the table. It extends a welcoming embrace to the myriad hues of thought, belief, heritage, and expression that together enrich the mosaic of our global community.

With its vast landmass, diverse climates, and ancient history, India boasts an astonishing array of languages, religions, traditions, cuisines, art forms, and lifestyles. Its diversity is evident in the coexistence of numerous ethnic groups, languages, and religious practices within its borders.

This diversity is deeply rooted in India’s history, where multiple civilizations have flourished and intermingled over millennia. From the Indus Valley Civilization to the Mughal Empire and beyond, India has been a melting pot of ideas, beliefs, and customs, which have influenced its architecture, literature, music, and way of life.

 

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Diversity leading to divisiveness

• Religious Differences and Communal Tensions: India is known for its religious diversity, with Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, and other religious groups coexisting. However, this diversity has, at times, led to religious tensions, conflicts, and even communal violence. Disagreements over religious practices, beliefs, and places of worship have resulted in incidents that have strained social cohesion.
  • Example: The Ayodhya dispute involving the Babri Masjid and Ram Janmabhoomi has been a longstanding religious conflict between Hindus and Muslims, resulting in communal tensions and violence over the years.
  • Delhi riots, KG Halli riots in Karnataka etc.
• Caste-based Discrimination: The caste system, deeply ingrained in India’s social fabric, has led to caste-based discrimination and inequalities. While measures have been taken to address these issues, caste-based conflicts and intolerance continue to exist, particularly in rural areas.
  • Eg: Even today instances in rural India have been reported where discrimination is seen against Dalits using public spaces.
• Linguistic Diversity and Regionalism: India’s linguistic diversity is vast, with hundreds of languages spoken across the country. However, linguistic diversity has sometimes fueled regionalism and separatist movements. Differences in language have occasionally led to tensions over language policies, state boundaries, and cultural identities.
  • Example: The movement for the separate state of Telangana emerged due to regional disparities and differences in language and culture, leading to protests and demands for the creation of a new state.
• Identity Politics and Reservation: Identity-based politics, such as caste-based reservations, though intended to uplift marginalized communities, have sometimes exacerbated divisions. Competitions for limited resources and opportunities have led to conflicts between different social groups.
  • Maratha reservation, Jat reservation issue are case in point.
• Political and Ideological Differences: India’s political landscape is characterized by a range of ideologies and parties representing various interests. These differences can escalate into intolerance and divisiveness, particularly during election campaigns, when rhetoric might target specific communities or groups.
• Ethnic and Tribal Conflicts: Tribal and ethnic diversity has sometimes resulted in conflicts over land, resources, and rights. Tribes and indigenous communities have at times been marginalized, leading to tensions between them and the larger society.
  • The Manipur violence and riots between Meiteis and Kukis is a black mark in Independent India’s history.
• Regional Differences and Autonomy: India’s vast geographical expanse encompasses various regions, each with its own distinct culture and identity. Regional differences can sometimes give rise to demands for greater autonomy or even separatist movements, leading to tension with the central government.
  • Example: The demand for a separate Gorkhaland state by the Gorkhas in West Bengal has resulted in conflicts with the state government, reflecting regional identity clashes and calls for autonomy.
• Social Media and Misinformation: While social media has connected people from diverse backgrounds, it has also been used to spread misinformation, hate speech, and divisive narratives. False narratives related to religious, ethnic, or cultural issues can easily spread online, exacerbating tensions.
• Historical Conflicts and Narratives: Different communities might have varying interpretations of historical events, which can lead to tensions and disputes. Historical grievances and narratives can contribute to intolerance and divisive attitudes.
• Economic Disparities: Socioeconomic disparities between different groups can lead to resentment and intolerance. When economic opportunities are unequally distributed, it can contribute to a sense of inequality and divisiveness.

Diversity in India despite challenges

• Festivals: India’s diverse festivals are a testament to its inclusivity. Diwali, celebrated by Hindus, is also enjoyed by Sikhs and Jains. Eid, observed by Muslims, sees participation from people of various faiths who join in the spirit of celebration. Holi, the festival of colors, is embraced across communities.
  • Eg: Initiatives like Ek Bharat Shresht Bharat
• Unity in Crisis: During times of crisis, communities come together irrespective of their differences. Instances like natural disasters or communal tensions often lead to neighbours and strangers helping one another without regard for religious or cultural background.
• Cultural Exchanges: Various art forms and cultural practices are appreciated and shared across communities. Classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam and Kathak are admired beyond their originating regions. Music genres, culinary traditions, and traditional attire find enthusiasts across the country.
• Interfaith Marriages: In recent times, interfaith marriages are becoming more common, exemplifying individuals’ willingness to embrace love and unity despite religious differences. Such unions often lead to cultural exchanges that enrich families and communities.
• Historical Sites: India’s historical sites and monuments often reflect the synthesis of diverse architectural styles and cultural influences. The Qutub Minar in Delhi, for instance, exhibits both Islamic and Hindu architectural elements.
• Language Bridges: While India has a multitude of languages, English and Hindi serve as bridges between different linguistic groups, enabling communication and interaction across regions.
• Cultural Heritage: UNESCO’s recognition of Indian cultural sites like the Taj Mahal, Jaipur’s cityscape, and Ahmedabad’s historic city center underscores the value placed on preserving and celebrating diverse heritage.
• Education and Workplaces: Educational institutions and workplaces often bring together people from different backgrounds, fostering understanding and cooperation. Students and professionals engage with peers from various regions, cultures, and languages, leading to a broader worldview.
• Cuisine: India’s culinary landscape is a testament to its diverse culture. People from all community relish dishes from across the country, appreciating the variety of flavors and ingredients that different regions offer.
• Constitutional Values: India’s Constitution enshrines the principles of equality, non-discrimination, and freedom of religion. Legal protections exist to ensure that individuals can practice their beliefs and cultures without fear of prejudice.
• Civil Society Initiatives: Various non-governmental organizations and community-driven initiatives work to promote understanding, tolerance, and collaboration among diverse groups. These efforts are visible in community projects, dialogues, and cultural events.

 

Conclusion

It’s important to note that while diversity can sometimes contribute to intolerance and divisiveness, these issues are not inevitable outcomes. They often arise due to historical, social, economic, and political factors. Efforts to promote understanding, tolerance, and dialogue among diverse communities are crucial for fostering unity and ensuring that diversity remains a source of strength rather than division.

 

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General Studies – 2

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7. The Indian Constitution is a living document that has undergone amendments to address the evolving needs of the society and the nation. It reflects the commitment to democratic principles, social justice, and the protection of individual rights and freedoms. Elaborate.

Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India

Introduction

The Constitution of India, often described as a living instrument, possesses a remarkable capacity for dynamism and adaptation. It is a constitution designed for a progressive society that evolves with the changing needs and aspirations of its people. One of the most significant areas where this dynamism is evident is in the expanding horizons of the right to life and personal liberty.

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Salient features of Indian constitution:

• Preamble of the Constitution:
  • The Preamble consists of the ideals, objectives and basic principles of the Constitution.
  • The salient features of the Constitution have developed directly and indirectly from these objectives which flow from the Preamble.
  • It asserts India to be a Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic and a welfare state committed to secure justice, liberty and equality for the people and for promoting fraternity, dignity the individual, and unity and integrity of the nation.
  • The Preamble is the nature of Indian state and the objectives it is committed to secure for the people.
• Democratic system:
  • The authority of the government rests upon the sovereignty of the people. The people enjoy equal political rights.
  • Free fair and regular elections are held for electing governments
• India is a Republic:
  • The Preamble declares India to be a Republic.
  • India is not ruled by a monarch or a nominated head of state. India has an elected head of state (President of India) who wields power for a fixed term of 5 years.
  • After every 5 years, the people of India indirectly elect their President.
• Union of States:
  • Article I of the Constitution declares, that “India that is Bharat is a Union of States.”
• Fundamental Rights and duties:
  • The Constitution of India grants and guarantees Fundamental Rights to its citizens.
  • The constitution of India confirms the basic principle that every individual is permitted to enjoy certain basic rights and part III of the Constitution deals with those rights which are known as fundamental right.
  • The Six FR include- Right to Equality; Right to Freedom; Right Against Exploitation; Right to Freedom of Religion; Cultural and Educational Rights and Right to Constitutional Remedies (Art. 32).
  • The fundamental rights are justiciable and are not absolute. Reasonable constraints can be imposed keeping in view the security-requirements of the state.
  • A new part IV (A) after the Directive Principles of State Policy was combined in the constitution by the 42nd Amendment, 1976 for fundamental duties.
• Directive Principles of State Policy:
  • A unique aspect of the Constitution is that it comprises of a chapter in the Directive Principles of State Policy.
  • These principles are in the nature of directives to the government to implement them to maintain social and economic democracy in the country.
• Parliamentary System:
  • The Constituent Assembly decided to espouse Parliamentary form of government both for the Centre and the states.
  • In Indian parliamentary system, distinction is made between nominal and real executive head.
  • The Council of Ministers is responsible before the Lok Sabha, The lower house of union parliament. There are close relations between executive and legislature.
• Federal structure of government:
  • A federal state is a state where a country is divided into smaller regions and the government is functioning at two levels.
  • The Indian Constitution has envisaged a federal structure for India considering the geographical vastness and the diversity of languages, region, religions, castes, etc.
  • Written Constitution, supremacy of the Constitution, division of powers between Union and States, bicameral Legislature, independent Judiciary, etc. are the features of Indian federation.
  • Scholars describe India as a ‘Quasi-Federation’ (K.C. Wheare) or as ‘a federation with a unitary bias, or even as ‘a Unitarian federation.’
• Bicameralism:
  • The Constitution provides for a Bicameral Legislature at the Union level and names it as the Union Parliament.
  • Its two Houses are: The Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.
• Universal Adult-Suffrage:
  • All men and women enjoy an equal right to vote. Each adult man and woman above the age of 18 years has the right to vote.
  • All registered voters get the opportunity to vote in elections.
• Single integrated State with Single Citizenship:
  • India is the single Independent and Sovereign integrated state.
  • All citizens enjoy a common uniform citizenship.
  • They are entitled to equal rights and freedoms, and equal protection of the state.
• Integrated Judicial System:
  • The Constitution provides for a single integrated judicial system common for the Union and the states.
  • The Supreme Court of India works at the apex level, High Courts at the state level and other courts work under the High Courts.
• Independent Judiciary
  • It is necessary to secure the philosophical foundations of the rule of law and democracy.
  • Firstly, the Constitution makers created a separate Judiciary independent of Legislature and Executive.
  • Secondly, the Constitution has ensured complete independence of Judiciary in the matters of administration and finances.
• Amending the Constitution of India:
  • Amending the Constitution of India is the procedure of making modifications to the nation’s fundamental law or supreme law.
  • The procedure of amendment in the constitution is laid down in Part XX (Article 368) of the Constitution of India.
  • This procedure guarantees the sanctity of the Constitution of India and keeps a check on uninformed power of the Parliament of India.
• Judicial Review:
  • The judiciary has significant position in Indian Constitution and it is also made independent of the legislature and the executive.
  • The Supreme Court of India stands at the peak of single integrated judicial system.
  • It operates as defender of fundamental rights of Indian citizens and guardian of the Constitution.
• Basic Structure doctrine:
  • The basic structure doctrine is an Indian judicial norm that the Constitution of India has certain basic features that cannot be changed or destroyed through amendments by the parliament.
  • The basic features of the Constitution have not been openly defined by the Judiciary.
  • At least, 20 features have been described as “basic” or “essential” by the Courts in numerous cases, and have been incorporated in the basic structure.
  • In Indira Gandhi v. Raj Narayan caseand also in the Minerva Mills case, it was witnessed that the claim of any particular feature of the Constitution to be a “basic” feature would be determined by the Court in each case that comes before it.
• Secularism:
  • In no other country of the world so many religions co-exist as in India. In view of such diversity the Constitution guarantees complete freedom of religion to all.
  • The citizens of our country are free to follow any religion and they enjoy equal rights without any distinction of caste, creed, religion or sex.
  • The State does not discriminate against anyone on the ground of his religion, nor can the State compel anybody to pay taxes for the support of any particular religion.
  • Everybody is equally entitled to freedom of conscience and the right freely to profess, practice and propagate religion.
  • The Constitution regards religion as a private affair of individuals and prohibits the State from interfering with it. The Constitution also grants various cultural rights to minorities.

Various amendments to showcase the flexibility and progressive nature of the Indian Constitution:

• First Amendment (1951): This amendment introduced Article 15(4) and Article 16(4),enabling the state to make special provisions for the advancement of socially and educationally backward classes and Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in public employment and education.
• Seventh Amendment (1956): This amendment reorganized states in Indiaon linguistic lines, a crucial step in recognizing the diversity of the nation.
• Ninth Amendment (1960): It added Article 31Band the Ninth Schedule, providing protection to certain laws from judicial review if they were intended to implement the directive principles of state policy.
• Seventy-Third Amendment (1992): This amendment empowered local self-government bodies (Panchayats) with constitutional status, reflecting the shift towards decentralized governance.
• Seventy-Fourth Amendment (1992): Similar to the Seventy-Third Amendment, this one granted constitutional status to Municipalities, emphasizing local governance.
• Ninety-Fourth Amendment (2006): Introduced Article 21-A, making education a fundamental right for children between 6 and 14 years of age.
• One Hundred and First Amendment (2016): Introduced the Goods and Services Tax (GST), a significant economic reform aimed at simplifying the tax structure and promoting economic integration.

Expanding horizons of the right to life and personal liberty:

• Right to Live with Dignity (Maneka Gandhi Case): The Supreme Court’s decision in the Maneka Gandhi vs. Union of India (1978) case established that the right to life includes the right to live with dignity.
  • This broad interpretation laid the foundation for subsequent rulings on personal liberty and dignity.
• Protection against Custodial Violence: In the D.K. Basu vs. State of West Bengal (1997) case, the Supreme Court issued comprehensive guidelines to prevent custodial torture, emphasizing the sanctity of the right to life.
• Right to livelihood: The Olga Tellis v. Bombay Municipal Corporation – 1985, established that the right to livelihood is an integral aspect of the right to life.
• Right to Privacy: In the digital age, the right to privacy has assumed new dimensions. The landmark judgment in the case of K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India (2017) recognized the right to privacy as a fundamental right, acknowledging that personal data protection is an integral aspect of an individual’s liberty.
• Decriminalization of Homosexuality: The Supreme Court’s historic judgment in Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India (2018) decriminalized homosexuality, emphasizing that sexual orientation is an essential attribute of privacy and personal liberty.
  • This decision marked a significant step towards recognizing diverse expressions of personal freedom.
• Environmental Rights: Courts have consistently interpreted this right to safeguard environmental protection and sustainable development, reflecting the evolving societal consciousness regarding ecological concerns.
  • In Subhash Kumar vs. the State of Bihar, the Supreme Court extended the right to life to encompass the right to breathe pollution-free air.
• Right to Health: In Paschim Banga Khet Mazdoor Samity vs. State of West Bengal (1996), the Supreme Court declared the right to health and medical care as fundamental to a life with dignity, making it a fundamental right under Article 21.
• Reproductive Rights: The right to reproductive autonomy and choices, including family planning and access to healthcare, is an integral aspect of personal liberty.
  • Courts have upheld this right, ensuring that individuals can make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
• Rights of LGBTQ+ Community: Beyond decriminalization, the judiciary has recognized the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, including the right to equal treatment and protection against discrimination, affirming their right to live with dignity and liberty.
• Internet Freedom: In the age of information and technology, the right to access information and freedom of expression online has become an extension of personal liberty.
  • In Faheema Shirin v. State of Kerala (2017) Court declared the right to the Internet a fundamental right.

Conclusion

The Constitution is not a static document but a living framework that adapts to the changing needs and values of society. As India progresses as a nation, its Constitution continues to uphold the principles of justice, liberty, and equality, ensuring that the rights and freedoms of its citizens evolve in tandem with the progressive ideals of the nation.

 

8. While making the Model Code of Conduct legally binding could enhance its effectiveness and uniform implementation, it also raises concerns about freedom of speech and practical challenges in implementation. Critically analyse.

Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India

Introduction

Model code of conduct is the guidelines issued by the Election Commission of India for conduct of political parties and candidates during elections mainly with respect to speeches, polling day, polling booths, election manifestos, processions and general conduct. It aims to ensure free and fair elections.

Body

Authority of ECI vis-à-vis MCC:

• Article 324 says the superintendence, direction and control of all elections to Parliament, the State legislatures, and the offices of the President and Vice-President shall be vested in the EC.
• The Article has been interpreted by courts and by orders of the EC from time to time to mean that the power vested in it is plenary in nature.
• In other words, the EC can take any action it deems fit to ensure that elections and the election process are free and fair.
• The EC monitors the adherence of political parties and candidates to the ‘Model Code of Conduct’.
• If the violations are also offences under election law and the criminal law of the land, the EC has the power to recommend registration of cases against the offenders.
• However, for some violations — such as canvassing for votes during a period when electioneering is barred, making official announcements while the MCC is in force, and making appeal to voters on sectarian grounds — the EC has the power to advise or censure candidates, in addition to directing registration of cases.
• In some cases, as recent incidents would show, the EC may bar candidates or leaders from campaigning for specified periods.
• Asking individuals to leave a constituency or barring entry into certain areas are other powers that the EC may exercise.
• These powers are not necessarily traceable to any provision in law, but are generally considered inherent because of the sweeping and plenary nature of the EC’s responsibility under the Constitution to ensure free and fair elections.
• Its powers extend to postponing elections to any constituency, cancelling an election already notified, and even to abrogate or annul an election already held.

Why MCC needs to be under statute:

• The EC does not have the power to disqualify candidates who commit electoral malpractices. At best, it may direct the registration of a case.
• The EC also does not have the power to deregister any political party. However, the Constitution empowers the EC to decide whether a candidate has incurred disqualification by holding an office of profit under the appropriate government, or has been declared an insolvent, or acquired the citizenship of a foreign state.
• When a question arises whether a candidate has incurred any of these disqualifications, the President of India or Governor has to refer it to the EC. The poll panel’s decision on this is binding.

Way Forward:

• Under Chief Election Commissioners like T.N. Seshan and J.M. Lyngdoh, the commission has in the past shown the capacity to come up with creative solutions that adhere to both the spirit and the letter of the law.
• MCC should be provided with statutory backing. It should be made a part of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 to make the MCC more powerful.
• Establishment of special fast track courts to solve the MCC violation cases at a faster rate.
• The law commission recommendations should be implemented to save the unnecessary spending of public money during elections.
• Public awareness about MCC needs to be developed. The use of app like cVIGIL should be encouraged to reduce violations during polls.
• Stakeholders including Internet companies should come up with a code for Social Media and Internet.

Conclusion

MCC has an indisputable legitimacy and parties across the political spectrum have generally adhered to its letter and spirit. The immaculate independence of the EC and its uncompromising attitude towards enforcing the code, combined with the perception among parties that following the code far outweighs the costs accrued if violated by other parties, especially the ruling one, have led to the success of the MCC since its inception.

Value addition

Instances of violation of MCC by candidates:

• The recent incident where the Prime Minister made a public announcement on 27 March 2019 about the successful launch of India’s first anti-satellite weapon (ASAT), which made India the fourth nation in the world with anti-satellite missile capabilities, was against the MCC guidelines.
• Former Chief Election Commissioner Dr SY Quraishi also criticised Prime Minister’s speech on India’s Anti Satellite Test capability (ASAT), saying it was not in conformity with ethics and spirit of the model code of conduct for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
• The NaMo TV channel launched on 31 March 2019, which, without any formal approval of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, is propagating the image and views of Shri Narendra Modi.
• The incumbent Governor of Rajasthan has made certain statements that virtually amount to canvassing for a specific political party.
• The present Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh had, at a recent public election meeting, referred to the armed forces as the army of incumbent PM.
• Previously, A law minister was censured by the president after EC filed a complaint against him for violating MCC by announcing a scheme when MCC was in force.
• Election Commission served a show cause notice to Bengal chief minister for announcing a new district during 2016.

 

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General Studies – 2

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9. Addressing disguised unemployment requires a comprehensive approach involving policy reforms, targeted investments, and a focus on skill development to create a more dynamic and efficient labor market. Discuss.

Reference: Live Mint , Insights on India

Introduction

Disguised unemployment exists when part of the labour force is either left without work or is working in a redundant manner such that worker productivity is essentially zero. It is unemployment that does not affect aggregate output. An economy demonstrates disguised unemployment when productivity is low and too many workers are filling too few jobs.

Body

Impact of disguised unemployment on the economy

• It can be distinguished by low productivity and mostly follows informal labour markets and agricultural labour markets, capable of consuming large labour quantities.
• The productive capacity of labour is not translating into economic output. This is because the worker is not being utilised to his full potential.
• It may show many as employed but that would still not effect India’s growth and can remain stagnated.

Steps to overcome disguised unemployment

• Population control: Educating the masses for the population control measure through family planning programmes. BIMARU states still account for 23% of population and these are mostly out-migrant states.
• Utilising demographic dividend: Making credit available to the people for self-employment. Providing skill development and entrepreneurship programmes.
• Shifting to labour intensive industry: Encouraging mobility of the workforce from rural to urban areas.
  • There are number of labour-intensive manufacturing sectors in India such as food processing, leather and footwear, wood manufacturers and furniture, textiles and apparel and garments.
  • Special packages, individually designed for each industry are needed to create jobs.
• Decentralisation of Industrial activities is necessary so that people of every region get employment.
• Women labour force: Concrete measures aimed at removing the social barriers for women’s entry and their continuous participation in the job market is needed.
• Vocational education: Government needs to keep a strict watch on the education system and should try to implement new ways to generate skilled labour force. This is being implemented in the New Education Policy.
• National Employment Policy (NEP) : There is a need for National Employment Policy (NEP) that would encompass a set of multidimensional interventions covering a whole range of social and economic issues affecting many policy spheres and not just the areas of labour and employment.
  • The policy would be a critical tool to contribute significantly to achieve the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Conclusion

Disguised unemployment leads to trapping the economy in the lower growth without actual diagnosis of what is ailing the economy. It leads to non-usage of full potential of the demographic dividend that could otherwise reap rich benefits to the society and make it inclusive. Hence governments must soon shift jobs from agriculture to more labour intensive and productive sectors with high growth potential.

 

10. How has social media emerged as a threat to internal security in recent times? Discuss the various ways in which social media can be exploited to create internal security challenges. Also, suggest the measures that can be adopted by the government to counter these emerging threats

Reference: Insights on India

Introduction

While the advantages of social media are so many, the threats to internal security in various forms like Cyber Terrorism, Fraud, crime, spreading violence, etc. are alarmingly become frequent now. Various external state and non-state actors are using various social media platforms to spread propaganda globally, including in India.

Body

Threats posed by Social media to the internal security

As internet has increased its reach and has become very accessible, it is a tool effectively used by state and non-state actors to spread ‘Internet-enabled’ terrorism, spread hate and tensions and disrupt the overall stability through their agenda:

• Radicalisation of youth: Propaganda information to recruit for terror groups like AQIS, LeT on telegram have been intercepted by NIA.
• Use of Internet by Daesh: Daesh has been using Internet to spread its propaganda using platforms such as twitter, YouTube etc.
• Constant involvement and interaction: By ‘cyber-planners’, who will be responsible for planning terror attacks, identifying recruits, act as “virtual coachers”, and provide guidance and encouragement throughout the process.
• In Recruitment from other countries: India has also suffered from it however less severely. Increasing number of cases of youth being influenced by social media to carry out propaganda of hate and violence has been reported in many areas.
• Rise of sentiments over sensitive issues: By spreading false propaganda and fraudulent ideologies over sensitive and triggering issues of India using morphed videos, or false claims of proof of injustice etc.

Challenges

• Vulnerability of users: Several users get blackmailed, or taken advantage of using their vulnerability and misguided knowledge.
• Server location and laws of different countries: Lack of geographical boundaries makes social media regulation an arduous task. Major complicating factors to secure the networks and media are a huge concern.
• Encrypted message and anonymity: Use of phones/WhatsApp to send and receive messages, concerns the government because the communications sent via such devices and applications are encrypted and cannot be monitored and consequently hinders the country’s efforts to fight terrorism and crime.

Way forward

• Review of the IT Act to make it stronger and setting up a crack team to respond to unusual incidents on a war footing.
• Strengthening the existing infrastructure: e-Surveillance Projects: National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID), CERT-In, Central Monitoring System (CMS), Internet Spy System Network and Traffic Analysis System (NETRA) of India, National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIPC) of India etc.
• Strengthening of social networking sites.
• Responsible social media by citizens themselves can avoid a major risk threat.
• Awareness programmes regarding the safe usage of Internet and social media among the people.
• Training and employing ethical hackers to check vulnerabilities present in the cyberspace and respond quickly when there is a cyber-attack.

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