UNEMPLOYMENT IN INDIA
Unemployment is a situation where people who are actively seeking employment are unable to find work. The unemployment rate is calculated as the percentage of the labor force that is unemployed.
The labor force is defined as the number of people who are either employed or unemployed.
2.1. Unemployment rate
The unemployment rate in India is the percentage of the labor force that is unemployed
The unemployment rate in India has been fluctuating in recent years.
In 2020, the unemployment rate was 10.20%, which was the highest it had been in decades.
The unemployment rate then declined to 7.71% in 2021
Where:
- Number of Unemployed Individuals: The total number of people who are able and willing to work but are currently unemployed and actively seeking employment.
- Labor Force: The total number of people who are either employed or actively seeking employment.
The formula to calculate the employment rate is:
Employment Rate = (Number of Employed Individuals / Working-Age Population) x 100
Where:
- Number of Employed Individuals: The total number of people who are currently employed.
- Working-Age Population: The total number of people within a specified age range (typically those considered to be of working age).
Some common types of unemployment include:
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Structural Unemployment: This type of unemployment occurs when there is a mismatch between the skills possessed by workers and the skills demanded by available job opportunities. It can result from changes in technology, shifts in industries, or changes in consumer preferences.
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Frictional Unemployment: Frictional unemployment arises due to the natural process of workers moving between jobs or entering the workforce for the first time. It occurs when there is a temporary gap between the end of one job and the start of another.
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Cyclical Unemployment: Cyclical unemployment is caused by fluctuations in economic activity and demand. It increases during economic downturns or recessions when businesses reduce production and lay off workers due to decreased consumer spending.
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Seasonal Unemployment: Seasonal unemployment is linked to seasonal changes in demand for specific industries. For example, agricultural or tourism-related jobs might experience temporary unemployment during off-seasons.
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Long-Term Unemployment: This refers to individuals who have been unemployed for an extended period, often for more than six months. It can lead to skill erosion and decreased employability.
- The deterioration in the employment scenario can be tracked at many levels
- One, over the years, there has been a sharp fall in the labour force participation rate in India
- Data from CMIE suggests that the labour force participation rate has fallen to around 40 per cent. For comparable countries, it is significantly higher.
- This decline suggests that despite India’s young population, many have simply opted out of the labour force, perhaps feeling let down by the absence of remunerative, productive jobs
- The situation is even more dire for women who had a considerably lower participation rate to begin with. India’s female labour force participation is not only lower than the global average, but also lower than countries like Bangladesh
- Two, even as the unemployment rate has declined from the highs observed during the initial phase of the pandemic, it remains elevated, suggesting that among those looking for jobs, those unable to find jobs remains high
- Three, the unemployment rate is higher among the younger and more educated. As per the periodic labour force surveys, the unemployment rate is higher among those in the 15-29 age group (22.5 per cent in September 2019), and those educated up to at least the secondary level (11 per cent).
- Four, while there are signs of increasing formalisation as indicated by the EPFO data, a substantial share of the labour force continues to remain employed in the informal sector, lacking a safety net
CMIE's role is to provide economic data, analysis, and forecasts for India and the world. It does this through a variety of products and services, including:
- Economic data: CMIE collects and publishes economic data on a variety of topics, including GDP, inflation, employment, and trade.
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- Economic forecasts: CMIE provides forecasts of economic growth, inflation, and other economic indicators.
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- Training: CMIE provides training on economic data analysis and forecasting.
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For Prelims: Unemployment, Types of Unemployment, Periodic Labour Force Survey
For Mains: 1.Discuss the different types of unemployment prevalent in India and analyze their causes. How do these types of unemployment impact the country's labor market and overall economic growth?
2.India's demographic dividend has the potential to drive economic growth, but the challenge of youth unemployment persists. Analyze the factors contributing to youth unemployment and propose policy interventions to address this issue effectively.
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Previous Year Questions
1.Disguised Unemployment generally means
A. Large number of people remain unemployed
B. Alternative Employment is not available
C. Marginal Productivity od Labour is Zero
D. Productivity of Workers is Zero
Answer -C
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ROLE OF GOVERNOR IN PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES
1. Context
2. What is the role of the Chancellor in public universities?
- State public universities are established through laws passed by state legislatures. In most laws, the Governor has been designated as the chancellor of these universities.
- The chancellor functions as the head of public universities and appoints the Vice-Chancellor of the university. Further, the Chancellor can declare invalid, any university proceeding which is not as per existing laws.
- In some states such as Bihar, Gujarat, and Jharkhand the Chancellor has the power to conduct inspections in the university. The chancellor also presides over the convocation of the university and confirms proposals for conferring honorary degrees. This is different in Telangana, where the Chancellor is appointed by the state government.
- The Chancellor presides over the meetings of various university bodies (such as the court/senate of the university). The court/senate decides on matters of general policy related to the development of the university, such as: (i) establishing new university departments, (ii) conferring and withdrawing degrees and titles, and (iii) instituting fellowships.
- The West Bengal University Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2022 designates the Chief Minister of West Bengal as the Chancellor of the 31 public universities in the state.
- Further, the Chief Minister (instead of the Governor) will be the head of these universities and preside over the meetings of University bodies (Such as the Court/Senate).
3. Does the Governor have discretion in his capacity as Chancellor?
- The Sarkaria and Puunchi Commission also dealt with the role of the Governor in educational institutions. Both Commissions concurred that while discharging statutory functions, the Governor is not legally bounded by the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers.
- However, it may be advantageous for the Governor to consult the concerned Minister.
- The Sarkaria Commission recommended that state legislatures should avoid conferring statutory powers on the Governor, which were not envisaged by the constitution.
- The Puunchi Commission observed that the role of the Governor as the Chancellor may expose the office to controversies or public criticism. Hence, the role of the governor should be restricted to constitutional provisions only.
4. Recent Developments
- Recently, some states have taken steps to reduce the oversight of the Governor in-state public universities.
- In April 2022, the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly passed two Bills, to transfer the power of appointing the Vice-Chancellor (in public universities) from the Governor, to the state Government. As of June 8, 2022, these bills have not received the Governor's assent.
- In 2021, Maharastra amended the process to appoint the Vice Chancellor of state public universities. Before the amendment, a search Committee forwarded a panel of a least five names to the Chancellor (who is the Governor).
- The Chancellor could then appoint one of the persons from the suggested panel as Vice-Chancellor, or ask for a fresh panel of names to be recommended.
- The 2021 amendment mandated the search Committee to first forward the panel names to the state government which would recommend a panel of two names (from the original panel) to the Chancellor.
- The Chancellor must appoint one of the two names from the panel as Vice-Chancellor within thirty days.
- As per the amendment, the Chancellor has no option of asking for a fresh panel of names to be recommended.
- The Chancellor must appoint one of the two names from the panel as Vice-Chancellor within thirty days. As per the amendment, the Chancellor has no option of asking for a fresh panel of names to be recommended.
For Prelims & Mains
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For Prelims: Governor, Sarkaria Commission, Puunchi Commission, Vice-Chancellor.
For Mains: 1. Explain the role of the Chancellor (Governor) in public universities in light of recent developments that took place in Tamil Nadu and Maharastra.
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SIMULTANEOUS ELECTIONS
Simultaneous elections(One Nation One Election) in India refer to the idea of holding the Lok Sabha (parliamentary) and state legislative assembly elections across the country at the same time, rather than the current system of staggered elections where polls are held at different times for different states and union territories. This concept has been a topic of discussion and debate in Indian politics for several years.
Key characteristics related to simultaneous elections in India:
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Current Election System: India follows a federal system of government, which means that elections are held separately for the Lok Sabha (federal parliament) and state legislative assemblies. Furthermore, the terms of different state assemblies can vary, leading to elections happening at different times across the country.
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Arguments in Favor:
- Cost and Resource Efficiency: Conducting elections at different times is expensive and requires significant resources. Simultaneous elections could save time and money.
- Stability and Governance: Proponents argue that simultaneous elections can provide more political stability and allow governments to focus on governance instead of frequent election campaigning.
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Challenges and Concerns:
- Constitutional Hurdles: Implementing simultaneous elections would require constitutional amendments, as the terms of state assemblies cannot be easily synchronized with the Lok Sabha.
- Logistical Challenges: Organizing simultaneous elections for a country as vast and diverse as India is a complex logistical challenge.
- Impact on Regional Parties: Smaller regional parties are concerned that simultaneous elections might undermine their ability to campaign effectively.
Components of an EVM:
- Control Unit: This is the main unit of the EVM. It is operated by a polling officer and manages the authentication of voters.
- Balloting Unit: This unit is where voters cast their votes. It is connected to the control unit and displays the list of candidates and their respective symbols
- When a voter casts their vote by pressing the button next to their chosen candidate's name, the EVM records the vote electronically.
- EVMs are designed to ensure secrecy and prevent double voting.
- After the election, the data stored in the EVMs is used to tally the votes
- EVMs are designed with multiple layers of security to prevent tampering or hacking.
- They use a one-time programmable (OTP) chip to store voting data securely.
- Before and after elections, EVMs are subject to rigorous testing and sealing to ensure their integrity
- Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machines are used during election process to verify that the vote polled by a voter goes to the correct candidate.
- VVPATs are a second line of verification and are particularly useful in the time when allegations around Electronic Voting Machines’ tampering crop up.
- Parties have been making regular demands for VVPATs to be used during elections after alleging EVMs may not be completely secure and tamper proof.
VVPAT system gives instant feedback to the voter showing that the vote polled has in fact been allotted against the candidate chosen. - After a voter presses the button on the EVM against the chosen candidate, the VVPAT prints a slip containing name of the candidate and the election symbol and drops it automatically into a sealed box. The machines give the chance for the voter to verify their vote.
- The machine is placed in a glass case in a way that only the voter can see it. The slip is displayed to the voter for seven seconds after which the VVPAT machine cuts it and drops in into the storage box with a beep. The machines can be accessed, though, by the polling officials and not by the voter.
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For Prelims: Indian Polity and Governance
For Mains: General Studies II: Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act
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Previous Year Questions
1. The Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) system was used for the first time by the Election Commission of India in (UPSC CSE 2019)
A. North Paravur Assembly Constituency
B. Kerala Noksen Assembly Constituency
C. Nagaland Mapusa Assembly Constituency, Goa
D. Nambol Assembly Constituency, Manipur
Answer (B)
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PRADHAN MANTRI GARIB KALYAN YOJANA
1.Context
2. About Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PM-GKAY)
- Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKY- Prime Minister's Food Security Scheme for the Poor) is a food security welfare scheme announced by the Government of India in March 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic in India.
- The program is operated by the Department of Food and Public Distribution under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.
- The scheme aims to feed the poorest citizens of India by providing grain through the Public Distribution System, to all the priority households (ration card holders and those identified by the Antyodaya Anna Yojana scheme).
- PMGKY provides 5 kg of rice or wheat (according to regional dietary preferences) per person and 1 kg of dal to each family holding a ration card.
- The scale of this welfare scheme makes it the largest food security program in the world.
3. Subsidiary packages under PMGKY
- Employees’ provident fund regulation would be amended to include pandemic as a reason to allow non-refundable advancements in the organised sector.
- State governments use the buildings and construction workers' welfare fund to provide relief to construction workers.
- The state government would be asked to utilise the District Mineral Fund [DMF] for preventing the spread of the COVID 19 pandemic as well as treating the patients affected with the same.
4. Challenges associated with PMGKY
- The challenges faced are that certain sections of daily wage earners and informal workers who are not well connected with the financial and banking system may be left out.
- Migrant workers may face difficulties in accessing food grains.
- Cash transfers might not be sufficient once the income starts drying for vulnerable sections.
- With almost all economic activities suspended, government revenues will fall drastically mounting huge fiscal pressure.
5. Way Forward
In this year’s budget, the government has allocated just under Rs 2 lakh crore on all food subsidies, a significant decline from previous years. During the pandemic, the food subsidy outlay had peaked at Rs 5.41 lakh crore.
16TH FINANCE COMMISSION
1. Context
2. Finance Commission
- The Finance Commission is a crucial constitutional body in India responsible for the distribution of financial resources between the central government and the state governments.
- It plays a vital role in maintaining fiscal federalism by ensuring a fair and equitable distribution of financial revenues and grants-in-aid among the various tiers of government.
- The Finance Commission is set up every five years, or at such earlier intervals as the President of India may decide, as per Article 280 of the Indian Constitution.
- It consists of a Chairman and four other members, each appointed by the President. These members are experts in the fields of economics, finance, and public administration.
3. Mandate and Functions
- The primary objective of the Finance Commission is to make recommendations to the President regarding the distribution of the net proceeds of taxes between the Union (central government) and the states, and the allocation of resources among the states.
- It also suggests measures to improve the financial position of the states, if necessary. The Commission's recommendations are aimed at addressing regional imbalances and ensuring the overall economic development of the country.
4. The specific functions of the Finance Commission include
- Tax Revenue Sharing: The Commission reviews the trends in revenue collections and recommends the percentage of the divisible pool of taxes that should be shared with the states. The divisible pool includes taxes like income tax, corporate tax, and excise duty.
- Grants-in-Aid: Besides the devolution of taxes, the Finance Commission also suggests grants-in-aid to states to support their financial requirements for various developmental projects and schemes.
- Debt Relief: The Commission may recommend measures to provide relief to states facing a high burden of debt, thereby promoting fiscal discipline.
- Macro-Fiscal Management: It examines the overall financial situation of the country and suggests measures to maintain macroeconomic stability.
- Any Other Matter: The President may also refer specific matters to the Commission for examination and recommendations.
5. Process of Working
- The Finance Commission follows a consultative process while formulating its recommendations.
- It seeks input from various stakeholders, including the central and state governments, local bodies, financial experts, and economists.
- The Commission examines historical data, financial indicators, and the needs of states to arrive at a comprehensive and objective assessment.
- After conducting detailed studies and consultations, the Commission submits its report to the President.
- The recommendations of the Finance Commission are ordinarily binding in nature, and both the central and state governments are expected to implement them. However, their acceptance depends on the discretion of the central government.
6. Importance
- The Finance Commission is crucial in maintaining the federal structure of India and ensuring that all states receive adequate financial support for their development.
- By promoting equitable distribution of resources, helps in reducing regional disparities and fostering balanced economic growth across the country.
- The Commission's recommendations also play a vital role in shaping the fiscal policies of both the central and state governments.
7. Recommendations of the Previous Finance Commission
13th Finance Commission Recommendations:
- Increase the number of court working hours using existing infrastructure.
- Enhance support to Lok Adalats.
- Provide additional funding to State Legal Services Authorities to enhance legal aid for the marginalized.
- Promote the use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms.
- Enhance the capacity of judicial officers and public prosecutors through training programs.
- Support the creation of a judicial academy in every state for training purposes.
- Allocate funds for the setting up of specialized courts.
- Raised states' share in the divisible pool of central taxes to 42%
- Revised to 41% after the number of states reduced to 28
- The withdrawal of Planning Commission grants helped manage the situation
15th Finance Commission Recommendations:
- Gather quantifiable data on the level of various services available in different states.
- Collect corresponding unit cost data to estimate cost disabilities among states.
- Fill gaps in statistical data through the efforts of the Ministry of Statistics.
8. Need for realistic expectations regarding the following 16th Finance Commission
- Acknowledging Implementation Challenges: Recognize the challenges and complexities involved in implementing Finance Commission recommendations, such as coordination issues, administrative capacity, and resistance to change. This understanding will help shape realistic expectations and strategies for addressing these challenges.
- Strengthening Implementation Mechanisms: Focus on improving the implementation mechanisms and processes. This includes enhancing coordination and cooperation between the Union and state governments, strengthening administrative capacity at all levels, and streamlining the implementation of conditionalities to facilitate smoother execution.
- Robust Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish effective monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track the progress and outcomes of implemented reforms. Regular assessment will help identify implementation gaps and provide opportunities for course correction and improvement.
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For Prelims: Finance Commission, Article 280, Fiscal Consolidation, Fiscal Federalism, and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanism.
For Mains: 1. Discuss the Role and Challenges of the Finance Commission in Promoting Fiscal Federalism and Ensuring Equitable Resource Distribution in India. (250 words).
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Previous year Question1. With reference to the Finance Commission of India, which of the following statements is correct? (UPSC 2011)
A. It encourages the inflow of foreign capital for infrastructure development.
B. It facilitates the proper distribution of finances among the Public Sector Undertaking.
C. It ensures transparency in financial administration.
D. None of the statements (a), (b), and (c) given above is correct in this context.
Answer: D
2. With reference to the Fourteenth Finance Commission, which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC 2015)
1. It has increased the share of States in the central divisible pool from 32 percent to 42 percent.
2. It has made recommendations concerning sector-specific grants.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: A
3. Which of the following is/are among the noticeable features of the recommendations of the Thirteenth Finance Commission? (UPSC 2012)
1. A design for the Goods and Services Tax, and a compensation package linked to adherence to the proposed design.
2. A design for the creation of lakhs of jobs in the next ten years in consonance with India's demographic dividend.
3. Devolution of a specified share of central taxes to local bodies as grants
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: C
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UNITED NATIONAL LIBERATION FRONT (UNLF)
- The United National Liberation Front (UNLF) is a separatist militant organization operating in the Indian state of Manipur. Founded in 1964, the UNLF seeks to establish an independent sovereign state of Manipur. The group has been involved in armed insurgency against the Indian government since its inception.
- The UNLF was founded by Arembam Samarendra Singh on November 24, 1964, with the stated goal of achieving independence for Manipur from India. The group's ideology is based on a blend of socialism and Manipuri nationalism. The UNLF has carried out several attacks against Indian security forces and civilians over the years.
- The UNLF is one of the oldest and most entrenched insurgent groups in Northeast India. The group's strength is estimated to be around 2,000 armed cadres. The UNLF has a strong support base among the Meitei people, who are the majority ethnic group in Manipur.
- The UNLF has been designated as a terrorist organization by the Indian government. The group is also banned by the United States, the European Union, and the United Kingdom.
The term "insurgency" is used to describe a specific type of armed rebellion against a constituted government or authority. It is characterized by the use of small-scale, irregular warfare tactics, such as guerrilla attacks, ambushes, and sabotage, rather than conventional warfare tactics like large-scale battles. Insurgents typically seek to overthrow the existing government or establish an independent state.
The reasons why the term "insurgency" is used to describe this type of conflict:
- Insurgencies typically rely on irregular warfare tactics, which are characterized by their flexibility and adaptability. This allows insurgents to operate in a way that is difficult for the government to counter.
- Insurgents typically lack the conventional military strength of the government they are fighting against. This means that they must rely on tactics that exploit their strengths and the government's weaknesses.
- Insurgencies are typically motivated by political goals, such as overthrowing the government or establishing an independent state. This distinguishes them from other types of armed conflict, such as civil wars, which may be motivated by a variety of factors, including ethnic or religious differences.
4. The history of conflict in Manipur
The history of conflict in Manipur dates back to the 18th century when the Meitei kingdom was at war with neighbouring kingdoms. The conflict intensified in the 19th century when Manipur was invaded by the British. After Manipur was annexed by India in 1949, several separatist groups emerged, leading to the ongoing insurgency.
- During the 18th century, The Meitei kingdom was at war with neighbouring kingdoms, such as the Ahom kingdom and the Burmese kingdom.
- Manipur was invaded by the British in 1819, 1824, and 1891. The British eventually annexed Manipur in 1891.
- Manipur was annexed by India in 1949. This led to the formation of several separatist groups, such as the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) and the Manipur People's Liberation Front (MPLF).
5. The major ethnic conflicts in Manipur
The state of Manipur in India is home to a diverse population with numerous ethnic groups, each with its own distinct culture, language, and traditions. This diversity has also led to complex ethnic tensions and conflicts in the state.
The major ethnic conflicts in Manipur
- Meitei vs. Naga: The Meitei people are the majority ethnic group in Manipur, residing primarily in the Imphal Valley. The Naga people, on the other hand, are concentrated in the hill areas of the state. The conflict between these two groups stems from historical grievances, competition for resources, and differing political aspirations.
- Meitei vs. Kuki: The Kuki people are another significant ethnic group in Manipur, inhabiting the hills and valleys of the state. The conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities has been fueled by historical clashes, competition for land and resources, and political marginalization of the Kuki people.
- Naga vs. Kuki: Within the Naga community itself, there have been instances of conflict between different Naga tribes, particularly between the Tangkhul and Zeliangrong Naga groups. These conflicts often arise over land disputes, political leadership, and cultural differences.
- Naga vs. Meitei vs. Kuki: There have also been instances of tripartite conflict involving the Naga, Meitei, and Kuki communities. These conflicts are often characterized by complex dynamics, with each group vying for dominance and control over resources and territory.
The 2020 Manipur peace agreement is the first significant step towards resolving the long-running insurgency in the state. The agreement is based on the premise of preserving Manipur's territorial integrity within India while addressing the grievances of the various ethnic groups in the state.
There are several precedents for the 2020 Manipur peace agreement. These include:
- The 1997 Shillong Accord, which was signed between the Government of India and the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM). The accord led to a ceasefire in Nagaland and the beginning of peace talks between the two parties.
- The 2003 Assam Accord, which was signed between the Government of India and several separatist groups in Assam. The accord led to the surrender of weapons by some of the groups and the beginning of peace talks between the two parties.
- The 2015 framework agreement between the Government of India and the NSCN-IM. The framework agreement is a broad outline for a peace deal in Nagaland.
The 2020 Manipur peace agreement is a significant step forward in the peace process in Manipur. However, several challenges will need to be addressed to achieve lasting peace in the state. These challenges include:
- Addressing the grievances of the various ethnic groups in Manipur.
- Building trust between the Government of India and the UNLF.
- Ensuring that the peace agreement is implemented fairly and equitably.
7. The steps taken by the Government of India
The Government of India has taken several steps to address the insurgency in Manipur, including:
- The government has offered amnesty to insurgents who surrender their weapons and renounce violence.
- The government has held peace talks with several separatist groups in Manipur.
- The government has invested in several economic development projects in Manipur.
- The government has promoted cultural exchange between different ethnic groups in Manipur.
- The government has signed ceasefire agreements with several separatist groups in Manipur. These agreements have helped to reduce violence in the state.
- In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of insurgents who have surrendered their weapons and joined the peace process.
- The government has withdrawn security forces from some areas of Manipur to build trust with the local population.
- The government has established autonomous councils for some of the minority groups in Manipur. These councils give these groups a greater degree of autonomy over their own affairs.
- The government has taken steps to address the grievances of the various ethnic groups in Manipur. This includes measures to improve education, healthcare, and infrastructure in the state.
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For Prelims: United National Liberation Front, valley-based insurgent group, Manipur, Meitei kingdom, Ahom kingdom, Burmese kingdom, Manipur People's Liberation Front, Meitei, Imphal Valley, Naga, Kuki, For Mains:
1. Define the term "insurgency" and discuss the characteristics that distinguish it from conventional warfare. How do insurgent groups like the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) operate, and what factors contribute to their use of irregular warfare tactics? (250 Words)
2. Evaluate the steps taken by the Government of India to address the insurgency in Manipur. Discuss the effectiveness of measures such as amnesty offers, peace talks, economic development projects, and cultural exchange initiatives in building lasting peace. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. Recently, the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act was completely removed from which one of the following States? (UPSC CAPF 2018)
A. Arunachal Pradesh
B. Nagaland
C. Meghalaya
D. Assam
2. Consider the following pairs: (UPSC 2018)
Tradition State
1. Chapchar Kut festival Mizoram
2. Khongjom Parba ballad Manipur
3. Thang-Ta dance Sikkim
Which of the pairs given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 1 and 2 C. 3 only D. 2 and 3
3. If a particular area is brought under the Fifth Schedule of the Constitution of India, which one of the following statements best reflects the consequence of it? (UPSC 2022) (a) This would prevent the transfer of land of tribal people to non-tribal people. 4. Ahom kingdom was developed by whom? (OTET 2017)
A. Sukapha B. Suhungmug C. Sangram Shah D. None of these
5. The treaty of Yandaboo was signed in (NDA 2019)
A. 1826 B. 1825 C. 1824 D. 1823
6. Consider the following pairs: (UPSC 2023)
How many of the above pairs are correctly matched? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None 7. With reference to Manipuri Sankirtana, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2017)
1. It is a song and dance performance.
2. Cymbals are the only musical instruments used in the performance.
3. It is performed to narrate the life and deeds of Lord Krishna.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1, 2 and 3 B. 1 and 3 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1 only
8. Imphal valley of Manipur is an important centre of ________ craft. (SSC MTS 2021)
A. Kauna B. Godna C. Butta D. Mirijims
9. 'Imphal Basin' surrounded by Manipur hills is a fine example of (UPPSC Civil Service 2019)
A. Lacustrine plain B. Loess plain C. Glacial plain D. Alluvial plain
10. Consider the following pairs:
1. Dampa Tiger Reserve Mizoram
2. Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary Sikkim
3. Saramati Peak Nagaland
Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched? (UPSC 2014)
A. 1 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
11. Which two of the following are correctly matched? (UPPSC Combined State Exam 2022)
Tribe State
1. Kharia Odisha
2. Kuki Uttar Pradesh
3. Yanadi Rajasthan
4. Paliyan Tamil Nadu
Select the correct answer from the codes given below.
A. 3 and 4 B. 1 and 4 C. 2 and 3 D. 1 and 2
12. Which of the following is NOT correctly matched? (UPPSC BEO 2020)
(Revolts) (Years)
A. Neel Rebellion 1859-60
B. Jaintia Rebellion 1860-63
C. Kuki Rebellion 1860-90
D. Kuka Revolt 1870-72
1. ​Neel Rebellion 2. Kuki Revellion 3. Kuka Revolt 4. Jaintiya Rebellion
Answers: 1-C, 2-B, 3-A, 4-A, 5-A, 6-D, 7-B, 8-A, 9-A, 10-C, 11-B, 12-2
For Mains:
1. Suppose the Government of India is thinking of constructing a dam in a mountain valley bound by forests and inhabited by ethnic communities. What rational policy should it resort to in dealing with unforeseen contingencies? [UPSC 2018]
2. What are the two major legal initiatives by the State since Independence addressing discrimination against Scheduled Tribes (STs)? (UPSC 2017)
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FAST RADIO BURSTS (FRBs)
Fast radio bursts (FRBs) are brief, intense flashes of radio waves that last only a few milliseconds. They are one of the most enigmatic phenomena in the universe, and their origin remains a mystery. FRBs were first discovered in 2007 by a team of astronomers at the Parkes Observatory in Australia. Since then, thousands of FRBs have been detected from all over the sky.
FRBs are incredibly powerful, emitting as much energy as a large star in just a fraction of a millisecond. This means that they must be produced by some extremely energetic process. However, the exact nature of this process is still unknown. Some possible explanations for FRBs include:
- Neutron stars: Neutron stars are the collapsed cores of massive stars. They are incredibly dense and spin very rapidly. Some theories suggest that FRBs could be produced by magnetic field interactions near neutron stars.
- Black holes: Black holes are even denser than neutron stars, and they have such strong gravitational pull that not even light can escape them. Some theories suggest that FRBs could be produced by the formation of black holes or by jets of material that are ejected from black holes.
- Mergers of neutron stars or black holes: When two neutron stars or black holes merge, they can release a huge amount of energy. Some theories suggest that FRBs could be produced by these mergers.
FRBs are also very diverse. Some FRBs repeat, while others only occur once. Some FRBs are very bright, while others are very faint. Some FRBs are polarized, while others are not. This diversity suggests that FRBs could be produced by a variety of different mechanisms.
The study of FRBs is still in its early stages, and there is much that we still do not know about these mysterious phenomena. However, astronomers are hopeful that by studying FRBs, we can learn more about the extreme environments in which they are produced and about the universe as a whole.
3.What is a Nuetron-Star Merger?
A neutron star merger refers to the collision and subsequent merging of two neutron stars. Neutron stars are incredibly dense stellar remnants left behind after the explosive death of massive stars in a supernova. These stars are composed mostly of neutrons and are incredibly compact, with masses greater than that of the sun compressed into a small radius, typically around 10-20 kilometers (6-12 miles).
When two neutron stars orbit each other closely, their orbits may decay over time due to the emission of gravitational waves, a phenomenon predicted by Einstein's theory of general relativity. As they spiral inward, they eventually collide and merge in a cataclysmic event.
The merger of neutron stars is an extremely energetic event, releasing an immense amount of gravitational energy, which can cause a variety of consequential phenomena:
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Gravitational waves: These ripples in spacetime are emitted during the merger and were first directly detected in 2017 by the LIGO and Virgo observatories.
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Kilonova: The merger can produce a kilonova, an intense burst of electromagnetic radiation across various wavelengths, including visible light, X-rays, and gamma rays. This phenomenon is caused by the radioactive decay of heavy elements created in the extreme conditions of the merger.
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Production of heavy elements: The intense conditions during the merger are thought to create and eject heavy elements, including gold, platinum, and uranium, dispersing them into space.
The study of neutron star mergers is essential for understanding various astrophysical phenomena, including the origins of heavy elements, the behavior of matter under extreme conditions, and the nature of gravitational waves. The detection of gravitational waves from neutron star mergers has opened up a new era in astronomy, allowing scientists to explore the universe in ways previously impossible.
4. Idea of Fast Radio Bursts on Astronomy
Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs) have introduced a captivating and enigmatic dimension to the field of astronomy. Their discovery has spurred significant interest and numerous scientific inquiries, contributing to our understanding of the universe in several ways:
Cosmic Mysteries: FRBs represent one of the most intriguing cosmic mysteries, as their origin remains largely unknown. Investigating their nature helps astronomers unlock the secrets of extreme astrophysical phenomena occurring in distant reaches of the universe.
Cosmological Probes: Studying FRBs provides an opportunity to probe the intergalactic medium. As these bursts traverse space, their interaction with the intervening material can offer insights into the density, magnetic fields, and characteristics of the cosmic web between galaxies.
Physics and Fundamental Constants: Understanding FRBs aids in testing fundamental physics theories, including those related to gravitational effects, the behavior of matter in extreme conditions, and potential variations in fundamental constants across the universe.
Astrophysical Environments: FRBs might originate from extreme astrophysical environments like magnetars, neutron star mergers, or black hole interactions. By identifying the sources, astronomers can gain a deeper understanding of these extreme environments and their role in the cosmos.
Technological Advancements: Investigating FRBs challenges scientists to develop more sensitive and advanced observational instruments. Enhancements in radio telescopes and data analysis techniques are essential for detecting and studying these elusive signals.
Multi-messenger Astronomy: The study of FRBs encourages collaboration among various fields of astronomy, such as gravitational wave astronomy, optical observations, and high-energy astrophysics. Detecting multi-wavelength counterparts to FRBs can provide a more comprehensive understanding of their origins.
Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI): FRBs occasionally spark discussions related to the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. While no definitive evidence suggests FRBs are of extraterrestrial origin, their sporadic and intense nature leads to speculative conversations about the possibility of artificial signals.
5.What is Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA)
LISA stands for Laser Interferometer Space Antenna. It's a space-based gravitational wave observatory that aims to detect and study gravitational waves from astronomical sources.
Developed by the European Space Agency (ESA), LISA consists of three spacecraft arranged in a triangular formation and linked by laser beams. This configuration enables highly precise measurements of tiny changes in distance caused by passing gravitational waves.
Key features of LISA include:
Space-based Observations: Unlike ground-based detectors like LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory), LISA operates in space. This location allows for longer arms (millions of kilometers), making it sensitive to lower-frequency gravitational waves (between 0.1 millihertz to 100 millihertz) that ground-based detectors can't detect due to environmental noise.
Observing Different Sources: LISA is expected to detect gravitational waves from a variety of sources, including binary systems of supermassive black holes, extreme mass-ratio inspirals (small objects orbiting massive black holes), and compact binary systems composed of white dwarfs, neutron stars, or black holes.
Advancing Gravitational Wave Astronomy: LISA's observations will significantly advance our understanding of the universe by providing information about the most energetic and violent cosmic events, such as mergers of supermassive black holes, which are essential for studying galaxy evolution and cosmology.
Technological Challenges: Building LISA involves overcoming technological challenges related to maintaining the precise position and alignment of the spacecraft over vast distances and shielding them from external disturbances, like solar radiation pressure.
6. Way forward
Overall, the exploration of Fast Radio Bursts not only presents an exciting astronomical puzzle but also pushes the boundaries of our knowledge, technological capabilities, and understanding of the universe's most energetic and elusive phenomena
Source: The Hindu
PRADHAN MANTRI JANJATI ADIVASI NYAYA MAHA ABHIYAN (PM-JANMAN)
The key features of the PM-JANMAN scheme
- The scheme has a total outlay of Rs 24,104 crore, which is one of the largest Central schemes targeting the tribal community.
- The scheme will be implemented over 10 years, from 2022-23 to 2032-33.
- The scheme will focus on the development of 75 PVTGs, which are the most marginalized tribal communities in India.
- The scheme will adopt an integrated approach to development, covering all aspects of tribal life, including education, health, livelihood, and social security.
The objectives of the PM-JANMAN scheme are to
- Improve the quality of life of tribal communities
- Reduce poverty and inequality among tribal communities
- Promote inclusive growth and development of tribal communities
The initiatives that will be taken under the PM-JANMAN scheme
- The scheme will focus on increasing access to quality education for tribal children. This will be done through the construction of new schools, providing scholarships, and training teachers.
- The scheme will focus on improving the health status of tribal communities. This will be done through the construction of new health facilities, providing free medicines, and training of health workers.
- The scheme will focus on providing sustainable livelihoods to tribal communities. This will be done through the promotion of agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, and other traditional occupations.
- The scheme will focus on providing social security to tribal communities. This will be done through the provision of pensions, housing, and other assistance.
- The scheme will focus on promoting tribal culture and heritage. It will support tribal art, music, dance, and other cultural activities and focus on empowering tribal women and children.
3. Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)
Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) are a sub-classification of Scheduled Tribes (STs) in India. They are considered to be the most vulnerable among the STs due to their low levels of literacy, education, and economic development. PVTGs are also often isolated from mainstream society and live in remote and inaccessible areas.
Criteria for PVTG identification
The Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) has identified 75 PVTGs in 18 states and one Union Territory (UT). The criteria for identifying PVTGs are as follows:
- Pre-agricultural level of technology
- Stagnant or declining population
- Extremely low level of literacy
- Subsistence level of economy
- Isolated habitat and difficult means of communication
Schedule Tribes (STs)
Scheduled Tribes (STs) are officially recognized indigenous groups in India. They are recognized based on their distinct customs, traditions, languages, and culture. STs are considered to be socially, economically, and educationally backward.
Comparison of PVTGs and STs
| Feature | PVTGs | STs |
| Vulnerability | More vulnerable | Less vulnerable |
| Literacy | Extremely low | Low |
| Education | Extremely low level | Low level |
| Economic development | Subsistence level | Varying levels |
| Isolation | More isolated | Less isolated |
| Habitat | Remote and inaccessible | Varying |
4. What are Habitat Rights?
- Habitat rights acknowledgement entails granting communities control over their customary territory, socio-cultural practices, economic means, and protection of biodiversity and ecology.
- These rights, under the Forest Rights Act (FRA) of 2006, provide a legal framework to safeguard and promote traditional livelihood and ecological knowledge among Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
- The Forest Rights Act, specifically section 3(1) (e), addresses the rights of primitive tribal groups and pre-agricultural communities.
- According to Section 2(h) of FRA, habitat includes areas within reserved and protected forests, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the territory under protection.
- Habitat rights empower PVTGs to protect their land from potentially harmful developmental activities.
- While not absolute ownership, these rights necessitate consent and consultation with the gram sabha for any development, providing an additional layer of legal protection.
- The government, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), follows a detailed guideline, primarily from 2014 by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA), to ascertain what constitutes a habitat.
- Coordination between state-level departments - Forest, Revenue, Tribal, and Panchayati Raj - ensures a comprehensive understanding of tribal culture, traditions, and occupation.
5. Kamar Tribes
- The Kamar tribe is a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) that is indigenous to the Indian state of Chhattisgarh.
- They primarily reside in the districts of Gariaband, Dhamtari, Mahasamund, and Kanker.
- The Kamar people are believed to be descendants of the ancient Kamar kingdom, which ruled over the region from the 10th to the 14th centuries.
- The Kamar people are traditionally farmers and forest dwellers. They speak the Kamar language, which belongs to the Dravidian language family.
- The Kamar people have a rich culture and heritage, which is reflected in their music, dance, and art.
- The consultation for granting habitat rights to PVTGs in Chhattisgarh began in December 2021, with the Kamar tribes as a pilot project.
- The procedure is recognized as long and tedious, yet crucial for understanding the reserved and introverted nature of PVTG communities.
- Out of the 26,622 Kamar tribe population, 22 Para/Tola (hamlets) in the Magarlod sub-region of Dhamtari district have received habitat rights, marking progress in recognizing and preserving tribal territories.
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For Prelims: Social empowerment, Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN), habitat rights, Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Scheduled Tribes, Forest Rights Act (FRA) of 2006, United Nations Development Program, Kamar tribe
For Mains:
1. Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Comment (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions 1. Consider the following statements about Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India: (UPSC 2019)
1. PVTGs reside in 18 States and one Union Territory.
2. A stagnant or declining population is one of the criteria for determining PVTG status.
3. There are 95 PVTGs officially notified in the country so far.
4. Irular and Konda Reddi tribes are included in the list of PVTGs.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1, 2 and 3 B. 2, 3 and 4 C. 1, 2 and 4 D. 1, 3 and 4
2. With reference to the history of India, "Ulgulan" or the Great Tumult is the description of which of the following events? (UPSC 2020) A. The Revolt of 1857
B. The Mappila Rebellion of 1921
C. The Indigo Revolt of 1859 - 60
D. Birsa Munda's Revolt of 1899 - 1900
3. When did the Tana’ Bhagat Movement start? (Jharkhand Civil Service 2015)
A. April 1912 B. April 1913 C. April 1914 D. April 1915
4. Consider the following statements about the Santhal Hool of 1855 - 56: (UPSC CAPF)
1. The Santhals were in a desperate situation as tribal lands were leased out
2. The Santhal rebels were treated very leniently by British officials
3. Santhal inhabited areas were eventually constituted separate administrative units called Santhal parganas
4. The Santhal rebellion was the only major rebellion in mid-19th century India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 2 and 3 C. 1, 3 and 4 D. 1 and 3 only
5. After the Santhal Uprising subsided, what was/were the measure/measures taken by the colonial government? (UPSC 2018)
1. The territories called 'Santhal Paraganas' were created.
2. It became illegal for a Santhal to transfer land to a non-Santhal.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
6. The National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) was formed by insertion of Article ______ in the Constitution of India. (SSC CGL 2020)
A. 328B B. 338A C. 338B D. 328A
7. Which of the following statements related to tribes in India are correct? (UPSC CAPF 2017)
1. Tharu tribes are found in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand
2. Irula, Chenchu and Sumali tribes are found in Kerala
3. Garasia tribes are found in Goa
4. Gaddi tribes are nomadic herders of Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 and 4 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1, 2 and 4 only D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
8. Comprehension
Nagaland, one of India's smallest states, is located in the north-east. It is bounded by Myanmar on the east, Arunachal Pradesh on the north, Assam on the west and Manipur on the south. Nagaland is mostly mountainous except the part bordering the Assam valley. Mount Saramati is the highest peak and forms a natural barrier between Nagaland and Myanmar. The Nagas, inhabitants of Nagaland, form more than twenty tribes. Konyak is the largest of the Naga tribes. Traditionally, the Nagas wear colourful tribal outfits with bamboo shields and decorated spears. They are simple at heart, are known for their festive spirit and burst into dance and music on such occasions as festivals, marriages and harvest. Folk songs and ballads popular among the Nagas uphold such values as bravery, love, generosity, etc. Dances are mostly woven around war themes and are performed with amazing mock war emotions. Bamboo dance is a well-known dance of the Nagas. Colourfully dressed young girls performing the bamboo dance at an incredible speed and with great accuracy present a fascinating sight. The Nagas celebrate their festivals with great enthusiasm. Almost every Naga tribe has its own festival. Sankarni is the major festival of the Zemis tribe. This religious festival coincides with Shivratri. Sekrenyi is a festival celebrated by the Angamis tribe to ensure the health and well-being of the community. Moatsu is the most important festival celebrated by the Aos tribe after the sowing is over. Feasting and merry-making invariably accompany festivals. Wood-carving is a famous Naga craft. The Konyaks, the best wood-carvers among all the Naga tribes, are skilled in carving human and animal figures. Weaving is a traditional Naga art in which each tribe has its own special designs and colours. Shawls, shoulder bags, and intricately woven mats and baskets make magnificent souvenirs for the tourists.
The largest Naga tribe is (Odisha Police SI 2022)
A. Konyak.
B. Zemis.
C. Aos
D. Angami
9. Which of the following tribes belongs to Nagaland? (NTPC 2021)
A. Bonda
B. Limboo
C. Rengma
D. Pnar
10. Consider the formation of the following States and arrange these in chronological order: (UPPSC Combined State Exam 2021)
1. Goa
2. Telangana
3. Jharkhand
4. Haryana
Select the correct answer from the codes given below.
A. 1, 2, 3, 4 B. 4, 1, 3, 2 C. 3, 2, 4, 1 D. 4, 3, 1, 2
11. Consider the following States: (UPSC 2019)
1. Chhattisgarh
2. Madhya Pradesh
3. Maharashtra
4. Odisha
With reference to the State mentioned above, in terms of the percentage of forest cover to the total area of the State, which one of the following is the correct ascending order?
A. 2-3-1-4 B. 2-3-4-1 C. 3-2-4-1 D. 3-2-1-4
12. At the national level, which ministry is the nodal agency to ensure effective implementation of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006? (UPSC 2021) (a) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change 13. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2019)
1. As per recent amendment to the Indian Forest Act, 1927, forest dwellers have the right to fell the bamboos grown on forest areas.
2. As per the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, bamboo is a minor forest produce.
3. The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 allows ownership of minor forest produce to forest dwellers.
Which of the statement given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
14. The Indian Forest Act 1927 was enacted after repealing which of the following Indian forest acts? (SSC CGL 2021)
A. Indian Forest Act, 1922
B. Indian Forest Act, 1878
C. Indian Forest Act, 1865
D. Indian Forest Act, 1882
15. In which year Forest Conservation Act was passed? (UPTET 2019)
A. 1986 B. 1990 C. 1980 D. 1988
16. In which tribe traditionally their livelihood is based on ‘Bamboo: (CGPSC Civil Service 2019)
A. Binjhwar B. Kanwar C. Kamar D. Sawara
17. Consider the following pairs: (UPSC 2013)
Which of the above pairs are correctly matched? (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 and 4 only (c) 1, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Answers: 1-C, 2-D, 3-C, 4-D, 5-C, 6-B, 7-C, 8-A, 9-C, 10-B, 11-C, 12-D, 13-B, 14-B, 15-C, 16-C 17-A |
Source: The Indian Express
