INDIA'S MIDDLE EAST POLICY
1. Context
2. India's Middle East policy
India's Middle East policy is a significant aspect of its foreign policy, which aims to maintain and strengthen its diplomatic, economic, and strategic relationships with countries in the Middle East region. The Middle East policy of India is influenced by various factors, including energy security, trade, geopolitical considerations, and historical ties.
India's policy towards the Middle East
- One of the primary drivers of India's engagement with the Middle East is energy security. India is heavily dependent on oil and gas imports from Middle Eastern countries. Securing a stable and uninterrupted energy supply is a critical component of India's foreign policy.
- India has historical and cultural ties with many countries in the Middle East, particularly with countries in the Gulf region. These relationships are often based on shared historical and cultural connections, including trade and migration.
- The Middle East offers significant economic opportunities for India. It is a major trading partner for India, with exports of goods and services, including manpower (skilled and unskilled labour), playing a crucial role in India's economic growth.
- India has a shared interest with many Middle Eastern countries in countering terrorism and promoting regional security. Cooperation in intelligence sharing, counterterrorism efforts, and defence partnerships are essential components of India's Middle East policy.
- India's Middle East policy involves a delicate balancing act. It seeks to maintain good relations with countries in the region, even when they have conflicting interests, such as India's relationship with Israel and its historical support for the Palestinian cause.
- India has a significant Indian diaspora in the Middle East, particularly in the Gulf countries. The welfare and protection of the Indian community living and working in the region are a priority for India's Middle East policy.
- India is actively involved in regional and multilateral forums in the Middle East, such as the Arab League, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). India's presence in these forums helps it strengthen its regional influence.
- India has developed strategic partnerships with several Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Israel. These partnerships cover various aspects, including defence, security, and economic cooperation.
- India often seeks to play a constructive role in addressing regional conflicts in the Middle East, such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the situation in Yemen and Syria.
- India's Middle East policy includes efforts to diversify its energy sources, reduce dependence on a few countries, and enhance energy security through strategic investments and partnerships.
3. Repercussions of the Israel-Palestine Conflict on India
- An escalation in the conflict may disrupt India's trade relations with Israel, especially in defence technology. Israel is a significant supplier of defence equipment to India, and any disturbance in this trade could affect India's defence capabilities.
- India traditionally maintains a balanced foreign policy approach towards Israel and Arab countries. An intensification of the conflict, potentially involving other Arab nations, could pose diplomatic challenges for India in maintaining its equilibrium.
- India's economic and strategic interests in the Middle East have grown, particularly regarding initiatives like the India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor. Escalation and involvement of regional actors like Hezbollah and Iran could destabilize the region, impacting India's interests.
- The Middle East is a crucial source of energy imports for India. Disruptions in the region's stability could potentially affect India's energy supply, leading to economic challenges.
- India has a significant expatriate population in Middle Eastern countries. Ensuring their safety and welfare is a top priority for India, and an escalation of the conflict may put their well-being at risk.
4. India's Stand
- India has a long-standing history of supporting the Palestinian cause, opposing the UN's partition plan in 1947, and withholding full diplomatic relations with Israel for many years.
- India recognized the statehood of Palestine in 1988 and was one of the first countries to do so.
- India has adopted a balanced approach by recognizing both Israel and Palestine. In 2018, it de-hyphenated its relationship with both nations, treating them independently.
- India has supported UNHRC resolutions to investigate human rights violations in Gaza. However, India also abstained from voting against Israel in UNHRC in 2015.
- India advocates for peaceful dialogue and diplomacy as the primary means to resolve the conflict. It supports the Quartet and other international actors in facilitating peace talks between Israel and Palestine.
5. The way forward
India's Middle East policy is characterized by its pragmatism, adaptability, and the pursuit of its national interests. It aims to strike a balance between maintaining good relations with all countries in the region while securing its energy needs and expanding economic and strategic partnerships. This policy is continually evolving to respond to the changing dynamics in the Middle East and India's global aspirations.
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For Prelims: Israel, India's Middle East policy, Gulf Cooperation Council, Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Arab League,
For Mains:
1. Analyze India's approach to countering terrorism and promoting regional security in the Middle East. How does India collaborate with Middle Eastern nations in these areas, and what are the implications for its foreign policy? (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions 1. Which of the following is NOT a member of Gulf Cooperation Council? (UPSC 2016)
A. Iran B. Saudi Arabia C. Oman D. Kuwait
Answer: A
2. Which one of the following statements about the Organization of Islamic Cooperation is not correct? (CDS GK 2019)
A. Its permanent Secretariat is located at Jeddah.
B. It endeavour's to safeguard and protect interests of the Muslim world in the spirit of promoting international peace and harmony among various people of the world.
C. It is the largest inter-governmental organization of the world
D. It has consultative and cooperative relations with the UN.
Answer: C
3. Consider the following pairs: (UPSC 2018)
Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched? (a) 1 and 2 (b) 1 and 4 (c) 2 and 3 (d) 3 and 4 Answer: B 4. Which one of the following countries of South-West Asia does not open out to the Mediterranean Sea? (UPSC 2015) (a) Syria Answer: B 5. The area known as ‘Golan Heights’ sometimes appears in the news in the context of the events related to (UPSC 2015) (a) Central Asia Answer: B 6. Yom Kippur War was fought between which sides/ countries? (UPSC 2008) (a) Turkey and Greece Answer: C Mains: 1.“India’s relations with Israel have, of late, acquired a depth and diversity, which cannot be rolled back.” Discuss (UPSC 2018) |
Source: indianexpress
USS GERALD R. FORD
- The USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) is the lead ship of the Gerald R. Ford-class of aircraft carriers in the United States Navy.
- Named after the 38th President of the United States, Gerald R. Ford, this supercarrier represents the next generation of aircraft carriers and incorporates several significant technological advancements and design changes compared to its predecessors.
- A standard US CSG comprises a cruiser, at least two frigates or destroyers, and a supply ship. On occasion, a CSG may also boast of one or more submarines. The US has sent cruiser USS Normandy and destroyers USS Thomas Hudner, USS Ramage, USS Carney, and USS Roosevelt, along with the Gerald R Ford to the Eastern Mediterranean.
- Here are 5 things that you should know about the USS Gerald R Ford
- The USS Gerald R Ford is the largest warship ever built. It is 337 m long, 78 m wide (measured at the flight deck) and 76 m high.
- For perspective, the Qutub Minar in Delhi is just 72 m high more than 4.5 Qutub Minars would fit on the deck of the USS Gerald R Ford, lengthwise. It also displaces 100,000 tonnes at full load equivalent to nearly four times the weight of steel used for the Howrah Bridge
- For comparison, India’s aircraft carrier INS Vikrant weighs 45,000 tons at full load, with dimensions of 262 m x 62m x 59m.
- Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS): The Ford class carriers use an electromagnetic catapult system (EMALS) instead of the traditional steam catapults for launching aircraft.
- Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG): The Ford class carriers use an advanced system for aircraft recovery called the Advanced Arresting Gear.
- Increased Aircraft Capacity: The Ford class is designed to carry more aircraft and operate with increased efficiency compared to its predecessors.
RIGHTS OF UNBORN CHILD
The Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act (MTP Act) allows termination of pregnancy in three stages.
- Termination of pregnancy up to 20 weeks is allowed on the advice of one doctor.
- If a pregnancy is 20-24 weeks, the right to seek abortion is determined by two registered medical practitioners as an exception, but only under certain categories.
Section 3B of the Rules under the MTP Act lists seven categories of forced pregnancies, including statutory rape in case of minors or sexual assault; women with disabilities; or when there is a change in marital status of women during pregnancy.
After 24 weeks, a medical board must be set up in “approved facilities”, which may “allow or deny termination of pregnancy” only if there is substantial foetal abnormality
4. Rights of an Unborn Child
The concept of rights for unborn children is a controversial one, and it varies widely depending on legal, cultural, and philosophical perspectives. In many countries, the legal rights of unborn children are not as established as those of born individuals. Here are some key points to consider regarding the rights of unborn children:
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The legal rights of unborn children vary by jurisdiction. In some places, there may be limited legal protections for the unborn, such as in cases of fetal homicide or child endangerment. However, the extent and nature of these protections can differ significantly.
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One of the most contentious issues related to the rights of the unborn is the question of abortion. Abortion laws and regulations differ widely around the world, with some countries allowing for abortion on demand during early stages of pregnancy, while others restrict or prohibit it. These laws are often influenced by cultural, religious, and ethical beliefs.
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Many legal systems prioritize the health and well-being of pregnant women to ensure that they receive adequate prenatal care and support during pregnancy. This focus on the mother's rights and health can sometimes conflict with potential rights of the unborn child.
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The question of when a fetus or unborn child should be considered a person with legal rights is a central issue in discussions about the rights of the unborn. Some people believe that personhood begins at conception, while others argue it begins at a later stage of development, such as viability (the point at which a fetus can potentially survive outside the womb).
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The rights of the unborn are also influenced by ethical and moral beliefs. Philosophical and religious perspectives vary on the status of the unborn, which can impact views on the rights of the fetus.
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Another complex factor is the principle of maternal autonomy, which holds that a pregnant woman has the right to make decisions about her own body and reproductive health. This principle often comes into conflict with potential rights of the unborn child.
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In most legal systems, once a child is born, they are granted a full set of rights and legal protections. These rights may include the right to life, health, education, and more.
- Viability is closely tied to the gestational age of the fetus. Gestational age is typically measured in weeks from the first day of the mother's last menstrual period. While there is no fixed gestational age at which viability occurs, it generally falls between 24 to 28 weeks of pregnancy.
- The point of fetal viability has shifted earlier in pregnancy over the years due to advancements in medical technology and neonatal care. In some well-equipped medical centers, premature infants born as early as 22 weeks gestation have survived with medical intervention
- The viability of a fetus depends on various factors, including the availability of advanced neonatal care facilities, the overall health of the mother, the presence of any fetal abnormalities, and the baby's weight and lung development.
- The concept of fetal viability is significant in the context of abortion laws. In many countries, the right to choose an abortion without significant legal restrictions is more prevalent earlier in pregnancy, before fetal viability. After the point of viability, laws may become more restrictive, allowing for abortion only in cases of maternal health endangerment or severe fetal abnormalities
- The question of whether to provide life-saving medical intervention for a preterm infant born at the cusp of viability can raise ethical dilemmas. Medical professionals, parents, and ethicists may face difficult decisions about whether to pursue aggressive treatment and what the potential outcomes and quality of life might be for the infant
INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION (IIP)
1. Context
2. About the Index of Industrial Production (IIP)
- The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) is a macroeconomic indicator that measures the changes in the volume of production of a basket of industrial goods over some time.
- It is a composite index that reflects the performance of the industrial sector of an economy.
- The IIP is compiled and released by the Central Statistical Organisation (CSO) in India.
- The IIP is calculated using a Laspeyres index formula, which means that the weights assigned to different industries are based on their relative importance in a base year. The current base year for the IIP is 2011-12.
- The eight core sector industries represent about 40% of the weight of items that are included in the IIP.
- The eight core industries are Refinery Products, Electricity, Steel, Coal, Crude Oil, Natural Gas, Cement and Fertilizers.
- It covers 407 item groups included into 3 categories viz. Manufacturing, Mining and Electricity.
- The IIP is a useful tool for assessing the health of the industrial sector and the overall economy.
- It is used by policymakers, businesses, and investors to track trends in industrial production and make informed decisions.
3. Significance of IIP
The IIP is a significant economic indicator that provides insights into the following aspects
- The IIP reflects the growth or decline of the industrial sector, which is a major contributor to overall economic growth.
- The IIP measures the level of industrial activity, indicating the production volume of various industries.
- The IIP serves as a guide for policymakers to assess the effectiveness of economic policies and make informed decisions.
- Businesses use the IIP to assess market conditions, make production plans, and evaluate investment opportunities.
- The IIP influences investor sentiment as it reflects the overall health of the industrial sector.
4. Service Sector and IIP
- The IIP does not include the service sector. It focuses on the production of goods in the industrial sector, such as manufacturing, mining, and electricity.
- The service sector is measured by a separate index, the Index of Services Production (ISP).
- The IIP data is released monthly by the Central Statistical Organisation (CSO) in India.
- The data is released with a lag of six weeks, allowing for the collection and compilation of information from various industries.
6. Users of IIP Data
The IIP data is used by a wide range of stakeholders, including:
- Government agencies and central banks use the IIP to assess economic conditions and formulate policies.
- Companies use the IIP to evaluate market trends, make production decisions, and assess investment opportunities.
- Investors use the IIP to gauge the health of the industrial sector and make investment decisions.
- Economic analysts and researchers use the IIP to study economic trends and develop forecasts.
- The IIP is widely reported in the media and is of interest to the general public as an indicator of economic performance.
7. Manufacturing Drives Industrial Production Growth
- Factory output gained on the back of a 9.3 per cent increase in manufacturing, which accounts for 77.6 per cent of the weight of the IIP (Index of Industrial Production).
- Manufacturing output had grown by 5 per cent in July and had contracted by 0.5 per cent in August 2022.
- In absolute terms, it improved to 143.5 in August from 141.8 in July and 131.3 in the year-ago period.
- As per the IIP data, seven of the 23 sectors in manufacturing registered a contraction in August, with furniture, apparel, and computer and electronics among the significant non-performers.
- Among the performing sectors, fabricated metal products, electrical equipment and basic metals fared better.
- Garments and chemicals witnessed negative growth. This can be attributed to lower growth in exports as these two are export-dependent.
- The electronics industry also witnessed negative growth, which again can be linked to existing high stocks and lower export demand.
- In terms of the use-based industries, consumer durables output returned to positive territory for the second time this fiscal with 5.7 per cent growth in August, reflecting a pickup in consumption demand.
- However, it came on the back of a 4.4 per cent contraction in consumer durables output in the year-ago period.
- Primary, infrastructure/ construction, and capital goods recorded double-digit growth rates in August at 12.4 per cent, 14.9 per cent and 12.6 per cent, respectively.
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For Prelims: The Index of Industrial Production (IIP), Central Statistical Organisation,
For Mains:
1. Discuss the significance of the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) as an economic indicator and its role in assessing the health of the industrial sector and the overall economy. (250 Words)
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| Previous Year Questions
1. In India, in the overall Index of Industrial Production, the Indices of Eight Core Industries have a combined weight of 37.90%. Which of the following are among those Eight Core Industries? (UPSC CSE 2012)
1. Cement
2. Fertilizers
3. Natural gas
4. Refinery products
5. Textiles
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
A. 1 and 5 only B. 2, 3 and 4 only C. 1, 2, 3 and 4 only D. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Answer: C
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