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GS Paper: GS1

  • [5th July 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Computer literacy in India needs a reboot 

    PYQ Relevance:

    Mains: 
    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 CSE 2020) 
    Q) “Demographic Dividend in India will remain only theoretical unless our manpower becomes more educated, aware, skilled and creative.” What measures have been taken by the government to enhance the capacity of our population to be more productive and employable? (UPSC CSE 2016) 

    Prelims:

    Q) Consider the following statements: (UPSC CSE 2018) 
    1. As per the Right to Education (RTE) Act, to be eligible for appointment as a teacher in a State, a person would be required to possess the minimum qualification laid down by the concerned State Council of Teacher Education.
    2. As per the RTE Act, for teaching primary classes, a candidate is required to pass a Teacher Eligibility Test conducted in accordance with the National Council of Teacher Education guidelines.
    3. In India, more than 90% of teacher -5 education institutions are directly under the State Governments.
    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    (a) 1 and 2
    (b) 2 only
    (c) 1 and 3
    (d) 3 only

    Note4Students: 

    Prelims: National Education Policy 2020; Digital India Campaign of 2015;

    Mains: Social Issues and Justice; Education; Population; Literacy Rate;

    Mentors Comment: Digital literacy is essential for full participation in India’s rapidly digitizing society and economy. As critical services like banking, healthcare, and government services have become increasingly digitized, the ability to effectively use computers and technology is crucial for accessing these essential services and enhancing quality of life. The COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the importance of digital skills, from online education to managing financial and medical needs remotely. However, India’s computer literacy rate stands at just 24.7%, with wide disparities between urban and rural areas as well as across age groups and socioeconomic status. Unless serious efforts are made to universalize digital literacy, a significant portion of the population, especially in rural and marginalized communities, will face exclusion from the digital economy and public services. 

    Let’s learn. 

    —

    Why in the News?

    According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) and National Statistical Office, India still has lower levels of literacy than many other nations, though.

    • The literacy rate is 77.70%, with literate males at 84.70% and literate females at 70.30%,

    Context:

    • The latest NSS survey shows computer literacy in India stands at only 24.7% among individuals aged 15 and above, with rural areas lagging behind at 18.1%. This digital divide puts a significant portion of the population at risk of exclusion from digital public services.
    • The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of computer and internet access for everyday tasks.
    • Unless serious measures are taken to universalize digital literacy, rural India’s population, which is nearly 70%, will face significant disadvantages in accessing critical services.
    Initiatives taken up by government:

    Digital India campaign in 2015:
    The Digital India campaign launched by the Indian government in 2015 has had a mixed impact on computer literacy rates in the country.
    The campaign aimed to transform India into a digitally empowered society and improve digital infrastructure and services.

    National Education Policy (2020):

    The NEP 2020 lays emphasis on the use of technology to provide high-quality education to students, irrespective of their geographical location.
    Digital education will be an integral part of the curriculum, with a focus on developing digital literacy, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

    Present Scenario: Progress of Digital India campaign and present literacy rates in India:

    The Digital India campaign launched by the Indian government in 2015 has had a mixed impact on computer literacy rates in the country:

    • Limited Success: The latest National Sample Survey (NSS) data shows that computer literacy in India remains low at just 24.7% among individuals aged 15 and above .
      • While this represents an increase from 18.4% in 2017-18, the figures still highlight a significant digital divide.
      • In rural areas, computer literacy stands at only 18.1%, compared to 39.6% in urban areas.
      • Nearly 70% living in rural areas, remain excluded from accessing digital services and public amenities.
    • Cohort Effect:
      • Computer literacy peaks at 45.9% among 20-24 year olds, but drops to just 4.4% for 65-69 year olds.
      • Even among younger working-age cohorts (20-39 years), computer literacy is only 34.8% on average.
    • Variations in computer literacy across Indian states:
      • Economically disadvantaged states like Assam, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh have very low rates (under 30%). Prosperous states like Kerala have much higher rates (72.7%)
      • Bridging the digital divide requires sustained efforts by government, private sector and civil society.

    Understanding the Causes:

    • Lack of infrastructure and qualified teachers in schools/colleges for adequate computer training limits job prospects and employment opportunities. It creates a digital divide and skill gap in the job market.
    • Gaps in access and quality of computer education in the formal education system leads to social isolation and financial exclusion from online services.
    • Lack of motivation and access to learning resources among older age groups restricts access to information and resources in the digital age.

    Way Forward: There are some focus areas where we can concentrate:

    • For School level: School education should ensure that all graduating students possess computer literacy skills, as this is crucial to bridge the digital divide. The government should allocate resources towards the training of computer personnel and ensure sufficient staffing levels. 
    • For Old-aged people: For the older population outside the formal education system, targeted programmes are essential.
      • These should involve various institutions, including local governing bodies such as panchayats and non-governmental organisations, to effectively reach and empower older individuals with computer literacy skills. 
    • Quality Control and Monitoring: The government should also conduct a thorough review of such computer literacy and develop strategies to achieve higher literacy and reduce disparities in the coming years. 

  • Significance of ‘Abhaya Mudra’

     

    Why in the News?

    The Leader of Opposition invoked the Abhaya Mudra in his inaugural address as Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha.

    What is Abhay Mudra?

    • Abhaya mudra, the motif of an open palm (gesturing to stop), is prevalent across many South Asian religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism.
    • Known as the ‘fearlessness gesture’, ‘abhaya’ in Sanskrit means fearlessness. The gesture symbolizes protection and peace.
    • In yoga circles, the abhaya mudra is believed to promote courage and reduce fear and anxiety.
    • While common across many religions, the abhaya mudra is most prominently featured in Buddhism, especially in Thailand and Laos, where it is associated with images of the walking Buddha.

    Origins of the Gesture

    • According to Stanford University, the gesture of an open palm pointed outwards appears to be a natural gesture used since prehistoric times as a sign of good intentions and peace.
    • The gesture also asserted power in antiquity, similar to the magna manus of the Roman Emperors who legislated and gave peace simultaneously.
    • The motif likely originated from a universal gesture associated with human communication, eventually integrating into major South Asian religions.

    Evolution of Mudras in Buddhism

    • For about 500 years after the Buddha, he was not depicted in physical form.
    • Early representations appeared around the first millennium, influenced by Gandhara and Gupta art.
    • With the evolution of these Buddhist traditions, hundreds of mudras entered Buddhist iconography.
    • In tantric Buddhist traditions, mudras symbolized material offerings, enacted forms of worship, or relationships with visualized deities. (as shown in the above diagram)

    Significance of ‘Abhaya Mudra’ in Buddhism: 

    • In Buddhism, the abhaya mudra is linked to a legend involving Devadatta, a cousin of the Buddha, who tried to murder the Buddha by losing a rampaging elephant into his path.
    • The Buddha calmed the elephant by displaying the abhaya mudra, indicating appeasement of the senses and the absence of fear.
    • The gesture is popularly pronounced in Buddhist cultures, symbolizing fearlessness and peace.

    Significance of ‘Abhaya Mudra’ in Hindu Religion:

    • The Buddha was absorbed into the Hindu pantheon as the 9th incarnation of Vishnu.
    • Hindus regarded the Buddha as an avatar of Vishnu between AD 450 and the sixth century, with the first mention in the Vishnu Purana (400-500 CE).
    • The abhaya mudra appears in depictions of Hindu deities, commonly seen in images of Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Ganesha.

    PYQ:

    [2014] Lord Buddha’s image is sometimes shown with a hand gesture called ‘Bhumisparsha Mudra’. It symbolizes:

    (a) Buddha’s calling of the Earth to watch over Mara and to prevent Mara from disturbing his meditation

    (b) Buddha’s calling of the Earth to witness his purity and chastity despite the temptations of Mara

    (c) Buddha’s reminder to his followers that they all arise from the Earth and finally dissolve into the Earth and thus this life is transitory

    (d) Both the statements ‘a’ and ‘b’ are correct in this context

    [2014] Gandhara sculpture owed as much to the Romans as to the Greeks. Explain.

    [2016] Early Buddhist Stupa-art, while depicting folk motifs and narratives, successfully expounds Buddhist ideals. Elucidate.
  • [2nd July 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Glossing over unemployment, its high electoral price

    [2nd July 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Glossing over unemployment, its high electoral price

    PYQ Relevance:
    Q Define potential GDP and explain its determinants. What are the factors that have been inhibiting India from realizing its potential GDP? (UPSC IAS/2020)
    Q Besides the welfare schemes, India needs deft management of inflation and unemployment to serve the poor and the underprivileged sections of society. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2022)

    Mentor comment: The Indian economy needs to generate over 25 million jobs in the next five years to employ all the currently unemployed. Despite the Narendra Modi government’s claim of an 8% GDP growth rate last year, job creation has not kept pace. Although the unemployment rate for those aged 15 and above decreased from 4.2% in 2021 to 3.1% in 2023, this improvement is insufficient. In the 2024 general election, the Bharatiya Janata Party lost its majority, forming a coalition with parties holding different economic views due to the job market setback.

    Let’s Learn!

    __

    Why in the news?

    The Modi government claimed 8% GDP growth last year, but this has not translated into adequate job creation, as shown by current unemployment rates.

    Inequality gap is widening

    • Rising Wealth Inequality: In the past two decades, the gap between the rich and the poor has significantly widened. Official statistics reveal that 1% of India’s population now owns 40% of the country’s wealth.
    • K-shaped Economic Inequality: The term “K-shaped” inequality describes the phenomenon where income and consumption for a few are rising, while for the majority, it is declining.This has been particularly evident over the past decade under BJP central rule.
    • Income Inequality: The World Inequality Report 2022 highlights that India is one of the most unequal countries globally, with the top 10% and top 1% of the population earning 57% and 22% of the national income, respectively. Meanwhile, the bottom 50% see their share reduced to 13%.
    • Tax Burden on the Poor: About 64% of the total Goods and Services Tax (GST) revenue in India is contributed by the bottom 50% of the population, whereas only 4% comes from the top 10%.
    • Healthcare as a Luxury: Many Indians struggle to access necessary healthcare, with 63 million people (nearly two every second) pushed into poverty each year due to healthcare costs.
    • Food Security and Nutrition: According to “The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World, 2023,” around 74% of India’s population cannot afford a healthy diet, and 39% fall short of a nutrient-adequate diet.
    • Global Hunger Index 2023: India’s 2023 Global Hunger Index score is 28.7, categorized as “serious” on the GHI Severity of Hunger Scale.

    Cause of inequality:

    • Structural economic factors: India has struggled to shift its large agricultural workforce towards more productive and better-paying jobs in the formal economy. The economic boom has primarily benefited the top 10-20% while leaving the poor behind.
    • Policy shocks disproportionately impacting the informal sector:  Demonetization, GST implementation, and COVID-19 lockdowns have severely disrupted livelihoods and employment for India’s large informal economy, exacerbating inequality
    • Uneven distribution of wealth and income:  The richest 1% of Indians now own over 40% of the country’s wealth, while the bottom 50% possess only 3% of the wealth. This wealth concentration at the top has accelerated in recent decades.
    • Lack of effective wealth redistribution: Measures like wealth taxes on the super-rich and greater investment in social welfare, healthcare, and education have been lacking, perpetuating the inequality cycle.

    Growth could slip because of 

    • Heavy Reliance on Government Expenditure: The recent GDP growth has been driven significantly by a large Budget deficit and massive government capital expenditure rather than structural investments in key sectors like industry, agriculture, and services.
    • Lack of Structural Investments: Structural investments in the industrial, agricultural, and service sectors are crucial for sustainable economic growth. The absence of significant investments in these sectors means that the foundational aspects of the economy remain weak, potentially hindering long-term growth.
    • Historical GDP Growth Decline: The GDP growth rate has shown significant declines in the past, such as falling from 8% to 3.8% in the fourth quarter of 2019-20. This trend indicates a vulnerability in maintaining high growth rates, especially without addressing underlying economic issues.
    • Fiscal Deficit Concerns: A significantly large Budget deficit to fund government expenditure can lead to concerns about fiscal sustainability.
    • Global Economic Conditions: The global economic environment, including factors such as inflation, interest rates, and geopolitical tensions, can impact India’s growth prospects.Any adverse changes in the global economy could further strain India’s growth trajectory.
    • Sectoral Weaknesses: Weaknesses in key sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and services can drag down overall economic growth.

    Way forward: 

    • Support for SMEs and Informal Sector: Given that 92% of jobs in agriculture and 73% of jobs in industry and services are in the unorganised sector, policies aimed at supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and the informal sector are crucial. 
    • Agricultural Reforms and Rural Development: Focusing on modernising agriculture through technology, better irrigation, crop diversification, and improving rural infrastructure can boost productivity and incomes in rural areas. 
    • Education and Skill Development: Investing in education and skill development is essential to equip the workforce with the necessary skills for the evolving job market. 

  • What are hurricanes, their types?    

    Why in the news?

    Due to Hurricane Beryl sweeping through the Windward Islands, the Indian Men’s cricket team, victorious in the T20 World Cup, finds itself stranded in Barbados.

    What do we know about Hurricane Beryl?

    • Early Category 4 Storm: Hurricane Beryl is the earliest category 4 storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, sustaining winds of at least 130 miles per hour (209 kilometres per hour).
    • Location and Impact: It is currently affecting the Windward Islands in the southern part of the Lesser Antilles, including Barbados, Grenada, and Trinidad and Tobago.
    • Forecast: The National Hurricane Centre has issued warnings for life-threatening winds and storm surges in the affected islands, with the potential for violent winds and flash flooding.
    • Preparations: Local authorities in Barbados have suspended school classes and taken other precautions, such as shutting down the water supply, in anticipation of the hurricane’s impact.
    • Historical Context: Hurricane Beryl is noted as the strongest storm to impact the Windward Islands since Hurricane Ivan in September 2004.

    What are hurricanes and how do they form?

    • Formation: Hurricanes form over warm ocean waters near the equator where warm, moist air rises from the ocean’s surface, creating low air pressure.
    • Fuel: They are fueled by the heat and moisture evaporating from the ocean, forming clouds and spinning due to the Earth’s rotation.
    • Eye Formation: As the storm system intensifies, an eye forms at its centre, with storms rotating counterclockwise north of the equator and clockwise south of it.
    • Impact of Warming World: Warmer sea surface temperatures due to climate change may lead to slower decay of hurricanes upon landfall, potentially increasing their severity.

    Are hurricanes becoming more severe now?

    • Research Findings: Studies suggest that warmer sea surface temperatures contribute to the slower decay of hurricanes, potentially prolonging their destructive impacts inland.
    • Record-Breaking Seasons: The 2020 Atlantic Hurricane season has seen a record number of named storms, indicating a trend towards more frequent and intense hurricane activity.

    What is the difference between a hurricane and a tropical storm?

    • No Fundamental Difference: Hurricanes, typhoons, and cyclones are all types of tropical cyclones, named differently based on their location:
    • Hurricanes: Form over the Atlantic Ocean and the eastern Pacific Ocean.
    • Typhoons: Form in the Northwest Pacific Ocean.
    • Cyclones: Form in the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea.
    • Naming Conventions: The different names signify regional differences but refer to the same meteorological phenomenon of tropical cyclones.

    Way forward: 

    • Implementation of Advanced Forecasting Technologies: Invest in state-of-the-art meteorological tools and satellite technology to enhance the accuracy and lead time of hurricane forecasts.
    • Community Preparedness Programs: Establish comprehensive community outreach programs to educate residents about hurricane risks, evacuation procedures, and emergency shelter locations.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Discuss the meaning of colour-coded weather warnings for cyclone prone areas given by India Meteorological Department. (UPSC IAS/2014)

  • Kozhikode awarded ‘City of Literature’ at UNESCO Creative Cities Network Conference

    Why in the News?

    • “Kozhikode” was awarded the title of ‘City of Literature’ at the 16th annual conference of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) in Braga, Portugal.
      • The theme of this year’s UCCN conference is ‘Bringing youth to the table for the next decade’.

    About UNESCO Creative Cities Network

    Purpose To promote cooperation among cities for cultural and creative industry development
    Initiation Established by UNESCO in 2004
    Seven Categories/Criteria
    • Sector-Specific Excellence: Prominence in one of the seven creative fields: Craft and Folk Art, Media Arts, Film, Design, Gastronomy, Literature, or Music.
    • Commitment to Creativity: Long-term dedication to creativity and culture as key drivers for urban development.
    • Supportive Infrastructure: Established cultural institutions, educational programs, and events promoting creativity.
    • Alignment with SDG 11: Initiatives supporting the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
    • Inclusivity: Ensuring creative activities are inclusive and accessible to all societal segments.
    Member Cities Over 250 cities from around the world
    Objectives Foster innovation, cultural diversity, and sustainable urban development
    Activities Collaborative projects, cultural events, and initiatives
    Selection Process Cities apply and are designated by UNESCO based on criteria related to creativity
    Network Coordination UNESCO provides coordination and support
    Impact Enhances cities’ cultural identity, economy, and international visibility
    Other Indian Cities in UCCN
    • Gwalior – Music Category (2023)
    • Srinagar– Crafts and Folk Arts (2022)
    • Jaipur– Crafts and Folk Arts (2015)
    • Varanasi– Creative City of Music (2015)
    • Chennai– Creative City of Music (2017)
    • Mumbai– Film (2019)
    • Hyderabad– Gastronomy/Food (2019)

    Reasons for Kozhikode’s Selection

    • Rich Literary Tradition: Kozhikode has a deep and rich literary heritage that spans centuries, contributing significantly to the cultural and intellectual life of the region.
    • Prominent Literary Figures: The city has been home to many renowned authors, poets, and scholars who have significantly contributed to Malayalam literature.
    • Cultural Festivals and Events: Kozhikode hosts various literary festivals, book fairs, and cultural events that promote literature and reading among the community.
    • Educational Institutions: The presence of several prestigious educational institutions that emphasise literature and the arts played a crucial role in its selection.
    • Community Engagement: Active involvement of local communities in promoting and preserving literary culture through libraries, reading clubs, and literary societies.
    • Literary Infrastructure: Well-established libraries, publishing houses, and bookshops that support and nurture the scholarly ecosystem.

    Historic Contributions of Kozhikode

    • Malayalam Literature: Kozhikode has been a centre for Malayalam literature and scholarly activities. It has produced notable literary figures and is a hub for literary festivals and cultural events.
    • Astronomy and Mathematics: The region, under the patronage of the Zamorins, was a centre for advancements in astronomy and mathematics, contributing significantly to the fields through scholars like the 14th-century mathematician and astronomer Madhava of Sangamagrama.

  • In news: Santhal Hul of 1855 

    Why in the News?

    • The Santhal Revolt of 1855 was a revolt against imperialism led by four brothers, Sidho, Kanho, Chand, and Bhairav Murmu, along with sisters Phulo and Jhano.
      • June 30 marks the 169th anniversary of the beginning of the revolt.

    About Santhal Hul

    • The Santhal people revolted against the British East India Company and the Zamindari system, also known as the Santhal Rebellion or Santhal Hul.
    • The rebellion began on June 30, 1855.
    • Martial Law was imposed on November 10, 1855, by the East India Company, lasting until January 3, 1856, when the rebellion was suppressed.

    Who are the Santhals?

    • Santhals were agricultural people living in the Rajmahal Hills of Bihar.
    • Ol Chiki (Ol Chemet) is the writing script of Santhals.
    • The British asked them to clear forests for agriculture to increase revenue.
    • Damin-i-Koh (1832) was created as a designated area for Santhals, now known as Santhal Pargana.
    • Over time, the British began exploiting the Santhals, leading to the Santhal Rebellion.

    What makes the revolt so unique?

    • Marginalized Indigenous Community: Led by the Santhal tribe, a marginalized indigenous community in mid-19th century India.
    • Agrarian Uprising: Primarily a fight against exploitative land laws, high taxes, and forced labor rather than political or religious issues.
    • Tribal Unity and Guerrilla Tactics: Characterized by a strong sense of tribal unity and guerrilla warfare tactics, making it unique and significant.

    Causes of the Santhal Revolt:

    • Permanent Settlement System (1793): Introduced by the British East India Company, giving Zamindars long-lasting property rights.
    • Oppression by Zamindars: Zamindars misused their power to oppress and enslave peasants, leading to resentment.
    • Exploitation and Debt: Santhals faced exploitation through high-interest loans and lost their land and freedom.
    • Violent Suppressions: British police supported Zamindars and moneylenders in evicting Santhals violently.
    • Disruption of Traditional Structures: Traditional social and political structures of the Santhals were disrupted, pushing them into debt and poverty.
    • Economic Hardship: Led to the Santhals revolting against the British and Zamindars to escape their predicament.

    About the Santhal Pargana Tenancy Act (1876) and Chhotanagpur Tenancy Act (1908)

    • Santhal Pargana Tenancy Act (1876): Enacted by the British as a result of the Hul.
      • Land Inheritance: Prohibits the transfer of Adivasi lands to non-Adivasis and allows land to be inherited only as per the Act.
      • Self-Governance: Retains the rights of Santhals to self-govern their land.
    • Chhotanagpur Tenancy Act (1908): Result of the Birsa Movement.
      • Land Transfer Restrictions: Allows land transfers within the same caste and geographical areas with District Collector’s approval.
      • Protection of Adivasi and Dalit Land: Restricts the sale of Adivasi and Dalit land but allows transfers within the same community.

    PYQ:

    [2018] After the Santhal Uprising subsided, what was/were the measure/measures taken by the colonial government?

    1. The territories called `Santhal Parganas’ were created.
    2. It became illegal for a Santhal to transfer land to a non-Santhal.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • In news: Shyok River

    Why in the News?

    Five soldiers lost their lives when a tank was drowned away by powerful water currents in the Shyok River during a military training exercise in Ladakh.

    About Shyok River

    • The Shyok River is a significant river flowing through the Ladakh region of India and the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan.
    • It is a tributary of the Indus River and is known for its length and the rugged terrain it traverses.
    • The Shyok River spans approximately 550 kilometres in length.
    • It has a drainage basin covering parts of both India and Pakistan, making it an essential water source for the regions it traverses.

    Source and Course:

    • The river originates from the Rimo Glacier, located to the southeast of the Karakoram Pass.
    • It flows northwest to enter the Nubra Valley in Ladakh, a region known for its picturesque landscapes and sand dunes.
    • The river then turns southwest and flows through the disputed region of Gilgit-Baltistan, eventually joins the Indus River near Skardu.

    Tributaries:

    • The Shyok River has several tributaries, the most notable being the Nubra River, which flows through the Nubra Valley.
    • Other significant tributaries include the Saltoro River, originating from the Siachen Glacier region.

    Cultural and Historical Significance:

    • The river flows through that have been part of ancient trade routes between Central Asia and South Asia.
    • The Nubra Valley, through which the Shyok flows, is also known for its ancient monasteries and the Bactrian camels, which were used for trade along the Silk Route.

    Geographical significance of Shyok River 

    • Strategic Location: The Shyok River flows through the Ladakh region of India and serves as a vital geographical feature due to its proximity to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China. Its strategic location influences military deployments and infrastructure development in the region, particularly in the context of border disputes and security concerns.
    • Glacial Melt and Water Resources: Originating from the Rimo Glacier and fed by numerous tributaries, the Shyok River contributes significantly to the water resources of the region. Its flow is crucial for agriculture, hydroelectric power generation, and sustenance of local ecosystems, impacting the livelihoods and socio-economic activities of communities along its banks.

    PYQ:

    [2020] Siachen Glacier is situated to the

    (a) East of Aksai Chin

    (b) East of Leh

    (c) North of Gilgit

    (d) North of Nubra Valley

  • Nouka Baich: Boat Race festival of Bengal   

    Why in the News?

    With the southwest monsoon gradually setting in, Nouka Baich boat races will soon commence in West Bengal and Bangladesh.

    About Nouka Baich

    • Nouka Baich is the traditional boat race of Bengal.
    • It is predominantly held in the rural pockets of West Bengal, including Murshidabad, Nadia, North 24 Parganas, and South 24 Parganas.
    • Historically male-dominated, recent years have seen increasing participation by women.
    • Timing and Duration:
      • Monsoon Season: The races commence with the onset of the south-west monsoon, usually starting in the middle of the rainy season.
      • Extended Period: The events continue until September, with some races extending into October and November, depending on the region.

    Types of Boats Used:

    • Diverse Fleet: Unlike Kerala’s boat races, which typically feature a single type of boat, Bengal’s races use various traditional boats.
    • Common Boat Types: Chhip, Kaile Bachhari, Chande Bachhari, Chitoi, Sorpi, and Sorengi are commonly used in the races.
    • Unique Features: Each boat type has unique design features and historical significance, with some boats like the Sorengi being over 90 feet long and designed to mimic natural forms.

    Similar festivals celebrated in other parts that highlight cultural similarities in India:

    Location Occasion Highlights
    Nehru Trophy Boat Race Punnamada Lake, Alappuzha, Kerala Second Saturday of August Named after Jawaharlal Nehru; features snake boats (Chundan Vallams) accommodating over 100 rowers.
    Champakulam Moolam Boat Race Pampa River, Alappuzha, Kerala June or July One of the oldest boat races, commemorates the installation of Lord Krishna’s idol at Ambalappuzha Temple.
    Aranmula Uthrattadi Vallamkali Pampa River, Aranmula, Kerala Onam (August or September) Features Palliyodams (large snake boats); significant for the Parthasarathy Temple.
    Payippad Jalotsavam Payippad Lake, Alappuzha, Kerala Onam (August or September) Celebrates the installation of deity at Subramanya Swamy Temple; features snake boats and canoes.
    Indira Gandhi Boat Race Ernakulam, Kochi, Kerala Last week of December Part of Cochin Carnival; attracts tourists, named after Indira Gandhi.
    Pongal Boat Race Bhuvanagiri, Tamil Nadu Pongal festival (January) Vibrant cultural displays; local fishermen participate.
    Hiyang Tannaba Manipur Lai Haraoba festival Traditional boat race with long narrow boats, reflecting the Meitei community’s traditions.
    Sithargal Boat Race Chennai, Tamil Nadu Pongal festival Highlights the maritime culture of the region; attracts numerous participants and spectators.

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site of Somanathapura

    Why in the News?

    • Karnataka’s Tourism Department plans to highlight Somanathapura Temple, part of the Hoysala temples, in the Mysuru tourism circuit ahead of Dasara, leveraging its UNESCO World Heritage status.
    Note: There are 42 World Heritage Sites in India. Out of these, 34 are cultural, seven are natural, and one, Khangchendzonga National Park, is of mixed type.

    About Keshava Temple, Somanathapura

    • The Keshava Temple is considered one of the last grand structures built by the Hoysala dynasty.
    • This Trikuta (three-shrined) temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is represented in three forms: Janardhana, Keshava, and Venugopala. 
    • The main Keshava idol is missing, and the Janardhana and Venugopala idols are damaged.

    Historical Background:

    • The Keshava Temple was constructed by Somanatha, a commander of the Hoysala Army, during the reign of Hoysala King Narasimha III.
    • Somanatha, who had established a town named Somanathapura after himself, sought the king’s permission and resources to build this grand temple.
    • With the king’s blessing, construction commenced and was completed in 1268 AD.
    • An inscription in old Kannada on a stone slab in the temple provides details of its construction and consecration.
    • After demolitions by invaders, it no longer serves as a place of worship.

    Architecture:

    • The temple is constructed from soapstone, which allows for the fine detailing seen in the carvings.
    • It is built on a raised platform with an outer Pradakshina pathway, allowing devotees to circum-ambulate the sanctum.
    • The temple features a stellar (star-shaped) plan, which creates multiple corners and niches, providing numerous canvases for the sculptors to showcase their intricate work.
    • The temple has three shrines, each crowned with a Vimana (tower).
    • The Hoysala emblem, depicting a warrior fighting a lion, is prominently displayed.
    • The walls of the temple are adorned with beautiful friezes depicting scenes from Hindu epics, figures of elephants, and battle scenes with cavalry.

    Tap to read more about:

    UNESCO Heritage Status for Hoysala Temples in Karnataka

    PYQ:

    [2019] Building ‘Kalyana Mandapas’ was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of

    (a) Chalukya

    (b) Chandela

    (c) Rashtrakuta

    (d) Vijayanagara

    [2012] The Nagara, the Dravida and the Vesara are the:

    (a) three main racial groups of the Indian subcontinent

    (b) three main linguistic divisions into which the languages of India can be classified

    (c) three main styles of Indian temple architecture

    (d) three main musical Gharanas prevalent in India

    [2013] Chola architecture represents a high watermark in the evolution of temple architecture. Discuss.

  • Controversy over Sengol in Lok Sabha 

    Why in the News?

    • An opposition parliamentarian has demanded the removal of the Sengol from the Lok Sabha, calling it a symbol of “rajdand/rajtantra (monarchy)”.This demand has become a point of contention between the government and the Opposition.

    What is a Sengol?

    • A sengol (or chenkol) is a royal sceptre symbolizing kingship, righteousness, justice, and authority.
    • It is a traditional Chola-era symbol of authority and governance, originally from Tamil Nadu.
    • It is a golden sceptre, richly adorned and crafted with intricate designs, reflecting the grandeur of ancient Tamil culture.
    • Among the Madurai Nayakas, the sengol was placed before the goddess Meenakshi in the temple and then transferred to the throne room, representing the king’s role as a divine agent.

    Significance in the present context: 

    • Accountability and Legitimacy: Just as the Sengol legitimized ancient rulers by holding them accountable to higher moral standards, the institutions and practices in a parliamentary democracy ensure that elected representatives are accountable to the constitution and the people.
    • Ethical Leadership: Leaders in a democracy are expected to uphold justice, integrity, and the rule of law, much like the dharmic kings of the past.
    • Symbolic Representation: The Sengol, as a symbol of righteous rule, parallels the symbolic importance of democratic institutions that represent the will and welfare of the people.
    1947 Sengol Ceremony Involving Nehru

    • Government’s Claim: The government claims C Rajagopalachari suggested the ceremony to Nehru.
      • This claim is debated, as there is little contemporary evidence to support the Sengol being a key symbol of power transfer in 1947.
    • Lack of Comprehensive Records: There are limited records about the ceremony where Nehru was reportedly handed a sengol by Hindu leaders from Tamil Nadu.
    • Undocumented: The event is not widely documented, and claims of Lord Mountbatten handing it over ceremonially seem exaggerated.
    • No Symbolization: Nehru accepted the Sengol as a mark of honor, but it was later placed in a museum, indicating it was not central to the transfer of power.