ROHINGYAS
1. Context
A recent study examining the plight of Rohingya refugees detained in India, conducted jointly by The Azadi Project and Refugees International has highlighted “gross violations of constitutional and human rights” and criticised India’s “failure to uphold its obligations under international human rights treaties.” Based on interviews with detainees, their families, and legal representatives, the report reveals that “a significant number of Rohingya refugees continue to be incarcerated even after serving their prescribed sentences.”
2. Who is Rohingyas?
- Rohingya are an ethnic group, representing the largest percentage of Muslims in Myanmar and predominantly live in the Western Myanmar province of Rakhine.
- They speak a dialect of Bengali, as opposed to the commonly spoken Burmese language.
- They are described by the United Nations (UN) as one of the most persecuted minorities in the world.
- The Rohingya population is denied citizenship under the 1982 Myanmar nationality law. They have denied the Rohingya the possibility of acquiring a nationality.
- The flow of Rohingya from Myanmar intensified in 2017 and the coast near the Bangladeshi city of Cox’s Bazar was taken over by refugee settlements.
- Recently, Bangladesh started relocating Rohingya refugees from overcrowded camps at Cox’s Bazar to Bhasan Char Island, which is an ecologically fragile area prone to floods.
3. History of Islam in the Arakan region of Myanmar
- The Rakhine (previously called Arakan) region of Northern Myanmar, is largely believed to be the original home of the Rohingyas and has shared a porous border along the Naaf River with Chittagong in Bangladesh.
- Before the modern state of Myanmar came into being, this border was not exactly known to be a line of the division between two separate communities and historical evidence shows a frequent movement of people across the border.
- In pre-colonial days, the region of Arakan was an independent kingdom, separate from both the Burmese kingdoms and the Mughal empire in India and Bengal.
- In 1459, the Arakan king is believed to have conquered Chittagong which had a dense Muslim population. In the years that followed, the Arakanese control in Chittagong led to an intimate relationship developing between the Muslims and the inhabitant of Arakan.
- In 1784, Burmese King Bodawpaya conquered the Arakan region and brought it under the control of the kingdom of Ava in central Burma.
- What followed was severe oppressive measures taken by the Burmese ruler against the Arakanese population and the latter rebelling against them.
- Thereafter, a large number of Arakanese (both Buddhists and Muslims) fled to the neighboring territory of Bengal which was by now under British rule.
- The large numbers of which Indians, particularly the Bengalis, who were brought into Arakan were a cause of great resentment to the Burmese population, who were now also in the process of developing strong nationalist feelings.
- After the Second World War, when the British left Burma, large sections of the Indian population followed. Those who were left behind were in any case in the bad books of the Buddhist Burmese population and soon after a large number of communal clashes started taking place between the two groups.
- While the Arakanese Muslims, largely inspired by the formation of Pakistan along religious lines, started demanding an autonomous region for themselves on ethnic grounds, the independent government of Myanmar continued discriminating against them and later ensured that they do not receive legal citizenship status in the country.
4. India's concerns
- The illegal immigration of Rohingyas into India and their stay here can have serious national security ramifications and poses serious security threats.
- It impacts the interests of local populations in the areas seeing large-scale influxes of illegal immigrants.
- It increases political instability when leaders start mobilizing the perception of the citizens against the migrants.
- The persistent attacks against the Muslims perceived as illegal migrants have given way to radicalization.
- Trafficking of women and human smuggling has become quite rampant across borders.
- The rule of law and integrity of India is undermined by the illegal migrants due to their engagement in illegal and anti-national activities.
5. India's Stance on Rohingyas
- Amid fears of a fresh exodus of Rohingya from Myanmar, the MHA in 2017 Cautioned all the states about infiltration from the Rakhine State of Myanmar into Indian Territory.
- It cited the Burden on the limited resources of the country that aggravates the security challenges, especially in the Northeast.
- It also said the rise in terrorism in the last few decades is a cause for concern in most nations and that illegal migrants are more vulnerable to getting recruited by terrorist organizations.
6. India's stand on refugees?
India is not a signatory to the 1951 UN Convention relating to the Status of Refugees and the 1967 Protocol.
All foreign undocumented nationals are governed as per the:
- The Foreigner's Act, 1946
- The Registration of Foreigners Act, 1930
- The Passport (Entry into India) Act, of 1920
- The Citizenship Act, 1955.
7. Why sea journeys?
- Since the 1990s, more than one million Rohingya individuals have fled Myanmar, but approximately six hundred thousand still reside within the country, primarily in restricted camps for internally displaced persons.
- Additionally, an estimated nine hundred and sixty thousand Rohingya are located in refugee camps in Bangladesh, predominantly in Cox’s Bazar near the Myanmar border. These camps, which have evolved into some of the world’s largest and most densely populated, lack essential resources, resulting in harsh living conditions.
- Shortages of food, inadequate access to water, lack of sanitation facilities, insufficient healthcare, and limited educational opportunities for children are prevalent.
- Moreover, security conditions have deteriorated over time due to gang violence and an escalation in arson attacks within the camps. In 2023 alone, clashes within Bangladeshi camps resulted in the deaths of over sixty Rohingya individuals.
- With the prospect of returning to Myanmar virtually non-existent and worsening conditions in the Bangladeshi relief camps, an increasing number of Rohingya have opted for perilous journeys across the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea toward Muslim-majority nations such as Indonesia and Malaysia.
- However, their desperation is exploited by human traffickers who charge exorbitant fees to transport them on precarious vessels from Bangladesh to Indonesia. These treacherous voyages, characterized by overcrowding and a lack of basic provisions, can span weeks or even months.
- Reports of horrific abuses during these journeys, including violence against women, are common, and many do not survive the ordeal
8.Way Forward
The United Nations estimates that one out of every eight Rohingya individuals attempting the sea route either dies or goes missing, rendering the Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal among the deadliest maritime passages globally. Last year witnessed a 21% surge in the number of people undertaking sea journeys, with the UNHCR reporting a 63% rise in fatalities or disappearances compared to 2022. Furthermore, the report underscored a significant increase in Rohingya arrivals in Indonesia via sea routes in recent years, with a staggering 1,261% rise in the number of refugees reaching Indonesia between 2021 and 2023. While 64% of refugee boats arrived in Indonesia last year, compared to 22% in 2022, only one vessel carrying 83 individuals managed to reach Malaysia, as per UNHCR data
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For Prelims: 1951 UN Convention relating to the Status of Refugees, United Nations (UN), Bhasan Char Island, The Foreigner's Act, 1946, The Registration of Foreigners Act, 1930, The Passport (Entry into India) Act, of 1920, and The Citizenship Act, 1955.
For Mains: 1. Analyze internal security threats and transborder crimes along Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Pakistan borders including the Line of Control (LoC). Also, discuss the role played by various security forces in this regard. (250 Words) (UPSC 2020).
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Previous year Question1. Consider the following pairs:(UPSC 2016)
Community is sometimes mentioned in the news In the affairs of
1. Kurd Bangladesh
2. Madhesi Nepal
3. Rohingya Myanmar
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
A. 1 and 2
B. 2 only
C. 2 and 3
D. 3 only
Answer: C
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Source: The Indian Express
PRIVATE MEMBER BILL
1.Context
During the five-year term of the 17th Lok Sabha that ended in 2024, only 9.08 hours were spent on Private Members’ Bills, while the Rajya Sabha spent 27.01 hours on them during the period, shows an analysis by PRS Legislative Research, an independent research body.
2.The procedure of Bills introducing in the Parliament
In India, the procedure for introducing and passing bills in Parliament involves several stages. Here's a detailed overview of the process:
Introduction of the Bill:
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Types of Bills: Bills can be categorized into different types such as Ordinary Bills, Money Bills, and Financial Bills.
- Ordinary Bills: These deal with subjects other than financial matters.
- Money Bills: These deal exclusively with financial matters like taxation and government expenditure.
- Financial Bills: These include provisions related to money but not exclusively confined to financial matters.
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First Reading: The bill is introduced in either House of Parliament (Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha). This is known as the First Reading. The bill's title and general objectives are read out, and a copy is distributed to members. There is no debate at this stage.
- Second Reading: The bill is debated in detail during the Second Reading. Members discuss the general principles and purpose of the bill. After the debate, a vote is taken to decide whether the bill should proceed to the Committee Stage
- Final Step: Once both Houses agree on the final version of the bill, it is sent to the President for assent. The President can:
- Give Assent: The bill becomes law.
- Withhold Assent: The bill is sent back to Parliament with a request for reconsideration.
- Refuse Assent: If the bill is not passed again by Parliament after reconsideration, it does not become law.
3. What is a Private Member Mill?
A Private Member’s Bill is a type of legislation introduced in Parliament by a member who is not part of the government. Unlike Government Bills, which are introduced and sponsored by ministers, Private Member’s Bills are introduced by Members of Parliament (MPs) or Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) who are not holding any ministerial office.
Key Features of a Private Member’s Bill:
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Introduced by Non-Government Members: It is introduced by a member who is not part of the government, typically from the opposition or from a smaller party or independent members.
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Purpose: Private Member’s Bills often address issues or propose reforms that are not on the government’s agenda. They can cover a wide range of topics including social, economic, and legal issues.
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Process:
- Introduction: The bill is introduced in either House of Parliament (Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha) and is read out. This stage is known as the First Reading.
- Debate: The bill is then debated in detail during the Second Reading. Members discuss its principles and objectives.
- Committee Stage: The bill is referred to a Committee for a detailed examination and possible amendments.
- Report Stage: The Committee reports back to the House, and further amendments can be discussed and voted upon.
- Third Reading: The final version of the bill is debated, and a vote is taken.
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Approval: If the bill passes all stages in the House where it was introduced, it is sent to the other House for consideration. Both Houses must agree on the final version.
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Presidential Assent: After passing both Houses, the bill is sent to the President for assent. Once the President gives assent, the bill becomes law.
ExampleA Private Member’s Bill might address issues like environmental protection, social justice, or legal reforms. For instance, it could propose changes to existing laws, suggest new regulations, or address gaps in current legislation. Overall, Private Member’s Bills provide a platform for non-government members to contribute to the legislative process and advocate for various causes and reforms |
4.Reference of Bills to Departmentally Related Standing Committees
- The year 1993 opened the way for new technology in the records of the Indian Parliament when Departmentally Related Standing Committees had been constituted.
- The quantity of Standing Committees has now been improved from 17 to 24.
- While eight committees work below the path of the Chairman of Rajya Sabha, Sixteen Committees work below the course of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha.
- One of the essential features of these Committees is to observe such Bills added in either House as are referred to them using the Chairman, Rajya Sabha or the Speaker, Lok Sabha, as the case may additionally be and make a document thereon.
- The reviews of the Standing Committees have persuasive value.
- In case the Government accepts any of the recommendations of the Committee, it may bring forward official amendments at the consideration stage of the Bill or may withdraw the Bill reported by the Standing Committee and bring forward a new Bill after incorporating the recommendations of the Standing Committee.
5.Bills Before a Select or Joint Committee
- When a Bill is referred to a Select or Joint Committee, the committee examines it clause-by-clause, similar to the procedure followed in the House. Committee members have the opportunity to propose amendments to various clauses of the Bill.
- Once the Select or Joint Committee presents its report to the House, the member responsible for the Bill usually moves a motion for the House to consider the Bill as reported by the committee.
- However, a Money Bill or a Financial Bill that qualifies as a Money Bill cannot be sent to a Joint Committee of both Houses.
6.Restrictions on Introducing Certain Bills in Rajya Sabha
- Bills can be introduced in either House of Parliament, but a Money Bill cannot be introduced in the Rajya Sabha.
- It must be introduced in the Lok Sabha with the President's prior recommendation. If there is any doubt about whether a Bill is a Money Bill, the Speaker's decision is final.
- The Rajya Sabha must return a Money Bill passed by the Lok Sabha within 14 days. It can return the Bill with or without recommendations, and the Lok Sabha may choose to accept or reject these recommendations.
- If the Rajya Sabha fails to return the Money Bill within 14 days, the Bill is considered passed by both Houses in the form it was originally approved by the Lok Sabha.
- Similarly, Bills containing provisions related to matters specified in Article 110(1)(a) to (f) cannot be introduced in the Rajya Sabha. They can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha with the President's recommendation. However, the restrictions applicable to Money Bills do not apply to these Bills
7.Constitution Amendment Bills
Parliament has the authority to amend the Constitution. Constitution Amendment Bills can be introduced in either House. The motion for introducing such Bills requires a simple majority, but passing the Bills requires a majority of the total membership and at least two-thirds of the members present and voting. For Bills affecting critical issues under Article 368(2) of the Constitution, ratification by at least half of the State Legislatures is also necessary after being passed by both Houses.
Joint Sitting
According to Article 108(1) of the Constitution, if a Bill (excluding Money Bills and Constitution Amendment Bills) is rejected by one House or if there is a disagreement on amendments, or if more than six months pass without the Bill being passed, the President may notify the Houses of his intention to summon a Joint Sitting. The Joint Sitting is regulated by the Houses of Parliament (Joint Sittings and Communications) Rules, established under Article 118(3). There have been three instances where Bills were considered and passed during a Joint Sitting of Parliament.
Assent to Bills
Once a Bill is passed by both Houses, it is sent to the President for assent. The President may either assent to the Bill, withhold assent, or return it (if it is not a Money Bill) with a request for reconsideration or suggested amendments. The President must either assent to or withhold assent for a Money Bill, but cannot return it for reconsideration. For Constitution Amendment Bills, the President is obligated to give assent if the Bill has been passed by Parliament with the required special majority and ratified by the necessary number of State Legislatures
8.Difference between Private Member Bill and Public Bill
| Private Member Bill | Public Bill |
| It can be introduced by any member of the Parliament other than the Minister. | It can be introduced by the Minister. |
| Lesser chance of approval | Greater chance of approval |
| Rejection of the bill is no impact on the government's position. | Expression of want of parliamentary confidence in the government may lead to its resignation. |
| The Notice period for introduction is one month. | The Notice period for introduction is seven days. |
| The member who is introducing it will only draft the Bill. |
Drafting of the Bill is concerned Department in consultation with the law department.
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| It Reflects the Stand of the Opposition party on Public matters. | It reflects the policies of the government (Ruling party). |
| It can only be introduced and debated on Fridays. | It can be introduced and debated on any day. |
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For Prelims: Private bill, Finance Bill, Money Bill
For Mains: GS II - Indian Polity & Governance
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Previous Year Questions
1.Regarding Money Bill, which of the following statements is not correct? (UPSC 2018)
1. A bill shall be deemed to be a money Bill if it contains only provisions relating to imposition, abolition, remission, alteration or regulation of any tax.
2. A Money Bill has provisions for the custody of the Consolidated Fund of India or the Contingency Fund of India.
3. A Money Bill is concerned with the appropriation of money out of the Contingency Fund of India.
4. A Money Bill deals with the regulation of borrowing of money or giving of any guarantee by the Government of India.
Answer (3)
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Source: Lok Sabha
INDIAN SPACE MISSIONS
1. Context
Over the past year, ISRO has made significant strides with several key missions; the Aditya L1 spacecraft began studying solar radiation from the earth-Sun Lagrange point, while the Gaganyaan TV-D1 mission successfully demonstrated crew safety systems
2.SpaDeX mission
- The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a significant milestone with the successful launch of the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission
- The PSLV C60 rocket, carrying two small satellites named SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), along with 24 other payloads, was launched from the first launchpad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, at 10 p.m
- Approximately 15 minutes post-launch, the two satellites, each weighing around 220 kg, were deployed into a 475-km circular orbit as planned
- The satellites have been accurately placed into the designated orbit, and their solar panels have been successfully deployed. The SpaDeX satellites are now aligned one behind the other, and over the coming days, the inter-satellite distance will expand by about 20 km, setting the stage for the rendezvous and docking procedures to commence
- The SpaDeX mission is a demonstration of advanced technologies required for spacecraft rendezvous, docking, and undocking—capabilities mastered by only a select group of spacefaring nations. This technology is crucial for future endeavors such as sending Indian astronauts to the moon, returning samples from the lunar surface, and establishing an Indian space station
- ISRO also highlighted that the PSLV’s precision would be instrumental in imparting a slight relative velocity between the Target and Chaser spacecraft during separation from the launch vehicle
- This incremental velocity will allow the Target spacecraft to gradually create a 10-20 km separation from the Chaser within a day. At this distance, the propulsion system of the Target spacecraft will regulate the relative velocity to facilitate further operations
3. Important Missions of ISRO
- Aditya L1: Following the success of its lunar mission, India launched its solar science mission, Aditya-L1, on September 2, 2023. The initial launch phase, facilitated by ISRO's Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), was the simplest part of the mission. On January 6, 2024, the spacecraft executed several maneuvers to reach an orbit around the first Earth-Sun Lagrange point (L1). By July 2, 2024, Aditya-L1 completed its first orbit around L1 and, in collaboration with ground-based observatories and lunar orbit spacecraft, studied a solar storm in May 2024.
- Gaganyaan TV-D1: As part of the ‘Gaganyaan’ human spaceflight program, ISRO conducted its first abort mission using a modified L-40 Vikas engine to build the Test Vehicle (TV). The test took place on October 21, 2023, and successfully demonstrated the Crew Escape System (CES)'s ability to detach from the TV, transport the crew module to safety, and decelerate before landing in the Bay of Bengal. The crew module was subsequently recovered by the Indian Navy's INS Shakthi.
- XPoSat: ISRO marked the beginning of 2024 with the launch of the X-ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat) on January 1. This satellite aims to study the polarization of radiation from various celestial bodies and is only the second such observatory in space, following NASA's Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IPEX), launched in 2021. The onboard instruments, named XSPECT and POLIX, started operations on January 5 and January 10, respectively.
- INSAT-3DS: The meteorological satellite INSAT-3DS was launched by ISRO on February 17 using a Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). This mission was crucial for demonstrating the GSLV's reliability before the upcoming NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) mission, set to launch in early 2025. This GSLV model had previously successfully launched the NVS-01 satellite in 2023.
- RLV-TD: Using a scaled-down version of the Reusable Launch Vehicle named Pushpak, ISRO carried out two landing experiments—LEX-02 and LEX-03—on March 22 and June 7 at its Aeronautical Testing Range in Challakere, Karnataka. These experiments simulated landing conditions by dropping the Pushpak vehicle from a Chinook helicopter: LEX-02 tested along its planned landing path, while LEX-03 deviated 500 meters to the side. These successful tests have paved the way for the ‘Orbital Return Flight Experiment’.
- SSLV: On August 16, ISRO conducted the third and final development flight of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), successfully placing the EOS-08 and SR-0 Demosat satellites into orbit. With two consecutive successful test flights, ISRO concluded the SSLV’s development phase and approved its transfer to the industry. The EOS-08 satellite carried three payloads: one for infrared earth observation, one to test global satellite navigation system reflections for earth observation, and an ultraviolet dosimeter and alarm system intended for use in the Gaganyaan crew module
4. Gaganyan Mission
The Gaganyaan Mission is India’s ambitious human spaceflight program spearheaded by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The mission aims to send Indian astronauts, known as Gaganyatris, into space, marking India's entry into the league of nations capable of human space exploration
Key takeaways:
- The primary goal is to demonstrate ISRO’s capability to send humans into low Earth orbit and bring them back safely
- Ensuring the safety of the crew is paramount, which includes a robust Crew Escape System (CES) for emergency situations
- The mission will advance India’s expertise in space technology, including life support systems, crew modules, and mission control operations
- The spacecraft will house up to three astronauts and is designed to support life in space, including a heat shield to protect the crew during re-entry into Earth's atmosphere
- The mission will use a GSLV Mk III rocket, a heavy-lift launch vehicle capable of carrying the crew module into space
- The selected astronauts are undergoing rigorous training, including survival training, spacewalking, and other mission-specific preparations, both in India and abroad
- ISRO is collaborating with international agencies like NASA and the Russian space agency for training and technology exchange
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One of ISRO's recent key priorities has been training its astronaut candidates, known as Gaganyatris, for space missions.
On February 27, Prime Minister Modi announced the names of the candidates: Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla, along with Group Captains Prashanth Nair, Ajit Krishnan, and Angad Pratap.
Earlier this month, Shukla and Nair traveled to the United States for advanced training in preparation for a flight to the International Space Station (ISS). Shukla is expected to be the primary astronaut for this mission, with Nair serving as his backup. The mission will be conducted by the private company Axiom Space, with support from NASA and using SpaceX's launch vehicle and crew capsule. This flight is planned for 2025.
ISRO has also scheduled at least four additional abort tests using its Test Vehicle before the first crewed flight. The initial uncrewed Gaganyaan mission is anticipated to take place in late 2024
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5. Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLV)
The Next-generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) is a new development initiative by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) aimed at creating a more efficient and versatile launch system for future space missions. This vehicle is designed to replace the current fleet of launch vehicles, such as the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), and to meet the growing demands of India’s space program
Key Features and Objectives:
- The NGLV is expected to have a significantly higher payload capacity than its predecessors. It will be capable of carrying heavier payloads to a variety of orbits, including low Earth orbit (LEO), geostationary transfer orbit (GTO), and beyond.
- It aims to carry payloads of approximately 10-20 tons to LEO and 4-10 tons to GTO, making it suitable for a wide range of missions
- One of the critical features of the NGLV is its potential for reusability. ISRO is focusing on developing reusable components, such as the first stage booster, to reduce launch costs and improve turnaround times.
- This aligns with global trends where reusable rockets, like SpaceX’s Falcon 9, have demonstrated significant cost savings and operational efficiency
- The NGLV will feature a modular design, allowing it to be customized for different types of missions. This flexibility will enable the vehicle to support a variety of payloads, including satellites, space probes, and human missions.
- The modularity also simplifies the integration of new technologies and upgrades, ensuring the NGLV remains relevant for future needs
- ISRO plans to equip the NGLV with advanced propulsion systems, potentially using a combination of cryogenic, semi-cryogenic, and solid rocket engines.
- This approach will enhance efficiency and reliability, providing greater thrust and reducing the environmental impact of launches
- The NGLV will incorporate the latest advancements in avionics, guidance systems, and materials science to improve reliability and safety
6.NSIL missions
NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) is a public sector enterprise under the Department of Space (DoS) and the commercial arm of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Established in 2019, NSIL is responsible for promoting and commercially exploiting space products, technical consultancy services, and transfer of technologies developed by ISRO. The company plays a key role in harnessing India's space capabilities for commercial use, engaging with industries and international partners for various missions
Key Objectives of NSIL:
- NSIL manages and coordinates the launch of commercial satellites using ISRO’s launch vehicles, such as the PSLV, GSLV, and the upcoming Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV).
- The company offers launch services to domestic and international customers, focusing on small and medium-sized satellite deployments
- NSIL is involved in manufacturing, assembling, and delivering satellites to various customers. It leverages ISRO’s expertise and infrastructure to produce satellites for different applications, including communication, earth observation, and navigation
- The company provides satellite-based services, including transponder leasing, satellite communication, and broadband services. These services cater to various sectors, including telecommunications, broadcasting, and disaster management
- NSIL facilitates the transfer of ISRO-developed technologies to Indian industries, promoting indigenous development of space technology.
- The company offers technical consultancy and support services to help industries and organizations develop space-related capabilities.
- NSIL promotes the use of space-based applications, such as remote sensing and geographic information systems (GIS), for agriculture, forestry, urban planning, and environmental monitoring
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Missions
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7.IN-SPACe
IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center) is a newly established autonomous agency under the Department of Space (DoS) in India. Launched in 2020, IN-SPACe aims to facilitate and promote private sector participation in India’s space activities. It serves as a regulatory and facilitative body, ensuring that private entities can operate within the Indian space sector, thereby fostering innovation, commercialization, and growth
Key Objectives of IN-SPACe:
- IN-SPACe is designed to open up the Indian space sector to private companies, startups, and academia, enabling them to participate in space missions, satellite launches, and the development of space-related technologies.
- It encourages private investment in space infrastructure and services, aiming to build a robust space ecosystem in India.
- The agency acts as a regulatory authority, providing necessary approvals and authorizations for private entities to undertake space activities. This includes satellite launches, building and operating ground stations, and providing satellite-based services.
- IN-SPACe ensures compliance with national and international space laws, safety standards, and protocols.
- IN-SPACe serves as a bridge between ISRO and private industry, facilitating access to ISRO’s facilities, expertise, and infrastructure. This includes access to testing facilities, launch pads, and technical support.
- The agency promotes collaborative projects, joint missions, and technology development initiatives between ISRO and private players
- IN-SPACe works to simplify the regulatory framework and reduce entry barriers for private companies. It aims to create a conducive environment for private sector growth by streamlining procedures and providing clear guidelines for space activities
- IN-SPACe is responsible for granting licenses and authorizations for various space-related activities, including satellite launches, ground station operations, and space-based services
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For Prelims: PSLV, GSLV, GSLV Mk-III, SSLV
For Mains: GS III- Science & Technology- Satellite Applications, Challenges and Solutions
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Previous Year Questions
1. With reference to India's satellite launch vehicles, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2018)
1. PSLVs launch satellites useful for Earth resources monitoring whereas GSLVs are designed mainly to launch communication satellites.
2. Satellites launched by PSLV appear to remain permanently fixed in the same position in the sky, as viewed from a particular location on Earth.
3. GSLV Mk III is a four- staged launch vehicle with the first and third stages using solid rocket motors; and the second and fourth stages using liquid rocket engines.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3
C. 1 and 2
D. 3 only
Answer: A
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Source: The Hindu
H-1B VISA
1. Context
Weeks before he returns as US President, Donald Trump’s supporters are locked in a public row about skilled immigration and H-1B visas
2. The Genesis of H-1B Work Visas
- In 1952, as the United States expanded its presence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, it sought skilled workers to drive innovation at reasonable costs.
- This led to the introduction of the H-1 work visa system, which includes H-1B, H-2B, L1, O1, and E1 visas, tailored to specific qualifications and job categories.
- Among these, the H-1B visa emerged as the most popular due to its relatively better wage prospects.
- H-1B visas are for temporary workers in speciality occupations, which are defined as those requiring theoretical and technical expertise in a specific field, such as engineering, mathematics, science, or medicine.
- H-1B workers must have a bachelor's degree or equivalent in their field, and their employer must obtain a Labor Condition Application (LCA) from the US Department of Labor (DOL).
3. Globalization of STEM Graduates
- With the proliferation of the Internet and affordable computers in developing nations like India, China, and Pakistan, a surge of STEM graduates emerged.
- These graduates, facing a scarcity of job opportunities in their home countries, were eager to work in the United States at competitive wages.
- This symbiotic arrangement benefited both employers and employees, making H-1B work visas highly sought-after.
- The H-1B visa system has undergone numerous revisions to accommodate or restrict the entry of skilled workers, depending on the U.S. economic climate.
- However, it has also faced criticism for potentially displacing domestic workers with lower-cost foreign labour.
4. The Old Lottery System
- Previously, the U.S. administration annually issued 85,000 H-1B work permits, with 65,000 allocated for individuals in speciality occupations and the remainder for foreign workers with advanced U.S. degrees.
- Employers seeking H-1B hires submitted registration forms with employee details, including job nature, offered wages, and education levels.
- Due to an overwhelming number of applications, a random lottery determined the selection for the 65,000 speciality occupation visas, followed by the 20,000 advanced degree exemption visas. This lottery system disregarded wage levels, skills, or employer needs.
5. The New Wage-Based H-1B Visa Regime
In the latest development, the H-1B visa selection process has shifted toward a wage-based model that prioritizes certain criteria.
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Wage Prioritization: The new regime gives priority to applications from employers offering a "proffered wage" that equals or exceeds the prevailing wage level in the area of employment. The proffered wage is the salary the employer intends to pay the visa beneficiary. This rule applies to both the 65,000 regular visas and the 20,000 advanced degree exemption visas.
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Skill Assessment: Additionally, the system considers the skill set of the prospective worker and evaluates whether similar skills are available among U.S. workers at a comparable cost.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) argues that salaries provide a practical indicator of an applicant's skill level, as employers tend to offer higher wages to the most qualified candidates. This approach is intended to safeguard domestic job opportunities and ensure that U.S. workers are not displaced by foreign labour.
6. H-2B, L1, O1, and E1 visas
H-2B, L1, O1, and E1 visas are all nonimmigrant visas that allow foreign nationals to work in the United States. Each visa type has its own specific eligibility requirements and purpose.
- H-2B visas are for temporary nonagricultural workers who perform jobs that are seasonal or temporary and for which there is a shortage of US workers. H-2B workers are typically employed in industries such as landscaping, hospitality, and construction.
- L1 visas are for intracompany transferees, which are employees of a foreign company who are being transferred to a related US company. L1 workers must have a managerial or executive position in a foreign company and must have worked for the company for at least one year in the past three years.
- O1 visas are for individuals with extraordinary ability in the arts, sciences, education, business, or athletics. O1 visa holders must have demonstrated extraordinary achievement in their field and must be coming to the US to work in their field of expertise.
- E1 visas are for treaty traders, which are nationals of a country with which the US has a treaty of commerce and navigation. E1 visa holders must be coming to the US to trade in goods or services between the US and their home country.
7. The Way Forward
- The shift from the lottery-based selection system to a wage-based regime marks a significant change in the H-1B work visa program.
- This adjustment aims to align the visa allocation process with market-driven factors such as wages and skill sets, potentially mitigating concerns about undercutting domestic employment opportunities.
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For Prelims: H-1B visa, United States, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, STEM fields, lottery system,
For Mains:
1. What are the implications of the new H-1B visa regime for US-India relations?
Discuss the measures can the Indian government take to support Indian IT workers affected by the new H-1B visa regime. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2019)
1. Coal sector was nationalized by the Government of India under Indira Gandhi.
2. Now, coal blocks are allocated on lottery basis.
3. Till recently, India imported coal to meet the shortages of domestic supply, but now India is self-sufficient in coal production.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
2. Which of the following statements about town planning in British India in early 19th century is/are correct? (UPSC CAPF 2018)
1. The funds for town improvement were also raised through public lotteries.
2. The threats of epidemics gave an impetus to town planning in the early decades of 19th century.
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: C
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Source: The Indian Express
HOUTHIS
1. Context
The Houthis, who have been in a strong position in the civil war in Yemen since 2021, have sought to use the window of opportunity opened by the war in Gaza to expand their regional footprint. They are now the only pole of the ‘axis’ standing, and have remained defiant in the face of the fresh Israeli air strikes
2. Who are Houthis?
- "The Houthis, a prominent clan affiliated with the Zaidi Shia sect, have their origins in Yemen's northwestern Saada province. The Zaidis constitute approximately 35 percent of Yemen's population.
- For over a thousand years, the Zaidis held dominion over Yemen until their overthrow in 1962, leading to a protracted civil war that extended until 1970.
- During the 1980s, the Houthi clan began a resurgence of the Zaidi tradition in response to the rising influence of the Salafists, who received support from the state.
- In 2004, the Houthis initiated an insurgent movement against the Yemeni government, adopting the name of Hussein Badreddin al-Houthi, a prominent political, military, and religious leader who was assassinated by Yemeni security forces in September of that year. Subsequent years witnessed ongoing conflict between the Houthis and Yemen's Sunni-majority government.
- In 2012, Ali Abdullah Saleh, who had served as Yemen's president since 1990 and earlier as the president of pre-unified North Yemen from 1978, was compelled to resign in the wake of the Arab Spring protests. He was succeeded by his vice-president, Abd Rabbu Mansour Hadi.
- In 2015, Saleh allied himself with the Houthis against Hadi, resulting in the insurgency capturing Sana'a. President Hadi fled to Aden and later sought refuge in Saudi Arabia, where he continues to reside for the most part.
- However, in 2017, Saleh severed his ties with the Houthis and joined forces with their adversaries, including the Saudis, the UAE, and President Hadi. In December of that year, Saleh was assassinated."
3. How did the UAE and Saudi Arabia get involved in the war?
- "In March of 2015, shortly after Hadi's removal from power, a coalition consisting of nine nations and led by Saudi Arabia, with logistical and intelligence support provided by the United States, initiated an aerial campaign against the Houthi forces.
- These airstrikes aimed to bolster Hadi's troops, who were attempting to retake control of Sana'a from the Houthi faction. Nonetheless, at the core of this intervention was the underlying power struggle in the region, pitting Saudi Arabia against Iran.
- Both Riyadh and Western nations believed that the Houthi group received military and financial backing from the Iranian regime.
- Saudi Arabia, due to its extensive 1,300-kilometer border with Yemen, initially asserted that the conflict would conclude within a few months.
- However, progress by the coalition has been limited, resulting in a prolonged stalemate, with the Houthi faction retaining control over Sana'a and a dire humanitarian crisis unfolding in Yemen.
- Since 2015, the nature of the conflict has constantly evolved, with various factions switching allegiances among the Saudi-supported Popular Resistance Committees, Iran-backed groups, and an array of Islamist militants, including those associated with al-Qaeda and the Islamic State."
4.Way Forward
More than the UAE, it is Saudi Arabia that has been in the crosshairs of the Houthis. Since 2015, they have repeatedly fired missiles and mortar at Saudi military and civilian facilities including airports and oil facilities, and killed many Saudi soldiers. Over the last year, the two sides have been engaged in a tense battle to capture the Marib province, which is the government’s only remaining stronghold in northern Yemen, and houses vast oil and gas infrastructure.
Source: Indianexpress
