CNA 06 July 2023:- Download PDF Here
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. GS 1 Related B. GS 2 Related INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 1. Iran's induction in the SCO SOCIAL JUSTICE AND GOVERNANCE 1. An inclusive social policy for migrants C. GS 3 Related D. GS 4 Related E. Editorials POLITY 1. Striking a blow against affirmative action in America ART AND CULTURE 1. Choose a new palette for India's creative economy F. Prelims Facts 1. A global rupee may raise volatility G. Tidbits 1. PMI signals services growth eased to 3-month low in June H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
A. GS 1 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
B. GS 2 Related
Category: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. Iran’s induction in the SCO
Syllabus: Regional and global groupings
Mains: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting the Indian interests
Prelims: Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)
Context:
Iran has joined the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), a regional alliance, which has implications for regional connectivity, trade routes, and India’s strategic interests.
Introduction
- Iran becomes the ninth member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).
- The SCO leaders emphasised the importance of a “more representative” and multipolar world order during a virtual summit chaired by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Overview of the SCO
- The SCO originated from the ‘Shanghai Five’ grouping in 1996, consisting of Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan.
- Uzbekistan joined in 2001, transforming it into the SCO.
- SCO consists of two permanent bodies: the SCO Secretariat located in Beijing and the Executive Committee of the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure situated in Tashkent.
Main Goals of the SCO
- Strengthening mutual trust, cooperation in politics, trade, economy, research, technology, and culture.
- Ensuring peace, security, and stability in the region.
- Moving towards a democratic, fair, and rational new international political and economic order.
Concerns and Perceptions
- The SCO has been labelled as “anti-NATO” due to its military cooperation proposals.
- Sanctions on Russia and China’s support have strengthened cooperation within the SCO.
- Russia-China bond has turned the SCO into a platform for Eurasian cooperation, especially in energy-rich regions.
Bilateral Issues and SCO’s Role
- India and Pakistan joined the SCO as observers in 2005 and became full members in 2017.
- Despite strained bilateral relations, both countries participate in SCO military and anti-terrorism exercises.
- The SCO has facilitated talks between India and China on the Line of Actual Control (LAC) border issue.
Significance of Iran’s Induction
- Recent SCO declarations focus on regional connectivity.
- Iran’s presence supports India’s efforts to bypass Pakistan for land-based trade.
- Iran’s inclusion allows India to trade with the region while avoiding China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
- Iran’s partnership strengthens India’s stance against terror safe havens.
Concerns and Balancing Act
- The SCO is seen as an “anti-West” forum, with Russia and Iran facing severe sanctions.
- The expected induction of Belarus may further strengthen this perception.
- India’s participation in the Quad adds complexity to its balancing act.
Nut Graf: Iran’s induction into the SCO strengthens India’s efforts to bypass Pakistan for trade, enhances regional connectivity, and addresses security concerns, but also poses challenges due to the SCO’s perceived anti-West stance.
Category: SOCIAL JUSTICE AND GOVERNANCE
1. An inclusive social policy for migrants
Syllabus: Government policies and interventions aimed at development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.
Mains: Government policies and interventions, welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population.
Prelims: Economic and Social Development – Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector initiatives, etc.
Context:Â
The article discusses the challenges faced by migrant workers in Kerala and the need for inclusive policy-making to address their rights and ensure social justice.
Introduction
- Kerala is a major employment hub for inter-State migrant workers, attracting them with higher wages and better working conditions.
- The state has implemented welfare schemes for migrant workers, but there are concerns about the effective implementation and reach of these policies.
Shortcomings in Policy Implementation
- Preliminary findings of a study conducted by Mahatma Gandhi University reveal that many migrant workers do not benefit from existing policies.
- The lack of a disaggregated assessment of migrant workers’ work and life situations contributes to this issue.
Unity Trouble and Policy Critiques
- “Unity trouble” refers to the absence of a comprehensive understanding of the migrant labour population’s rights and challenges.
- The use of the term “guest worker” is seen as ambiguous and fails to address nuanced rights issues.
- Strikes by migrant labourers in Kerala highlight the need for inclusive policy-making and address core rights concerns.
Rights and Dignity of Migrant Workers
- Migrant workers face wage-related issues, unhygienic living conditions, lack of social security, and physical and verbal abuse.
- The phenomenon of the chain of exploitation, involving wage exploitation and theft, further exacerbates their plight.
Enhancing Social Justice and Inclusivity
- By addressing the social justice concerns of migrant workers, Kerala has the opportunity to reinforce its reputation as an inclusive space.
- Thematic data collection, grounded in rights-based principles, and collaboration with origin states are recommended.
- Awareness programs, cultural exchange initiatives, and multi-stakeholder dialogues can promote migrant workers’ rights and social integration.
- Adopting a comprehensive vision for sustainable workers’ human rights aligned with global instruments like the Global Compact on Migration is crucial.
The Way Forward: Recommendations
- Shift to a thematic approach for data collection on migrant workers at the panchayat level.
- Ensure government decisions on health, employment, and social situations are rights-based.
- Establish mechanisms for enhanced access to justice and legal remedies in collaboration with origin states.
- Promote awareness among migrants about their rights and available legal remedies.
- Implement initiatives for cultural exchange, community engagement, and mutual understanding.
- Foster multi-stakeholder policy and monitor dialogues for migrant workers’ rights and welfare.
- Prioritise the establishment of a comprehensive vision for sustainable workers’ human rights.
Nut Graf: Kerala’s status as an employment hub for migrant workers raises concerns about the effective implementation of welfare policies, highlighting the necessity for an inclusive approach to protect their rights and promote social integration.
C. GS 3 Related
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D. GS 4 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
E. Editorials
1. Striking a blow against affirmative action in America
Syllabus: GS-2, Comparison of the Indian Constitutional Scheme with that of Other Countries.
Mains: Compare India’s and USA’s affirmative action
Context: The US Supreme Court deemed race-conscious admission policies at Harvard and UNC unconstitutional, impacting affirmative action. Its possible implication on affirmative action in India is discussed.
USA Supreme Court Ruling: Unconstitutionality of Race-Conscious Admissions Policies
- The US Supreme Court ruled that race-conscious admission policies at Harvard and UNC are unconstitutional.
- The ruling was made on June 29, 2023, in the case of Students for Fair Admissions vs Harvard.
- Chief Justice John Roberts emphasized the need to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination.
- The Court stated that race-based affirmative action violates the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment.
- According to the Court, any violation of equal protection can only be justified if the state has a compelling goal and affirmative action is necessary to achieve it.
- Harvard and UNC’s objectives, such as “training future leaders,” were considered commendable but vague by the Court.
- The Court reiterated the requirement for affirmative action policies to have a sunset clause, which both Harvard and UNC lacked.
- Racial stereotypes and any form of disadvantage based on race were identified as problematic by the Court.
- The ruling has significant implications for affirmative action programs across the US, making them nearly impossible to implement.
- Affirmative action programs in Texas, Michigan, and other states that consider race as a factor in college admissions are likely to be affected.
How affirmative action in USA and India are different?
Aspect | Affirmative Action in USA | Affirmative Action in India |
Constitutional Basis | Not explicitly mentioned in the US Constitution | Expressly allowed in the Indian Constitution |
Purpose | Foster diversity and address historical discrimination | Address historical discrimination and promote equality |
Scope | Primarily focused on college admissions | Extends to education and job reservations |
Approach to Equality | Emphasizes formal equality, treating all races equally | Emphasizes substantive equality, addressing past bias |
Constitutionality Test | Strict scrutiny: Must serve a compelling state interest | Focus on social and educational backwardness |
Identifying Beneficiary Classes | No specific guidelines, broader interpretation | Specific categories: Scheduled Castes, Tribes, Backward Classes |
Implications for India: Contrasting Constitutional Approaches
- Indian and US Constitutions differ in their treatment of affirmative action.
- The US Constitution is silent on affirmative action, focusing on the denial of “equal protection.”
- In contrast, the Indian Constitution expressly allows affirmative action in education (Article 15) and jobs (Article 16) for backward classes.
- India’s courts do not debate the fundamental permissibility of affirmative action due to clear provisions in the Constitution.
Conclusion: The Supreme Court ruling on affirmative action in the US contrasts with India’s constitutional provisions, highlighting different approaches to equality. India’s substantive equality framework is unlikely to align with the US decision.
Nut Graf: The US Supreme Court’s ruling against race-conscious admissions policies contrasts with India’s constitutional provisions, highlighting differing approaches to affirmative action and equality.
1. Choose a new palette for India’s creative economy
Syllabus: GS-1, Indian Culture – Salient Aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from Ancient to Modern times.
Mains: Challenges and opportunities presented to Indian Art forms in the Digital EraÂ
Context: Digital era has proven to be a double-edged sword for Indian artists, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges they face in the creative economy.
Types of Crime in the Art World:
- Art Theft: The illegal act of stealing artwork from galleries, museums, private collections, or public spaces.
- Copyright Infringement: Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or display of copyrighted artwork without the artist’s permission.
- Forgery: Creating and selling counterfeit artworks, often imitating the style and signatures of renowned artists.
- Fraud: Deceptive practices, such as selling fake or misrepresented artworks, manipulating art prices, or engaging in art investment scams.
- Illicit Trafficking: Illegal trade and smuggling of cultural artefacts, including stolen artworks, archaeological artefacts, and cultural heritage items.
- Money Laundering: Using art transactions to conceal the origins of illegally obtained funds or to legitimize illicit financial activities.
- Disinformation: Spreading false information or narratives about the history, authenticity, or value of artworks, often to manipulate markets or deceive buyers.
Challenges and Status of Artists:
- Economic Sustainability: Artists face challenges in achieving financial stability and sustaining their creative careers.
- Market Access: Limited opportunities and difficulties in accessing established art markets hinder artists’ exposure and ability to sell their work.
- Preservation of Traditional Art Forms: Traditional art forms are at risk of being marginalized or lost in a rapidly changing society, posing a challenge for artists dedicated to their preservation.
- Transparent Financial Assistance: Lack of transparency in the selection process for financial assistance leads to inequality in representation and support for artists.
- Promotion of Contemporary Artists: Limited efforts by private and public institutions to promote contemporary artists as brands hinder their recognition and financial assistance.
- Crime in the Art World: Artists are affected by crimes such as art theft, forgery, copyright infringement, and illicit trafficking, leading to financial harm and eroding public trust.
- Rural-Urban Divide: Artists based in rural areas face additional challenges due to limited access to resources, infrastructure, and exposure compared to their urban counterparts.
- Government Support: While government support exists in the form of financial assistance and training programs, more efforts are needed to promote contemporary artists and ensure equal representation.
A workable solution to preserve and promote Indian artists and artisans:
- Establish a Capacity-Building Centre: Create a centre focused on capacity-building in the arts and crafts sector, providing guidance, technical support, infrastructure, access to investors, and networking opportunities.
- Bridge the Needs of Artists: Offer training, professional development, material support, and access to markets for artists and artisans, ensuring their skills are honed, and they have the necessary resources to thrive.
- Support from Government and Private Players: The government and private players should provide support, resources, and opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship within the creative economy.
- Transparent Selection Processes: Ensure transparency in the selection process for financial assistance, cultural events, and opportunities, promoting equal representation and avoiding subjective criteria.
- Utilize Data Analytics: Leverage data analytics to understand emerging trends in the global art market and develop policies and recommendations that foster creative ecosystems contributing to a sustainable world.
- Address Crime in the Art World: Implement increased security measures, international cooperation, public awareness, and advanced technology for authentication to tackle crimes such as art theft, forgery, and illicit trafficking.
- Foster Collaboration and Networking: Encourage collaboration and networking among artists, artisans, and creative entrepreneurs to facilitate knowledge exchange, innovation, and collective growth.
- Institutional Record and Verification: Establish an institutional infrastructure for verifying and authenticating artwork, and maintaining a record of incoming and outgoing artworks with verified identification marks.
Nut Graf: The workable solution to preserve and promote Indian artists and artisans addresses challenges such as economic sustainability, market access, preservation of traditional art forms, and crime. This involves establishing a capacity-building centre, promoting transparency, leveraging data analytics, and implementing security measures.
F. Prelims Facts
1. A global rupee may raise volatility
Syllabus: GS 3-Economy
Prelims: Internationalisation of the Indian rupee
Introduction
- The Government of India aims to internationalise the Indian Rupee (INR).
- An Inter-Departmental Group (IDG) of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) officials issued a cautionary report.
- The IDG warned that initial internationalisation may lead to increased volatility in the rupee’s exchange rate.
Monetary Implications and Concerns
- The IDG highlighted the Triffin dilemma, where the obligation to supply currency for global demand conflicts with domestic monetary policies.
- Internationalisation may amplify external shocks due to the open flow of funds and currency exchange.
- Increased exchange rate volatility could have monetary implications and challenges.
Overall Benefits Outweigh Concerns
- The IDG stated that the advantages of internationalisation outweigh the concerns.
- Benefits include limited exchange rate risk, lower capital costs, improved access to international financial markets, seigniorage benefits, and reduced foreign exchange reserve requirements.
Recommended Roadmap
- The IDG recommended a roadmap to achieve rupee internationalisation.
- It suggested designing a template and adopting a standardised approach for examining proposals on bilateral and multilateral trade agreements.
- There should be endeavours to facilitate the inclusion of INR as an additional settlement currency within established multilateral mechanisms such as the Asian Clearing Union.
RBI’s Clarification
- The report and its recommendations reflect the views of the IDG, not the official position of the Reserve Bank of India.
- The RBI clarified that the report does not represent its official stance.
G. Tidbits
1. PMI signals services growth eased to 3-month low in June
Overview of S&P Global India Services PMI Report – June 2023
- PMI reading declined to 58.5 in June from May’s 61.2, indicating slower growth in the services sector.
- Order books remained healthy despite businesses raising charges at the sharpest pace in almost six years.
- Surveyed firms expressed confidence in future growth prospects, reaching the highest level in 2023.
- Job Creation:
- Job creation expanded as firms sought to meet rising demand.
- The rate of job creation was the “joint fastest in six months”.
- Export Orders and Business Volumes:
- New export orders grew for the fifth consecutive month, albeit at a slower pace than in May.
- Outstanding business volumes expanded at the fastest rate in five months.
- Input Costs:
- Input costs increased but at a slower pace in June.
- Approximately 90% of survey participants reported no change in costs compared to May.
- The remaining respondents attributed the rise in operating costs to increased prices for food and construction materials, as well as rising wages.
- Sector-wise Analysis:
- Consumer services experienced the sharpest uptick in new orders, activity levels, and employment.
- Output costs were raised the most by the transport, information, and communication sectors, which saw a slowdown in activity levels compared to May.
H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
Q1. Consider the following statement regarding Article 15 of the Indian Constitution:
- Articles 15(1) and 15(2) prohibit the state from enacting discriminatory laws based on caste, gender, and religion.
- Articles 15(3) and 15(4) provide exceptions for making affirmative laws for marginalised groups.
Which of the following statements is/are incorrect?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2Â
- Neither 1 nor 2
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation:Â
Both statements are correct as Articles 15(1) & 15(2) establish the prohibition of discrimination, while Articles 15(3) & 15(4) allow for affirmative action in favour of marginalised groups, women, & Dalits.
Q2. What was the purpose of the MONDIACULT 2022 World Conference?
- To discuss cultural policies and sustainable development
- To promote nuclear research and development
- To showcase advancements in science and technology
- To address global challenges in the defence sector
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: a
Explanation:Â
The UNESCO-MONDIACULT 2022 World Conference focused on cultural policies and sustainable development, aiming to shape a more robust and resilient cultural sector.Â
Q3. Consider the following countries:
- Kazakhstan
- Turkmenistan
- Tajikistan
- Kyrgyzstan
How many of the countries mentioned above are part of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)?
- Only one
- Only two
- Only three
- All four
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation:Â
Due to its policy of ‘positive neutrality’, Turkmenistan did not join the SCO. However, its head of state has several times participated as a special guest in the SCO summit meetings.
Q4. Consider the following statements regarding the internationalisation of the Indian Rupee (INR):
- It may lead to reduced fluctuations in its exchange rate.
- It may increase the impact of external shocks as funds have the freedom to move in and out of India.
- It offers the advantages of reducing exchange rate risk and improving access to global financial markets.
How many of the statements given above are incorrect?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: a
Explanation:Â
- Statement 1 is incorrect as internationalisation may increase volatility.
- Statement 2 is correct as a global rupee can intensify external shocks due to the free flow of funds in and out of India.
- Statement 3 is correct as it highlights the benefits of reducing exchange rate risk and enhancing access to global markets.
Q5. Consider the following statements regarding the Purchasing Managers Index (PMI):
- PMI is derived from a monthly survey of private-sector companies.
- PMI provides information about current and future business conditions.
Which of the following statements is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2Â
- Neither 1 nor 2
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation:Â
Both statements are correct. PMI is derived from surveys of private sector companies and provides information about current and future business conditions.Â
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
- ‘Multilateral organisations can further exacerbate the bloc mentality in the global community’. Examine the statement in the context of Iran joining the SCO. (15 marks, 250 words) [GS-2; International Relations]
- What are the push and pull factors? Discuss the ways in which inclusivity can be brought into the development of the migrant population. (10 marks, 150 words) [GS-2; Governance and Social Justice]
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CNA 06 July 2023:- Download PDF Here
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