On the occasion of India’s 76th Republic Day, Andhra Pradesh’s tableau showcasing the Etikoppaka Bommalu — a 400-year-old wooden toy-making tradition — captivated the audience at New Delhi’s Kartavya Path.
About Etikoppaka Bommalu
The craft originates from Etikoppaka, a small village in Andhra Pradesh, renowned for its 400-year-old wooden toy-making tradition.
The name “Etikoppaka” is synonymous with eco-friendly wooden toys, which reflect a seamless blend of art and sustainability.
The toys are made from the wood of the Ankudu tree (Wrightia tinctoria), known for its lightweight and malleable properties, allowing intricate carvings.
Artisans use natural dyes derived from plant-based sources like seeds, leaves, and bark, ensuring non-toxic and child-safe finishes.
The lacquer-turning technique gives the toys a lustrous finish, sealing the natural colors while enhancing durability.
Cultural and Historical Significance
The toys often depict mythological characters, animals, and musical instruments, connecting them to India’s rich cultural heritage.
Many designs reflect motifs from ancient civilizations such as Mohenjo Daro and Harappa.
The crafts include spinning tops, household decorations, musical instruments, and Raja-Rani figurines, showcasing a timeless aesthetic.
In 2017, Etikoppaka Bommalu received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, ensuring their authenticity and preserving their cultural significance.
These toys have gained international recognition, admired by collectors and eco-conscious enthusiasts.
Other GI-Tagged Toys in India:
Origin
Description
Channapatna Toys
Karnataka
Wooden toys known for vibrant colors and eco-friendly lacquer finish.
Nirmal Toys
Telangana
Intricately carved wooden toys that reflect artistic craftsmanship.
Indore Leather Toys
Madhya Pradesh
Lifelike animal figures made from leather, showcasing detailed craftsmanship.
Kondapalli Bommallu
Andhra Pradesh
Traditional wooden dolls crafted from local wood, often painted in bright colors.
A massive water reservoir recently uncoveredat Rakhigarhi reveals advanced Harappan water management practices linked to the Saraswati River.
Do you know?
The Centre of Excellence for Research on the Saraswati River (CERSR) at Kurukshetra University conducted a comprehensive study establishing that the Saraswati River, often termed “mythical,” flowed in Haryana until 1402 AD.
About Rakhigarhi
Rakhigarhi, located in Hisar, Haryana is the largest site of the Indus-Saraswati Civilisation, dating back to the mature Harappan period (2600–1900 BCE).
It is situated in the plains of the Saraswati River, about 27 km from the seasonal Ghaggar River.
First excavated in 1969 by archaeologist Suraj Bhan, it consists of seven mounds and has been a key site for understanding Harappan urban planning and water management.
Recent findings have pushed the timeline of the civilisation to as early as 6000 BCE.
In 2020, Rakhigarhi was designated as an Iconic Site under the Union Budget for development and preservation.
NCERT states that DNA studies from Rakhigarhi suggest the genetic roots of the Harappans trace back to 10,000 BCE.
Significant Features
Urban Planning: Evidence of well-planned streets, brick houses, and an advanced drainage system.
Water Management: Discovery of a 3.5–4 feet deep reservoir at Mound 3 indicates advanced water storage systems.
Cultural Significance: Artifacts such as pottery, terracotta figurines, beads, and copper tools demonstrate artistic and technological advancement.
Trade and Economy: Marine shells and fishhooks point to long-distance trade and local craftsmanship.
River Proximity: Located near the paleochannels of the Drishadvati River, a key tributary of the Saraswati River, supporting agriculture and daily life.
Key Findings
Huge Water Reservoir at Mound 3: Layers of siltation confirm water storage practices during the late Harappan period.
Artifacts: Items like copper tools, marine shells, and ornate pottery suggest trade and daily life activities.
Burials: Skeletons and burial goods provide insights into Harappan rituals and social structures.
DNA Analysis: A 4,600-year-old skeleton showed no Steppe ancestry, challenging the Aryan invasion theory.
Related Sites: Nearby settlements like Bhirrana and Farmana extend the timeline of the civilisation.
PYQ:
[2011] Regarding the Indus Valley Civilization, consider the following statements:
It was predominantly a secular civilization and the religious element, though present, did not dominate the scene,
During this period, cotton was used for manufacturing textiles in India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
The government recently published a factsheet on the 2023-24 Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES), highlighting a reduction in poverty levels across both urban and rural areas.
What are the key findings of the report?
Average MPCE and Imputed Values: In 2023-24, the average Monthly Per Capita Expenditure (MPCE) was Rs. 4,122 in rural areas and Rs. 6,996 in urban areas, excluding the value of free items provided through social welfare schemes.
Growth in MPCE and Urban-Rural Gap: Compared to 2022-23, the MPCE in nominal terms grew by approximately 9% in rural areas and 8% in urban areas. The urban-rural MPCE gap narrowed from 84% in 2011-12 to 71% in 2022-23, further declining to 70% in 2023-24, indicating robust consumption growth in rural areas.
Consumption Trends by Population Segments: The highest increase in MPCE in 2023-24, compared to 2022-23, was observed among the bottom 5-10% of India’s population, for both rural and urban households.
Composition of Expenditure: Non-food items accounted for 53% of rural MPCE and 60% of urban MPCE in 2023-24. Within the food basket, beverages, refreshments, and processed foods dominated expenditure, while in the non-food category, conveyance, clothing, entertainment, and durable goods were significant contributors. Urban households also allocated about 7% of non-food expenditure to rent.
Decline in Consumption Inequality: The rural Gini coefficient dropped from 0.266 in 2022-23 to 0.237 in 2023-24, and the urban coefficient fell from 0.314 to 0.284 during the same period.
Note: The Gini coefficient is a statistical measure used to quantify income or consumption inequality within a population, ranging from 0 (perfect equality) to 1 (maximum inequality).
What are the concerns related to the HCES data?
Incomparability of Data Sets: The methodology used in the 2022-23 HCES differs significantly from previous surveys, making it difficult to compare results over time. The introduction of a “modified mixed reference period” complicates direct comparisons with earlier data collected under different methodologies.
Sampling Bias: There are concerns that the survey may not adequately represent extremely poor households, leading to an overestimation of average expenditures. This bias could arise from changes in sampling strategies that favor more affluent households.
Data Availability Issues: The absence of recent and reliable consumption data prior to the 2022-23 survey has led to a reliance on outdated estimates, which may not accurately reflect current poverty levels. The last comprehensive survey before this was conducted in 2011-12.
What does the consumption pattern tell about poverty in rural and urban regions?
Divergent Poverty Levels: The average monthly per capita expenditure (MPCE) indicates significant disparities between rural and urban areas, with rural areas averaging Rs 4,122 and urban areas Rs 6,996 in 2023-24. This suggests that urban populations generally have higher consumption levels.
Survival on Minimal Incomes: Reports indicate that a substantial portion of India’s population survives on less than Rs 100 per day, highlighting persistent poverty despite claims of decline. This raises questions about the adequacy of the poverty line used for estimation.
What are the criticisms faced by the Multidimensional Poverty Index?
NITI Aayog, the policy think tank of the Government of India, adopted the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) as a measure to evaluate poverty in India.
Methodological Concerns: Critics argue that the MPI’s reliance on equal weighting for health, education, and living standards may oversimplify the complexities of poverty. The selection of indicators can significantly influence outcomes, potentially leading to biased representations.
Dynamic Nature of Poverty: The MPI may not adequately capture the fluidity and changing nature of poverty over time, as it relies on static indicators that do not reflect immediate economic conditions or shocks such as those experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Political Implications: Some economists suggest that using MPI as a primary measure for poverty could be politically motivated, aiming to present favourable statistics while ignoring deeper economic issues such as stagnant real wages and rising inequality.
Way forward:
Strengthen Data Collection: Conduct regular and comprehensive Household Consumption Expenditure Surveys (HCES) to ensure updated and accurate poverty assessments. This will bridge data gaps and provide a more reliable basis for policy decisions.
Refine Poverty Metrics: Combine the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) with traditional consumption-based measures to capture a holistic and dynamic picture of poverty, accounting for region-specific and pandemic-induced challenges.
Mains PYQ:
Q “The incidence and intensity of poverty are more important in determining poverty based on income alone”. In this context analyse the latest United Nations Multidimensional Poverty Index Report. (UPSC IAS/2020)
The Pangsau Pass International Festival returns to Nampong, Arunachal Pradesh, from January 20-22, 2025, celebrating India-Myanmar cultural ties and heritage after a four-year gap.
About Pangsau Pass
Pangsau Pass is a vital mountain pass located on the India-Myanmar border, connecting the Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh, India, with the Sagaing Region of Myanmar.
Situated in the Patkai Hills, it lies at an altitude of approximately 3,727 feet (1,136 meters) above sea level.
Often referred to as “Hell Pass” due to its challenging terrain and dense forests, it serves as both a geographical marvel and a historical landmark.
Geographical Significance:
Strategic Location: Acts as a natural link between India and Myanmar, facilitating cross-border trade and cultural exchanges.
Scenic and Biodiverse: Attractions include the Lake of No Return, a mythical body of water in Myanmar associated with World War II legends.
Tourism Potential: The Pangsau Pass International Festival showcases the region’s tribal cultures, boosting local economies and promoting tourism.
Historical/Political Significance
The pass was a crucial part of the Stillwell Road (Ledo Road), constructed during World War II to connect India to China through Myanmar.
It played a pivotal role in the China-Burma-India Theater, facilitating supply lines for Allied forces.
It serves as a gateway for implementing India’s Act East Policy, aimed at strengthening ties with Southeast Asia.
It facilitates cross-border trade and cultural exchanges, fostering economic and diplomatic relationships between India and Myanmar.
It enables communities on both sides of the border to engage under the Free Movement Regime (FMR) (now suspended), allowing visitors to travel up to 16 km into each other’s territories without visas or passports.
PYQ:
[2012] When you travel in Himalayas, you will see the following:
1. Deep gorges
2. U-turn river courses
3. Parallel mountain ranges
4. Steep gradients causing land-sliding
Which of the above can be said to be the evidences for Himalayas being young fold mountains?
Recently, Maharashtra Food and Drugs Administration has allowed homeopathic doctors, who completed a course in modern medicine to prescribe allopathic medicines.
What is the difference between Homeopathy and Allopathy?
Homeopathy uses natural substances in tiny doses to help the body heal, while allopathy uses medicines or treatments to directly fight or treat diseases based on science and evidence.
What is crosspathy?
Crosspathy refers to practitioners from one medical system (e.g., homoeopathy) treating patients with medicines from another system (e.g., allopathy).
Why did the Maharashtra FDA issue a directive allowing homoeopathic practitioners to prescribe allopathic medicines?
Addressing Doctor Shortage: The directive aimed to tackle the severe shortage of doctors, particularly in rural areas, where there is a lack of healthcare professionals, especially specialists.
Expanding Healthcare Access: By allowing certified homoeopathic practitioners to prescribe allopathic medicines, the Maharashtra FDA sought to expand healthcare services and make treatment more accessible to patients in underserved regions.
Promoting Integrative Medicine: The directive is part of a broader initiative to promote integrative or integrated medicine, where different medical systems, such as homoeopathy and allopathy, are used to complement each other in patient care.
What is the Supreme Court’s stance on ‘crosspathy’?
The Supreme Court (SC) has consistently held that cross-system practice (practicing medicine from a system one is not qualified for) is a form of medical negligence.
Poonam Verma vs Ashwin Patel (1996) – A homoeopath was held liable for prescribing allopathic medicines that resulted in a patient’s death.
Crosspathy is only allowed where state governments have specifically authorized it through special orders.
What are the challenges faced by govt?
Doctor Shortage: India faces a significant shortage of doctors, especially in rural areas, where the Health Dynamics of India 2022-23 report highlights an 80% deficit of specialists in community health centres. As of June 2022, there were 13.08 lakh allopathic doctors and 5.65 lakh AYUSH practitioners, indicating an insufficient number of qualified professionals to meet healthcare demands.
Integration of AYUSH Practitioners: While AYUSH practitioners could potentially fill healthcare gaps, there is no systematic approach to integrating them effectively, which could lead to poor outcomes.
Risk to Patients: Allowing unqualified practitioners to prescribe allopathic medicines could result in medical errors and negligence, raising concerns about patient safety.
Opposition from Professional Bodies: Organizations like the Indian Medical Association (IMA) strongly oppose crosspathy, questioning its legality and the risks posed to patients.
Regulatory Uncertainty: Lack of clarity on who has the authority to issue such directives and manage cross-system practice leads to legal and administrative challenges.
Way forward:
Clear Regulatory Framework: Establish clear guidelines and regulations for integrating different medical systems to ensure patient safety and effective healthcare delivery, with proper qualifications for practitioners.
Address Doctor Shortage Strategically: Focus on training and deploying more allopathic doctors, especially in rural areas, while ensuring AYUSH practitioners are properly integrated into the healthcare system through structured programs.
Mains PYQ:
Q Public health system has limitation in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that private sector can help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives do you suggest? (UPSC IAS/2015)
The Global Burden of Diseases Study (GBD) 2021 shows that India’s fertility rate has dropped significantly, from 6.18 children per woman in the 1950s to 1.9 children per woman in 2021.
What has a GBD Report shown about the total fertility rate in India?
Declining Fertility Rates: India’s TFR has dramatically decreased from 6.18 in the 1950s to 1.9 in 2021, which is below the replacement level of 2.1 necessary for population stability.
Future Projections: The report projects that India’s TFR could further decline to 1.04 by 2100, indicating a potential average of less than one child per woman.
Socio-Economic Concerns: This steep decline in fertility has raised alarms regarding political and socio-economic impacts, particularly in southern states, where there are fears of losing parliamentary representation due to demographic shifts post-delimitation in 2026.
Why are fertility levels declining in India?
Early Adoption of Family Planning Policies: Southern states like Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh rigorously implemented family planning policies introduced in the 1950s, leading to a significant decline in fertility rates. For example, Andhra Pradesh currently has a Total Fertility Rate (TFR) of 1.5, comparable to Nordic countries like Sweden.
Higher Female Literacy and Workforce Participation: Increased educational attainment among women has empowered them to delay marriage and childbirth. This is evident in Kerala, where high literacy rates have contributed to the state achieving replacement-level fertility as early as 1988.
Changing Societal Norms: Cultural shifts have led to late marriages and smaller families. For instance, women in southern states increasingly prioritize careers and financial independence over traditional roles, contributing to lower fertility rates.
Urbanization and Economic Pressures: Urban lifestyles and rising costs of living discourage larger families. States like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have seen fertility rates drop to 1.4 and 1.6 respectively due to urbanization and modern aspirations.
Why are the southern States worried?
Ageing Population: Southern states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh have fertility rates that have fallen below the replacement level of 2.1 children per woman. This decline leads to an increasing proportion of elderly individuals in the population, which is projected to rise significantly.
For instance, Kerala’s population aged 60 and above is expected to increase from 13% in 2011 to 23% by 2036. This demographic shift results in a smaller working-age population, which can strain economic productivity and increase demands for pensions and healthcare services.
Political Representation: The upcoming delimitation of parliamentary constituencies, based on population figures from the 2031 Census, raises fears that southern states may lose parliamentary seats due to their slower population growth.
This potential reduction in representation could diminish their political influence at the national level, especially compared to more populous northern states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
Economic Strain: With a declining workforce contributing less to the economy through taxes and social security, southern states face challenges similar to those observed in countries with ageing populations, such as Japan and China.
Migration Issues: As birth rates decline, southern states may increasingly rely on internal migration from northern states to fill labour shortages. However, this reliance could create further socio-economic disparities between regions.
Way forward:
Equitable Resource Distribution: Implement policies ensuring equitable representation and resource allocation in parliamentary seats post-delimitation to address regional disparities without penalizing states with successful population control measures.
Support for Ageing Populations: Develop robust social security systems, healthcare infrastructure, and incentives for elder care while promoting skill development and migration-friendly policies to mitigate workforce shortages in southern states.
Mains PYQ:
Q Discuss the main objectives of Population Education and point out the measures to achieve them in India in detail. (UPSC IAS/2021)
Punjab CM paid tribute to the Kuka martyrs at a function held at the Namdhari Shaheed Smarak in Malerkotla. The day commemorates the execution of 66 Namdhari Sikhs (Kukas) on January 17 and 18, 1872, by British colonial authorities.
Who are the ‘Namdharis’?
The Namdharis, also called Kukas, are a Sikh sect founded by Satguru Ram Singh on April 12, 1857, in Ludhiana, Punjab.
The name Kuka derives from their distinctive high-pitched recitation of Gurbani (kook in Punjabi means “cry” or “scream”).
Social Reforms:
Advocated against alcohol consumption, meat eating, and other social vices.
Promoted Swadeshi principles, urging people to boycott foreign goods, British services, and educational institutions.
The movement served as a precursor to nationwide Non-Cooperation Movement, emphasizing self-reliance and resistance against colonial rule.
About the Kuka Rebellion
The Kuka Rebellion was one of the localized uprisings against British rule after the Rebellion of 1857.
The Namdharis actively opposed British policies, particularly cow slaughter, which became a focal point of their resistance.
Key events leading to the rebellion:
In January 1872, Namdharis, led by Hira Singh and Lehna Singh, clashed with British authorities after a cow slaughter incident in Malerkotla.
They attacked the Malaudh Fort in Ludhiana, loyal to the British, but the rebellion was crushed.
British Retaliation:
The British responded brutally, executing 49 Namdharis on January 17, 1872, and 17 more on January 18, 1872.
The Kukas were placed in front of cannons and blown up in a public spectacle to intimidate others.
Kuka Martyrs’ Day
It is observed on January 17 and 18 each year to honor the 66 Namdharis who were executed in 1872.
Significant Stories of Bravery:
Bishan Singh (12 years old): Refused to renounce his sect despite being offered his life and was brutally executed after tugging the beard of a British official.
Waryam Singh: Courageously used stones to elevate himself to the cannon’s mouth for execution, showing unwavering dedication.
Legacy:
After the rebellion, Satguru Ram Singh and other Namdhari leaders were exiled to Rangoon.
Namdharis believe Ram Singh is still alive and mourn his absence by wearing white.
PYQ:
[2016] The ‘Swadeshi’ and ‘Boycott’ were adopted as methods of struggle for the first time during the:
Recently, UNICEF’s Global Outlook 2025 emphasizes the urgent need for resilient systems to protect children’s rights amid crises like conflict, climate change, and economic instability, ensuring equitable access to essential services globally.
What are the primary challenges facing children in the current global landscape as per UNICEF’s Global Outlook 2025?
Conflict and Displacement: Over 473 million children, or about 19% globally, live in conflict-affected areas—a figure that has nearly doubled since the 1990s. This exposes children to severe risks, including displacement, starvation, disease, and psychological trauma.
Economic Instability: Nearly 400 million children live in countries in debt distress, where financial pressures are reducing investments in essential services such as education and healthcare, further deepening their vulnerabilities.
Climate Change: Around 1 billion children are at extremely high risk from climate impacts. Disruptions from extreme weather events affect their access to education and healthcare, while only 2.4% of global climate finance is directed toward child-focused initiatives.
Digital Inequality: The expansion of digital public infrastructure (DPI) offers opportunities to improve service delivery, but significant digital divides persist, disproportionately affecting children in low-income and marginalised communities.
What are the steps taken by the Indian Government?
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP): Launched in 2015, this flagship scheme aims to address the declining child sex ratio and promote the education and empowerment of girls.
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY): This savings scheme encourages parents to save for their daughters’ education and marriage by offering attractive interest rates and tax benefits.
Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS): Established in 1975, ICDS focuses on improving the nutritional and health status of children under six years, pregnant women, and lactating mothers.
National Nutrition Mission (POSHAN Abhiyaan): Launched in 2018, this mission aims to reduce malnutrition among children and women through a convergence of various schemes and community-based approaches.
Mission Vatsalya: This initiative focuses on child protection services, ensuring that vulnerable children receive necessary support and care.
Child Protection Policies: The government has enacted several laws, such as the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, to safeguard children’s rights and ensure their welfare.
National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR): The NCPCR plays a crucial role in promoting and protecting children’s rights in India. It has launched various initiatives such as the POCSO e-Box for reporting child sexual abuse and the Bal Panchayat Abhiyan to encourage child-led governance.
How can global governance and national systems be strengthened to support children’s rights and well-being?
Global governance:
Strengthening International Mechanisms: The United Nations should develop specialized frameworks to protect children’s rights in the digital environment, ensuring online safety and privacy are integral to global governance policies.
Ensuring Accountability: States and corporations must be held accountable for violations of children’s rights, with the adoption of measures like the Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights to ensure businesses prioritize child protection.
Fostering Global Collaboration: Promoting bilateral and multilateral cooperation can address challenges such as cyberbullying and online exploitation through shared best practices and coordinated efforts to safeguard children’s rights worldwide.
National systems:
Developing Child Rights Governance Systems: Nations should establish comprehensive frameworks that integrate children’s rights into laws and policies, aligning with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) to prioritize children’s needs in governance.
Strengthening Civil Society Organizations (CSOs): Enhancing the capacity of CSOs through training programs can improve their ability to advocate for and implement child rights initiatives while effectively engaging with government institutions.
Advancing Evidence-Based Advocacy: Utilizing data-driven approaches to shape policy priorities can ensure child rights are central to resource allocation and budgeting at global, regional, and national levels.
Empowering Children’s Participation: Encouraging children to actively participate in decision-making processes helps create policies that address their needs and aspirations, fostering a more inclusive governance system.
Establishing Robust Monitoring Systems: Implement mechanisms to regularly track and report on children’s well-being indicators to ensure accountability and measure progress in achieving child rights standards.
Way forward:
Integrated Global-National Synergy: Strengthen collaboration between international frameworks and national systems to prioritize children’s rights in governance, focusing on accountability, digital safety, and climate resilience through coordinated policies and resource allocation.
Child-Centric Policy and Participation: Develop evidence-based policies that directly address children’s vulnerabilities while empowering them to participate in decision-making, ensuring sustainable and responsive governance structures.
Mains PYQ:
Q The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 remains inadequate in promoting an incentive-based system for children’s education without generating awareness about the importance of schooling. Analyse. (UPSC IAS/2022)
The report, ‘Dependency and Depopulation? Confronting the Consequences of a New Demographic Reality’, released by McKinsey Global Institute, provides a detailed comparative analysis of demographic dynamics in developed (first wave) and developing (later wave) countries.
IMPORTANT: What is Demographic Transition Theory?
Demographic transition describes changes in birth and death rates and population age structure as societies develop economically and technologically.
Stage 1: High birth and death rates result in a stable population.
Stage 2: Decline in death rates due to improved healthcare and sanitation, causing rapid population growth.
Stage 3: Falling birth rates slow population growth, influenced by urbanization and access to contraception.
Stage 4: Low birth and death rates lead to a stable or aging population, reflecting advanced development.
Key Highlights of the McKinsey Report
Two-thirds of humanity now live in countries with fertility rates below the replacement level of 2.1 children per family.
Age structures are shifting from pyramids to obelisks, with a growing elderly population and a shrinking youth demographic.
Populations in some major economies are projected to decline by 20%-50% by 2100 (UN).
The global support ratio (working-age individuals per senior aged 65 or older) is projected to decline from 6.5 today to 3.9 by 2050.
In India, the ratio will fall from 10 workers per senior in 1997 to 4.6 in 2050 and just 1.9 by 2100, similar to Japan’s current levels..
Consumption Patterns in India:
India’s share in global consumption is projected to rise from 9% today to 16% by 2050, while shares of advanced economies are expected to remain flat or decline.
By 2050, the share of consumption by seniors aged 65 and older will rise from 8% to 15%, reflecting changing consumer demographics.
The percentage of hours worked by seniors is projected to increase from 2.9% to 5.4% by 2050 under current trends.
About India’s Diminishing Demographic Dividend
India has 33 years to fully capitalize on its demographic dividend before its support ratios align with those of advanced economies.
From 1997 to 2023, India’s favorable demographics added 0.7 percentage points per year to its GDP per capita growth.
This contribution is expected to shrink to 0.2 percentage points per year through 2050 as the population ages.
India’s support ratio (working-age individuals per senior) is projected to decline significantly, creating greater dependency on fewer workers to support older populations.
By 2050, there will be only 4.6 workers per senior, down from 10 workers per senior in 1997.
India’s GDP per capita is currently 18% of the World Bank’s high-income threshold, emphasizing the need for faster economic progress to “get rich before it gets old.”
Increasing labor force participation, particularly among women, and improving worker productivity are critical to sustaining economic growth.
Despite rapid progress, India’s worker productivity remains at $9 per hour, significantly lower than the $60 per hour average in high-income countries.
PYQ:
[2012] Consider the following specific stages of demographic transition associated with economic development:
Low birth-rate with low death rate
High birth-rate with high death rate
High birth-rate with low death rate
Select the correct order of the above stages using the codes given below:
Q) Performance of welfare schemes that are implemented for vulnerable sections is not so effective due to absence of their awareness and active involvement at all stages of the policy process. Discuss. (UPSC CSE 2019)
Mentor’s Comment:
UPSC mains have previously focused on topics like ‘Concept of Social Justice’ (2016) and ‘Implementation of Social Justice’ (2019 & 2021).
The India Justice Report (IJR) 2022 emphasizes that effective leadership is crucial for fostering social justice by ensuring equitable access of resource allocation, infrastructure, and diversity within policy and decision making. ‘Social justice’ involves not only addressing economic inequalities but also ensures access to education, healthcare, and political representation. Today’s editorial likely addresses several critical questions regarding the role of leadership in promoting social justice with respect to legislative reforms, social welfare programs, or policy decisions. This content can be used to present rational thinking for the future scope of the Socio-political nexus while addressing Social justice.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
There are ongoing discussions about the state of liberalism and democratic values in both India and the United States.
The recent political developments, such as shifts toward more nationalist or populist policies, have prompted reflections on the historical context of leadership (Barack Obama and Manmohan Singh’s) during a time when liberalism seemed more robust.
Additionally, this editorial serves as a reminder of the challenges both countries face in maintaining democratic principles and fostering inclusivity, particularly as political climates evolve.
What were the historical paradoxes of Political Elections during 2004?
The 2004 Elections embodies two significant paradoxes that highlight the vibrancy of Indian democracy.
The Anti-Sikh riots of 1984 represented a dark period for Indian pluralism, yet two decades later, a Sikh became Prime Minister, reflecting a remarkable shift in societal acceptance among the majority Hindu population.
The 2004 election was a rejection of market celebration, despite Singh being a proponent of economic liberalization (he was compelled to adhere to a welfarist agenda shaped by democratic pressures).
Indian pluralism refers to the rich diversity and coexistence of various cultural, religious, linguistic, and social groups within the country. It embodies the idea that multiple identities can thrive together in a single nation, contributing to a vibrant and dynamic society.
What specific actions or policies have been missed that could have advanced social justice?
Coalition Dynamics: After the 2009 elections, the coalition was restructured, excluding subaltern representatives from the Hindi belt. Key figures held significant power, minorities were represented throughout the offices. The expulsion of subaltern castes in 2009 by Congress managers contributed to a political shift.
Political Control: The presence of religious minorities and upper caste Hindus at the top levels of power may have alienated Other Backward Classes (OBC) and Dalits, leading to their support for the 2014 elections. This dynamic mirrors trends observed in U.S. politics around the same period.
Indecision and Social Justice Agenda: In 2005, SC Ruling questioned state authority to enforce reservation policies in private educational institutions. As Minister of Human Resource Development, Arjun Singh sought to amend the Constitution to allow reservations in both aided and unaided private institutions.
The Anti-Reservation Movement was sparked in northern India while southern regions remained calm.
HRD Minister drafted a proposal for OBC quotas in government institutions and private ones. During this time, Dr. Manmohan Singh had instructed that the bill for private institutions be shelved, focusing only on government quotas.
Further, the Sachar Committee was established to study the socio-economic conditions of Muslims, further fueling discussions on social justice.
Hence, the tension between secularism and social justice during Manmohan Singh’s leadership ultimately limited the UPA’s promise for progress due to indecisiveness on many issues.
How does the current political climate affect the pursuit of social justice?
Deepening Rivalries: The rivalry between the major parties has been intensified, leading to a lack of constructive dialogue necessary for addressing social justice issues.
This hostility hampers collaboration on policies aimed at marginalized communities. One of the current examples can be the formation of the All India Federation for Social Justice (AIFSJ).
Contentious Legislation: Upcoming controversial legislation, such as the Constitution Amendment Bill for synchronizing elections and the regulation of Wakf properties, may further polarize political discourse and distract from social justice initiatives.
Focus on Women Voters: Political parties are increasingly recognizing women as a crucial voter base, with promises of financial support aimed at empowering them.
This focus could lead to greater demands for social justice from women voters, impacting policy decisions.
Did you know?
John Rawls’s concept of social justice, particularly in the Indian context, emphasizes that a fair and just societal framework can only be achieved if individuals envision themselves in a scenario where they must make decisions about societal organization without knowing their future position within that society. This thought experiment is encapsulated in what Rawls calls the “veil of ignorance.“
Under this veil, individuals are entirely unaware of their potential status or role in society, which prevents them from making decisions based solely on personal interests. Instead, they would consider the implications of their choices for everyone, particularly focusing on the most disadvantaged members of society. By doing so, they ensure that the principles they establish will be beneficial for all, especially those who are worst off, thereby promoting a more equitable future.
Way Forward: The interplay between political rivalries, legislative challenges, and economic conditions creates a complex environment for advancing social justice in India. While there are initiatives aimed at empowerment, the overall climate may hinder meaningful progress unless collaborative efforts are prioritized.
