Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Gaza conflict and its impact on the geopolitics of the region
What’s the news?
- The recent series of deadly attacks launched by Hamas on Israel has had profound implications for the dynamics of the Middle East.
Central idea
- The recent lethal attacks launched by Hamas on Israel on October 7 have had significant repercussions, particularly in the realm of Israeli-Saudi relations and the broader Middle East geopolitical landscape. These attacks have effectively overturned Israeli efforts, backed by the United States, to foster normalization of relations with Arab states while neglecting Palestinian concerns.
Israeli Diplomacy
- Normalization Agreements: Israel, under the leadership of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, pursued a strategy of normalizing relations with Arab countries. This strategy aimed to establish diplomatic ties with Arab nations that had historically been hostile or distant from Israel. Notable agreements included those with Egypt and Jordan, which were signed in the late 20th century.
- The Abrahamic Accords: A significant milestone in Israeli diplomacy was the signing of the Abraham Accords in 2020. These agreements, brokered by the United States, led to the normalization of relations between Israel and several Arab countries, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, Sudan, and later Morocco. These agreements marked a shift in regional dynamics and signified growing acceptance of Israel in the Arab world.
- Strategic Goals: Israel’s diplomatic efforts aimed to enhance its security, strengthen its regional influence, and broaden economic and technological cooperation with Arab states. These agreements also served to isolate Iran, which was seen as a common regional rival.
The role of the United States
- Mediator and Facilitator: The United States has historically played a central role as a mediator in Israeli-Arab conflicts. It has facilitated peace talks, negotiations, and agreements between Israel and its Arab neighbors. The U.S. has acted as a neutral party, using its diplomatic clout to bring parties to the negotiating table.
- Broker of the Abraham Accords: In the case of the Abraham Accords, the United States, led by the Trump administration, took a proactive role in brokering these agreements. The U.S. actively encouraged Arab nations to establish diplomatic ties with Israel and provided political support and incentives to make these deals happen.
- Strategic Interests: The United States had strategic interests in promoting Israeli-Arab normalization. These interests included strengthening its regional alliances, countering Iranian influence, and promoting stability in the Middle East.
- Security Assistance: The U.S. has provided substantial military aid and security assistance to Israel, reinforcing its position in the region and ensuring its qualitative military edge. This support has been a cornerstone of the U.S.-Israel relationship.
The Gaza War and Its Ramifications
- Reemphasis on the Palestinian Issue: The Gaza War has once again thrust the Palestinian issue to the forefront of regional politics. It has drawn attention to the longstanding Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the unresolved grievances of the Palestinian people.
- Regional Instability: The conflict in Gaza has contributed to regional instability and heightened tensions. It has the potential to spill over into neighboring countries and exacerbate existing regional conflicts.
- Impact on Israeli-Saudi Normalization Efforts: The Gaza War has had significant implications for Israel’s efforts to normalize relations with Arab states, particularly Saudi Arabia. It has disrupted the momentum of normalization, as Saudi Arabia, like other Arab nations, has faced domestic pressure to condemn Israeli actions in Gaza.
- Saudi Arabia’s Shift: Saudi Arabia’s response to the Gaza War represents a notable shift in its stance. While previously open to normalizing relations with Israel, the kingdom has now emphasized the importance of addressing Palestinian interests and rights. This change in stance may have lasting implications for Saudi foreign policy and its relations with both Israel and the United States.
- Iran’s Role: Some observers have speculated about Iran’s role in instigating Hamas attacks to undermine Saudi-Israeli normalization efforts. However, it is essential to note that Saudi-Iran relations had already undergone a degree of normalization before the Gaza War, reducing the likelihood of Iranian involvement as a primary motivator.
- Humanitarian Crisis: The conflict has led to a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with casualties, displacement, and infrastructure damage. The international community has been called upon to address the immediate humanitarian needs of the Palestinian population.
- Impact on Regional Alliances: The Gaza War has influenced the alignment of regional alliances, with countries taking positions based on their historical relationships and geopolitical interests. This could potentially reshape alliances and cooperation in the Middle East.
Saudi Arabia’s Evolving Foreign Policy
- Pursuit of Strategic Autonomy: Over the past few years, Saudi Arabia has demonstrated a growing willingness to pursue an independent foreign policy. The kingdom has sought to assert its strategic autonomy and reduce its reliance on traditional allies, including the United States.
- Refusal to Align with Anti-China or Anti-Iran Coalitions: Saudi Arabia has rejected U.S. efforts to build global anti-China coalitions and regional anti-Iran alliances. Despite U.S. pressure, the kingdom has maintained its own strategic interests and relationships.
- Stronger Ties with China: Saudi Arabia has deepened its relations with China, particularly in the areas of trade, investment, and energy cooperation. The kingdom recognizes China’s increasing global influence and sees it as an important economic partner.
- Multifaceted Engagement Across Asia: Saudi Arabia has actively pursued multifaceted relationships across Asia, including with countries like India and Pakistan. These engagements encompass economic, diplomatic, and security cooperation, reflecting the kingdom’s aim to expand its influence in the Asian region.
Way forward: Concrete Actions for Palestinian Interests
- Commitment to a Two-State Solution: Both Israel and the Palestinian leadership should unequivocally reaffirm their commitment to a two-state solution, recognizing the need for an independent and viable Palestinian state alongside Israel.
- Freeze Settlement Expansion: Israel should halt all settlement construction activities in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Settlement expansion remains a significant obstacle to peace and threatens the territorial integrity of a future Palestinian state.
- Cessation of Violence: All parties involved must commit to ending violence and terrorism. This includes a complete halt to rocket attacks from Gaza into Israel and measures to prevent violence on both sides. A comprehensive ceasefire agreement should be sought.
- Support for Palestinian Elections: The international community should support transparent and inclusive Palestinian elections to strengthen the legitimacy of the Palestinian leadership. These elections should adhere to international standards.
- Address Core Issues: Negotiations should address core issues such as the status of Jerusalem, the right of return for Palestinian refugees, and the delineation of borders for a future Palestinian state. These issues must be resolved through peaceful negotiations based on international principles.
- International Mediation and Oversight: International actors, including the Quartet, should actively mediate and oversee the peace process to ensure accountability, adherence to agreements, and a fair and balanced negotiation environment.
Conclusion
- The Gaza conflict has had a profound impact on the geopolitics of the region, particularly by reemphasizing the importance of addressing Palestinian concerns. While Israel’s efforts to normalize relations with Arab states face challenges, Saudi Arabia’s renewed focus on the Palestinian cause marks a significant shift in its foreign policy approach, underscoring the evolving dynamics in the Middle East.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Key facts, Government initiative's
Mains level: Water and employment link, women's role, challenges and potential
What’s the news?
- Water, a vital resource for life, is poised to play a central role in the transition to a green economy. This transition brings not only environmental benefits but also the potential to drive significant employment growth, particularly for women.
Central idea
- Water is essential for a green economy, offering immense potential for job generation, particularly for women. Women globally are pivotal players in water management, yet their expertise remains underutilized. As green jobs surge in India, how can women’s roles in water management be enhanced and recognized?
Backdrop
- Green Jobs in Water Management: These jobs contribute to preserving or restoring environmental quality. A promising estimate by the International Labour Organisation posits that jobs in this sector could escalate from 3 million (2020) to 19 million by 2030 in India.
- Water and Global Employment: A 2016 UN report underscores that nearly 1.5 billion people, or half the global workforce, are in water-related sectors. Water thus fosters both direct (managing resources, infrastructure, services) and indirect jobs.
Harse reality
- A World Bank evaluation of 122 water projects found that those involving women were six to seven times more effective than those that did not.
- Despite this evidence, women constitute less than 17 percent of the paid workforce in water, sanitation, and hygiene in developing economies, and women’s representation as technical experts remains disproportionately low.
The Role of Women in Efficient Water Management
- Household Water Management: Women are typically responsible for managing water within households. They oversee water collection, storage, and distribution for domestic use, ensuring a safe and sustainable water supply for their families.
- Community Engagement: In many communities, women actively engage in the management of communal water sources. They take the lead in maintaining these sources, making sure they remain accessible and functional for all community members.
- Agriculture: Women play a crucial role in agriculture, which is a major consumer of water resources. They are involved in activities such as irrigation, crop cultivation, and livestock care. Their knowledge of efficient water use is vital for agricultural sustainability.
- Environmental Stewardship: Women often act as environmental stewards, safeguarding local ecosystems, rivers, lakes, and forests. Their traditional practices and knowledge contribute to the preservation of water resources and the environment.
- Community Development: Women actively participate in community development projects related to water infrastructure, sanitation, and hygiene. They serve on water and sanitation committees, helping plan and implement projects that benefit the entire community.
- Innovative Solutions: Women frequently devise innovative solutions to address water-related challenges. They may create rainwater harvesting techniques, sustainable farming practices, or household-level water treatment methods, enhancing water resource management.
Unlocking Opportunities through Government Programs
- Traditionally, women’s involvement in water management has been limited to voluntary or part-time roles, often at the lowest level of decision-making.
- Recent government initiatives in India, such as the Jal Jeevan Mission, Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation, Atal Bhujal Yojana, and Jal Shakti Abhiyan, present an opportunity to expand women’s participation in water management and provide access to decent work.
- These programs prioritize community ownership and support both direct and indirect jobs.
The Potential of Jal Jeevan Mission
- The Jal Jeevan Mission, in particular, has the potential to generate a substantial number of jobs.
- A study by the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore, estimated that the mission could create millions of person-years of direct and indirect employment, although gender-disaggregated data are lacking.
Way forward
- Addressing Skill Gaps and Capacity Building:
- Water management jobs require specific skills and training, yet there is often a gap between the skills needed and the expertise available.
- While some training programs exist for wastewater treatment and watershed management, they do not cover emerging employment opportunities in the water sector.
- Promoting Sustainable Employment:
- Despite robust policies for community participation, sustainable employment creation has been lacking.
- Investing in training women, providing access to finance, and leveraging self-help groups can foster women’s self-employment in water management, strengthening water security in both rural and urban areas.
Conclusion
- Government initiatives such as the Jal Jeevan Mission are poised to unlock this potential. By addressing skill gaps and promoting women’s participation, India can not only create green jobs but also empower women in the vital task of water management, contributing to a more sustainable and inclusive future.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Climate change
Mains level: Climate change, Rising Temperatures, solutions and actions
What’s the news?
- September 2023 stands out as it recorded a remarkable 1.75-degree Celsius increase compared to the pre-industrial baseline of 1850–1900, making it a month with an unprecedented temperature deviation.
Central idea
- In the relentless march of climate change, 2023 has emerged as a year of unprecedented heatwaves. Each passing month seems to shatter temperature records, leaving us with grim prospects for the remainder of the year. As September, the hottest on record, draws to a close, we must confront the sobering reality that 2023 may become the warmest year ever recorded.
2023: On Track to Be the Warmest Year
- 2023 is poised to claim the dubious distinction of being the warmest year on record. The average temperature for the first nine months of the year already surpasses the corresponding period of 2016, the previous record holder.
- In 2016, the average temperature was 1.28 degrees Celsius higher than pre-industrial times, and 2023 may breach the 1.5-degree Celsius mark for the first time.
Rising Temperatures Predicted
- The remarkable string of record-breaking temperature events in 2023 was not entirely unexpected. Scientists had foreseen this year’s warmth, primarily due to the development of El Niño in the Pacific Ocean.
- While specific events couldn’t be predicted, the overall trend was ominous. Forecasts indicate that the last three months of the year will continue to be warmer than usual.
Record-Breaking Months
- The record-breaking temperatures in September follow a pattern of extraordinary warmth throughout the year. July, in particular, stood out as the warmest month ever recorded, setting a new global monthly temperature high.
- Multiple days in July broke daily temperature records. Preceding this, June claimed the title of the warmest June ever, and February, March, April, and May all ranked among the top five hottest for their respective months.
Lack of immediate solutions
- Despite the alarming rise in temperatures and the string of record-breaking events in 2023, there has been a noticeable lack of immediate policy responses from countries to combat climate change.
- Addressing climate change in the short term is challenging, and there are limitations to what can be done to lower temperatures or prevent future warming events on an immediate timescale.
- Only a global disruption on the scale of the COVID-19 pandemic could bring about significant deviations from the current trend of increasing temperatures.
Way forward: Urgent action is needed
- There is an urgent need for decisive action in response to the unprecedented heatwaves and their associated impacts.
- The world is rapidly approaching critical climate thresholds, including the 1.5-degree Celsius target set by the Paris Agreement.
- The lack of immediate solutions and policy responses to mitigate climate change is a pressing concern.
- Nations need to acknowledge the stark reality of climate change’s relentless advance and take immediate, robust, and meaningful measures to address the crisis.
- Decisive action is required now to prevent irreversible consequences associated with global warming.
Conclusion
- As nations prepare for the annual climate change meeting in Dubai, it is imperative that they acknowledge the stark reality of climate change’s relentless advance. The stock-take exercise must reveal the gaps in global climate action and serve as a wake-up call for more robust and immediate measures.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Key findings
Mains level: Recent labor force survey- positive and concerning trends
What’s the news?
- The issue of employment has been a central topic in economic policy discussions, especially in recent decades, as the correlation between economic growth and job creation has appeared fragile.
Central idea
- The COVID-19 pandemic intensified economic disruptions, causing financial distress, surging unemployment, and rural migration. The 2022-23 labor force survey shows rising participation rates and lower unemployment but raises concerns with declining regular employment and a rise in self-employment.
Increasing Labor Force Participation
- The national labor force participation rate (15 years and above) has grown from 49.8% in 2017-18 to 57.9% in 2022-23.
- Both rural and urban areas have witnessed increased participation, with a more significant rise in rural regions.
- Female participation in rural areas increased from 24.6% in 2017-18 to 41.5% in 2022-23, indicating higher female engagement in the labor force.
- However, this rise may also reflect economic distress in rural areas, pushing women to seek employment to augment family incomes, including work under MGNREGA.
Rise in Self-Employment
- The percentage of self-employed individuals increased from 55.6% in 2020-21 to 57.3% in 2022-23.
- Concurrently, the share of regular wage/salaried employment declined from 21.1% to 20.9%.
- The proportion of workers engaged in informal sector enterprises in the non-agricultural sector also rose from 71.4% in 2020-21 to 74.3% in 2022-23.
Concerns Over Job Quality
- While unemployment rates have fallen across the board, especially among the youth (age group 15-29), the decline in regular wage/salaried employment and the increase in self-employment raise concerns.
- These trends indicate that the economy may struggle to create sufficient productive and well-paying job opportunities to absorb the annual influx of millions into the labor force.
- Inadequate job creation remains the most significant challenge facing policymakers.
Conclusion
- The recent labor force survey highlights both positive and concerning trends in India’s labor market. Addressing the challenge of job creation and ensuring that these jobs are productive and remunerative should remain a top priority for policymakers in India’s economic development agenda.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: G-20, P-20 and key outcomes
Mains level: India's role in shaping international economic and environmental agendas, G20
What’s the news?
- India’s leadership role in the G20 reflects its growing importance and influence in global politics.
Central idea
- India celebrated its 74th Republic Day earlier this year, commemorating the adoption of the Constitution of India on January 26, 1950, marking the nation’s transition to a sovereign republic. This year, India’s Republic Day holds special significance as the country assumes the presidency of the G20, an influential forum comprising the world’s leading advanced and emerging economies.
India’s Democratic Success Story
- India’s journey as the world’s largest inclusive democracy, characterized by its multi-dimensional diversity and pluralistic society, is both fascinating and inspiring.
- Despite formidable challenges in the form of illiteracy and widespread poverty, India’s visionary Constitution makers established a multi-party democratic political system immediately after gaining independence.
- Overcoming these hurdles, India has consistently conducted free and fair elections through its independent constitutional body, the Election Commission of India, solidifying its democratic credentials.
- In a world where many post-colonial nations grappled with political turbulence, India’s commitment to electoral democracy stood as a beacon of hope.
Socio-Economic Development and Increased Political Participation
- India’s ascent as a democratic republic has been accompanied by substantial socio-economic advancements.
- Over the decades, the nation has made significant strides in alleviating poverty, expanding access to education, improving healthcare, and developing infrastructure.
- These achievements have not only improved the standard of living but also fostered a sense of inclusion among its diverse population.
- India’s burgeoning youth population has emerged as a potent force in shaping the country’s political landscape.
- Young people are increasingly active in civic participation, advocating for change, and driving social and political discourse.
- This dynamism reflects a commitment to democratic principles and a desire to influence the nation’s direction.
- India’s commitment to democratic values is vividly demonstrated through the consistently rising voter turnout in elections.
- Citizens across the country recognize the power of their votes in shaping the destiny of the nation.
- This surge in political engagement underlines the vibrancy of India’s democracy.
- A heartening trend in India’s democratic journey has been the growing participation of women in both electoral processes and political leadership.
- The increased representation of women at various levels of governance not only strengthens democracy but also promotes gender equality and diversity in decision-making.
- Diverse Political Landscape:
- India’s democracy has evolved into a dynamic and diverse political arena. A multitude of political parties, each representing unique constituencies and interests, actively participate in the democratic process.
- This pluralism underscores India’s commitment to accommodating a wide range of perspectives and voices.
India’s G20 Presidency
- Global Significance: The G20, comprising the world’s most advanced and emerging economies, is a forum of immense global significance. India’s presidency in this forum signifies its ascent as a major player in international affairs.
- Showcasing India: Hosting G20 meetings in India provided a unique opportunity to showcase the nation’s diversity, culture, democracy, development, and technological prowess to the global community. It allowed India to present its story as a positive model of pluralistic democracy and development, inspiring other nations, particularly in the Global South.
- Covid Pandemic Response: India’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic further solidified its reputation as a responsible global leader. Its ability to manage the crisis, provide vaccines to other nations, and contribute to global efforts for containment and recovery demonstrated its commitment to international cooperation.
- Bilateral and Multilateral Engagement: During its G20 presidency, India engaged in important bilateral and multilateral discussions, fostering partnerships and addressing global challenges. Key agreements, such as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor Agreement and the Global Biofuels Alliance, highlighted India’s role in shaping international economic and environmental agendas.
Outcomes of the G20 Summit
- Economic Advancements: The G20 New Delhi Summit also served as a platform to showcase India’s contemporary technological advancements and its rich heritage, culture, and traditions. It energized the international economy, promoted tourism, enhanced food security through millet production, and deepened commitments to sustainable biofuels.
- Food Security: The summit emphasized stronger food security through millet production and consumption. This initiative aligns with global efforts to enhance food sustainability and ensure a stable food supply for growing populations.
- Commitment to Biofuels: India’s leadership in the G20 Summit deepened its commitment to sustainable biofuels. This focus on clean energy sources aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and reduce carbon emissions.
- Key Agreements: Notably, the G20 Summit witnessed the conclusion of significant agreements, including the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor Agreement and the Global Biofuels Alliance. These agreements are of considerable significance in shaping international economic and environmental agendas.
P20 (Parliamentary 20)
- The P20 (Parliamentary 20), which has evolved significantly since its inception in Canada in 2010, exemplifies the importance of parliamentary participation in shaping the global agenda.
- It has garnered social acceptance and legal tenability in participating countries, emphasizing the importance of involving elected representatives in international decision-making.
The Role of Parliament in Global Governance
- Supreme Law-Making Body: Parliament is the supreme law-making body in any democratic nation, representing the will and aspirations of its citizens. In the context of global governance, the role of parliament is essential, as it ensures that international agreements and commitments align with the interests and values of the people it represents.
- Democratic Accountability: Parliament’s participation in global governance adds a layer of democratic accountability to international agreements and treaties. When elected representatives endorse these agreements, they become socially acceptable and legally binding within their respective countries.
- Bilateral and Multilateral Engagement: Parliaments also engage in bilateral and multilateral discussions, further fostering partnerships and addressing global challenges. Their involvement helps shape the direction of international cooperation and ensures that agreements benefit their respective nations.
P20 Summit Agenda
- The upcoming P20 Summit, hosted by the Indian Parliament, exemplifies the parliamentary dimension’s significance in global governance.
- The summit’s four high-level sessions, focusing on themes such as Sustainable Development Goals, Sustainable Energy Transition, Gender Equality, and Public Digital Platforms, will facilitate wide-ranging discussions among G20 members and guest countries on how parliaments can effectively advance global objectives.
What else: Emphasizing Environmental Responsibility
- The LiFE is Beautiful initiative, recognizing environmentally conscious communities as Pro-Planet People” (P-3), demonstrates India’s commitment to sustainability and responsible living.
Conclusion
- This year’s P20 Summit theme, One Earth, One Family, One Future, reflects the spirit of unity and shared responsibility. India’s journey from Republic Day to G20 leadership is a testament to its democratic strength and its increasingly influential role in shaping the global future.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Semi-conductors
Mains level: semi-conductor industry, potential, initiatives challenges and way forward
What’s the news?
- Moody’s report has brought to light a critical factor that could disrupt India’s semiconductor aspirations: climate change.
Central idea
- In December 2021, the Indian government launched the Semicon India Programme, allocating a substantial budget of Rs 76,000 crore for the development of a domestic semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. While this initiative aimed to position India as a prominent player in the global semiconductor market, it faces multifaceted challenges, as highlighted in a recent report by Moody’s, a global rating firm.
Challenges highlighted in the Moody’s report
- Climate Change Risks: The report points out that climate change can lead to damage to manufacturing facilities, disruptions in supply chains, and substantial financial losses in the semiconductor industry, potentially deterring investments.
- Environmental Footprint: The semiconductor industry’s substantial environmental footprint is a challenge, with chip fabrication plants consuming large amounts of water, generating hazardous waste, and contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions.
- Competitive Landscape: India’s emerging semiconductor sector faces competition from established global players who are already taking steps towards sustainability, making it essential for Indian semiconductor units to adopt sustainable practices to remain competitive.
The Significance of Semiconductors
- Technological Advancement: Semiconductors are the bedrock of technological progress, enabling innovations across industries. They underpin the development of advanced electronic devices, leading to continuous improvements in efficiency, performance, and functionality.
- Information Processing: Semiconductors power the microprocessors and memory chips found in computers, smartphones, and digital gadgets. This processing capacity drives data analysis, artificial intelligence, and complex computations.
- Consumer Electronics: Nearly all consumer electronic devices, from televisions to household appliances, incorporate semiconductors. These components enhance functionality, making these devices more user-friendly and efficient.
- Clean Energy: Semiconductors are vital for renewable energy sources. They enable efficient energy conversion and management in solar panels, wind turbines, and energy storage systems, promoting clean and sustainable energy solutions.
- Healthcare Revolution: In the healthcare sector, semiconductors are crucial for medical imaging, diagnostic equipment, and wearable health monitoring devices. They empower healthcare professionals with accurate data for improved patient care.
- National Security: Semiconductors are indispensable for defense and security applications, including radar systems, encryption technology, and surveillance equipment. They ensure the reliability and security of vital systems.
- Space Exploration: Semiconductors are vital for space missions and satellite technology. They enable data collection, communication with Earth, and the operation of instruments, advancing humanity’s understanding of the cosmos.
- Environmental Monitoring: Semiconductors are used in environmental monitoring systems, aiding efforts to assess and mitigate environmental issues such as air and water quality, climate change, and pollution.
Industry Initiatives Toward Sustainability
- Taiwan’s Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC): TSMC, one of the world’s largest chip manufacturers and a key supplier to tech giants like Apple, has taken a significant step by pledging to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. This commitment reflects a proactive approach to reducing the environmental impact of semiconductor manufacturing.
- Samsung and Intel: The article also notes that companies like Samsung and Intel, along with several European semiconductor firms, have reportedly started conducting greenhouse gas (GHG) audits. These audits are essential for understanding and quantifying the industry’s carbon footprint, with the goal of identifying areas for improvement.
India’s Greenfield Advantage
- Clean Slate: India’s semiconductor industry has the advantage of starting from a relatively clean slate. Unlike established semiconductor hubs that may have legacy issues, India’s greenfield centers can begin their operations with a fresh perspective and without the burden of historical environmental challenges.
- Learning Opportunity: These greenfield centers in India can learn from the experiences of semiconductor companies in other parts of the world. They have the opportunity to incorporate global best practices right from the outset, making sustainability and environmental responsibility integral to their operations.
- Smart City Programme: Many of India’s semiconductor hubs are planned as part of the government’s Smart City Programme. This planning approach involves creating modern, sustainable urban environments. As a result, these townships are more likely to incorporate eco-friendly and climate-resilient infrastructure and drainage systems.
- Preventing Disruptions: The greenfield centers should prioritize strategies to prevent disruptions during extreme rainfall events. This proactive approach is important, considering the potential impacts of climate change, which can lead to increased rainfall and extreme weather events.
Way forward
- Learning from Global Best Practices: By learning from the experiences of established global players and incorporating best practices from the outset, Indian semiconductor units can enhance their sustainability quotient.
- Regional Considerations: The government’s vision of establishing Dholera in Ahmedabad as a chip-making hub should be attuned to regional climate factors. Climate change is expected to exacerbate heat-related stresses in the region, making it crucial to factor in climate-resilient infrastructure.
- Government Intervention: In light of Moody’s report, it is evident that the government must play a pivotal role in supporting the semiconductor industry. This includes investment in climate-resilient infrastructure, providing guidance to the industry, and encouraging semiconductor units to adopt sustainable practices.
Conclusion
- The Semicon India Programme holds the potential to propel India into the ranks of global semiconductor manufacturing leaders. However, this ambitious endeavor faces significant challenges, with climate change posing a formidable threat to its success. By taking proactive measures, India can navigate the treacherous waters of climate change and move closer to realizing its dream of becoming a chip-manufacturing hub.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: World Heart Day
Mains level: World Heart Day, Rising burden of Cardio vascular diseases, efforts and challenges
What’s the news?
- World Heart Day, observed globally on September 29, serves as a crucial reminder of the escalating threat posed by cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and the need to promote heart-healthy lifestyles.
Central idea
- World Heart Day, an annual event, initiated by the World Heart Federation in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2000, seeks to heighten awareness, engage communities, and advocate for universal access to CVD prevention, detection, and treatment. Tackling the silent epidemic of cardiovascular diseases in India demands a multi-pronged approach.
Public Awareness Efforts on CVD
- On World Heart Day, several English-language national dailies published full-page advertorials, which are advertisements designed to resemble written articles. These advertorials aimed to raise awareness about cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and promote heart-healthy lifestyles.
- The content of these advertorials seemed to provide information about CVD rather than directly promoting a product.
- Notably, there was limited involvement or a meaningful campaign by public health agencies like the Union Ministry of Health in raising awareness about CVD on this occasion.
- These advertorials were sponsored by the diagnostics, devices, and pharmaceutical industries, indicating a partnership between these industries and media outlets for public awareness efforts.
- Additionally, clinicians from high-end corporate tertiary care hospitals contributed by providing lifestyle modification advisories as part of the public awareness campaign
Alarming Data on Hypertension
- Data from the National Family Health Survey-5 (2019–2021) and the 2017-18 National NCD Monitoring Survey (NNMS) in India reveals concerning statistics about hypertension.
- The NFHS-5 data shows that 18.3 percent of the country’s population has hypertension, while the NNMS reports a higher rate of 28.5 percent among individuals aged 18-69.
- These percentages translate to significant numbers, given India’s large population.
- Both surveys highlight low levels of awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension.
Treatment Gaps and Disparities
- The NNMS data indicates that only 28 percent of those with hypertension were aware of it.
- Among those aware, 52 percent were receiving treatment, and a smaller percentage had their blood pressure under control.
- Disparities exist based on factors such as education, income, and geographic location, with better access to healthcare services in south India.
- Vulnerable groups, including males, illiterates, those with lower income, rural residents, smokers, and alcohol users, were less likely to be part of the treatment cascades.
Efforts in India
- India launched the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Stroke (NPCDCS) in 2010, expanding its implementation.
- The program primarily focuses on screening and treatment.
- India is committed to the principles of primary healthcare and Universal Health Coverage (UHC), as outlined in the 2018 Astana Declaration.
Challenges
- Challenges include inadequate awareness, limited healthcare access in various regions, and disparities in healthcare access and outcomes. More resources are needed for primary healthcare.
- Contemporary approaches to managing CVD heavily emphasize risk factors, particularly lifestyle-related ones like diet, physical activity, smoking, and obesity.
- Epigenetic modifications may emerge as a consequence of a lifetime of disadvantage, structural inequalities, and discrimination, thereby influencing future generations.
- There is a challenge in retaining rural health workers.
The Need for a Holistic Approach
- Contemporary approaches to managing cardiovascular diseases (CVD) emphasize lifestyle risk factors.
- The WHO’s Commission on Social Determinants of Health highlights that these risk factors often result from systemic compromises rather than individual choices.
- The Commission emphasizes addressing socioeconomic factors that affect health across an individual’s lifespan and calls for equity and social justice in healthcare.
Conclusion
- As the WHO rightly asserts, Reducing health inequities is… an ethical imperative. Social injustice is killing people on a grand scale. World Heart Day serves as a stark reminder that the battle against CVD must continue with renewed vigor and a holistic perspective.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: UNSC
Mains level: UNSC, need for reforms, obstacles, India's case
What’s the news?
- The issue of fundamental reforms at the United Nations (UN) has resurfaced at the ongoing General Assembly session.
Central idea
- President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of Türkiye has declared that the Security Council no longer guarantees world security but serves as a battleground for a select few. UN Secretary-General António Guterres warns that the organization must evolve to reflect the changing world.
- Outdated Structure: The current composition of the Security Council reflects the geopolitical realities of 1945 and fails to account for the significant changes in the world since then.
- Inadequate Representation: In 1945, the Council had 11 members out of 51 UN member countries, representing 22% of the states. Today, with 193 member states, the Council consists of only 15 members, less than 8% of the total.
- Lack of Equitability: The existing composition gives undue weight to the balance of power of 1945. For instance, Europe, with just 5% of the world’s population, controls 33% of the Council’s seats.
- Historical Inequity: Some countries, like Japan and Germany, which have been major financial contributors to the UN, are still labeled as enemy states in the UN Charter, despite their significant contributions.
- Failure to Address Current Challenges: The Council’s inability to adapt to the contemporary world hampers its effectiveness in addressing current global issues and crises.
- Global Dynamics Have Changed: The world has changed significantly since 1945, and the Council needs to evolve to remain relevant and capable of addressing 21st-century challenges.
Obstacles to Reform
- High Bar for Charter Amendment: One of the primary obstacles to reforming the UN Security Council is the high bar set for amending the UN Charter. Any amendment requires a two-thirds majority of the overall UN membership, which translates to the support of 129 out of 193 states in the General Assembly. This level of consensus is challenging to achieve.
- Ratification Hurdles: Beyond the General Assembly’s approval, amendments must also be ratified by two-thirds of the member states. Ratification is typically a parliamentary procedure, making it essential for the proposed reforms to gain widespread support and avoid opposition from any member state.
- Resistance from Current Permanent Members: Existing permanent members of the Security Council, notably China, may resist reforms that could dilute their status as the only Asian permanent member. This resistance can be a significant roadblock to any reform efforts.
- African Representation: Africa, with 54 member states, insists on having two permanent seats. However, resolving the rival credentials of nations like Nigeria, South Africa, and Egypt poses a substantial challenge.
- No Consensus on Semi-Permanent Members Proposal: A proposal to create a second category of semi-permanent members with 10-year electable terms has not found acceptance among the principal aspirants, adding to the complexity of reform discussions.
- Geopolitical Conflicts: Ongoing geopolitical conflicts, such as the Ukraine crisis, highlight the Security Council’s gridlock in responding effectively to global issues when permanent members exercise their veto powers.
Stances by Countries
- Reforming the Security Council faces opposition from both rival countries and those who fear losing their influence.
- The high bar for amending the UN Charter, requiring a two-thirds majority of member states and ratification by the same, makes change difficult.
- China resists diluting its status as the sole Asian permanent member, Pakistan opposes India’s inclusion, and Indonesia has reservations.
- In Latin America, Brazil’s claims clash with those of Argentina and Mexico. Africa, with 54 member states, demands two permanent seats, further complicating the issue.
The case for India’s inclusion in the UNSC
- Population Size: India is the world’s second-most populous country, with over 1.3 billion people.
- Economic Significance: India has emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies.
- Peacekeeping Contributions: India has been a consistent and substantial contributor to UN peacekeeping missions.
- Regional Influence: India’s geographical location places it in a critical region of Asia. Its inclusion in the Security Council would provide a balanced representation of Asian interests and perspectives.
- Diplomatic Engagement: India has a long history of active engagement in international diplomacy and has played a constructive role in various global forums.
- Democracy and Pluralism: India is the world’s largest democracy, with a diverse and pluralistic society.
- Representation of the Global South: India’s presence in the Security Council would provide greater representation to the Global South, addressing concerns of equity and diversity in international decision-making.
The issue of continuing gridlock
- Lack of Progress Over Decades: Despite the urgent rhetoric, the UN has missed several milestones for reform, including the 50th, 60th, 70th, and 75th anniversaries of the organization.
- Obstructionism and Veto Use: The ongoing gridlock in the Security Council is exemplified by instances where permanent members have used their veto powers to block resolutions on critical issues. For example, Russia’s repeated use of the veto has obstructed resolutions related to Ukraine, Mali, Syria, and North Korea.
- Failure to Respond to Crises: The Security Council’s inability to respond effectively to crises, such as when a permanent member invaded a sovereign UN member state (as seen in the Ukraine conflict), underscores the Council’s limitations in addressing pressing global challenges.
- Stalemate in Financial Institution Reforms: The gridlock extends to other areas, such as reforms of international financial institutions like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund.
Way Forward
- Acknowledging the UN’s importance: Recognize the vital role that the United Nations (UN) plays as the only global platform that brings all countries together. It serves as a crucial forum for international cooperation, diplomacy, and conflict resolution.
- Addressing the Challenges: While acknowledging the challenges and obstacles to reform, member states should actively engage in discussions and negotiations to find viable solutions.
- Building Consensus: Prioritize the process of building consensus among member states on the need for Security Council reform. Diplomatic efforts should focus on finding common ground and shared objectives.
- Flexible Reform Proposals: Explore flexible reform proposals that can accommodate the diverse interests and aspirations of member states. Proposals should be open to adjustments and compromises to secure broader support.
Conclusion
- The ongoing debate on Security Council reform must prioritize maintaining the UN’s relevance in the 21st century by achieving equitable representation through innovative solutions that balance emerging powers’ aspirations with existing permanent members’ concerns, ensuring the UN fulfills its mission as a global platform for peace and progress.
Also read:
UNSC: India’s Remarkable Tenure
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Basics- traditional and modern medicine system
Mains level: The coexistence of traditional and modern medicine systems, challenges and significance
What’s the news?
- The recent case where a manufacturer of indigenous drugs filed a lawsuit against a medical practitioner over a social media thread has ignited discussions in medical circles.
Central idea
- The recent case prompts us to explore the broader questions surrounding the role of traditional medicine in our modern world, the principles of evidence-based medicine, and the steps governments should take to ensure the health of their populations.
The Evolution of Modern Medicine
- Early Medical Practices: In ancient civilizations, various cultures developed their own medical systems, often rooted in traditions and observations. These practices formed the foundation upon which modern medicine would later build.
- Scientific Renaissance: The Renaissance period in Europe marked a resurgence of interest in science and inquiry. This era laid the groundwork for the scientific approach that modern medicine would adopt.
- 19th Century Advancements: The 19th century witnessed significant strides in medical science and technology. Innovations such as the microscope, anesthesia, and surgical techniques transformed medical practices.
- Evidence-Based Medicine: Modern medicine became truly science-based in the late 19th century, when advances in technology allowed for a more accurate understanding of human physiology, health, and disease. The adoption of evidence-based approaches has become a hallmark of modern medical practice.
- Technological Marvels: The 20th century saw unprecedented developments in medical technology, including the advent of diagnostic imaging, organ transplantation, and the establishment of pharmaceutical research. These advancements revolutionized patient care.
- Global Collaboration: The latter half of the 20th century and the early 21st century have been characterized by increased global collaboration in healthcare. Medical knowledge, research, and innovations have transcended geographical boundaries, leading to improved healthcare outcomes worldwide.
The Global Nature of Modern Medicine
- Global Scientific Collaboration: Researchers worldwide work together to advance medical knowledge and develop innovative treatments.
- Access to Innovations: Patients globally benefit from medical breakthroughs, ensuring wider access to cutting-edge treatments and technologies.
- Healthcare Diplomacy: Many countries engage in healthcare diplomacy, offering aid and expertise to regions in need and fostering goodwill.
- International Healthcare Workforce: Healthcare professionals from diverse backgrounds contribute their expertise globally, addressing healthcare disparities.
- Cross-Cultural Integration: Modern medicine respects diverse healthcare approaches, integrating traditional medical systems and practices from different cultures.
- Pandemic Response: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted global health interconnectedness, emphasizing collaborative efforts in vaccine development, information sharing, and medical aid distribution.
Traditional Medicine in the Modern World
- Traditional medicine, which includes systems like Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha, continues to coexist alongside modern medicine. These traditional systems have a long history and cultural significance. However, their place in the modern world is subject to several challenges:
- Scientific Scrutiny: Traditional medicine often lacks the rigorous scientific validation that modern medicine adheres to. This can hinder its integration into the mainstream healthcare system.
- Safety and Quality Control: Ensuring the safety and quality of traditional medicines can be a concern. Contaminants, inconsistent formulations, and a lack of standardized production processes can lead to safety issues.
- Lack of Standardization: Traditional medicine formulations can vary widely from one source to another, making it difficult to assess their efficacy consistently.
- Cultural and Ethical Considerations: Traditional medicine is deeply rooted in cultural and traditional beliefs. Balancing cultural practices with modern medical standards can be complex, as some treatments may hold cultural significance but lack scientific validation.
- Education and Training: There is a need for comprehensive education and training programs to ensure that practitioners of traditional medicine are well-informed about modern medical standards and safety protocols.
Challenges in Evaluating Ayurvedic Medicines
- Complex Formulations: Ayurvedic medicines often consist of multiple herbs and ingredients, making it challenging to isolate and study the specific active components responsible for their effects.
- Diverse Combinations: Ayurvedic formulations can vary widely in their combinations of herbs and minerals. Understanding how these components interact and their individual contributions to treatment can be complex.
- Lack of Standardization: There is a lack of standardized protocols for the production and quality control of Ayurvedic medicines, affecting the consistency and safety of products.
- Integration with Modern Science: Bridging the gap between traditional Ayurvedic knowledge and modern scientific methods is essential. Developing research methods that respect Ayurvedic principles while adhering to contemporary scientific standards is a challenge.
The government’s role in promoting evidence-based medicine
- Regulation and Oversight: Governments should establish regulatory bodies to oversee traditional medicine practices, ensuring they meet safety and quality standards. This includes setting guidelines for the manufacturing, labeling, and marketing of traditional medicines.
- Research and Funding: New investigational methods and trial designs that can evaluate Ayurvedic therapies without undermining the classical basis of administering them must be worked out. The Ministry of AYUSH must facilitate this.
- Public Awareness: Governments can educate the public about the benefits and limitations of traditional medicine, promoting informed choices when seeking healthcare.
- Integration with Modern Healthcare: Promoting collaboration and integration between traditional and modern healthcare systems can provide patients with a more comprehensive range of treatment options.
Way forward: Maintaining an Open Mind
- Balanced Perspective: Maintain a balanced view when assessing traditional medicine alongside modern healthcare, considering both potential benefits and limitations.
- Open-mindedness: Embrace open-mindedness in exploring traditional practices for potential insights, fostering an environment of curiosity and exploration.
- Informal Verifications: Acknowledge the value of centuries of informal verifications in traditional medicine, recognizing that these practices have been refined through generations of use.
- Cultural Significance: Traditional medical systems are often deeply intertwined with cultural heritage and beliefs. Respecting and acknowledging this cultural significance is essential when considering their place in modern healthcare.
- Historical Insights: The reference to artemisinin, a Nobel-winning anti-malarial drug derived from a 1,600-year-old text of Traditional Chinese Medicine, underscores the potential for valuable discoveries when traditional knowledge is integrated with modern scientific methods.
- Collaboration: Encourage collaboration between traditional practitioners and modern scientists, promoting dialogue and cooperation for the advancement of healthcare.
- Evidence-based Approach: Subject traditional knowledge to rigorous scientific evaluation to ensure safety and efficacy, aligning with the principles of evidence-based medicine to validate its effectiveness.
Conclusion
- The coexistence of traditional and modern medicine systems is a testament to the diversity of human healthcare practices. It is crucial to embrace a nuanced approach that recognizes the strengths and limitations of each system, fostering an environment where science and tradition can collaborate for the betterment of public health.
Also read:
Homeopathy and associated issues
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Women's Reservation Bill
Mains level: Gender parity in India, challenges and Women's Reservation Bill
What’s the news?
- The recently released 17th edition of the Global Gender Gap Report (2023) predicts it will take 131 years to close the global gender gap, rising to 149 years in South Asian countries, including India.
Central idea
- The recently released Global Gender Gap Report by the World Economic Forum, based on data from 146 countries, paints a grim picture. In light of this sobering reality, it is evident that affirmative action in the form of reservation is an essential step towards achieving gender equity and, ultimately, gender equality.
Reservation: An Effective Tool for Equality?
- Equality through Equity: Equity is the initial and essential step toward achieving true equality. In a world where gender discrimination has persisted for centuries, equitable policies like reservations are indispensable. They provide women with the opportunities they have long been denied and help level the playing field.
- Affirmative Action through Reservations: Reservations are undeniably one of the most effective forms of affirmative action aimed at rectifying historical injustices and promoting equity. It serves as the cornerstone for achieving gender equality and is integral to dismantling deeply entrenched societal biases.
- Inefficiency and incompetency Misconceptions: Critics claim that reservations result in inefficiency, but this assertion lacks evidence; competency gaps, if any, are temporary and can be overcome through skill development and experience for marginalized individuals, including women.
- A Level Playing Field: Women are not seeking to compete against their own gender; instead, they aspire to operate in an environment where gender becomes entirely irrelevant, where meritocracy triumphs over discrimination.
- Challenging the Competency Argument: Women consistently outperform men in academics, with higher college graduation rates and increasing representation in the workforce. The glaring gender gap emerges in leadership positions, not due to women’s incompetence but because entrenched male hegemony persists.
Notable examples: Complexities of Gender and Leadership
- Indira Gandhi’s Delayed Leadership: Despite her significant political advantages and early involvement in politics, Indira Gandhi did not become Prime Minister immediately after Jawaharlal Nehru’s death in 1964. She had to wait until the passing of Lal Bahadur Shastri in 1966 to assume the role.
- Historical Opposition to Gender-Based Reservations: During the 1930s Round Table Conference in London, prominent women leaders like Sarojini Naidu and Begum Jahanara Shahnawaz presented a joint manifesto. They rejected the idea of providing either discriminatory or preferential treatment based on gender in legislative representation, indicating their opposition to gender-based reservation policies.
- Diverse Perspectives Within the Women’s Movement: Begum Jahanara Shahnawaz and Radhabai Subbarayan advocated for a modest five percent reservation for women, while Sarojini Naidu opposed such reservations.
A Fresh Start: Women’s Reservation Bill
- Historic Moment: The Women’s Reservation Bill, Constitution (One Hundred Twenty-Eighth Amendment) Bill, 2023, cleared both Houses in September 2023, marking a historic achievement in India.
- Delayed Gender Equality: Despite early universal adult suffrage, women’s role in shaping Indian politics has remained minimal, highlighting the significance of this legislation.
- Global Youthful Leaders: In a trend of younger political leaders worldwide, questions arise about the potential for an ordinary Indian woman to aspire to the Prime Minister’s office, as seen in leaders like Jacinda Ardern.
- Undervalued Women’s Leadership: While women are often recognized in supportive roles, their presence in leadership positions remains limited, as evident in the case of Hillary Clinton, whose qualifications were overshadowed by an inexperienced male opponent in a prominent democracy.
Regressive Views and Misconceptions
- Regressive Views on Gender Equality:
- One of the most significant obstacles to gender equality is the presence of regressive views held by both men and women.
- Even individuals who are considered progressive, like C. Rajagopalachari, have opposed women like Radhabai Subbarayan from contesting general seats.
- Misconceptions about the Women’s Reservation Bill:
- Mulayam Singh’s accusation in Parliament in 2010 further illustrates the challenge. He argued that the earlier version of the Women’s Reservation Bill would primarily benefit educated, urban, and elite women.
- However, this viewpoint failed to recognize that the bill’s core objective was to provide opportunities for women who did not belong to privileged and elite classes.
Changing landscape
- The Prolonged Gender Gap: The persistence of regressive views and misconceptions has contributed to the enduring gender gap. Women have had to wait for an extended period to close this gap. The current Women’s Reservation Bill is considered the first step toward achieving gender parity.
- Desire for Expedited Implementation: There is a hope that the implementation of the Women’s Reservation Bill will be expedited by readjusting seats based on the 1991 Census data, similar to the process followed for Scheduled Caste seats by the Delimitation Commission.
Conclusion
- The Women’s Reservation Bill is the first step toward achieving gender parity in India. It is time to correct historical wrongs, as women and society as a whole demand and deserve change. There is no reason to delay the journey towards true gender equality.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Recent developments involving India
Mains level: India's approach in the evolving Maldivian political landscape
What’s the news?
- The recent presidential election in the Maldives has demonstrated the vitality of democracy in South Asia’s smallest nation-state.
Central idea
- The Maldives’ recent fair and free election, which enhanced its international standing, underscores the importance of a nuanced understanding of its politics rather than portraying it as a China vs. India contest. Voter concerns, especially among the youth, are primarily centered on economic well-being.
Transition of Power in the Maldives and India vs. China
- Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s Era (1978–2008): For three decades, Maumoon Abdul Gayoom ruled as the President, maintaining a one-party system. This period marked a lack of political pluralism and democracy in the Maldives.
- Emergence of Multiparty Democracy (Late 2000s): The Maldives began to transition towards a multiparty democracy under a new constitution, signaling a shift away from Gayoom’s authoritarian rule.
- Mohamed Nasheed’s Presidency (2008–2012): Mohamed Nasheed, a charismatic leader, became the first directly elected President of the Maldives. However, his presidency was short-lived, as he did not complete his full five-year term.
- Shared Presidency (2012–2013): Mohamed Nasheed’s resignation led to a period of political uncertainty. Mohamed Waheed Hassan assumed the presidency during this transitional phase.
- Abdulla Yameen’s Presidency (2013–2018): Abdulla Yameen became president and was notably the most pro-China president during his tenure. His presidency marked a shift in the Maldives’ foreign policy towards China.
- Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s Presidency (2018–2023): Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, representing the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), assumed the presidency and adopted an ‘India First’ policy, emphasizing strong ties with India.
- Transition to Mohamed Muizzu (Upcoming): Following Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s defeat, the presidency is set to transition to Mohamed Muizzu, the opposition candidate backed by an alliance of political parties. Muizzu, who currently serves as the mayor of the capital city, Male, will be sworn in as the new president.
Challenges Faced by Ibrahim Mohamed Solih
- Historical Incumbent Disadvantage: The Maldives has a history of not re-electing incumbent presidents, posing a significant challenge to Solih’s re-election.
- Intraparty Conflict: Internal divisions within the ruling MDP, exacerbated by Mohamed Nasheed’s departure, weakened party cohesion and campaign effectiveness.
- Disinformation Campaign: The opposition alliance launched a disinformation campaign exploiting MDP’s internal divisions and injecting unnecessary geopolitical issues into the election discourse.
- Loss of Nasheed’s Influence: Mohamed Nasheed’s departure deprived the MDP of his charismatic leadership and effective communication skills, further straining party unity.
The Path Ahead for the Maldives
- Leadership Dynamics: Watch for the evolving relationship between President-elect Muizzu and former President Yameen, a key figure in the new administration.
- Transition to Presidential Role: Expect Mayor Muizzu to shift from his mayoral role to acting as president, focusing on domestic development and regional responsibilities.
- Domestic Priorities: Muizzu is likely to prioritize issues like employment, housing, and education for Maldivian citizens while leveraging foreign policy for national interests.
- Foreign Policy Options: The new administration faces choices in foreign policy: revert to ‘India Out,’ continue ‘India First,’ or adopt a balanced approach involving India and China.
- Changing Global Landscape: Consider the impact of challenges to China’s Belt and Road Initiative, the Sri Lankan financial crisis requiring India’s help, and shifts in India-Gulf State relations on the Maldives’ stance.
- Islamist Constituency: Monitor the attitude of the Maldives’ Islamist constituency, which historically had complex relations with India, in response to changing regional dynamics.
- Reduced Interest in Pakistan: Observe how diminishing interest in Pakistan in West Asia may affect the Maldives’ security and its handling of extremism-related challenges.
Recommendations for India’s approach in the evolving Maldivian political landscape
- Positive Public Sentiment: India enjoys a positive image among the Maldivian people, thanks to extensive development work and community projects. This sentiment can be leveraged for stronger bilateral relations.
- Engagement with Youth: Thousands of Maldivian youth have benefited from training and capacity-building programs in India. Continued engagement with youth is vital for fostering long-term ties.
- Diverse Engagement: India plays a significant role in the Maldives, including in tourism, trade, and investment. This multifaceted engagement should be nurtured and expanded.
- Strengthening Regional Initiatives: New Delhi should focus on strengthening regional initiatives, such as the Colombo Security Conclave, with tangible outcomes in maritime security and the development of the Blue Economy.
- BIMSTEC Involvement: India should consider reimagining regional cooperation by inviting the Maldives as an observer in the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) at its next summit. This could enhance regional collaboration.
- Resource Allocation: There is a need for additional resources to support India’s strategic community and media organizations in taking a more active interest in the Maldives. Building bridges of mutual understanding and trust is essential.
Conclusion
- The Maldives’ recent presidential election underscores the resilience of democracy and the evolving political landscape in South Asia. As the nation embarks on a new chapter, prudent diplomacy and strategic engagement will be essential for the Maldives and its regional partners, including India, to navigate the challenges and opportunities on the horizon.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Women’s Reservation Bill
Mains level: Women’s Reservation Bill, concerns and challenges
What’s the news?
- The Women’s Reservation Bill has journeyed through decades of debates and discussions, yet its implementation remains uncertain.
Central idea
- The recent tabling of the Women’s Reservation Bill in the Lok Sabha has brought attention to the long-awaited issue of gender representation in Indian politics. However, despite the grand announcement, there are several complexities and challenges surrounding its implementation that demand scrutiny.
Historical Background
- The issue of women’s reservation in Indian politics dates back to the Constituent Assembly debates in 1947, where it was initially rejected as unnecessary.
- However, subsequent decades witnessed a decline in women’s political representation, prompting further policy deliberations.
- The quest for women’s reservation in legislative bodies began in 1996, with notable progress occurring during Manmohan Singh’s tenure in 2010, when it passed in the Rajya Sabha but faced rejection in the Lok Sabha.
- Since then, the commitment to empowering women in India’s political landscape has remained unfulfilled.
Current Bill’s Complexities
- Implementation Linked to Census and Delimitation: One of the major complexities is that the bill’s implementation is contingent upon two crucial factors: conducting a new census and completing the delimitation process. Unlike some previous legislation, this bill cannot be immediately enforced but rather depends on these time-consuming processes.
- Unclear Timeline: The bill lacks a clear and specific timeline for its implementation. It leaves the question of when reservations for women in legislative bodies will become a reality unanswered. This ambiguity has raised concerns about the government’s commitment to gender equality in politics.
Census and Delimitation Challenges
- Delay Due to the Pandemic:
- The last census in India was conducted in 2011. Subsequent Census exercises were delayed, with the Union government attributing the postponement to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- This delay has had a direct impact on the implementation of the Women’s Reservation Bill since the bill is linked to the data obtained from the Census.
- Even if the Census process moves forward, there is a looming possibility of conflicts arising during the delimitation process.
- Delimitation, which involves the division of electoral constituencies, can be contentious, particularly between different regions and states. This could further delay the bill’s implementation and pose political challenges.
Key Differences from the 2008 Version
- Intra-State Women Representation: Unlike the 2008 version of the bill, the current iteration does not include provisions for “intra-state women representation.” The 2008 bill mandated that one-third of Lok Sabha seats in each state or Union Territory should be reserved for women, ensuring representation from various regions within the state.
- Rotation of Reserved Seats: The current bill proposes that reserved seats for women should be rotated after every delimitation exercise. This means that the seats set aside for women may change constituency boundaries periodically. In contrast, the 2008 bill did not include such a provision.
- Unclear Status During Delimitation: The current bill does not provide clarity on the status of women’s reservations when the delimitation process is ongoing. Given that delimitation commissions typically take several years to issue their reports, it remains uncertain how the reserved seats for women will be affected during this period.
Way forward
- Clear Implementation Plan: The government must outline a comprehensive and transparent plan for the implementation of the Women’s Reservation Bill. A clear roadmap with specific timelines can provide clarity and boost public confidence in the process.
- Fast-Track Census and Delimitation: Expedite the Census and delimitation processes. Swiftly resolve any conflicts that may arise during these procedures to prevent further delays in implementing the bill.
- Revise Intra-State Representation: Reconsider the exclusion of intra-state women’s representation from the current bill. Ensuring representation from various regions within a state can enhance diversity and inclusivity.
- Seat Rotation Framework: Develop a framework for seat rotation that balances stability and change in women’s representation. Ensure that changes in constituency boundaries do not disrupt the continuity of women in politics.
- Encourage Political Parties: Encourage political parties to proactively nominate more women candidates in elections. Parties can voluntarily set quotas for women candidates to increase their presence in legislative bodies.
Conclusion
- For a nation that initially championed equal rights and representation for all citizens, this delay is a blemish on the visionary ideals of our founding fathers. It is high time that the promise of women’s reservation in politics transforms into a tangible reality.
Also read:
What will hold up women’s reservation Bill?
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Banking sector updates
Mains level: India's banking sector growth, reforms, opportunities, challenges and way forward
What’s the news?
- Despite facing numerous challenges in the past quarter-century, including economic crises, pandemics, and geopolitical tensions, India’s banking and financial sector has continued to evolve and adapt.
Central idea
- India’s remarkable growth and stability over the past 25 years have placed the country at the forefront of global optimism. This shift is attributed to the nation’s governance structures and policy apparatus, which have fostered innovation and positioned India as a hub of novel public goods. Among the sectors driving this transformation, banking and finance stand out as key contributors.
The Banking Evolution
- Maturation of Banking in India: Over a period of 75 years, India’s banking sector has matured and grown into a vibrant and robust industry.
- Reforms and Critical Enablers: The past 30 years have seen critical reforms that have played a pivotal role in enabling the growth and transformation of the banking sector.
- Diversity in Banking: India’s banking sector now boasts a diverse landscape that includes public sector banks, private banks, non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), and a burgeoning fintech ecosystem. This diversity has made the financial sector more inclusive and dynamic.
- Addressing Legacy Issues: Reforms and changes in the sector have addressed legacy issues such as non-performing assets (NPAs), making the banking system more resilient.
- Internal Accruals: The internal accruals have become a significant source of growth capital for banks, enhancing their financial stability.
- Technological Advancements: Banks in India have moved away from traditional, brick-and-mortar models to embrace advanced technology. Products such as mobile banking apps, UPI, Aadhaar e-KYC, and digital payment systems have transformed the banking landscape.
The role of artificial intelligence (AI)
- Knowledge-Based Regime: India’s banking system is undergoing a transition toward a knowledge-based regime, primarily driven by AI and cognitive computing technologies. This shift represents a move away from traditional banking practices toward more data-driven and intelligent operations.
- Personalization of Customer Engagement: AI is enabling banks to personalize customer engagement. Through AI-powered capabilities, banks can gain a deeper understanding of individual customer preferences and needs. This personalization enhances the overall customer experience.
- Deeper Understanding of Customers: AI facilitates a more profound insight into customers’ behaviors and financial needs. By analyzing data and utilizing machine learning algorithms, banks can develop a comprehensive understanding of their customers, allowing for more targeted services.
- Adaptation to a Changing Business Environment: In a landscape characterized by constant change, AI serves as a valuable tool for ensuring banks remain agile and responsive to shifting demands.
- Challenges and Opportunities: While AI presents significant opportunities for banks, it also poses challenges. Banks must address issues related to data privacy, ethical considerations, and the potential biases inherent in AI algorithms.
- Key to Future Success: AI will be a pivotal factor in differentiating successful banks in the coming years. Banks that effectively harness AI technologies are likely to maintain their competitiveness and adapt to the changing demands of customers and the business landscape.
What are the Challenges?
- Digitalization Challenges: The digitalization of banking services has introduced several challenges. These include the proliferation of unregulated digital lending apps, the emergence of cryptocurrencies, and the risk of cyberattacks.
- Cybersecurity Risks: There is a need to address cybersecurity risks. As digitalization advances, banks are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats and attacks.
- Critical Support Infrastructure: With the increasing reliance on digital banking channels, ensuring the availability of critical support infrastructure becomes paramount. This encompasses maintaining secure payment settlement systems, safeguarding ATMs, and ensuring the continuity of internet and mobile banking services.
- Data Challenges: As banks increasingly rely on data for decision-making and personalization, addressing methodological and data challenges is essential. Ensuring data accuracy, security, and compliance with privacy regulations is a responsibility that banks must prioritize.
Way forward
- Customer Grievances: The digital banking era comes with added responsibilities related to addressing customer grievances efficiently. Banks must establish mechanisms to handle and resolve customer complaints promptly to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of banking services.
- Regulator frameworks: These digitalization-related challenges require banks to adopt robust security measures and regulatory frameworks to protect both customers and the financial system.
- Climate Change Imperative: Initiatives for decarbonization present opportunities in renewables, green hydrogen, and green goods trade. Banks are expected to be major financiers in combating climate change, necessitating robust risk management practices.
- Investment in Human Resources: In an ever-changing environment, the quality of human resources becomes a critical differentiator. Banks and financial institutions must attract, train, and retain talent while fostering adaptability and upskilling.
- Innovation and Governance: Financial services must invest in research and embrace out-of-the-box ideas for seamless service delivery and product personalization. Governance remains the backbone of institutions and is crucial for financial stability.
Conclusion
- India’s banking sector has endured and evolved, emerging from a challenging decade more resilient and adaptable. With a focus on robust governance, innovation, and a growing domestic market, it is poised to play a crucial role in India’s journey towards an Atmanirbhar Bharat, promoting equitable and sustainable development.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Key findings
Mains level: Mental health: A universal human right
What’s the news?
- World Mental Health Day, observed on October 10, underscores the theme of ‘mental health as a universal human right.’
Central idea
- While the World Mental Health Day theme highlights the importance of mental health for all, it’s crucial to address the often-overlooked mental health challenges of India’s informal workers. This necessitates proactive policies aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Global Perspective
- According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), approximately 15% of working-age adults globally live with a mental disorder.
- Decent work can positively influence mental health, but unemployment, unstable employment, workplace discrimination, and unsafe working environments pose significant risks to mental health.
- Informal workers, particularly those in low-paid and precarious jobs, often face psychosocial risks that compromise their mental well-being.
India’s Informal Workforce
- India’s informal workforce constitutes over 90% of the total working population. These workers endure unsafe conditions, work long hours, and have limited access to social and financial protections.
- Discrimination and gender disparities are prevalent, with over 95% of working women engaged in informal, low-paying, and precarious employment.
- The mental health of informal workers is further undermined by patriarchal structures and practices in their social and familial spaces.
Challenges faced by the informal workforce in India
- Lack of Formal Protections: Informal workers often lack legal and social protections. They work without employment contracts, job security, or access to benefits like health insurance and paid leave.
- Unsafe Working Conditions: Many informal workers labor in hazardous environments, increasing their risk of occupational health and safety issues.
- Long Working Hours: Informal workers frequently work long hours, often without clear boundaries between work and personal life, affecting their physical and mental well-being.
- Limited Access to Social Protections: These workers have limited access to social safety nets, making them vulnerable to economic shocks such as illness or job loss.
- Gender Disparities: Gender disparities are pronounced in the informal sector, with many women engaged in low-paying and precarious employment. Discrimination and patriarchal structures exacerbate these challenges.
- Precarious Employment: Informal work is characterized by its precarious nature, including irregular income, job insecurity, and uncertainty about future employment.
- Income Inequality: Informal workers often earn lower wages than their formal sector counterparts, contributing to income inequality.
Youth and Unemployment
- Youth unemployment is a pressing issue in India, significantly affecting mental health.
- Many young workers are forced into precarious and informal work due to desperation, accepting lower pay and poorer working conditions.
- Unemployment rates are particularly high among educated young women, reaching 42%.
- Given India’s demographic dividend, it is crucial to prioritize employment quality and long-term social security for this population.
Aging Workforce and Vulnerability
- India is expected to become an aging society in two decades, yet there is no clear social security plan for this growing demographic group.
- The Census of India 2011 reveals that 33 million elderly individuals continue working in informal sectors post-retirement.
- This vulnerable group lacks financial and health-care security, which can severely impact their physical and mental health.
Social Security and Mental Health
- Informal workers face mental distress due to accumulating debt and rising health-care costs: Informal workers often experience financial strain due to their precarious employment, leading to the accumulation of debt and increased healthcare expenses.
- Interconnectedness of Economic and Mental Health Factors: Mental health and well-being are interconnected with factors such as food security, access to livelihoods, and financial stability. These factors play a significant role in determining the mental health of informal workers.
- Post-COVID-19 Recovery Challenges: A study conducted among informal workers in Delhi, primarily migrants, reveals that the recovery post-COVID-19 remains uneven among different cohorts of informal workers. Many still report food insecurity, skipped meals, or reduced consumption, which can have detrimental effects on their mental health.
- Impact of Government Schemes: While some social security schemes have received increased funding, others, like the MNREGS, have seen reductions in funding. Adequate funding of employment guarantee programs can positively impact the mental health outcomes of informal workers.
- High Suicide Rates Among Daily Wage Earners: The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reported that in 2021, 26% of people who died by suicide were daily wage earners. This statistic highlights the mental health challenges faced by this group and the need for better support and social security measures.
- Types of Social Security Measures: Social security measures can take various forms, including:
- Promotional: Aimed at augmenting income.
- Preventive: Intended to forestall economic distress.
- Protective: Designed to ensure relief from external shocks.
- The Code on Social Security 2020: It is necessary to revisit the Code on Social Security 2020, highlighting that it doesn’t explicitly state the goal of universalizing social security in India, particularly for informal workers.
Way Forward: Improving Mental Health Care
- Low Budgetary Allocation for Mental Health: India’s budgetary allocation for mental health currently stands at less than 1% of the total health budget. This allocation has predominantly focused on digital mental health programs.
- Importance of Community-Based Care: The World Mental Health Report 2022 emphasizes the need to strengthen community-based care as part of a comprehensive mental health approach.
- Human Rights-Oriented Care: To address mental health effectively, it is important to provide people-centered, recovery-oriented, and human rights-oriented care.
- Urgent Need for Proactive Policies: There is a pressing need for proactive policies that not only recognize the importance of mental health but also take concrete actions to improve mental health care in India.
- Basic Human Right to Good Health: Mental health is a basic human right, and it emphasizes the need to uphold this right by providing access to quality mental health care.
Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being: Improving mental health care aligns with SDG 3, which aims to ensure good health and well-being for all.
- SDG 8: Decent Work for All/Economic Growth: Addressing mental health issues among informal workers is crucial for advancing SDG 8, which focuses on decent work for all and economic growth.
Conclusion
- Proactive policies and comprehensive social security measures can uplift the mental well-being of this marginalized group, promoting a society where mental health is indeed a universal human right. Achieving this goal will contribute to the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals and ensure a healthier, more equitable future for all.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Multimodal AI models in news
Mains level: Multimodal Artificial Intelligence, significance and applications
What’s the news?
- Leading AI companies are entering a new race to embrace multimodal capabilities.
Central idea
- AI’s next frontier is undoubtedly headed toward multimodal systems, enabling users to interact with AI through various sensory channels. People gain insights and context by interpreting images, sounds, videos, and text, making multimodal AI a natural evolution for comprehensive cognition.
A New Race to Embrace Multimodal Capabilities
- OpenAI, known for ChatGPT, recently announced that GPT-3.5 and GPT-4 models can now understand images and describe them in words.
- Additionally, their mobile apps are equipped with speech synthesis, enabling dynamic conversations with AI.
- OpenAI initially promised multimodality with GPT-4’s release but expedited its implementation following reports of Google’s Gemini, a forthcoming multimodal language model.
Google’s Advantage and OpenAI’s Response
- Google enjoys an advantage in the multimodal realm because of its vast image and video repository through its search engine and YouTube.
- Nevertheless, OpenAI is rapidly advancing in this space. They are actively recruiting multimodal experts, offering competitive salaries of up to $3,70,000 per year.
- OpenAI is also working on a project called Gobi, which aims to build a multimodal AI system from the ground up, distinguishing it from their GPT models.
What is multimodal artificial intelligence?
- Multimodal AI is an innovative approach in the field of AI that aims to revolutionize the way AI systems process and interpret information by seamlessly integrating various sensory modalities.
- Unlike conventional AI models, which typically focus on a single data type, multimodal AI systems have the capability to simultaneously comprehend and utilize data from diverse sources, such as text, images, audio, and video.
- The hallmark of multimodal AI lies in its ability to harness the combined power of different sensory inputs, mimicking the way humans perceive and interact with the world.
The Mechanics of Multimodality
- Multimodal AI Basics: Multimodal AI processes data from various sources simultaneously, such as text, images, and audio.
- DALL.E’s Foundation: DALL.E, a notable model, is built upon the CLIP model, both developed by OpenAI in 2021.
- Training Approach: Multimodal AI models link text and images during training, enabling them to recognize patterns that connect visuals with textual descriptions.
- Audio Multimodality: Similar principles apply to audio, as seen in models like Whisper, which translates speech in audio into plain text.
Applications of multimodal AI
- Image Caption Generation: Multimodal AI systems are used to automatically generate descriptive captions for images, making content more informative and accessible.
- Video Analysis: They are employed in video analysis, combining visual and auditory data to recognize actions and events in videos.
- Speech Recognition: Multimodal AI, like OpenAI’s Whisper, is utilized for speech recognition, translating spoken language in audio into plain text.
- Content Generation: These systems generate content, such as images or text, based on textual or visual prompts, enhancing content creation.
- Healthcare: Multimodal AI is applied in medical imaging to analyze complex datasets, such as CT scans, aiding in disease diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Autonomous Driving: Multimodal AI supports autonomous vehicles by processing data from various sensors and improving navigation and safety.
- Virtual Reality: It enhances virtual reality experiences by providing rich sensory feedback, including visuals, sounds, and potentially other sensory inputs like temperature.
- Cross-Modal Data Integration: Multimodal AI aims to integrate diverse sensory data, such as touch, smell, and brain signals, enabling advanced applications and immersive experiences.
Complex multimodal systems
- Meta introduced ImageBind, a multifaceted open-source AI multimodal system, in May this year. It incorporates text, visual data, audio, temperature, and movement readings.
- The vision is to add sensory data like touch, speech, smell, and brain fMRI signals, enabling AI systems to cross-reference these inputs much like they currently do with text.
- This futuristic approach could lead to immersive virtual reality experiences, incorporating not only visuals and sounds but also environmental elements like temperature and wind.
Real-World Applications
- The potential of multimodal AI extends to fields like autonomous driving, robotics, and medicine. Medical tasks, often involving complex image datasets, can benefit from AI systems that analyze these images and provide plain-language responses. Google Research’s Health AI section has explored the integration of multimodal AI in healthcare.
- Multimodal speech translation is another promising segment, with Google Translate and Meta’s SeamlessM4T model offering text-to-speech, speech-to-text, speech-to-speech, and text-to-text translations for numerous languages.
Conclusion
- The future of AI lies in embracing multimodality, opening doors to innovation and practical applications across various domains.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: India's services sector growth, key players, Manufacturing sector Potential and Future Prospects
What’s the news?
- In a major economic development, India’s service exports surged by $60 billion over three years, with diversification beyond IT services. Additionally, domestic tech startups are poised to expand into manufacturing, potentially revitalizing the sector and bolstering job creation.
Central idea
- Two significant transformations are reshaping India’s services sector, potentially defining the nation’s growth trajectory. These changes involve the rapid evolution of service exports and the transformation of domestic services. As both of these sectors modernize, they are not only changing in form but also venturing into manufacturing, offering exciting prospects for India’s economic future.
India’s services export sector
- In recent years, India’s service exports have undergone a remarkable expansion, delivering an additional $60 billion in annual revenues compared to just three years ago.
- The catalyst behind this surge was the COVID-19 pandemic, which spurred a surge in demand for IT services due to the widespread adoption of remote work arrangements.
- However, India’s service exports have transcended their traditional roles, shedding their identity as merely call centers or software solution providers.
- Instead, India now proudly offers an extensive array of professional services, encompassing accounting, legal, HR, business development, design, and cutting-edge R&D.
Key players
- Large IT Firms: Large information technology (IT) companies have traditionally been prominent players in India’s services export sector. They continue to play a significant role in providing IT services, software solutions, and technology-related services to clients worldwide.
- Mid-sized IT Firms: While large IT firms remain influential, mid-sized IT companies have been gaining market share in the services export sector. These mid-sized firms have demonstrated their ability to compete and thrive in the global market, contributing to the sector’s growth.
- Consulting Firms: Consulting firms are another crucial category of key players. They have expanded their service export portfolios to include a wide range of advisory and consulting services, catering to the needs of global clients.
- Global Capability Centers (GCCs): India boasts the world’s largest share of Global Capability Centers (GCCs). These entities, initially focused on providing tech support to multinational parent companies, have evolved into offering higher-value-added services such as legal, audit, design, and research and development (R&D). GCCs have become integral to India’s service export landscape.
What are Global Capability Centers (GCCs)?
- The GCCs are specialized centers or units established by multinational corporations (MNCs) in India to provide a wide range of services to their parent companies and global operations.
- Originally, GCCs primarily focused on offering technical and IT support services to their parent MNCs.
- However, over time, they have evolved and expanded their service offerings to include higher-value-added functions and services.
- In 2022–23, around 1,600 GCCs made up a market of $46 billion, employing 1.7 million.
- Although professional and consulting services exports account for only a quarter of India’s services exports when compared to IT services, they have experienced the fastest growth with a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 31% over the last four years. This is followed by computer services with a 16% CAGR and R&D services with a 13% CAGR.
Future Prospects
- Permanent Shift Towards Remote Work: The enduring trend of remote work is expected to drive ongoing demand for IT services.
- India’s Diverse Skill Portfolio: India’s workforce boasts a wide range of skills, from engineering to design, catering to a broad spectrum of services. This diversity positions India as a versatile service provider capable of meeting evolving global demands.
- Cost Competitiveness: India’s cost-competitive advantage in providing high-quality IT services is likely to endure. As businesses seek cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality, India remains an attractive destination for outsourcing IT services.
- Tipping Point for Stronger Growth Trends: India is at a crucial juncture where the growth trends in services exports are expected to become even more robust.
- Government Support and Policy Initiatives: The Indian government’s initiatives to promote the IT and services sector, such as the Digital India campaign and the development of technology parks, will likely continue to foster an enabling environment for growth.
- Comparison with Other Economies: India’s growth trajectory resembles that of countries like the US, the UK, Germany, and Ireland, which saw rapid acceleration in services exports once they reached a certain size. This suggests the potential for even higher growth.
Manufacturing Sector Potential
- Digital infrastructure can alleviate common challenges faced by small manufacturers.
- Start-ups can facilitate access to formal credit, cheaper raw materials, larger markets, improved warehousing and logistics, and enhanced quality control for small manufacturers.
- Evidence shows that domestic services sector companies, particularly in transport services, procurement support, and e-commerce, are venturing into manufacturing.
Conclusion
- India’s services sector is at an exciting crossroads, with both services exports and domestic services undergoing transformation. Embracing this potential requires proactive policy measures and continued innovation in the services sector to propel India toward higher economic prosperity.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Israel-Palestine crisis, Impact on the region, India's relations and its Impact
What’s the news?
- The recent escalation of violence between Hamas, the Palestinian terrorist group, and Israel has resulted in a significant loss of life and raised concerns internationally. At the heart of this conflict is Operation Al-Aqsa Deluge, initiated by Hamas, which has led to a series of events with far-reaching implications for the region.
Central idea
- The recent Hamas operation, Toofan Al-Aqsa (Al-Aqsa Flood), bears uncanny similarities to the launch of the 19-day Yom Kippur War that occurred 50 years ago. While the Yom Kippur War had inconclusive results, it led to a significant regional shift, ultimately resulting in Israel’s acceptance of the ‘land for peace’ formula at the Camp David Accords six years later.
Quick recap: Understand the conflict
- Muhammad Deif’s Statement: Muhammad Deif, the military commander of Hamas, delivered a recorded message, characterizing the operation as a moment for people to regain their revolution.
- The Significance of Al-Aqsa Mosque: Central to this conflict is the Al-Aqsa Mosque, one of the holiest sites in Islam after Mecca and Medina. Situated on a hill known as Temple Mount to Jews and the Noble Sanctuary to Muslims, the mosque is located in the heart of Jerusalem’s Old City. It houses two important Muslim holy sites: the Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aqsa Mosque (also known as the Qibli Mosque), dating back to the 8th century AD.
- Historical Context: The Al-Aqsa Mosque complex overlooks the Western Wall, a sacred site for Jews believed to have been constructed 3,000 years ago by King Solomon.
- Capture by Israel: In 1967, during the Middle East War, Israel captured the site and later annexed it, actions not recognized internationally.
- Triggering Tensions: The Al-Aqsa Mosque has been a long-standing focal point of Israeli-Palestinian tensions, leading to clashes and conflicts.
- 2021 Conflict: Recent clashes in 2021 resulted in a 10-day-long war, leading to casualties on both sides.
- April Clashes: In April of the same year, Israeli police clashed with Palestinians at the site, sparking cross-border exchanges of fire.
- International Concern: The ongoing violence, particularly centered around Al-Aqsa Mosque, has raised international concerns and has broader implications for regional stability.
Hold On! Don’t scroll past this
An overview of major flare-ups and significant events (2005 to October 2023)
- August 2005: Israel unilaterally withdraws from the Gaza Strip, leaving it under Palestinian Authority control.
- January 25, 2006: Hamas wins a majority of seats in Palestinian legislative elections, leading to a cutoff of aid by Israel and the U.S. due to Hamas’s refusal to renounce violence and recognize Israel.
- June 25, 2006: Hamas militants capture Israeli army conscript Gilad Shalit, leading to Israeli air strikes and incursions. Shalit is released more than five years later in a prisoner exchange.
- June 14, 2007: Hamas takes over Gaza in a brief civil war, ousting Fatah forces loyal to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
- December 27, 2008: Israel launches a 22-day military offensive in Gaza in response to rocket attacks. A ceasefire is eventually agreed upon after casualties on both sides.
- November 14, 2012: Israel kills Hamas’s military chief of staff, Ahmad Jabari, leading to eight days of conflict involving Palestinian militant rocket fire and Israeli air strikes.
- July-August 2014: The kidnapping and killing of three Israeli teenagers by Hamas lead to a seven-week war, resulting in casualties in both Gaza and Israel.
- March 2018: Palestinian protests begin at Gaza’s border with Israel, leading to clashes and casualties.
- May 2021: Tension during Ramadan leads to clashes at the Al Aqsa compound in Jerusalem. Hamas launches rocket attacks from Gaza, and Israel responds with airstrikes, resulting in an 11-day conflict.
- August 2022: Israeli airstrikes target an Islamic Jihad commander, leading to rocket attacks from Islamic Jihad in Gaza and a limited escalation.
- January 2023: Islamic Jihad fires rockets into Israel in response to Israeli actions in a refugee camp.
- October 2023: Hamas launches a major attack on Israel from Gaza, combining a border crossing with rocket barrages. Islamic Jihad joins the attack.
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Potential Outcomes of the Ongoing Conflict
- Israel’s Military Superiority: Israel is not under an existential threat from Hamas, and the outcome of the conflict is expected to favor Israel. A massive ground incursion into Gaza may follow to restore morale, re-establish strategic dominance, and rescue captives.
- Reevaluation of Israeli Strategies: The conflict’s experiences, including intelligence failures and overreliance on high-tech missile defense and artificial intelligence, may compel Israel to revise its strategic doctrines.
- Impact on Non-State Arab Militias: Depending on the conflict’s endgame, it could potentially boost the standing of non-state Arab militias such as Hamas, Islamic Jihad, Hezbollah, and others in the region.
- Geographic Confinement: The crisis is likely to remain geographically confined to Gaza and its immediate surroundings, due to limited support for Hamas and Islamic Jihad in the region.
- The Palestinian Authority’s Dilemma: The Palestinian Authority is divided between the West Bank and Gaza, with Fatah losing credibility. Hamas and Islamic Jihad are capitalizing on this to establish their presence in the West Bank.
- Regional Non-Support for Hamas: Regionally, there is little support for Hamas, except for Turkey. Egypt, in particular, does not favor Hamas, given its past ties to the Muslim Brotherhood. Gulf monarchies, except Qatar, strongly disapprove of Hamas.
- Iran’s Involvement: Iran has been a mentor to Hamas and Islamic Jihad and has attempted to supply weapons to Gaza. Iran’s involvement could escalate the crisis further.
Impact on the Region
- Risk of Delay in Regional Diplomacy: The crisis may delay regional diplomatic efforts, including the potential rapprochement between Saudi Arabia and Israel, due to Israel’s reluctance to make concessions sought by Riyadh.
- Repercussions for the Abraham Accords: The Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between Israel and some Arab states, could face challenges due to the ongoing conflict.
- Potential Iranian Gains: Iran may feel emboldened by the conflict, potentially affecting regional dynamics and tensions.
Impact on India
- While India is not directly affected, it could feel some indirect effects, such as an oil price rise, impacts on the Indian diaspora, and potential setbacks for regional economic initiatives.
- However, India’s reputation as a stable and fast-growing economy may be enhanced in this context.
Conclusion
- The Toofan Al-Aqsa crisis has regional implications that could alter the dynamics in the Middle East. As the situation evolves, it remains essential for stakeholders, including India, to monitor developments closely and prepare for potential repercussions while seeking avenues for diplomatic engagement and stability in the region.
Must read:
India’s Evolving Relations with Israel and Palestine
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NFCS and the Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS)
Mains level: National Framework for Climate Services (NFCS) and its significance, global best practices
What’s the news?
- India is embarking on a significant endeavor to launch its maiden national-level framework for providing climate services and information.
Central idea
- Spearheaded by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the National Framework for Climate Services (NFCS) aims to create a seamless platform for users of climate information and services. It will play a crucial role in mitigating climate risks across key sectors such as agriculture, energy, disaster management, health, and water.
What is the NFCS?
- The NFCS is India’s response to the Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS), a global partnership established to enhance the production and utilization of climate information and services.
- The GFCS fosters collaboration between researchers and users to make informed decisions for long-term climate resilience.
- The NFCS will be tailored to India’s specific weather patterns and stakeholder requirements, with the IMD serving as the nodal agency.
Why is it significant?
- Bridging Functional Gaps: The NFCS will address gaps in the coordination between various agencies that rely on climate services, including hydrology, power, renewable energy, transportation, dams, irrigation, and health. It will ensure better integration and data sharing among these sectors.
- Expanding Sectoral Focus: While initially targeting key sectors like agriculture, energy, health, water, and disaster risk reduction, India can incorporate other relevant sectors like transportation and tourism as needed.
- Enhancing Data Collection: The NFCS will strengthen India’s observational network on land and sea, improving data inflow. This data will be used to run weather and climate models for more accurate climate predictions.
- Tailored Climate Information: Climate data and information products will be customized to meet the needs of users. This will help in identifying trends in agriculture, health, population distribution, infrastructure planning, energy generation, and more.
- Climate Resilience: NFCS will support efforts to prepare for and adapt to new climate conditions, helping mitigate impacts on various sectors, including water supplies, health risks, extreme events, farm productivity, and infrastructure development.
All you need to know about the Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS)
- The National Framework for Climate Services (NFCS) is based on the Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS).
- Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS): The GFCS is an international initiative that brings together governments and organizations at a global level. Its primary objective is to enhance the production and utilization of climate information and services. The GFCS was officially established following the announcement made during the third World Climate Conference held in Geneva in 2009.
- Partnerships and Collaboration: GFCS emphasizes partnerships and collaboration among various stakeholders, including governments, meteorological and hydrological services (NMHS) at the national level, researchers, policymakers, planners, investors, and vulnerable communities or sectors.
- User-Friendly Format: GFCS recognizes the importance of presenting climate information and services in a user-friendly format.
- Data Generation: GFCS aims to generate high-quality climate data from both national and international sources. This data includes information on critical weather parameters such as temperature, rainfall, wind, soil moisture, ocean conditions, and more.
Major components:
- Observations and Monitoring: This component focuses on collecting and monitoring climate-related data from various sources.
- Research: Research activities contribute to the development of climate models and prediction tools.
- Modeling and Prediction: Climate models and prediction systems are crucial for generating forecasts and long-term projections.
- Climate Services Information System: This system facilitates the collection and management of climate data and information.
- User Interface Platform: User-friendly platforms and tools are designed to make climate information accessible to a broad audience.
How India plans to implement NFCS?
- Global Examples: India acknowledges the successful implementation of NFCS in countries like Switzerland, China, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Learning from their experiences, India can adapt and refine its own NFCS.
- Advanced Stages: Several countries in Africa, including Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Gambia, Guinea, Madagascar, Moldova, Niger, Senegal, Chad, Togo, Tanzania, Vanuatu, and South Africa, have made significant progress in NFCS implementation. India can draw lessons from these nations’ experiences.
- Workshops and Consultations: India has taken an active role in organizing workshops related to NFCS, such as the one held in Pune. It is also planning national consultation workshops in collaboration with countries like Cuba, Ghana, Liberia, Malawi, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Congo-Brazzaville, and Ethiopia. These forums facilitate knowledge sharing and the exchange of best practices.
- Historical Perspective: While the idea of NFCS in India dates back to 2008, its actual implementation faced delays. Given the increasing frequency of climate-related events, India now understands the urgency of accelerating NFCS implementation.
- Mission-Mode Approach: To expedite NFCS, India is adopting a mission-mode approach. This approach involves a focused, time-bound, and high-priority effort, often driven by the highest decision-making offices in the country.
- Statement Release: India is preparing to release an official statement on NFCS. This statement will outline the objectives, strategies, and expected outcomes of NFCS in India.
Conclusion
- As climate variability and extreme events become increasingly common, India’s NFCS comes at a critical juncture. By involving key stakeholders and leveraging global partnerships, India can harness climate information to make informed decisions for a sustainable and climate-resilient future.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Money Bill and related provisions and procedure
Mains level: Money Bill debate and Supreme Court in interpretations
What’s the news?
- In recent years, some major legislations have been passed via the money bill route. Now a seven-judge SC bench will hear a challenge to the Centre’s use of money bills for passing important laws.
Central idea
- In a significant development, the Chief Justice of India announced that a seven-judge bench will be constituted to address a series of pleas challenging the government’s use of the money bill route to enact certain key legislations. This move comes in response to mounting concerns about the validity and constitutional propriety of this legislative procedure.
- A money bill is a type of legislative proposal that is defined and governed by Article 110 of the Indian Constitution.
What constitutes a money bill?
- Subject: A bill is considered a money bill if it exclusively deals with specific financial matters outlined in Article 110(1)(a) to (g) of the Indian Constitution. These matters include taxation, government borrowing, and the appropriation of money from the Consolidated Fund of India, among others.
- Introduction in Lok Sabha: Money bills can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha, which is the lower house of India’s Parliament. They cannot originate in the Rajya Sabha, which is the upper house.
- Exclusion of Rajya Sabha Consent: Unlike ordinary bills, money bills do not require the consent or approval of the Rajya Sabha (Council of States). The Lok Sabha has the exclusive authority to pass or reject money bills.
- Final Decision of the Speaker: Article 110(3) of the Constitution states that if any question arises whether a bill is a money bill or not, the decision of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha on this matter shall be final.
- Judicial Scrutiny: While the Constitution grants the Speaker the final authority in deciding whether a bill is a money bill, the Indian judiciary has the power to review and examine the Speaker’s decision for compliance with constitutional provisions.
Challenged Legislations
- Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) Amendments:
- In July 2022, a three-judge bench composed of Justices A. M. Khanwilkar, Dinesh Maheshwari, and CT Ravikumar upheld the PMLA and the extensive powers of the Enforcement Directorate (ED).
- However, they left the validity of amendments to the PMLA via the Money Bill route open for review by a larger Constitution bench.
- The Finance Acts passed in 2015, 2016, 2018, and 2019 introduced significant changes to the PMLA, raising questions about the constitutionality of their passage.
- Aadhaar Act:
- The Aadhaar case marked a significant challenge to the categorization of a bill as a money bill.
- In 2018, the Supreme Court, in a 4:1 majority, ruled in favor of the government, declaring the Aadhaar Act a valid money bill under Article 110 of the Constitution.
- Notably, Justice Chandrachud dissented, condemning the government’s action as a fraud on the Constitution and subterfuge.
- Tribunal Reform:
- In the case of Roger Matthew vs. Union of India in November 2019, the Supreme Court confronted the issue of changes in the service conditions of tribunal members introduced as a money bill in the Finance Act, 2017.
- While a five-judge bench deemed the law unconstitutional for impinging on judicial independence, it referred the money bill aspect to a larger constitution bench.
- This move also cast doubt on the correctness of the five-judge Constitution Bench’s 2018 verdict upholding the Aadhaar Act as a money bill.
The Larger Bench and Implications
- Constitutional Significance: The cases involve the interpretation of Article 110 and the determination of whether specific bills genuinely qualify as money bills. The decisions reached by the larger bench will establish crucial precedents in constitutional law.
- Clarifying Legislative Boundaries: The larger bench’s decisions will play a pivotal role in clarifying the boundaries of legislative power in India. It will provide guidance on when a bill can be categorized as a money bill and, consequently, whether it requires the consent of the Rajya Sabha.
- Impact on Challenged Legislations: The decisions of the larger bench will directly impact the validity of specific legislations challenged for being passed as money bills. For instance, in the case of amendments to the PMLA, the outcome will determine the fate of these amendments and whether they must undergo further scrutiny in both houses of Parliament.
- Judicial Review of Speaker’s Decision: The larger bench’s deliberations may provide further clarity on the extent of judicial review over the Speaker’s decision regarding the classification of bills as money bills.
Conclusion
- The announcement of a seven-judge bench by CJI Chandrachud signals a substantial step toward addressing these concerns and providing clarity on the boundaries of this legislative process, which has far-reaching implications for India’s legal and political framework.
Also read:
Money Bills vs Finance Bills: What are the differences, what the court has ruled
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: SDGs report 2023
Mains level: NEP 2020 and Its Alignment with SDGs and the significant role of Universities
What’s the news?
- Though it has been eight years since the inception of these goals, the SDGs Report 2023 flagged slow progress and painted a grim picture.
Central idea
- The SDGs Report 2023 highlights sluggish progress exacerbated by the lingering effects of COVID-19, climate change impacts, geopolitical conflicts, and a fragile global economy. This universal struggle is particularly pronounced in the least developed countries, including India. Despite India’s resilience in facing global crises, achieving the SDGs remains a challenge.
About SDGs
- The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) represent a global commitment to address pressing socio-economic and environmental challenges.
- These 17 goals with 169 targets, unanimously agreed upon by all 193 UN member states, aim to eradicate poverty, enhance education, reduce inequality, and stimulate economic growth by 2030.
NEP 2020 and Its Alignment with SDGs
- India’s commitment to realizing the SDGs is evident through recent actions and policies.
- The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 in India closely aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG4, which focuses on quality education.
Here’s how NEP 2020 aligns with the SDGs:
- Quality Education and Lifelong Learning (SDG4): NEP 2020 emphasizes quality education for all in India, addressing disparities and promoting inclusivity, in alignment with SDG4. It also recognizes the importance of lifelong learning, supporting SDG4’s objective of inclusive and equitable quality education throughout one’s life.
- Gender Equality (SDG5): The policy promotes gender equality in education, ensuring equal opportunities for girls and women. It aims to eliminate gender-based discrimination and stereotypes in education, aligning with SDG5’s objective.
- Employability and Skills Development (SDG8): NEP 2020 focuses on equipping students with practical skills and knowledge, making them more employable. This aligns with SDG8’s goal of promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.
- Environmental Sustainability (SDG 13): The policy acknowledges the significance of environmental education and sustainability. It encourages eco-friendly practices and awareness of environmental issues among students, aligning with SDG 13’s objective of combating climate change.
- Research and Innovation (SDG9): NEP 2020 underscores the importance of research and innovation in higher education. It seeks to foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, aligning with SDG 9’s goal of promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization and fostering innovation.
- Global Partnerships for Development (SDG17): The policy promotes international collaboration in higher education and research. It aims to establish partnerships with global institutions, foster knowledge exchange, and align with SDG17’s objective of strengthening global partnerships for sustainable development.
Enhancing the Role of Universities
- Research-Teaching Nexus: Universities should strengthen the connection between research and teaching in higher education. By bridging the gap between research and teaching, universities can provide students with real-world insights and solutions to global challenges.
- Multidisciplinary and Interdisciplinary Education: Universities should promote multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary approaches to education. Such systems produce well-rounded individuals capable of conducting research and finding innovative solutions to complex issues.
- Innovative Solutions and Start-ups: Collaboration with private companies and the development of innovative solutions and start-ups should be encouraged. Universities can serve as hubs for innovation and entrepreneurship, contributing to SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).
- Value-Based Education (VBE): Introducing value-based education can help instill a sense of responsibility in citizens towards themselves, society, and the planet. This values-based approach can align with SDG 15 (Life on Land) by fostering a deeper connection between individuals and the environment.
Suggestions for the Universities
- Mapping Operations with SDGs: NEP 2020 should guide Indian higher education institutions to align their daily operations with the SDGs.
- Ranking according to SDGs: While ranking universities based on SDG achievement is commendable, it should be bolstered with comprehensive measures to meet the SDG deadline.
- Stakeholder Education and Orientation: All stakeholders in higher education should be educated and oriented to ensure no activities neglect the SDGs. Collaboration among the 56,205 higher educational institutions and universities in India is essential.
- Community Engagement: Universities should actively engage with their local communities, focusing on community health, energy conservation, efficient resource allocation, waste reduction, and skill development. Sharing resources and infrastructure with other universities and external partners should become the norm.
- Institutional Strategies: Sustainability and SDGs should be integrated into the core institutional strategies of universities, influencing daily administration, teaching, and research.
- Socio-economic Integration: Higher education must be closely integrated with socio-economic development to ensure meaningful and multiple impacts on the SDGs. Universities should contribute directly to the well-being and nation-building of every citizen.
Conclusion
- India’s commitment to the SDGs, particularly in higher education through NEP 2020, is a positive step towards achieving the 2030 agenda. To accelerate progress, universities must embrace sustainability as a guiding principle and incorporate the SDGs into their daily operations. By doing so, they can play a pivotal role in addressing pressing global challenges and ensuring a better future for all.
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