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  • Enduring Friendship of Gandhi and Tagore: Exploring Their Legacy

    In the news

    • Santiniketan celebrates ‘Gandhi Punyaha Din’ on March 10 every year, honoring Gandhi’s teachings on self-reliance and communal harmony.
    • This event highlights the profound friendship between MK Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore that spanned from 1914-15 until Tagore’s passing in 1941.

    Try this PYQ from CSE Mains 2016:

    Q. Highlight the differences in the approach of Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi in the struggle for freedom.

     About Rabindranath Tagore

    Details
    Birth Born in Calcutta on 7th May 1861.
    About
    • Known as ‘Gurudev’, ‘Kabiguru’, and ‘Biswakabi’.
    • Influential Bengali poet, novelist, and painter.
    Literary Contributions
    • Composed over 2000 songs, known as ‘Rabindra Sangeet’.
    • Modernized Bengali prose and poetry.
    • Notable works include Gitanjali, Ghare-Baire, Gora, Manasi, Balaka, Sonar Tori, and Ekla Chalo Re.
    • Established Vishwa-Bharati University.
    Awards
    • Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913 for Gitanjali.
    • First non-European to receive the Nobel Prize.
    • Awarded knighthood in 1915, renounced in 1919.
    Death Passed away on 7th August 1941 in Calcutta.
    Quotes
    1. “You can’t cross the sea merely by standing and staring at the sea.” – “Don’t limit the child to your own learning, for he was born in another time.”
    2. “If I can’t make it through one door, I’ll go through another door- or I’ll make a door. Something terrific will come no matter how dark the present.”
    3. “Facts are many, but the truth is one”.

    Gandhi and Tagore: Genesis of Friendship

    • First Encounter (March 6, 1915): Gandhi’s visit to Santiniketan, West Bengal, where he spent nearly a month, profoundly influenced Tagore’s idyllic school and laid the foundation for their friendship.
    • Shared Ideals: Both Gandhi and Tagore were proponents of education, social reform, and cultural revival, fostering a deep connection rooted in their common vision for India’s future.

    Meeting of Two Titans

    • Tagore’s Acclaim: Tagore was already a global figure, having won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913, whereas Gandhi was yet to emerge as the leader he would become.
    • Crossing Paths: C F Andrews, recognizing their ideological synergy, facilitated their meeting in Santiniketan, marking the beginning of their enduring friendship.
    • Intellectual Exchange: Their initial encounter sparked lively discussions on spirituality, ethics, and the future of India, setting the stage for a profound intellectual partnership.

    Diverse Perspectives and Respectful Disagreements

    • Philosophical Disputes: Gandhi and Tagore engaged in spirited debates on various issues, including social, political, and economic matters, reflecting their diverse perspectives.
    • Respecting Differences: Despite their disagreements, they maintained a deep respect for each other’s viewpoints, fostering a relationship that transcended ideological disparities.
    • Intellectual Integrity: Both leaders valued intellectual honesty and integrity, allowing for open dialogue and constructive criticism, even when their opinions diverged.

    A Tale of Mutual Admiration

    • Endearing Nicknames: Tagore referred to Gandhi as “Mahatma,” signifying his reverence for Gandhi’s moral stature, while Gandhi addressed Tagore as “Gurudev,” acknowledging his role as a spiritual guide.
    • Common Ground: Despite their differences, both leaders shared a commitment to truth, non-violence, and service to humanity, which formed the bedrock of their friendship.
    • Shared Vision: Gandhi and Tagore envisioned a free and inclusive India, where diversity was celebrated, and social justice prevailed, inspiring generations to strive for a better future.

    Legacy and Influence

    • Historical Reflections: Their friendship reflected an era of profound intellectual exchange and collaboration, shaping India’s socio-cultural fabric during a pivotal period in its history.
    • Modern Interpretations: Scholars continue to analyze their correspondence and interactions, offering insights into the complexity and depth of their relationship, which remains relevant in contemporary discourse.
    • Global Impact: The principles espoused by Gandhi and Tagore continue to resonate globally, inspiring movements for peace, justice, and human rights across the world.

    Conclusion

    • The enduring friendship between Gandhi and Tagore stands as a testament to the power of intellectual exchange, mutual respect, and shared ideals.
    • Their bond, characterized by respectful disagreements and a commitment to truth, continues to inspire generations and holds lessons for fostering dialogue and understanding in today’s world.
    • As we reflect on their legacy, we recognize the enduring relevance of their teachings in shaping a more inclusive and compassionate society.

  • Why do we celebrate Women’s Day on March 8?

    women

    In the news

    • March 8 marks International Women’s Day (IWD), a global observance celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.
    • Rooted in historical movements for women’s rights, IWD serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality.

    Try this PYQ from CSE Mains 2019:

    Q. What are the continued challenges for Women in India against time and space?

    International Women’s Day: It’s Origin

    • First National Woman’s Day: The precursor to IWD dates back to February 28, 1909, when the Socialist Party of America designated this day to honour the 1908 garment workers’ strike in New York City, where women demanded better working conditions and voting rights.
    • First Wave Feminism: These protests were part of the broader First Wave Feminist movement, advocating for women’s suffrage, equal pay, and fundamental rights.
    • Global Initiatives: The call for an International Women’s Day gained momentum at the Second International Conference of Working Women in 1910, where Clara Zetkin proposed the idea of a global day of celebration to press for women’s demands.

    Historical Milestones

    • Russian Influence: March 8 gained prominence globally due to protests by Russian women on February 23, 1917 (according to the Julian calendar), demanding an end to war and food shortages. This date aligned with March 8 on the Gregorian calendar, becoming the symbolic date for IWD celebrations.
    • Role in Russian Revolution: Women’s participation in the 1917 protests played a pivotal role in galvanizing public opinion against the monarchy, ultimately leading to the Russian Revolution and the establishment of a communist state.
    • Global Recognition: Over the years, IWD has garnered international recognition, with governments and organizations commemorating the day to honor women’s contributions to society and advocate for gender equality.

    Evolution and Contemporary Significance

    • Continued Advocacy: Despite progress, challenges persist, necessitating ongoing advocacy for women’s rights and gender equality.
    • Global Celebration: IWD serves as a platform to celebrate women’s achievements and address areas needing improvement, such as leadership representation and gender-based violence.
    • Policy and Recognition: Governments and organizations worldwide recognize IWD’s importance, with initiatives like Women’s History Month emphasizing women’s contributions throughout history.
    • Ongoing Struggle: The fight for gender equality continues, reaffirming the significance of IWD as a rallying point for collective action and solidarity.

    Conclusion

    • International Women’s Day is a testament to women’s resilience and activism throughout history.
    • From its grassroots origins to its global recognition today, IWD embodies the progress made and the challenges that remain in achieving gender parity.
    • As the world celebrates the achievements of women past, present, and future, IWD serves as a beacon of hope and a call to action for a more inclusive and equitable world.

  • Scientists vote down Declaration of Anthropocene Epoch

    In the news

    • The proposal to declare the start of the Anthropocene Epoch, signifying the impact of human activity on Earth’s geological history, has sparked debate among scientists.
    • Despite mounting evidence of human-induced changes to the planet, a recent vote by a scientific committee has rejected the notion.

    Understanding Geological Time

    • Geologic Time Scale: Geoscientists use the Geologic Time Scale (GTS) to measure Earth’s history, categorizing it into aeons, eras, periods, epochs, and ages.
    • Chronostratigraphic Classification: The GTS is based on chronostratigraphic units, marked by significant geological events, shaping the planet’s conditions.

    The Proposed ‘Human Epoch’

    • Holocene Epoch: The Holocene began approximately 11,700 years ago, following the Last Glacial Period, coinciding with the rise of human civilization.
    • Anthropocene Proposal: The Anthropocene concept suggests that human activities have altered Earth significantly, warranting recognition as a distinct geological epoch.

    Understanding the Anthropocene Epoch

    • Coined Term: The Anthropocene epoch was first coined by Nobel Prize-winning chemist Paul Crutzen and biology professor Eugene Stoermer in 2000.
    • Human Impact: The Anthropocene represents the geological time interval characterized by radical changes in the Earth’s ecosystem due to human impact, particularly since the onset of the Industrial Revolution.
    • Environmental Changes: Numerous phenomena associated with the Anthropocene include global warming, sea-level rise, ocean acidification, mass-scale soil erosion, deadly heat waves, and environmental deterioration.
    • Geological Strata: The AWG’s website states that these changes are reflected in a distinctive body of geological strata, with the potential to be preserved into the far future.

    Rejection of the Proposal

    • Scientific Deliberations: Despite the Anthropocene Working Group’s proposal, the Subcommission on Quaternary Stratigraphy voted against declaring the Anthropocene epoch.
    • Criticism and Concerns: Critics argue against defining the Anthropocene based on recent events, questioning the significance of the proposed start date and the boundary between epochs.

    Geological Implications

    • Definition of Epochs: The rejection highlights the challenge of defining geological epochs based on human-induced changes, given the traditional criteria for epoch delineation.
    • Permanence and Recognition: While the vote does not negate human impact on the planet, it raises questions about the formal recognition of the Anthropocene as a distinct epoch.

    Future of the Anthropocene Concept

    • Beyond Epochs: Some scientists propose viewing the Anthropocene as an “event” rather than a formal epoch, acknowledging its transformative nature without conforming to traditional geological classifications.
    • Relevance and Recognition: Regardless of formal classification, the concept of the Anthropocene underscores the profound impact of human activity on Earth’s systems, shaping discussions on environmental stewardship and sustainability.

    Back2Basics: Geological Time Scale

    • The Geological Time Scale is a system used by geologists and palaeontologists to divide Earth’s history into distinct time intervals based on significant geological and biological events.
    • It provides a framework for organizing and understanding the vast expanse of time since the formation of the Earth, approximately 4.6 billion years ago, up to the present day.
    • The Scale is divided into several hierarchical units, including eons, eras, periods, epochs, and ages.

    Here is a simplified overview of the major divisions:

    (1) Eon: The largest division of time on the Geological Time Scale. The history of Earth is typically divided into four eons:

    • Hadean Eon: Represents the earliest stage of Earth’s history, from its formation to around 4 billion years ago.
    • Archean Eon: Covers the period from around 4 billion to 2.5 billion years ago. It includes the formation of the Earth’s crust, the emergence of life, and the development of the first continents.
    • Proterozoic Eon: Encompasses the time between 2.5 billion and 541 million years ago. It includes significant evolutionary developments, such as the emergence of complex multicellular life.
    • Phanerozoic Eon: The current eon, spanning from 541 million years ago to the present. It is further divided into eras.

    (2) Era: The second-largest division of time, encompassing longer periods of geological history within an eon. The Phanerozoic Eon is divided into three eras:

    • Paleozoic Era: Covers the time from 541 million to 252 million years ago. It is known for the diversification of life, including the appearance of complex marine organisms, fish, insects, and the first terrestrial plants.
    • Mesozoic Era: Spans from 252 million to 66 million years ago. It is often referred to as the “Age of Reptiles” and includes the dominance of dinosaurs, as well as the rise of mammals and birds.
    • Cenozoic Era: Extends from 66 million years ago to the present. It is sometimes called the “Age of Mammals” and includes the diversification and proliferation of mammals, the appearance of humans, and the development of modern ecosystems.

    (3) Period: A subdivision of an era, representing a distinct interval of time characterized by specific geological and biological events. For example:

    • The Paleozoic Era is divided into periods such as the Cambrian, Ordovician, Silurian, Devonian, Carboniferous, and Permian.
    • The Mesozoic Era is divided into periods including the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous.
    • The Cenozoic Era is divided into periods such as the Paleogene, Neogene, and Quaternary.

    (4) Epoch: A smaller subdivision of a period, representing a shorter interval of time. Epochs are defined by more localized geological and biological changes.

    (5) Age: The smallest division of time on the Geological Time Scale. Ages represent relatively brief periods, often defined by specific fossil or rock layers.

  • The Dalai Lama’s and His Succession

    dalai lama

    In the news

    • The question of reincarnation, typically seen as an esoteric concept, has significant political ramifications concerning the search for a successor to Tibet’s Dalai Lama.
    • As the 88-year-old spiritual leader, Tenzin Gyatso, remains in good health, the anticipation surrounding his succession intensifies, particularly against the backdrop of historical and geopolitical tensions.

    Who is the Dalai Lama?

    • The Dalai Lama (a title) is the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism.
    • He is believed to be the reincarnation of the previous Dalai Lama and is regarded as an important figure not only in Tibet but also around the world.
    • The Dalai Lama is traditionally both the political and spiritual leader of Tibet, but after China’s occupation of Tibet in 1950, he went into exile in India and since then has been primarily a spiritual leader.
    • The current and 14th Dalai Lama is Tenzin Gyatso, who was born in Tibet in 1935 and has been in exile in India since 1959.

    Brief Outline of Tibetan Buddhism

    • Tibetan Buddhism became the predominant religion in Tibet by the 9th century AD, evolving from the Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions of Buddhism and incorporating many tantric and shamanic practices.
    • It has four major schools: Nyingma, Kagyu, Sakya, and Gelug, with the Janang School being one of the smaller schools that grew as an offshoot of the Sakya School.
    • Since 1640, the Gelug School has been the predominant school of Tibetan Buddhism, and the Dalai Lama belongs to this school.

    Hierarchy and Reincarnation in Tibetan Buddhism

    • The cycle of birth, death, and rebirth is one of Buddhism’s key beliefs.
    • Tibet’s hierarchical system seemingly emerged in the 13th century, and it was around this time that the first instances of “formally recognizing the reincarnations of lamas” can be found.
    • The Gelug School developed a strong hierarchy and instituted the tradition of succession through reincarnation, with the fifth Grand Lama of the school being conferred the title of Dalai Lama.
    • Several procedures/tests are followed to recognize Tulkus (recognized reincarnations).

    Key Issue: Chinese Interference

    • Political Intrigue: The announcement of the Dalai Lama’s reincarnation sparks concerns about Chinese interference, as China seeks to control the succession process to assert dominance over Tibetan culture and politics.
    • International Ramifications: The Dalai Lama’s reincarnation is not only a spiritual matter but also a geopolitical issue, with international stakeholders closely monitoring developments to safeguard Tibetan autonomy and cultural heritage.

    Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2016:

    Q.With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements:

    1. The concept of Bodhisattva is central to Hinayana sect of Buddhism.
    2. Bodhisattva is a compassionate one on his way to enlightenment
    3. Bodhisattva delays achieving his own salvation to help all sentient beings on their path to it.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 2 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Remembering the Forgotten Women of Science in India

    women

    In the news

    • As Women’s Day (8th March) approaches, the spotlight turns to women scientists throughout history who shattered glass ceilings and left indelible marks on the scientific landscape.
    • Their stories advocate for inclusivity, diversity, and equality within the realm of science.
    • Celebrating Women Scientists: Initiatives like Vigyan Prasar’s resource book profiling Indian women scientists and anthologies like “Lilavati’s Daughters” and “Gutsy Girls of Science” highlight the achievements and struggles of women in science, providing inspiration for future generations.
    • Biographical Works: Books like “Janaki Ammal: Life and Scientific Contributions” and “Chromosome Woman, Nomad Scientist” delve into the extraordinary lives of pioneering women like E.K. Janaki Ammal, offering insights into their groundbreaking research and battles against sexism, casteism, and racism.

     Gender Disparity in Indian Science

    • Underrepresentation in Leadership: The Indian Academy of Sciences, founded by Nobel Laureate C.V. Raman in 1934, has never been led by a woman scientist. Statistics reveal that women comprise only 14% of India’s working scientists, with a meager 15% representation among faculty members in research institutes nationwide.
    • Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize: Over 65 years, only 20 women scientists have been honoured with India’s prestigious SSB Prize for Science & Technology, despite 571 total recipients.

    Status of Women in STEM: A Global Perspective

    • Global Gender Gap: India’s STEM workforce comprises only 27% women, compared to 32% in non-STEM fields, highlighting disparities in gender representation.
    • Research Participation: Worldwide, women constitute only 33% of researchers, with even lower representation in engineering and technology sectors.
    • Educational Disparity: A gender gap persists in STEM education, with only 18% of girls pursuing higher-level STEM studies, compared to 35% of boys.

    List of Notable Women Scientists mentioned in the News Article

     

    1. Gagandeep Kang: Known for her work in the field of microbiology and vaccine development, particularly in studying the epidemiology of rotavirus and other infectious diseases prevalent in India.
    2. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw: A prominent figure in the biotechnology industry, she founded Biocon, one of India’s leading biotechnology companies, and has contributed significantly to the development of affordable biopharmaceuticals and healthcare solutions.
    3. Rohini Godbole: Renowned theoretical physicist known for her research in high-energy physics, particularly in the field of particle phenomenology and collider physics. She has also been actively involved in promoting science education and gender equality in STEM fields.
    4. Prajval Shastri Majumdar: Notable astrophysicist known for her research on the formation and evolution of galaxies, active galactic nuclei, and black holes. She has made significant contributions to understanding the dynamics of the universe through her work in observational astronomy.
    5. Kamala Sohonie: A pioneering biochemist, she was the first Indian woman to receive a Ph.D. in the field of science. Her research focused on enzymology and biochemistry, particularly in understanding the metabolism of nitrogen-containing compounds in bacteria.
    6. Lilavati (referred to in “Lilavati’s Daughters: The Women Scientists of India” anthology): Lilavati is a legendary figure in Indian mathematics, known for her contributions to algebra and arithmetic. Her legacy has inspired generations of mathematicians and scientists.
    7. Archana Sharma: A renowned cytogeneticist known for her research in understanding chromosomal abnormalities and genetic disorders. She has contributed significantly to the field of genetics and genetic counseling.
    8. E.K. Janaki Ammal: An eminent botanist known for her research on plant breeding, genetics, and taxonomy. She made significant contributions to understanding the diversity of plant species in India and played a crucial role in the conservation of plant biodiversity.
    9. Bibha Chowdhuri: A pioneering physicist known for her research in cosmic ray physics and particle physics. She made significant contributions to understanding the properties of cosmic rays and their interactions with matter.

    Significance of Women’s Participation in STEM

    • Economic Growth: Women’s involvement in STEM fields can catalyze economic growth, with potential GDP gains of up to 10% reported in studies.
    • Gender Diversity: Enhancing female representation fosters diversity and inclusivity, enriching scientific discourse and innovation.
    • Targeted Interventions: Involving women in research ensures the relevance and applicability of scientific outcomes to diverse communities.
    • Inclusive Decision Making: Women’s perspectives contribute valuable insights to scientific research, leading to more informed decision-making processes.
    • Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): STEM empowerment aligns with SDG 5, promoting gender equality and women’s access to transformative technologies.

    Challenges Faced by Women

    • Implicit and Explicit Biases: Women scientists encounter biases suggesting their unsuitability for scientific pursuits, perpetuating the Matilda Effect wherein their achievements are undervalued, leading to discrimination in perks, promotions, and opportunities.
    • Societal Stereotypes: Deep-rooted stereotypes perpetuate the notion that certain STEM fields are inherently male-dominated, discouraging women from pursuing these careers.
    • Lack of Role Models: Limited visibility of female role models hinders aspiring women scientists from envisioning themselves in STEM leadership roles.
    • Self-Efficacy Gap: Gender disparities in self-efficacy beliefs create barriers for women, affecting their confidence to pursue STEM disciplines.
    • Work-Life Balance: Dual responsibilities and societal expectations impede women’s career progression in STEM, necessitating flexible policies and support systems.
    • Systemic Discrimination: Bias and discrimination in educational institutions and workplaces perpetuate the underrepresentation of women in STEM.

    Government Initiatives for Women in STEM

    • STI Policy by DST: The Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) policy aims to achieve 30% women’s participation in science and technology by 2030, with significant strides in women’s leadership roles.
    • Indo-US Fellowship: International collaborative research opportunities empower women scientists to expand their horizons and contribute to global scientific endeavors.
    • Vigyan Jyoti: Initiatives like Vigyan Jyoti encourage young girls to pursue STEM education, addressing gender disparities from an early age.
    • Gender Advancement Programs: GATI and KIRAN initiatives focus on creating gender-sensitive institutions and providing career opportunities for women in S&T.
    • CURIE Initiative: The CURIE program supports the development of research infrastructure in women’s universities, fostering a conducive environment for women’s participation in R&D.
    • SWATI Portal: It is aimed at creating a single online portal representing Indian Women and Girls in STEMM. It is a complete interactive database.

    Way Forward

    • Continued Advocacy: Initiatives and publications spotlighting women scientists serve as reminders of the ongoing need for advocacy and support to address gender inequality in the scientific community.
    • Redefining the Culture in STEM: Mandating women’s representation in boards, implementing women-centric mentoring programs, and providing flexible work setups and childcare support.
    • Investment in Women-Only Institutions: Establishing women’s technology parks and institutions to address specific challenges faced by women in STEM.
    • Paid Internships: Encouraging states to offer paid internships to girl science students, particularly in rural areas, to enhance their participation in STEM.
    • Positive Parenting: Fostering supportive environments at home to challenge stereotypical perceptions and inspire young girls to pursue careers in STEM.

    Conclusion

    • As Women’s Day approaches, reflections on the contributions and struggles of women scientists underscore the importance of fostering inclusivity, diversity, and equality within the scientific community.
    • By celebrating their achievements and advocating for systemic changes, we pave the way for a more equitable and empowering future for women in science.

     

  • Who was Ayya Vaikundar?

    In the news

    • Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi sparked controversy with his recent remarks about Ayya Vaikundar, the 19th-century social reformer.
    • At an event commemorating birth anniversary, the Governor portrayed him as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, tasked with protecting Sanatan Dharma from the influence of the British government.

    About Ayya Vaikundar (1809-1851)

    • Born in 1809, Vaikundar is revered as a pioneer of social reform in southern Tamil Nadu.
    • His teachings emphasized equality, fraternity, and the abolition of caste-based discrimination, challenging entrenched social hierarchies.
    • Vaikundar’s initiatives, such as organizing community eateries for people of all backgrounds and advocating for shared water resources, aimed to dismantle caste barriers and promote inclusivity.

    Contributions to Social Equality

    • Community Initiatives: Vaikundar introduced revolutionary practices like Samapanthi-bhojana and Muthirikinarus to foster social cohesion and challenge caste-based segregation.
    • Teachings: He believed in the concept of “pure love” (in Tamil, “piranthu”) as the ultimate goal of life. According to him, true love is selfless, unconditional, and pure, and it is the key to achieving inner peace and happiness.
    • Scriptural References: His teachings are often rooted in Tamil scriptures such as the Tirukkural and the Nalayira Divya Prabandham. He interpreted these texts in a way that emphasized love, devotion, and spiritual growth.
    • Community Practices: His followers engage in communal practices such as congregational worship, singing devotional songs (Nadai), and participating in spiritual gatherings known as “Ayyavazhi festivals.”
    • Religious Reforms: He advocated for inclusive religious practices, such as Thottu Namam, which symbolized equality before divinity, regardless of caste.
    • Educational Empowerment: He promoted education for lower castes, established community worship spaces, and simplified marriage customs to empower marginalized communities.

  • India ranks 113 out of 190 countries in Women, Business and Law Index by World Bank

    In the news

    • India’s ranking in the World Bank’s Women, Business and Law index saw a significant improvement, climbing to 113 out of 190 countries in the latest edition of the report.
    • It is intriguing to know that none of the countries globally achieved a full score in the new index, indicating pervasive gender disparities in legal rights worldwide.

    About Women, Business and Law Index

    • The Women, Business and Law Index is a World Bank initiative aimed at measuring how laws and regulations impact women’s economic opportunity.
    •  The index provides objective and measurable benchmarks for evaluating global progress towards legal gender equality.
    •  Range from 0 to 100, where 100 denotes equal legal rights for men and women.
    •  The report assesses eight critical areas: mobility, workplace, pay, marriage, parenthood, entrepreneurship, assets, and pension.
    • The 2024 edition marks the 10th iteration of the report.

    India’s Performance

    • Legal Rights Gap: Indian women now enjoy 60% of the legal rights granted to men, slightly below the global average of 64.2%.
    • Regional Comparison: India outperformed its South Asian counterparts, where women typically have access to only 45.9% of the legal protections compared to men.
    • Supportive Frameworks: India’s performance in establishing supportive frameworks fell short, with only 54.2% of the necessary frameworks in place.
    • Policy Efforts: India aims to increase female labour force participation, which stood at 37% in 2022-23, significantly lower than many advanced economies.
    • OECD Comparison: The female labour force participation rate in OECD countries exceeded 50% in 2022, highlighting the gap India seeks to bridge.

    Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2015:

    ‘Global Financial Stability Report’ is released by which organisation?

    (a) Organization for Economic Cooperation and development (OECD)

    (b) World Economic Forum

    (c) World Bank

    (d) World trade Organization (WTO)

     

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”k8i0fixnya” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your answers here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]

  • Venice Biennale: The Olympics of the Art World

    Venice Biennale

    In the news

    • The Venice Biennale, revered as “the Olympics of the art world,” is set to unveil its 60th edition on April 20.
    • Under the theme “Stranieri Ovunque” or “Foreigners Everywhere,” curated by Adriano Pedrosa, the exhibition will feature 333 artists from around the world.

    What is the Venice Biennale?

    • Inception: Proposed by Venice’s city government in 1893, the Biennale aimed to commemorate the silver jubilee of King Umberto I and Queen Margherita of Italy.
    • Early Exhibitions: The inaugural exhibition in 1895 attracted over two lakh visitors, showcasing works by foreign and Italian artists without specific thematic constraints.

    Structure of the Venice Biennale

    • Central Pavilion: Serving as the focal point, the central pavilion hosts the main exhibition curated by the appointed curator, highlighting selected artworks.
    • National Pavilions: Representing individual countries, these pavilions feature curated exhibitions managed by respective ministries of culture, with India having participated officially since 1954.
    • Collateral Events: Independent exhibitions and events across Venice complement the Biennale, enriching the cultural landscape.

    India’s Journey at the Venice Biennale

    • Debut in 1954: India made its inaugural appearance with an exhibition organized by the Embassy of India in Rome, featuring eminent artists like M F Husain and Amrita Sher-Gil.
    • Subsequent Engagements: Indian artists have participated in various editions, with official pavilions organized in 2011 and 2019, showcasing diverse artistic expressions.
    • Continued Representation: In 2024, Indian artists will feature prominently in the central exhibition, alongside the Aravani Art Project, symbolizing India’s enduring presence on the global art stage.

  • Pakistan National Day to be celebrated in New Delhi

    In the news

    • Pakistan’s decision to resume its National Day (March 23) celebrations in New Delhi after a four-year gap due to the pandemic and strained bilateral relations reflects a significant diplomatic gesture.
    • Let’s delve into the historical significance of Pakistan National Day, centered around the Lahore Resolution, and understand how it is observed in New Delhi.

    Observance of Pakistan National Day in New Delhi

    • Diplomatic Event: The Pakistan National Day is observed at the Pakistan embassy complex in New Delhi, typically attended by foreign diplomats and Indian dignitaries.
    • Symbolic Gestures: The event features the playing of national anthems of both countries and addresses by the Pakistan high commissioner and invited guests, fostering diplomatic ties.

    About the Lahore Resolution (1940)

    • Historical Context: The Lahore Resolution was adopted by the All-India Muslim League during its session in Lahore from March 22 to March 24, 1940.
    • Core Objective: It formally called for an independent state for India’s Muslims, laying the groundwork for the creation of Pakistan.
    • Constitutional Transformation (1956): Pakistan officially adopted its first Constitution on March 23, coinciding with the Lahore Resolution, signifying the transition from the Dominion of Pakistan to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.
    • Symbolic Structure: The Minar-e-Pakistan, erected at the site of the Lahore Resolution, commemorates this historic event, with the resolution’s text inscribed at its base.

    Key Elements of the Lahore Resolution

    • Geographical Division: The resolution emphasized the formation of “Independent States” in regions where Muslims were in a majority, particularly in the North-Western and Eastern Zones of India.
    • Safeguarding Minority Rights: It called for the protection of religious, cultural, economic, and political rights of Muslims and other minorities throughout India.

    Historical Context and Lead-up to the Lahore Resolution

    • Growing Dissent: The resolution reflected the culmination of growing demands for Muslim autonomy within India, amid concerns over representation and safeguarding of rights.
    • Impactful Events: The session coincided with the Khaksar tragedy and featured a pivotal address by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, solidifying his leadership role in the movement for a separate Muslim state.
    • Government of India Act, 1935: The Lahore Resolution emerged against the backdrop of the GoI Act, 1935, which granted separate electorates to Muslims and served as a catalyst for the demand for Muslim autonomy.

    Try this PYQ from CSP 2012:

    Q.The Lahore Session of the Indian National Congress (1929) is very important in history, because-

    1. The Congress passed a resolution demanding complete independence
    2. The rift between the extremists and moderates was resolved in that Session
    3. A resolution was passed rejecting the two-nation theory in that Session

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3

    (c) 1 and 3

    (d) None of the above

     

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  • In news: Kalbeliya Dance

    Central Idea

    • Recently performers from Rajasthan showcased the Kalbeliya dance in Hyderabad.

    What is Kalbeliya Dance?

    • Kalbeliya Dance is a traditional Indian dance form that originated in the state of Rajasthan.
    • It is a vibrant, energetic dance that is performed by members of the Kalbeliya, a nomadic tribe of snake charmers in Rajasthan.
    • It is a highly sensuous dance, with the dancers performing intricate footwork and swaying movements of their arms and body.
    • In 2010, the Kalbelia folk songs and dances of Rajasthan were declared a part of its Intangible Heritage List by UNESCO.

    Performance Details

    • The dancers are women in flowing black skirts who dance and twirl, replicating the movements of a serpent.
    • They wear an upper body cloth called an angrakhi and a headcloth known as the odhani; the lower body cloth is called a lehenga.
    • All these clothes are of mixed red and black hues and embroidered.
    • The male participants play musical instruments, such as the ‘pungi’, the dufli, been, the khanjari – a percussion instrument, morchang, khuralio and the dholak to create the rhythm on which the dancers perform.
    • The dancers are tattooed in traditional designs and wear jewellery and garments richly embroidered with small mirrors and silver threads.
    • As the performance progresses, the rhythm becomes faster and faster and so dances.

    Features of the Kalbeliya Dance

    • Rapid footwork: The fast, intricate footwork of the Kalbeliya dance is the highlight of this folk dance. The dancers move their feet in quick, sharp movements that form intricate patterns on the floor.
    • Swirling skirts: The colorful skirts of the female dancers swirl gracefully as they move, adding to the beauty of the dance.
    • Hand and arm movements: The dancers use their hands and arms to create graceful, fluid movements that are integral to the dance.
    • Singing: Kalbeliya dancers often sing along to the music as they dance, adding to the atmosphere of the performance.