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  • Tribes in News

    Rebuilding the Idea and Reality of Manipur

    op-ed snap | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Federalism

    Manipur

    Central Idea

    • The recent communal riots in Manipur have led to unprecedented human displacement, loss of lives and property, and destruction of the geopolitical foundations of Manipur beyond any immediate repair. To secure future stability and peace, there is a need to confront the truth about the nature of these riots and their principal cause and take adequate measures to ensure institutional accountability, recognition, and accommodation of distinctive rights and identities.

    What is the principal cause?

    • The principal cause of the riots in Manipur is the failure of the state government to recognize and accommodate the territorial rights and identities of the different communities in the state.
    • The state’s aggressive integrationist project, which seeks to dissolve tribal land rights in the valley areas, has been a major source of tension between the Meitei and tribal communities.
    • Additionally, the lack of functional sub-state asymmetrical institutions and the weakness of the state-society model have contributed to the instability and ethnic security dilemma in the state.

    Who are the Meiteis?

    • Largest community: The Meiteis are the largest community in Manipur.
    • Community’s Language: They speak the Meitei language (officially called Manipuri), one of the 22 official languages of India and the sole official language of Manipur State.
    • Geographical Distribution: Manipur is geographically divided into the Imphal Valley and the surrounding hills. The Imphal Valley is dominated by the Meitei community, which accounts for more than 64% of the population. The hills, which comprise 90% of Manipur’s geographical area, are inhabited by more than 35% recognized tribes, which are largely Christians.
    • Major Festivals: festivals of meiteis are Lai Haraoba, Cheiraoba, Yaosang among others. Also, The Manipuri martial art Thang-ta had its origin in the Meitei knights during the king’s rule.

    Need for recognition and accommodation: Illustration

    • Recognition of territorial rights: The stability and integrity of a pillarized society like Manipur can only be secured through recognition of territorial rights and identities of all communities. This means recognizing the land rights and heritage of the Meiteis and the tribals in the hills.
    • Substantive accommodation: In addition to recognition, it is necessary to provide substantive accommodation to different communities. This can involve granting tribal communities more autonomy in decision-making and representation in government.
    • Genuine dialogue: Accommodation requires genuine dialogue between communities that is based on mutual respect and a willingness to compromise. This is crucial for building trust and reducing tensions.
    • End of aggressive integrationist projects: The idea that one community should dominate others must be replaced with a more inclusive approach that values diversity and recognizes the rights of all communities.
    • Working institutions: Accommodation requires that institutions function effectively and equitably. The weak state-society model in Manipur needs to be strengthened and institutional trust and legitimacy must be restored.
    • Respect for differences: Recognition and accommodation require a respect for differences and a commitment to finding common ground. This can be facilitated by an appreciation of the historical pedigree of extant sub-State constitutional asymmetry and a willingness to address the concerns of all communities.

    Way ahead: Steps to promote State-building

    • Strengthening state institutions: The state government should focus on building strong and effective institutions that can deliver basic services to citizens, maintain law and order, and protect the rights of all communities. This could involve reforming the police force, improving the efficiency of the bureaucracy, and strengthening the judiciary.
    • Promoting inclusivity: The state government should ensure that all communities, including tribal and non-tribal groups, have equal access to government services and are included in the political process. This could involve implementing affirmative action policies and promoting dialogue between different communities.
    • Improving infrastructure: The state government should invest in improving infrastructure, including roads, water supply, and electricity, to promote economic growth and development. This could help reduce poverty and inequality and improve the quality of life for all citizens.
    • Addressing grievances: The state government should address the grievances of different communities, including land rights issues, to build trust and promote peace. This could involve setting up a judicial commission to investigate past violence and ensure accountability for those responsible.
    • Building regional partnerships: The state government should work with other states in the region and the central government to promote regional cooperation and address common challenges. This could involve promoting trade and investment, sharing resources, and collaborating on regional security issues.

    Facts for prelims: Major tribes of Manipur

    • Naga Tribes: The Nagas are one of the largest and most prominent tribes in Manipur. They are primarily concentrated in the hill areas of the state, and are known for their distinct culture and traditions.
    • Kuki Tribes: The Kukis are another major tribe in Manipur, and are also primarily concentrated in the hill areas. They are known for their love of music and dance, and have a rich cultural heritage.
    • Meitei Tribe: The Meitei are the dominant community in the valley areas of Manipur, and have their own distinct language and culture. They are known for their love of traditional sports such as Thang Ta (a form of martial arts) and Sagol Kangjei (a game similar to polo).
    • Hmar Tribe: The Hmars are a smaller tribe in Manipur, but are still an important part of the state’s cultural fabric. They are known for their traditional dance forms, such as the Cheraw and Chheihlam
    • Zomi Tribe: The Zomis are another smaller tribe in Manipur, but are spread across several states in Northeast India. They are known for their love of music and dance, and have a rich cultural heritage.
    • Pangal Tribe: The Pangal tribe, also known as the Manipuri Muslims, is a minority community in Manipur. They have a distinct culture and language and are primarily concentrated in the valley region.
    • Anal Tribe: The Anal tribe is a smaller ethnic group in Manipur and is primarily concentrated in the hill areas. They have a unique culture and are known for their traditional dress, dance, and music.

    Conclusion

    • Serious and concerted inter-community reconciliation efforts must be initiated immediately if Manipur as an inclusive idea and a geopolitical space of accommodation were to be revived. Any prolonged conflagrations will be mutually destructive and self-defeating. The government must adopt even-handedness in its dealing with diverse communities and must not cave into the pressure of the majority in the future.

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    Also Read:

    Private: Manipur Ethnic Violence

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  • Terrorism and Challenges Related To It

    How to minimise the threat from IEDs?

    | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Various Security Forces, Agencies & Their Mandates

    Central Idea: The article discusses various measures that need to be taken to minimise errors in anti-terrorist operations. This has been particularly discussed after recent incidents of IED (improvised explosive device) explosions.

    What are IED (Improvised Explosive Device)?

    • IEDs are homemade explosive device made from commonly available materials such as fertilizer, diesel fuel, and metal scraps.
    • They are typically used as a form of guerrilla warfare by non-state actors such as terrorists, insurgents, and other militant groups.

    Why discuss IEDs?

    • IEDs are a popular choice for such groups as they are relatively easy to construct, difficult to detect, and can be triggered by a range of mechanisms including pressure plates, remote control, and tripwires.
    • IEDs are often responsible for a large number of casualties and fatalities in conflict zones.

    Disadvantage faced by Indian armed forces

    • The security forces are dealing with an enemy who is faceless, unidentifiable, and hidden among the people.
    • Security personnel can open fire only in self-defence, not on apprehension, giving militants the ‘first mover advantage’.
    • The reaction or the response time available for “Immediate Action (IA) or Counter Ambush drill” is a few seconds.
    • All standard operating systems and procedures, technological measures, etc., are directed towards the identification and detection of IEDs/landmines and to avoid being caught in them.

    Preventing IED Fatalities

    (1) Minimizing Errors

    • Avoid vehicle travel: To avoid casualties/fatalities in Maoist territories, vehicle travel should be avoided.
    • Foot patrolling: Routine operations like area domination, cordon-and-search, long-range patrolling, ambush-cum-patrolling should only be undertaken on foot.
    • Route security: If vehicle travel is essential, the onward and return journeys should never be by the same route, nor undertaken during the daytime.
    • Smaller convoys: Security forces should travel in a convoy of a minimum of two to three vehicles, maintaining a distance of at least 40 to 50 meters between them.

    (2) Camouflage and Protective Gear

    • In certain war zones, vehicular deployment is inevitable.
    • Security forces should be equipped with appropriate protective gear and their vehicles should be equipped with V-shaped and armour-plated hull, blast-resistant technology, and proper sandbagging to minimize damage in the event of an explosion.

    (3) Making a Region Safe for Travel

    • Detection: Rigorous and regular implementation of various detection methods, such as metal detectors, ground-penetrating radar, and trained sniffer dogs, to locate and clear landmines and IEDs, is essential.
    • Multi strata surveillance: This carried out through drones and road opening parties equipped with UGVs (Unmanned Ground Vehicles) can detect the presence of terrorists and pick tell-tale signs of a likely ambush.
    • Mapping of such areas: Areas known or suspected to contain landmines or IEDs can be mapped, and contingency plans prepared for them.

    (4) Intelligence Inputs and Investigation

    • Confidence building: Winning of hearts and minds is essential to gather actionable intelligence.
    • Diligent and scientific investigation: Establishment of linkages through meticulous collection and marshalling of evidence, framing of chargesheets, followed by speedy trials and conviction, serve as a strong deterrent to terrorism.

    Policy measures required

    • Regulating explosives: Legislative measures are required for the mandatory addition of odoriferous chemicals and/or biosensors to explosives used in industry and mining for their easy detection during transport.
    • Collaboration with international organizations: Other countries have taken several counter-IED measures, such as the U.S. setting up the Joint Improvised-Threat Defeat Organization and spending about $20 billion on counter-IED measures since 2005.
    • Overarching agency: It is needed under the Ministry of Home Affairs to coordinate the efforts of both the GoI and the states, and to provide legislative, technological, and procedural support to law enforcement agencies.

    Conclusion

    • It is crucial for governments to take necessary measures to protect their security personnel and prevent casualties caused by IEDs.
    • Again it is essential to raise awareness about the challenges and dangers faced by security personnel in conflict zones and to find effective solutions to mitigate the risks.

     

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  • Surrogacy in India

    Exemptions under Surrogacy Law

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

    The govt in the Supreme Court has said that same-sex couples and live-in partners are not included in surrogacy and assisted reproduction laws to avoid ‘misuse’ and provide children a ‘complete family’.

    Government’s stance

    • Same-sex couples and live-in partners are excluded from surrogacy and assisted reproduction laws to avoid ‘misuse.’
    • The welfare of the child should be prioritized over any notions of equality among prospective parents or couples.
    • No special provisions or additional rights have been granted to same-sex couples and live-in partners despite the decriminalization of their relationships.

    Why in news?

    • The government’s perspective is not in tune with several Supreme Court judgments that long live-in relationships “presume” marriage.
    • Live-in partners are not bound by law, and the safety of the child born through surrogacy cannot be guaranteed.

    Judiciary in support

    • Same-sex couples are fighting for their right to marry and raise a family as equal parents.
    • CJI heading the Constitution Bench, has remarked that same-sex couples could offer as stable and loving a home, if not better, to children as heterosexual married parents.

    Distinct features of the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021

    • Definition of surrogacy: It defines surrogacy as a practice where a woman gives birth to a child for an intending couple with the intention to hand over the child after the birth to the intending couple.
    • Regulation of surrogacy: It prohibits commercial surrogacy, but allows altruistic surrogacy which involves no monetary compensation to the surrogate mother other than the medical expenses and insurance.
    • Purposes for which surrogacy is permitted: Surrogacy is permitted when it is: (i) for intending couples who suffer from proven infertility; (ii) altruistic; (iii) not for commercial purposes; (iv) not for producing children for sale, prostitution or other forms of exploitation; and (v) for any condition or disease specified through regulations.
    • Eligibility criteria: The intending couple should have a ‘certificate of essentiality’ and a ‘certificate of eligibility’ issued by the appropriate authority ex. District Medical Board.

    Eligibility criteria for surrogate mother:

    • To obtain a certificate of eligibility from the appropriate authority, the surrogate mother has to be:
    1. A close relative of the intending couple;
    2. A married woman having a child of her own;
    3. 25 to 35 years old;
    4. A surrogate only once in her lifetime; and
    5. Possess a certificate of medical and psychological fitness for surrogacy.
    • Further, the surrogate mother cannot provide her own gametes for surrogacy.

    Basis of the Petition: Right to Reproductive Autonomy

    • The personal decision of a single person about the birth of a baby through surrogacy, i.e., the right of reproductive autonomy is a facet of the right to privacy guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution.
    • Thus, the right to privacy of every citizen or person affecting a decision to bear or beget a child through surrogacy cannot be taken away.

    Other issues with Surrogacy Law

    • Medical issue necessity: Married women can only avail surrogacy services if they are unable to produce a child due to medical conditions.
    • Widow/Divorced: Otherwise, for women to avail of surrogacy services, they must be aged between 35 and 45 and widowed or divorced.
    • One child obligation: Women can only offer surrogacy if they are aged between 25 and 35 and married with at least one biological child.
    • Genetic relation obligation: The laws also require a surrogate to be genetically related to the couple who intend to have a child through this method.

     

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  • OBOR Initiative

    CPEC to be extended to Afghanistan

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

    cpec

    Central Idea: Pakistan, China and Afghanistan have agreed to extending the Beijing-backed China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan to fully harness the country’s potential as a hub for regional connectivity.

    What is CPEC?

    • The CPEC, one of the most ambitious components of Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), was announced to great fanfare in 2015.
    • CPEC is a collection of infrastructure projects that are under construction throughout Pakistan beginning in 2013.
    • Originally valued at $47 billion, the value of CPEC projects is worth $62 billion as of 2020.
    • It is intended to rapidly upgrade Pakistan’s required infrastructure and strengthen its economy by the construction of modern transportation networks, numerous energy projects, and SEZs.
    • On 13 November 2016, CPEC became partly operational when Chinese cargo was transported overland to Gwadar Port for onward maritime shipment to Africa and West Asia.

    India’s reservation against CPEC

    Ans. Sovereignty breach

    • India which shares tense relations with Pakistan, objects to the CPEC project as upgrade works to the Karakoram Highway are taking place in Gilgit-Baltistan.
    • This is the territory illicitly occupied by Pakistan in 1947-48.
    • During the visit of Indian PM Modi to China in 2015, the Indian FM, Sushma Swaraj reportedly told the Chinese.
    • India did not object to the Chinese construction of the Karakoram Highway which was built between 1959 and 1979.

    Why CPEC?

    • Economic push for Pak: CPEC has consistently been held up as a “gamechanger” for Pakistan’s economy.
    • Debt trap diplomacy: At the same time, China is the only country that is heavily investing in Pakistan.

    Progress status

    • Slow pace: Gwadar, despite being the epicenter of multibillion-dollar projects, lacks basic necessities like reliable access to water and electricity, let alone other facilities.
    • At standstill: But the road to completion has proved long and winding. Reports indicate that the pace of CPEC projects has been slowing down in Pakistan in recent years.
    • Baloch freedom movement: This is another impediment to the stalled project where Chinese officials are targeted and killed.
    • Consistent security threat: China is also seeking to deploy its Army in the CPEC projects, to which Pakistan has contested.

     

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  • Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act

    Common Uniforms at Higher Ranks of Army

    Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Various Security Forces, Agencies & Their Mandates

    uniform

    Central Idea: A decision has been taken at the recent Army Commanders Conference to change the uniforms worn by senior Army officers.

    Changes in Uniform

    • All officers of the rank of Brigadier and above will now wear common uniform items.
    • The common uniform items include berets, badges of rank, belt buckle, and pattern of shoes.
    • Regimental lanyards and shoulder flashes will no longer be worn by officers of these higher ranks.
    • There will be no item of uniform that will identify them as belonging to a particular Regiment or Corps.

    Present Uniform Accoutrements

    • Officers from the rank of Lieutenant to General currently wear uniform accoutrements as per their regimental or corps affiliation.
    • Each Infantry Regiment and Corps has its own pattern of lanyard, badges of rank, buttons, and belt buckle as per regimental traditions.

    Reason for Change

    • Regimental service in the Army ends at the rank of Colonel for most officers who rise further.
    • Senior officers commanding troops of mixed regimental lineage should present themselves in a neutral uniform rather than a regimental one.

    Reversion to Past Practice

    • The Army is now reverting to the practice that was followed almost 40 years ago, when the changes towards wearing regimental affiliations took hold in the service.
    • Until about the mid-1980s, officers of the rank of Colonel and above had common uniform patterns and insignia.

    Tradition in Other Armies

    • In the British army, the uniform worn by officers of the rank of Colonel and above is referred to as the Staff uniform, to distinguish it from the Regimental uniform.
    • Among neighbouring countries, the Pakistan and Bangladesh armies follow the same pattern as the British army.

     

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  • Internal Security Architecture Shortcomings – Key Forces, NIA, IB, CCTNS, etc.

    Analysis of the Maoist Attack and The Way Forward

    op-ed snap | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: External State & Non-State Actors: Challenges To Internal Security.

    Maoist

    Central Idea

    • The April 26 attack on District Reserve Guard (DRG) personnel and a civilian driver by Maoists in Dantewada, Chhattisgarh highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to tackling the insurgency. Despite claims of a weakened Maoist movement, the attack shows that they still have the ability to strike at will.

    About District Reserve Guards (DRG)

    • District Reserve Guards (DRG) is a special unit of the police force in some Indian states, primarily in Chhattisgarh, that is trained and equipped to combat Naxalite and Maoist insurgency.
    • DRG personnel are typically drawn from local tribal communities and are familiar with the local terrain, which makes them effective in fighting the insurgency.
    • They are provided with specialized training in guerrilla warfare, jungle warfare, and use of modern weaponry.
    • The DRG is often at the forefront of anti-Naxalite operations and is considered a vital component of the Indian government’s efforts to counter the Maoist insurgency in the country.

    Maoist ability to strike at will

    • Strategic planning by Maoist Central Committee: A strike such as the one carried out on April 26 cannot be the brainchild of a local Maoist unit; it is highly likely that this was a trap laid out under the directions of the Maoist Central Committee, indicating the sustained hierarchy of the Maoists.
    • Timing of attacks: The Maoists carry out maximum attacks against security forces during the tactical counter-offensive campaign which is the period between February and June every year. Out of a total of 17 major strikes in Chhattisgarh (2010-2023), six were carried out in April alone, indicating a pattern that should give the government enough leads to plan its strategy.
    • Flouting of standard operating procedures: Standard operating procedures and protocols were blatantly flouted during the unfortunate strike on April 26. It is imperative that the security forces remain extra cautious during the months of the tactical counter-offensive campaign by strictly adhering to standard operating procedures and protocols.

    Challenges associated with employing local tribal youth for the DRG

    • False sense of empowerment: When armed, local tribal youth often get a false sense of empowerment, which can lead to feuds with the Maoists. This is because they are familiar with the ecosystem of the Maoists and may harbor resentment towards them.
    • Intelligence network: During the April 26 incident, the intelligence network of the DRG was outclassed by that of the Maoists. This highlights the need for better training and support for local tribal youth who are employed by the DRG.
    • Ad-hoc planning: The DRG personnel, in this case, seem to have acted independently, exposing their ad-hoc planning. This demonstrates the need for better coordination and control over the DRG by the state police.
    • Lack of discipline: Although the combat-worthiness of the DRG is beyond doubt, it is not complemented by the rigor of discipline, which is an imperative quality for troops in any protracted counter-insurgency campaign. The track record of the DRG regarding discipline is not too encouraging, with many of the cadres having been cashiered on disciplinary grounds and some having been found to be involved in crime. This highlights the need for better training and support to ensure that the DRG personnel are adequately disciplined and accountable for their actions.

    Way ahead: Lasting solutions

    • Effective Policing: Effective policing in insurgency-affected regions is the function of a strong State police force. It is widely acknowledged that Central police forces should supplement and not supplant the State police.
    • Vacancies in State Police Force: According to data of the Bureau of Police Research and Development, there are many vacancies in the State police forces. Without comprehensive transformation of the State police, Central forces would achieve little beyond random and misplaced killings.
    • Control on Local Tribal Youth: Local tribal youth should be employed for the DRG in a controlled manner by the State police. Security should not be simply outsourced to them.
    • DRG Personnel Discipline: The combat-worthiness of the DRG is beyond doubt, but it is not complemented by the rigour of discipline. This is an imperative quality for troops in any protracted counter-insurgency campaign. The track record of the DRG regarding discipline is not too encouraging.
    • Deeper reflection on the discontent and dispossession of tribal people: The incident calls for a deeper reflection on the discontent and dispossession of the tribal people of central India, who are in all respects the most disadvantaged of citizens.
    • Perception management: The government needs to pay adequate attention to perception management. The government should communicate that extensive road construction projects in Bastar will ease the lives of the local population and not just enhance the reach of the security forces.
    • Weaken the Maoist ideology: The futility of the Maoist ideology in current times is not adequately exposed to weaken the insurgency. Security is no doubt necessary, but the focus needs to be beyond security and development.

    Conclusion

    • The Dantewada attack highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to tackling the insurgency, taking into account the tactical counter-offensive campaign, the need for strong state police forces, and the controlled employment of DRG personnel. The government should focus on addressing the root causes of the insurgency, paying attention to perception management and exposing the futility of Maoist ideology

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    Also Read:

    The Maoist Insurgency: Challenges and The Way Forward

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  • Higher Education – RUSA, NIRF, HEFA, etc.

    All India Survey on Higher Education: A Wake-up Call for the Muslim Community

    op-ed snap | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

    Higher

    Central Idea

    • The recently released All India Survey on Higher Education 2020–21 has shown some alarming trends. While there have been improvements in the enrollment of certain communities in higher education, there has been a drastic drop in the enrollment of Muslim students. The survey provides a grim picture of the marginalisation of the Muslim community in higher education and the need for the government to take action to address.

    Findings of the survey

    1. Enrollment overview:
    • Enrollment of Dalits, Adivasis and OBCs in higher education increased by 4.2%, 11.9%, and 4% respectively compared to 2019-20.
    • The upper castes showed the highest growth rate of 13.6%, after declining with the implementation of Mandal II in the late 2000s.
    1. Enrollment of Muslim students:
    • The enrollment of Muslim students dropped by 8% from 2019-20, by 1,79,147 students. This level of absolute decline has never happened in the recent past for any group.
    • UP accounts for 36% of the total decline in Muslim enrollment, followed by Jammu and Kashmir (26%), Maharashtra (8.5%), Tamil Nadu (8.1%), Gujarat (6.1%), Bihar (5.7%) and Karnataka (3.7%).
    • Muslims constitute about 4.6% of total enrollment in higher education while they represent about 15% of society.
    • Among major states, in 2020-21, Muslims did not do better than Dalits except in Tamil Nadu, Telangana and Delhi. Kerala tops in the percentage of Muslim youth (43%) who are currently attending higher education.

    Factors behind declining enrollment of Muslim students

    • Lack of job opportunities: Muslim students face a high unemployment rate, which means that they may not see higher education as a path to a good job.
    • Discrimination: There is discrimination in the job market against Muslim candidates. Studies have shown that Muslim candidates are less likely to be invited to job interviews compared to candidates with Brahmin or Dalit names.
    • Economic factors: Muslim students may not have the financial means to pursue higher education, and may have to work to support themselves and their families. This can lead to a high dropout rate.
    • Violence and ghettoization: Violence against Muslims has increased, which has led to a sense of fear and insecurity, and has restricted their mobility. This has resulted in a trend towards ghettoization.
    • Discriminatory policies: Some state governments have stopped providing financial support to Muslim students pursuing higher education. This has made it more difficult for them to access higher education opportunities.

    All you need to know about Sachar Committee report, 2006

    • The Sachar Committee was commissioned by the Indian government in response to concerns about the social and economic status of Muslims in India.
    • The committee surveyed the status of Muslims across various parameters, including education, employment, and access to social services.
    • The report found that Muslims in India were disproportionately affected by poverty, illiteracy, and lack of access to basic services such as healthcare and sanitation.
    • The report highlighted the need for affirmative action policies to address the marginalization of Muslims, such as reservations in education and employment.
    • The report also recommended the establishment of an Equal Opportunities Commission to address discrimination against Muslims and other minority communities in India.
    • The Sachar Committee Report sparked a national debate about the social and economic status of Muslims in India and led to increased attention on the issue of affirmative action for marginalized communities.

    Policy recommendations to address low Muslim students enrollment

    • Initiate positive discrimination policies: The government could implement policies such as sub-quotas for Muslims within the OBC quota to improve their access to higher education opportunities.
    • Provide scholarships and fellowships: The government could provide greater financial support to minority students pursuing higher education, such as scholarships and fellowships, to help them overcome economic barriers.
    • Address discrimination in the job market: The government could work to create more job opportunities for Muslims and address discrimination in the job market to help improve their economic prospects.
    • Promote social and economic equality: The overall goal should be to promote greater social and economic equality for Muslims in India, which could involve a range of policies and initiatives focused on education, employment, and other areas.

    Conclusion

    • The All-India Survey on Higher Education highlights the deepening marginalisation of the Muslim community in higher education and the need for the government to take action to address the situation. Positive discrimination in favour of Muslims, as recommended by the Sachar Committee Report, is the need of the hour to ensure equitable access to higher education for all communities. Without such efforts, India will not be able to realise its potential and contribute to the harmonious development of society.

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    Also read:

    SC quota for Dalit Muslims and Christians

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  • India’s Buddhist Diplomacy: Promoting Soft Power and Regional Cohesion

    op-ed snap | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    Buddhist

    Central Idea

    • India’s recent two-day global Buddhist summit in New Delhi was a significant opportunity for India to strengthen its soft power and connect with the global Buddhist community. India has been investing in Buddhist diplomacy efforts, with a focus on promoting tourism through the development of the Buddhist tourist circuit and by visiting Buddhist sites during Southeast and East Asian visits.

    What is global Buddhist summit?

    • A global Buddhist summit is a high-level gathering of key figures from the global Buddhist community, including prominent scholars, sangha leaders, dharma practitioners, and government officials, to discuss and promote the teachings and values of Buddhism, as well as to strengthen ties within the global Buddhist community.
    • The summit provides an opportunity to exchange ideas and explore ways to address contemporary challenges faced by society, guided by the principles of Buddhism.
    • These summits also provide a platform for countries with strong historical and cultural ties to Buddhism, such as India, to project and connect with the global Buddhist population, thereby strengthening their soft power.

    Facts for prelims: Global Buddhist summit, New Delhi

    Organized by Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation
    Attendees 171 foreign delegates from South Korea, Thailand, Cambodia, Japan, and Taiwan, along with 150 delegates from Indian Buddhist organizations
    Key Figures The Dalai Lama, prominent scholars, sangha leaders, and dharma practitioners
    Theme “Responses to Contemporary Challenges: Philosophy to Praxis”
    Emphasis Continuing relevance of Buddha’s teachings in today’s world and India’s commitment to preserving and promoting Buddhist culture and heritage
    Focus Promotion of tourism through the development of the “Buddhist tourist circuit” and strengthening ties with the global Buddhist community
    Highlighted Efforts India’s Buddhist diplomacy and cultural exchange, promoting regional cohesion
    Objectives To shape the discourse around Buddhist issues on the global stage, to reinforce India’s soft power, and to maintain its edge over China in promoting Buddhist heritage
    Importance A valuable opportunity for cultural exchange, sharing of ideas, and strengthening ties within the global Buddhist community

    The Panchamrit: Current Indian government’s guiding principles for foreign policy

    1. Samman (Respect): To build a foreign policy based on mutual respect and recognition of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations.
    2. Samvad (Dialogue): To promote dialogue and engagement with all nations to resolve disputes and build understanding.
    3. Sahyog (Cooperation): To promote cooperation and collaboration with other nations to achieve common goals and address shared challenges.
    4. Shanti (Peace): To promote peace and stability in the region and beyond, and to work towards global disarmament and non-proliferation.
    5. Sanskriti Evam Sabhyata (Culture and Civilization): To promote cultural and civilizational links with other nations, and to work towards the preservation and promotion of India’s rich cultural heritage.

    How China used Buddhist diplomacy during the Cold War?

    • During the Cold War, China used Buddhist diplomacy as a tool to engage with neighboring countries and gain influence in the region.
    • Sponsoring exchanges: China sponsored exchanges between Chinese Buddhist leaders and their counterparts in other countries, which often involved the exchange of gifts and the establishment of cultural centers to promote Chinese culture and Buddhism abroad.
    • Offering scholarships: China offered scholarships to foreign students to study Buddhism in China, which helped promote Chinese culture and build goodwill among the international community.
    • Sending Buddhist delegations: China sent Buddhist delegations to participate in international events, which helped promote Chinese culture and enhance China’s image as a responsible global power.
    • Promoting regional cooperation and peace: China promoted Buddhism as a source of common values and cultural heritage, which helped foster a vision of regional cooperation and peace that would serve China’s interests in the region.
    • Using Buddhism to promote domestic policies: During the Cultural Revolution, China promoted its own brand of Buddhism, which was heavily influenced by Marxist-Leninist ideology. This version of Buddhism promoted the idea of a Buddhist socialist state and was used to promote loyalty to the Chinese Communist Party.

    How India can leverage its Buddhist diplomacy?

    • India can leverage its Buddhist diplomacy in several ways to promote its interests and reinforce its soft power. Here are some of the ways in which India can do this:
    • Promote Buddhism at the highest levels of government: India can continue to promote Buddhism and its rich cultural heritage at the highest levels of government, by organizing high-profile events and promoting cultural exchanges.
    • Organize cultural events: India can organize cultural events that showcase its Buddhist history and heritage, and promote cultural exchange between India and other countries.
    • Strengthen ties with key Buddhist institutions and leaders: India can work to strengthen its ties with key Buddhist institutions and leaders around the world, to build stronger relationships and promote greater cooperation.
    • Utilize Bollywood to promote Buddhist heritage: India can utilize the reach of Bollywood to promote its Buddhist heritage, by producing films and television shows that highlight the importance of Buddhism and its role in Indian history and culture.
    • Collaborate with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR): The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) can play a significant role in promoting cultural events within and outside India, and India can collaborate with ICCR to promote its Buddhist diplomacy efforts.
    • Develop the Buddhist tourist circuit: India can continue to develop the Buddhist tourist circuit to promote tourism and cultural exchange, by investing in infrastructure and promoting Buddhist pilgrimage sites.
    • Strengthen ties with the global Buddhist community: India can continue to strengthen its ties with the global Buddhist community, by participating in international events and promoting greater understanding and cooperation between nations.

    Facts for prelims: Quick revision box from civils daily

    Council Timeline Location Sponsor Outcome
    First Buddhist Council 483 BCE Rajagriha King Ajatashatru Compilation of the Tripitaka scriptures
    Second Buddhist Council 4th BCE Vaishali Unknown Established two separate sects of Buddhism
    Third Buddhist Council 3rd BCE Pataliputra Emperor Ashoka Compilation of the Abhidhamma Pitaka
    Fourth Buddhist Council 1st century CE Kundalavana, Kashmir Emperor Kanishka Compilation of the Mahayana Buddhist scriptures

    Conclusion

    • India must act to ensure that it remains a key player in the global Buddhist community. As Buddha was the first diplomat of peace, his teachings of peace and cooperation can become the guiding light of Indian diplomacy on the world stage, especially in these tough times.

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    Also Read:

    What is Ambedkar Tourist Circuit?

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  • Coal and Mining Sector

    India coal imports surge to 162 MT in FY23

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

    Central Idea

    • India’s coal imports increased by 30% to 162.46 million tonnes in the 2022-23 financial year compared to 124.99 MT in the previous year, according to a report.
    • The report was released by mjunction, a B2B e-commerce platform that is a joint venture between Steel Authority of India (SAIL) and Tata Steel.

    India’s coal production and consumption

    • India is among the top five coal-producing countries in the world.
    • Despite being a major producer, India also imports coal to meet some of its demand.
    • India is a significant consumer of coal, which is used for power generation and industrial processes.

    Import of Coking Coal

    • Coking Coal: The import of coking coal rose by 5.44% to 54.46 MT over 51.65 MT in FY22, as per the report by mjunction. Coking coal is a key raw material used in steel making.
    • Non-coking coal: In March 2023, non-coking coal import stood at 13.88 MT against 12.61 MT in the same month last year.
    • Other imports: The total imports of various types of coal like anthracite, pulverised coal injection (PCI coal), met coke and pet coke, along with coking and non-coking coal, were at 249.06 MT in FY23, up from 200.71 MT in FY22, a rise of over 24%.

    Key inferences from this

    • The high demand for steam coal in India and the weakening of seaborne prices led to increased volumes during March.
    • This trend might continue in the coming months due to above-normal average temperatures expected during the summer.

    Why does India import coal?

    India imports coal primarily due to the following reasons:

    • Lack of good quality coal: India’s domestic coal reserves have limitations in terms of quality, and the country does not have sufficient reserves of good quality coking coal, which is used in steelmaking and allied industries. Therefore, India imports coal to compensate for the lack of good quality coal.
    • Growing energy demand: India’s energy demand is continuously increasing due to population growth and rapid urbanization. Coal is a significant contributor to India’s energy mix, and the country needs to import coal to meet its growing energy demand.
    • Infrastructure constraints: India’s domestic coal production is limited due to various factors such as geological constraints, land acquisition issues, and environmental regulations. Moreover, India’s domestic coal transport infrastructure is insufficient, and many power plants are located far away from the coal mines, making imports a more viable option.
    • Better quality and cost-effectiveness: Importing coal from other countries can sometimes be more cost-effective than producing it domestically, especially when the quality of imported coal is better than domestic coal.

     

    Key terminologies

    Coking coal: a type of coal that is used in the production of steel.

    Anthracite: a hard and compact type of coal that has a high carbon content.

    Pulverised coal injection (PCI coal): a method of injecting pulverized coal into a blast furnace to improve the efficiency of the iron-making process.

    Met coke: a type of coke made by heating coal in the absence of air, which is used as a fuel in blast furnaces to produce iron.

    Pet coke: a carbon-rich solid material that is derived from oil refining. It is used as a fuel in industrial processes.

     

    Try this PYQ from CSP 2012:

    Despite having large reserves of coal, why does India import millions of tonnes of coal?

    1. It is the policy of India to save its own coal reserves for the future, and import them from other countries for the present use.
    2. Most of the power plants in India are coal-based and they are not able to get sufficient supplies of coal from within the country.
    3. Steel companies need a large quantity of coking coal which has to be imported.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?       

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

    Post your answers here

     

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  • RBI Notifications

    RBI’s gold reserves rise to 794.64 tonne

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    Central Idea: The RBI has increased its gold reserves by 34.22 tonnes YoY to reach 794.64 tonnes at the end of March 2023, according to the central bank’s data.

    What are Gold Reserves?

    • Gold reserves refer to the physical gold holdings that a central bank or a country holds as a part of its foreign exchange reserves.
    • Central banks may acquire gold reserves through various means, including purchases from other central banks, international organizations, or commercial banks, and from domestic production or importation.
    • Gold reserves are typically held in the form of gold bars, which are stored in secure vaults or depositories.

    Why Gold?

    • Gold is considered a safe-haven asset and has been historically used to back a country’s currency.
    • Holding gold reserves is seen as a way to hedge against inflation, currency fluctuations, and other economic uncertainties.

    Significance of Gold Reserves

    • Economic stability: Gold reserves are often seen as a symbol of economic stability and confidence, especially during times of financial crisis or uncertainty. Holding gold reserves can help central banks to maintain the stability of their currency and the economy.
    • Diversification: Gold is considered a safe-haven asset and can provide diversification to a country’s foreign exchange reserves portfolio. Diversification helps to reduce the risks associated with any single asset class.
    • Hedge against inflation: Gold is considered an inflation hedge as its value tends to increase during times of high inflation or when the value of a currency is depreciating. Holding gold reserves can help to protect the purchasing power of a country’s currency.
    • International transactions: Gold reserves can be used as collateral for loans and international transactions. Countries can also use gold reserves to settle international debts.
    • Confidence-building: The level of a country’s gold reserves can be an indicator of the country’s financial strength and stability. High levels of gold reserves can help to build confidence among investors and other countries.

    Breakdown of RBI’s gold reserves

    • Total: As of March-end 2023, the RBI held 794.64 metric tonnes of gold, including gold deposits of 56.32 metric tonnes.
    • Domestic and abroad: Out of the total gold reserves, 437.22 metric tonnes of gold is held overseas in safe custody with the Bank of England and the Bank of International Settlements (BIS), while 301.10 metric tonnes of gold is held domestically.

    How much do these gold reserves value?

    • In value terms (USD), the share of gold in the total foreign exchange reserves increased from about 7.06% as of September-end 2022 to about 7.81% as of March-end 2023, as per the RBI’s report.
    • During the half-year period, the reserves increased from $532.66 billion as of September-end 2022 to $578.45 billion as of March-end 2023.

     

    New terminologies

    Foreign currency assets (FCA): a component of forex reserves that includes major traded currencies held by the central bank of a country.

    Special drawing rights (SDRs): an international reserve asset created by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to supplement member countries’ official reserves.

    Reserve tranche position: a component of IMF’s financial accounts that represents a country’s reserve position in the organization.

    Back2Basics: Foreign Exchange (Forex) Reserve

    • Foreign exchange reserves are important assets held by the central bank in foreign currencies as reserves.
    • They are commonly used to support the exchange rate and set monetary policy.
    • In India’s case, foreign reserves include Gold, Dollars, and the IMF’s quota for Special Drawing Rights.
    • Most of the reserves are usually held in US dollars, given the currency’s importance in the international financial and trading system.
    • Some central banks keep reserves in Euros, British pounds, Japanese yen, or Chinese yuan, in addition to their US dollar reserves.

    India’s forex reserves cover:

    1. Foreign Currency Assets (FCAs)
    2. Special Drawing Rights (SDRs)
    3. Gold Reserves
    4. Reserve position with the International Monetary Fund (IMF)

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