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  • As thoughts become digitised, who will protect our Neurorights? 

    Why in the News?

    Many researchers anticipate the imminent development of wearable EEGs capable of enhancing human cognitive functions directly.

    • Elon Musk’s Neuralink has also sparked optimism by exploring brain-computer interfaces to potentially restore lost functions in physically impaired individuals.
    • Neuralink is a company founded by Elon Musk in 2016 that’s developing a brain-computer interface called “the Link,” which is a surgically embedded neural-chip implant designed to decode and stimulate brain activity.
    • Neuralink implanted its first device in a patient’s brain in January 2024.

    What is EEG?

    EEGs refer to electroencephalograms, which are devices used to record electrical activity in the brain. These devices are valuable in neuroscience for monitoring brain functions and diagnosing various neurological conditions.

    What is Neuroscience?

    Neuroscience is the scientific study of the nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. It is a multidisciplinary field that combines various approaches to understand the structure, function, and disorders of the nervous system.

    What is Neuro data?

    Neuro-data refers to data related to the nervous system, particularly the brain. It encompasses various types of data collected through neuroscience research and clinical studies.

    Significance of Neurodata:

    • Medical Advancements: It has the potential to provide precise diagnosis and personalized treatment of neurological disorders. It facilitates the continuous monitoring of brain health and early detection of abnormalities.
    • Technological Innovation: It supports the development of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) and wearable neurodevices. It would enhance rehabilitation options for individuals with neurological impairments.
    • Research and Insights: It can provide data for studying brain functions, cognition, and behaviour. It fuels advancements in neuroscience, leading to new therapies and interventions.

    What are your neurorights?

    • Right to Mental Privacy: Individuals have the right to privacy concerning their neural activities and cognitive processes. This includes protection against unauthorized access to neural data and ensuring confidentiality in the use of neurotechnologies.
    • Right to Neurological Integrity: Individuals possess the right to autonomy over their neurological functions and activities. This entails the freedom from undue manipulation or coercion through neurotechnological interventions, ensuring that such technologies respect and preserve individuals’ neurological integrity.

    What is Neuroethics?

    Neuroethics is a field that addresses the ethical, legal, and social implications of advancements in neuroscience and neurotechnologies. It aims to ensure that the development and application of these technologies benefit humanity while minimising harm.

     

    The digitisation of neuro-data raises great opportunities as well as concerns  

    • Opportunities:

      • Enhanced Cognitive Assistance: Wearable EEGs and other neurotech devices can directly aid cognitive functions. For example, Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) like Neuralink could help physically impaired individuals restore lost functions.
      • Medical Advancements: It provides Real-time health monitoring and personalized healthcare options. For example, Improved diagnosis and treatment of brain disorders through detailed neuro-data.
      • Commercial and Research Value: It provides Valuable insights for neuromarketing to understand and influence consumer behaviour.
      • Integration with Daily Life: It can be used in daily life by using Smartwatches and apps that can track physiological activities and emotions, integrating neurotech into everyday activities.

    • Concerns:

      • Surveillance Risks: It has a potential misuse of neuro data for monitoring by employers, governments, and private companies.
      • Privacy and Security: It may threaten mental privacy and autonomy with the collection and analysis of sensitive neuro data.
      • Ethical and Legal Challenges: It has the potential for ethical dilemmas in mental privacy, consent, and the use of neurotech in various societal contexts.
      • Impact on Individual Rights: The right to think freely and safeguard one’s mental state from monitoring could be compromised. For example, Digitized health data’s commercial value could lead to exploitation and loss of personal control.

    Initiatives related to neuroethics: 

    • Institutional Efforts:
      • U.S. Presidential Commission on Bioethics: In 2015, it published the ‘Gray Matters’ report, addressing cognitive enhancement, consent capacity, and the legal implications of neuroscience.
    • Global Initiatives:
      • OECD Recommendations: In 2019, the OECD recommended principles such as safeguarding personal brain data and monitoring potential misuse of neurotechnologies.
      • UNESCO’s Concerns: In 2022, UNESCO highlighted issues related to human identity, freedom of thought, and privacy, emphasizing the risks of unauthorized access to neural data.
    • Research and Training:
      • Institute of Neuroethics: In 2023, researchers emphasized the need for proactive consideration of the implications of scientific advances and incorporating ethics into research training.

    Conclusion: Governments and international bodies should collaborate to create robust regulations that govern the collection, use, and sharing of neuro data. These regulations should ensure that neurotechnologies are used ethically, protecting mental privacy, consent, and individual rights.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Discuss the advantages and security implications of cloud hosting of servers vis-a-vis in-house machine-based hosting for government business. (2015)

  • Trying juveniles as adults is not the answer  

    Why in the News?

    In May, a speeding car, allegedly driven by a teenager, resulted in the deaths of two young techies in Pune.

    • The Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) initially granted the minor bail on conditions like writing a 300-word essay on road safety. This decision sparked public outrage and criticism from the Maharashtra Deputy CM.
    • Later, the JJB canceled the minor’s bail and sent him to an observation home, which was again challenged in the Bombay High Court.
    • The Bombay High Court eventually ordered the release of the minor, stating that the JJB’s remand order was illegal and that the minor should be in the care of his paternal aunt as per the Juvenile Justice Act.

    What were the provisions led under the previous Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act of 2015?

    Definitions:
    • Section 2 defines a “child” as a person below the age of 18 years.
    • Section 2(13) defines “children in conflict with law” as those who are alleged or found to have committed an offence.
    • Section 2(14) defines “children in need of care and protection” as those meeting certain criteria, such as being homeless, engaged in illegal labour, victims of abuse, etc.
    Juvenile Justice Boards (JJBs):
    • Section 4 mandates the establishment of Juvenile Justice Boards in each district.
    • Section 4(2) states that the JJBs shall comprise a Metropolitan Magistrate or a Judicial Magistrate of the First Class and two social workers.
    • Section 8 outlines the powers and functions of the JJBs in handling cases related to children in conflict with the law.
    Child Welfare Committees (CWCs):
    • Section 27 requires the establishment of Child Welfare Committees in each district.
    • Section 28 defines the composition and functions of the CWCs in the care, protection, treatment, development, and rehabilitation of children in need of care and protection.
    Adoption Procedures:
    • Chapter VIII (Sections 56-65) provides a comprehensive adoption regime, including the establishment of the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA).
    • Sections 56-65 outline the adoption procedures and ensure transparency and accountability.
    Rehabilitation and Social Reintegration: Section 39 emphasizes the rehabilitation and social reintegration of children in conflict with the law through various measures, including counseling, education, skill development, and community-based programs.
    Preliminary Assessment for Heinous Offences: Section 15 mandates a preliminary assessment by the JJB to determine if a child in the age group of 16-18 years accused of committing a heinous offence should be tried as an adult.
    Children’s Court: Section 19 provides for the establishment of a Children’s Court to try children in the age group of 16-18 years accused of committing heinous offences.
    Mandatory Reporting: Section 19(1) makes it mandatory to report the presence of a child in need of care and protection to the authorities, and failure to do so is a punishable offence.
    Registration of Child Care Institutions: Section 41 requires all childcare institutions, whether run by the government or NGOs, to be registered within six months of the commencement of the Act.
    Penalties: Chapter XI (Sections 75-85) prescribes penalties for various offences, including the non-registration of childcare institutions and the sale and procurement of children.

    Amendment in 2021 

    • Empowering District Magistrates: The amendment authorized District Magistrates, including Additional District Magistrates, to issue adoption orders under Section 61 to ensure speedy disposal of cases and enhance accountability.
    • Strengthening Child Welfare Committees (CWCs): The eligibility parameters for the appointment of CWC members were redefined, and criteria for disqualification were introduced under Section 28 to ensure that only competent and capable individuals were appointed.
    • Categorization of Offences: The amendment categorized offences where the maximum sentence is more than 7 years imprisonment but no minimum sentence is prescribed or the minimum sentence is less than 7 years as “serious offences” under Section 2(54).
    • Addressing Implementation Challenges: The amendment introduced changes to remove difficulties arising in the interpretation of various provisions of the Act and to clarify the scope of certain provisions.

    Need for Accountability:

    • Promoting Justice and Fairness: Accountability ensures that juvenile offenders are held responsible for their actions in a manner that aligns with principles of justice and fairness.
    • Preventing Recidivism and Ensuring Rehabilitation: Holding juvenile offenders accountable helps in addressing underlying issues that contribute to their offending behaviour.
    • Maintaining Public Confidence and Trust: Accountability in the juvenile justice system enhances public confidence in the legal process and ensures transparency in decision-making.

    Conclusion: Implement comprehensive rehabilitation programs that are tailored to the individual needs of juvenile offenders, focusing on mental health support, educational opportunities, vocational training, and family reintegration.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Examine the main provisions of the National Child Policy and throw light on the status of its implementation. (2016)

  • Last Universal Common Ancestor (LUCA)

    Why in the News?

    • The origin of life on Earth remains one of the world’s most enduring mysteries.
      • Numerous competing theories exist, but none have conclusive proof.
      • A significant concept in understanding the origin of life is the Last Universal Common Ancestor (LUCA).

    What is the Last Universal Common Ancestor (LUCA)?

    • Researchers believe that all life forms— the Bacteria, the Archaea, and the Eukarya —originated from a single cell known as the last universal common ancestor (LUCA).
    • It is suggested to have been a “cellular organism that had a lipid bilayer and used DNA, RNA, and protein“.
    • There is a lack of clarity about direct fossil evidence of LUCA.
    • However, the shared features of modern genomes provide significant insights into this ancient ancestor.

    LUCA and the Molecular Clock:  

    • The molecular clock theory was proposed by molecular biologist Emile Zuckerkandl and biochemist Linus Pauling in the 1960s and later refined by biologist Motoo Kimura.
    • The theory allows scientists to reconstruct the evolutionary timeline.
    • According to the theory, the rate at which mutations are added or removed from a population’s genome is proportional to the rate of acquiring new mutations, which is constant.
    • By calibrating the molecular clock with known events, such as the emergence of the first mammals or the age of certain fossils, researchers can estimate the time between evolutionary events.

    Recent Research Findings on LUCA’s Age and Genome

    • Researchers at the University of Bristol and Exeter estimate that LUCA originated around 4.2 billion years ago, nearly 1 billion years earlier than previously thought. 
      • They obtained evidence from the 3.3 km deep Candelabra’ hydrothermal vent on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.
    • LUCA had a small genome of about 2.5 million bases encoding 2,600 proteins, sufficient for survival in a unique niche.
    • Its metabolites may have created a secondary ecosystem for other microbes.
    • The presence of immunity genes in LUCA suggests it had to defend against viruses.

    Evidence Verification using Miller-Urey Experiment

    • In 1952, Stanley Miller and Harold Urey conducted an experiment at the University of Chicago, simulating lightning strikes on a mixture of methane, ammonia, and water, which resulted in the formation of amino acids.
    • This demonstrated that complex organic compounds could arise from inorganic compounds under the right conditions.

    Which is older: LUCA or fossils?

    • LUCA’s estimated origin at 4.2 billion years predates the earliest fossil records by almost 1 billion years.
    • Fossil records from the Pilbara Craton in Australia suggest life emerged around 3.4 billion years ago, but the study pushes this date back.

    Alternative Theories: 

    (1) Extraterrestrial Origin

    • Another prominent theory suggests that meteorites from space could have brought the building blocks of life to Earth.
    • This theory is supported by various discoveries.
    • In August 2019, French and Italian scientists reported finding 3.3 billion-year-old extraterrestrial organic material.
    • Japan’s Hayabusa 2 mission to the asteroid Ryugu detected more than 20 amino acids, further supporting the possibility of an extraterrestrial origin for the building blocks of life.

    (2) Oparin-Haldane Hypothesis

    • In the 1920s, Alexander Oparin and J.B.S. Haldane independently proposed theories regarding the origin of life.
    • They suggested that life originated from a “primordial soup” in a prebiotic environment on the young Earth.
    • This concept is now known as the Oparin-Haldane hypothesis.

     

    PYQ:

    [2012] Which one of the following sets of elements was primarily responsible for the origin of life on the Earth?

    (a) Hydrogen, Oxygen, Sodium

    (b) Carbon, Hydrogen, Nitrogen

    (c) Oxygen, Calcium, Phosphorus

    (d) Carbon, Hydrogen, Potassium

  • [pib] World Heritage Young Professionals Forum, 2024

    Why in the News?

    • India is hosting the UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee meeting for the first time in New Delhi.
      • Theme: “World Heritage in the 21st Century: Building Capacities and Exploring Opportunities for Youth.”

    About the World Heritage Young Professional Forum

    • The World Heritage Young Professionals Forum is an initiative by UNESCO to engage young professionals in the field of heritage conservation.
    • The first World Heritage Young Professionals Forum was organized in 1995.
    • The primary aim is to engage young professionals in heritage conservation and management through capacity building, networking, and awareness-raising.

    Back2Basics: UNESCO World Heritage Sites

    Description
    UNESCO World Heritage Sites Landmarks or areas selected by UNESCO for their cultural, historical, scientific, or other significant value, legally protected by international treaties.
    Importance World Heritage Sites represent collective and preservative interests of humanity, signifying remarkable accomplishments and intellectual history.
    Selection Criteria Sites must be already-classified landmarks, unique and significant culturally or physically, such as ancient ruins, historical structures, cities, monuments, etc.
    Conservation World Heritage Sites require practical conservation to protect them from risks like trespassing, uncontrolled access, or administrative negligence.
    World Heritage Committee Selects and monitors World Heritage Sites, manages the World Heritage Fund, and provides financial assistance. Composed of 21 states parties elected for a four-year term.
    Membership India is not a member of the World Heritage Committee.

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] Consider the following international agreements:

    1. The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture
    2. The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification
    3. The World Heritage Convention

    Which of the above has / have a bearing on the biodiversity?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Karnataka State Employment of Local Candidates in the Industries, Factories and Other Establishments Bill, 2024

    Why in the News?

    The Karnataka Cabinet has approved a bill mandating that industries, factories, and other establishments appoint local candidates in 50% of management positions and 75% in non-management positions.

    • The bill was cleared in a Cabinet meeting chaired by the Chief Minister.

    Key features of the Bill:

    • Definition of a Local Candidate:
      • Born in Karnataka
      • Domiciled in Karnataka for 15 years
      • Proficient in speaking, reading, and writing Kannada
      • Passed a required test by the nodal agency
    • Educational Requirements:
      • Must have a secondary school certificate with Kannada as a language, or
      • Pass a Kannada proficiency test specified by the nodal agency
    • Training and Relaxation Provisions:
      • Industries and establishments must train local candidates within three years if qualified locals are unavailable
      • Establishments can apply for relaxation if local candidates are insufficient
      • The government’s decision on relaxation applications is final
      • Local candidates must constitute at least 25% in management and 50% in non-management positions
      • Non-compliance penalties range from ₹10,000 to ₹25,000

    Do you know?

    • The Punjab and Haryana High Court earlier quashed the Haryana State Employment of Local Candidates Act, 2020, which mandated 75% reservation for state domiciles in the private sector jobs.
    • This decision was made because the State had overstepped its legislative authority and imposed undue restrictions on private employers.

    Background and Rationale:

    • Long-pending Demand:
      • The bill has been passed in response to longstanding demands for 100% job reservation for Kannadigas.
      • Earlier in July, Kannada organizations organized rallies in parts of the State, demanding immediate implementation of the Sarojini Mahishi Report.
    • Sarojini Mahishi Report:
      • The Sarojini Mahishi report, submitted in 1984 by Mahishi, former Union Minister and the first woman MP from Karnataka, included 58 recommendations.
      • The report recommended 100% reservation for locals in group C and D jobs in Central government departments and public sector undertakings (PSUs) in Karnataka.

    Reservation for Locals in Jobs: Constitutionality Check 

    Provision Potential Violation
    Article 14 Guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the laws. Reservation for locals could create unequal opportunities for non-locals, violating the principle of equality.
    Article 15 Prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. Reserving jobs for locals based on place of birth or domicile status may constitute discrimination against non-locals.
    Article 16 Ensures equality of opportunity for all citizens in matters relating to employment or appointment to any office under the State. Though it allows reservation for backward classes, it does not explicitly extend this provision to private employment, making mandatory quotas for locals potentially unconstitutional.
    Article 19 Guarantees the freedom to move freely throughout the territory of India. Imposing local reservations could restrict the free movement of people seeking employment opportunities across states, infringing upon their freedom of movement and residence.

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] One of the implications of equality in society is the absence of:

    (a) Privileges

    (b) Restraints

    (c) Competition

    (d) Ideology

  • India to host 2nd Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation

    Why in the News?

    • India will host the second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation on September 11 and 12.
      • The conference will be jointly organised by the Indian government and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) APAC.

    About the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)

    Details
    Establishment and Background
    • Founded on December 7, 1944, by the Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation
    • Became a specialized agency of the United Nations in 1947
    • HQ: Montreal, Canada
    Objectives and Mission
    • Develop international standards and regulations for aviation safety, security, efficiency, and environmental protection
    • Promote safe and orderly growth of international air transport
    Structure and Governance
    • Assembly: Meets every three years, includes all member states
    • Council: Governing body with 36 elected member states
    • Secretariat: Led by the Secretary General, manages daily operations
    Membership
    • 193 member states as of 2024
    • Open to all states subscribing to Chicago Convention principles
    • India: Founding member, joined in 1944
    Functions and Responsibilities
    • Establish international standards and recommended practices (SARPs)
    • Conduct audits and monitor SARPs compliance
    • Provide technical assistance and capacity-building
    • Facilitate aviation data and statistics collection
    Key Areas of Focus
    • Safety: Enhance global aviation safety
    • Security: Strengthen aviation security measures
    • Efficiency: Promote efficient air navigation services
    • Environmental Protection: Address aviation’s environmental impact
    Significant Programs and Initiatives
    • Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP): Monitors safety oversight capabilities
    • Universal Security Audit Programme (USAP): Evaluates aviation security measures
    • Next Generation Aviation Professionals (NGAP): Addresses anticipated aviation professionals shortage
    • No Country Left Behind (NCLB): Assists states in implementing ICAO standards and policies
    Publications and Resources
    • Annexes to the Chicago Convention: SARPs across civil aviation domains
    • ICAO Journal: Quarterly publication
    • Global Aviation Safety Plan (GASP) and  Global Air Navigation Plan (GANP): Strategic documents for aviation safety and navigation improvements.
    Regional Offices Seven offices in Bangkok, Cairo, Dakar, Lima, Mexico City, Nairobi, and Paris
    Standards
    • Annex 1: Personnel Licensing
    • Annex 6: Operation of Aircraft
    • Annex 8: Airworthiness of Aircraft
    • Annex 17: Security
    • Annex 19: Safety Management
    Global Impact
    • Harmonizes international aviation policies and procedures
    • Contributes to safe, secure, and sustainable growth of global air transport

    About Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation

    • The conference aims to strengthen regional collaboration and develop a future-focused vision for the region, emphasizing innovation and safety.
    • The inaugural conference took place in February 2018 in Beijing.
    • 39 member states of the UN aviation safety body, the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), from the Asia Pacific region are expected to attend.
    • The conference focuses on making aviation travel sustainable, resilient, and adaptive to the changing needs of a globally interconnected community.
      • This region accounts for 33.41% of global flight departures, the highest of any region worldwide.
      • Passenger numbers are expected to increase from 4.5 billion this year to 11.5 billion by 2050.

    PYQ:

    [2014] International civil aviation laws provide all countries with complete and exclusive sovereignty over the airspace above their territory. What do you understand by ‘airspace’ What are the implications of these laws on the space above this airspace? Discuss the challenges which this poses and suggest ways to contain the threat.
  • [UPSC Openhouse] AIR 23, Saurabh Sharma | Decoding UPSC Essay paper brick by brick, How I scored 136 in Essay Paper| Join the session to score 130+ in Essay

    [UPSC Openhouse] AIR 23, Saurabh Sharma | Decoding UPSC Essay paper brick by brick, How I scored 136 in Essay Paper| Join the session to score 130+ in Essay

    Register Now!

    You dont need to be writer. Building a strong context is more important than writing beautifully.

    Saurabh Sharma, AIR 23, UPSC 2023

    Join AIR 23, Saurabh Sharma‘s Masterclass on 18th July 2024 at 7:00 pm

    Register Now!

    Register for AIR 23, Saurabh Sharma Sir’s masterclass to take your Essays from ‘Zero To Advanced Level’.

    Register Now!

    Read what AIR 23, Saurabh Sharma Sir says about his UPSC Mains preparation and approach.

    “Scoring well in the UPSC Essay is crucial for achieving your IAS goals. The exam has evolved, with an increase in abstract and philosophical essays making it more challenging.”

    A common myth is that you need a flair for writing to score high marks. However, building a strong context is more important than writing beautifully.

    Your essay should have a clear tempo and structure. Focusing on presenting your ideas logically and coherently to maximize your score is important.

    IAS Saurabh Sharma, AIR 23, has mastered the art of essay writing and will share his own essay copies to help you understand the Dos and Don’ts.

    From the importance of topic selection to the usage of examples and crafting a strong conclusion, he will guide you through each step.

    Your essay should engage the examiner like a novel, building anticipation and delivering a satisfying conclusion.

    Insights around essays have been a game-changer for me. In hindsight, I know what worked for me and it will work for every aspirant. Getting 400+ in GS Mains is non-negotiable now. The competition now doesn’t allow any serious aspirant to leave things to chance.

    With so much information and content around us, we lose track of ourselves and our preparation. We are constantly looking for the next shiny things that can help us. This inevitably results in FOMO, anxiety and distraction. Whether you are someone who can immerse yourself in preparation for 7-8 hours daily or a UPSC warrior balancing work or college with 4-5 hours of study, remember, it’s about quality, not just quantity.

    Join me for a Zoom session on 18th July 2024 at 7:00 p.m. This session is a must-attend for you to move your essays in the top 1% bracket. If you are attempting Mains for the first time in 2024 or preparing for UPSC-CSE 2025, then it is going to be a valuable session for you too.

    In the session, we will discuss how to start and strategize your Mains Prep and improve answer writing. I will share with you a precise step-wise plan and approach.

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

    Focus on mastering answer writing should be from early on. Your notes should be concise, clear, and, most importantly, practical. You have to learn to weave current affairs with static portions seamlessly. This isn’t just preparation; it’s about building a habit, a discipline.

    I know what you’re up against because I’ve been there. In this masterclass, I’ll also discuss my own mains answer copies with you.

    See you in my Masterclass”

    Register for AIR 23, Saurabh Sharma Sir’s Masterclass on GS Mains answer writing to score 400+ marks

    Register Now!

    In this masterclass, you will get:

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

    By the end, you’ll have razor-sharp clarity and a clear path to scoring 130+ in your GS Mains exam with confidence and near-perfect certainty. 

    Saurabh Sharma, AIR 23, UPSC 2023

    Join AIR 23, Saurabh Sharma Sir’s Masterclass on 18th July 2024, 7:00 pm

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  • [16th July 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: ‘Big brother’ to ‘Brother’, a Nepal-India reset 

    [16th July 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: ‘Big brother’ to ‘Brother’, a Nepal-India reset 

    PYQ Relevance:

    Mains: 

    Q) ‘The long-sustained image of India as a leader of the oppressed and marginalised nations has disappeared on account of its new found role in the emerging global order.’ Elaborate.  (UPSC IAS/2019)

    Prelims:
    Consider the following statements:  (UPSC IAS/2020)
    1) The value of Indo-Sri Lanka trade has consistently increased in the last decade.
    2) “Textile and textile articles” constitute an important item of trade between India and Bangladesh.
    3) In the last five years, Nepal has been the largest trading partner of India in South Asia.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 2 only
    (c) 2 only
    (d) 3 only

    Note4Students: 

    Prelims: India-Nepal Bilateral Ties;

    Mains:  Neighbourhood First Policy; Panchasheel Principles;

    Mentor comment: India and Nepal share deep geographical, civilizational, historical, economic and cultural ties. They have an open border and close people-to-people connections. The 1950 India-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship forms the bedrock of their special relationship, granting citizens of both countries equal economic and educational opportunities. India is Nepal’s largest trade partner and source of foreign investment. The two countries have extensive cooperation in areas like defense, disaster management, infrastructure development, water resources, and education. During recent years, the Indian government has been observing some strains and gaps in this relationship, which needs urgent attention seeing the regional geopolitical situations.

    Let’s learn!

    __

    Why in the news? 

    India-Nepal relations have involved a significant decline in bilateral ties since 2015, which has now presented an opportunity for improvement.

    Key events and issues that contributed to the strain include:

    • New Constitution in Nepal: In 2015, Nepal’s Constituent Assembly adopted a new constitution, which India had wanted to be reworked. Despite promises made during visits to New Delhi, the draft was promulgated unamended, leading to tensions.
    • Economic Blockade: India imposed an economic blockade on Nepal, which lasted nearly six months. This blockade was seen as a response to the new constitution and was widely criticized for its impact on Nepal’s economy and relations with India.
    • Increased Chinese Influence: Nepal’s PM Khadga Prasad Oli reacted to the blockade by signing 10 agreements with China, covering areas such as trade, transit, power, and transport. This move further strained the India-Nepal relationship.
    • Political and Diplomatic Tensions: The Indian government became more involved in Nepali governance and politics, leading to accusations of interference.
    The RSS and the BJP were also accused of attempting to influence Nepal’s politics and culture to align with India’s image.
    • Border Disputes: The publication of an updated political map by India in October 2019, which included the disputed Limpiyadhura-Kalapani triangle, led Nepal to amend its constitution to include the same region on its map. This further exacerbated the border disputes between the two countries.

    The present context of Power and Prowess between both countries:

    • Conjecture in Nepal: There is speculation in Nepal about what Narendra Modi’s third term as Prime Minister means, given the legacy of the blockade, Hindutva activism, economic stifling, and geopolitical coercion.
    • Indian Exceptionalism: India’s long history of interfering in Nepal’s politics and governance goes against the principle of non-interference, as seen in the Panchsheel doctrine.
      • India’s overbearing attitude towards Nepal seems to be based on power rather than prowess (skill or expertise), which could lead to a more stable and economically energized Nepal, benefiting India’s National Security and Economy.
    • Legacy of India’s existing Policies: Modi’s foreign policy and national security teams remain unchanged, leading to questions about whether he will become more moderate or aggressive to compensate for the BJP’s domestic slowdown.
      • Modi’s “Neighbourhood First“ initiative has been unsuccessful, and he may need to correct his policies on Nepal as the closest neighbor.
      • Nepal is not just a basket-case neighbor but the seventh largest remittance-sending country to India, helping support livelihoods in India’s poorest regions.

    Nepalian Viewpoint:

    • Eroded Ability to Engage Equally
      • Nepal’s political, civil society, bureaucratic, and security institutions have lost the ability to engage with their Indian counterparts as equals. This is due to the ongoing political turmoil in Nepal.
      • Nepal’s political leadership has included both weak and subservient figures. The worst example was during the prime ministership of Pushpa Kamal Dahal (‘Prachanda’), the Maoist leader.
    • Dahal’s Subservience to India
      • During his 2023 visit to India, Nepali PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal avoided raising issues that could have upset Modi. He failed to discuss pending bilateral matters like air routes, the Limpiyadhura-Kalapani dispute, and the Eminent Persons’ Group (EPG) report.
      • To please the RSS, Dahal and his team wore saffron robes at a temple in Madhya Pradesh.
      • Dahal signed a power trade deal that let India refuse imports from Nepal’s Chinese-backed hydropower plants and allowed the Indian embassy to distribute grants in Nepal.

    Considering the South Asian Region and India’s Peaceful Existence:

    • Nepal’s Cordiality towards India: Presently, New Delhi is far from considering Nepal as the future connectivity gateway to the Chinese mainland via railways and roadways breaching the Himalayan rampart.
      • A continuing ‘Himalayan paranoia’, with its origins in the 1962 debacle with China, fuels geo-strategic insecurity in New Delhi think-tanks.
    • India’s Missed Opportunities: Indian economists fail to note the enormous savings in Military expenditure represented by Nepal’s presence as a ‘benign buffer’ along the central stretch of the Himalaya, especially after the concerns over the Indian exchequer’s inability to bear military costs and pensions (Agniveer Scheme).
      • The open Nepal-India border is the prototype for a future South Asia at peace, but New Delhi analysts constantly harp on the insecurity it represents for India.

    Nepal’s Suffering and India’s Misconceptions

    • The Maoists used shelters across the unregulated border during their decade-long insurgency against the Nepali state.
    • Every summer, the Indian media claims Nepal “releases” monsoon waters into the Ganga plain, but Nepal has no significant storage dams, and the Gandaki and Kosi barrages are controlled by India.
    • ‘Nepal studies’ is not an academic discipline in India, which contributes to Indian citizens viewing Nepal as poor, ungrateful, and even malevolent.

    Conclusion: Frustrated Nepalis want India to treat them as an equal partner, not a “big brother”. India’s policymakers should accept that Nepal is a separate country from India. Nepal should try to clear up misconceptions about itself and suggest ways to improve relations.

  • ISRO has a problem: many rockets, but too few satellites to launch 

    Why in the News? 

    After the ambitious Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) was finalized in June 2024, ISRO Chairman S. Somanath stated its launch capability exceeded demand threefold, highlighting a need for robust domestic market demand for launch vehicles.

    What is the present scenario of Satellites in India?   

    • India operates a diverse fleet of satellites with applications in Communications, Remote Sensing, Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT), Meteorology, Disaster Management, Space-based internet, Scientific missions, and Experimental missions.
    • India currently has four main launch vehicles: the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), and the Launch Vehicle Mark-III (LVM-3), capable of launching satellites up to four tonnes to geosynchronous orbit.
    • For satellites weighing more than four tonnes, India relies on foreign launch vehicles, such as Europe’s Ariane V and SpaceX’s Falcon 9, to meet its heavy payload requirements.
    • India has been actively involved in significant space missions like Chandrayaan 3 (a lunar mission) and Aditya L1 (a mission to study the Sun), showcasing its growing capabilities in space exploration.

    Existing Demand-Driven Model in India – Before and After       

    • Before (Supply-Driven Model)
        • The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) primarily built and launched satellites based on its assessments and planned missions without waiting for specific customer demands.
        • After launching satellites, ISRO would then look for customers who needed the services provided by the satellites, which sometimes led to underutilization or delayed utilization of satellite capabilities.
        • The space sector was heavily government-controlled, with limited involvement and investment from private players
        • There was less emphasis on educating potential customers about the benefits and applications of space-based services, leading to lower demand from various sectors.
    • After 2020 (Demand-Driven Model)
      • The Space sector reforms 2019-2020 encouraged greater private sector participation, fostering innovation, competition, and commercialization in the Indian space industry.
      • Satellites are now built and launched based on confirmed customer demands, ensuring that each satellite has a predefined purpose and user base before it is sent into space.
      • The market demand for satellite services is validated and secured before the construction and launch phases, leading to better alignment of resources and higher utilization rates.

    Major Three Limitations Associated at Present Time:

    • Limited Launch Vehicle Capability: Currently, the Indian launch vehicles have restricted payload capacities, necessitating multiple launches for larger missions, increasing costs and complexity.
    • Demand-Supply Mismatch: Transitioning from a supply-driven to a demand-driven model faces challenges, including the need to educate potential customers and create a robust private sector ecosystem.
    • Economic and Technological Constraints: High costs of developing and maintaining launch vehicles and satellites, coupled with the early stages of implementing cost-effective reusable technologies, and insufficient infrastructure and investment.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Launch Vehicle Capacity: Invest in research and development to upgrade existing launch vehicles like GSLV and LVM-3 to increase payload capacity, reducing dependence on foreign launch providers.
    • Strengthen Market Engagement and Education: Expand outreach programs to educate potential customers across sectors about the benefits and applications of satellite-based services.
    • Promote Private Sector Participation: Facilitate a conducive regulatory environment to attract private investments and foster innovation in satellite manufacturing and launch services.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q India has achieved remarkable successes in unmanned space missions including the Chandrayaan and Mars Orbiter Mission, but has not ventured into manned space missions. What are the main obstacles to launching a manned space mission, both in terms of technology and logistics? Examine critically. (UPSC IAS/2017)

  • China’s Communist Party begins ‘Third Plenum’ with focus on slowing economy       

    Why in the news? 

    China’s Communist Party commenced and formulated a strategy for achieving self-reliant economic growth amidst heightened National security concerns and restrictions on American technology access.

    What are the plenums of the Chinese Communist Party?

    The Chinese Communist Party holds a major congress twice a decade, where members of the Central Committee are elected. In between the party congresses, the Central Committee holds seven plenums attended by all its current members.

    The plenums are numbered from 1st to 7th, with each focusing on different aspects:

    • 1st, 2nd, and 7th plenums typically focus on power transitions between Central Committees.
    • 4th and 6th plenums generally center on party ideology.
    • 3rd plenums have historically focused on long-term economic reforms.
    • 5th plenums are associated with deliberations for the country’s five-year development plans.

    What are the major decisions taken at these meetings?   

    • Chinese govt is planning to take measures to restore and expand domestic consumption, focusing on sectors like automobiles, real estate, and services.
    • Reforms are also planned to transform the mechanisms of economic development by making the domestic market and technological innovation the main drivers of growth and emphasis on advancing the “New Development Pattern“ adopted in the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025)
    • Provisions that provided relaxation of restrictions on home purchases and funding curbs on property developers in some cities are incorporated to boost the struggling real estate market.
    • Focus on advancing science and technology sectors like Artificial Intelligence, Green Energy and Electric Vehicles under the “New Quality productive Forces” initiative

    What are the expected implications shortly for regional trade and politics?

    • Trade and Economic Relations: Policies discussed at plenums can impact China’s trade strategies on economic reforms, market regulations, and industrial policies could influence trade volumes, tariffs, and investment flows.
      • Changes in China’s economic policies could include shifts in investment patterns, and infrastructure projects linked to China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
    • Security Dynamics: Discussions on National security policies and Military strategies can impact regional security dynamics, especially India’s Arunachal Pradesh region influencing alliances, defense postures, and regional stability.

    Conclusion: The Indian Government needs to watch its ‘Neighbourhood First’ Policy very effectively keeping its stance assertive rather than passive this time.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to develop potential military power status in Asia’, In the light of this statement, discuss its impact on India as her neighbor. (UPSC IAS/2017)

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