14 March 2024 CNA
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. GS 1 Related B. GS 2 Related INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 1. How did Indians end up in the Russia-Ukraine war POLITY 1. Uttarakhand bill on UCC gets President’s nod C. GS 3 Related D. GS 4 Related E. Editorials SOCIAL JUSTICE 1. Higher engagement, better learning F. Prelims Facts 1. SC stops Assam Government’s move to de-notify rhino habitat 2. Modi, Sunak assess progress on India-U.K. FTA negotiations 3. ‘One nation one poll’ panel may submit its report today 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. How did Indians end up in the Russia-Ukraine war
Syllabus: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s Interests
Mains: Indians in the Russia-Ukraine war
Context: The recent deaths of two Indian nationals in the Russia-Ukraine conflict have brought attention to the involvement of Indians in combat roles on the Russian side. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has uncovered a human trafficking network involved in illegally recruiting Indians as “security helpers” and personnel for the Russian military. This has raised significant concerns about the exploitation and endangerment of Indian citizens in foreign conflicts.
Issues:
- Deception and coercion: Indian nationals were deceived by recruitment agents who promised lucrative jobs in Russia but coerced them into combat roles in the Russian military.
- Violation of human rights: The recruitment process involved confiscating passports and forcing individuals to sign contracts binding them to military service, violating their rights and autonomy.
- Lack of government intervention: Despite pleas for help from affected individuals, the Indian government’s response has been limited, leaving many stranded in dangerous situations.
- Exploitation of vulnerabilities: The traffickers targeted vulnerable individuals, including students seeking education abroad, by offering false promises of employment and educational opportunities.
Significance:
- Humanitarian concern: The plight of Indian nationals trapped in combat roles highlights the need for urgent humanitarian intervention to ensure their safety and repatriation.
- Diplomatic implications: The involvement of Indian citizens in foreign conflicts could strain diplomatic relations between India and affected countries, necessitating diplomatic efforts for resolution.
- Legal ramifications: The illegal recruitment and coercion of Indian citizens into combat roles raise legal questions regarding accountability and justice for the perpetrators.
- Protection of Indian citizens abroad: The case underscores the importance of strengthening mechanisms to protect Indian citizens from exploitation and trafficking while traveling or working abroad.
Solutions:
- Diplomatic negotiations: The Indian government should engage in diplomatic negotiations with Russian authorities to secure the release and repatriation of Indian citizens involved in the conflict.
- Legal action: The CBI’s investigation should lead to legal action against the perpetrators of human trafficking and illegal recruitment, ensuring justice for the victims.
- Awareness campaigns: Raise awareness among Indian citizens about the risks of falling prey to fraudulent recruitment schemes and provide guidance on seeking legitimate employment opportunities abroad.
- Consular assistance: Strengthen consular services to provide timely assistance and support to Indian citizens facing difficulties abroad, including those trapped in conflict zones.
Nut Graf: The revelations about Indian involvement in the Russia-Ukraine conflict through illegal recruitment highlight the urgent need for coordinated efforts to ensure the safety and repatriation of affected individuals.
Category: POLITY
1. Uttarakhand bill on UCC gets President’s nod
Syllabus: Indian Constitution – Historical Underpinnings, Evolution, Features, Amendments, Significant Provisions and Basic Structure
Prelims: UCC
Mains: Important provisions of the Uttarakhand act on UCC
Context: Uttarakhand has made history by becoming the first state in Independent India to enact a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) after President Droupadi Murmu’s approval of the UCC Bill, 2024. The bill, while excluding tribal communities, aims to abolish practices like halala, iddat, and talaq from Muslim Personal Law, and ensure gender equality in matters of property and inheritance rights.
Issues:
- Diversity and tribal exclusion: The exclusion of tribal communities from the UCC raises questions about inclusivity and the applicability of the code across diverse cultural and religious groups.
- Controversy over Muslim Personal Law: The ban on practices like halala, iddat, and talaq has stirred debate over the interference with Muslim Personal Law and its compatibility with constitutional principles.
- Implementation challenges: Enforcing a comprehensive UCC across a diverse population presents administrative and legal challenges, including reconciling conflicting laws and customs.
- Political implications: The enactment of the UCC may polarize opinions and lead to political repercussions.
Significance:
- Promoting gender equality: The UCC ensures equal rights for women in matters of marriage, divorce, property, and inheritance, thereby advancing gender equality and empowerment.
- Legal uniformity: The implementation of a UCC establishes legal uniformity and eliminates disparities arising from personal laws based on religion or community, fostering a more cohesive society.
- Constitutional principles: The enactment of the UCC aligns with the constitutional principles of equality, justice, and secularism, reinforcing India’s commitment to a pluralistic society.
- Setting a precedent: Uttarakhand’s pioneering move sets a precedent for other states and the central government to consider implementing a UCC, sparking nationwide discourse and potential legislative action.
Solutions:
- Inclusive implementation: Ensure that the UCC is implemented inclusively, taking into account the concerns and interests of all communities, including tribal groups.
- Public awareness and education: Conduct awareness campaigns and educational programs to inform citizens about the provisions and implications of the UCC, fostering understanding and acceptance.
- Legal safeguards: Establish mechanisms to address legal challenges and grievances arising from the implementation of the UCC, providing recourse for individuals and communities affected by the transition.
- Dialogue and consultation: Facilitate dialogue and consultation with stakeholders, including religious and community leaders, legal experts, and civil society organizations, to address concerns and build consensus on the UCC’s implementation.
Nut Graf: Uttarakhand’s enactment of a Uniform Civil Code marks a significant milestone in India’s legal and social landscape, with implications for gender equality, legal uniformity, and constitutional principles.
D. GS 3 Related
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D. GS 4 Related
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E. Editorials
Category: SOCIAL JUSTICE
1. Higher engagement, better learning
Syllabus: GS-2, Issues Relating to Development and Management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources
Mains: Importance of engaging students in learning outcome
Introduction:
- Despite high enrollment rates, a significant portion of students in India struggle with basic reading skills.
- Public school attendance is low, leading to poor learning outcomes.
- Lack of engagement in classrooms contributes to the problem.
- Teachers often blame poor attendance for low engagement and subsequently low motivation.
Current Classroom Dynamics:
- Traditional teaching methods prevail, with teachers primarily focusing on front-row students.
- Rote learning is common, but it’s not effective for all students, especially given the rapidly changing world.
- Classrooms lack cognitive and emotional engagement, hindering meaningful learning experiences.
- The lack of real-time feedback makes it challenging for teachers to gauge student comprehension and adjust teaching accordingly.
Importance of Student Engagement:
- Active participation and engagement are crucial for meaningful learning experiences.
- Students need opportunities for discussion, problem-solving, and hands-on learning.
- Teachers play a pivotal role in facilitating engagement and must actively participate in the learning process.
- Classroom environments should be inclusive and cater to the diverse needs of all students.
Addressing Challenges and Solutions:
- Teacher training in India tends to be theoretical and lacks practical components.
- Teachers need ongoing support and coaching to adopt new teaching practices effectively.
- Shifting focus from the Right to Education to the Right to Learning is essential.
- Implementing structured lessons, fostering high-quality teacher-student relationships, and promoting student autonomy can enhance engagement and improve learning outcomes.
Nut Graf: Despite high enrollment rates in Indian schools, a significant learning deficit persists, largely due to low student engagement. Traditional teaching methods, lack of feedback, and inadequate teacher training contribute to this issue, highlighting the urgent need for reform.
F. Prelims Facts
1. SC stops Assam Government’s move to de-notify rhino habitat
Context: The Supreme Court has intervened to halt the Assam government’s attempt to withdraw a notification constituting the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a significant population of Greater One-Horned Rhinoceroses. The government’s move to de-notify the sanctuary, citing the unilateral issuance of the notification by the Forest Department in 1998, has raised concerns about the protection of forest dwellers’ rights and wildlife conservation.
Issues:
- Unilateral notification: The Forest Department’s issuance of the sanctuary notification in 1998 without consulting other relevant departments or stakeholders has sparked controversy over procedural irregularities and lack of consensus.
- Rights of forest dwellers: The withdrawal of the sanctuary notification without settling the rights of marginalized communities residing in the area raises questions about the protection of their livelihoods and traditional rights.
- Conservation implications: Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary serves as a crucial habitat for the endangered Greater One-Horned Rhinoceroses, and any alteration in its status could jeopardize conservation efforts and biodiversity.
- Legal clarity: The legality of the government’s decision to withdraw the sanctuary notification and its implications for wildlife protection and forest governance needs to be examined in light of existing laws and court directives.
Significance:
- Wildlife conservation: The Supreme Court’s intervention underscores the importance of upholding sanctuary notifications to safeguard endangered species and their habitats, contributing to biodiversity conservation.
- Protection of forest dwellers’ rights: The court’s directive to ensure that forest dwellers’ rights are not infringed upon during decision-making processes highlights the need for equitable and inclusive conservation policies.
- Legal precedent: The case sets a legal precedent regarding the withdrawal of sanctuary notifications and the process of consultation and decision-making in matters concerning environmental conservation and forest governance.
- Balancing interests: The court’s emphasis on protecting both wildlife habitats and the rights of forest dwellers reflects the necessity of balancing conservation objectives with socio-economic considerations.
2. Modi, Sunak assess progress on India-U.K. FTA negotiations
Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak recently engaged in discussions to assess the progress of negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the United Kingdom. Amidst ongoing general elections in both countries, the leaders reiterated their commitment to reaching a mutually beneficial agreement, reflecting the significance of enhancing bilateral trade relations.
Issues:
- Prolonged negotiations: Despite ongoing negotiations since January 2022, both sides have yet to reach an agreement on key aspects of the Free Trade Agreement, leading to delays and uncertainties in finalizing the deal.
- Election-related pressures: The timing of the negotiations coincides with general elections in both India and the United Kingdom, adding political complexities and time constraints to the process.
- Ambitious outcome: Both countries aim to achieve an ambitious outcome covering various sectors, including goods and services, to maximize the benefits of the Free Trade Agreement and enhance bilateral trade ties.
- Regional and global context: The discussions between Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Sunak also considered broader regional and global developments, reflecting the interconnectedness of economic issues and geopolitical dynamics.
Significance:
- Economic partnership: The Free Trade Agreement holds significant potential for deepening economic cooperation between India and the United Kingdom, promoting trade, investment, and job creation in both countries.
- Strategic implications: Strengthening trade relations between India and the United Kingdom can contribute to enhancing strategic ties and fostering closer collaboration on shared interests, including security, technology, and climate change.
- Market access: The agreement could provide increased market access for businesses in diverse sectors, facilitating growth opportunities and expanding market reach for Indian and British companies.
- Signal for global trade: A successful conclusion of the Free Trade Agreement would send a positive signal to the international community, reaffirming both countries’ commitment to free trade and economic openness amidst global uncertainties.
3. ‘One nation one poll’ panel may submit its report today
Context: The committee on “one nation, one election,” chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind, is poised to submit its report, potentially.
- This committee, established in September 2023, has been tasked with exploring the feasibility and implications of holding simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha, State Assemblies, municipalities, and panchayats across India.
- The recommendations expected in the report may entail amendments to relevant articles of the Constitution or the introduction of new provisions to facilitate synchronized polls.
Issues:
- Constitutional amendments: The proposal for “one nation, one poll” necessitates constitutional amendments or additions to enable the synchronization of elections across various tiers of governance, considering the current framework of staggered elections.
- Administrative challenges: Implementing simultaneous elections requires significant administrative coordination and logistical arrangements at both central and state levels, posing challenges in terms of infrastructure, resources, and electoral management.
- Political consensus: Achieving consensus among political parties on the idea of simultaneous elections is crucial, as it involves restructuring electoral cycles and potentially altering the political landscape, leading to varied opinions and concerns among different stakeholders.
- Federal structure considerations: The move towards synchronized elections must consider the federal structure of India’s governance system, respecting the autonomy and diversity of states while promoting efficiency and accountability in electoral processes.
Significance:
- Governance efficiency: Synchronized elections aim to enhance governance efficiency by reducing disruptions caused by frequent electoral cycles, enabling policymakers to focus on governance and development priorities without the distraction of recurring elections.
- Cost savings: Holding simultaneous polls can lead to substantial cost savings for both the government and political parties, as it streamlines election-related expenditures and optimizes the utilization of resources.
- Voter engagement: Consolidating elections can potentially improve voter participation and engagement by reducing voter fatigue associated with frequent elections and simplifying the electoral process for citizens.
- Political stability: Simultaneous elections have the potential to contribute to political stability by providing a more cohesive electoral mandate, reducing political uncertainty and facilitating long-term policy planning and implementation.
G. Tidbits
Nothing here for today!!!
H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
Q1. Which of the following statements regarding the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in India is/are correct?
- The UCC aims to provide a common set of laws governing personal matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption for all citizens, irrespective of their religion.
- The UCC is a provision enshrined in the Fundamental Rights of the Indian Constitution.
- The Uniform Civil Code has been uniformly implemented across all states of India since the country’s independence.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
- All three statements are correct.
- All three statements are incorrect.
- Only statement 1 is correct.
- Only statements 1 and 3 are correct.
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Q2. Consider the following statements regarding the appointment of Election Commissioners:
- Statement I: The President of India appoints the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and the Election Commissioners (ECs) based on the recommendations of the Chief Justice of India.
- Statement II: The Constitution of India mandates the appointment of at least two Election Commissioners, but there can be a maximum of four Election Commissioners at any given time.
Which of the following statements is/are correct?
- Only I
- Only II
- Both
- None
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Q3. Consider the following statements regarding the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) in India:
- Statement I: ASER is conducted by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, in collaboration with various international organizations.
- Statement II: ASER is an annual survey that assesses the status of education and learning outcomes among children in India.
Which of the following statements is/are correct?
- Only I
- Only II
- Both
- None
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Q4. Consider the following statements regarding ecotourism:
- Statement 1: Ecotourism relies heavily on infrastructure development like luxury resorts in natural areas to attract tourists.
- Statement 2: Ecotourism can be a potential tool for alleviating poverty in regions rich in biodiversity.
- Statement 3: Ecotourism promotes responsible travel to natural areas that conserve the environment and sustain the well-being of local communities.
Which of the following is/are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Q5. Consider the following statements:
- The Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is appointed by the Central Government.
- Certain provisions in the Constitution of India give the Central Government the right to issue directions to the RBI in the public interest.
- The Governor of the RBI draws his power from the RBI Act.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Click on the link for the video explanation of the above questions and answers.
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
- Is the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code posed against the ethos of secularism enshrined in the Indian Constitution? (15 marks, 250 words) [GS-2, Polity]
- Critically examine the feasibility of the One Nation One Election scheme being proposed by the Indian Government. (15 marks, 250 words) [GS-2, Polity]
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