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GS Paper: GS2

  • UK elections: Historic result for Labour, but no vote share gains

    Why in the news? 

    Keir Starmer is poised to become the next Prime Minister of the UK, following Labour’s landmark victory securing a substantial majority.

    Labour Party Comes to Power after 14 Years of Conservative Rule: 

    • Electoral Outcome: Labour secures a decisive victory in the UK elections, winning 412 seats in the House of Commons, ending 14 years of Conservative governance.
    • Majority: Labour has achieved the largest majority in British politics since the early 20th century, with over 290 seats ahead of the Tories.
    • Voter Sentiment: The election reflects a strong anti-conservative sentiment rather than a resounding endorsement of Labour, with significant losses in Conservative strongholds.
    • Strategic Shifts: Labour’s success is attributed to strategic moves to appeal to rural and traditionally Conservative areas, contrasting with losses in urban and progressive strongholds.

    Left and Right Streams in the UK:  

    Left Stream (Labour Party):

    • Traditionally advocates for social justice, welfare state policies, and government intervention in the economy to reduce inequality.Strong support from urban areas, progressive voters, trade unions, and historically marginalised groups such as minorities and low-income earners.
    • Under Keir Starmer, Labour has moved towards the centre, focusing on appealing to more rural and traditionally Conservative constituencies.

    Right Stream (Conservative Party):

    • Favors free-market policies, limited government intervention, and emphasises individual responsibility and economic freedom. Strong support from affluent voters, business interests, rural communities, and traditionally conservative values such as patriotism and national sovereignty.
    • The Conservative Party has faced challenges with internal divisions over Brexit and criticism for austerity measures implemented during previous administrations.

    Impact on India: 

    • India-UK FTA: The Labour Party has maintained its commitment to completing the FTA, though the timelines will remain uncertain for some time. Key sticking points include India’s demand for greater access for its skilled professionals in the UK market and the UK’s push for lower import duties on goods like Scotch whisky and electric vehicles.
    • Defence and Security Cooperation: The India-UK defence and security partnership is likely to continue strengthening, building on recent momentum from the 2+2 mechanism and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s visit in early 2024. The UK is expected to maintain its support for a rules-based order and continue working with India to promote a “free and open Indo-Pacific”.
    • Visa Rules: India has been in talks with the UK for the past few years to relax visa rules for its citizens. With the Labour Party coming into power, there might be some uncertainty around the progress of these discussions.
    • Carbon Tax: While the FTA might reduce or eliminate tariffs, Indian exports could still face hefty carbon taxes, unlike UK exports to India. The Labour Party has always been in favour of imposing a carbon tax, which could impact Indian industries

    Conclusion: India should leverage diplomatic channels to strengthen economic cooperation with the UK under Keir Starmer’s leadership. This could include negotiating bilateral trade agreements, promoting investment opportunities, and collaborating on emerging sectors like technology and renewable energy.

    Mains question for practice: 

    Q Discuss the potential implications of Keir Starmer’s ascension to UK Prime Minister on India-UK relations. 10M

  • [pib] SEHER Program to Empower Women Entrepreneurs

    Why in the News?

    The Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) and TransUnion CIBIL have launched SEHER, a pioneering credit education program aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs in India.

    About Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP)

    • WEP, incubated at NITI Aayog in 2018; aims to create an enabling ecosystem for women entrepreneurs in India through a public-private partnership.
    • WEP’s Financing Women Collaborative (FWC) initiative accelerates access to finance for women entrepreneurs, addressing key barriers such as information asymmetry.

    About SEHER Program

    • SEHER aims to provide comprehensive financial literacy content and essential business skills to women entrepreneurs.
    • It will facilitate their access to financial tools crucial for business growth and employment creation.
    • The program includes personalized resources on financial literacy, emphasizing the importance of building a strong credit history and CIBIL score.

    Need for such a program

    • India has 63 million MSMEs, with 20.5% being women-owned, employing 27 million people.
    • Accelerating women’s entrepreneurship could create over 30 million new women-owned enterprises and 150 to 170 million jobs.
    PYQ:

    [2019] “Empowering women is the key to control population growth”. Discuss. 

     

  • What a Labour election win could mean for India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA)?

    Why in the news?

    New Delhi and London have been engaged in negotiations for over two years to discuss a proposed free trade agreement (FTA) aimed at enhancing bilateral trade between the two nations.

    What does the agreement could result?           

    • Mutual Tariff Reductions: Both countries may agree to lower tariffs on a wide range of goods, including automobiles, textiles, alcoholic beverages, and medical instruments, facilitating increased trade flows.
    • Market Access: Improved market access could benefit industries in both countries, particularly India’s IT and services sectors, which are seeking expanded opportunities in the UK market.
    • Economic Growth: The FTA aims to stimulate economic growth by promoting trade and investment, potentially boosting employment and productivity in relevant sectors.
    • Political Relations: Strengthening economic ties could lead to closer political cooperation between India and the UK, influencing bilateral relations on international platforms.

    Impact on Global Geopolitics and Indian Scenario

    • Global Trade Alliances: Strengthening economic ties between India and the UK could enhance their geopolitical influence, potentially shaping global trade alliances and partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.
    • Diversification of Trade Partnerships: For India, the FTA represents a strategic move to diversify its trade partnerships beyond traditional allies, thereby reducing dependency and enhancing economic resilience.
    • Improve Bilateral Relations: Improved economic cooperation could foster closer political relations between India and the UK, influencing diplomatic engagements and collaboration on global issues such as climate change and security.
    • Regional Economic Impact: The agreement may spur economic growth in India, particularly benefiting sectors like IT and services, while also contributing to the UK’s post-Brexit economic strategy and trade diversification efforts.
    • Influence the Environmental and Regulatory Standards: Negotiations over environmental standards, including India’s concerns over carbon taxes and the UK’s climate goals, highlight the FTA’s potential to influence global environmental policies and regulatory frameworks.

    India-UK Relation: 

    • Strong historical ties: India and the UK share deep historical and cultural connections dating back to the colonial era. The UK has a large Indian diaspora of over 1.5 million people.
    • Strategic partnership: In 2004, India and the UK upgraded their relationship to a Strategic Partnership. This was further strengthened by the ‘2030 Roadmap for India-UK Future Relations’ agreed in 2021, which outlined cooperation across 5 pillars- people-to-people ties, trade, defence and security, climate change, and health.
    • Growing trade and investment: The UK is one of India’s major trading partners. Bilateral trade reached £38.1bn in the year to Q3 2023, making India the UK’s 12th largest trading partner. India is the 3rd largest foreign investor in the UK. Both countries are negotiating an India-UK Free Trade Agreement to further boost economic ties.
    • Cooperation in new frontiers: India and the UK are collaborating in emerging areas like fintech, green finance, cyber security, and critical technologies. They plan to hold the first Strategic Tech Dialogue to deepen cooperation in areas like semiconductors, 5G, and AI.
    • Shared global outlook: India and the UK have convergent views on many global issues and support a rules-based international order. The UK supports India’s permanent membership of the UN Security Council. They also cooperate closely on maritime security in the Indo-Pacific

    Way forward: 

    • Addressing Key Negotiation Points: Focus on resolving critical issues such as tariff reductions, market access for IT and services sectors, and alignment on environmental standards to expedite FTA conclusion.
    • Enhancing Strategic Partnerships: Strengthen bilateral economic and political cooperation through sustained dialogue and proactive engagement, aiming to maximize mutual benefits and ensure the long-term sustainability of the FTA.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q The judicial systems in India and the UK seem to be converging as well as diverging in recent times. Highlight the key points of convergence and divergence between the two nations in terms of their judicial practices. (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • Education ‘remains the most effective contraceptive

    Why in the news? 

    India’s current population of 1.4 billion is projected to peak at 1.7 billion by 2064, then stabilize at 1.53 billion by 2100, as fertility rates decline below replacement level.

    What does the United Nations speak on Indian demographics?

    • India overtook China as the world’s most populous country. UN estimates project India’s population to peak at 1.7 billion around 2064, then settle at 1.53 billion by 2100.
    • Population growth is slowing, with the total fertility rate dipping below the replacement level of 2.1.

    What do the National Family Health Surveys (NFHS) observed recently?

    • Association with Education: There is a significant correlation between levels of education and unmet needs for family planning among married women in India, highlighting the importance of education in addressing reproductive health issues.
    • High Demand for Family Planning: There remains a notable demand for family planning services, particularly among young women aged 15-24, indicating ongoing challenges in meeting reproductive health needs effectively across different age groups.

    Challenges faced by a deprived section of society                           

    • Limited Access to Family Planning Services: Women from disadvantaged backgrounds often face barriers in accessing contraceptives and family planning services due to social norms, lack of education, and cultural taboos surrounding contraception.
    • Teenage Pregnancies and Early Marriages: High rates of teenage pregnancies and early marriages contribute to health risks for young women, exacerbated by limited awareness about sexual and reproductive health rights and options.
    • Social Stigma and Cultural Norms: Deep-rooted societal attitudes and stigmas surrounding sexual activity, contraception, and abortion hinder open discussions and access to comprehensive sexual education and healthcare services, particularly for unmarried individuals.

    What can India do to improve social conditions?

    • Enhancing Education and Awareness: Increase access to comprehensive sex education in schools and communities to empower young people with knowledge about contraception, family planning, and reproductive health rights.
    • Addressing Cultural Norms and Stigma: Challenge societal taboos and misconceptions surrounding contraception and sexual activity through culturally sensitive communication and advocacy efforts.
    • Expanding Healthcare Access: Ensure equitable access to affordable and quality healthcare services, including reproductive health services, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
    • Reforming Legal Frameworks: Reform laws and policies related to reproductive rights and access to safe abortion services to ensure women have autonomy over their reproductive decisions and can access safe and legal abortion services without unnecessary restrictions.

    Steps taken by the government related to health: 

    • Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY): This scheme aims to provide health coverage to over 500 million people, offering a cover of Rs. 5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization. Over 4.68 crore cards have been issued under the scheme.
    • Comprehensive Primary Health Care (CPHC) through Ayushman Bharat-Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs): Launched in February 2018, this initiative aims to provide an expanded range of services closer to the community, including care for non-communicable diseases, palliative and rehabilitative care, oral, eye and ENT care, and mental health services.
    • Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY): This scheme, launched in 2003, aims to correct regional imbalances in the availability of affordable/reliable tertiary healthcare services and also to augment facilities for quality medical education in the country. Under this, new AIIMS are being set up and existing medical colleges are being upgraded

    Way forward: 

    • Integrated Approach to Education and Healthcare: Implement integrated programs that combine comprehensive sex education in schools with improved access to healthcare services, ensuring young people are empowered with knowledge and resources for reproductive health.
    • Community Engagement and Advocacy: Foster community dialogues and advocacy campaigns to challenge cultural norms and stigma around reproductive health, promoting open discussions and awareness-building initiatives across all demographics.

    Mains PYQ:

    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 IAS/2016)

  • EAM Jaishankar attends SCO Summit

    Why in the News?

    External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar addressed the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Kazakhstan’s capital Astana on behalf of Prime Minister Modi.

    About Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)

    Details
    Introduction
    • Established in 2001 by China and Russia, the SCO is a Eurasian political, economic, and security organization.
    • It spans about 80% of Eurasia and encompasses 40% of the world’s population, with a GDP of around 20% of global GDP as of 2021.
    Origins
    • Successor to the Shanghai Five, formed in 1996 by China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, and Tajikistan.
    • It evolved into the SCO in 2001 with the inclusion of Uzbekistan.
    Expansion
    • India and Pakistan joined in June 2017, followed by Iran in July 2023, and Belarus in July 2024.
    • Several other countries participate as observers and dialogue partners.
    Governance
    • Governed by the Heads of State Council (HSC), the supreme decision-making body that meets annually.
    • Includes the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) as a key component for security coordination.
    Key Structures
    • Heads of State Council: Supreme decision-making body.
    • Heads of Government Council: Discusses multilateral cooperation and approves budgets.
    • Council of Foreign Ministers: Regular meetings on international affairs.
    • Council of National Coordinators: Coordinates multilateral efforts.
    Secretariat
    • Headquartered in Beijing, China, the Secretariat executes organizational decisions, drafts documents, and promotes SCO activities.
    • Secretary-General serves a 3-year term.
    RATS Executive Committee
    • Based in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, RATS fosters cooperation against terrorism, separatism, and extremism.
    • The director serves a three-year term overseeing these efforts.
    Official Languages Chinese and Russian are the SCO’s official languages.
    Key Agreements
    • Treaty on Deepening Military Trust in Border Regions (1996)
    • Treaty on Reduction of Military Forces in Border Regions (1997)
    • Declaration on a “multipolar world” (1997)
    Major Activities
    • Annual summits and meetings across member states;
    • Initiatives in transportation, energy, and telecommunications;
    • Regular gatherings of security, defence, economic, and cultural officials.
    International Relations Established partnerships with various global bodies including the UN, ASEAN, CIS, CSTO, ECO, and CICA, reflecting its broad engagement in regional and international affairs.

    Strategic Significance of SCO for India

    • Open-door for bilateral: Membership facilitates India’s engagement with Central Asian nations and major regional powers like China and Russia on shared security challenges.
    • China-Russia Dynamics: SCO serves as a platform for China and Russia to assert influence and counter Western dominance in international forums.
    • Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Dispute: India’s stance against endorsing BRI projects through SCO reflects its concerns over sovereignty, particularly regarding CPEC passing through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

    About Kazakhstan

    • Kazakhstan is the world’s largest landlocked country and the ninth-largest country by land area, spanning an area of 2.7 million square kilometres.
    • It borders Russia to the north and west, China to the east, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan to the south, and the Caspian Sea to the southwest

     

    PYQ:

    [2022] Consider the following:

    1. Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
    2. Missile Technology Control Regime
    3. Shanghai Cooperation Organisation

    India is a member of which of the above?

    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 3 only
    (c) 2 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2 and 3

    [2021] Critically examine the aims and objectives of SCO. What importance does it hold for India?

  • Issues with ‘mandir’ tag for Ayushman Health and Wellness Centres

    Why in the News?

    Following Mizoram and Nagaland, Meghalaya has also refused to rename its health and wellness centres as Ayushman Arogya Mandirs as per the Centre’s directive.

    Context: Demographic composition of NE and its implications on policy decisions 

    • Christian Majority: About 75% of Meghalaya’s population practices Christianity, similar to the demographics of Mizoram (90%) and Nagaland (90%).
    • State Asserts Autonomy: Meghalaya’s Health Minister emphasized that health being a State subject grants them the right to decide independently of the Centre’s advisory.

    About Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs)

    • AB-HWCs were launched to move away from selective health care to a more comprehensive range of services spanning preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative and palliative care for all ages.
    • There are 1.6 lakh such centres across India under this initiative.
    • The National Health Policy of 2017 envisioned these centres as the foundation of India’s health system.
    • The Union Health Ministry renamed AB-HWCs as Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAM) with the tagline ‘Arogyam Parmam Dhanam’.
    • States and Union Territories were urged to complete the rebranding by the end of 2023.

    Back2Basics: Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY)

    Details
    Details
    • World’s largest fully government-funded health insurance scheme.
    • Launched in 2018.
    • Provides Rs 5 lakh per family for secondary and tertiary care.
    Health Benefit Package
    • Covers the cost of surgery, medical and daycare treatments, medications, and diagnostics.
    • 3 days of pre-hospitalisation and 15 days of post-hospitalisation, including diagnostic care and expenses on medicines.
    • No restriction on family size, age or gender.
    • All pre-existing conditions are covered from day one.
    Beneficiaries
    • An entitlement-based scheme targeting beneficiaries identified by the latest Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) data.
    • Flexibility for States/UTs to use non-SECC data with a similar socio-economic profile to identify remaining SECC families.
    Financing
    • Jointly funded scheme: 60:40 between Centre and legislature for all States and UTs.
    • 90:10 for North-Eastern States, J&K, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
    • 100% central funding for Union Territories without legislature.
    Nucleus Agency
    • The National Health Authority (NHA) is an autonomous body under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, responsible for the effective implementation of PM-JAY.
    • State Health Agency (SHA) is the apex body of the State Government responsible for implementing AB-PMJAY in the State.

     

    PYQ:

    [2022] With reference to Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, consider the following statements:

    1. Private and public hospitals must adopt it.
    2. As it aims to achieve universal health coverage, every citizen of India should be part of it ultimately.
    3. It has seamless portability across the country.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3
  • [4th July 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Trials, medical ethics and the orbit of power

    [4th July 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Trials, medical ethics and the orbit of power

    PYQ Relevance:
    Mains: 

    Q) If an amendment bill to the Whistleblowers Protection Act 2011 tabled in the Parliament is passed, there may be no one left to protect. Critically Evaluate. (UPSC CSE 2015) 

    Q) With consideration towards the strategy of inclusive growth, the new Companies Bill, 2013 has indirectly made CSR a mandatory obligation. Discuss the challenges expected in its implementation in earnest. Also, discuss other provisions in the Bill and their implications. (UPSC CSE 2013) 

    Note4Students: 

    Prelims:  Whistleblowers Protection Act 2011,

    Mains:  Ethical issues in the Medical sector,

    Mentor comment: On January 10, 2021, Rashida Bee, Nawab Khan, Rachna Dhingra, and Nausheen Khan alleged ethical violations in Bharat Biotech’s Covaxin trial at People’s Hospital, Bhopal. They cited informed consent breaches, enrollment of vulnerable groups, non-reporting of adverse events, and inadequate participant monitoring. They demanded intervention to halt the study and independent investigation. The outcome of their letter remains undisclosed.

    Let’s learn!

    __

    Why in the news? 

    In India, the primary safeguards intended to prevent medical ethics abuse are ineffective.

    What are the Primary safeguards?

    • Primary safeguards are fundamental measures or systems put in place to prevent unethical practices and ensure ethical standards are maintained.
    • These safeguards are designed to protect individuals and maintain integrity within processes, such as clinical trials.
    • They typically include regulatory frameworks, oversight committees, informed consent procedures, transparency requirements, and accountability mechanisms.

    Ethical Abuse 

    • Allegations of Ethical Violations in Covaxin Trial: Irregularities and ethical violations were alleged in the Covaxin clinical trial conducted by People’s Hospital in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. Violations included lack of informed consent, enrollment of vulnerable populations, non-reporting of adverse events, and inadequate monitoring and follow-up.
    • Regulatory Approval and Ethical Guidelines before the completion of Phase III study: The Indian drug regulator, Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), approved Covaxin for “Restricted Use under Clinical Trial Mode” before the completion of its Phase III study.This approval process was not defined in India’s Drug Regulatory Framework, creating ambiguity and potential ethical lapses.
    • Lacking in the effectiveness of Ethics Committees: Ethics committees at trial sites are meant to oversee and ensure ethical conduct in clinical trials. There were issues with the effectiveness of these committees, with allegations of gross violations of ethics guidelines.
    • Whistle-blowers show the various incidents of ethical violations: Whistle-blowers play a crucial role in exposing ethical violations in medical experimentation.  Carl Elliott’s book, “The Occasional Human Sacrifice,” details various incidents of ethical violations in medical trials, highlighting the courage required to speak out.

    Innovative therapies and ethics

    • Balancing Risk and Benefit: Developing life-saving medicines involves a delicate balance between the potential risks to patients and the projected benefits of the therapeutic candidate. This process requires specialised knowledge and experience to make informed decisions, which is often lacking, leading to ethical challenges.
    • Lack of Expertise in Clinical Development: India has a strong generic drug manufacturing industry but lacks deep expertise in developing innovative therapies. The management of clinical development is often overseen by medical doctors who may not have specialized knowledge in drug development, leading to ethical violations and inadequate oversight.
    • Ethical Violations in Pandemic Response: During the COVID-19 pandemic, there were examples of medical ethics being compromised, such as unrealistic projections of case numbers and the creation of terms like “emergency use authorization in clinical trial mode” to justify premature decisions. These actions highlight the need for better guardrails and ethical standards in managing the development and approval of new therapies.

    Indian Patients and Clinical Studies

    • Violation of Informed Consent: There is a historic and repeated violation of informed consent in India, with poor and uneducated patients being enrolled in clinical studies without being fully informed of potential harm. Ensuring informed consent falls under the responsibility of institutional ethics committees, whose effectiveness is often questionable.
    • Ineffectiveness of Institutional Ethics Committees: Despite existing on paper and in regulations, the functioning and effectiveness of institutional ethics committees in India are patchy. A study by Gayatri Saberwal et al. (2022) identified numerous issues, such as clinical trials without ethics committees and trials with more sites than functional ethics committees.
    • Abuse of Regulations by the Industry: A significant abuser of these regulations is a section of the industry promoted by the Ministry of AYUSH, which conducts poorly designed and executed clinical studies with zero oversight. These studies often aim to provide a veneer of scientific validity to various concoctions without proper ethical standards.
    • Comparison with Western Systems: Even well-designed and well-run systems in the West face challenges in maintaining checks and balances on accountability. India’s systems are far from achieving the same level of function and effectiveness, highlighting a significant gap in ethical standards and accountability in clinical studies.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhancing Training and Oversight: Provide specialized training for members of institutional ethics committees to ensure they have the necessary knowledge and skills to oversee clinical trials effectively. Regular audits and monitoring should be conducted to assess the performance and adherence to ethical guidelines.
    • Independent Audits: Conduct independent audits of clinical trial sites and ethics committees to ensure compliance with ethical standards and regulatory requirements. Establish clear consequences for non-compliance to deter unethical practices.
    • Clear Guidelines and Definitions: Define clear regulatory pathways and guidelines for clinical trials, including terms like “Restricted Use under Clinical Trial Mode.” This will reduce ambiguity and ensure consistent application of ethical standards.

  • An overview of the French elections

    Why in the news? 

    On June 30, during the first phase of the French elections called after President Emmanuel Macron unexpectedly dissolved parliament, the far-right National Rally (RN) and its allies emerged as frontrunners with a 33% vote share.

    Why did French President Emmanuel Macron decide to dissolve parliament and call for snap elections?

    • Strategic Decision: Macron dissolved parliament three years early to seek a clear majority for governance. His centrist bloc suffered a major defeat in the European Parliament elections against the RN. The decision aimed to consolidate votes against the rising far-right influence.
    • Low Approval Ratings: Macron’s approval ratings plummeted to 36%. The snap election was seen as a gamble to prevent the RN from gaining more power.

    How did the far-right National Rally become so popular?

    • Rebranding and Policy Changes: Under Marine Le Pen, the RN rebranded from the National Front (FN). The party softened its stance on extreme policies, like leaving the EU.
    • Response to Societal Issues: Capitalized on fears of cultural clashes, cost-of-living crises, and dissatisfaction with Macron’s policies. Opposed immigration and advocated for ‘national priority’ policies favoring French citizens in social services.
    • Political Strategy: Increased its presence in provincial towns and among blue-collar workers. Rose from 7 seats to 89 in the French parliament in 2022, aiming for 240-300 seats now.

    How are the two rounds of elections conducted in France?

    • First Phase: Equivalent to a qualifying round where candidates need at least 12.5% of locally registered votes.Candidates who get more than half the votes win outright.
    • Second Phase: Candidates meeting the qualifying criteria move to the second round. Common practice of ‘horse-trading’ where parties form alliances to avoid splitting votes.
    • Overall Structure:577 seats in the French parliament. A party needs 289 seats for an absolute majority.

    Why have left-wing parties also formed a bloc?

    • Republican Front Strategy: Centrist and left-wing parties team up to prevent right-wing parties from gaining power.Formation of the New Popular Front is a reference to the 1936 alliance against far-right rioters.
    • Electoral Tactics: Over 200 candidates from centre and left alliances have dropped out to consolidate votes against the RN. Aimed at countering the RN’s rise and preventing fragmentation of the anti-RN vote.
    • Challenges and Unity: Presence of controversial leftist figures like Jean-Luc Mélenchon has made the unity fragile.Despite internal differences, the bloc aims to present a united front against the far-right surge.

    Conclusion: The rise of the far-right National Rally in France may lead to stricter immigration policies, affecting Indian students, workers, and diaspora. Economic relations could face uncertainties, impacting trade and bilateral cooperation. So,India’s diplomatic strategies may need adjustments to navigate the changing political landscape in France.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Critically examine the procedures through which the Presidents of India and France are elected. (UPSC IAS/2022)

  • [3rd July 2024] Great expectations, liberalism in dark times

     

    PYQ Relevance:

    Mains: 

    Q. In the context of the neo-liberal paradigm of development planning, multi-level planning is expected to make operations cost-effective and remove many implementation blockages.” Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2019)

    Q. ‘Whether National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) can enforce the implementation of constitutional reservation for the Scheduled Castes in the religious minority institutions? Examine. 

     (UPSC IAS/2018)

    Note4Students: 

    Prelims: Definition of Liberalism;

    Mains: Challenges to liberalism;

    Mentor comment: Politics, like philosophy, aims to reconcile diversity, where contradictions converge in a multicultural society. Understanding this harmony reflects an idealistic state that prioritizes coexistence and universal welfare. However, global democratic history reveals ongoing challenges to liberalism, which safeguards against authoritarianism and protects civil rights. Amid rising sectarianism, the fundamental question persists: Who deserves basic rights? This issue underscores civil discrimination, racial politics, and xenophobia, exacerbated by the rise of right-wing nationalism and global migration dynamics.

    Let’s learn.

    –

    Why in the News?

    There remains a glimmer of hope in the resilience of democratic forces, which can effectively counteract and uproot any divisive political aberration when the time is ripe.

    What is Liberalism?

    • Liberalism is a political and philosophical ideology that emphasizes individual rights, liberty, equality under the law, and limited government intervention in personal and economic affairs. It advocates for freedoms such as freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly, and supports democratic processes, rule of law, and protection of civil liberties. Liberalism typically promotes social progress through tolerance, pluralism, and a commitment to human rights and justice.

     

     Electoral outcomes

    • Shift in Public Opinion: There is a noticeable shift towards conservative and right-wing ideologies, marked by sentiments such as climate scepticism, anti-migration views, and nationalism. This trend was reflected in recent elections both in Europe and India.
    • Voter Response: Despite expectations favouring right-wing outcomes, the electorate, particularly in India, was surprised with a strong rejection of what was perceived as authoritarianism and communalism. This indicates a robust defense of democratic values and fundamental rights.
    • Impact on Minority Communities: The election results have been seen as a reassurance to minority communities, particularly Muslims, who felt marginalized and insecure due to perceived policies of exclusion and communal tension.
    • Democratic Fortitude: The outcome is portrayed as a reaffirmation of democracy’s strength in allowing for checks and balances against oppressive regimes and divisive politics.
    • Hope for Robust Opposition: There is optimism about the emergence of a strong opposition capable of holding the government accountable, promoting debate, and safeguarding diverse civil society interests.
    • Challenges and Aspirations: The electorate expects rational governance, justice, and responsiveness to marginalized groups’ issues such as poverty, unemployment, and hunger.
    • Ethical Governance: Emphasis is placed on governance that respects human rights universally, avoiding discrimination or exclusion based on ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation.

    Verdict and the Advent of Hope

    • Challenge to Democracy: The passage highlights a global erosion of democratic values, with right-wing governments accused of manipulating truth and resorting to oppressive tactics to maintain power.
    • Call for Tempered Liberalism: There’s a plea for ruling dispensations to embrace a more moderate form of liberalism, abandoning illiberal practices that undermine democratic norms and freedoms.
    • Role of Opposition: Expectations are set on opposition alliances to uphold principles of humility, pluralism, and modesty, providing a counterbalance to dominant political forces.
    • Philosophical Reflection: The outcome of elections prompts reflection on political astuteness and statesmanship, essential for navigating the trajectory of democracy amidst global challenges.
    • Natural vs Civil Order: Drawing from Spinoza, the clash between natural self-interest and civil responsibility underscores the necessity of societal order governed by law and morality to prevent chaos and uphold rights.
    • Hope and Scepticism: The Indian electoral outcome reflects a dual sentiment of hope and scepticism, shaping the future direction of democracy and fostering philosophical introspection.

    Challenges to liberalism:

    • Rise of Right-Wing Sentiment: There is a global trend towards right-wing ideologies, marked by climate scepticism, anti-migration sentiment, and nationalist fervour, posing challenges to liberal values and policies.
    • Authoritarianism and Communalism: The resurgence of authoritarianism and communal politics threatens democratic principles and societal harmony, particularly impacting marginalized communities like Muslims.
    • Hope and Despair: The electorate’s response reflects a mix of hope and despair, with optimism placed in a robust opposition and democratic institutions to safeguard fundamental rights and uphold civil society diversity.
    • Balancing Public and Private: The need for a nuanced approach in reconciling private religious beliefs with public, politicized lifestyles without diminishing individual rights is crucial for fostering a tolerant society.

    Way forward: 

    • Policy Reforms: Implement inclusive policies that address economic disparities, social inequalities, and regional disparities effectively. This includes measures to tackle poverty, unemployment, and hunger through targeted welfare programs.
    • Social Integration: Foster initiatives that promote social cohesion and integration across diverse communities. Encourage dialogue and understanding among different cultural and religious groups to mitigate communal tensions.
    • Democratic Checks and Balances: Enhance the autonomy and effectiveness of democratic institutions such as the judiciary, election commissions, and anti-corruption bodies. Ensure they operate independently and transparently to uphold democratic principles.
    • Dialogue and Consensus-Building: Foster inclusive decision-making processes that involve stakeholders from diverse backgrounds. Encourage political parties to engage in constructive dialogue and seek consensus on key policy issues.

  • What we know about North Korea’s new ballistic missile test  

    Why in the news?

    North Korea has announced that it has successfully tested a new tactical ballistic missile designed to carry a “super-large warhead”.

    About the Recent Hwasongpho-11 Da-4.5 Test

    • North Korea announced the successful test of a new tactical ballistic missile, Hwasongpho-11 Da-4.5, capable of carrying a “super-large warhead.”The test was conducted with a simulated heavy warhead to verify flight stability and accuracy.
    • The test violates UN prohibitions on North Korea testing ballistic projectiles and is part of their ongoing efforts to advance nuclear capabilities. North Korea’s military plans another launch of the same missile type in July to test the “explosion power” of the super-large warhead.

    South Korea’s Reaction

    • Dismissal as Deception: South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff spokesperson, Colonel Lee Sung-jun, dismissed the test as likely “deception,” questioning the success of the inland test-fire.
    • Artillery Drills: South Korea’s military conducted artillery drills near the Military Demarcation Line in response.
    • Military Pact Suspension: These drills resumed following North Korea’s launch of balloons carrying garbage into South Korea, which led to the suspension of a military pact with Pyongyang.
    • Concerns Over Russia Ties: South Korea is increasingly worried about North Korea’s warming relations with Russia, suspecting North Korea of supplying ballistic missiles and artillery shells to Russia, despite both countries denying these allegations.

    Geopolitical Implications on the Indo-Pacific Region

    • Increased Tensions: North Korea’s missile tests exacerbate tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, raising security concerns among neighbouring countries and global powers.
    • Regional Arms Race: The tests could prompt an arms race, with countries like South Korea and Japan potentially enhancing their military capabilities in response.
    • US and Allies’ Response: The United States and its allies in the region may increase military presence and conduct joint exercises to counter North Korea’s missile advancements.
    • Impact on Diplomacy: The tests complicate diplomatic efforts to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula and might lead to further sanctions and isolation of North Korea.
    • China’s Role: China’s influence in the region and its relationship with North Korea could be pivotal in addressing the security challenges posed by these missile tests.

    Way forward ( What can India do?)

    • Strengthen Regional Alliances and Diplomatic Engagements: India should enhance its collaboration with key regional players like Japan, South Korea, and ASEAN countries to ensure collective security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
    • Enhance National Defense Capabilities: India should focus on bolstering its own defense infrastructure and capabilities to prepare for any potential threats arising from the increased militarization in the region.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q The new tri-nation partnership AUKUS is aimed at countering China’s ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. Is it going to supersede the existing partnerships in the region? Discuss the strength and impact of AUKUS in the present scenario. (UPSC IAS/2021)