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GS Paper: GS2

  • The different armed groups of Myanmar     

    Why in the news?

    On July 25, Myanmar’s junta and an ethnic group both claimed control of Lashio’s military command after clashes began on July 3.

    Background

    • The 2021 Military coup in Myanmar triggered sustained violent resistance which undermined military control.
    • Ethnic Armed Organisations (EAOs) and resistance groups, including the People’s Defence Forces (PDFs) and the Brotherhood Alliance, have made significant territorial gains. 
    • The military’s fragile ceasefires have collapsed, leading to a loss of control in strategic areas, including Lashio, with reinforcements now concentrated near Mandalay.

    The dominance of the Arakan Army

    • Large parts of Rakhine province have fallen under the control of the Arakan Army, an ethnic Rakhine Buddhist armed group.
    • The Arakan Army has seized territories on the borders with Bangladesh, including towns like Buthidaung, and is advancing towards important port cities on the Bay of Bengal coast like Kyauk Phyu, Sittwe, and Ngapali.
    • Control over these coastal areas gives the Arakan Army leverage to impact the implementation of infrastructure projects like China’s Belt and Road Initiative in Kyauk Phyu and India’s Kaladan project in Sittwe.

    Objectives of Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs)

    • Major EAOs have refrained from declaring independence or creating new sovereign states, likely to avoid rallying renewed support for the military.
    • EAOs aim to establish a genuine federal democratic structure with maximum autonomy for provinces, with some advocating for a confederation.
    • Carving out new nation-states is challenging due to complex ethnic geographies and overlapping claims over homelands.

    China’s Influence

    • China has engaged with multiple actors, including the military and various EAOs, to protect its massive investments and economic interests in the region.
    • Beijing has facilitated temporary ceasefires between the military and EAOs and maintains substantive relations with armed groups like the Brotherhood Alliance and United Wa State Army.
    • China has reportedly supplied defence equipment to both the military and EAOs, ensuring fragmented sovereignty in Myanmar

    India’s role

    • India can share its experiences and institutional frameworks on federalism with stakeholders in Myanmar to help establish a new constitutional framework based on the principles of federalism and democracy.
    • Example: Despite the ongoing civil war, India has successfully constructed massive infrastructure projects in neighbouring Afghanistan, demonstrating its potential to contribute to regional peace and prosperity in Myanmar.

    Way forward

    • Facilitate Dialogue and Mediation: To address the ongoing conflict in Myanmar, it is crucial for regional powers, including India and China, to facilitate dialogue between the military junta, Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs), and the National Unity Government (NUG).
    • Enhance Humanitarian Support and Development Initiatives: In parallel with diplomatic efforts, there should be an increase in humanitarian assistance to affected populations in conflict zones, particularly in Rakhine State and areas controlled by the Arakan Army.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Examine the scope of Fundamental Rights in the light of the latest judgement of the Supreme Court on the Right to Privacy. (2020)

  • The case for a Legal Advisory Council  

    Why in the news?

    Legal insights from well-structured think tanks can be crucial in clarifying the true intent of specific legislation for the government.

    Scope to Review the Process of Legal Consultancy

    • Need for Structured Legal Inputs: The handling of legal issues by the National Democratic Alliance has been inadequate. There is a need for continuous, informed, and empirically valid legal inputs from structured think tanks to clarify legislative intents.
    • Proposal for a Legal Advisory Council (LAC): Establishing a LAC akin to the Economic Advisory Council could provide the Prime Minister with timely legal analysis and insights, helping to preempt legal challenges and enhance the legislative process.

    Need of Think Tank: 

    • Expert Legal and Policy Analysis: Well-structured think tanks provide informed and empirical legal analysis that can enhance the legislative process.
    • Facilitation of Evidence-Based Decision Making: Think tanks can contribute to evidence-based decision-making by conducting research and providing data-driven insights on complex legal and social issues.

    Recent Legal Issues and the Puttaswamy Case Judgment

    • Electoral Bonds Scheme: The Supreme Court recently ruled the electoral bonds scheme unconstitutional for violating voters’ right to information. This decision highlights the importance of conducting proportionality tests before implementing laws to balance privacy rights with transparency.
    • Aadhaar Act Intervention: A similar legal examination prior to the implementation of the Aadhaar Act could have prevented the Supreme Court’s intervention in the K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India case, which addressed privacy concerns.
    • Transporter Strike: Concerns over the hit-and-run provisions in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, led to nationwide protests by transporters, indicating the need for thorough legal viability assessments before introducing potentially problematic legislation.

    Anticipating Challenges

    • Proactive Legal Analysis: The proposed LAC would conduct legal analyses of issues referred by the government and perform suo motu research on contemporary legal matters, allowing for proactive identification of potential legal challenges.
    • Engagement with National Law Universities: Leveraging the expertise of national law universities can enhance the legal consultancy process, ensuring that laws are constitutionally viable and socially acceptable. Regular research inputs from these institutions can aid in formulating better legislation and addressing legal challenges before they escalate.

    Way forward: 

    • The LAC should comprise legal experts, eminent jurists, academicians, and researchers with specializations in various fields frequently legislated upon by the government, such as criminal law, trade law, international law, business laws, and taxation laws.
    • Establish formal mechanisms for collaboration, such as the Committee for Reforms in Criminal Laws at the National Law University Delhi set up by the Ministry of Home Affairs, to facilitate the exchange of ideas and research between the government and academia.

  • Why Israel-Hezbollah conflict is heating up?   

    Why in the news?

    Israel has announced that it would retaliate strongly against Hezbollah, accusing the group of being responsible for a rocket attack that killed 12 children and teenagers at a football field in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.

    Background of Golan Heights: 

    • The Golan Heights was captured by Israel during the Six-Day War in 1967 from Syria and has since been a point of contention between the two nations. In 1981, Israel effectively annexed the territory, a move not recognized by the international community.
    • Strategic Importance: The Golan Heights offers a commanding view of northern Israel and southern Syria, making it a critical military and strategic area. Its elevation allows for surveillance and control over surrounding regions, including the ability to monitor movements from Syria.

    Causes of the conflict:

    • Support for Palestinians: Hezbollah’s attacks on Israel are framed as support for Palestinians facing Israeli bombardment in Gaza, particularly following the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023. Hezbollah, as a member of the Iran-backed Axis of Resistance, has aligned itself with Hamas and other militant groups in the region.
    • Historical Hostilities: The conflict is rooted in a long history of hostility between Israel and Hezbollah, which was founded in 1982 to combat Israeli forces in Lebanon. Hezbollah views Israel as an illegitimate state and seeks its removal, which fuels ongoing tensions and military engagements.
    • Escalating Military Capabilities: Hezbollah has significantly enhanced its military capabilities since the 2006 war, possessing a large arsenal of rockets and advanced weaponry. This includes the ability to strike deep into Israeli territory, increasing the stakes for both sides in any conflict.

    Implications of the Conflict

    • Humanitarian Impact: The ongoing hostilities have resulted in significant civilian casualties and displacement on both sides of the border. Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon have killed Hezbollah fighters and civilians, while Hezbollah’s attacks have resulted in Israeli casualties. The humanitarian toll is exacerbated by the broader context of the Gaza war.
    • Regional Stability: The conflict poses a risk of broader regional destabilization, potentially drawing in other actors and escalating into a full-scale war.
    • Political Ramifications: The conflict has significant political implications for both Israel and Lebanon. In Israel, the displacement of civilians has become a pressing political issue, while Hezbollah’s actions may influence its standing within Lebanon and the broader Shiite community.

    How escalation can be avoided on the Global Stage?

    • Diplomatic Engagement: The United States and other international actors must continue to engage in diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions. This includes facilitating dialogue between Israel and Hezbollah, as well as addressing the underlying issues related to the Gaza conflict. A ceasefire in Gaza could help reduce hostilities in Lebanon.
    • Regional Agreements: Need to make efforts to establish regional agreements that address territorial disputes and security concerns that can mitigate the risk of conflict.
    • Monitoring and Mediation: International bodies, including the United Nations, should increase their monitoring of the situation and mediate discussions between the conflicting parties. This can help prevent misunderstandings and miscalculations that could lead to escalated military responses.

    Role of India in this situation: (Way forward)

    • Engaging with Arab Nations: India should also maintain and strengthen its relationships with Arab nations, including Lebanon, to ensure a balanced approach. This engagement can help India navigate the complexities of the situation and position itself as a neutral party that seeks to promote peace and stability in the region.
    • Facilitating Dialogue: By promoting dialogue between the conflicting parties, India can help de-escalate tensions and work towards a peaceful resolution.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q India’s relations with Israel have, of late, acquired a depth and diversity, which cannot be rolled back.” Discuss. (2018)

  • US overtaskes UAE as India’s second largest LNG supplier   

    Why in the news?

    In 2023, the US surpassed the UAE to become India’s second-largest supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG), providing 3.09 million tonnes (MT).

    World LNG Report 2024 by International Gas Union (IGU)

    • US as a Major Supplier: The report highlights that the United States has displaced the UAE to become India’s second-largest supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG) in 2023, with shipments reaching 3.09 million tonnes (MT).
    • Trade Growth: The US supplied India with 1.8 MT of LNG in 2019, which increased to 3.86 MT in 2021, indicating a significant rise in trade volume despite a decrease in 2022 due to rising prices.
    • Qatar’s Dominance: Qatar remained India’s largest LNG supplier from 2019 to 2023, with shipments peaking at 10.92 MT in 2023, reflecting its consistent role in India’s energy supply.
    • The decline of African Suppliers: The report notes a significant decline in LNG shipments from African nations, particularly Nigeria and Angola, which saw their exports to India drop from pre-pandemic levels of around 2.7 MT and 2.9 MT, respectively, to just 0.73 MT each in 2023.

    Present trade dynamics

    • Price Sensitivity: Indian companies remain price-sensitive, with LNG imports being contingent on competitive pricing. Analysts suggest that if LNG prices stay below $12 per mBtu, there could be significant growth in imports.
    • Geographical Advantage: The proximity of US LNG cargoes to India via the Cape of Good Hope makes it more cost-effective for sellers to export to India compared to North Asia.
    • Long-term Contracts: Ongoing long-term contracts signed by Indian entities with US suppliers continue to underpin LNG consumption, despite fluctuations in global prices.

    Use of LNG in India: 

    • Fertilizer Sector: The fertilizer sector remains the largest consumer of LNG in India, contributing to 32% of the total natural gas consumption.
    • Power Sector:  The power sector accounted for 12% of the total natural gas consumption in India.
    • City Gas Distribution (CGD) Sector: CGD entities accounted for 19% of the total natural gas consumption in India

    What can be done?

    • Strengthening Domestic Policies: India could benefit from reforms in domestic gas policies, including greater transparency over LNG inventory levels and improvements in gas pipeline capacity, to enhance the efficiency of LNG imports and distribution.
    • Creating Price Stability: The need to establish a stronger index link between LNG import prices and domestic gas prices could mitigate price risks for LNG importers, ensuring that long-term contracts remain aligned with market conditions.
    • Enhancing Infrastructure: Govt. should invest in LNG infrastructure, including regasification terminals and transportation networks, which can facilitate increased imports and improve supply chain efficiency.
    • Diversifying Supply Sources: To reduce dependency on specific regions, India should explore diversifying its LNG supply sources, including potential agreements with emerging suppliers in different regions.

  • In new: Mekedatu Project

    Why in the News?

    Karnataka CM has offered to discuss with Tamil Nadu, the implementation of Mekedatu Project across River Cauvery.

    About Mekedatu Project

    • Mekedatu is a location along Kaveri in the border of Chamarajanagar and Ramanagara Districts in Karnataka.
    • Karnataka intends to build a reservoir across River Cauvery near Mekedatu.
    • The dam is proposed to have a capacity of 48 TMC feet (thousand million cubic) and is estimated to cost Rs 6,000 crore.
    • It was first proposed in 2003 with an intention:
      • To use the water for a hydro power station (400 MW) and
      • Supply drinking water to Bengaluru city.
    • At Mekedatu, the Kaveri runs through a deep, narrow ravine of hard granite rock.

    Tamil Nadu’s concerns over the Project

    • Tamil Nadu has all along strongly opposed the project and approached the Supreme Court as well.
    • Its argument is that any dam proposal by upper riparian states in the Cauvery basin would deprive the state’s delta farmers of their rightful share of water as per the top court verdict.
    • Tamil Nadu contends that the proposed dam violates the final award of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal, which determined the water-sharing arrangements between the two states.

    About Cauvery River

    • The Cauvery River, also spelled as ‘Kaveri’ and known as ‘Ponni’ in Tamil, originates from Talakaveri in the Brahmagiri range located in Karnataka’s Kodagu district.
    • It spans approximately 800 km, traversing through the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, until it eventually discharges in the Bay of Bengal.
    • The river’s catchment area covers regions in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and the Union Territory of Pondicherry.
    • Key tributaries that join the Cauvery include Harangi, Hemavati, Kabini, Suvarnavathi, and Bhavani.
    • Cauvery remains perennial due to its dual reliance on both advancing and retreating monsoons for rainfall.

    Justifications and proposals by Karnataka

    • Ensuring adequate flow to TN: Karnataka argues that the construction of the Mekedatu dam will not hinder the stipulated quantum of water release to Tamil Nadu nor be utilized for irrigation purposes.
    • Allocation of funds and willingness to negotiate: The Karnataka government has earmarked Rs 1,000 crore for the project, indicating its commitment. It also expresses willingness to engage in discussions and negotiations with Tamil Nadu to address concerns and find a resolution.
    • Clearance of feasibility study: The Central Water Commission cleared a feasibility study for the Mekedatu project in 2018, providing additional support for Karnataka’s justifications and indicating the project’s viability.

    PYQ:

    [2016] Recently, linking of which of the following rivers was undertaken?

    (a) Cauvery and Tungabhadra

    (b) Godavari and Krishna

    (c) Mahanadi and Sone

    (d) Narmada and Tapti

  • Why are Russian athletes ‘banned’ from the 2024 Paris Olympics?

    Why in the News?

    • Athletes from Russia and Belarus are banned from participating in the ongoing Paris Olympics under their nations’ official flags.
      • Many of them compete under a separate category called Athletes Individuals Neutres (AIN) in French, which means Individual Neutral Athletes.

    Reason 

    • The ongoing war in Ukraine and the conflict between Israel and Hamas add to the geopolitical tensions.
    • The Paris Summer Olympics are “the most geopolitically charged Olympics in decades.”
    • The International Olympic Committee (IOC) sanctioned Russia and Belarus after the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
      • The invasion violated the Games’ Olympic Truce, which says nations should not attack each other from 1 week before the Olympics to 1 week after the Paralympics.
      • Belarus was implicated for allegedly allowing Russia to use its territory for military purposes.
    • In October 2023, the Russian Olympic Committee was suspended after declaring authority over Ukrainian sports organizations in certain regions.

    Political Neutrality and Violations

    • The IOC cited Russia’s International Friendship Association (IFA) as a political body violating the IOC charter.
    • The charter states that sports organizations within the Olympic Movement should apply political neutrality.
    • Russia’s announcement of the Friendship Games in 2024 led to accusations of politicizing sports.
    • Critics note the concept of “political neutrality” is not based on objective criteria and is challenging to interpret consistently.

    What is Individual Neutral Athletes (AINs)?

    • The IOC allows athletes from these countries to participate as individual-neutral athletes (AINs).
      • Athletes must not represent their country or any associated organization.
      • They cannot actively support the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
    • AINs are athletes with Russian or Belarusian passports qualified through existing qualification systems.
      • They will compete under a neutral flag and uniform, with a neutral song played if they win medals.
      • The audience cannot wave their flags.

     

    Do you know?

    The Indian Olympic Association was suspended in 2014, leading to three athletes competing under the Olympic flag.
  • [29th July 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Recasting care models for mental illness, homelessness

    [29th July 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Recasting care models for mental illness, homelessness

    PYQ Relevance:
    Mains:
    Q1 Public health system has limitation in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that private sector can help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives do you suggest?(UPSC IAS/2015) 
    Q2 What do you understand by nanotechnology and how is it helping in health sector? (UPSC IAS/2020) 

    Prelims: 
    Q  Doctors Without Borders (Medecins Sans Frontieres)’, often in the news, is:
    (a) a division of World Health Organization 
    (b) a non-governmental international organization 
    (c) an inter-governmental agency sponsored by European Union 
    (d) a specialized agency of the United Nations

    Note4Students: 

    Mains: Challenges related to Homeless individuals;

    Mentor comments: Socio-normative representations of homeless persons living with mental illness (HPMI) often depict them as refuge seekers, leading to interventions focused on transferring them to mental hospitals or shelters. This perspective assumes that displacement from the streets is necessary due to associated risks, which, while valid, oversimplifies their complex realities. Such representations result in coercive measures that fail to recognise the agency of HPMI, perpetuating a cycle of institutionalization rather than fostering genuine community reintegration and support. Addressing these representations is crucial for developing more effective and respectful care strategies.

    Let’s learn!

    __

    Why in the News? 

    Homeless individuals with mental illness are often viewed as needing rescue, leading to their forced relocation to hospitals or shelters, despite the debatable risks of street living.

    Efforts at Integration

    • Collaborative Initiatives in India: The collaboration among various organizations, including the National Health Mission and local civil society groups, has facilitated access to emergency care and recovery centers (ECRCs) in district hospitals, improving support for homeless persons with mental illness (HPMI).
    • Breaking Down Asylum Models: The integration of services aims to dismantle the traditional asylum model, which often perpetuates negative stereotypes about mental illness, by providing more immediate and localized care.
    • Last-Mile Proximal Care: The establishment of ECRCs ensures that care reaches individuals in scattered geographies, addressing the immediate needs of those experiencing crises.
    • Transformative Care Models: The focus on smaller care units that are adequately staffed emphasizes personal attention and the management of comorbidities, which is essential for those facing prolonged adversities.

    Problems with institutional spaces:

    • Long-Term Custodial Care: Approximately 37% of individuals in state psychiatric facilities have long-term needs, with many having histories of homelessness. The median duration of stay is six years, indicating a reliance on institutional care rather than effective community reintegration.
      • According to the World Health Organization, mental disorders account for 10.6% of total disability among older adults.
    • Rigid Discharge Criteria: Discharge criteria for individuals in psychiatric facilities are often overly simplistic, leading to inadequate support for those transitioning back to community life.  
    • Isolation from Social Resources: Institutional settings create barriers to accessing social resources and community participation, leading to social isolation and a lower quality of life.
      • Mental Health America reports that over half (54.7%) of adults with mental illness do not receive treatment, often due to such barriers.
    • Ineffective Rehabilitation Models: Current rehabilitation models often default to custodial care, failing to promote innovative, community-based solutions.
      • Initiatives like Housing First and the ‘Home Again’ collaborative in India demonstrate the feasibility of comprehensive social and clinical care, yet traditional models continue to limit the potential for improved outcomes for individuals with mental health challenges.  

    Way forward: 

    • Shift from Paternalistic to Liberatory Strategies: The need to take social protection measures for homeless people with mental illness (HPMI) must transition from paternalistic interventions to liberatory-focused strategies that honour individual agency.
      • This includes implementing a modest monthly disability allowance of ₹1,500 to provide financial support while addressing bureaucratic barriers to accessing essential documentation like Aadhar and banking services.
    • Holistic and Imaginative Approaches: Supportive measures must be complemented by imaginative and holistic strategies that address structural issues such as discrimination, violence, and social segregation.  

  • SC to examine acquitted man’s ‘Right to be Forgotten’: What is this right, and how have courts ruled earlier?    

    Why in the News?

    Last week, the Supreme Court agreed to hear a case that could define the scope of the “Right to be Forgotten” referred to in European privacy law as the “Right to Erasure” in India.

    What is the ‘Right to be Forgotten’?

    • The right to be forgotten allows individuals to remove or de-index their personal information from the internet if it infringes on their right to privacy. It is based on the principle that personal data should be removed when it is outdated, irrelevant, or no longer necessary.
    • Affirmed by the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) in the “Google Spain case” (2014), which ruled that search engines must remove data if it is inadequate, irrelevant, or excessive in light of the time elapsed.
    • Under the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), Article 17 describes the right to erasure, reflecting the concept of informational self-determination.

    How is this ‘Right’ interpreted in India?

    • Absence of Statutory Framework: India lacks specific legislation explicitly addressing the right to be forgotten.
    • Judicial Interpretation: The 2017 Supreme Court ruling in Justice K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India recognized the right to privacy as a fundamental right. Justice S.K. Kaul’s concurring opinion suggested that the right to be forgotten involves removing personal data that is no longer necessary or relevant.
    • Judicial Guidelines: Justice Kaul outlined valid justifications for overriding this right, including freedom of expression, legal compliance, public interest, and research purposes.

    How have Courts ruled on the Issue?

    • Rajagopal vs. State of Tamil Nadu (1994): The Supreme Court recognized a “right to be let alone” but differentiated it from public records, including court decisions. Once something becomes public, privacy rights are diminished.
    • Dharamraj Bhanushankar Dave vs. State of Gujarat (2017): Gujarat HC refused to remove details of an acquittal, asserting that court orders should remain public.
    • The Registrar General (2017): Karnataka HC protected the name of a petitioner in a sensitive annulment case, aligning with trends in Western jurisdictions.
    • Delhi HC (2021): Extended the right to be forgotten to criminal cases, allowing details of an acquittal to be removed from search results to protect the petitioner’s career prospects.
    • Orissa HC (2020): Noted the need for a broader debate on the right to be forgotten, particularly concerning “revenge porn” and online content.

    Way forward: 

    • Legislative Framework Development: India should consider drafting comprehensive legislation that explicitly addresses the right to be forgotten, aligning with international standards while balancing privacy, freedom of expression, and public interest.
    • Judicial and Policy Clarity: The Supreme Court’s upcoming ruling should aim to establish a clear legal precedent on the right to be forgotten, ensuring consistency across lower courts and aligning with global practices.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Examine the scope of Fundamental Rights in the light of the latest judgement of the Supreme Court on the Right to Privacy. (2017)

  • President appoints six new Governors  

    Why in the News?

    President Droupadi Murmu has appointed six new Governors and reshuffled three others.

    New appointments:

    Name New Position
    Om Mathur Governor of Sikkim
    K. Kailashnathan Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry
    Santosh Kumar Gangwar Governor of Jharkhand
    Jishnu Dev Varma Governor of Telangana
    Ramen Deka Governor of Chhattisgarh
    C.H. Vijayashankar Governor of Meghalaya
    Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde Governor of Rajasthan

    About the Office of Governor and his/her Appointment

    Details
    Role
    • Constitutional head of a state, similar to the President at the central level.
    • Exists in states, while lieutenant governors and administrators are in union territories.
    • Independent constitutional office, not subordinate to Central government.
    Articles Articles 153 to 167 in Part VI of the Constitution deal with the state executive
    Part of State Executive Consists of the Governor, Chief Minister, Council of Ministers, and Advocate General
    Borrowed Office
    • From the Government of India Act of 1935.
    • Canadian model adopted: Governor appointed by President by warrant under his hand and seal.
    Dual Role
    • Chief executive Head of the States (nominal).
    • Agent of the central government.
    Qualifications
    • Constitutional: Citizen of India, 35+ years old.
    • Conventional: Outsider to the state, President consults the Chief Minister.
    Oath
    • Administered by the Chief Justice of the state High Court (or senior-most judge available)
    • Swears to execute office faithfully, preserve the Constitution, and serve the people
    Term of Office
    • No fixed term, holds office for 5 years subject to President’s pleasure
    • Eligible for reappointment.
    • Can be transferred or hold office beyond term until successor assumes charge
    Removal
    • Can resign by addressing the President
    • Can be removed by the President at any time without specified grounds
    • Chief Justice of state high court may temporarily discharge functions in contingencies
    Additional Functions
    • Acts on advice of Chief Minister and Council of Ministers
    • Holds executive power, legislative power (to some extent), and discretionary power
    • Functions as Chancellor of state universities, where applicable
    Reforms  stipulated by Sarkaria Commission (1988)
    • Governor should be appointed by the President after consulting the Chief Minister.
    • Should be a person of eminence, not belonging to the state.
    • Should not be removed before term completion except in rare circumstances.
    • Act as a bridge between the center and state.
    • Exercise discretionary powers judiciously.

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Which one of the following statements is correct?

    (a) In India, the same person cannot be appointed as Governor for two or more States at the same time

    (b) The Judges of the High Court in India are appointed by the Governor of the State just as the Judges of the Supreme Court are appointed by the President

    (c) No procedure has been laid down in the Constitution of India for the removal of a Governor from his/her post

    (d) In the case of a Union Territory having a legislative setup, the Chief Minister is appointed by the Lt. Governor on the basis of majority support.

  • A new push in the Bay of Bengal 

    Why in the news?

    India hosted the 2nd BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat in New Delhi, creating an informal forum to enhance regional cooperation in security, connectivity, trade, and investment in the Bay of Bengal

    About BIMSTEC: 

    • BIMSTEC, or the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, is a regional organization established in June 1997.
    • seven countries: India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
    • It aims to foster multifaceted cooperation across various sectors, including security, connectivity, trade, and investment, particularly in the Bay of Bengal region.

    Importance of Strengthening Eastern Ties

    • Regional Stability and Security: The growing presence of China in the Bay of Bengal is perceived as a potential threat to regional stability. By strengthening ties with countries like Bangladesh and Myanmar, India aims to reinforce its position as a preferred security partner in the region.
    • Economic Development: Enhanced relations with eastern neighbors facilitate India’s access to essential maritime routes, particularly for its landlocked northeastern states.
    • Indo-Pacific Strategy: Improved relations with Myanmar and Thailand are integral to India’s broader Indo-Pacific strategy. These countries are key members of ASEAN, which India considers central to its vision for the region.
    • Strengthening ties can enhance India’s influence and presence in the Indo-Pacific, aligning with its “Act East Policy” and “Neighbourhood First” approach.

    Major Components of the Retreat

    The 2nd BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat was structured into two main segments:

    • Assessment of Regional Cooperation: The first part focused on evaluating the current state of cooperation within BIMSTEC, building on outcomes from the previous retreat.
    • Member states discussed various initiatives, including the establishment of Centers of Excellence in areas like Agriculture and Maritime Transport, and emphasized the importance of private sector involvement in trade and entrepreneurship.
    • Expectations for the Upcoming Summit: The second segment involved discussions on each country’s expectations for the upcoming summit.
    • Key proposals included mapping mineral resources, promoting the Blue Economy, enhancing tourism and cultural exchanges.  

    Bilateral merits

    • India-Myanmar Concerns: Mr. Jaishankar addressed issues with Myanmar regarding the flow of displaced persons, narcotics, and arms across the border, and urged the return of unlawfully detained Indian nationals.
    • India-Bangladesh Cooperation: In his meeting with the Bangladesh Foreign Minister, Mr. Jaishankar was requested to ensure the smooth supply of daily essentials and send a technical team for the Teesta project, signifying efforts towards resolving long-pending concerns.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Security Collaboration:  Need to prioritize discussions on security cooperation among BIMSTEC members, particularly in countering transnational crimes such as narcotics and arms trafficking.
    • Develop Connectivity Projects: Indian government should expedite the implementation of connectivity projects, such as the India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway, to facilitate trade and movement. This will not only enhance economic ties but also improve regional stability.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q  Do you think that BIMSTEC is a parallel organisation like the SAARC? Waht are the similarities and dissimilarities between the two? How are Indian foreign policy objectives realized by forming this new organisation? (2022)