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  • [pib] 2550th Bhagwan Mahavir Nirvan Mahotsav

    Why in the news?

    The Prime Minister has inaugurated the 2550th Bhagwan Mahavir Nirvan Mahotsav on the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti.

    About Vardhaman Mahavir

    Description
    Birth 540 B.C.
    Birthplace Kundagrama village near Vaishali
    Family Background Belonged to the Jnatrika clan; father Siddharta was the head of the Jnathrika Kshatriya clan, and mother Trishala was a sister of Chetaka, the king of Vaishali.
    Renunciation Renounced home at the age of 30 to become an ascetic.
    Spiritual Practice Practiced austerity for 12 years.
    Attainment of Kaivalya Attained the highest spiritual knowledge called Kaivalya (conquered misery and happiness) at the age of 42.
    First Sermon Delivered his first sermon at Pava.
    Symbol Associated with the symbol of a Lion.

    Aliases include: Nayaputta, Muni, Samana, Nigantha, Brahman, and Bhagavan
    Missions Traveled to various regions including Koshala, Magadha, Mithila, Champa, etc.
    Passing Away Passed away at the age of 72 in 468 B.C. at Pavapuri in Bihar.
    Legacy Founded Jainism as it is known today; contributed significant teachings and principles to the religion.

    Everything you need to know about Jainism:

    Description
    Origin Jainism gained prominence in the 6th century B.C. when Lord Mahavira propagated the religion.
    Founder Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, is the central figure
    Tirthankaras
    • Jainism recognizes 24 Tirthankaras or great teachers
    • Rishabhanatha being the first and Mahavira the last.
    Main Principles Jainism emphasizes the Three Jewels or Triratna:

    1. Right Faith (Samyakdarshana),
    2. Right Knowledge (Samyakjnana), and
    3. Right Conduct (Samyakcharita).
    Five Doctrines Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (non-stealing), Aparigraha (non-attachment), and Brahmacharya (chastity) are the fundamental principles of Jainism.
    Concept of God
    • Jainism does not adhere to the concept of a creator God
    • Believes in the existence of liberated souls (Siddhas) who have attained spiritual perfection.
    Major Doctrines
    1. Anekantavada: Jain doctrine of non-absolutism, recognizing that truth can have multiple perspectives or facets.
    2. Syadvada: Jain doctrine stating that all judgments are conditional and true only from certain perspectives, expressed by the term “syat” (may be).
    Sects/Schools Jainism is divided into two major sects:

    1. Digambara (sky-clad) and
    2. Svetambara (white-clad)
    Spread
    • Jainism spread gradually into regions where Brahmanical influence was weak.
    • Received royal patronage from rulers like Chandragupta Maurya
    Literature Jain literature comprises:

    1. Agama (canonical) texts, which include the direct teachings of Mahavira, and
    2. Non-agama (commentaries and elaborations) works, such as the Acaranga Sutra.
    Architecture
    • Temples, caves (layana/gumphas), statues, and ornamental pillars (manastambha), exhibiting intricate designs and religious motifs.
    • Notable Jain architecture in India includes the Dilwara Temples in Mount Abu, Rajasthan, and the Girnar and Palitana Temples in Gujarat.
    • These structures exemplify intricate craftsmanship and religious symbolism.
    Jain Councils Two significant Jain councils were held for compiling and preserving Jain scriptures and teachings:

    1. First Jain Council at Pataliputra (3rd century B.C.) and
    2. Second Jain Council at Vallabhi (512 A.D.)
    Difference from Buddhism
    • Acknowledgment of a permanent self (atman),
    • Acceptance of the varna system,
    • Belief in the concept of a soul (jiva), and
    • Advocacy of extreme asceticism ex. Santhara/Sallekhana
    Thoughts on Rebirth Acaranga Sutra: Jainism teaches the doctrine of rebirth (samsara) and various realms of existence (lokas) based on karma, with souls cyclically transmigrating through different life forms.

    PYQ:

    [2011] The Jain philosophy holds that the world is created and maintained by

    (a) Universal Law

    (b) Universal Truth

    (c) Universal Faith

    (d) Universal Soul

    [2012] With reference to the history of ancient India, which of the following was/were common to both Buddhism and Jainism?

    1. Avoidance of extremities of penance and enjoyment
    2. Indifference to the authority of the Vedas
    3. Denial of efficacy of rituals

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • 50 Years of Chipko Movement

    Why in the news?

    The Chipko Movement, initiated in Uttarakhand in early 1973, commemorates its 50th anniversary.

    About Chipko Movement

    • The Chipko Movement originated in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand (then part of the state of Uttar Pradesh) in India.
    • It was triggered by the deforestation activities carried out by contractors, which threatened the livelihoods of local communities and led to environmental degradation.
    • It is said to be inspired by the Bishnoi community in Rajasthan. The Bishnois are known for their environmentalism. (non-violent resistance)
    • The movement derived its name from the act of villagers hugging trees and physically preventing them from being felled, thereby protecting the forests.
    • The movement was led by local activists, primarily women from rural areas, who played a significant role in its success. Prominent leaders included Sunderlal Bahuguna, Chandi Prasad Bhatt (founded an organization called Dasholi Gram Swarajya Mandal ) and Gaura Devi, among others.
    • Villagers used traditional methods of protest, such as forming circles around trees and tying sacred threads (rakhi) on them to symbolize their unity and commitment to conservation.
    • Recognition: Sunderlal Bahuguna, was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award.

    Impact of Chipko Movement

    • It inspired similar movements in different parts of India, such as the Narmada Bachao Andolan, Appiko Movement (Karnataka) and the Silent Valley Movement.
    • It demonstrated the significance of Eco-Feminism and the impact that a non-violent, peaceful and environment-loving community can have.

  • [pib] Net Direct Tax collections exceed 2023-24 target

    Why in the news?

    • India’s net direct tax collections witnessed a remarkable growth of 17.7% in the fiscal year 2023-24, reaching ₹19.58 lakh crore.
      • This performance indicates a strong revenue stream for the government.

    Direct Tax Collections Trends in this Fiscal

    • Notably, Personal Income Taxes (PIT) played a pivotal role in driving the surge, accounting for 53.3% of the total tax kitty, up from 50.06% in the previous year.
    • Conversely, the contribution of corporate taxes dipped to 46.5% from 49.6% in the preceding fiscal.
    • While gross corporate tax collections increased, net tax receipts from Corporates, adjusted for refunds, experienced a slight decline.

    What Is Net of Tax?

    The term net of tax refers to the amount left after adjusting for the effects of taxes. Net of tax can be a consideration in any situation where taxation is involved. In the financial industry, ‘gross’ and ‘net’ are two key terms that refer to before and after paying certain expenses.

    It’s Significance:

    • Individuals and businesses often analyze before and after-tax values to make investment and purchasing decisions.
    • Net tax is also an important part of expense analysis when reviewing annual tax filings and the net income of businesses.

    Types of Direct Taxes:

    • Income Tax: Depending on an individual’s age and earnings, income tax must be paid. Various tax slabs are determined by the Government of India which determines the amount of Income Tax that must be paid.
      • The taxpayer must file Income Tax Returns (ITR) on a yearly basis. Individuals may receive a refund or might have to pay a tax depending on their ITR. Huge penalties are levied in case individuals do not file ITR.
    • Wealth Tax: The tax must be paid on a yearly basis and depends on the ownership of properties and the market value of the property. In case an individual owns a property, wealth tax must be paid and does not depend on whether the property generates an income or not.
      • Corporate taxpayers, Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs), and individuals must pay wealth tax depending on their residential status.
      • Payment of wealth tax is exempt for assets like gold deposit bonds, stock holdings, house property, commercial property that have been rented for more than 300 days, and if the house property is owned for business and professional use.
    • Estate Tax: It is also called an Inheritance Tax and is paid based on the value of the estate or the money that an individual has left after his/her death.
    • Corporate Tax: Domestic companies, apart from shareholders, will have to pay corporate tax. Foreign corporations who make an income in India will also have to pay corporate tax. Income earned via selling assets, technical service fees, dividends, royalties, or interest that is based in India are taxable. The below-mentioned taxes are also included under Corporate Tax:
      • Securities Transaction Tax (STT): The tax must be paid for any income that is earned via taxable security transactions.
      • Dividend Distribution Tax (DDT): In case any domestic companies declare, distribute, or are paid any amounts as dividends by shareholders, DDT is levied on them. However, DDT is not levied on foreign companies.
      • Fringe Benefits Tax: Companies that provide fringe benefits for maids, drivers, etc., Fringe Benefits Tax is levied on them.
      • Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT): For zero-tax companies that have accounts prepared according to the Companies Act, MAT is levied on them.
    • Capital Gains Tax: It is a form of direct tax that is paid due to the income that is earned from the sale of assets or investments. Investments in farms, bonds, shares, businesses, art, and home come under capital assets.
      • Based on its holding period, tax can be classified into long-term and short-term. Any assets, apart from securities, that are sold within 36 months from the time they were acquired come under short-term gains.
      • Long-term assets are levied if any income is generated from the sale of properties that have been held for a duration of more than 36 months.

    PYQ:

    [2014] The sales tax you pay while purchasing a toothpaste is a

    (a) Tax imposed by the Central Government

    (b) Tax imposed by the Central Government but collected by the State Government

    (c) Tax imposed by the State Government but collected by the Central Government

    (d) Tax imposed and collected by the State Government

  • [20 April 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Scientists and a wish list for the incoming government 

    PYQ Relevance:
    Mains: 
    Q  Scientific research in Indian universities is declining, because a career in science is not as attractive as are business professions, engineering or administration, and the universities are becoming consumer-oriented. Critically comment.(UPSC IAS/2014)

    Q What are the research and developmental achievements in applied biotechnology? How will these achievements help to uplift the poorer sections of the society?(UPSC IAS/2021)

    Mentor comments:With 970 million Indians in the process of exercising their franchise in the ongoing general election, what do scientists look for in the polls? Who do they want to vote for, and what are the fundamental issues they want to see their elected representatives resolve and implement? There are five fundamental issues that scientists want the new government to solve and their elected representatives to pay urgent attention to.

    Why in the news? 

    Supporting science and scientists is essential in India’s quest to become a major economic powerhouse

    Need to Increase spending

    • Increase Government Spending: Government should increase spending on research and development by at least 50% year-over-year for the next five years, aiming for nearly 4% of GDP by the end of the term.
    • Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF): Private sector involvement can be encouraged through initiatives like ANRF, where private players are expected to contribute ₹36,000 crore over five years. Legislative measures and detailed plans should be implemented to ensure private sector participation, possibly through mechanisms like escrow accounts.
    • Infrastructure Improvement: Public sector institutions, including universities and research institutions, require modernization of physical and intellectual infrastructure. This includes upgrading science laboratories in undergraduate colleges, state and central universities, and specialized research institutions.
    • Skilled Workforce Development: Increased funding needs to be complemented with efforts to raise a skilled scientific workforce. This involves not only hiring quality teachers and researchers but also nurturing existing human resources and providing opportunities for skill development.

     Focus on merit

    • Globally accepted standards: Implement globally accepted standards for hiring in educational and research institutions, ensuring transparency, speed, and freedom from external influence. Selection criteria should strictly focus on merit, with competent committees responsible for unbiased decision-making.
    • Timely Appointments: Aim to streamline the hiring process so that it takes at most six months from the time of application to providing appointment letters. This ensures efficiency in recruitment and reduces delays in filling vacant positions.
    • Robust Grant Management System: Establish a robust science grant management system that minimizes red tape in grant submission and expedites the disbursement of grants and student fellowships. Emphasize timely allocation of funds to researchers to facilitate uninterrupted research activities.

    Ensure freedom

    • Freedom of Expression: Scientists require the freedom to speak and write based on evidence, without interference, to foster a culture of open inquiry and knowledge dissemination to flourishing start-up ecosystem is essential for translating academic research into practical innovations that benefit society.
    • Autonomy for Scientists: Provide full autonomy to individual scientists to take leave to establish companies, hire scientific staff without excessive paperwork, and allocate research funds as they see fit.Scientists should have flexibility in decision-making, including the freedom to tra

    Conclusion: Scientists’ demands underscore the critical need for robust support and infrastructure to drive scientific research and innovation in India. By addressing these fundamental issues, the incoming government has the opportunity to foster a vibrant scientific community that contributes significantly to the nation’s economic growth and societal development.

  • Israel, a two-state solution, some recent perceptions

    Why in the news?

    Writings and statements from Israel give us an understanding of what “a Jewish national home” means and the ongoing conflict it involves.

    Historical origins and evolution of the concept of a Jewish national home

    • Historical and Religious Context: The concept of a Promised Land for the Jewish people dates back to biblical times, with references in the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) to the land of Canaan as a homeland promised to the descendants of Abraham. The idea of returning to this ancestral homeland remained significant in Jewish religious and cultural traditions throughout centuries of diaspora.
    • Zionism: The modern movement for Jewish nationalism, known as Zionism, gained momentum in the late 19th century. Zionist thinkers and leaders, such as Theodor Herzl, envisioned the establishment of a Jewish homeland in Palestine.
    • Theodor Herzl and the First Zionist Congress: The publication of Herzl’s book “Der Judenstaat” (“The Jewish State”) in 1896 is often considered the starting point of modern political Zionism.
    • British Mandate for Palestine: During World War I, the British government issued the Balfour Declaration in 1917, expressing support for the establishment of a national home for the Jewish people in Palestine.
    • Settlement and Immigration: Jewish immigration to Palestine increased significantly during the early 20th century, as Jewish communities sought to establish settlements and build infrastructure in the region.
    • United Nations Partition Plan: In 1947, the United Nations proposed a partition plan for Palestine, which would have divided the territory into separate Jewish and Arab states, along with an internationalized Jerusalem. While Jewish leaders accepted the plan, Arab leaders rejected it, leading to the Arab-Israeli War of 1948 and the establishment of the State of Israel.

    Continue Struggle after Arab-Israeli War 1948 

    • International Response and Recognition after 1967 war: UN Security Council resolutions 242 (1967) and 338 (1973) addressed the aftermath of the 1967 war. The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) was recognized by the Arab League and the UN General Assembly as the legitimate representative of the Palestinian people. The Arab League Declaration/Initiative of 2002 and the Palestinian Non-Paper outlined visions for a solution, including reference to the 1967 Armistice Line as a border.
    • Annexation of West Bank Settlements: In 2018, Israel’s ruling Likud Party unanimously endorsed a resolution calling for the annexation of West Bank settlements, indicating a hardline stance on territorial claims.

    Why Israel’s position is so strong in conflict?

    • Military Might: The military success of Israel in the 1967 war shifted the dynamics of the Arab-Israeli conflict, convincing Arab states that they could not achieve victory through military means. However, it did not lead to a recommendation for a political settlement based on compromise.
    • Madrid Conference of 1991: The Madrid Conference was a significant event in the peace process, though the phrase “territories for peace” was not explicitly mentioned in the invitation letters. It marked a diplomatic effort to address the conflict.
    • American Support : The United States has provided unprecedented support to Israel, both diplomatically and militarily.And Israel’s conduct and efforts to shape the post-war situation have been growing.

    Conclusion: The idea of a Jewish national home emerged from historical and religious roots, gained momentum through Zionism, and was furthered by international recognition. Resolution requires diplomacy, acknowledgment of historical grievances, and genuine efforts towards mutual understanding and compromise to stabalise the situation.

    Mains PYQ

    Q “India’s relations with Israel have, of late, acquired a depth and diversity, which cannot be rolled back.” Discuss (UPSC IAS/2018)

  • Centre releases curriculum framework for three to six-year-olds

    Why in the news? 

    For the first time ever, the Central government has released curriculum advisable to be taught to children aged three to six-years-old

    Objective of Aadharshila 

    • The early childhood education curriculum is expected to bridge foundational literacy and numeracy gaps which may arise in later school years

    Who Launched?

    • The Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) has released the National Curriculum for Early Childhood Care and Education 2024 titled ‘Aadharshila,’ on the lines of the National Education Policy 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework.

    Where? 

    • Aadharshila (translated as foundation stone) is a detailed 48-week curriculum meant for learning in the age-group of three to six-year-olds in anganwadis.

    Significance Aadharshila’s Curriculum

    • Structure of Curriculum: The curriculum is organized on a weekly basis, comprising 48 weeks of learning over a three-year duration. It is designed to cater to children aged three to six attending anganwadis.
    • Initiation Phase: The curriculum begins with four weeks of initiation, focusing on academic activities to help children transition from home to the anganwadi center. These activities are engaging and involve fun and free play.
    • Exploration Phase: The subsequent 36 weeks are dedicated to exploration, free play, conversation, creation, and appreciation. Activities during this phase include storytelling, singing rhymes, art and craft, and other engaging activities. Storytelling themes often revolve around conflict resolution, responsibility, and cooperation.
    • Learning Objectives: Children learn various concepts such as colors, shapes, numbers, body parts, family and friends, listening and responding to instructions, basic counting, and themes like seasons, festivals, and food.

    Anganwadi 

    • Anganwadi services in India are a part of the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme, which was launched on 2 October 1975.
    • The main objective of the Anganwadi programme is to improve the nutritional and health status of children in the age group of 0-6 years, to lay the foundation for proper psychological, physical, and social development of the child, and to reduce the incidence of mortality, morbidity, malnutrition, and school dropout.

    Conclusion: The release of ‘Aadharshila’ marks a significant step in early childhood education, aiming to bridge foundational gaps. To enhance its effectiveness, continuous monitoring, teacher training, and community involvement are essential.

    Mains PYQ 

    Q National Education Policy 2020 isin conformity with the Sustainable Development Goal-4 (2030). It intends to restructure and reorient education system in India. Critically examine the statement (UPSC IAS/2020) 

  • Scripting a new tribal identity

    Why in the news? 

    President of India Droupadi Murmu was being presented a book, Contributions of Tribal Leaders in the Freedom Struggle, at a National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) event.

    Contributions of Tribal Leaders in the Freedom Struggle

    • Santhal Revolution: Led by Buddhu Bhagat, Joa Bhagat, and Madara Mahato, the Santhal Revolution was a significant tribal uprising against British colonial rule in 1855. The Kols were joined by other tribes like the Hos, Mundas, and Oraons in this struggle
    • Paika Rebellion: The Paika Rebellion in 1817 was a tribal uprising against the British in Odisha. The Paikas were a warrior class who were fighting for their rights and against the exploitation by the British
    • Kol Revolt: The Kol Revolt of 1831-32 was a tribal uprising against the British in Chhattisgarh. The Kols were fighting for their rights over the land and against the exploitation by the British
    • Birsa Munda: Birsa Munda was a tribal leader from Jharkhand who led the Millenarian Movement against the British in the late 19th century. He mobilized the tribal community against the British and forced them to introduce laws protecting the land rights of tribals
    • Rani Gaidinliu: Rani Gaidinliu was a tribal leader from Nagaland who led a revolt against the British in the early 20th century. She was a spiritual leader who fought for the rights of the Nagas and against the exploitation by the British
    • Laxman Naik: Laxman Naik was a tribal leader from Odisha who led a revolt against the British in the early 20th century. He was a farmer who fought for the rights of the farmers and against the exploitation by the British

    Impact of Tribal Revolts during Freedom Struggle: 

    • The tribal revolts during the freedom struggle contributed to the very beginning of the aggression for British Raj. They revolted not against the British but their policy for Indians which were imposed on them without even knowing their culture and its significance. Later this led to the revolt of 1857, which took attention of all over the country

    Conclusion: President Droupadi Murmu received the book “Contributions of Tribal Leaders in the Freedom Struggle” at an NCST event, highlighting significant uprisings like the Santhal, Paika, and Kol revolts, emphasizing tribal resistance against British exploitation, influencing broader Indian agitation.

    Mains PYQ 

    Q Several foreigners made India their homeland and participated in various movements. Analyze their role in the Indian struggle for freedom.(UPSC IAS/2013)

  • India delivers first batch of BrahMos to Philippines

    Why in the news?

    India has handed over the first batch of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines marking a significant step in bilateral defense cooperation.

    India- Philippines Brahmos Deal

    • In January 2022, the Philippines inked a $375-million deal with India for three batteries of the shore-based, anti-ship variant of the BrahMos missile,
    • This made it the first export customer for this joint venture between India and Russia.
    • Several countries, including Indonesia and Thailand, have expressed interest in procuring BrahMos systems, and discussions are underway.

    About BrahMos Missiles

    Development:

    • BrahMos is a joint venture between the DRDO and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyeniya.
    • The name BrahMos comes from the two rivers, the Brahmaputra of India and the Moskva of Russia.
    • The first successful test in 2001 was conducted from a specially designed land-based launcher.

    Capabilities:

    • BrahMos is a medium-range ramjet supersonic cruise missile.
    • Launched from: Submarine, ships, aircraft, or land.
    • It is the fastest supersonic cruise missile in the world.
    • It has two stages:
    1. First stage comprising of a solid fuel rocket booster and
    2. Second stage comprising a liquid-fueled ramjet.

    Warhead:

    • Ship-launched and land-based missiles can carry a 200 kg warhead,
    • Aircraft-launched variant (BrahMos A) can carry a 300 kg warhead.

    Variants and Range 

    • The missile travels at speeds of Mach 2.8 to 3.0, which is being upgraded to Mach 5.0.
    • A hypersonic version of the missile, BrahMos-II, is also presently under development with a speed of Mach 7-8 to boost aerial fast strike capability.
    • Initially restricted by the Missile Technology Control Regime to a range of 290km, the BrahMos missile’s range was extended to 450km following India’s entry into the regime in June 2016.
    • Ongoing efforts aim further to extend the missile’s range beyond 600km, enhancing its operational reach and effectiveness in various scenarios.

    Strategic Implications of the move

    • This development comes amidst escalating tensions in the South China Sea between the Philippines and China emphasizing the significance of enhancing defensive preparedness.
    • The acquisition of BrahMos missiles under Horizon 2 of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Programme will bolster the defensive capabilities of the Philippines armed forces.

    PYQ:

    [2014] Which reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. It is a surface-to-surface missile.
    2. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only.
    3. It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500 km away.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Bengaluru Airport bags 2024 Skytrax World Airport Awards

    Why in the news?

    • The Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru has been honored as the Best Regional Airport in India and South Asia at the esteemed 2024 Skytrax World Airport Awards.
    • Since its inauguration in 2023, KIA Terminal-2 has garnered multiple accolades, including the UNESCO Prix Versailles World’s Most Beautiful Airport

    About Skytrax World Airport Awards

    • The Skytrax World Airport Awards are annual awards, established in 1999 presented by Skytrax, a UK-based consultancy specializing in airline and airport research.
    • Since then, it has become a globally recognized authority in airline and airport research, known for its comprehensive passenger surveys and prestigious awards.
    • These awards are considered one of the most prestigious recognitions in the aviation industry and are often referred to as the “Oscars of the aviation industry.”
      • Various categories of Award: Best Airport, Best Regional Airport, Best Airport Terminal, and Best Airport Staff, among others.

    Evaluation Criteria:

    • Rigorous evaluations of various aspects, including check-in procedures, arrivals, transfers, shopping facilities, security, immigration processes, and departures.
    • Feedback from airport customers of over 100 nationalities across 550 airports worldwide during a seven-month survey period contributed to the assessment.

    Winners of the 2024 Awards

    • Doha’s Hamad International Airport clinched the top spot, dethroning Singapore Changi Airport, which had held the title for 12 consecutive years.
    • Hamad International Airport is praised for its architectural significance and luxurious amenities, covering an area equivalent to 75 football fields.
    • Seoul Incheon Airport secured third place overall and was recognized as the most family-friendly airport.

    Performance of key Indian Airports:

    • Delhi Airport retained its position at 36th place in the overall rankings.
    • Mumbai Airport saw a slight decline, dropping to 95th place from its previous rank of 84.
    • Bengaluru Airport experienced a notable improvement, climbing 10 ranks to 59th place compared to last year’s 69th position.
    • Hyderabad Airport also showed improvement, rising to 61st place from its previous rank of 65th.
    • Goa’s Manohar International Airport secured the 92nd spot in the overall rankings.

  • Srinagar vies for World Craft City Tag 

    Why in the news?

    • The World Crafts Council International (WCCI) has identified Srinagar as a potential candidate for the prestigious World Craft City (WCC) designation from India.
    • Artisans in Srinagar have uniquely preserved their traditional crafts such as Pashmina shawls, carpets, and papier mâché.

    Craft Sector Statistics in Kashmir

    • The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage-Kashmir (INTACH-K) is working with the J&K Handicrafts department to map Srinagar’s craft sector in preparation for the final nomination.
    • Srinagar boasts a rich artisanal heritage, with over 20,000 registered craftsmen engaged in various disciplines such as papier mâché, walnut wood carving, hand-knotted carpets, and more.
    • Handicrafts contribute significantly to the local economy, with approximately 2.64% of J&K’s overall economic output attributed to the sector by 2016-17.

     

    About World Craft Council (WCC International)

    Details
    What is it? Non-profit, Non-governmental organization
    Working
    • Establishment in 1964;
    • Registered in Belgium as an international association without lucrative purpose (AISBL).
    • Affiliated to the UNESCO
    Founders Kamaladevi Chattopadhay and Aileen Osborn Webb
    Purpose To promote fellowship among craftspersons worldwide, foster economic development through craft-related activities, organize exchange programs, workshops, conferences, seminars, and exhibitions, and offer encouragement and advice to artisans.
    Legal Status
    • Registered in Belgium as an international association without lucrative purpose (AISBL)
    • WCC is organized into five regions: Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and North America.
    Meetings
    • European branch meets annually;
    • General Assembly occurs every four years (took place in Chennai in 2012).

    What is World Craft City (WCC) Designation?

    • The WCC initiative was launched in 2014 by the World Crafts Council AISBL (WCC-International).
    • It recognizes the pivotal role local authorities, craftspeople, and communities play in cultural, economic, and social development worldwide.
    • India has only 3 cities designated as World Craft City:
    1. Jaipur (Kundan Jadai (Gem setting), Meenakari Jewellery, Lac based craft, Gotta Patti Work etc. )
    2. Mysuru (Kinnal paintings, Sandalwood carvings, Rosewood Inlay etc. )
    3. Mamallapuram (Stone Carving continuing since Pallava dynasty (275 CE to 897 CE))

    With inputs from: https://www.wccinternational.org/craft-cities/craft-cities-asia-pacific

    PYQ:

    Consider the following pairs:

    1. Puthukkuli Shawls — Tamil Nadu
    2. Sujni Embroidery — Maharashtra
    3. Uppada Jamdani Saris — Karnataka

    Craft Heritage of which of the pairs given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 1 and 2

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 2 and 3

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