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  • What does the Constitution say about the sovereignty of India?

    Central Idea

    • The article revolves around the issue of a political party filing a complaint against a politician of foreign origin with the Election Commission of India (ECI).
    • She had allegedly been advocating the secession of Karnataka from India in her election speeches.

    Definition of sovereignty

    • Sovereignty is the idea of having supreme authority over a defined territory.
    • In Western philosophy, the concept is used to describe the supremacy of the state over the people being governed.
    • The state has a legitimate claim to sovereignty in exchange for providing protection to its citizens, keeping society cohesive and at peace, and controlling law and order.

    Sovereignty in India’s Constitution

    • The word sovereignty appears in the beginning of the Preamble to the Constitution of India as the first attribute of the independent republic of India.
    • Its placement as the first among the core principles of the republic underlines its importance in the Constitution.
    • Sovereignty is invoked in the Indian Constitution to “declare the ultimate sovereignty of the people of India and that the Constitution rests on their authority.”
    • It is mentioned in the Constitution under Fundamental Duties, and citizens have a duty to uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India.

    Relationship of Indian states with the sovereign Union

    • The Indian political system is described as “quasi-federal.”
    • India is a Union of States, and the component units have no freedom to secede or break away from it.
    • The Indian setup is more unitary in nature than the federal one, and the central government has more powers than the states.
    • The choice of a unitary bias that the Constitution makers made was possibly rooted in the difficulty of getting around 600 princely states to accede to India.

    Provisions attesting to the superior position of the Centre

    • The States in India need not be consulted in the matter of amendment to the bulk of the Constitution.
    • Governors in states are appointed “during the pleasure” of the President and are seen as representatives of the Union in the States.
    • The Sixteenth Amendment of 1963 laid down that even the advocacy of succession under Article 19 (1) will not be protected under law in the name of Freedom of Speech as directed under Article 19 (2).
    • The right to alter the boundaries of states and to create new states lies with Parliament alone.
    • The Constitution offers no guarantee to the States against their territorial integrity without their consent since it was not a result of an ‘agreement’ between the States.

    These provisions demonstrate the superior position of the Centre in the Indian political system.

     

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  • 2 Days-UPSC Workshop: Mastering 4 Most Important NCERTs for IAS 2024 | Building solid Foundation | Book your FREE seat (Limited entry)

    2 Days-UPSC Workshop: Mastering 4 Most Important NCERTs for IAS 2024 | Building solid Foundation | Book your FREE seat (Limited entry)

    The most important 2-Days Offline Workshop in Pune Branch for UPSC-2024 by Shubham sir and Pravin sir on Mastering NCERTs to master Basic Subjects! Limited entry

    Book your seat FREE | 2-Day UPSC 2024 Offline Workshop with Senior IAS Mentors

    Register Here

    What would be the grave error? The answer is “to exclude NCERTs.” If you want to enjoy UPSC, you must learn to value NCERTs.

    The best place to begin your UPSC preparation is with NCERTs, which are essential for success. They serve as a foundation and can help you comprehend essential and vital issues faster. Is it, nevertheless, important to read all NCERTs? Finding reliable sources for this information may require some effort.

    Alert! Reading NCERTs isn’t enough to lead; you’ll only succeed in the IAS exam if you grasp how to read NCERTs, which 4 books we need to study specifically for mastering the basic subjects like Modern History, Polity Indian Economy, and Geography.

    Shubham sir and Senior IAS Mentor, Pravin sir will take 2 Days of offline Workshop sessions on Mastering 4 Most Important NCERTs for IAS 2024.

    Join Telegram group (https://t.me/CDMaharashtra) by Pravin sir and stay updated with the latest notes, strategy sessions and FREE guidance by senior mentors.

    Day 1: Masterclass on NCERT: Modern History and Polity

    11th May (Thursday) 2023, 7:30 P.M

    Shubham sir, Senior IAS mentor at Civilsdaily will be taking an Offline workshop where he will be practically demonstrating How to build a solid foundation on Modern History and Polity by Mastering the 2 most essential NCERT Books.

    In this enlightening webinar, sir will share:

    1. What are the best 2 to 3 NCERTs to read, to build a solid foundation on Modern History and Polity?
    2. Why are NCERT books considered the cornerstone for preparing all basic subjects?
    3. How to retain conceptual vs factual information in NCERTs.
    4. How to improve bit by bit if you are weak in any subject?
    5. Political Science covers the country’s legal and fundamental aspects, which makes it an extremely important subject. How to & what to cover from NCERTs so that ‘Laxmikant’ becomes easier to read and revise.
    6. NCERT Books provide the most important illustrations. How to read and revise them. How to use them while making notes.

    Don’t miss out on this super important workshop. Register below for a 1-1 LIVE Session

    Book your seat for FREE

    Day 2: Masterclass on NCERT: Economics and Geography

    12th May (Friday) 2023, 7:30 P.M

    Pravin sir, a senior IAS mentor/faculty at Civilsdaily Pune Branch will take an interactive offline session where he will engage and give a Digital Board Practical demonstration on How to build a solid foundation on Indian Economy and Geography by Mastering 2 most essential NCERT Books.

    What to Expect in the Webinar:

    In this Practical Offline Session, Pravin sir will share:

    • How to utilize NCERT Books? How to improve your reading & analytical skills from NCERTs which are super crucial for UPSC-CSE? Which portion of every NCERT must be utilized for making notes?
    • Best, minimum NCERT materials for UPSC-CSE Preparation. Do’s & Don’t, Understanding the science behind how society works is important, so what are the best 2 to 4 NCERTs to read?
    • For foundational preparation for prelims, students can read & make quick revision notes with the NCERT books, to begin, their history preparation. What are those books that have proven to be highly beneficial in the case of students that come from commerce or science backgrounds?
    • It is critical to understand Indian and global geography. Maps and information about different climatic regions provided in NCERT Geography books help answer many questions about geography. How to learn & what maps/diagrams/footnotes are not to be ignored will also be discussed.
    • The subject of the Indian Economy covers India’s current and past economic aspects, which makes it an important topic. Knowing its fundamentals is crucial for UPSC exams. So, What is to be learned by heart & which NCERTs are fit for the economy will be comprehensively discussed.
    • What is the difference between ‘The Old Version NCERTs & ‘The New Version NCERTs & which subjects, and which versions of NCERTs you should focus on,  this will also be discussed thoroughly in this Ask me anything session. 
    •  The untold secret of ‘how & from where UPSC asks direct questions from NCERTs. How to build command over NCERTs is going to be another crucial point of this awesome session.
    Book your seat for FREE

    Why Should You Attend?

    Whether you’re taking the test for the first time or repeating it after failing, this offline Workshop at Pune is required viewing for everyone planning to apply for the UPSC 2024. 

    Be sure to take advantage of this important practical workshop/ Register immediately to receive their professional advice on redesigning your UPSC preparation plan!

    CivilsDaily’s FREE Webinar package UPSC 2024

    Post-webinar we will share important PDFs, timetable framework, and notes.

    Other than this a strategy package will be emailed to you.

    What The Hindu opined about Civilsdaily Mentorship

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    Karishma Nair, AIR 14 was also Sajal sir’s student
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    The most important Webinar/Workshop for UPSC Preparation 2024 on Mastering NCERTs for 4 Basic Subjects. Limited entry.

    Book your seat (FREE)
  • 8th May 23 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    8th May 23 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    [WpProQuiz 1353]

    [WpProQuiz_toplist 1353]

    UPSC 2023 countdown has begun! Get your personal guidance plan now! (Click here)

  • 8th May 2023 | Nikaalo Prelims- Mini test 29 (Constitutionalism, Liberty, Rule of Law, Equality and Liberalism)

    8th May 2023 | Nikaalo Prelims- Mini test 29 (Constitutionalism, Liberty, Rule of Law, Equality and Liberalism)

    [WpProQuiz 1357]

    [WpProQuiz_toplist 1357]

    UPSC 2023 countdown has begun! Get your personal guidance plan now! (Click here)

  • (Urgent) UPSC prelims 2023 Admit Cards released | Direct link to download inside | FREE resources for UPSC Prelims 2023 based on the Past 3-Year Trend Analysis & most Probable Topics for 2023

    (Urgent) UPSC prelims 2023 Admit Cards released | Direct link to download inside | FREE resources for UPSC Prelims 2023 based on the Past 3-Year Trend Analysis & most Probable Topics for 2023

    Dear students finally D-day has come.

    UPSC has released admit cards for Civil Services (Preliminary) examination, 2023. The exam is scheduled to be held on 28th May (Sunday) 2023.

    Union Public Service Commission activated the UPSC Admit Card 2023 link on May 8, 2023, at upsc.gov.in.

    upsc prelims 2023 admit card
    UPSC Prelims 2023 admit card

    Table of Content:

    For the convenience of applicants who will be taking the prelims exam on May 28th, 2023, the procedures for DOWNLOADING UPSC Hall Ticket 2023 are provided below.

    UPSC Hall Ticket 2023 is a mandatory document that you must bring with you along with other important papers.

    How to Download UPSC Prelims 2023, Admit Card

    1. Visit upsc.gov.in/eadmitcard
    2. Fill in your registration Number or DOB
    3. Verify Your Admit Card Details
    4. Download & Print

    FREE Last Time Study Material for UPSC Prelims 2023

    1. Smart Study Toolkit for 120+ score by Sajal sir

    A game-changing compilation meticulously curated by Sajal sir, Academic Director @ Civilsdaily.

    Free Materials in Smart Study Toolkits

    • Trend Analysis of the PAST 3 Years Prelims Papers Subjectwise
    • Kind & Nature of Questions were asked by UPSC (Based on Basic Books, Conceptual Based, Tikdam Based, and Newspaper Based)
    • Dimensions to cover in each subject and each probable sub-topic
    • Most probable topics and sub-topics for Prelims 2023 based on PYQs analysis.
    Smart study Prelims toolkit prepared by Sajal sir

    These concise, laser-focused notes are designed to provide essential information and boost your knowledge just in time for the big exam. Give your preparation the edge it needs by downloading these invaluable Smart Study Toolkit PDFs today!

    Click for FREE Smart Study Toolkit

    2. Most important topics covered in High Yield Series by Dinesh sir

    High Yield Series is a YouTube video lecture series that targets GS static topics, important lists (like national parks, 54 Tiger Reserves, etc), mapping topics, and concepts with the highest probability of appearing in the exam.
    Immerse yourself in these strategically designed lectures and conquer the most critical aspects of the UPSC syllabus. Don’t miss the chance to level up your preparation with Dinesh sir’s expertise! Check out the playlist below and get ready to make every minute count.

    You can access the PDF of these lectures as well.

    Click for MICRO Notes

    What The Hindu opined about Civilsdaily Mentorship

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  • Moving Beyond COVID-19: Need for Contextual Understanding

    COVID-19

    Central Idea

    • COVID-19 has transitioned from a population-level challenge to more of an individual health concern, and it is time for India to shift gears and apply the lessons learned from the pandemic.

    WHO Announcements on COVID-19

    • On January 30, 2020, COVID-19 was announced as a public health emergency of international concern.
    • On May 5, 2023, WHO declared that COVID-19 was no longer a public health emergency of international concern.

    Issues of misinformation during the second wave of COVID-19 in India

    • False claims about a third wave affecting children: In April-May 2021, there was a COVID-19 misinformation blitzkrieg that a third wave in India would affect children, leading to children being repeatedly asked to wear masks and deprived of schooling and learning.
    • Lack of scientific evidence: School closure and making masks mandatory for schoolchildren had their origin in nearly identical challenges of actions not being supported by scientific evidence.
    • Influencers’ impact on public discourse: Social media influencers, not necessarily subject experts, were shaping the public discourse, which was not effectively addressed by governments.
    • Disparate viewpoints: Disparate viewpoints existed among experts and influencers living in India and abroad, with the latter making more definitive and stronger arguments for school closure and mask wearing for children in India.
    • Failure to consider local context: The sub-groups of super-specialists and those staying abroad failed to factor in the local context while coming up with their opinions.
    • Dogmatic stands of self-proclaimed experts: Self-proclaimed experts and influencers have adopted a dogmatic stand and have been selectively and conveniently using emerging evidence and published literature to support their stand, often misguiding gullible followers.
    • COVID-foreverers: A group of disparate individuals and social media groups keep insisting on the enforcement of restrictions such as universal masking at ‘the drop of the hat’, often on frivolous grounds.

    What lessons were learned from the COVID-19 pandemic?

    • The importance of preparedness: The pandemic highlighted the importance of being prepared for future outbreaks and the need for robust public health infrastructure.
    • The role of misinformation: The pandemic showed how misinformation can spread rapidly and have serious consequences, highlighting the need for better education and awareness to combat misinformation.
    • The importance of local context: The pandemic demonstrated the importance of factoring in local context when making policy decisions, as different regions and countries may face different challenges and require different interventions.
    • The danger of dogmatic thinking: The pandemic showed how dogmatic thinking can be dangerous, and the need for an open-minded and evidence-based approach to decision-making.
    • The importance of nuance and context in epidemiology: The pandemic highlighted the need for nuanced understanding of epidemiology, and the importance of taking into account the broader context when interpreting scientific studies.
    • The need for a shift in focus: With COVID-19 transitioning from a population-level challenge to more of an individual health concern, there is a need to shift the focus from COVID-19 fixation to tackling other pressing health challenges.
    • The importance of integrating COVID-19 response with general health services: The pandemic showed the need for integration of COVID-19 response with general health services, and the importance of a balanced approach to public health.

    Way forward

    • Formal training courses on the principles and practice of epidemiology should be offered by the government to prepare India for more nuanced responses to outbreaks and epidemics and to curb misinformation.
    • The government needs to integrate the COVID-19 response to general health services.
    • India’s response to surges, outbreaks, and epidemics (of any infectious disease and not just COVID-19) should be guided by a nuanced understanding of epidemiology and not unduly derailed by social media influencers.
    • Schools should not be closed for a COVID-19 uptick, and wearing masks in order to attend school should never again be made mandatory, as children were never at risk from moderate to severe COVID-19.
    • It is time to drop the COVID-19 fixation and move on to tackle other more pressing health challenges in the country.

    Conclusion

    • The COVID-19 pandemic has presented numerous challenges and lessons for India and the world. The issues of misinformation and lack of context-based policy interventions have been major obstacles in effectively tackling the pandemic. It is time to apply the lessons learned and shift focus to other pressing health challenges while being prepared to respond to future outbreaks and epidemics with a nuanced understanding of epidemiology.

    Mains Question

    Q. During the COVID-19 pandemic, how did misinformation pose a significant challenge? Discuss what lessons have we learned from it?

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    Also Read:

    Covid is no longer an Emergency: what changes?

  • The Future of the US Dollar As a World Reserve Currency

    US Dollar

    Central Idea

    • The status of the US dollar as the world reserve currency has been a topic of speculation, especially as China, India, and Russia explore alternative currencies for international trade. However, the demise of the dollar as the world reserve currency is unlikely to happen anytime soon.

    Rise of the dollar: Historical Context

    • The rise of the dollar as the world’s preferred currency aligns with the rise of the US as one of the world’s strongest economies with a deep financial system and stable government.
    • Though the position of the dollar has been challenged over time by the Great Britain Pound, the euro, and other currencies, the dollar has maintained its dominance.

    What is the current status of Dollar as forex reserve?

    • According to reports from the International Monetary Fund, the dollar’s share of foreign exchange reserves has fallen over time from 80% in the 1970s to about 60% in 2022.
    • The euro has made up for about 20% of the remaining 40% room created by this fall.
    • Smaller currencies such as the Australian and Canadian dollars, Swedish krona, and South Korean won have claimed their share in the portfolios of various countries’ foreign exchange reserves making up most of the remaining gap of 20%, with Chinese currency taking up the rest.

    How Dollar maintained its dominance as a reserve currency?

    • The strength of the U.S. economy: The U.S. has one of the world’s strongest economies, with a deep financial system and a stable government. This has contributed to the popularity of the dollar as a preferred currency for international trade and as a reserve currency.
    • Demand for dollar-denominated assets: Many countries hold U.S. government debt as a hedge against currency fluctuations affecting the valuation of their reserves. Additionally, many currencies are pegged to the U.S. dollar and some countries use the dollar as their own currency. This has meant that a huge proportion of U.S. dollars reside outside the U.S.
    • The dollar premium: The U.S. government debt is in high demand worldwide, which allows it to issue debt at the lowest interest rate. This relaxes the fiscal constraint substantially, boosting the debt-issuing government’s capacity to borrow more without having to deal with the negative effects of such borrowing on the domestic economy. This phenomenon is often referred to as the dollar premium.
    • No serious competition: Although the position of the dollar as the world currency has been challenged from time to time by other currencies, no currency has emerged as a serious contender. The only serious competitor at this point is the euro, which stands second but at quite a distance.

    Facts for prelims

    Common Currency or Reciprocal Trading Arrangement?

    • A common currency or reciprocal trading arrangement refers to an agreement between two or more countries to use a common currency or to trade with each other using their own currencies without the involvement of a third-party currency, such as the US dollar.
    • The purpose of such an arrangement is to increase trade among the participating countries and reduce the reliance on a single currency for international transactions.
    • The idea of a common currency or reciprocal trading arrangement has been discussed among various countries, including China, India, and Russia, as an alternative to the US dollar-dominated international financial system.

    What are the Factors supporting the US Dollar?

    • Status as Reserve Currency: The US Dollar is still the world’s most dominant reserve currency, which means that central banks and governments around the world hold significant quantities of it as part of their foreign exchange reserves.
    • Large Financial Market: The US has one of the largest and most liquid financial markets in the world, which makes it an attractive destination for foreign investment.
    • Safe Haven Status: The US Dollar is often seen as a safe haven during times of global economic uncertainty, due to the perceived stability of the US economy and political system.
    • Demand for US Treasury Bonds: The US government issues Treasury bonds, which are widely held by foreign governments and investors as a low-risk investment.
    • Petrodollars: The US Dollar is used as the currency of choice for global oil trading, which means that countries that buy oil from the OPEC countries must hold US Dollars to pay for it. This leads to a constant demand for US Dollars.
    • Military and Political Influence: The US has a significant military and political influence on the world stage, which gives it leverage in global trade negotiations and financial institutions such as the IMF and World Bank.

    US Dollar

    Challenges facing the US Dollar

    • Increased global competition: As more countries try to shift away from the US dollar, there is increased competition from other currencies such as the euro, the Chinese renminbi, and even cryptocurrencies. This could potentially reduce the demand for the US dollar.
    • Rising US debt levels: The US has been running persistent budget deficits and adding to its national debt for many years. This could lead to inflation and a loss of confidence in the US dollar, particularly if investors begin to worry about the US government’s ability to service its debt.
    • Geopolitical risks: Political tensions and instability around the world could also undermine the US dollar’s status as the world’s reserve currency. For example, sanctions imposed by the US on other countries could prompt them to look for alternatives to the US dollar in international trade.
    • Emerging technologies: The rise of digital currencies and blockchain technology could challenge the dominance of traditional currencies, including the US dollar. If cryptocurrencies become more widely accepted, they could potentially weaken demand for the US dollar as a global reserve currency.

    Future of the US Dollar

    • Despite the challenges, the US dollar is likely to remain the dominant reserve currency for the foreseeable future due to its widespread use in international trade, its deep and liquid financial markets, and its historical stability.
    • The euro and other currencies may continue to gain ground, but are unlikely to displace the dollar anytime soon.
    • The growing use of digital currencies, such as Bitcoin, may also pose a challenge to the traditional reserve currency system in the future, but it remains to be seen how this will play out.

    Facts for prelims: Concept box from civilsdaily

    What is mean by closed capital account?

    • A closed capital account is a situation where a country has restrictions on the flow of capital in and out of its borders. This means that the government regulates and limits the movement of funds across its borders.
    • Closed capital accounts are often implemented to protect the domestic economy from external shocks and to maintain the stability of the local currency.
    • China, for example, has a relatively closed capital account as it imposes strict controls on capital inflows and outflows.

    Conclusion

    • The run of the US dollar as an international reserve currency is far from over. The only serious contender at this point is the euro, which stands second but at quite a distance. The possibility of the Chinese currency or any other common currency becoming a serious contender is thin and distant at this point. The current system may not be optimal and should be improved, but expecting a common currency between China, India, and Russia or any such reciprocal trading arrangement to replace the US dollar would be an exaggeration.

    Mains Question

    Q. The status of the US dollar as the world reserve currency has been a topic of speculation, especially as China, India, and Russia explore alternative currencies for international trade. In this light discuss the challenges faced by US dollar and viability of reciprocal trading arrangements.

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    Also Read:

    The Rising Demand for De-Dollarisation

     

  • The Maoist Insurgency: Challenges and The Way Forward

    Insurgency

    Central Idea

    • The recent ambush of the convoy in Chhattisgarh’s Dantewada district resulting in the deaths of 10 personnel of the District Reserve Guards (DRG) highlights that the Maoist insurgency remains a significant threat in India. The Home Minister has repeatedly given the impression that the end of the Maoist problem is near, but history has shown otherwise.

    What is mean by Insurgency?

    • Insurgency refers to a violent uprising against the established government or authority of a country, typically carried out by a group of individuals or an organization that seeks to challenge the existing political, economic, or social order.
    • It often involves armed conflict, sabotage, and other forms of violence aimed at destabilizing the government or seizing power.
    • The ultimate goal of an insurgency is to overthrow the existing government and establish a new political system that is more in line with the insurgents’ ideology or goals

    Rise of Insurgency India

    • The Communist Party of India (Marxist) split in 1967, with a section of the party rejecting the electoral path and advocating for armed struggle to overthrow the Indian state.
    • The Naxalbari uprising in West Bengal in 1967, where a group of peasants led by Charu Majumdar and Kanu Sanyal revolted against the local landlords and police. The uprising was brutally crushed by the state, but it gave birth to the Naxalite movement.
    • The formation of the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) in 1969, which became the political front of the Naxalite movement.
    • The formation of the People’s War Group in Andhra Pradesh in 1980, which became one of the most active Naxalite groups in the country.
    • The merger of the People’s War Group with the Maoist Communist Centre in 2004, to form the Communist Party of India (Maoist), which is the largest Naxalite group in India today.
    • The expansion of the Naxalite movement from West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh to other states, including Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, and Maharashtra, among others.
    • The violent attacks by Naxalites on the state and central police forces, government officials, politicians, and civilians, resulting in the loss of thousands of lives over the years.

    Facts for prelims

    District Reserve Guards (DRG)

    • District Reserve Guards (DRG) is a special unit of the police force in some Indian states, primarily in Chhattisgarh, that is trained and equipped to combat Naxalite and Maoist insurgency.
    • DRG personnel are typically drawn from local tribal communities and are familiar with the local terrain, which makes them effective in fighting the insurgency.
    • They are provided with specialized training in guerrilla warfare, jungle warfare, and use of modern weaponry.
    • The DRG is often at the forefront of anti-Naxalite operations and is considered a vital component of the Indian government’s efforts to counter the Maoist insurgency in the country.

    What are the flaws in the anti-Naxal strategy?

    1. Outsourcing operations to central armed police forces:
    • In most states, there is a tendency to outsource the operations against Naxals to the central armed police forces.
    • This strategy is flawed because unless the local police, who know the language and terrain, take the lead in anti-Naxal operations, the problem would linger.
    1. Imposed development paradigm:
    • The development paradigm pursued since independence has always been imposed on the tribal communities and has been insensitive to their needs and concerns. As a result, government plans have ended up in destroying their social organization, cultural identity, and resource base and generated multiple conflicts.
    • The tribals want schools and hospitals, but they neither need nor want capital-intensive plants or factories, which are inevitably accompanied by deforestation and displacement.
    1. Insensitivity towards tribal communities:
    • The development paradigm pursued since independence has always been imposed on the tribal communities and has been insensitive to their needs and concerns. As a result, government plans have ended up destroying their social organization, cultural identity, and resource base and generated multiple conflicts.
    1. Lack of an overall strategic plan:
    • There is no overall strategic plan against the Naxals. States have been carrying out anti-Naxal drives according to their individual understanding.
    • Territorial domination is essential, and security forces are able to achieve that, but that should be followed by the administrative apparatus establishing its network in the affected areas.
    1. Absence of peace talks:
    • The government should seriously think of applying the healing touch. If it can have peace talks with the Nagas and several other insurgent outfits in the Northeast, there is no reason why it should not take the initiative to have a dialogue with the Maoist leadership. This would not be seen as a sign of weakness on the contrary, it would be taken as a magnanimous gesture.

    The way ahead to address the Naxal insurgency in India

    • Multi-pronged approach: The government should adopt a multi-pronged approach to address the Naxal problem that includes development initiatives, security measures, and dialogue with the Naxal leadership.
    • Focus on development: The government should focus on development initiatives in Naxal-affected areas that are tailored to meet the needs of the local population. This includes building infrastructure like schools, hospitals, and roads, creating employment opportunities, and addressing land rights issues.
    • Empowering local police: The state police should be empowered to take the lead in anti-Naxal operations as they have a better understanding of the local language and terrain.
    • Humanitarian approach: The government should adopt a humanitarian approach in dealing with the problem. The use of excessive force should be avoided, and care should be taken to ensure that the local population is not adversely affected.
    • Dialogue with Naxal leadership: The government should initiate a dialogue with the Naxal leadership to address their grievances and concerns. This would help in building trust and confidence between the two sides and pave the way for a peaceful resolution of the problem.
    • Coordination among states: The states should coordinate their efforts to address the Naxal problem. The sharing of intelligence, resources, and best practices would go a long way in addressing the issue.
    • Strengthening of institutions: The government should strengthen institutions like the police, judiciary, and administrative machinery to ensure that they are better equipped to deal with the problem.
    • Long-term vision: A long-term vision should be adopted to address the Naxal problem. This requires sustained efforts over a period of time to ensure that the problem is effectively tackled.

    Conclusion

    • India’s Maoist insurgency problem is not one that can be solved by just law and order enforcement. It is crucial to address the underlying social and economic aspects of the problem. The government should acknowledge the flaws in its anti-Naxal strategy and undertake a comprehensive approach to solve the problem. It must ensure that the local police take the lead in anti-Naxal operations, and the development policies must be sensitive to the needs and concerns of the tribal communities. Initiating peace talks with the Maoist leadership could also go a long way in resolving the issue.

    Mains Question

    Q. The recent events of violent attacks on security forces highlights that the Maoist insurgency remains a significant threat in India. In light of this discuss what are the flaws in anti-Naxal strategy and what is needed to address the Naxal insurgency in India?

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    Also Read:

    Village Defence Guards (VDG): A sense of security and confidence

     

  • UTF (Uthuru Thila Falhu- Island) Harbour Project

    utf

    Central Idea: The article discusses the recent commissioning of the Indian grant-in-aid UTF (Uthuru Thila Falhu- Island) Harbour Project, the coastal surveillance radar system, in the Maldives. The project is a significant milestone in the growing defence ties between the two countries.

    What is the UTF Project?

    • The UTF project was announced during External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s visit in February 2021.
    • It is among the biggest Indian grant-in-aid projects in the Maldives.
    • It is aimed at developing a maintenance and repair hub for naval vessels and will help the Maldives become self-sufficient.

    Importance of the Project

    • The project marked a major step in growing defence cooperation between India and Maldives.
    • The facility will strengthen the capability of the Maldivian Coast Guard and facilitate regional humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts.

    Controversy Surrounding the Project

    • There were allegations that the project was a cover for Indian military presence in the Maldives.
    • An “India Out” campaign was launched in the island nation backed by its opposition leader Abdulla Yameen.
    • Maldives President Ibrahim Solih banned anti-India protests as a threat to national security.

    Defence Cooperation and Other Projects

    • India has gifted a Dornier aircraft and a patrol vessel to the Maldives in the past.
    • India has provided 24 vehicles and a naval boat and will build police facilities on 61 islands in the country.
    • The joint statement released by India and Maldives after Defence Minister’s visit highlighted ongoing defence cooperation between the two neighbours.
    • The countries have agreed to explore additional avenues for cooperation, including in areas of defence trade, capacity building, and joint exercises.
    • Both the countries are working closely to address challenges, including those on maritime security, terrorism, radicalisation, piracy, trafficking, organised crime, and natural disasters.
    • India has financed the Greater Male Connectivity Project (GMCP), a $500 million project, to build a 6.74 km bridge and causeway linking the capital of Maldives, Male, with neighboring islands.

    India-Maldives Relations: A backgrounder

    • India and Maldives are neighbors sharing a maritime border.
    • Both nations established diplomatic relations after the independence of Maldives from British rule in 1966.
    • India was one of the first nations to recognize Maldives’ independence.
    • Since then, India and Maldives have developed close strategic, military, economic and cultural relations.
    • Maldivians generally regard Indians and India as a friend and trusted neighbor in the field economic, social and political.

    Causes for the anti-India sentiments

    • Political instability: The anti-India sentiment is nearly a decade old and can be traced back to when Abdulla Gayoom became president in 2013. He used anti-India sentiments for his political mobilization and started tilting China.
    • Controversy over helicopter gift: Two Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopters (ALF) that were given by India to the Maldives for ocean search-and-rescue operations. Opposition tried to portray this as military presence in the country.
    • Confidential agreements: Most agreements being signed between the Ibrahim Solih government and India are backdoor and has not been publicly discussed in the Maldives Parliament.
    • Alleged interference in domestic politics: India being a big neighbour, there are unsubstantiated perceptions & allegations on Indian Diplomats stationed in Maldives interfering in Domestic affairs.

    Restoration of ties

    Ibrahim Mohamed Solih who became President in 2018 has restored Maldives close ties with India.

    Major irritants in ties

    • Political Instability: India’s major concern has been the impact of political instability in the neighborhood on its security and development.
    • Increasing radicalization: In the past decade or so, the number of Maldivians drawn towards terrorist groups like the Islamic State (IS) and Pakistan-based jihadist groups has been increasing.
    • Inclination towards terror: Radicalism in the island nation has increased the possibility of Pakistan based terror groups using remote Maldivian islands as a launch pad for terror attacks against India and Indian interests.
    • Chinese affinity: China’s strategic footprint in India’s neighborhood has increased. The Maldives has emerged as an important ‘pearl’ in China’s “String of Pearls” construct in South Asia.

    Recent gestures by India

    [1] 2014 Male drinking-water crisis

    • In the wake of a drinking water crisis in Malé in December 2014, following collapse of the island’s only water treatment plant, Maldives urged India for immediate help.
    • India came to rescue by sending its heavy lift transporters like C-17 Globemaster III, Il-76 carrying bottled water.

    [2] 2020 Covid-19 crisis

    • During the COVID-19 crisis of 2020, India extended help to Maldives in the form of financial, material and logistical support.
    • Also, the IAF airlifted 6.2 tonnes of essential medicines and hospital consumables to Maldives, as part of ‘Operation Sanjeevani’.

    [3] Greater Male Connectivity Project

    • India has recently announced the signing of a $500-million infrastructure project for the construction of the Greater Malé Connectivity Project (GMCP).
    • This infrastructure project, the largest-ever by India in the Maldives, involves the construction of a 6.74-km-long bridge and causeway link.

    Maldives’ significance for India

    • Increasing maritime cooperation: As maritime economic activity in the Indian Ocean has risen dramatically in recent decades, the geopolitical competition too in the Indian Ocean has intensified.
    • Toll Gate in Indian Ocean: It is situated at the hub of commercial sea-lanes running through the Indian Ocean. More than 97% of India’s international trade by volume and 75% by value passes through the region.
    • Naval cooperation: Maldives is an important partner in India’s role as the net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region.
    • Important SAARC member: Besides, Maldives is a member of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and the South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC).
    • People To People Contact: There is a significant population of Maldivian students in India. They are aided by a liberal visa-free regime extended by India. There is also medical tourism.
    • Major destination for Tourists: Tourism is the mainstay of the Maldivian economy. The country is now a major tourist destination for some Indians and a job destination for others.

    Way forward

    • India continues to be an important partner of the Maldives.
    • India must not grow complacent over its position and must remain attentive to the developments in the Maldives.
    • India must play a key role within Indo-Pacific security space to ensure regional security in South Asia and surrounding maritime boundaries.
    • At present, the ‘India Out’ campaign has support from a limited population but this cannot be taken for granted by the Indian government.

     

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  • Nikaalo Prelims Spotlight || Constitutionalism, Liberty, Rule of Law, Equality and Liberalism


    Dear Aspirants,

    This Spotlight is a part of our Mission Nikaalo Prelims-2023.

    You can check the broad timetable of Nikaalo Prelims here

    Session Details

    YouTube LIVE with Parth sir – 7 PM  – Prelims Spotlight Session

    Evening 04 PM  – Daily Mini Tests

    Join our Official telegram channel for Study material and Daily Sessions Here

    8th May 2023

    Constitutionalism, Liberty, Rule of Law, Equality and Liberalism

    Constitutionalism refers to the act that defines that a country or state should be governed by specific rules or the ruling document, i.e., the Constitution. A constitution is a ruling document within a country that defines the specific rules and behaviours to govern and run the country. The ideas of Constitutionalism and the Constitution are of the people and for the people. They work in favour of the people to ensure the protection of their human rights. It is a philosophy that restricts the government to some extent to run the country properly.

    Importance of Constitutionalism

    Constitutionalism is the basic structure on which the governance of a country or state strictly depends. Its importance cannot be ignored in any aspect. Some key points are mentioned below:

    • It is a set of norms that prevents the state from abusing its power
    • It ensures that the people have liberty and get justice which is crucial for a democratic country such as India
    • It ensures proper governance within the country or state as it puts restrictions on the overuse of state power, thereby protecting the rights of the democracy
    • It helps in the better development and welfare in the developing countries as it denotes equal rights for all
    • It ensures that the state is based on specific rules and guidelines, which states every person has the right to human dignity.

    Elements of Constitutionalism

    It implies the following elements which characterise the Constitution in India.

    • Sovereignty

    It initiates that the government is free from any bias from any particular authority. In short, it ensures the government is of the people, by the people, for the people. 

    • Supremacy of the Constitution and Rule of Law

    It denotes the country is run through rules, not authority or powers. No one can decide the governance except the laws and regulations which have been already stated.

    • Political Democracy

    In a democracy, individual rights and equality should be protected. It declares equal rights to all the individuals within the country.

    • Representative-limited Government 

    It declares the representatives are selected through a proper election process by the people. They elect representatives for their welfare, so they should be accountable and answerable to the general public for their actions.

    • Separation of Power 

    It divides the whole power into three branches, i.e., Executive, Legislative, and Judiciary. This helps keep checks and balances in each area separately and in a better way.

    • Civilian Control of the Military Force

    It denotes that the Civilian government should control the Military force in such a way that the Military cannot have any way to interfere in the democratic decision-making process of the country.

    • Police Governed by Law and Judicial Control

    It ensures the Police power should be judged by the Law and Judicial control. Police have no right to harm the dignity of the people.

    • An Independent Judiciary

    The independence of the Judiciary system ensures the freedom of the democratic power in India. It means that the government is free to run the country if the laws support it.

     

    Rule of law

    Rule of law means that all laws apply equally to all citizens of the country and no one can be above the law. Any crime or violation of law has a specific punishment as well as a process through which the guilt of the person has to be established.

    It also says that no person shall be subject to harsh, uncivilized or discriminatory treatment even for the sake of maintaining law and order.

    Principles of Rule of law

    A.V. Dicey, a constitutional expert, had developed this concept and defined 3 principles that govern the rule of law.

    • Absence of arbitrary power (supremacy of law)
    • Equality before law (No one is above law)
    • Predominance of legal spirit.

    Significance of Rule of law

    Rule of law is a system where laws rule and not men. The following points highlight the significance of rule of law 

    • It reverses the tyranny or anarchy
    • It puts legal barriers to governmental arbitrariness
    • It provides safeguards for the protection of individuals 
    • It gives freedom to the judiciary to control the executive who exceeds their jurisdiction
    • Public welfare should be the dominant consideration.

    Liberalism

    Liberalism is a political and philosophical ideology to establish individual freedom, consent and equality. Different liberals adopt a vast range of views based on their understanding of this ideology. Individual rights, including civil and human rights, come first among these views.

    It also supports freedom and liberty of speech, religious conscience and press, defining secularism and democracy. 

    Liberalism in India

    Liberalism in India developed through several phases as follows:

    • It started with an ancient theory that stressed earthly life and materialism.
    • Then, it evolved through social reforms and political independence in the middle and late 19th century.
    • It now emphasises economic and social freedom with minimal Government intervention.

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