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GS Paper: GS1

  • Geetanjali Shree writes: What Hindi purists don’t understand about Hindi

    Central idea

    Language, a magical interplay of sounds, is celebrated in Hindi as a rich connector of cultures. Challenges arise as some advocate for a rigid and exclusive form of Hindi, risking the loss of diversity and inclusivity. Balancing standardization with openness ensures Hindi remains vibrant and accessible to all.

    Who are Hindi purists?

    • Hindi purists are individuals or groups who advocate for a more traditional and conservative approach to the Hindi language.
    • They often emphasize linguistic purity, seeking to preserve Hindi in its classical form and resist the influence of foreign languages, especially Persian and Arabic.
    • Hindi purists may promote the exclusive use of Sanskrit-derived vocabulary and resist the incorporation of words from other languages.

    Key Characteristics of Hindi Purists:

    • Sanskritic Purity: Hindi purists often advocate for purging Hindi of loanwords from Persian, Arabic, and other languages, aiming to maintain a more Sanskritic purity.
    • Resistance to Linguistic Evolution: They may resist linguistic evolution and changes in grammar, vocabulary, or pronunciation, striving to uphold a more traditional and classical version of the language.
    • Opposition to English Influence: Hindi purists may express opposition to the increasing influence of English on the language, advocating for the preservation of Hindi’s unique identity.
    • Promotion of Indigenous Culture: Emphasis on promoting indigenous culture and values through language, rejecting elements perceived as foreign or detrimental to the cultural heritage of Hindi.

    Key Highlights:

    • Dhwani – The Magic of Sound: Bhartrihari’s philosophy highlights dhwani (sound) as the magical element infusing meanings into words, emphasizing the dynamic and ever-changing nature of language.
    • Eclectic Nature of Hindi: Hindi, the author’s mother tongue, is celebrated for its eclectic richness, connecting individuals to diverse cultures, philosophies, and histories.
    • Contested Position of Hindi: Modern Hindi faces contestation as questions arise about its openness to cultural influences. Anxieties stem from claims made by rashtrabhashawadis, leading to concerns among both non-Hindi and Hindi speakers.

     

    Prelims focus

     

    Bhartrihari Muni, an ancient Indian philosopher and poet.

     

    Era: Lived around the 5th century CE.

     

    Philosophy of Language: Notable for the “Vakyapadiya,” a seminal work in linguistics and philosophy of language.

     

    Poetry: Explored themes of love, detachment, and the impermanence of life through his poetic works.

     

    Significance: Revered for shaping Sanskrit literature and leaving a lasting impact on linguistic and philosophical thought in ancient India.

     

     

    Challenges:

    • Threat to Openness: Grand claims by language purists pose a threat to the inherently eclectic and open character of Hindi, causing anxieties among those who admire its diversity.
    • Language as an Expansionist Monster: Hindi speakers are doubly threatened as the language faces a negative image and attempts to be portrayed as an expansionist force.
    • Same Language Everywhere: People want Hindi to be the same for everyone, which might make all the different ways of speaking Hindi disappear.
    • Not Letting Hindi Change: Some folks don’t like Hindi changing and learning new things, which might stop it from growing and getting better.
    • Some People Feel Left Out: Making Hindi super important might make people who don’t speak it feel left out.

    Key Phrases for mains value addition:

    • Heritage of Words: Language is described as a heritage of words, with a live, ephemeral, and dynamic quality.
    • Metaphorical Significance: Hindi is metaphorically termed as both “Om” and “Earth,” symbolizing its deep-rooted significance.
    Claims Made by Rashtrabhashawadis Aim/Objective
    Language Purity Make Hindi more Sanskritic; Remove Persian and Arabic influences.
    Urdu-Hindi Separation Establish Hindi as distinct from Urdu; Project them as separate and antagonistic languages.
    Official Language Promotion Establish Hindi as the sole official language; Minimize the use of regional languages.
    Purist Language Standards Set strict standards for Hindi; Resist linguistic diversity and regional dialect influences.
    Nationalistic Language Identity Tie Hindi closely to a nationalistic identity; Position it as a symbol of a culturally pure nation.

    Constitutional Status of Hindi:

    • Official Language (Article 343):
      • The Constitution of India designates Hindi as one of the official languages of the country. It, along with English, is used for official communication at the central government level.
    • Directive for Development (Article 351):
      • Article 351 emphasizes the duty of the Union to promote the spread of the Hindi language and to develop it so that it serves as a medium of expression for all the elements of the composite culture of India.
    • Special Provisions for Hindi States (Article 345):
      • States with Hindi as their official language receive special provisions under Article 345 to regulate the use of Hindi in official matters within the state.

    Government Schemes on Hindi Language:

    • Rajbhasha Vibhag Scheme: Aimed at promoting the use of Hindi in government offices and public institutions. It includes initiatives for organizing Hindi workshops, promoting Hindi correspondence, and ensuring official documents are primarily in Hindi.
    • Hindi Teaching Programs: Schemes dedicated to enhancing Hindi education, especially in non-Hindi speaking states. This involves the development of Hindi teaching modules, training programs for Hindi teachers, and incentives for schools promoting Hindi language skills.
    • Hindi Literature Promotion Fund: A fund to support the publication, translation, and promotion of Hindi literature. This scheme encourages the dissemination of Hindi literary works globally and fosters cultural exchange.

    Analysis:

    • Historical Forces Shaping Hindi: Colonial connections and national awakening historically shaped modern Hindi, showing its openness to new influences and challenges.
    • Separation of Languages: The article traces the separation of Hindi and Urdu, once part of Hindustani, into two distinct and antagonistic languages during a historical campaign.

    Key Data:

    • Chronology of British Expansion: Hindi, as Khari Boli, embraced Bengal’s leadership as a late entrant to the modern world during British expansion in India.
    • Contributions from Other Languages: Hindi literature is enriched by individuals from languages like Urdu, Punjabi, Gujarati, and Marathi, exemplifying its cosmopolitan vision.

    Way Forward:

    • Global Collaboration: Encourage collaboration among countries to preserve language diversity. For instance, platforms like UNESCO could facilitate international agreements on language preservation, promoting the sharing of linguistic resources and knowledge.
    • Innovation-Friendly Policies: Encourage policies that foster innovation and balance the interests of diverse language speakers, promoting a competitive and sustainable linguistic ecosystem.
    • Digital Literacy: Initiatives like “Digital Language Literacy” courses, equipping individuals with the skills to navigate and comprehend the evolving nature of language in digital spaces.

    In essence, the article explores the magical essence of language, the contested position of Hindi, challenges to its openness, and advocates for a future that embraces linguistic diversity and dynamicity.

     

    Quotes for mains value addition

     

    “हिंदी हमारी पहचान, भाषा हमारी शान।” (Hindi Hamari Pehchaan, Bhasha Hamari Shaan) – “Hindi is our identity, our language is our pride.”

     

    “हिंदी भाषा का महत्व उसकी सामाजिक, सांस्कृतिक और राष्ट्रीय एकता में है।” (Hindi Bhasha ka Mahatva Uski Samajik, Sanskritik aur Rashtriya Ekta Mein Hai) – “The importance of the Hindi language lies in its social, cultural, and national unity.”

     

    “हिंदी हैं हम, वतन हैं हिन्दोस्तान हमारा।” (Hindi Hain Hum, Vatan Hai Hindostan Hamara) – “We are Hindi speakers, and our homeland is Hindostan.”

     

  • The world is getting older. Can India cope?

     

    Central idea

    India is becoming the most populous country soon, but it’s also aging rapidly. This brings challenges like fewer workers and a changed global role. To tackle this, we need plans for more kids, strategies for the elderly, and preparations for India’s new place in the world.

    Key Highlights:

    • India is set to become the most populous country by 2027, surpassing China.
    • The global trend is “greying,” with aging populations becoming more prevalent.
    • India’s elderly population is expected to double by 2050, constituting 20% of the total population.
    • Fertility rates are declining in both developed and developing countries, affecting the old age dependency ratio.
    • The world is witnessing a geopolitical shift, with India, Nigeria, China, and the US projected as dominant powers by 2100.

    Challenges and Concerns:

    • Aging populations mean fewer workers and taxpayers, impacting a country’s ability to generate wealth.
    • Declining fertility rates pose economic challenges, especially in developing countries like India.
    • The elderly population’s growth presents significant implications for health, economy, and society.
    • Developed countries had a higher per capita income when their populations aged, unlike developing countries like India.
    • A potential decline in India’s population by the turn of the century could impact its geopolitical standing.

    Analysis:

    • The article underscores the importance of understanding and addressing the challenges posed by aging populations and declining fertility rates.
    • It emphasizes the need for comprehensive strategies to handle the economic and societal impacts of these demographic shifts.
    • The geopolitical reorganization highlighted suggests a shift in power dynamics, with factors like immigration and reproductive rights playing crucial roles.

    Key Data and Facts:

    • India’s elderly population is expected to grow by 41% between 2021 and 2031.
    • The share of older persons in India will double to 20.8% by 2050, with 347 million elderly individuals.
    • Fertility rates in urban India are comparable to developed countries, with a rate of 1.6.
    • By 2100, China’s population is projected to decline significantly, impacting its geopolitical influence.
    • Japan and South Korea are the world’s fastest-aging countries, with South Korea holding the world’s lowest fertility rate.

    Way Forward:

    • Address declining fertility rates through policies that support work-life balance, childcare, and reproductive choice.
    • Develop strategies to manage the economic and healthcare challenges associated with an aging population.
    • Consider the geopolitical implications of demographic shifts and plan for a future where India plays a crucial role.
    • Emphasize the importance of immigration and reproductive rights for women in shaping the global power structure.
    • Encourage a holistic approach to demographics, taking into account societal, economic, and geopolitical factors.

  • CBAM will kill EU Manufacturing: Commerce Minister

    cbam

    Central Idea

    • Commerce and Industry Minister has strongly criticized the European Union’s (EU) proposed Carbon Tax on imports, deeming it “ill-conceived” and warning of potential consequences for the EU’s manufacturing sector.
    • He asserted that even if the plan, set to take effect in 2026, proceeds, India will counter it by imposing its own carbon tax.

    What is the 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.

    Consequences for EU Manufacturing

    • Auto Sector Impact: The minister suggested that the European auto sector could be one of the first casualties, particularly affecting steel and aluminum usage.
    • Opportunity for India: Goyal saw this as an opportunity for India to develop a robust auto sector, leveraging cost advantages in the global market.

    India’s Response and Carbon Tax Strategy

    • Counteractive Measures: India intends to neutralize the impact of the EU’s carbon tax by imposing its own.
    • Investing in Green Energy: Revenue from the Indian carbon tax would be channelled into the country’s green energy transition, which, indirectly, could help exporters transition to cleaner energy and reduce their carbon footprint.
    • Negotiations with EU: The government is engaged in dialogues with EU counterparts regarding the levy’s fairness and pricing disparities.

    Conclusion

    • The EU’s proposed Carbon Tax and India’s counterstrategy highlight the complexities of international trade, environmental concerns, and the potential consequences for various industries.
    • India’s strong stance underscores its commitment to safeguarding its economic interests while engaging in constructive negotiations with the EU to ensure a fair and mutually beneficial outcome.

  • Gwalior, Kozhikode join UNESCO Creative Cities Network

    creative cities

    Central Idea

    • Gwalior and Kozhikode from India are among the 55 new cities which have joined the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.
    • Earlier, Srinagar was designated the creative city in the field of Crafts and Folk Arts.

    Inclusion in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network

    [A] Gwalior’s Musical Heritage

    • Category: Gwalior, located in Madhya Pradesh, earned its spot in the ‘Music’ category, showcasing its rich musical heritage.
    • Cultural Significance: Gwalior, home to the Gwalior Gharana and synonymous with musicians like Baiju Bawra and Tansen was acknowledged for being a popular destination for learning Indian classical music from musicians in the Guru-Shishya Parampara.

    [B] Kozhikode’s Literary Excellence

    • Category: Kozhikode, situated in Kerala, made its mark in the ‘Literature’ category, highlighting its literary achievements.
    • Literary Legacy: Kozhikode carried the distinction of of being home to over 500 libraries.

    About UNESCO Creative Cities Network

    Purpose To promote cooperation among cities for cultural and creative industries development
    Initiation Established by UNESCO in 2004
    Seven Categories Design, Film, Gastronomy, Literature, Media Arts, Music, and Crafts & Folk Art
    Member Cities Over 250 cities from around the world
    Objectives Foster innovation, cultural diversity, and sustainable urban development
    Activities Collaborative projects, cultural events, and initiatives
    Selection Process Cities apply and are designated by UNESCO based on criteria related to creativity
    Network Coordination UNESCO provides coordination and support
    Impact Enhances cities’ cultural identity, economy, and international visibility
    Other Indian Cities in UCCN
    • Srinagar- Crafts and Folk Arts (2022)
    • Jaipur- Crafts and Folk Arts (2015)
    • Varanasi- Creative city of Music (2015)
    • Chennai- Creative city of Music (2017)
    • Mumbai- Film (2019)
    • Hyderabad- Gastronomy/Food (2019)

  • Impacting a woman’s freedom to reproductive choices

     

    women

    Central idea

    The recent Supreme Court decision in X vs Union of India has sparked a debate on the delicate balance between a woman’s right to choose and the viability of the fetus. Grounded in the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, the judgment has faced criticism for not explicitly addressing the moral and legal status of the fetus, potentially overshadowing a woman’s rights to privacy and dignity.

    Key Highlights:

    • Denial of Termination at 26 Weeks: The Supreme Court, in its decision, denied permission for the termination of a 26-week pregnancy, citing limitations within the MTP Act. The judgment centers on the viability of the fetus, limiting a woman’s right to choose when the fetus becomes capable of surviving outside the uterus.
    • Omission of Crucial Questions: Despite the ruling’s focus on viability, the Court did not address vital questions surrounding the autonomous moral status, legal standing, and constitutional rights of the fetus.
    • Petitioner’s Plight: The petitioner, a 27-year-old woman battling post-partum depression, emphasized her inability to care for a third child, underscoring the complex interplay of mental health and reproductive choices.

    Challenges

    • Ambiguity in MTP Act: The judgment fails to assess whether the MTP Act serves merely as an enabling legislation or if it confers fundamental rights, leading to uncertainties in interpreting the law.
    • Overlooking Fetal Rights: The absence of consideration for the rights and status of the fetus within the constitutional framework raises concerns about inadvertently favoring fetal rights over a woman’s autonomy.
    • Hierarchical Rights: The Court’s decision may unintentionally establish a hierarchy of rights, potentially elevating the fetus above a woman’s right to make autonomous reproductive choices.
    Prelims focus

     

    MTP Act of 1971: The Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act of 1971 was the foundational legislation that regulated abortion in India. It permitted abortions up to 20 weeks of gestation under specific conditions, such as the risk to the life or physical or mental health of the pregnant woman.

     

    Amendment in 2021: In 2021, the MTP Act underwent significant amendments to modernize and liberalize India’s abortion laws.

     

    The key changes included:

    Extending the permissible gestational limit from 20 to 24 weeks.

    Expanding access to abortion services by allowing a broader range of healthcare providers to perform abortions, including mid-level providers.

     

     

    Concerns

    • Establishing Fetal Constitutional Rights: The ruling’s potential implications on establishing constitutional rights for fetuses contradict existing jurisprudence, stirring concerns about the broader legal landscape.
    • Impact on Reproductive Autonomy: The judgment’s impact on a woman’s freedom to make reproductive choices without undue interference becomes a focal point of concern.
    • Enabling Legislation vs. Fundamental Rights: Potential conflicts between enabling legislation like the MTP Act and fundamental rights necessitate a reexamination of legal frameworks.

    Analysis

    • Gap in Addressing Evolving Dynamics: The Court’s decision reveals a gap in addressing the evolving dynamics of reproductive rights, especially in the context of mental health and socioeconomic factors.
    • Contradiction in Privacy and Dignity: Contradictions emerge when comparing this judgment with the Court’s recent stance on privacy and dignity, as seen in X vs The Govt. of Delhi, where autonomy over reproductive choices was emphasized.

    Way Forward

    • Reevaluate MTP Act: A comprehensive reevaluation of the MTP Act is imperative to address evolving societal and medical considerations in the realm of reproductive rights.
    • Dialogue on Fetal Constitutional Status: Initiating a broad dialogue on the constitutional status of the fetus is crucial, considering the potential ramifications on reproductive rights.
    • Amendments and Supplementary Regulations: Considering amendments or supplementary regulations becomes essential to bridge gaps in existing legislation and ensure a more nuanced approach to reproductive choices.

    This structured approach aims to simplify complex legal and ethical discussions while highlighting the key elements of the Supreme Court’s decision and its broader implications.

  • India has ignored infertility for too long

    Central idea 

    The article discusses the overlooked issue of infertility in India’s population policies, emphasizing its social and cultural implications, particularly for women. It argues that addressing infertility as a public health concern is crucial for achieving a balanced approach to fertility control and reproductive autonomy.

    Key Highlights:

    • Infertility Stigma: Vimlesh faced societal pressure and anxiety due to her perceived infertility, particularly in producing a male child.
    • Reproductive Governance: Indian population policies historically focus on contraception, overlooking the prevalence of infertility and related reproductive rights.
    • Social Impact: Infertility in patriarchal societies like Rajasthan leads to women’s marginalization, impacting their value in households and access to resources.
    • Health-Seeking Behavior: Women seek healers for fertility, challenging epidemiological notions and emphasizing the social and economic dimensions of reproductive well-being.
    • Global Perspective: A World Health Organization report indicates that 1 in 6 people worldwide faces infertility issues, contributing to global demographic challenges.

    Challenges and Concerns:

    • Marginalization: Infertile women in India face marginalization, avoidance, and reduced access to resources, impacting their overall well-being.
    • Narrow Focus: Reproductive health policies predominantly focus on contraception, neglecting the broader issues of infertility and reproductive autonomy.
    • Lack of Data: The absence of significant quantitative data in the region compromises the reproductive health rights of women, especially in poorer communities.
    • Inaccessible Treatment: Expensive fertility treatments remain out of reach for many, denying poorer individuals their rights to become parents.

    Analysis:

    • Cultural Dimensions: The social and cultural meanings attached to infertility have profound consequences on women’s health, challenging narrow epidemiological perspectives.
    • Reorienting Policies: The need to shift the focus of population policies to address infertility, considering it as a crucial aspect of public health services.
    • Reproductive Autonomy: Balancing fertility control with reproductive autonomy is essential for a participatory, consensual, and rights-based approach.
    • Impact on Marginalized: Infertility exacerbates existing inequalities, especially in patriarchal societies, where decisions about women’s bodies are influenced by power dynamics.

    Key Data:

    • Total Fertility Rate (TFR): Current estimates indicate a TFR of 2.1 in rural areas and 1.6 in urban areas in India.
    • Worldwide Infertility: A recent WHO report reveals that 1 in 6 people globally experiences infertility issues.
    • National Population Policy: Historically focused on contraceptives as reproductive ‘choice,’ neglecting the prevalence of widespread infertility.

    Key Terms for value addition:

    • Reproductive Governance: Policies and practices influencing reproductive choices and outcomes.
    • Infertility Stigma: Societal discrimination and marginalization of individuals facing infertility.
    • Total Fertility Rate (TFR): The average number of children a woman is expected to have during her reproductive years.

    Way Forward:

    • Inclusive Policies: Population policies should address infertility as a critical aspect of public health, ensuring inclusivity and reproductive autonomy.
    • Data Collection: Conduct comprehensive studies combining qualitative and quantitative data to form a robust evidence base for effective policy decisions.
    • Accessible Healthcare: Ensure access to adequate and appropriate healthcare, addressing the fear of infertility and mitigating social consequences.
    • Education and Awareness: Promote awareness about infertility to destigmatize the condition and encourage a more supportive societal attitude.
    • Affordable Treatments: Work towards making fertility treatments more affordable and accessible, particularly for poorer communities.

  • Kathaprasangam: An Art Form’s Century-Long Journey

    Kathaprasangam

    Central Idea

    • Kathaprasangam began as a medium to narrate stories of oppression, untouchability, and human resilience.
    • Today, it finds a place of relevance and renewal in the digital age, captivating audiences, both young and old.

    Kathaprasangam

    • Kathaprasangam is a stage art form of Kerala, which was popular in the mid-twentieth century.
    • Kathaprasangam owes its inception to Kumaranasan (1873-1924), a Malayalam poet who aimed to educate and inspire underprivileged sections of society.
    • He sought to propagate the principles of Sree Narayana Guru and his poems.
    • It started a century ago, touching on themes of oppression, untouchability, and human triumphs.
    • It uses a blend of prose and song, accompanied by a harmonium and tabla, to retell stories.
    • Young performers compete in this art form, earning marks that influence their promotions.
    • It is celebrated for its ability to communicate with urgency and directness, addressing societal issues.

    Relevance in Modern Context

    • Kathaprasangam, born out of the fight against casteism and superstitions, holds even more significance today as religious identities are asserted with violence, posing a threat to societal harmony.
    • While newer forms of entertainment have gained popularity, they still attract young audiences eager to learn and share stories using new media platforms.

  • Women can make the world better

    Central idea

    The article highlights Arun Maira’s insights on the gender disparity in economic narratives, emphasizing the undervaluation of women’s contributions, the evolving challenges in global employment patterns, and the need for a more inclusive and care-focused approach to economic development, particularly in the context of India and the G-20’s call for a holistic vision beyond GDP

    Challenges in How We See Money and Work:

    • Not Enough Women Recognized: The Nobel Prize in Economics mostly goes to men, leaving out women’s important contributions. Only three women have won it so far.
    • Forgetting the Value of Care: The work women do at home, taking care of family and community, isn’t seen as important for the economy. This is a big problem.
    • Jobs Changing Globally: The way people work is changing worldwide. More jobs are now short-term or in the gig economy. This is a big challenge for India, which has a lot of young people.
    • Not Paying Enough for Important Jobs: Jobs like taking care of families or working in health and education are crucial, but the people doing these jobs, mostly women, are not paid well.

    India’s Economic Situation:

    • Problems for Young People: In India, even though the economy is growing fast, it’s hard for young people to find good jobs with good pay and security.
    • Need More Focus on Care: India ranks 132nd in human development, and we need to spend more on services that take care of people. But sadly, jobs like taking care of families or working in health and education are not paid much.
    • G-20’s Call for a Different Way: Our Prime Minister has asked the G-20 for a new approach, one that looks beyond just making money. He says it’s time to think of the world as one family.

    Checking How Well We’re Doing:

    • Progress Slow for Big Global Goals: The G-20 says we’re not doing great halfway to our big global goals. Only 12% of the things we wanted to achieve are on track.
    • Time for a Big Change: Arun Maira says we need to change how we solve problems. The usual way is not working, so we need to try something new.

    Seeing Economics in a New Way:

    • Thinking About Everyone: Maira says we need to change how we see our economy. It’s not just about making things and competing. It’s about taking care of people.
    • Looking at What Women Do: Women, according to Maira, do a lot of important work that isn’t always noticed. Nobel laureate Elinor Ostrom showed that when women are in charge, communities work well together.

    What Needs to Change:

    • Giving Women More Power: Maira says we need to let women shape how things work, not just follow what men have set up.
    • Letting Local Communities Decide: Instead of having big experts decide everything, Maira says we should let local communities come up with their solutions. What works in one place might not work in another.
    Unique phrases from article for upsc mains exam value addition

     

    “Tragedy of the Commons Revisited:”

    Referring to Nobel Laureate Elinor Ostrom’s insights, this phrase underscores the importance of cooperative governance, particularly led by women, in managing local resources sustainably.

     

    “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: One Family, One Earth, One Future:”

    This phrase encapsulates the Indian Prime Minister’s call at the G-20, emphasizing a vision that transcends traditional economic metrics and advocates for a global community approach.

     

    “Paradigm Change in Economics:”

    Arun Maira advocates for a fundamental shift in economic thinking, moving away from traditional models dominated by men and towards a more inclusive, caring, and community-driven perspective.

     

    “The Feminine Lens on Economics:”

    This phrase highlights the article’s exploration of a feminine perspective in economics, drawing attention to the undervalued contributions of women and the need for a broader understanding of economic dynamics.

     

    Conclusion:

    Changing how we think about our economy is not easy, but it’s important. Maira tells us that we should listen to regular people, especially women, and let them help make things better. This way, we can build a future where everyone is taken care of, and our world becomes one big family.

     

     

     

  • Baba Farid and India’s Connection to Jerusalem

    baba farid

    Central Idea

    • Amidst the timeless and contentious history of Jerusalem, India’s enduring presence is manifested through the Indian Hospice—a two-story stone building nestled within the city’s ancient walls.
    • The hospice, established in the 12th century, stands as a testament to the 800-year-old connection between India and Jerusalem.

    Baba Farid’s Hospice

    • Baba Farid’s Spiritual Sojourn: Legend has it that Baba Farid, a revered Sufi saint from Punjab, embarked on a 40-day meditation at this site. His spiritual journey left an indelible mark, inspiring Indian Muslims travelling to Mecca to visit Jerusalem for prayer.
    • Transformation into a Shrine: Over time, the place evolved into a sacred shrine and a hospice, welcoming Indian travellers and pilgrims.

    Who was Baba Farid?

    • Early life: Baba Farid, born in 1173 CE near Shakarganj, near Multan (Pakistan), belonged to a family that had migrated from Kabul to Punjab.
    • Sufi Connection: He followed the Chishti Order and was among the first Sufi saints to compose verses in Punjabi.
    • Influence on Sikhism: Many of his verses are enshrined in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhs.

    Evolution of the Indian Hospice

    • Baba Farid’s Lodging: Baba Farid found a humble abode within one of Jerusalem’s gates, known as Bab-az-Zahra among Muslims and Herod’s Gate among Christians. This lodging was situated within a khanqah—a structure for Sufi orders, functioning as both seminaries and hospices.
    • A Continuously Cherished Connection: Despite changing rulers, including Christian crusaders, Mamluks, and Ottomans, the lodge maintained its association with India.

    Hospice through the Ages

    • Prominence during Ottoman Rule: The lodge remained prominent during Ottoman rule, predominantly under the leadership of sheikhs from South Asia.
    • Shift during Ottoman Dissolution: As the Ottoman Empire began to dissolve in 1919, the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem, Amin Al-Husayni, took charge, initiating extensive renovations. He sought support from Muslim patrons worldwide, including Indian princely states.
    • Renovation by Khwaja Nazir Hasan Ansari: In 1921, Khwaja Nazir Hasan Ansari from Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, undertook the renovation of the lodge. It became a sanctuary for travellers and pilgrims from British India, even offering refuge to soldiers during World War II in 1939.

    Indian Hospice’s Association with Independent India

    • Post-Independence Recognition: After India gained independence, Nazir Ansari sought official recognition from the Indian embassy in Egypt, solidifying the lodge’s Indian identity.
    • Resilience through Challenges: The hospice faced challenges, including rocket strikes in 1952 and the Six-Day War in 1967.
    • Diverse Functions: Over time, the Indian Hospice expanded to host the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and the Jerusalem Health Centre.

    Diplomatic and Cultural Significance

    • Meeting Place for Dignitaries: In 2000, the hospice hosted a meeting between former Indian Foreign Minister Jaswant Singh and Palestinian leader Faisal Husseini.
    • Integral Diplomatic Destination: Every Indian diplomat or visiting dignitary includes a visit to the hospice.
    • Sheikh Mohammad Munir Ansari: Sheikh Mohammad Munir Ansari, born in Jerusalem in 1928, administers the hospice and received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman (Overseas Indian Award) from the Government of India in 2011.

    Glimpse of India in Jerusalem

    • Ownership and Accessibility: The property is under the ownership of Waqf Board of India, accessible solely to individuals of Indian citizenship or heritage.
    • Facilities: The hospice offers guest rooms, a mosque, a library, a dining hall, and a kitchen, encouraging guests to manage their cooking and laundry.
    • Ansari Family’s Dedication: The Ansari family diligently maintains the hospice, extending hospitality and preserving a piece of India in the heart of Jerusalem.

  • Women, marriage and labour market participation

     

    women

    Central idea

    The article explores the decline in women’s labor force participation rates, particularly among married women in India, emphasizing its economic implications. It discusses key challenges, including societal norms and limited educational opportunities, while highlighting government schemes and proposing solutions for enhancing women’s participation in the labor market.

     

    Relevant Data from the Article:

    • World Bank estimates (2022) indicate a global female LFPR of 47.3%, with India experiencing a decline from 28% to 24% between 1990 and 2022.
    • Economist Goldin’s analysis reveals a U-shaped pattern in women’s LFPR during economic growth, influenced by factors like income and substitution effects.
    • The article emphasizes the pronounced decline (5%) in female LFPR among married women aged 25 to 49 in India from 2004-05 to 2022-23.

    Present Status:

    • Married women exhibit a significant decrease in LFPR after marriage due to factors such as limited educational attainment, increased family obligations, and societal disapproval of women in the workforce.
    • Data analysis from India’s NSSO Periodic Labour Force Survey indicates a substantial drop in LFPR among married women, especially in the age group of 25-29.

    Key Challenges:

    • Marital status significantly influences women’s labor market outcomes, with married women showing lower LFPR compared to unmarried counterparts.
    • Educational achievement plays a role, with less-educated women displaying a higher inclination to participate in the labor force after marriage.

    women

    Government Schemes and Initiatives:

    • The National Creche Scheme for The Children of Working Mothers is cited as a government initiative to support women’s labor force participation.
    • The article stresses the need for enhancing the quality and accessibility of day-care services to act as an incentive for employed women, especially married women.

    Way Forward:

    • Solutions proposed include improving day-care services and crèches across various socio-economic strata in both the public and private sectors.
    • Work settings prioritizing women’s needs, secure transportation options, and the expansion of part-time job possibilities are suggested to enhance women’s participation in the labor market.

    Conclusion:

    In conclusion, the article underscores the economic impact of the decline in married women’s LFPR in India and advocates for targeted initiatives to promote women’s empowerment. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive solutions, including improved day-care services, supportive work environments, and part-time job opportunities, to address the challenges hindering women’s participation in the labor market.

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