TAG: GS 2: POLITY

THE CONTEXT: The recent Supreme Court ruling pertains to the consultation process for the appointment of District Judges in Haryana, highlighting the constitutional provisions and the role of the High Court and the State Government in such appointments.

EXPLANATION:

Governor’s Consultation with High Court:

• The Supreme Court emphasized that as per Article 233 of the Constitution, the Governor of a State is mandated to consult only the High Court concerning appointments of District Judges.
• The Court underscored that the State Government’s role is limited to consulting the High Court in this regard.
• In this case, the Haryana Government sought legal opinion from the Union Government regarding recommendations made by the Punjab and Haryana High Court for District Judiciary appointments.
• The Supreme Court found fault with this action, stating that it infringed upon the independence of the High Court’s functioning.

Importance of High Court’s Opinion:

• The Court emphasized that the High Court’s opinion on District Judges’ appointments is crucial as it is best positioned to assess the suitability of candidates.
• Referring to precedents, the Court highlighted that the Governor should engage in constructive dialogue with the High Court before making appointments.

High Court’s Role and Criteria:

• In this case, the High Court had set a criterion of candidates securing a minimum of 50% marks in the viva-voce for District Judge appointments.
• The State Government challenged this condition, but the Supreme Court upheld the High Court’s decision, stressing the importance of interviews in evaluating candidates’ suitability.

Scope of Consultation under Article 233:

• The Court discussed Article 233’s provision, emphasizing its alignment with constitutional safeguards for judicial independence and separation of powers.
• It reiterated that the Governor’s consultation with the High Court should not involve third parties, as per constitutional mandates.

Constitutional Safeguards and Precedents:

• Citing past judgments, the Court emphasized that any consultation other than with the High Court would violate the constitutional mandate of Article 233.
• It highlighted the need for adherence to constitutional principles in the appointment process.

Faulting State Government’s Action:

• The Supreme Court faulted the State Government for seeking the Union Government’s opinion, stating that such consultation should have been confined to the High Court.
• It emphasized that issues between the High Court and the State Government should be resolved through the consultative process between the two entities.

Article 233:

• Article 233 deals with the appointment of district judges. Appointments of persons to be, and the posting and promotion of, district judges in any State shall be made by the Governor of the State in consultation with the High Court exercising jurisdiction over such State.

District judges:

• Qualification:
  • He should have been an advocate or pleader for 7 years.
  • He should be recommended by high court.
  • He shouldn’t already be in service of center or state
• Appointment
  • The appointment, posting, promotion is made by Governor after consultation with High court. Other appointments of judicial service are made by Governor after consulting high court and state public service commission. Appointments of judicial service below district judge are made by high court.
  • District judge (Civil cases) / Sessions judge (Criminal cases) has highest judicial position in district. He has original and appellate jurisdiction over civil and criminal cases.
• Functions and powers
  • The Court of the District Judge (Called the District Courts) hears not only appeals against the decisions of the Courts of Sub Judges, but also some of the Cases begin directly in the Court of District Judge itself, Appealing against the decisions of this Court may be heard by the High Court of the State.
  • Civil Courts deal with Cases pertaining to disputes between two or more persons regarding property, divorce, Contract and Contract and breach of agreement or landlord-tenant disputes.

SOURCE: https://livelaw.in/top-stories/governor-can-consult-only-high-court-on-district-judges-appointment-supreme-court-faults-haryana-govt-for-seeking-unions-opinion-252567?infinitescroll=1

TAG: GS 2: POLITY

THE CONTEXT: Chief Election Commissioner asked all political parties to strictly adhere to the Mode Code of Conduct (MCC), which lays down a list of dos and don’ts for leaders and parties ahead of elections.

EXPLANATION:

• The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is a set of guidelines established by the Election Commission of India (ECI) to regulate the behavior of political parties and candidates during elections.
• It serves to ensure fair and ethical practices in electoral processes and prevent the misuse of government resources for partisan gains.

Activation of MCC:

• The MCC becomes operational from the moment the election schedule is announced and remains in force until the declaration of election results.
• This period marks a crucial phase in the electoral cycle, where political parties and candidates are bound by the provisions outlined in the MCC.

Provisions of the MCC:

• The MCC comprises a comprehensive set of provisions covering various aspects of electioneering:
  • General Conduct: Political parties and candidates are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that upholds the integrity of the electoral process and fosters a fair and level playing field.
  • Campaign Activities: Restrictions are imposed on activities such as rallies, processions, and public meetings to maintain order and prevent disruptions.
  • Use of Government Resources: The MCC prohibits the use of official government machinery, resources, and media for election campaigning to prevent undue advantage to the ruling party.
  • Advertisement and Publicity: Parties are barred from advertising at the expense of public funds and using government-sponsored advertisements to influence voter behavior.
  • Equitable Treatment: The MCC mandates equitable treatment of political parties in terms of access to public facilities and resources for campaign purposes.
  • Content of Campaigns: Campaigns should focus on the performance and record of political parties and candidates, without resorting to divisive tactics based on caste, religion, or other communal sentiments.
  • Election Silence: A 48-hour ‘election silence’ period is enforced before polling day to allow voters a campaign-free environment for reflection.

Legal Standing of the MCC:

• While the MCC lacks statutory backing, it holds significant moral authority and serves as a cornerstone of India’s electoral process.
• Violations of the MCC are addressed through moral sanctions and censure by the Election Commission rather than legal penalties.
• However, the EC can issue notices to individuals or parties for alleged breaches and seek explanations or apologies.

Enforcement of the MCC:

• The Election Commission monitors adherence to the MCC closely and takes action against violations.
• Notices may be issued to parties or candidates based on complaints or observations by election observers.
• Enforcement mechanisms include written censures and advisories, although punitive actions are rare.

Previous Instances of MCC Violations:

• Several instances of alleged MCC violations have occurred in past elections, leading to notices being issued by the Election Commission.
• Examples include accusations against political leaders for making inflammatory statements or using government resources for campaign purposes.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/model-code-of-conduct-meaning-9217638/

TAG: GS 3: ECONOMY, GS 3: ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: A recent study scrutinized more than 500 future emissions scenarios assessed by the IPCC, revealing persistent disparities in income, energy use, and emissions between developed and developing nations until 2050.

EXPLANATION:

• These scenarios project lower per-capita GDP and higher carbon sequestration requirements for developing countries, indicating an unequal burden of mitigation action and carbon dioxide removal.
• The UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) conducts thorough assessments of scientific literature related to climate change.
• These assessments include reports from Working Groups covering physical science, climate adaptation, and mitigation actions, along with a synthesis report consolidating key findings.
• Additionally, thematic special reports provide focused insights on specific climate-related issues.

Assessment of Future Scenarios:

• The IPCC employs ‘modelled pathways’ to forecast strategies for limiting global warming. These pathways rely on Integrated Assessment Models (IAMs), which integrate various human and earth system components.
• IAMs encompass macroeconomic models projecting GDP growth, energy models predicting future consumption patterns, vegetation models assessing land-use changes, and earth-system models simulating climate evolution.
• Despite their complexity, IAMs aim to offer policy-relevant guidance on climate action.

Issues with IAMs:

• IAMs primarily prioritize least-cost assessments, which often overlook principles of equity.
• While IAMs provide valuable insights into technical and economic feasibility, they tend to neglect historical responsibility and differentiated capacities among nations.
• This oversight leads to inequitable distribution of mitigation burdens, particularly between developed and developing countries.

Equity Principles and UNFCCC:

• Equity principles, embedded in the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), emphasize common but differentiated responsibilities.
• Developed countries are urged to lead climate action, considering their historical emissions and economic capabilities.
• However, IAMs often disregard these principles, resulting in inequitable mitigation pathways that fail to address the needs of vulnerable nations.

Importance of Equity:

• Equity is pivotal for ensuring fairness and efficacy in climate action.
• By overlooking equity considerations, IAMs risk exacerbating global disparities and undermining the objectives of the UNFCCC.
• Incorporating equity principles into scenario construction is crucial for advancing climate justice and meeting the diverse needs of nations at different stages of development.

IPCC:

• The IPCC is the United Nations body for assessing the science related to climate change.
• It was established by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in 1988.
• IPCC Secretariat is located in Geneva, Switzerland.
• It has 195 Member countries.
• Its objective is to assess scientific, technical, and socio-economic information relevant to the understanding of human-induced climate change, potential impacts of climate change, and options for mitigation and adaptation.
• The main activity of the IPCC is the preparation of reports assessing the state of knowledge of climate change. These include assessment reports, special reports and methodology reports.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/the-problem-of-equity-in-ipcc-reports-explained/article67962175.ece

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: The recent test of Agni V ballistic missile with MIRV technology by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) under ‘Mission Divyastra’ places India among a select group of nations possessing this advanced technology.

EXPLANATION:

• Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology signifies a significant leap in missile capability, enabling a single missile to carry multiple nuclear warheads capable of hitting different targets.
• The United States pioneered MIRV technology in the 1970s with deployments of MIRV-ed intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) like Minuteman III and submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) like Poseidon.
• The Soviet Union followed suit, developing its own MIRV-ed missiles. Presently, countries like Russia, the United Kingdom, France, and China also possess MIRV technology, with China expanding and modernizing its nuclear arsenal rapidly.

Significance of MIRVs

• MIRVs serve as force multipliers, enabling a single missile to strike multiple targets, which is particularly crucial for submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs).
• This technology enhances the redundancy of nuclear forces and aids in saturating and penetrating ballistic missile defenses, providing strategic advantages in deterrence and defense capabilities.

Mission Divyastra Test

• India’s successful test of Agni V with MIRV technology signifies a significant milestone in its defense capabilities.
• The test launch was conducted under the banner of Mission Divyastra, aptly named the “divine weapon.”
• This mission underscores the technological prowess and scientific achievement of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
• Mission Divyastra refers to the first flight test of the indigenously developed Agni-5 missile with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology.
• This achievement marks a significant step forward in India’s strategic punitive capability, as a single missile can now deploy multiple warheads at different locations or at the same location with a time gap.
• The Agni-5 missile, which can carry nuclear warheads and hit targets over 5,000 km away, is aimed at bolstering deterrence against countries like China.
• The MIRV technology is complex, requiring a delicate combination of large missiles, small warheads, accurate guidance, and a complex mechanism for releasing warheads sequentially during flight.
• India’s successful development of MIRV technology positions the country among a select group of nations with this capability.

Strategic Implications

• India’s ‘Agni’ series of missiles, particularly Agni V, forms the cornerstone of its nuclear weapons delivery system.
• With a range exceeding 5,000 km, Agni V can target most regions of China, bolstering India’s deterrence posture.
• MIRV technology enhances India’s strategic flexibility and capability to counter evolving threats, including sophisticated air defenses deployed by adversaries.

Policy Context and Future Outlook

• The successful test of MIRV technology comes against the backdrop of India’s nuclear doctrine, emphasizing ‘no first use’ (NFU) policy and maintaining a minimum credible deterrence.
• India’s completion of the nuclear triad, comprising aircraft, missiles, and submarines, further strengthens its deterrence capabilities.
• However, additional tests are required to validate various components and processes before MIRV-ed Agni V can enter serial production.

Regional Dynamics

• The development of MIRV technology is likely to impact regional dynamics, particularly with regards to India’s relationships with China and Pakistan.
• India’s strategic advancements are expected to prompt reactions from its neighbors, with implications for regional stability and security.

Agni-5 Ballistic Missile:

• Agni-5 is an ingeniously built advanced surface-to-surface ballistic missile developed under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP).
• It is a fire-and-forget missile, which cannot be stopped without an interceptor missile.
• The missile has the capability of hitting targets beyond the range of 5000 km and is crucial for India’s self-defense systems.

Agni Missiles:

• The Agni missile class is the backbone of India’s nuclear launch capability, as are Prithvi short-range ballistic missiles, submarine-launched ballistic missiles, and fighter aircraft.
• Agni-1 to 5 missiles are designed & developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
• Other Ranges of Agni Missiles:
  • Agni I: Range of 700-800 km.
  • Agni II: Range more than 2000 km.
  • Agni III: Range of more than 2,500 Km
  • Agni IV: Range is more than 3,500 km and can fire from a road mobile launcher.
  • Agni-V: The longest of the Agni series, an Inter-Continental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) with a range of over 5,000 km.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/with-agni-v-test-india-makes-the-mirv-leap/article67958035.ece

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Buguns, one of the major tribes, mainly living adjacent to Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary in Singchung sub-division of Arunachal Pradesh’s West Kameng district have set an example by donating 1,470 hectares of forest land to the state forest forest department, giving a push to efforts for protection of Bugun Liocichla, a critically endangered songbird.

EXPLANATION:

• The Bugun Liocichla is a critically endangered songbird.
• It was discovered in 2006 by Ramana Athreya, an astrophysicist and birder from Pune.
• This small babbler, measuring only 20 cm, boasts olive-grey plumage and a distinctive black cap.
• With just 14 individual birds spotted so far in the Braiduah village within the Singchung sub-division, it faces severe threats from tree felling, timber trade, and hunting by villagers.
• The bird has been named in honour of the efforts of the Bugun community of Singchung village in West Kameng district in conserving the wildlife and forest of the area.
• The bird occupies a 3-4 square kilometre area in the temperate forest within the traditional lands of Singchung village in Arunachal Pradesh.

Community Ownership and Conservation

• Community ownership of forest land, particularly in tribal-dominated areas, has historically posed challenges to conservation efforts in the Northeastern region of India.
• However, the Bugun tribe’s initiative showcases a departure from this trend, providing a beacon of hope for biodiversity conservation.
• In a significant step towards conservation, the Arunachal Pradesh government officially notified the Braiduah Community Reserve under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
• This reserve, situated adjacent to the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary, serves as a crucial habitat for the Bugun Liocichla, found exclusively within this landscape.

Community Engagement and Education

• Efforts to conserve the Bugun Liocichla extend beyond land donation and government intervention.
• More than 400 students from 12 local schools surrounding the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary have received education and sensitization on biodiversity conservation over the past five years.
• Additionally, over 50 teachers have been trained to incorporate conservation principles into their school curriculum, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship among future generations.

Local Youth Participation

• Local youth have been actively engaged in patrolling efforts to curb illegal activities threatening the Bugun Liocichla’s habitat.
• Their involvement not only helps in enforcement but also empowers them as stakeholders in conservation initiatives.

SOURCE: https://www.deccanherald.com/india/arunachal-pradesh/arunachal-tribe-donates-land-for-critically-endangered-songbird-bugun-liocichla-2940635

THE CONTEXT: India’s “One Nation, One Election” proposal aims to hold national and state elections together to save costs and enhance governance. However, it has potential impacts on India’s federal structure, voter behaviour, and democratic process. Its implementation requires addressing legal, constitutional, and logistical challenges, and building consensus among political parties.

ISSUES:

• Ram Nath Kovind Panel’s Recommendations: The panel led by Ram Nath Kovind suggests that India should hold simultaneous national and state elections, possibly starting from 2029. This recommendation is based on the belief that the current system, with its frequent elections, hampers governance and development. The panel proposes that the life of state assemblies with elections due between 2024 and 2029 be shortened to align with this synchronized schedule.
• Historical Perspective on Indian Nationhood: The historical context of Indian nationhood contrasts the European “one language, one nation” ideology with India’s diverse linguistic and cultural landscape. The British colonial perspective doubted the possibility of India ever becoming a unified nation due to its diversity.
• Gandhi’s Vision of Indian Identity: Mahatma Gandhi’s vision challenged the European concept of nationhood by promoting a hyphenated identity, where being Indian did not contradict regional identities. He was instrumental in organizing the Congress party into linguistic units, which laid the groundwork for the linguistic reorganization of states post-independence.
• Concept of State-Nation vs. Nation-State: India, as envisioned by Gandhi and reflected in its post-1956 linguistic reorganization, is a state-nation that respects and promotes dual identities—regional and national—without seeing them as contradictory.
• Impact on National Unity and Federalism: The “One Nation, One Election” could be seen as a move towards greater centralization, potentially at odds with the Gandhian vision of India as a state-nation. The proposal might also challenge the federal structure by pushing for a more uniform electoral process.
• Consensus and Implementation: The success of the “One Nation, One Election” proposal in promoting national unity requires widespread consensus among states and political parties. Most regional parties, except those allied with the BJP, currently disagree with the idea, indicating the need for a more inclusive approach to reform.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Legal and Constitutional Amendments: The Law Commission’s Draft Report (2018) highlighted the necessity for amendments to the Constitution, the Representation of the People Act 1951, and parliamentary procedures to enable ONOE. It suggested that at least 50% of states must ratify these constitutional amendments. A Private Members’ Bill introduced in July 2019 sought the insertion of a new Article 324A to direct the Election Commission of India (ECI) to conduct elections to the House of the People and legislative assemblies of all states simultaneously.
• Cycle of Elections and Legal Cap on Expenditure: A standing committee recommended a cycle of elections, according to which elections to some legislative assemblies whose terms end within six months to one year before or after the general elections to the Lok Sabha could be synchronized. For the rest of the states, elections could be held along with the general elections to the Lok Sabha. Controlling costs by ensuring that the legal cap on expenditure of candidates is followed by all parties was also suggested to make the process more feasible and less financially burdensome.
• Enhancing Voter Education and Electoral Participation: The need for more informed conversations in the public domain, as well as at the national and state levels, was emphasized. This includes educating voters about the significance of both national and state issues and encouraging informed voting behaviour.
• Addressing Governance Disruptions: The proposal aims to mitigate governance disruptions caused by the Model Code of Conduct during elections, thereby allowing governments to focus more on governance and less on electoral considerations.
• Comprehensive Approach and Consensus Building: To tackle the challenges of ONOE, it’s important to have appropriate legal provisions and build consensus among all stakeholders. This involves addressing concerns and objections, particularly from those who fear that simultaneous elections could diminish the importance of state elections and regional parties.
• Addressing Electoral and Governance Challenges: The government is encouraged to use its political capital to solve broader electoral problems such as opaque dynastic hegemonies within parties, poor women’s representation in politics, horse trading, and fiscally irresponsible electoral promises. This approach suggests that while ONOE is a significant reform, it should be part of a larger effort to enhance the electoral system and governance in India.

THE CONCLUSION:

The “One Nation, One Election” proposal aims to improve governance and development by reducing the frequency of elections. However, its impact on national unity and respect for India’s diverse federal structure is complex. The proposal runs the risk of deviating from the Gandhian vision of India and requires a more inclusive approach to reform that seeks consensus in the diverse political landscape.

UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTION:

Q. Simultaneous election to the Lok Sabha and the State Assemblies will limit the amount of time and money spent in electioneering but it will reduce the government’s accountability to the people’ Discuss. (2017)

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:

Q. Examine the feasibility of the ‘One Nation, One Election’ plan in India. Discuss the legal and constitutional issues related to this idea, as well as the potential impact on the federal structure and democratic processes of the country.

SOURCE:https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/ashutosh-varshney-writes-why-how-one-nation-one-election-divisive-9217944/

THE CONTEXT: Myanmar’s escalating violence and shift in support from neighbouring countries are heightening tensions and victories of armed group is leading to surge in conflict. This has affected the independent media as well as the office of the independent media group has been looted which are seeking refuge in the region outside Myanmar.

ISSUES:

• Exodus of journalists: Several Myanmar journalists were forced to abandon their native places, seeking refuge in neighbouring countries, or in regions in Myanmar that were outside junta control.
• Refugee crisis: Vast numbers of Myanmar citizens over two million within Myanmar and some 1.5 million refugee seekers have been forced from their homes since the coup. Estimates suggest nearly half of Myanmar’s population, i.e., 25 million people, is living in conditions of poverty.
• Regional issue: The fact that Myanmar’s independent media has been forced to maintain a presence in neighbouring countries is further evidence that the Myanmar conflict is not contained to Myanmar. It is rather a regional problem as the conflict has spread over its borders to impact neighbouring countries. The result is a highly destabilising situation for Myanmar and its neighbours.
• Security concerns: Fighting and refugee flows pose grave security concerns for Myanmar neighbours, including Bangladesh, China, India and Thailand, while placing extreme humanitarian demands on these countries. Meanwhile, the collapse of rule of law has led to an explosion of criminal activity with not only negative repercussions for Myanmar but also for regional countries victimised by this criminal underworld.
• Economic concerns: Hostilities in Myanmar further serve as an impediment to envisioned trade and economic corridors throughout the region.
• Representative democracy: Regardless of the desire of the people of Myanmar, the State Administration Council (SAC), still refuses to address the issue of Myanmar people to end military rule and the realisation of representative democracy. Instead, there is increase in suppression of the Myanmar population, including arbitrary arrests, torture, extrajudicial killings, and indiscriminate attacks against the country’s civilian population and journalists.
• Constant conflict: At the close of 2023, 316 of Myanmar’s 330 townships reported active fighting, with 40% of townships throughout the country now assessed to be out of the control of the junta. Armed hostilities opposed to the junta were highlighted by Operation 1027 (the offensive) launched by ethnic forces at the close of October 2023. The offensive was successful in overrunning approximately 200 junta camps along with getting control of four border gates.

ASEAN’S STRUGGLE FOR STABILITY:

• Following the February 2021 coup, the United States, the United Nations, the European Union, and other international stakeholders looked to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to play a leading role in ending the conflict in Myanmar.
• ASEAN reached a five-point consensus with junta leader senior General Min Aung Hlaing. However, it is difficult to identify any substantive achievements of ASEAN over the ensuing three years toward ending the conflict in Myanmar and stabilising the region.
• The result is that despite the efforts of ASEAN and others to stop the violence in Myanmar, the conflict today is arguably worse than it has been in the three years since the coup.

THE WAY FORWARD

• Strengthening ASEAN role: As ASEAN and regional neighbours have been entrusted by international bodies when it comes to finding a pathway to ending the Myanmar conflict, it is time for these actors to take action.
• Ensuring independent media: Myanmar’s independent media continues to work to protect journalists and promote press freedom. It is forming an Independent Press Council to counter the Myanmar Press Council, which no longer functions the way it should and is working for state propaganda. ASEAN and other stakeholders need to support Myanmar’s independent media and people in their battle for a truly democratic country.
• Support for democracy and human rights:There should be continued advocation for the restoration of democracy and respect for human rights in Myanmar. This includes calling for the release of political prisoners and an end to the military junta’s crackdown on dissent.
• Undertake measures in U.N. Charter: The dual interests of upholding international law and ensuring regional and international security should motivate the international community to undertake necessary measures prescribed in the U.N. Charter to counter violence originating from Myanmar.
• Economic Engagement: There should be continued engagement of Myanmar economically, but it should do so in a way that promotes sustainable development and benefits the people of Myanmar. This includes investing in infrastructure projects and supporting the development of Myanmar’s private sector.
• Engaging policymakers: Policymakers should approach Myanmar with an outlook focused not solely on Myanmar but, rather, with a comprehensive vision for the region’s stability and growth on the whole.

THE CONCLUSION:

The growing instability inside Myanmar and along the border can potentially destabilize the whole region, including South and Southeast Asia. The war in Myanmar has already negatively affected Bangladesh and India, and to a smaller extent, China and Thailand. There is a need for continued engagement of stakeholders to promote dialogue and compromise and find a peaceful solution to the country’s crisis. Working in coordination with regional partners can enhance the effectiveness of initiatives to bring stability and peace to Myanmar.

UPSC PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q.1 How does illegal transborder migration pose a threat to India’s security? Discuss the strategies to curb this, bringing out the factors which give impetus to such migration. (2014)

Q.2 Analyze internal security threats and transborder crimes along Myanmar, Bangladesh and Pakistan borders including Line of Control (LoC). Also, discuss the role played by various security forces in this regard. (2020)

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTIONS

Q.1 ASEAN’s solution to Myanmar is at a tipping point. Critically examine the statement with respect to failure of ASEAn to address the Myanmar issue despite several efforts.

Q.2 The current crisis of Myanmar has potential to metamorphose into a larger regional crisis with severe implications for international security. Comment.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/the-myanmar-conflict-is-a-regional-problem/article67961958.ece#:~:text=It%20is%20rather%20a%20regional,humanitarian%20demands%20on%20these%20countries.

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1.  In Frames | A flurry of feathers in a drying lake Arunachal tribe donates land for critically endangered songbird Bugun Liocichla READ MORE

2. IT Ministry replaces AI advisory, drops requirement of government’s permission READ MORE

3. With Agni V test, India makes the MIRV leap READ MORE

4. What is the HbA1C test and why is it used to check for diabetes? | Explained  READ MORE

5. The problem of equity in IPCC reports | Explained READ MORE

6. Analysing datasets: How predictive AI models are gaining traction READ MORE

7. Why Kerala and the Centre are in a dispute over state borrowing limits at the SC READ MORE

8. Model Code of Conduct comes into force for 2024 Lok Sabha elections: What does it mean? READ MORE

9. Lancet study finds 7 out of 10 dialysis patients in India survive beyond six months, rural mortality 32% higher READ MORE

10. In Frames | A flurry of feathers in a drying lake READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. How social norms hold women back: A look at recent evidence READ MORE

2. Should girls be ‘controlled’? Opinions among young boys and parents in Bihar READ MORE

3. Ocean temperature hit record high in February 2024, EU scientists say READ MORE

4. Crisis of time: On parched Karnataka and its water woes READ MORE

5. Bengaluru’s water crisis decoded READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. Bonded favours: On the electoral bond scheme, sordid revelations READ MORE

2. On the ballot: On the general election to the 18th Lok Sabha READ MORE

3. Why and how One Nation, One Election is divisive READ MORE

4. The why and the how of one nation, one election READ MORE

5. One Nation, many poles: Simultaneous polls are a good idea. But given multipolar polity, get more parties on board READ MORE

6. Electoral bonds: Donor-recipient link must be probed thoroughly READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Empowering healthcare: Harnessing digital solutions for NCD diagnosis and transformation READ MORE

2. India’s HDI improves: Reducing gender gap in labour force a challenge READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. US criticism of CAA: Diplomatic calculations behind opposition READ MORE

2. Strategic interests draw India, Greece closer READ MORE

3. The importance of consular services in global diplomacy READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. Has poverty really dropped to 5% in India? READ MORE

2. Why it is necessary to diversify the farming basket READ MORE

3. Farmers’ protests a testimony to flawed market economy READ MORE

4. Re-orienting agriculture for sustainable growth READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. RBI and the net-zero transition — A roadmap for green India READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. Fifth-generation stealth jet to be a reality soon READ MORE

2. Scientists play key role in a nation’s progress READ MORE

3. AI is revolutionising waste management READ MORE

INTERNAL SECURITY

1. Missile prowess: Agni-V enhances India’s deterrence capabilities READ MORE  

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. Mitigating risks in infrastructure development READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Cultivate tolerance to foster harmony READ MORE

2. Limits of simplification READ MORE

3. Conscious awareness or aware consciousness READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. By offering equitable access to high-quality care for all individuals, regardless of socio-economic background, digital solutions can play a pivotal role in addressing unequal health outcomes. Comment.

2. India stands on the brink of a digital healthcare revolution that promises to transform NCD management and improve overall health outcomes. Comment.

3. To mitigate climate change and bridge the digital divide, it is vital to invest in sustainability and expand access to technology. Justify.

4. Addressing concerns related to federalism and democratic principles while ensuring the synchronisation of electoral cycles poses a formidable challenge. Examine.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• Power and influence do attract political funding but misusing them either by muscular demonstration or the promise of reward will ultimately be subversive of democracy.
• While the ECI is justified in its defence of the electronic voting machine, it needs to do more to ensure public trust in them.
• In the conflict between the claim of a right to privacy by donors and the voter’s right to information, the ECI’s equivocation is unwarranted, particularly after the Court has settled the question.
• GDP growth is now driven by capital expenditure, largely public capital expenditure, because we really haven’t seen the same revival in private investment, largely because mass consumption demand is stagnant.
• If farmers’ incomes are to be augmented substantially, Punjab and Haryana have plenty of lessons to learn from states that have already moved into high-value agriculture.
• Consciousness is an attribute of life, embedded in all life forms, right from the unicellular bacterium to the multicellular, multi-organ human being. Consciousness has been considered an emergent phenomenon by neuroscientists and physicists alike.
• The integration of AI into healthcare systems is revolutionizing disease diagnostics, particularly in the early detection of conditions such as heart diseases, diabetes, and cancer.
• Digital health technologies have the transformative potential to mitigate disparities and advance equity in healthcare delivery.
• By offering equitable access to high-quality care for all individuals, regardless of socio-economic background, digital solutions can play a pivotal role in addressing unequal health outcomes.
• India stands on the brink of a digital healthcare revolution that promises to transform NCD management and improve overall health outcomes.
• The HDI report’s call to address the challenges by prioritising ‘planetary public goods’ for climate stability and digital equity is noteworthy.
• To mitigate climate change and bridge the digital divide, it is vital to invest in sustainability and expand access to technology.
• It is imperative that the cloak of secrecy is lifted completely so that various stakeholders, including political parties and the electorate, can draw their own conclusions ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.
• Parliamentary and Assembly elections have different dynamics and issues at stake; the Centre must go all out to develop unanimity on this contentious matter.
• Greece and India are located in geopolitically volatile areas. As recent events in the Red Sea have shown, the security of the East Mediterranean and the Indian Ocean Region are interconnected.
• A legalised MSP is the way forward not only for Indian farmers but also for growers across the globe. Markets will adjust accordingly.
• In times of crisis, society instinctively turns its gaze towards the scientific community, seeking solace and solutions amid turmoil.
• Addressing concerns related to federalism and democratic principles while ensuring the synchronisation of electoral cycles poses a formidable challenge.
• Consular services are crucial for global diplomatic efforts as they tirelessly safeguard the interests of citizens residing outside their country of origin.

ESSAY TOPIC

• Gender equality is not just a matter of social justice; it is also a prerequisite for sustainable development.

50-WORD TALK

• Supreme Court has rightly used strong words to quash the ‘waging war’ case against the Maharashtra professor who merely updated his WhatsApp status criticising abrogation of Article 370. It has called for educating the police about free speech and democracy. This is key to preventing citizen harassment by the authorities.

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.

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