• Open woodlands,
• Savanna,
• Dry deciduous forests.
• Evergreen riverine forests

Kuno National Park is part of a large forested landscape constituted by the Sheopur-Shivpuri forests covering an area of -6800 sq. km.

The density of leopards in Kuno National Park is 8.9 per 100 sq. km

Globally, about 135 million people have low vision. The World Health Organization (WHO) says that 80% of this visual loss can be prevented or cured. Hence WHO has joined hands with the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) for a programme called VISION 2020: The Right to Sight.

In India, 13 lakhs are born blind, and 76 lakhs are suffering from easily treatable methods. By setting up ‘vision centres’ in rural areas and towns, by setting up well-equipped ophthalmic hospitals with able ophthalmologists, these sufferers can have the Right to Sight. Indeed, this is happening across the country. In addition, some globally recognised ‘State of the Art’ eye institutions are actively working on Vision 2020, and it appears achievable—Pashyantu Sarvejanah, or ‘so that all may see’

2. What is a Microbiome?

The microbiome refers to the community of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other tiny organisms, that live in or on a specific environment or organism. In the context of humans, the microbiome typically refers to the vast collection of microorganisms that reside in various parts of the body, such as the skin, mouth, gut, and reproductive tract.

The gut microbiome, in particular, has gained a lot of attention due to its crucial role in digestion, immune system function, and overall health. This complex ecosystem of microbes helps break down certain foods, produces vitamins, regulates metabolism, and interacts with the immune system.

Research on the microbiome has revealed its significance in influencing not just physical health but also mental health, with potential connections to conditions like obesity, autoimmune disorders, mental health disorders, and even neurological conditions. Scientists continue to study the microbiome to better understand its role in maintaining health and its potential implications for treating various diseases

3. How can the microbiome affect health?

The microbiome plays a significant role in maintaining health by influencing various aspects of the body's functions. Here are some ways the microbiome affects health:

Digestive and metabolic health: The gut microbiome aids in the digestion and absorption of nutrients, helps break down complex carbohydrates, and produces certain vitamins (like B vitamins and vitamin K) that the body needs. Imbalances in the gut microbiota can lead to digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or malnutrition.

Immune system regulation: A healthy microbiome helps regulate the immune system, distinguishing between harmful pathogens and beneficial microbes. It plays a crucial role in training the immune system to respond appropriately to threats and reducing inflammation. Imbalances in the microbiome can lead to immune system dysfunction, potentially resulting in allergies, autoimmune diseases, or increased susceptibility to infections.

Mental health and brain function: There's a growing understanding of the gut-brain connection, often referred to as the gut-brain axis. The gut microbiome can influence brain function and mental health by producing neurotransmitters and communicating with the central nervous system. Imbalances in the gut microbiota have been linked to conditions like depression, anxiety, and even neurological disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.

Weight and metabolism: Studies have shown that the composition of the gut microbiome can influence metabolism and weight regulation. Imbalances in gut bacteria may contribute to conditions like obesity and metabolic disorders by affecting how the body processes food and stores fat.

Skin health: The skin microbiome, composed of various bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, plays a role in maintaining skin health. Imbalances can contribute to skin conditions like acne, eczema, or infections.

Overall inflammation and disease risk: A balanced and diverse microbiome helps regulate inflammation in the body. Imbalances can lead to chronic inflammation, which is linked to various diseases, including cardiovascular issues, diabetes, and certain cancers

4. What is the importance of microbiome for the Gut health?

The gut microbiome is incredibly important for gut health and overall well-being.

Here's why:

• The gut microbiome assists in breaking down complex carbohydrates, fibers, and other compounds that the human body can't digest alone. Certain gut bacteria produce enzymes that help in this breakdown, aiding in the extraction of nutrients and energy from food.
• A healthy microbiome helps maintain the integrity of the gut barrier, which prevents harmful substances, such as toxins and undigested food particles, from leaking into the bloodstream. This barrier function is essential for preventing inflammation and protecting against infections.
• The gut is a significant site for the immune system. The microbiome interacts closely with the immune cells in the gut, helping to train and regulate the immune response. A balanced gut microbiome promotes tolerance to harmless substances and prevents inappropriate immune reactions, reducing the risk of autoimmune diseases and allergies.
• Some gut bacteria produce beneficial compounds, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are crucial for gut health. SCFAs help maintain the health of the gut lining, provide energy to gut cells, and have anti-inflammatory properties.
• A diverse and balanced gut microbiome can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria by competing for nutrients and space, thereby reducing the risk of infections and keeping the gut environment healthy.
• The gut-brain axis, the communication network between the gut and the brain, is influenced by the gut microbiome. Changes in the gut microbiota can impact brain function and mental health, influencing conditions like anxiety, depression, and even neurological disorders.
• Studies suggest that the gut microbiome plays a role in regulating metabolism and weight. Imbalances in gut bacteria may contribute to obesity and metabolic disorders by affecting how the body processes food and stores fat.

• Taiwan, earlier known as Formosa, a tiny island off the east coast of China, is where Chinese republicans of the Kuomintang government retreated after the 1949 victory of the communists.
• It has since continued as the Republic of China (RoC).
• Although largely unrecognized by other countries as such, self-ruled Taiwan sees itself as no less than an independent nation.
• Its leaders, have vowed to defend its sovereignty against the Chinese goal of “reunification”.

3. China-Taiwan Tensions

• In 1954-55, and 1958, the PRC bombed the Jinmen, Mazu, and Dachen islands under Taiwan's control, drawing in the US.
• Congress passed the Formosa Resolution authorizing President Dwight D Eisenhower to defend Taiwanese (Republic of China- ROC) territory.
• In 1955, Premier Zhou En-lai declared at the Bandung Conference that he wanted negotiations with the US. But as civil war broke out in Lebanon in 1958, China resumed the bombing, provoking the US to supply Taiwanese outposts on the islands.
• The people's Republic of China (PRC) i.e. mainland China and ROC (Taiwan) then arrived at an arrangement to bomb each other's garrisons on alternate days-this continued until 1971.
• Taiwan became the non-communist frontier against China during the Cold war. It was described as an "unsinkable aircraft carrier" underscoring its strategic significance.
• It was only in 1971 that the US inaugurated ties with Mainland China through the secret diplomacy of Henry Kissinger, national security adviser to President Richard Nixon.
• In 1975, Chiang Kai-shek died, martial law was lifted, and Taiwan got its first democratic reforms.
• U.S. recognized the communist party that ruled People's Republic of China (PRC) as the legitimate government of China in 1979, ending its official relationship with Taiwan and abrogating its mutual defense treaty with the island.
• The US has a policy of strategic ambiguity towards Taiwan. This means that it maintains ties with Taipei, and sells weapons to it, but officially subscribes to the PRC's "One China Policy" in which Taiwan does not exist as a separate entity.
• Just 14 countries around the world recognize Taiwan. Most are very small, many are remote island nations. As the British prepared to exit Hong Kong in 1999, the "One China, Two Systems" solution was offered to Taiwan as well, but it was rejected by the Taiwanese.

4. The Current Tensions Between the Two Nations

• Lasy year, amid worsening the US-China relations over Covid and trade, the State Department sent its highest-ranking delegation yet to Taipei.
• During the visit, the Chinese conducted a military exercise in the Taiwan Strait, which separates Taiwan from mainland China.
• In October 2020, President Xi Jinping asked the PLA to prepare for war, triggering an alarm in Taiwan, which read it as an open threat.
• Early in the Biden Administration, which declared "rock solid" commitment to Taiwan, Taipei raised an alert about an incursion by Chinese Warplanes.
• In April, Taiwan reported Chinese jets in its air defense Zone. In July, Xi warned that he would "smash" any Taiwanese move toward independence.
• At the beginning of this month, as the Chinese jets came back, Taiwanese Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-Cheng told Parliament that China already has the capacity to invade Taiwan, and would be able to "bring the cost and attrition to its lowest" by 2025.

5. US Ties with China

• Officially, the US has subscribed to PRC's "One China Policy" which means there is only one legitimate Chinese government.
• The most serious encounter was in 1995-96 when China began testing missiles in the seas around Taiwan, triggering the biggest US mobilization in the region since the Vietnam war.
• Now, the US backs Taiwan's independence, maintains ties with Taipei, and sells weapons to it.
• Taiwan is entirely dependent on the US for its defense against possible Chinese aggression.
• This is why every spike in military tensions between China and Taiwan injects more hostility into the already strained relationship between Washington and Beijing.

6. Challenges for the US

• As tensions rise, the world is watching the US, whose status as the world's pre-eminent power has been dented by the messy exit from Afghanistan.
• In East and Southeast Asia, several countries including Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines, which are sheltered under the protective umbrella of the US, are concerned about US security commitments in the Pacific region.
• President Joe Biden has been seen as walking a thin line between pledging support for Taiwan and keeping the lid on tensions with Beijing.
• After speaking with Xi in October 2021, Joe Biden said that they had agreed to abide by the "Taiwan Agreement", under which US support for the "One China Policy" is conditioned on China not invading Taiwan.
• The AUKUS pact among the US, UK, and Australia, under which Australia will be supplied with nuclear submarines, imparted a new dimension to the security dynamics of the Indo-Pacific. Taiwan welcomed the pact, while China denounced it as seriously undermining regional peace.

7. What are the implications for India

• With India facing its problems with China on the LAC, there have been suggestions that it should review its One China Policy- it has in any case long stopped reiterating this officially.
• Also, it is suggested that India use not just the Tibet Card, but also develop more robust relations with Taiwan to send a message to Beijing.
• India and Taiwan currently maintain "trade and cultural exchange" offices in each other's capitals.
• In May 2020, the swearing-in of Tsai was attended virtually by BJP MPs Meenakshi Lekhi (now MoS External Affairs) and Rahul Kaswan. In 2016, New Delhi had dropped plans to send two representatives for Tsai's first inaugural at the last minute.
• India has been reported to be in talks with Taipei to bring a $7.5 billion semiconductor chip manufacturing plant to India. Chips are used in a range of devices from computers to 5G smartphones, to electric cars and medical equipment. The deal was reported on the heels of last year's summit of the QUAD, which discussed the need to build a "safe supply chain for semiconductors".
• India also follows asymmetric Federalism where many states enjoy greater autonomy in their functioning as compared to other states (Article 371, Schedule V & VI).
• These special provisions are also intended to deal with issues to identity & Culture. India thus needs to handle these democratically to not see Taiwan/Hongkong types of protests happening in India.
• India can always use the leverage of Taiwan and Hong Kong whenever China meddles in India's internal issues like Kashmir/Naga unrest.

For Prelims & Mains

Previous year Question

DEFENCE ACQUISITION COUNCIL

1. Context

A top body chaired by the Prime Minister, with the Defence Minister and the National Security Advisor as its Vice Presidents, should determine the country’s defence technology roadmap and decide on major projects and their execution, an expert committee spearheaded by the former principal scientific advisor, Prof K Vijay Raghavan, is learned to have told the government.

 

2. About the Defence Acquisition Council

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) is the apex body for all defence acquisitions in India. It was formed after recommendations made by the Group of Ministers on 'Reforming the National Security System' in 2001, post-Kargil war. The DAC is headed by the Defence Minister and comprises the following members:

• Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS)
• Secretary, Department of Defence Production
• Secretary, Finance
• Secretary, Defence Research and Development
• Controller General of Defence Accounts
• Other senior officers from the Ministry of Defence and the Services

The Role of the Defence Acquisition Council

The DAC's primary role is to:

• Accord approval for AoN (Acceptance of Necessity) for Capital Acquisition Proposals.
• Categorise the acquisition proposals into 'Buy, Buy & Make, & Make'.
• In-principle approval of 15-Year Long-Term Integrated Perspective Plan (LTPP) for Defence Forces.
• Delegate powers to Services/C&AS for the acquisition of items up to a certain value.
• Consider and approve other issues as may be referred to it by the Defence Minister.

Functions of the Defence Acquisition Council

The DAC's primary functions are to:

• Approve capital acquisitions for the Indian Armed Forces.
• Formulate and implement policies and procedures for defence acquisitions.
• Monitor the progress of defence acquisitions.
• Oversee the implementation of the Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP).

Reasons for the creation of the Defence Acquisitions Council 

The DAC was created to address the following shortcomings of the previous defence acquisition system:

• Lack of a clear and transparent decision-making process.
• Delays in the procurement of defence equipment.
• Escalation of costs.
• Lack of coordination between different agencies involved in the procurement process.

3. About Defence acquisition

Defence acquisition is the process of acquiring goods and services for the Indian Armed Forces. It is a complex and time-consuming process that involves the identification of requirements, the preparation of specifications, the selection of vendors, the negotiation of contracts, and the delivery of equipment. The Indian defence acquisition process is governed by the Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP), which is a set of guidelines that outlines the process for acquiring defence equipment.

The key stages of the defence acquisition process:

•  The first step is to identify the requirements of the Armed Forces. This is done through a detailed assessment of the operational needs of the Armed Forces and the availability of resources.
• Once the requirements have been identified, the next step is to prepare the specifications for the equipment to be acquired. The specifications must be clear, detailed, and unambiguous so that the vendors can understand what is required.
• The next step is to select the vendors who will be invited to participate in the bidding process. The vendors are selected based on their technical ability, financial strength, and experience.
• Once the vendors have been selected, the next step is to negotiate the contracts. The contracts must be fair and reasonable, and they must protect the interests of the government.
• The final step is to deliver the equipment to the Armed Forces. Once the equipment has been delivered, it must be tested and accepted by the Armed Forces.

4. The Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP)

The Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) is the guideline for defence acquisitions in India. The DPP was first introduced in 2006 and has been revised several times since then. The DPP outlines the process for defence acquisitions, from the identification of a requirement to the final acceptance of a product.

The DPP is designed to ensure that defence acquisitions are conducted in a transparent, efficient, and cost-effective manner. The DPP also seeks to promote indigenous defence production and to maximize the involvement of Indian companies in the defence sector.

Key features of the DPP

• The DPP emphasizes the need for transparency in all stages of the defence acquisition process. This includes publishing all relevant documents online and making them available to the public.
• The DPP aims to streamline the defence acquisition process and reduce delays. This includes simplifying the tendering process and reducing the number of approvals required.
• The DPP seeks to ensure that defence acquisitions are conducted cost-effectively. This includes negotiating the best possible price for goods and services and promoting indigenous defence production.
• The DPP promotes indigenous defence production by giving preference to Indian companies in the tendering process. The DPP also provides incentives for Indian companies to invest in research and development.
• The DPP seeks to maximize the involvement of Indian companies in the defence sector. This includes encouraging Indian companies to form joint ventures with foreign companies.

5. The Way Forward

The DAC and the DPP play a vital role in ensuring that the Indian Armed Forces are equipped with the latest and best possible weapons and equipment. The DAC and the DPP are also important for promoting indigenous defence production and for maximizing the involvement of Indian companies in the defence sector.

 

For Prelims: Defence Acquisition Council, Defence Procurement Procedure, Light Combat Aircraft, Tejas Mk 1 A and 156, Light Combat Helicopters, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Kargil war For Mains:  1. Critically analyze the role of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) in streamlining and expediting defence acquisitions in India. (250 Words)

 

Previous Year Questions   1. The Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) designed and developed by HAL is also known as (MP Police Constable 2017) A. Suryakiran        B. Aryabhatta      C. Tejas         D. Prakash     2. Which of the following statements is true about the recent procurement of Tejas fighter’s aircraft by IAF? (IB ACIO Grade II 2021)  (1) The IAF has recently purchased 83 Tejas fighters aircraft from HAL (2) The total deal is Rs. 78,000-crore A. 1 only         B. Neither 1 nor 2         C.  Both 1 and 2      D. 2 only     3. What is the name of India's indigenously built Light Combat Helicopter? (OSSC BSSO  2022)  A. Nag         B. Trishul         C. Prachand          D. Agni     4. The headquarters of the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited is located at _______________. (MP Police Constable 2017)  A. Chennai        B. Bengaluru        C.  Dewas     D. Koraput     5. What was Kargil war otherwise known as? (MP Patwari  2017)  A. Operation Vijay       B. Operation Vishwas   C. Operation Shaurya   D. Operation Paramveer   Answers:1-C, 2-A, 3-C, 4-B 5-A   Mains 1. Analyze the circumstances that led to the Tashkent Agreement in 1966. Discuss the highlights of the Agreement. (UPSC 2013)

 

Source: The Indian Express

 

THIRUVALLUVUR 

 

 

 

1. Context

 

 

Recently, Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi's saffron-clad portrait of Thiruvalluvar on Thiruvalluvar Day (January 16) ignited a political firestorm. DMK, the ruling party, accused the governor's office of "saffronisation" and criticized the religious symbols depicted, claiming Thiruvalluvar transcends religion. Chief Minister MK Stalin countered with a picture of Thiruvalluvar in white robes, further highlighting the contrasting interpretations. This incident isn't new, as political figures in Tamil Nadu have long debated the representation of the revered poet, often dividing along party lines.

 

 

2. Who was Thiruvallavur?

 

• Thiruvalluvar, affectionately known as Valluvar among Tamils, is a revered cultural figure with an uncertain timeframe, speculated to have lived in the 5th century BC or earlier.
• His work, the 'Tirukkural,' comprising 1,330 couplets (known as 'kurals' in Tamil), holds significant cultural importance in Tamil households, comparable to the Bhagavad Gita or the Ramayana in North Indian Hindu traditions.
• Thiruvalluvar is venerated as an ancient saint, poet, and philosopher by Tamilians, transcending religious affiliations.
• His teachings serve as a cultural anchor, guiding Tamilians to memorize his couplets and incorporate his wisdom into their daily lives.
• In the 2020 Budget presentation, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman quoted Thiruvalluvar, emphasizing the importance of possessing the "five jewels" for a nation: freedom from illness, prosperity, abundant crops, happiness, and safety and security.

The significance of the color of Thiruvalluvar's robes 

• The significance of the color of Thiruvalluvar's robes has been subject to political interpretation over time, even though historical information on the matter is scarce.
• According to S Swaminathan, a retired IIT professor specializing in ancient Tamil history, scholars have suggested that Thiruvalluvar was likely a Jain, not a Hindu or a Dravidian, based on available evidence about his life.
• The iconic image of Thiruvalluvar in white robes is a relatively recent creation, and there is uncertainty about whether the ancient saint was a singular individual or a composite figure developed over the years.

 

3. The recent controversy over Thiruvalluvar's

 

• The recent excavations at Keeladi near Madurai, revealing evidence that extends the history of the Sangam Era or Tamilagam from 300 BC to 600 BC, have become a focal point in the ongoing debate on Tamil history.
• This discovery has provided Dravidian historians and politicians with additional ammunition to assert the antiquity of their cultural heritage.
• The controversy surrounding the perceived saffronization of Thiruvalluvar unfolds within this historical context.
• The Keeladi findings sparked intense debates on social media between Hindutva supporters and those aligning with the Dravidian perspective.
• Despite the absence of Hindu idols or goddesses in the Keeladi samples, which bolstered the Dravidian narrative, Hindutva proponents on social media persisted in claiming evidence of Hindu religion in Keeladi.

Other instances

Instances of controversies surrounding the depiction of Thiruvalluvar's attire have sparked debates in Tamil Nadu on multiple occasions:

• A book festival in Coimbatore in July 2022 distributed copies of the classic Thirukkural featuring an image of Thiruvalluvar adorned in saffron attire.
• Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) in Coimbatore faced controversy when a portrait of Thiruvalluvar wearing saffron robes was placed in its library. Subsequently, the portrait was replaced with Thiruvalluvar depicted in white attire.
• In 2019, the BJP state unit in Tamil Nadu posted a picture on Twitter portraying Thiruvalluvar in saffron robes, leading to protests from Dravidian and Left parties.
• In 2017, a similar controversy arose when the BJP referred to the 19th-century social reformer Sree Narayana Guru as a Hindu saint. Sree Narayana Guru, credited with shaping Kerala's social and secular fabric, advocated against casteism and promoted spiritual freedom.

 

4. The Way Forward

 

The appropriation of Thiruvalluvar, a figure revered across religions, reflects the deeper tensions surrounding Tamil identity and historical interpretations. These controversies highlight the need to appreciate his timeless teachings and universal values rather than using him for political gains.

 

 

For Prelims: Thiruvalluvar, Tirukkural, Dravidian ideologies, Hindutva ideologies For Mains:  1. Briefly explain the significance of Thiruvalluvar and the "Tirukkural" in Tamil culture. (250 Words) 2. How do historical narratives and interpretations of figures like Thiruvalluvar contribute to the construction of Tamil identity and the dynamics between Dravidian and Hindutva ideologies? (250 Words)

 

Source: The Indian Express

KUKI-ZOMI TRIBE

 

 

 

1. Context

 

 

The Centre has urged the Manipur Government to review a petition requesting the removal of specific Kuki and Zomi tribes from the Scheduled Tribes (ST) list in Manipur. In response, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh announced in Imphal that a dedicated committee could be established to assess the matter. The representation, submitted by Maheshwar Thounaojam, National Secretary of the Republican Party of India (Athawale) in Manipur, advocates for the inclusion of Meiteis in the ST list, proposing the exclusion of certain Kuki and Zomi tribes.

 

 

2. About Kuki and Zomi tribes

 

The Kuki-Zomi people are a diverse group of ethnicities inhabiting the mountainous regions of Northeast India, Myanmar, and Bangladesh. They share a common ancestry and cultural heritage, and their name reflects this shared identity: "Kuki" is a more general term encompassing various sub-tribes, while "Zomi" is a relatively recent term adopted by some Kuki communities to emphasize their distinct identity and cultural heritage.

•  The exact origins of the Kuki-Zomi people remain unclear, but linguistic evidence suggests they migrated from Southeast Asia centuries ago. Today, they are found primarily in the Indian states of Manipur, Mizoram, Assam, Nagaland, and Tripura, as well as in Chin State, Myanmar, and the Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh.
•  The Kuki-Zomi people comprise numerous sub-tribes, each with its own distinct dialect and cultural practices. Some of the major sub-tribes include the Hmar, Thadou, Paite, Gangte, Vaiphei, Zou, Aimol, and Anal. These sub-tribes speak various Kuki-Chin languages, which belong to the Tibeto-Burman language family.
• The Kuki-Zomi people have a rich and vibrant culture characterized by strong communal bonds, traditional music and dance, and colorful handicrafts. Their traditional attire is often adorned with intricate beadwork and embroidery, reflecting their artistic skills and cultural pride.
•  The Kuki-Zomi people have faced various challenges throughout their history, including displacement, conflict, and marginalization. However, they have demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability, preserving their unique culture and traditions despite these hardships.
• In recent years, the Kuki-Zomi people have made significant strides in education, entrepreneurship, and political representation. They are increasingly active in advocating for their rights and cultural identity, and their contributions to the social and economic development of the regions they inhabit are becoming increasingly recognized.

 

3. Delisting Proposal in Manipur

• The representation calling for the potential removal of specific Kuki and Zomi tribes from the Scheduled Tribes (ST) list in Manipur stems from the ongoing ethnic conflict that has persisted for eight months.
• This conflict, initiated on May 3, 2023, arose following an order from the Manipur High Court directing the State government to recommend the inclusion of Meiteis in the ST list to the Centre.
• As the Centre now requests the State government to examine the representation for the delisting of Kuki and Zomi tribes, there is a risk of exacerbating existing tensions between the valley-based Meitei people and the hills-based Kuki-Zo (ST) people in the State.
• One significant factor driving the Meiteis' demand for ST status is their inability to own land in the forested hill districts, where only STs are permitted to own land.
• Notably, this marks the first instance where members of the Meitei community are advocating for their inclusion in the ST list by contending that specific Kuki and Zomi tribes should not be part of it.
• This development may also have broader implications for the criteria used to designate groups as Scheduled Tribes, a framework that has remained unchanged since its introduction by the Lokur Commission in 1965.

Key Arguments in the Kuki-Zomi Delisting Proposal

• In Mr. Thounaojam’s representation, objections have been raised against the inclusion of three specific entries in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) list of Manipur namely, “Any Mizo(Lushai) Tribes,” “Zou,” and “Any Kuki Tribes.”
• The primary argument put forth for the exclusion of these entries is that they are not considered "indigenous" to the land of Manipur.
• According to the representation, there is no historical mention of these specific tribes residing in Manipur in pre-Independence Censuses.
• Furthermore, the representation contends that the vagueness surrounding the terms "Any Mizo (Lushai) Tribes" and "Any Kuki Tribes" in the ST list has purportedly facilitated illegal immigrants from Myanmar and Bangladesh in wrongfully obtaining benefits intended for Scheduled Tribes in India.

 

4. About Lokur Commission

The Lokur Commission, officially known as the Advisory Committee on the Revision of Lists of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, played a significant role in shaping the landscape of tribal communities in India. Established in 1965 by the Government of India. Chaired by Justice N.N. Lokur, a former Chief Justice of India. Tasked with revising the lists of Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in a rational and scientific manner.

Criteria for Scheduled Tribes:

• The Commission established five key criteria for identifying a community as an ST:
  • Primitive Traits and Distinctive Culture
  • Geographical Isolation
  • Shyness of Contact with the Community at Large
  • Backwardness
  • Pre-dominantly Tribal Population

Impact on Tribal Communities

• The Lokur Commission's recommendations led to the addition of several new communities to the ST list, granting them access to educational and economic benefits reserved for STs.
• However, the criteria employed, particularly the emphasis on "primitive traits," have been criticized for being outdated, stereotypical, and potentially hindering social progress for tribal communities.

Criticisms and Debates

• The Commission's classification of certain communities as "primitive" has been challenged for being derogatory and inaccurate.
• The criteria used have been accused of being subjective and open to misinterpretation, leading to inconsistencies and exclusion of deserving communities.
• Debates continue regarding the need for revising or even abolishing the existing criteria altogether, with calls for a more nuanced approach based on social, economic, and cultural factors.

Legacy

• Despite the criticisms, the Lokur Commission's work remains influential in the administration of tribal affairs in India.
• Its report and recommendations form the basis for the current ST list and continue to be referenced in discussions about tribal inclusion and development.
• The Commission's legacy highlights the importance of ongoing discussions about the definition of "tribal" identity and the need for criteria that are fair, inclusive, and responsive to the evolving realities of tribal communities in India.

 

 

5. The National Commission for Backward Classes

 

The National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) stands as a crucial advocate for the rights and welfare of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in India. Established in 1993 and elevated to constitutional status in 2018, the NCBC plays a multi-faceted role in ensuring social justice and equality for OBC communities. 

Mandate and Responsibilities

• The NCBC probes cases of discrimination and denial of rights due to OBC status. It monitors the implementation of various government policies and schemes aimed at OBC development.
• The Commission regularly assesses the social, educational, and economic advancement of OBCs. It provides recommendations to the government on policies and programs to bridge existing gaps and address emerging challenges.
• Individuals from OBC communities can approach the NCBC with complaints related to violations of their rights or benefits. The Commission takes necessary action to address these grievances and ensure justice.
•  The NCBC conducts research on the diverse OBC communities, analyzing their specific needs and vulnerabilities. It promotes awareness about OBC issues and advocates for their inclusive participation in various spheres of Indian society.

Key Achievements

• The NCBC played a significant role in implementing the Right to Education Act (2009) and ensuring reservation quotas for OBC students in educational institutions.
•  The Commission has been instrumental in promoting entrepreneurship and skill development programs among OBC communities, leading to greater economic participation and self-reliance.
•  The NCBC has consistently pushed for legislation and policy changes that benefit OBCs, such as reservations in government jobs and promotions, access to healthcare, and land rights.

Challenges and Future Directions

• OBCs are a diverse group with varying needs and levels of marginalization. The NCBC faces the challenge of addressing these internal disparities and ensuring inclusivity within its advocacy efforts.
• The Commission often operates with limited resources, hindering its ability to effectively reach out to remote OBC communities and conduct comprehensive research.
• Ensuring proper implementation of the NCBC's recommendations on the ground remains a crucial challenge. Stronger collaboration with state governments and local authorities is essential.

6. Examining Claims of Non-Indigeneity and Misuse

 

• The claim that these communities were not residing in the land of Manipur at the time the first Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) list was published in 1950 is not accurate.
• The original order listed three tribes for Manipur  "Any Kuki Tribe," "Any Lushai Tribe," and "Any Naga Tribe," encompassing respective sub-tribes. The argument lacks validity, as there is historical evidence to show the presence of these tribes in Manipur at the time.
• Regarding the assertion that the inclusion of these tribes in the ST list has facilitated organized illegal immigration into Manipur, there is currently no empirical evidence to support this claim beyond individual instances and rhetoric from the Meitei community.
• However, the First Backward Classes Commission's 1955 report acknowledged that the broad classifications of tribes, including "Any Kuki Tribe," originated under British administration.
• The Commission recommended adding individual tribe names for Assam and the hills of Manipur instead of umbrella tribes, suggesting a need for redrawing the lists due to outdated information.
• In the 1956 revision of the ST list for Manipur, 29 entries included individual tribe names, except for "Any Mizo (Lushai) Tribe," which was retained.
• The representation argues that neither "Zou" nor "Any Mizo (Lushai) Tribe" was specifically recommended by the First Backward Classes Commission.
• In 1965, the Lokur Commission noted a "splintering tendency" among Kuki tribes, with sub-groups seeking distinct identities. Over the years, communities adopted independent tribe names, but the entry "Any Kuki Tribes" was added in 2002-2003 to address the identity of those who identified as Kukis.
• The Bhuria Commission Report of 2002-2004 observed confusion arising from this addition and recommended mentioning tribe names in the ST list to address inter-tribe differences.

 

7. The Way Forward

 

The Kuki-Zomi delisting proposal in Manipur raises intricate questions about tribal identity, historical claims, and potential consequences for inter-community relations. Examining the arguments, historical context, and the role of institutions like the NCBC is essential for understanding the complexities of this issue and finding solutions that respect the rights and identities of all involved communities.

 

 

For Prelims: kuki-zomi tribes, manipur, National Commission for Backward classes, STs, Lokur Commission, Other Backward Classes For Mains:  1. Discuss the potential political and developmental implications of the proposed delisting. How might it affect land rights, access to resources, and inter-community relations in Manipur? (250 Words) 2. Assess the role of the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) in addressing the complexities of tribal identity and ensuring social justice for marginalized communities. How can the NCBC be strengthened to better address issues like the Kuki-Zomi delisting proposal? (250 Words)

 

Previous Year Questions   1. Who was appointed as the head of the OBC Sub-categorisation Commission? (Maharashtra Talathi 2019)  A. Justice Geeta Mittal B. Justice Manjula Chellur C. Justice Tahilramani D. Justice G. Rohini     2. Which of the following pairs of list and contents is/are correctly matched? (UPSC CAPF 2019)  1. State list                     Public health and sanitation 2. Union list                  Citizenship, naturalisation and aliens 3. Concurrent list          Legal, medical and other Select the correct answer using the code given below: A. 1 only             B. 1, 2 and 3          C.  2 and 3 only            D.  3 only   Answers:1-D, 2- B

 

Source: The Hindu