Foreign Policy Watch: India-China

The outlook for 2024, for the world and India

op-ed snap | | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: na
Mains level: importance of fortified Center-State relations for efficacious governance
Central idea

The editorial examines the heightened global risks in 2024, navigating a precarious era marked by challenges to the existing international order. It anticipates potential flashpoints, including the war in Ukraine and Middle East tensions, while also scrutinizing India’s prospects and internal dynamics. Emphasizing the importance of robust Center-State relations, the editorial envisions a turbulent period demanding strategic foresight and diplomatic acuity.

Key Highlights:
The editorial explores the expected global risks and uncertainties in 2024, highlighting a period of significant danger.

Challenges to the existing international order are emphasized, coming not only from its supporters but also from those declaring it outdated.

Potential flashpoints, such as the ongoing war in Ukraine and escalating tensions in the Middle East, are identified.

Changing geopolitical dynamics in West Asia, where emerging alliances challenge Western dominance, are carefully examined.

India’s prospects in 2024, including the upcoming general election and potential economic challenges, are concisely discussed.

Sino-Indian relations are predicted to remain strained, with a focus on possible provocative actions by China.

The editorial acknowledges challenges to India’s influence in its neighborhood and the evolving landscape of West Asia.

Internal dynamics in India, encompassing a politically charged atmosphere and turmoil in Parliament, are thoughtfully explored.

The editorial underscores the importance of strong Center-State relations for effective governance.

Key Challenges:

The global landscape is filled with risks and uncertainties, presenting formidable challenges to stability.

The existing international order faces challenges not only from its critics but also from supporters questioning its relevance.

Potential flashpoints, including the enduring war in Ukraine and escalating tensions in the Middle East, increase geopolitical vulnerabilities.

Changing geopolitical dynamics introduce challenges to established Western leadership paradigms.

India faces potential challenges in the upcoming general election and contends with economic uncertainties.

Strained Sino-Indian relations and potential provocations by China introduce security challenges.

Internal challenges in India include heightened political tensions and parliamentary disarray.
Key Terms and Phrases:
- Global risks and uncertainties
- Rules-based international order
- Geostrategic contradictions
- Flashpoints
- Shifting geopolitical dynamics
- Unforeseen challenges (“black swans”)
- Adventurist actions
- Center-State relations
Key Quotes:
- “Navigating an epoch of substantial peril.”
- “Challenged by architects of the ‘rules-based international order’ and those deeming it antiquated.”
- “An era fraught with substantial peril.”
- “Potential ‘adventurist actions’ by China.”
- “An impending period of turbulence.”
- “Politically charged atmosphere.”
- “Expulsion of the Trinamool Congress Member of Parliament, Mahua Moitra.”
Anecdotes:
- Exploration of the enduring war in Ukraine and its potential ramifications on the U.S. presidential election.
- Insight into the Israel-Hamas conflict as a catalyst for heightened tensions in the Middle East.
- Brief anecdote concerning the ruling dispensation’s assurance in India’s forthcoming general election.
Key Statements:
- “The world stands on the brink of a period marked by significant peril.”
- “The existing international order grapples with multifaceted challenges.”
- “Geostrategic contradictions are poised to escalate.”
- “The internal landscape demands vigilant observation.”
- “The nation approaches a potential turning point.”
Key Examples and References:
- The enduring war in Ukraine and its potential influence on the U.S. presidential election.
- Israel-Hamas conflict as a driver of heightened tensions in the Middle East.
- Shifting geopolitics in West Asia and emerging alliances challenging Western leadership.
Critical Analysis:
- The editorial furnishes a nuanced analysis of potential challenges and uncertainties on a global scale and within India.
- Emphasis on the importance of fortified Center-State relations for efficacious governance.
- Recognition of potential “black swans” and unforeseen challenges.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor
Economic Indicators and Various Reports On It- GDP, FD, EODB, WIR etc

India’s jobs crisis, the macroeconomic reasons

op-ed snap | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Inclusive Growth & Issues

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Kaldor-Verdoorn
Mains level: addressing the skills gap and improving the quality of the workforce
Central idea

The article discusses the challenge of “jobless growth” in India, where the employment growth rate remains unresponsive despite increased GDP and value-added growth rates. It emphasizes the unique characteristics of India’s jobless growth regime, involving a high Kaldor-Verdoorn coefficient, and calls for a distinct policy focus on employment in addition to the traditional emphasis on GDP growth.

Key Highlights:
- The article discusses the distinction between wage employment and self-employment, emphasizing the challenge of inadequate labor demand, particularly for regular wage work in the formal sector.
- India’s historical employment scenario includes open unemployment, high levels of informal employment, and a stagnant growth rate of salaried workers in the non-agricultural sector.
- The lack of employment opportunities in the formal sector is attributed to factors such as output growth, labor productivity, and the introduction of labor-saving technologies.
Key Challenges:
- India faces the challenge of “jobless growth,” where the employment growth rate remains unresponsive despite a rise in GDP growth and value-added growth rates.
- The article highlights the connection between labor productivity growth rate and output growth rate, contributing to the phenomenon of jobless growth in India.
- The distinct form of jobless growth in India, characterized by a higher than average Kaldor-Verdoorn coefficient, poses a qualitative challenge for macroeconomic policies.
Key Terms:
- Kaldor-Verdoorn coefficient: A measure reflecting the responsiveness of labor productivity growth rate to output growth rate.
- Dual economy structure: An economic structure characterized by the coexistence of a modern and traditional sector, often seen in developing countries.
- Mahalanobis strategy: A development strategy that prioritizes heavy industrialization to overcome the constraints on output and employment.
Key Phrases:
- “Jobs generally refer to relatively better-paid regular wage or salaried employment.”
- “The lack of opportunities is reflected by a more or less stagnant employment growth rate of salaried workers in the non-agricultural sector.”
- “The positive effect of output growth rate on employment fails to counteract the adverse effect of labor-saving technologies in the Indian jobless growth regime.”
Key Quotes for value addition:
- “The Indian economy has historically been characterized by the presence of both open unemployment as well as high levels of informal employment.”
- “Jobless growth in India makes the macroeconomic policy challenge qualitatively different from other countries.”
Key Examples and References:
- Reference to the Mahalanobis strategy focusing on heavy industrialization as a policy for overcoming constraints on output and employment.
- Mention of the higher than average Kaldor-Verdoorn coefficient in India’s non-agricultural sector as a distinctive feature of jobless growth.
Key Facts:
- India’s employment growth rate in the formal non-agricultural sector has remained unresponsive despite significant increases in GDP and value-added growth rates.
- Jobless growth in India is associated with a high Kaldor-Verdoorn coefficient, indicating a strong connection between labor productivity growth rate and output growth rate.
Critical Analysis:
- The article critically examines the traditional presumption that increasing the output growth rate would be a sufficient condition for increasing the employment growth rate in the formal sector.
- It highlights the need for a separate policy focus on employment, including both demand and supply side components, in addition to the focus on GDP growth.
Way Forward:
- Advocate for policies addressing the skills gap and improving the quality of the workforce to make automation less attractive for firms.
- Propose direct public job creation as a demand-side component of employment policies.
- Suggest reorienting the macroeconomic framework to finance employment-related expenditures, including increasing the direct tax to GDP ratio and improving compliance.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor
Terrorism and Challenges Related To It

Why terrorist activity has shifted from Kashmir to Poonch-Rajouri

op-ed snap | Governance | Mains Paper 3: Border Area Security Challenges

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Pir Panjal range
Mains level: Shift of terrorist activity to Poonch-Rajouri
Central idea

The recent surge in terrorist activity in the Poonch-Rajouri sector challenges the Indian Army’s historical success in counter-terrorism operations. This shift is attributed to the path of least resistance as Kashmir becomes less conducive, prompting a need for a strategic reassessment and adaptation of deployment and operational strategies to address emerging challenges. Transparent investigations into civilian deaths and a balanced approach in public statements are crucial to maintaining public trust and stability in the region.

Key Highlights:

Recent encounters in the Poonch-Rajouri sector challenge the Indian Army’s historical success in counter-terrorism operations.

Shift of terrorist activity to Poonch-Rajouri is due to the path of least resistance, with Kashmir facing strong counter-terrorism measures.

Dilution of local support, abrogation of Article 370, and focus on Pir Panjal (South) indicate a strategic shift in the region’s dynamics.

Questions arise about the redeployment of formations and potential dilution of optimum deployment in the sector.

Key Challenges:

Losses for the Indian Army in recent encounters raise concerns about the effectiveness of current strategies and the need for potential adjustments.

Shift in terrorist activity to Poonch-Rajouri poses a challenge to the Army’s counter-terrorism efforts.

Allegations surrounding the deaths of three local civilians in suspicious circumstances require thorough investigations and pose a challenge to maintaining public trust.

Key Terms/Phrases:

Poonch-Rajouri sector

Counter-terrorism operations

Proxy hybrid war

Counter-infiltration (CI) and counter-terrorism (CT) grid

Article 370

Pir Panjal (South)

Redeployment

Rashtriya Rifles troops

Key Quotes:

“Terrorism is like water; it takes the path of least resistance.”

“The abrogation of Article 370 has also made Kashmir less conducive to separatist trends.”

“The Indian government’s demonstrated capability for retaliation when an undetermined threshold is crossed will keep Pakistan on tenterhooks.”

Key Statements:

Recent encounters challenge the Indian Army’s historical success in counter-terrorism operations.

The strategic shift of terrorist activity to the Poonch-Rajouri sector necessitates a reassessment of deployment and operational strategies.

Key Examples/References:

Shift in terrorist tactics and focus from Kashmir to the Poonch-Rajouri sector.

Allegations surrounding the deaths of three local civilians.

Key Facts/Data:

Recent encounters in the Poonch-Rajouri sector resulted in more losses for the Army than terrorists.

Redeployment of troops from the Jammu sector since May 2020.

Critical Analysis:

Losses in recent encounters raise questions about the effectiveness of the Army’s current strategies.

Shift in terrorist activity indicates the need for adaptability in response strategies.

Allegations surrounding civilian deaths require transparent investigations to maintain public trust.

Way Forward:

Conduct a thorough review of identified weaknesses in convoy security, vehicle hardening, and reinforcement movements.

Adapt drills, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and minor tactics to address current challenges.

Ensure transparent investigations into civilian deaths, with suitable disciplinary action if mistakes are identified.

Conduct brigade-sized operations in Pir Panjal with drone support, reinforced by strong public outreach to address local sentiments.

Maintain a balanced approach in public statements to prevent speculation and unrest, and continue precautionary measures in the Kashmir Valley.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor
Internal Security Trends and Incidents

The evolving role of the Colombo Security Conclave

op-ed snap | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Effect Of Policies & Politics Of World On India’S Interests

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Colombo Security Conclave (CSC)
Mains level: vulnerability of the CSC to domestic political changes
Key Highlights:
- The Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) aims to promote a safe, secure, and stable Indian Ocean, with India playing a leadership role.
- The CSC’s revival in 2020, after a standstill since 2014, reflects India’s evolving strategic vision for the Indian Ocean.
- India seeks to institutionalize its role in the region, addressing security challenges and emerging threats through the CSC.
- China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean is a significant factor driving the CSC’s revival, with Beijing investing in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and establishing a presence in key locations.
Key Challenges:
- Domestic political changes in member-states can impact the CSC’s effectiveness, as seen with the Maldives’ absence from a recent meeting.
- The nationalist and pro-China sentiments in member-states may hinder collaboration, affecting the CSC’s ability to address regional challenges.
- Despite concerns about China’s actions in the Indian Ocean, some regional countries may not view China as a threat, limiting the CSC’s collective response.
Key Terms/Phrases:
- Colombo Security Conclave (CSC)
- Indian Ocean
- Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
- Maritime security
- Regional collaboration
- Extra-regional powers
- Indo-Pacific
- National Security Adviser (NSA)
Key Quotes:
- “The lack of capacity of island nations to secure the seas and counter transnational threats has continued to motivate India.”
- “China’s outreach to the Indian Ocean is to control crucial sea lines of communication and trade, limiting India’s influence.”
Key Statements:
- “The CSC offers India an opportunity to institutionalize its role, shape the regional security architecture, and better address existing and emerging threats.”
- “The strategic accommodation and flexibility of the CSC contribute to the security of the Indian Ocean.”
Key Examples/References:
- China’s naval capabilities, defense relationships, and infrastructure projects in the Indian Ocean.
- Maldives’ absence from a recent CSC meeting due to preferences for a close relationship with China or nationalist sentiments.
Key Facts/Data:
- The CSC was revived in 2020, with the inclusion of Mauritius, Seychelles, and Bangladesh.
- China’s investments in the Indian Ocean include the Belt and Road Initiative projects and control of Sri Lanka’s Hambantota port.
Critical Analysis:
- The vulnerability of the CSC to domestic political changes highlights challenges in maintaining consistent regional collaboration.
- The balance between addressing security concerns and managing relationships with China is crucial for the CSC’s success.
Way Forward:
- Strengthen institutional mechanisms within the CSC to mitigate the impact of domestic political changes.
- Continue to focus on the five pillars of cooperation, addressing maritime security, counter-terrorism, cyber-security, humanitarian aid, and disaster relief.
- Enhance efforts to build trust among member-states and address concerns related to nationalist and pro-China sentiments.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor
Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

Jats in the modern world

op-ed snap | Indian Society | Mains Paper 1: Communalism, Secularism, Regionalism

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: na
Mains level: historical journey of the Jat community in India
Key Highlights:
- The article explores the historical journey of the Jat community in India over the past 500 years, tracing their nomadic origins to settled agrarian lifestyles.
- Jats, divided into various sub-castes and known for their traditional practices, have faced historical battles and conversions, contributing significantly to agriculture and politics.
- Despite internal divisions and religious differences, the Jat community unites on national issues such as farmers’ rights and land legislation, producing prominent leaders like Chaudhary Charan Singh.
Key Challenges:
- The Jat community grapples with stereotypes and mockery, facing challenges in reconciling their pride in the past with a desire to assert their qualities in contemporary contexts.
- The article highlights the internal divisions among Jats based on religion, turning former clansmen into archrivals despite presenting a united front on national issues.
- Modernization of land-related occupations poses concerns about the future of Jats, leading to efforts to reinvent their identities in the face of changing socio-economic dynamics.
Key Terms:
- Khap panchayats: Controversial local bodies involved in delivering justice and making decisions on social matters, often criticized for endorsing conservative practices.
- Arya Samaj: A reform movement within Hinduism advocating for the worship of the uncreated Supreme Being and rejecting idol worship.
- Subaltern: Referring to marginalized or oppressed groups within a society.
Key Phrases for answer enrichment:
- “Jats strategically placed their faith in their practice of agrarian work.”
- “Jats seem to have missed the understanding of pride with confidence, as they petition the world on their qualities and superiority.”
- “With modernisation of land-related occupations and change in the feudal order, Jats are anxious about their future.”
Key Quotes:
- “Despite their history, the Jats are mocked and customarily derided among North Indian groups.”
- “They have a strong desire to assert without a bona fide avenue.”
- “Olympians from the Jat community have brought international fame to their community and their politics.”
Key Examples and References:
- Reference to historical figures like Suraj Mal, Chaudhary Charan Singh, Sir Chhotu Ram, and Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh as notable Jat icons.
- Mention of Sikh and Muslim Jats driving a conservative agenda within the regional political landscape.
- Olympic athletes Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia, and Vinesh Phogat representing the Jat community and holding the government accountable.
Key Facts:
- Jats trace their origins to diverse geographies, from Eastern Europe and Central Asia to sea-adjacent plain fields.
- Jats have a history of adopting religions en masse, including Buddhism during the spread of the religion.
- The Jat community is predominantly found in North India, with diverse sub-castes and internal religious divisions.
Critical Analysis:
- The article critically examines the challenges faced by the Jat community, including stereotypes, internal divisions, and concerns about the future in the context of changing socio-economic dynamics.
- It highlights the tension between the community’s pride in its history and the desire to assert itself in contemporary contexts.
Way Forward:
- Encourage open dialogues within the Jat community to address internal divisions and promote unity.
- Advocate for educational initiatives to challenge stereotypes and promote a nuanced understanding of the Jat community’s contributions.
- Support initiatives that help the Jat community adapt to modernization while preserving its cultural identity and historical pride.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor
P Chidambaram writes: How are the four ‘castes’ doing?

op-ed snap | Indian Society | Mains Paper 1:

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: na
Mains level: policies addressing the root causes of poverty, unemployment, gender discrimination, and farmer issues
Central idea

The article examines the current status of four societal groups poor, youth, women, and farmers coined as ‘castes’ by Prime Minister Modi. Despite government policies, challenges such as poverty, unemployment, gender discrimination, and farmer issues persist, leading to discontent among these groups.

Key Highlights:
- The article discusses the impact of India’s traditional caste system and welcomes Prime Minister Modi’s formulation of four ‘castes’ poor, youth, women, and farmers focusing on their current status.
- It highlights the persisting challenges faced by these groups, including poverty, unemployment, gender discrimination, and the plight of farmers, despite government policies.
Key Challenges:
- Widespread poverty is evident, with UNDP estimating 16% of the population (228 million) living below low poverty bars, facing malnutrition and hunger.
- Youth unemployment, particularly among graduates, remains high, leading to internal migration, rising crime, and drug use.
- Women face various challenges, including crimes against them, gender disparity in income, and significant workforce exits between 2004-05 and 2011-12.
- Farmers continue to grapple with issues such as suicides, small holdings, rising input costs, insufficient MSP, and uncertain market prices.
Key Terms:
- Varnas: The four traditional social classes in Hindu society—Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya, and Sudra.
- MSP (Minimum Support Price): The price at which the government purchases crops from farmers to support their income.
- Caste system: The social hierarchy in India traditionally divided into varnas and numerous castes.
Key Phrases:
- “I resent the word ‘caste’” – Expressing displeasure at the term while discussing Modi’s formulation of four ‘castes.’
- “Joblessness among youth is a volcano that can erupt at any time” – Highlighting the potential social consequences of high youth unemployment.
- “A happy farmer is an oxymoron” – Describing the perpetual challenges faced by farmers despite record-breaking crop production.
Key Quotes:
- “Large sections of the four ‘castes’ are poor, unhappy and have little faith in the policies and programmes of the Modi government.”
- “Their silence is not approval or acquiescence. It is because they are poor, enjoy little power and live in fear.”
Key Examples and References:
- Reference to UNDP’s poverty estimation, NCRB data on crimes against women, and statistics on farmer suicides.
- Mention of the government’s claim to create 2 crore jobs a year and the subsequent revelation of vacancies.
Key Facts:
- 16% of the population, approximately 228 million people, are estimated to be living below the poverty line.
- Youth unemployment rate is 10%, and among young graduates, it reaches 42.3%.
- Crimes against women rose by 4% in 2022, with 4,45,000 cases registered.
- Farmer suicides remained high between 2014 and 2022.
Critical Analysis:
- The article critiques the government’s policies, emphasizing the disparity between its favoring the rich and the continued challenges faced by the poor, youth, women, and farmers.
- It questions the efficacy of measures like job creation claims and suggests that the silence of these groups is more a result of powerlessness and fear than approval.
Way Forward:
- Advocate for policies addressing the root causes of poverty, unemployment, gender discrimination, and farmer issues.
- Call for inclusive measures that empower and uplift marginalized sections.
- Encourage a more consultative approach by the government, especially in formulating policies that directly impact the livelihoods of these groups.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor
Tavleen Singh writes: A caste census is casteism

op-ed snap | Governance | Mains Paper 1: Communalism, Secularism, Regionalism

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: na
Mains level: reevaluate the effectiveness of caste reservations
Central idea

The central idea revolves around the author’s proposition to reevaluate the effectiveness of caste reservations, questioning whether they have genuinely uplifted the marginalized communities. The author highlights the venomous backlash faced for this stance, prompting a call for a new kind of affirmative action that goes beyond existing policies and involves addressing root causes.

Key Highlights:
- The author faced severe backlash, including threats and demands for arrest, after suggesting an end to caste reservations instead of a caste census.
- The attack was led by individuals associated with advocacy and sympathy for Dalits, raising questions about their effectiveness in addressing fundamental issues.
Key Challenges:
- The author questions the efficacy of reservations, emphasizing the need to examine if they have truly worked for the intended beneficiaries.
- The plight of Dalit communities, particularly the musahar community, living in extreme poverty and squalor, highlights the persistent challenges despite reservation policies.
Key Terms:
- Caste census: A survey to gather information about the distribution of different castes in a population.
- Affirmative action: Policies and initiatives aimed at providing opportunities to marginalized groups, often through reservations.
Key Phrases:
- “The time has come to examine how well reservations have worked.”
- “Reservations have benefited politicians and Dalit advocacy groups more than the people for whom they were created.”
Key Quotes:
- “The vile, malicious abuse I faced from these groups has convinced me that affirmative action of a new kind is needed.”
- “Reservations have created a class of people who continue the evil, inhuman exploitation that lower-caste Indians have faced for too long.”
Key Examples and References:
- Reference to a Bhumihaar dominant village in Jehanabad district, highlighting the stark contrast between clean prosperity and the squalor of the musahar quarter.
- Mention of a challenge from a Dalit advocate based in the United States, raising questions about the commitment to the cause on the ground.
Key Facts:
- The Chief Minister of Bihar has already ordered a caste census.
- Dalit communities continue to face challenges such as lack of access to decent schools, healthcare, and living in squalid conditions.
Critical Analysis:
- The author questions the impact of reservations, arguing that they have benefited politicians and advocacy groups more than the marginalized communities.
- The focus on the need for a new kind of affirmative action suggests a call for innovative solutions beyond existing reservation policies.
Way Forward:
- Emphasize the importance of addressing the root causes of Dalit marginalization, such as poverty and lack of access to education and healthcare.
- Advocate for comprehensive solutions that go beyond reservations, involving community development, education, and healthcare initiatives.
- Encourage a constructive debate on the effectiveness of existing policies and the exploration of new approaches to uplift marginalized communities.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor
Women empowerment issues – Jobs,Reservation and education

Menaka Guruswamy writes: In India, what women who run need

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

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: na
Mains level: gender-inclusive sports culture
Central idea

The article explores the challenges and triumphs of Indian women athletes, particularly runners, revealing their resilience against societal norms and discriminatory practices. Sohini Chattopadhyay’s book, “The Day I Became a Runner,” serves as a powerful narrative, intertwining the stories of champion women runners with India’s political and cultural evolution.

Key Highlights:
- The article explores the challenges and triumphs faced by Indian women athletes, particularly runners, navigating societal norms, laws, and personal obstacles.
- Sohini Chattopadhyay’s book, “The Day I Became a Runner,” serves as a lens to understand the history of Indian women through the narratives of champion runners.
- The stories of Mary D’Souza, Kamaljit Sandhu, P T Usha, Santhi Soundarajan, Pinki Pramanik, Dutee Chand, Lalita Babar, and others are intricately woven into the fabric of India’s political and cultural landscape.
Key Challenges:
- Gender norms and societal restrictions circumscribing outdoor activities for women in India.
- Struggles against patriarchy, poverty, identity, caste, and even controversial “sex tests” faced by women athletes.
- The need for safe public spaces, established training programs, and a cultural shift encouraging women’s participation in sports.
Key Terms:
- Sex test: A controversial practice involving the testing of biological parameters to define a woman athlete’s gender.
- Patriarchy: The social system where men hold primary power and predominate in roles of political leadership, moral authority, and social privilege.
- Stigma: Negative perceptions and attitudes associated with women athletes facing controversial tests or challenges.
Key Phrases:
- “A women’s history of India through the lens of sport”: Describes the book’s focus on portraying Indian women’s history through the stories of athletes.
- “To be a woman runner in India means to persevere in the face of tremendous odds”: Highlights the resilience required by women athletes to overcome societal barriers.
Key Quotes:
- “The book is both gripping and tough — gripping, so you don’t want to put it down, and tough, since the lives written up have been hard ones.”
- “The landmark verdict underlined that the World Athletics rules for female athletes discriminated against women by setting a threshold for testosterone.”
Anecdotes:
- Chattopadhyay’s own experiences as a woman runner, facing challenges of being the only woman in parks or roads.
- Stories of champion athletes like Mary D’Souza, P T Usha, and others, illustrating their resilience and achievements.
Key Statements:
- “There is no fairy-tale running story. And the training program is not what makes these lives harsh. It’s the many obstacles that these women must clear to simply do what they love — to run.”
- “Running requires safe public spaces, well-established training programs, and a culture that encourages women to occupy space in our streets and parks.”
Key Examples and References:
- Instances of women athletes facing hurdles such as the controversial “sex test” and societal stigmas.
- The case of Dutee Chand challenging and winning against discriminatory rules for female athletes.
Critical Analysis:
- The article critically analyzes the societal and cultural barriers that women athletes face in India.
- It emphasizes the significance of running as a sport that requires substantial investment, including safe spaces and supportive cultural attitudes.
Way Forward:
- Advocate for gender-inclusive sports culture, encouraging more women to participate in running and other athletic activities.
- Promote awareness and challenge discriminatory practices like the controversial “sex tests” to create a more equitable sports environment for women.
- Continue to document and celebrate the stories of champion women athletes as a means of inspiration and advocacy for gender equality in spor
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor
Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc

Ram Madhav writes: Opposition today needs to learn from Atal Bihari Vajpayee

op-ed snap | Indian Society | Mains Paper 1: Post-Independence

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: na
Mains level: Vajpayee's best orations occurring when he was on the opposition benches.
Central idea

The article highlights the evolution of leaders within India’s parliamentary democracy, contrasting them with those from dynastic politics. It celebrates Atal Bihari Vajpayee as a prime example, emphasizing his journey from an activist to a mature statesman. The central theme underscores the virtues of leaders emerging organically through democratic processes and the challenges posed by dynastic political practices.

Key Highlights:

The article discusses the evolution of leaders within India’s parliamentary democracy and contrasts them with those from dynastic politics.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee is highlighted as an exemplary product of Indian parliamentary democracy, having entered politics as an activist and evolved into a mature statesman.

Vajpayee’s role in the BJP’s rise from the fringes to the mainstream during the Congress-dominated era is emphasized.

The article underscores Vajpayee’s oratorical skills, his role in consensus politics, and his commitment to national interests.

Key Challenges:

Critique of dynastic politics in the Congress party post-Nehru, seen as a hindrance to embodying leadership values of parliamentary democracy.

The challenge of maintaining decorum in political discourse, contrasting it with the current cheap antics of the Opposition.

Key Terms:

Dynastic politics: The practice of political leadership being passed down through family lines.

Consensus politics: The approach of seeking agreement among diverse political parties for effective governance.

Oratorical skills: The ability to deliver powerful and persuasive speeches.

Key Phrases:

“Leaders are born, they are not made”: Expresses the perspective on the natural emergence of leadership qualities.

“Evil of dynastic politics”: Describes the negative impact of hereditary political leadership.

“Teflon-coated Hindutva-vadi”: Term used to describe Atal Bihari Vajpayee, suggesting resilience in the face of criticism.

Key Quotes:

“Leaders are born, they are not made.”

“Dynasts can never fully appreciate and demonstrate the leadership values and principles of parliamentary democracy.”

“Atal ji’s greatness is not limited to his prime ministership.”

Anecdotes:

Vajpayee’s witty remark to Nehru about having a “split personality” and an “inverted vision.”

Jaitley’s mention of Vajpayee’s obituary address for Nehru as a quality tribute to a political adversary.

Key Statements:

“Leaders born into political families struggle to fully appreciate and demonstrate the leadership values of parliamentary democracy.”

“Vajpayee’s commitment to consensus politics is noted, even during the challenges of leading a 23-party coalition.”

“Vajpayee’s role as an ideal opposition leader is praised, emphasizing his support for the government during crucial times.”

Key Examples and References:

Vajpayee’s journey from a young activist to a mature statesman within the parliamentary system.

His criticism of Nehru’s policies and the BJP’s rise during the Congress-dominated era.

Instances of Vajpayee’s leadership during events like the nuclear tests in 1998 and the Kargil War.

References:

Arun Jaitley’s memorial address for Vajpayee, highlighting his oratory skills and leadership in opposition.

Jaitley’s mention of Vajpayee’s best orations occurring when he was on the opposition benches.

Critical Analysis:

The article critically analyzes the impact of dynastic politics on embodying democratic leadership values.

Vajpayee is portrayed as an exemplary leader, emphasizing his oratorical skills, commitment to consensus politics, and prioritization of national interests.

Way Forward:

Encourage a departure from dynastic politics and foster leadership emerging through democratic processes.

Advocate for a return to decorum in political discourse and a focus on consensus politics for effective governance.

Learn from Vajpayee’s legacy, striving for political environments that prioritize national interests over partisan considerations.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor
Telecom and Postal Sector – Spectrum Allocation, Call Drops, Predatory Pricing, etc

Telecom law upgrades for a digital authoritarian state

op-ed snap | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Government Scheme/Policies

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: Universal Services Obligation Fund.
Mains level: passage of the Telecommunications Bill, 2023, and the repeal of The Indian Telegraph Act, 1885
Central idea

The article critiques the recently passed Telecom Bill, emphasizing its nationalistic undertones, potential authoritarian features, and the failure to address the digital divide effectively. It questions the rushed parliamentary process and highlights concerns about corporate favoritism, symbolized by the renaming of the Universal Services Obligation Fund.

Key Highlights:
- The tweet by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnav announces the passage of the Telecommunications Bill, 2023, and the repeal of The Indian Telegraph Act, 1885.
- The use of the term “Bharat” instead of “India” and crediting the PM’s individual vision are intentional for cultural nativism.
Key Challenges:
- The Telecom Bill is criticized for ignoring the persisting digital divide and lacking fresh ideas to address it.
- Provisions favoring select private firms and potential misuse of regulatory power are highlighted.
- State control and surveillance powers without defined safeguards raise concerns about privacy and freedom.
Key Terms and Phrases:
- “Digital Bharat Nidhi”: Renaming of Universal Services Obligation Fund (USOF) in the Telecom Bill.
- “Regulatory sandboxes”: Provisions likely to benefit large corporations in the telecom sector.
- “Authorisation” vs. “Licensing”: The change in terminology with increased severity in the Telecom Act.
Key Quotes:
- “Bharat moves on…” – Tweet by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnav.
- “Guess who will soon step into Mobile Satellite Services from India?” – MP Priyanka Chaturvedi on potential favoritism towards private firms.
Key Statements:
- The Telecom Bill is criticized for distracting from the digital divide issue and lacking innovative solutions.
- Concerns raised about potential misuse of regulatory powers and selective favoritism toward private corporations.
Key Examples and References:
- Mention of the renaming of USOF as “Digital Bharat Nidhi” in the Telecom Bill.
- Reference to the allocation of satellite spectrum benefiting the Adani Group.
Key Facts and Data:
- Stagnation in new telecom users and contraction in smartphone sales, as reported by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India and International Data Corporation.
- A legal penalty of ₹25,000 for providing false particulars or failing to share information as required by the Telecom Act.
Critical Analysis:
- The Telecom Bill is criticized for maintaining colonial architecture, vague definitions, and potential threats to privacy.
- The rushed passage of the bill without addressing raised concerns reflects an unconstitutional concentration of power.
Way Forward:
- Advocate for a thorough review of the Telecom Bill by a Standing Committee to address concerns.
- Emphasize the need for policies that genuinely bridge the digital divide and promote fair competition in the telecom sector.
- Encourage transparency, public participation, and safeguards to protect individual rights in telecommunications legislation.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

Type: op-ed snap