25 May 2024 CNA
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. GS 1 Related B. GS 2 Related SOCIAL JUSTICE 1. Prejudiced past and forsaken future: the DNTs’ battle for dignity C. GS 3 Related D. GS 4 Related E. Editorials INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 1. The missing links in IMEC, as shown by the Gaza war F. Prelims Facts 1. At WTO, India still opposes ‘plurilateral pact’ on investment 2. U.S., Egypt agree to allow Gaza aid through Kerem Shalom 3. Myanmar junta revives plans for its China-backed mega-dam project G. Tidbits H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
A. GS 1 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
B. GS 2 Related
Category: SOCIAL JUSTICE
1. Prejudiced past and forsaken future: the DNTs’ battle for dignity
Syllabus: Issues related to the development and management of the social sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources
Prelims: DNT
Mains: Challenges faced by DNTs and steps taken by the government
Context​:
- The Denotified and Nomadic Tribes (DNTs) of Andhra Pradesh, including the Yanadi community, have long faced neglect, social stigma, and caste-based discrimination. Despite denotification and various classifications for affirmative action, their socioeconomic conditions remain dire.Â
- Political representation is minimal, and welfare schemes often bypass them, exacerbating their marginalization.
Historical Context
- Criminal Tribes Act, 1871: Until 1952, many DNT communities were branded as criminal tribes under this Act, leading to severe stigmatization. Know more about the Criminal Tribes Act, 1871 in the linked article.
- Denotification in 1952: Post-independence, these communities were denotified and later classified as Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Backward Classes (BC), and Minorities to ensure equity and access to affirmative action.
Current Living Conditions
- Housing and Basic Amenities: DNT communities often reside in makeshift huts without access to quality housing, electricity, or water. In Vijayawada, the Yanadi community lives on a hilltop in deplorable conditions, with no proper pathways or access to basic services.
- Daily Struggles: Survival is a constant struggle, with community members engaging in low-paying, informal jobs like waste collection and fishing. Lack of birth certificates and other documents further hinders access to social services and welfare benefits.
Social and Economic Exclusion
- Stigma and Discrimination: DNT communities face deep-seated prejudice, often being viewed with suspicion and excluded from mainstream society. They are looked down upon even by other marginalized groups.
- Economic Activities: Traditional occupations such as selling beads, mirrors, and other small items persist. However, these activities provide meagre incomes and do not offer pathways to economic mobility.
Barriers to Education
- Educational Challenges: Access to education is limited, with high dropout rates after primary school. Incidents of discrimination in schools further discourage enrollment and retention.
- Community Initiatives: Efforts by community leaders to improve educational outcomes, such as setting up tuition centres, face obstacles, including lack of infrastructure and support from local authorities.
Political Representation
- Lack of Political Voice: DNT communities have negligible political representation, both at the state and national levels. This lack of representation hampers their ability to advocate for their rights and access welfare schemes.
- Notable Exceptions: Instances like Tupakula Munnema’s candidature in 2008 highlight sporadic political engagement, but sustained representation remains elusive.
Issues
- Neglect and Marginalization: Continued neglect and marginalization despite affirmative action policies.
- Economic Hardships: Persistent economic hardships due to low-paying jobs and lack of access to capital.
- Social Stigma: Deep-rooted social stigma and discrimination hinder integration into mainstream society.
- Educational Barriers: Limited access to quality education and high dropout rates among children.
- Political Exclusion: Minimal political representation and influence in policy-making processes.
Solutions
- Inclusive Policies: Develop and implement inclusive policies that specifically address the needs of DNT communities.
- Improved Access to Services: Ensure better access to education, healthcare, housing, and other essential services.
- Economic Support: Provide financial assistance, loans, and support for entrepreneurship to enhance economic opportunities.
- Political Representation: Increase political representation of DNT communities to ensure their voices are heard in decision-making processes.
- Awareness Campaigns: Conduct awareness campaigns to reduce social stigma and promote acceptance of DNT communities.
Nut Graf: The plight of DNT communities in Andhra Pradesh is a stark reminder of the long-standing issues of neglect and discrimination faced by marginalized groups in India. Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts to improve access to essential services, economic opportunities, and political representation. By doing so, the dignity and rights of DNT communities can be upheld, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.
C. GS 3 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
D. GS 4 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
E. Editorials
Category: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. The missing links in IMEC, as shown by the Gaza war
Syllabus: GS-2, Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests.
Mains: Significance of India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC)Â
Context:​Â
- The India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC) was envisioned as a transformative connectivity project designed to enhance economic integration and development between Asia, the Arabian Gulf, and Europe. Signed during the G-20 summit in New Delhi on September 9, 2023, it aimed to create a reliable and cost-effective transit network.Â
- However, the Gaza war, which broke out shortly after the project’s announcement, has highlighted significant vulnerabilities and missing links in its current framework.
Significance of IMEC
- Strategic Connectivity: IMEC aims to connect India to Europe via the Arabian Gulf, bypassing the Suez Canal and overcoming overland access limitations due to Pakistan.
- Economic Benefits: Expected to reduce transit time and costs for goods between India and Europe by 40% and 30% respectively, enhancing regional trade and economic growth.
- Counter to BRI: Positioned as a strategic counter to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), with significant support from the United States and its allies.
Issues Highlighted by the Gaza War
- Geopolitical Instability: The war in Gaza has stalled the IMEC project, emphasizing the corridor’s vulnerability to regional conflicts.
- Maritime Security Threats: Houthi actions in Yemen and threats to the Strait of Hormuz by Iran underscore the risks to shipping routes critical to IMEC.
- Port Disruptions: The conflict has severely impacted key ports like Haifa in Israel, critical for the corridor’s western link to Europe.
Specific Vulnerabilities
- Persian Gulf Risks: UAE ports, essential for the eastern segment of IMEC, are exposed to threats from the Strait of Hormuz.
- Red Sea Blockades: Blockades and attacks on ships in the Red Sea by the Houthis have forced detours, increasing transit times and costs.
Solutions
Inclusion of Oman
- Strategic Positioning: Omani ports open to the Arabian Sea, avoiding the Persian Gulf and its associated risks.
- Historical Trade Relations: Oman has a long history of trade with India, making it a reliable partner.
- Political Stability: Oman maintains good relations with regional stakeholders, providing a stable alternative to the UAE ports.
Integration of Egypt
- Alternate Western Spur: Including Egyptian ports in the Mediterranean Sea can provide a safer route to Europe.
- Regional Balance: Egypt’s inclusion can help balance regional dynamics, given its good relations with Europe, Israel, and the U.S.
- Economic and Political Viability: Egypt’s participation can enhance the corridor’s resilience against disruptions and improve overall project viability.
Nut Graf: The IMEC is a forward-thinking initiative with the potential to significantly impact regional trade and economic integration. However, the Gaza war has exposed critical weaknesses that need to be addressed to ensure its success. By including Oman and Egypt, the IMEC can mitigate risks from regional conflicts, ensuring a more secure and reliable connectivity corridor.
F. Prelims Facts
1. At WTO, India still opposes ‘plurilateral pact’ on investment
Context: India is facing pressure at the World Trade Organization (WTO) to support the inclusion of the China-led Investment Facilitation for Development (IFD) pact into the formal WTO framework as a plurilateral agreement.Â
- Despite this pressure, India remains steadfast in its opposition, arguing that investment should not be a subject for discussion within the WTO.Â
- This stance was reiterated at the recent WTO General Council meeting and aligns with India’s position at the 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13) in Abu Dhabi.
Background
- WTO Framework: The WTO is a global organization dealing with the rules of trade between nations. Its agreements are typically multilateral, meaning they are binding on all members.
- Plurilateral Agreements: These are agreements endorsed by some, but not all, WTO members. They are binding only on their signatories.
- Investment Facilitation for Development (IFD) Pact: Proposed by China, the IFD aims to streamline and facilitate investment policies among its signatories.
India’s Position
- MC13 Stance: At the 13th Ministerial Conference, India opposed the inclusion of investment facilitation in the WTO framework, maintaining that it is not an appropriate subject for WTO discussion.
- General Council Meeting: India reiterated its opposition, stating that the lack of exclusive consensus among member countries makes it unsuitable for formal inclusion as a plurilateral agreement.
- Concerns Over Policy Space: India is worried that the IFD’s provisions could require the government to consult investors on policy matters, potentially limiting its policy autonomy.
Issues
Lack of Consensus
- Member Disagreement: The IFD pact does not have unanimous support among WTO members, with notable opposition from countries like India, South Africa, and the United States.
- Plurilateral vs. Multilateral: The move to include the IFD as a plurilateral agreement raises concerns about fragmenting the WTO framework and undermining the principle of multilateralism.
Sovereignty and Policy Autonomy
- Investor Consultations: Provisions in the IFD that mandate government consultations with investors are seen as encroachments on national policy space.
- Regulatory Challenges: Implementing such requirements could pose significant regulatory challenges and restrict the ability of governments to enact policies independently.
2. U.S., Egypt agree to allow Gaza aid through Kerem Shalom
Context: The U.S. and Egypt have reached an agreement to temporarily allow United Nations-provided humanitarian aid to flow into Gaza through the Kerem Shalom crossing.Â
- This development comes amid escalating humanitarian crises in Gaza, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict and closure of critical border crossings.Â
- U.S. President Joe Biden and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi have discussed measures to facilitate aid delivery and reopen the Rafah crossing under mutually acceptable terms for Egypt and Israel.
Background
- Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza: The Gaza Strip has been facing severe humanitarian challenges due to ongoing conflicts, blockades, and restricted access to essential supplies.
- Kerem Shalom Crossing: One of the main entry points for goods into Gaza, located at the southern end of the Gaza Strip, bordering Israel and Egypt.
- Rafah Crossing: Another crucial crossing point between Gaza and Egypt, which has been largely closed, exacerbating the humanitarian situation.
Recent Developments
- U.S.-Egypt Agreement: The agreement allows temporary UN-provided humanitarian aid to flow through the Kerem Shalom crossing.
- Presidential Discussion: In a phone call, President Biden expressed support for efforts to reopen the Rafah crossing and indicated that the U.S. would send a senior team to Cairo for further talks.
Issues
Humanitarian Access
- Access Restrictions: The closure of the Rafah crossing has prevented much-needed aid from reaching Gaza, leading to deteriorating living conditions.
- Food Supplies Wasting: Aid supplies, including food, have been waiting to enter Gaza, with some beginning to spoil due to delays.
Political and Security Concerns
- Border Control: Israel’s control over the Rafah crossing from the Palestinian side since May 6 has complicated aid delivery and heightened security concerns.
- Legal Mechanisms: The need for legal and administrative frameworks to ensure the safe and effective reopening of the Rafah crossing.
Significance
Humanitarian Relief
- Immediate Aid: The temporary opening of the Kerem Shalom crossing is critical for providing immediate relief to the people of Gaza facing hunger and other crises.
- Long-term Solutions: Efforts to reopen the Rafah crossing could establish a more sustainable mechanism for continuous humanitarian aid flow.
Diplomatic Relations
- U.S.-Egypt Cooperation: This agreement signifies strong diplomatic cooperation between the U.S. and Egypt, aiming to address a pressing humanitarian issue.
- Regional Stability: Facilitating aid delivery and reopening crossings can contribute to stabilizing the region by alleviating humanitarian suffering.
3. Myanmar junta revives plans for its China-backed mega-dam project
Context: The Myanmar junta has recently revived plans for the Myitsone Dam, a $3.6 billion Chinese-backed project in northern Kachin State. Initially suspended in 2011 due to public opposition, the dam’s revival has sparked renewed concerns about environmental impact and local benefits.
Background
- Myitsone Dam Project: Proposed as a 6,000-megawatt hydropower project on the Ayeyarwady River.
- Initial Suspension: Halted in 2011 by a previous junta due to public and environmental opposition.
- Current Development: Revival announced in April 2024, with a new leading group set up to manage the project.
Key Players
- Myanmar Junta: Governing authority reviving the dam project.
- China’s State Power Investment Corporation (SPIC): Partnering with Myanmar on the project through Yunnan International Power Investment Company.
- Environmental and Local Opposition: Strong resistance due to potential environmental damage and limited local benefits.
Issues
Environmental Concerns
- Ecological Impact: Potential large-scale alteration of the Ayeyarwady River flow, affecting biodiversity and water resources.
- Displacement: Risk of displacing communities and disrupting local livelihoods, particularly in Kachin State.
- Assessment Reports: A 2015 environmental assessment advised against the project, citing significant environmental risks.
Social and Political Context
- Local Opposition: Strong opposition from local communities and environmental groups.
- Kachin Conflict: Ongoing conflict between the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and the military, complicating the project’s implementation.
- Public Relations Challenges: Need for effective public relations to address concerns and opposition.
Economic and Strategic Factors
- Economic Benefits: Limited benefits to Myanmar, as 90% of the generated power is planned for export to China.
- Belt and Road Initiative: The project is part of China’s broader strategic interests in Myanmar under its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Significance
Strategic Importance
- China-Myanmar Relations: The project is a crucial component of China’s BRI, strengthening its economic and strategic foothold in Myanmar.
- Regional Stability: The project’s revival could influence regional stability, especially in conflict-prone Kachin State.
Environmental and Social Impact
- Biodiversity: Significant potential impact on the Ayeyarwady River basin, affecting millions of residents and diverse ecosystems.
- Community Displacement: High risk of displacing local communities, exacerbating social tensions and conflicts.
G. Tidbits
Nothing here for today!!!
H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
Q1. Which country is NOT involved in signing the IMEC project?
- UAE
- USA
- United Kingdom
- GermanyÂ
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation:
There were discussions about the UK’s potential involvement to strengthen its global position post-Brexit, but it hasn’t joined yet.
Q2. According to the Indian government's definition, which of the following is NOT a criterion for classifying a community as a Denotified Tribe (DNT)?
- Traditionally nomadic or semi-nomadic existence
- History of being labelled as “criminal tribes” by the British
- Widespread social stigma and lack of integration into mainstream society
- Recognition within the Indian caste system
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation:
DNT communities are typically excluded from the caste system, existing on the fringes of society. Options (A), (B), and (C) are all characteristics that contribute to the classification of a DNT.
Q3. What key pillars are included in the IFD Agreement?
- Tariff reduction, market access, and trade facilitation
- Transparency of investment measures, streamlining procedures, international cooperation, and sustainable investment
- Intellectual property rights, dispute settlement, and environmental standards
- Labour rights, social protection, and poverty alleviation
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation:
The IFD Agreement focuses on making it easier for businesses to invest in other countries by promoting transparency, streamlining procedures, and encouraging cooperation between governments. This can lead to increased investment flows, which can benefit both the developing countries that attract investment and the developed countries that provide it.
Q4. Which of the following countries have direct land borders with the Gaza Strip?
- EgyptÂ
- JordanÂ
- Israel
- Syria
Choose the correct option:
- Only oneÂ
- Only twoÂ
- Only threeÂ
- All
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation:
The Gaza Strip shares its borders with two countries: Egypt and Israel. Jordan and Syria do not directly border the Gaza Strip.
Q5. Which of the following Chinese-backed dam projects is correctly matched with its respective country?
- Kamchay Dam – Cambodia
- Bakun Dam – Sarawak, Malaysia
- Myitsone Dam – Burma (Myanmar)
- Merowe Dam – Sudan
Options:
- Only 1
- Only 2
- Only 3
- All of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation:
All are correctly matched.
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
- The Gaza war has been detrimental to the prospects of IMEC. Suggest ways to overcome this hurdle to expedite the IMEC project and the possible role that India can play in this regard. (15 marks, 250 words) [GS-2, International Relations]
- Over seven decades after independence, DNTs have still not been given the kind of rights they deserve. Comment. (15 marks, 250 words) [GS-2, Social Justice]
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