DIRECTORATE OF ENFORCEMENT (ED)
1. Context
- Recently, Declaring as “not valid in law” the two tenure extensions granted by the government to Sanjay Kumar Mishra, Director of Enforcement Directorate, beyond the September 8, 2021 cut-off date it had fixed, the Supreme Court said he can continue on the post only until July 31.
- This cuts short Mishra’s stint as the ED chief In April this year, the Supreme Court declined to entertain a plea by 14 political parties which alleged “selective and targeted” use of Central probe agencies such as the ED and CBI by the Central government against their leaders.
- The top court said it can intervene in individual cases when facts are before it, but cannot lay down separate general guidelines only for politicians who “stand absolutely on the same standing as the (rest of the) citizens of the country”.
- The top court allowed Mishra to remain on the post until July 31, taking into account the government’s submission that India is undergoing a Financial Action Task Force (FATF) review and his continuance in office is necessary for “effective presentation of the efforts made by the country”.
2. About the Directorate of Enforcement
- The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) is an agency in India that primarily deals with the enforcement of economic laws and regulations to combat money laundering, foreign exchange violations, and financial fraud.
- The ED is part of the Department of Revenue under the Ministry of Finance, Government of India.
3. Establishment and History
- The Directorate of Enforcement was established on 1st May 1956, as the "Enforcement Unit" within the Department of Economic Affairs.
- Its primary focus was on preventing and detecting violations of the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA) of 1947.
- Over the years, the agency's role expanded, and in 1999, the Enforcement Directorate was established as a separate entity under the Ministry of Finance.
- The enactment of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in 2002 further broadened its jurisdiction, giving it the power to investigate cases related to money laundering.
- Since its establishment, the ED has played a crucial role in combating economic offences and ensuring compliance with economic laws in India.
- It has been involved in several high-profile cases, including those related to financial scams, money laundering by influential individuals, and cross-border financial crimes.
- The ED collaborates with various domestic and international agencies, including financial intelligence units, law enforcement agencies, and Interpol, to gather information, share intelligence, and effectively coordinate efforts to combat economic offences.
4. Functions and Roles of ED
4.1. Enforcing Economic Laws
- The primary function of the ED is to enforce two key economic laws in India: the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).
- It ensures compliance with these laws and investigates money laundering, foreign exchange violations, and economic fraud cases.
4.2. Money Laundering Investigations
- The ED investigates cases involving money laundering, which is the process of concealing the origins of illegally obtained money to make it appear legitimate.
- It identifies and seizes properties and assets derived from illicit activities and prevents their further use.
4.3. Foreign Exchange Violations
- The ED is responsible for investigating cases related to violations of foreign exchange laws and regulations.
- It monitors and controls foreign exchange transactions to maintain the stability of the Indian rupee and prevent illegal activities such as smuggling and illegal money transfers.
4.4 Financial Frauds
- The ED also investigates and takes action against financial frauds, including bank frauds, Ponzi schemes, and other fraudulent activities affecting the Indian financial system.
- It works closely with other law enforcement agencies, such as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), to tackle complex financial crimes.
5. Challenges
5.1. The complexity of economic crimes.
- Economic crimes are often complex and involve a variety of financial transactions.
- This can make it difficult for the ED to trace the proceeds of crime and to build a case against the perpetrators.
5.2. The difficulty of tracing the proceeds of crime
- The proceeds of crime are often hidden in complex financial structures, making it difficult for the ED to track them down.
- The ED also faces challenges in obtaining information from foreign jurisdictions, where the proceeds of crime may have been transferred.
5.3. The lack of international cooperation
- Economic crime is often transnational, making it difficult for the ED to cooperate with foreign law enforcement agencies.
- This is due to differences in legal systems, as well as political and economic considerations.
5.4. Political interference
- The ED has been accused of being used as a political tool by the ruling party to target its opponents and critics.
- This has raised questions about the independence and impartiality of the ED.
5.5. Lack of transparency
- The ED has been criticized for its lack of transparency.
- The agency does not publish its annual reports, and it is difficult to obtain information about its investigations.
- This has made it difficult for the public to hold the ED accountable.
5.6. Human rights violations
- The ED has been accused of violating the human rights of those it investigates.
- The agency has been accused of using coercive tactics, such as prolonged detention and interrogation, to extract confessions from suspects.
5.7. The limited resources
- The ED is a relatively small agency with limited resources.
- This can make it difficult for the ED to investigate complex economic crimes and prosecute the perpetrators.
6. Conclusion
- The Directorate of Enforcement in India plays a crucial role in enforcing economic laws, preventing money laundering, and combating financial crimes.
- With its specialized expertise, investigative capabilities, and coordination with domestic and international partners, the ED contributes to the integrity of the financial system, national security, and the country's overall socio-economic development.
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For Prelims: Directorate of Enforcement, Financial Action Task Force, Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), Supreme Court, Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA) of 1947, Central Bureau of Investigation,
For Mains:
1. Discuss the establishment and evolution of the Directorate of Enforcement in India. Explain its key functions and roles in combating economic offences. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions 1. Which one of the following is not correct in respect of Directorate of Enforcement ? (CDS 2021)
A. It is a specialized financial investigation agency under the Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance.
B. It enforces the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999.
C. It enforces the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002.
D. It enforces the Prohibition of Benami Property Transaction Act, 1988.
Answer: D
2. The Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 become effective since which one of the following dates? (UKPSC RO/ARO 2012)
A. July 2002 B. August 2003 C. July 2004 D. July 2005
Answer: D
3. FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management Act) was finally implemented in the year (UPPSC 2013)
A. 1991 B. 1997 C. 2000 D. 2007
Answer: C
4. The Foreign Exchange Regulation Act was replaced by the ______ in India. (SSC Steno 2020)
A. Foreign Exchange Currency Act
B. Foreign Exchange Finances Act
C. Foreign Exchange Funds Act
D. Foreign Exchange Management Act
Answer: D
5. "Central Bureau of Intelligence and Investigation" is listed in the __________ list given in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution of India. (SSC CGL 2017)
A. Union B. State C. Global D. Concurrent
Answer: A
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Source: The Indian Express
TRAI
1. Context
Last week, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) sought inputs on whether it would be possible to have “selective” app bans instead of internet shutdowns, in order to reduce the impact that a wholesale communications lockdown can entail.
2. TRAI (Telecom Regulatory Authority of India)
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is an independent regulatory body established by the Indian government in 1997. Its primary objective is to regulate the telecommunications industry in India and ensure the orderly growth and development of the sector. TRAI operates under the provisions of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997.
3. Key Responsibilities and Functions of TRAI:
- Policy Formulation: TRAI plays a crucial role in formulating policies and regulations related to the telecommunications sector. It advises the government on issues pertaining to establishing and operating telecom services, licensing conditions, and promoting competition and innovation.
- Licensing and Tariff Regulation: TRAI is responsible for granting licenses to telecom service providers and regulating tariffs charged by them. It ensures that tariffs are reasonable, non-discriminatory, and transparent.
- Quality of Service: TRAI monitors the quality of telecom services provided by operators and sets quality of service standards to ensure a satisfactory experience for consumers. It also addresses consumer grievances and takes appropriate action against service providers for violations.
- Spectrum Management: TRAI plays a vital role in spectrum management, including allocating and efficiently utilizing radio frequencies. It recommends policies related to spectrum pricing, auction methodology, and efficient utilization of spectrum resources.
- Consumer Protection: TRAI works towards safeguarding consumer interests in the telecom sector. It promotes fair competition, prevents anti-competitive practices, and ensures that consumers have access to affordable and reliable telecom services.
- Net Neutrality: TRAI has actively shaped policies regarding net neutrality in India. It has laid down regulations to uphold the principle that all internet traffic should be treated equally, without any discrimination or preferential treatment by service providers.
4. India's History of Internet Shutdowns
- Internet shutdowns have been imposed in various states and districts across India on several occasions to prevent the rapid spread of provocative content during periods of communal tension.
- The Indian government views these shutdowns as a legitimate tool to maintain law and order.
- However, these shutdowns can be prolonged, severely impacting access to education, work, banking, and information.
- In certain regions like Jammu and Kashmir and Manipur, the authorities and courts have gradually eased long-term restrictions by allowing limited internet access through wired connections and limited wireless services.
5. The TRAI's Proposed Approach
- The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has suggested an approach that would require cooperation between telecom operators and messaging app companies, such as WhatsApp, to block access to services during a shutdown.
- The TRAI is seeking inputs on licensing messaging apps in India, which could entail firms being subjected to surveillance and blocking requirements.
6. Previous Considerations of App Regulation by TRAI
- In the past, the TRAI conducted consultations in 2015 and 2018 regarding the regulation of messaging apps.
- These consultations resulted in comprehensive protections for net neutrality, which advocates for equal treatment of all internet traffic.
- Telecom operators had called for regulation of messaging apps, claiming that these services operated without the stringent security and surveillance regulations imposed on telecom operators.
- Telcos were also concerned about their revenues being undermined by cheaper online calls and messages. However, the Department of Telecommunication (DoT) and the TRAI rejected this argument, stating that telcos cannot discriminate between different categories of consumer data.
- The focus on regulating messaging apps shifted towards security and policing, particularly in combating communal misinformation and provocative content.
- The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology introduced the IT Rules, 2021, which included the requirement of "traceability" to identify the original sender of a forwarded message.
- However, civil society groups and tech firms argued that meeting such requirements would require breaking end-to-end encryption, which raised concerns about privacy and feasibility.
7. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are secure and encrypted networks that allow users to access the internet privately and anonymously. VPNs provide a secure connection by encrypting the user's internet traffic and routing it through a server located in a different location, often in another country. This encryption and rerouting help protect the user's online privacy and security.
Key Aspects of VPNs:
- Privacy and Anonymity: VPNs create a secure tunnel between the user's device and the VPN server, effectively hiding the user's IP address and encrypting their internet traffic. This ensures that their online activities, including browsing history, downloads, and communication, are protected from eavesdropping, surveillance, and tracking by ISPs, governments, or malicious actors.
- Security and Encryption: VPNs employ robust encryption protocols to secure the user's data and communications. This encryption safeguards sensitive information, such as passwords, credit card details, and personal data, from potential interception or hacking attempts.
- Bypassing Geographical Restrictions: VPNs allow users to bypass geographical restrictions imposed by governments, organizations, or websites. By connecting to a VPN server in a different location, users can appear as if they are accessing the internet from that location. This enables them to access geo-blocked content, evade censorship, and overcome limitations on certain services or websites.
- Public Wi-Fi Security: Public Wi-Fi networks, such as those found in cafes, airports, or hotels, are often insecure and vulnerable to attacks. VPNs provide an additional layer of security when connecting to public Wi-Fi by encrypting the user's data and protecting it from potential threats or unauthorized access.
8. Concerns Regarding VPNs
- While websites and specific apps can be blocked by ordering telecom operators to do so, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) can easily bypass these blocks.
- VPNs route a user's internet traffic through servers located in other countries and often employ encryption, making it difficult for the government to monitor these connections. This has led to a growing distrust of VPNs by the government.
- VPN services frequently change the IP addresses associated with their servers, making it challenging to block them effectively.
- Although the websites of VPN providers can be blocked, the installation files can still be found elsewhere online. Telecom operators have stated that blocking VPNs is technically unfeasible.
9. Arguments for and against Blocking VPNs
- Internet rights activists argue that blocking VPNs would have negative implications for online privacy.
- They contend that VPNs play a crucial role in securing digital rights under the Indian Constitution, especially for journalists, whistleblowers, and activists.
- The encrypted nature of VPNs allows for the secure transfer of confidential information and safeguards the identity of users, protecting them from surveillance and censorship.
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For Prelims: Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), Internet shutdowns, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), Net Neutrality, and Department of Telecommunication (DoT).
For Mains:1. Examine the role and effectiveness of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) in regulating the telecommunications industry. Discuss its impact on ensuring fair competition, protecting consumer interests, and fostering innovation in the sector. (250 Words).
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Previous year Question1. What is a "Virtual Private Network"? (UPSC 2011)
A. It is a private computer network of an organization where remote users can transmit encrypted information through the server of the organization
B. It is a computer network across a public internet that provides users access to their organization's network while maintaining the security of the information transmitted
C. It is a computer network in which users can access a shared pool of computing resources through a service provider
D. None of the statements (a), (b), and (c) given above is a correct description of a Virtual Private Network
Answer: B
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Source: The Hindu
SECTION 144
1. Context
- Delhi witnesses an unprecedented rise in the water levels of the Yamuna River, breaching the previous all-time high recorded in 1978.
- As incessant rainfall continues in Delhi and the surrounding areas, coupled with the release of water from the Hathni Kund Barrage, the risk of flood-like conditions in low-lying areas near the river has intensified.
- In response, the Delhi Police has imposed prohibitory measures under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) in flood-prone areas of the city.
2. About Section 144
- Section 144 CrPC, a law inherited from the colonial era, grants the authority to a district magistrate, sub-divisional magistrate, or any other executive magistrate empowered by the state government.
- This provision enables them to issue orders to address urgent cases involving apprehended danger or nuisance.
3. Powers and Restrictions under Section 144
- Under Section 144, the magistrate can issue written orders directed at specific individuals, persons residing in a particular area, or the public, in general, frequenting a specific location.
- These orders may require individuals to abstain from certain acts, take specific measures concerning property under their possession or management, or impose restrictions on movement, carrying arms, or unlawful assembly.
- While it is commonly believed that the assembly of three or more people is prohibited under Section 144, it can also be used to restrict the actions of a single individual.
4. Section 144 Imposition and Duration
- Section 144 orders must be passed in writing by the magistrate.
- Emergencies allow the magistrate to pass orders without prior notice to the individual against whom the order is directed.
- However, no Section 144 order can remain in force for more than two months from the date of issuance, unless the state government deems it necessary.
- Even then, the total period of enforcement cannot exceed six months.
5. Varied Application of Section 144
- A study conducted on over 5,400 Section 144 orders issued by the Delhi Police between January 2021 and January 2022 revealed its diverse application.
- The study found that Section 144 was imposed in various situations, ranging from the installation of CCTV cameras (accounting for 25.6% of cases) to the prohibition of using specific kinds of manjha during kite flying.
- Only 1.5% of the orders imposed blanket restrictions on unlawful assembly, while in some districts, no orders restricting the right to public assembly were issued at all.
6. Justification for Section 144 Imposition in Flood-Prone Areas
- The imposition of Section 144 in flood-prone areas of Delhi aims to prevent chaos and the congregation of large groups of people.
- This measure is not uncommon and is often imposed when there is an immediate danger apprehension.
- It is regarded as the simplest remedy available to the government to prevent the assembly of four or more people in one location, ensuring public safety and order.
7. Previous Instances of Section 144 Imposition in the NCR
- In the past, Section 144 has been imposed in the National Capital Region (NCR) in response to heavy rainfall and resulting chaos.
- In 2016, prohibitory orders under Section 144 were imposed near Hero Honda Chowk in Gurgaon, as thousands of commuters were stranded due to water-logging on the Gurgaon-Delhi Expressway and NH-8.
8. Recent Imposition of Section 144 in Kaziranga National Park, Assam
- Section 144 was also recently imposed in Kaziranga National Park, Assam, to prevent unnecessary gatherings at animal corridors and ensure the safety of animals during the monsoon season.
- This measure is taken to protect the wildlife and maintain order in the park.
9. Conclusion
- The imposition of Section 144 in flood-prone areas of Delhi is a precautionary measure aimed at maintaining public safety and preventing chaotic situations.
- While Section 144 has been utilized in various situations, its implementation during natural disasters like flooding helps to mitigate potential risks and ensure the effective management of such events.
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For Prelims: Section 144, Crpc, Delhi-NCR, Yamuna River, Kaziranga National Park, Gurgaon-Delhi Expressway, Delhi Police,
For Mains:
1. What are the criticisms associated with Section 144? Analyze the concerns regarding the broad and discretionary powers granted to the authorities under this provision. Suggest measures to ensure the justifiable and judicious use of Section 144. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. Consider the following tributaries of River Yamuna and arrange them from West to East: (UPPSC 2020)
1. Betwa
2. Ken
3. Sindh
4. Chambal
Select the correct answer from the codes given below.
A. 4, 3, 1 and 2 B. 1, 2, 3 and 4 C. 3, 2, 1 and 4 D. 2, 3, 1 and 4
Answer: A
2. Where does river Yamuna, after flowing through Uttarakahand, enter in Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh? (HPPSC 2017)
A. Tajewala B. Khodarmanjari C. Baru Sahib D. Dadahu
Answer: B
3. Consider the following pairs: (UPSC 2013)
National Park River flowing through the Park
1. Corbett National Park: Ganga
2. Kaziranga National Park : Manas
3. Silent Valley National Park Kaveri
Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?
A. 1 and 2 B. 3 only C. 1 and 3 D. None
Answer: D
4. Kaziranga National Park is famous for (Sr. Teacher Gr II NON-TSP G.K. 2018)
A. Siberian crane B. One horned rhinoceros C. Snow leapord D. Crocodile
Answer: B
5. National route number 8 which connects Delhi to Mumbai passes through Rajasthan. How many kilometres is it in Rajasthan? (Raj Pre D.El.Ed (BSTC) 2018)
A. 700 B. 560 C. 688 D. 720
Answer: C
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Source: The Indian Express
INDIA-FRANCE RELATIONS
1. Context
A 25-year vision statement for India-France bilateral ties, a private dinner at the Elysee Palace, guest of honour at the Bastille Day parade, and a state banquet at the Louvre Museum-Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day visit to Paris later this week is high on both symbolism and substance.
2. India and France-Historical Background
- France has had a significant impact on Indian polity. The ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution have been borrowed from the French. India has been constituted into a ‘Republic’. This word too has been borrowed from France.
- India and France have been ‘Strategic Partners’ since 1998, ever since an agreement was signed in the same year between the two nations.
- Ever since, this strategic dialogue has evolved to include diverse areas like nuclear technology, defence partnership including maritime cooperation, cyber security, and space technology amongst others.
- This relationship needs to be closely watched and could emerge as a partnership, sans any issues and challenges.
3. The strategic partnership between the two Nations
Defence-industrial cooperation has been one of the mainstays of the strategic partnership between India and France. It is cooperation in this field that has boosted the relationship between the two nations.
Defence/Strategic Ties:
- India has signed a ‘Strategic Agreement’ with more than 35 countries but the deal signed with France in 1998 remains unique. While many other partnerships have run into trouble or are clouded by differences over various issues, the partnership has been growing with France.
- The area of cooperation now extends to technologies related to Nuclear energy, space, defence, cyber security, intelligence-sharing, and counter-terrorism amongst others.
France has supported India in its ‘Make in India’ program and extended its support to all forms of defence manufacturing. - France is a critical partner of the Indian Navy in its P 75I Program which seeks to build 24 naval submarines by 2030, 18 of which will be conventional and 6 shall be nuclear.
- 36 Rafale Fighter Jets will be handed over to the Indian Air Force soon. Already, during the Galwan Valley dispute with China, a few jets were handed over to India.
- As far as the Joint Exercises between the Armed Forces are concerned: Varuna 1, Garuda 2, and Shakti 3 have been held regularly.
- Earlier, the Cyber Security and Digital technology roadmap had been agreed to by both sides. This entails cooperation in the field of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Super Computing and Machine Learning amongst others.
- Recently, an Agreement between the Centre for Development of Advance Computing (C-DAC) and ATOS for cooperation in quantum computing, AI and supercomputing is signed.
- France also supports India in its bid for permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council.
- With the assistance and support of France, India became a member of various non-proliferation groups such as the Wassenaar group (2017), NSG, Missile Technology Control Regime (2016) and the Australia Group (2018).
- France has also opposed many of the unsustainable projects being executed under China’s One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative.
4. Other areas that can be explored in Strategic Partnership:
- India and France can cooperate in other areas such as the Afghan peace deal which is under considerable strain as the US selfishly leaves the region. Indian interests are expected to be 164 affected as Pakistan state-sponsored terrorists run amok in Kabul and other cities. It is here that India and France can step in along with other nations and forge a partnership.
- Another area that is of mutual interest to both nations is Iran. France supported the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action in 2015 along with the US and other nations. India which faced the fear of attracting sanctions under the US legislation ‘Countering American Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA)’ reduced its oil imports and delayed its other connectivity projects in Iran. This deal in 2015 brought a sigh of relief to India. However, this was short-lived as in 2018, the US pulled out of the deal. India once again faces the fear of CAATSA.
- In the year 2016, India and France signed a ‘White shipping agreement’ to encourage the movement of commercial ships.
- One potential area of cooperation exists in the Indo-Pacific region. France can join the ASEAN nations and the QUAD grouping in ensuring that freedom of navigation on the high seas is protected.
5. What is the Bastille Day celebration?
- Bastille Day, also known as French National Day or La Fête Nationale, is a significant celebration in France that commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison on July 14, 1789.
- This event marked a pivotal moment in the French Revolution and the beginning of the end of absolute monarchy in France. Bastille Day is celebrated annually on July 14th and is a symbol of French unity, liberty, and national pride.
- Bastille Day commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison, which was seen as a symbol of royal authority and tyranny. The event marked the uprising of the French people against the monarchy and served as a catalyst for the French Revolution.
- The celebration of Bastille Day involves various festivities, including parades, fireworks, concerts, and public gatherings. The largest and most renowned parade takes place on the Champs-Élysées in Paris, where military troops, historical reenactments, and public figures participate.
6. Challenges observed in the bilateral relations between India and France
- Nuclear Non-Proliferation: One challenge in the India-France relationship has been India's status as a nuclear-armed nation outside the framework of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). France is a signatory to the NPT and has expressed concerns regarding nuclear proliferation. Balancing India's nuclear ambitions with France's commitment to non-proliferation has been an ongoing challenge.
- Defense Trade Imbalance: While defense cooperation between India and France has seen significant growth, there has been a trade imbalance in this sector. India is a major buyer of French defense equipment, including aircraft, submarines, and missiles. However, there has been limited progress in developing a more balanced trade relationship, with Indian defense exports to France being relatively modest.
- Economic and Trade Issues: Despite efforts to enhance economic cooperation, there have been some trade-related challenges. These include issues related to market access, trade barriers, and regulatory hurdles. Both countries have made efforts to address these challenges through dialogues and negotiations, but further progress is still needed to unlock the full potential of bilateral trade and investment.
- Climate Change and Environmental Concerns: Climate change and environmental sustainability have become increasingly important areas of cooperation between India and France. However, challenges exist in aligning their priorities and approaches to address climate change. India's focus on development and energy security, including its reliance on coal, may sometimes diverge from France's emphasis on clean energy and emissions reduction.
- Regional and International Dynamics: India and France have their own regional and international interests, which can sometimes create divergences or competing priorities. For example, France has historical ties and strategic interests in regions such as the Middle East and Africa, where India also has growing economic and geopolitical interests. Aligning their respective policies and approaches in these regions can be a challenge.
- Cultural Differences and Communication: Cultural differences and communication gaps can also pose challenges in bilateral relations. Differences in language, communication styles, and cultural norms can create misunderstandings or difficulties in effectively engaging with each other.
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For Prelims: Strategic Agreement, P 75I Program, Varuna 1, Garuda 2, Shakti 3, Countering American Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), QUAD, ASEAN, and Bastille Day.
For Mains: 1. Examine the bilateral relations between India and France, highlighting the key areas of cooperation, challenges faced, and the potential for future collaboration.(250 words).
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Previous year Questions1. Consider the following countries: (UPSC 2015)
1. China
2. France
3. India
4. Israel
5. Pakistan
Which among the above are Nuclear Weapons States as recognized by the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, commonly known as the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT)?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 3, 4, and 5 only
C. 2, 4, and 5 only
D. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Answer: A
2. India along with which country jointly launched International Solar Alliance during the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21)? (KPSC 2017)
A. United Kingdom
B. France
C. United States of America
D. Germany
Answer: B
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