ASEAN
1. Context
At a time when China’s aggressive posture in the Indo-Pacific, including the South China Sea where Brunei has a maritime claim, is rattling the region, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached the sultanate’s capital Bandar Seri Begawan Tuesday to hold bilateral talks with Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Thursday on a range of issues — from commercial to cultural to defence ties.
2. About the ASEAN and East Asia Summit?
ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations)
- ASEAN is a regional intergovernmental organization consisting of ten countries in Southeast Asia.
- It was founded on August 8, 1967, to promote political and economic cooperation, regional stability, and social progress among its member states.
- The founding members of ASEAN are Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand, with Brunei, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, and Cambodia joining later.
- ASEAN holds regular meetings and summits to discuss regional issues, economic integration, and diplomatic cooperation.
Image Source: The Research GateEast Asia Summit (EAS)
- The East Asia Summit is a broader regional forum that includes ASEAN member states along with eight other countries, namely Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Russia, and the United States.
- The EAS was established in 2005 to provide a platform for discussions on strategic, political, and economic issues affecting East Asia.
- It addresses a wide range of regional and global challenges, from security and trade to environmental issues.
Image Source: Twitter3. The Rationality behind the ASEAN and East Asia Summit
- Promote regional peace and stability. The EAS provides a forum for leaders to discuss and address common security challenges, such as terrorism, piracy, and natural disasters.
- Foster economic growth and development. The EAS can help to promote trade and investment, and to facilitate economic integration in the region.
- Address non-traditional security challenges. The EAS can also address non-traditional security challenges, such as climate change, pandemics, and human trafficking.
4. About ‘multilateralism’
Multilateralism is a principle of international relations that emphasizes cooperation between countries. This cooperation can take many forms, such as diplomacy, trade agreements, and international organizations. There are several benefits to multilateralism including
1. It can help to promote peace and stability by encouraging countries to work together to resolve their differences.
2. It can help to promote economic growth by reducing barriers to trade and investment.
3. It can help to address common challenges, such as climate change and terrorism.
4.1. Concept of Multilateralism
- The concept of multilateralism emphasizes diplomacy, negotiation, and cooperation among nations to achieve collective objectives.
- It rests on equality, non-interference in internal affairs, and respect for international law.
- Multilateral institutions like the United Nations, the World Trade Organization, and regional organizations such as ASEAN play significant roles in facilitating multilateral cooperation.
4.2. Purpose of Multilateralism
- Foster international cooperation and dialogue.
- Promote peace and security by addressing conflicts through diplomacy and collective security mechanisms.
- Facilitate economic integration and trade through agreements like the World Trade Organization (WTO).
- Address global challenges such as climate change, public health crises, and terrorism through coordinated efforts.
- Uphold international law and human rights.
- Create a more stable and predictable international system.
4.3. About post-Cold War multilateralism
- Post-Cold War multilateralism refers to the practice of cooperation between countries in the post-Cold War era.
- This cooperation is often seen as a way to address common challenges and promote peace and stability.
- There are several reasons why multilateralism has become more important in the post-Cold War era.
- The end of the Cold War led to a decline in superpower rivalry, which created an opportunity for countries to cooperate more closely.
- The rise of new challenges, such as terrorism and climate change, has made it clear that no country can address these challenges alone.
- The increasing interconnectedness of the world economy has made it more important for countries to cooperate on trade and investment issues.
5. Unilateralism and Multilateralism in International Relations
Unilateralism
- Unilateralism is an approach in international relations where a nation acts independently and without seeking the approval or cooperation of other countries.
- This can include making decisions, taking military action, or implementing policies without regard for international consensus.
- Unilateralism can be seen as a more assertive or isolationist stance.
Multilateralism
- Multilateralism involves collaboration and cooperation among multiple nations to address global challenges.
- It values diplomacy, negotiation, and shared responsibilities. Multilateral approaches are often considered more inclusive and consensus-based.
6. Is multilateralism declining?
- There is some evidence to suggest that multilateralism is declining. For example, the number of new international organizations has declined in recent years, and there has been a rise in unilateralism, particularly in the United States.
- However, there are also many examples of countries cooperating multilaterally to address common challenges.
- Ultimately, the future of multilateralism will depend on the willingness of countries to work together to address the challenges of the 21st century.
|
For Prelims: ASEAN, East Asia Summit, Post-Cold War, multilateralism, G20 summit, United Nations, the World Trade Organization, Unilateralism,
For Mains:
1. Discuss the concept and purpose of post-Cold War multilateralism. What factors have contributed to the increased emphasis on multilateral cooperation in the post-Cold War era? (250 Words)
|
|
Previous Year Questions
1. India is a member of which among the following? (UPSC 2015)
1. Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation
2. Association of South-East Asian Nations
3. East Asia Summit
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
A. 1 and 2 only B. 3 only C. 1, 2 and 3 D. India is a member of none of them
Answer: B
2. Recently, the USA decided to support India's membership in multilateral export control regimes called the "Australia Group" and the "Wassenaar Arrangement". What is the difference between them? (UPSC 2011)
1. The Australia Group is an informal arrangement which aims to allow exporting countries to minimize the risk of assisting chemical and biological weapons proliferation, whereas the Wassenaar Arrangement is a formal group under the OECD holding identical objectives.
2. The Australia Group comprises predominantly of Asian, African and North American countries, whereas the member countries of Wassenaar Arrangement are predominantly from the European Union and American continents.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: D
3. With reference to the "Look East Policy" of India, consider the following statements (UPSC 2011)
1. India wants to establish itself as an important regional player in East Asian affairs.
2. India wants to plug the vacuum created by the termination of the Cold War.
3. India wants to restore the historical and cultural ties with its neighbours in Southeast and East Asia.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 1 and 3 only C. 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
4.With reference to the “G20 Common Framework”, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2022)
1. It is an initiative endorsed by the G20 together with the Paris Club. 2. It is an initiative to support Low Income Countries with unsustainable debt. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Answer: C
5. In which one of the following groups are all the four countries members of G20? (UPSC 2020)
A. Argentina, Mexico, South Africa and Turkey
B. Australia, Canada, Malaysia and New Zealand
C. Brazil, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Vietnam
D. Indonesia, Japan, Singapore and South Korea
Answer: A
6. With reference to the United Nations General Assembly, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2022)
1. The UN General Assembly can grant observer status to the non-member States.
2. Inter-governmental organisations can seek observer status in the UN General Assembly.
3. Permanent Observers in the UN General Assembly can maintain missions at the UN headquarters.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C.1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: D
7. In the Context of which of the following do you sometimes find the terms 'amber box, blue box and green tax' in the news? (UPSC CSE 2016)
A. WTO Affairs
B. SAARC affairs
C. UNFCC affairs
D. India-EU negotions on FTA
Answer-A
8. In the context of the affairs which of the following is the phrase "Special Safeguard Mechanisms" mentioned in the news frequently? (UPSC 2010) A. United Nations Environment Program B. World Trade Organization Agreement C. ASEAN-India D. Free Trade G-20 Summits Answer: B 9. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2017) 1. India has ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) of the WTO 2. TFA is a part of WTO's Bali Ministerial Package of 2013 3. TFA came into force in January 2016 Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only B. 1 and 3 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Answer: A 10. Which of the following are the main functions of WTO? (UPSC ESE 2020)
1. To organize meetings of member countries to arrive at trade agreements covering international trade
2. To ensure that member countries conduct trade practices as per agreement agreed upon and signed by the member countries
3. To provide a platform to negotiate and settle disputes related to international trade between and among member countries
A. 1 and 2 only B. 1 and 3 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: D
11. In a unilateral system of tolerance, tolerance is allowed on which side? (HPCL Engineer Mechanical 2021)
A. one side of the nominal size
B. no side of the nominal size
C. Both sides of the actual size
D. One side of the actual size
Answer: A
12. Which of the following is a bilateral element? (UPSSSC JE Electrical 2016)
A. constant current source
B. constant voltage source
C. capacitance
D. None of these
Answer: C
|
NATIONAL FOOD SECURITY ACT
1. Context
As the trade of agricultural and processed food products grows, food safety management is becoming increasingly important. Many developed economies have stringent food safety regulations and practices, including for imports.
2. About the food inflation rate in India
- As of September 5, 2023, the food inflation rate in India is 8.88%.
- This is based on the All-India Consumer Price Index for Agricultural Products (CPI-AP), which measures the change in prices of a basket of food items consumed by rural and urban households.
- The CPI-AP food inflation rate was 7.03% in June 2023 and 5.38% in July 2022.
3. The reasons for cereal inflation
There are several reasons why cereal inflation is high in India. These include:
- The Russia-Ukrainian war has disrupted global wheat exports. India is a major importer of wheat, and the war has led to a shortage of wheat in the global market, which has pushed up prices.
- A poor monsoon season in India has damaged crops. The monsoon season is crucial for agriculture in India, and a poor monsoon season can lead to lower crop yields, which can also push up prices.
- Higher transportation costs: The cost of transporting food has been rising due to higher fuel prices. This has also contributed to the rise in cereal prices.
- Lower domestic production: The production of cereals in India has been declining in recent years. This is due to several factors, including the lack of investment in agriculture, the ageing farmer population, and climate change.
- Government policies: The government has imposed export restrictions on wheat and rice, which has limited the supply of these cereals in the market and pushed up prices.
3. National Food Security Act, 2013
- The National Food Security Act, 2013 (NFSA) is an Act of the Parliament of India that aims to provide food and nutritional security in the human life cycle approach, by ensuring access to an adequate quantity of quality food at affordable prices for people to live a life with dignity and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.
- The Act was enacted on July 5, 2013, and came into force on September 1, 2013.
- It covers two-thirds of the population of India, which is about 813 million people.
3.1. Salient features
- The Public Distribution System (PDS) is now governed by provisions of the National Food Security Act, 2013 (NFSA).
- Coverage under PDS is de-linked from the erstwhile 'poverty estimates'.
- The Act provides coverage for nearly 2/3rd of the country's total population, basis Census 2011 population estimates.
- 75% of the Rural and 50% of Urban population is entitled to receive highly subsidised foodgrains under two categories of beneficiaries Antodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) households and Priority Households (PHH).
- State/UT-wise coverage is determined by the erstwhile Planning Commission (now NITI Ayog) based on the 2011-12 Household Consumption Expenditure survey of NSSO.
- The Act entitles 35 kg of foodgrain per AAY Household per month, whereas 5 Kg of foodgrain per PHH Person per month.
- Identification of beneficiaries/households under NFSA is done by the respective State/UT Government, which is required to frame its own criteria.
- Highly subsidised Central Issue Prices of Re.1, Rs.2 and Rs.3 for Coarse-grains, Wheat and Rice respectively, kept unchanged till June 2019.
- No reduction in foodgrains allocation to any State/UT under NFSA. Allocation gaps if any, are covered with Tide-Over allocation
- Eldest woman of the beneficiary household (18 years or above) is considered as 'Head of Family' to issue ration cards.
- Grievance redressal mechanisms, through State Food Commissions, DGROs, and Vigilance Committees at different levels are provisioned for Women's Empowerment.
- Provisions for disclosure of records relating to PDS operations, placing of beneficiaries' list in public domain/portals, for enhanced transparency
- Assistance to States/UTs for meeting expenditure on intra-state transportation & handling of foodgrains and FPS Dealers' margin
3.2. The eligibility criteria
Rural areas:
- Households with an annual income of less than Rs. 10,000 per annum.
- Households with at least two adult members who are unable to work due to old age, disability, or illness.
- Households that depend on agriculture for their livelihood and have an annual income of less than Rs. 5000 per annum.
- Households that have been identified as Below the Poverty Line (BPL) by the state government.
Urban areas:
- Households with an annual income of less than Rs. 15,000 per annum.
- Households with at least two adult members who are unable to work due to old age, disability, or illness.
- Households that depend on non-agricultural activities for their livelihood and have an annual income of less than Rs. 10,000 per annum.
- Households that have been identified as Below Poverty Line (BPL) by the state government.
4. Conclusion
- All NFSA beneficiaries, before January 2023, were getting 10 kg of rice or wheat per month practically free of cost.
- Since that more or less met their entire requirement the last national sample survey of 2011-12 revealed the per capita cereal consumption at 11.22 kg for rural and 9.28 kg for urban India they hardly had to buy grain from the open market.
|
For Prelims: National Food Security Act, inflation, Below Poverty Line, All-India Consumer Price Index for Agricultural Products, Russia-Ukrainian war, Public Distribution System, Antodaya Anna Yojana, Priority Households, Planning Commission, NITI Ayog,
For Mains:
1. Evaluate the impact of poor monsoon seasons and climate change on cereal production in India. How can these challenges be addressed to ensure food security for the population? (250 Words)
|
|
Previous Year Questions
1. With reference to the provisions made under the National Food Security act, 2013 consider the following statements: (UPSC 2018)
1. The families coming under the category of 'below poverty line (BPL)' only are eligible to receive subsidized food grains.
2. The eldest woman in a household, of age 18 years or above, shall be the head of the household for the purpose of issuance of a ration card.
3. Pregnant women and lactating mothers are entitled to a 'take-home ration' of 1600 calories per day during pregnancy and or six months thereafter.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 B. 2 only C. 1 and 3 D. 3 only
Answer: B
2. With reference to the National Food Security Act, which of the following statement is/are correct? (UPPSC 2019)
I. It will cover up to 75 percent rural and 50 percent urban population.
II. Special focus on nutritional support to women and children.
III. Eldest woman of above 18 years of age will be head of household.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
A. I and II are correct
B. II and III are correct
C. I, II and III are correct
D. None of these
Answer: C
3. In a given year in India, official poverty lines are higher in some States than in others because (UPSC 2019)
A. Poverty rates vary from State to State
B. Price levels vary from State to State
C. Gross State Product varies from State to State
D. Quality of public distribution varies from State to State
Answer: B
4. With reference to inflation in India, which of the following statements is correct? (UPSC 2015)
A. Controlling the inflation in India is the responsibility of the Government of India only
B. The Reserve Bank of India has no role in controlling the inflation
C. Decreased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation
D. Increased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation
Answer: C
5. With reference to India, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2010)
1. The Wholesale Price Index (WPI) in India is available on a monthly basis only.
2. As compared to Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers (CPI(IW)), the WPI gives less weight to food articles.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: C
6. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2020)
1. The weightage of food in Consumer Price Index (CPI) is higher than that in Wholesale Price Index (WPI).
2. The WPI does not capture changes in the prices of services, which CPI does.
3. Reserve Bank of India has now adopted WPI as its key measure of inflation and to decide on changing the key policy rates.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 only C. 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
7. Who among the following is the head of the standing committee on economic statistics set up by Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MOSPI)? (SSC CGL 2020)
A. Krishnamurthy Subramanian
B. Manmohan Singh
C. Pronab Sen
D. Raghuram Rajan
Answer: C
8. As per Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, which state of India has the highest per capita income as of Sep 2019? (SSC CPO 2019)
A. Goa B. Punjab C. Tamil Nadu D. Gujarat
Answer: A
9. The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has revised the base year index of Eight Core Industries having a combined weight of about 40.27 percent in the Index of Industrial Production. Which one of the following is not one of the Eight Core Industries? (CDS 2022)
A. Coal
B. Refinery products
C. Rubber products
D. Cement
Answer: C
10. Read the following passage and answer the question that follows. Your answers to these items should be based on the passage only. (UPSC 2021)
Policymakers and media have placed the blame for skyrocketing food prices on a variety of factors, including high fuel prices, bad weather in key food producing countries, and the diversion of land to non-food production. Increased emphasis, however, has been placed on a surge in demand for food from the most populous emerging economics. It seems highly probable that mass consumption in these countries could be well poised to create a food crisis.
With reference to the above passage, the following assumptions have been made:
1. Oil producing countries are one of the reasons for high food prices.
2. If there is a food crisis in the world in the near future, it will be in the emerging economies. Which of the above assumptions is/are valid?
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: D
11. India has experienced persistent and high food inflation in the recent past. What could be the reasons? (UPSC 2011)
1. Due to a gradual switchover to the cultivation of commercial crops, the area under the cultivation of food grains has steadily decreased in the last five years by about 30.
2. As a consequence of increasing incomes, the consumption patterns of the people have undergone a significant change.
3. The food supply chain has structural constraints.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
12. With reference to inflation in India, which of the following statements is correct? (UPSC 2015)
A. Controlling the inflation in India is the responsibility of the Government of India only
B.The Reserve Bank of India has no role in controlling the inflation
C. Decreased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation
D. Increased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation
Answer: C
13. With reference to the Agreement at the UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015, which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC 2016)
1. The Agreement was signed by all the member countries of the UN and it will go into effect in 2017
2. The Agreement aims to limit greenhouse gas emissions so that the rise in average global temperature by the end of this century does not exceed 2°C or even 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
3. Developed countries acknowledged their historical responsibility in global warming and committed to donate $ 1000 billion a year from 2020 to help developing countries to cope with climate change.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 and 3 only B. 2 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
14. The Public Distribution System, which evolved as a system of management of food and distribution of food grains, was relaunched as _______ Public Distribution System in 1997. (SSC JE EE 2021)
A. Evolved B. Transformed C. Tested D. Targeted
Answer: D
15. Under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana, up to what quantity of rice and wheat can be purchased at a subsidised cost? (FCI AG III 2023)
A. 35 kg B. 40 kg C. 30 kg D. 25 kg E. 50 kg
Answer: A
16. Among the following who are eligible to benefit from the "Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act"? (UPSC 2011)
A. Adult members of only the scheduled caste and scheduled tribe households.
B. Adult members of below-poverty line (BPL) households.
C. Adult members of households of all backward communities.
D. Adult members of any rural household.
Answer: D
|
NATIONAL MEDICAL COMMISSION
1. Context
The National Medical Commission (NMC), the country’s apex medical education regulator, has revised the forensic medicine curriculum for undergraduate medical students, bringing back “sodomy and lesbianism” under the category of unnatural sexual offences
2. About the National Medical Commission
- The National Medical Commission (NMC) is a statutory body in India that regulates medical education and medical professionals.
- It was established by the National Medical Commission Act, 2019, which came into force on 25 September 2020.
- The NMC replaced the Medical Council of India (MCI), which had been criticized for corruption and inefficiency.
- The NMC is composed of 25 members, including doctors, medical educators, and government officials.
- The members are appointed by the central government for a term of four years.
3. The role of the National Medical Commission
The NMC has several important roles, including:
- The NMC sets the standards for medical colleges and courses and ensures that they are met. It also conducts regular inspections of medical colleges and takes action against those that do not meet the standards.
- The NMC conducts several medical examinations, including the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) for undergraduate medical admissions and the National Eligibility Test (NET) for postgraduate medical admissions. It also issues medical licenses to qualified doctors.
- The NMC approves the establishment of new medical colleges and assesses existing ones. It evaluates the infrastructure, faculty, curriculum, and other essential criteria before granting recognition to medical institutions.
- The NMC assesses and accredits medical institutions and their programs to ensure they meet the prescribed standards for medical education. This process helps maintain and improve the quality of medical education.
- The NMC maintains a register of all medical professionals in India. This register helps to ensure that only qualified doctors are practising in the country.
- NMC supports and promotes research and innovation in the medical field. It encourages medical professionals to engage in research activities and contribute to advancing healthcare and medical knowledge.
- The commission serves as an advisory body to the central and state governments on various matters related to medical education, healthcare policies, and the regulation of the medical profession.
- The NMC enforces ethical standards in the medical profession. It also investigates complaints against medical professionals and takes disciplinary action against those who are found to have violated the ethical code.
- The NMC redresses grievances from patients and medical professionals. It also provides information and guidance on medical education and practice.
4. Universal Health Coverage (UHC)
- Universal health coverage (UHC) is the vision that all people have access to quality health services, where and when they need them, without financial hardship.
- It is about ensuring that everyone can obtain the health care they need, without going broke.
- UHC is a fundamental human right, and it is essential for sustainable development.
- It is also a key component of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aim to achieve a more just and equitable world by 2030.
UHC has three key dimensions:
- Everyone who needs health services should get them, not only those who can pay for them.
- People should not fall into debt paying for treatment and care.
- Services should be adequate and effective.
To achieve UHC, countries need to have strong, efficient, and equitable health systems. This includes having a well-trained health workforce, accessible health facilities, and a reliable supply of essential medicines and vaccines.
5. The ratio of 100 MBBS seats for a 10 lakh population
- The ratio of 100 MBBS seats for a 10 lakh population means that there should be 100 MBBS seats for every 1 million people.
- This ratio was recommended by the National Medical Commission (NMC) in India in 2023 to ensure that there are enough doctors to meet the needs of the population.
- The NMC's recommendation is based on the World Health Organization's (WHO) recommendation of 1 doctor per 1,000 people.
- However, the WHO also acknowledges that this ratio may vary depending on the specific needs of a country or region.
- In India, the current ratio of doctors to population is about 0.8 per 1,000 people.
- This is below the WHO's recommended ratio, and it is also below the ratio of 100 MBBS seats per 1 million people.
6. The new guidelines by the National Medical Commission (NMC)
The NMC has released several new regulations, such as the National Medical Commission Registered Medical Practitioner (Professional Conduct) Regulations, 2023. These regulations set out the standards of professional conduct that medical practitioners in India must adhere to.
Image Source: UNCTAD
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
Image Source: Web
- The NMC has introduced a new competency-based medical curriculum, which will be implemented in all medical colleges in India from the academic year 2023-24.
- The new curriculum is focused on developing the skills and knowledge that doctors need to provide high-quality care to patients.
- The NMC has streamlined the process for obtaining a medical license. Doctors can now apply for a license online, and the processing time has been reduced.
- The NMC has established an online portal for medical professionals to register and renew their licenses. The portal also provides information on medical education and practice.
- The NMC has increased the number of medical seats in India by 10%. This will help to increase the number of doctors in the country and improve the quality of healthcare.
- The NMC has taken several steps to improve the quality of medical education and research in India. This includes conducting regular inspections of medical colleges and taking action against those that do not meet the standards. The NMC has also increased funding for medical research.
- These guidelines outline the ethical standards that medical practitioners are expected to uphold in their practice.
|
For Prelims: National Medical Commission, National Medical Commission Registered Medical Practitioner (Professional Conduct) Regulations, 2023, Sustainable Development Goals, Universal Health Care, NET, NEET, Medical Council of India,
For Mains:
1. Discuss the role of the National Medical Commission in regulating medical education and practice in India. (250 Words)
|
|
Previous Year Questions 1. Consider the following statements (UPSC CSE 2016)
1. The Sustainable Development Goals were first proposed in 1972 by a global think tank called the 'Club of Rome
2. Sustainable Development goals has to be achieved by the year 2030
Which of the statements given above is/ are correct
A. 1 Only B. 2 Only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 Nor 2
Answer: B
2. With reference to Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, consider the following statements: (UPSC CSE 2022) 1. Private and public hospitals must adopt it.
2. As it aims to achieve universal health coverage, every citizen of India should be part of it ultimately.
3. It has seamless portability across the country.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
|
Source: indianexpress
LEAST DEVELOPED COUNTRY
1. Context
Jobs in India generated directly and indirectly connected to international trade have declined over the last decade, the World Bank said, adding that the country has missed out on the export opportunity presented by China’s withdrawal from labour-intensive manufacturing sectors
2. What is a Least Developed Country?
The LDCs are developing countries listed by the UN that exhibit the lowest indicators of socioeconomic development. The concept first originated in the late 1960s and was codified under UN resolution 2768 passed in November 1971.
3. UN definition of Least Developed Country
According to the UN, an LDC is defined as “a country that exhibits the lowest indicators of socioeconomic development, with low levels of income, human capital, and economic diversification, high levels of economic vulnerability, and a population that is disproportionately reliant on agriculture, natural resources, and primary commodities.”
- The UN identifies three criteria for a country to be classified as an LDC:
First, it must have a gross national income (GNI) per capita below the threshold of USD 1,230 over a three-year average. - Second, it must perform poorly on a composite human assets index based on indicators including nutrition, health, and education.
- Lastly, the country must demonstrate economic vulnerability such as being prone to natural disasters and possessing structural economic constraints.
4. Data of present LDC Countries
These 46 LDCs are distributed among the following regions:
Africa (33): Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Togo, Uganda, United Republic of Tanzania and Zambia
Asia (9): Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Myanmar, Nepal, Timor-Leste, and Yemen
Caribbean (1): Haiti
Pacific (3): Kiribati, Solomon Islands, and Tuvalu.
Image Source: UNCTAD5. How does a country get off the LDC list?
- At the UN 2021 triennial review of LDC countries, the organization recommended that Bangladesh, Laos, and Nepal be removed from the list.
- To graduate from the LDC list, a country must meet certain criteria in the three areas stated before namely, income, human assets, and economic vulnerability.
- A nation must have a GNI per capita of at least USD 1,242 for two consecutive triennial reviews to meet the income requirement.
- The nation must also show that this level of income can be sustained over the long term.
- By using measures like education, health, and nutrition, a nation must show that it has improved its human capital to achieve the human assets requirement.
- This entails expanding literacy rates, lowering malnutrition rates, and enhancing access to healthcare and education.
- A nation also must show that it has improved its ability to withstand external economic shocks like natural catastrophes or shifts in commodity prices to pass the economic vulnerability test.
- To achieve these goals, a country might need to implement a combination of policies, including promoting economic growth through investment in infrastructure, improving governance and reducing corruption, diversifying the economy, addressing environmental challenges, and investing in human development.
6. Previous countries that get off the LDC list
- Botswana achieved graduation in 1994 primarily due to its strong economic performance driven by its diamond mining industry and investments in education and infrastructure.
- Similarly, Carbo Verde graduated in 2007 following investments in tourism, fisheries, and services, as well as positioning its strategic location as a hub for sea and air transportation to help attract foreign investment.
7. How did Bhutan get off the LDC list?
- Bhutan was included in the first group of LDCs in 1971.
- Over the last few decades, it has made remarkable progress on a variety of socio-economic metrics.
- Bhutan first fulfilled the requirements for graduation in 2015, and then again in 2018.
- Bhutan was therefore scheduled to graduate in 2021.
- The Un viewed Bhutan's request to match the effective graduation date with the conclusion of the nation's 12th national development plan in 2023 as a legitimate request and thus postponed the delisting.
- Bhutan has taken several measures to reach this point and the results have been significant.
8. Driving factors that led Bhutan to get off the LDC list
- Bhutan’s economy increased more than eight times in the last 20 years, from just under USD 300 million in 2000 to USD 2.53 billion in 2017, with an average annual growth rate of more than 7 percent.
- Additionally, the percentage of people living in poverty, as determined by the amount of money they make each day, decreased from 17.8 percent in 2003 to 1.5 percent in 2017.
- In the same vein, the percentage of people living below the national poverty line decreased from 23.2 percent in 2007 to 8.2 percent in 2017.
- Bhutan has mostly accomplished this by increasing exports of hydropower to India, which now accounts for 20 percent of its economy.
- The nation also established Brand Bhutantoo to diversify exports while acknowledging the modest size of its local market.
- The idea was to target high-end markets with specialized exports of high-value, low-volume Bhutanese goods.
- Their goods come from sectors of the economy including textiles, tourism, handicrafts, culture, and natural resources.
9. Advantages of being an LDC
- Being an LDC confers certain economic benefits to the listed country. As such, advancing out of the list is often only the first step in overall development.
- To begin with, due to their reliance on exports of raw materials, LDCs are suffering badly from the most recent decline in raw materials prices.
- LDCs continue to be significantly more vulnerable to catastrophic natural and economic disasters, including threats from climate change, and, are significantly less prepared to handle such difficulties.
- Small island developing states, which make up 10 of the LDCs, are amongst the most affected by this.
- Importantly, LDCs also enjoy duty-free and quota-free (DFQF) access to the markets of developed countries. This means that LDCs are not restricted by trade restrictions or tariffs when exporting their goods to wealthier nations. For LDCs, this is a significant advantage because it enables them to expand their exports and get access to new markets, which can boost their economic development.
- A nation can lose access to the DFQF as it transitions from being an LDC to a middle-income developing nation. As a result, a nation that leaves the category of LDC may encounter new trade obstacles that it had not previously encountered, making it more challenging for it to expand its exports and get access to new markets.
- LDCs are also eligible for loans with special terms for development, which include loans with a lower interest rate and a longer repayment time than those given to other nations.
- The term “Official Development Assistance” (ODA) or “aid” is frequently used to describe this form of support. This money is intended to aid LDCs in their initiatives to meet their fundamental requirements, promote sustainable economic growth and development, and fight poverty.
Previous year Question
|
1. Which of the following statements about the 'Nairobi Package' adopted in the Tenth Ministerial Conference of WTO is/are correct? (UPSC CAPF 2015)
1. No safeguard mechanism for developing country members.
2. Preferential rules of origin for least developed countries.
3. Public stockholding for food security purposes.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 only
B.1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: C
|
For Prelims & Mains
|
For Prelims: United Nations (UN) list of Least Developed Countries (LDC), United Nations Organisation (UNO), Duty-free and quota-free (DFQF), Gross national income (GNI), UN resolution 2768, Official Development Assistance (ODA), Nutrition, Health, and Education.
For Mains: 1. What is a Least Developed Country? Discuss the significance and advantages of being a least developed Country(LDC).
|
Source: The Indian Express
HARAPPAN CIVILISATION
1. Context
Since the discovery of Harappan sites at Lothal, located in the Bhal region of Gujarat, in the 1950s, archaeologists have been divided on whether a dockyard existed at the location during the Indus Valley Civilisation.
2. Harappan Civilisation
- The Harappan/ Indus Valley civilization was the first urban civilization in South Asia, contemporaneous with the civilizations of Mesopotamia and Egypt.
-
It was larger than ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia civilizations. First site excavated: Harappa site by Dayaram Sahni in 1921.
-
John Marshall: first scholar to use the term Indus Civilisation. Most accepted timeline: 2500 BC-1750 BC (Carbon-14 Dating).
-
Period: India Civilization belongs to the proto-historic period- Chalcolithic Age/Bronze Age. Heartland of Indus Civilization: Harappa-Ghaggar- Mohenjo Daro axis.
-
Indus sites found in Afghanistan: Shortughai and Mundigaq.
-
Capital cities: Harappa, Mohenjodaro.
-
Port cities: Lothal, Sutkagendor, Allahdino, Balakot, Kuntasi.
-
Areas covered: Harappan civilizationtion was triangular in shape and was the largest among the three ancient urban civilization the other two being ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia (present-day Iraq). It roughly covers modern day Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat, and Pakistan.
-
Father of Indian archaeology: Alexander Cunningham, the first Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
Image Source: WEB
3. Four phases of Indus Valley Civilisation (IVC)
3.1 Pre-Harappan Phase from 7000 to 3300 BCE
- This stage is located in eastern Balochistan.
- Excavations at Mehrgarh- northwest of Mohenjodaro reveal the existence of Pre- Harappan culture.
- The earliest evidence of farming and herding is in South Asia.
This shows the first evidence of cotton cultivation. Nomadic people began to lead settled agricultural life.
3.2 Early Harappan Phase from 3300 to 2600 BCE
- Characterized by rudimentary town planning in the form of muddy structures and elementary treat hearts and craft
- Also related to Hakra Phase, identified with the Ghaggar-Hakra valley.
- Village settlements in plain areas; Gradual growth of towns in Indus Valley.
- The transition from rural to urban life in this period.
- Indus script dates back to 3000 BC (This script is still undeciphered) Sites of Amri and Kot diji remain evidence for this stage.
3.3 Mature Harappan Phase from 2600 to 1900 BCE
- Marked by a well-developed town with a burnt brick structure established foreign trade crafts of various types.
- Excavation at Kalibangan with its elaborate town planning and urban features proves this the phase of evolution.
- Slow southward migration of the South Asian monsoon allowed villages to develop by taming floods of the Indus and tributaries.
3.4 Late Harappan Phase from 1900 to 1300 BCE
- It was the declining phase. During this several cities were abandoned and the trade disappeared.
- A gradual decay of significant urban Traits is noticed. Reduction in rainfall triggered a reorganization into large urban centers.
- Mature Harappan civilization was an ‘a fusion of the Bagor, Hakra, and Kot Diji traditions on Borders of India and Pakistan’- According to D.A. Lichtenstein
-
Large urban centers include Harappa, Ganeriwal, Mohenjodaro, Dholavira, Kalibangan, Rakhigarhi, Rupar, and Lothal. Excavation at Lothal revealed this stage of evolution.
-
Multiple regional cultures emerged within the area of IVC: Culture was in Punjab, Haryana, Western UP; Jhukar culture in Sindh, Rangpur culture was in Gujarat.
-
The latest phases of Harappan culture are Pirak in Balochistan, Pakistan, and Daimabad in Maharashtra.
-
The largest late Harappan sites are Kudwala in Cholistan, Bet Dwarka in Gujarat, and Daimabad in Maharashtra
4. Town planning and structure
- The towns were in a rectangular grid pattern with roads at right angles. Used burnt mud bricks joined with gypsum mortar (contemporary Egyptian dried bricks were used).
- The city was divided into two parts, the city on a raised platform, known as Upper Citadel & the lower town known as Lower Citadel (working-class quarters).
- A fortified citadel was found, except in Chanhudaro. Most buildings have private wells and properly ventilated bathrooms.
- Do not have large monumental structures such as temples or palaces for rulers, unlike Egyptian and Mesopotamian Civilization.
- Evidence of an Advanced drainage system. At sites such as Dholavira and Lothal (Gujarat), the entire settlement was fortified, and sections within the town were also separated by walls.
- The Citadel within Lothal was not walled off but was built at a height.
5. Agriculture
- Main crops: Wheat and Barley. Evidence of the cultivation of rice in Lothal and Rangpur (Gujarat) only.
- Other crops: Dates, Mustard, Sesamum, Cotton, Rai, Peas, etc.
- First to produce cotton in the world and used it for textiles, Called Sindon by the Greeks.
Used animal-drawn wooden plough, and stone sickles. - Gabarbands or Nalas enclosed by dams were found but channel or canal irrigation was
probably not practiced. - Produced sufficient food grains and cereals were received as taxes from peasants and stored in granaries for wages and emergencies same as in Mesopotamia.
6. Domestication of Animals
- Animals: Oxen, buffaloes, goats, sheep, pigs, dogs, cats, asses, and camels domesticated.
- Humped bulls were favored by the Harappans. Neither horse centered nor were they aware of it, but evidence of horses is found in Surkotada, Mohenjo Daro, and Lothal.
- The lion was not known. Elephants and Rhinoceros (Amari) were well known.
7. Technology and Craft
- This is known as the first urbanization in India. Along with stone, they were well acquainted with copper, silver, gold, and bronze (occasionally mixed arsenic with copper instead of tin).
- Iron was not known to the people.
- Important crafts: spinning (Spindle whorls), bricklaying, boat-making, seal making, terracotta manufacturing (potter’s wheel), goldsmiths, bead making.
- They were aware of the use of the wheel.
8. Trade and Commerce
- The importance of Trade is established by the presence of Granaries, seals, a uniform script, and regulated weights and measures.
-
They engaged in inter-regional as well as foreign trade. Sumerian texts refer to trade relations with Meluha i.e. ancient name given to the Indus region & mentions two intermediate trading stations- Dilmun (Bahrain) & Makan (Makran coast).
-
Used boats and bullock carts for transportation. No metallic money was in circulation and trade was conducted by means of barter.
-
Import: Gold, Silver, Copper, Tin, Jade, Steatite.
-
Exports: Agricultural products, cotton goods, terracotta figurines, beads from Chanhudaro, conch-shell from Lothal, ivory products, copper, etc.
9. Social Organisations
- Hierarchy in urban habitation. Merchants and priests were an important class of this period.
- Harappans were fashion-conscious. Different hairstyles and wearing a beard were popular.
- The use of cosmetics was common (Cinnabar, lipstick, and collyrium) Necklaces, filets, armlets, and finger rings were worn by both men and women but bangles, girdles, anklets, and ear-rings were worn by women only.
- Beads were made from gold, copper, bronze, cornelian, quartz, steatite, lapis lazuli, etc. - naturalistic animal models as pin-heads and beads.
10. Religious Practices
- Seal: Male deity Pashupati Mahadeva (proto- siva), three-horned heads, and is represented in the sitting posture of a yogi, surrounded by an Elephant, Tiger, Rhinoceros, and Buffalo, and two deer at his feet.
- Harrapan was a predominantly secular civilization. Prevalence of the Phallus (Lingam) and Yoni, two deer.
- The chief female deity was the mother Goddess. They worshiped both male and female deities.
- The people of the Indus region also worshiped trees (pipal), fire, and animals (unicorns, humped bulls, etc).
- Harappans believed in ghosts and evil forces. They used amulets against them.
- Burials: At burials in Harappan sites the dead were generally laid in pits. Some graves contain pottery and ornaments, perhaps indicating a belief that these could be used in the afterlife.
- Jewelry has been found in the burials of both men and women.
11. Seals and Sealings
- Most of the seals are square-shaped (2x2 square inches) and made mostly from Steatite.
- Seals had an animal (except cow and horse) or human figure on one side and an inscription on the opposite side or inscriptions on both sides.
- Seals were primarily used for commercial purposes, as an amulet, as a form of identification, and for educational purposes as well.
- Seals with symbols similar to the Swastika design have also been found. The round Persian Gulf seal found in Bahrain sometimes carries Harappan motifs.
- Interestingly, local Dilmun weights followed the Harappan standard.
Image Source: Web12. Art
- Bronze Casting: Practiced on a wide scale using the lost wax or Cire Perdue technique. They mainly consist of human and animal figures. Example: Dancing Girl. She stands in a Tribhanga dancing posture.
-
Stone Statues: Bearded man: found in Mohenjo- daro and made of Steatite, interpreted as a priest.
-
Red sandstone: a figure of a male torso is found in Harappa and made of Red sandstone.
-
Terracotta Figures: Found less in number and crude in shape and form. Examples: Mother Goddess, the mask of a horned deity, toys, etc.
13. The Decline of Indus Valley Civilisation
The IVC declined around 1800 BCE but the actual reasons behind its demise are still debated between:
- Aryan Invasion: One theory claims that Indo-European Tribe i.e., Aryans invaded and conquered the IVC.
- Natural Factors: On the other hand, many scholars believe natural factors are behind the
decline of the IVC. - The natural factors could be geological and climatic.
- It is believed that the Indus Valley region experienced several tectonic disturbances which
causes earthquakes. Which also changed the course of rivers or dried them up. - Another natural reason might be a change in patterns of rainfall or it could have been due to a combination of these natural and anthropogenic causes.
|
For Prelims: Indus Valley Civilisation, Pre-Harappan Phase from 7000 to 3300 BCE, Early Harappan Phase from 3300 to 2600 BCE, Mature Harappan Phase from 2600 to 1900 BCE, and Late Harappan Phase from 1900 to 1300 BCE, Lothal, Sutkagendor, Allahdino, Balakot, Kuntasi.
For Mains: Discuss the phases of the Indus Valley Civilisation and explain the Political and Social life during the Indus Valley civilization. (250 Words).
|
Previous year Questions
|
1. Regarding the Indus Valley Civilization, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2011)
1. It was predominantly a secular civilization and the religious element, though present, did not dominate the scene.
2. During this period, cotton was used for manufacturing textiles in India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: C
|
Source: World History Encyclopedia
