1. Secret of relaxation READ MORE
2. What are Values? READ MORE

1. India’s water situation is alarming READ MORE
2. Stubble of discomfort READ MORE  
3. Fresh air? READ MORE

1. Terms of Trade | Redistribution is dead, long live redistribution! READ MORE
2. The taboo of divorce is waning, but families are still important READ MORE  

1. Why has the government issued a directive on deepfake? READ MORE
2. GPS ankle monitors for UAPA-accused on bail: Too many issues to ignore READ MORE
3. Judges, please note: CJI’s point that contempt law does not disallow fair criticism of judgments should be heeded by all courts READ MORE
4. A skewed setup READ MORE

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. Lok Sabha ethics panel recommends expulsion of Trinamool  MP Mahua Moitra READ MORE
2. soriasis patients contend with lack of awareness, lifestyle choices and insurance cover READ MORE
3. RBI to hold rates till it clearly sights Fed heading to cut: Moody’s Investors Service READ MORE
4. Absolute decoupling yet to happen between carbon emission, GDP growth globally, says RBI deputy governor READ MORE
5. CBI is not a limb of Centre, Union government tells Supreme Court READ MORE
6. Supreme Court attains full strength as case log nears 80,000 READ MORE
7. Expert Explains | Regulating political funding: Rules around the world, India’s challenges READ MORE
8. Speedy disposal of cases against lawmakers: What SC guidelines on the matter say READ MORE
9. Last 12 months were the warmest in 125,000 years READ MORE  
10. El Nino may remain till April 2024, may push temperatures even higher: WMO READ MORE
11. British king acknowledges colonial atrocities in Kenya — here’s what could happen next READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. Terms of Trade | Redistribution is dead, long live redistribution! READ MORE
2. The taboo of divorce is waning, but families are still important READ MORE  
3. India’s water situation is alarming READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. Why has the government issued a directive on deepfake? READ MORE
2. GPS ankle monitors for UAPA-accused on bail: Too many issues to ignore READ MORE
3. Judges, please note: CJI’s point that contempt law does not disallow fair criticism of judgments should be heeded by all courts READ MORE
4. A skewed setup READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Women in red: On an optimum menstrual hygiene policy READ MORE
2. TB in India: A fight to the end READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. Strengthening Indo-Bhutan ties READ MORE
2. Lack of moral clarity in India’s stance READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. Should Indians work longer hours? READ MORE
2. Acknowledge India’s economic successes too READ MORE
3. Chip off the blocks: On semiconductor fabrication in India READ MORE
4. How poverty has turned Bihar into a ‘state of labourers’ READ MORE
5. India’s IT sector is missing signs of the future of work READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Stubble of discomfort READ MORE  
2. Fresh air? READ MORE
3. Pollution control: Act before it is too late READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. India addresses deepfake threats: Calls for legal action and tech solutions READ MORE
2. Deepfake: Troll armies’ new tool READ MORE

INTERNAL SECURITY

1. Hurdles delaying formation of integrated theatre commands READ MORE

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. How ignored landslide warnings led to Subansiri running dry READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Secret of relaxation READ MORE
2. What are Values? READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. Values are basic and fundamental beliefs that guide actions. Comment.
2. Values are essential to ethics. Comment.
3. With the help of relevant examples, analyse why courage most important value to deal with right and wrong conduct?
4. Can we say that in today’s society, there is a missing commitment to core ethical values such as honesty, kindness, compassion, respect, and personal responsibility?
5. Virtue ethics plays an important role in turning moral values into excellence of character. Justify the statement with the help of some real-life examples.
6. The caste system is not merely division of labour. It is also a division of labourers. Critically examine.
7. A strong family is the panacea for a sustainable society but in recent times women are no longer willing to suffer in silence. Comment.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• The caste system is not merely division of labour. It is also a division of labourers.
• Patience is key to effective listening. It demonstrates respect and willingness to hear the other person’s viewpoint.
• Since India does not have a very robust infrastructure to ‘fact-check,’ the deepfake could be a real menace affecting politics to individual privacy
• A strong family is the panacea for a sustainable society but the society is itself undergoing changes and women are no longer willing to suffer in silence.
• Some values stand up well over the test of time; they are always good or rightful behavior. Honesty and kindness are two such examples.
• From a virtue perspective, it is most important to distinguish intrinsic from extrinsic value. Intrinsic value is something that has value in its own right, such as honesty and kindness, whereas extrinsic value is doing something for another reason.
• The loyal person may believe in the importance of keeping one’s confidence even if it might harm others because of the trusting relationship.
• Values are essential to ethics.
• Ethics is concerned with human actions, and the choice of those actions.
• Values in a narrow sense is that which is good, desirable, or worthwhile. Values are the motive behind purposeful action.
• Values are basic and fundamental beliefs that guide or motivate attitudes or actions.
• To effectively discharge this responsibility, it is important for audit to actively work in tandem with citizens, appreciating their concerns and feedback.
• In India’s federal, multiparty democracy with both Union and state governments responsible for implementation of numerous schemes, projects and programmes, enhancing engagement with stakeholders is imperative for audit.
• Leveraging technology and digital solutions make audit’s citizen engagement more effective and scalable.
• Social audit is an interesting tool for facilitating citizen oversight.
• The 73rd and 74th Constitutional amendments marked a quantum leap in India’s democratic set up, as they created tiers of self-governance below the level of states.
• Empowering PRIs and urban local bodies and municipalities, envisions people’s participation in the process of planning, decision-making, implementation and delivery of a set of functions to be devolved to local governments by state legislatures.
• Carrying forward this recognition of local self-governance as the true manifestation of democracy and the CAG’s responsibility for ensuring accountability, an international centre for local governance has been envisaged.
• Female labour force participation rates have, in the past, tended to rise during times of financial stress as women stepped out to augment their household incomes.
• While the CAG catalyses good governance, transparency and accountability, the responsibility to nurture and protect democratic principles falls not only on our institutions but on every citizen.
• The proposed changes in patent law will endanger access to affordable medicines and benefit global big pharma.
• Both Hindus and Muslims in Kashmir must strive to understand each other’s viewpoints, fostering mutual trust and loyalty within the community.
• By adopting the principles of sustainability, non-violence, and respect for all life forms, we can work towards a more harmonious relationship with nature.

ESSAY TOPIC

• Many worlds: Multipolarity in the new world order

50-WORD TALK

• In a transforming India, where education and technology act as levelling forces, caste-based affirmative action, refined through caste numbers, can drive more extensive dialogues on aspiration, ambition, freedom, opportunity, and the necessity for a system where citizens are not unfairly privileged or confined by their identities. If a robust methodology were to be used, this effort would be vital in identifying and addressing fault lines to promote gender justice.
• Extending free food for another 5 years is an acknowledgement that the poor continue to need ample support for years ahead. The move also rings the final death knell of farm laws. If government grain procurement is going to be so high, then that rules out entry of private sector.
• Indian envoy in Ottawa describing Canadian police probe into Nijjar killing as tainted and wiretapping of diplomats as illegal shows Delhi is doubling down. But Canada is being duplicitous in citing Vienna Convention on parity even as it illegally tapped diplomats. G7 and Five Eyes can’t play by different rules.

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 recent Supreme Court hearing on the constitutionality of electoral bonds has focused attention on the funding of political parties. There are issues related to opacity and anonymity in political funding affecting the democratic framework of the country.

MORE ON THE NEWS

• A study by the Centre for Media Studies (CMS), which called the 2019 Lok Sabha elections the “most expensive election ever, anywhere’’. It estimated the money spent for the election at around Rs 55-60,000 crore, out of which around 45% were spent by the BJP.
• In the 2014 national elections, too, money played a key role. Candidates who ran for elections reported a median wealth of Rs 23.8 lakh, approximately 27 times the nominal per capita income of India in that year.

POLITICAL FUNDING AND ITS STATUTORY PROVISIONS

• Political Funding implies the methods that political parties use to raise funds to finance their campaign and routine activities.
• A political party needs money to pitch itself, its objectives, its intended actions to get votes for itself.
• Section 29Bof the Representation of the People Act (RPA) entitles parties to accept voluntary contributions by any person or company, except a Government Company.
• Section 29Cof the RPA mandates political parties to declare donations that exceed 20,000 rupees. Such a declaration is made by making a report and submitting the same to the EC. Failure to do so on time disentitles a party from tax relief under the Income Tax Act, 1961.

CHALLENGES RELATED TO POLITICAL FUNDING

• No limit on donation and expenditure: In India, there are no donation limit and an individual or an organisation can donate as much as they want to a political party. Moreover, the Finance Act, 2017 also removed any official contribution limits on companies. Similarly, there is no legal expenditure limit on expenditure by political parties. A party can spend as much as it wants for its national or state-level campaign as long as it does not spend that money towards the election of any specific candidate.
• No disclosure requirements: Parties are not required to disclose the sum or the source of any single donation that is below Rs 20,000. Here, parties generally break large donations from a single donor into multiple small donations, and this practice exempts them from any disclosure requirement.
• Issue in electoral bonds: Electoral bonds enable large donors to hide their donations if they use official banking channels. The bonds enable political parties and large donors to strike deals without any public scrutiny. Also, the ability of the party in power to access the information about donors of other parties through law enforcement agencies undermines the scheme of electoral bonds.
• Corruption: There are many corrupt political practices that influence elections in the current system. Private entities and businesses use money to ensure less stringent regulation and to finance elections which eventually leads to favourable policies.

HOW CAN PARTY FUNDING BE REGULATED?

• Financing framework according to nation: A campaign finance framework should respond to different political systems. For instance, the US elections revolve around individual candidates’ campaign machinery. On the other hand, in India, parties are central to electoral politics. Therefore, the primary focus of the campaign finance framework in India needs to be parties, not individual candidates.
• Regulation of donations: There need to be donation limits on political funding. Donation limits are aimed at ensuring that a party is not captured by a few large donors, whether individuals, corporations, or civil society organisations. For instance, the US federal law imposes different contribution limits on different types of donors.
• Expenditure limits: Expenditure limits safeguard politics from a financial arms race as it relieves parties from the pressure of competing for money. In the UK, for instance, a political party is not allowed to spend more than £30,000(approximately 30 Lakh rupees) per seat contested by that party.
• Public financing: Broadly, there are two ways of implementing public funding:

1. The most commonly used method around the world is to set predetermined criteria. For instance, in Germany, parties receive public funds on the basis of their importance within the political system.

2. Another way in public funding is that of ‘democracy vouchers’, which is in place for local elections in Seattle, US. Under this system, the government distributes a certain number of vouchers worth of certain amounts to eligible voters. The voters can use these vouchers to donate to the candidate of their choice.

• Disclosure requirements: One of the most prominent features of the regulation of private money in politics is disclosure requirements. Disclosure is a less intrusive form of regulation as it does not prevent parties or donors from receiving or making donations. However, disclosures discourage voters due to the fear of public scrutiny which deter donors from donating money.
• Balancing transparency and anonymity: There is a need to strike an appropriate balance between the two legitimate concerns i.e transparency and anonymity. Many jurisdictions strike this balance by allowing anonymity for small donors, while requiring disclosures of large donations. For instance, in the UK, a political party needs to report the donations received from a single source amounting to a total of more than £7,500 (roughly Rs. 7,50,000) in a calendar year.

THE CONCLUSION:

There seems to be a vicious cycle of corruption in political financing affecting transparency and quality of our democratic politics. It is crucial to identify the loopholes in the current mechanism of political funding to make it more transparent as per international standards.

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q.1 The Indian party system is passing through a phase of transition which looks to be full of contradictions and paradoxes.” Discuss. (2016)

Q.2 To enhance the quality of democracy in India, the Election Commission of India has proposed electoral reforms in 2016. What are the suggested reforms and how far are they significant to make democracy successful? (2017)

 MAINS PRACTICE QUESTIONS

Q.1 Highlight the issues in the current system of political funding system in India. Suggest measures to ensure transparency in political funding.

Q.2 Though electoral bonds as a method of funding was introduced to cleanse the system of political funding and make it more transparent but concerns have been raised for its opacity and anonymity. Analyse.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-politics/expert-explains-political-funding-india-electoral-bonds-9020575/#:~:text=A%20party%20can%20spend%20as,are%20made%20through%20electoral%20bonds.

1. EL-NINO

TAG: GS 1: GEOGRAPHY  

THE CONTEXT: According to the latest El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) update from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), the ongoing El Nino event in the equatorial Pacific Ocean may continue into April 2024 and peak between November and January.

WHAT CAN BE ITS POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON GLOBAL WEATHER PATTERNS?

• Global Temperature Impact:
  • The El Nino event may contribute to a further rise in global average temperatures.
  • The world has already experienced warmer than normal temperatures in 2023, and it is on track to become the warmest year since pre-industrial times.
  • The El Nino’s impact on global temperatures typically plays out in the year following its development, in this case, in 2024.

• Extreme Weather Events:
  • El Nino is associated with disrupting major weather systems and causing extreme weather events such as heatwaves, wildfires, and droughts.
  • The potential continuation of El Nino may lead to more extreme weather events globally.

• Impact on India:
  • For India, the El Nino may result in a warmer-than-normal winter season in most regions and a stormier-than-normal pre-monsoon season for northwest India.
  • El Nino can disrupt the Indian summer monsoon, and its effects on India’s weather are closely monitored.

• Record-Breaking Temperatures:
  • The global average annual temperature may temporarily breach the 1.5°C mark set in the 2015 Paris Agreement.
  • Record-breaking temperatures have already been observed in July, August, September, and October of the current year.

• Regional Rainfall Patterns:
• • El Nino’s peak may bring above-normal rainfall to specific regions, including the Greater Horn of Africa, Parana/La Plata basin in South America, Southeast North America, and parts of central and eastern Asia.
  • Some regions, such as northern South America, Australia, Indonesia, Borneo, Papua New Guinea, and the Philippines, may experience below-normal rainfall.

SCIENTIFIC PERSPECTIVE:

• The El Nino developed quickly during July-August 2023 and reached moderate levels by September.
• Based on historical patterns and long-range predictions, it is anticipated to gradually diminish during the forthcoming boreal spring.
• Climate scientists emphasize the role of increasing concentrations of heat-trapping greenhouse gases from human activities in contributing to rising temperatures.

• Monsoon Outlook:
  • There is an uncertainty about the next year’s monsoon, depending on whether the El Nino transitions to a La Nina and its strength.
  • A La Nina event in the Pacific could lead to normal to excess monsoon rainfall.

El Nino:

• El Nino was first recognized by Peruvian fishermen off the coast of Peru as the appearance of unusually warm water.
  • The Spanish immigrants called it El Nino, meaning “the little boy” in Spanish.
• The El Nino is the warmer-than-normal phase of the El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phenomenon, during which there are generally warmer temperatures and less rainfall than normal in many regions of the world, including India.
• During an El Nino event, the Sea Surface Temperatures (SST) in the equatorial Pacific Ocean off the northern coast of South America became at least 0.5 degrees Celsius warmer than the long-term average.
  • In the case of a strong El Nino event as occurred in 2015-2016, anomalies can reach as high as 3°C, which is a record.
• The El Nino event is not a regular cycle, they are not predictable and occur irregularly at two- to seven-year intervals.
  • Climatologists determined that El Nino occurs simultaneously with the Southern Oscillation.
  • The Southern Oscillation is a change in air pressure over the tropical Pacific Ocean.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/climate-change/el-nino-may-remain-till-april-2024-may-push-temperatures-even-higher-wmo-92730

2. 2+2 MINISTERIAL DIALOGUE

TAG: GS 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

THE CONTEXT: U.S. Secretary of Defence Lloyd J. Austin is visiting India for the 2+2 Ministerial dialogue.

EXPLANATION:

• The visit is for the 2+2 Ministerial dialogue, involving the U.S. Secretary of Defence, U.S. Secretary of State, India’s Defence Minister, and Minister of External Affairs.
• The discussions are expected to cover various issues, with a particular focus on the recent attacks in Israel by Hamas and tensions in West Asia.
• Secretary Austin had previously visited India in June 2023 and held talks with Defence Minister.
• The current visit follows up on earlier discussions and demonstrates ongoing engagement between the two countries.

AGENDA OF THE DIALOGUE:

• The dialogue is expected to cover strategic, defence, and technology issues, reflecting the depth of the India-U.S. partnership.
• Two major defence deals are in progress:
  • the acquisition of 31 MQ-9B drones and
  • the manufacture of General Electric F-414 jet engines in India for the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft-MK2.
• The deals are anticipated to be concluded early next year.
• The dialogue will include discussions on contemporary regional issues and shared priorities for cooperation in multilateral platforms, including the Quad framework.

REVIEW OF COOPERATION:

• The 2+2 dialogue provides an opportunity for a high-level review of progress in defence and security cooperation, technology collaborations, and people-to-people ties.
• It aligns with the futuristic roadmap for the India-U.S. partnership discussed by Prime Minister of India and President of U.S. in their previous meetings.
• India has invited President Joe Biden as the chief guest for the Republic Day parade on January 26, and a decision on the invitation is awaited.

What is the 2+2 Dialogue?

• 2+2 Ministerial is the highest-level institutional mechanism between the two countries.
• It is a format of dialogue where the defence/foreign ministers or secretaries meet with their counterparts from another country.
• India has 2+2 dialogues with four key strategic partners: the US, Australia, Japan, and Russia.
• Besides Russia, the other three countries are also India’s partners in the Quad.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/us-secretary-of-defence-lloyd-austin-arrives-in-india-for-22-ministerial-dialogue/article67516828.ece/amp/

3. APPOINTMENT TO THE SUPREME COURT OF INDIA

TAG: GS 2: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

THE CONTEXT: With the recent appointments to the Supreme Court of India, the SC  attained its sanctioned capacity of 34 judges.

EXPLANATION:

• Delhi High Court Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma, Rajasthan High Court Chief Justice Augustine George Masih, and Gauhati High Court Chief Justice Sandeep Mehta have been appointed as Supreme Court judges.
• The appointments were made promptly, with the three judges sworn in within three days of the Supreme Court Collegium’s recommendation.
• With the addition of the three new judges, the Supreme Court has reached its sanctioned capacity of 34 judges.
• This development coincides with Chief Justice Chandrachud completing a year as the Chief Justice of India.

PENDENCY OF CASES:

• The National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG) dashboard indicates that the pendency of cases in the Supreme Court is approaching 80,000.
• The Collegium, in its November 6 recommendation, expressed concerns about the perennial pendency.
• The collegium also emphasized the need to address the backlog by ensuring full working judge strength.
• The Collegium noted that the increasing pendency of cases has significantly increased the workload of judges.
• The resolution emphasized the necessity of maintaining full working judge strength to tackle the backlog effectively.
• Retirement and Future Judicial Strength:
  • The Supreme Court will function with 34 judges until Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul, the number two judge, retires on December 25, 2023.
  • Justice Kaul’s has been vocal about the government’s “delaying tactics and pick-and-choose policy” while making judicial appointments.

• Collegium’s Considerations for Appointments:
  • The appointments of the new judges reflect the Collegium’s consideration of both merit and seniority.
  • Each appointee’s parent High Court and their seniority ranking in the all-India High Court judges list were factors in the decision.

• Speedy Appointment and Judicial Proceedings:
• • The speedy appointment of the three judges followed closely after Justice Kaul’s reminder to the Attorney General about the Collegium’s recommendation.
  • Justice Kaul’s bench is repeatedly hearing a case related to government delays in the judicial appointment process.

COLLEGIUM SYSTEM:

• The Collegium system is a system for the appointment and transfer of judges in the Supreme Court and High Court.
• It is not rooted in the Constitution. Instead, it has evolved through judgments of the Supreme Court.
• Under the system, the Chief Justice of India (CJI), along with four senior-most Supreme Court judges, recommends the appointment and transfer of judges.
• A High Court Collegium, meanwhile, is led by the incumbent Chief Justice and the two seniormost judges of that court.
• The government can also raise objections and seek clarifications regarding the Collegium’s choices, but if the Collegium reiterates the same names, the government is bound to appoint them to the post.

CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS FOR JUDICIAL APPOINTMENTS:

• Article 124: Supreme Court judges should be appointed by the President after consultation with such judges of the High Courts and the Supreme Court as the President may deem necessary. The CJI is to be consulted in all appointments except his or her own.
• Article 217: High Court judges should be appointed by the President after consultation with the CJI and the Governor of the state. The Chief Justice of the High Court concerned too should be consulted.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/3-judges-appointed-to-sc-top-court-to-now-function-with-full-strength-of-34/article67516412.ece/amp/

4. CENTRAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION (CBI)

TAG: GS 2: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

THE CONTEXT: The Union government asserted before the Supreme Court that the CBI is an independent agency, not a limb of the Centre.

BACKGROUND:

• The Union government presented its argument in response to a suit filed by the State of West Bengal against the Centre.
• West Bengal alleged that the CBI was investigating and registering FIRs in the state without obtaining prior consent from the state government.

INDEPENDENCE OF CBI:

• The Union government, represented by Solicitor General, emphasized that the CBI is an independent agency.
• It clarified that the CBI is not under the control of the Centre.
• It operates as a statutory body under the Delhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) Act.

ARTICLE 131 SUIT:

• The Union government argued that the original suit filed by West Bengal under Article 131 of the Constitution, which deals with disputes between the Union and states, was not maintainable.
• It asserted that the Centre has no influence over the CBI’s decisions in investigative matters and that the suit should be dismissed.

CBI’s Autonomy:

• The Solicitor General stated that the CBI acts on its own terms, and the Centre does not control its decisions in the registration, investigation, and prosecution of cases.
• It was mentioned that even the Central Vigilance Commission, which has superintendence over the CBI, does not exert influence over the agency’s investigations.

Jurisdiction of CBI:

• A Senior advocate representing West Bengal, argued that the case was not about the Centre’s influence over the CBI but focused on the jurisdiction of the CBI to investigate cases in a state that has withdrawn consent.
• He called out the Centre’s contention that only a central agency could investigate offenses outlined in a Union law a “preposterous proposition.”

Withdrawal of Consent:

• West Bengal contended that the CBI’s power to investigate offenses in other states under Section 5 of the DSPE Act requires express consent from the state under Section 6.
• The state highlighted its withdrawal of consent through a specific notification issued in 2018.
• West Bengal argued that the state is not challenging the FIRs but questioning how the CBI could ignore the state’s specific notification withdrawing consent.

Post-Poll Violence Cases:

• The CBI has filed multiple FIRs related to post-poll violence in West Bengal.
• The Union government mentioned in an affidavit that these cases also involve offenses of corruption against Central government employees.
• The legal arguments have been presented by both the Union government and the State of West Bengal regarding the autonomy and jurisdiction of the CBI in the context of the ongoing legal dispute.

CBI:

• Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is the premier investigating police agency in India.
• It provides assistance to the Central Vigilance Commission and Lokpal.
• It functions under the superintendence of the Dept. of Personnel, Ministry of Personnel, Pension & Public Grievances, Government of India – which falls under the prime minister’s office.
• However, for investigations of offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act, its superintendence vests with the Central Vigilance Commission.
• It is also the nodal police agency in India which coordinates investigation on behalf of Interpol Member countries.
• Its conviction rate is as high as 65 to 70% and it is comparable to the best investigation agencies in the world.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/cbi-is-not-a-limb-of-centre-union-government-tells-supreme-court/article67518110.ece/amp/

5. FIVE-HUNDRED APERTURE SPHERICAL TELESCOPE (FAST)

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: Recently, astronomers from China and Australia have discovered five new pulsars using the Five-hundred Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST).

FIVE-HUNDRED APERTURE SPHERICAL TELESCOPE (FAST)

• It is a radio telescope in China’s Guizhou Province.
• It is the world’s largest and most sensitive radio telescope, with a receiving area equivalent to 30 football fields.
• It measures 500 meters in diameter.

Scientific Goals:

• Detect neutral hydrogen at the edge of the universe; reconstruct the images of the early universe;
• Discover pulsars, establish a pulsar timing array, and participate in pulsar navigation and gravitational wave detection in the future;
• Join the International Very-Long-Baseline Interferometry Network to obtain hyperfine structures of celestial bodies;
• Perform high resolution radio spectral survey and detect weak space signals;
• Participate in the search for extraterrestrial intelligence;
• FAST uses a data system developed at ICRAR (International Center for Radio Astronomy) in Perth, Australia, and at ESO (European Southern Observatory) to manage the huge amounts of data it generates.

Pulsars:

• Pulsars are rapidly rotating neutron stars that blast out pulses of radiation at regular intervals ranging from seconds to milliseconds.
• Pulsars have strong magnetic fields that funnel particles along their magnetic poles, accelerating them to relativistic speeds, which produce two powerful beams of light, one from each pole.
• Because the poles of the magnetic field aren’t aligned with the axis of spin of the pulsar, the beams of particles and the light they produce are swept around as the pulsar rotates.
• The periodicity of pulsars is caused by these beams of light crossing the line of sight on Earth, with the pulsar appearing to ‘switch off’ at points when the light is facing away from us.
• The time between these pulses is the ‘period’ of the pulsar.

Neutron Star:

• When a massive star explodes as a supernova at the end of its life, its core can collapse into a tiny and superdense object with not much more than our sun’s mass.
• These small, incredibly dense cores of exploded stars are neutron stars.

SOURCE: https://phys.org/news/2023-11-pulsars-fast.html#:~:text=Using%20the%20Five%2Dhundred%20Aperture,on%20the%20preprint%20server%20arXiv.

THE CONTEXT: Globally, close to 800 000 people die by suicide every year; that’s one person every 40 seconds. While the link between suicide and mental disorders (in particular, depression and alcohol use disorders) is well established, many suicides happen impulsively in moments of crisis. Suicide is an emerging and serious public health issue in India. We have witnessed spate of suicides reported among school students preparing for competitive exams in Rajasthan’s Kota. This article explains the causes and impacts of suicides in India and strategies to address them from the UPSC perspective.

INDIA’S STAGGERING CONTRIBUTION TO THE CRISIS

• In India, the situation is even more alarming. Data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reveals that in a recent year, India recorded an average of 381 suicides daily, contributing to 17.8% of global suicides. This positions India as having one of the highest suicide rates in the south-eastern Asian region.
• The number of deaths due to suicides in India reached an all-time high in 2021, according to the latest data from the National Crime Records Bureau.
• In 2021, the rate of suicide – the number of death due to suicides per one lakh population – stood at 12. This is the highest rate of deaths from suicides since 1967, the earliest year for which data is available.
• The highest numbers of suicides were reported in Maharashtra where 22,207 persons killed themselves in 2021. This was followed by Tamil Nadu at 18,925 suicide cases, Madhya Pradesh at 14,965, West Bengal at 13,500 and Karnataka at 13,056.
• Beyond mere numbers, the patterns within these statistics – such as the predominance of youth, the rural-urban divide, and gender-specific trends – highlight the multi-dimensional challenges India faces. The intersection of socio-economic pressures, cultural nuances, and mental health stigma further exacerbates the crisis.
• National Data: India’s national average, as per the latest NCRB report, stands at about 11 suicides per 100,000 people. This figure is higher than the global average, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
• State-wise Data: Disparities exist between states. For instance, southern states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala report higher suicide rates than the national average, while northern states like Punjab and Haryana report rates below the average. States with reported agrarian distress, like Maharashtra, show an uptick in farmer suicides.
• The share of students among India’s overall suicide victims has also increased. It stood at 8% of the total in 2021, having grown by 2.3 percentage points since 2011.

As we delve deeper, we’ll analyze the intricacies of India’s suicide rates, hoping to shed light on the systemic and societal changes needed to mitigate this pressing concern.

HISTORICAL CONTEXT

EVOLUTION OF SOCIETAL VIEWS ON SUICIDE IN INDIA:

India’s views on suicide have undergone significant changes over millennia, mirroring its socio-cultural evolution.

Historically, during the Vedic period, there were instances where ‘self-sacrifice’ was not only accepted but celebrated under specific circumstances, like the practice of “Sati” where some widows were expected (or forced) to self-immolate on their husband’s funeral pyre. While the act itself was tragic, it was symbolically viewed as a profound display of loyalty and honor.

In later periods, especially during the time of the Dharmashastras, suicide began to be seen in a more negative light. Traditional texts often prescribed penalties in the afterlife for those who took their own lives, reinforcing the notion that suicide was a grave sin.

INFLUENCE OF CULTURAL, RELIGIOUS, AND TRADITIONAL BELIEFS:

• Hinduism: The ancient Hindu scriptures, the Vedas and the Upanishads, do not specifically discuss suicide, but later scriptures like the Puranas detail consequences in the afterlife for those who end their own lives. The Bhagavad Gita, while not directly referencing suicide, emphasizes the sanctity of life and the importance of performing one’s duty (dharma).
• Buddhism: Buddhism traditionally views life as a cycle of birth and rebirth, with suffering (dukkha) central to human existence. Taking one’s own life interrupts this cycle and is thus considered undesirable. Suicide, by creating more suffering, is seen as contradictory to the Buddhist path.
• Islam: With a significant Muslim population, India’s Islamic community views suicide as haram (forbidden). The Quran explicitly states that one should not kill oneself.
• Jainism: Jainism introduces a nuanced perspective with the practice of ‘Sallekhana’, where an individual voluntarily gives up food and water to embrace death. This is not considered suicide but rather a religious act of purifying the soul.
• Christianity: India’s Christian community views suicide through the lens of the Bible, which emphasizes the sanctity of life. While suicide is not explicitly mentioned, it’s generally perceived as a grave act against God’s gift of life.

Suicides, especially those connected with religious or cultural practices in India, have been a significant concern.

Santhara: A practice in the Jain community where an individual, typically at a very old age, chooses to embrace voluntary death by fasting. This came under scrutiny when the Rajasthan High Court in 2015 declared the practice as illegal, equating it to suicide. However, the Supreme Court, in a subsequent ruling, suspended the High Court’s decision.

The Supreme Court has emphasized the importance of the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution. While historically, attempting suicide was a punishable offense under Section 309 of the Indian Penal Code, the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017, decriminalized it, recognizing that persons attempting suicide are in need of care and support.

Émile Durkheim

Émile Durkheim, a pioneering sociologist, identified four distinct categories of suicide in his seminal work, “Suicide” (1897): egoistic, altruistic, anomic, and fatalistic. Let’s discuss these categories within the Indian context:

• Egoistic Suicide: This results from an individual’s detachment from society. When societal bonds weaken, individuals face existential crises leading to such suicides. In India, urbanization and the erosion of traditional joint family systems can be seen as factors intensifying feelings of isolation, especially among the elderly, leading to increased vulnerability to egoistic suicide.
• Altruistic Suicide: Here, individuals are too integrated into societal norms, leading them to end their lives for a perceived greater good. Historically, the practice of ‘Sati’ (widow immolation) and ‘Jauhar’ (mass self-immolation by women to avoid capture) can be viewed through this lens. Although outlawed and largely eradicated, such practices reflect the deep cultural roots of altruistic suicide in parts of India.
• Anomic Suicide: Stemming from sudden disruptions in individuals’ lives, leading to an inability to cope. Economic downturns, job losses, or societal upheavals can lead to this. In the Indian context, the farmer suicides, especially in states like Maharashtra, can be attributed to anomic factors where economic hardships, unpredictable monsoons, and debt burdens precipitate tragic outcomes.
• Fatalistic Suicide: Although Durkheim didn’t extensively discuss this in his work, it implies suicide resulting from oppressive societal norms. In the Indian context, it can be linked to individuals who face insurmountable societal pressures, like LGBTQ+ individuals in traditionally conservative areas or young lovers from different castes or religions facing societal backlash.

Understanding Durkheim’s categories in the Indian context provides a lens to analyze the diverse sociocultural factors influencing suicide. With India’s intricate tapestry of tradition, rapid modernization, and societal norms, addressing the root causes necessitates a deep understanding of these categories and the regional and cultural nuances attached to them.

CONTEMPORARY PERSPECTIVE ON SUICIDE IN INDIA

Modern India stands at the crossroads of rapid socio-economic development, digital globalization, and deeply rooted traditional beliefs. This unique intersection has shaped the nation’s contemporary views on suicide:

• Media’s Role: With the proliferation of digital media, discussions around suicide are becoming more frequent. However, media coverage can be a double-edged sword. Sensationalized reporting can sometimes inadvertently lead to “copycat” suicides, prompting calls for more responsible and sensitive portrayals of the issue.
• Urban-Rural Divide: Rapid urbanization and the stress of city life have led to an increase in the number of suicides in metropolitan areas. On the other hand, agrarian distress, especially in states like Maharashtra and Telangana, has been a driving factor behind rural suicides.
• Mental Health Awareness: There’s a growing recognition of mental health issues as significant contributors to suicide. Initiatives like the Mental Healthcare Act 2017 reflect a shift towards decriminalizing suicide and emphasizing the importance of mental well-being. Despite this, stigmas persist, especially in rural and conservative pockets, making it challenging for many to seek help.
• Educational Pressures: The increasing importance placed on academic excellence and the competitive nature of entrance examinations have put immense pressure on the youth. Instances of student suicides post-exam results have instigated debates on the education system and its inherent pressures.
• LGBTQ+ Community: With the decriminalization of homosexuality in 2018 (Section 377), there’s been a renewed focus on the mental health challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. Despite legal progress, societal acceptance is still evolving, and many from the community grapple with issues of identity, discrimination, and mental health, sometimes leading to self-harm.
• Legislation and Intervention: While suicide was decriminalized in 2017, the act of attempting suicide was only recently decriminalized, marking a shift from punishment to rehabilitation and care. More helplines, NGOs, and counselingcenters are sprouting across urban centers, signaling a more proactive approach to the issue.

AN ANALYTICAL LOOK AT DEMOGRAPHIC VARIATIONS

• Age: The age group of 15-29 years consistently reports a higher incidence of suicide. The pressures of academic performance, early career challenges, and personal relationships often collide during these formative years, increasing vulnerability.

• Gender: While more men commit suicide in absolute numbers, the rate of suicide attempts is reportedly higher among women. The disparity could be due to societal pressures, domestic issues, and the methods used.

• Urban vs. Rural: Rural areas, especially in regions facing agrarian crises, register a higher suicide rate. The stressors here, like indebtedness and crop failure, are starkly different from urban stressors, which often revolve around isolation, professional pressures, and lifestyle challenges.

FEMALE SUICIDES IN INDIA

• Irrespective of education and financial independence, women are still not as empowered as we would like to believe. Gender-based discrimination is still prevalent, and this inherent bias is reflected in the high number of female suicides.
• India’s female suicide burden is enormous. Indian women make up 36 percent of all global suicides in the 15 to 39 years age group – the highest share of any nation in the world.
• National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) 2021 has thrown light on some grim trends, fuelling concern over mental health and social status of women in India.
• A total of 1,64,033 suicides were reported in the country during 2021, showing an increase of 7.2 percent in comparison to 2020. Housewives constitute a major chunk of these deaths.
• Family problems, illnesses, and marital issues are the principal contributors behind female suicides in India.
• Family problems, illness, love affairs, and failure in exams emerged as the chief causes behind suicide deaths of girls below the age of 18 years in India.
• A seminal Lancet Public Health study (2018) on suicides in Indian women speculates that the increasing number of female suicides may be related to a conflict between women’s increasing education and empowerment and the persistence of their lower status in Indian society.

UNDERLYING CAUSES FOR SUICIDES IN INDIA

SOCIETAL PRESSURE

• Academic and Career Expectations: The hyper-competitive nature of India’s educational system, with a limited number of seats in prestigious institutions and an emphasis on certain lucrative professions, puts immense pressure on students. Failure to meet these expectations can lead to a sense of hopelessness and despair. It is also because of the ‘left behind syndrome’ among the students.

For instance, As many as 23 students have reportedly died by suicide in Kota this year; 15 took the extreme step in 2022.

• Marital and Family Issues: Familial and societal expectations surrounding marriage, including dowry demands and pressures to bear children (preferably male), can create significant distress. Additionally, marital discord, domestic violence, and forced unions contribute to the vulnerability of individuals, particularly women. The National Family Health Survey (2019-21) highlights the challenging circumstances faced by married women, including limited mobility, restricted financial autonomy, and marital control, as well as physical, sexual, and emotional abuse at the hands of their spouses.

For instance, The number of women who died by suicide in India reached a peak of 45,026 in 2021. More than half of them were housewives. The share of housewives in total female suicides is above the 50% mark.

MENTAL HEALTH

• Prevalence of Mental Health Disorders: Mental disorders, particularly depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, are significant contributors to suicides. Often, these conditions remain undiagnosed and untreated.
• Stigma Associated with Seeking Help: The societal stigma surrounding mental health often prevents individuals from seeking help. Many see mental health issues as a sign of weakness or a source of shame, rather than treatable conditions.

ECONOMIC FACTORS

• Financial Stress and Unemployment: Economic disparities and lack of stable employment opportunities, especially in densely populated urban areas, lead to financial instability and resultant stress, driving individuals to despair.
• Farmers’ Suicides and Their Causes: The agrarian sector has witnessed a surge in suicides. Factors include crop failure, rising debts, inability to repay loans, and climate-induced challenges. Lack of access to modern agricultural tools, techniques, and fair pricing further exacerbate their vulnerability.

ACCESS TO MEANS

• Pesticide Ingestion: As previously mentioned, the easy availability of toxic pesticides, particularly in rural settings, provides a lethal means. Restricting access to such substances could act as a preventative measure.
• Hanging: Being a method that requires minimal resources and provides little opportunity for rescue or reversal, hanging becomes a common choice.
• According to the NCRB data, in 2021, 57 per cent of the total suicides occurred by hanging, while 25.1 per cent happened by poison consumption.

CULTURAL AND SOCIAL ASPECTS

• Honour and Shame Dynamics: In many parts of India, family honor is paramount. Instances of perceived “dishonour,” like inter-caste relationships, can lead to extreme measures, both by the individuals involved and by family members.
• Role of Caste and Communal Issues: Caste-based discrimination and communal tensions have been sources of significant distress in the country. Marginalized individuals, especially from lower castes, often face systemic discrimination, leading to feelings of hopelessness.

For instance, Rohith Vemula, Darshan Solanki, Aniket Ambhore, Payal Tadvi. The common link between these alleged suicides is caste discrimination and harassment.

The interplay of multiple factors, from societal expectations and economic pressures to mental health challenges and access to lethal means, converge to make suicide a pressing issue in India. Addressing it requires multi-pronged, empathetic, and culturally sensitive approach.

THE RIPPLE EFFECT OF SUICIDE

IMPACT ON FAMILIES AND COMMUNITIES

• Grief and Trauma: The immediate family members experience profound grief, often accompanied by a sense of guilt, wondering if they could have done something to prevent the tragedy. This prolonged grieving process can sometimes lead to complicated grief or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Stigmatization: In many communities, there’s a persistent stigma associated with suicide. Families of the deceased might face social isolation, with community members either avoiding them out of discomfort or assigning blame.
• Generational Impact: Children who lose a parent or sibling to suicide are at a higher risk for depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation themselves. The trauma can disrupt their developmental process, leading to academic challenges, behavioral problems, and difficulties in forming relationships.
• Breakdown of Family Structures: The emotional toll can strain relationships within the family. Spouses might drift apart, siblings might experience increased conflict, and the overall family cohesion might be compromised.

ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS

• Loss of Income: If the deceased was a primary breadwinner, the family could face immediate economic hardships. This is especially acute in rural areas where farmer suicides leave families with debts and reduced means to earn.
• Medical and Funeral Costs: The process leading to the suicide might involve medical expenses, especially if there was a suicide attempt before the actual act. Moreover, funeral costs can be a burden, further straining the family’s finances.
• Nationwide Economic Impact: On a macro level, the premature loss of working-age individuals impacts the nation’s productivity and potential GDP growth. There are also indirect costs involved in terms of medical care, counseling, and other support services.

PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS ON SURVIVORS

• Survivor’s Guilt: Those close to the deceased often grapple with intense feelings of guilt, constantly questioning their actions and wondering if they could have intervened.
• Increased Risk of Mental Health Disorders: Survivors, especially immediate family members, have a heightened risk of developing mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, and PTSD.
• Suicidal Ideation: Exposure to suicide increases the risk of suicidal ideation in survivors. They might view suicide as a viable option to escape their overwhelming grief and guilt.
• Need for Therapy and Counseling: The trauma can necessitate long-term psychological support. However, due to the stigma associated with both suicide and mental health services, many might avoid seeking help, exacerbating their distress.

 CHALLENGES IN ADDRESSING THE ISSUE

INSUFFICIENT DATA COLLECTION AND RESEARCH

• Inadequate Reporting: Not all suicides are reported, and many are often misclassified due to societal pressures, stigma, or administrative oversights. The actual numbers could be much higher than what’s officially recorded.
• Lack of Comprehensive Studies: While the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) provides yearly statistics, there’s a dearth of in-depth research studying patterns, causes, and other qualitative aspects of suicides in India.
• Under reporting of Suicide Attempts: Due to legal and societal implications, suicide attempts are often under reported. Without this data, it becomes challenging to understand the extent of the crisis and design effective interventions.

STIGMA AND SOCIETAL NORMS

• Silence Surrounding Mental Health: The cultural and social stigma surrounding mental health issues often prevents individuals from discussing their challenges openly or seeking help.
• Misunderstandings about Suicide: In many communities, suicide is misinterpreted as an act of cowardice, a crime, or a sin, rather than a manifestation of deep psychological distress. Such misconceptions can deter preventive measures.
• Pressure to Conform: Societal norms, especially regarding academic and career achievements, gender roles, and marital expectations, exert significant pressure. Speaking out or seeking help against these norms can be challenging for many.

RESOURCE CONSTRAINTS IN RURAL AND UNDERSERVED AREAS

• Limited Mental Health Professionals: India faces a stark deficit of trained mental health professionals. As per a World Health Organization (WHO) report, there are roughly 0.3 psychiatrists, 0.12 nurses, and 0.07 psychologists per 100,000 people in India. This shortage is even more pronounced in rural areas.
• Inadequate Infrastructure: Many districts, particularly in remote regions, lack dedicated mental health facilities, compelling individuals to travel long distances for treatment.
• Financial Constraints: The cost of mental health care, even if available, might be prohibitive for many, particularly those in the lower socio-economic strata.
• Lack of Awareness: In many rural and underserved communities, there’s a limited understanding of mental health issues. Traditional beliefs, lack of education, and misconceptions can overshadow evidence-based approaches to mental well-being.

 PREVENTION AND INTERVENTION

GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES

• Mental Healthcare Act 2017: This landmark legislation not only decriminalized suicide but also emphasized the rights of individuals with mental health issues to seek and receive quality care.
• District Mental Health Programme (DMHP): Launched as part of the National Mental Health Programme (NMHP), DMHP aims to provide mental health services at the grassroots level, especially in rural and underserved areas.
• National Suicide Prevention Strategy 2022: While still in the proposal phase, there have been ongoing discussions about implementing a dedicated nationwide strategy, involving multi-sectoral collaborations and evidence-based interventions.
• KIRAN: The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has launched a 24/7 toll-free helpline “KIRAN” to provide support to people facing anxiety, stress, depression, suicidal thoughts and other mental health concerns.
• Manodarpan Initiative: Manodarpan was an initiative of the Ministry of Education under Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. It was aimed to provide psychosocial support to students, family members and teachers for their mental health and well-being during the times of Covid-19.

NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS (NGOS)

• Vandrevala Foundation: This organization operates a 24/7 helpline providing counseling to individuals in distress.
• Roshni: Based in Hyderabad, Roshni offers tele-counseling services and has been a beacon of hope for many.
• Mann: This NGO focuses on mental health awareness and early interventions among school and college students.
• iCall: Supported by Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), iCall offers email and tele-counseling services to individuals in need.

COMMUNITY INITIATIVES

Grassroot Efforts to Address and Prevent Suicides:

• Farmer Cooperatives: In states like Maharashtra and Telangana, where farmer suicides are prevalent, community-based cooperatives focus on sustainable agriculture, debt relief, and mutual support systems.
• Community Counseling Centers: In various regions, local groups have established centers where community members can seek guidance, counseling, and support.

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

Efforts to Destigmatize Mental Health and Promote Well-being:

• Mental Health Festivals: Events like “The Mind Diaries” or “The Happy Place” aim to foster conversations around mental well-being, using art, music, and dialogues.
• School and College Programs: There’s a growing emphasis on integrating mental health awareness within educational curriculums. Initiatives focus on stress management, emotional well-being, and building resilience.
• Corporate Initiatives: Recognizing the stress of modern work environments, many corporate offices in India are now providing employee assistance programs, mental health days, and wellness workshops.

CASE STUDY

Kota is a place best known for its abundance of coaching centres. It is the third most populous city in Rajasthan, and a large chunk of that population is attributed to aspirants of medical and engineering entrance tests. In such a setting, intense pressure and soul-tearing competition are at its peak throughout the year. Students go through a traumatizing experience that compares to the most gruesome trials a human being can go through.

In the wake of this plight, Horlicks put together a campaign #fearlesskota to assuage some of the emotional strain that the young inhabitants of Kota go through.

It was executed by asking the mothers of the kids studying in Kota to pack their personalized symbols of love in Horlicks bottles. From home-made butter to Banana chips, the mothers of these kids packed them a wide array of items that reconnected them with their roots.

INDIA’S SUICIDE RATE AND PREVENTION EFFORTS VS. OTHER COUNTRIES

SUICIDE RATE

• India: As per the World Health Organization’s data prior to 2022, India accounted for a significant proportion of global suicides, with a rate that fluctuated around 16-17 suicides per 100,000 people. The numbers, however, varied substantially based on factors like gender, age, and region.
• Global Average: The global average, in the same time frame, hovered around 10.5 per 100,000.
• Comparative Figures:
  • Russia: Known for one of the highest suicide rates globally, Russia’s rate stood at approximately 26 per 100,000.
  • Japan: While Japan has garnered international attention for its high suicide rate, efforts in recent years brought down the rate to around 14 per 100,000.
  • USA: The U.S. witnessed an increase over the years, reaching approximately 14 per 100,000.
  • Scandinavian Countries: Nations like Sweden and Norway, often lauded for their quality of life, have rates of around 11-12 per 100,000.

PREVENTION EFFORTS

• India:
  • The decriminalization of suicide and the emphasis on mental health through the Mental Healthcare Act 2017 are significant steps forward.
  • The National Mental Health Programme and District Mental Health Programme aim to decentralize mental health services.
  • However, challenges persist in terms of infrastructure, trained professionals, and awareness campaigns.

• Global Comparative Efforts:
• • Japan: The country instituted a multi-pronged strategy, incorporating governmental initiatives, corporate responsibility, and public awareness campaigns. Their efforts have led to a decline in suicide rates.
  • USA: The U.S. has a National Strategy for Suicide Prevention, involving community-based interventions, helplines, and a strong emphasis on mental health research.
  • Scandinavian Countries: These nations prioritize mental well-being, with comprehensive mental health policies, accessible care, and robust public awareness initiatives.
  • Russia: Despite its high rates, efforts such as restrictions on the sale of alcohol and increased mental health services aim to bring down the numbers.

THE CONCLUSION: While India has made strides in recognizing the gravity of the issue and implementing preventive measures, decriminalising suicide and enacting mental Healthcare Act, there’s still a long way to go when compared to other countries. The nation’s unique socio-cultural dynamics necessitate tailored strategies suited to India.

Mains Practice Questions:

Q.1 What are the various causes that are driving India’s students to suicide? What can we do to prevent it?

Q.2 Prioritising inclusion and support is the key to suicide prevention. Discuss.

Q.3 The rate of suicide among Indian men is 2.5 times of that among women. Discuss the reasons.

THE CONTEXT:  China is frequently intimidating Taiwan over the past year through deployment of its air force and navy in the surrounding areas.

CHINESE ACTIONS ON TAIWAN:

• Taiwan is an island, roughly 100 miles from the coast of south-east China.
• It has been governed independently of mainland China, officially the People’s Republic of China (PRC), since 1949.
• China rejected Taiwan’s participation as a member in UN agencies and other international organizations that limit membership to states.
• In 2021, China appeared to ramp up pressure by sending military aircraft into Taiwan’s Air Defence Zone, a self-declared area where foreign aircraft are identified, monitored, and controlled in the interests of national security.
• China launched a series of military exercises, including the firing of ballistic missiles, focused on six danger zones around Taiwan, three of which overlapped the island’s territorial waters.
• China also deployed naval ships and military aircraft in the region of strategic waters in the South China Sea and off the Taiwan’s northeastern coast which has also escalated the issue of national security.

SIGNIFICANCE OF STRAIT OF MALACCA:

• The Strait of Malacca connects the South China Sea with the Burma Sea.
• It is the shortest shipping channel between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, linking major economies such as Middle East, China, Japan, South Korea, etc.
• The Strait of Malacca is on the transport route of approximately 25% of the oil transported between the Middle East and Asia.
• Approximately 60% of the world’s maritime transport passes through the Strait of Malacca.
• New Delhi’s main strategy regarding the Strait of Malacca relates to the strait becoming a gateway to its East View Policy.
• India attaches importance to the Strait of Malacca at the point of developing bilateral and regional relations through various cooperation mechanisms such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Regional Forum.

LIMITED OPTIONS FOR INDIA:

• Distant blockades away from a belligerent nation’s geography can be challenged under international law.
• The trade that passes through the Strait of Malacca is not just China’s economic and energy lifeline. An overwhelming volume of the trade of Japan, South Korea and India passes through the same Strait.
• The channel of the Strait of Malacca is long, nearly 500 miles, and involves the sovereignty of other states such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Singapore who would all be affected adversely by a naval blockade. The affected countries are unlikely to support a naval blockade.
• Commercial shipping is extremely complex to identify in terms of the sovereignty of the vessel, flag, registration, insurance and ownership of cargo. And these are often multinational in nature and can also be changed as convenient through transshipment at any port in Southeast Asia.
• The additional reality is that even if the Strait of Malacca were blocked, large carriers transporting goods to China can use alternative routes, such as the Sunda or Lombok Straits.
• China also has a huge onshore and floating Strategic Petroleum Reserves (SPR) which can help it tide over disruptions, especially with growing overland energy supplies from Russia and Central Asia.

WHAT HAPPENED IN THE PAST:

• During the First World War, the British blockade of Germany which lasted from 1914-19 saw Germany retaliating against British shipping on the high seas with its submarines (U-boats) with deadly effect.
• Subsequent developments, including the Battle of Jutland in 1916 and the sinking of U.S. merchant vessels by German U-boats eventually drew the U.S. into the First World War.
• During the Second World War, the U.S. had embargoed Japan’s energy supplies which ran through the maritime commons, which probably played a key role in Japan’s decision to launch the attack on Pearl Harbour in December 1941.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• India should pay constant and careful attention to this issue.
  • Any speculative action in the Strait of Malacca or the Andaman Sea would involve either a naval blockade against commercial shipping or China’s key trade and energy sea lines of communication or military action against Chinese naval vessels.
  • The fact is that commercial shipping as well as naval vessels of any country have a right to freedom of navigation on the high seas.
  • A naval blockade against commercial shipping is not feasible.
• The new U.S.-India partnership in the economic, high-tech and military areas is expected to strengthen in the years ahead. The U.S. increasingly regards India as regional ballast for stability in the region.
• A robust India with a strong economy, nuclear deterrence capability and a credible military can contribute to multi-polarity in the Indo-Pacific.

THE CONCLUSION:

India’s primary role may be limited to a proactive defence of its territorial interests and the security of its sea lines of communication and those of its strategic partners in the eastern and western India Ocean.

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS:

Q) Virus of Conflict is affecting the functioning of the SCO; In the light of the above statement point out the role of India in mitigating the problems. (2023)

Q) Critically examine the aims and objectives of SCO. What importance does it hold for India? (2021)

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:

Q) Explain the strategic importance of the Indo-Pacific region to India and also highlight the significance of Strait of Malacca in international trade.

SOURCE: Taiwan, a Malacca blockade and India’s options – The Hindu

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