The Indian government introduced The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-eighth Amendment) Bill, 2023, aimed at providing 33% reservation to women in the Lok Sabha and state Legislative Assemblies.
However, this endeavor is not new, dating back to the mid-1990s.
Women’s Reservation Bill: Overview
Reservation Provisions: The Bill proposes to reserve one-third of the seats in the Lok Sabha and state Assemblies for women, including those belonging to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
Constitutional Amendments: Similar to a previous Bill from 2010, this one introduces new articles (330A and 332A) in the Constitution to effect these changes.
Sunset Clause: The Bill includes a sunset clause, stipulating that the reservation will be applicable for 15 years from the Act’s commencement.
Discourse on Women’s Reservation
Pre-Independence Demands: The discussion on women’s reservation dates back to the pre-Independence era, where various women’s organizations advocated for women’s political representation.
Recommendations: Several recommendations and reports, such as the 1955 committee’s proposal for 10% reservation in Lok Sabha and State legislative assemblies, set the stage.
National Perspective Plan: The National Perspective Plan for Women in 1988 called for 30% reservation in all elected bodies.
Panchayati Raj Act (1993): A significant step was the amendment of the Panchayati Raj Act in 1993, reserving 33% of seats in local government bodies for women.
Rajya Sabha Approval (2010): The Women’s Reservation Bill, introduced in 1996, finally gained momentum and was approved by the Rajya Sabha on March 9, 2010.
Practical obstacles in Implementation
(a) Delimitation Process Dependency:
Crucial Condition: The Bill links the implementation of women’s reservation to the delimitation process, which could significantly delay its enactment.
Impact of Census: Delimitation would occur after the publication of Census results, with the 2021 Census delay potentially affecting the timeline. Assuming the Census results are published after 2026, this could serve as the basis for delimitation of constituencies.
Operational Timeline: Given the current circumstances, women’s reservation might not be effective in the Lok Sabha until the general elections of 2029.
(b) Seat Identification Uncertainty:
Lack of Specifics: The Bill does not specify how the reserved seats will be identified, leaving this crucial aspect to be addressed by a separate law. Past proposals suggested rotation and a draw of lots method to determine reserved seats, but the government’s exact approach remains unclear.
(c) Current Seat Reservation Process
SCs and STs: The Delimitation Act, 2002, lays down principles for reserving seats for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes based on population distribution.
(d) Constitutional Amendments Required:
Amendment Necessity: To operationalize the women’s reservation scheme, amendments to Articles 82 and 170(3) of the Constitution are essential.
Impact on Panchayati Raj: While reservation for women exists in Panchayati Raj institutions, it operates under Article 243D and has achieved significant representation in several states. According to government data as of September 8, 2021, in at least 18 states, the percentage of women elected representatives in Panchayati Raj institutions was more than 50%.
Challenges to Female Representation
Party Ticket Allocation: Despite pledges in party constitutions, records show that women candidates receive disproportionately fewer party tickets, often relying on family political connections.
Perceived Electability: The belief that women candidates are less likely to win elections hampers their ticket allocation.
Structural Barriers: Demanding and time-consuming election campaigns, coupled with family responsibilities, deter many women from active participation.
Vulnerability: Women politicians face humiliation, abuse, and threats, making participation even more challenging.
Financial Constraints: High campaign costs, limited financial independence, and lack of party support create hurdles for women candidates.
Internalized Patriarchy: Many women prioritize family and household duties over political ambitions due to ingrained patriarchal norms.
Significance of Women’s Participation in Lawmaking
Political Empowerment: Legislative representation empowers women to participate in lawmaking and hold the government accountable.
Gender Parity Indicator: Women’s presence in national parliaments reflects gender equality progress in politics.
Unique Skills: Women bring diverse skills to politics, serve as role models, and advocate for gender justice.
Advocating Women’s Interests: Female politicians represent women’s interests in state policies, bridging the gap between representation and participation.
Efficiency and Integrity: Studies show that women legislators excel economically, exhibit lower criminality and corruption rates, and are more effective and less susceptible to political opportunism.
Encouraging Entry: Reservation encourages women to enter politics, contest elections, and engage in the political process.
Capacity Building: Participation in legislative processes enhances women’s political capacity, nurturing effective leaders.
Changing Perceptions: Reservation shifts societal attitudes toward women in politics, challenging stereotypes and promoting participation.
Promoting Gender-Sensitive Policies: Women politicians advocate for gender-sensitive policies addressing issues like violence against women and discrimination.
Conclusion
Pressing Need: The Women’s Reservation Bill is long overdue, with women waiting for their rightful place in governance and nation-building.
Untapped Potential: Women’s leadership qualities are undeniable, and their participation is essential for India’s progress.
Call for Action: As India aspires to be a global leader, it must prioritize women’s political empowerment and pass the Women’s Reservation Bill without further delay.
In a historic development, global leaders, including the Prime Minister of India, the President of the United States, the Chancellor of Germany, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, the President of the UAE, the Prime Minister of Italy, and the President of the EU, came together at a global summit in New Delhi on September 10 to establish the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
Central idea
The ancient Red Sea route, dating back to the Common Era, once connected distant civilizations, facilitating the exchange of goods and ideas. IMEC, a recently established trade corridor, is poised to reshape global trade dynamics. It envisions reliable and cost-effective transport connectivity to accelerate the development and integration of Asia, the Arabian Gulf, and Europe.
What is IMEC?
The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor is an economic initiative aimed at creating a strategic trade and transportation corridor that connects India with the Middle East and Europe.
It was established through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by the leaders of India, the United States, Germany, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Italy, and the EU on September 10 in New Delhi.
IMEC envisions the development of a reliable and cost-effective transport network, including railways and ship-to-rail transit, to facilitate the movement of goods and services between India, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, and the European Union (EU).
It seeks to offer an alternative route for trade between Asia and Europe, reducing transit times and logistics costs compared to existing maritime routes like the Suez Canal.
Historic significance
Ancient Trade Routes: IMEC harkens back to the historic trade routes of the ancient world, particularly the Red Sea route that dates back to the beginning of the Common Era. This route facilitated the exchange of goods, culture, and ideas between distant civilizations. IMEC, in its modern form, symbolizes a contemporary effort to reestablish a similar corridor.
India’s Historic Role: The corridor’s historical significance for India is notable. In ancient times, India was at the heart of important trade routes, connecting it to regions as far away as Rome. IMEC reaffirms India’s role as a pivotal player in regional and global trade, reminiscent of its historical significance in trade networks.
Geopolitical Importance: Throughout history, regions at the crossroads of trade routes have held significant geopolitical clout. IMEC’s establishment underscores the contemporary geopolitical importance of the regions it connects, particularly India, the Middle East, and Europe.
Significance of IMEC
Historical Revival: IMEC revives ancient trade routes, particularly the Red Sea route, dating back to the Common Era. It reconnects regions and rekindles the spirit of historical trade.
Geopolitical Clout: IMEC’s establishment gathered leaders from India, the United States, Germany, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Italy, and the EU. This underscores its geopolitical significance, positioning these regions as pivotal players in global trade.
Economic Growth: IMEC is expected to boost economic cooperation and trade among its participating nations, leading to economic growth and development.
Connectivity and Integration: The corridor aims to restore and enhance connectivity between regions with historical ties, creating a cohesive economic and trade network spanning Asia, the Arabian Gulf, and Europe.
Potential of IMEC to Reshape Global Trade
Shorter Routes: IMEC offers shorter and more cost-effective trade routes compared to the congested Suez Canal and Mediterranean routes. This can significantly reduce transit times and logistics costs for global trade.
Multimodal Connectivity: IMEC envisions a reliable railway and ship-to-rail transit network, complementing existing maritime and road routes. This multimodal connectivity enhances trade efficiency and reliability.
Regional Trade Boost: IMEC enhances regional trade by connecting major ports and facilitating the movement of goods between India, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, and the EU. This fosters regional economic integration.
Standard Gauge Infrastructure: IMEC’s adoption of a standard gauge throughout the corridor eliminates the need for gauge changes, ensuring smoother and more efficient transportation of goods.
Challenges thet IMEC Must Overcome
Infrastructure Development: Building the necessary rail links, terminals, and inland container depots (ICDs) at major Gulf and Mediterranean ports is a complex and extensive endeavor.
Cross-Border Connectivity: Ensuring seamless connectivity across borders, especially in the Middle East, demands cooperation between multiple countries. This includes extending rail networks from the Gulf to Israel through Jordan.
Environmental Considerations: IMEC’s commitment to green and sustainable growth involves addressing environmental challenges, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Coordination and Financing: Coordination among participating countries and securing financing are crucial to overcome financial barriers and ensure the corridor’s viability.
Conclusion
IMEC marks a historic moment for India and its partners, offering incredible potential for regional and global growth. As a catalyst for collective growth, global cooperation, and connectivity, IMEC embodies the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, benefiting millions across continents. This corridor’s establishment is just the beginning of a new era of global economic collaboration and shared prosperity.
In a significant legislative move, the government has tabled the Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-eighth Amendment) Bill, 2023, in the Lok Sabha.
Central idea
The Indian government has introduced the Constitution Bill, 2023, aimed at providing 33% reservation for women in both Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies. While the bill mirrors some aspects of the previously proposed legislation, it also introduces significant changes.
Key Provisions of the Bill
Reservation Percentage: The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-eighth Amendment) Bill, 2023, proposes 33% reservation for women in Lok Sabha and state Legislative Assemblies.
Inclusion of Marginalized Groups: The reservation also includes seats reserved for women belonging to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
Constitutional Amendments: The Bill introduces new articles, 330A and 332A, in the Constitution specifically for Lok Sabha and state assemblies, respectively.
Duration of Reservation: The proposed reservation will be in effect for 15 years from the commencement of the Act.
Dependence on Delimitation: Implementation of the reservation is contingent upon the completion of the delimitation process.
Comparison with the Previous Bill
Reservation in Lok Sabha: The Bill reserves one-third of the total seats in Lok Sabha for women, including those from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
Sunset Clause: Similar to the 2010 Bill passed by the Rajya Sabha, the current Bill includes a 15-year sunset clause.
Delimitation Dependency: A significant difference is that the current Bill ties the implementation of women’s reservations to the delimitation process, which was not present in the 2010 Bill.
Current Reservation Framework
Panchayati Raj Institutions: India already has reservations for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and women in Panchayati Raj institutions.
Legal Mandate: Article 243D of the Constitution mandates that not less than one-third of the seats reserved for SCs and STs should be reserved for women.
Achievements in States: Several states have achieved over 50% women’s representation in Panchayati Raj institutions.
How does reservation for women in Panchayati Raj institutions and urban local bodies work?
Panchayati Raj: Article 243D ensures reservation for women, SCs, and STs in Panchayati Raj institutions.
Flexibility for States: States have the flexibility to reserve seats for backward classes.
High Women Representation: Many states have over 50% women representatives in Panchayati Raj institutions.
Concerns associated with the bill
Potential Delay: The bill’s implementation depends on the completion of the delimitation process, which could postpone its effect until the 2029 general elections.
Lack of Clarity: The bill does not specify how reserved seats will be identified, raising questions about the selection process.
Operational Challenges: Implementing the reservation, particularly ensuring fair representation, may pose logistical difficulties.
What constitutional amendments will be needed to operationalize the scheme of women’s reservation?
Amending Article 82: To enable women’s reservation, amendments to Article 82, which deals with the adjustment of constituencies for Lok Sabha and state assemblies following each census, are necessary.
Amending Article 170(3): Amendments to Article 170(3), which pertains to the composition of legislative assemblies, are also required.
Prerequisites for Implementation: These amendments are prerequisites for the delimitation process and, subsequently, the implementation of women’s reservations.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Constitution 128th Bill, 2023, marks a significant step towards empowering women in Indian politics. However, its effectiveness hinges on the timely completion of the delimitation process, and the method for identifying reserved seats remains a subject of debate. Nevertheless, this bill reflects a continued commitment to promoting gender equality in India’s democratic institutions.
India Shines at the G-20 Summit, Champions Multilateralism and Multipolarity
Central idea
The recent G-20 summit held in India, especially the New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration (NDLD), has reaffirmed the vitality of multilateralism on the global stage. Despite challenges, India’s diplomatic efforts, rooted in its principles of multilateralism, multipolarity, and the middle way, bore fruit at the summit.
“In a world that often resembles a dysfunctional global family, India’s diplomatic approach at the G-20 serves as a beacon of hope for effective global governance.” UN Secretary-General António Guterres
Multilateralism: The Key Driver
Concessions for Consensus:
The commitment to uphold multilateralism was pivotal in achieving consensus at the G-20. The Western bloc, including G-7 countries, the European Union, and allies like Australia and South Korea, made significant concessions by agreeing to omit direct references to Russia in paragraphs concerning the Ukraine conflict.
This collaborative approach was driven by the shared goal of preserving the G-20 as a crucial platform for global cooperation.
Preservation of the G-20:
The absence of a joint declaration would have cast doubt on the G-20’s future, potentially leading to fragmentation into distinct blocs, including the G-7 and BRICS.
The G-7 and BRICS had already expressed their positions on the Ukraine conflict. Thus, achieving consensus at the G-20 reinforced its relevance as a forum encompassing diverse perspectives.
Role of Developing Nations:
The Troika-Plus, consisting of Indonesia, India, Brazil, and South Africa, all of which are hosting or future hosts of the G-20, played a crucial role in formulating a winning approach to the Ukraine issue.
This highlighted the multilateral heft of emerging economies and their contribution to consensus-building.
India’s Support for a Multipolar World
India’s Advocacy: India’s consistent support for a multipolar world order stood out at the G-20. In a world where the U.S. pursued unipolarity, China aimed for bipolarity, and India championed multipolarity, India’s stance gained prominence.
Global Shifts:
The recent history of international relations saw the U.S. temporarily withdraw from various multilateral agreements and organizations during the Trump era, causing concern about a potential decline in U.S. global leadership.
China’s rapid ascent brought both influence and unease due to its actions during the COVID-19 pandemic and aggressive behavior toward neighboring countries, including India.
The Rise of the Global South:
The Global South, comprising over 125 countries, emerged as a potent voice in global affairs. Despite disparities in wealth, the Global South’s collective influence reshaped global priorities in areas such as development, climate change, health, and digital access.
India’s active involvement with the Global South, including its membership in the African Union, bolstered its position at the G-20.
The Middle Way: A Key to India’s Diplomatic Success
India’s Tradition:
India’s diplomatic success at the G-20 can be attributed to its long-standing tradition of eschewing alliances and pursuing a middle path in global disputes.
This approach sometimes requires making compromises, such as maintaining ties with Russia and not inviting Ukraine’s president to address the G-20.
However, it positions India as a bridge between the Global South and North, East and West.
A Balancing Act: In a polarized world, the role of bridging divides is indispensable. India’s ability to balance between diverse interests makes it a valuable mediator and consensus-builder on the global stage.
Conclusion
The G-20 summit in India exemplified the enduring importance of multilateralism, multipolarity, and the middle way in diplomacy. India’s success in fostering consensus and maintaining the unity of the G-20 underscores the significance of these principles in addressing global challenges.
The UPSC Mains General Studies Paper 2 (GS Paper 2) has just concluded, and the level of complexity continues to surprise aspirants.
Whether you’re focusing on topics like Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, or International Relations, this year’s paper had it all.
We understand how vital it is for candidates to get their hands on the question paper and analyze it. That’s why we are providing you with the official PDF of the UPSC Mains GS Paper 2.
We’ve got you covered! You can download the full UPSC Mains 2023 GS 2 PDF here to see what UPSC had in store this year. Examine the questions, analyze their complexities, and think about how you would have approached them.
“संवैधानिक रूप से न्यायिक स्वतंत्रता की गारंटी लोकतंत्र की एक पूर्व शर्त है ।” टिप्पणी कीजिए ।
“Constitutionally guaranteed judicial independence is a prerequisite of democracy.” Comment. 10
निःशुल्क कानूनी सहायता प्राप्त करने के हकदार कौन हैं ? निःशुल्क कानूनी सहायता के प्रतिपादन में राष्ट्रीय विधि सेवा प्राधिकरण (एन.ए.एल.एस.ए.) की भूमिका का आकलन कीजिए ।
Who are entitled to receive free legal aid? Assess the role of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) in rendering free legal aid in India.
“भारत के राज्य शहरी स्थानीय निकायों को कार्यात्मक एवं वित्तीय दोनों ही रूप से सशक्त बनाने के प्रति अनिच्छुक प्रतीत होते हैं।” टिप्पणी कीजिए।
“The states in India seem reluctant to empower urban local bodies both functionally as well as financially.” Comment. 10
संसदीय संप्रभुता के प्रति ब्रिटिश एवं भारतीय दृष्टिकोणों की तुलना करें और अंतर बताएं ।
Compare and contrast the British and Indian approaches to Parliamentary sovereignty.10
विधायी कार्यों के संचालन में व्यवस्था एवं निष्पक्षता बनाए रखने में और सर्वोत्तम लोकतांत्रिक परम्पराओं को सुगम बनाने में राज्य विधायिकाओं के पीठासीन अधिकारियों की भूमिका की विवेचना कीजिए ।
Discuss the role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in maintaining order and impartiality in conducting legislative work and in facilitating best democratic practices. 10
मानव संसाधन विकास पर पर्याप्त ध्यान नहीं दिया जाना भारत की विकास प्रक्रिया का एक कठोर पक्ष रहा है। ऐसे उपाय सुझाइए जो इस अपर्याप्तता को दूर कर सके ।
The crucial aspect of development process has been the inadequate attention paid to Human Resource Development in India. Suggest measures that can address this inadequacy. 10
भारत में बहुराष्ट्रीय निगमों के द्वारा प्रभावशाली स्थिति के दुरुपयोग को रोकने में भारत के प्रतिस्पर्धा आयोग की भूमिका पर चर्चा कीजिए। हाल के निर्णयों का संदर्भ लें ।
Discuss the role of the Competition Commission of India in containing the abuse of dominant position by the Multi-National Corporations in India. Refer to the recent decisions. 10
अभिशासन के एक महत्वपूर्ण उपकरण के रूप में ई-शासन ने सरकारों में प्रभावशीलता, पारदर्शिता और जवाबदेयता का आगाज कर दिया है। कौन-सी अपर्याप्तताएं इन विशेषताओं की अभिवृद्धि में बाधा बनती हैं ?
e-governance, as a critical tool of governance, has ushered in effectiveness, transparency and accountability in governments. What inadequacies hamper the enhancement of these features?
‘संघर्ष का विषाणु एस.सी.ओ. के कामकाज को प्रभावित कर रहा है’ उपरोक्त कथन के आलोक में समस्याओं को कम करने में भारत की भूमिका बताइये ।
‘Virus of Conflict is affecting the functioning of the SCO’ In the light of the above statement point out the role of India in mitigating the problems. 10
भारतीय प्रवासियों ने पश्चिम में नई ऊंचाइयों को छुआ है । भारत के लिये इसके आर्थिक और राजनीतिक लाभों का वर्णन करें ।
Indian diaspora has scaled new heights in the West. Describe its economic and political benefits for India. 10
“भारत का संविधान अत्यधिक गतिशीलता की क्षमताओं के साथ एक जीवंत यंत्र है । यह प्रगतिशील समाज के लिये बनाया गया एक संविधान है।” जीने के अधिकार तथा व्यक्तिगत स्वतंत्रता के अधिकार में हो रहे निरंतर विस्तार के विशेष संदर्भ में उदाहरण सहित व्याख्या कीजिए । “
The Constitution of India is a living instrument with capabilities of enormous dynamism. It is a constitution made for a progressive society.” Illustrate with special reference to the expanding horizons of the right to life and personal liberty. 15
प्रासंगिक संवैधानिक प्रावधानों और निर्णय विधियों की मदद से लैंगिक न्याय के संवैधानिक परिप्रेक्ष्य की व्याख्या कीजिए ।
Explain the constitutional perspectives of Gender Justice with the help of relevant Constitutional Provisions and case laws. 15
संघीय सरकारों द्वारा 1990 के दशक के मध्य से अनुच्छेद 356 के उपयोग की कम आवृत्ति के लिये जिम्मेदार विधिक एवं राजनीतिक कारकों का विवरण प्रस्तुत कीजिए ।
Account for the legal and political factors responsible for the reduced frequency of using Article 356 by the Union Governments since mid-1990s. 15
भारत में राज्य विधायिकाओं में महिलाओं की प्रभावी एवं सार्थक भागीदारी और प्रतिनिधित्व के लिये नागरिक समाज समूहों के योगदान पर विचार कीजिए ।
Discuss the contribution of civil society groups for women’s effective and meaningful participation and representation in state legislatures in India. 15
101 वें संविधान संशोधन अधिनियम का महत्व समझाइए । यह किस हद तक संघवाद के समावेशी भावना को दर्शाता है ?
Explain the significance of the 101st Constitutional Amendment Act. To what extent does it reflect the accommodative spirit of federalism?
संसदीय समिति प्रणाली की संरचना को समझाइए । भारतीय संसद के संस्थानीकरण में वित्तीय समितियों ने कहां तक मदद की ?
Explain the structure of the Parliamentary Committee system. How far have the financial committees helped in the institutionalization of Indian Parliament ? 15
“वंचितों के विकास और कल्याण की योजनाएं अपनी प्रकृति से ही दृष्टिकोण में भेदभाव करने वाली होती हैं ।” क्या आप सहमत हैं ? अपने उत्तर के पक्ष में कारण दीजिए ।
“Development and welfare schemes for the vulnerable, by its nature, are discriminatory in approach.” Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. 15
विभिन्न क्षेत्रों में मानव संसाधनों की आपूर्ति में वृद्धि करने में कौशल विकास कार्यक्रमों ने सफलता अर्जित की है । इस कथन के सन्दर्भ में शिक्षा, कौशल और रोजगार के मध्य संयोजन का विश्लेषण कीजिए ।
Skill development programmes have succeeded in increasing human resources supply to various sectors. In the context of the statement analyse the linkages between education, skill and employment. 15
‘नाटो का विस्तार एवं सुदृढीकरण, और एक मजबूत अमेरिका-यूरोप रणनीतिक साझेदारी भारत के लिये अच्छा काम करती है ।’ इस कथन के बारे मे आपकी क्या राय है ? अपने उत्तर के समर्थन में कारण और उदाहरण दीजिये ।
“The expansion and strengthening of NATO and a stronger US-Europe strategic partnership works well for India.’ What is your opinion about this statement? Give reasons and examples to support your answer.
‘समुद्र ब्रह्मांड का एक महत्वपूर्ण घटक है’
उपरोक्त कथन के आलोक में पर्यावरण रक्षण और समुद्री संरक्षा एवं सुरक्षा को बढ़ाने में आई.एम.ओ. (अंतर्राष्ट्रीय समुद्री संगठन) की भूमिका पर चर्चा करें ।
‘Sea is an important Component of the Cosmos’ Discuss in the light of the above statement the role of the IMO (International Maritime Organisation) in protecting the environment and enhancing maritime safety and security. 15
85% of the UPSC Mains GS 2 questions have been asked already in Civilsdaily’s Mains Test Series
1-1 Discussion of UPSC Mains 2023 GS Papers with Senior IAS Mentors
PM inaugurated the first phase of the world-class ‘YashoBhoomi’ India International Convention and Expo Centre (IICC) in Dwarka, Delhi.
About YashoBhoomi
YashoBhoomi is the second convention facility to offer top-notch amenities for exhibitions and conferences, following the Bharat Mandapam, which hosted world leaders during the recent G20 Summit.
It represents PM’s vision to create world-class infrastructure in India for hosting conventions, meetings, and exhibitions, greatly benefiting from its operational status in Dwarka.
Key Features of YashoBhoomi
Expansive Project: Also known as the India International Convention and Expo Centre, YashoBhoomi spans an impressive 8.9 lakh square meters, with a built-up area exceeding 1.8 lakh square meters.
Capacity and Facilities: This conference center boasts a remarkable capacity of accommodating 11,000 guests. It comprises 15 convention rooms, including the main auditorium, the grand ballroom, and 13 meeting rooms.
Auditorium and Ballroom: The main auditorium can seat 6,000 people, while the grand ballroom can accommodate an additional 2,500. There is also seating for up to 500 people in a large open space.
Exhibition Hall: A massive exhibition hall, spanning over 1.07 lakh square meters, is a prominent feature of YashoBhoomi.
Metro Connectivity: On the same day as the inauguration of the new metro station in Dwarka Sector 25, YashoBhoomi will be connected to the Delhi Airport Metro Express line.
Architectural Splendor: The conference center incorporates elements inspired by Indian civilizations, including terrazzo floors with brass inlays resembling rangoli patterns, suspended sound-absorbing metal cylinders, and illuminated pattern walls.
Sustainability Focus: YashoBhoomi is committed to sustainability, featuring rooftop solar panels, a state-of-the-art wastewater treatment system enabling 100% wastewater reuse, rainwater harvesting, and Green Cities Platinum certification from CII’s Indian Green Building Council (IGBC).
The Defense Ministry has granted approval for the acquisition of a regiment of ‘Pralay’ ballistic missiles, earmarked for deployment along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the Line of Control (LoC).
It is the first time that a ballistic missile will be inducted into the services for conventional operations.
Solid propellant rocket motor with advanced guidance systems
Global Comparisons
Comparable to China’s Dong Feng 12 and Russia’s Iskander missile
Development History
Development was initiated around 2015, with significant progress during the tenure of General Bipin Rawat as Chief of Army Staff
Strategic significance
Longest Range: ‘Pralay’ will emerge as the longest-range surface-to-surface missile within the Army’s inventory.
Strategic Role: ‘Pralay,’ in conjunction with the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, will play a central role in India’s planned Rocket Force, augmenting the nation’s strategic posture.
Imperative: China and Pakistan have already deployed ballistic missiles for tactical purposes, prompting India’s acquisition of ‘Pralay’ missiles.
Indian-American Republican presidential contender Vivek Ramaswamy vows to overhaul the H-1B visa program.
The H-1B visa, highly sought-after among Indian IT professionals, permits US companies to employ foreign workers for specialized roles requiring theoretical or technical expertise.
Why discuss this?
The H-1B visa are highly sought-after category used by Indian professionals in the US as many use them as a precursor for permanent residency.
However, the waiting periods for the employment-based green card for Indians can stretch into decades.
The US embassy in India has already processed over 9 lakh non-immigrant visa currently and is expected to pass the one million mark soon.
Understanding H-1B Visa Program
The H-1B visa program is crafted to facilitate the entry of skilled foreign workers into the United States, enabling them to work for American companies.
It is particularly sought after by Indian IT professionals as it permits U.S. companies to employ foreign workers in specialized roles demanding theoretical or technical expertise.
Despite its popularity, the H-1B visa program faces criticisms for extended waiting periods and the use of a lottery system for selection.
Ramaswamy’s Perspective
Personal Experience: Ramaswamy acknowledged his own immigrant experience and contended that the H-1B system is detrimental to all parties involved.
Merit-Based Reform: He advocated for replacing the lottery system with a meritocratic admission process, describing the current system as a form of indentured servitude that primarily benefits sponsoring companies.
Eliminating Chain Migration: He also emphasized the need to eliminate chain-based migration, arguing that family members who join immigrants are not merit-based contributors to the country.
Historical Context and Comparisons
Resonance with Trump: Ramaswamy’s stance on H-1B visas draws parallels with Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign.
Hard stance: Despite hiring foreign workers under H-1B visas for his businesses, Trump initially adopted a hardline stance on these workers before later softening his rhetoric.
India’s parliamentary journey spanning 75 years reflects a dynamic and evolving landscape of political representation, legislative processes, and societal changes.
From shifting demographics to parliamentary practices and electoral dynamics, this retrospective analysis sheds light on the fascinating facets of India’s parliamentary evolution.
Key Trends in Indian Parliament
Youth Representation
Despite a growing youth population, the number of MPs aged 35 and below in the Lok Sabha is at a record low.
In the First Lok Sabha, there were 82 such MPs, but in the 17th Lok Sabha, there are only 21.
This decline contrasts with India’s youthful demographic, where around 66% of the population is under 35.
Women’s Turnout and Representation
Women’s voter turnout has consistently risen since 1962, even surpassing male turnout in 2019.
Number of women candidates has increased, from 45 in 1957 to 726 in 2019.
However, women’s representation in the Lok Sabha remains low, with just 14.36% of the total seats occupied by women in 2019.
Women’s reservation Bill, aimed at increasing women’s representation to 33%, has faced hurdles in passing.
Missing Deputy Speaker
17th Lok Sabha is set to become the first in independent India without a Deputy Speaker, breaking from tradition.
Declining Parliamentary Sittings
Between 1952 and 1974, the Lok Sabha consistently held over 100 sittings annually, but this trend has declined.
Pandemic in 2020 led to a significant decrease in sittings.
Average sitting time per day has also decreased over the years.
Bills Passed and Ordinances Issued
Both Houses of Parliament are passing fewer bills compared to earlier decades.
Highest number of bills passed occurred during the Emergency in 1976, while the lowest was in 2004.
An increase in ordinances issued by the Union government has coincided with fewer parliamentary sittings.
Voter Enrollment and Parties in the Fray
Number of voters has increased six-fold from 1951 to 2019, resulting in a higher number of polling stations.
Nos. of parties participating in Lok Sabha polls has multiplied over the years, with 673 parties in 2019 compared to 53 in 1951.
Number of contestants has also grown significantly.
Vote Share and Majority Trends
Out of 17 Lok Sabha elections held so far, 10 have resulted in clear majorities, while 7 have been fractured mandates.
Recent trends show that the winning party typically receives a higher vote share than the runner-up since 2004.
Changing Focus on Questions
Time allocated for questions in the Lok Sabha has decreased over the years.
First Lok Sabha dedicated 15% of its time to questions, whereas the 14th Lok Sabha allocated only 11.42%.
Data for the 15th, 16th, and 17th Lok Sabhas is not available for comparison.
Conclusion
As India’s Parliament embarks on its journey of 75 years, these trends provide a fascinating glimpse into the evolving dynamics of the nation’s highest legislative body.
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