THE CONTEXT: The persistence of caste-based segregation in Indian cities, despite urbanization and modernization, is a cause of concern. It highlights the gap between Ambedkar’s vision of urbanization as a means of dismantling caste hierarchies and the current reality of Indian cities, where caste continues to shape urban spaces and perpetuate segregation and discrimination against marginalized communities.

ISSUES:

• Persistence of Caste-Based Segregation: Despite the urbanization and modernization of Indian cities, caste remains a significant factor in determining the spatial organization of neighborhoods. This segregation is evident in the distribution of housing, where Dalits and other marginalized communities are often confined to specific areas or ghettos.
• Ambedkar’s Vision vs. Reality: B.R. Ambedkar, a key figure in the fight against caste discrimination, saw cities as potential spaces for Dalit liberation due to the anonymity and economic opportunities they could offer. However, the liberating potential of urbanization has not been fully realized, as caste-based discrimination and segregation continue to persist in urban areas.
• Language of ‘Purity-Pollution’: The caste system’s notions of purity and pollution translate into urban spatiality, affecting rental housing availability and public space regulations. For example, non-vegetarian food consumption is a significant barrier to finding rental housing, and government regulations have at times reinforced caste-based notions of purity by restricting the sale of meat near religious places or on main roads.
• Discrimination in Public Services: Studies have shown that Dalit and Muslim neighborhoods often have less access to essential public services and municipal infrastructure, such as clean drinking water, and are more likely to be in environmentally hazardous areas, like near landfills.
• State Policies and Urban Governance: Government policies and urban governance practices have contributed to the entrenchment of caste-based segregation. For instance, regulations on meat shops and the banning of meat-based street food in certain areas have been influenced by caste-based notions of purity.
• Impact of Urban Policies on Marginalized Communities: Urban policies, including those related to housing and slum demolitions, disproportionately affect Dalits and Muslims, often leading to forced evictions and further marginalization of these communities.
• Failure to Realize Ambedkar’s Aspirations: Indian cities have not lived up to Ambedkar’s aspirations for urbanization as a force for Dalit liberation. Instead, caste-based structures have adapted and evolved, allowing caste discrimination to continue in urban settings.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Affirmative Action in Public Services: Implementing affirmative action policies ensures marginalized communities have better access to public services such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure within urban neighborhoods.
• Urban Planning and Development: Designing urban spaces to create inclusivity, ensuring that public amenities are distributed equitably across neighborhoods and that urban development projects do not disproportionately displace marginalized communities.
• Economic Empowerment: Programs aimed at the economic development of marginalized communities, such as skill development, employment opportunities, and financial inclusion, can help reduce the economic disparities that often underpin segregation.
• Legal Recourse and Enforcement: Strengthening the legal framework to allow individuals and communities to challenge discriminatory practices and ensuring that existing laws against caste-based discrimination are strictly enforced.
• Education and Curriculum Reform: Reforming the educational curriculum to include more comprehensive teachings on the history and impact of caste and religious discrimination, promoting values of equality and social justice.
• Civil Society and NGO Involvement: Encouraging non-governmental organizations and civil society to play an active role in advocating for the rights of marginalized communities and in monitoring government actions related to urban planning and public services.

THE CONCLUSION:

Despite the potential of urbanization to dismantle caste hierarchies, Indian cities have largely failed to fulfill Ambedkar’s vision of liberation for marginalized communities. Caste-based segregation remains entrenched, facilitated by discriminatory practices and policies. There is a need to call for a reevaluation of urban governance and policy to address and overcome the deep-rooted caste-based inequalities in Indian cities.

UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:

Q.1 Why is caste identity in India both fluid and static? 2023

Q.2 Has caste lost its relevance in understanding the multi-cultural Indian Society? Elaborate your answer with illustrations. 2020

Q.3 The caste system is assuming new identities and associational forms. Hence, the caste system cannot be eradicated in India.” Comment. 2018

Q.4 Debate the issue of whether and how contemporary movements for the assertion of Dalit identity work towards the annihilation of caste. 2015

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:

Q.1 Examine the impact of urbanization on caste-based segregation in Indian cities. Discuss the role of policy interventions in addressing the challenges of residential segregation by caste, with reference to the findings from recent studies on urban India.

SOURCE:

https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/urbanisation-no-liberating-force-for-dalits/article68065596.ece

THE CONTEXT: The world is witnessing a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape, with the US and China engaging in strategic competition in various regions, including Asia. This rivalry has implications for regional powers like India, Japan, and the Philippines, increasingly becoming involved in the power struggle. Japan is transforming its military capabilities and strategic partnerships, raising concerns about the potential for conflict escalation.

ISSUES:

• US-China Rivalry: The core of the tension in the region is the rivalry between the United States and China, the world’s leading economic and military powers. Any confrontation in Asia, an area of significant dynamism, could have profound global implications.
• Japan’s Military Transformation: A significant outcome of recent US-Japan summits is Japan’s shift from a passive stance to becoming a potential military powerhouse. This transformation includes agreements to integrate military command structures with the US, increase defense spending, enhance missile capabilities, and jointly develop and produce weapons. This move is aimed at deterring Chinese military coercion and promoting a rules-based Indo-Pacific order.
• US-Philippines-Japan Trilateral Cooperation: In a historic trilateral summit, the US, Japan, and the Philippines agreed to defend the Philippines’ territorial sovereignty against pressures from the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in the South China Sea. This cooperation extends to economic collaboration, offering an alternative to China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
• China’s Response: China has criticized the formation of what it perceives as “bloc politics” and a “mini-NATO” in Asia, warning against efforts to isolate it. In response, China has engaged diplomatically with various countries, including hosting Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and welcoming leaders from Taiwan, Vietnam, and Indonesia, to counteract US influence and prevent regional economic decoupling from China.
• India’s Position: India, facing a prolonged military standoff with China in the Himalayas and expanding its strategic partnership with the US, plays a crucial role in the evolving Asian dynamics. Despite past disappointments, Delhi has speculated about China’s potential outreach to prevent India from aligning more closely with the US and an anti-China coalition. However, any progress in Sino-Indian relations is contingent upon restoring peace along their disputed border.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Promote Dialogue and Diplomacy: The primary focus should be promoting open dialogue and diplomacy between the key players – the US, China, Japan, India, and other regional powers. Confrontation and escalation of tensions must be avoided at all costs, as a direct military conflict between the US and China would have devastating global consequences.
• Strengthen Regional Cooperation: Rather than forming exclusive blocs, Asian countries should work towards strengthening regional cooperation and institutions like ASEAN. This would allow for collective solutions to shared challenges and reduce the risk of great power rivalry. Initiatives like the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) should be leveraged to enhance economic, technological, and security cooperation among regional democracies.
• Respect Territorial Integrity and International Law: All parties must respect the territorial integrity and sovereignty of countries in the region and adhere to international laws and norms. Disputes in the South China Sea, Taiwan, and the India-China border should be resolved through peaceful negotiations, not unilateral actions, or coercion.
• Pursue Economic Interdependence: Deepening economic interdependence and trade linkages between China, the US, and US allies can help create shared interests and incentives for cooperation. This could include joint infrastructure projects, technology partnerships, and market access agreements that benefit all stakeholders.
• Manage Strategic Competition Responsibly: While strategic competition between the US and China is inevitable, it must be managed responsibly through open communication, risk reduction measures, and a focus on areas of common interest. Escalating tensions or miscalculations could have catastrophic consequences.

THE CONCLUSION:

The evolving geopolitical dynamics in Asia require careful attention and strategic responses from all stakeholders. It is crucial to promote dialogue and diplomacy, strengthen regional cooperation, and respect territorial integrity and international law. Deepening economic interdependence and managing strategic competition responsibly can help reduce tensions and create a more stable and prosperous region. By adopting a balanced approach, Asia can navigate the current challenges and work towards a more peaceful and interconnected future.

UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:

Q.1 The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of a China, that is much more challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union.” Explain 2021

Q.2 China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to develop potential military power status in Asia. Considering this statement, we will discuss its impact on India as her neighbor. 2017

Q.3 ‘The time has come for India and Japan to build a contemporary solid relationship, one involving global and strategic partnership that will have excellent significance for Asia and the world.’ Comment 2019

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:

Q.1 In the context of the evolving geopolitical dynamics in South Asia, critically analyze the strategic implications for India and the region and propose a balanced approach for India to navigate these challenges.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/new-goverment-must-fix-indias-food-systems-9270225/

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have developed a novel hydrogel aimed at tackling the pervasive issue of microplastic pollution in water bodies.

EXPLANATION:

• Microplastics, posing significant threats to both human health and the environment, have become a pressing concern globally.
• In response, the IISc team has engineered a sustainable solution with promising capabilities.

Microplastic Threat

• Microplastics, tiny plastic particles, have emerged as a major environmental hazard, permeating various ecosystems and endangering aquatic and terrestrial lifeforms.
• With the ability to infiltrate drinking water sources, microplastics also pose health risks to humans.
• The urgency to address this challenge has prompted innovative research efforts.

Three-Layer Polymer Hydrogel

• The developed hydrogel features a sophisticated three-layer polymer structure, comprising chitosan, polyvinyl alcohol, and polyaniline.
• This unique intertwining of polymers forms an interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) architecture, enhancing the material’s efficacy in microplastic removal.
• Traditional filtering membranes, prone to clogging, are bypassed in favor of this resilient hydrogel.
• Infusing the hydrogel with nanoclusters of copper substitute polyoxometalate (Cu-POM) introduces catalytic capabilities.
• Under UV light irradiation, these nanoclusters facilitate the degradation of microplastics, rendering them less harmful.
• This synergistic combination of polymers and nanoclusters results in a robust hydrogel capable of both adsorbing and degrading microplastics.

                            This hydrogel could remove over 90% of microplastics

Tracking and Efficiency Assessment

• Addressing the challenge of microplastic detection, the researchers incorporated a fluorescent dye into the hydrogel.
• This enables the tracking of microplastic removal and degradation under various environmental conditions, including pH levels, temperatures, and microplastic concentrations.
• The hydrogel exhibits high efficiency, removing up to 95% of microplastics in near-neutral pH conditions.

Durability and Strength

• In addition to its efficacy, the hydrogel demonstrates durability and strength, crucial for practical applications.
• The combination of polymers ensures stability across diverse temperature ranges, enhancing the material’s resilience under different environmental conditions.
• This durability underscores the potential of the hydrogel as a sustainable solution for microplastic remediation.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/iisc-researchers-design-novel-hydrogel-to-remove-microplastics-from-water/article68058021.ece

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: According to the latest data from the Global Forest Watch (GFW) monitoring project, India has experienced a significant decline in tree cover since 2000. Over this period, the country lost 2.33 million hectares of tree cover, equivalent to a six percent decrease.

EXPLANATION:

• This loss has profound implications for climate change, as forests play a crucial role in carbon sequestration.

Factors Contributing to Tree Cover Loss

• The causes of tree cover loss in India are diverse and multifaceted.
• While deforestation, characterized by the permanent removal of natural forest cover, is a significant factor, tree cover loss also encompasses human-caused loss and natural disturbances such as logging, fire, disease, or storm damage.
• Notably, 95 percent of tree cover loss in India from 2013 to 2023 occurred within natural forests, highlighting the scale of human impact on these ecosystems.

Regional Patterns and Impacts

• The data reveals regional disparities in tree cover loss, with certain states experiencing disproportionately high levels of deforestation.
• Assam, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Manipur accounted for 60 percent of all tree cover loss between 2001 and 2023.
• Factors contributing to this loss vary from region to region, including logging, agricultural expansion, and infrastructure development.

Climate Implications

• The loss of tree cover in India has significant implications for climate change.
• Forests serve as both a sink and a source of carbon, sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere while also emitting it when cleared or degraded.
• The release of carbon dioxide from tree cover loss contributes to the acceleration of climate change, exacerbating global warming and its associated impacts.

Fires and Other Disturbances

• Fire represents a notable cause of tree cover loss in India, with thousands of hectares lost annually due to wildfires.
• Odisha, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Assam, and Meghalaya are among the states most affected by tree cover loss due to fires.
• These disturbances further compound the challenges faced by forest ecosystems and underscore the importance of effective fire management strategies.

Data Limitations and Considerations

• While the GFW provides valuable insights into forest dynamics, it is essential to acknowledge the limitations of satellite-based monitoring.
• Tree cover loss does not always equate to forest loss or deforestation, as it may include temporary disturbances or land use changes that do not result in permanent forest conversion.
• Moreover, the evolution of data algorithms and satellite technology over time necessitates caution when interpreting trends and making comparisons across different time periods.

SOURCE: https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-lost-2-33-million-hectares-of-tree-cover-since-2000-global-forest-watch-5428639

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: Recent research spearheaded by a team of geneticists has unveiled a novel genetic variant, RAB32 Ser71Arg, linked to Parkinson’s disease.

EXPLANATION:

• This discovery, made through linkage analysis, sheds new light on the evolutionary origins of familial parkinsonism and offers promising avenues for therapeutic intervention.
• The identification of RAB32 Ser71Arg, found in affected individuals across several countries, underscores the global impact of Parkinson’s and highlights the interconnectedness of diverse populations through shared genetic ancestry.

Implications for Parkinson’s Research

• The discovery of RAB32 Ser71Arg represents a significant milestone in Parkinson’s research, providing a crucial piece of the puzzle in understanding the molecular mechanisms driving the disease.
• Notably, this variant interacts with proteins implicated in both early- and late-onset parkinsonism, as well as sporadic Parkinson’s, elucidating common pathways underlying disease pathology.
• Moreover, the functional roles of these proteins in dopamine regulation, autophagy, and cellular immunity offer new insights into the complex interplay of cellular processes implicated in Parkinson’s pathogenesis.

Parkinson’s disease:

• Parkinson’s disease is a debilitating neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive impairment of motor function, often leading to immobility and cognitive decline.
• It is a condition in which a patient holds limited or no control over his movements and body balance.
• It occurs and progresses with ageing, but in rare cases, it is also witnessed among children and teenagers as well.
• It has no cure.
• Many studies have suggested that men are more likely to be affected by Parkinson’s than women.
• With over a million individuals affected in the U.S. alone, the prevalence of Parkinson’s is on the rise, posing significant challenges to healthcare systems worldwide.
• Despite decades of research, there remains a critical gap in our understanding of the molecular underpinnings of the disease, hindering the development of effective treatments.

Genetic Exploration of Parkinson’s

• Geneticists and molecular neuroscientists have long sought to uncover the genetic basis of Parkinson’s disease, recognizing the pivotal role of genetics in elucidating disease mechanisms.
• Two primary approaches have been instrumental in mapping the genetic landscape of Parkinson’s: linkage analysis and genome-wide association studies (GWAS).
  • Linkage Analysis:
    • This method focuses on rare familial cases of parkinsonism, identifying genetic variants that segregate with the disease within affected families.
    • By analyzing the genetic makeup of these families, researchers can pinpoint specific genes associated with Parkinson’s.
    • Notably, linkage studies have led to the discovery of pathogenic mutations in over 20 genes, providing valuable insights into the molecular pathways underlying the disease.
  • Genome-wide Association Studies (GWAS):
    • In contrast, GWAS examine the genetic profiles of large cohorts of individuals with Parkinson’s compared to healthy controls.
    • By analyzing common genetic variants across the genome, researchers can identify regions associated with increased disease risk.
    • While GWAS have identified numerous genetic loci implicated in Parkinson’s, the individual contribution of each gene to disease pathogenesis remains minimal.

Future Directions

• Moving forward, continued efforts to unravel the genetic basis of Parkinson’s disease hold immense promise for advancing our understanding of disease etiology and identifying novel therapeutic targets.
• With each new gene identified, researchers gain valuable insights into the intricate network of molecular pathways contributing to Parkinson’s pathology.
• Moreover, ongoing genetic research offers opportunities to explore gene-environment interactions and develop personalized treatment strategies tailored to individual patients.

SOURCE: https://www.sciencealert.com/breakthrough-parkinsons-gene-discovery-sheds-light-on-evolutionary-origin

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Groundbreaking research spanning over two decades has revealed a treasure trove of biodiversity in a previously unrecognized ecoregion in southern Africa.

EXPLANATION:

• It was led by Professor Julian Bayliss and involving around 100 specialists from across the globe, the study documented an astounding array of previously undocumented species, including 127 plant species and 90 species of amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals, butterflies, and freshwater crabs.
• What sets these discoveries apart is that all these species are endemic to the region, found nowhere else on Earth.

SEAMA:

• The newly identified ecoregion, dubbed the South East Africa Montane Archipelago (SEAMA), stretches from northern Mozambique to Mount Mulanje in Malawi.
• These mountains, formed millions of years ago, host a diverse range of ecosystems, from expansive mid-elevation rainforests to unique montane grasslands.
• Notably, Mount Mabu boasts the largest mid-elevation rainforest in southern Africa, while Mount Lico holds the distinction of being home to the smallest.

Ecological Significance and Conservation Challenges

• Despite its ecological significance, the SEAMA faces severe threats.
• Over the past two decades, the region has witnessed alarming rates of deforestation, with a fifth of its rainforest extent lost, and nearly half in some areas.
• Pressures from slash-and-burn agriculture, hunting, and resource extraction exacerbate the vulnerability of these ecosystems.
• While some areas, like Mount Mabu, benefit from local community protection, others lack formal safeguards, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation.

Calls for Conservation Action

• The study’s findings underscore the urgent need for conservation efforts to safeguard the SEAMA’s unique biodiversity.
• The importance of protecting this understudied ecoregion, highlighting the potential for further discoveries and its relevance to global conservation initiatives has been emphasised.
• Efforts to engage local communities in conservation, similar to successful endeavors at Mount Mabu, are deemed essential for long-term sustainability.

International Support and Collaboration

• The role of national and international finance in supporting conservation initiatives in the SEAMA has been emphasised.
• Recognizing the global importance of the region’s biodiversity, Dr. Paul Smith calls for international support to bolster conservation efforts.
• Transboundary conservation initiatives between Mozambique and Malawi offer promising avenues for collaboration, fostering a shared commitment to conservation across borders.

Archipelago:

• An archipelago is a group of islands closely scattered in a body of water. Usually, this body of water is the ocean, but it can also be a lake or river.
• Most archipelagoes are made of oceanic islands. This means the islands were formed by volcanoes erupting from the ocean floor. An archipelago made up of oceanic islands is called an island arc.
• Many island arcs were formed over a single “hot spot.” The Earth’s crust shifted while the hot spot stayed put, creating a line of islands that show exactly the direction the crust moved.

Examples of Archipelago:

• The Hawaiian Islands continue to form this way, with a hot spot remaining relatively stable while the Pacific tectonic plate moves northwest.
• There are 137 Hawaiian islands, reefs and atolls, stretching from Kure and Midway in the west to the “Big Island” of Hawaii in the east.
• The Big Island is still being formed by the active volcanoes Mauna Loa and Kilauea.
• The island arc will grow as Loihi, a seamount southeast of the Big Island, eventually punctures the ocean surface as Hawaii’s youngest island.
• Japan is another island arc. The Japanese archipelago consists of four large islands, from Hokkaido, in the far north, through Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu in the far south.
• Japan also includes more than 3,000 smaller islands. In several places in the Japanese archipelago, volcanoes are still active.
• Volcanoes do not form all archipelagoes. Many archipelagoes are continental islands formed only after the last ice age.
• As glaciers retreated, sea levels rose and low-lying valleys were flooded. Coastal mountain ranges became archipelagoes just off the mainland.
• The largest archipelago in the world was formed by glacial retreat.

SOURCE: https://scitechdaily.com/scientists-discover-hundreds-of-unique-species-in-africas-newest-ecoregion/

TAG: GS 1: GEOGRAPHY

THE CONTEXT: Recently Mount Etna, the largest volcano in Europe, and among the world’s most active and iconic volcanoes, has been sending up almost perfect rings of smoke into the air.

EXPLANATION:

• Mount Etna, situated on the east coast of Sicily, stands as Europe’s largest and one of the most active volcanoes.
• With its summit adorned by five craters and over 300 vents sprawled across its slopes, Etna’s volcanic activity has been relentless for centuries.
• From flank eruptions to summit bursts, it has left an indelible mark on the landscape and the history of the region.

The Enigmatic Volcanic Vortex Rings

• Volcanic vortex rings, a rare spectacle akin to smoke rings, have captured the attention of scientists and observers alike.
• These rings are formed when gas, predominantly water vapor, rushes out through a circular vent in the crater.
• The circularity of the vent at Etna results in the formation of almost perfectly circular rings, an awe-inspiring sight against the backdrop of the volcano’s majestic presence.

Historical Context and Global Observations

• Although the phenomenon of volcanic vortex rings was first documented at Etna and Vesuvius in Italy in 1724, its occurrence extends beyond Sicily’s borders.
• From the icy landscapes of Iceland to the lush terrains of Vanuatu, various volcanoes around the world have exhibited similar phenomena.
• Notable occurrences include volcanoes like Stromboli in Italy, Aso and Sakurajima in Japan, and Eyjafjallajökull in Iceland, each adding to the rich tapestry of volcanic activity across the globe.

Scientific Insights and Comparative Analysis

• Volcanologist Simona Scollo sheds light on the mechanics behind volcanic vortex rings, drawing an intriguing parallel to dolphins blowing bubble rings.
• The process involves the compression of gas within a narrow conduit, which then rushes out, forming a ring-shaped vortex.
• These rings, although ephemeral, can linger in the air for up to 10 minutes, painting the sky with transient beauty.

Mount Etna’s Prolific Production

• Mount Etna emerges as a standout performer in the realm of volcanic vortex rings.
• According to volcanologist Boris Behncke, Etna produces an exceptional number of vapor rings, surpassing its counterparts in terms of frequency and intensity.
• With “dozens of gas rings every day” reported in July 2023, Etna’s penchant for this phenomenon has earned it a distinctive reputation among volcanic landscapes.

Dispelling Notions of Imminent Eruption

• Despite the mesmerizing display of volcanic vortex rings, reassure that these phenomena do not necessarily signal an impending eruption.
• The activity observed at Etna’s new vent, while impressive, does not indicate a heightened risk of eruption.
• Instead, it underscores the dynamic nature of volcanic systems, where changes in conduit properties can influence the formation and cessation of such phenomena.

Mount Etna:

• It is Europe’s most active volcano and one of the largest in the world.
• Its recorded volcanic activity dates back to 1500 B.C.
• It is on the eastern coast of Sicily.
• It is the highest Mediterranean island mountain and the most active stratovolcano in the world.
• It is about 3,326 meters high and is the highest peak in Italy South of the Alps.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-sci-tech/mount-etna-volcano-smoke-rings-vortex-9265785/

THE CONTEXT: With the 2024 elections in India approaching, there is growing concern over the low voter registration rates among young citizens aged 18 to 19. According to data from the Election Commission of India, less than 40% of these potential first-time voters have registered, with significant variations across states. Addressing this is important to maintaining a strong democracy.

ISSUES:

• Low Voter Registration Among Young Citizens: The data from the Election Commission of India indicates that less than 40% of voters aged 18 to 19 have registered to vote. This is concerning as these are first-time voters who are expected to be eager to exercise their democratic rights.
• State-wise Variations in Voter Registration: There is a significant disparity in voter registration rates among different states. For instance, Telangana has over 66% of young voters registered, while Bihar has only 17%, despite having the youngest population in India. Delhi and Uttar Pradesh also show low registration rates.
• Potential Reasons for Low Registration: The migration could affect voter registration, as seen in the low rates in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. However, this does not fully explain the variations, as Chhattisgarh, with a high migration rate, shows a higher registration rate.
• Cultural and State-specific Factors: It is implied that cultural and other state-specific factors might influence voter registration rates. These factors must be identified and addressed to improve registration among young voters.
• Lack of Participation at the Polls: Even among young citizens who register, many may not vote. The issue is not only motivating young people to register but also ensuring they participate in the voting process.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Efforts to Increase Youth Voter Engagement: The Election Commission of India has initiated campaigns like the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) program and has involved celebrities to encourage youth participation in elections.
• Political Parties’ Responsibility: The political parties who have a strong presence at the grassroots level should take an active role in encouraging young voters to register and vote, as it is in their interest to do so.
• Leverage Celebrity and Influencer Endorsements: It can be effective to involve famous figures like Sachin Tendulkar to spread the message. This strategy could be expanded to include more influencers who resonate with the youth.
• Make Registration and Voting More Accessible: Addressing logistical barriers to registration and voting, such as by providing online registration options or setting up more accessible polling stations, could remove some of the practical obstacles that prevent young people from participating.
• Focus on Interests, Not Positions: By understanding the underlying interests of young voters rather than their surface-level positions, authorities can tailor their strategies to meet better their actual needs and concerns, which could increase their willingness to register and vote.
• Increase Awareness and Education: Just as organizations use education to address issues, the Election Commission of India and other stakeholders could enhance their efforts to educate young citizens about the importance of voting and how it impacts their lives. This could involve campaigns in schools, universities, and through social media.

THE CONCLUSION:

To address the low interest in voting among India’s youth, a multifaceted approach involving government initiatives, community efforts, and political engagement is necessary. Increasing awareness, making registration, and voting more accessible, and directly addressing the concerns of young citizens are crucial steps. Strengthening democracy requires the active participation of all citizens, especially the youth, in the electoral process.

UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:

Q.1 Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India, considering the evolution of the Model Code of Conduct. 2022

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 significant are they in making democracy successful? 2016

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:

Q.1 “Indifference towards voting rights could weaken democracy.” Considering this statement, discuss the importance of encouraging young voters to register and participate in elections. Evaluate the efforts made by the Election Commission of India and other stakeholders in this regard and propose further steps that can be taken to engage the youth in the democratic process.

SOURCE:

https://www.deccanherald.com/opinion/editorial/cynicism-of-youth-bad-for-democracy-2974519

THE CONTEXT: Mark Zuckerberg’s Meta has announced the opening of its first data center in India, signaling a modest step towards job creation in a country that urgently needs to generate 90 million new non-farm jobs by 2030. Despite India’s rapid economic growth and its potential to become the world’s third-largest economy, it faces significant challenges, including a low working-age population employment rate and a massive skills deficit. The country’s focus on the service sector over manufacturing has led to unique development pathways and new challenges in job creation and skill development.

ISSUES: 

• Employment Rate Concerns and Informal Work: India’s working-age population is about 950 million, but only 46.6% are working, which is lower than the 70% rate in other emerging markets. Many of the workforce is self-employed, including unpaid helpers in family enterprises, which may not provide stable or sufficient income.
• Service Industry Focus and IT Sector Slowdown: India has historically focused on the service industry for economic development. It has moved from call centers in the 1990s to a broader range of technology-enabled services today, employing 5.4 million people. The IT sector, once the jewel of the service industry, has experienced a contraction for the first time in 25 years due to automation and artificial intelligence, leading to job redundancies and hiring cutbacks.
• Rural Migration: Low earnings in low-skilled service jobs have led many to return to their villages during the COVID lockdown, and 60 million more people are working in agriculture than four years ago.
• Manufacturing Sector and Skills Deficit: The manufacturing sector’s share of GDP has shrunk to 13%, and there is a belief that the opportunity to develop this sector as a significant employer may have passed. There is a massive skills gap in the country. The 2023 India Skills Report indicates that only half of young Indians are currently employable, highlighting the need for skill development.
• Tech Startup Potential: Despite recent setbacks in investments and valuations, Indian tech startups in AI, SaaS, defence, and greentech have the potential to create jobs if they scale up responsibly.
• Green Economy: According to the World Economic Forum, India’s transition to renewable energy and green hydrogen production could create 50 million new “green economy” jobs.
• Manufacturing Opportunities: Despite the focus on services, manufacturing should not be neglected, especially for small and medium enterprises that could be significant labor absorbers with the help of digital public infrastructure.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Long-term, Multi-level Relationships and Commitment: Emphasize building long-term, multi-level relationships between companies, educational institutions, and government bodies to foster an environment of continuous learning and skill development. The partnership between Siemens and the German government to develop dual education systems in various countries. This approach combines classroom learning with on-the-job training, addressing the skills gap directly relevant to industry needs.
• Focus on High-Value Service Offerings: Encourage companies to move towards offering high-value services that require specialized skills, such as R&D, design, and conceptualization, which can, in turn, generate demand for lower-skilled services. Infosys, a global leader in consulting, technology, and outsourcing solutions, has moved beyond traditional IT services to offer high-value services like digital transformation consulting and next-generation AI services, creating a demand for specialized skills in the workforce.
• Collaborative Problem-Solving: Adopt a collaborative approach to problem-solving that involves all stakeholders, including government, industry, and educational institutions, to identify underlying concerns and generate creative solutions that satisfy all parties’ needs. IBM and India’s National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) are collaborating to offer a free digital education platform for skill development across various sectors. This initiative aims to equip the youth with new-age skills to make them more employable.
• Address Organizational Issues: Tackle organizational issues that hinder job creation and skill development by improving communication, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and implementing effective change management practices. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has implemented an Agile Workforce model, which emphasizes flexibility, constant learning, and adaptability. This model has helped TCS address organizational challenges and rapidly adapt to changing market demands.
• Promote Global Capability Centres (GCCs): Support the growth of GCCs by employing a significant number of people in high-value service roles, contributing to India’s exports and economic development. American Express has established a GCC in India, focusing on high-value functions like analytics, risk management, and technology development. This GCC is a critical hub for AmEx’s global operations, creating high-skilled jobs in India.
• Facilitate a Green Economy Transition: Support the transition to a green economy by investing in renewable energy and green hydrogen production, which can lead to the creation of millions of new jobs. ReNew Power, India’s largest renewable energy company is an example of how investments in green energy can create jobs. By focusing on solar and wind energy projects, ReNew Power contributes to India’s green energy targets and job creation in the renewable energy sector.

THE CONCLUSION:

To tackle the pressing employment and skills challenges, India must adopt a multifaceted approach that includes enhancing education, fostering high-value service exports, supporting tech startups, and not neglecting the manufacturing sector. Collaborative efforts between the government, industry, and educational institutions are crucial to creating a skilled workforce capable of propelling India towards sustainable economic growth and making it a global leader in innovation and job creation.

UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTION:

Q.1 Faster economic growth requires an increased share of the manufacturing sector in GDP, particularly of MSMEs. Comment on the present policies of the Government in this regard. 2023

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:

Q.1 Analyze the role of digital public infrastructure in enhancing the competitiveness of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in India. Discuss how initiatives like the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) can level the playing field for SMEs and contribute to job creation in the manufacturing sector.

SOURCE:

https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/40-years-ago/april-14-forty-years-ago-government-announces-more-liberalisation-reforms-for-tech-9266892/