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  • Examine the pattern and trend of public expenditure on social services in the post-reforms period in India. To what extent this has been in consonance with achieving the objective of inclusive growth?

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    Indian constitution envisions a welfare state under Article 38 of the constitution which is reflected in public expenditure on social services. In the post-reforms period the public expenditure on social services increased from 5.49% of GDP in 1990-91 to 8.3% in 2021-22.

    Patterns and trends of public expenditure on social services:

    1. From 1990s to Early 2000s: Marked slowdown in public spending – 
    1. Education – 3% of GDP. 
    2. Public healthcare –  1% of GDP.
    1. From 2000s to Early 2009: Marked by re-prioritization of social spending Eg- Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) for education, National Health Mission (NHM), and MGNREGA.
    2. 2010 onwards: Shift towards Rights based approach E.g., Right To Education, Right To Food, etc.

    Consonance with achieving the objective of inclusive growth:

    1. Rapid growth and poverty reduction:  A total of 415 million people moved out of poverty in India within just 15 years from 2005 to 2021. (UN)
    2. Financial inclusion: Under PMJDY more than 53.13 crore bank accounts have been opened proving instrumental in Direct Benefit Transfer to the beneficiaries.
    3. Education Accessibility: E.g. Gross Enrolment Ratio for girls at the secondary level rose from 77.45% in 2014-15 to 81.32% in 2019-20.
    4. Improved Health Indicators: Health expenditure increases at cagr of 15.8%. (1.9% OF GDP IN FY24) – Life expectancy increased from 58 years in 1991 to 70 years in 2022.

    However, Challenges remain in realizing the full extent:

    1. High Levels of Poverty – NITI Aayog’s 2021 report estimated that around 25% of the population still lives in multidimensional poverty
    2. Employment Generation and Jobless Growth – According to PLFS 2019-20, India’s unemployment rate was 4.8% and youth unemployment (15-29 years) was 22.9%.
    3. Underinvestment in Social Infrastructure: According to a report by Dasra, social sector spending was ₹23 trillion ($280 billion) in FY23. It is less than NITI Aayog recommendation of 13% of GDP.
    4. Regional Disparities in Development: As per ‘Relative Economic Performance of Indian States: 1960-61 to 2023-24’ by Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM), 5 Southern states have emerged as major contributors to India’s GDP, accounting for 30% by March 2024. On the other hand, Uttar Pradesh contributes only 9.5% of GDP and Bihar just 4.3%. 
    5. Social Exclusion and Inequality Based on Caste, Gender etc: According to NITI Aayog’s 2021 Multidimensional Poverty Index, SCs and STs suffer more from multidimensional poverty and Female labor force participation in India is only 23.3% (PLFS 2019-20)

    World Economic Forum has suggested 3 practical ways for countries to boost inclusive growth:

    1. Investment in their citizens’ capabilities. e.g. Bolsa Familia – Brazil, provides financial aid to brazilian families ensuring children education, vaccination etc.
    2. Labour Law Reforms – ensuring social security cover
    3. Investment in labor intensive economic sectors including sustainable water, energy, digital, and transport infrastructure, rural economy, education and training.

    Implementing Social Security Code 2020 can help achieve goal of instituting a credible social protection framework, consistent with India’s level of development.

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  • [UPSC Openhouse] By Shubham Sir || On How to effectively utilize the next 4 months (Oct to Feb) for UPSC 2025? | Get a Personalized Micro Time Table for the Next 4 Months || Join on 10th Oct 2024 at 7:00 PM

    [UPSC Openhouse] By Shubham Sir || On How to effectively utilize the next 4 months (Oct to Feb) for UPSC 2025? | Get a Personalized Micro Time Table for the Next 4 Months || Join on 10th Oct 2024 at 7:00 PM

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    Register for the masterclass on 10th Oct 2024, 7 PM to get access to Personalized Micro Time Table for the Next 4 Months

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    Know more about the Shubham Sir’s Masterclass

    You have 85 days after Prelims for Mains 2025. This is far less time than what students had this year. If you are not gearing up your preparation in the next 4 months, your Mains attempt will be in jeopardy. Hence, having a roadmap at this point becomes crucial.

    In the next 4 months, you need to follow these steps on a ritual basis:

    (1) Consolidating your notes: Whatever notes you have made so far, consolidate them. You need to know how to do this at this stage. If you don’t master this skill now, you risk doing it incorrectly later.

    (2) Mastering the art of brainstorming through PYQs: This is the time to thoroughly analyze Mains PYQs. Understand the need and demand of the exam, brainstorm key points, and focus on value addition to your answers. With AI already raising the bar for value addition, this ritual is now more crucial than ever.

    (3) Practicing effective answer writing: Post-Prelims, most of your time will be devoted to Optional answer writing and value addition. You may not be able to write many full-length GS tests at that point. Therefore, the next 4 months are critical for solidifying your GS answer writing practice.

    Join Shubham Jatte Sir, Senior IAS Mentor, who has guided many rankers through the Smash Mains program, and learn how you can make the most of the next 4 months to secure a top IAS rank next year.

    Join us on 10th Oct 2024, 7 PM. Shubham Sir will be conducting a FREE webinar exclusively for UPSC 2025 aspirants giving you a sneak peak of what it takes to perform at the alpha level in your very first attempt.

    It will be a 45 minute webinar, post which we will open up the floor for all kinds of queries which a beginner must have. No questions are taboo and Shubham sir is known to be patiently solving all your doubts.

    Join us for a Zoom session on 10th Oct 2024, 7 PM. This session is a must-attend for you If you are attempting UPSC for the first time or have attempted earlier and now preparing for next year, then it is going to be a valuable session for you too.

    We will deal with all the aspects for a comprehensive UPSC Preparation. We’ll talk about starting with the basics, and move to advanced level.

    See you in the session”

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    About Civilsdaily Mentorship Philosophy:

    At Civilsdaily, we treat Mentorship as a specialization. Not every Mains or interview candidate can be a mentor. Most such mentors will suggest cosmetic changes and will only help you evolve slowly. It is easy to find comfort in sentences like ‘every topper is different’ and’ they have their own path’. Finding what’s different about you and then figuring out your own path is why Mentorship is essential.

    We walk the talk by helping you craft your own way of preparation. A method that enhances your probability of qualifying UPSC-CSE in a single attempt. We give you that near-perfect certainty. Delivering this consistently to hundreds of aspirants (now rankers) in the past was challenging. We still stick to it and keep getting better at it with each passing year.

    At CD, we understand the science and the art of everything UPSC. If you have a problem, we will sit with you and find a solution. If that doesn’t work, then we try solution 2. Eventually, we will make sure you end up making progress. What’s the point of any content, program, or mentorship without progress? This is precisely why aspirants trust they have the best shot at clearing the exam with Civilsdaily.

    We invest a significant amount of time, effort, and energy into creating lectures, notes, and tests, understanding your needs as an aspirant. We take this responsibility seriously because, ultimately, your future depends on it.

    The heart of the Civilsdaily platform is the Yearlong Mentorship Program. For years, aspirants have enrolled here because they couldn’t find such depth and passion towards quality content and Mentorship anywhere. Their search inevitably ends at Civilsdaily. Enrollment in these programs and Mentorship also makes us accountable to aspirants for the value they get.

    In the past few years, we’ve worked quietly in the background with hundreds of aspirants; many now serve as IAS, IPS, IFS and more. We are very proud of what we’ve achieved.Overwhelmed by quick fixes, content overload and messy timetables which never work? Join us as we take you through a realistic and relatable roadmap for UPSC 2026 preparation. 

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    In this masterclass, you will get:

    1. A 45-minute deep dive on how to plan your UPSC strategy from the start to the end.
    2. How do first-attempt IAS Rankers get the most out of their one year prep?
    3. Insider tips that only the top IAS and IPS rankers know and apply to get rank.

    By the end, you’ll have razor-sharp clarity and a clear path to crack UPSC with confidence and near-perfect certainty. 

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  • Trade is not just Globalized but also weaponized: S. Jaishankar

    Why in the News?

    External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted that over the past 25 years, globalisation has led to job losses and dissatisfaction in many societies, as trade has become both globalised and weaponised.

    How is trade being weaponised in global politics?

    • Trade is increasingly being used as a strategic tool by countries, intertwined with national security concerns. Nations impose tariffs, subsidies, and other economic measures as defensive actions to protect domestic industries and geopolitical interests.
    • Technologies and supply chains are viewed through a national security lens, leading to greater control over economic interactions.

    Note: Economic and military power comes under hard power.

    What implications does this weaponization of trade have for India and its foreign relations?

    • Rising Protectionism: India has responded to this trend by imposing over 30 anti-dumping measures against Chinese goods in 2024 alone. These defensive actions are meant to shield Indian industries from what is perceived as China’s predatory pricing strategies.
    • Impact on Global Supply Chains: As global supply chains become more transnational, India’s ability to secure its interests, especially in high-tech sectors, becomes crucial.
      • India is balancing its integration into the global economy while protecting critical sectors from foreign influence, especially from China.
    • Foreign Relations: India’s foreign policy is increasingly being shaped by economic security concerns.
      • Trade disputes, such as those with China, have prompted a re-evaluation of economic partnerships and collaboration within frameworks like the Indo-Pacific to reduce dependency on potentially adversarial nations.

    What historical context informs India’s current approach to trade and international relations?

    • China’s Entry into WTO (2001): India, like many other countries, faced economic repercussions when Chinese goods flooded global markets after China joined the WTO. This led to job losses and industrial competition.
    • Globalization and Job Losses: The rapid globalization of the past 25 years has contributed to domestic job losses and dissatisfaction in various sectors in India.
    • Strategic Autonomy: India’s foreign relations have historically been guided by a principle of strategic autonomy.
      • This informs its cautious stance on fully integrating into global supply chains without safeguarding critical industries, and influences its desire to promote reforms in Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) to suit developing nations’ needs.

    Way forward:

    • Strengthening Domestic Industries: India should continue enhancing self-reliance through initiatives like Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, focusing on boosting high-tech sectors and reducing dependency on foreign imports, especially from adversarial nations like China.
    • Diversifying Trade Partnerships: India must deepen economic ties with friendly nations and regional alliances such as the Indo-Pacific, while advocating for reforms in global trade systems like the WTO and MDBs to ensure fair competition and support for developing economies.

  • The status of the civil war in Sudan

    Why in the News?

    On September 26, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) initiated a significant offensive against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Khartoum and Bahri. As a result, the conflict, which had been relatively calm for several months, has reignited with increased intensity.

    What is the extent of the war? 

    • Duration and Scope: The civil war has lasted for over 18 months, initially erupting from a power struggle between the two military factions—the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). What began in Khartoum has spread to various regions, including Omdurman, Bahri, Port Sudan, El Fasher, and areas in Darfur and Kordofan.
    • Casualties and Displacement: The UN reports over 20,000 fatalities since the conflict began. Additionally, the International Organization for Migration estimates 10.89 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) as of October 1.
    • Worsening Humanitarian Crisis: Access to aid and healthcare has become severely restricted, particularly in Darfur. 
      • The UN has declared famine in specific camps like Zamzam, affecting nearly 500,000 IDPs. Currently, 25.6 million people—more than half of Sudan’s population—face critical food insecurity.

    How have ethnic tensions and rivalries played a part in the war? 

    • Ethnic Conflict: The war has evolved beyond a military rivalry, intensifying along ethnic lines. The RSF, composed of predominantly Arab militias, has been involved in targeting non-Arab communities, such as the Masalit, particularly in the Darfur region.
    • Militia Involvement: Various regional ethnic militias have taken sides in the conflict, complicating the dynamics further. The SAF has allied with the Sudanese People’s Liberation Movement, while the RSF has garnered support from Arab militias.
    • Historical reason: Ethnic tensions are rooted in historical grievances, exacerbating violence and leading to retaliatory attacks between communities, which have fueled the conflict.

    What are the implications for the region?

    • Mass Displacement: Over two million refugees have fled to neighboring countries, including Chad, South Sudan, and Ethiopia. This has strained resources in host countries and raised concerns about a potential migrant crisis in Europe.
    • Ethnic Clashes in Neighboring Regions: The instability in Sudan has triggered ethnic violence along the borders with South Sudan and Ethiopia, particularly in contested areas like Abyei and El Fashaga.
    • Economic Impact: The ongoing conflict jeopardizes essential infrastructures, such as oil pipelines from South Sudan to the Red Sea, threatening regional economic stability.
    • Cross-Border Tensions: A lack of effective governance in Sudan has led to increased ethnic tensions and clashes in border regions, which could have wider implications for regional security and stability.

    Way forward: 

    • Facilitate Peace Talks: India can leverage its diplomatic relations with the conflicting factions (SAF and RSF) to encourage dialogue and support peace initiatives through multilateral platforms like the African Union and the UN.
    • Strengthen Regional Alliances: India can collaborate with neighbouring countries (Chad, South Sudan, Ethiopia) to manage the refugee crisis and promote stability through joint security initiatives.

  • Why is salt pan land being used for homes?

    Why in the News?

    The Maharashtra government allocated 255.9 acres of salt pan land across three parcels in Mumbai’s eastern suburbs for rental housing under the Dharavi Redevelopment Project. 

    What is Salt pans?

    • Salt pans are low-lying coastal areas used for salt cultivation, acting as natural sponges that absorb rainwater and support diverse ecosystems while mitigating flooding.

    What is the Maharashtra government doing to relocate people?

    • Allocation of Land for Housing: The Maharashtra government has issued a Government Resolution (GR) allocating 255.9 acres of salt pan land for the construction of rental housing as part of the Dharavi Redevelopment Project. This land is to be used for slum rehabilitation and affordable housing for economically weaker sections.
    • Lease Agreement: The land parcels will be leased to the Maharashtra government for 99 years, with the objective of providing housing for residents displaced from Dharavi.
    • Involvement of Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV): The Dharavi Redevelopment Project Private Limited (DRPPL), in which an Adani Group entity holds 80% stake and the State government has a 20% stake, is responsible for the construction and resettlement of laborers working on the land.
    • Concessional Rate for Land: The land is being provided at a concessional rate of 25% of the prevailing market rate, making it more accessible for development.

    Why is the move controversial?

    • Environmental Concerns: Urban planners and environmentalists have raised concerns about the lack of an impact assessment study before developing large parcels of salt pan land.
    • Risk of Ghetto Formation: Critics argue that relocating residents to different parts of the city, rather than in-situ rehabilitation (keeping them in their original areas), could lead to the formation of ghettos and further social segregation.

    Are salt pan lands ecologically important?

    • Ecological Role: Salt pan lands are vital as salt marshlands that serve as holding ponds, absorbing rainwater and acting as natural sponges, thereby helping to mitigate flooding.
    • Biodiversity: These areas support diverse flora and fauna, contributing to the ecological balance of coastal regions.
    • Natural Defense: The salt pan lands provide a coastal area’s natural defense against flooding and other environmental hazards, highlighting their importance in maintaining regional ecological health.

    Way forward: 

    • Integrate Environmental Assessments with Development Planning: The Maharashtra government should implement a framework that integrates environmental impact assessments into the planning process for the Dharavi Redevelopment Project.
    • Adopt a Community-Centric Approach to Resettlement: The government should engage with affected communities to explore in-situ rehabilitation options and gather input on their housing needs.

  • How are tanks armouring Ladakh sector?

    Why in the News?

    The Ukraine war has highlighted the versatility of battle tanks, demonstrating that armor remains crucial on modern battlefields, alongside long-range firepower.

    What are the difficulties in Ladakh due to high terrain and altitude? 

    • High Altitude Challenges: At altitudes of 13,000-15,000 feet, oxygen levels are low, causing rarefied air, which affects the performance of engines and machines, including tanks. Temperatures can dip to as low as -40 degrees Celsius.
    • Logistics and Transportation: Transporting tanks and heavy machinery to these high-altitude regions is a Herculean task due to the terrain. Once deployed, they are kept operational throughout, with maintenance facilities set up in forward areas like Nyoma and Daulat Beg Oldi.

    Threat from China: 

    • Chinese Deployment: The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has enhanced its firepower and mechanised units along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). This includes the deployment of the ZTQ 15 (Type 15) light tanks and Type 96A second-generation tanks.
    • Modernisation and Mobilisation: China has also introduced modern wheeled Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and assault vehicles such as the CSK series to the region, indicating a significant military upgrade along the LAC.
    • Tactical Proximity: During the 2020 stand-off, Chinese and Indian tanks came within 100 metres of each other, demonstrating the heightened tensions and the tactical threats in Eastern Ladakh.

    What are the Indian Army’s future plans to fortify the border areas?

    • Indigenous Development: The Indian Army is developing the Zorawar light tank, specifically designed for high-altitude warfare.
    • T-90 and BMP Upgrades: India is enhancing the capabilities of existing T-90 tanks and BMP-2 armoured carriers
    • Long-term Projects: Plans are underway for Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCV) and Future Infantry Combat Vehicles (FICV) to replace current tanks and BMPs, with induction expected by 2030.
    • Procurement Plans: The Army is also evaluating the U.S. Stryker infantry combat vehicle and has initiated the process to procure 100 more K9 Vajra Howitzers to bolster long-range firepower.
    • Enhancing Infrastructure: Since 2012, India has significantly improved its infrastructure along the LAC, enabling long-term deployment of troops, tanks, and artillery in the region.

    Conclusion: The government should continue expanding logistical infrastructure along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), improving transportation, maintenance facilities, and supply chains to support long-term troop and equipment deployment in challenging terrain.

  • UPSC Mains 2024 GS2 Model Answers

    The UPSC General Studies Paper 2 (GS2) focuses on governance, constitution, polity, social justice, and international relations. This paper tests candidates’ understanding of the Indian political system, as well as their knowledge of contemporary issues in governance and foreign relations. This page provides detailed and well-structured model solutions for key GS2 questions to assist aspirants in their preparation.

    Below is a table with 20 questions from the GS2 paper along with direct links to their detailed model answers. A downloadable PDF is also available for the complete set of solutions.

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    UPSC Mains GS2 2024 Paper Questions and Answers

    S.No.QuestionsView Answer Link
    1Examine the need for electoral reforms as suggested by various committees with reference to the “one nation, one election” principle.View Answer
    2Explain and distinguish between Lok Adalats and Arbitration Tribunals. Do they entertain civil as well as criminal cases?View Answer
    3The growth of the cabinet system has practically resulted in the marginalization of parliamentary supremacy. Elucidate.View Answer
    4The duty of the Comptroller and Auditor General is not merely to ensure the legality of expenditure but also its propriety. Comment.View Answer
    5Analyze the role of local bodies in providing good governance at the local level. Discuss the pros and cons of merging rural and urban local bodies.View Answer
    6Public charitable trusts have the potential to make India’s development more inclusive as they relate to certain vital public issues. Comment.View Answer
    7Poverty and malnutrition create a vicious cycle that adversely affects human capital formation. What steps can be taken to break the cycle?View Answer
    8The doctrine of democratic governance makes it necessary that the public perception of civil servants’ integrity and commitment be absolutely positive. Discuss.View Answer
    9The West is fostering India as an alternative to reduce dependence on China’s supply chain and as a strategic ally. Explain.View Answer
    10Critically analyze India’s evolving diplomatic, economic, and strategic relations with Central Asian Republics (CARs).View Answer
    11What are the aims and objectives of the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024? Are university and state education board exams covered under the Act?View Answer
    12Right to privacy is intrinsic to life and personal liberty under Article 21. Discuss the law relating to DNA testing of a child in the womb to establish its paternity.View Answer
    13What changes has the Union Government introduced in Centre-State relations recently? Suggest measures to build trust and strengthen federalism.View Answer
    14Explain the reasons for the growth of public interest litigation (PIL) in India. Has the Indian Supreme Court emerged as the world’s most powerful judiciary as a result?View Answer
    15Discuss India as a secular state and compare it with the secular principles of the US Constitution.View Answer
    16The Citizens’ Charter has been a landmark initiative for ensuring citizen-centric administration but has yet to reach its full potential. Discuss the factors hindering its effectiveness and suggest measures.View Answer
    17In the domain of public healthcare, the Indian state should play a vital role in mitigating the adverse impacts of marketization. Suggest measures to enhance the reach of public healthcare.View Answer
    18E-governance is not just about applying digital technology in service delivery but also ensuring transparency and accountability. Evaluate the role of the ‘Interactive Service Model.’View Answer
    19Evaluate the effectiveness of the United Nations Security Council’s Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC) and its associated bodies in mitigating the threat of terrorism.View Answer
    20Discuss the geopolitical and geostrategic importance of the Maldives for India, focusing on global trade and maritime security.View Answer

    Download the Full GS2 2024 Model Answers PDF

    For a complete set of detailed model answers for the UPSC GS2 Paper, download the PDF below:
    Download Model Answers PDF

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    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    1. What is the focus of UPSC GS2?
    The GS2 Paper of the UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination covers topics related to governance, constitution, polity, social justice, and international relations. It is designed to assess candidates’ understanding of these areas, along with their analytical abilities.

    2. Why is GS2 important for UPSC aspirants?
    GS2 is a core part of the UPSC Mains Examination. It tests not only theoretical knowledge but also a candidate’s awareness of contemporary issues in governance and international relations, which are key to effective public administration.

    3. How should one approach answering GS2 questions?
    To perform well in GS2, it is important to combine knowledge of constitutional and governance-related issues with current affairs. Candidates should develop the ability to provide solutions to real-world governance challenges and integrate constitutional principles into their answers.

    4. Can I directly use these model answers in the exam?
    These model answers are provided as guidelines to help you frame well-structured and comprehensive responses. It is important to personalize them by incorporating current developments and insights relevant to the question.

    5. How can I download the full set of model answers?
    You can download the complete set of model answers by using the link provided above.

    6. Are these model answers based on real UPSC questions?
    Yes, these model answers are based on real and closely related UPSC GS2 questions, making them useful for practice and understanding key themes.

  • Discuss the geopolitical and geostrategic importance of Maldives for India with a focus on global trade and energy flows. Further also discuss how this relationship affects India’s maritime security and regional stability amidst international competition?

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    As Prime Minister Narendra Modi said “India and the Maldives are not just neighbors; we are natural partners. Our destinies are intertwined, and we share the same vision of peace and prosperity.”  

    Geopolitical and Geostrategic Importance of Maldives for India: Focus on Trade and Energy Flows

    1. Strategic Location: Maldives’ position on key global maritime trade routes enhances India’s maritime domain awareness and security.
    2. Energy Security: Located along key maritime routes between the Gulf of Aden and the Strait of Malacca, the Maldives serves as a critical “toll gate” for nearly half of India’s trade and 80% of its energy imports.
    3. Regional Stability: Strong ties with the Maldives support India’s ‘Neighborhood First’ policy, ensuring political stability and minimizing external influences like China.
    4. Countering China: India seeks to prevent the Maldives from falling into China’s Belt and Road Initiative debt trap, preserving regional dominance.
    5. Trade Hub Potential: The Maldives can serve as a logistics and shipping hub, complementing India’s trade routes and boosting regional economic integration.
    6. Maritime Surveillance: Geographic proximity aids India in enhancing surveillance and accessing deep-sea resources through joint projects, strengthening maritime security.
    7. Defence Cooperation: A Defence Action Plan was signed in 2016 to strengthen this partnership. India provides nearly 70% of Maldives’ defence training, both on the islands and in India’s military academies.

    Challenges

    1. Growing Chinese Influence: Eg- China signed 20 “key” agreements, including on tourism cooperation, disaster risk reduction and the blue economy during visit of Xi Jinping.
    2. Diplomatic Turmoil – undiplomatic words used by ministers in Maldives, President Muizzu asking India to withdraw military personnel and choosing China for one of his first overseas visits
    3. Domestic politics – The ‘India Out’ campaign against the presence of the Indian military on Maldivian soil.
    4. India’s security interests hinge on the Maldives’ political stability; internal turmoil could disrupt cooperation and threaten maritime security objectives.
    5. Non-traditional threats: Piracy, terrorism, and drug trafficking require ongoing collaboration and intelligence sharing between India and the Maldives.
    6. Extremism: The Maldives’ susceptibility to extremism and radicalization demands joint efforts to counter these security challenges.

    Way forward

    1. Promote Non-Reciprocal Development Assistance to counter  ‘Big Brother Perception: Building on the principles of the Munroe Doctrine, India should focus on providing nonreciprocal, consultative, and cooperative development assistance to the Maldives. ‘
    2. Enhance Maritime Security Collaboration including joint naval exercises, surveillance operations, and information sharing. 
    3. Engage in Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges: Programs that promote tourism, student exchanges, and cultural initiatives will help build mutual understanding and strengthen bilateral relations.
    4. Address Domestic Political Dynamics: India should be sensitive to the internal political landscape of the Maldives, engaging with all political factions and civil society groups to ensure broad-based support for its initiatives. 

    Sustained Diplomacy and strengthening People to People connect is essential to build trust and align  ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy with the Maldive’s ‘India First’ policy.

    Click to Access Full Notes

  • “Terrorism has become a significant threat to global peace and security.’ Evaluate the effectiveness of the United Nations Security Council’s Counter Terrorism Committee (CTC) and its associated bodies in addressing and mitigating this threat at the international level.

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    Terrorism is the unlawful use of force or violence against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives. Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC) was established under UNSC resolution 1373 to enhance the capacity of UN member states to prevent and combat terrorism.

    Terrorism A Significant Threat To Global Peace And Security

    1. Impact on Global and Local Economies: Eg.  2008 Mumbai attacks resulted in a decline in foreign investments and tourism, costing the Indian economy over $2 billion.
    2. Political Instability: The rise of ISIS in Syria and Iraq led to the displacement of over 10 million people and destabilized the Middle East.
    3. Social Cohesion Challenges: Eg. 2019 Christchurch attacks in New Zealand highlighted how extremism disrupts harmony by fueling religious and ethnic tensions.
    4. Radicalization: Eg. ISIS, through social media, recruited over 30,000 foreign fighters from more than 100 countries.
    5. Human Rights Violations: Eg. Boko Haram in Nigeria has killed over 37,500 people since 2009, with mass abductions and attacks targeting civilians, violating fundamental human rights.
    Mandate of UN Security Council’s Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC)
    Criminalize the financing of terrorism.
    Freeze without delay any funds related to persons involved in acts of terrorism.
    Deny all forms of financial support for terrorist groupsSuppress the provision of safe haven, sustenance or support for terrorists.
    Share information with other governments on any groups practicing or planning terrorist acts.
    Cooperate with other governments in the investigation, detection, arrest, extradition and prosecution of those involved in such acts; and;
    Criminalize active and passive assistance for terrorism in domestic law.

    Effectiveness of the UN Security Council’s Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC) and Associated Bodies:

    1. Helps in Development of Legal Frameworks: The CTC assists in implementing Resolution 1373, which mandates states to criminalize terrorism financing and secure borders. Countries have adapted their laws, including freezing assets linked to terrorism.
    2. Promotes International Collaboration: The CTC fosters cooperation between nations to combat terrorism, ensuring shared intelligence and joint operations, especially in high-risk regions like Southeast Asia and the Sahel.
    3. Assists Nations via Capacity Building: Training programs, such as in the Sahel region, help local forces combat terrorist threats through specialized skills and counter-terrorism techniques.
    4. Enforces Sanction Measures: CTC oversees the implementation of sanctions like travel bans and arms embargoes, ensuring compliance with UN Security Council mandates against terrorist groups like Al-Qaeda.
    5. Ensures Monitoring and Compliance: The CTC monitors national compliance through regular state reports, ensuring nations align with international anti-terrorism laws and obligations. Eg. recent follow up visit by CTC in Tanzania to check compliance on counterterrorism resolution.
    6. Targets Terrorist Financial Networks: The CTC collaborates with organizations like the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to combat money laundering and dismantle financial networks that support terrorism.

    Challenges Faced by UNSC CTC in Counter-Terrorism:

    1. Political Interests and Sovereignty Issues: Disagreements among member states, such as vetoes by Russia and China regarding resolutions on Syria, hinder unified responses..
    2. Disparities and Resource Limitations: E Eg. Global Terrorism Index 2022 indicated that terrorism caused $8.6 trillion in economic losses globally, disproportionately affecting less developed nations.
    3. Balancing Security with Individual Rights: Surveillance measures, like those under the UAPA,AFSPA in India, USA’s PATRIOT Act, often infringe on civil liberties. A 2021 Pew Research survey found that 56% of Americans are concerned about government overreach in surveillance.
    4. Rapid Technological Changes: The use of encrypted communication, as seen in the 2015 Paris attacks, allows terrorists to coordinate while evading detection. 
    5. Implementation Gaps: A 2023 review by the committee highlighted that 80 countries reported insufficient resources to enforce effective strategies.

    To effectively combat terrorism globally, a multi-pronged approach is essential, focusing on socio-economic development, responsive governance, and a unified Trident Strategy combining strong political will, proactive measures, and strategic communication to counter terrorist influence.

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  • e-governance is not just about the routine application of digital technology in service delivery process. It is as much about multifarious interactions for ensuring transparency and accountability. In this context evaluate the role of the ‘Interactive Service Model’ of e governance.

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    The World Bank defines e-governance as the use by government agencies of information technologies (such as Wide Area Networks, the Internet, and mobile computing) that can transform relations with citizens, businesses, and other arms of government.”

    Application of digital technology in service delivery process

    e-Governance being multifarious interactions for ensuring transparency and accountability

    1. Enhancing Public Access: E-governance platforms facilitate easy access to information, promoting transparency in government processes such as budgeting and tendering. 
    2. Preventing Corruption: Digital records and traceable transactions significantly reduce opportunities for corruption by minimizing human interaction. 
    3. Citizen Feedback Mechanisms: Interactive features, such as CPGRAMS, empower citizens to file complaints and track resolutions.
    4. Auditable Transactions: Eg. Performance dashboards, such as the Swachh Bharat Mission dashboard, provide real-time data on initiatives like toilet construction, ensuring accountability through traceability.
    5. Standardized Processes: E-governance standardizes workflows across departments, enhancing fairness in implementing government schemes. Eg. Social audit tools, like the Social Audit Network of India (SANI).

    Interactive service model of e-governance

    The Interactive-Service Model is the pinnacle of e-governance, where two-way communication between the government and citizens is not just possible but encouraged. 

    Role of the Interactive Service Model of e-governance:

    1. Enhanced Citizen Engagement:  Platforms like MyGov and town hall forums, allowing them to provide feedback and suggestions 
    2. Improved Service Delivery:  Digital India Portal ensures streamlined and accessible services such as passport renewals and tax filings
    3. Accountability through Feedback Mechanisms: Platforms like CPGRAMS, enable citizens to lodge complaints and track their resolution.
    4. Customization of Services: As seen in the UMANG app, which tailors services based on user interactions and preferences.
    5. Digital Democracy: Through participatory platforms like online consultations, surveys, and digital town halls, the interactive service model fosters a more inclusive and transparent form of governance.

    Issues with the Interactive Service Model of E-Governance

    1. Digital Divide: Over 60% of rural Indians lack internet access, hindering their ability to benefit from e-governance services, thereby widening the gap between urban and rural populations.
    2. Data Privacy Concerns: The Aadhaar system, with over 1.3 billion enrolled, has faced criticism for potential misuse of personal data, raising significant privacy issues and public distrust.
    3. Dependency on Technology: Reliance on technology can lead to service disruptions; for instance, during the 2020 lockdown, many citizens faced difficulties accessing essential services due to tech failures.
    4. Cybersecurity Risks: In 2020, cyberattacks on government systems increased by 37%, threatening sensitive citizen data and critical operations, highlighting vulnerabilities in e-governance frameworks.
    5. Bureaucratic Resistance: A 2021 survey by NITI Aayog found that 40% of government officials reported inadequate digital literacy, obstructing the implementation of e-governance initiatives and leading to inefficiencies.
    6. Resource Intensive: Many state governments struggle with budget constraints; eg. only 20% of Indian states have allocated sufficient funds for developing robust e-governance infrastructure.
    7. Equity and Inclusion: E-governance may exacerbate inequalities; as only 25% of women in rural areas use online services, limiting their access to vital resources and information.

    E-governance is inclusive of e-Democracy, e-Government and e-Business. Government Process Re-engineering using IT is critical for realisation of Viksit Bharat and New india.

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