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  • [31st October 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Importing a toxic work culture into India

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) What are the continued challenges for Women in India against time and space? (UPSC CSE 2019)
    Q) Are we losing our local identity for the global identity? Discuss. (UPSC CSE 2019)
    Q) “Though women in post-independent India have excelled in various fields, the social attitude towards women and the feminist movement has been patriarchal.” Apart from women’s education and women empowerment schemes, what interventions can help change this milieu? (UPSC CSE 2021)
    Q) Explain why suicide among young women is increasing in Indian society. (UPSC CSE 2023)

    Mentor’s Comment:

    The tragic death of Anna Sebastian Perayil, a 26-year-old chartered accountant, underscores the human cost of a relentless work culture that often glorifies long hours and high productivity, leading to Mental health crises among young professionals.

    The World Health Organization (WHO) states that 20% of Indians are expected to experience mental health disorders by the end of the year, with 5.6 crore suffering from depression and 3.8 crore from anxiety disorders

    Most of the world’s largest multinationals are American, which shapes their work culture. Western work culture is not just about productivity; it’s deeply rooted in historical and religious contexts.

    Today’s editorial addresses the alarming trend of adopting detrimental workplace practices from abroad, particularly from high-pressure environments in developed countries. It highlights the severe implications of such practices on mental health and overall employee well-being.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    The tragic death of a 26-year-old Chartered Accountant has brought attention to the severe pressures faced by employees in high-stress environments.

    • The Lancet found a 35% increase in mental health disorders in India, reflecting the growing crisis 

    What are the characteristics of toxic work cultures imported from Western countries?

    • Historical Insights: After the USSR fell, the U.S. gained significant influence over global affairs, and its economic practices became the standard for success.
      • The idea of “the American way” (long hours and high productivity/Capitalist perspective) became synonymous with corporate culture, influencing companies worldwide.
      • Karl Marx pointed out over a century ago, longer working days can lead to higher profits if labor costs are kept low.
      • German sociologist Max Weber explored that Protestantism changed its attitudes toward work in Northern Europe.
    • American Influence on Work Culture: The term ‘Multinational Corporations’ is misleading because, despite their global operations, these companies are often closely tied to their home countries.
      • Max Weber cited American thinker Benjamin Franklin to illustrate this connection, suggesting that the work culture in MNCs is deeply rooted in historical religious values (cultural glorification of hard work) rather than modern management theories.
    What is the actual scenario?

    • Data from the International Labour Organisation (ILO) shows that while hard work has helped the U.S. economy grow, it doesn’t guarantee the highest living standards. In 2023, the U.S. ranked 12th globally in terms of per capita income, falling behind countries like Austria, Belgium, and Denmark.
    • The U.S. has improved only slightly compared to Switzerland. Interestingly, workers in most other countries listed worked fewer hours than those in the U.S. This shows that achieving greater wealth while working less is possible.

    How does this imported ‘Capitalist perspective’ affect Indian professionals and their work culture?

    • High-Pressure Work Environment: American companies often expect long hours, leading to stress and burnout among Indian workers. The expectations set by American firms often clash with Indian cultural norms.
      • Indian work culture traditionally values relationships and teamwork, the imported capitalist model tends to prioritize efficiency and individual performance. 
      • Indian professionals may struggle with the more egalitarian approach of American firms, which encourages open communication.
    • Hierarchical Structures Vs. Equality: Indian workplaces are typically hierarchical, with a strong emphasis on respect for authority and seniority. In Indian organizations, decision-making is often top-down, whereas American firms favor collaborative approaches.
      • This difference can make it challenging for Indian professionals to adapt, as they may feel uncomfortable speaking up or challenging their superiors even when encouraged to do so.
    • Work-Life Balance Challenges: Long hours and blur boundaries like working late or during weekends, make it hard for the employees to relax or find the space between work and personal life.
      • Rising stress levels contribute to mental health problems, including anxiety and burnout.
      • Women face additional pressures in balancing work demands with traditional family roles.

    What steps can organizations take to mitigate these effects?

    • Employee Wellbeing Programs: Create wellness initiatives that include flexible work hours, mental health days, and access to counseling. These programs help reduce stress and improve morale.
    • Promote Work-Life Balance: Encourage flexible schedules and remote work options. This helps employees manage personal and professional commitments, reducing burnout.
    • Foster Open Communication: Build a culture where employees can discuss their workloads and mental health openly. Regular check-ins can help managers support their teams effectively.
    • Train Managers: Provide training for managers to be supportive leaders. Good management practices can enhance employee satisfaction and create a positive work environment.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/importing-a-toxic-work-culture-into-india/article68815685.ece

  • [pib] Four replicas of Konark Wheels at Rashtrapati Bhavan

    konark
    PC: konark.in

    Why in the News?

    Four replicas of the Konark wheels, made of sandstone, have been installed at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre and Amrit Udyan. 

    About Konark Wheels

    Details
    Design The temple is designed in the shape of a huge chariot drawn by 7 horses and features 24 wheels.
    Dimensions of Wheels Each wheel has a diameter of 9 feet 9 inches with 8 wider spokes and 8 thinner spokes.
    Symbolism of Wheels The wheels represent various time-related aspects:
    • 7 horses symbolize the days of the week.
    • 12 pairs of wheels signify 12 months.
    • 24 wheels represent 24 hours in a day.
    • 8 spokes symbolize prahars (three-hour periods).
    Architectural Features • The wheels are intricately carved, showcasing designs of foliage, animals, and figures of women in various poses.
    • Rims of the wheels have decorative carvings.
    Sun Dial Functionality Two of the wheels function as a sundial, accurately indicating time from sunrise to sunset using the shadow cast by the axel.
    Modern Representation
    • Featured in Indian currency, specifically in the old Rs. 20 and new Rs. 10 notes, representing Odisha’s rich cultural heritage.
    • Rs. 10 note released by the RBI on January 5, 2018, features the Konark Wheel on its reverse side.

    Its significance

    • The Konark Wheel, serving as an ancient sundial, symbolizes the advanced understanding of timekeeping and astronomy in 13th-century India.
    • Its intricate carvings reflect exceptional craftsmanship and cultural significance, embodying the cycle of life and the worship of Surya, the Sun God.
    • Its depiction on Indian currency highlights its enduring legacy and significance in promoting national identity and tourism in Odisha.

    Back2Basics: Konark Sun Temple

    konark

    • Approximately 64 km from Bhubaneswar.
    • Built in the 13th century (around 1250 CE) during the reign of King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty.
    • Dedicated to Surya, the Sun God.
    • Exemplifies Kalinga architecture, known for its intricate stone carvings and elaborate sculptures.
    • Constructed from Khondalite stone, which is durable and intricately carved.
    • Designed as a chariot with 7 horses and 24 wheels.
    • Structure originally included a sanctum (deul) and a jagamohan (assembly hall) that have largely collapsed but were once adorned with exquisite carvings.

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] Which of the following is/are famous for Sun temples?

    1. Arasavalli

    2. Amarakantak

    3. Omkareshwar

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Maithili missed out on Classical Status

    Why in the News?

    While five languages were granted classical status earlier this month, Maithili was not considered as the Bihar government had not officially forwarded the proposal, despite ongoing demands for its inclusion.

    Maithili missed out on Classical Status

    About Maithili Language

    • Maithili belongs to the eastern sub-group of the Indo-Aryan branch of languages.
      • It is believed to have evolved from Magadhan Prakrit.
      • The poet Vidyapati (14th century) popularized Maithili, establishing its importance in literature and folk culture.
    • It was added to the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution in 2003, making it one of the 22 officially recognized languages of India.
      • It is an optional subject in the UPSC exams, providing an opportunity for candidates to take it as a paper.
      • It was granted second official language status in Jharkhand in 2018.
    • It is spoken primarily in Bihar and Jharkhand in India, with a significant presence in Nepal.
      • According to the 2011 Census, there are around 12 million Maithili speakers in India.
      • It is the second most spoken language in Nepal, especially in the Terai region.
    • Mithilakshar, also known as Tirhuta, is the original script used for writing Maithili.
      • It belongs to the same family as Bangla, Assamese, Odia, Tibetan, and Nepali scripts.
      • The script’s oldest records date back to 950 AD, found in Sahodara stone inscriptions.

    About Eighth Schedule:

    Details
    Purpose Lists the official languages of India as recognized by the Constitution.
    Relevant Articles Part XVII (Articles 343 to 351) of the Constitution outlines provisions for official languages.
    Key Constitutional Provisions • Article 344(1): Mandates the formation of a Commission by the President to recommend steps to promote Hindi after five years of the Constitution’s commencement.
    • Article 351: Promotes the development of Hindi as a medium to represent India’s composite culture.
    Languages in the Eighth Schedule Currently includes 22 languages:
    Initially Included (14 languages): Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Nepali, Oriya, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu.
    Later Additions: Sindhi (21st Amendment, 1967), Konkani, Manipuri, Nepali (71st Amendment, 1992), Bodo, Dogri, Maithili, Santhali (92nd Amendment, 2003).
    Official Language Status Hindi (in Devanagari script) is the official language of India, with English as an additional official language for administrative purposes.

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] Consider the following languages:

    1. Gujarati
    2. Kannada
    3. Telugu

    Which of the above has/have been declared as ‘Classical Language/Languages’ by the Government?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [29th October 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: The under-representation of women in the judiciary

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) Discuss the desirability of greater representation to women in the higher judiciary to ensure diversity, equity and inclusiveness. (UPSC CSE 2021)
    Q) Critically examine the Supreme Court’s judgment on ‘The National Judicial Appointments Commission Act, 2014’ with reference to the appointment of judges of higher judiciary in India. (UPSC CSE 2017)

    Mentor’s Comment:

    “Diversity is essential for effective institutionalization, bringing positivity and change.”

    Women’s meaningful representation in the judiciary is a crucial aspect of gender equality and justice. It is a precondition for bringing justice to those who need it the most.

    Although several states have established quotas for women in the lower judiciary, providing 30% to 35% of seats for female candidates during recruitment in recent years, significant disparities persist, particularly in higher courts.

    Today’s editorial explores the current state of women’s representation in the judiciary, the underlying reasons for their under-representation, and the importance of addressing these issues.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Recent findings from a joint UN Women and UNDP study highlight the importance of women’s representation in the judiciary, particularly in Africa.

    • CJI Chandrachud has also emphasized the need for dignified working conditions for women in the judiciary, further underscoring the ongoing discussions around gender equality in legal systems globally.
    Current State of Women in the Judiciary:

    • Subordinate Courts: As of 2023, women constitute approximately 36.3% of judges in subordinate courts, up from 27.6% in 2018.
    • High Courts: The representation of women judges in High Courts has increased slightly from 10% in 2018 to 13.4% in 2023, with only 11.5% of judges being female.
    • Supreme Court: The Supreme Court remains the least representative, with only 9.4% (3 out of 32 judges) being women as of December 2023, a marginal increase from 4% in 2018.

    Regional Disparities: The High Courts of Punjab & Haryana, Delhi, and Bombay have the highest number of women judges. Conversely, states like Orissa, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh have only one woman judge each, while Patna and several others have none.

    What are the systemic barriers contributing to the low representation of women in the judiciary?

    • Deeply rooted Patriarchy: A prevailing patriarchal culture limits women’s roles and opportunities in the legal field, leading to discrimination that hinders their judicial careers.
      • Societal expectations regarding domestic duties often lead women to prioritize family over career, causing them to decline promotions or judicial positions.
    • Hostile Work Environment: Women often face sexism and harassment, creating a challenging atmosphere that can result in high turnover rates and hinder career advancement.
    • Inadequate Infrastructure: The lack of essential facilities, such as childcare and appropriate office space, disproportionately impacts women, complicating their ability to balance work and family.
    • Opaque Appointment Processes: The collegium system for appointing judges lacks transparency and tends to favor male candidates, reducing opportunities for qualified women.
    • Low Representation in Litigation: The under-representation of women in litigation results in fewer female candidates for judicial roles, perpetuating the cycle of inequality.
      • Women experience bias from colleagues and clients, which can undermine their credibility and limit their professional growth in the legal field.

    How does the under-representation of women impact the judicial system and society?

    1) Impact on the Judicial System

    • Justice Delivery: Fewer female judges can lead to biased rulings that overlook women’s unique experiences and needs.
    • Legitimacy: A diverse judiciary enhances public trust, signaling that the legal system is accessible and representative.
    • Diverse Perspectives: Women judges bring different viewpoints, enriching decision-making and improving legal outcomes.

    2) Impact on Society

    • Gender Equality: Low representation reinforces societal gender inequalities and limits women’s leadership roles.
    • Role Models: Fewer women in judicial positions discourage young women from pursuing careers in law.
    • Social Justice: A lack of gender diversity may hinder effective responses to issues affecting women, undermining social justice efforts.

    What measures can be implemented to promote greater inclusion of women in the judiciary?

    • Gender Quotas: Set minimum representation targets for women in judicial positions, especially in higher courts.
    • Transparent Appointment Processes: The judiciary needs to revise selection criteria and make the judicial appointments more clear and fair to include diverse candidates.
    • Supportive Programs and Policies: Create mentorship initiatives and support networks by linking aspiring female judges with experienced women in the field.
      • Introduce Family-friendly and flexible working hours and childcare support to help women manage family responsibilities.
    • Gender Sensitivity Training: Implement training for Judges to address biases and foster an inclusive environment within the judiciary.
    • Advocacy and Political Will: Promote and encourage advocacy from civil society organizations to push for women’s representation in the judiciary.

  • Solar, a game changer in women’s empowerment 

    Why in the News?

    Rooftop solar (RTS) can transform India’s energy landscape by providing a sustainable, decentralized, and affordable solution for rising electricity needs and could empower consumers (women and other sections of society) toward greater self-reliance.

    How does solar energy contribute to women’s economic empowerment?

    • Income Generation and Financial Independence: Solar technology enables women to generate income directly, especially in rural areas where traditional energy sources are scarce or costly.
      • For instance, solar-powered pumps have empowered women salt farmers in Gujarat’s Little Rann of Kutch, who, after shifting from diesel to solar, saw a 94% income boost and lower CO₂ emissions.
    • Employment Opportunities: The solar photovoltaic (PV) industry, employing around 4.9 million people in 2022, has been particularly impactful for women, who make up about 40% of its workforce.
    • Empowerment Programs: Initiatives like Barefoot College in India and Solar Sister in Africa train women as solar engineers. These programs enhance skills, improve self-reliance, and create employment in remote communities.

    What are the broader social implications of women’s involvement in the solar sector?

    • Community Well-being and Social Development: Women’s participation in the solar sector promotes local economic growth and strengthens social structures.
    • Leadership and Decision-Making: When women lead or actively participate in renewable energy projects, they often advocate for inclusive policies and better community engagement.
    • Gender-Sensitive Energy Policies: Women’s involvement highlights the need for energy policies that address the unique needs of women, improving both economic participation and social inclusion.

    What challenges do women face in the renewable energy sector, and how can these be addressed?

    • Access to Training and Financing: Women often face limited access to training and funding.
      • Overcoming these barriers requires accessible, affordable training programs in solar technology, as well as microfinance schemes specifically for women-led renewable energy projects.
    • Gender Bias and Occupational Segregation: The renewable energy sector, like many others, is affected by gender biases that can limit women’s roles to lower-level positions.
      • To address this, it’s important to promote women’s leadership and equal opportunities through gender-sensitive hiring practices and mentorship programs.
    • Policy and Regulatory Gaps: Energy access policies frequently lack a gender perspective, which limits their reach and inclusiveness.
      • Integrating gender-focused policies in energy and rural development sectors can enhance the socio-economic impacts of solar energy for women.

    Conclusion: Governments should integrate gender-focused policies within renewable energy frameworks, ensuring accessible financing options and training programs specifically for women. Microfinance schemes and subsidies for women-led solar projects can foster broader participation.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by our government for this purpose? (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • 9th National Ayurveda Day

    Why in the News?

    • On the occasion of the 9th Ayurveda Day, Prime Minister will launch several healthcare projects valued at Rs 12,850 crore.
      • The focal theme for Ayurveda day-2024 has been decided as ‘Ayurveda Innovations for Global Health’.

    About Ayurveda:

    Details
    Origins   • Rooted in four Vedas (5000–1000 BCE).
    • References in Ramayana and Mahabharata epics.
    • Fully developed by 1000 BCE with Charaka Samhita and Susruta Samhita.
    Foundational Texts   • Brhattrayi (Three Major Treatises):
    • Caraka Samhita (internal medicine)
    • Susruta Samhita (surgery)
    • Astanga Sangraha and Astanga Hrdaya (Vrddha Vagbhata and Vagbhata, 6th-7th century CE).
    • Takshashila and Nalanda universities attracted foreign students.
    Global Influence • Spread through Buddhism to Tibetan and Chinese medicine.
    • Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans adopted concepts via trade and interactions.
    • 8th century CE saw Nagarjuna study medicinal use of metals.
    Integration of Modern Techniques • 16th century saw inclusion of modern diagnostics and treatment for new diseases.
    Revival in India (19th-20th Cent.) • 1827: First Ayurveda course at Government Sanskrit College, Calcutta.
    • 20th Century: Ayurveda colleges spread under regional patronage.
    • 1970s: Ayurveda revived, with academic research, publications, and global symposia.
    Current Status   • Structured undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral education.
    • Strong network of practitioners and manufacturers.
    • Developed infrastructure for community outreach.
    Global Influence  24 countries recognize Ayurveda legally.
    Collaborative platforms include:
    • SCO Expert Working Group on Traditional Medicine
    • BIMSTEC Taskforce on Traditional Medicine
    • BRICS High-Level Forum on Traditional Medicine.
    • Ayurveda products exported to 100+ countries.
    WHO Standards and Milestones • ICD-11 Integration: WHO included Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani in ICD-11 TM Module 2.
    • WHO set global standards for practice and training.
    • GCTM, Jamnagar (Gujarat): Focuses on Ayurveda research, education, and practice.
    Philosophical Foundations • Historical evidence dates to the first millennium BCE.
    • Knowledge passed from gods to sages and then to human physicians.
    • Central concepts align with Samkhya, Vaisheshika, Buddhism, and Jainism.
    • Emphasis on balance and maintaining natural urges.

    Initiatives and Programs by the Govt.

    • National Ayush Mission (2014): Aimed at promoting the development and growth of Ayush systems (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) in the country, focusing on strengthening educational institutions and enhancing the quality of services.
    • Ayurveda Research Portal (2021): Promotes research in Ayurveda by providing a digital platform for researchers, practitioners, and institutions to access data, funding opportunities, and collaborative initiatives.
    • Ayush Grid (2020): A digital initiative aimed at enhancing the accessibility of Ayush services and information through online platforms, connecting practitioners, patients, and educational institutions.

    PYQ:

    [2019] How is the Government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies?

  • [pib] Raigad Fort

    [pib] Raigad Fort

    Why in the News?

    The Raigad Fort is among 12 forts nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status under the title “Maratha Military Landscapes of India.”

    Why Raigad Fort is Nominated for UNESCO World Heritage?

    • Historical and Strategic Importance: Raigad Fort served as the capital of the Maratha Empire under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, symbolizing Maratha resilience and independence.
    • Architectural Excellence: The fort showcases Maratha military architecture, with well-developed structures adapted to the hilly terrain.
    • Role in Maratha Legacy: As a hill fort, Raigad is emblematic of the Marathas’ unique fortification style, designed to withstand invasions and safeguard autonomy.
    • Icon of Maratha Heritage: Known as Durgaraj (King of Forts), Raigad stands as a tribute to Shivaji Maharaj’s leadership and legacy and has become a pilgrimage site for Shivbhakts.
    • Natural Defense and Innovation: The fort’s natural fortifications, steep escarpments, and strategic location atop an isolated hill embody military ingenuity and make it a model of Maratha defense architecture.

    History of Raigad Fort:

    Details
    Location   • Situated in the Sahyadri mountain range in Maharashtra, India.
    • Elevation of approximately 2,700 feet above sea level.
    • Surrounded by natural cliffs and 1,500-foot escarpments.
    Background • Originally known as Rairi.
    • Captured by Shivaji Maharaj in 1653 CE.
    • Crowned Chhatrapati on June 6, 1674 CE.
    • Served as the capital of the Maratha Empire until 1680 CE.
    Significance • Part of the “Maratha Military Landscapes of India” nomination for UNESCO World Heritage status.
    • Referred to as the “Gibraltar of the East” by Grant Duff.
    Architectural Highlights • Includes the Royal Complex with key structures like Ranivasa and Rajsadar.
    • Jagadishwar Mandir dedicated to Lord Shiva.
    • Samadhi (final resting place) of Shivaji Maharaj located nearby.
    Features • Accessible mainly through Naqqarkhana and Palkhi Darwaja.
    • Features well-designed drainage systems and secret chambers.
    Ecology • Surrounded by valleys shaped by the Kal and Gandhari rivers.
    • Supported limited agriculture and had a self-sustained ecosystem.
    Cultural Significance • Known as the Durgaraj (King of Forts), symbolizing Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy.
    • Hosts annual celebrations for Shivrajyabhishek and Punyatithi.

     

    PYQ:

    [2010] What was the immediate reason for Ahmad Shah Abdali to invade India and fight the Third Battle of Panipat?

    (a) He wanted to avenge the expulsion by Marathas of his viceroy Timur Shah from Lahore

    (b) The frustrated governor of Jullundhar Adina Beg Khan invited him to invade Punjab

    (c) He wanted to punish Mughal administration for non-payment of the revenues of the Chahar Mahal (Gujarat, Aurangabad, Sialkot & Pasrur)

    (d) He wanted to annex all the fertile plains of Punjab up to the borders of Delhi to his kingdom

  • [pib] Rashtriya Ekta Diwas

    Why in the News?

    The ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’ (National Unity Day) the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, will be held on 31st October.

    About National Unity Day

    • National Unity Day is celebrated every year in India on 31 October since 2014.
    • It marks the birth anniversary of Vallabhbhai Patel who had a major role in the political integration of India.
      • 31 October is also celebrated as Rashtriya Sankalp Diwas or National Pledge Day as it marks the day of assassination of Indira Gandhi.

    Contributions made by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel:

    Details
    Who Was He? Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (31 October 1875 – 15 December 1950) was an Indian independence activist, lawyer, and a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress.

    He served as India’s first Deputy PM and Home Minister.
    Role in the Freedom Struggle • Kheda Satyagraha (1918): Led a non-violent campaign against unjust land revenue tax during a famine.
    • Bardoli Satyagraha (1928): Organized protests against increased land revenue, earning the title “Sardar.”
    Integration of Princely States Played a crucial role in integrating over 565 princely states into the Indian Union post-independence using diplomatic skills and firm leadership.
    Establishment of All India Services Advocated for a unified administrative framework, establishing the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), known as India’s “steel frame.”
    Leadership in the Indian National Congress Served as President during the Karachi session in 1931, where significant resolutions on Fundamental Rights were passed.
    Constitutional Contributions Headed committees of the Constituent Assembly on Fundamental Rights and minority rights, contributing to the framing of the Indian Constitution.
    Promotion of National Unity Advocated “Ek Bharat, Shresth Bharat” (One India, Great India), emphasizing unity in diversity to build a cohesive nation.
    Social Reforms Worked against caste discrimination, untouchability, and alcohol consumption, promoting social justice and women’s rights.

     

    PYQ:

    [2011] What was the reason for Mahatma Gandhi to organize a satyagraha on behalf of the peasants of Kheda?

    1. The Administration did not suspend the land revenue collection in spite of a drought.

    2. The Administration proposed to introduce Permanent Settlement in Gujarat.

    Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 or 2

  • National Manuscript Mission

    Why in the News?

    The Union Ministry of Culture is planning to revive and relaunch the National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM) and is considering the formation of an autonomous body to help preserve India’s ancient texts.

    Why Center is again re-evolving this scheme?

    • Currently, the NMM operates as part of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts.
    • The new entity, expected to be named the National Manuscripts Authority, will likely function as an autonomous body under the Ministry of Tourism and Culture.

    About the National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM):

    • Formed in 2003 by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture.
    • It is managed by the National Archives of India.
    • Objective:
      • To document, conserve, digitize, and disseminate India’s manuscript heritage.
      • The mission has set up over 100 Manuscripts Resource Centres and Manuscripts Conservation Centres across India.
      • India has an estimated 10 million manuscripts, covering a range of themes, languages, scripts, and illustrations.
    • What is a Manuscript?
      • A manuscript is a handwritten document on materials like paper, bark, cloth, metal, or palm leaf.
      • These documents are at least 75 years old and hold scientific, historical, or aesthetic value.
      • Manuscripts primarily contain knowledge content, unlike historical records that provide direct historical information.

    Achievements and Challenges:

    • The NMM has documented metadata for 5.2 million manuscripts and digitized 300,000 titles, though only a third have been uploaded.
    • Concerns were raised over mismatches between digitized data and original manuscripts, requiring correction.
    • Of the 130,000 manuscripts uploaded, only 70,000 are accessible for viewing due to the absence of an access policy, which limits public availability, especially since 80% of manuscripts are privately owned.
    • NMM has conducted preventive and curative conservation of 9 crore folios over the past 21 years.

    PYQ:

    [2008] Recently, the manuscripts of which one of the following have been included in the UNESCO’s Memory of World Register? 

    (a) Abhidhamma Pitaka

    (b) Mahabharata

    (c) Ramayana

    (d) Rig-Veda

  • Move on madrasas, the alienation of Muslims

    Why in the News?

    The Supreme Court’s move to block the NCPCR’s recommendations to stop funding madrasas that don’t follow the RTE Act, 2009, and conduct inspections, along with related actions by the Centre and states, has brought some relief to minorities and secular-minded people.

    What reforms are necessary to modernize madrasa education and address public perceptions?

    • Curriculum Integration: Need to introduce a balanced curriculum that combines religious studies with modern subjects like science, mathematics, and social studies to make madrasa education more holistic and aligned with mainstream education standards.
    • Teacher Training and Certification: Ensure that madrasa teachers receive proper training in contemporary pedagogy and modern subjects.
    • Infrastructure Development: Improve madrasa facilities to provide a conducive learning environment. This includes better classrooms, libraries, laboratories, and access to technology for digital learning.
    • Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish a framework to regularly assess and monitor the quality of education in madrasas.
    • Vocational and Skill-Based Training: Incorporate vocational courses and skill development programs to equip students with practical skills that can improve their employability.
    • Awareness Programs: Need to run awareness campaigns to inform the community about the value of modernizing madrasa education.

    How do political narratives and policies affect the perception of madrasas among the Muslim community?

    • Communal Narratives and Stereotyping: Political narratives often portray madrasas as breeding grounds for extremism, which affects the public’s perception, especially among non-Muslims.
    • Legislative and Policy Decisions: Policies such as withdrawing government funding or enforcing stringent regulations can create a perception of bias against Muslim educational institutions.
    • Historical Reason and Islamophobia: Historical events like the U.S.-Taliban conflict have influenced perceptions of madrasas, linking them to extremism. Political rhetoric often builds on these associations to foster Islamophobic sentiments.
    • Social Justice versus Appeasement: There is a debate on whether supporting madrasas financially is an act of social justice (ensuring access to education) or appeasement.

    What role can madrasas play in promoting social cohesion and countering extremism?

    • Interfaith Learning and Dialogue: Madrasas can include teachings that promote understanding and respect for other religions.
    • Combating Radicalization: By modernizing curricula to include secular education and critical thinking, madrasas can counter extremist narratives. An informed and educated student body is more resilient to radical ideologies.
    • Community Engagement Programs: Madrasas can play a role in community service and outreach, helping bridge the gap between Muslim communities and others. This engagement can dispel misconceptions and build mutual trust.
    • Promoting National Values and Secular Ideals: Incorporating national education standards in madrasas can help in promoting the values enshrined in the Indian Constitution, such as secularism, social justice, and equality.

    Way forward: 

    • Comprehensive Policy Reforms: Develop a national framework that integrates modern subjects into madrasa education, provides teacher training, and ensures quality monitoring.
    • Community and Interfaith Initiatives: Launch awareness programs to highlight the benefits of modernizing madrasa education while encouraging interfaith dialogue and community engagement.

    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/2016)