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Type: Explained

These Newscards correspond to the explained section of various newspapers. They become immensely important for both prelims and mains and special attention needs to be paid to them

  • A regional divide in blue-collar worker migration from India

    Why in the News?

    Recent data show a decline in remittances from Gulf countries to India, while contributions from advanced economies have grown.

    Why has the share of remittances from Gulf countries to India declined while contributions from advanced economies have increased?

    • Wage Stagnation and Cost of Living in the Gulf: Wages in Gulf countries have remained relatively stagnant, while the cost of living has increased, reducing the savings and ability to send money home of Indian workers. Example: The UAE introduced a Value Added Tax (VAT) in 2018, increasing living costs for migrant workers.
    • Shift in Migration Patterns Toward High-Income Countries: More Indian professionals and skilled workers are migrating to advanced economies like the U.S., Canada, and the U.K., where salaries are higher. Example: The number of Indian students and skilled workers in Canada has surged, contributing to rising remittances from the country.
    • Stringent Localization Policies in the Gulf:  Gulf nations have implemented employment nationalization policies that push for localization in jobs (e.g., Saudization in Saudi Arabia, Nitaqat in UAE), shrinking opportunities for foreign workers, including Indians.
    • Depreciation of Gulf Currencies Against the U.S. Dollar: The exchange rates of Gulf currencies, which are tied to U.S. dollar, have not appreciated significantly, while the Indian rupee has remained relatively stable. Example: A stronger U.S. dollar means remittances from the U.S. convert to more Indian rupees compared to Gulf remittances.
    • Expansion of India’s IT and Healthcare Workforce Abroad: Skilled professionals in IT, healthcare, and finance are securing jobs in developed countries, leading to increased remittances from these sectors. Example: Indian tech workers in the U.S. under the H-1B visa program send substantial remittances back home, contributing to the U.S.’s growing share.

     

    Global Migration & Remittance Shifts: How India Compares with Other Nations Traditional Remittance Sources New Migration Trends Key Drivers of Change
    India Gulf countries (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar) U.S., Canada, U.K., Germany Wage stagnation in the Gulf, rise in high-skilled migration, better job opportunities in advanced economies
    Philippines Middle East, Southeast Asia U.S., Canada, Australia Strong demand for healthcare workers, education-driven migration, better worker rights in Western nations
    Vietnam Japan, South Korea, Taiwan U.S., Europe, Australia Economic ties with Western economies, investment in skilled workforce
    Mexico U.S. Europe, South America Stricter U.S. immigration policies, expansion of trade ties with Spain and Latin America
    Bangladesh Gulf countries, Malaysia Limited shift; still Gulf-dependent Fewer high-skilled migration pathways, reliance on traditional labor jobs
    Pakistan Saudi Arabia, UAE Minimal change; remains Gulf-dependent Economic constraints, limited alternative migration routes

     

    What are the reasons behind the decline in the number of blue-collar workers emigrating from the Southern States to the Gulf?

    • Improved Employment Opportunities in India: Economic growth and industrial expansion in southern states have created more local job opportunities, reducing the need for migration. Example: Tamil Nadu and Telangana have seen growth in manufacturing (automobiles, electronics) and IT sectors, offering better wages compared to low-paying Gulf jobs.
    • Stringent Gulf Employment Policies & Localization Programs: Gulf nations have implemented policies like Saudization and Emiratization, prioritizing local workers over foreign laborers, reducing demand for Indian blue-collar workers. Example: Saudi Arabia’s Nitaqat system has restricted Indian employment in sectors like retail and construction.
    • Higher Migration Costs and Reduced Financial Returns: The cost of migration, including visa fees, recruitment charges, and living expenses, has risen, while wages in the Gulf have remained stagnant, making migration less attractive. Example: In Kerala, many workers are opting for European destinations (e.g., Italy, Germany) instead of the Gulf due to better wages and worker rights.

    How has the shift in migration patterns impacted States like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and West Bengal in terms of remittance inflows?

    • Slower Growth in Remittance Inflows: These states still send large numbers of workers to the Gulf, where wages and remittances are lower compared to advanced economies. Example: Despite high migration from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, their share in India’s total remittances remains low (around 3%), while Kerala and Maharashtra, with migrants in high-income countries, receive a higher share.
    • Limited Economic Upliftment Due to Lower Earnings: Since Gulf remittances have lower financial returns, households in these states see limited improvements in savings and investments. Example: While Tamil Nadu and Kerala benefit from higher wages in the U.S. and the U.K., families in Rajasthan and West Bengal largely rely on low-wage Gulf jobs, leading to slower economic mobility.
    • Higher Economic Vulnerability and Migration Dependency: With fewer alternative employment opportunities, many continue to migrate to the Gulf despite lower wages, reinforcing economic dependence on remittances. Example: Unlike Punjab, where migration to Canada has increased financial stability, states like Bihar still rely on remittances from Gulf labor, leaving them more vulnerable to economic downturns in the region.

    Which factors contribute to the continued high migration from northern and eastern States to the Gulf despite lower financial returns?

    • Skill Development and Certification Programs: Initiatives like the Pravasi Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PKVY) aim to enhance the skills of Indian workers, making them eligible for higher-paying jobs abroad. Example: The program aligns skill training with international standards, increasing employment prospects in advanced economies.
    • Bilateral Agreements and Labour Welfare Measures: India has signed labor agreements with Gulf countries to ensure better working conditions, fair wages, and legal protection for migrant workers. Example: The India-UAE MoU on Labor Cooperation provides safeguards against exploitation and ensures wage protection.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhancing High-Skilled Migration Pathways: The government should strengthen bilateral agreements with high-income countries to facilitate the migration of skilled professionals, particularly in IT, healthcare, and engineering.
      • Expanding initiatives like the India-Germany Skilled Workers Pact and negotiating better visa policies with the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. will ensure higher remittance inflows.
    • Skill Development and Certification for Diversified Destinations: To reduce dependence on Gulf remittances, India should invest in internationally recognized skill training through programs like Pravasi Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PKVY) and collaborate with European and East Asian countries for labor mobility agreements.

    Mains PYQ:

     Q Discuss the changes in the trends of labour migration within and outside India in the last four decades. (2015)

    Reason: This PYQ asks for a discussion of changes in labour migration trends over a significant historical period (the last four decades) and across both internal and external migration.

  • The dystopian side of Insta-commerce

    Why in the News?

    Startup founders publicly claimed to support gig workers’ rights but secretly resist laws that would actually protect them.

    What is the nature of employment in urban labour chowks and mazdoor mandis?

    • Daily Wage and Informal Work: Workers gather at labour chowks every morning, hoping to be hired for the day. Example: Construction workers in Delhi’s Kashmere Gate labour chowk wait for contractors to hire them for masonry or painting jobs.
    • Highly Competitive and Unstable: Large numbers of workers compete for limited jobs, often accepting lower wages out of desperation. Example: In Mumbai’s Dadar labour market, carpenters and plumbers rush to secure work before others.
    • Exploitative Hiring Practices: Employers and thekedars (middlemen) negotiate wages, often offering the lowest possible rates. Example: In Ahmedabad, daily wage workers in textile markets are hired at rates well below the minimum wage.
    • Lack of Social Security and Benefits: No job security, health benefits, or pensions; workers are paid only for the day they work. Example: Brick kiln workers in Hyderabad have no accident coverage despite working in hazardous conditions.
    • Piece-Rate and Task-Based Payment: Workers are often paid per unit of work completed rather than a fixed wage. Example: In Chennai’s wholesale vegetable markets, loaders are paid per sack carried rather than for the number of hours worked.

    Who benefits the most from the presence of thekedars in the labour market?

    • Employers Benefit from Lower Labour Costs: Thekedars help employers negotiate lower wages and better terms by creating a competitive environment among workers. This allows employers to maximize profits by minimizing labor costs. Example: In urban labour chowks, employers can select workers at the lowest possible wage due to the high competition among workers, which benefits the employer financially.
    • Thekedars Themselves Profit from Commissions: Thekedars earn commissions or fees from both workers and employers for their services. This financial gain is a direct benefit to them. Example: In the construction industry, thekedars often receive a percentage of the workers’ wages as a commission for facilitating the hiring process.

    How do digital platforms replicate the role of thekedars in modern gig work?

    • Acting as Middlemen Without Responsibility: Just like thekedars, digital platforms connect workers to employers but do not recognize them as formal employees, avoiding obligations like job security or benefits. Example: Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Ola classify drivers as “partners” rather than employees, denying them benefits like PF or health insurance.
    • Downward Wage Bidding: Workers must accept the lowest possible payment, as platforms set rates based on demand and supply, just like the daily wage auctions in mazdoor mandis. Example: Food delivery workers on Swiggy and Zomato have seen their per-delivery payments decrease over time as competition increases.
    • Algorithm-Controlled Work Allocation: Platforms use algorithms to decide which worker gets a task, replacing the manual selection process of thekedars. Workers have no bargaining power over wages or work hours. Example: Freelancers on Upwork or Fiverr depend on algorithms that prioritize clients, making workers compete for lower pay.
    • Lack of Collective Bargaining: Gig workers are isolated, just like daily wagers in urban labour markets, making unionization and collective bargaining difficult. Example: Amazon Flex workers have no union representation and must accept whatever delivery rates the company offers.
    • Exploitative Rating Systems: Workers must maintain high ratings to get work, forcing them to accept low wages and poor conditions, similar to how thekedars exploit labour desperation. Example: “Insta Maids” service offers house help for ₹49 per hour, making workers compete for ratings instead of fair wages.

    What are the challenges for gig workers in India? 

    • Lack of Job Security and Social Benefits: Gig workers are classified as “independent contractors,” denying them benefits like health insurance, provident fund, and paid leave. Example: Delivery partners for Swiggy and Zomato receive no compensation if injured while working.
    • Low and Unstable Earnings: Payment structures are unpredictable, with fluctuating wages and reduced per-task payouts over time, making financial planning difficult. Example: Uber and Ola drivers often struggle as their earnings depend on peak-hour incentives, which companies frequently revise.
    • Exploitation Through Rating Systems: Workers must maintain high ratings to secure jobs, forcing them to accept unreasonable customer demands and work long hours. Example: Urban Company service providers risk lower earnings or job loss if they receive poor ratings from customers, regardless of actual service quality.

    What steps have been taken by the Indian government? 

    • Code on Social Security, 2020: This legislation brings gig and platform workers under the ambit of social security schemes for the first time. Example: The law mandates that gig workers be eligible for benefits like life and disability cover, health and maternity benefits, and old-age protection.
    • E-Shram Portal (2021): A national database for unorganized workers, including gig workers, was launched to provide them with targeted benefits. Example: Registered workers receive a Universal Account Number (UAN) and accident insurance coverage under the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana.
    • State-Level Welfare Initiatives: Several state governments have taken initiatives to support gig workers. Example: Rajasthan introduced the Platform-Based Gig Workers Welfare Board (2023) to ensure social security benefits.
    • NITI Aayog Report on Gig Economy (2022): The report highlights the need for policy interventions, including skill development, financial inclusion, and social security for gig workers. Example: Recommendations were made to extend benefits like Employee Provident Fund (EPF) and health insurance to gig workers.
    • PLI Scheme and Skill Development Programs: The government has introduced skill development programs for gig workers, especially in sectors like logistics and e-commerce. Example: The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) helps gig workers upskill and transition into better-paying roles.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthening Legal Protections & Social Security: Enforce minimum wages, accident insurance, and pension benefits for gig and informal workers. Example: Amend the Code on Social Security, 2020 to ensure mandatory employer contributions.
    • Collective Bargaining & Fair Work Standards: Facilitate unionization and introduce fair algorithmic policies to prevent wage suppression. Example: Implement transparent rating and payment systems on digital platforms like Swiggy and Uber.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Examine the role of ‘Gig Economy’ in the process of empowerment of women in India. (UPSC 2021)

    Reason: The article explores “insta-commerce,” where gig workers, including women, sell via social media. While the PYQ focuses on empowerment, the article highlights challenges like job insecurity, unfair wages, and the lack of grievance redressal. This perspective offers a nuanced view of the gig economy’s impact, including its dual role in both enabling and potentially disempowering women.

  • Kerala’s drug menace is widespread and escalating

    Why in the News?

    Drug abuse in Kerala has increased over the past three years. In March, the Kerala High Court raised concerns about drug mafias, and the Governor met university officials to address student drug problems.

    What are the key factors contributing to the surge in drug abuse cases in Kerala over the past three years?

    • Increased Drug Trafficking via Coastal Routes: Kerala’s long coastline makes it a transit hub for international drug cartels. Example: In 2023, a Sri Lankan boat carrying 200 kg of heroin was intercepted off the Kerala coast.
    • Rise of Synthetic & Party Drugs Among Youth: Increased use of MDMA, LSD, and methamphetamine, particularly in urban areas and college campuses. Example: In 2022, over 1,000 students were caught in possession of synthetic drugs in Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram.
    • Easy Availability Through Darknet & Courier Services: Online platforms and encrypted messaging apps have facilitated drug trade. Example: In 2024, Kerala police busted a drug network using dark web transactions and fake delivery addresses.
    • Widespread Consumption Beyond Urban Centers: Unlike other states, drug abuse is reported in both rural and urban districts. Example: Every district in Kerala recorded at least 500 NDPS cases in 2022, indicating a statewide crisis.
    • Limited Focus on Major Suppliers & Traffickers: 94% of NDPS cases in Kerala are for possession, with only 6% related to trafficking. Example: While thousands of consumers are arrested, major drug syndicates continue operations largely unchecked.

    What is the situation of drug abuse at all India levels?

    • Steady Rise in NDPS Cases Across India: Cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act have been increasing, though some states show a decline in recent years. Example: India recorded over 1.5 lakh NDPS cases in 2023, with a significant rise in Punjab, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu.
    • Punjab & Northeast Among the Worst-Affected Regions: Punjab has long struggled with heroin addiction, while the Northeast is affected due to drug trafficking from Myanmar’s Golden Triangle. Example: In 2024, Punjab recorded 30 cases per lakh people, the second-highest after Kerala.
    • Shift from Natural to Synthetic & Pharmaceutical Drugs: Synthetic drugs (MDMA, LSD, Meth), opioids, and prescription medicines (Tramadol, Codeine-based syrups) are increasingly being abused. Example: In Mumbai, over 60% of drug-related arrests in 2023 involved synthetic drugs rather than traditional narcotics like cannabis.
    • Growing Use of Dark Web & Digital Payments for Drug Trade: Cryptocurrency transactions, darknet markets, and courier services are being used for drug sales. Example: In 2023, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) dismantled an online drug syndicate operating across multiple Indian states.
    • State-Wise Variation in Drug Trafficking & Consumption Patterns: While Punjab & Northeast face opioid crises, Mumbai & Bengaluru see more party drug use, and Tamil Nadu & Andhra Pradesh have rising cannabis-related arrests. Example: In 2022, Bengaluru accounted for 63% of Karnataka’s NDPS cases, highlighting an urban concentration of drug abuse.

    What are the steps taken by the Government? 

    • Strengthening Law Enforcement & Anti-Drug Operations: The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and state police have intensified crackdowns on drug trafficking networks. Example: In 2023, the NCB seized over 2000 kg of drugs nationwide, including heroin and synthetic substances, in coordinated raids.
    • Expansion of Rehabilitation & De-addiction Programs: The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment runs the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA) to promote awareness and rehabilitation. Example: Over 370 de-addiction centres were established under NMBA in states like Punjab, Maharashtra, and Kerala.
    • Use of Technology & AI for Drug Surveillance: Government agencies monitor dark web transactions, cryptocurrency payments, and social media platforms to track drug deals. Example: In 2023, the NCB cracked a crypto-drug syndicate that was smuggling MDMA and LSD through online orders.
    • Public Awareness & Educational Campaigns: Schools, colleges, and workplaces are conducting anti-drug sensitization programs to reduce youth drug abuse. Example: Kerala’s ‘Love-a-Thon’ campaign in universities aims to educate students on the dangers of substance abuse.
    • International Cooperation & Border Security Measures: India has increased cooperation with Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Iran to curb cross-border drug trafficking. Example: In 2023, the Indian Navy intercepted a Pakistan-based heroin shipment worth ₹1,200 crore in the Arabian Sea.

    Way forward: 

    • Targeted Crackdown on Drug Supply Chains: Strengthen intelligence-led operations against major traffickers, enhance coastal & border security, and increase inter-agency coordination to dismantle drug syndicates.
    • Comprehensive Prevention & Rehabilitation Strategy: Expand school-based drug education, integrate mental health support in de-addiction programs, and enhance community-based rehabilitation to address both urban and rural drug abuse.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Explain how narco-terrorism has emerged as a serious threat across the country. Suggest suitable measures to counter narco-terrorism. (UPSC 2024)

    Reason: This question is potentially linked with narco-terrorism. The measures suggested to counter narco-terrorism would also be relevant to addressing the drug problem in Kerala, especially if it involves organized crime and cross-border elements.

  • New Delhi’s perilous recalibration with the Taliban

    Why in the News?

    The Prime Minister of India may allow the Taliban regime to appoint a new envoy for its embassy in New Delhi.

    What are the key reasons behind India’s increasing engagement with the Taliban despite international concerns?

    • Strategic Influence in Afghanistan: India aims to maintain a presence in Afghanistan to safeguard its long-term geopolitical interests.Example: India reopened its embassy in Kabul in June 2022, ensuring diplomatic engagement.
    • Countering Pakistan’s Diminishing Influence: As Taliban-Pakistan relations sour, India sees an opportunity to reduce Islamabad’s sway over Kabul. Example: The Taliban’s refusal to act against Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has strained ties with Pakistan, creating space for India.
    • Competing with China’s Expanding Role: China has accepted a Taliban envoy and is integrating Afghanistan into the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Example: China became the first country to accept a Taliban-appointed ambassador in 2023, prompting India to reconsider its approach.
    • Ensuring Regional Security and Counterterrorism: A stable Afghanistan is crucial to preventing it from becoming a hub for anti-India terror groups. Example: India seeks Taliban cooperation in curbing ISIS-K and groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) that threaten Indian interests.
    • Economic and Humanitarian Interests: Engaging with the Taliban allows India to continue developmental projects and provide humanitarian aid. Example: India has sent multiple consignments of wheat and medical supplies to Afghanistan under humanitarian assistance programs.

    Why is the recognition of a Taliban envoy in India considered a significant shift in diplomatic policy?

    • De Facto Recognition of the Taliban Regime: Accepting a Taliban-appointed envoy would signal India’s indirect recognition of the regime, despite its lack of international legitimacy. Example: Most countries, including the U.S. and EU members, have refused to recognize the Taliban due to human rights violations.
    • Departure from India’s Traditional Stand on Terrorism: India has consistently opposed regimes that support terrorism. Engaging with the Taliban contradicts its long-standing stance. Example: India had previously refused to engage with the Taliban, citing its ties to groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).
    • Contradiction with India’s Human Rights Advocacy: The Taliban’s treatment of women and minorities has been widely condemned, and recognizing its envoy could weaken India’s credibility as a human rights advocate. Example: The UN has termed the Taliban’s policies as “gender apartheid,” which contradicts India’s global image as a democratic and inclusive nation.
    • Impact on Relations with Western Allies: Closer engagement with the Taliban may strain India’s relations with countries that have imposed sanctions on the Taliban. Example: The U.S. and European nations continue to restrict diplomatic ties and financial transactions with Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.
    • Risk of Setting a Precedent for Other Unrecognized Regimes: Accepting a Taliban envoy might encourage other unrecognized regimes to seek similar diplomatic treatment, complicating India’s foreign policy. Example: It could open debates on whether India should engage similarly with other disputed governments, such as Myanmar’s military junta.

    What are the major risks for India in engaging with the Taliban?

    • Security Threats and Terrorism: The Taliban’s ties with terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) pose a direct threat to India’s national security. Example: The 2001 Indian Parliament attack was linked to JeM, which has operated from Taliban-controlled areas in the past.
    • Growing Influence of the Islamic State (IS): The Islamic State-Khorasan Province (IS-K) has been expanding in Afghanistan, carrying out attacks even against the Taliban and its allies. Example: IS-K’s attack on the Moscow Crocus City Hall in 2024 and the bombing of a Kabul hotel housing Chinese nationals show Afghanistan’s instability.
    • Potential Diplomatic Backlash: Engaging with the Taliban could harm India’s relations with key allies like the U.S. and the EU, which refuse to recognize the Taliban due to human rights violations. Example: The U.S. and European nations maintain economic sanctions on Afghanistan, and aligning too closely with the Taliban could attract criticism.
    • Destabilization of India’s Western Borders: The Taliban’s alleged support for Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has worsened Pakistan’s security situation, and any spillover could affect India. Example: TTP claimed 147 attacks in Pakistan in February 2024 alone, and instability in the region could have consequences for India’s border security.
    • Economic and Infrastructure Investment Risks: Any investments India makes in Afghanistan may not be secure due to the Taliban’s unstable governance and lack of financial transparency. Example: India’s $3 billion investments in Afghan infrastructure, including the Salma Dam and the Afghan Parliament, remain uncertain under Taliban rule.

    Way forward: 

    • Strategic, Conditional Engagement: India should engage with the Taliban on a case-by-case basis, ensuring its security interests are safeguarded while avoiding full diplomatic recognition. Example: Continuing humanitarian aid and infrastructure projects without legitimizing Taliban rule.
    • Regional and Multilateral Cooperation: India should collaborate with regional partners like Iran, Russia, and Central Asian states to ensure stability in Afghanistan while maintaining ties with Western allies. Example: Strengthening mechanisms like the Moscow Format Talks and UN-led initiatives to balance engagement and counter-terrorism efforts.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Critically analyse India’s evolving diplomatic, economic and strategic relations with the Central Asian Republics (CARs) highlighting their increasing significance in regional and global geopolitics.(UPSC IAS/2024)

    Reason: India’s engagement with CARs is influenced by the situation in Afghanistan and the wider regional security scenario involving the Taliban.

  • Why are electoral reforms necessary?

    Why in the News?

    Recently, the Election Commission (EC) has invited political parties for discussions on enhancing the electoral process.

    What are the key legal provisions governing the electoral process in India? 

    • Article 324 of the Constitution – Grants the Election Commission (EC) the power of superintendence, direction, and control over elections to Parliament, State Legislatures, and the offices of the President and Vice President.
    • Representation of the People Act, 1950 – Governs the preparation of electoral rolls and the allocation of seats in Parliament and State Legislatures.
    • Representation of the People Act, 1951 – Regulates the actual conduct of elections, including provisions on qualifications, disqualifications, election offenses, and corrupt practices.
    • Registration of Electors Rules, 1960 – Provides rules for the registration of voters, corrections in electoral rolls, and the issuance of Electoral Photo Identity Cards (EPIC).
    • Model Code of Conduct (MCC) – A set of guidelines issued by the EC to regulate political parties and candidates, ensuring free and fair elections, even though it lacks statutory backing.

    How has the voting process evolved in India since the first general elections in 1952?

    • Ballot Box System (1952-1957) – In the first two general elections (1952, 1957), separate ballot boxes were used for each candidate, where voters dropped blank ballot papers into the box of their chosen candidate.
    • Printed Ballot Papers (1962 Onwards) – From the third general election (1962), a single ballot paper was introduced with the names and symbols of all candidates, simplifying the voting process. Example: Instead of multiple boxes, voters marked their choice on a single sheet and dropped it in a common ballot box.
    • Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) (2004 Onwards) – Since the 2004 Lok Sabha elections, EVMs replaced paper ballots in all constituencies, improving efficiency and reducing errors.  
    • Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) (2019 Onwards) – From the 2019 general elections, EVMs were backed by 100% VVPAT slips, allowing voters to verify their vote on a printed slip for a few seconds before it was stored in a sealed box. Example: A voter pressing a button on the EVM saw a printed slip confirming their vote for Candidate X before it was automatically stored.
    • Remote Voting and Digital Advancements (Proposed) – The Election Commission is exploring remote voting options for migrant workers and overseas Indians, along with blockchain-based voting mechanisms. Example: The EC has proposed a multi-constituency remote voting machine (RVM) to allow migrant workers to vote from different locations.

    Why are electoral reforms necessary?

    • Addressing Electoral Roll Discrepancies: The ECI aims to improve the accuracy and transparency of electoral rolls, especially amid allegations of tampering in recent elections. For example, opposition parties have raised concerns over duplicate Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC) numbers, demanding discussions in Parliament regarding discrepancies in voters’ lists.
    • Enhancing Gender Representation: The ECI seeks feedback on measures to encourage greater representation of women in political parties and candidate selection processes. This aligns with international practices and aims to make elections more inclusive.
    • Regulating Election Expenditure: Discussions will focus on expenditure ceilings for elections and ensuring timely submission of audited financial reports by political parties. These measures are intended to enhance transparency and accountability in campaign financing.
    • Improving Voting Accessibility: The ECI plans to explore alternative voting methods for domestic migrants, absentee voters, and persons with disabilities. This includes feedback on schemes like the Electronically Transmitted Postal Ballot System (ETPBS) to ensure inclusive participation.
    • Strengthening Legal Frameworks for Campaign Silence Periods: To regulate election campaigns, the ECI will discuss extending restrictions to print media and online canvassing during the 48-hour silence period before polling ends, addressing concerns about social media misuse.

    What is the importance of “One Nation, One Election” in the context of electoral reforms?

    • Enhanced Governance and Policy Continuity – Simultaneous elections reduce the frequent imposition of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), allowing governments to focus on long-term policy implementation without periodic electoral disruptions. Example: If Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections are held together, policymaking won’t be interrupted multiple times due to MCC restrictions.
    • Cost and Resource Efficiency – Conducting elections at different times leads to repeated expenditure on logistics, security, and manpower. A unified election cycle reduces financial and administrative burdens. Example: The 2019 Lok Sabha elections cost around ₹60,000 crore; merging state and local elections could significantly cut costs.
    • Increased Voter Turnout and Engagement – Holding elections simultaneously can improve voter participation by reducing election fatigue and mobilization efforts. Example: Countries like Sweden and South Africa conduct national and regional elections together, leading to streamlined voter engagement and participation.

    Way forward: 

    • Comprehensive Electoral Reforms – Strengthen legal provisions for campaign financing, voting accessibility, and electoral roll management, ensuring transparency, inclusivity, and fair representation in elections.
    • Leveraging Technology for Electoral Integrity – Implement secure digital voting mechanisms like blockchain-based voting and remote voting for migrant workers while enhancing VVPAT verification to boost voter confidence.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Examine the need for electoral reforms as suggested by various committees with particular reference to “one nation-one election” principle. (UPSC IAS/2024)

    Reason: This question directly asks about the necessity of electoral reforms which highlights several areas needing reform, such as allegations of manipulation of electoral rolls, issues with duplicate EPIC numbers, concerns about EVM and VVPAT processes, misuse of “Star Campaigner” status, exceeding election expenditure limits, and criminalization of politics.

  • Tackling the problem of nutrition

    Why in the News?

    In the upcoming financial year, the government has increased funding for two key schemes—Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0.

    What are the key nutrition-related schemes that received higher allocations in Budget 2025?

    • Saksham Anganwadi and POSHAN 2.0: Allocated ₹21,960 crore, up from ₹20,070.90 crore in the previous year, these initiatives aim to combat malnutrition and strengthen early childhood care.
    • Mission Vatsalya (Child Protection Services): Received ₹1,500 crore, an increase from ₹1,391 crore last year, focusing on creating a safe environment for vulnerable children through institutional and family-based care.
    • Mission Shakti (Women’s Empowerment): Allocated ₹3,150 crore, with components like Sambal and Samarthya receiving significant funding to support initiatives such as Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY).
    • Mid-Day Meal Scheme (PM POSHAN): While specific figures were not detailed in the available sources, the scheme continues to provide nutritious meals to school children, aiming to improve health and learning outcomes.
    • Food Subsidy Program: The government plans to increase the food subsidy bill by about 5% to nearly ₹2.15 trillion, primarily due to higher rice purchases and rising storage costs, ensuring food security for the underprivileged.

    ​Why is India’s nutrition challenge not just about food insecurity but also linked to cultural and social factors?

    • Dietary Habits Shaped by Culture: Traditional food choices often lack diversity in essential nutrients, leading to malnutrition. According to the National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5), only 11% of breastfed children (6-23 months) receive an adequate diet. Example: Many vegetarian diets in India lack protein, iron, and vitamin B12, increasing anaemia risks.
    • Caste and Social Norms Impact Food Access: Historical caste-based discrimination limits access to nutrient-rich foods for marginalized communities. Example: Many lower-caste communities have restricted access to milk and pulses, key protein sources.
    • Gender Disparities in Nutrition: Women often eat last and consume less nutritious food compared to men in the family.
      • NFHS-5 reports that 57% of Indian women (15-49 years old) are anaemic, significantly higher than men.
    • Urbanization and Processed Food Consumption: Rising income levels and urban lifestyles have increased fast food and processed food consumption, leading to diet-related diseases. Around 23% of women and 22.2% of men in India are overweight or obese, according to NFHS-5. Example: High consumption of sugar-laden, fiber-poor packaged foods contributes to rising cases of diabetes and hypertension.
    • Limited Nutrition Focus Beyond Maternal and Child Health: National policies prioritize nutrition interventions for pregnant women and children but ignore other vulnerable groups.Elderly populations and working men receive little policy attention, despite being at risk of malnutrition and lifestyle diseases.
      • Example: According to NFHS-5, only 27.5% of adults with diabetes were aware of their condition, 21.5% were on treatment, and just 7% had their diabetes under control.

    How does the existing nutrition policy overlook certain segments of the population? 

    • Focus on Women and Children, Ignoring Other Vulnerable Groups: Most policies, like Poshan 2.0 and Saksham Anganwadi, prioritize maternal and child nutrition but neglect other groups. Example: Elderly populations, adolescent boys, and working men rarely receive targeted nutritional support.
    • Lack of Attention to Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs): Policies focus on undernutrition but ignore rising lifestyle-related diseases like diabetes and hypertension. Example: 14% of adults in India require diabetes medication, yet nutrition plans rarely address high sugar and processed food consumption.
    • Limited Inclusion of Urban Poor and Middle-Class Nutritional Needs: Urban food insecurity and poor dietary habits are often overlooked in favor of rural nutrition programs. Example: Many urban poor rely on cheap, processed foods with low nutritional value, increasing obesity and micronutrient deficiencies.
    • One-Size-Fits-All Approach Ignores Local Dietary Diversity: National policies provide standardized nutrition interventions that may not align with regional food habits. Example: In some tribal areas, traditional nutrient-rich foods like millets are being replaced with government-distributed wheat and rice, reducing diet diversity.
    • Inadequate Support for Special Groups (Elderly, Disabled, Recuperating Patients): People recovering from illnesses, trauma, or those with disabilities have special dietary needs that existing policies fail to address. Example: Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) provide minimal nutrition support for elderly individuals with osteoporosis or post-surgical patients needing high-protein diets.

    What steps has taken by the Indian government?

    • Increased Allocation for Nutrition Schemes: Higher funding for Poshan 2.0 and Saksham Anganwadi to improve maternal and child nutrition. Example: Focus on aspirational districts and take-home rations for malnourished children.
    • Fortification of Staple Foods: Distribution of fortified rice, wheat, and edible oil to tackle micronutrient deficiencies. Example: Fortified rice with iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 in Mid-Day Meal (PM-POSHAN).
    • Strengthening Public Distribution System (PDS): Free ration under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) to ensure food security. Example: 5 kg of free grains per person per month for priority households.
    • Promotion of Millets and Local Food: Encouraging millet consumption for better nutrition and climate resilience. Example: 2023 was the International Year of Millets, and millets are now included in PM-POSHAN.
    • Awareness and Behavioral Change Campaigns: POSHAN Abhiyan promotes healthy dietary habits, anemia prevention, and hygiene. Example: Campaigns to promote breastfeeding and combat malnutrition at the grassroots level.

    Way forward: 

    • Expand Nutrition Coverage Beyond Maternal and Child Health: Develop inclusive policies targeting adolescents, elderly populations, and working adults. Example: Introduce nutrition programs for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes and obesity.
    • Promote Region-Specific and Sustainable Diets: Encourage traditional, locally available nutrient-rich foods over a one-size-fits-all approach. Example: Integrate millets and indigenous grains into government nutrition programs.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q “Poverty and malnutrition create a vicious cycle, adversely affecting human capital formation. What steps can be taken to break the cycle? (2024)

    Reason: This question directly addresses the link between poverty and malnutrition and asks for solutions.

  • India, New Zealand resume trade deal talks after decade

    Why in the News?

    After nearly 10 years, India and New Zealand have resumed talks on a free trade agreement (FTA) to strengthen economic relations.

    What is the main objective of resuming India-New Zealand FTA negotiations?

    • Enhancing Market Access & Trade Growth: The FTA aims to expand trade opportunities by reducing tariffs and trade barriers. Example: Bilateral trade surpassed USD 1 billion (April-January 2025), highlighting the potential for further growth.
    • Strengthening Supply Chain Integration: The agreement seeks to improve logistics and supply chain efficiency between the two countries. Example: New Zealand’s dairy and agricultural products could find structured entry into India, while India’s IT and pharmaceutical sectors could benefit from easier access to the New Zealand market.
    • Boosting Investment & Business Opportunities: The FTA will help attract investments and foster job creation in sectors like IT, services, and agriculture. Example: India seeks better mobility for skilled professionals, benefiting industries like software services and engineering.

    Why did the India-New Zealand trade talks stall in 2015?

    • Disagreements Over Dairy Market Access: New Zealand demanded greater access to India’s dairy market, but India resisted to protect its millions of dairy farmers. Example: India’s dairy imports from New Zealand were minimal (~$0.57 million), and India remained firm against allowing raw dairy imports.
    • Tariff Reduction Challenges: New Zealand had a low average tariff of 2.3%, while India had a higher average tariff of 17.8%, making tariff reductions challenging. Example: India was reluctant to lower tariffs on New Zealand’s dairy, meat, and wine exports, fearing a negative impact on domestic industries.
    • Limited Gains for India in Goods Trade: Since New Zealand already had low tariffs and duty-free access for many goods, India saw fewer advantages in an FTA. Example: Indian exports such as textiles, apparel, and pharmaceuticals already had significant access to the New Zealand market.
    • Concerns Over Skilled Labor Mobility: India wanted easier movement of skilled professionals in IT and services, but New Zealand was hesitant. Example: India sought better visa provisions for IT and engineering professionals, which faced resistance.
    • External Trade Pressures: India faced pressure from other countries like the U.S. to open its dairy and agricultural sectors, complicating negotiations. Example: Allowing New Zealand’s dairy products could have set a precedent for other trade partners demanding similar concessions.

    How does the tariff disparity between India and New Zealand pose a challenge to the negotiations?

    • Significant Difference in Average Tariff Rates: New Zealand’s average import tariff is only 2.3%, with over half of its tariff lines duty-free, while India’s average tariff stands at 17.8%. Example: Indian goods already have substantial access to the New Zealand market, making a traditional FTA less beneficial for India.
    • Limited Market Access Gains for India: Since New Zealand already imposes low or no tariffs on many products, India’s exporters may not gain significant new access. Example: Sectors like textiles, pharmaceuticals, and auto components already enter New Zealand with minimal restrictions, reducing the FTA’s potential benefits for India.
    • Pressure on India to Lower Tariffs on Sensitive Sectors: New Zealand is pushing for tariff reductions on dairy, meat, and wine exports, but India is reluctant to protect domestic farmers and industries. Example: India’s dairy sector supports millions of small farmers, making it difficult to allow imports that could undercut local production.
    • Imbalance in Reciprocal Concessions: If India significantly lowers its tariffs, New Zealand would gain more than India, creating an imbalance in trade benefits. Example: India would have to make greater tariff cuts, while New Zealand’s market access would remain largely unchanged.
    • Potential Precedent for Other Trade Partners: If India agrees to major tariff cuts for New Zealand, other countries in future FTAs may demand similar concessions, complicating trade policy. Example: Countries like Australia, the EU, and the U.S. could push India to open up its agriculture and dairy sectors, which India has traditionally protected.

    Way forward: 

    • Balanced Trade Concessions & Sectoral Safeguards: India and New Zealand should explore sector-specific agreements rather than blanket tariff reductions. Example: India can allow limited access to value-added dairy products while ensuring safeguards for domestic farmers. Similarly, New Zealand can offer better terms for India’s IT and services sector.
    • Enhanced Collaboration in Non-Tariff Areas: Both nations should focus on investment facilitation, technology exchange, and regulatory cooperation to maximize mutual benefits beyond tariff cuts. Example: Joint ventures in agritech, renewable energy, and pharmaceuticals can create new trade opportunities without tariff-related conflicts.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Critically analyse India’s evolving diplomatic, economic and strategic relations with the Central Asian Republics (CARs) highlighting their increasing significance in regional and global geopolitics. (2024)

    Reason:  It highlights the importance of analyzing India’s evolving economic relations with other regions, which is similar to the context of resuming talks with New Zealand.

  • [15th March 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Modern day summitry, its perils and its prospects

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q)  The West is fostering India as an alternative to reduce dependence on China’s supply chain and as a strategic ally to counter China’s political and economic dominance.’ Explain this statement with examples. (2023)

    Mentor’s Comment: This question focused on India’s strategic positioning and alliances with the West, relates to the broader context of high-level summit diplomacy and strategic interactions between nations

    A strong leader is often seen as someone who holds significant power, shaping both government policies and their political party. This leadership style is debated, but many agree it can be useful in politics and diplomacy. Leaders like Donald Trump and Narendra Modi are considered strong leaders. Both actively engage in summit diplomacy, which has both advantages and risks. While decisive leadership can bring benefits, relying too much on personal judgment can lead to problems. Despite these challenges, summit diplomacy has become a key tool for powerful leaders in handling major global issues like war and peace.

    Today’s editorial highlights the importance of summit diplomacy and the key traits of a strong leader. This topic is useful for GS Paper 2 in the UPSC Mains exam.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Despite unplanned meetings like Trump’s, summit diplomacy will remain important in global relations.

    What are the key characteristics of a “strong leader” in the context of modern politics and diplomacy?

    • Centralization of Power: A strong leader often consolidates power, making key policy and political decisions with minimal consultation. Example: Vladimir Putin’s centralized control over Russian politics and military decisions.
    • Assertive Foreign Policy and Summit Diplomacy: They engage directly in high-profile diplomatic negotiations, often prioritizing personal rapport over traditional diplomatic channels. Example: Donald Trump’s direct summits with Kim Jong-un to negotiate North Korea’s nuclear program.
    • Image Building and Popular Appeal: They craft a strong public persona through rhetoric, social media, and large-scale events to project authority and national pride. Example: Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s use of mass rallies and media control to consolidate power in Turkey.
    • Decisive but Controversial Decision-Making: They make bold decisions, sometimes bypassing institutional checks, which can lead to both positive reforms and authoritarian tendencies. Example: Xi Jinping’s removal of term limits in China, allowing him to rule indefinitely.
    Why is summit diplomacy considered both beneficial and problematic in resolving international conflicts?

    Benefits of summit diplomacy: 

    • Direct and Efficient Decision-Making: Summits allow leaders to bypass bureaucratic delays and make high-stakes decisions quickly. Example: The Cuban Missile Crisis (1962) saw U.S. President John F. Kennedy and Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev negotiate directly, preventing nuclear war.
    • Confidence-Building and Diplomatic Trust: Face-to-face interactions help build mutual trust and diplomatic relationships between nations. Example: The Reagan-Gorbachev Summits (1985-1988) played a key role in reducing Cold War tensions and leading to nuclear arms reduction.
    • Breakthroughs in Long-Standing Disputes: Summit diplomacy has resolved historical disputes that traditional diplomacy failed to address. Example: The Camp David Accords (1978) led to peace between Egypt and Israel after decades of hostility.
    • Symbolic and Strategic Value: High-profile summits reinforce a country’s global leadership and strategic partnerships. Example: The Singapore Summit (2018) between Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un, which temporarily reduced tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
    • Crisis Management and De-escalation: Summits provide a platform for crisis diplomacy, helping to prevent conflicts from escalating into full-scale wars. Example: The Dayton Accords (1995) ended the Bosnian War by bringing together leaders of Bosnia, Croatia, and Serbia for direct negotiations.

    Problems of summit diplomacy: 

    • Risk of Superficial Agreements: Leaders often prioritize political optics over substantive solutions, leading to vague or unenforceable agreements. Example: The Minsk Agreements (2014-2015) aimed at resolving the Ukraine conflict but lacked effective implementation mechanisms.
    • Personal Egos and Power Imbalances: Strong-willed leaders may focus more on personal victories rather than genuine conflict resolution. Example: The Trump-Zelenskyy Summit (2025), where public confrontations and political grandstanding overshadowed meaningful negotiations on Ukraine.

    How did the Trump-Zelenskyy exchanges highlight the complexities and risks of pseudo-summit diplomacy?

    • Blurred Lines Between Diplomacy and Personal Interests: Instead of focusing purely on state interests, pseudo-summit diplomacy can be influenced by personal or political gains. Example: The Trump-Zelenskyy phone call (2019) became controversial when Trump allegedly pressured Zelenskyy to investigate Joe Biden’s son, intertwining diplomacy with U.S. domestic politics.
    • Lack of Institutional Safeguards: Informal or direct leader-to-leader diplomacy can bypass traditional diplomatic channels, reducing oversight and accountability. Example: The absence of career diplomats in the Trump-Zelenskyy exchanges led to concerns over improper diplomatic conduct and potential abuse of power.
    • Vulnerability to Misinformation and Manipulation: Without structured diplomatic engagement, such interactions can be misused for propaganda or misinterpreted in ways that escalate tensions. Example: The impeachment inquiry against Trump was fueled by the whistleblower complaint alleging that the U.S. was leveraging military aid for political favors.

    What should India learn from this? (Way forward)

    • Institutionalize Diplomatic Processes: Informal leader-to-leader diplomacy should not replace structured diplomatic engagement involving foreign service professionals.
      • India should prioritize institutional mechanisms (e.g., MEA-led negotiations) to ensure consistency and avoid undue political influence in international relations.
    • Avoid Mixing Domestic Politics with Foreign Policy: Diplomatic engagements must remain separate from electoral or partisan interests to maintain credibility.
      • India must ensure that foreign policy decisions are not dictated by short-term political gains and avoid using international diplomacy for domestic political narratives.
    • Strengthen Transparency and Accountability: Diplomatic engagements should be conducted with oversight to prevent misuse or misinterpretation.
      • India should continue using parliamentary committees and professional diplomats to maintain transparency and avoid secretive deals that could lead to unintended consequences.

  • A voluntary mandate: On the APAAR student ID

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Education introduced the Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry (APAAR) ID to digitally store each student’s academic records, providing a single, reliable source of their educational history throughout their life in India.

    Should the APAAR ID be imposed without a legal framework in place?

    • Violation of Right to Privacy: Without a legal framework, imposing APAAR violates the right to privacy upheld by the Supreme Court in the Puttaswamy judgment (2017). Example: The Court ruled that Aadhaar cannot be mandatory for basic services like school admissions. APAAR, linked to Aadhaar, may similarly infringe on privacy rights.
    • Lack of Informed Consent: Mandatory implementation without clear legal guidelines undermines voluntary participation and informed consent. Example: Parents in Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka face pressure to enroll their children despite official claims that APAAR is voluntary.
    • Data Security Risks: Collecting sensitive student data without legal safeguards increases vulnerability to data breaches and misuse. Example: The Aadhaar leak incidents exposed millions of personal records, highlighting risks in handling large-scale digital databases without strict protection laws.
    • Discrimination and Exclusion: Errors in digital records (e.g., name mismatches) can exclude students from educational benefits if no legal recourse is available. Example: In DigiLocker, discrepancies in Aadhaar details have led to failed registrations and denial of services. Similar risks exist with APAAR.
    • Need for Legislative Oversight: A legal framework ensures transparency, accountability, and public trust in the system’s operation. Example: Countries like Germany regulate educational data under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) to protect citizens’ privacy. India lacks similar comprehensive safeguards for APAAR.

    What is the purpose of the APAAR ID introduced by the Ministry of Education?

    • Digitisation of Academic Records: APAAR (Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry) aims to create a digital repository for every student’s academic transcripts, ensuring a lifetime record of their educational journey.
      • It seeks to provide a unified and verified database for academic credentials, reducing discrepancies and ensuring authenticity across institutions.
    • Improved Accessibility and Portability: Enables students to access, share, and transfer their academic records seamlessly across educational institutions and employment platforms.
    • Integration with Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): APAAR is part of the broader Digital Public Infrastructure strategy, aligning with initiatives like UDISE+ and the Student Database Management System to enhance educational governance.
    • Facilitating Future Opportunities: It aims to streamline processes like scholarship applications, higher education admissions, and employment verification, making these services more efficient and transparent.

    How are schools and state education authorities in Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka enforcing APAAR enrolment?

    • Imposing 100% Enrolment Targets: Schools have been directed to achieve “saturation”, meaning complete APAAR enrolment for all students, putting pressure on administrators and parents. Example: In Uttar Pradesh, education authorities have set strict deadlines for schools to register every student under the APAAR system.
    • Threatening Consequences for Non-Enrolment: Schools are warning parents of potential penalties or loss of educational services if they refuse to enroll their children. Example: In Karnataka, some schools have informed parents that students may face issues in accessing government benefits and future educational opportunities without APAAR registration.
    • Targeting Minority Institutions and Administrators: Religious minority schools and district education officials face increased scrutiny for discrepancies between APAAR and existing student records. Example: In Uttar Pradesh, authorities have questioned minority institutions over mismatched enrollment data, raising concerns about discrimination and administrative overreach.

    Way forward: 

    • Enact a Clear Legal Framework: Introduce legislation to regulate APAAR, ensuring data protection, informed consent, and compliance with the right to privacy as upheld by the Supreme Court.
    • Ensure Voluntary Participation and Transparency: Maintain APAAR enrolment as optional, provide clear communication to parents and institutions, and establish grievance redressal mechanisms to address errors and concerns.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Examine the scope of Fundamental Rights in the light of the latest judgement of the Supreme Court on the Right to Privacy. (UPSC IAS/2017)

    Reason- UPSC’s focus on privacy concerns related to government actions.

  • A school closure that must be called out

    Why in the News?

    The shutdown of the only Gondi-medium school in Maharashtra’s Gadchiroli district, which was started in 2019 by the Mohgaon gram panchayat, raises concerns about tribal students learning in their own language.

    What constitutional provisions support the preservation of Adivasi languages and cultures in India?

    • Article 29: Protects the rights of minorities to conserve their distinct languages, scripts, and cultures.
    • Article 350A: Directs the state to provide adequate facilities for instruction in the mother tongue at the primary education level for minority children.
    • Fifth Schedule: Provides special protections and governance provisions for Scheduled Areas, where many Adivasi communities reside.
    • Sixth Schedule: Grants autonomy to certain tribal areas in the northeastern states, allowing self-governance and cultural preservation.
    • Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA): Recognizes the role of gram sabhas in self-governance, including decisions related to education in tribal areas.

    How do the forces of absorption in secular and religious realms impact Adivasi communities?

    • Marginalization of Adivasi Languages in Education: Adivasi students are forced to learn in dominant languages, leading to the decline of their mother tongues and weakening of cultural identity. Example: The closure of the Gondi-medium school in Maharashtra due to non-recognition under the Right to Education Act.
    • Loss of Land and Displacement Due to Development Projects: Adivasi communities are displaced from their ancestral lands due to industrial and infrastructural projects, leading to economic instability and cultural loss. Example: Large-scale mining and dam projects in Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh have forced many Adivasis to migrate to urban slums.
    • Religious Assimilation and Erosion of Indigenous Beliefs: Traditional tribal religious practices are undermined or replaced by dominant religions, leading to cultural homogenization. Example: The decline of Sarna worship among Adivasis due to conversions to Hinduism and Christianity.
    • Market-Driven Cultural Appropriation: Tribal art, music, and traditions are exploited for commercial purposes without benefiting the Adivasi creators. Example: Warli and Gond paintings being sold globally, while many Adivasi artists remain in poverty.
    • Denial of Political and Constitutional Recognition: The lack of official recognition for Adivasi languages and cultures weakens their identity and limits access to resources and opportunities. Example: Gondi, spoken by over 2.9 million people, is not included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, whereas Sanskrit, spoken by fewer than 25,000, is recognized.

    What are the steps taken by the government?

    • National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: Emphasizes mother-tongue-based education at the primary level, promoting indigenous languages. Example: Bilingual textbooks in tribal languages have been introduced in states like Odisha and Jharkhand.
    • Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS): Aims to provide quality education to tribal students while incorporating their cultural heritage. Example: Over 700 EMRS schools are planned across India, with some offering instruction in tribal languages.
    • Documentation and Digital Preservation Initiatives: Projects to document and preserve endangered tribal languages and cultures. Example: The Scheme for Protection and Preservation of Endangered Languages (SPPEL) under the CIIL (Central Institute of Indian Languages) focuses on documenting languages like Gondi.

    What are the factors that highlight the contrast between the recognition of Sanskrit and Gondi in the Eighth Schedule?

    • Oral vs. Textual Tradition: Sanskrit has a vast corpus of classical texts and scriptures, whereas Gondi follows an oral tradition, making it vulnerable to erosion without formal preservation efforts. Example: Ancient Sanskrit texts like the Vedas are archived and studied, but Gondi folklore and oral histories are at risk of being lost due to a lack of institutional documentation.
    • Number of Speakers: Gondi is spoken by over 2.9 million people across six states, while Sanskrit has fewer than 25,000 speakers. Example: Despite its widespread use among Adivasi communities, Gondi remains unrecognized, whereas Sanskrit, with a much smaller speaker base, is included in the Eighth Schedule.
    • State Support and Promotion: Sanskrit receives government funding, university courses, and institutional backing, whereas Gondi lacks state-supported educational and literary initiatives. Example: Sanskrit is taught in schools and has dedicated institutions like the Rashtriya Sanskrit Sansthan, while Gondi-medium schools struggle for recognition, such as the case in Maharashtra.
    • Socio-Political Influence: Sanskrit is associated with elite Brahminical traditions and enjoys support from powerful socio-political groups, whereas Gondi is linked to marginalized Adivasi communities with limited political representation. Example: Political leaders and policymakers advocate for Sanskrit’s preservation, but there is little lobbying for Gondi’s inclusion in the Eighth Schedule.
    • Economic and Employment Relevance: Sanskrit is promoted as a classical and sacred language, but it has minimal practical usage in employment, whereas Gondi is actively spoken by tribal communities in daily life. Example: Sanskrit is used in religious and academic contexts, while Gondi is the primary language for communication among Adivasis, yet lacks state recognition.

    Way forward: 

    • Institutional Recognition and Policy Support: Need to include Gondi and other major Adivasi languages in the Eighth Schedule to ensure constitutional recognition, funding for education, and cultural preservation.
    • Community-Led Preservation and Promotion: The Government should strengthen grassroots efforts by empowering Adivasi organizations, establishing indigenous language schools, and promoting digital documentation of oral traditions.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Given the diversities among tribal communities in India, in which specific contexts should they be considered as a single category? (UPSC IAS/2022) 

    Reason- This question is relevant because the closure of the Gondi-medium school highlights the specific educational needs of a particular tribal community (Gondi speakers).