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International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA)
Central Idea
- In a global seminar organized by the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA) and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), President of India underscored the importance of safeguarding farmers’ rights.
About ITPGRFA
Description Objective Conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture. Enactment Year 2001 Key Principles Conservation, Access and Benefit-Sharing, Farmers’ Rights. Coverage Multilateral system covering 64 vital crop species. Implementation Encourages signatory countries to integrate treaty provisions into national legislation. Monitoring Establishes a system for monitoring treaty implementation and reporting. Global Impact Contributes to preserving agricultural biodiversity, sustainable agriculture, and equitable access to genetic resources. India’s Role India actively participates and supports the treaty, providing rights to farmers for unbranded seeds and registering their varieties, serving as a model for the world. -
Nipah breaks out again in Kerala
Central Idea
- The reappearance of Nipah infection in Kerala, with two confirmed deaths and two individuals under treatment, has raised concerns about this lethal viral disease.
- Nipah, while not as contagious as COVID-19, is significantly more deadly, with a case fatality rate ranging from 40% to 75%.
What is Nipah Virus Infection?
- Nipah is a zoonotic disease, meaning it is transmitted to humans through infected animals or contaminated food.
- Direct person-to-person transmission through close contact with an infected individual is also possible.
- Symptoms include fever, headache, cough, sore throat, difficulty in breathing, and vomiting.
- In severe cases, Nipah infection can progress to disorientation, drowsiness, seizures, and encephalitis (brain swelling), ultimately leading to coma and death.
Transmission of Nipah Virus
- Historical Outbreaks: The Nipah virus was first reported in Malaysia (1998) and Singapore (1999), deriving its name from a Malaysian village where it was first isolated. The primary mode of transmission from animals to humans is through the consumption of contaminated food. This can occur via the consumption of raw date palm sap or fruit contaminated with saliva or urine from infected bats.
- Animal Host Reservoir: Fruit bats, commonly known as flying foxes, are the known hosts of the virus. They transmit it to other animals like pigs, dogs, cats, goats, horses, and sheep. Human infection usually occurs through direct contact with these animals or the consumption of food contaminated by their saliva or urine. Human-to-human transmission is also documented, particularly in families and healthcare settings.
Nipah Virus Spread and Mortality
- Slow Spread: Unlike the rapid transmission of SARS-CoV-2, the Nipah virus spreads more slowly. However, its high mortality rate is a significant concern.
- High Mortality: During outbreaks, Nipah has shown a mortality rate as high as 68-75%. For example, in the 2001 Siliguri outbreak, 45 of the 66 infected individuals succumbed to the virus. Similarly, during the 2018 Kerala outbreak, 17 of the 18 confirmed patients died.
- Localized Outbreaks: Notably, Nipah outbreaks have remained localized and were contained relatively quickly. The virus’s limited infectiousness and low human-to-human transmission contribute to this containment.
- Reproductive Number (R0): Studies indicate an R0 of about 0.48 for Nipah outbreaks, signifying a slow rate of transmission within the population. An R0 value below one suggests that an infected person does not infect more than one other individual, leading to a relatively rapid end to the outbreak.
- High Death Rates Limit Transmission: The virus’s high death rates also play a role in restricting its transmission.
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Explorations at Megalithic Dolmen Site near Moodbidri
Central Idea
- Recent archaeological explorations near Moodbidri in Dakshina Kannada have unveiled a fascinating array of terracotta figurines, offering insight into the megalithic culture of the region.
About Megalithic Dolmen Site
- Megalithic Culture: The megalithic culture is renowned for its distinct burial practices and the use of iron in ancient India, with dolmens being a significant part of this culture.
- Dolmen Features: Dolmens were characterized by the arrangement of colossal stone slabs known as orthostats, forming a square room. These chambers were sealed with another massive stone slab as a capstone. Typically, a round or U-shaped entrance, referred to as a port hole, was carved into the eastern slab.
- Variety of Names: This intriguing architectural phenomenon was known by various names in South India, such as Kalmane, Pandavara Mane, Moriyara Mane, and Moriyara Betta, indicating its popularity among the local populace.
Key Findings at the Site
- Dating to 800-700 BC: The unearthed figurines have been dated to approximately 800-700 BC, providing valuable insights into the historical timeline of the dolmen site.
- Nine Dolmens: The Mudu Konaje site stands as one of the largest megalithic dolmen complexes, comprising nine dolmens situated on the slopes of a stone hill.
Terracotta Figurines found
- Cow Bovines: Two cow bovines were identified among the figurines. One is a solid handmade representation with a bull’s head, measuring approximately 9 cm in height and 5 cm in width. This figurine exhibits distinct femininity, with attached breasts. It features applique ornamentation and a grove line from the right arm to the left side of the neck.
- Peacocks: Two peacock figurines were discovered. One is a solid peacock, measuring about 11 cm in height and 7 cm in width, and is colored with red ochre.
- Mother Goddess: A torso of a mother goddess was found, devoid of head, hands, and legs.
Significance
- Chronology Determination: The cow bovine figurines discovered within the dolmens offer crucial insights into dating the dolmen structures.
- Terracotta Insights: The terracotta artifacts found in megalithic burials provide valuable material for studying the Bhoota cult or Daiva Aradhane in coastal Karnataka.
- Cultural Parallels: The cow bovines, especially the Cow goddess, draw parallels with megalithic terracotta figurines in Malampuzha, Kerala, and Egypt.
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How fraternity in India is different from the idea enshrined in the Constitution
Central Idea
- In the context of India’s independence struggle and the subsequent establishment of a constitutional democracy, the interplay of liberty, equality, and fraternity was deemed crucial for a diverse society on the brink of independence.
- This essay delves into the historical origins of fraternity, its journey through different civilizations, and its significance in India’s socio-political landscape.
Understanding Fraternity
- The concept of fraternity, often overshadowed by liberty and equality, plays a pivotal role in the realm of politics.
- Philosopher Angel Puyol, in his book “Political Fraternity: Democracy beyond Freedom & Democracy,” argues that fraternity is central to the emancipation and empowerment of people.
Origins of the Concept
- Ancient Greece: The roots of fraternity can be traced back to ancient Greece, where philosophers like Plato emphasized the importance of sharing knowledge and wisdom among individuals. This early discourse hinted at the notion of political fraternity.
- Medieval Europe: In the Middle Ages, fraternity found expression primarily through religion, especially within the context of Christian society in Europe. It began to evolve from a religious concept to a political one.
- French Revolution: The concept of fraternity gained prominence during the French Revolution of 1789, symbolized by the revolutionary triptych of ‘liberte, egalite, fraternite.’ Fraternity, in this context, became a fundamental principle of civic-political friendship.
Friendship among Equals
- Integral Value System: Fraternity thrived within community ties, with a foundation built on integral values. It prioritized the collective over the individual, gradually giving way to religious morality and a ‘way of life.’
- Shared History: For fraternity to flourish, individuals must share a harmonious past. This shared history should be amicable, free from ideological divisions rooted in social inequalities among different communities.
Fraternity in India’s Context
- Unique Societal Landscape: India’s fraternal bonds face unique challenges due to its history of social hierarchies and caste divisions. The shared history is marred by the caste system, hindering the principles of equality and liberty.
- Secular Conception: To foster fraternity in India, it must be rooted in politics, where caste privileges can be challenged. Fraternity should be cultivated through political conditioning, separate from moral considerations.
Role in Indian Constitution
- Constitutional Objective: The Indian Constitution recognizes the significance of fraternity in a society marked by various hierarchical social inequalities. It considers fraternity, along with liberty and equality, as a foundational political objective.
- Affirmative Actions: Measures like affirmative actions, including the reservation system, aim to establish equality among diverse social groups in terms of access to social and economic resources.
Limits to Fraternity
- Ignoring Inequalities: Fraternity loses its meaning if it overlooks social inequalities and promotes social solidarity built on animosity towards others. Such solidarity often perpetuates the status quo and reinforces privilege at the expense of the marginalized.
- Nationalism vs. Fraternity: Belligerent nationalism can replace the call for fraternity, casting religious minorities as enemies. This has historically led to social and political discrimination against religious minorities in India.
- Fundamentalism’s Impact: Fundamentalism, in any form, contradicts the essence of fraternity, as fanaticism is incompatible with true fraternity.
Conclusion
- In India, the coexistence of caste and political fraternity, given the prevailing social milieu, presents challenges. To foster political fraternity, it is imperative to address social inequalities and caste divisions.
- The future of Indian politics will determine whether fraternity or caste consciousness prevails, as the two are often incompatible.
- Achieving true political fraternity requires navigating these complexities while prioritizing the principles of equality, liberty, and solidarity across diverse social groups.
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India urges Sri Lanka to fulfill commitments for Tamil aspirations
Central Idea
- India has expressed its concerns about the slow progress made by Sri Lanka in fulfilling its commitments to address the aspirations of the Tamil community.
- India’s representative at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva emphasized the inadequacy of progress.
Tamil issue in Sri Lanka
- Violent persecution against the Tamil population erupted in the form of the 1956, 1958, 1977, 1981, and 1983 anti-Tamil pogroms in Sri Lanka.
- Over 13 years since the end of Sri Lanka’s civil war, in which tens of thousands of civilians were killed and disappeared, survivors continue demanding justice and accountability for war-time crimes.
- In the post-war years, Sri Lanka’s human rights defenders have frequently flagged concerns over persisting militarisation, especially in the Tamil-majority north and east; repression, and the shrinking space for dissent.
Why discuss this?
- Reconciliation and Human Rights: Despite the war’s conclusion, the country still faces challenges in reconciling its ethnic divisions and ensuring the protection of human rights.
- Economic Crisis: In addition to its unresolved conflict, Sri Lanka has experienced a severe economic crisis that began in the previous year, leaving a significant portion of its population vulnerable. The crisis has led to increased poverty levels and food insecurity for many households.
UN Human Rights Council’s Concerns
- Political and Democratic Reforms: The UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights highlighted the delay in implementing political and democratic reforms, even a year after a significant protest movement.
- Food Insecurity: UNHRC pointed out that approximately 37% of households in Sri Lanka face acute food insecurity, indicating the extent of the economic challenges.
- Political Participation: Delays in holding local government elections and reconstituting Provincial Councils have limited citizens’ political participation and free expression.
- Land Acquisition: The UN official raised concerns about escalating tensions in Sri Lanka’s north and east due to land acquisition for military installations, conservation efforts at Hindu or Muslim sites, and forestry protection.
India’s Position
- Power Devolution: India reiterated its support for the aspirations of the Tamil community for equality, justice, dignity, and peace.
- Limited sovereignty: It also emphasized its commitment to the unity, territorial integrity, and sovereignty of Sri Lanka by implementing the 13th Amendment.
UN Review and Sri Lanka’s Response
- The UN Human Rights Council is currently reviewing Sri Lanka’s commitments, and there will be no vote on a resolution at this session.
- While acknowledging Sri Lanka’s initiatives in truth-seeking and reconciliation, the High Commissioner’s report emphasized the need for urgent confidence-building measures for genuine reconciliation and transitional justice.
- The Sri Lankan government rejected the report and labelled previous Council resolutions as intrusive and polarizing.
Conclusion
- India’s call for Sri Lanka to fulfil its commitments to address Tamil aspirations reflects ongoing concerns about the progress of reconciliation and human rights in the country.
- The economic crisis and delays in political reforms have further complicated the situation, necessitating meaningful actions to promote genuine reconciliation and transitional justice.
- The review at the UN Human Rights Council serves as an important platform for monitoring Sri Lanka’s efforts in this regard.
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India’s shift away from Diesel: Implications and Policy Proposals
Central diIdea
- Recent remarks by Road Transport Minister have sparked discussions about India’s transition away from diesel-powered vehicles and the potential imposition of an additional 10% GST as a “pollution tax.”
- While these remarks have stirred concerns in the automotive sector, the government’s commitment to reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions remains a key driving force in this shift.
India’s Pushback against Diesel
- Policy Shift: Minister’s comments align with a broader policy shift aimed at reducing India’s reliance on diesel. The government aims to produce 40% of the country’s electricity from renewables and achieve net-zero emissions by 2070.
- Diesel Consumption: Diesel currently accounts for approximately 40% of India’s petroleum products consumption, with the transport sector being a significant consumer.
- High Taxation: The government already imposes a 28% tax on diesel cars, coupled with additional cess based on engine capacity, resulting in a nearly 50% tax rate.
Impact on Diesel-Run Cars
- Industry Response: Several automakers have scaled back their diesel portfolios. Maruti ceased diesel vehicle production in 2020, citing the high cost of upgrading to meet BS-VI emission norms.
- Emissions Concerns: Diesel engines emit higher levels of oxides of nitrogen (NOx), contributing to environmental concerns. The Volkswagen scandal in 2015 further tarnished diesel’s reputation globally.
- Fuel Economy: While diesel engines offer better fuel economy and torque, the price difference between diesel and petrol has diminished since the decontrol of fuel prices in 2014.
Reasons for Individual Diesel Preference
- Fuel Efficiency: Diesel engines offer higher energy content per liter and inherent efficiency, making them preferred for heavy vehicles and haulage.
- Cost Consideration: Historically, diesel was significantly cheaper than petrol, driving a preference for diesel-powered vehicles. However, this price gap has narrowed.
Reasons for Carmakers’ Retreat from Diesel
- Emissions Challenges: Diesel engines tend to emit higher levels of oxides of nitrogen (NOx), making them environmentally less favourable compared to petrol engines.
- Volkswagen Scandal: The 2015 Volkswagen emissions scandal, where the company manipulated emissions controls during lab tests, tarnished diesel’s reputation globally, affecting perceptions in India as well.
- BS-VI Emission Norms: The rollout of the BS-VI emission norms from April 1, 2020, posed a significant challenge for diesel vehicles. Meeting these stringent standards required complex and costly upgrades.
- Economic Viability: Upgrading diesel engines to comply with BS-VI norms involved installing three crucial components: a diesel particulate filter, a selective catalytic reduction system, and an LNT (Lean NOx trap). This technological overhaul resulted in high costs for car manufacturers, making diesel options economically unviable.
Impact on Diesel Buyers
- Changing Economics: The historical price advantage of diesel over petrol has diminished since the decontrol of fuel prices in 2014. The price difference now stands at approximately Rs 7 per liter, significantly reducing the economic incentive for diesel vehicles.
- Consumer Shift: Diesel cars, once preferred by Indian consumers, have seen their market share decline steadily, accounting for less than 20% of overall passenger vehicle sales in 2021-22.
Policy Implications
- Phasing Out Diesel: Globally, many countries are moving towards phasing out diesel vehicles in alignment with environmental goals.
- Challenges in India: Implementing a total ban on diesel vehicles in India poses challenges due to substantial investments made by carmakers and oil companies in transitioning to BS-VI standards. Additionally, the commercial vehicles segment heavily relies on diesel, making an immediate ban disruptive.
- Alternative Fuels: Experts emphasize the importance of technology-agnostic policies that prioritize stringent operational standards, including emissions norms. Transitioning to alternative fuels like liquefied natural gas (LNG) and exploring electric vehicles (EVs) can play a pivotal role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Hydrogen Potential: The Energy Transition Advisory Committee report highlights the potential of hydrogen as a motive fuel, which could reduce emissions and transform the logistics market.
- Environmental Initiatives: Oil marketing companies have taken steps to reduce the environmental footprint of diesel, including lowering sulphur levels and introducing biodiesel specifications.
Conclusion
- India’s transition away from diesel is driven by environmental concerns, emissions reduction goals, and changing fuel economics.
- While a pollution tax on diesel vehicles remains speculative, it reflects the government’s commitment to cleaner and greener alternatives.
- This shift has implications for both the automotive industry and individual vehicle owners, emphasizing the need for cleaner and more sustainable transportation options.
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How fraternity in India is different from the idea enshrined in the Constitution
What’s the news?
- In his thought-provoking book Political Fraternity: Democracy Beyond Freedom and Democracy, philosopher Angel Puyol emphasizes the significance of fraternity in the realm of politics.
Central idea
- Despite its historical roots dating back to Plato and its coexistence with liberty and equality in liberal political philosophy, fraternity often remains a neglected concept. However, India’s struggle for independence and the subsequent establishment of constitutional democracy underscored the importance of fraternity in a society marked by hierarchical social inequalities.
Origins of the Concept
- Ancient Greece:
- Plato: The concept of fraternity can be traced back to ancient Greece. In Plato’s Lysis, the philosopher introduces the term philia (love) in the context of a strong desire to pursue wisdom. It is suggested that love and friendship among individuals became more meaningful when they shared knowledge. This emphasis on the act of sharing provides an early glimpse into the discourse of fraternity in ancient Greece.
- Aristotle: The emergence of the polis in Aristotle’s philosophy is noted, where the polis (city-state) was seen as the logical location for individuals who were primarily political beings. Within the polis, justice and friendship among citizens became enduring features, laying the foundation for the idea of political fraternity.
- Medieval Christian Society: During the Middle Ages, the article suggests that fraternity found fertile ground within the context of Christian society in Europe. Fraternal bonds often developed within religious institutions and orders, reflecting the communal and moral values of the time.
- The French Revolution:
- The concept of fraternity found its entry into politics with the French Revolution of 1789.
- It was during this revolutionary period that the triptych of liberté, égalité, and fraternité (liberty, equality, and fraternity) became a foundational slogan.
- Fraternity took on a revolutionary dimension, emphasizing the solidarity of citizens in their pursuit of common goals.
How is fraternity in India different from the idea enshrined in the Constitution?
- Caste-Based Divisions: The Constitution envisions fraternity as a means to bridge social divides and create unity among India’s diverse population. However, the deeply rooted caste system in India continues to influence social interactions, politics, and access to opportunities, making it challenging to achieve a fraternity that transcends these divisions.
- Community vs. Individual: The Indian Constitution prioritizes individual rights and liberties, which can sometimes conflict with the communitarian approach underlying fraternity.
- Social Inequalities: The constitutional concept of fraternity presupposes social and economic equality among citizens. However, India continues to grapple with significant economic disparities and enduring discrimination based on caste, gender, and other factors, hindering the development of genuine fraternity.
- Communal Tensions: Religious and communal tensions in India have, at times, hindered the pursuit of fraternity. The constitutional vision of fraternity should extend across religious and communal boundaries to foster inclusivity. However, divisive politics occasionally exploits religious differences, undermining the spirit of fraternity.
The limits of fraternity in India
- Caste-Based Divisions: The deeply ingrained caste system in India continues to influence social interactions and opportunities, posing a significant challenge to achieving fraternity that transcends these divisions.
- Shared History and Ideological Differences: In India, historical and ideological differences rooted in social inequalities can hinder the development of fraternity. Ideological motivations can also hamper political fraternity between individuals, particularly when rooted in social inequalities among different communities.
- Secular Conception of Fraternity: Given the communal nature of India’s traditional civic life and the predominance of communal ties, the article suggests that a secular conception of fraternity is necessary. To overcome the challenges posed by ideological and communal differences, fraternity in India needs to be rooted in politics, where caste privileges can be challenged.
- Affirmative Actions and Equality: The introduction of affirmative action, including the reservation system, aimed to address inequality and promote fraternity. However, these policies have sometimes resulted in fraternity primarily within specific caste communities rather than fostering unity across caste lines.
- Religious and Communal Tensions: Religious and communal tensions have, at times, overshadowed the pursuit of fraternity in India. Fraternity should ideally extend across religious and communal boundaries, but divisive politics can exploit religious differences and hinder the spirit of fraternity.
The role of equality as a prerequisite
- Both Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and philosopher John Rawls stressed the importance of equality as a prerequisite for fraternity.
- While affirmative actions, such as the reservation system, were introduced to address historical inequalities, they have often resulted in fraternity primarily within specific caste or community groups rather than fostering unity across these boundaries.
Conclusion
- In India, the coexistence of caste and political fraternity is a challenging endeavor due to the country’s unique social landscape. Achieving political fraternity that transcends caste boundaries requires addressing these complex issues. The future of Indian politics will determine whether fraternity or caste prevails, and this choice will shape the country’s destiny.
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African Union and the G20: Africa on the high table
What’s the news?
- India’s 18th G20 Summit, held under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, made history by admitting the African Union (AU) into the G20.
Central idea
- The addition of the African Union as the 21st member brings substantial weight to the G20. It significantly enhances the G20’s global economic and financial governance. With Africa’s representation, the G20 becomes a more inclusive and influential body, covering a vast portion of the world’s population, GDP, and trade.
Africa’s Stake and Strength
- Stake in G20 Inclusion:
- Representation: Africa’s inclusion in the G20 through the African Union (AU) provides the continent with a significant voice and presence in global economic and financial governance.
- Global Economic Impact: Africa’s inclusion in the G20 is notable because it represents the continent’s growing economic influence. Africa possesses substantial resources, including agricultural land, minerals, metals (including rare earth minerals), and a young workforce.
- Developmental Challenges: Africa faces numerous developmental challenges, including widespread poverty, conflict, political instability, climate stress, environmental degradation, and socioeconomic devastation from various crises. These challenges underscore the importance of Africa’s participation in the G20 for addressing global public goods (GPGs) and development issues.
- Strengths Leveraged in the G20:
- Resource Abundance: Africa’s wealth of natural resources positions it as a significant contributor to G20 discussions on resource utilization, sustainable development, and global economic growth.
- Economic Integration: Africa’s ongoing economic and political integration, including initiatives like the African Free Trade Area and “Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want,” demonstrate its commitment to becoming an economic powerhouse.
- Demographic Advantage: Africa’s large and youthful population presents opportunities for future global economic growth and trade partnerships.
- Alignment with Global Goals: Africa’s role in achieving global goals, particularly the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), underscores its importance within the G20 for coordinated efforts to meet these goals.
Benefits of the AU’s inclusion in the G20
- Enhanced Representation and Credibility: The AU’s inclusion makes the G20 more representative and enhances its credibility as a global decision-making body.
- Effective Policy Implementation: AU’s participation is expected to improve the implementation of G20 policies, programs, measures, principles, and initiatives.
- African Voice and Influence: The AU’s presence provides Africa with a voice, participation, and leadership role at the global high table, enabling African countries to influence the global agenda and priorities.
- Cooperation and Leveraging Resources: The AU’s inclusion fosters cooperation within the G20 and allows for the mutual leveraging of Africa’s abundant resources for the benefit of all member nations.
Strategic Benefits for India
- Deepened Partnerships: India can strengthen its strategic, political, economic, technological, trade, and people-to-people partnerships with African nations. AU’s inclusion provides India with a unique opportunity to foster deeper relationships across various sectors.
- Regional and Sub-Regional Engagement: India can engage with African countries on both regional and sub-regional levels. This enables India to extend its influence and cooperation beyond individual nations and into larger African regions.
- Collaboration with Like-Minded Partners: India can collaborate with like-minded partners from the North, such as Japan and the United States, to further its interests in Africa. These partnerships can lead to joint initiatives and investments in the continent.
- Diplomatic Trust: Prime Minister Modi’s successful efforts to secure the AU’s inclusion in the G20 have earned the trust and gratitude of African nations. This trust can translate into diplomatic goodwill and cooperation on various global issues.
- A Counterbalance: The AU’s presence in the G20 can serve as a counterbalance to China’s efforts to influence African countries, especially in matters related to UN Security Council reform. India’s alignment with African interests can bolster its position.
- Economic Opportunities: Africa’s economic growth and integration present opportunities for Indian businesses to invest and trade in the region. India can leverage its participation in the G20 to facilitate economic engagement with African partners.
- Global Influence: By actively engaging with African nations within the G20, India can enhance its global influence and stature as a country that promotes inclusive development and cooperation.
G20’s global mission
- Conclusion Global Economic and Financial System: The G20 plays a pivotal role in shaping the global economic, financial, and monetary system. It strives to establish a framework that is fair and adheres to established rules and principles.
- Providing Global Public Goods (GPGs): The G20 is committed to providing global public goods, which can encompass shared resources, technologies, and knowledge that benefit all nations. These may include international tax packages and initiatives in areas like digital health.
- Addressing Global Public Bads (GPBs): Beyond providing public goods, the G20 addresses global public bads—issues and threats that transcend national borders. This involves taking concerted actions against challenges such as money laundering, counterterrorism financing, and other transnational risks.
- Supporting Developing Countries:
- A significant aspect of the G20’s mission is to create a level playing field for developing countries. It involves taking affirmative measures to assist those nations facing the most significant challenges.
- Key areas of focus include reforming Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs), providing stimulus for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), financing initiatives related to green development and climate transition, issuing Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) during crises, and addressing food security and supply chain disruptions.
Conclusion
- Admitting the African Union into the G20 during India’s presidency is a historic achievement that enhances the G20’s credibility and inclusivity. AU’s inclusion adds a valuable perspective to the G20’s discussions and decisions, making it a more powerful and representative body on the world stage.
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Analysing where India stands in the G20
What’s the news?
- The 18th G20 Summit, hosted by India in New Delhi from September 9 to 10, revolved around the theme One Earth, One Family, One Future. This global forum convened to deliberate on crucial issues encompassing food security, climate change, energy, development, healthcare, and digitalization.
Central idea
- The G20 Summit marked a successful conclusion as India transferred the G20 Presidency to Brazil. India’s performance across various socioeconomic metrics within the G20 context reveals a mixed picture of progress and challenges.
GDP per capita comparison (1970–2022)
- 1970: India’s GDP per capita was $111.97, ranking 18th out of 19 regions analyzed. India had one of the lowest GDP per capita figures among the group.
- 2022: By 2022, India’s GDP per capita had risen significantly to $2,388.62. However, despite this growth, India had moved to the last position among the 19 regions, indicating that other regions had experienced more substantial economic growth during this period.
Human Development Index (HDI) comparison (1990–2021)
- 1990: In 1990, India’s HDI stood at 0.43, indicating a relatively low level of human development. At that time, India ranked towards the lower end of the list among the 19 countries and regions analyzed.
- 2021: By 2021, India’s HDI had improved to 0.63, signifying significant progress in terms of human development over the decades. However, despite this improvement, India still ranked at the bottom of the list among the 19 regions, highlighting the need for further advancements in various aspects of human development, including life expectancy, education, and living standards.
Health Metrics Comparison
- Life Expectancy (1990-2021):
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- In 1990, India had an average life expectancy of 45.22 years.
- China, at the same time, had a lower average life expectancy of 33.27 years.
- By 2021, India’s life expectancy had increased to 67.24 years.
- Despite this improvement, India’s ranking remained the same, and China surpassed India in terms of life expectancy.
- Infant Mortality Rate (1990-2021):
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- In 1990, India had an infant mortality rate of 88.8 per 1,000 live births, ranking it at the bottom of the 20 regions analyzed.
- By 2021, India’s infant mortality rate had improved to 25.5 per 1,000 live births.
- India’s ranking improved to 19th place, just ahead of South Africa (26.4), but it still lags behind many other regions in terms of infant mortality.
Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR) Comparison (1990-2021-22)
- 1990:
- In 1990, India’s LFPR for individuals above 15 years of age was 54.2%.
- This LFPR ranking placed India at the 18th position among the 20 regions analyzed.
- India was ahead of Italy (49.7%) and Saudi Arabia (53.3%) in LFPR.
- 2021-22:
- By 2021-22, India’s LFPR had decreased to 49.5%.
- This decline resulted in a slip in India’s ranking to 19th place.
- India was now only ahead of Italy (49.4%) among the 20 regions in terms of LFPR.
Women’s Representation in Parliament (1998-2022)
- 1998:
- In 1998, women constituted 8.1% of the Indian Parliament.
- At that time, India ranked 15th out of the 19 regions analyzed in terms of women’s representation in Parliament.
- While there were women in leadership positions, India’s representation was relatively low compared to some other regions.
- 2022:
- By 2022, women’s representation in the Indian Parliament had nearly doubled to 14.9%.
- However, despite this increase, India’s ranking had slipped to the 18th position among the 19 regions.
- India was just ahead of Japan (9.9%) in terms of women’s representation in Parliament.
Environmental Progress
- Carbon Emissions (1990 and 2020):
- In 1990, India was the lowest emitter of CO2 among the 20 regions analyzed.
- This demonstrated India’s relatively low carbon emissions at that time.
- In 2020, India maintained its status as the lowest emitter of CO2 among the same regions, indicating a consistent trend of relatively low carbon emissions.
- Renewable Energy Adoption (1990 and 2015):
- In 1990, most G20 nations, excluding the U.S. and Mexico, generated less than 2% of their electricity from renewables.
- By 2015, India had made some progress, with 5.36% of its electricity coming from renewable sources.
- However, India’s ranking in this regard was 13th out of the 20 regions analyzed, suggesting relatively slow progress in adopting eco-friendly energy sources compared to some other G20 nations.
Conclusion
- As India hands over the G20 Presidency to Brazil, there is an opportunity for the nation to build on its successes and address areas that require further attention to achieve a more balanced and equitable socioeconomic landscape