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GS Paper: GS1-01.Indian Culture- Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.

  • Festivals in news: Pandharpur Wari

    Pandharpur Wari

    The Sant Tukaram and Sant Dyaneshwar Palkhi processions started their three-week-long journeys from the temple towns of Dehu and Alandi in Pune.

    Pandharpur Wari

    Pandharpur wari
    The deities are said to be shifted to Pandharpur right away from Vitthala Temple, Hampi (Karnataka) to avoid demolition.
    • Tradition: The Wari tradition is an 800-year-old pilgrimage in Maharashtra, where devotees, known as Warkaris, undertake a foot journey to the Vithoba temple (Incarnation of Vishnu) in Pandharpur.
    • Largest walking event: The event is said to be one of the world’s largest and oldest movements where people gather on one day each year and walk a distance of around 250 km.
    • Guinness Record: The Wari has been classified by the World Book of Records as “one of the most visited places in a day”
    • Essence of Wakari Panth: The Wari is a ritualistic practice and a distinctive part of Maharashtrian culture, representing the essence of the Wakari Panth, which is a sect within the Bhakti tradition.
    • Four Processions: The Wari takes place in four months – Chaitra, Ashadh, Kartik, and Magh. The Ashadhi Ekadashi Wari is the most popular and significant among these processions.

    Historical Evolution

    • Changed over time: Over the years, the Wari procession has evolved with changing practices, associated legends, and unique systems of organization and management.
    • Influence of Sant Dyaneshwar: The Wari tradition can be traced back to Sant Dyaneshwar, the father of Sant Dyaneshwar, who played a pivotal role in promoting the pilgrimage to Pandharpur.
    • Legacy of Sant Namdev: Sant Namdev (whose verses find mention in Guru Granth Sahib), a contemporary of Sant Dyaneshwar, also followed the tradition and composed devotional compositions expressing his devotion to Lord Vitthala.

    Rituals and Cultural Aspects

    • Dindi and Musical Fervor: Dindis, comprising groups of devotees, accompany the palkis during the Wari, singing, chanting, and dancing. Musical instruments like the veena and mridangam enhance the devotional fervor.
    • Seva Dindis and Social Initiatives: Seva Dindis perform selfless service along the Wari route, including annadana (donation of food), medical assistance, and rural infrastructure development.
    • Social Messaging and Initiatives: The Wari has been utilized as a platform for social messaging and initiatives such as promoting cleanliness through the ‘Nirmal Wari’ campaign and women-centric drives like ‘Wari Nari Shakti’ focusing on menstrual hygiene.

    Try this PYQ:

    Consider the following pairs:

    Traditions Communities

    1. Chaliha Sahib Festival — Sindhis
    2. Nanda Raj Jaat Yatra — Gonds
    3. Wari-Warkari — Santhals

    Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3

    (c) 1 and 3

    (d) None of the above

     

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”uwlqiz3dsn” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your answers here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]

     

  • What is El Nino and How it impacts the Monsoon?

    el nino

    Central Idea

    • Delay in Monsoon: Any discussion on Indian monsoon delay these days invariably has references to the El Nino phenomenon.
    • Sudden rise of El Nino: This year’s monsoon is also progressing under the cloud of an El Nino in the Pacific Ocean.

    Understanding El Nino and La Nina

    • El Nino and La Nina are two opposite phases of the El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle.
    • ENSO is a naturally occurring phenomenon that involves the interaction between the ocean and atmosphere in the equatorial Pacific.

    Here is a detailed comparison of El Nino and La Nina

    El Nino La Nina
    Definition Warmer-than-normal sea surface temperatures Cooler-than-normal sea surface temperatures
    Frequency Every two to seven years Every two to seven years
    Duration Several months to a year or more Several months to a year or more
    Impact on winds Weakens trade winds, leading to changes in patterns Strengthens trade winds, leading to changes in patterns
    Impact on rains Reduces rainfall and can cause droughts Increases rainfall and can cause flooding
    Impact on temp. Warmer-than-average temperatures Colder-than-average temperatures
    Global effects Droughts in Asia and Africa, floods in Americas Floods in Asia and Africa, droughts in South America

     

    Impact on India

    El Nino La Nina
    Associated with weak monsoons and drought-like conditions in India Associated with above-normal rainfall and floods in India
    Sea surface temperature in the equatorial Pacific Ocean rises above normal levels Sea surface temperature in the equatorial Pacific Ocean drops below normal levels
    Changes in the atmospheric circulation patterns Changes in the atmospheric circulation patterns
    Shift in the location of the jet stream, affecting the strength and direction of the monsoon winds Increase in the strength of the monsoon winds, bringing more moisture and rainfall to India
    Results in reduced rainfall, dry spells, and heatwaves, leading to crop failures and water scarcity Excessive rainfall can also lead to floods and landslides, causing damage to crops and infrastructure

     

    El Nino and Indian Monsoon

    • El Nino and its impact on Indian monsoon: El Nino refers to abnormal warming of surface waters in the equatorial Pacific Ocean, which tends to suppress monsoon rainfall in India.
    • Phases of El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO): ENSO consists of three phases in the Pacific Ocean: El Nino, La Nina (abnormal cooling), and a neutral phase with sea surface temperatures close to long-term averages.
    • Ocean and atmospheric conditions: ENSO involves not only temperature abnormalities of sea surface waters but also atmospheric conditions, including differences in sea-level air pressure and wind strength and direction.
    • Southern oscillation and the role of winds: Southern Oscillation Index measures the difference in sea-level air pressure over the western and eastern sides of the Pacific Ocean, while wind patterns play a crucial role in ENSO.

    Factors triggering El Nino

    • Weakening trade winds: When the trade winds in the tropical Pacific weaken, it contributes to the occurrence of El Nino by reducing the movement of warm surface waters.
    • Changes in ocean currents: Alterations in the normal patterns of ocean currents can trigger El Nino events as they affect the distribution and accumulation of warm water in the central and eastern Pacific.
    • Variations in atmospheric pressure: Fluctuations in atmospheric pressure patterns disrupt the typical circulation associated with trade winds, which can initiate the onset of El Nino conditions.
    • Influence of oceanic Kelvin waves: The presence and behavior of oceanic Kelvin waves, large-scale waves that transport warm water eastward, play a role in the development and intensification of El Nino events.
    • Interactions with other climate modes: El Nino can be influenced by the interactions and connections with other climate phenomena such as the Indian Ocean Dipole and the Madden-Julian Oscillation, which can impact the oceanic and atmospheric conditions in the Pacific region.

    Measuring the Cycle

    (1) Oceanic Nino Index (ONI)

    • Measures the oceanic component of El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO).
    • Tracks the departure from average sea surface temperatures in the tropical Pacific Ocean.
    • Helps quantify the intensity and duration of El Nino or La Nina events.
    • Typically based on a rolling three-month average of sea surface temperature anomalies in specific regions.

    (2) Southern Oscillation Index (SOI)

    • Measures the atmospheric component of ENSO.
    • Quantifies the difference in air pressure between two locations: Tahiti and Darwin.
    • Positive SOI values indicate higher pressure in the eastern Pacific and lower pressure in the western Pacific.
    • Negative SOI values indicate lower pressure in the eastern Pacific and higher pressure in the western Pacific.
    • Reflects the strength and changes in the atmospheric circulation patterns associated with ENSO.
    • Used to assess the phase and strength of ENSO and its impact on global weather and climate patterns.

    Economic impact of El Nino on Indian Agriculture

    • Drought and reduced rainfall: El Nino events often lead to below-average monsoon rainfall in India, resulting in drought conditions in various regions.
    • Crop failure and lower yields: Lack of adequate water availability can lead to crop failure or lower yields for major crops such as rice, wheat, pulses, and oilseeds.
    • Increased input costs: During El Nino-induced droughts, farmers may need to invest in additional irrigation, water management, and supplementary feeding for livestock, leading to increased input costs.
    • Price fluctuations: Reduced crop production due to El Nino can affect market supply, leading to price fluctuations and potential inflation in food prices.
    • Livestock and fisheries: Water scarcity and changes in marine ecosystems can negatively affect animal husbandry and fishing activities, disrupting the livelihoods of those dependent on these sectors.
    • Rural livelihoods and migration: The economic stress created can impact rural livelihoods, leading to increased migration from rural to urban areas in search of alternative employment opportunities.

    Try this PYQ:

    La Nina is suspected to have caused recent floods in Australia. How is La Nina different from El Nino?

    1. La Nina is characterized by unusually cold ocean temperature in equatorial Indian Ocean whereas El Nino is characterized by unusually warm ocean temperature in the equatorial Pacific Ocean.
    2. El Nino has an adverse effect on south-west monsoon of India, but La Nina has no effect on monsoon climate.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) Only 1

    (b) Only 2

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

     

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  • Maharashtra’s Ahmednagar to be renamed Ahilyanagar

    ahmad ahilya

    Central Idea

    • Government decision: Ahmednagar district was renamed after Punyashlok Ahilya Devi Holkar.
    • Support from officials: Government officials express gratitude and believe it enhances district honour.
    • Previous discussions: Maharashtra Education Minister planned to rename the city as ‘Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Nagar’.

    Origin and History of Ahmednagar

    • Ancient references: Ahmednagar was mentioned in reference to Mauryan Emperor Ashok (240 BC).
    • Rule of prominent kingdoms: Rashtrakuta Dynasty, Western Chalukyas, and Delhi Sultanate.
    • Emergence of Ahmednagar: Revolt led to the establishment of Bahmani kingdom, with Ahmednagar as one of the five independent kingdoms.

    Malik Ahmad Nizam Shah and Ahmednagar

    • PM of Bahmani Sultanate: Malik Ahmad Nizam Shah assumed the position in 1486.
    • Victory and city foundation: Defeated the king of Bahmani kingdom and founded Ahmednagar in 1494.
    • Unifying communities: Gained loyalty of Muslims, Maratha peasants, and warriors.

    Ahilyabai Holkar: Early Life and Marriage

    • Remarkable upbringing: Ahilyabai born in Chondi village, received rare education.
    • Marriage to Khande Rao: Malhar Rao Holkar arranged the marriage after being impressed by Ahilyabai’s devotion.

    Administration and Temple-building

    • Assumption of power: Ahilyabai took control of Malwa after her husband’s death in 1754.
    • Effective governance: Excelling in administration and military strategies under her father-in-law’s guidance.
    • Temple restoration: Notable efforts in restoring Hindu temples, earning respect as a capable ruler.

    Legacy of Ahilyabai Holkar

    • Recognizing achievements: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s inauguration of Samudra Darshan Path and Somnath Exhibition Gallery.
    • Symbol of inspiration: Somnath temple built by Ahilyabai Holkar in 1783, representing triumph of truth and faith.

     

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  • Delhi’s Ancient Secrets: Recent Excavations at Purana Qila

    purana qila

    Central Idea

    • Delhi’s Purana Qila, also known as the Old Fort, is a historic site with a rich and diverse past.
    • Recent excavations have shed light on its continuous history since the pre-Mauryan era.

    About Purana Qila

    • The origins of Purana Qila date back to antiquity, with the exact foundation period unknown.
    • It was later rebuilt by Sher Shah Suri and Mughal emperor Humayun.
    • The fort holds immense cultural and historical importance, and many believe it to be the site of Indraprastha mentioned in the Mahabharata.
    • The fort, believed to be the location of the ancient city of Indraprastha, showcases architectural remnants from various periods, including the Mughal and Rajput eras.

    Architectural marvels at Purana Qila

    • Purana Qila’s architectural features include walls that rise to a height of 18 meters, spanning approximately 1.5 kilometers.
    • It boasts three arched gateways, including the Bara Darwaza, the south gate (Humayun Gate), and the Talaqi Gate.
    • The fort’s Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque, built by Sher Shah Suri in 1541, showcases pre-Mughal architecture with its pointed arches and elegant prayer niches.
    • The Sher Mandal, a double-storeyed octagonal tower, served as Humayun’s private observatory and library.
    • It features decorative plaster-work and remnants of stone shelving for books.

    Recent excavation discoveries

    • Excavations have uncovered significant artifacts, including shards of Painted Gray Ware pottery dating from 1200 BC to 600 BC, indicating the pre-Mauryan period.
    • Other discoveries include a 900-year-old Vaikuntha Vishnu from the Rajput period, a terracotta plaque of Goddess Gaja Lakshmi from the Gupta period, and a 2,500-year-old terracotta ring well from the Mauryan period.
    • Numerous beads, seals, copper coins, and a bone needle have also been found, highlighting the site’s role as a center for trade activities.

    Cultural chronology and preservation

    • The ongoing excavation aims to establish a complete chronology of the site, spanning different historical periods from the Kushan to the Mughal era.
    • The remains of Purana Qila will be preserved, conserved, and transformed into an open-air museum to showcase the rich historical legacy of Delhi.
    • The excavated artifacts will also be displayed to delegates attending the G-20 summit, further promoting the cultural heritage of the site.

     

  • Parliamentary Institutions in Ancient India

    parliament

    Central Idea

    • The construction and history of the Indian Parliament building serve as a reminder of India’s rich democratic traditions.
    • Dr BR Ambedkar, the Chairman of the Drafting Committee for the Indian Constitution, highlighted the presence of democratic aspects in Indian history that predate Western influence.

    Democratic Traditions in Ancient India

    • Ambedkar had challenged the notion that India’s parliamentary procedures were borrowed from European countries.
    • Ambedkar referred to the Vinay–pitaka, a Theravada Buddhist scripture, as evidence of existing democratic procedures in India.
    • The scripture regulated meetings of the Bhikkhus Sangh (monks) and included rules for debates, motions, and voting through a secret ballot system.

    Comparison with Western Democracies

    • Ambedkar acknowledged the importance of contributions made by Western democracies in moving away from autocracy and religious dominance.
    • He highlighted the separation of Church and State in Western societies and the transition to secular laws created by the people rather than divine or religious authorities.

    Caution against Failure to Address Defects

    • Ambedkar pointed out the tendency of ancient societies to neglect repairing their own defects, leading to their decay.
    • He criticized the Indian society’s reliance on divine laws established by figures like Manu and Yajnavalkya, which hindered the ability to address societal issues.

    Conclusion

    • While acknowledging India’s rich democratic history, it is essential to continue building and strengthening democratic institutions to address the evolving needs and challenges of society.
    • This includes fostering an introspective approach, embracing inclusive governance, and upholding the principles of secularism, equality, and social justice.

    Back2Basics: Tripitaka

    • The Tripitaka, also known as the Pali Canon, is a collection of sacred Buddhist scriptures that form the foundational texts of the Theravada Buddhist tradition.
    • It is divided into three sections, known as the Tripitaka, which literally means “Three Baskets.”

    History and significance

    • The Tripitaka was orally transmitted from the time of Gautama Buddha in the 5th century BCE until it was eventually written down in the 1st century BCE.
    • It holds immense historical and religious significance as it contains the teachings, discourses, rules, and guidelines given by the Buddha and his prominent disciples.

    Composition of the Tripitaka:

    (1) Vinaya Pitaka (Basket of Discipline):

    • Comprises the rules and guidelines for monastic discipline in the Buddhist community.
    • Provides detailed instructions on the conduct and behavior expected from monks and nuns.
    • Covers various aspects, including ethical guidelines, disciplinary codes, and procedures for resolving disputes.
    • Offers insights into the monastic life, the organization of the Sangha (monastic community), and the role of the monastic code in maintaining harmony and ethical conduct.

    (2) Sutta Pitaka (Basket of Discourses):

    • Contains the discourses and teachings delivered by Gautama Buddha and his close disciples.
    • Includes a vast collection of discourses covering a wide range of topics, such as ethics, meditation, philosophy, and social issues.
    • Consists of individual suttas (discourses) grouped into different collections or Nikayas, such as the Digha Nikaya (Long Discourses), Majjhima Nikaya (Middle-Length Discourses), Samyutta Nikaya (Connected Discourses), and Anguttara Nikaya (Numerical Discourses).
    • Presents the Buddha’s profound teachings on the Four Noble Truths, the Noble Eightfold Path, dependent origination, and other core concepts of Buddhism.

    (3) Abhidhamma Pitaka (Basket of Higher Teachings):

    • Provides a comprehensive and systematic analysis of Buddhist philosophy and psychology.
    • Explores the nature of mind, consciousness, and reality in intricate detail.
    • Presents the teachings in a more technical and analytical manner, offering an advanced understanding of Buddhist concepts.
    • Divided into seven books, known as the Abhidhamma books, which delve into topics such as consciousness, mental factors, elements, and the path to liberation.
    • Offers a deep exploration of the ultimate nature of existence and the workings of the mind.

    Features and Characteristics

    • Authenticity and Authority: The Tripitaka is regarded as the most authoritative and authentic collection of Buddhist scriptures in the Theravada tradition.
    • Canonical Language: The texts are primarily written in Pali, an ancient Indian language close to the language spoken during the Buddha’s time.
    • Extensive Coverage: The Tripitaka covers a wide range of topics, offering comprehensive guidance for practitioners in various aspects of life.
    • Preservation of Early Buddhist Teachings: The Tripitaka is believed to preserve the original teachings of the Buddha, providing insights into his wisdom and teachings.

     

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  • Historic ‘Sengol’ to be installed in new Parliament

    sengol

    Central Idea

    • Prime Minister is set to install the ‘Sengol,’ a historical sceptre from Tamil Nadu, in the new Parliament building, which will be inaugurated on May 28, 2023.

    What is Sengol?

    • Sengol is a historical sceptre that holds significant cultural and historical value in Tamil Nadu.
    • Derived from the Tamil word “Semmai,” meaning “Righteousness,” Sengol represents a symbol of justice and good governance.
    • In the Chola era, the transfer of power from one king to another was sanctified with the sceptre being handed over as a symbol of authority and the responsibility to rule with fairness and justice.
    • It gained prominence during the transfer of power from the British to the Indian people at the time of India’s independence.

    History: Traditional Chola Practice and Symbolism

    • Historical Practice: The presentation of the Sengol aligns with a traditional Chola practice where Samayacharyas (spiritual leaders) led the coronation of kings, sanctifying the transfer of power and symbolically recognizing the ruler.
    • Symbol of Justice and Good Governance: The Sengol, a symbol of justice and good governance, holds cultural significance as recorded in ancient Tamil texts like Silapathikaram and Manimekalai.

    Sengol’s recent context and creation

    • Lord Mountbatten’s Question: Prior to Independence, Lord Mountbatten, the last Viceroy of India, asked Nehru about the ceremony that should symbolize the transfer of power.
    • Inspiration from Chola Dynasty: Rajagopalachari, the last Governor-General of India, suggested a ceremony from the Chola dynasty, where the transfer of power was sanctified and blessed by high priests.
    • Manufacturing the Sengol: Rajagopalachari approached Thiruvaduthurai Atheenam, a renowned Shaivite mutt in Tamil Nadu’s Tanjore district, which commissioned the creation of the Sengol from Chennai-based jewellers, “Vummidi Bangaru Chetty.”
    • Craftsmanship: Vummidi Ethirajulu and Vummidi Sudhakar skillfully crafted the five-foot-long Sengol, featuring a symbolic ‘Nandi’ bull representing justice.

    Significance of the ‘Sengol’

    • Symbolic importance: Derived from the Tamil word “Semmai,” meaning “Righteousness,” the ‘Sengol’ represents a significant historical symbol of Independence.
    • Marks Transfer of Power: On August 14, 1947, Pandit Nehru, the first PM, received the ‘Sengol’ from the Adhinam of Tamil Nadu, marking the shift of power from the British to the Indian people.

    The Handover Ceremony

    • Arrival of the Sengol: Three individuals, including the deputy high priest of the Adheenam, a Nadaswaram player, and an Oduvar (singer), brought the newly made Sengol from Tamil Nadu.
    • The Ceremony: On August 14, 1947, the Sengol was handed over to Lord Mountbatten during a procession, and later taken to Jawaharlal Nehru’s house, where it was officially presented to him.
    • Sacred Song and Attendees: A special song composed by the 7th-century Tamil saint Tirugnana Sambandar, as specified by the high priest, accompanied the ceremony. Dr. Rajendra Prasad, India’s first president, and other dignitaries were present during the event.

    Ceremonial Procession and Tamil Traditions

    • Grand Procession: The Sengol will be ceremoniously transported to the House in a grand procession.
    • Musical Ensemble: Traditional Nadaswaram musicians, playing Tamil Nadu’s iconic instrument, will lead the procession, and PM is expected to walk alongside them, embracing Tamil culture.
    • Adheenams and Sanctification: Adheenams, priests from Shaivite mutts in Tamil Nadu, will be present in the Lok Sabha’s Well. They will sanctify the Sengol with holy water after Prime Minister Modi greets them, honoring Tamil traditions.
    • Oduvars and Sacred Recitation: Tamil temple singers known as Oduvars will recite the “Kolaru Padhigam” lyrically, while the Nadaswaram musicians enchant with their soulful music.

    Conclusion

    • The Sengol continues to be revered as a representation of India’s independence and serves as a tangible reminder of the country’s rich cultural heritage and the values it upholds.
    • Its installation in the new Parliament building further emphasizes its importance and aims to educate and inspire people about this historical event and the principles it embodies.

     

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  • In news: Neh Pema Shelphu Shrine

    neh pema

    Central Idea

    • The landowner of a disputed area in Arunachal Pradesh has demanded either compensation from Army for a land where Army has built Gurdwara near the Neh Pema Shelphu Shrine.

    Neh Pema Shelphu Shrine

    • It is a holy shrine located in the Mechukha Valley of Arunachal Pradesh.
    • It holds significant religious importance for the local Memba Buddhist community.
    • The shrine is believed to have been sanctified by Guru Padmasambhava, a prominent figure in Tibetan Buddhism, during his exploration of the area in the 8th century AD.
    • It has been a place of worship and pilgrimage for the Memba people since 1274 AD, according to historical records.
    • It attracts hundreds of Buddhists who visit the shrine annually during a pilgrimage in March.

    Why in news?

    • The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee claimed the shrine associated with Guru Nanak Dev, the first Sikh Guru, in Arunachal Pradesh has been turned into a Buddhist shrine.

     

     

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  • SC backs TN position on Jallikattu

    jallikattu

    Central Idea

    • The Supreme Court Constitution Bench has upheld the amendments made by Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Karnataka to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
    • The decision overturns a previous verdict that banned practices such as Jallikattu, a traditional bull-taming sport.

    Overturning the previous verdict

    • The court rejected the 2014 verdict of the Welfare Board of India v. A. Nagaraja case that deemed Jallikattu incompatible with animal rights.
    • The Constitution Bench emphasized that Jallikattu has been a part of Tamil Nadu’s cultural heritage for at least a century.

    Significance of Pongal and Jallikattu

    • Pongal is a harvest festival in Tamil Nadu, celebrated with thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest and rituals honoring cattle.
    • Jallikattu, a bull-taming event, is an integral part of the festival and showcases the strength and skill of farm hands in southern Tamil Nadu.

    Supreme Court’s 2014 verdict and animal rights perspective

    • The previous two-judge Bench ruling emphasized the importance of animal rights and suggested elevating them to the level of constitutional rights.
    • Animal welfare organizations presented evidence of physical and mental torture inflicted on the animals during Jallikattu.

    Issue with the sport

    An investigation by the Animal Welfare Board of India concluded that “Jallikattu is inherently cruel to animals”.

    • Human deaths: The event has caused several human deaths and injuries and there are several instances of fatalities to the bulls.
    • Manhandling of animals: Animal welfare concerns are related to the handling of the bulls before they are released and also during the competitor’s attempts to subdue the bull.
    • Cruelty to animal: Practices, before the bull is released, include prodding the bull with sharp sticks or scythes, extreme bending of the tail which can fracture the vertebrae, and biting of the bull’s tail.
    • Animal intoxication:  There are also reports of the bulls being forced to drink alcohol to disorient them, or chilli peppers being rubbed in their eyes to aggravate the bull.

    Arguments in favour

    • Native breed conservation: According to its protagonists, it is not a leisure sport available but a way to promote and preserve the native livestock.
    • Cultural significance: Jallikattu has been known to be practiced during the Tamil classical period (400-100 BCE) and finds mention in Sangam texts.
    • Man-animal relationship: Some believe that the sport also symbolizes a cordial man-animal relationship.
    • Agrarian pride: It represents a cultural infirmity to urban modernity that marginalizes rural and agrarian values.

    Conclusion

    • Tradition and culture should be considered in the rights discourse, recognizing the cultural context of practices like Jallikattu.
    • Engagement and negotiation between animal rights advocates and local culture and tradition are necessary for a balanced approach.

     

     

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  • India-EU discuss ways to resolve Carbon Border Tax

    Central Idea

    Why such move?

    • The EU is India’s second-largest trading partner and export market.
    • India has expressed confidence that the intention behind CBAM was not to create a trade barrier but to promote sustainability.
    • CBAM has potential impact on India’s Steel and Aluminum sectors.

    Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)

    Proposed by European Union (EU)
    Purpose To reduce carbon emissions from imported goods and prevent competitive disadvantage against countries with weaker environmental regulations
    Objectives Reduce carbon emissions from imported goods

    Promote a level playing field between the EU and its trading partners

    Protect EU companies that have invested in green technologies

     

    How does CBAM work?

    Coverage Applies to imported goods that are carbon-intensive
    Integration Covered by the EU’s Emissions Trading System (ETS), which currently covers industries like power generation, steel, and cement
    Implementation CBAM taxes would be imposed on the carbon content of imported goods at the border, and the tax rates would be based on the carbon price in the EU ETS
    Exemptions Possible exemptions for countries that have implemented comparable carbon pricing systems
    Revenue Use Revenue generated from CBAM taxes could be used to fund the EU’s climate objectives, such as financing climate-friendly investments and supporting developing countries’ climate efforts

     

    Who will be affected by CBAM?

    Details
    Countries Non-EU countries, including India, that export carbon-intensive goods to the EU
    Items Initially covers iron and steel, cement, aluminium, fertilisers, and electric energy production
    Expansion The scope of the CBAM may expand to other sectors in the future

    Advantages offered

    • Encourages non-EU countries to adopt more stringent environmental regulations, reducing global carbon emissions.
    • Prevents carbon leakage by discouraging companies from relocating to countries with weaker environmental regulations.
    • Generates revenue that could be used to support EU climate policies.

    Challenges with CBAM

    • Difficulty in accurately measuring the carbon emissions of imported goods, especially for countries without comprehensive carbon accounting systems.
    • Potential for trade tensions with the EU’s trading partners, especially if other countries implement retaliatory measures.

    Ways to ease impact of CBAM

    To minimize the impact of CBAM, India can consider several actions:

    • Set up a carbon trading mechanism: To reflect the level of development and adjust the carbon tax paid domestically when paying CBT to the EU.
    • Re-designate taxes on essential products: Make these as carbon taxes, which could help lower the net impact of CBT.
    • Create a cadre of energy auditors: To ensure fair assessment of carbon emissions for products and help the industry calculate carbon intensity and adopt cleaner technologies.
    • Start an industry awareness program: To educate sectors affected by CBT and create a dedicated group involving government, industry associations, and researchers.
    • Devise a WTO-compatible retaliation mechanism: To counter CBT, considering that developing countries exporting to developed nations will also suffer from it.
    • Sign new Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): After resolving the CBT issue, as high CBT would undermine the benefits of zero import duties.
    • Expose the perceived hypocrisy: Utilize global platforms to expose offshoring pollution of developed countries and proposing to tax imports, while not addressing their own consumption patterns.

    Conclusion

    • The CBAM is a proposed policy by the EU to reduce carbon emissions from imported goods and to promote a level playing field between the EU and its trading partners.
    • Although the CBAM has its challenges, it has the potential to incentivize non-EU countries to adopt more stringent environmental regulations and reduce global carbon emissions.

     

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  • What is ‘Adopt a Heritage’ Scheme?

    heritage

    Central Idea

    • Private firms, companies, and public sector units can adopt and maintain State-owned archaeological sites or monuments through agreements with the Union Ministry of Culture.
    • These businesses are referred to as “Monument Mitras” under the ‘Adopt a Heritage’ Scheme.

    Adopt a Heritage scheme

    • The ‘Adopt a Heritage: Apni Dharohar, Apni Pehchaan’ scheme is a collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Culture, and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
    • Launched in September 2017, it aims to develop selected monuments and heritage sites across India with the participation of public and private entities.
    • The scheme focuses on providing and maintaining basic amenities, improving accessibility, cleanliness, illumination, and advanced facilities like surveillance systems and night-viewing facilities.

    Selection and Adoption Process

    • Sites/monuments are selected based on tourist footfall and visibility, and they can be adopted by private and public sector companies and individuals known as “Monument Mitras.”
    • The Oversight and Vision Committee, co-chaired by the Tourism Secretary and the Culture Secretary, selects the Monument Mitras based on their vision for developing the site.
    • No financial bid is involved in the selection process, and corporate entities are expected to use their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds for the upkeep of the site.
    • The adopted sites provide limited visibility to the Monument Mitras on the premises and on the Incredible India website.
    • The oversight committee has the authority to terminate the memorandum of understanding in case of non-compliance or non-performance.

    Previous Initiatives and Controversy

    • The government previously formed the National Culture Fund and initiated the ‘Campaign Clean India’ scheme to involve the corporate sector in maintaining tourist sites.
    • The ‘Adopt a Heritage’ scheme faced controversy when it was reported that Dalmia Bharat, under a MoU, would build infrastructure and maintain the Red Fort.
    • Critics argued that the involvement of private parties in iconic monuments raised concerns about the preservation of India’s heritage.
    • The government defended the scheme, stating that it aimed to increase tourist footfall and improve the maintenance of sites.

    Perils and Challenges of the Scheme

    • Diminishing role of ASI: The scheme sidelines the role of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and disregards established guidelines for presenting excavated objects.
    • Undue commercialization: Allowing businesses to occupy prime public land and build their brands can further diminish the grounds around iconic monuments.
    • Demographic impacts: The involvement of big businesses in guided tours and illumination of monuments may impact local communities and their livelihoods.
    • Disregarding historical preservation: Concerns arise about businesses altering the historical character of monuments not protected by the ASI or located in states without Archaeology Directorates.

    Govt intention behind the scheme

    • Businesses can help citizens understand why monuments matter: This can be done by earmarking CSR funds for grants for researching, writing, and publishing high-quality textbooks, and developing imaginative and effective ways of teaching history.
    • Skillful conservation: Industrial houses can support the meaningful conservation of heritage buildings by looking within through their CSR.
    • Collaborative efforts: The private sector’s resources and expertise may also help the ASI and State Archaeology Directorates to secure monuments from dams, mining projects, defacement, and looting.
    • Cultural contribution: By embracing principles of historical preservation, businesses and organizations can showcase India’s progress in safeguarding its pluralistic heritage and inspire citizen participation in this endeavour.

    Way ahead

    • Transparent selection process: Implement a fair and transparent process for selecting entities or Monument Mitras to adopt heritage sites, ensuring accountability and avoiding favoritism.
    • Robust monitoring mechanism: Develop a strong monitoring system to ensure that the adopted sites are maintained and developed according to the agreed-upon standards and guidelines.
    • Preservation protocols: Strictly adhere to preservation guidelines set by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and other relevant authorities to protect the historical and cultural integrity of heritage sites.
    • Engagement with local communities: Involve local communities and stakeholders in decision-making processes, encouraging their participation, ownership, and contribution to the conservation efforts.
    • Sustainable tourism practices: Promote sustainable tourism practices that minimize the environmental impact, respect the local culture and heritage, and provide socio-economic benefits to the communities living around the heritage sites.

     

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