31 December 2023 CNA
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. GS 1 Related B. GS 2 Related INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 1. India’s foreign policy & election’s globally C. GS 3 Related INTERNAL SECURITY 1. INS Imphal & Expansion of Warships ECONOMY 1. Challenges in Textile sector D. GS 4 Related E. Editorials F. Prelims Facts 1. Census postponed again 2. Babbar Khalsa International 3. Indian Tamils in Sri Lanka 4. PM Ujjwala Yojana G. Tidbits H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
A. GS 1 Related
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B. GS 2 Related
Category: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. India’s foreign policy & election’s globally
Syllabus: Relations between India and neighbouring countries. Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s Interests
Mains: India’s foreign policy & election’s globally
Context: India’s foreign policy landscape in 2024 will be significantly shaped by a multitude of elections across the globe, involving nearly 60 countries, a quarter of the world’s population.
- The outcomes of these elections, ranging from the U.S. and EU to major powers in the Global South, will influence diplomatic strategies, alliances, and geopolitical dynamics.
- As India prepares for its own pivotal elections, the interplay between domestic policy and global events is expected to define its diplomatic engagements in the coming year.
Issues at Hand:
- Global Election Dynamics: In 2024, approximately 60 countries are set to conduct parliamentary, presidential, or major Assembly elections, making it one of the most significant election years globally. The collective impact of these elections will reverberate across geopolitical landscapes.
- Indian Neighbourhood: Elections in India’s immediate neighbourhood, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Pakistan, will set the tone for regional dynamics. While some outcomes seem predictable, potential shifts in leadership could influence bilateral relations.
- Global Powers: The U.S. elections and potential re-election of former President Donald Trump will be closely monitored by India, considering the implications for bilateral ties. Additionally, the Russian presidential election and the political situation in the U.K. will be crucial for India’s diplomatic agenda.
- EU and Right-Wing Resurgence: The European Parliament elections in June 2024, with concerns of a right-wing resurgence, hold significance for India-EU relations. The results may impact immigration policies and the India-EU Bilateral Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA).
- Global South Powers: Elections in Indonesia, Mexico, South Africa, and Iran will be watched closely, as they represent major players in the Global South. Shifts in leadership or policy changes can influence India’s diplomatic engagements in these regions.
Significance of the Elections:
- Impact on Bilateral Ties: The outcomes of key elections, especially in the U.S., Russia, and the U.K., will shape India’s diplomatic engagements with these global powers. The alignment of leadership and policies will influence the direction of bilateral relations.
- Regional Dynamics: Elections in India’s neighbourhood will impact regional stability and bilateral relations. Changes in leadership or political shifts may require recalibration of diplomatic strategies.
- EU Relations: The European Parliament elections will provide insights into the political landscape of the EU, influencing India’s engagements with the bloc. The stance on immigration and trade policies will be crucial for India-EU relations.
- Global South Influence: Elections in major Global South powers will determine the geopolitical dynamics in these regions. India’s engagement with countries like Indonesia, Mexico, South Africa, and Iran will be influenced by the outcomes.
Solutions and Future Steps:
- Strategic Preparedness: India should adopt a proactive and strategic approach in response to various election outcomes. Scenario planning and diplomatic preparedness will be essential to navigate potential changes in global dynamics.
- Diversification of Alliances: Given the uncertainty surrounding election outcomes, India should continue diversifying its diplomatic alliances, fostering relationships with multiple global players to mitigate risks associated with geopolitical shifts.
- Adaptive Foreign Policy: An adaptive foreign policy that can accommodate changes in leadership and policies will be crucial. India should be prepared to recalibrate its diplomatic strategies based on the evolving global political landscape.
Nut Graf: The year 2024, labeled as the “biggest election year” ever, will significantly shape India’s foreign policy. As the world witnesses crucial elections across major powers, regional dynamics, and the Global South, India’s diplomatic agenda must remain agile and responsive.
C. GS 3 Related
1. INS Imphal & Expansion of Warships
Syllabus: Security challenges and their management in border areas:
Prelims: INS Imphal
Mains: INS Imphal & Expansion of Warships
Context: The commissioning of INS Imphal, the third P-15B ‘Visakhapatnam’ class stealth guided missile destroyer, marks a significant milestone for the Indian Navy. Named after a city in the Northeast, Imphal showcases India’s commitment to ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in defense and reinforces the nation’s growing maritime prowess.
- With the Navy’s focus on expanding its fleet to meet regional commitments, Imphal’s swift construction and trials exemplify the pursuit of self-reliance in defense.
Issues at Hand:
- Record-Breaking Construction: INS Imphal’s construction stands out as the fastest for any indigenous destroyer, with a keel laid on May 19, 2017, and delivery to the Navy on October 20, within a record six-month timeframe. This achievement is crucial amid the Navy’s efforts to enhance its capital warship fleet in response to growing engagements in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
- Strategic Significance: As part of the P-15B class, INS Imphal contributes to the Navy’s aim of becoming a 170-180 ship force by 2028. The ship’s commissioning aligns with India’s broader maritime strategy, emphasizing control of the sea in the Indo-Pacific region.
- Indigenisation and Collaborations: INS Imphal boasts a high level of indigenisation, with about 75% of its components sourced locally. Collaborations with organizations like Brahmos Aerospace, Larsen & Toubro (L&T), Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), and others demonstrate a conglomeration of diverse strengths contributing to the ship’s capabilities.
- Geopolitical Context: The commissioning comes at a time when the Indian Navy is navigating increased Chinese naval presence in the IOR. The enhanced stealth features of the P-15B class, including reduced radar cross-section, enhance India’s maritime capabilities and deterrence.
Significance of the Commissioning:
- Naval Modernization: INS Imphal is part of the Navy’s modernization drive, showcasing advanced technologies, including BrahMos cruise missiles, torpedo tube launchers, and medium-range missiles. The ship’s capabilities align with contemporary naval warfare requirements.
- Aatmanirbhar Bharat: The ship’s rapid construction and significant indigenisation contribute to the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ in the defense sector. It reflects a shift toward self-sufficiency and reduced dependency on foreign sources for critical defense equipment.
- Strategic Alignment: INS Imphal’s commissioning reinforces India’s strategic commitment to controlling the sea, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. Its deployment adds to the Navy’s deterrence capabilities and strengthens maritime security.
Solutions and Future Steps:
- Continued Indigenisation: The Navy should continue prioritizing indigenisation efforts, fostering collaborations with domestic entities, and supporting research and development in defense technologies.
- Enhanced Maritime Surveillance: With a focus on the Indian Ocean Region, the Navy should invest in advanced maritime surveillance capabilities, leveraging technologies to monitor and secure vital sea lanes.
- Strategic Alliances: Strengthening diplomatic and naval collaborations with like-minded nations in the Indo-Pacific will enhance collective maritime security efforts and contribute to regional stability.
Nut Graf: The commissioning of INS Imphal underscores India’s commitment to a modern and self-reliant naval force. As the Navy continues to navigate complex geopolitical challenges in the Indian Ocean Region, the P-15B class destroyers, with their advanced features, play a crucial role in enhancing India’s maritime capabilities.
1. Challenges in Textile sector
Syllabus: Growth, Development and Employment
Mains: Challenges in Textile sector
Context: India’s textile sector, primarily comprising small businesses, faces substantial challenges in adhering to new environmental, social, and governance (ESG) norms, including the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).
- Despite concerns, there is a realization that embracing sustainability could propel the sector to new heights.
- The sector’s current sustainable practices, such as renewable energy adoption and recycling initiatives, serve as a foundation but meeting evolving global ESG demands remains a pressing issue.
Issues at Hand:
- ESG and CBAM Impact: The EU’s CBAM and broader ESG goals pose challenges for India’s textile sector, especially Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), in terms of compliance and additional costs. Individual European countries introducing their codes further complicates the scenario.
- Diverse Compliance Challenges: Compliance with ESG norms, particularly supply chain sustainability, proves challenging for the sector. MSMEs, constituting a significant portion of garment exporters, find it financially burdensome to meet various mandates, impacting margins.
- Market Significance: India’s textile sector, a vital contributor to the country’s exports, faces pressure due to its significant market share in the European Union. Exporting 16% of cotton textiles, 40% of synthetic fabric, and 28% of total apparel to European countries, aligning with ESG norms becomes imperative.
- Complex ESG Parameters: Challenges vary across different ESG parameters, such as discrepancies in labor issues and ‘living wages’ across textile-producing states. The use of recycled fibers faces quality challenges, impacting product pricing and market acceptance.
Significance of the Challenges:
- Global Market Access: Adhering to ESG norms is crucial for maintaining access to the European market, with major global brands insisting on sustainability. Failure to comply may result in a loss of orders and market share.
- Sustainable Practices Showcase: The sector’s existing sustainable practices, including renewable energy usage and recycling initiatives, showcase India’s commitment to environmental responsibility. Leveraging these practices can strengthen its position as a global supplier.
- Need for Paradigm Shift: The challenges present an opportunity for a paradigm shift in sourcing, production, pricing, and supply processes. Embracing sustainability not only aligns with global expectations but can enhance the sector’s competitiveness.
Solutions and Future Steps:
- Investment in Sustainability: Exporters must invest in sustainability to leverage potential benefits from India’s free-trade agreement with the EU. Documentation of existing sustainable practices and inclusive social initiatives becomes essential for showcasing achievements.
- Industry Collaboration: Industry associations and organizations should collaborate to help exporters implement systems, document measures, and obtain certifications for compliance with ESG norms. Collective efforts can streamline the process for MSMEs.
- Government Support: The Ministry of Textiles’ formation of an ESG task force and potential supportive interventions indicate government recognition. Advocacy for supportive measures, financial assistance, and streamlined certification processes will aid the sector.
Nut Graf: India’s textile sector confronts formidable challenges in meeting global ESG norms and CBAM requirements. However, these challenges also present an opportunity for transformation and global leadership in sustainable practices.
D. GS 4 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
E. Editorials
Nothing here for today!!!
F. Prelims Facts
Context: The decennial Census in India, originally scheduled for 2020, faces another delay with the freezing of administrative boundaries extended until June 30, 2024. This postponement, the ninth in a series, raises concerns about the validity of current data influencing policy decisions, especially as the nation approaches the 2024 elections.
Issues:
- Repetitive Postponements: The Census, a critical exercise held every decade since 1881, has witnessed recurrent delays. Initially postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, subsequent extensions lack clear reasons, impacting the timely availability of essential data.
- Implications for Policy Formulation: Government agencies continue to formulate policies and allocate subsidies based on outdated 2011 Census data. The absence of fresh information hampers accurate planning and program evaluation across various sectors, including health, education, and family planning.
- Constitutional Amendment Implications: The 128th Constitution Amendment Act, 2023, mandates delimitation and the Census before implementing one-third reservation for women in Lok Sabha and Assemblies. The prolonged postponement risks further delays in implementing constitutional amendments.
- Election Timing: The current extension rules out the Census exercise before the 2024 elections, potentially influencing election-related planning and strategies.
Significance:
- Data Validity Concerns: The delay in conducting the Census raises concerns about the accuracy and relevance of data used for policy-making. Fresh demographic insights are essential for informed governance and effective allocation of resources.
- Constitutional Mandate Delay: The postponement affects the implementation of constitutional amendments, particularly those related to gender representation in legislatures. The postponement jeopardizes the timeline for introducing one-third reservation for women.
- Policy Paralysis: With crucial reports on vital statistics and medical certifications delayed, there is a risk of policy paralysis as decision-makers lack real-time information for evidence-based planning and interventions.
Solutions:
- Streamlined Execution Plan: The government must outline a comprehensive and streamlined plan for the Census, addressing logistical challenges and ensuring a timely start to the exercise. Transparent communication regarding the reasons for the delays is crucial.
- Concurrent Data Releases: To mitigate the impact of Census delays, government agencies should expedite the release of vital statistics reports, ensuring that decision-makers have access to the latest information for effective policy formulation.
- Public Awareness: Communicating the importance of Census data to the public can foster understanding and support for the process. Raising awareness about the implications of delayed Census results can generate public demand for timely execution.
2. Babbar Khalsa International
Context: The Union Home Ministry has declared Lakhbir Singh Landa, a Canada-based member of the Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), as an “individual terrorist” under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). This move, citing his involvement in terror activities and cross-border supply of weapons, raises concerns about the international dimensions of terrorism impacting India.
Issues:
- Cross-Border Terrorism: Lakhbir Singh Landa, backed by a cross-border agency, is accused of carrying out a terror attack on the Punjab Police’s intelligence headquarters and supplying weapons and explosives from across the border. This highlights the persistent challenge of cross-border terrorism affecting India’s internal security.
- Targeted Killings and Extortions: The Ministry states that Singh and his associates have been conspiring to disrupt peace in Punjab through targeted killings, extortions, and other anti-national activities. The involvement of individuals residing abroad in such activities poses challenges for India’s counter-terrorism efforts.
- International Connections: Designating Lakhbir Singh Landa as an “individual terrorist” underscores the global nature of terrorist networks. Cooperation with international agencies and effective mechanisms for extradition become crucial in tackling individuals involved in terrorism across borders.
Significance:
- UAPA Designation: The designation of Lakhbir Singh Landa as an “individual terrorist” under UAPA provides legal authority to take action against him. It empowers security agencies to track, apprehend, and prosecute individuals involved in terrorist activities.
- International Cooperation: The case emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts. Collaboration with Canada and other countries becomes essential to curb the activities of individuals residing abroad but involved in planning and executing attacks in India.
- Deterrence: Declaring individuals involved in terrorism as terrorists under UAPA serves as a deterrent. It sends a strong signal that individuals supporting or participating in terror activities will face legal consequences, even if they operate from foreign territories.
Context: BJP president J.P. Nadda released a commemorative stamp marking the 200 years of the arrival of Indian-origin Tamils in Sri Lanka. This gesture is a recognition of the historical ties between India and Sri Lanka and signifies the commitment to the welfare of the Indian-origin Tamil community.
Issues:
- Historical Hardships: The statement by BJP’s Tamil Nadu unit chief, K. Annamalai, highlights the historical hardships faced by Indian-origin Tamils in Sri Lanka. These challenges include social, economic, and political struggles that have shaped their experiences over the years.
- Recognition and Support: The acknowledgment of the Indian government’s commitment to supporting the Indian-origin Tamils in Sri Lanka is crucial. It points to the ongoing efforts to address the concerns and needs of this community, recognizing their unique identity and history.
- Humanitarian Aid: The mention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s support to Sri Lanka during times of distress indicates India’s role in providing humanitarian and financial aid. The assistance is not only political but also focuses on improving the lives of the Indian-origin Tamils through various projects and initiatives.
Significance:
- Symbolic Gesture: The release of the commemorative stamp is a symbolic gesture that marks the enduring connection between India and Sri Lanka. It signifies shared histories, cultural ties, and the importance of recognizing the contributions of the Indian-origin Tamils.
- Commitment to Welfare: The statement emphasizes the commitment of the Indian government, under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, to the welfare and development of the Indian-origin Tamil community. This commitment is reflected in sanctioned housing projects and other facilities aimed at improving their living conditions.
- Diplomatic Relations: The acknowledgment by the Governor of Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, Senthil Thondaman, underscores the positive diplomatic relations between India and Sri Lanka. Recognizing the efforts made by the Indian government enhances bilateral ties and fosters goodwill.
Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Ayodhya, made a surprise visit to the home of Meera Manjhi, marking the 10th-crore beneficiary of the PM Ujjwala Yojana. This unexpected visit underscored the significance of the Ujjwala scheme, which aims to provide subsidised LPG connections to economically disadvantaged households.
Issues:
- Household Energy Access: The Ujjwala Yojana, launched in May 2016, addresses the issue of clean cooking fuel access for poor households. The scheme focuses on providing subsidised liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) connections, aiming to improve health outcomes and reduce deaths associated with unclean cooking fuel.
- Empowerment of Women: One of the key objectives of the Ujjwala scheme is to empower women. By facilitating access to clean cooking fuel, the scheme aims to enhance the well-being of women, protect their health, and contribute to a reduction in the drudgery associated with traditional cooking methods.
- Improved Living Conditions: Meera Manjhi’s testimony highlights the positive impact of the Ujjwala Yojana on living conditions. The provision of free LPG cylinders and improved accommodation reflects the holistic approach of the scheme in addressing multiple aspects of beneficiaries’ lives.
Significance:
- Symbolic Visit: Prime Minister Modi’s surprise visit to Meera Manjhi’s home symbolizes the government’s commitment to directly connect with beneficiaries of its welfare schemes. It adds a personal touch to the policy implementation process, emphasizing the real impact on individuals and households.
- Public Awareness: The enthusiastic chants of ‘Modi-Modi’ and the subsequent social media post create awareness and publicize the success of the Ujjwala Yojana. Such visibility can encourage more eligible households to avail themselves of the benefits offered by the scheme.
- Transformational Impact: Meera Manjhi’s transition from a kutcha house to a pucca one exemplifies the transformational impact of the Ujjwala Yojana. Beyond providing clean cooking fuel, the scheme contributes to improving overall living conditions, aligning with the government’s broader development goals.
G. Tidbits
Nothing here for today!!!
H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
Q1. Which amongst the following leads to increase in India’s forex reserves?
- Indian tourists travelling abroad
- Indian software exports
- Inward remittances from Indian diaspora
- Foreign Direct Investment in to India
- India’s aid and loans to other countries
Select the answer from the code below:
- 1, 3 and 5 only
- 1, 3, 4 and 5 only
- 2, 3 and 4 only
- 2, 4 and 5 only
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation:
Indian software exports, Inward remittances from Indian diaspora and Foreign Direct Investment in to India leads to increase in India’s forex reserves.
Q2. ‘Brent’ and ‘West Texas Intermediate’, these terms are often in news. What are they related to?
- Credit rating agencies
- Benchmark prices for oil
- Stock index in US markets
- Auditing and financial reporting standards
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation:
West Texas Intermediate and Brent Crude oil are two major types of crude oil benchmarks at the international arena.
Q3. Siddha traditional medicine originated in -
- Rajasthan
- Tibet
- Tamil Nadu
- Nepal
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation: Siddha traditional medicine originated in Tamil Nadu. The Siddha system of medicine is a traditional medical system that uses a scientific and holistic approach to provide preventive, promotive, curative, rejuvenating, and rehabilitative health care.
The word “Siddha” comes from the root word “Citti” which means “perfection,” “eternal bliss,” and “accomplishment.”
Q4. The National Cooperative Dairy Federation of India (NCDFI) promotes cooperative model of development for –
- Dairy industry
- Oilseeds industry
- Vegetable & edible oil industry
- Vanaspati industry
Select the answer from the code below:
- 1 only
- 1 and 2 only
- 1, 3 and 4 only
- 1, 2, 3 and 4
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation:
The National Cooperative Dairy Federation of India (NCDFI) promotes cooperative model of development for Dairy industry, Oilseeds industry, Vegetable & edible oil industry Vanaspati industry.
Q5. Consider the following statements:
Statement-I: India’s public sector health care system largely focuses on curative care with limited preventive, promotive and rehabilitative care.
Statement-II : Under India’s decentralized approach to health care delivery, the States are primarily responsible for organizing health services.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
- Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I
- Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I
- Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect
- Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation:
India’s public sector health care system focuses on improving health status through coordinated policy action in all sectors. It also focuses on expanding preventive, promotive, curative, palliative and rehabilitative services through the public health sector which focuses on quality of these services. Under India’s decentralized approach to health care delivery, the States are primarily responsible for organizing health services.
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
- ‘How does domestic factors of other countries influence Indian foreign policy? Examine. (250 words, 15 marks) (UPSC 2020) (General Studies – II, International Relations)
- What is a Blue Water Navy? Why does Indian Navy aspire to be one? Analyse critically . (250 words, 15 marks) (UPSC 2020) (General Studies – III, Internal security)
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