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J&K – The issues around the state

Pratap Bhanu Mehta writes on abrogation of Article 370 being upheld: Has SC established a dangerous precedent for federalism?

op-ed snap | Trivia | Mains Paper 1: Communalism, Secularism, Regionalism
Central idea

The Supreme Court’s validation of the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir signifies a legal triumph for the Modi government’s approach. The judgment navigates historical complexities, raises questions about federalism, and introduces the need for honest political reconciliation in the region. The Court’s nuanced stance prompts reflections on the balance between integration and preserving regional identity.

Key Highlights:

Supreme Court’s Validation: The judgment upholding the abrogation of Article 370 is considered a significant legal victory for the Narendra Modi government, emphasizing its unwavering approach to Jammu and Kashmir.

Historical Ambiguities: The decision reflects on historical ambiguities, procedural intricacies, and legal complexities, asserting that no such considerations should impede the government’s vision of Jammu and Kashmir’s relationship with the Indian Union.

Political History Evaluation: Public perception of this judgment hinges on the unfolding of political history. Is it viewed as another instance of Jammu and Kashmir’s betrayal now officially endorsed by the Supreme Court? Does it set potentially precarious precedents for federalism and the credibility of the judiciary?

Integration or Half Measures?: The judgment prompts questions about whether this marks the final and complete integration of the state into India’s constitutional scheme or an improvement on the previous half measures, given the special status and autonomy that Article 370 was intended to provide.

Valley’s Response: The sullen silence in the Valley is being closely observed. Is it indicative of a final acceptance, a subdued victory, or an opportunity, as suggested by Justice Kaul, to set Kashmir on the path of truth and reconciliation?

Key Challenges:

Federalism and Judiciary’s Authority: A critical challenge lies in the Court’s avoidance of addressing the novel degradation of Indian federalism represented by the downgrading of Jammu and Kashmir to a Union Territory. This non-engagement poses questions about the judiciary’s commitment to upholding constitutional principles.

Conjuring Tricks and Constitutional Amendments: The judgment’s acceptance of open-ended promises for restoring statehood at an unspecified future date raises concerns about potential constitutional amendments through backdoor methods, challenging the integrity of the process.

Key Terms and Phrases:

Article 370’s Transitory Nature: The Court’s emphasis on Article 370 being transitory, justifying its abrogation without the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly’s consent.

Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019: The Act that led to the downgrading of J&K to a Union Territory, a significant departure from the state’s historical status.

J&K Legislative Assembly: The absence of the requirement for the assembly’s consent raises questions about the democratic process and representation.

Union Territory: The transformation of J&K into a Union Territory, a move that alters its political and administrative status within the Indian Union.

Key Quotes:

“The whole of the Constitution of India applies to Jammu and Kashmir. But not yet.” – The Court’s statement encapsulating a performative aspect that delays full application.

Key Statements:

The Court’s avoidance of addressing the degradation of Indian federalism could undermine its authority and the principles it stands for.

Justice Kaul’s call for a Truth and Reconciliation Commission underscores the need for an honest reckoning with the complex history of Jammu and Kashmir.

Key Facts and Data:

Article 370’s gradual attenuation since the 1960s, leading to the question of whether its abrogation was a logical progression.

The reorganisation of J&K, creating a new precedent and introducing complexities in its political identity.

Critical Analysis:

The Court’s focus on procedural aspects and historical context while sidestepping federalism concerns creates a nuanced perspective on its role in interpreting constitutional provisions.

The judicial acceptance of open-ended promises raises questions about the accountability of the government’s actions and the potential misuse of constitutional powers.

Way Forward:

Honest political reconciliation is deemed essential in the absence of a political force capable of fostering genuine dialogue and resolution.

The evolving landscape of Indian politics and the Court’s role in navigating constitutional challenges, ensuring a delicate balance between integration and preserving regional identity.
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Pharma Sector – Drug Pricing, NPPA, FDC, Generics, etc.

Patent exclusions — Madras High Court shows the way

op-ed snap | Economics | Mains Paper 3: S&T – Applications In Everyday Life
Central idea

Madras High Court’s recent rulings on pharmaceutical patents clarify Section 3(e) and Section 3(i) exclusions, emphasizing evidence and contextual analysis for patent eligibility. The decisions highlight the necessity of bright-line rules for consistency in patent office decisions and suggest a legislative role in addressing gaps in pharmaceutical patent issues.

Key Highlights:
- Recent Madras High Court judgments by Justice Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy bring clarity to pharmaceutical patent exclusions in the Indian context.
- The first case, Novozymes vs Assistant Controller of Patents, interprets Section 3(e), excluding compositions that are mere aggregations. The court specifies that known aggregates can still be patent-eligible if individual components meet patent criteria.
- The second case, Hong Kong and Shanghai University vs Assistant Controller of Patents, deals with Section 3(i), excluding inventions related to the treatment of humans or animals. The court provides insights into the types of diagnoses excluded under this provision.
Key Challenges:
- Lack of bright-line rules in the interpretation of patent exclusions, leaving room for ambiguity and varied decisions.
- Balancing the interests of pharmaceutical innovation, public health, and preventing overbroad monopolies poses a challenge for the courts.
- The need for more legislative clarity on exclusions, with suggestions for in vitro process considerations and potential compulsory licensing.
Key Terms and Phrases:
- Section 3(e): Exclusion related to compositions that amount to a mere aggregation of components.
- Section 3(i): Exclusion pertaining to inventions involving processes for the treatment of humans or animals.
- Bright-line rules: Clear and specific guidelines for interpreting patent exclusions, ensuring consistency in decision-making.
Key Quotes and Statements:
- “Bright-line rules are very critical in the realm of pharmaceutical patents to provide consistency and certainty in decision-making.”
- “The court’s insistence on producing evidence to demonstrate the synergistic properties of compositions is a welcome move for clarifying the scope of Section 3(e).”
- “Courts need to be conscious of competing interests in pharmaceutical and medical patents, finding a robust balance point for all parties.”
Way Forward:
- Advocate for the formulation of bright-line rules to simplify decision-making in the Indian Patent Office.
- Encourage legislative consideration for in vitro processes, accompanied by provisions for compulsory licensing.
- Emphasize the importance of courts balancing socio-economic conditions and public health concerns in interpreting patent law provisions.
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J&K – The issues around the state

Explained: SC Verdict on Abrogation of Article 370

SC Judgements | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Federalism
Central Idea
- A Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court on Monday unanimously upheld the power of the President to abrogate Article 370 in August 2019, leading to the reorganisation of the full-fledged State of Jammu and Kashmir to two Union Territories and denuding it of its special privileges.
Key Issues and Court’s Findings

[A] On the Sovereignty of Jammu and Kashmir:
- Petitioners’ Claim: They argued that J&K retained an element of sovereignty when it acceded to India in 1947, different from other princely states.
- Court’s Examination: The Court noted that J&K was listed as a Part III state in the Indian Constitution and Section 3 of J&K’s Constitution declared it an integral part of India.
- Final Ruling: The Court held that J&K did not retain sovereignty, and the process of integration was ongoing, culminating in the Presidential declaration under Article 370(3).
[B] Whether Article 370 is Temporary or Permanent:
- Arguments Presented: Petitioners argued for Article 370’s permanence, while others viewed it as temporary.
- Court’s Opinion: Both CJI Chandrachud and Justice Kaul concurred that Article 370 was a temporary provision.
[C] Legality of Abrogating Article 370:
- Abrogation Process: On August 5, 2019, President Ram Nath Kovind issued CO 272, amending Article 367 and redefining “Constituent Assembly of Jammu and Kashmir” as the “Legislative Assembly of Jammu and Kashmir.”
- Court’s Upholding: The Court upheld this process, with CJI Chandrachud stating that post-dissolution of J&K’s Constituent Assembly, the President could have unilaterally abrogated Article 370.
[D] Actions Under President’s Rule:
- Challenge to Union’s Actions: The challenge was to the extent of powers appropriated under Article 356 (President’s rule).
- Reference to Bommai Ruling: The Court, citing the 1994 Bommai ruling, stated that actions under the President’s rule must not be mala fide or irrational.
Upholding Centre’s (Union) Supremacy
- Parliament’s Unilateral Actions: The Court’s interpretation suggests Parliament can change a state’s status under the President’s rule.
- Article 3 Reference: The President referred the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2019, to Parliament for its views, as the state was under President’s rule.
- Validity of Executive Orders: The Court applied Bommai ruling standards to validate the executive orders, emphasizing the need for proof of mala fides to challenge the actions.
Conclusion
- J&K’s Integral Status Affirmed: The Court conclusively ruled that J&K has always been an integral part of India.
- Temporary Nature of Article 370: The ruling clarifies that Article 370 was a temporary provision.
- Expansion of Union Powers: The judgment potentially expands the Union’s powers under President’s rule, affecting the federal balance.
- Constitutional Precedent: This ruling sets a significant precedent in interpreting Union and state powers, reflecting on the dynamics of Indian federalism.
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J&K – The issues around the state

Karan Singh’s Proclamation of 1949

Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Federalism
Central Idea
- On December 11, the Supreme Court upheld the abrogation of Article 370, affirming that Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) did not retain sovereignty after joining the Union of India.
- CJI D Y Chandrachud, writing for himself and Justices B R Gavai and Surya Kant, cited a 1949 proclamation by Yuvraj Karan Singh (successor of J&K titular Maharaja) as a key factor in this decision.
Karan Singh’s 1949 Proclamation
- Repeal of the Government of India Act, 1935: The proclamation declared the repeal of the Government of India Act, 1935, which previously governed J&K’s constitutional relationship with India.
- Adoption of the Indian Constitution: It stated that the Indian Constitution would govern J&K’s relationship with the Union of India and abrogate inconsistent constitutional provisions in the state.
Reason behind the Proclamation
- Karan Singh’s Perspective: Speaking to The Indian Express, Karan Singh, aged 92, explained that the proclamation was necessary to eliminate ambiguity regarding J&K’s integration with India.
- Instrument of Accession’s Ambiguity: He noted that while his father, Hari Singh, signed the Instrument of Accession like other rulers, J&K retained a measure of autonomy, leading to questions about its complete integration.
Supreme Court’s Findings
- Essence of the Judgment: The Court stated that J&K did not retain any form of sovereignty upon joining India.
- Significance of the 1949 Proclamation: The Court highlighted that Karan Singh’s proclamation superseded all constitutional provisions inconsistent with the Indian Constitution, effectively surrendering J&K’s sovereignty.
Alignment with the Centre’s Argument
- Centre’s Stance: The Union government argued that the 1949 proclamation acknowledged the supremacy of the Indian Constitution and surrendered sovereignty to it, where the sovereign is ‘We the people of India’.
- Court’s Agreement: The Supreme Court’s ruling aligns with this argument, affirming the complete integration of J&K into India.
Conclusion
- The Supreme Court’s decision clarifies the constitutional status of J&K post the abrogation of Article 370, confirming its full integration into the Indian Union without any retained sovereignty.
- The ruling underscores the historical context of J&K’s accession and the role of the 1949 proclamation in shaping its constitutional relationship with India.
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President’s Rule

SR Bommai Judgment and its Relevance in Article 370 Verdict

SC Judgements | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure
Central Idea
- The Supreme Court’s reliance on the 1994 SR Bommai judgment was pivotal in upholding the abrogation of Article 370.
- The SR Bommai case is a landmark judgment interpreting Article 356 of the Constitution, which deals with President’s rule in states.
SR Bommai Case: An Overview
- Origin of the Case: The case arose from the dismissal of the Janata Dal-led Karnataka government in 1989 by the Congress-led central government.
- Governor’s Recommendation: Karnataka Governor P Venkatasubbaiah recommended President’s rule citing the loss of majority by Chief Minister SR SR Bommai and the inability of other parties to form a government.
- Controversy: The move was controversial, especially as some MLAs later retracted their withdrawal of support, claiming their signatures were obtained by misrepresentation.
Supreme Court’s Verdict in the Case
- Judicial Review of President’s Proclamation: The Court unanimously held that the President’s proclamation is subject to judicial review on several grounds, including illegality, malafide, and abuse of power.
- Parliamentary Approval Requirement: The verdict mandated Parliamentary approval for imposing President’s rule. Without this approval, the dismissed government would automatically be revived after two months.
- Centre-State Relationship: The ruling emphasized the autonomy of states, stating that greater power at the Centre does not reduce states to mere appendages.
Impact of the Ruling
- Scrutiny of Governor’s Conduct: This was one of the first judgments to scrutinize the Governor’s role, especially in the context of frequent impositions of President’s rule.
- Decrease in President’s Rule Impositions: Research indicates a significant decrease in the frequency of President’s rule post-SR Bommai , from an average of 2.5 times a year (1950-1994) to just over once a year (1995-2021).
Kashmir Reference in the Article 370 Ruling
- Key Question: The central question was whether Article 370 could be abrogated while J&K was under President’s rule, which had been in place since 2018.
- Supreme Court’s Reliance on SR Bommai: The Court used the SR Bommai ruling to validate the President’s actions in J&K, applying the standards set by Justices PB Sawant and Jeevan Reddy for testing the validity of executive orders.
Conclusion
- Influence on Federal Dynamics: The SR Bommai judgment continues to influence the balance of power between the Centre and states, ensuring judicial oversight over central interventions in state governance.
- Relevance in Contemporary Rulings: Its principles, particularly regarding judicial review and the autonomy of states, remain crucial in contemporary constitutional interpretations, as seen in the Article 370 ruling.
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Citizenship and Related Issues

What are Foreigners’ Tribunals?

Prelims Only | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Governance, Transparency & Accountability, Citizens Charters
Central Idea
- Since 1966, Foreigners Tribunals (FTs) in Assam have identified 32,381 people as foreigners.
Foreigners Tribunals in Assam
- Unique Quasi-Judicial Bodies: FTs are specific to Assam, tasked with determining whether a person is illegally staying as a “foreigner” in India.
- Backdrop of Assam’s NRC: With the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has outlined guidelines for detecting, detaining, and deporting illegal foreign nationals.
- Amendment to Foreigners (Tribunals) Order, 1964: The MHA has amended this order, allowing district magistrates in all States and Union Territories to establish tribunals.
- Shift in Power: Previously, only the Central Government had the authority to constitute such tribunals.
Need for Foreigners Tribunals
- Legal Process for Foreigners: In other regions, foreigners apprehended for illegal stay are tried under the Passport Act, 1920, or the Foreigners Act, 1946, with penalties including imprisonment and eventual deportation.
- Detention Centers: Post-sentence, the accused are held in detention centers until their country of origin agrees to accept them.
Recent Amendments and Their Implications
- Changes in Tribunal Constitution: The 1964 order initially allowed only the Central Government to refer cases to the Tribunals. The amendment now permits State Governments, UT administrations, District Collectors, and District Magistrates to do so.
- Empowerment of Individuals: The amended Foreigners (Tribunal) Order, 2019, enables individuals to approach Tribunals, a change from the earlier provision where only the State could challenge a suspect.
- Context of NRC: With the final NRC publication, this amendment aims to provide adequate opportunities for those not included in the list.
- Procedure for Non-Listed Individuals: Persons not found in the final NRC can approach the Tribunals. District Magistrates can also refer cases of individuals who haven’t filed claims against their NRC exclusion.
- Issuance of Fresh Summons: These individuals will receive new summons to prove their citizenship.
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J&K – The issues around the state

Syama Prasad Mookerjee and his Contributions

Prelims Only | | Mains Paper 1: Modern Indian History
Central Idea
- Following judgment of the Supreme Court upholding the abrogation of Article 370, many invoked Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee (1901-53), an ardent opponent of Kashmir’s ‘special status’ in the Indian Union.
Who was Syama Prasad Mookerjee?
- Syama Prasad Mookerjee, an eminent Indian politician, barrister, and academician, played a significant role in shaping India’s political landscape during the mid-20th century.
- Born on July 6, 1901, in Kolkata (formerly Calcutta), Mookerjee emerged as a prominent leader and a staunch advocate of Indian nationalism and Hindu politics.
Early Life and Education
- Bengali Brahmin heritage: Mookerjee hailed from a respected Brahmin family with roots in Jirat, Hooghly District, and West Bengal.
- Academic brilliance: He exhibited exceptional academic prowess, pursuing his education at prestigious institutions such as Presidency College and the University of Calcutta.
- Legal career: Mookerjee became a barrister, being called to the English Bar after studying at Lincoln’s Inn in London.
Political Career
- Initial association with Congress: Mookerjee began his political journey as a member of the Indian National Congress, representing Calcutta University in the Bengal Legislative Council.
- Hindu Mahasabha affiliation: He later joined the Hindu Mahasabha, a right-wing Hindu nationalist organization, and became its president.
- Championing Bengal partition: Mookerjee actively advocated for the partition of Bengal to safeguard Hindu interests, leading to the establishment of a separate West Bengal within the Indian Union.
- Resignation from Bengal cabinet: As Finance Minister of Bengal Province, Mookerjee resigned in 1942, condemning the British government’s oppressive policies and their attempts to hold on to India.
Contributions to Independent India
- Minister for Industry and Supply: Mookerjee served as India’s first Minister for Industry and Supply in Jawaharlal Nehru’s cabinet after independence.
- Nehru-Liaquat Pact and resignation: He resigned from Nehru’s cabinet in 1950, protesting against the Nehru-Liaquat Pact, which he believed compromised the interests of Hindus in East Bengal (now Bangladesh).
- Founding Bharatiya Jana Sangh: Mookerjee, with the support of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), established the Bharatiya Jana Sangh in 1951, laying the foundation for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Mookerjee’s Opposition to Article 370
- Balkanization of India: Mookerjee strongly believed that Article 370 created a sense of separatism and division within the country, leading to the fragmentation of India’s unity.
- Rejection of dual governance: Mookerjee famously stated, “Ek desh mein do Vidhan, do Pradhan aur Do Nishan nahi chalenge” (One country cannot have two constitutions, two prime ministers, and two flags), emphasizing his opposition to the separate status enjoyed by Jammu and Kashmir.
- Reservations about special status: Mookerjee expressed concerns that the special status granted to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 would impede the state’s full integration into the Indian Union.
- Inequality and separatism: He believed that granting special privileges to one state based on religion or regional factors would lead to a sense of inequality and separatism.
Ideological Stance and Legacy
- Influence on BJP’s policy agenda: His ideology and vision continue to shape the policies and agenda of the Bharatiya Janata Party.
- Controversial demise: Mookerjee’s untimely death in 1953 while in custody remains a subject of controversy and speculation, with demands for an independent inquiry.
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Tavleen Singh writes: Time to end reservations

op-ed snap | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Government Scheme/Policies
Central idea

The article argues for the abolition of all reservations in government jobs, universities, and other institutions, contending that the once crucial affirmative action has devolved into a tool for political manipulation. It highlights the failure of reservations to achieve genuine social equality and proposes a voucher system exclusively for historically oppressed groups as an alternative.

Key Highlights:
- The author advocates for the abolishment of all reservations in government jobs, universities, schools, the army, and paramilitary forces.
- Reservation policies, initially introduced for scheduled castes and tribes as a gesture of atonement, have become a tool for political manipulation and failed to achieve social equality.
- The suggestion to replace reservations with a voucher system for education, exclusively for those historically oppressed, is proposed as an alternative.
Key Challenges:
- The political exploitation of caste-based reservations has perpetuated the system beyond its intended purpose, hindering genuine social progress.
- The reluctance to address the issue stems from its controversial nature, making it difficult for leaders and commentators to openly criticize or advocate for change.
Key Terms & Phrases:
- Reservations, Affirmative Action, Caste Census, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Voucher System, Social Equality, Political Exploitation.
Key Quotes:
- “When reservations were introduced… it was a vital gesture of atonement for the evil done to lower caste Indians for centuries.”
- “As a tool for bringing social equality for scheduled castes and tribes, reservations have failed.”
- “The great Indian dream remains landing a government job.”
Key Statements:
- Reservations, initially crucial for affirmative action, have transformed into a political tool, hindering genuine progress.
- The author urges for the courage to admit the farcical nature of the reservations system and advocates for its abolition.
Key Examples and References:
- Reference to Maratha leaders fasting for reservations highlights the misuse of the system by powerful castes.
- The proposal to replace reservations with a voucher system draws from the need to address historical oppression without political exploitation.
Key Facts & Data:
- Dr. Ambedkar initially suggested reservations for ten years, but political motivations led to its continuation.
- The Prime Minister’s acknowledgment of belonging to the OBC category questions the need for reservations for these castes.
Critical Analysis:
- The author emphasizes the need for a candid discussion on reservations, calling out its political exploitation and proposing alternatives.
- The article challenges the prevalent narrative on reservations and highlights the disconnect between the intended purpose and the current reality.
Way Forward:
- The article calls for bold leadership to address the reservations issue, suggesting a reevaluation of policies and the implementation of alternative measures to ensure genuine social progress.
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Agricultural Sector and Marketing Reforms – eNAM, Model APMC Act, Eco Survey Reco, etc.

Harvest the Odisha story to ensure food security

op-ed snap | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: Agriculture and related issues
Central idea

Odisha’s agricultural transformation, exemplified by a shift from scarcity to surplus, stands as a model for climate-resilient and equitable food security. The state’s success lies in empowering small and marginal farmers, embracing crop diversification, and proactively addressing climate vulnerabilities.

Key Highlights:
- Odisha’s Agricultural Transformation: From importing rice to recording its highest food grain production in 2022, focusing on small and marginal farmers, and tripling average rice yield in two decades.
- Resilience and Sustainability: Odisha’s proactive approach to climate change, developing a comprehensive Climate Change Action Plan covering various sectors, implementing climate-resilient cultivation practices, and adopting innovative measures for crop monitoring.
- Social Protection: Odisha’s partnership with the United Nations World Food Programme, ranking as the top state in the National Food Security Act for 2022, and collaboration on food security, livelihood, and climate resilience initiatives.
Key Challenges:
- Climate Vulnerability: Odisha’s susceptibility to climate change impacts, including cyclones, floods, and droughts, posing risks to livelihoods and infrastructure.
- Implementation Hurdles: The need for effective implementation of climate-resilient practices at the ground level, overcoming potential challenges in executing the Climate Change Action Plan.
Key Terms and Phrases:
- Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation (KALIA)
- Odisha Millet Mission
- Climate-resilient cultivation practices
- Crop Weather Watch Group
- Integrated farming
- Zero-input-based natural farming
- Biometric technology in the Targeted Public Distribution System
- Rice fortification
- National Food Security Act
Key Quotes:
- Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik: “Zero Hunger” goal commitment at the United Nations World Food Programme headquarters.
- Anu Garg: “Odisha’s transformative journey presents a unique development model for other States in the context of the challenges of global climate change.”
Key Statements:
- Odisha’s transition from food grain scarcity to surplus, climate-proofing agricultural systems, and ensuring food and nutrition security for vulnerable populations.
Key Examples and References:
- Use of biometric technology in the Targeted Public Distribution System in Rayagada district.
- Rice fortification initiatives in Gajapati district.
Key Facts and Data:
- Odisha’s contribution to India’s rice production, ranking as the top state in the National Food Security Act for 2022.
Critical Analysis:
- Odisha’s success in achieving surplus production and resilience can serve as a model for other states facing similar challenges.
- The effectiveness of climate-resilient practices and the Climate Change Action Plan in mitigating climate risks need continuous evaluation.
Way Forward:
- Scaling Successful Initiatives: Expanding successful schemes like KALIA and promoting crop diversification to enhance resilience.
- Technological Integration: Continued integration of technology in agriculture for monitoring, early warning systems, and precision farming.
- International Collaboration: Strengthening partnerships with international organizations for knowledge exchange and resource mobilization.
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Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

100 years on, remembering Maulana Azad’s words on Hindu-Muslim unity

op-ed snap | History | Mains Paper 1: Modern Indian History
Central idea

The article reflects on the legacy of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, emphasizing his commitment to Hindu-Muslim unity and his pivotal role during the Partition era. The author expresses concerns about the current state of unity, citing instances of hate and intolerance, and calls for introspection to preserve the values Azad stood for.

Key Highlights:

The author reflects on the life and contributions of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, focusing on Azad’s commitment to Hindu-Muslim unity and his refusal to sign the Partition Resolution.

The article highlights pivotal moments in Azad’s life, emphasizing his dedication to unity and the challenges faced during the partition.

Key Challenges:

The author expresses concern about the current state of Hindu-Muslim unity, citing rising hate and intolerance.

Instances of vandalizing Azad’s statue and derogatory comments in Parliament are presented as challenges to the values Azad stood for.

Key Terms:

Hindu-Muslim ittehad (unity)

Partition Resolution

Swaraj

Kakinara

Kashmir

Key Phrases:

“Over my dead body.”

“You are throwing us to the wolves.”

“Nehru ki galtiyon ka khamyaza Kashmir ko bhugatna pada.”

“Julam dhha le, tu sitam dhha le/ Hamare bhi to din hain aane waale.”

Key Quotes:

“If an angel were to descend from heaven and declare that India would get Swaraj in 24 hours, provided she relinquishes Hindu-Muslim unity, I will answer, ‘Never’.”

“Hate is the favored word; expressions like ‘mohabbat ki dukaan’ are sniggered at.”

“Our day, too, will come.”

Anecdotes:

The author recalls instances of vandalism against Azad’s statue and derogatory comments in Parliament, reflecting the challenges faced by ideals of unity.

Key Statements:

“The angel has descended and made his declaration, but he has been shown his place.”

“Indians are being swept by a tsunami of hate.”

“Today, I grope about in the endless darkness in which my country has been enveloped.”

Key Examples and References:

Mention of Kakinara incident and recent expressions in Parliament.

Reference to the filmmaker K A Abbas and his film “Rahi.”

Key Facts:

Azad’s refusal to sign the Partition Resolution.

Azad’s pivotal role in advocating Hindu-Muslim unity.

Instances of vandalism against Azad’s statue and derogatory comments in Parliament.

Key Data:

The time frame: 100 years since Azad’s pivotal speech, approaching 2024.

Critical Analysis:

The author critically examines the current state of Hindu-Muslim unity, expressing concerns about rising hate and intolerance.

The article reflects on the impact of political and social changes on the legacy of freedom fighters like Azad.

Way Forward:

The article implies a call for introspection and a renewed commitment to the values of unity, advocating for a more inclusive and tolerant society.
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