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  • [20 April 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Scientists and a wish list for the incoming government 

    PYQ Relevance:
    Mains: 
    Q  Scientific research in Indian universities is declining, because a career in science is not as attractive as are business professions, engineering or administration, and the universities are becoming consumer-oriented. Critically comment.(UPSC IAS/2014)

    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)

    Mentor comments:With 970 million Indians in the process of exercising their franchise in the ongoing general election, what do scientists look for in the polls? Who do they want to vote for, and what are the fundamental issues they want to see their elected representatives resolve and implement? There are five fundamental issues that scientists want the new government to solve and their elected representatives to pay urgent attention to.

    Why in the news? 

    Supporting science and scientists is essential in India’s quest to become a major economic powerhouse

    Need to Increase spending

    • Increase Government Spending: Government should increase spending on research and development by at least 50% year-over-year for the next five years, aiming for nearly 4% of GDP by the end of the term.
    • Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF): Private sector involvement can be encouraged through initiatives like ANRF, where private players are expected to contribute ₹36,000 crore over five years. Legislative measures and detailed plans should be implemented to ensure private sector participation, possibly through mechanisms like escrow accounts.
    • Infrastructure Improvement: Public sector institutions, including universities and research institutions, require modernization of physical and intellectual infrastructure. This includes upgrading science laboratories in undergraduate colleges, state and central universities, and specialized research institutions.
    • Skilled Workforce Development: Increased funding needs to be complemented with efforts to raise a skilled scientific workforce. This involves not only hiring quality teachers and researchers but also nurturing existing human resources and providing opportunities for skill development.

     Focus on merit

    • Globally accepted standards: Implement globally accepted standards for hiring in educational and research institutions, ensuring transparency, speed, and freedom from external influence. Selection criteria should strictly focus on merit, with competent committees responsible for unbiased decision-making.
    • Timely Appointments: Aim to streamline the hiring process so that it takes at most six months from the time of application to providing appointment letters. This ensures efficiency in recruitment and reduces delays in filling vacant positions.
    • Robust Grant Management System: Establish a robust science grant management system that minimizes red tape in grant submission and expedites the disbursement of grants and student fellowships. Emphasize timely allocation of funds to researchers to facilitate uninterrupted research activities.

    Ensure freedom

    • Freedom of Expression: Scientists require the freedom to speak and write based on evidence, without interference, to foster a culture of open inquiry and knowledge dissemination to flourishing start-up ecosystem is essential for translating academic research into practical innovations that benefit society.
    • Autonomy for Scientists: Provide full autonomy to individual scientists to take leave to establish companies, hire scientific staff without excessive paperwork, and allocate research funds as they see fit.Scientists should have flexibility in decision-making, including the freedom to tra

    Conclusion: Scientists’ demands underscore the critical need for robust support and infrastructure to drive scientific research and innovation in India. By addressing these fundamental issues, the incoming government has the opportunity to foster a vibrant scientific community that contributes significantly to the nation’s economic growth and societal development.

  • Israel, a two-state solution, some recent perceptions

    Why in the news?

    Writings and statements from Israel give us an understanding of what “a Jewish national home” means and the ongoing conflict it involves.

    Historical origins and evolution of the concept of a Jewish national home

    • Historical and Religious Context: The concept of a Promised Land for the Jewish people dates back to biblical times, with references in the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) to the land of Canaan as a homeland promised to the descendants of Abraham. The idea of returning to this ancestral homeland remained significant in Jewish religious and cultural traditions throughout centuries of diaspora.
    • Zionism: The modern movement for Jewish nationalism, known as Zionism, gained momentum in the late 19th century. Zionist thinkers and leaders, such as Theodor Herzl, envisioned the establishment of a Jewish homeland in Palestine.
    • Theodor Herzl and the First Zionist Congress: The publication of Herzl’s book “Der Judenstaat” (“The Jewish State”) in 1896 is often considered the starting point of modern political Zionism.
    • British Mandate for Palestine: During World War I, the British government issued the Balfour Declaration in 1917, expressing support for the establishment of a national home for the Jewish people in Palestine.
    • Settlement and Immigration: Jewish immigration to Palestine increased significantly during the early 20th century, as Jewish communities sought to establish settlements and build infrastructure in the region.
    • United Nations Partition Plan: In 1947, the United Nations proposed a partition plan for Palestine, which would have divided the territory into separate Jewish and Arab states, along with an internationalized Jerusalem. While Jewish leaders accepted the plan, Arab leaders rejected it, leading to the Arab-Israeli War of 1948 and the establishment of the State of Israel.

    Continue Struggle after Arab-Israeli War 1948 

    • International Response and Recognition after 1967 war: UN Security Council resolutions 242 (1967) and 338 (1973) addressed the aftermath of the 1967 war. The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) was recognized by the Arab League and the UN General Assembly as the legitimate representative of the Palestinian people. The Arab League Declaration/Initiative of 2002 and the Palestinian Non-Paper outlined visions for a solution, including reference to the 1967 Armistice Line as a border.
    • Annexation of West Bank Settlements: In 2018, Israel’s ruling Likud Party unanimously endorsed a resolution calling for the annexation of West Bank settlements, indicating a hardline stance on territorial claims.

    Why Israel’s position is so strong in conflict?

    • Military Might: The military success of Israel in the 1967 war shifted the dynamics of the Arab-Israeli conflict, convincing Arab states that they could not achieve victory through military means. However, it did not lead to a recommendation for a political settlement based on compromise.
    • Madrid Conference of 1991: The Madrid Conference was a significant event in the peace process, though the phrase “territories for peace” was not explicitly mentioned in the invitation letters. It marked a diplomatic effort to address the conflict.
    • American Support : The United States has provided unprecedented support to Israel, both diplomatically and militarily.And Israel’s conduct and efforts to shape the post-war situation have been growing.

    Conclusion: The idea of a Jewish national home emerged from historical and religious roots, gained momentum through Zionism, and was furthered by international recognition. Resolution requires diplomacy, acknowledgment of historical grievances, and genuine efforts towards mutual understanding and compromise to stabalise the situation.

    Mains PYQ

    Q “India’s relations with Israel have, of late, acquired a depth and diversity, which cannot be rolled back.” Discuss (UPSC IAS/2018)

  • Centre releases curriculum framework for three to six-year-olds

    Why in the news? 

    For the first time ever, the Central government has released curriculum advisable to be taught to children aged three to six-years-old

    Objective of Aadharshila 

    • The early childhood education curriculum is expected to bridge foundational literacy and numeracy gaps which may arise in later school years

    Who Launched?

    • The Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) has released the National Curriculum for Early Childhood Care and Education 2024 titled ‘Aadharshila,’ on the lines of the National Education Policy 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework.

    Where? 

    • Aadharshila (translated as foundation stone) is a detailed 48-week curriculum meant for learning in the age-group of three to six-year-olds in anganwadis.

    Significance Aadharshila’s Curriculum

    • Structure of Curriculum: The curriculum is organized on a weekly basis, comprising 48 weeks of learning over a three-year duration. It is designed to cater to children aged three to six attending anganwadis.
    • Initiation Phase: The curriculum begins with four weeks of initiation, focusing on academic activities to help children transition from home to the anganwadi center. These activities are engaging and involve fun and free play.
    • Exploration Phase: The subsequent 36 weeks are dedicated to exploration, free play, conversation, creation, and appreciation. Activities during this phase include storytelling, singing rhymes, art and craft, and other engaging activities. Storytelling themes often revolve around conflict resolution, responsibility, and cooperation.
    • Learning Objectives: Children learn various concepts such as colors, shapes, numbers, body parts, family and friends, listening and responding to instructions, basic counting, and themes like seasons, festivals, and food.

    Anganwadi 

    • Anganwadi services in India are a part of the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme, which was launched on 2 October 1975.
    • The main objective of the Anganwadi programme is to improve the nutritional and health status of children in the age group of 0-6 years, to lay the foundation for proper psychological, physical, and social development of the child, and to reduce the incidence of mortality, morbidity, malnutrition, and school dropout.

    Conclusion: The release of ‘Aadharshila’ marks a significant step in early childhood education, aiming to bridge foundational gaps. To enhance its effectiveness, continuous monitoring, teacher training, and community involvement are essential.

    Mains PYQ 

    Q National Education Policy 2020 isin conformity with the Sustainable Development Goal-4 (2030). It intends to restructure and reorient education system in India. Critically examine the statement (UPSC IAS/2020) 

  • Scripting a new tribal identity

    Why in the news? 

    President of India Droupadi Murmu was being presented a book, Contributions of Tribal Leaders in the Freedom Struggle, at a National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) event.

    Contributions of Tribal Leaders in the Freedom Struggle

    • Santhal Revolution: Led by Buddhu Bhagat, Joa Bhagat, and Madara Mahato, the Santhal Revolution was a significant tribal uprising against British colonial rule in 1855. The Kols were joined by other tribes like the Hos, Mundas, and Oraons in this struggle
    • Paika Rebellion: The Paika Rebellion in 1817 was a tribal uprising against the British in Odisha. The Paikas were a warrior class who were fighting for their rights and against the exploitation by the British
    • Kol Revolt: The Kol Revolt of 1831-32 was a tribal uprising against the British in Chhattisgarh. The Kols were fighting for their rights over the land and against the exploitation by the British
    • Birsa Munda: Birsa Munda was a tribal leader from Jharkhand who led the Millenarian Movement against the British in the late 19th century. He mobilized the tribal community against the British and forced them to introduce laws protecting the land rights of tribals
    • Rani Gaidinliu: Rani Gaidinliu was a tribal leader from Nagaland who led a revolt against the British in the early 20th century. She was a spiritual leader who fought for the rights of the Nagas and against the exploitation by the British
    • Laxman Naik: Laxman Naik was a tribal leader from Odisha who led a revolt against the British in the early 20th century. He was a farmer who fought for the rights of the farmers and against the exploitation by the British

    Impact of Tribal Revolts during Freedom Struggle: 

    • The tribal revolts during the freedom struggle contributed to the very beginning of the aggression for British Raj. They revolted not against the British but their policy for Indians which were imposed on them without even knowing their culture and its significance. Later this led to the revolt of 1857, which took attention of all over the country

    Conclusion: President Droupadi Murmu received the book “Contributions of Tribal Leaders in the Freedom Struggle” at an NCST event, highlighting significant uprisings like the Santhal, Paika, and Kol revolts, emphasizing tribal resistance against British exploitation, influencing broader Indian agitation.

    Mains PYQ 

    Q Several foreigners made India their homeland and participated in various movements. Analyze their role in the Indian struggle for freedom.(UPSC IAS/2013)

  • India delivers first batch of BrahMos to Philippines

    Why in the news?

    India has handed over the first batch of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines marking a significant step in bilateral defense cooperation.

    India- Philippines Brahmos Deal

    • In January 2022, the Philippines inked a $375-million deal with India for three batteries of the shore-based, anti-ship variant of the BrahMos missile,
    • This made it the first export customer for this joint venture between India and Russia.
    • Several countries, including Indonesia and Thailand, have expressed interest in procuring BrahMos systems, and discussions are underway.

    About BrahMos Missiles

    Development:

    • BrahMos is a joint venture between the DRDO and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyeniya.
    • The name BrahMos comes from the two rivers, the Brahmaputra of India and the Moskva of Russia.
    • The first successful test in 2001 was conducted from a specially designed land-based launcher.

    Capabilities:

    • BrahMos is a medium-range ramjet supersonic cruise missile.
    • Launched from: Submarine, ships, aircraft, or land.
    • It is the fastest supersonic cruise missile in the world.
    • It has two stages:
    1. First stage comprising of a solid fuel rocket booster and
    2. Second stage comprising a liquid-fueled ramjet.

    Warhead:

    • Ship-launched and land-based missiles can carry a 200 kg warhead,
    • Aircraft-launched variant (BrahMos A) can carry a 300 kg warhead.

    Variants and Range 

    • The missile travels at speeds of Mach 2.8 to 3.0, which is being upgraded to Mach 5.0.
    • A hypersonic version of the missile, BrahMos-II, is also presently under development with a speed of Mach 7-8 to boost aerial fast strike capability.
    • Initially restricted by the Missile Technology Control Regime to a range of 290km, the BrahMos missile’s range was extended to 450km following India’s entry into the regime in June 2016.
    • Ongoing efforts aim further to extend the missile’s range beyond 600km, enhancing its operational reach and effectiveness in various scenarios.

    Strategic Implications of the move

    • This development comes amidst escalating tensions in the South China Sea between the Philippines and China emphasizing the significance of enhancing defensive preparedness.
    • The acquisition of BrahMos missiles under Horizon 2 of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Programme will bolster the defensive capabilities of the Philippines armed forces.

    PYQ:

    [2014] Which reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. It is a surface-to-surface missile.
    2. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only.
    3. It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500 km away.

    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

  • Bengaluru Airport bags 2024 Skytrax World Airport Awards

    Why in the news?

    • The Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru has been honored as the Best Regional Airport in India and South Asia at the esteemed 2024 Skytrax World Airport Awards.
    • Since its inauguration in 2023, KIA Terminal-2 has garnered multiple accolades, including the UNESCO Prix Versailles World’s Most Beautiful Airport

    About Skytrax World Airport Awards

    • The Skytrax World Airport Awards are annual awards, established in 1999 presented by Skytrax, a UK-based consultancy specializing in airline and airport research.
    • Since then, it has become a globally recognized authority in airline and airport research, known for its comprehensive passenger surveys and prestigious awards.
    • These awards are considered one of the most prestigious recognitions in the aviation industry and are often referred to as the “Oscars of the aviation industry.”
      • Various categories of Award: Best Airport, Best Regional Airport, Best Airport Terminal, and Best Airport Staff, among others.

    Evaluation Criteria:

    • Rigorous evaluations of various aspects, including check-in procedures, arrivals, transfers, shopping facilities, security, immigration processes, and departures.
    • Feedback from airport customers of over 100 nationalities across 550 airports worldwide during a seven-month survey period contributed to the assessment.

    Winners of the 2024 Awards

    • Doha’s Hamad International Airport clinched the top spot, dethroning Singapore Changi Airport, which had held the title for 12 consecutive years.
    • Hamad International Airport is praised for its architectural significance and luxurious amenities, covering an area equivalent to 75 football fields.
    • Seoul Incheon Airport secured third place overall and was recognized as the most family-friendly airport.

    Performance of key Indian Airports:

    • Delhi Airport retained its position at 36th place in the overall rankings.
    • Mumbai Airport saw a slight decline, dropping to 95th place from its previous rank of 84.
    • Bengaluru Airport experienced a notable improvement, climbing 10 ranks to 59th place compared to last year’s 69th position.
    • Hyderabad Airport also showed improvement, rising to 61st place from its previous rank of 65th.
    • Goa’s Manohar International Airport secured the 92nd spot in the overall rankings.

  • Srinagar vies for World Craft City Tag 

    Why in the news?

    • The World Crafts Council International (WCCI) has identified Srinagar as a potential candidate for the prestigious World Craft City (WCC) designation from India.
    • Artisans in Srinagar have uniquely preserved their traditional crafts such as Pashmina shawls, carpets, and papier mâché.

    Craft Sector Statistics in Kashmir

    • The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage-Kashmir (INTACH-K) is working with the J&K Handicrafts department to map Srinagar’s craft sector in preparation for the final nomination.
    • Srinagar boasts a rich artisanal heritage, with over 20,000 registered craftsmen engaged in various disciplines such as papier mâché, walnut wood carving, hand-knotted carpets, and more.
    • Handicrafts contribute significantly to the local economy, with approximately 2.64% of J&K’s overall economic output attributed to the sector by 2016-17.

     

    About World Craft Council (WCC International)

    Details
    What is it? Non-profit, Non-governmental organization
    Working
    • Establishment in 1964;
    • Registered in Belgium as an international association without lucrative purpose (AISBL).
    • Affiliated to the UNESCO
    Founders Kamaladevi Chattopadhay and Aileen Osborn Webb
    Purpose To promote fellowship among craftspersons worldwide, foster economic development through craft-related activities, organize exchange programs, workshops, conferences, seminars, and exhibitions, and offer encouragement and advice to artisans.
    Legal Status
    • Registered in Belgium as an international association without lucrative purpose (AISBL)
    • WCC is organized into five regions: Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and North America.
    Meetings
    • European branch meets annually;
    • General Assembly occurs every four years (took place in Chennai in 2012).

    What is World Craft City (WCC) Designation?

    • The WCC initiative was launched in 2014 by the World Crafts Council AISBL (WCC-International).
    • It recognizes the pivotal role local authorities, craftspeople, and communities play in cultural, economic, and social development worldwide.
    • India has only 3 cities designated as World Craft City:
    1. Jaipur (Kundan Jadai (Gem setting), Meenakari Jewellery, Lac based craft, Gotta Patti Work etc. )
    2. Mysuru (Kinnal paintings, Sandalwood carvings, Rosewood Inlay etc. )
    3. Mamallapuram (Stone Carving continuing since Pallava dynasty (275 CE to 897 CE))

    With inputs from: https://www.wccinternational.org/craft-cities/craft-cities-asia-pacific

    PYQ:

    Consider the following pairs:

    1. Puthukkuli Shawls — Tamil Nadu
    2. Sujni Embroidery — Maharashtra
    3. Uppada Jamdani Saris — Karnataka

    Craft Heritage of which of the pairs given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 1 and 2

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 2 and 3

  • Vasuki Indicus: 50ft Snake Fossil Found in Gujarat

    Why in the news?

    A fossil unearthed in Gujarat’s Kutch in 2005, initially presumed to belong to a giant crocodile, has been revealed as one of the largest snake ‘Vasuki Indicus’ ever to exist on Earth.

    About Vasuki Indicus

    • ‘Vasuki Indicus’ is the name given by IIT Roorkee Scientists to the fossil specie.
    • The name “Vasuki” derives from the mythological snake depicted often encircling the neck of the Hindu deity Shiva.

    Physical characteristics of Vasuki

    • It is estimated to measure between 11m (36ft) and 15m (49.22ft) in length,
    • It belonged to the extinct Madtsoiidae snake family.
      • Its size could potentially surpass the extinct Titanoboa in size, with its closest relatives identified as Titanoboa and Python.
    • The serpent’s large size indicates it was a slow-moving, ambush predator, akin to an anaconda, as suggested by researchers.
      • Like contemporary pythons and anacondas, Vasuki Indicus presumably employed Constriction (suffocation) as its primary method of prey capture.

    Age and Geological Context:

    • Recovered from the Panandhro Lignite Mine in Kutch, the fossil dates back to the Middle Eocene period, approximately 47 million years ago.
    • Analysis of the well-preserved vertebrae indicates the snake’s existence during a warm geological interval with average temperatures estimated at 28°C.
    • ‘Vasuki’ is believed to represent an extinct relic lineage originating in India, with subsequent India-Asia collision facilitating its dispersal from the subcontinent into North Africa through southern Eurasia.
      • Vasuki thrived during a time when the continents of Africa, India, and South America were amalgamated into a single landmass.

    Significance for India

    • This discovery underscores India’s rich biodiversity.
    • It holds immense potential in unraveling insights into the evolutionary process, continental shifts, and India’s pivotal role in the origin of various species, particularly reptiles.

    Middle Eocene Period

    • It is part of the Cenozoic Era, which began about 66 million years ago and continues to the present day.
    • During the Middle Eocene, the Earth experienced a greenhouse climate, with global temperatures significantly warmer than today.
    • The poles were ice-free, and forests extended into higher latitudes than they do today.
    • The period was characterized by relatively high levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, contributing to the warm climate.
    • The Middle Eocene was a time of significant diversification and evolution of various groups of organisms.
    • Mammals continued to diversify and evolve, with the emergence of early primates, rodents, and hoofed mammals.
    • The period also saw the rise of modern bird groups and the diversification of flowering plants (angiosperms).
    • The Middle Eocene was marked by tectonic activity, including the ongoing separation of continents and the formation of mountain ranges in various parts of the world.
    • For example, the collision of the Indian Plate with the Eurasian Plate during this time led to the uplift of the Himalayas.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] The word ‘Denisovan’ is sometimes mentioned in media in reference to-

    (a) Fossils of a kind of dinosaurs

    (b) An early human species

    (c) A cave system found in North-East India.

    (d) A geological period in the history of the Indian subcontinent

  • Iron Age Megalithic Sites discovered in Telangana

    Why in the news?

    • Archaeologists in Telangana have found Iron Age megalithic sites, including various structures such as large stone monuments and places with rock paintings.
    • These discoveries provide important information about the ancient civilizations that once lived in the area.

    Iron Age in India

    • India’s Iron Age ranged from approximately 1200 BCE to 200 BCE.
    • It was marked by the emergence of new archaeological cultures, including the megalithic cultures, Painted Grey Ware culture (1300–300 BCE), and the Northern Black Polished Ware (700–200 BCE).
    • This period corresponds to the transition from the Janapadas (principalities) of the Vedic period to the 16 Mahajanapadas (region-states) of the early historic period.
    • This transition culminated in the emergence of the Maurya Empire toward the end of the Iron Age.
    • Ironworking was prevalent in the Central Ganga Plain and the Eastern Vindhyas from the early second millennium BCE.
    • Sites:
    1. North India: Malhar, Dadupur, Raja Nala Ka Tila, Lahuradewa, Kosambi and Jhusi, Allahabad in present-day Uttar Pradesh.
    2. South India: Earliest Iron Age sites include Hallur in Karnataka and Adichanallur in Tamil Nadu, dating to around 1000 BCE. Mahurjhari near Nagpur was a significant site for bead manufacturing.
    • The Indian Iron Age ended coinciding with other significant events such as the decline of the Mauryan Empire and the spread of Buddhism.

     

    About the Ooragutta Megalithic Site

    • The site boasts over 200 megalithic monuments, although the exact count remains uncertain due to the dense forest and hilly terrain.
    • They are characterized by squarish or rectangular shapes, the structures at Ooragutta exhibit unique features.

    Dolmenoid Cists

    • The newly discovered monuments, termed “Dolmenoid Cists,” feature side slabs arranged to mirror the shape of the cap-stone, resulting in each cist having a distinct shape dictated by the cap-stone.
    • These monuments are estimated to date back to around 1,000 BCE.

    Rock Art Sites at Damaratogu

    • Two new rock art sites have been discovered at Damaratogu in Gundala mandal of Bhadradri Kothagudem district.
    • One of these sites, known as ‘Devarlabanda Mula‘, exclusively depicts animals and NO humans, in a rock painting.
    • It suggests a cultural significance possibly related to hunting or animal worship.
    • The absence of weapons or domestic animals in the paintings indicates that these artworks may belong to the Mesolithic age, dating anywhere between 8000 – 3000 BCE.

    Significance of Discoveries

    • These monuments resemble to “Passage Chambers” found in Europe.
    • This discovery sheds light on previously unknown architectural styles in the region and offers insights into the evolution of megalithic practices.

    PYQ:

    [2021] Consider the following pairs: ​

    (Historical place) (Well-known for)​

    1. Burzahom : Rock-cut shrines​
    2. Chandraketugarh : Terracotta art​
    3. Ganeshwar : Copper artefacts​

    Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?​

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 1 and 2 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 2 and 3 only

  • [19 April 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: India’s nuanced approach in the South China Sea

    PYQ Relevance:

    Mains: 
    Q) South China Sea has assumed great geopolitical significance in the present context. Comment (UPSC IAS/2016)

    Q) With respect to the South China sea, maritime territorial disputes and rising tension affaire the need for safeguarding maritime security to ensure freedom of navigation and ever flight throughout the region. In this context, discuss the bilateral issues between India and China.(UPSC IAS/2014)

    Note4Students

    Mentor comments:Mr. Jaishankar’s comment was made amid the ongoing South China or West Philippine Sea dispute between Manila and Beijing which witnessed, arguably, its most intense and volatile year in 2023, with frequent tensions at sea and diplomatic friction. A joint statement in 2023 between New Delhi and Manila had also called for China to adhere to the rules-based maritime order and acknowledge the International Court of Justice ruling of 2016 in favour of Manila.

    Why in the news?

    In March 2024, India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, articulated, in a joint statement during his visit to Manila, India’s full support for the Philippines in upholding its national sovereignty. 

    India’s complex ties with China

    • India’s evolving position in South China Sea : India’s evolving position on the South China Sea is closely tied to its complex relationship with China, which includes long-standing border disputes.
    • Border Disputes: India and China have a history of border disputes, which intensified following the Galwan Valley incident of 2020. China’s periodic incursions into Indian territory and renaming of Indian villages in Arunachal Pradesh have further strained relations.
    • Response to the Galwan Valley incident: India demonstrated its capability for asymmetric deterrence by sending a frontline warship to the South China Sea.
    • Disruptive Implications: China’s assertive posture and territorial claims in the South China Sea and along India’s land border have significant implications for regional stability.
    • Strategic Engagements: India has increased its strategic engagements, including regular naval exercises and military cooperation with Southeast Asian nations, to underline its commitment to regional security and counter China’s assertive actions.

    The policy evolution from India’s Look East Policy to Act East Policy:

    • Initially the Look East Policy: The Look East Policy initially emphasized economic integration with Southeast Asia and securing energy resources for India’s growing economy.
    • Economic Stakes: Indian state-owned enterprises, such as ONGC Videsh, engaged in oil and gas exploration projects in Vietnam’s exclusive economic zones, indicating India’s economic interests in the region.
    • Support for International Law: India’s involvement in maritime resource exploration projects underscored its support for the freedom of exploration and exploitation within the bounds of international law, particularly UNCLOS.
    • Shift to Act East Policy: Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration, there has been a strategic shift towards the Act East Policy, marking a more active and strategic engagement with the Indo-Pacific region.
    • Geopolitical Acknowledgment: The policy evolution reflects India’s recognition of the changing geopolitical landscape and the necessity for a proactive and multifaceted foreign policy approach.
    • Expanded Focus: The Act East Policy emphasizes not only economic integration but also strategic partnerships and increased security cooperation with Indo-Pacific countries like Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines.
    • Capacity Strengthening: India has bolstered its capacities through forward positioning, mission-based deployments, reinforced maritime domain awareness, and the development of deep-water maritime facilities.

    The role of ASEAN in the South China sea:

    • Central Involvement: ASEAN countries, along with China, are primarily involved in the disputes in the South China Sea, making ASEAN a central player in the region’s dynamics.
    • Importance of ASEAN Centrality: India’s Indo-Pacific strategy emphasizes the centrality of ASEAN, recognizing the importance of ASEAN’s position and cooperation in addressing challenges in the South China Sea.
    • Imperative for India to support ASEAN’s position: Despite its centrality, differences within ASEAN pose challenges to concerted efforts to address issues related to the South China Sea, making it imperative for India to support and strengthen ASEAN’s position.

    Conclusion: India should support the Philippines in upholding sovereignty. Strengthen strategic engagements and military cooperation with Southeast Asian nations. Advocate for a rules-based order in the South China Sea, emphasizing ASEAN centrality and regional stability.