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GS Paper: GS1

  • Assam to recognize Bathou Faith

    Why in the News?

    The Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) government in Assam has officially included ‘Bathouism’ as an option in the religion column of key application forms, including admission forms, birth and death certificates.

    What is Bathouism?

    • Bathouism is the traditional faith of the Bodo people, primarily practiced in Assam and the foothills of Bhutan.
    • It is a nature-centric religion that worships Bathoubwrai, the supreme deity believed to govern the universe.
    • The central symbol of Bathouism is the Sijou plant (Euphorbia antiquorum), representing Bathoubwrai and planted in sacred enclosures (Bathou Thansali).
    • Bathou Puja is performed to seek divine blessings for prosperity, health, and well-being.
    • The Assam government has recently recognized Bathouism as a distinct faith, allowing its inclusion in official documents.

    Philosophy of Bathouism

    • Bathouism is based on five fundamental elements, known as Ba (five) Thou (deep thought), representing natural forces:
    1. Bar (Air) – Symbolizes breath, movement, and life force.
    2. San (Sun) – Represents light, energy, and warmth.
    3. Ha (Earth) – Stands for stability, fertility, and sustenance.
    4. Or (Fire) – Denotes transformation and purification.
    5. Okhrang (Sky) – Represents infinite wisdom and cosmic balance.
    • Bathoubwrai (Sibwrai) is considered almighty, omniscient, and eternal, beyond time and space. He is indestructible—fire cannot burn him, water cannot moisten him, air cannot dry him, and weapons cannot pierce him.
    • Bathouism promotes:
    1. Truthfulness, honesty, and righteousness.
    2. Respect for elders, ancestors, and nature.
    3. Peaceful coexistence and non-violence.
    4. Gratitude through rituals and pujas.
    • Bathou rituals involve five bamboo sticks symbolizing the five elements, with offerings of rice beer, milk, flowers, and incense.
    • Ancestral veneration and community harmony are integral aspects of the faith.

    PYQ:

    [2014] Which one of the following pairs does not form part of the six systems of Indian Philosophy?

    (a) Mimamsa and Vedanta

    (b) Nyaya and Vaisheshika

    (c) Lokayata and Kapalika

    (d) Sankhya and Yoga

     

  • Iron Age in India

    Why in the News?

    Tamil Nadu CM recently proclaimed that the Iron Age began on Tamil soil over 5,300 years ago (4th millennium BCE), based on findings from Mayiladumparai, Sivagalai, Adichanallur, and Kilnamandi.

    Iron Age in India

    • The Iron Age in India was initially thought to have begun around 700-600 BCE.
    • Radiocarbon dating pushed the timeline back to 1800 BCE, with evidence of iron smelting found in Central Ganga Plain and Eastern Vindhyas.
    • Recent discoveries in Tamil Nadu suggest that iron metallurgy was established in South India as early as 3300 BCE.

    Notable Iron Age Sites in India:

    1. Central and Northern India
    • Raja Nala-ka-tila (UP): Iron tools and slag found in pre-NBP (Northern Black Polished) deposits (1400–800 BCE).
    • Malhar (Chandauli, UP): Furnaces and iron slag indicate a major iron metallurgy center (1200 BCE).
    • Dadupur (UP): Large-scale iron smelting evidence dating back to 1000 BCE.
    • Hastinapur (UP): Iron tools associated with the Painted Grey Ware (PGW) culture (1000 BCE).
    • Takshashila (Punjab, Pakistan): Iron tools found in Gandhara settlements (800 BCE).
    1. Western and Central India
    • Ahar (Rajasthan): Chalcolithic culture (2500–1700 BCE) showed early evidence of iron artifacts.
    • Naikund (Vidarbha, Maharashtra): Discovery of an iron smelting furnace (1000 BCE).
    • Mahurjhari (Nagpur, Maharashtra): Horse ornaments made of copper with iron knobs (800 BCE).
    1. South India
    • Paiyampalli (Tamil Nadu): Large-scale iron smelting and slag deposits (1200 BCE).
    • Adichanallur (Tamil Nadu): Iron tools and burial urns linked to Megalithic culture (1000 BCE).
    • Mayiladumparai (Tamil Nadu): Recent findings date iron usage to 3300 BCE, making it one of the oldest sites of iron metallurgy in India.
    • Sivagalai (Tamil Nadu): Iron artifacts and slag deposits, indicating early smelting practices (1100 BCE).

    Iron Age in Tamil Nadu: New Discoveries

    • Earlier studies in Mayiladumparai Excavation (2022) suggested that the Iron Age began 4,200 years ago (3rd millennium BCE).
    • This timeline coincides with the Copper/Bronze Age in North India, indicating a technological divergence between the regions.
    • The latest State Archaeology Department’s report, “Antiquity of Iron: Recent Radiometric Dates from Tamil Nadu”, confirms that Iron smelting began as early as 3,345 BCE – 2,953 BCE.
    • Limited availability of copper ores in South India might have led to the early adoption of iron technology.
    • Excavations in Sivagalai, Adichanallur, Kilnamandi, and Mayiladumparai indicate that the Iron Age in Tamil Nadu predates much of North India.

    PYQ:

    [2017] With reference to the difference between the culture of Rigvedic Aryans and Indus Valley people, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. Rigvedic Aryans used the coat of mail and helmet in warfare whereas the people of Indus Valley Civilization did not leave any evidence of using them.
    2. Rigvedic Aryans knew gold, silver and copper whereas Indus Valley people knew only copper and iron.
    3. Rigvedic Aryans had domesticated the horse whereas there is no evidence of Indus Valley people having been aware of this animal.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • The deeper meaning of declining school enrolment

    Why in the News?

    Recently, the Ministry of Education released the Unified District Information System for Education Plus (U-DISE+) data for the years 2022-23 and 2023-24.

    Could India’s demographic dividend end before it becomes rich and ageing?

    • Declining School Enrolment Signals a Shrinking Youth Population: U-DISE+ data (2022-24) shows a 15.5 million drop (6%) in school enrolment since 2018-19, reflecting a demographic shift. This means that fewer young people will enter the workforce in the future.
      • Over the past decade, school enrolment in India has dropped by 24.51 million (9.45%), with elementary-level enrolment seeing the sharpest decline of 18.7 million (13.45%). While secondary enrolment fell by 1.43 million (3.75%), senior secondary enrolment increased by 3.63 million (15.46%).
    • Shift in Schooling Patterns: Government and aided school enrolments have declined significantly, while private schools saw only a slight rise. The number of schools has also reduced by 79,109 (5.1%) since 2017-18, reflecting a long-term demographic transition rather than a temporary trend.
    • Falling Fertility Rate Below Replacement Level: India’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR) dropped to 2.01 in 2022, below the replacement level of 2.1. A declining birth rate leads to an ageing population without sufficient workforce replenishment.
    • Aging Population Before Achieving High-Income Status: Japan and China leveraged their demographic dividend before ageing, but India may age before industrializing fully. It leads to a higher dependency ratio and increased pension and healthcare burdens.
    • Labor Market and Economic Growth Concerns: China’s workforce peaked in 2011, leading to labour shortages and slower growth. India might face a similar scenario. It led to reduced economic productivity and difficulty sustaining high GDP growth.
    • Decline in Number of Schools and Future Workforce Readiness: The number of schools in India declined by 79,109 (5.1%) from 2017-18 to 2023-24, indicating fewer children. Fewer skilled workers, potentially impacting India’s aspirations to become a global manufacturing and service hub.
    • Demographic Shift: The school-age population (6-17 years) has decreased by 17.30 million (5.78%) due to lower fertility rates (2.01 in 2022, below the replacement level of 2.10), leading to fewer children in elementary and secondary education.

    What challenges are associated with enrollment?

    • Economic Strain Due to a Shrinking Workforce: A declining working-age population may slow economic growth, limiting India’s ability to generate sufficient income to support an aging society. Example: India’s fertility rate dropped to 2.01 in 2022, below the replacement level of 2.1, indicating a future decline in the labor force.
    • Educational System Under Pressure: Falling elementary-level enrollment has reduced demand for schools and teachers, potentially affecting education quality. Meanwhile, senior secondary enrollment increased by 3.63 million (15.46%) over the past decade, putting strain on higher education infrastructure. Example: Elementary school enrollment fell by 18.7 million (13.45%) in the last decade, signaling a demographic shift impacting resource allocation.
    • Growing Educational and Economic Inequality: Government and aided schools, which serve marginalized communities, saw a sharp enrollment decline of 19.89 million (13.8%) and 4.95 million (16.41%), respectively, while private schools saw a slight increase, widening the education gap. Example: Enrollment in private unaided schools rose by 1.61 million (2.03%), indicating a shift toward private education that is less accessible to low-income groups.

    How might this impact society?

    • Shrinking Workforce & Economic Slowdown: Fewer young people entering the job market may lead to labor shortages, reducing economic productivity. Example: Japan and South Korea struggle with aging populations, leading to workforce gaps and slower growth.
    • Increased Social Inequality: Government school enrollment decline disproportionately affects marginalized communities, widening the education gap. Example: In rural India, fewer children in government schools may limit upward mobility and economic opportunities.
    • Strain on Higher Education & Skill Shortages: A decline in secondary-level enrollment can result in fewer skilled workers, affecting industries reliant on educated labor. Example: IT and manufacturing sectors may face talent shortages, impacting India’s competitiveness in global markets.
    • Higher Dependency Ratio & Welfare Burden: With an aging population and fewer workers, the burden on healthcare and pension systems will rise. Example: Countries like Italy and Germany face financial stress due to increased elderly care costs.
    • Changing Consumer & Housing Markets: Lower youth populations may reduce demand for housing, schooling, and consumer goods, shifting economic dynamics. Example: Fewer school-age children may lead to school closures, teacher unemployment, and real estate downturns in urban centers.

    What are the steps taken by the Indian Government? 

    • National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: Aims to transform the education system by ensuring universal access, equity, and quality learning from early childhood to higher education.
      • Targets a 100% Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in school education by 2030 and emphasizes vocational training to meet future workforce demands.
    • Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan: A centrally sponsored initiative that integrates existing education programs to provide inclusive and equitable education from pre-school to senior secondary levels.
      • Focuses on reducing gender and social disparities, enhancing infrastructure, and promoting digital learning.
    • Skill India Mission: Aim to train over 400 million people in industry-relevant skills to support economic growth.
      • Includes Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) for skill training and certification to boost employability.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhancing Educational Access & Quality: Need to strengthen government school infrastructure, improve teacher training, and expand digital learning to bridge educational disparities and ensure skill readiness.
    • Strategic Workforce & Economic Planning: Align skill development programs with future industry needs, promote labor-intensive sectors, and implement policies to balance workforce participation and aging demographics.

    Mains PYQ:

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

  • Delhi Earthquake

    Why in the News?

    A magnitude 4 earthquake struck New Delhi with epicentre near Dhaula Kuan. The quake was shallow (5 km depth), highlighting Delhi’s seismic vulnerability due to its location in Zone IV of India’s earthquake hazard map.

    Possible Causes of the Earthquake

    • Tectonic Activity along the Delhi-Hardwar Ridge:
      • Delhi sits on the Delhi-Hardwar Ridge, an active seismic fault.
      • Continuous collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates builds tectonic stress, leading to earthquakes when stress is released.
    • Groundwater Extraction as a Seismic Trigger: Excessive exploitation alters rock pressure, potentially inducing fault movements.
    • Anthropogenic (Human-Induced) Activity:
      • Urbanization, metro construction, and large-scale infrastructure projects alter subsurface stress.
      • Vibrations from construction activities can contribute to localized seismic instability.

    About the Aravalli-Delhi Fold Belt

    • The Aravalli-Delhi Fold Belt is a major geological formation that extends from southern Rajasthan to Haryana and Delhi.
      • It consists of ancient folded rock formations that have undergone millions of years of geological transformation.
    • This region has several pre-existing faults, meaning seismic activity can occur without direct tectonic subduction.
    • Although historically more active, tectonic movements in the belt have slowed over time.
    • These earthquakes occur due to fault reactivation and local stress accumulation rather than large-scale tectonic shifts.
      • Himalayan earthquakes are caused by subduction, where the Indian plate moves under the Eurasian plate.

    PYQ:

    [2021] Discuss about the vulnerability of India to earthquake related hazards. Give examples including the salient features of major disasters caused by earthquakes in different parts of India during the last three decades.

    [2015] The frequency of earthquakes appears to have increased in the Indian subcontinent. However, India’s preparedness for mitigating their impact has significant gaps. Discuss various aspects.

     

  • India to be part of UN’s 63rd session of Commission for Social Development 2025

    Why in the News?

    India participated in the 63rd session of the Commission for Social Development (CSoCD) from February 10 to 14, 2025, in New York, USA. The Indian delegation was led by Smt. Savitri Thakur, Minister of State for Women and Child Development.

    What is Social cohesion?

    • Social cohesion refers to the strength of relationships, trust, and sense of belonging among individuals and groups within a society.
    • It ensures that people work together harmoniously, respect diversity, and actively contribute to the well-being of the community.

    What are the Dimensions of the Social Cohesion?

    • Social Inclusion & Equity: Ensures equal access to opportunities, resources, and rights for all individuals, reducing discrimination and marginalization. Example: India’s JAM Trinity (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile) has enabled financial inclusion for disadvantaged communities, particularly women and rural populations.
    • Trust in Institutions & Social Capital: Building confidence in governance, law enforcement, and civic institutions to enhance cooperation and stability. Example: Sweden’s transparent governance and welfare policies result in high public trust in government institutions.
    • Participation & Civic Engagement: Encouraging individuals and communities to actively engage in decision-making and democratic processes. Example: Rwanda’s high female political representation (over 60% in Parliament) fosters inclusive and equitable policymaking.
    • Solidarity & Shared Identity: Promoting unity while respecting cultural diversity and fostering a common sense of belonging. Example: Canada’s multicultural policies encourage immigrant integration while maintaining cultural heritage.
    • Economic Inclusion & Opportunity: Providing equal access to economic resources, employment, and skill development to ensure upward mobility. Example: Germany’s dual vocational education system equips young people with job-ready skills, reducing unemployment and income inequality.

    What is the virtuous cycle? 

    • A virtuous cycle is a positive, self-reinforcing loop where one beneficial action leads to another, creating a continuous cycle of improvement and progress.
    • It is the opposite of a vicious cycle, which perpetuates negative outcomes.

    What are the roles of Social Cohesion in the Virtuous cycle?

    • Promotes Inclusive Economic Growth: Social cohesion ensures equal access to economic opportunities, reducing disparities and fostering shared prosperity. Example: In Germany, strong social policies and labor rights have contributed to stable economic growth and low unemployment rates.
    • Enhances Trust in Institutions and Governance: When citizens feel included and represented, they trust public institutions, leading to political stability and effective governance. Example: Scandinavian countries like Sweden and Norway have high levels of trust in governance due to inclusive decision-making and welfare policies.
    • Encourages Social Mobility and Equal Opportunities: A cohesive society provides fair access to education, healthcare, and social protection, enabling upward mobility for all. Example: Singapore’s education system focuses on meritocracy, ensuring students from all backgrounds have access to quality education and career opportunities.
    • Strengthens Community Participation and Civic Engagement: Social cohesion encourages people to engage in local governance, volunteerism, and community development initiatives. Example: Japan’s neighborhood associations play a crucial role in disaster response, fostering collective responsibility and mutual support.
    • Reduces Social Conflicts and Crime: By addressing inequalities and fostering a sense of belonging, social cohesion minimizes tensions and crime rates. Example: New Zealand’s restorative justice programs emphasize reconciliation and community involvement, reducing recidivism rates.

    What are the Key Recommendations to promote Social Cohesion? (Way forward)

    • Inclusive Policies and Equal Opportunities: Ensure access to quality education, healthcare, and employment for all, reducing social and economic disparities. Example: Finland’s education system provides free, high-quality education, ensuring equal opportunities for all children, regardless of socioeconomic background.
    • Community Engagement and Trust Building: Promote civic participation, intergroup dialogue, and local governance to strengthen social bonds and mutual respect. Example: South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) helped heal racial divides by addressing historical injustices through public dialogue.
    • Economic and Social Safety Nets: Implement strong social protection systems like universal healthcare, unemployment benefits, and targeted welfare programs. Example: Brazil’s Bolsa Família program reduced poverty and inequality by providing conditional cash transfers to low-income families, improving education and health outcomes.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q An independent and empowered social audit mechanism is an absolute must in every sphere of public service, including judiciary, to ensure performance, accountability and ethical conduct. Elaborate. (UPSC IAS/2021)

  • Dhokra Artwork

    Why in the News?

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi has gifted a Dhokra (or Dokra) artwork to French President Emmanuel Macron.

    About Dhokra Artwork

    • Dhokra Art is an ancient metal-casting craft from India, primarily practiced by the Dhokra Damar tribes.
    • It uses the lost-wax casting technique, where a wax model is made, coated in clay, and molten metal is poured into the mold after the wax melts.
    • This technique has been in use for over 4,000 years, with the earliest known artifact being the dancing girl from Mohenjo-Daro.
    • Dhokra is practiced in Odisha, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana, with distinct regional styles.
    • In 2018, Adilabad Dokra from Telangana received the GI tag for its distinct style.

    Features of Dhokra Art:

    • Primitive: The designs are rustic and simplistic, often featuring animals, religious figures, and tribal motifs.
    • Seamless: Dhokra pieces are crafted as a single unit without joints, providing a unique and smooth finish.
    • Long Crafting Time: Each figurine can take up to a month to complete due to the intricate processes involved.
    • Non-ferrous Metal: Brass and copper are mainly used in Dhokra Art due to their strength and malleability.
    • Casting Types:
      • Solid Casting: Common in Southern India, uses solid wax.
      • Hollow Casting: Predominant in Central and Eastern India, uses a clay core.

  • Who was Sant Guru Ravidas?

    Why in the News?

    The birth anniversary of Sant Guru Ravidas, a prominent figure in the Bhakti movement during the 15th and 16th centuries, is celebrated every year on 12th February.

    Sant Guru Ravidas

    Who was Sant Guru Ravidas?

    • Guru Ravidas, also known as Bhagat Ravidas, was a prominent saint, poet, and social reformer of the Bhakti movement in 15th-century India.
    • Born in 1377 CE in Seer Govardhanpur, Uttar Pradesh, he dedicated his life to eradicating social discrimination and promoting equality.
    • Despite facing caste-based oppression, Guru Ravidas rose to prominence through his wisdom, humility, and devotion to God.
    • He was a contemporary of Sant Kabir and is believed to have met Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikh religion.
    • His hymns are included in the Guru Granth Sahib, reflecting his significant influence in Sikhism and Bhakti traditions.

    Key Contributions of Guru Ravidas

    • Equality & Social Justice: Opposed caste discrimination and untouchability.
    • Bhakti Movement: Advocated devotion over rituals for spiritual enlightenment.
    • Begumpura Concept: Envisioned a society free from oppression and sorrow.
    • Literary Contributions: Composed over 40 devotional hymns in Guru Granth Sahib.
    • Spiritual Influence: Guided Meera Bai in her devotion to Lord Krishna.
    • Universal Brotherhood: Taught that God is for all, beyond religion or caste.
    • Impact on Sikhism: Influenced Guru Nanak and Sikh teachings on equality and devotion.

    PYQ:

    [2018] Consider the following Bhakti Saints:

    1. Dadu Dayal

    2. Guru Nanak

    3. Tyagaraja

    Who among the above was/were preaching when the Lodi dynasty fell and Babur took over?

    (a) 1 and 3

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 2 and 3

    (d) 1 and 2

     

  • Unlocking women’s workforce potential in India

    Why in the News?

    Increasing the number of women in the workforce is not just about equality and it is also essential for economic growth.

    What are their challenges in enabling women’s economic participation in India?

    • Unpaid Care Work Burden: Women in India spend 7.2 hours per day on unpaid domestic work, compared to 2.8 hours by men (Time Use in India Report, 2019). This leaves them with less time for paid employment.
      • Example: Many women drop out of the workforce after marriage due to caregiving responsibilities, particularly in rural areas where childcare facilities are scarce.
    • Lack of Formal Part-time Employment: India lacks legally regulated part-time work, unlike OECD countries where part-time work is protected by law and provides benefits.
      • Example: According to the NCAER study (2024), 57% of women prefer part-time jobs for flexibility, but due to the absence of formal options, many take low-wage, informal sector jobs without security.
    • Gender Discrimination and Wage Gap: Women in India earn only 77% of what men earn for the same work (World Economic Forum, Global Gender Gap Report 2023).
      • Example: The STEM sector in India has only 16% female representation, limiting women’s access to high-paying jobs and leadership roles.
    • Limited Access to Safe and Affordable Transport: Lack of safe and reliable transport restricts women’s mobility for work, especially in cities with high crime rates against women.
      • Example: A study by Ola Mobility Institute (2022) found that over 50% of women in Delhi and Mumbai reject job opportunities due to safety concerns while commuting.
    • Low Financial and Digital Literacy: Women in India have lower financial and digital literacy, limiting their participation in modern, high-skilled jobs and entrepreneurship.
      • Example: According to the National Family Health Survey-5 (2019-21), only 33% of Indian women use the Internet, reducing their access to online job markets and digital banking.

    What are the Study and Findings from the LFPR Report?

    • Low Female Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) in India: India’s Female LFPR stands at 37%, which is much lower than the global average of 47% and the OECD average of 67%. The primary reasons for this low participation include unpaid care work, lack of formal part-time jobs, gender discrimination, and mobility constraints.
    • Impact of Addressing Barriers on LFPR Growth: The study used the McCall-Mortensen job search model to simulate the effects of policy changes. It found that addressing two major barriers (formalizing part-time work and redistributing unpaid care work) could increase women’s LFPR by 6 percentage points, from 37% to 43%.
    • Projected Increase in LFPR: The study found that addressing these two barriers could raise India’s female LFPR by six percentage points, increasing it from the current 37% to 43%.
    • Formalizing Part-Time Employment: The study highlighted that introducing formally recognized part-time work contracts with pro-rated wages and benefits would offer women the flexibility they need.
    • Redistributing Unpaid Care Work: Achieving gender equality in caregiving responsibilities, through policies like paid parental leave and investment in childcare along with cultural changes, is crucial for enabling women’s participation in the labour force.

    What are the steps taken by the government? 

    • Maternity and Childcare Support – The Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017 increased paid maternity leave to 26 weeks, and schemes like PM Matru Vandana Yojana provide financial aid to pregnant women.
    • Skill Development and Entrepreneurship – Programs like PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) train women in various skills, while Mudra Yojana and Stand-Up India provide financial support for women entrepreneurs.
    • Workplace Safety and Legal Protections – The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013 ensures safer workplaces and the Working Women’s Hostels Scheme provides secure housing for working women.

    Way forward: 

    • Policy Reforms for Flexible Work and Social Security: Introduce formal part-time work laws with pro-rated wages and benefits, ensuring job security and flexibility for women. Expand paid parental leave and affordable childcare facilities to reduce the unpaid care work burden.
    • Improving Safety, Mobility, and Digital Inclusion: Strengthen safe public transport infrastructure and women-only commuting options to enhance workplace accessibility. Promote financial and digital literacy programs, ensuring women’s participation in online job markets and entrepreneurship.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q ‘Women’s movement in India has not addressed the issues of women of lower social strata.’ Substantiate your view. (UPSC IAS/2018)

  • Renaming of Fort William

    Why in the News?

    In a move to eliminate colonial practices and symbols from the Indian Armed Forces, Fort William in Kolkata, the headquarters of the Eastern Army Command, has been renamed Vijay Durg.

    About the Vijay Durg (Fort William)

    • It was originally built by the British in 1773, Fort William was named after King William III of England.
    • It is located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River in Kolkata, West Bengal.
    • It served as a key British military stronghold during colonial rule.
    • The first version of Fort William was built by the English East India Company in 1696.
    • It had an inner bastion used as a prison, leading to the term “Black Hole of Calcutta”.
    • The Black Hole of Calcutta Incident (1756) refers to the alleged imprisonment of British prisoners by Nawab Siraj-ud-Daulah, where many reportedly suffocated to death due to overcrowding and lack of ventilation.
    • After the Battle of Plassey in 1757, Robert Clive ordered its demolition, and a new fort was built, completed in 1773.
    • Fort William College was established by Lord Wellesley in 1800 to train Company civil servants in Indian languages and customs, but it was closed in 1802.
    • The present-day fort is octagonal in shape, made of brick and mortar, covering 70.9 acres.
      • It is now owned by the Indian Army and serves as the headquarters of the Eastern Command.

    Do you know?

    Fort St. George (Chennai, Tamil Nadu) 

    • It was the first fort built by the British in 1644, marking the beginning of British rule.
    • It served as the headquarters of the Madras Presidency.
    • It included St. Mary’s Church, the oldest Anglican Church in India.
    • Current Use: Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly & Secretariat.

    Significance of Renaming

    • The new name is inspired by Vijay Durg Fort in Maharashtra, one of the oldest and most significant naval forts under Chhatrapati Shivaji.
    • Vijay Durg served as a naval base for the Marathas, highlighting India’s indigenous military history.
    • The renaming aligns with India’s broader initiative to remove colonial influences and promote native military traditions.
      • In September 2022, the Indian Navy replaced its British-era ensign with a new octagonal design inspired by Chhatrapati Shivaji’s royal seal.

    PYQ:

    [2018] With reference to educational institutions during colonial rule in India, consider the following pairs: 

    Institution: Founder

    1. Sanskrit College at Benaras: William Jones
    2. Calcutta Madarsa: Warren Hastings
    3. Fort William College: Arthur Wellesley

    Which of the pairs given above is/are correct?
    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 2 only
    (c) 1 and 3 only
    (d) 3 only

     

  • [pib] NITI Aayog launches Swavalambini Initiative

    Why in the News?

    The NITI Aayog has launched Swavalambini Women Entrepreneurship Programme in collaboration with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).

    About Swavalambini Women Entrepreneurship Programme:

    • It is a program to foster entrepreneurial skills among female students in higher education institutions across Assam, Meghalaya, and Mizoram.
    • Aims and Objectives:
      • Empowerment: To inspire and equip young women to become job creators and leaders, thereby contributing to economic development in Northeast India.
      • Skill Development: To provide structured training that covers essential business aspects, enhancing participants’ entrepreneurial competencies.
    • Provisions and Features:
      • Entrepreneurship Awareness Programme (EAP): A two-day session introducing 600 female students to the fundamentals of entrepreneurship.
      • Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP): An intensive 40-hour training for 300 selected participants, covering topics such as financial planning, market access, legal compliance, and business networking.
      • Mentorship: Six months of dedicated mentorship to assist participants in transforming their business ideas into viable enterprises.
      • Faculty Development Programme (FDP): A 5-day training for faculty members to enhance their ability to mentor aspiring entrepreneurs effectively.

    PYQ:

    [2010] Two of the schemes launched by the Government of India for Women’s development are Swadhar and Swayam Siddha. As regards the difference between them, consider the following statements:

    1. Swayam Siddha is meant for those in difficult circumstances such as women survivors of natural disasters or terrorism, women prisoners released from jails, mentally challenged women etc., whereas Swadhar is meant for holistic empowerment of women through Self Help Groups.
    2. Swayam Siddha is implemented through Local Self-Government bodies or reputed Voluntary Organizations whereas Swadhar is implemented through the ICDS units set up in the states.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2