People around the world paid tribute to Dr. Manmohan Singh, known for opening up India’s economy and making it a global player, who passed away at the age of 92.
How did Manmohan Singh’s reforms transform India’s economic landscape?
1991 Economic Liberalization (LPG): He abolished the “License Raj,” which required businesses to seek government approvals for setting up industries.
Example: The IT sector flourished, with companies like Infosys and Wipro gaining international prominence.
Tax Reforms and Currency Devaluation: Singh’s government implemented substantial tax cuts and devalued the Indian rupee to enhance competitiveness.
Example: Corporate tax was reduced from 50% (pre-1991) to around 35% by the mid-1990s, boosting business sentiment.
Welfare Schemes: Alongside economic liberalisation, Singh’s administration introduced welfare initiatives aimed at sharing the benefits of growth with the rural poor, thereby addressing socio-economic disparities.
Introduced schemes like MGNREGA (2005) and expanded rural credit, improving employment and poverty alleviation.
Poverty rates dropped from 37.2% (2004-05) to 21.9% (2011-12), and India’s middle class expanded significantly due to higher income levels.
Economy growth: As Finance Minister, in 1991 economic reforms addressed the balance-of-payments crisis by reducing the fiscal deficit from 8.4% of GDP (1991) to 5.7% (1993) and reviving GDP growth from 1.1% (1991-92) to 5.3% (1992-93) through measures such as dismantling industrial licensing, devaluing the rupee, and encouraging foreign investment.
How did he left a lasting imprint on external relations?
US-India Civil Nuclear Deal (2008): He played a pivotal role in finalising the Civil Nuclear Agreement, which ended India’s nuclear isolation and strengthened strategic ties with the United States.
It also marked a shift in global recognition of India as a responsible nuclear power.
Strengthening India’s Strategic Partnerships: Deepened ties with major global powers, including the US, EU, Japan, and Russia, enhancing India’s diplomatic and economic engagement globally.
Championing India’s Role in Global Governance: Advocated for reforms in international institutions like the UN, IMF, and World Bank to reflect the rising stature of emerging economies, particularly India.
His leadership elevated India’s voice in global forums like G20 and BRICS.
Focus on Regional and Economic Integration: Fostered closer economic and diplomatic ties with ASEAN, SAARC nations, and other Asian neighbours, reinforcing India’s position in regional trade and security frameworks.
His outreach contributed to India’s Act East Policy and improved relations with key partners in the Indo-Pacific region.
Conclusion: The Indian government should embrace Dr. Manmohan Singh’s legacy by prioritizing bold economic reforms, fostering global partnerships, and championing inclusive growth. Emphasizing strategic investments in infrastructure, skilling, and technology while deepening ties with regional and global partners can sustain long-term growth, reduce disparities, and solidify India’s leadership in global governance.
Mains PYQ:
Q Has the Indian governmental system responded adequately to the demands of Liberalization, Privatization and Globalization started in 1991? What can the government do to be responsive to this important change? (UPSC IAS/2016)
The US court ruling found the maker of Pegasus spyware guilty of hacking WhatsApp, while in India, the investigation ended quietly without any results.
What are the implications of the US court ruling against NSO Group?
Legal Accountability Established: The US District Court’s ruling that NSO Group is liable for hacking WhatsApp users marks a significant legal precedent. It affirms that private companies engaged in illegal surveillance can be held accountable in a court of law, which may encourage other jurisdictions to take similar actions against such entities.
Protection of Privacy Rights: The ruling underscores the importance of user privacy and proprietary technology protection. It emphasizes that courts can act decisively to safeguard individual rights against corporate malfeasance, setting a standard for privacy protection that could influence global norms.
Pressure on NSO Group: The verdict amplifies economic and operational pressures on NSO Group, potentially leading to stricter regulations and oversight of surveillance technology firms worldwide. This could deter similar future actions by other companies in the industry.
Why has India’s inquiry into the Pegasus allegations been ineffective?
Government Evasion: The Indian government’s refusal to confirm or deny the use of Pegasus spyware has significantly hampered any meaningful investigation. This silence has been framed as a matter of national security but is perceived as a deliberate evasion of accountability.
Lack of Cooperation: The Supreme Court’s appointed committee faced challenges due to the government’s lack of cooperation.
Key stakeholders like WhatsApp and Apple were not compelled to provide evidence or testimony, limiting the committee’s ability to draw conclusive findings.
Judicial Delays and Inaction: India’s judicial system is plagued by delays and inefficiencies, which have further stalled inquiries into Pegasus. Parliamentary debates have devolved into unproductive exchanges, failing to generate actionable outcomes.
What are the legislations related to spyware attacks in India?
Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act):
Section 43: Criminalizes unauthorized access to computer systems and networks, making hacking a punishable offense.
Section 66: Addresses cybercrime and provides penalties for violations of computer-related laws.
Section 69: Allows government agencies to intercept data on grounds of national security but does not authorize the installation of spyware like Pegasus on devices without proper oversight.
Information Technology (Procedure and Safeguards for Interception, Monitoring and Decryption of Information) Rules, 2009: These rules require that no interception can occur without the direction and approval of a competent authority, aiming to provide some level of oversight.
Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDPA): Recently passed in 2023, this act has faced criticism for allegedly providing legal cover for state surveillance while lacking robust protections for individual privacy rights. Critics argue that its vague language allows for arbitrary government.
What should be the next steps for Indian authorities following the US verdict? (Way forward)
Reinitiate Investigations: Indian authorities should consider reopening investigations into Pegasus with renewed vigour, leveraging insights from the US court ruling. This includes calling for transparency from technology companies involved in the case.
Engage with Stakeholders: Authorities should actively engage with WhatsApp, Apple, and other relevant parties to gather comprehensive evidence regarding the spyware’s use in India. This collaboration is crucial for establishing accountability.
Legislative Reforms: There is an urgent need for systemic reforms in surveillance laws and practices in India. Authorities should work towards creating robust frameworks that protect citizens’ privacy rights and establish clear guidelines for state surveillance activities.
Public Disclosure: To rebuild public trust, it is essential for the government to disclose findings from previous inquiries and commit to transparency moving forward. This includes making reports from technical committees publicly available
Mains PYQ:
Q Discuss different types of cyber crimes and measures required to be taken to fight the menace. (UPSC IAS/2020)
December 26, 2024, marks the 100th foundation day of the Communist Party of India (CPI). The CPI has played a pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle, social reforms, and political evolution.
About the Communist Party of India (CPI)
Reasons for Formation:
Founded on December 26, 1925, at the Kanpur Conference, inspired by the 1917 Russian Revolution.
Earlier efforts included the Tashkent group (1920) led by M.N. Roy and Abani Mukherji, supported by the Comintern (Communist International).
Faced early repression through cases like:
Kanpur Bolshevik Conspiracy Case (1924).
Meerut Conspiracy Case (1929–1933).
Dissatisfaction with Gandhian methods and moderate nationalism.
Inspiration from the Soviet Revolution (1917) and global socialist movements.
Split (1964):
Ideological rift during the Cold War over alignment with the Soviet Union or China.
Led to the creation of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) or CPI(M).
Prominent Leaders and Key Contributions
Prominent Leaders:
M.N. Roy (1920s): Founder of the Tashkent group; advocated socialism and anti-colonialism.
Abani Mukherji (1920s): Drafted the Indian Communist Manifesto.
S.A. Dange (1924): Founding CPI member; labour leader implicated in the Kanpur Conspiracy Case.
Muzaffar Ahmed (1920s): Mobilized workers and peasants; key figure in AITUC (1920).
Shaukat Usmani (1920s–1930s) and M. Singaravelu (1925): Early CPI activists.
Key Contributions:
Demand for Poorna Swaraj (1927):
Advocated for complete independence, influencing the Indian National Congress (INC).
Workers and Peasants Movements (1920s–1950s):
Mobilized workers through AITUC (1920) and peasants through All India Kisan Sabha (1936).
Led uprisings like the Telangana Rebellion (1946–1951).
Opposition to British Rule (1920s–1947):
Organized strikes and protests during the Quit India Movement (1942).
Achievements of CPI
In the First Lok Sabha (1952–57), CPI was the single largest opposition party.
In 1957, CPI won the state elections in Kerala, becoming the first democratically elected communist government in independent India.
Note: The All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), India’s oldest trade union federation, was founded in 1920 by Lala Lajpat Rai and others in Bombay to represent India at the ILO (International Labour Organisation).
PYQ:
[2018] Consider the following events:
The first democratically elected communist party government was formed in a State in India.
India’s then largest bank, ‘Imperial Bank of India’, was renamed ‘State Bank of India’.
Air India was nationalised and became the national carrier.
Goa became a part of independent India.
Which of the following is the correct chronological sequence of the above events?
UN Secretary-General paid tribute to Brigadier General Amitabh Jha of India, who died serving with the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in the Golan Heights.
About United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF)
The UNDOF is a peacekeeping mission established by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to oversee the implementation of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Syria following the 1973 Yom Kippur War.
The Yom Kippur War (October 6-24, 1973) was fought between Egypt and Israel (in the Sinai) and Israel and Syria (in the Golan Heights).
It operates in the Golan Heights, a region of strategic importance and long-standing contention.
The UNSC formally established UNDOF under Resolution 350 to:
Maintain the ceasefire.
Supervise the disengagement of forces.
Monitor the separation zones established by the agreement.
UNDOF became operational on June 6, 1974, with an initial deployment of approximately 1,200 personnel.
Its mandate is renewed every 6 months by the UNSC, emphasizing its ongoing role in maintaining stability.
Structural Mandate and Functions
UNDOF’s core responsibilities include:
Ceasefire Maintenance:
Monitor and ensure adherence to the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Syria.
Supervision of Disengagement:
Oversee the withdrawal of forces to their respective areas as per the 1974 Agreement on Disengagement.
Monitoring Areas of Separation and Limitation:
Area of Separation (AOS):
A demilitarized zone controlled by UNDOF, where no military activity is permitted.
Approx. 80 km long, ranging from 200 m to 8 km wide.
Marked by barrel lines for identification on the ground.
Areas of Limitation:
Zones on both Israeli and Syrian sides where the number of troops and types of weapons are restricted.
Functions:
Observation and Reporting:
Monitor troop movements and ensure no violations of the agreement occur.
Regularly report to the UN Secretary-General and the UNSC on ground conditions.
Civilian Assistance: Facilitate the return of Syrian civilians to their homes in the AOS under the agreement.
Verification of Compliance: Conduct inspections to ensure adherence to restrictions in Areas of Limitation.
Confidence-Building Measures: Act as a neutral party to reduce tensions between Israel and Syria.
Liaison Services: Maintain open communication channels between Israeli and Syrian forces to prevent misunderstandings or escalation.
PYQ:
[2015] The area known as ‘Golan Heights’ sometimes appears in the news in the context of the events is related to:
India’s fisheries sector, contributing to the livelihoods of over 3 crore fishers and producing a record 175 lakh tons of fish in 2022-23, is being strengthened through initiatives like Matsya Seva Kendras.
About Matsya Seva Kendra (MSK)
MSKs are one-stop centers established under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) to support fishers and fish farmers.
They provide a wide range of technical, advisory, and capacity-building services aimed at modernizing the fisheries sector and ensuring sustainable practices.
Role of MSKs:
Offer water, soil, and microbial analysis to address disease management and improve aquaculture productivity.
Conduct capacity-building programs for fishers, focusing on sustainable practices and advanced aquaculture techniques.
Empower women and weaker sections with 60% financial assistance for setting up MSKs.
Mobilize start-ups, cooperatives, and fish farmer producer organizations to share best practices.
Promote regenerative and conservation practices to tackle challenges posed by climate change.
The scheme aims to bring about a Blue Revolution through sustainable and responsible development of India’s fisheries sector.
It was launched as part of the ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat’ package with an investment of ₹20,050 crore, the highest-ever allocation for the fisheries sector.
It is implemented across all States and Union Territories from FY 2020-21 to FY 2024-25.
It provides insurance coverage, financial assistance, and Kisan Credit Card (KCC) facilities to fishers.
It is implemented as an umbrella scheme with two components:
Central Sector Scheme: Entirely funded by the Central Government.
Centrally Sponsored Scheme: Cost shared between the Centre and States/UTs.
How Do Sagar Mitras Support Fishers?
Sagar Mitras act as a vital link between the government and sea-borne fishers, facilitating access to information and resources in coastal regions.
Role of Sagar Mitras:
Collect data on marine catch, price trends, and market requirements.
Provide updates on local regulations, weather conditions, and potential fishing zones.
Educate fishers on hygienic fish handling, sustainable fishing techniques, and compliance with regulatory measures.
Act as a key contact during emergencies, offering information on natural calamities and safety protocols.
PYQ:
[2018] Defining the Blue Revolution, explain the problems and strategies of fisheries in India.
The Border Security Force (BSF) has rescued a Serval, the African wild cat (Leptailurus serval) from an alleged wildlife smuggling attempt along the India-Bangladesh border.
AboutAfrican Wild Cat (Leptailurus serval):
Details
About
Scientific Name: Leptailurus serval
Common Name: African Wild Cat, Serval
Family: Felidae
Physical Description: Medium-sized wild cat with a slim, long-legged body, tawny coat with black spots and stripes, and large rounded ears. Can leap 3 meters (10 feet) vertically.
Habitat and Features
Found across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Preferred Habitats: Savannahs, grasslands, and wetlands; avoids arid regions and dense forests.
Diet: Carnivorous, feeding on small mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. Uses acute hearing to hunt.
Behavior: Solitary, nocturnal or crepuscular, and communicates through vocalizations and scent-marking.
Reproduction: Breeds year-round, with 2–3 kittens per litter; gestation period is 74 days.
Conservation Status
IUCN Red List: Listed as Least Concern.
CITES: Included in Appendix II to regulate trade.
Threats: Habitat loss, illegal hunting for fur, and conflicts with humans (e.g., poultry attacks).
PYQ:
[2015] With reference to the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which of the following statements is/are correct?
IUCN is an organ of the United Nations and CITES is an international agreement between governments.
IUCN runs thousands of field projects around the world to better manage natural environments.
CITES is legally binding on the States that have joined it, but this Convention does not take the place of national laws.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Q) On December 2004, tsunami brought havoc on fourteen countries including India. Discuss the factors responsible for occurrence of tsunamis and its effects on life and economy. In the light of guidelines of NDMA (2010) describe the mechanisms for preparedness to reduce the risk during such events. (UPSC CSE 2017)
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on topics like ‘ tsunami’ in (2017) and ‘NDMA’ in (2014,2016, 2017, 2020).
The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami was a powerful reminder of nature’s force and human vulnerability. Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu, was one of the hardest-hit areas, but the disaster also sparked important changes in disaster response and preparedness. Over the past 20 years, India has made significant progress in disaster management. However, challenges like urbanization, climate change, and more frequent extreme weather events continue to create new risks. Revisiting Nagapattinam’s experience provides valuable lessons for improving future disaster strategies and building stronger, more resilient communities.
Today’s Editorial focuses on the disaster due to the tsunami. This content can be used for presenting the mains answer while talking about disaster management In India.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The 20th anniversary of the Indian Ocean tsunami is a moment to assess progress and gaps in disaster strategies. Nagapattinam’s experience highlights the critical need for building and sustaining long-term resilience.
What factors contributed to Nagapattinam’s journey of resilience?
Immediate Response and Coordination: Following the tsunami, Nagapattinam benefited from well-coordinated rescue operations led by experienced officers and supported by local volunteers, military personnel, and various government departments.
This swift action was crucial in managing the chaos and addressing immediate needs such as medical aid and shelter.
Infrastructure Restoration: The restoration of essential infrastructure, including electricity, water supply, and road connectivity, was prioritized.
Over 13,000 temporary shelters were constructed to accommodate displaced families, which played a vital role in stabilizing the community.
Holistic Rehabilitation Efforts: The recovery strategy incorporated Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) measures that emphasized building resilient communities.
This included constructing over 55,000 multi-hazard-resistant homes and establishing disaster-ready healthcare facilities and educational institutions.
Community Involvement: The active participation of over 400 NGOs in providing essential services fostered community ownership of recovery efforts.
Local communities were empowered to engage in their recovery processes, enhancing resilience through collective action.
Policy and Institutional Reforms: The disaster catalyzed significant reforms in India’s disaster management framework, including the establishment of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the enactment of the Disaster Management Act in 2005.
These reforms institutionalized disaster preparedness and response mechanisms at various levels of government.
How can the lessons learned from this experience be applied to other vulnerable regions?
Emphasizing Preparedness: The importance of establishing early warning systems and enhancing community preparedness can be applied to other vulnerable regions. This includes regular training exercises and community drills to ensure readiness for future disasters.
Integrating DRR into Development Plans: Other regions can learn from Nagapattinam’s integration of DRR measures into urban planning and infrastructure development, ensuring that resilience is built into the fabric of communities from the outset.
Community Engagement: Involving local populations in recovery efforts fosters a sense of ownership and empowerment, which is crucial for long-term resilience. Engaging communities in planning and implementation can lead to more effective disaster management strategies.
Comprehensive Insurance Mechanisms: Expanding risk insurance beyond crops to cover housing and other assets is vital for enhancing financial resilience against disasters. This approach can help mitigate economic losses in future events.
What are the ongoing challenges faced by Nagapattinam in its journey towards sustainable development?
Evolving Risks: Nagapattinam continues to face challenges from evolving risks associated with climate change, urbanization, and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events. These factors necessitate ongoing innovation in disaster management strategies.
Sustaining Community Engagement: Maintaining active community participation in disaster preparedness initiatives remains a challenge as memories of past disasters fade. Continuous education and engagement are required to keep communities vigilant.
Resource Allocation: Ensuring efficient allocation of resources for ongoing recovery efforts is crucial but can be hampered by bureaucratic hurdles or misalignment with local needs. Institutional frameworks must be strengthened to facilitate better coordination between NGOs and government agencies.
Addressing Vulnerabilities: Disasters disproportionately affect marginalized groups, including women, children, and differently-abled individuals. Continued focus on inclusive policies that address these vulnerabilities is essential for building equitable resilience.
What are the NDMA guidelines to prevent this type of disaster?
• Early Warning Systems: Establishment of the Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre (ITEWC) for real-time monitoring and alerts using satellite data, sensors, and seismic readings. • Community Awareness: Public awareness campaigns and regular drills to educate coastal populations on tsunami risks, evacuation routes, and safety measures. • Preparedness Plans: Local disaster management plans with clear evacuation routes, shelters, and training for officials, responders, and volunteers. • Coastal Zone Management: Risk-reducing coastal planning with tsunami-resistant structures and sustainable land use practices. • Infrastructure Resilience: Strengthening infrastructure, including tsunami-resistant buildings and sea walls, and enhancing communication networks. • Collaboration with Communities: Involving local communities in disaster preparedness, with the establishment of local disaster management committees. • Research and Monitoring: Ongoing research into tsunami risks and hazards to improve warning systems and preparedness strategies.
Way forward:
Strengthening Resilience through Innovation and Inclusion: Develop adaptive disaster management strategies that incorporate advanced technologies like AI-driven risk assessments and community-based DRR measures.
Sustained Community Engagement and Education: Regularly conduct training, workshops, and awareness programs to keep communities prepared and involved. Leverage local knowledge and foster ownership in disaster preparedness to maintain long-term vigilance and resilience.
The Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, raises serious concerns. Instead of addressing the shortcomings of the Disaster Management Act (DMA), 2005, the Bill reduces opportunities for participation, accountability, and efficient governance.
What are the lapses in the recent bill?
Top-Down Terminology: The Bill employs terms like “monitor” and “guidelines,” which suggest a top-down approach, rather than fostering community engagement through terms like “supervision” and “direction.”
This undermines trust between authorities and local communities, which are crucial in disaster response.
Neglect of Local Roles: While the Bill defines critical concepts such as ‘hazard’, ‘resilience’, and ‘vulnerability’, it fails to recognise the essential roles of local communities, panchayats, and NGOs in disaster management.
Lack of Intersectional Consideration: The Bill does not address intersectional discrimination affecting vulnerable groups like women, disabled individuals, lower castes, and LGBTQIA communities. Ignoring these factors limits the Bill’s inclusivity and effectiveness.
Absence of Accountability Mechanisms: The omission of performance evaluations for district authorities raises concerns about accountability. Without mechanisms to assess preparedness and response effectiveness, there is a risk of shifting blame onto individual philanthropic efforts during disasters.
Exclusion of Law and Order Issues: By stating that ‘man-made causes’ do not include law and order matters, the Bill complicates the role of police in disaster management while still involving them in executive committees.
Removal of Relief Standards: Key provisions regarding minimum standards of relief for disaster victims have been omitted from the Bill. This includes special provisions for vulnerable populations such as widows and orphans, which diminishes the support system for those affected by disasters.
Centralisation of Power: The Bill centralises decision-making by transferring responsibilities from local executive committees to national authorities, potentially leading to inefficiencies and delays in disaster response.
Neglect of Animal Welfare: The Bill does not address the impact of disasters on animals or include provisions for their welfare, which is a significant oversight given the scale of animal casualties during disasters.
Urban Disaster Management Authority (UDMA): The rationale behind establishing a separate UDMA is unclear, raising questions about its effectiveness given existing municipal structures that may not adequately address urban flooding issues caused by poor planning.
What are the lessons learnt from a spectrum of areas?
Community Engagement: Successful disaster responses have historically relied on local knowledge and community action.
For example,inCyclone Aila (2009, Sundarbans): Local villagers and fisherfolk initiated rescue operations well before official disaster response teams could arrive, saving countless lives.
Intersectionality Matters: Acknowledging diverse vulnerabilities ensures that disaster management strategies are comprehensive and equitable.
For example, Kerala Floods (2018): Specific interventions for women and children in relief camps improved health and hygiene outcomes, showcasing the value of targeted measures.
Accountability is Crucial: Clear accountability mechanisms are necessary to ensure that authorities fulfil their responsibilities effectively.
For example, in Uttarakhand Flash Floods (2013): Lack of timely action by district authorities and poor preparedness exacerbated the disaster’s impact, underscoring the need for performance evaluations.
Can Regional collaboration work out?
Regional collaboration could significantly enhance disaster management efforts, particularly in South Asia where cross-border challenges are prevalent:
Shared Resources and Knowledge: Collaborative frameworks among countries like SAARC, BIMSTEC, and BRICS could facilitate resource sharing and knowledge exchange during disasters.
Joint Preparedness Plans: Developing regional action plans based on shared vulnerabilities can strengthen collective responses to disasters.
Addressing Zoonotic Diseases: Given the increasing threat of zoonotic diseases, a coordinated regional approach could improve public health responses during disasters.
What is the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction?
The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030) is a comprehensive international agreement aimed at reducing disaster risks and enhancing resilience globally.
It was adopted by UN member states during the Third UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction held in Sendai, Japan, from March 14 to 18, 2015.
India is a signatory to the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030).
Way forward:
Strengthen Community Participation and Inclusivity: Amend the Bill to explicitly involve local communities, panchayats, and NGOs in disaster management.
Promote Accountability and Regional Cooperation: Introduce performance evaluations for district authorities to ensure preparedness and effective disaster responses.
Mains PYQ:
Q Describe various measures taken in India for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) before and after signing ‘Sendai Framework for DRR (2015-2030)’. How is this framework different from ‘Hyogo Framework for Action, 2005’? (UPSC IAS/2018)
Recently, China and the United States agreed to renew the Science and Technology Cooperation Agreement for an additional five years.
What new measures were added to the Agreement in 2024?
Limited to basic research: The amended agreement explicitly limits cooperation to basic research and excludes any collaboration in critical and emerging technologies.
This change aims to mitigate fears that sensitive technologies could be exploited by China for military or competitive advantages.
Enhanced Provisions for Researcher Safety: The agreement introduces measures to enhance the safety and security of researchers, ensuring that both parties adhere to standards that protect their respective research environments.
Data Reciprocity and Transparency: New provisions have been established to ensure reciprocity and transparency in data sharing between the two countries, addressing previous concerns about intellectual property rights and data misuse.
Dispute Resolution Mechanism: A mechanism has been included to resolve disputes should either party fail to adhere to the agreed terms, providing a structured approach to handle potential conflicts arising from collaborative projects.
Termination Clause: The agreement includes a clause that allows for the cancellation of proposed projects in cases of “bad faith action,” further safeguarding against potential abuses of the cooperative framework.
What does this indicate about the evolving relationship between the U.S. and China?
The renewal and amendment of the STA reflect a complex relationship between the U.S. and China, characterized by both cooperation and competition:
Affirmation of Cooperation: The extension signals a commitment from both nations to maintain dialogue and collaboration in scientific fields, despite rising tensions in other areas such as trade and technology.
Strategic Guardrails: By implementing new restrictions and guardrails, the U.S. aims to protect its technological edge while still engaging with China in mutually beneficial research areas. This indicates a cautious approach to bilateral relations, balancing cooperation with national security concerns.
Political Dynamics: The incoming administration under Donald Trump is expected to endorse this continuation but may impose additional conditions, reflecting ongoing political scrutiny regarding China’s technological advancements.
How has the U.S. benefited from its collaboration with China under this Agreement?
Access to Chinese Research Ecosystem: The agreement has facilitated access for U.S. researchers to China’s burgeoning research environment, allowing for collaborative projects that leverage both countries’ strengths in various scientific fields.
Increased R&D Investment: The collaboration has contributed to significant increases in research and development investment from both sides, with China’s R&D spending rising dramatically since the agreement’s inception in 1979.
Joint Research Opportunities: The STA has enabled joint research initiatives that have led to advancements in areas such as agriculture, health, environmental science, and more, benefiting both nations through shared knowledge and innovation.
Educational Exchanges: The agreement has promoted mobility for students and scientists between the two countries, fostering educational exchanges that enhance understanding and cooperation at multiple levels.
How will it impact India?
Increased Competition in R&D: The strengthened U.S.-China collaboration, even with restrictions, reinforces China’s position as a global leader in science and technology which intensifies competition for India to keep pace in R&D and innovation.
Geopolitical Leverage: India’s strategic partnerships with both the U.S. and other global powers may be recalibrated, as the U.S. balances its rivalry and cooperation with China, potentially affecting India’s diplomatic and technological engagements.
Opportunity for Strategic Collaboration: India’s robust bilateral S&T agreements and growing research ecosystem could make it an alternative partner for the U.S. and other nations looking to diversify collaborations away from China, boosting India’s global scientific standing.
Way forward:
Enhance R&D Capabilities: India should increase investments in research and development, particularly in emerging and critical technologies, to remain competitive globally and bridge the innovation gap with leading nations.
Strengthen Strategic Partnerships: India should leverage its scientific and technological collaborations with the U.S. and other like-minded countries to position itself as a reliable partner and alternative to China in the global research ecosystem.
Mains PYQ:
Q The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of China, that is much more challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union.” Explain. (UPSC IAS/2021)
Justice (Retd.) V Ramasubramanian has been appointed as the new chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). Priyank Kanoongo (former NCPCR chief) and Dr. Justice Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi (Retd.) have been appointed as NHRC Members.
About National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)
Overview
A Statutory Body formed under the Protection of Human Rights Act (PHRA), 1993.
Composition and Membership
Chairperson: Must be a former Supreme Court Justice or Chief Justice; appointed by the President.
Members:
Four full-time members:
1 ex-SC Judge (Chairperson),
1 ex-SC Judge,
1 ex-Chief Justice of a High Court,
1 with knowledge/experience in human rights.
At least one woman among the members.
Seven ex-officio members: Chairpersons of National Commissions (e.g., SC/ST, Women, Minorities, etc.) + Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities.
Appointment Process:
The President appoints based on a recommendation committee (PM, Speaker of Lok Sabha, Home Minister, Leaders of Opposition, etc.).
Judicial appointments: Consultation with the Chief Justice of India.
Removal: By an order of the President, after consultation with the Supreme Court.
Terms of Office:
3-year term or until the age of 70.
Eligible for reappointment, but not for other government jobs.
Salaries: Determined by the Central Government.
Reporting: Submits reports to the Centre and concerned states; these are tabled before legislatures with an action-taken report.
Limitations:
No inquiry after one year from the alleged violation.
Functions are recommendatory; no direct power to punish or award relief.
Limited role in armed forces cases.
Powers and Functions
Functions:
Inquire into alleged human rights violations.
Recommend interim relief to victims or families.
Intervene in court proceedings on human rights matters.
Review constitutional/legal safeguards for human rights.
Study international human rights instruments.
Promote human rights literacy.
Support NGOs in human rights work.
Powers:
Can regulate its own procedure.
Has all powers of a civil court, with judicial character.
PYQ:
[2020] Other than the Fundamental Rights, which of the following parts of the Constitution of India reflect/reflects the principles and provisions of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948)?
Preamble
Directive Principles of State Policy
Fundamental Duties
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[2021] Though the Human Rights Commissions have contributed immensely to the protection of human rights in India, yet they have failed to assert themselves against the mighty and powerful. Analysing their structural and practical limitations, suggest remedial measures.
