1. Global production under threat due to climate hazards, finds study READ MORE
2. Weather report. Shadow of El Nino over growth READ MORE
3. Sea ice on both poles at record low, finds WMO report READ MORE

1. Caste capital and myth of merit: What stops Dalits from accessing western education READ MORE
2. Income Inequality: A Cross-states and Cross-community Analysis READ MORE

1. Belated, but essential: On bringing all trade in virtual digital assets under the PMLA READ MORE
2. The unchallenged run of majoritarian encroachments READ MORE
3. Nobody loves local government READ MORE
4. Elections in the North East and Dependent Federalism READ MORE
5. When crony capitalism mars PPP mode READ MORE

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. Reinrtoduction of tigers in Madhav National Park, Madhya Pradesh READ MORE  
2. H3N2 flu claims two lives: Health Ministry READ MORE
3. China helps Saudi Arabia, Iran reconcile READ MORE
4. Xi Jinping begins third five-year term in firmer control READ MORE
5. India, U.S. to launch a semiconductor sub-committee READ MORE
6. In a first, Gujarat to release in the wild 10 wolves bred in captivity — after training READ MORE
7. Landslide Atlas of India: Which states, regions are most vulnerable READ MORE
8. Govt rethinking ‘safe harbour’ in Digital India Bill: How this could change internet landscape READ MORE
9. Amendments to PMLA rules and its impact on ‘politically exposed persons’, NGOs READ MORE  
10. Sea ice on both poles at record low, finds WMO report READ MORE

Main Exam

GS Paper- 1

1. Caste capital and myth of merit: What stops Dalits from accessing western education READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. Belated, but essential: On bringing all trade in virtual digital assets under the PMLA READ MORE
2. The unchallenged run of majoritarian encroachments READ MORE
3. Nobody loves local government READ MORE
4. Elections in the North East and Dependent Federalism READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Income Inequality: A Cross-states and Cross-community Analysis READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. A moment of reckoning for AUKUS and Australia READ MORE
2. India-Australia rapport: Cooperation in education sector augurs well for closer ties READ MORE
3. How to combat global terrorism READ MORE
4. QUAD to deepen engagement with asean READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. GDP not accurate measure of economic growth READ MORE
2. Weather report. Shadow of El Nino over growth READ MORE
3. When crony capitalism mars PPP mode READ MORE
4. Zero-budget Natural Farming: Can It Double Farmers’ Income? READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. India has a key role in the fight to end all pandemics READ MORE
2. A harbinger of gender parity in the field of Indian physics READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Global production under threat due to climate hazards, finds study READ MORE
2. Weather report. Shadow of El Nino over growth READ MORE

SECURITY

1. India’s rapid digitisation has one major casualty—cybersecurity READ MORE
2. Dealing with the cyber threats READ MORE

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. Lessons from Turkey: How to make India earthquake prepared READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Give up the mind and experience the atman READ MORE
2. Change is within us READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. The lack of clarity over municipal governance, and the hijacking of cities by the political economy of contracting, makes the idea of cities being governed by some sort of collective deliberation a bit of a joke. Critically Examine.
2. The management of the economy must become a PPPP enterprise — People, Public, Private Partnership. ‘People’, the missing ‘P’ in PPP, must be included and come first. Argue.
3. Local government requires many technical, administrative and financial fixes. There is a case to be made that the distinction between the 73rd and 74th amendments is now obsolete. Analyse the statement.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• A mistake repeated more than once is a decision.
• Security is an ever-changing landscape.
• Rapid international transportation and the use of sophisticated weapons have helped the expansion of terrorist networks globally.
• Appointments to top positions in the UN have also been captured by China in the two decades, giving it the unfair advantage of running its stated national policies through a global platform like the UN, thereby sculling many relevant interests of other member nations including India.
• It is observed that income inequalities among Indians are unlikely to be narrowed down on their own from trickledown effect of income growth.
• Our schools, colleges and universities possess large untapped potential. The need of the hour is to provide sports facilities to the upcoming sportspersons, provide them facilities and a conducive environment to nurture themselves.
• Indian civil society remains hierarchical and fragmented with the desire of integrating itself into ruling power structures.
• India, which holds the presidency of the G-20, has been repeatedly stressing the need for a globally coordinated regulatory response to deal with crypto assets.
• Despite performative obeisance to the idea by the state, decentralisation has always been hostage to a number of contradictory impulses.
• The lack of clarity over municipal governance, and the hijacking of cities by the political economy of contracting, makes the idea of cities being governed by some sort of collective deliberation a bit of a joke.
• Local government requires many technical, administrative and financial fixes. There is a case to be made that the distinction between the 73rd and 74th amendments is now obsolete.
• The guiding philosophy behind decentralisation was a faith in institutions. These were meant to be the pathways to inclusive growth and active citizenship. You cannot have inclusive growth without inclusive governance, so went the mantra.
• The non-seriousness about the 73rd and 74th amendments is a lack of seriousness about democracy itself.
• The domains of ‘public’ and ‘private’ have become separated in the market economy. The needs of the masses must be heeded, not just the needs of the classes who have wealth to invest in markets.
• The management of the economy must become a PPPP enterprise — People, Public, Private Partnership. ‘People’, the missing ‘P’ in PPP, must be included and come first.

50-WORD TALK

• A position of neutrality on Ukraine may have diminishing returns. A rigorous evaluation of the assumptions and calculus behind the current stance is important. While Russian support to India on the Kashmir issue may have helped at the UNSC in the past, the fact is that the context has entirely changed. A lot has changed as expending diplomatic capital on an issue that has long been pushed to the back burner at the Security Council has its costs.
• NAAC chairman Bhushan Patwardhan’s resignation after alleging corruption in higher education institute grading calls for a systemic audit. Can the young rely on ratings? Is the system gamed? Is there political interference? Aspirational Indians depend on the index to make decisions for their future. It’s time to review and reform.

Things to Remember:

• For prelims-related news try to understand the context of the news and relate with its concepts so that it will be easier for you to answer (or eliminate) from given options.
• Whenever any international place will be in news, you should do map work (marking those areas in maps and exploring other geographical locations nearby including mountains, rivers, etc. same applies to the national places.)
• For economy-related news (banking, agriculture, etc.) you should focus on terms and how these are related to various economic aspects, for example, if inflation has been mentioned, try to relate with prevailing price rises, shortage of essential supplies, banking rates, etc.
• For main exam-related topics, you should focus on the various dimensions of the given topic, the most important topics which occur frequently and are important from the mains point of view will be covered in ED.
• Try to use the given content in your answer. Regular use of this content will bring more enrichment to your writing.

THE CONTEXT: Recently, on the occasion of the 74th Republic Day, the President of Egypt was invited as the chief guest at the parade, this is the first time that an Egyptian President has been accorded this honour.

INDIA-EGYPT RELATIONS

The Evolution

• The history of contact between India and Egypt, two of the world’s oldest civilizations, can be traced back to at least the time of Emperor Ashoka. Ashoka’s edicts refer to his relations with Egypt under Ptolemy-II.
• In modern times, Mahatma Gandhi and the Egyptian revolutionary Saad Zaghloul shared the common goal of independence from British colonial rule.
• The joint announcement of establishment of diplomatic relations at Ambassadorial level was made on 18 August 1947.
• The two countries have had diplomatic ties for over 70 years, with India opening its embassy in Cairo in 1951, and Egypt opening its embassy in New Delhi in 1955. The relationship between India and Egypt is built on mutual respect, shared cultural heritage, and a common desire for peace and prosperity.
• India and Egypt signed a friendship treaty in 1955. In 1961, India and Egypt along with Yugoslavia, Indonesia and Ghana established the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).
• In 2016, the joint statement between India and Egypt identified political-security cooperation, economic engagement and scientific collaboration, and cultural and people-people ties as the basis of a new partnership for a new era.

INDIA-EGYPT RELATIONS: PERSPECTIVES

Cultural Relations:

• India and Egypt share a rich cultural heritage dating back thousands of years. The two countries have had trade relations and cultural exchange since ancient times. Egyptian civilization has always held a fascination for Indians, with many Indians traveling to Egypt to see the ancient pyramids and temples. Similarly, Indian culture, music, and films have also gained popularity in Egypt. The two countries have also collaborated on archaeological excavations, with Indian archaeologists working on sites in Egypt. The Maulana Azad Centre for Indian Culture (MACIC) was established in Cairo in 1992. The centre has been promoting cultural cooperation between the two countries.

Political Relations:

• India and Egypt have maintained close political relations over the years, with both countries working together to strengthen regional and global peace and security. The two countries have collaborated in various multilateral forums, including the United Nations, the Non-Aligned Movement, and the G-77 group of developing countries. India and Egypt have also been involved in joint military exercises, and India has been providing training to the Egyptian military.

Economic Relations:

• India and Egypt have a strong economic partnership, with bilateral trade between the two countries crossing $3 billion in 2020. India is Egypt’s 10th largest trading partner, and Egypt is India’s 43rd largest trading partner. The main items of trade between the two countries include textiles, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and engineering goods. In addition, there are significant investments from both countries in the other, with Indian companies investing in Egypt’s oil and gas sector, and Egyptian companies investing in India’s IT and real estate sectors.

Development Partnership:

• India and Egypt have also collaborated on various development projects in Africa, which is a common area of interest for both countries. The two countries have been working together to promote infrastructure development and capacity building in African countries, especially in the areas of education, health, and information technology.

INDIA AND EGYPT: COLLABORATIVE APPROACH IN AFRICA

India and Egypt have a history of collaborating on development projects in Africa, leveraging their respective strengths in areas such as infrastructure, healthcare, education, and agriculture. Some of the major development projects that India and Egypt have worked on in Africa are:

• Pan-African e-Network Project: India and Egypt jointly launched the Pan-African e-Network Project in 2007, which aims to provide tele-education and telemedicine services to African countries. The project uses satellite and fiber-optic networks to connect African countries with Indian experts in various fields, providing access to high-quality education and healthcare services.
• Nile Basin Initiative: India and Egypt have been collaborating on the Nile Basin Initiative, which aims to promote sustainable development and management of the Nile River Basin, which is a critical resource for several African countries. The initiative focuses on areas such as water management, irrigation, and hydropower development, and has helped to strengthen regional cooperation among African countries.
• Agriculture and Food Security: India and Egypt have been working together to enhance agricultural productivity and food security in African countries, through initiatives such as the India-Africa Agriculture and Dairy Development Program. Under this program, India has provided training and capacity-building support to African farmers and technicians, helping to improve crop yields and reduce post-harvest losses.
• Healthcare Infrastructure: India and Egypt have also collaborated on building healthcare infrastructure in Africa, through initiatives such as the India-Africa Institute of Information Technology (IAIIT). The IAIIT is a joint initiative between India and Egypt that provides training and education in healthcare information technology, helping to improve healthcare delivery and management in African countries.
• Solar Energy: India and Egypt have collaborated on solar energy projects in Africa, with the aim of promoting clean energy and reducing carbon emissions.

SIGNIFICANCE OF RECENT VISIT OF EGYPTIAN PRESIDENT TO INDIA

Key highlights of the recent visit

• During this year’s meeting, both India and Egypt agreed to elevate the bilateral relationship to a “strategic partnership”.
• The strategic partnership will have broadly four elements: political, defence, and security; economic engagement; scientific and academic collaboration; cultural and people-to-people contacts.
• India and Egypt signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for three years to facilitate content exchange, capacity building, and co-productions between Prasar Bharati and the National Media Authority of Egypt.
• Under the pact, both broadcasters will exchange their programmes of different genres like sports, news, culture, entertainment on bilateral basis.

The visit of the President of Egypt to India can expand India’s strategic horizons in several ways:

• Strengthening India-Egypt ties: The visit can help deepen India’s partnership with Egypt, which is a key player in the African continent. India can leverage its close ties with Egypt to explore new opportunities for collaboration with other African countries.
• Access to African markets: India can use Egypt as a gateway to access African markets. Egypt has strong economic ties with several African countries, and India can benefit from this by expanding its exports to these markets.
• Infrastructure development: India and Egypt can explore joint initiatives to invest in infrastructure projects in Africa, such as roads, railways, and ports. This can not only enhance connectivity within Africa but also provide opportunities for Indian companies to participate in these projects.
• Defense cooperation: India and Egypt can explore opportunities for defense cooperation in Africa, such as joint training programs, supply of defense equipment, and sharing of intelligence. This can help India expand its presence in the region and counter China’s growing influence.
• Human resource development: India can provide technical assistance and training to African countries through its partnerships with Egypt. This can help build human resource capacity in key sectors such as agriculture, health, and education.
• A Partner within the OIC: India views Egypt as a moderate Islamic voice among Muslim-majority countries, and as a partner within the Organization for Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
• Terrorism &Defence: During this Republic Day meeting, India and Egypt expressed concerns about the spread of terrorism around the world as it is the most serious security threat to humanity. Consequently, the two countries agreed that concerted action is necessary to end cross-border terrorism.

Egypt as a gateway for Africa and the Arab world to India

• Egypt is one of the countries that has many free trade agreements with many countries, as it has FTA with the EU, Arab world and the whole of Africa.
•  So, by coming to Egypt, India will be able to reach and get duty free access to all these markets in the region.
• By virtue of its location, it is very important for India to secure a place in Egypt for the kind of opportunity India will have.
• The many incentives provided for investors in the Suez Canal economic zone, has proven to be an attractive location for foreign investors.
• Egypt is inviting foreign investors, who really have interest in trapping markets of EU, Africa, Middle east, to come to Egypt, enjoy access to these regions and strategic locations.

CHALLENGES FOR INDIA-EGYPT RELATIONS

• Egypt’s economy has been in chaos over the past few years due to the pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war which impacted its supply of food as almost 80% of Egypt’s grain imported from Rusia and Ukraine and impacted Egypt’s foreign exchange reserves. In 2022, despite restrictions on the export of wheat, India allowed shipments of 61,500 metric tonnes to Egypt.
• From India, Egypt is seeking investments in infrastructure including Metro projects, a Suez Canal economic zone, a second channel of the Suez Canal, and a new administrative capital in Egypt. More than 50 Indian companies have invested more than USD 3.15 billion in Egypt.
• China’s bilateral trade with Egypt is currently at USD 15 billion, double that of India’s USD 7.26 billion in 2021-22. During the past eight years, the President of Egypt has traveled to China seven times to lure Chinese investments.
• Egypt, the most populous country in West Asia, occupies a crucial geo-strategic location — 12% of global trade passes through the Suez Canal and is a key player in the region. It is a major market for India and can act as a gateway to both Europe and Africa. However, it also has bilateral trade pacts with important West Asian and African nations which is a cause of concern for India.

THE WAY FORWARD

• Economic cooperation: India and Egypt should focus on enhancing their economic cooperation by exploring new avenues for trade and investment. Both countries can work towards identifying sectors where they can collaborate, such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy. The two sides should also work towards a free trade agreement (FTA) to boost bilateral trade.
  Security cooperation: India and Egypt should enhance their cooperation on counter-terrorism and security issues. Both countries have faced terrorist threats and can benefit from sharing intelligence and expertise in this area.
• Diplomatic cooperation: India and Egypt should continue to strengthen their diplomatic cooperation by supporting each other in international forums. Both countries have shared interests in promoting peace and stability in the Middle East, Africa, and other regions of the world.
• Multilateral engagement: India and Egypt should engage in multilateral forums like the United Nations, Non-Aligned Movement, and BRICS to advance their common interests and concerns. By working together, both countries can amplify their voices on global issues and contribute to the development of the international community.

THE CONCLUSION: India and Egypt have historically enjoyed a close and friendly relationship, with diplomatic ties dating back to the 1950s. India-Egypt relations are marked by a shared cultural heritage, political cooperation, economic ties, and a desire to work together for regional and global peace and security. The two countries have been working closely to strengthen their partnership in various fields, and there is a lot of potential for further cooperation in the years to come.

Questions

• “Over the last few years, Egypt has emerged as a central player in developments in West Asia, the Red Sea, the Horn of Africa, and African affairs in general.” In the light of the statement, discuss how India can avail access to economic and strategic potential of these regions through Egypt.
• Egypt can be a gateway to Africa and the Arab world to Indian interests. Examine.

[WpProQuiz 439]

1. Why is Self-Analysis So Important? READ MORE
2. Jabala & Shandili’s forgotten legacy for women READ MORE

1. Climate change might lead to more wildfire-inducing ‘hot lightning’ strikes: What a new study says READ MORE
2. Unregulated Tourism in the Himalayas Comes at the Cost of Ecological Hazards READ MORE

1. Caste capital and myth of merit: What stops Dalits from accessing western education READ MORE
2. Scale up Recognition of prior learning READ MORE

1. Role and remit: On SC appointing panel to probe Adani case READ MORE
2. The anti-defection law is facing convulsions READ MORE
3. Why migrant workers’ issues recur: The absence of data and coordination between states READ MORE
4. SC’s ECI order will help, but it’s not a magic wand READ MORE
5. One nation, one election and the multiple problems it cannot address READ MORE

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. Centre releases guidelines for celebrities, influencers, and virtual influencers on social media platform READ MORE  
2. South Korea pushes to end Japan disputes over forced labourers READ MORE
3. N. takes step towards new way of tracking greenhouse gases READ MORE
4. Record 6.37 lakh Olive Ridley turtles arrive at Odisha’s Rushikulya beach for mass nesting READ MORE
5. Salt flats around the world are covered in a similar pattern of ridges. Why? READ MORE
6. Indian Railways ties up with ISRO for real-time train tracking READ MORE
7. India to launch global alliance for big cats, invest $100 million READ MORE
8. Hindu rate of growth: Where does the term come from and what it means READ MORE
9. What is the SWAMIH investment fund and its affordable housing push READ MORE
10. RBI initiates 75 digital villages programme READ MORE

Main Exam

GS Paper- 1

1. Caste capital and myth of merit: What stops Dalits from accessing western education READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. Role and remit: On SC appointing panel to probe Adani case READ MORE
2. The anti-defection law is facing convulsions READ MORE
3. Why migrant workers’ issues recur: The absence of data and coordination between states READ MORE
4. SC’s ECI order will help, but it’s not a magic wand READ MORE
5. One nation, one election and the multiple problems it cannot address READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Scale up Recognition of prior learning READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. India must revisit its position on Ukraine crisis READ MORE
2. G20 geopolitics and its many complexities READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. A new trade strategy: India’s performance on exports is a result of policy interventions READ MORE
2. Why India ducked stagflation but needs a plan for it now READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. Generative AI and Large Language Models: The AI Gold Rush READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Climate change might lead to more wildfire-inducing ‘hot lightning’ strikes: What a new study says READ MORE
2. Unregulated Tourism in the Himalayas Comes at the Cost of Ecological Hazards READ MORE

SECURITY

1. India’s rapid digitisation has one major casualty—cybersecurity READ MORE
2. Dealing with the cyber threats READ MORE

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. Lessons from Turkey: How to make India earthquake prepared READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Why is Self-Analysis So Important? READ MORE
2. Jabala & Shandili’s forgotten legacy for women READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. ‘The verdict of the five-judge Constitution Bench for CEC appointment is a significant step towards enhancing the credibility and integrity of the electoral process’. Critically Examine.
2. ‘The proposed one election concept creates more problems than it promises to solve’. Do you agree with this view? Analyse your view.
3. The Production-linked Incentive (PLI) has not only transformed India into a manufacturing hub but has also curtailed its burgeoning trade deficit in electronics and other manufactured goods. Analyse the statement.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• By education, I mean an all-round drawing of the best in child and man in body, mind and spirit.
• The proposed one election concept creates more problems than it promises to solve. It proposes that concurrent elections mean better administration and more development.
• Apart from impeding growth at a local level, this could be harmful to the growth of individual states (as it would overlook regional interests and aspirations).
• If political parties are keen to enact election reforms, they should keep the nation first and take a non-partisan approach. One nation, one election, tends to favour the mighty incumbent at the Union in the short term.
• The One nation, one election concept proposes that concurrent elections mean better administration and more development. However, there is no research to prove the same.
• Capital manifests in its most embodied form at the stage of even wanting to desire western education. To dream of studying, to believe, is a luxury for marginalised students.
• The suspension of the New START treaty has nothing to do with rights and obligations of the parties to conduct nuclear tests. The Treaty has no provision for banning and suspending nuclear tests.
• The requirement of semiconductors in India’s national security domain has become critical since they form the substrate of every important activity in the country – from the economic to the military domain.
• In the absence of coordinated implementation, huge differentials have arisen in the state of preparedness of the individual sectors of the cyber ecosystem.
• Considering the soaring importance of cyberspace in the landscape of national security, there is no choice, especially in the coming decade, which seems to be on the steep slope of rising geopolitical confrontations.
• The unanimous verdict of the five-judge Constitution Bench is a significant step towards enhancing the credibility and integrity of the electoral process.
• The Production-linked Incentive (PLI) scheme has been a game changer. It has not only transformed India into a manufacturing hub but has also curtailed its burgeoning trade deficit in electronics and other manufactured goods.

ESSAY TOPIC

• The secret of all victory lies in the organisation of the non-obvious.

50-WORD TALK

• A position of neutrality on Ukraine may have diminishing returns. A rigorous evaluation of the assumptions and calculus behind the current stance is important. While Russian support to India on the Kashmir issue may have helped at the UNSC in the past, the fact is that the context has entirely changed. A lot has changed as expending diplomatic capital on an issue that has long been pushed to the back burner at the Security Council has its costs.
• NAAC chairman Bhushan Patwardhan’s resignation after alleging corruption in higher education institute grading calls for a systemic audit. Can the young rely on ratings? Is the system gamed? Is there political interference? Aspirational Indians depend on the index to make decisions for their future. It’s time to review and reform.

Things to Remember:

• For prelims-related news try to understand the context of the news and relate with its concepts so that it will be easier for you to answer (or eliminate) from given options.
• Whenever any international place will be in news, you should do map work (marking those areas in maps and exploring other geographical locations nearby including mountains, rivers, etc. same applies to the national places.)
• For economy-related news (banking, agriculture, etc.) you should focus on terms and how these are related to various economic aspects, for example, if inflation has been mentioned, try to relate with prevailing price rises, shortage of essential supplies, banking rates, etc.
• For main exam-related topics, you should focus on the various dimensions of the given topic, the most important topics which occur frequently and are important from the mains point of view will be covered in ED.
• Try to use the given content in your answer. Regular use of this content will bring more enrichment to your writing.

THE CONTEXT: The Honorable PM of India recently inaugurated a virtual event, “Voice of the Global South Summit”. Also, India’s recent access to G20 Presidency, has iterated the country’s role as the “voice of the Global South”, that is otherwise under-represented in global forums.

ABOUT THE VOICE OF GLOBAL SOUTH SUMMIT

• The Voice of Global South Summit is an international conference that brings together leaders, policymakers, and experts from developing countries to discuss issues of common concern and to explore ways to strengthen cooperation and collaboration among countries of the Global South.
• India hosted the summit in a bid to articulate the views of the developing countries regarding the effects of the pandemic and the war in Ukraine.
• The event has planned eight ministerial sessions including finance, energy, education, foreign affairs, and commerce.
• It was held under the theme – ‘Unity of Voice, Unity of Purpose’ – essentially envisages bringing together countries of the global south and sharing their perspectives and priorities on a common platform across a whole range of issues.

The major outcomes of the summit:

• The Indian Prime Minister through this event has set the stage on behalf of developing countries, many of which are united by a history of colonization.
• Offering to become the voice of the Global South, India during the event gave a new agenda to the world on behalf of the countries of the South: ‘respond, recognise, respect, and reform’.
• It was held that the world is facing unprecedented crisis of 3 “F” ‘Food, Fuel and Fertilizer’. The most acute impact of this is felt in global south. It is our endeavour to utilize the G20 presidency to give resonance to the voice of the global south.
• Calls for greater cooperation among developing countries to address common challenges, such as climate change, poverty, and inequality were taken.
• Emphasis was on the need to promote South-South cooperation to drive economic growth and development.
• Agreement on the importance of advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement on climate change were discussed.
• Discussion on the need to reform global governance structures to better reflect the interests of the Global South were held.

UNDERSTANDING THE GLOBAL SOUTH

• The Global South is a term used to describe the countries and regions of the world that are considered to be less developed and economically disadvantaged. It includes countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, among others. The concept of the Global South emerged as a response to the historical imbalances in the global economy and the need for greater equity in the distribution of power and resources.
• The significance of the Global South lies in the fact that it represents the majority of the world’s population, and its economic and political influence is growing. The Global South is also home to many of the world’s fastest-growing economies, and it has the potential to drive global economic growth and development in the future.

What is Global North and Global South?

• Global North’ refers loosely to countries like the US, Canada, Europe, Russia, Australia and New Zealand.
• This classification is more accurate as the countries share similarities in terms of wealth, indicators of education and healthcare, etc.

EVOLUTION OF THE GLOBAL NORTH AND SOUTH DEBATE

• The emergence of the Global North and South debate can be traced back to the historical and structural imbalances in the global economy and the distribution of power and resources. The roots of this debate can be traced back to the colonial era, when European powers established colonies in Africa, Asia, and Latin America to extract resources and exploit cheap labor. This resulted in the transfer of wealth and resources from the Global South to the Global North.
• After the colonial era, the newly independent countries of the Global South continued to be exploited and marginalized in the global economy. The global economic order was dominated by Western powers, who controlled the institutions and rules that governed the international economic system. This included the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, and the World Trade Organization, which were designed to promote the interests of developed countries at the expense of developing countries.
• The Global North and South debate gained momentum in the 1970s and 1980s, as developing countries began to demand a greater say in global governance and a more equitable distribution of power and resources. This included calls for debt relief, fairer trade policies, and greater access to technology and investment. Developing countries also began to form alliances and groupings, such as the Non-Aligned Movement and the Group of 77, to promote their common interests in global forums.
• Presently, the Global North and South debate remains a central issue in global politics, as developing countries continue to seek greater economic and political power in the international system. The debate is also closely linked to issues of poverty, inequality, and social justice, as many developing countries struggle to achieve economic growth and development in the face of global economic imbalances.

VARIOUS INITIATIVES FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE GLOBAL SOUTH

There are several initiatives that have been launched to support the development of the Global South, including:

• South-South Cooperation: This refers to the collaboration between developing countries to share knowledge, expertise, and resources. South-South cooperation can include initiatives such as technical assistance, capacity building, and investment.
• Official Development Assistance (ODA): This refers to financial assistance provided by developed countries to support the development of developing countries. ODA can include grants, loans, and technical assistance, and is often used to support projects in areas such as education, health, and infrastructure development.
• Climate Finance: This refers to financial assistance provided by developed countries to support developing countries in their efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change. Climate finance can include funding for renewable energy projects, climate-resilient infrastructure, and other initiatives that support sustainable development.
• Multilateral Development Banks: These are international financial institutions that provide loans, grants, and technical assistance to support the development of developing countries. Examples of multilateral development banks include the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank, and the African Development Bank.

WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF GLOBAL SOUTH?

• Issue of Green Energy Fund: Despite Global North countries’ higher contribution towards global emissions, they are neglecting to pay for funding green energy, for which the ultimate sufferers are the least emitters – the lesser developed countries.
• Impact of Russia-Ukraine War: The Russia-Ukraine war severely affected the least developed countries (LDCs) aggravating the concerns related to food, energy and finance, thereby, threatening the development prospects of LDCs.
• China’s Interference: China is increasingly making inroads in the Global South through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) for developing infrastructure, while pushing nations into debt traps.
• US Hegemony: The world is now considered to be multipolar by many but still, it is the US alone who dominates international affairs.
• Inadequate Access to Resources: Global North-South divergences have been historically characterized by major gaps in the access to resources required for crucial developmental outcomes. Industrialization, for example, has been skewed in the favour of advanced economies since the early 1960s, and no major evidence of global convergence was found in this regard.
• Impact of Covid-19: Covid-19 pandemic has exacerbated the already existing divides. Not only have the countries faced different challenges in dealing with the initial phases of the pandemic, but the social and macroeconomic implications being faced today have been far worse for the global South. The vulnerability of the domestic economies is far more apparent now in countries ranging from Argentina and Egypt to Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

HOW CAN INDIA BECOME THE VOICE OF GLOBAL SOUTH?

• India can be the Voice of Global South by using its position as a major developing country and member of several international organizations to advocate for the interests of the Global South.
• Advocating for a fairer and more equitable global economic order: India can use its voice in international forums to push for reforms that promote a more equitable distribution of power and resources in the global economy. This could include pushing for fairer trade policies, debt relief, and greater access to technology and investment for developing countries.
• Promoting South-South Cooperation: India can take a leadership role in promoting cooperation and collaboration among developing countries to share knowledge, expertise, and resources. This could include providing technical assistance, capacity building, and investment to other developing countries.
• Supporting initiatives to address global challenges: India can use its position to support initiatives that address global challenges such as climate change, poverty, and inequality. This could include providing climate finance to support developing countries in their efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change, and supporting initiatives to reduce poverty and promote social and economic development in the Global South.
• Advocating for greater representation of developing countries in global governance: India can use its voice to push for greater representation of developing countries in international organizations and decision-making processes. This could include advocating for reforms to the United Nations Security Council and other international institutions to ensure that the voices of developing countries are heard.

THE WAY FORWARD:

To promote the interests of the Global South, India and other developing countries could take the following measures:

• Increase South-South cooperation: Developing countries could work together to share knowledge, expertise, and resources to address common challenges and promote economic growth and development.
• Promote regional integration: Regional integration could help to increase economic integration and cooperation among neighboring countries, and promote intra-regional trade and investment.
• Strengthen institutions and governance structures: Developing countries could work to strengthen their institutions and governance structures to promote economic growth, reduce corruption, and enhance political stability.
• Increase access to finance and technology: Developing countries could work to increase access to finance and technology to help promote economic growth and development.
• Advocate for reform of global governance structures: Developing countries could advocate for reforms of global governance structures to better reflect the interests of the Global South and promote greater equity in the distribution of power and resources.
• Fostering dialogue and cooperation between the Global North and South: India can use its position as a bridge between the Global North and South to promote dialogue and cooperation between these two groups. This could help to reduce tensions and promote greater understanding and cooperation on issues of common concern.

THE CONCLUSION: The development of the Global South is critical for achieving a more equitable and sustainable global economic order. The Global South represents a significant portion of the world’s population, and its economic growth and development have the potential to drive global economic growth and reduce poverty and inequality. However, the development gap between the Global North and South remains significant, and there is a need for greater political will and commitment from developed countries to support the development of the Global South. By promoting the development of the Global South, we can create a more inclusive and equitable global economy that benefits everyone, and ensures a better future for generations to come.

Questions

• “India has always shared its developmental experience with our brothers of the Global South, which makes India an important lynchpin of voicing the concerns of the Global South.” In the light of this statement, elaborate on how India can become the voice of Global South?
• “The challenges of the COVID pandemic, rising prices of fuel, fertilizer and foodgrains, and increasing geopolitical tensions have impacted the developmental efforts for the Global South.” Examine.

[WpProQuiz 438]

1. Love’s wisdom READ MORE
2. A woman philosopher on a pedestal READ MORE
3. Vedas and Management READ MORE

1. Extreme wildfires are turning the world’s largest forest ecosystem from carbon sink into net-emitter READ MORE
2. Missing in Budget 2023: Proactive Steps to Tackle the Rising Air Pollution READ MORE
3. A new tech can reduce India’s pollution levels as well as fuel imports. What is standing in its way? READ MORE

1. Unscrupulous Inequality READ MORE
2. Has Budget 2023-24 been successful in balancing gender priorities? READ MORE

1. Power against knowledge: On Centre for Policy Research FCRA licence suspension READ MORE
2. SC order on ECI will bolster democracy READ MORE
3. Proactive civil society vital for healthy democracy READ MORE
4. If fraternity is a constitutional virtue, politics of the day is divorced from Constitution READ MORE

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. Guidelines for UIDF likely to be released by March-end READ MORE  
2. India is ‘dangerously close’ to Hindu rate of growth, says Raghuram Rajan READ MORE
3. Nations reach accord to protect marine life on high seas READ MORE
4. Explained | Why are index makers attracting attention from SEBI? READ MORE
5. With overfishing, great seahorses bolt from the Coromandel READ MORE
6. Reflections From a Project Tackling Learning Challenges in Assam’s Bodoland Region READ MORE
7. What is the SWAMIH investment fund and its affordable housing push READ MORE
8. Thane Municipal Corp warns against feeding pigeons: How living near the birds can lead to diseases in humans READ MORE
9. Muggers of Rapti: Anthropogenic threats pose risk to saurians in Nepal’s Chitwan National Park, says study READ MORE

Main Exam

GS Paper- 1

1. Unscrupulous Inequality READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. Power against knowledge: On Centre for Policy Research FCRA licence suspension READ MORE
2. SC order on ECI will bolster democracy READ MORE
3. Proactive civil society vital for healthy democracy READ MORE
4. If fraternity is a constitutional virtue, politics of the day is divorced from Constitution READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Has Budget 2023-24 been successful in balancing gender priorities? READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. India’s moment under the diplomatic sun must be used READ MORE
2. What India, as president of G-20 and architect of credo of non-violence, can do on Ukraine READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. What India’s labour force and national income data tell us about jobs shifting from agriculture READ MORE
2. Is India reverting to the Hindu rate of growth? READ MORE
3. How to double India’s farmers’ income READ MORE
4. Resurrecting three farm laws READ MORE
5. How to Sustainably Boost Millet Crops Without Hurting Peasants READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. Generative AI and Large Language Models: The AI Gold Rush READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Extreme wildfires are turning the world’s largest forest ecosystem from carbon sink into net-emitter READ MORE
2. Missing in Budget 2023: Proactive Steps to Tackle the Rising Air Pollution READ MORE
3. A new tech can reduce India’s pollution levels as well as fuel imports. What is standing in its way? READ MORE

SECURITY

1. Cyberattacks are rising, but there is an ideal patch READ MORE
2. Dealing with the cyber threats READ MORE

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. Lessons from Turkey: How to make India earthquake prepared READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Love’s wisdom READ MORE
2. A woman philosopher on a pedestal READ MORE
3. Vedas and Management READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. How far do you agree with the view that the Supreme Court Judgement to establish a panel for the appointment of CEC is neither activism nor judicial overreach but a progressive step to secure the institutional autonomy? Analyse your view.
2. ‘Mere allocation of large funds could not ensure the nation’s development or public welfare’. In light of this statement, do you agree with the view that there should be a third-party review, as recommended by the 15th finance commission, of the proper implementation of all Central Schemes?
3. ‘Perfect’ Bureaucracy, a term coined by Prime Minister Modi, is not possible in India because of the politically influenced environment, but we can develop an able and sensitive administration to ensure that the benefits of Government schemes reach the poorest and well in time by effective implementation of Mission Karamyogi. Examine.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• War does not determine who is right — only who is left.
• The post of the Governor, a relic of the colonial era, often becomes a fifth wheel and a clog to democratic governance, when provincial autonomy is diluted, or an elected government is derailed.
• Federalism is an integral part of the basic structure of our Constitution, and it is intertwined inextricably with the unity and integrity of the nation.
• Despite recommendations of the Sarkaria and Venkatachaliah Commissions, active party politicians have been appointed as Governors. There are instances of young party loyalists being appointed as Governors who were later sworn in as Ministers in the States.
• A look at the estimated receipt and expenditure position of Budget 2023-24 would make it clear that the Government is consciously ignoring the fiscal consolidation measures enunciated in the last year’s budget.
• The judicial system ought not to enjoy unfettered freedom in the name of the independence of the judiciary.
• There is a need for a reformed mechanism for the appointment of judges to the constitutional courts where the judiciary and executive could amicably come to the conclusion.
• The rule of law requires that law be applied consistently & impartially.
• Smart technologies and solutions thus have the potential to alter the entire value chain of businesses across industries.
• Digitalisation is inevitable, but it must be adopted only after proper ‘digital literacy’; end users must be made aware of its drawbacks.
• A country that is fast emerging as a global leader cannot afford to let an unhealthy preoccupation with the past cast a shadow on its promising future.
• Technical and operational gaps leading to inclusion or exclusion errors must be plugged to ensure the money reaches the intended beneficiaries.
• Reducing the inevitable negative impact of conflicts between major powers on the forum will be a diplomatic achievement for Delhi in G20.

ESSAY TOPIC

• The secret of all victory lies in the organisation of the non-obvious.

50-WORD TALK

• G20 looks after an unequal monetary system that serves the interests of the global capital and political elite. It represents powerful interests, but disdains standing up for the powerless. Civil societies flourish in nations that cherish constitutional democracy. Even democratic govts have a tendency to augment power at the expense of people’s rights. This propensity has to be controlled by civil society.

Things to Remember:

• For prelims-related news try to understand the context of the news and relate with its concepts so that it will be easier for you to answer (or eliminate) from given options.
• Whenever any international place will be in news, you should do map work (marking those areas in maps and exploring other geographical locations nearby including mountains, rivers, etc. same applies to the national places.)
• For economy-related news (banking, agriculture, etc.) you should focus on terms and how these are related to various economic aspects, for example, if inflation has been mentioned, try to relate with prevailing price rises, shortage of essential supplies, banking rates, etc.
• For main exam-related topics, you should focus on the various dimensions of the given topic, the most important topics which occur frequently and are important from the mains point of view will be covered in ED.
• Try to use the given content in your answer. Regular use of this content will bring more enrichment to your writing.

[WpProQuiz 437]

THE CONTEXT: The 83rd Conference of All India Presiding Officers was held in Rajasthan after eleven years. The All India Presiding Officers’ Conference (AIPOC) is the apex body of the Legislatures in India that completed its hundred years in 2021. The Vice President & Rajya Sabha Chairman addressed the inaugural session of the 83rd All India Presiding Officers’ Conference in Jaipur on 11th January 2023.

OUTCOMES OF THE CONFERENCE

The 83rd session has focused on the following themes of contemporary relevance in its day-long discussions-

• The leadership of India in G-20 as the mother of democracy
• The need to make Parliament and Legislature more Effective, Accountable and Productive
• Integration of State Legislatures with Digital Parliament
• The need to maintain a harmonious relationship between the Legislature and the Judiciary in accordance with the spirit of the Constitution.

THE ANALYSIS OF THE ABOVE THEMES

1. LEADERSHIP OF INDIA IN G-20 AS THE MOTHER OF DEMOCRACY

EMPHASIS IN THE CONFERENCE REGARDING LEADERSHIP OF INDIA IN G-20

• Vice President, In his speech, acknowledged the significance India’s Presidency of G20 holds for the country and also the world. He said, “India is privileged to be heading G20 at a critical time and the session will focus on the Leadership of India in G20 as the mother of democracy.”
• Our age-old ethos, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, inspires India. India has given New Mantra for sustainable development and inclusive prosperity of the world: One Earth, One Family, One Future.
• For India, the G20 Presidency also marks the beginning of “Amritkaal”, the 25-year period beginning from the 75th anniversary of its independence on 15 August 2022, leading up to the centenary of its independence, towards a futuristic, prosperous, inclusive and developed society, distinguished by a human-centric approach at its core.

INDIA’S G20 PRIORITIES

1. Green Development, Climate Finance &LiFE: India offers the world LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) -a behaviour-based movement that draws from our nation’s rich, ancient sustainable traditions to nudge consumers, and in-turn markets, to adopt environmentally-conscious practices.
2. Accelerated, Inclusive & Resilient Growth :  India aims to focus on areas that have the potential to bring structural transformation. This includes an ambition to accelerate integration of MSMEs in global trade, bring in the spirit of trade for growth, promote labour rights and secure labour welfare, address global skills gap, and build inclusive agricultural value chains and food systems etc.
3. Accelerating progress on SDGs: India acknowledges the detrimental impact of COVID-19, which changed the current decade of action into a decade of recovery. In line with this perspective, India wants to focus on recommitting G20’s efforts to achieving the targets laid out in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
4. Technological Transformation & Digital Public Infrastructure: As G20 Presidency, India can foreground its belief in a human-centric approach to technology, and facilitate greater knowledge-sharing in priority areas like digital public infrastructure, financial inclusion, and tech-enabled development in sectors ranging from agriculture to education
5. Multilateral Institutions for the 21st century: India’s G20 priority will be to continue pressing for reformed multilateralism that creates more accountable,inclusive just, equitable and representative multipolar international system that is fit for addressing the challenges in the 21st century.
6. Women-led development: India hopes to use the G20 forum to highlight inclusive growth and development, with women empowerment and representation being at the core of India’s G20 deliberations. This includes a focus on bringing women to the fore and in leading positions to boost socio-economic development and achievement of SDGs.

2. THE NEED TO MAKE PARLIAMENT AND LEGISLATURE MORE EFFECTIVE, ACCOUNTABLE AND PRODUCTIVE

RESOLUTION PASSED

• Resolutions were passed for the effectiveness of the Parliament:
• A resolution called for the introduction of a code of conduct for MLAs and MPs to check indecorous and unparalleled conduct.
• A code of conduct for members to be introduced in the rules for an effective check against indecorous and unparalleled conduct.
• In a separate resolution, the presiding officers underlined the need for consensus among political parties for not disrupting the House during Question Hour.
• It was also resolved that the rules of procedure and the conduct of the business of legislative bodies should be comprehensively reviewed.
• In another resolution, it was proposed that model uniform rules should be formulated by incorporating the best practices to ensure the productive functioning of the Houses of the legislature.

CONCERN

• Lack of optimisation of the contribution of the elected representatives in Parliament and Legislature for the welfare of the people.
• There has been shrinking time of debate and discussion in the house. Lok Sabha’s productivity or time utilisation dropped to 88% in the last winter session and to just 47% in the 2022 monsoon session from 123% in last year’s budget session. The Lower House witnessed heavy disruptions from the Opposition benches in the previous two sessions. In the 2021 monsoon session, the Lok Sabha could utilise only 21% of its allotted time.
• Disruption of the House is used as a political tool for the members of legislatures

THE WAY FORWARD

• Speaker represents dignity of house, freedom of the house and in a way freedom & liberty of nation. Hence, her position to be free, honored occupied by persons of outstanding ability &impartiality
• Presiding officers hold august offices; in this capacity, they are not political stakeholders. Thus, a good perception should be built among the people of the country about the presiding officers. Members of the parliament and legislature houses should improve their conduct and beliefs.
• Presiding Officers should consider encouraging those lawmakers who participate in debates in the House and also prepare an action plan to act against those members who constantly obstruct the House’s proceedings, so that the House’s dignity is not compromised.
• There should be no disruptions during Question Hour, the period for all lawmakers to seek answers from ministers, and linked parliamentary functioning to India’s goals during the “Amrit Kaal”, or the coming 25 years in the run-up to 2047.

SUPREME COURT JUDGEMENTS

• In Jagjit Singh case – SC noticed issues with speaker’s impartiality and concerns regarding her decisions in certain matters in capacity as a tribunal
• Keisham Meghachandra Singh case (2019) – Parliament to rethink vesting powers in 10th schedule to Speaker as she belongs to Political parties either dejure or defacto. Further serious consideration by Parliament maybe made with respect to the Constitutional Amendment to form permanent Tribunal with retired SC/HC judges or some other outside mechanism for the same purpose.

3. INTEGRATION OF STATE LEGISLATURES WITH DIGITAL PARLIAMENT:

e-Parliament or Digital Parliament is defined as the use of ICTs in parliamentary institutions to enhance and strengthen their core functions and operations.

SIGNIFICANCE

• e-Parliament helps promote e-Democracy and encourages citizens’ participation in the democratic and socio-economic platforms.
• It helps in strengthening the interaction endeavors between the members of parliament and the general citizens.
• Besides this it also facilitates efficient public service delivery, enhances social inclusion, allows transparency in the public service, and facilitates cost savings in government’s bid to involve citizens in its governing processes.

Significance of Integration of State Legislatures with Digital Parliament:

This will ensure a quick and easy exchange of information and innovations in the country’s legislative bodies. This will also increase the efficiency and quality of communication between the legislators and the public.

• It will also facilitate cooperative federalism.
• Easy communication between the centre and State

It also confirmed that all legislatures would work towards joining the National Digital Grid for Legislative Bodies.

4. THE NEED TO MAINTAIN A HARMONIOUS RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE LEGISLATURE AND THE JUDICIARY IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SPIRIT OF THE CONSTITUTION.

THE THEME EMPHASISED IN THE CONFERENCE

In the Conference the separation of power was emphasised-

• The resolution recognised the separate powers of the judiciary and legislature.
• It said that each should respect the boundaries provided by the Constitution.
• While reposing confidence in the principle of separation of powers, it exhorted all organs of the state to respect the Constitutional boundaries enshrined in the Constitution of India.
• Constitution has defined the responsibilities and authority of the legislature, judiciary, and executive. “It is necessary that these three organs work in a harmonious manner as per the spirit of the Constitution.”
• The resolution reaffirmed its complete faith in the primacy of the people of India in law-making through the legislative bodies of the nation.

ANALYSIS

• It was highlighted that there Is parliamentary Supremacy and it is the only institution for law-making. Vice President cautioned against “one upmanship” and “public posturing from judicial platforms”. He expressed his disagreement with the Supreme Court’s 1973 decision in the Kesavananda Bharati case in which the court said the Parliament had the right to amend the Constitution, but not its basic structure.
• In the conference, it was expressed that  in the democratic setup, the legislature is supreme. It has the right to make laws and because of that, it is an expectation that all institutions remain within their limits. It was said that the judiciary does not have the power to make laws, it can scrutinise after the law is legislated.
• The argument that Parliament’s sovereignty and autonomy cannot be permitted to be qualified or compromised as it is quintessential to the survival of democracy is a flawed argument. In India’s, parliamentary setup constitution is supreme rather than parliament.
• All India presiding officer reaffirmed its complete faith in the primacy of the people of India in law-making through the legislative bodies of the nation and while reposing confidence in the principle of separation of powers, exhorts all organs of State to respect the Constitutional boundaries enshrined in the Constitution of India.
• Vice-president was referred to the Supreme Court’s rejection of the National Judicial Appointments Commission law. “No institution can wield power or authority to neutralise the mandate of the people,” Vice -president, while saying a landmark 1973 judgment that set the “basic structure” argument to judge laws through a constitutional prism set a “bad precedent” by effectively curtailing the power of the legislature. It was held that judiciary need “to confine to its limits prescribed in the Constitution and  expected to follow the principle of separation and balance of powers conferred by the Constitution among all institutions while exercising its constitutional mandate.”
• In the nutshell, it was said that judicial legislation is antithetical to separation of power. But it has to be recognised that judiciary is the ultimate protector and interpreter of the Constitution and it has been granted power under article 13 for judicial review in which it protect the Constitution from executive and legislative leviathan(legislative and executive overreach).
• Unlike the British Parliament which is a sovereign body (in the absence of a written constitution), the powers and functions of the Indian parliament and State legislatures are subject to limitations laid down in the Constitution. The Constitution does not contain all the laws that govern the country. Parliament and the state legislatures make laws from time to time on various subjects, within their respective jurisdictions. The Constitution provides the general framework for making these laws. Parliament alone is given the power to make changes to this framework under Article 368. Unlike ordinary laws, amendments to constitutional provisions require a special majority vote in Parliament.
• Supreme Court also plays important role in protecting the federal structure of the Constitution In the SR Bommai case it recognised federalism as the basic structure of the Constitution. In a series of judgements, Supreme Court protected the rights of States in India by declaring null and void parliamentary overreach e.g. from colourable legislation.
• Parliament – a majesty which represents people, has been reduced to a handmaiden of the ruling party. Democracy demands power to be vested in institutions and exercised according to procedures. But the populist embodies in his corporeal body the people and the country, the nation and the government. Populists do not tolerate criticism from individuals and forums of deliberation like the Parliament.

THE WAY FORWARD

• India is not only a democratic setup but also a constitutional setup, where the Constitution is supreme, whether it is legislature or judiciary the Constitution binds them. Fusion of power is the basic feature of the Indian Constitution rather than the strict separation of power. It is based on the Philosophy of checks and Balances that decreases the misuse of power.
• Supreme Court also observed it in the Indira Gandhi vs Raj Narain, 1975 case that the Separation of power in India was limited and in a broad sense only. A rigid separation of power under the American Constitution does not apply to India.
• In this context it is necessary that the executive, legislature and judiciary should “work in harmony, trust and balance, maintaining each other’s jurisdiction” to protect constitutional morality. In the current scenario, there is a need for more accountable and responsible parliament.
• Thus instead of criticism of the judiciary, there is need to relook and reform the parliamentary system. In this context there is need for government responsible to the people and Constitution. All the constitutional dignitaries should respect the dignity of the post.

Mains Question

1. In the debate of the supremacy between the Executive and Judiciary, there is a need to recognise the supremacy of the Constitution in Indian Polity. Discuss
2.  The speaker plays an important role in maintaining the dignity of the parliament and State Legislative assemblies. Analyse.

1. The Buddha & Angulimala READ MORE
2. Facts, fiction and Black Swans READ MORE

1. BIMSTEC region can provide green, affordable energy access to all READ MORE
2. ‘Insatiable demand from the East, greed & lack of political will is enabling poaching across Africa’ READ MORE

1. Unscrupulous Inequality READ MORE
2. Make public places accessible to the disabled READ MORE