PM AWAS YOJANA
1. Context
Uttar Pradesh has got an additional target of 1,44,220 houses to be constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin in the current fiscal, taking the overall target of the houses allocated to the state under the Awas Plus List to 21,68,674. The construction work is to be finished by March 2024. The Union Rural Development Minister recently sent a letter to the Uttar Pradesh Rural Development Department, informing about the allocation of the additional target.
2. PM Awas Yojana
- Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) is a flagship housing scheme launched by the Government of India with the aim of providing affordable housing to the urban and rural poor.
- It was announced on June 25, 2015, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as part of his vision of "Housing for All" by the year 2022.
- The scheme is designed to address the housing shortage in the country and improve the living conditions of the economically weaker sections (EWS), low-income groups (LIG), and middle-income groups (MIG).
3. Key Objectives of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana
- Affordable Housing: PMAY focuses on providing affordable housing units with basic amenities at an affordable cost to eligible beneficiaries.
- Inclusivity: The scheme aims to include all sections of society, especially those who are economically disadvantaged and marginalized, in the process of nation-building.
- Empowerment: By providing housing to beneficiaries, the scheme aims to enhance their quality of life, promote health and sanitation, and empower them economically and socially.
- Urban and Rural Coverage: PMAY aims to cover both urban and rural areas, recognizing the need for housing in both sectors.
- Women Empowerment: The scheme prioritizes the allocation of housing units in the name of the female head of the household, which helps in women's empowerment and ensures greater financial security.
4. The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana is implemented in three major components:
- Credit-Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS): Under this component, eligible beneficiaries from the EWS, LIG, and MIG sections can avail of interest subsidies on home loans. The amount of subsidy depends on the income category, and it helps reduce the effective interest rate on the home loan, making it more affordable for the beneficiaries.
- Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP): This component targets the development of affordable housing projects in partnership with various public and private agencies. The government provides financial assistance to the partnering agencies to construct these houses.
- Beneficiary-led Construction (BLC): This component empowers the eligible beneficiaries to construct or enhance their houses on their own with the help of financial assistance provided by the government.
5. Aim of the scheme
- To provide a pucca house with basic amenities to all rural families, who are homeless or living in kutcha or dilapidated houses by the end of March 2022.
- To help rural people Below the Poverty Line (BPL) in the construction of dwelling units and upgradation of existing unserviceable kutcha houses by providing assistance in the form of a full grant.
- Beneficiaries: People belonging to SCs/STs, freed bonded laborers and non-SC/ST categories, widows or next-of-kin of defense personnel killed in action, ex-servicemen and retired members of the paramilitary forces, disabled persons, and minorities.
- Selection of Beneficiaries: Through a three-stage validation - Socio-Economic Caste Census 2011, Gram Sabha, and geo-tagging.
- Cost Sharing: The cost of unit assistance is shared between Central and State Governments in the ratio of 60:40 in plain areas and 90:10 for North Eastern and hilly states.
6. Performance of the Scheme:
- Only 55% of the construction target has been completed.
- Of the 2.28 crore houses to be built for the rural poor, less than 1.27 crore had been built by January 2021.
- Money has been sanctioned to almost 85% of beneficiaries.
- This scheme has helped in employment generation. Many states provided employment to their migrant laborers during the lockdown.
|
For Prelims: Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Economically weaker sections (EWS), low-income groups (LIG), middle-income groups (MIG), Below Poverty Line (BPL), Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS), Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP), and Beneficiary-Led Construction (BLC).
|
Previous year Question1. Time span of 'Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana' is (UPPSC Civil Service 2016)
A. 2014 - 2021
B. 2014 - 2024
C. 2015 - 2022
D. 2015 - 2025
Answer: C
2. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban)-PMAY (U)’s mission is to achieve the goal of Housing for All in urban areas by: (SSC CHSL 2020)
A. 2022
B. 2023
C. 2021
D. 2020
Answer: A
3. Which of the following statement(s) regarding the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) is/are true? (RBI Grade B 28 May 2022)
(i) The Government has approved the project for the construction of over 60,000 houses under the scheme in the next 5 years.
(ii) These 60,000 houses will be constructed across Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, and Rajasthan.
(iii) The total number of sanctioned houses under the scheme stands at 114.07 lahks.
A. Only (ii)
B. Both (i) and (ii)
C. Both (i) and (iii)
D. Both (ii) and (iii)
E. All (i), (ii) and (iii)
Answer: E
|
Source: The Indian Express
CORAL BLEACH IN 2023
1. Context
The water off South Florida is over 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 Celsius) in mid-July, and scientists are already seeing signs of coral bleaching off Central and South America. Particularly concerning is how early in the summer we are seeing these high ocean temperatures. If the extreme heat persists, it could have dire consequences for coral reefs.
2. What are Coral reefs?
Coral reefs are diverse and valuable marine ecosystems formed by the accumulation of coral polyps, tiny organisms related to sea anemones and jellyfish. These polyps secrete a calcium carbonate exoskeleton that provides the framework for the reef structure. Over time, as new generations of corals grow on top of the old ones, the reef continues to develop and expand
Coral reefs are found in clear, warm, and shallow waters, usually between the tropics of Cancer and Capricorn
3. What is Coral bleaching
Coral bleaching is a phenomenon that occurs when coral polyps expel the symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) living within their tissues. These algae provide corals with essential nutrients through photosynthesis and give them their vibrant colours.
When corals are under stress, such as from high water temperatures or pollution, they expel the algae, causing the coral to turn completely white or pale.
3.1. Reasons for Coral bleaching
- The primary cause of coral bleaching is the rising sea temperatures associated with climate change.
- When the water becomes too warm, corals become stressed, and as a survival mechanism, they expel the algae, which leads to the loss of their main source of food.
- Without the colourful algae, the corals appear bleached and are more vulnerable to disease and death
- Other factors can contribute to coral bleaching as well, including ocean acidification, pollution, and extreme weather events.
- All of these stressors can weaken the corals and make them more susceptible to bleaching.
- Coral bleaching is a significant concern for the health and survival of coral reefs around the world.
- Repeated or prolonged bleaching events can lead to mass coral die-offs, causing the loss of biodiversity and the degradation of entire reef ecosystems
4. Why Coral reefs are important to everyone
- Coral reefs are hot spots of biodiversity. They are often referred to as the rainforests of the sea because they are home to the highest concentrations of species in the ocean.
- Healthy reefs are vibrant ecosystems that support fish and fisheries, which in turn support economies and food for millions of people
- Additionally, they provide billions of dollars in economic activity every year through tourism, particularly in places like the Florida Keys, where people go to scuba dive, snorkel, fish and experience the natural beauty of coral reefs
- If that isn’t enough, reefs also protect shorelines, beaches and billions of dollars in coastal infrastructure by buffering wave energy, particularly during storms and hurricanes.
- They host a microscopic symbiotic algae called zooxanthella that photosynthesizes just like plants, providing food to the coral
5. What can we do to protect Coral reefs?
Protecting coral reefs requires a combination of local, national, and global efforts to address the various threats they face
Coral reefs are in danger, and there are many things that can be done to protect them. Here are some of the most important actions that individuals, businesses, and governments can take:
- Reduce your carbon footprint. The main threat to coral reefs is climate change, so reducing your carbon emissions is one of the most important things you can do to help. This means driving less, using less energy at home, and eating less meat.
- Support sustainable fishing practices. Overfishing is another major threat to coral reefs. When fish populations are depleted, it can lead to algae blooms that smother coral reefs. Choose to eat seafood that is sustainably caught, and support businesses that practice sustainable fishing methods.
- Use reef-friendly sunscreen. Some sunscreen ingredients can be harmful to coral reefs. Choose a reef-friendly sunscreen that does not contain oxybenzone or octinoxate.
- Support marine protected areas. Marine protected areas (MPAs) are areas of the ocean where fishing and other human activities are restricted. MPAs can help to protect coral reefs by reducing the amount of pollution and fishing pressure they face.
- Volunteer your time to coral reef conservation efforts. There are many organizations that are working to protect coral reefs. You can volunteer your time to help with beach cleanups, coral reef monitoring, or other conservation efforts.
- Establish Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): Designating and effectively managing marine protected areas can help protect coral reefs and the surrounding marine life from destructive activities such as overfishing, pollution, and habitat destruction.
- Encourage Responsible Tourism: Sustainable tourism practices can minimize the negative impacts on coral reefs. This includes promoting responsible diving and snorkeling practices, limiting physical contact with corals, and avoiding the use of harmful chemicals like sunscreen that can harm marine life
|
For Prelims: Corals, Coral reefs, polyps, zooxanthellae
For Mains: 1.Examine the major human-induced threats to coral reefs, including pollution, overfishing, and coastal development. What measures can be taken to address these threats and conserve coral reef ecosystems?
2.Assess the role of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in safeguarding coral reefs. Discuss the challenges in establishing and effectively managing MPAs for coral reef conservation. |
|
Previous Year Questions
1. Consider the following Statements
1. Most of the coral reefs are in tropical waters
2. More than one-third of the world's coral reefs are located in territories of Australia, Indonesia, and Phillippines
3. Coral reefs host far more number of animal phyla than those hosted by tropical rainforests
Which of the statements above given is/ are correct
A. 1 and 2 B. 3 Only C. 1 and 3 D.1, 2, 3
Answer- D
|
Source: DownToEarth
HINDU UNDIVIDED FAMILY
1. Context
The ongoing deliberations on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) by the Law Commission of India have sparked a discussion on the Hindu Undivided Family (HUF) and its separate treatment under tax laws.
2. Genesis and Structure of HUF
- HUF as a legal entity originated from customs acknowledged during the Raj in India.
- It operates as a family-backed institution for jointly controlling property in Hindu families.
- HUF has a dual identity as a family institution and an income-generating entity for family maintenance.
- Members of HUF include all persons lineally descended from a common ancestor, along with their wives and unmarried daughters.
- A HUF has its own Permanent Account Number (PAN) and files tax returns independently, with a karta managing day-to-day affairs.
3. Historical View
- HUF was recognized as a separate taxpayer category in the Indian Income Tax Act of 1886.
- The Super Tax Act of 1917, introduced to support finances during World War I, officially acknowledged HUF as a separate tax entity.
- The Income Tax Act of 1922, which served as the basis for the post-independence Income Tax Act of 1961, incorporated the idea of HUF as a distinct taxpayer category.
- Government committees examined the preferential tax treatment for HUFs, citing revenue loss and anomalies, but changes were not made due to the link between HUF's tax treatment and its legal status under Hindu personal law.
- The Justice Wanchoo Committee Report of 1971 highlighted the use of HUF for tax avoidance purposes, while a 2018 Law Commission consultation paper questioned the justification of HUF based on deep-rooted sentiments at the expense of the country's revenues.
4. Tax Treatment of HUF
- The preferential exemption regime for HUFs was abolished in the Income Tax Act of 1961.
- HUF as a separate tax entity still provides opportunities for Hindu families to reduce their tax burden.
- Creating an HUF allows income from the ancestral property to be taxed separately, potentially resulting in lower net taxable income and a reduced effective tax rate for individual members.
- Section 10(2) of the Income Tax Act, 1961 allows individuals to receive a share of HUF income without including it in their total income, providing additional tax benefits.
- The HUF can claim expenses, exemptions, and deductions, further reducing the tax burden for Hindu families.
5. Exclusivity of HUF Treatment
- The concept of HUF is unique to Hindu personal law, including Jains, Buddhists, and Sikhs.
- Kerala abolished the joint family system in 1975, rendering HUF assessments invalid.
- Tax benefits associated with creating an HUF are not available to taxpayers from other religions, raising concerns about the lack of uniform application of tax laws and potential violation of Article 14 of the Constitution.
6. The WayForward
- As the Law Commission deliberates on the Uniform Civil Code, the tax treatment of HUF will be a significant consideration.
- It raises questions of equality and uniformity in tax laws across religions, as well as the potential arbitrariness of granting additional tax benefits based on religion.
- Achieving a more equitable and uniform tax system may necessitate a reevaluation of the preferential tax treatment for HUFs to promote fairness and avoid any constitutional concerns.
|
For Prelims: UCC, HUF, Law Commission, Article 14, Indian Income Tax Act of 1886, Super Tax Act of 1917, Income Tax Act of 1922, Income Tax Act of 1961, Justice Wanchoo Committee Report of 1971,
For Mains:
1. Discuss the historical background and structure of the Hindu Undivided Family (HUF) as a legal entity. Explain how has it influenced the tax treatment of HUFs under Indian law. (250 Words)
|
|
Previous Year Questions
1. The purpose of Uniform Civil Code incorporated in Article 44 of Indian Constitution is for: (OPSC OAS 2021)
A. National Security
B. Cultural Integration
C. National Unity
D. Welfare of Minorities
Answer: C
2. Article 14 of the Constitution ensures citizens of India having which right? (DSSSB PRT 2018)
A. Right against discrimination
B. Right to privacy
C. Right to get free and compulsory basic education
D. Equality
Answer: D
3. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the list: (TNPSC Group 2 2015)
List I Committee List II Purpose
(a) Dutt Committee 1. Industrial Licensing
(b) Wanchoo Committee 2. Direct Taxes
(c) Rajamannar Committee 3. Centre-States
(d) Rangarajan Committee 4. Disinvestment
(a) - 4, (b) - 3, (c) - 2, (d) - 1
(a) - 1, (b) - 2, (c) - 4, (d) - 3
(a) - 1, (b) - 2, (c) - 3, (d) - 4
(a) - 4, (b) - 1, (c) - 3, (d) - 2
Answer: C
|
Source: The Indian Express
GAMBUSIA
1. Context
The Andhra Pradesh government has released approximately 10 million Gambusia fish into the state’s water bodies to combat mosquito-borne diseases like malaria and dengue. The fish, also known as mosquitofish, is widely used as a biological agent for controlling mosquito larvae.
Andhra Pradesh reported approximately 6,391 dengue cases and 2,022 malaria cases in 2022, according to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India (MoHFW).
2. About Gambusia
Gambusia is a genus of small freshwater fish belonging to the family Poeciliidae.
The most well-known species in this genus is Gambusia affinis, commonly known as the Western Mosquitofish or simply Mosquitofish.
Gambusia fish are native to North and Central America, but they have been introduced to many other regions around the world for mosquito control and other purposes.
2.1.Key features of Gambusia fish include:
-
Size and Appearance: Mosquitofish are small fish, typically reaching lengths of 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 centimeters). They have a streamlined body with a rounded abdomen and a short, upturned mouth. Males are generally smaller and more colorful than females, displaying vibrant colors and patterns.
-
Reproduction: Gambusia fish are livebearers, meaning they give birth to live, fully-formed fry instead of laying eggs. Female mosquitofish can store sperm from a single mating event and use it to fertilize multiple broods over time. They are known for their rapid reproductive rate, contributing to their effectiveness in mosquito control efforts.
-
Mosquito Control: One of the primary reasons for introducing Gambusia fish to various parts of the world is their appetite for mosquito larvae. These fish feed on mosquito larvae, effectively reducing mosquito populations and helping control the spread of mosquito-borne diseases like malaria and dengue fever.
-
Habitat: Gambusia fish are typically found in slow-moving or still freshwater habitats such as ponds, ditches, marshes, and lakes. They can tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions, including brackish water.
3. Cause of Concern
A World Health Organization publication supported the effectiveness of breeding and use of G affinis as a larval control method in man-made breeding habitats, like swimming pools and garden ponds, with no access to the natural environment.
The report, however, warned against the release of the exotic fish species into natural environment, as they “may cause unwanted side-effects by replacing local species or affecting other aquatic animals.”
|
For Prelims: Aedes mosquito, Gambusia, Mosquito eating fish
For Mains:1.Analyze the role of Gambusia fish (Mosquitofish) in mosquito control and its effectiveness in mitigating mosquito-borne diseases. Discuss the benefits and potential ecological impacts of introducing Gambusia fish to various regions.
2.Gambusia fish has been introduced to numerous countries for mosquito control purposes. Examine the challenges associated with the introduction of non-native species and its potential consequences on local biodiversity and ecosystems. |
Source: DownToEarth
KANWAR YATRA
1. Context
The annual Kanwar Yatra, a Hindu pilgrimage that involves devotees carrying pitchers of holy water to Shiva temples, recently concluded amid massive security and traffic arrangements. While the yatra witnessed some unfortunate incidents this year, it remained largely free of accidents and law-and-order issues.
2. Religious Significance of the Kanwar Yatra
- The Kanwar Yatra is a pilgrimage organized during the Hindu calendar month of Shravana (Saavan), primarily dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Devotees, traditionally clad in saffron, carry pitchers of holy water, obtained from various pilgrimage sites, to worship Shiva lingas at important shrines.
- The ritual is rooted in Hindu mythology, with legends connecting it to the origin of 'amrita,' the nectar of immortality, and Lord Shiva's act of consuming lethal poison to protect the world.
Image Source: Hindustan3. Pilgrimage Centers and Yatra Routes
- Pilgrims from different regions undertake the Kanwar Yatra to specific pilgrimage centres.
- In Western Uttar Pradesh and neighbouring states, devotees generally travel to Uttarakhand, particularly to Haridwar, Gaumukh, and Gangotri, to collect the holy water.
- Devotees from Ayodhya and nearby districts visit Sultanganj in Bihar and then undertake a 115-km journey to Baba Baidyanath Dham in Deoghar, Jharkhand, to offer the water to Lord Shiva.
- Other pilgrimage centres include Baba Basukinath Dham in Dumka district, Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, Lodheshwar Mahadev in Barabanki, and Kshireshwar Mahadev Temple in Ayodhya.
4. Conclusion
- The Kanwar Yatra holds immense religious significance for devotees who undertake this pilgrimage to worship Lord Shiva.
- The Yatra's cultural and mythological roots add to its appeal and draw thousands of participants each year.
- While incidents and security concerns may arise, the authorities make significant efforts to ensure the safety and convenience of Kanwariyas by implementing traffic diversions, providing medical assistance, and maintaining law and order.
- The Kanwar Yatra continues to be a significant religious event deeply ingrained in the traditions and beliefs of Hindu devotees.
|
For Prelims: Kanwar Yatra, Haridwar, Gaumukh, Gangotri, Ayodhya, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi, Lodheshwar Mahadev, Barabanki, Kshireshwar Mahadev Temple,
For Mains:
1. Analyze the socio-cultural and economic impact of the Kanwar Yatra on the regions it traverses. How does the pilgrimage contribute to local economies, tourism, and the preservation of religious heritage? (250 Words)
|
|
Previous Year Questions
1. Bhagirathi River originates from: (MPPSC 2013)
A. Mount kailash B. Mansarovar lake C. Gomukh D. Tapovan
Answer: C
2. Match the following: (MPSC Rajyaseva 2022)
Glacier Place
(a) Siachin (i) Kashmir
(b) Rimo (ii) Karakoram
(c) Gangotri (iii) Uttarakhand
(d) Zemu (iv) Sikkim
1. (a) - (iii), (b) - (iv), (c) - (ii), (d) - (i)
2. (a) - (i), (b) - (ii), (c) - (iii), (d) - (iv)
3. (a) - (ii), (b) - (i), (c) - (iii), (d) - (iv)
4. (a) - (iv), (b) - (iii), (c) - (i), (d) - (ii)
Answer: 3
3. Which of the following inscriptions gives the information about two Ashwamecha Yajnas performed by the King Pushyamitra Shung? (UPPSC Civil Service 2018)
A. Saranath inscription
B. Besnagar inscription
C. Ayodhya inscription
D. Hathigumpha inscription
Answer: C
4. Librehan Commission was appointed by the Union Government to enquire into: (Kerala SET 2017)
A. Indira Gandhi Assassination case
B. Babri Masjid Demolition case
C. Educational Reforms
D. Centre-State Relations
Answer: B
5. Where is Kashi Vishwanath Temple located? (ICAR Technician 2022)
A. Agra B. Aligarh C. Lucknow D. Varanasi
Answer: D
6. Who led the 'Banaras Rebellion' against the Britishers? (UPPSC RO/ARO 2021)
A. Shujauddaullah B. Asaf-ud-Daulah C. Raja Chet Singh D. Raja Maheep Narayan Singh
Answer: C
7. Which one of the following pairs is NOT correctly matched? (UPPSC Combined State Exam 2022)
1. Ishanverman - Harha stone inscription
2. Sarvaverman - Gaya Copper Plate
3. Jivit Gupta - Second - Deva Barnark inscription
4. Ishwarverman - Jaunpur stone inscription
Answer: 2
8. Under the Warabandi system, the distributaries are operated at full capacities, usually on: (DSSSB JE CE 2019)
A. seven-day periods
B. six-day periods
C. nine-day periods
D. eight-day periods
Answer: D
9. Consider the following pairs: (UPSC 2015)
Place of Pilgrimage Location
1. Srisailam Nallamala Hills
2. Omkareshwar Satmala Hills
3. Pushkar Mahadeo Hills
Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?
A. 1 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
|
Source: The Indian Express
BIMSTEC
1. Context
Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Kathmandu for the fourth summit of the seven-nation grouping BIMSTEC. Although it has existed since 1997, BIMSTEC had been largely ignored until a push in recent years. A look at how it is emerging as a platform in which India and four other SAARC members could discuss sub-regional cooperation.
2. About BIMSTEC
- BIMSTEC is the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, is a regional organization comprising seven member states in South Asia and Southeast Asia.
- The organization aims to foster cooperation and strengthen ties among its member countries in various sectors, including trade, economy, technology, tourism, and people-to-people contact.
- BIMSTEC was established on June 6, 1997, through the Bangkok Declaration.
- The member countries of BIMSTEC are Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
- BIMSTEC brings together countries from two contiguous regions- South Asia and Southeast Asia- connected by the Bay of Bengal.
- The organization represents a diverse and vibrant mix of cultures, languages, and economies.
- Around 22% of the world’s population lives in the seven countries around the Bay of
Bengal, with a combined GDP close to $2.7 trillion. - All seven countries have sustained average annual rates of growth between 3.4% and 7.5% from 2012 to 2016. A fourth of the world’s traded goods cross the bay every year.
3. Objectives of BIMSTEC:
- Enhancing Economic Cooperation: BIMSTEC aims to promote economic cooperation among member countries by facilitating trade, investment, and the development of infrastructure. It seeks to create a seamless flow of goods and services within the region, fostering economic growth and development.
- Strengthening Connectivity: Improving physical and digital connectivity is a crucial aspect of BIMSTEC's objectives. By enhancing transport and communication links, the organization seeks to facilitate easier movement of people and goods, encouraging regional integration.
- Promoting People-to-People Contact: BIMSTEC strives to promote cultural, educational, and tourism exchanges among member countries. This approach helps in fostering mutual understanding, friendship, and trust among the people of the region.
- Addressing Common Challenges: BIMSTEC provides a platform for member countries to address common challenges such as climate change, natural disasters, terrorism, and transnational crime. Cooperation in these areas is vital to ensuring the security and well-being of the region.
- Facilitating Technical Cooperation: The organization promotes technical cooperation in various sectors, such as agriculture, fisheries, technology, energy, and the environment. Sharing knowledge and expertise helps member countries address their developmental needs more effectively.
4. How BIMSTEC is important for India?
- It provides a new platform for India to engage with its neighbors with the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) becoming dysfunctional because of differences between India and Pakistan.
- BIMSTEC allows India to pursue three core policies:
- Neighborhood First – primacy to the country’s immediate periphery;
- Act East – connect India with Southeast Asia; and
- Economic development of India’s northeastern states – by linking them to the Bay of Bengal region via Bangladesh and Myanmar.
- Allow India to counter China's creeping influence in countries around the Bay of Bengal due to the spread of its One Belt and One Road initiative.
5. India's Renewed Push for BIMSTEC and Isolating Pakistan
- Trigger Event: Terror attack in Uri
- India held an outreach summit with BIMSTEC leaders alongside the BRICS summit in Goa.
- Some BIMSTEC countries backed India's call for boycotting the SAARC summit in Islamabad (November 2016).
- India declared victory in isolating Pakistan after the SAARC summit was postponed.
- India believed SAARC's potential was under-utilized due to Pakistan's lack of response and obstructionist approach.
- At the 2014 SAARC summit in Kathmandu, Modi emphasized realizing opportunities through SAARC or outside it, among all or some member countries.
6. Challenges faced by BIMSTEC
- Neglect by member states: It seems that India has used BIMSTEC only when it fails to work through SAARC in the regional setting and other major members like Thailand and Myanmar are focused more towards ASEAN than BIMSTEC.
- Inconsistent Meetings: BIMSTEC planned to hold summits every two years, and ministerial meetings every year, but only four summits have taken place in 20 years up to 2018.
- Broad Focus Areas: The focus of BIMSTEC is very wide, including 14 areas of cooperation like connectivity, public health, agriculture, etc. It is suggested that BIMSTEC should remain committed to small focus areas and cooperate in them efficiently.
- No FTA: BIMSTEC FTA was negotiated in 2004, talks on it are yet to be concluded.
- Bilateral Issues between Member Nations: Bangladesh is facing one of the worst refugee crisis of Rohingyas from Myanmar who are fleeing prosecution in the state of Rakhine in Myanmar. There is a border conflict between Myanmar and Thailand.
- BCIM: The formation of another sub-regional initiative, the Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar (BCIM) Forum, with the proactive membership of China, has created more doubts about the exclusive potential of BIMSTEC.
|
For Prelims: BIMSTEC, Free Trade Agreement (FTA), Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar (BCIM) Forum, ASEAN, South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), Act East Policy, Neighbourhood First Policy, and Uri Attack.
For Mains: 1. Discuss the significance and challenges of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) in promoting regional cooperation and integration among its member countries. (250 words)
|
|
Previous year Questions
1. With reference to the BIMSTEC, which of the following statements is/are true? (UPPSC 2022)
1. P. M. Narendra Modi addressed the 5th BIMSTEC Summit on 30th March 2022.
2. 5th Summit of BIMSTEC had been chaired by India.
Select the correct answer from the code given below:
A. Neither 1 nor 2
B. Both 1 and 2
C. Only 2
D. Only 1
Answer: D
2. Which of the following statement/s is/are true about the three-day international Seminar on 'Climate Smart Farming System' for BIMSTEC countries held during December 11-13, 2019? (UPPSC 2020)
1. It was held at Katmandu, Nepal.
2. It was aimed to have experience sharing for more resilience to climate change through an ecological approach to enable the improvement of tropical small-holding farming systems.
Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
A. Only 1
B. Only 2
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: B
|
Source: The Indian Express
