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Distribution: yearly

  • Will Riyadh summit have an impact on Gaza war?

    Why in the News?

    Saudi Arabia recently hosted a summit of Arab and Islamic leaders, urging an immediate halt to Israel’s military actions in Gaza and Lebanon while addressing the broader Palestine issue.

    What were the key outcomes of the Riyadh summit on the Gaza conflict?

    • Condemnation of Israeli Actions: The leaders from Arab and Islamic countries condemned the Israeli military’s actions in Gaza, describing them as “shocking and horrific crimes,” including accusations of genocide and ethnic cleansing.
    • Call for Investigation: They demanded the establishment of an “independent, credible” international committee to investigate these alleged crimes committed by Israel.
    • Support for Palestinian Statehood: The summit urged for measures to end the Israeli occupation and called for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on the borders prior to June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem (Al-Quds) as its capital, aligning with the two-state solution and the Arab Peace Initiative of 2002.

    How does the summit reflect changing dynamics in regional politics?

    • Shift from Normalization: The summit reflects a significant shift in regional politics where Arab nations, which had previously moved towards normalising relations with Israel (as seen in the Abraham Accords), are now re-emphasizing the importance of addressing the Palestinian issue as a prerequisite for peace.
    • Collective Arab Stance: The gathering showcased a united front among Arab leaders in response to Israel’s actions, indicating a collective anger and a strategic pivot back towards supporting Palestinian rights rather than sidelining them for diplomatic ties with Israel.
    • Impact on Saudi-Israel Relations: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s strong condemnation of Israel’s actions signals a deterioration in potential normalization talks with Israel, as any future agreements are now explicitly linked to resolving the Palestinian question.

    What is the possibility of the Arab World Joining the war?

    • Unlikelihood of Military Action: Despite heightened tensions and strong rhetoric, it is highly unlikely that any Arab nation will engage militarily against Israel. Historical precedents show that while Arab states have condemned Israeli actions, they have refrained from direct military confrontation since 1973.
    • Focus on Diplomatic Solutions: The current sentiment among Arab nations leans towards seeking diplomatic resolutions rather than military involvement, especially given their previous moves towards normalizing relations with Israel.
    • Strategic Realignment: The recent developments suggest a subtle realignment in West Asia’s strategic landscape, where Arab states may prioritize internal stability and regional cooperation over direct military engagement, even as they express solidarity with Palestine.

    What can India do to resolve the Gaza conflict?

    • Mediation and Dialogue Facilitation: India can leverage its strong relationships with both Arab countries and Israel to act as a neutral mediator, facilitating dialogue and promoting peaceful negotiations between the conflicting parties.
    • Support for International Initiatives: India can advocate for a renewed focus on the two-state solution within international forums like the UN, aligning with global efforts to establish a sustainable, independent Palestinian state alongside Israel.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Diplomatic Efforts: Arab nations should focus on reinforcing diplomatic pressure on Israel and the international community to address the Palestinian issue, promoting dialogue and supporting peaceful resolutions.
    • Support Palestinian Unity: Arab countries should work towards fostering unity within Palestinian leadership to present a coherent political front and advance their cause for statehood in international forums.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q How will the I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics? (UPSC IAS/2022)

  • Species in News: Western Honey Bees

    Why in the News?

    • Western Honey Bees widely used for boosting pollination has led to unintended ecological consequences.
      • Now they inadvertently carry and transmit Thai Sacbrood Virus to native bee colonies.

    About Western Honey Bees

    • Scientific Name: Apis mellifera
    • Introduced globally for their pollination abilities and honey production. In India, they were introduced in 1983 to enhance honey yield.
    • Widely used in agriculture, particularly for pollination of crops like fruit trees, crops, and vegetables.

    Thai Sacbrood Virus Outbreak

    • The Thai Sacbrood Virus (TSBV) outbreak in China and Vietnam has severely impacted honey bee populations.
      • In 1991-1992, a Thai sacbrood virus outbreak devastated around 90% of Asiatic honey bee colonies in South India and re-emerged in 2021 in Telangana.
    • The virus primarily infects honey bee larvae, leading to their high mortality rates.
    • As a result, the affected regions experienced significant declines in bee colonies, which in turn affected pollination services and honey production.
    • The movement of bee colonies for commercial pollination and honey production has facilitated the spread of the virus.

    About Indian Bees and Their Habitat

    • Indian bees are predominantly Apis cerana indica, a species of Asian honey bee.
    • They are found in a wide range of habitats, including forests, agricultural land, and urban environments.
      • They thrive in areas with abundant flowers and nectar sources.
    • Indian bees are important for pollination, especially for local flora, and contribute to the ecosystem by supporting biodiversity and food production.
    • They face threats from habitat loss, pesticide use, and competition from Western Honey Bees, which may outcompete them for food and nesting sites.

    Significance of Honey Bee: 

    • Pollination and Food Security: Honey bees play a crucial role in pollinating crops, contributing to the production of fruits, vegetables, and nuts, ensuring global food security and agricultural sustainability.
    • Biodiversity Conservation: By facilitating plant reproduction, honey bees support ecosystem health and biodiversity, maintaining the balance of natural habitats and enhancing the resilience of ecosystems.

    PYQ:

    [2023] Which of the following organisms perform waggle dance for others of their kin to indicate the direction and the distance to a source of their food?

    (a) Butterflies

    (b) Dragonflies

    (c) Honeybees

    (d) Wasps

     

  • [pib] Press Council of India

    Why in the News?

    • National Press Day is celebrated annually on November 16 to honour the critical role of a free and responsible press in society.
      • It marks the start of the Press Council of India in 1966, established as a moral watchdog to uphold press standards and protect it from undue influence or threats.

    About the Press Council of India (PCI):

    Details
    Historical Background • Constituted on July 4, 1966, as an autonomous, statutory, and quasi-judicial body.
    • Established to act as a moral watchdog over the press to ensure it operates with ethics and independence.
    • First Press Commission of India (1954) recommended forming a council to uphold professional standards in journalism.
    • Initially governed by the Press Council Act of 1965, later replaced by the Press Council Act of 1978.
    Composition of PCI • Comprises 28 members and a Chairperson.
    • Chairperson appointed by a committee that includes the Chief Justice of India, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, and a representative of the President.
    • Member Representation:
    – 13 working journalists representing different news organizations.
    – 6 members from editors and newspaper owners.
    – 5 members from Parliament (3 from Lok Sabha, 2 from Rajya Sabha).
    – 1 nominee each from the University Grants Commission (UGC), the Bar Council of India (BCI), and Sahitya Akademi.
    • Term: Each member serves a 3-year term and can be re-elected.
    Powers and Functions of PCI • Quasi-Judicial Authority: PCI has statutory powers to hold inquiries into complaints against the press or journalists for professional misconduct.
    • Inquiry Powers: PCI can summon witnesses and call for documents if necessary.
    • Disciplinary Action: PCI has the authority to censure or admonish newspapers, editors, or journalists for violating professional ethics.
    • Recommendations: Although PCI cannot enforce laws or impose penalties, it can recommend actions to the relevant authorities in case of serious violations.Functions:
    • Upholding Press Freedom: Ensures that the press in India is free from undue influence and performs its duties with responsibility.
    • Protecting Journalists: Investigates complaints of harassment or threats against journalists and defends their rights.
    • Policy Advisory Role: Advises the government on policy issues that affect press freedom and media laws.
    • Studies and Reports: Conducts studies on media issues, such as election reporting, defense coverage, and journalist safety, to provide guidelines on responsible reporting.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] Right to Privacy is protected as an intrinsic part of Right to Life and Personal Liberty. Which of the following in the Constitution of India correctly and appropriately imply the above statement?

    (a) Article 14 and the provisions under the 42nd Amendment to the Constitution.
    (b) Article 17 and the Directive Principles of State Policy in Part IV.
    (c) Article 21 and the freedoms guaranteed in Part III.
    (d) Article 24 and the provisions under the 44th Amendment to the Constitution.

  • Centre reimposes AFSPA in 6 ‘volatile’ regions

    Why in the News?

    Eighteen months after ethnic violence began in Manipur, the Central government has reinstated the Disturbed Areas status under the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in six police station jurisdictions, including the affected area of Jiribam.

    Present map

    What is the historical background?

    • The original ordinance (AFSPA) was a response to the challenges faced by the British during World War II, particularly by Indian Nationalists.
      • After independence, Indian leaders retained and adapted this framework, facing their internal security challenges.
    • PM Jawaharlal Nehru decided to continue with the law due to escalating insurgencies in regions like Assam and Manipur.
      • The Armed Forces (Assam and Manipur) Special Powers Ordinance was promulgated on May 22, 1958, and subsequently replaced by the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act on September 11, 1958.
    • Initially, AFSPA was applied to the Naga Hills and surrounding insurgent areas to empower armed forces to restore order in “disturbed areas”.
    • Over the years, AFSPA has been extended to various other states facing similar issues, including Manipur, Assam, and parts of Jammu and Kashmir.

    What is the significance of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, of 1958?

    • Extraordinary Powers: AFSPA grants armed forces significant powers, including the authority to arrest without a warrant, search premises, and use lethal force if deemed necessary. These powers are intended to facilitate military operations in volatile regions.
    • Legal Immunity: The Act provides immunity from prosecution for armed forces personnel acting under its provisions unless sanctioned by the central government. This aspect has led to widespread criticism and allegations of human rights abuses.
    • Controversy and Criticism: AFSPA has been a subject of intense debate due to its implications for civil liberties. Critics argue that it leads to extrajudicial killings and other human rights violations. High-profile incidents have fueled calls for its repeal or reform, with activists like Irom Sharmila famously protesting against it for years.

    Which are the States where AFSPA is presently in effect?

    The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) is currently in effect in several states across India, primarily in regions experiencing ongoing insurgency or civil unrest.  These are Jammu and Kashmir, Nagaland (eight districts), Arunachal Pradesh (three districts), and parts of Assam, Manipur (excluding the Imphal municipal area).

    What is the present controversy around the provisions of AFSPA?

    • Human Rights Violations: AFSPA has been associated with numerous human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings, torture, and enforced disappearances.
      • Reports indicate that over 1,500 extrajudicial killings occurred in Manipur alone between 2000 and 2012, often involving security forces acting with impunity due to the protections afforded by the Act.
    • Impunity for Security Forces: This Act provides armed forces personnel with legal immunity for actions taken under its provisions, requiring prior approval from the central government for prosecution.
      • This has led to a culture of impunity (exemption from punishment)  where security personnel are rarely held accountable for their actions, exacerbating public distrust and resentment towards the military.
    • Excessive Use of Force: AFSPA grants security forces broad powers to use lethal force against individuals deemed to be acting against the law.
      • Critics argue that this provision leads to excessive and disproportionate responses, often resulting in civilian casualties and further violence in already tense regions.
    • Lack of Accountability and Oversight: The absence of effective mechanisms for accountability regarding human rights violations under AFSPA has been a significant concern.
      • Despite recommendations from various committees for reforms or repeal of the Act, the government has largely ignored these calls, perpetuating a cycle of abuse without adequate oversight.
    • Political and Social Backlash: The ongoing application of AFSPA has sparked significant protests and activism, particularly in northeastern states like Manipur and Nagaland.
      • Activists, including prominent figures like Irom Sharmila, have campaigned for its repeal, arguing that it fosters alienation among local populations and undermines democratic values in India.

    Way forward: 

    • Balancing Security with Rights: Reform AFSPA to incorporate provisions ensuring accountability and oversight, such as independent inquiries into alleged violations and regular reviews of its application, while retaining necessary powers to address security challenges.
    • Strengthening Local Governance: Enhance the capacity of state police and local administrations through training and resources, enabling them to manage law and order effectively, thereby reducing reliance on AFSPA over time.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Human rights activists constantly highlight the fact that the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA) is a draconian act leading to cases of human rights abuses by security forces. What sections of AFSPA are opposed by the activists? Critically evaluate the requirement regarding the view held by the Apex Court. (UPSC IAS/2015)

  • India needs a globally recognized public policy school

    Why in the News?

    India, the world’s largest democracy, still doesn’t have a top-tier public educational policy institution like those in the United States and Europe.

    What are the gaps between public policy education and job market demands?

    • Mismatch of Skills and Employability: According to the India Skills Report 2024, only 51.8% of fresh graduates meet industry employability standards, with the employability rate for individuals aged 22-25 at 58.6%.
      • This indicates that many graduates, including those from public policy programs, lack the skills required by employers.
    • Limited Policy-Specific Job Opportunities: Despite approximately 130 institutions offering public policy courses in India, there are few dedicated policy-specific jobs available.
      • Graduates often compete for roles in think tanks and NGOs, where job openings are limited, leading to intense competition and underemployment in their field.
    • High Unemployment Among Educated Youth: The India Employment Report 2024 shows that educated youth (with secondary or higher education) account for 65.7% of the total unemployed youth, a significant increase from 35.2% in 2000.
      • The unemployment rate for graduates is reported at 29.1%, highlighting a disconnect between educational attainment and job availability.
    • Theoretical Focus Over Practical Experience: Many public policy programs primarily emphasize theoretical knowledge rather than practical skills.
      • A report from the National Institute of Public Finance and Policy notes that these programs often lack hands-on training opportunities, limiting students’ ability to apply academic concepts to real-world situations.
    • Barriers to Government Employment: Access to government jobs remains limited compared to countries like the U.S., where structured recruitment routes exist for public policy graduates.
      • In India, there are no dedicated pathways for these graduates to enter government service, restricting their career options and diminishing the effectiveness of public policy education.

    How can India bridge the gap between public policy education and job market demands?

    • Curriculum Alignment: Public policy institutions must develop curricula that align closely with the needs of the job market, emphasizing practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. This includes training in data analysis, policy evaluation, and understanding local governance dynamics.
    • Internship and Field Experience: Integrating mandatory internships and fieldwork into public policy programs can provide students with real-world experience and enhance their employability.
    • Focus on Local Contexts: Training should include a focus on India’s unique political dynamics, informal power structures, and socio-economic challenges to prepare graduates for effective policy-making in the Indian context.
    • Continuous Learning and Adaptability: Encouraging a culture of lifelong learning among students will equip them to adapt to evolving job market demands. This could involve offering short courses or certifications in emerging areas of public policy.

    What structural changes are necessary to improve Public Policy Education?

    • Decentralization of Power: Reforming the decision-making structure within public policy institutions to allow greater input from diverse stakeholders, including civil society and academia, can enhance the relevance and impact of policy education.
    • Interdisciplinary Approach: Incorporating interdisciplinary studies that combine economics, sociology, political science, and environmental studies can provide a holistic understanding of public policy issues.
    • Strengthening Research Capabilities: Investing in research facilities and encouraging academic contributions to policy debates can help bridge the gap between theory and practice, making institutions more influential in shaping policies.
    • Creating Non-Partisan Spaces: Establishing independent platforms for dialogue among various political factions can foster a more inclusive environment for policy discussions, reducing sycophancy and promoting evidence-based policymaking.
    • Partnerships with Global Institutions: Collaborating with established international public policy schools can enhance curriculum development and provide exposure to global best practices in governance and policy analysis.

    How can India establish itself as a global leader?  

    • Promoting Innovation in Policy Making: Encouraging innovative approaches to problem-solving within public policy education can position India as a leader in addressing complex global challenges such as climate change, health crises, and economic inequality.
      • The Indian government has to set a target to increase public investment in education to 6% of GDP, aligning with the recommendations of the Kothari Commission.
    • Investment in Human Capital: Prioritizing education and skill development across sectors will create a knowledgeable workforce capable of contributing to both national development and global governance.
      • For example, schools like the Harvard Kennedy School in the U.S. and the London School of Economics train leaders who influence both National and Global politics.
    • Fostering Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):  India can bridge the gap in public policy education by aligning curricula with job market needs, promoting internships, and fostering global partnerships. This aligns with SDG Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), ensuring skilled and employable graduates.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q National Education Policy 2020 is in conformity with the Sustainable Development Goal-4 (2030). It intends to restructure and reorient the education system in India. Critically examine the statement. (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • [pib] Centenary of Bose-Einstein Statistics

    Why in the News?

    The Union Ministry of Science and Technology has inaugurated the centenary celebrations of Bose-Einstein Statistics at the S.N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences.

    Bose-Einstein Statistics

    • Bose-Einstein statistics describe how certain particles called bosons (like photons and helium-4 atoms) behave, especially at low temperatures.
    • This concept was developed by Satyendra Nath Bose and Albert Einstein.
    • It explains the behavior of bosons, which are particles that can exist in the same state as others.
    • Unlike other particles, bosons can “share” a quantum state, meaning multiple bosons can exist in the same place with the same energy.
    • It is used to understand particles that don’t follow the Pauli Exclusion Principle (which states that two fermions, like electrons, cannot occupy the same state).

    Bose-Einstein Condensate (BEC)

    • A BEC is a special state of matter formed when bosons are cooled down to almost absolute zero (-273°C). In this state, the particles behave as one single quantum entity.
    • Bosons, when cooled to near absolute zero, lose their individual properties and combine to form a single quantum state.
    • It was achieved in 1995 by Eric Cornell and Carl Wieman using rubidium atoms.
    • This discovery earned them the Nobel Prize in Physics.
    • BECs exhibit unique quantum behaviors like zero viscosity (flow without friction) and act as a “super atom” that is extremely sensitive to any outside influence.

    Significance of Bose-Einstein Statistics

    • Bose-Einstein statistics are essential for understanding quantum mechanics, particularly the behavior of particles in quantum states.
    • These statistics led to the discovery of Bose-Einstein Condensates, which have unique properties not seen in normal states of matter.
    • BECs are useful in atomic clocks, superconductors, and quantum computing due to their sensitivity and unique quantum properties.
    • Bose’s work was crucial in explaining light’s particle nature (photons), which helped develop the concept of wave-particle duality in quantum theory.
    • Bose-Einstein statistics paved the way for studying low-temperature physics, allowing scientists to observe quantum effects in larger systems.
    • These statistics and the discovery of BECs continue to inspire new fields of research, including quantum fluids and quantum phase transitions.

    PYQ:

    [2018] Discuss the work of ‘Bose-Einstein Statistics’ done by Prof. Satyendra Nath Bose and show how it revolutionised the field of Physics.

  • RBI released list of Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs)

    Why in the News?

    The RBI designated SBI, HDFC Bank, and ICICI Bank as Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs) for 2024.

    Current D-SIBs in India:

    • As of 2024, the State Bank of India (SBI), HDFC Bank, and ICICI Bank are classified as D-SIBs.
    • SBI was classified as a D-SIB in 2015, ICICI Bank in 2016, and HDFC Bank in 2017.

    What are Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs)?

    • D-SIBs are banks that are critical to the stability of a country’s financial system.
    • They are often termed “Too Big To Fail” (TBTF) because their failure could lead to significant disruptions in the economy.
    • The RBI identifies D-SIBs annually.
    • The framework for recognizing these banks was issued in July 2014.
    • The RBI has been publishing an annual list of D-SIBs since 2015.

    D-SIBs are placed in different buckets based on systemic importance scores. Higher bucket rankings require greater capital requirements to absorb losses.

    • SBI is in Bucket 4.
    • HDFC Bank is in Bucket 3.
    • ICICI Bank is in Bucket 1.

    D-SIBs must maintain additional Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital based on their bucket.

    • SBI: 0.80% of Risk Weighted Assets (RWAs).
    • HDFC Bank: 0.40%
    • ICICI Bank: 0.20%

    Global Systemically Important Banks (G-SIBs):

    • On the global stage, G-SIBs are designated by the Financial Stability Board (FSB).
    • G-SIBs include large international banks such as JP Morgan Chase and HSBC.
    • Foreign banks in India that qualify as G-SIBs are required to hold additional CET1 capital in India, proportional to their global risk-weighted assets.

    Benefits of D-SIB Classification

    • It ensures financial stability by requiring additional capital buffers for resilience during economic stress.
    • It increases public confidence through enhanced monitoring and regulation.
    • It receives improved supervisory attention, leading to better governance and controls.
    • It prepares D-SIBs for financial shocks with additional CET1 and stress-testing requirements.
    • It often benefits from higher credit ratings, lowering borrowing costs and improving access to capital.

  • ADB increases Climate Finance backed by US, Japan Pledge

    Why in the News?

    The Asian Development Bank (ADB) will boost climate-related lending by up to $7.2 billion following an agreement by the United States and Japan to provide risk guarantees for some existing loans.

    • This marks the first-ever use of sovereign guarantees for climate finance.

    ASIAN DEVELOPMENT BANK
    About ADB was founded in 1966 following the Conference on Asian Economic Cooperation organized by the United Nations Economic Commission for Asia and the Far East.

    • Headquarters: Located in Manila, Philippines.
    • Status: Official UN Observer.
    Aims and Objectives
    • Reducing poverty in Asia and the Pacific region.
    • Provide Program Assistance that provides loans (hard/soft), technical assistance, and grants.
    • Enhances effectiveness through policy dialogues, advisory services, and co-financing to mobilize additional financial resources.
    Goals and Targets
    • ADB raises funds primarily through bond issues on global capital markets.
    • The ADB has set a climate finance target of $100 billion from 2019 to 2030. The U.S. will guarantee $1 billion of existing ADB loans, while Japan will underwrite $600 million.

    Advantages of the Guarantee Structure:

    • Expands ADB’s lending capacity.
    • Lending space will be used over 5 years, while the guarantees will last for 25 years.
    • Example: A sustainable aviation fuel initiative in Pakistan using cooking oil, with ADB covering about half of the $90 million cost.
    Membership
    • Total Members: 67 countries, with 48 from Asia and the Pacific.
    • Membership Eligibility: Includes members of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) and non-regional developed countries.
    • Major Shareholders: Japan and the United States (Each hold 15.607% of shares), China ( 6.444%), India (6.331%), Australia (5.786%).

  • Barak River

    Why in the News?

    Police found dead bodies floating in the Barak River (inflicted due to Manipur Violence).

    About the Barak River:

    Details
    Geographical Location • Originates from Japvo mountain in Manipur hills at 3,015 m altitude.
    • Flows south, forming the border between Assam and Manipur up to Jirimat.
    • Flows for 524 km in India, and then enters Bangladesh as Surma and Kushiyara, later becoming Meghna River.• The river is navigable in parts, with National Waterway 6 (121 km).
    Physical Features • Length: 564 km in total, with 524 km in India.
    • Drainage area in India: 41,157 sq. km (1.38% of India’s total area).
    • Tributaries: Jiri, Dhaleswari, Singla, Longai, Sonai, and Katakhal.
    Flora and Fauna/Important Sites • Fauna: Home to over 2,000 species of fish and rare creatures like the Siamese crocodile, susu dolphin, smooth-coated otter, and black mugger crocodile.
    • Flora: Includes Varzea forest, Los llamjao, tidal forests (mangroves), Pats (flat-topped table mountains), and large tropical swamps.
    • Wetlands support farming and biodiversity.
    • Hydropower projects: Tipaimukh Dam, Tista Champamati, Dhansiri Barrages.
    • Affected by flooding and soil erosion, especially during monsoon.

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] Consider the following rivers:

    1. Barak

    2. Lohit

    3. Subansiri

    Which of the above flows/flow through Arunachal Pradesh?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [15th November 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: A 2024 election result that leaves many astounded

    PYQ Relevance:
    Q) Indian and USA are two large democracies. Examine the basic tenets on which the two political systems are based. (UPSC CSE 2018)

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC has always focused on major countries like the USA (2018), Russia, and China (2024) as well as minor regions like ‘the Malay Peninsula’ (2017) whenever there are major political or economical shifts at the regional/global level.

    India ranks 108th on the Electoral Democracy Index 2023, a decline from its previous position of 100th in 2022. Similarly, the USA ranks 36th and is also facing significant challenges concerning Democratic integrity.

    What is the cause of declining Democracy? And how does it affect Worldwide?

    Today’s editorial focuses on observations from the 2024 elections that reflect broader trends in global politics — both in the West and the East. This editorial can be used as an example whenever we need to give our analysis on ‘Democratic institutions/strategies and their global impacts’.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    The 2024 election results, particularly in the United States and India, signify a shift in political dynamics that have left political analysts and voters worldwide alike in a state of astonishment.

    How does Donald Trump’s rise to prominence highlight a ‘Democratic Flaw’?

    • Erosion of Democratic Norms: There is some evidence of systematically undermining trust in electoral processes, and promoting conspiracy theories about voter fraud.
      • His potential return to power raises concerns about authoritarianism and the erosion of checks and balances, threatening democratic governance.
    • Populism and Nationalism: Trump’s appeal to populism capitalizes on economic discontent and cultural anxieties, often at the expense of inclusivity.
      • His messaging resonates with voters feeling marginalized by globalization, reinforcing societal divisions.
    • Demographic Shifts: For the first time in decades, the proportion of white voters increased significantly, favoring Trump. His campaign resonated particularly well with white voters without a college degree, who overwhelmingly identified with the Republican Party.
    • Voter Turnout: Trump’s support surged among male voters, while Kamala Harris struggled to replicate Joe Biden’s previous performance among women voters, particularly non-college-educated white women.

    What are the challenges faced by the world democracies due to the Authoritarian rise?

    • Erosion of Democratic Norms: Democratic institutions are increasingly being undermined by leaders who exploit their power to consolidate control.
      • For example, Hungary has transformed from a democratic success story into a state with diminishing civil liberties and media freedoms, becoming a model for authoritarian governance within the EU.
    • Political Polarization: The political landscape in countries like the United States has become highly polarized, with populist leaders like Donald Trump questioning the legitimacy of elections and undermining trust in democratic processes.
      • This polarization makes it easier for authoritarian figures to gain support by appealing to nationalist sentiments.
    • Disillusionment with Political Institutions: Many citizens are losing faith in traditional political parties and institutions, leading to increased support for authoritarian leaders who promise quick solutions.
      • For example, this trend is evident in India too, where Political Parties have faced accusations of using anti-terrorism laws to suppress dissent and silence opposition.
    • Manipulation of Electoral Processes: Authoritarian regimes often manipulate electoral systems to maintain power. In the U.S., numerous bills aimed at voter suppression have emerged since the 2020 election, reflecting a broader trend of undermining electoral integrity.
    • External Influences: Countries like China and Russia actively promote authoritarian values globally, influencing political dynamics like cyber attacks and disinformation campaigns aimed at destabilizing democratic institutions in other nations.

    How to address these challenges?

    • Strengthening Democratic Institutions: Ensure Free and Fair elections by reinforcing electoral commissions and implementing transparent voting processes. Organizations like the UNDP can help enhance electoral systems and promote inclusive participation
      • Invest in the development of Parliaments to ensure they represent diverse interests and maintain checks and balances on executive power.
    • Strengthening Media Literacy: Implement comprehensive media literacy programs in schools and communities to equip citizens with critical thinking skills. This empowers individuals to identify and resist disinformation.
    • Supporting Independent Journalism: Governments can provide financial support or incentives for independent media outlets to ensure diverse and reliable information.
    • Enhancing Transparency and Accountability: Regulate Social Media Platforms: Governments should establish clear platforms to disclose their policies on disinformation and hold them accountable for their role in spreading false information. Self-regulation alone has proven insufficient.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/a-2024-election-result-that-leaves-many-astounded/article68869227.ece