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  • Tribes in News

    Andaman’s Onge Tribe

    Prelims Only | Indian Society | Mains Paper 1: Salient features of Indian Society

    Why in the news?

    The king and queen of the “Onge tribe” welcomed a baby boy in the Andaman Islands, marking a significant moment for the tribe. With the arrival of the newborn, the tribe’s total population now stands at 136, as confirmed by an official source.

    About Onge Tribe 

    • The Onge are PVTGs (Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups) native to the Andaman Islands.
    • They have traditionally been hunter-gatherers and fishers, while also practising cultivation.
    • Their population significantly decreased after colonization, from 672 in 1901 to around 100.
    • They practice a form of animism, with ancestor worship being significant.
    • They traditionally make decisions through group consensus.
    • Today, the surviving members are confined to two reserve camps on Little Andaman: Dugong Creek in the northeast, and South Bay.
    • Genetically, the Onge are distantly related to East Asian populations and show affinities with Southeast Asian Negrito ethnic groups.

    Other Indigenous People of Andaman and Nicobar

    1. Great Andamanese Tribe

    • One of the largest tribes, the Great Andamanese tribe is currently settled on the Strait Island under the Andaman & Nicobar Administration. Despite their historic bravery, diseases and other challenges have reduced their population to 43 individuals as of the 2001 census.
    • Government initiatives: The administration provides housing, coconut plantations, and rationing to support their livelihoods and well-being.

    2. Jarwas Tribe

    • Jarwas inhabit the Western coast of the Middle and South Andaman Islands. They are known to be hostile but have shown receptivity to friendly contact expeditions since 1974. Their present numbers are estimated at between 250–400 individuals.
    • Jarwas are nomadic hunters and gatherers, using traditional methods like bows and arrows for hunting and fishing.

    3. Sentinelese Tribe

    • Sentinelese reside on the small North Sentinel Island, maintaining a wary stance towards outsiders.
    • Despite initial scepticism, contact expeditions have made progress since 1991, albeit with caution.

    Note: Shompen Tribe are native to the Nicobar Islands.

    Who are the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)?

    • These groups are among the most vulnerable sections of our society as they are few in number, and have not attained any significant level of social and economic development.
    • They generally inhabit remote localities having poor infrastructure and administrative support.
    • 75 such groups have been identified and categorized as Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).

    Origin of the concept

    • The Dhebar Commission (1960-1961) stated that within Scheduled Tribes there existed an inequality in the rate of development.
    • During the fourth Five Year Plan (1969-74) a sub-category was created within Scheduled Tribes to identify groups that were considered to be at a lower level of development.
    • This sub-category was named “Primitive tribal group”.
    • In 2006 the government of India proposed to rename PVTGs.

    Features of PVTGs

    • The features of such a group include a:
    1. Pre-agricultural system of existence
    2. The practice of hunting and gathering
    3. Zero or negative population growth
    4. Extremely low level of literacy in comparison with other tribal groups
    • Groups that satisfied any one of the criteria were considered PTG.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] Consider the following statements about Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India:

    1. PVTGs reside in 18 States and one Union Territory.
    2. A stagnant or declining population is one of the criteria for determining PVTG status.
    3. There are 95 PVTGs officially notified in the country so far.
    4. Irular and Konda Reddi tribes are included in the list of PVTGs.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    (a) 1, 2 and 3

    (b) 2, 3 and 4

    (c) 1, 2 and 4

    (d) 1, 3 and 4

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-ASEAN

    Preparing for ASEAN-India FTA Review

    IOCR | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    Why in the News?

    The Commerce Department is gearing up for the upcoming negotiations on the ASEAN-India FTA review. The ASEAN-India FTA, while beneficial, has led to a widening trade deficit for India.

    ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITGA):

    • The AITGA, signed in 2009 and effective in 2010, aims to reduce tariffs and non-tariff barriers on goods between ASEAN and India, covering sectors like agriculture, textiles, electronics, and machinery.
    • AITGA is an important component of the ASEAN-India Free Trade Area (AIFTA), which aims to create a single market for goods and services among ASEAN and India.

    Major Concern: Growing Trade Deficit

    • Since the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITGA), India has been facing a growing trade deficit.
    • The trade deficit means India is importing more than it is exporting. In 2022-23, India imported goods worth US$87.57 billion, while it exported US$44 billion.
    • In 2022-23, ASEAN made up 11.3% of India’s global trade. This deficit has grown a lot this year.

    Because of this, there’s a need to urgently review and change the current trade setup between ASEAN and India.

    Key Areas of Negotiation

    • Rules of Origin (ROO): Modifications in ROO are planned to increase market access for Indian products and prevent the rerouting of goods, particularly from China, through ASEAN countries.
    • Trade Remedies: A new chapter on trade remedies will aim to protect domestic industries from unfair trade practices and import surges.
    • Exclusion of New Areas: The agreement will not expand to cover additional areas like labour, environment, MSMEs, or gender to avoid complicating the pact.

     

    About ASEAN

    Details
    Establishment Established in 1967 with the signing of the ASEAN Declaration (Bangkok Declaration).
    Chairmanship Rotates annually among member states based on alphabetical order of their names.
    Objective To promote political and economic cooperation and regional stability among member countries.
    Members
    • Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam.
    • East Timor (Timor-Leste) applied for membership in 2011 but is not yet a member.
    Objectives
    • Accelerate economic growth, social progress, and cultural development.
    • Promote regional peace and stability based on the rule of law and the UN charter.
    • Establish an ASEAN community comprising three pillars: ASEAN security, economic, and socio-cultural.
    ASEAN Charter
    • Launched in 2008 to create a legal entity and establish a single free-trade area for the region.
    • ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) was established in 2009.
    • Adopted the ASEAN Human Rights Declaration in 2012.
    ASEAN Plus Six
    • ASEAN Plus Three initiated integration efforts with East Asian countries (China, Japan, and South Korea).
    • Expanded to the East Asia Summit (EAS) including ASEAN Plus Three, India, Australia, and New Zealand.
    India and ASEAN
    • A key pillar of India’s foreign policy and the foundation of Act East Policy.
    • India has a separate Mission to ASEAN and the East Asia Summit (EAS) in Jakarta.
    • ASEAN is India’s fourth-largest trading partner.
    Delhi Declaration Identifies Cooperation in the Maritime Domain as a key area of cooperation under the ASEAN-India strategic partnership.
    Delhi Dialogue Annual Track 1.5 event for discussing politico-security and economic issues between ASEAN and India.
    ASEAN-India Centre (AIC) Undertakes policy research, advocacy, and networking activities with organizations and think tanks in India and ASEAN.
    Strategic Cooperation India places ASEAN at the centre of its Indo-Pacific vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR).

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] Consider the following countries:

    1. Australia
    2. Canada
    3. China
    4. India
    5. Japan
    6. USA

    Which of the above are among the ‘free-trade partners’ of ASEAN?

    (a) 1, 2, 4 and 5

    (b) 3, 4, 5 and 6

    (c) 1, 3, 4 and 5

    (d) 2, 3, 4 and 6

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  • Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc

    President appoints Narendra Modi as PM-Designate

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure

    Why in the News?

    Narendra Modi will take the oath as the Prime Minister for a third consecutive term, following an invitation from President Droupadi Murmu to form the government.

    Constitutional Provisions for PM Post

    • Article 75: It states that the President shall appoint the Prime Minister, who is usually the leader of the majority party in the Lok Sabha (House of the People).
    • Article 74: The Prime Minister is the head of the Council of Ministers and provides advice to the President on matters of governance.

    Appointment of the Prime Minister

    The appointment of the Prime Minister of India involves specific constitutional provisions supervised by the President. Key features related to the appointment of the Prime Minister as mentioned in the Constitution of India include:

    • The Prime Minister is appointed permanently by the President of India.
    • The President invites the leader of the majority party in the Lok Sabha to form the government.
    • If no political party holds a majority, the President can use discretionary powers to appoint the Prime Minister.
    • The President may invite the leader of the largest party or coalition to seek a vote of confidence from the Lok Sabha, with a tenure of about a month to secure this vote.

    Position of Prime Minister in India’s Democratic set-up         

    • Head of Government: The Prime Minister is the chief executive authority in the country, responsible for leading the government and overseeing the functioning of various ministries and departments.
    • Leader of the Council of Ministers: The Prime Minister is the leader of the Council of Ministers, which comprises cabinet ministers, ministers of state, and deputy ministers. They coordinate the activities of the government and guide policy decisions.
    • Advisor to the President: While the President of India is the head of state, the Prime Minister acts as the president’s chief advisor and assists in exercising executive powers.
    • Principal Link between President and Parliament: The Prime Minister communicates the decisions of the Council of Ministers to the President and represents the government in Parliament.
    • Symbol of Unity and Stability: The Prime Minister symbolizes the unity and stability of the country’s governance. They provide leadership and direction to the nation, fostering a sense of unity and purpose among the citizens.
    • International Representation: The Prime Minister represents India on the international stage and plays a significant role in foreign policy formulation. They engage in diplomatic relations, attend international summits, and represent India’s interests globally.
    • Crisis Management: During times of crisis, such as natural disasters, security threats, or economic challenges, the Prime Minister takes charge of crisis management efforts and leads the government’s response to address the situation.

    Powers and Functions of the Prime Minister

    The Indian Constitution outlines the powers and functions of the Prime Minister, who is appointed by the President and holds significant authority over the President, Council of Ministers, and parliamentary houses. These powers include:

    • Function Relative to the President: The Prime Minister serves as the main channel of communication between the President and the Council of Ministers, overseeing the administration of Union affairs and appointing key administrative officials.
    • Functions Relative to the Council of Ministers: The Prime Minister advises on the nomination and selection of Council Ministers, can allocate and shuffle ministerial departments, and has the authority to demand resignations from ministers. The resignation of the Prime Minister leads to the dissolution of the Council of Ministers.
    • Parliamentary Functions: The Prime Minister leads the lower parliamentary house (Lok Sabha), can suggest the dissolution of the Lok Sabha, and is responsible for announcing and introducing government policies in parliamentary sessions.
    • Miscellaneous Functions: The Prime Minister holds additional roles such as chairman of the National Water Resource Council, NITI Aayog, National Integration Council, Inter-State Council, and NDA, among others.

    Appointment, Tenure, and Removal

    Eligibility: According to Articles 84 and 75 of the Constitution of India, the Prime Minister must:

    • Be a citizen of India.
    • Be a member of the Lok Sabha or the Rajya Sabha, or become a member within six months of selection.
    • Be above 25 years of age if a Lok Sabha member, or above 30 years if a Rajya Sabha member.
    • Not hold any office of profit under the government of India or any state government.

    Oaths of Office and Secrecy:

    Before entering office, the Prime Minister must take an oath of office and secrecy in the presence of the President of India, as per the Third Schedule of the Constitution.

    Tenure and Removal from Office:

    • The Prime Minister serves at the “pleasure of the President,” but must maintain the confidence of the Lok Sabha.
    • The term can end if a simple majority of Lok Sabha members no longer have confidence in the Prime Minister, known as a vote of no-confidence.
    • A Prime Minister can also resign from office. Morarji Desai was the first to do so while in office.
    • Additionally, ceasing to meet the qualifications under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, can lead to removal from office.

    PYQ:

    [2015] Consider the following statements:

    1. The Executive Power of the union of India is vested in the Prime Minister.
    2. The Prime Minister is the ex officio Chairman of the Civil Services Board.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

    [2019] Consider the following statements:

    1. The 44th Amendment to the Constitution of India introduced an Article placing the election of the Prime Minister beyond judicial review.
    2. The Supreme Court of India struck down the 99th Amendment to the Constitution of India as being violative of the independence of judiciary.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

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  • In news: Volkhov River

    Prelims OnlyWorld Mapping | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Why in the News?

    Four medical students from India studying in a university in Russia drowned in Volkhov River near St. Petersburg.

    About Volkhov River

    • The Volkhov River is a significant waterway in northwestern Russia.
    • It is located in the Leningrad Oblast and Novgorod Oblast of Russia, in the northwestern part of the country.
    • It stretches approximately 224 kilometers (139 miles) from Lake Ilmen to Lake Ladoga.
    • Origin: It flows out of Lake Ilmen north into Lake Ladoga, the largest lake in Europe.
    • Tributaries: The Msta River is the largest tributary of the Volkhov.
    • Major Cities: Several cities and settlements are situated along the banks of the Volkhov River, including Novgorod, Veliky Novgorod, and Volkhov.

    PYQ:

    [2020] Consider the following pairs:

    River – Flows into

    1. Mekong – Andaman sea
    2. Thames – Irish Sea
    3. Volga – Caspian Sea
    4. Zambezi – Indian Ocean

    Which of the pairs above is/are correctly matched?

    (a) Only 1

    (b) Only 2

    (c) 3 Only

    (d) None of the above/More than one of the above.

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-Canada

    India second-biggest foreign threat to Canadian democracy: report

    Explained | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    Why in the news?

    A parliamentary committee report in Canada has claimed India as the second-biggest foreign threat to the country’s democracy.

    About the Khalistan Movement

    • Origins and Objectives: The Khalistan Movement is a separatist movement seeking to create an independent Sikh state called Khalistan in the Punjab region of India.
    • Activities in Canada: Canada has a significant Sikh population, and some members support the Khalistan Movement. This has led to tensions between Canadian Sikhs and the Indian government.
    • Notable Incident: The murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a pro-Khalistan ideologue, in Surrey, British Columbia, on June 18, 2023, intensified these tensions.

    Historical Background

    • Canada and India established diplomatic relations in 1947. The relationship was enhanced by personal ties between Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Canadian Prime Ministers Louis St. Laurent and Lester B. Pearson in the 1940s and 1960s.
    • Canada provided significant aid to India under the “Colombo Plan”, including food aid, project financing, and technical assistance. India has been one of the largest recipients of Canadian bilateral aid, amounting to over $3.8 billion CAD.

    Recent Developments

    • India and Canada have seen significant growth in bilateral trade, reaching $8.16 billion in 2023.
    • Canada is home to over 1.2 million people of Indian origin, who are well-integrated into the mainstream and active in politics.
    • The two countries have a strategic partnership underpinned by shared values of democracy and pluralism, with regular high-level interactions and long-standing people-to-people ties.
    • India and Canada have signed several agreements, including the Air Services Agreement, Extradition Treaty, Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty, and Nuclear Cooperation Agreement.

    Challenges

    • Interference Allegations: Canada claims that India has expanded its interference efforts beyond countering pro-Khalistani activities to include targeting Canadian politicians, ethnic media, and Indo-Canadian communities.
    • Mutual Suspicion: The Canadian Security Intelligence Service has also accused India of being involved in the election process in Canada, a claim denied by India.
    • Ethnic and Political Dynamics: The presence of a significant pro-Khalistan population in Canada complicates bilateral relations, with domestic politics in both countries influencing diplomatic interactions.

    India’s Stand

    • Denial of Allegations: The Indian government has consistently denied allegations of interference in Canadian affairs and the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
    • Counter-Terrorism: India views the Khalistan Movement as a terrorist threat and seeks to counter its activities both domestically and internationally.
    • Diplomatic Responses: In response to accusations from Canada, India has taken measures such as suspending visa services and issuing official statements to refute claims of interference.

    Way forward:

    • Regular Consultations: Establish a framework for regular high-level meetings between Indian and Canadian officials to address mutual concerns and prevent misunderstandings.
    • Bilateral Committees: Form joint committees to handle specific issues such as security concerns, immigration, and trade disputes.

    Mains question for practice:

    Q Discuss the origins and objectives of the Khalistan Movement and analyse the current challenges it poses to bilateral relations between India and Canada. 15M

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  • Capital Markets: Challenges and Developments

    Regulator SEBI expands promoter definition for IPO-bound companies    

    Explained | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    Why in the news?

    • SEBI expands promoter definition for IPO-bound companies, including founders holding 10% or more, and their immediate relatives.
      • According to current SEBI regulations, a promoter is someone who controls the affairs of the company or can appoint the majority of directors or is named as such in an offer document.

    What is an IPO?

    • An IPO is an initial public offering, in which shares of a private company are made available to the public for the first time.
    • An IPO allows a company to raise equity capital from public investors.
    • The Dutch are credited with conducting the first modern IPO by offering shares of the Dutch East India Company to the general public.

    What Norms Say

    • Expanded Definition of Promoter: The definition of a promoter has been expanded for companies preparing for an IPO. A promoter is someone who controls the company’s affairs, can appoint the majority of directors, or is named as such in an offer document.
    • Previous Criteria: Founders holding 25% were previously deemed promoters due to their negative control and power to block special resolutions.
    • New Criteria: Founders holding 10% or more must classify themselves as promoters if they are key managerial personnel (KMP) or directors in the company. Immediate relatives on the company board or KMP will also be classified as promoters, even if they hold just 1%.

    About Declassification and 31A of LODR (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations

    • Declassification Difficulty: The current regulations do not provide an easy path for declassifying a promoter as a public shareholder.
    • Rule 31A of LODR Regulations: To be declassified, a person must not hold more than 10% in the listed company along with their relatives.
    • Restrictive Nature: This restrictive rule makes declassification almost impossible for immediate relatives who are classified as promoters by virtue of their relationship, especially problematic for married daughters with no active role in the company.

    Issue Over Subjective Definition

    • Subjective Nature of Promoter Definition: The definition of a promoter has been historically subjective, leading to varying interpretations and legal disputes.
    • Court Rulings: There have been several court rulings addressing the subjective nature of who qualifies as a promoter, highlighting inconsistencies and complexities.
    • Complex Criteria: Accounting standards and regulatory criteria for determining control and influence in a company are often complicated and can be interpreted in multiple ways.
    • Need for Objectivity: Experts argue for a more objective test to ascertain control and promoter status, which would provide clearer guidelines and reduce disputes.
    • Example: Vinod Kothari, Director at Vinod Kothari Consultants, points out that moving towards an objective test is a positive step, given the current complexities in determining control.

    Way forward: 

    • Standardised Guidelines: Develop clear and standardised guidelines for identifying promoters, reducing subjectivity and ensuring consistency.
    • Detailed Disclosures: Mandate detailed disclosures from companies about their promoters, including shareholding patterns, roles, and influence in decision-making.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q In the light of Satyam Scandal (2009), discuss the changes brought in corporate governance to ensure transparency and accountability. (UPSC IAS/2015)

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  • Women empowerment issues – Jobs,Reservation and education

    The representation of women in the incoming Lok Sabha, how it compares to previous years

    Explained | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Parliament & State Legislatures

    Why in the news?

    Over time, there has been a general inclination towards enhancing women’s representation in the Lok Sabha. However, the advancement has been gradual and inconsistent.

    Women in Lok Sabha 2024 (PRS data):

    • Number of Women MPs: India has elected 74 women MPs to the Lok Sabha in 2024, which is four fewer than in 2019.
    • Percentage of Representation: Women MPs make up just 13.63% of the elected strength of the Lower House.
    • Party-wise Distribution: Women MPs come from 14 different parties, with the BJP leading with 31 women MPs, followed by the Congress with 13.

    Different Demographic Observations:

    • Trend in Representation: Over the years, there has been a slow and non-linear increase in women’s representation in the Lok Sabha.
    • Historical Trends: Women’s representation started at 4.41% in 1952 and peaked at 14.36% in 2019.
    • New Faces: Out of the 74 women MPs elected, 43 are first-time MPs, indicating a higher percentage of newcomers compared to the overall House.
    • Younger Representation: The average age of women MPs is 50 years, younger than the overall House age of 56 years.

    Comparison with Other Countries:

    • International Comparison: India lags behind several countries in terms of women’s representation, with countries like South Africa, the UK, and the US having higher percentages of women MPs.
    • Global Rankings: Women make up 46% of MPs in South Africa, 35% in the UK, and 29% in the US.

    What Needs to Be Done?

    • Increase in Representation: There is a need for greater efforts to increase women’s representation in the Lok Sabha to achieve gender parity.
    • Policy Measures: Implementation of policy measures such as reserving seats for women in the Lok Sabha could help improve representation.
    • Encouraging Participation: Encouraging more women to enter politics and providing support for their political careers can contribute to greater representation.
    • Education and Awareness: Promoting education and awareness about the importance of gender equality in politics is essential for fostering a more inclusive political environment.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q What are the continued challenges for Women in India against time and space?  (UPSC IAS/2019)

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  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    Will understanding Cancer become a data problem? 

    Explained | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Why in the news?

    WHO reports 33,000 new brain cancer cases yearly in India, highlighting widespread suffering.

    What is brain cancer?

    • Brain cancer, also known as primary brain cancer, is an overgrowth of cells in the brain that form masses called brain tumours.
    • It is different from secondary brain cancer, which occurs when cancer that began in another part of the body spreads to the brain

    The World Health Organization (WHO) Report:

    • Incidence of Brain Cancer: WHO reports approximately 33,000 new incidences of brain cancer annually in India.
    • Global Cancer Observatory 2020: Brain cancer ranks as the 19th most common type of cancer worldwide.

    Use of Data Analytical Tools in Diagnosis:

    • Potential of Data Analytics: Utilization of data analytical tools like Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) can simplify the diagnosis process.
    • Advantages: Data analysis can provide real-time results with precision, reducing the need for invasive procedures like surgeries.
    • Liquid Biopsy: The introduction of techniques like liquid biopsy offers a less invasive alternative to surgery, enhancing patient comfort.

    Impact on Risks, Discomfort, and Pain:

    • Reduction of Risks: Adoption of data analytics in diagnosis can lower the risks associated with invasive procedures, ranging from short-term paralysis to death.
    • Enhanced Patient Experience: By offering less invasive alternatives, such as liquid biopsy, patients and their families can experience reduced discomfort and pain during the diagnostic process.
    • Improved Precision: Data analytics enable clinicians to detect genetic patterns indicative of cancer cells, facilitating early detection and treatment planning, ultimately leading to better outcomes for patients.

    Way forward:

    • Emphasize the transformative potential of data analytics in oncology research, particularly in simplifying diagnosis and reducing risks and discomfort for patients.
    • Highlight the importance of leveraging innovative technologies like NGS to unlock new possibilities in cancer research and treatment.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q What are the research and developmental achievements in applied biotechnology? How will these achievements help to uplift the poorer sections of the society? (UPSC IAS/2021)

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  • OBOR Initiative

    Second Phase of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)

    Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: India & Its Neighborhood – Relations

    Why in the News?

    Pakistani PM is on a formal visit to China to attend the formal announcement of the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC-II).

    About CPEC-II

    • CPEC’s next phase shifts focus from infrastructure and energy to sectors like agriculture, Pakistan Railways’ Main Line-I (ML-1) upgrade, and realignment of the Karakorum Highway.
    • CPEC was initiated in 2015 as part of President Xi Jinping’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

    Why CPEC-II?

    • It will provide Pakistan with a strategic advantage in terms of trade and commerce
    • CPEC-II includes significant investments in the energy sector, which will help overcome Pakistan’s chronic power shortages and ensure a stable supply of electricity
    • Provides a shortcut for China’s access to the Persian Gulf to secure oil imports, and
    • Stimulate industrial and economic activity in Pakistan.

    Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)

    • The Belt and Road Initiative, formerly known as One Belt One Road, is a global infrastructure development strategy adopted by the Chinese government in 2013.
    • It will invest in nearly 70 countries and international organizations.
    • Infrastructure projects include ports, railways, highways, power stations, aviation and telecommunications.
    • “Belt” refers to the overland routes for road and rail transportation, called “the Silk Road Economic Belt”; whereas “road” refers to the sea routes or the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road.
    • The project has a target completion date of 2049 which coincides with the 100th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China.

    India’s Concerns

    • Sovereignty Concerns: India expresses reservations as CPEC traverses through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), challenging territorial sovereignty and potentially bolstering Pakistan’s claim over the region.
    • Geostrategic Implications: The expansion of Gwadar port under CPEC extends China’s “String of Pearls” around India, prompting concerns over regional power dynamics.

    CPEC’s Progress so Far

    • Mixed Outcomes: The initial phase of CPEC primarily addressed infrastructure, energy, and port development projects, with progress showing variations.
    • Project Status: While several power projects have been completed, significant delays and challenges persist in transport-related projects and Special Economic Zones (SEZs).

    Challenges and Roadblocks

    • Slow pace: Gwadar, despite being the epicentre of multibillion-dollar projects, lacks basic necessities like reliable access to water and electricity, let alone other facilities.
    • Baloch freedom movement: This is another impediment to the stalled project where Chinese officials are targeted and killed.
    • Consistent security threat: China is also seeking to deploy its Army in the CPEC projects, to which Pakistan has contested.

    PYQ:

    [2018] 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. (150 Words, 10 Marks)

    [2016] ‘Belt and Road Initiative’ is sometimes mentioned in the news in the context of the affairs of

    (a) African Union

    (b) Brazil

    (c) European Union

    (d) China

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  • Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

    In news: Mohiniyattam Dance

    Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Why in the News?

    A popular Mohiniyattam dancer in Kerala was refused bail against her alleged casteist remarks against the SC community.

    About Mohiniyattam

    Description
    Name Meaning Mohini – female enchantress avatar of Vishnu;

    Aattam – rhythmic motion or dance (Malayalam)
    Roots Natya Shastra, ancient Hindu Sanskrit text on performance arts
    Style Lasya Style – delicate, eros-filled, and feminine
    Performers Traditionally women, but men also perform in contemporary times
    Music Includes Carnatic music, singing, and enactment of plays through dance
    Language Manipravalam: a Malayalam-Sanskrit hybrid
    Posture Parted feet, gentle swaying of body, soft footwork synchronized with music beats
    Gestures Follow the classical text of Hastha Lakshanadeepika with elaborate mudras (hand gestures)
    Costumes Plain white or off-white sarees with golden brocade, pleated sheets for freedom of movement, adorned with jewellery
    Accessories Jewellery on fingers, wrists, neck, and ears, ankle bells (for female performers), dhotis and similar accessories (for male performers)
    Makeup Natural with brilliant red lips, tikka (Gobi) on the forehead, lined eyes
    Music Various rhythms and compositions in Manipravalam, accompanied by instruments like Mridangam, Idakka, flute, Veena, and Kuzhitalam
    Ragas Rendered in the Sopana Style, a slow melodic style rooted in the Natya Shastra

    Back2Basics: Classification of Classical Dances in India

    Classical Dance Form Origin Key Features
    Bharatanatyam Tamil Nadu
    • Ekaharya style with one dancer portraying multiple roles.
    • Intricate footwork, hand gestures (mudras), and facial expressions.
    • Traditional repertoire includes Alarippu, Jatiswaran, Shabda, Varna, Pada, Thillana, and Sloka.
    • Accompanied by the orchestra and conducted by Nattuvanar
    Kathak North India
    • Derived from the word “Katha,” meaning story
    • The blend of storytelling, footwork, and rhythmic patterns
    • The strong influence of Mughal and Persian culture
    • Solo performances with an emphasis on footwork and straight-legged movements
    Kathakali Kerala
    • A blend of dance, music, and acting
    • Elaborate makeup, costumes, and headgear
    • Enacts stories from Indian epics with specific facial colors for characters
    • Importance of hand gestures, facial expressions, and eye movements
    Kuchipudi Andhra Pradesh
    • Originated in Kuchipudi village, Andhra Pradesh
    • Dance-drama form with solo and group performances
    • Emphasis on storytelling, costumes, and ornaments
    • Includes solo items like Manduka Shabdam and Balgopala Taranga
    Odissi Odisha
    • Based on stories of Lord Vishnu and verses of Jayadeva’s Gita Govinda
    • Soft dance style with mudras and expressions similar to Bharatanatyam incorporates postures like Tribhanga and Chowk
    • Eminent performers include Sonal Mansingh and Kelucharan Mohapatra
    Sattriya Assam
    • Introduced by Vaishnava saint Sankaradeva for propagation of Vaishnava faith
    • Strictly governed by principles in hasta mudras, footwork, and costumes
    • Repertoire includes Bhaona-related and independent dance numbers
    • Prominent forms include Chali and Jhumura
    Manipuri Manipur
    • Associated with rituals, festivals, and creation myths
    • Lai Haraoba is the earliest form, reenacts the creation of the world
    • Rasleela dances originated in 18th-century Manipur
    • Popular forms include Ras, Sankirtana, and Thang-Ta with Kirtan accompaniment

     

    PYQ:

    [2012] How do you distinguish between Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam dances?

    1. Dancers occasionally speak dialogues is found in Kuchipudi dance but not in Bharatanatyam.
    2. Dancing on the brass plate by keeping the feet on its edges is a feature of Bharatanatyam but Kuchipudi dance does not have such a form of movement.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

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