Wildlife Conservation Efforts

India has 718 snow leopards; most of them live in unprotected areas: Centre

op-ed snap Prelims Only Species | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India
Mains level: urgent need for increased legal protection and a dedicated conservation approach
Central Idea:

The report on the status of snow leopards in India, released by the Government of India and non-profit organizations, reveals that only 34% of the snow leopard habitat is legally protected. With snow leopards present in the country, the report emphasizes the need for a dedicated Snow Leopard Cell at the Wildlife Institute of India for long-term population monitoring and conservation efforts.

Key Highlights:
- Snow Leopard Population: India is home to snow leopards, and their habitat covers square kilometers.
- Legal Protection: Only a third of the snow leopard habitat in India is legally protected, posing a significant threat to the species.
- Unprotected Areas: Nearly 70% of the crucial snow leopard habitat remains unprotected, highlighting the need for conservation measures.
- Population Assessment: The four-year assessment conducted by SPAI using camera traps identified unique individuals.
- Hotspots: Ladakh has the highest number of snow leopards, followed by Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.
Key Challenges:
- Limited Legal Protection: The majority of snow leopard habitat lacks legal safeguards, exposing them to potential threats.
- Undefined Range: The absence of an extensive nationwide analysis has left the snow leopard range in India undefined.
- Population Estimate: The need for a revised estimate arises, challenging the previous range of snow leopards in India.
Key Terms and Phrases:
- Snow Leopard Cell: Proposed dedicated unit for long-term monitoring and conservation efforts.
- SPAI: The Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India, coordinating the assessment.
- Camera Traps: Utilized for capturing images of snow leopards at locations.
- Vulnerable: Snow leopards are classified as ‘Vulnerable’ in the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List.
Key Quotes:
- “The snow leopard range in India remained undefined due to lack of an extensive nationwide analysis.”
- “Regular assessments will offer valuable insights for identifying challenges, addressing threats, and formulating effective conservation strategies.”
Key Statements:
- The report emphasizes the necessity of a Snow Leopard Cell for effective conservation strategies.
- Regular population assessments are crucial for understanding challenges and threats to snow leopards.
Key Examples and References:
- The report cites Ladakh, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh as hotspots for snow leopards.
- SPAI, with partners like the Wildlife Institute of India, conducted the assessment using camera traps.
Key Facts and Data:
- Snow leopard occupancy was recorded in square kilometers, with an estimated presence in square kilometers.
Critical Analysis:

The report underscores the urgent need for increased legal protection and a dedicated conservation approach, citing the inadequacy of the previous population estimate and the undefined snow leopard range. The increased coverage of the region compared to 2016 is noted, but challenges persist, requiring immediate attention.

Way Forward:
- Establish Snow Leopard Cell: Create the proposed Snow Leopard Cell for consistent monitoring and organized studies.
- Regular Assessments: Adopt a periodic population estimation approach every fourth year for continuous insights.
- Legal Safeguards: Increase legal protection for the remaining unprotected snow leopard habitat.
- Revised Population Estimate: Conduct a revised assessment to accurately determine the snow leopard population in India.
- Public Awareness: Increase public awareness to garner support for snow leopard conservation efforts.
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Women empowerment issues – Jobs,Reservation and education

A blurred mapping of internal female migration

op-ed snap | Governance | Mains Paper 1: Role Of Women & Women Organization

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS)
Mains level: There is little dialogue surrounding female migrant issues
Central Idea:

The article highlights the often overlooked and underreported aspects of female migration in India, particularly in the context of internal migration. It emphasizes the need for a more accurate understanding of the challenges faced by migrant women, their motivations, and employment status, ultimately advocating for better-informed policies to address their specific needs.

Key Highlights:
- Migrant women in India are a significant but marginalized group, with national surveys providing an inaccurate portrayal of their motivations and employment status.
- Existing data underestimates the number of migrant women engaged in casual or informal employment due to definitional issues and societal beliefs.
- The article argues that the entry of women into the formal labor force is hindered by factors such as low education levels, lack of social networks post-migration, and the need for more human and social capital.
- Despite a 101% increase in female migration for labor/employment between 2001 and 2011, there is a lack of targeted policies and political attention for this demographic.
- The article suggests that policy-making needs to be more informed about the specific needs, motivations, and conditions of female migrants.
Key Challenges:
- Inaccurate representation in national surveys leading to a lack of understanding of the secondary motivations for migration among women.
- Underreporting of employment status due to definitional issues and societal beliefs about women’s roles.
- Barriers to entry into the formal labor force, including low education levels, lack of social networks, and the need for more human and social capital.
- Marginalization of female migrant issues in policy-making due to their limited influence as a vote bank.
Key Terms:
- Female Labour Force Participation Rate (FLFPR)
- Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS)
- Casual labor
- Human and social capital
- One Nation One ration card
- e-Shram
- Affordable rental housing complexes
Key Phrases:
- “Female migration for labor/employment increased by 101% between 2001 and 2011.”
- “Migrant women are proportionally less employed than non-migrant women.”
- “Entry to the formal labor force is challenging for migrant women due to the need for more human and social capital.”
- “Dismal recovery of women’s labor activity after the pandemic.”
- “Policy-making poorly informed about the needs, motivations, and conditions of female migrants.”
Key Quotes:
- “There is little dialogue surrounding female migrant issues.”
- “Despite recent polls, political parties do not campaign to gain migrant women’s votes.”
- “Women choose forms of employment that allow them to handle domestic duties while contributing to the household’s production or finances.”
- “A change in narrative is required, starting with increased collection of female-specific data.”
Anecdotes:
- Anecdotal evidence suggests that migrant women often engage in casual employment, indicating underestimation of their involvement in various sectors.
- Women may view unpaid family work or self-employment as an extension of domestic commitment, leading to misreporting of employment status.
Key Statements:
- “National surveys convey an inaccurate picture of female migration, especially regarding motivations and employment status.”
- “Entry to the formal labor force is hindered by factors such as low education levels and lack of social networks.”
- “Female migrants remain largely invisible, facing significant hurdles and marginalization.”
- “Political parties do not address the needs of female migrants, resulting in poorly informed policy-making.”
Way Forward:
- Compile more information in national surveys regarding socio-economic conditions post-migration, including access to social security benefits.
- Advocate for the collection of time-use data for migrants to better understand the employment patterns of female migrants.
- Increase awareness about the challenges faced by female migrants to encourage progressive policymaking.
- Address barriers to entry into the formal labor force by focusing on education, social networks, and human and social capital.
- Encourage a change in narrative and prioritize the needs of female migrants in policy-making.
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North-East India – Security and Developmental Issues

A dark message to Delhi from Kangla Fort

op-ed snap | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Border Area Security Challenges
Central Idea:

The article discusses a significant event in Manipur where Meitei legislators, through a public oath at Kangla Fort, endorsed a six-point agenda with communal overtones, targeting the ‘Kuki’ community. This act, influenced by an armed militia called Arambai Tenggol, reflects a departure from constitutional duties and raises concerns about the legitimacy of elected representatives in a democratic state. The piece warns against the dangers of a radical agenda and highlights the potential parallels with historical incidents like the Bhindranwale episode in Punjab.

Key Highlights:
- Meitei legislators endorse a six-point agenda with communal overtones, targeting the ‘Kuki.’
- The oath-taking event at Kangla Fort is orchestrated by the armed militia, Arambai Tenggol.
- The agenda includes abrogating agreements, implementing NRC with 1951 as the base year, constructing a border fence, replacing Assam Rifles, removing ‘Kuki’ from Scheduled Tribe list, and relocating ‘Kuki refugees.’
- The omission of ‘disarmament’ from the agenda raises concerns about the armed militia’s influence.
Key Challenges:
- The event reflects a departure from constitutional duties by elected representatives.
- The influence of an armed militia on democratic processes raises questions about the legitimacy of the Indian state.
- The communal overtones in the agenda may deepen the emotional, demographic, and territorial divide.
Key Terms/Phrases:
- Shumang Leela: Traditional form of theatre in Manipur.
- Kangla Fort: The symbolic and traditional seat of power in Manipur.
- Arambai Tenggol: An armed militia influencing Meitei legislators and pushing a radical agenda.
- Bhindranwale Moment: Reference to the radicalization and armed conflict in Punjab during the 1980s.
Key Quotes:
- “Legislators lost Tagore’s dream of ‘clear stream of reason’ and a fearless mind.”
- “Elected representatives…pliable and can be blackmailed under duress.”
- “Armed militia chose Kangla Fort to revive Meitei indigenous tradition, culture, and religion.”
Key Examples/References:
- The six-point agenda and its potential impact on the vulnerable Kuki-Zomi-Hmar groups.
- The involvement of Arambais in violent attacks against Kuki-Zomi-Hmar villages.
- The parallels drawn with the radicalization of youth in Punjab under Bhindranwale.
Key Facts/Data:
- The Arambai Tenggol retains control over a significant amount of arms and ammunition.
- The communal agenda may lead to increased tensions between communities.
- The armed militia’s influence raises concerns about the democratic process in Manipur.
Critical Analysis:
- The legislators’ omission of ‘disarmament’ suggests a compromise with the armed militia’s agenda.
- The article warns against the potential consequences of allowing an armed militia to influence state decisions.
- The communal overtones in the agenda are criticized for undermining democratic and constitutional principles.
Way Forward:
- Emphasize the need for elected representatives to uphold constitutional duties.
- Advocate for dialogue and peaceful resolution to address the concerns of different communities.
- Strengthen mechanisms to prevent the influence of armed militias on democratic processes.
In conclusion, the article highlights the concerning events in Manipur, where elected representatives endorse a communal agenda influenced by an armed militia. It urges a recommitment to constitutional duties, warns against radicalization, and suggests a path forward through dialogue and democratic principles.
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Mother and Child Health – Immunization Program, BPBB, PMJSY, PMMSY, etc.

Early nutrition impacts cognitive development

op-ed snap | Governance | Mains Paper 1: Population & Associated Issues

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Mother’s Absolute Affection Programme
Mains level: addressing child stunting in India requires a multifaceted approach
Central Idea:

Early childhood stunting not only impacts a child’s height but also influences cognitive development, potentially leading to lower educational achievements. The article emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying mechanisms of this impact, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like India. It discusses a recent study in Ethiopia and Peru, highlighting the negative correlation between stunting at age 5 and later cognitive skills, specifically executive functions. The findings underscore the critical role of early childhood nutrition in determining cognitive development and educational outcomes.

Key Highlights:
- Stunting at around age 5 is linked to lower executive functions, including working memory and inhibitory control, in later childhood.
- Traditional cognitive-achievement tests may not fully capture inherent cognitive skills, and stunting’s impact may extend beyond cognitive deficits to include behavioral factors like delayed school enrollment.
- The article highlights the need for a deeper understanding of the mechanisms through which stunting affects educational achievements, especially in the context of low- and middle-income countries.
Key Challenges:
- Existing research often focuses on specific cognitive-achievement test scores, making it challenging to fully understand the complex relationship between early human capital investments, such as nutrition, and cognitive development.
- Achieving a comprehensive assessment of cognitive skills is complicated by the interplay of cognitive abilities, educational access, and other behavioral factors.
- The article stresses the need to move beyond traditional cognitive-achievement tests and focus on a deeper understanding of the mechanisms linking early human capital investments to cognitive development.
Key Terms and Phrases:
- Early childhood stunting
- Cognitive development
- Executive functions
- Behavioral factors
- Household fixed effects
- Poshan Abhiyaan
- Integrated Child Development Services
- Jal Jeevan Mission
- Swachh Bharat Mission
- Mother’s Absolute Affection Programme
- Complementary feeding
- Anganwadi worker
Key Quotes:
- “Stunting at approximately age 5 is negatively related to executive functions measured years later.”
- “Empirical studies have shown that women’s height and educational attainment are strong predictors of child stunting in India.”
- “Improvements in sanitation reduce the incidence of diarrhoea and stunting.”
- “Promoting early breastfeeding, along with continued breastfeeding for two years, is essential for optimal child development.”
Key Statements:
- The study in Ethiopia and Peru establishes a negative correlation between stunting at age 5 and later cognitive skills, emphasizing the long-term impact of early childhood stunting.
- The article stresses the need to move beyond traditional cognitive-achievement tests and focus on a deeper understanding of the mechanisms linking early human capital investments to cognitive development.
Key Examples and References:
- Sánchez et al.’s study in ‘World Development’ linking early under-nutrition to executive functions in Ethiopia and Peru.
- The role of initiatives like Poshan Abhiyaan, Integrated Child Development Services, Jal Jeevan Mission, and Swachh Bharat Mission in addressing stunting in India.
Key Facts and Data:
- The study in Ethiopia and Peru provides evidence of the negative relationship between stunting at age 5 and executive functions.
- Empirical studies highlight the predictive role of women’s height and educational attainment in child stunting in India.
Critical Analysis:

The article effectively highlights the limitations of traditional cognitive-achievement tests in assessing the impact of early human capital investments on cognitive development. It emphasizes the need for a more nuanced understanding of the complex factors contributing to lower educational achievements, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The study’s focus on executive functions and the link between stunting and cognitive skills adds valuable insights to the existing literature.

Way Forward:
- Expand initiatives like the Mother’s Absolute Affection Programme to provide comprehensive lactation support and create breastfeeding-friendly environments.
- Implement and scale up community-based complementary feeding programs to educate parents about the importance of a diverse diet for children.
- Consider adding an extra Anganwadi worker to each center to enhance preschool instructional time, potentially improving developmental outcomes and creating employment opportunities.
In summary, addressing child stunting in India requires a multifaceted approach, including comprehensive nutrition initiatives, sanitation improvements, and strategic investments in education and childcare services. The article underscores the need for evidence-based policies to enhance early childhood nutrition and cognitive development.
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Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

Populism does not help public health

op-ed snap | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Mains level: importance of evidence-based decision-making and long-term goals in public health policies
Central Idea:

The article highlights the need for a shift in the approach to public health management in democratic setups, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing preventive measures over immediate, politically-driven responses. It advocates for a separation of health-care decision-making from short-term political goals to ensure sustainable health strategies that address both immediate and future health needs.

Key Highlights:
- Silent victories in preventing diseases often go unnoticed in the pursuit of tangible achievements.
- Immediate response-focused initiatives divert attention from critical areas like sanitation, disease surveillance, and public health education.
- The case of dengue exemplifies the prioritization of emergency relief over long-term prevention strategies.
- The article stresses the importance of evidence-based decision-making and long-term goals in public health policies.
- Gaps in public health education and the influence of the pharmaceutical industry are recognized challenges.
- Disparities in achieving health policy targets, especially in nutrition programs, reveal gaps in public health efforts.
- Socio-economic factors like poverty, sanitation, and overcrowding contribute to health disparities in diseases like tuberculosis.
Key Terms/Phrases:
- Preventive health measures
- Vector bionomics
- Public health education
- Pharmaceutical industry influence
- Socio-economic factors
- Health policy targets
- Separation of powers approach
Key Quotes:
- “In a democratic setup, leaders often chase tangible achievements and overlook vital preventive efforts.”
- “Public health decisions should be based on scientific evidence and long-term goals, not electoral cycles.”
- “Behavioural change is key to managing public health challenges.”
- “Effective public health management should encompass preventive measures, policy formulation, community health, and environmental health.”
Key Statements:
- “Health care will benefit from being separated from political processes.”
- “Investments in nutrition programs have far-reaching implications for health and productivity.”
- “Public health is not just about treating diseases but preventing them.”
Key Examples and References:
- Dengue as an example of prioritizing immediate relief over long-term prevention.
- Disparity in achieving targets in the Prime Minister’s Overarching Scheme For Holistic Nourishment (POSHAN) Abhiyan Scheme.
- Disparity in TB cases between India and the United States due to socio-economic factors.
Key Facts/Data:
- 35.5% of children under five were stunted, and 32.1% were underweight in 2019-21.
- 58.6% to 67.1% increase in prevalence of anaemic children aged 6-59 months.
- India reported 21.4 lakh TB cases in 2021, an 18% increase from 2020.
Critical Analysis:
- The article effectively highlights the drawbacks of immediate, politically-driven health initiatives.
- Emphasizes the importance of evidence-based decision-making and long-term planning in public health.
- Recognizes gaps in public health education and the impact of socio-economic factors on health outcomes.
Way Forward:
- Advocate for a separation of health-care decision-making from short-term political goals.
- Strengthen public health education and adopt a multidisciplinary approach.
- Emphasize evidence-based decision-making and prioritize long-term preventive measures.
- Address socio-economic factors influencing health outcomes.
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Food Procurement and Distribution – PDS & NFSA, Shanta Kumar Committee, FCI restructuring, Buffer stock, etc.

How to tackle malnutrition effectively

op-ed snap | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Poverty & Hunger

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Anaemia Mukt Bharat
Mains level: complexities of malnutrition, providing a comprehensive view of the two-way relationship between nutrition and health.
Central Idea:

The article discusses the intricate relationship between nutritional deficiencies, particularly iron deficiency, and certain disorders like anaemia. It emphasizes the two-way impact of nutrition and health, citing examples such as iron deficiency anaemia, Vitamin A, and zinc deficiency. The article highlights the challenges in addressing malnutrition and the importance of government interventions like Anaemia Mukt Bharat and Large-Scale Food Fortification (LSFF).

Key Highlights:

Nutritional deficiencies, especially iron deficiency, can result from both poor dietary choices and underlying health conditions like celiac disease or infections.

The article underscores the inter-generational impact of malnutrition, stating that anaemic mothers often give birth to anaemic babies.

Government programs such as Anaemia Mukt Bharat and the Mid-day Meal Scheme aim to address nutritional deficiencies, but effective implementation remains a challenge.

The shift from traditional, balanced diets to processed and sugar-laden alternatives is contributing to nutritional deficiencies.

About 46% of South Asia’s population lacks access to an affordable balanced diet, with India facing challenges in ensuring a nutrient-adequate diet for its citizens.

Large-Scale Food Fortification (LSFF) is proposed as a crucial strategy to enhance ongoing efforts, aligning with micronutrient supplementation and behavioral change measures.

Key Challenges:

Effective implementation of government programs like Anaemia Mukt Bharat and the Mid-day Meal Scheme.

Lack of access to an affordable balanced diet for a significant portion of the population.

Misgivings and resistance among beneficiaries regarding the appearance and texture of fortified foods.

The need for an intensive information, education, and communication (IEC) campaign to address misconceptions and build trust.

India lags behind in adopting universal food fortification, despite success in iodised salt under the National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme.

Key Terms:

Anaemia Mukt Bharat (AMB)

Micronutrient deficiencies

Large-Scale Food Fortification (LSFF)

Iodised salt

Nutrient-adequate diet

Information, education, and communication (IEC) campaign

Key Phrases:

“Two-way relationship between nutritional deficiencies and certain disorders.”

“Malnutrition caused by micronutrient deficiency has inter-generational impacts.”

“Challenges of effective implementation persist.”

“Dietary patterns have shifted from seasonal and varied foods to processed and sugar-laden alternatives.”

“46% of South Asia’s population lacks access to an affordable balanced diet.”

Key Quotes:

“The burden of malnutrition is complex and needs to be addressed through multiple interventions.”

“The onus seems to be on people to recognize that reducing consumption of processed foods is a crucial step towards ensuring better health outcomes.”

“Food fortification may not be the ideal remedy. However, it is a vital first step.”

“Awareness is critical to the acceptance of fortified foods among the targeted beneficiaries.”

Key Statements:

“Consistent intake of food lacking in essential micronutrients can lead to iron deficiency anaemia and impair immunity.”

“LSFF, when aligned with micronutrient supplementation programs, diet diversity promotion, and measures to induce behavioral change has immense potential.”

Key Examples and References:

Adoption of iodised salt under the National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme in 1992.

The success of LSFF in other countries with universal food fortification.

Government programs like Anaemia Mukt Bharat and the Mid-day Meal Scheme as interventions.

Key Facts and Data:

About 46% of South Asia’s population lacks access to an affordable balanced diet.

74% of India’s population could not afford a healthy diet, and 39% fell short of a nutrient-adequate one.

The article mentions data from The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World, 2023.

Critical Analysis:

The article effectively highlights the complexities of malnutrition, providing a comprehensive view of the two-way relationship between nutrition and health. It emphasizes the need for multifaceted interventions and addresses challenges in implementation and awareness. The proposal of LSFF as a strategy is substantiated by referencing successful past programs like iodised salt. The article uses clear language, making it accessible to a wide audience.

Way Forward:

Strengthening implementation of existing government programs.

Increasing awareness through intensive IEC campaigns.

Focusing on the affordability and accessibility of a balanced diet.

Emphasizing the importance of reducing the consumption of processed foods.

Urging timely adoption and alignment of Large-Scale Food Fortification to enhance ongoing initiatives.
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In today’s tech-savvy times, the importance of combining shaastra (knowledge) with shastra (weapons)

op-ed snap | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: na
Mains level: evolving nature of global warfare with the importance of academic excellence and technological prowess
Central Idea:

The article suggests that India’s upcoming National Security Strategy should incorporate a goal of having 10 universities in the top 100 global university rankings by India@100. It argues that the evolving nature of warfare, driven by advancements in technology and changing geopolitical dynamics, necessitates a strong connection between academic knowledge (Shaastra) and military capability (Shastra). The article emphasizes the importance of enhancing India’s educational institutions, particularly through strategic interventions, to bolster national security in an era where the line between civilian and military technology is blurring.

Key Highlights:
- Cathal Nolan’s thesis from “The Allure of Battle” is referenced, emphasizing the significance of endurance and technology over decisive battles in military history.
- The article highlights the changing global dynamics, particularly the US-China relationship and its impact on technology access and partnerships.
- The erosion of the distinction between civilian and military technology is discussed, with examples such as drones, satellite internet, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and clean energy.
- The potential risks and responses of major players like China and the US are outlined, reflecting the evolving nature of global geopolitics.
Key Challenges:
- The article acknowledges criticisms of global university rankings, citing them as popularity contests, unreliable, incomplete, ideological, and unequal.
- The challenge of determining the relative importance of different disciplines, such as sciences versus humanities, is mentioned.
- The article underscores India’s current position in global university rankings (only 11 in the top 500) and the need for rapid improvement.
Key Terms:
- Shaastra: Academic knowledge.
- Shastra: Weapons or military capability.
- Foundational technologies: Technologies critical for national security.
- Friendshoring: The potential threat to partnerships with countries deemed friendly.
- Dual circulation: A policy shift by China to prioritize Chinese technologies over foreign ones.
- National Security Strategy: A document outlining a country’s approach to ensuring its security.
- Global university rankings: Lists evaluating universities based on various criteria.
Key Phrases:
- “Shaastra and Shastra are siblings”: Stresses the interconnectedness of academic knowledge and military capabilities.
- “Foundational technologies behind a high fence”: Refers to the US strategy of restricting access to critical technologies.
- “Friendshoring is threatened”: Indicates the potential impact on partnerships with friendly nations.
- “Dual circulation now means”: Describes China’s emphasis on using Chinese technologies.
- “Charge into the valley of death”: A reference to a Tennyson poem, highlighting the need for strategic thinking over blind bravery.
Key Quotes:
- “Sweat saves blood, blood saves lives, but brains save both” – Field Marshal Rommel: Emphasizes the importance of strategic thinking in military endeavors.
Key Statements:
- “The distinction between civilian and military technology erodes with drones, satellite internet, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and clean energy.”
- “China’s response by banning Tesla cars and Apple phones from army bases.”
- “Global rankings matter: 71% of universities have a ranking goal, and 68% use them as a tool for management.”
Key Examples and References:
- Reference to the historical role of American universities, particularly MIT, in military partnerships.
- China’s proactive approach to global university rankings, starting with Project 211 in 1995.
- Mention of the Defense Technology Council proposed in India to improve project management.
Key Facts and Data:
- India has 11 universities in the top 500 global university rankings.
- China has 71 universities in the top 500 QS rankings due to strategic initiatives from 1995 to 2022.
- American universities have historically played a crucial role in military advancements.
Critical Analysis:

The article effectively links the evolving nature of global warfare with the importance of academic excellence and technological prowess. It presents a critical analysis of the challenges posed by changing geopolitical dynamics and the potential impact on national security. The integration of historical references, global examples, and quotes adds depth to the argument.

Way Forward:
- Implement strategic interventions to enhance the top 20 government universities in India.
- Consolidate independent research labs into top institutions for better research outcomes.
- Concentrate government research funding to universities and incentivize corporate research collaboration.
- Introduce performance-based funding to encourage improvements in research metrics and rankings.
- Strengthen partnerships between universities and the proposed Defense Technology Council for effective project management.
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Aadhaar Card Issues

Aadhaar-based pay a bad idea for MGNREGS

op-ed snap | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Panchayats & Local Bodies

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: MGNREGS
Mains level: misrepresentation of research findings to support the mandatory implementation of ABPS in MGNREGS
Central Idea:

The Rural Development Ministry mandated Aadhaar-Based Payment Systems (ABPS) in the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), despite protests from workers and questionable government claims. The article highlights the complexities of ABPS, the lack of evidence supporting its benefits, and the misrepresentation of research findings that supposedly endorse ABPS. It argues for the continuation of account-based payments in MGNREGS.

Key Highlights:
- ABPS Complexity: ABPS in MGNREGS involves Aadhaar seeding, authentication, and linking to bank accounts, leading to potential glitches causing wage delays and denial of work.
- Government Claims: The government asserted that ABPS would eliminate duplicate job cards, reduce delays, and lower payment rejections, but these claims are questioned.
- Deletion of Job Cards: Officials reportedly deleted job cards under pressure to meet Aadhaar seeding targets, leading to spelling mismatches and exaggerated savings claims.
- LibTech Study: A public research group’s study, cited by the government, found no statistically significant difference in efficiency between ABPS and account-based payments.
- Misrepresentation: The Ministry misrepresented the LibTech study, incorrectly claiming that it endorsed ABPS despite no significant gains.
Key Challenges:
- Technological Glitches: Workers face issues due to errors in Aadhaar seeding, authentication, and bank account linking, causing financial losses and delays.
- Deletion of Job Cards: Job card deletions surged, raising concerns about the accuracy of the process and the pressure to meet Aadhaar seeding targets.
- Misleading Claims: The government’s claims of efficiency gains with ABPS are contradicted by research, indicating a lack of transparency and credibility.
Key Terms and Phrases:
- Aadhaar-Based Payment Systems (ABPS): A payment system using Aadhaar authentication and linking for financial transactions.
- Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS): A social security scheme providing rural employment.
- Aadhaar Seeding: Linking Aadhaar numbers with relevant databases, such as job cards and bank accounts.
- Job Card Deletions: Removal of MGNREGS job cards, allegedly driven by the pressure to meet Aadhaar seeding targets.
Key Quotes:
- “Incorrectness in any of the above steps for ABPS means that the worker is denied work, does not receive wages, or is not paid in their preferred account.”
- “In the last two years alone, job cards of over 7 crore workers got deleted.”
- “LibTech’s study is based on a sample of 3.2 crore transactions. The difference was not statistically significant, providing evidence that ABPS is not quicker than account-based payments.”
Key Statements:
- The government’s claims of ABPS benefits lack credibility, with evidence pointing to errors in job card deletions and questionable efficiency gains.
- The misrepresentation of research findings by the Ministry undermines the justification for making ABPS mandatory.
Key Examples and References:
- Research papers in Economic and Political Weekly highlighting errors in job card deletions and the pressure to meet Aadhaar seeding targets.
- The Ministry’s press release misrepresenting the LibTech study’s findings.
Key Facts and Data:
- A 247% increase in job card deletions in FY 2022–23, with over 7 crore workers affected.
- As of January 11, 2024, out of 25.6 crore registered workers, only 16.9 crore are eligible for ABPS.
Critical Analysis:

The article critically examines the complexities and challenges associated with ABPS, questions the government’s claims, and exposes the misrepresentation of research findings to support the mandatory implementation of ABPS in MGNREGS.

Way Forward:
- Advocate for account-based payments in MGNREGS due to the difficulties and glitches associated with ABPS.
- Emphasize the need for transparency, credibility, and evidence-based decision-making in the implementation of payment systems.
- Call for a reevaluation of the decision to make ABPS mandatory, considering the workers’ concerns and the lack of proven benefits.
By addressing these issues, the government can ensure a more efficient and transparent payment system in MGNREGS.
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Nobel and other Prizes

With Bharat Ratna to Karpoori Thakur, the BJP is co-opting social justice agenda

op-ed snap | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Bharat Ratna award
Mains level: Karpoori Thakur, a backward-caste leader
Central Idea:

The article examines the political significance of the Bharat Ratna awarded to the late Karpoori Thakur, a legendary backward-caste leader, and its implications in the context of the BJP’s Hindutva agenda and the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The author questions whether the Hindutva agenda can successfully co-opt the social justice agenda, particularly by winning the support of lower-caste Hindus. The juxtaposition of events like the temple inauguration at Ayodhya and the Bharat Ratna announcement raises the critical question of whether a homogenized Hindu identity can overcome the deep-rooted hierarchical divisions within Hindu society.

Key Highlights:

The timing of the Bharat Ratna announcement for Karpoori Thakur, a backward-caste leader, and the Ayodhya temple inauguration raises questions about the BJP’s strategy leading up to the Lok Sabha elections.

The article explores the challenge of reconciling the Hindutva agenda with the social justice agenda, particularly in gaining support from lower-caste Hindus.

The BJP’s dependence on state power for the success of the Hindutva agenda is discussed, emphasizing the significance of electoral majorities in achieving political goals.

The author highlights the complexities of caste dynamics, including internal distinctions, rivalries, and the need for credible rhetoric of implicit equality in electoral politics.

Key Challenges:

The challenge of reconciling the Hindutva agenda with the hierarchical divisions and inequalities within the Hindu caste system.

The difficulty in securing electoral majorities without support from lower-caste Hindus.

The tension between electoral politics requiring equality rhetoric and the caste system perpetuating explicit inequalities.

Key Terms:

Hindutva

Lok Sabha elections

Bharat Ratna

Ayodhya

Caste dynamics

Electoral majorities

Key Phrases:

“Homogenized Hindu identity”

“Hierarchical divisions within Hindu society”

“Caste dynamics in electoral politics”

“Credible rhetoric of implicit equality”

Key Quotes:

“Will the almost-successful Hindutva agenda seal its victory by co-opting and engulfing the social justice agenda?”

“The juxtaposition of these two events invites attention to the central question facing our polity today.”

“The only tried and trusted constituency for Hindutva are the Hindu ‘upper’ castes.”

Key Statements:

“Elections remain the only durable and legitimate route to state power.”

“The Bharat Ratna to Thakur is a shrewd move because it is costless and yet offers multiple gains.”

“The BJP is trying to recruit other castes or caste-clusters to an essentially upper-caste political programme.”

Key Examples and References:

Reference to the Bharat Ratna announcement for Karpoori Thakur and the Ayodhya temple inauguration.

Comparison of Thakur’s political agenda in the 1970s with the BJP’s current agenda.

Critical Analysis:

The article critically analyzes the BJP’s strategy, questioning its alignment with Thakur’s legacy and highlighting the disparities between Thakur’s popular-leftist caste agenda and the BJP’s rightist communal agenda.

The complexities of caste dynamics and electoral alliances are discussed, emphasizing the challenges in gaining support from different caste segments.

The contrast between Thakur’s policies, such as the sub-division of the backward caste quota, and the BJP’s current approach is examined.

Way Forward:

The article suggests that the BJP’s attempts to co-opt lower-caste Hindus need to align with a genuine social justice agenda, acknowledging the complexities of caste dynamics.

There is an implicit call for a balanced approach that addresses the historical inequalities within the Hindu caste system while navigating the intricacies of electoral politics.

This comprehensive analysis provides insights into the complex intersection of Hindutva, social justice, and electoral dynamics, emphasizing the need for a nuanced and inclusive approach in Indian politics.
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Has the economy improved in the NDA’s second term?

op-ed snap | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: unresolved GST issues
Mains level: insights into the economic performance of the government
Central Idea:

The discussion between D.K. Srivastava and G. Vijay analyzes the economic performance of the BJP-led government in its second term, focusing on policy prescriptions, the impact of major reforms such as GST and corporate income tax changes, and the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by the GST Council, the government’s emphasis on infrastructure development, and the performance of the agricultural sector over the past five years.

Key Highlights:
- The Indian economy faced challenges in 2019 due to GST implementation issues and corporate income tax reforms, leading to a weak fiscal situation.
- The COVID-19 pandemic caused a sharp contraction, followed by a rapid recovery with GDP growth rates exceeding expectations.
- Recovery was K-shaped, impacting contact-intensive sectors and large service sectors, resulting in a focus on infrastructure expansion for long-term growth.
- The digitization of the economy through the UPI platform was highlighted as a positive outcome, especially for small-scale industries in the informal sector.
- The GST story was deemed incomplete, with concerns about revenue autonomy for State governments and challenges in GST reform.
- The government’s capital expenditure increase in the last budget aimed at income generation and employment growth, but concerns were raised about the quality of employment generated.
- The agricultural sector performed well in terms of growth, except for the current year, but challenges such as supply chain shocks and inflation in key food items were discussed.
Key Challenges:
- Unresolved issues in GST reform, including revenue neutrality and loss of revenue autonomy for State governments.
- Quality of employment generated by capital-intensive infrastructure projects and the persistently high unemployment rate.
- Inconsistent policies in the agricultural sector, with challenges like bans on exports and uncertainties affecting production decisions.
Key Terms:
- GST (Goods and Services Tax)
- UPI (Unified Payments Interface)
Key Phrases:
- “K-shaped recovery”
- “Last mile delivery”
- “Jobless growth”
- “Centre-State relations”
- “Capital stimulus”
- “Job creation elasticities”
- “Unprotected informal sector employment”
Key Quotes:
- “Between 2014 and 19, we provided a rejuvenated Centre-State dynamic, cooperative federalism, GST Council, and a strident commitment to fiscal discipline.”
- “The government stood out as a performing government, a government whose signature was in the last mile delivery.”
Key Statements:
- Recovery from the economic challenges post-2019 was marked by robust GDP growth, particularly in FY22 and FY23.
- The GST Council faced criticism for incomplete reform, loss of revenue autonomy for State governments, and politicization of resource distribution.
Key Examples and References:
- Demonetization in 2016 and its long-term impact on economic contraction.
- The increase in capital expenditure in the last budget and its purported aim of income generation and employment growth.
Critical Analysis:

The discussion highlights the positive aspects of economic recovery, infrastructure development, and agriculture sector growth. However, challenges such as the quality of employment, unresolved GST issues, and inconsistent policies in agriculture are critically analyzed. The impact of global challenges, supply-side issues, and the need for a balanced approach between capital stimulus and consumption stimulation are emphasized.

Way Forward:
- Address GST reform issues to ensure revenue autonomy for State governments.
- Evaluate the employment impact of infrastructure projects and focus on generating quality employment.
- Maintain a balance between capital stimulus and consumption stimulation to address external sector challenges.
- Implement consistent and supportive policies in the agricultural sector to address supply chain shocks and inflation.
- Continue efforts to digitize the economy for inclusive growth and last-mile delivery.
This comprehensive analysis provides insights into the economic performance of the BJP-led government, covering various dimensions and offering suggestions for future considerations.
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Type: op-ed snap