The Union Minister of Commerce & Industry inaugurated the National Turmeric Board in New Delhi, with Palle Ganga Reddy appointed as its first Chairperson.
About the National Turmeric Board
Details
Operates under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
Headquarters: Nizamabad, Telangana.
Aim: To enhance turmeric production, support farmers, and boost global exports.
Structural Mandate
Chaired by a Central Government appointee.
Includes representatives from the Ministry of AYUSH, Department of Pharmaceuticals, Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, and Department of Commerce.
Rotating senior representatives from three states are also part of the Board.
Powers and Functions
Promotes awareness of turmeric’s medicinal and essential properties.
Supports farmers across 20 states, including Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.
Facilitates research, value addition, and development of new products for domestic and global markets.
Enhances logistics, supply chains, and trade opportunities.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) Production in India
Turmeric is also known as ‘Golden Spice’.
It thrives in temperatures ranging between 20°C and 30°C with high annual rainfall.
India is the largest producer, consumer, and exporter of turmeric globally.
Mains GS2: GS2-18.Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.
PYQ Relevance:
Q) The China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is viewed as a cardinal subset of China’s larger ‘One Belt One Road’ initiative. Give a brief description of CPEC and enumerate the reasons why India has distanced itself from the same. (UPSC CSE 2018)
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) (2018), and Central Asia, European Region – as a zone of interest for India (2018 & 2022).
Did you know that a 5% improvement in multimodal transport performance can lead to an increase in exports by nearly $500 billion annually across participating economies. India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), a multi-modal trade network focuses on not only physical infrastructure but also digital connectivity and energy security.
Today’s editorial emphasizes the strategic importance of the IMEC for the United States. This content can be used to address multifaceted approaches to enhance economic growth in Asian and European regions while promoting democratic values.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The recent signing of a MoU on cybercrime investigations underscores this commitment, as both India and USA aim to bolster their security cooperation in response to common threats like terrorism and organized crime.
The IMEC agreement is viewed as a strategic opportunity for Prez. Donald Trump to deepen U.S.-India ties while also promoting multilateral collaboration among participating countries.
As Trump 2.0 begins, the present administration is anticipated to continue building on the defense and economic frameworks established during his first term.
Key highlights of the Recent MoU:
• Cyber Threat Intelligence Sharing: The agreement facilitates enhanced exchange of information regarding emerging cyber threats, allowing both nations to stay ahead of potential cybercriminal activities.It focuses on improving tools and processes for investigating cybercrimes, thereby strengthening the capabilities of law enforcement agencies in both countries. • Capacity Building: The MoU includes provisions for training programs aimed at enhancing investigative skills related to cybercriminal activities, ensuring that personnel are well-equipped to tackle these challenges. The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs will be responsible for executing the MoU from India’s side, while the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), along with its sub-agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Homeland Security Investigations Cyber Crimes Center (C3), will lead implementation efforts from the U.S. side. • Addressing Common Security Challenges: The MoU recognizes the intricate linkages between cybercrime and broader security issues such as terrorism, violent extremism, drug trafficking, organized crime, human trafficking, illegal migration, and money laundering. • Strengthening Security Cooperation: This agreement is part of a broader effort to enhance India-U.S. security cooperation as part of their comprehensive strategic partnership, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration in addressing cyber threats.
What is the strategic significance of IMEC with respect to India and USA’s common interests?
Economic Integration: The IMEC (network of ports, railways, and roads) aims to create a seamless flow of goods and services among the participating countries, which include India, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Israel, and several European nations.
For instance, the corridor could significantly reduce transit times for shipping goods to Europe by up to 40% compared to traditional routes like the Suez Canal. Such improvements lead to increased trade volumes and economic growth.
The potential for establishing Free Trade zones along the corridor further enhances this economic integration by reducing tariffs and regulatory barriers.
Geopolitical Influence: Supporting IMEC allows the U.S. to counterbalance China’s growing influence in the Middle East through its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
By investing in IMEC, the U.S. can strengthen its alliances with key partners in Asia and Europe while promoting democratic values and stability. The alignment of interests among the U.S., India, and European nations within this corridor serves as a counterweight to China.
For example, the collaboration between India and Gulf monarchies under the IMEC framework is seen as a strategic move to build economic interdependence that can mitigate geopolitical tensions.
Holistic and Sustainable Connectivity: The initiative aims to establish secure High-speed data pipelines that would facilitate the export of India’s IT services to Europe and West Asia, which is crucial for modern economies that rely heavily on digital services.
Moreover, there are plans for Renewable Energy Grids that will enable countries along the corridor to share clean energy resources efficiently.
For example, hydrogen pipelines are proposed to transport green hydrogen produced in the Gulf states to Europe, aligning with global energy transition goals.
What are the limitations in enhancing strategic ties over IMEC?
Logistical and Connectivity Issues: Implementing IMEC requires extensive coordination among multiple countries, involving various modes of transportation.
For Example, If one country has outdated ports or railways, it can slow down the movement of goods, making trade less efficient. For instance, delays at a port in India could hold up shipments to Europe.
Regulatory Harmonization: The diverse regulatory frameworks and systems and regulations of the participating nations pose significant challenges.
For Example, if India has strict import regulations while a Middle Eastern country has more relaxed rules, it could lead to conflicts about how goods are traded.
Finding common ground on regulations is essential for smooth operations.
Security Concerns: The region traversed by IMEC is susceptible to security threats, including terrorism and political instability.
For Example, ongoing conflicts, such as those in Syria and Yemen, along with historical rivalries (e.g., Saudi-Iranian tensions), complicate efforts to ensure a secure environment necessary for attracting investments and fostering economic growth.
China Factor: If China offers better financing or faster infrastructure development for its routes, countries(esp European) might prefer to partner with China rather than engage with IMEC.
As of 2023, BRI engagement has surpassed USD 1 trillion, with approximately USD 419 billion allocated to non-financial investments and USD 634 billion to construction contracts (which is much higher than IMEC).
Financial Commitments: The ambitious nature of IMEC demands substantial financial investments from participating nations.
But, if a country like Iraq struggles with its economy, it may not be able to contribute financially to the project, which could slow down progress for everyone involved.
Way Forward: The IMEC represents a strategic opportunity for the USA to enhance its geopolitical influence while promoting economic growth and stability among participating nations.
As the U.S. navigates complex international dynamics, prioritizing IMEC will be crucial in establishing a resilient and interconnected economic framework that benefits all stakeholders involved, ultimately contributing to a more stable and prosperous global order.
The recent Supreme Court judgment in the Jet Airways case has highlighted several major problems in India’s insolvency system.
What is the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC)?
The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), enacted in 2016, is a comprehensive legal framework in India aimed at consolidating the existing laws governing insolvency and bankruptcy.
It establishes a structured process for resolving insolvency for corporate entities, individuals, and partnership firms, promoting timely resolution and maximizing asset value.
What are the structural inefficiencies in the current Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC)?
Overburdened Tribunals: The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) and the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) are tasked with handling both corporate insolvencies under the IBC and cases under the Companies Act. This dual burden leads to inefficiencies and delays in resolving insolvency cases.
Inadequate Institutional Capacity: The NCLT’s structure, established in 1999, is outdated and does not align with contemporary economic demands. With only 63 sanctioned members, many of whom split their time across multiple benches, the tribunal struggles to manage its caseload effectively, resulting in significant backlogs.
Lack of Domain Expertise: Members of the NCLT often lack the necessary domain knowledge to handle complex insolvency cases effectively. This deficiency hampers their ability to make informed decisions, as highlighted by the Supreme Court in the Jet Airways case.
Procedural Delays: The requirement for mandatory hearings for all applications contributes to lengthy delays. The average time for insolvency resolutions has increased, indicating that procedural inefficiencies are exacerbating the situation.
Ineffective Urgent Listings: There is no robust system for urgent listings before the NCLTs, leading to further delays in critical cases. The discretion given to registry staff regarding case listings can lead to inconsistencies and unpredictability in case management.
Judicial Discretion Issues: There is a growing tendency among NCLT and NCLAT members to ignore Supreme Court orders, undermining judicial authority and eroding trust in the system.
How can procedural innovations enhance the effectiveness of insolvency resolution?
Specialized Benches: Establishing specialized benches for different categories of insolvency cases could improve efficiency and ensure that cases are handled by members with relevant expertise.
Mandatory Mediation: Introducing mandatory mediation before filing insolvency applications could reduce the number of cases entering the formal insolvency process, alleviating pressure on tribunals.
Streamlined Hearing Processes: Revising the requirement for mandatory hearings on all applications could expedite processes, allowing for more efficient case management and resolution.
Improved Infrastructure: Investing in adequate courtrooms and permanent support staff is essential to enhance operational capacity and ensure that tribunals can function effectively within the broader economic framework.
What reforms are necessary to transform the IBC into a proactive economic tool?
Reassessment of Tribunal Structure: A comprehensive review of the NCLT and NCLAT structures is needed to align them with current economic realities and demands, potentially increasing their sanctioned strength and operational hours.
Focus on Domain Expertise in Appointments: Reforming the appointment process for tribunal members to prioritise candidates with relevant experience in insolvency matters will enhance decision-making quality.
Encouraging Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): Promoting alternative dispute resolution methods within the insolvency framework can help manage caseloads more effectively while providing quicker resolutions for stakeholders.
Legislative Amendments: Continuous legislative amendments should be made based on empirical data and stakeholder feedback to address emerging challenges within the IBC framework.
Cultural Shift Towards Credit Discipline: Encouraging a cultural shift that emphasizes credit discipline among borrowers will support a healthier economic environment conducive to investment and growth.
Way forward:
Strengthen Institutional Capacity and Expertise: Enhance the operational capacity of NCLT and NCLAT by increasing strength by appointing members with domain expertise, and providing adequate infrastructure and support staff to streamline case management and reduce delays.
Promote Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): Integrate mandatory mediation and other ADR mechanisms within the IBC framework to alleviate tribunal workload, ensure quicker resolutions, and foster a collaborative insolvency ecosystem.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) plans to use blockchain technology (DLT) to track and manage customer preferences for blocking spam, according to its chairman, Anil Kumar Lahoti.
What is the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)?
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) plays a crucial role in regulating Unsolicited Commercial Communications (UCC), commonly referred to as spam. Established under the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997.
What is TRAI’s role in fighting spam?
Do-Not-Disturb (DND) Registry: Launched in 2007, the DND registry allows customers to opt out of receiving commercial calls and messages. Users who register are not supposed to receive any spam communications.
Telecom Commercial Communication Customer Preference Regulation (TCCCPR): Enacted in 2018, this regulation penalizes telemarketers who violate DND preferences. It includes warnings for offenders and potential blacklisting from sending messages if they accumulate enough violations.
DND App Development: TRAI collaborated with external agencies to create a DND application that enables users to register their preferences and report complaints. By 2024, it became mandatory for telecom providers to include DND reporting features in their apps.
What role does blockchain play?
TRAI has mandated the use of Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) to enhance its spam control measures:
Immutable Record Keeping: Blockchain technology allows for a constantly updated and tamper-proof list of approved SMS senders and message formats. This ensures that only legitimate messages are sent, as each entry is unalterable by any party involved.
Message Traceability: Regulations require that messages be sent using sender IDs instead of phone numbers, enhancing traceability. This measure helps prevent unauthorized entities from sending spam by ensuring that all message origins are recorded.
Enhanced Regulations: In 2024, TRAI tightened regulations to ensure complete traceability of messages, addressing previous loopholes that allowed fraudulent registrations on blockchain systems
What are the other steps taken by the government to end spam?
Sanchar Saathi Portal: This portal includes a reporting platform called Chakshu for complaints about fraudulent calls and messages. It collaborates with law enforcement and banks to identify and cancel numbers associated with unauthorised telemarketers.
Real-Time Monitoring: The establishment of the Telecom Security Operation Centre enables real-time monitoring of suspicious internet traffic, enhancing the government’s ability to respond promptly to spam-related threats.
AI-Based Detection: Telecom companies like Airtel have begun using Artificial Intelligence to label suspicious calls as “Suspected Spam,” a practice that is being adopted by other providers as well.
Way forward:
Strengthen International Collaboration: Partner with global VoIP providers and international regulators to curb spam and fraudulent calls originating from abroad, ensuring seamless enforcement across borders.
Promote AI and ML Integration: Expand the use of AI/ML technologies for proactive detection and blocking of spam calls and messages, while continuously improving user-friendly reporting mechanisms.
Mains PYQ:
Q For achieving the desired objectives,it is necessary to ensure that the regulatory institutions remain independent and autonomous. Discuss in the light of experiences in recent past. (UPSC IAS/2015)
Mains GS2: Statutory, Regulatory & Various Quasi-Judicial Bodies
Why in the News?
Non-BJP-led State governments oppose the UGC’s draft regulation on vice chancellors’ appointments, claiming it violates constitutional federal principles, and have called for its immediate withdrawal.
What are the aims and objectives behind the University Grants Commission Act, 1956?
The University Grants Commission (UGC) Act, 1956 was established to regulate and improve higher education in India. Its key aims and objectives are:
Coordination and Standardization: Ensuring the coordination and determination of standards in universities to maintain quality education.
Promotion of University Education: Taking steps to promote, develop, and coordinate university education across the country.
Allocation of Funds: Allocating financial resources for the maintenance and development of universities.
Advisory Role: Advising Union and State governments on grant allocation for general or specific purposes in higher education.
Information Collection: Gathering and disseminating information on university education within India and abroad for institutional improvement.
Regulation of Fees: Regulating fees to ensure accessibility and fairness in higher education.
What are the crucial point that needs to be considered?
Jurisdiction of UGC: The UGC’s authority to regulate the selection and appointment of vice-chancellors is questionable since the UGC Act does not explicitly include these provisions. The primary focus of the Act is on maintaining educational standards, not on administrative appointments.
Consistency with UGC Act: Any regulation made by the UGC must align with the provisions of the UGC Act. If a regulation extends beyond the scope of the Act, it could be deemed ultra vires (beyond legal authority) and thus invalid.
Federal Principles: The proposed regulations have raised concerns about violating federal principles enshrined in the Constitution of India, as they may interfere with state legislations that govern universities.
Legislative Authority: Qualifications and selection criteria for vice chancellors are typically established by state legislatures, highlighting a potential overreach by the UGC in its regulatory role.
Impact on Educational Standards: The selection and appointment of vice-chancellors should not be viewed as directly impacting educational standards, which is the primary mandate of the UGC.
Judicial Precedents: Previous court rulings, including those from the Bombay High Court and the Supreme Court, have established important legal precedents regarding the relationship between UGC regulations and state laws, emphasizing that subordinate legislation cannot override state legislation.
Constitutional Questions: There are ongoing constitutional debates regarding whether UGC regulations can override state laws and how such conflicts should be resolved under Article 254 of the Constitution, which addresses repugnancy between central and state laws.
What is the present ruling made by the judiciary?
The judiciary has provided significant rulings concerning the University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations, particularly regarding the selection and appointment of vice-chancellors.
Kalyani Mathivanan Case (2015): The Supreme Court ruled that UGC regulations have a binding effect on universities. This ruling emphasized that subordinate legislation, such as UGC regulations, must be adhered to by the universities under its jurisdiction.
Bombay High Court Ruling (2011): In the case of Suresh Patilkhede vs. The Chancellor Universities of Maharashtra, the court stated that UGC regulations cannot override state legislation. It highlighted that Regulation 7.3.0, being subordinate legislation, does not have the authority to supersede laws enacted by state legislatures.
Constitutional Context: The rulings also touched upon Article 254 of the Constitution, which deals with repugnancy between central and state laws. It clarified that only a law passed by both Houses of Parliament and assented to by the President can override state legislation, not subordinate regulations like those issued by the UGC.
Note:Regulation 7.3.0 pertains to the selection and appointment of Vice Chancellors in universities. Its provisions aim to establish minimum qualifications and a transparent process for such appointments, particularly to ensure the maintenance of academic and administrative standards in higher education institutions.
Way forward:
Collaborative Federal Framework: Establish a consensus-driven approach between the UGC and State governments to ensure that regulations respect federal principles while upholding academic standards. This can involve creating joint committees for resolving conflicts and aligning policies.
Judicial Clarity and Legislative Reforms: Seek a definitive constitutional interpretation of the UGC’s regulatory scope through the judiciary, and, if needed, amend the UGC Act to explicitly define its role in administrative matters, ensuring consistency with the federal structure.
The National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) has introduced the Internet Governance Internship and Capacity Building Scheme, aiming to enhance awareness and develop expertise in Internet Governance (IG) among Indian citizens.
About Internet Governance Internship and Capacity Building (IGICB) Scheme:
Details
About the Scheme
Launched by National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) under MeitY.
Aims to build expertise in Internet Governance (IG) and enable global participation.
Aims and Objectives:
Develop Expertise: Build Indian talent in Internet Governance.
Enhance Global Participation: Collaborate with organisations like ICANN, ISOC, and IETF.
Promote Digital Inclusivity: Ensure India’s representation in global forums.
Mains GS3: GS3-17.Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, Robotics, Nano-technology, Bio-technology and issues relating to Intellectual Property Rights.
Why in the News?
Deep-sea researchers have initiated a groundbreaking project to explore dark oxygen, a form of oxygen produced in complete darkness on the ocean floor.
What is Dark Oxygen?
Dark oxygen refers to oxygen produced at extreme ocean depths without the involvement of photosynthesis.
This process occurs in total darkness on the ocean floor, challenging the traditional understanding that sunlight is necessary for oxygen generation.
It was first discovered in 2024 by researchers studying deep-sea environments.
The strange nodules found at a depth of 13,000 feet act like natural batteries, splitting water molecules into oxygen and hydrogen using electrical charges.
These nodules function in areas where light does not penetrate, under extreme pressure and low-temperature conditions.
Occurrence:
Found in specific deep-sea zones, particularly in regions characterized by unique electrochemical activity.
Occurs in places previously considered incapable of supporting oxygenproduction.
Features and Significance of Dark Oxygen:
Unlike traditional oxygen production, dark oxygen does not rely on photosynthesis or sunlight.
It is driven by electrochemical reactions occurring naturally in the ocean floor.
Strange nodules on the ocean floor possess an electric charge, enabling them to split water molecules into oxygen and hydrogen.
The process releases hydrogen, which could potentially serve as an energy source for microbial life in these regions.
PYQ:
[2012] Which one of the following sets of elements was primarily responsible for the origin of life on the Earth?
Mains GS3: GS3-19.Disaster and Disaster Management.
Why in the News?
The 1st Battalion of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) celebrated its 20th Raising Day.
About theNational Disaster Response Force (NDRF)
Details
About
Constituted under Section 44 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005 for specialized disaster response.
Functions under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and is headed by a Director General (DG), typically an IPS officer.
Initially established in 2006 with 8 battalions, now expanded to 16 battalions.
Operates under the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), chaired by the Prime Minister.
Powers and Functions
Primary Role: Rescue and relief operations during natural and man-made disasters such as floods, cyclones, earthquakes, landslides, building collapses, and accidents.
Strategic Deployment: Resources are pre-positioned during imminent disaster situations to minimize damage.
Active in international relief efforts, including the 2011 Fukushima disaster and the 2015 Nepal Earthquake.
Provides multi-skilled, highly specialized responses, with capabilities for handling complex disaster scenarios.
Composition
Consists of 16 battalions, each with 1,149 personnel.
Personnel are drawn from Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs): CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP, SSB, and Assam Rifles.
Members are trained in disaster response, relief, and recovery operations.
Focus on proactive availability and pre-positioning during disasters to ensure quick response.
IMPORTANT: National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF)
The NDRF is a statutory body constituted under the Disaster Management Act, 2005.
It supplements State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) of a State, in case of a disaster of severe nature, provided adequate funds are not available in SDRF.
The July 2015 guidelines states that natural calamities of cyclone, drought, earthquake, fire, flood, tsunami, hailstorm, landslide, avalanche, cloud burst, pest attack and cold wave and frost will qualify for immediate relief assistance from NDRF.
NDRF is managed in the “Public Accounts” under “Reserve Funds not bearing interest”.
The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) audits the accounts of NDRF.
PYQ:
[2020] Discuss the recent measures initiated in disaster management by the Government of India departing from the earlier reactive approach.
Q) Religious indoctrination via social media has resulted in Indian youth joining ISIS. What is ISIS and its mission? How can ISIS be dangerous to the internal security of our country? (UPSC CSE 2015)
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on Religious indoctrination (2015), and ‘tolerance, assimilation and pluralism ’ (2022).
When the Taliban seized power on August 15, 2021, despite an Islamic State attack killing 13 U.S. troops and $7.1 billion in U.S. weaponry left behind, global powers like the U.S., China, and Russia engaged with the Taliban. The West rationalized this as a move to curb terrorism and support women’s and minorities’ rights, prioritizing pragmatism over democracy.
Today’s editorial talks about radicalism around the world and its impact on democratic values. This content will be helpful in substantiation the answer in GS Mains paper 2 the impact of radicalism around the world.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The recent surge in radical governments worldwide is a notable trend, reflecting a broader discontent with traditional political systems and a shift towards populism and far-right ideologies.
What factors are contributing to the rise of radical and populist governments globally?
Political Vacuum and Instability: The collapse of established governments, as seen in Afghanistan and Syria, creates a power vacuum that radical groups exploit. The Taliban’s takeover in Afghanistan and the recent rise of Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) in Syria illustrate how instability can lead to the emergence of radical leadership.
International Legitimization: Once radical groups seize power, there is often a tendency among global powers to engage with them, legitimizing their authority despite their past actions. The U.S., China, and Russia’s willingness to work with the Taliban post-2021 exemplifies this trend, as they justified engagement as a means to promote stability and human rights.
Economic Factors: Economic hardship and lack of opportunities can fuel support for radical ideologies. In regions where traditional governance structures fail to provide for citizens, extremist groups may present themselves as viable alternatives.
Religious and Ethnic Polarization: The rise of religious hate and ethnic divisions contributes to the appeal of radical movements. In Bangladesh, for instance, the resurgence of Islamic radicalism is linked to a backdrop of rising religiophobia against non-Abrahamic religions.
How did the radical governments impact democratic institutions in Syria and Bangladesh?
Erosion of Democratic Norms: In both Syria and Bangladesh, the rise of radical groups has led to the dismantling of democratic institutions. The HTS’s control over Syria has resulted in authoritarian governance reminiscent of previous regimes, while the military-led government in Bangladesh threatens to undermine democratic processes established since 2008.
Suppression of Civil Liberties: Radical governments often impose restrictions on freedoms, particularly targeting women and minority rights. The Taliban’s denial of girls’ education and restrictions on women’s rights post-takeover reflect this pattern, while similar threats loom in Bangladesh under military rule.
Manipulation of Political Discourse: Radical groups often use anti-establishment rhetoric to galvanize support, leading to increased polarization within society. In Bangladesh, extremist factions are attempting to regain influence by attacking minority communities and framing their actions in opposition to India, which complicates national unity.
Way forward:
Strengthening Democratic Institutions: For countries like Bangladesh, reinforcing democratic norms and institutions is crucial. International support should focus on promoting inclusive governance that respects minority rights and prevents the resurgence of extremist ideologies1.
Engagement with Civil Society: Encouraging dialogue with civil society organizations can help build resilience against radicalization. Empowering grassroots movements that advocate for democracy and human rights can counteract extremist narratives.
International Cooperation: A coordinated international approach is necessary to address the root causes of radicalization. This includes economic support for development, promoting education, and fostering political stability without legitimizing extremist groups through engagement that overlooks their past actions.
Mains GS2: GS2-20.Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.
Why in the News?
According to the International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) Global Estimates on International Migrant Workers, released in Geneva, the global population of international migrants reached 284.5 million in 2022, with 255.7 million of them being of working age (15 and older).
Why are there more male International Migrants in the global labour force than women?
Gender Roles and Norms: Traditional gender roles and societal norms often restrict women’s ability to migrate autonomously. Women are frequently expected to prioritize family responsibilities, which limits their opportunities for international migration and labor market participation.
Labour Market Segmentation: Women are often concentrated in specific sectors such as domestic work, caregiving, and low-skilled service jobs, which are undervalued and less visible.
Men, on the other hand, dominate higher-paying sectors like construction and agriculture, which are more open to international migrants.
Barriers to Employment: As per ILO, Migrant women face higher unemployment rates (8.7%) compared to migrant men (6.2%), due to factors such as language barriers, unrecognised qualifications, limited childcare options, and gender-based discrimination in host countries.
Economic and Social Independence: Women’s migration decisions are influenced by their access to resources and social networks. A lack of autonomy or financial independence can hinder their ability to migrate for work.
In some cases, women migrate as dependents or spouses of male workers, which limits their access to legal employment opportunities in the host country.
Which economic sectors attract IMs?
Construction: The construction industry employs a significant number of male migrants, particularly in regions with rapid urbanisation and infrastructure projects. This sector, part of the 35.6% of male migrant employment in industry, plays a vital role in economic expansion.
Agriculture: Globally, 7.1% of international migrants work in agriculture, with higher figures in regions like Africa, where 27.5% are employed in agriculture, forestry, and fishing. Migrants are crucial for meeting seasonal labour demands.
Manufacturing: Manufacturing heavily relies on migrant workers in industrialized nations, with migrants filling manual labour and skill-specific roles. This sector highlights the alignment of migrant labour with economic development needs.
Services Sector: Approximately 68.4% of international migrants are employed in the services sector, compared to 51.5% of non-migrants. This sector includes a wide range of occupations, but it is particularly noted for:
Care Work: A significant number of migrant women are employed in caregiving roles, which include healthcare and domestic services. About 28.8% of migrant women work in the care economy.
Hospitality and Retail: Many migrants find employment in hotels, restaurants, and retail stores, especially in high-demand tourist areas.
Which are the main host countries?
Approximately 68.4% of international migrants are concentrated in high-income countries followed by 17.4% (29.2 million) in upper-middle-income countries.
Regional Distribution of Migrant Workers (2022): International migrants in the labour force were primarily concentrated in Europe and Central Asia (34.5%, 57.8 million), followed by the Americas (27.3%, 45.8 million), Asia and the Pacific (16.2%, 27.2 million), the Arab States (13.5%, 22.6 million), and Africa (8.5%, 14.3 million). The majority resided in Northern, Southern, and Western Europe (23.3%), Northern America (22.6%), and the Arab States (13.5%), collectively hosting 59.4% of all migrant workers.
Significant Proportions in Labor Forces: Migrants formed more than one-third (37.2%) of the Arab States’ labour force. Significant proportions were also observed in Europe and Central Asia (12.9%) and the Americas (9%), highlighting their vital role in these economies.
Conclusion: Governments and international organizations should implement gender-responsive migration policies that address barriers faced by women. This includes creating support systems for childcare, recognizing foreign qualifications, and ensuring equal access to legal employment opportunities in host countries.
Mains PYQ:
Q “Success of make in India program depends on the success of Skill India programme and radical labour reforms.” Discuss with logical arguments. (UPSC IAS/2015)
