A caste census is a comprehensive survey or data collection effort that aims to gather detailed information about the caste composition of a population. This typically involves:

1. Counting individuals belonging to different caste groups
2. Collecting socio-economic data related to caste categories
3. Assessing the representation of various castes in different sectors

The caste system is particularly relevant in India, where it has historically played a significant role in social stratification. A caste census can provide insights into:

• Population distribution across caste groups
• Economic status of different castes
• Educational levels and employment patterns
• Representation in government jobs and political positions

In India, the last comprehensive caste census was conducted in 1931 during British rule. Since then, calls for a new caste census have been made periodically, with proponents arguing it would help in formulating more targeted welfare policies and ensuring equitable representation.

3. Why the Caste Census?

Historically, British India’s censuses from 1881 to 1931 recorded all castes. Post-Independence, the 1951 census excluded caste enumeration, except for SCs and STs, which continued to be recorded in every census. In 1961, the government allowed states to conduct their own OBC surveys and create state-specific OBC lists, as there were no central reservations for OBCs at that time

A caste census is essential for several reasons:

• Social Necessity: Caste remains a fundamental social framework in India. Inter-caste marriages were just 5% in 2011-12. Caste surnames and markers are common, residential areas are segregated by caste, and caste influences the selection of election candidates and cabinet ministers.

• Legal Necessity: Effective implementation of constitutionally mandated social justice policies, including reservations in elections, education, and public employment, requires detailed caste data. Despite the Constitution using the term 'class,' Supreme Court rulings have established caste as a significant criterion for defining a backward class, necessitating comprehensive caste-wise data to uphold reservation policies.

• Administrative Necessity: Detailed caste data helps correct wrongful inclusions and exclusions within reserved categories, prevents dominant castes from monopolizing reserved benefits, and is essential for sub-categorizing castes and determining the creamy layer's income/wealth criteria.

• Moral Necessity: The lack of detailed caste data has allowed a small elite among upper castes and dominant OBCs to disproportionately control the nation's resources, income, and power

There are several arguments against conducting a caste census:

• Social Division: Some argue that a caste census would exacerbate social divisions, although India's social hierarchies have existed for nearly 3,000 years, predating census efforts. Since 1951, counting SCs and STs has not led to conflicts among these groups. Moreover, India’s census already includes data on religion, language, and region, which are equally, if not more, divisive than caste. Ignoring caste in the census will not eliminate casteism any more than excluding religion, language, and region data will eradicate communalism and regionalism.

• Administrative Challenge: Some claim that a caste census would be administratively complex. However, unlike the concept of race, which can be ambiguous but is still counted in many countries like the U.S., caste identification in India is relatively clear. The government has successfully enumerated 1,234 SC castes and 698 ST tribes. Therefore, counting the approximately 4,000 other castes, most of which are specific to certain states, should not pose an insurmountable challenge.

• Increased Reservation Demands: Critics suggest that a caste census could lead to more demands for reservations. However, detailed caste data could actually help manage these demands more effectively by providing a factual basis for discussions. This would enable policymakers to address reservation claims more objectively, such as those from Marathas, Patidars, and Jats. In contrast, governments often prefer vague data because it allows them to make arbitrary reservation decisions for electoral gain

• The Constitution allows reservations for OBCs in education (Article 15(4)) and public employment (Article 16(4)), similar to SCs and STs. Following the Mandal Commission's recommendations, OBCs also benefit from reservations in the Central government and its undertakings. The Supreme Court's ruling in the Indra Sawhney case (1992) emphasized that the OBC list, originally based on the 1931 Census, should be updated regularly.
• Unlike SCs and STs, OBCs do not have reserved electoral constituencies for MPs and MLAs. However, the 73rd and 74th Constitutional amendments (1993) introduced reservations for OBCs in panchayats and municipalities (Articles 243D(6) and 243T(6)). To implement this effectively, detailed caste and area-wise Census data of OBCs is necessary, which the government should have collected in the 2001 Census but did not.
• When states like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Odisha, and Jharkhand attempted to implement OBC reservations in local elections, courts halted these efforts due to the lack of caste-wise OBC data. The judiciary demands this data to uphold reservations, while the executive has avoided collecting it.
• In contrast, the Supreme Court upheld the 10% reservation for economically weaker sections (EWS) among non-OBCs, SCs, and STs (mainly upper castes) in 2022 without empirical support. Given the EWS reservation, the Census should now include all castes, as it did until 1931.
• Though the Census is a Union subject, the Collection of Statistics Act, 2008, allows States and local bodies to collect relevant data. States like Karnataka (2015) and Bihar (2023) have conducted caste surveys, but Census data holds more authority and is less disputed. The government's reluctance to include caste in the Census is both legally indefensible and administratively imprudent

• After extensive lobbying by OBC leaders, Parliament unanimously resolved in 2010, with support from both Congress and BJP, to include caste enumeration in the 2011 Census. The last such enumeration was in the 1931 Census, which recorded 4,147 castes in India, excluding the depressed classes/untouchables.
• However, the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) of 2011 was poorly designed and executed, resulting in an absurd figure of 4.6 million castes, and its results were never released.
• The failure of SECC-2011 can be attributed to its conduct outside the framework of the Census Act, 1948, which was not amended to include caste as a parameter. Instead, it was managed by the Union Ministries of Rural Development and Urban Development, which lacked experience in conducting sociological surveys.
• Additionally, the questionnaire was poorly designed with open-ended questions about caste, causing confusion among enumerators who struggled to differentiate between genuine castes, alternative names, larger caste groups, sub-castes, surnames, clan names, and gotras. In contrast, Bihar's 2023 Caste Survey provided a list of 214 specific caste names, with a 215th category labeled "Other Castes," resulting in more accurate data.
• Despite the 2010 unanimous Parliamentary resolution, the Central government announced in 2021 that it would not include caste enumeration in the next Census.
• It maintained this stance before the Supreme Court in response to a case filed by the Maharashtra government seeking the inclusion of OBCs in the 2021 Census. The Supreme Court's dismissal of Maharashtra's plea in December 2021 is contentious, given its own previous rulings

7. Way Forward

To address the failures of the SECC-2011, the Census Act of 1948 should be amended to mandate caste enumeration, removing the discretion from the Union executive. Caste should be included in the regular Census conducted by the Census Commissioner, with a few relevant questions added to the questionnaire. The government should also involve sociological and anthropological experts to create a draft list of castes specific to each state, publish this draft online for public feedback, and finalize it before distributing it to enumerators. The questionnaire should include questions about the respondent's sub-caste, caste, larger caste group, and caste surname. Using internet-enabled handheld devices preloaded with this information and limiting the enumerators' role to selecting the correct option will streamline the process and ensure accuracy.

States interested in caste enumeration should petition the Supreme Court to review its 2021 judgment. It is illogical to base OBC reservations on 1931 Census data and EWS reservations on no empirical data. The next Census must include caste enumeration

 

 

 

For Prelims: Socio-economic and caste census (SECC), Mandal Commission, Justice G Rohini's Commission, NITI Aayog, Article 341 and Article 342. For Mains: 1. General Studies II: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections

 

 

Source: The Hindu

 

RETAIL INFLATION

 

1. Context

India’s retail inflation likely eased a bit from November’s 5.5% mark amid a mildly lower uptick in essential commodities’ prices even as the average cost of home cooked vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals rose 6% and 12% compared to last year.

2. What is Inflation?

• It is the rise in prices of goods and services within a particular economy wherein consumers' purchasing power decreases, and the value of the cash holdings erodes.
• In India, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) measures inflation.
• Some causes that lead to inflation are demand increases, reduction in supply, demand-supply gap, excess circulation of money, increase in input costs, devaluation of the currency, and rise in wages, among others.

3. Retail Inflation

Consumers often directly buy from retailers. So, the inflation experienced at retail reflects the actual price rise in the country. It also shows the cost of living better. In India, the index that reflects the inflation rate at the retail level is known as Consumer Price Index (CPI). Unlike WPI, CPI includes both goods and services. CPI is used to calculate the Dearness Allowance (DA) for government employees.

4. How Inflation is measured?

• In India, inflation is primarily measured by two main indices- WPI (Wholesale Price Index) and CPI (Consumer Price Index), Which measures Wholesale and retail-level price changes, respectively.
• The CPI calculates the difference in the price of commodities and services such as food, medical care, education, electronics, etc, which Indian consumers buy for use.
• On the other hand, the goods or services sold by businesses to smaller businesses for selling further are captured by the WPI.
• Both WPI (Wholesale Price Index) and CPI (Consumer Price Index) are used to measure inflation in India. 

5. What is the Inflation Target?

• Under Section 45ZA, in consultation with the RBI Act, the Central Government determines the inflation target in terms of the Consumer Price Index (CPI), once in five years and notifies it in the Official Gazette.
• Accordingly, on August 5, 2016, the Central Government notified in the Official Gazette 4 percent Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation as the target for the period from August 5, 2016, to March 31, 2021, with the upper tolerance limit of 6 percent and the lower tolerance limit of 2 percent.
• On March 31, 2021, the Central Government retained the inflation target and the tolerance band for the next 5-year period-April 1, 2021 to March 31, 2026.
• Section 45ZB of the RBI Act provides for the constitution of a six-member Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) to determine the policy rate required to achieve the inflation target.

6. Monetary Policy Committee (MPC)

• The MPC is a statutory and institutionalized framework under the RBI Act, of 1934, for maintaining price stability, keeping in mind the objective of growth. It was created in 2016.
• It was created to bring transparency and accountability in deciding monetary policy.
• MPC determines the policy interest rate required to achieve the inflation target.
• The committee comprises six members and Governor RBI acts as an ex-officio chairman. Three members are from RBI and three are selected by the government. The inflation target is to be set once every five years. It is set by the Government of India, in consultation with the Reserve Bank of India.
• The current inflation target is pegged at 4% with -2/+2 tolerance till March 31, 2021.

7. What Caused the drop in Inflation?

• Retail Inflation or price gains based on the Consumer Price Index, slowed to 6.77 % last month, from September's 7.41%, aided by an appreciable deceleration in food price inflation.
• The year-on-year inflation based on the Consumer Food Price Index eased by almost 160 basis points in October, to 7.01%, from the preceding month's 8.60%, helped by a 'decline in prices of vegetables, fruits, pulses and oils, and fats', the Government said.
• With the food and beverages sub-index representing almost 46% of the CPI's weight, the slowdown in food price gains understandably steered overall inflation lower even as price gains in three other essential categories, namely clothing, and footwear, housing, and health remained either little changed from September or quickened.
• Inflation at the Wholesale Prices Level also continued to decelerate, with the headline reading easing into single digits for the first time in 19 months. A favorable base effect along with a distinct cooling in international prices of commodities including crude oil and steel amid gathering uncertainty in advanced economies was largely instrumental in tempering wholesale price gains.

8. Recent Measures by the Government

To soften the prices of edible oils and pulses, tariffs on imported items have been rationalized from time to time. The stock limits on edible oils are also maintained, to avoid hoarding.

The Government has taken trade-related measures on wheat and rice to keep domestic supplies steady and curb the rise in prices.

The impact of these measures is expected to be felt more significantly in the coming months.

For Prelims & Mains

 

For Prelims: Inflation, MPC, CPI, WPI, food Inflation, RBI, Headline inflation, Core inflation For Mains:   1. Explain the concept of inflation and its impact on an economy. Discuss the various causes of inflation and the measures that can be taken to control it, with specific reference to India. (250 Words) 2. What are the challenges and opportunities associated with managing inflation in India? Evaluate the effectiveness of recent policy measures in addressing inflationary pressures and maintaining price stability. Suggest strategies for sustainable economic growth while managing inflation risks. (250 Words)

 

 

Previous Year Questions   1. Consider the following statements:  (UPSC 2021) 1. The Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is appointed by the Central Government. 2. Certain provisions in the Constitution of India give the Central Government the right to issue directions to the RBI in the public interest. 3. The Governor of the RBI draws his natural power from the RBI Act. Which of the above statements is/are correct?  A. 1 and 2 only    B.  2 and 3 only     C. 1 and 3 only     D. 1, 2 and 3     2. Concerning the Indian economy, consider the following: (UPSC 2015) Bank rate Open Market Operations Public debt Public revenue Which of the above is/are component(s) of Monetary Policy? (a) 1 only   (b) 2, 3 and 4    (c) 1 and 2     (d) 1, 3 and 4   3. An increase in Bank Rate generally indicates: (UPSC 2013) (a) Market rate of interest is likely to fall. (b) Central bank is no longer making loans to commercial banks. (c) Central bank is following an easy money policy. (d) Central bank is following a tight money policy.   4. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC)? (UPSC 2017)  1. It decides the RBI's benchmark interest rates. 2. It is a 12-member body including the Governor of RBI and is reconstituted every year. 3. It functions under the chairmanship of the Union Finance Minister. Select the correct answer using the code given below: A. 1 only      B.  1 and 2 only      C. 3 only      D. 2 and 3 only   5. Read the following passage and answer the question that follows. Your answers to these items should be based on the passage only. 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: (UPSC 2021) 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     6. 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     7. 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     8. 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   Answers: 1-C, 2-C, 3-D, 4-A, 5-D, 6-B, 6-C, 7-B

 

 

Source: The Hindu

 

 

DEEPFAKES

1. Context

From the United States to Italy, Britain, and Pakistan, female politicians are increasingly becoming victims of AI-generated deepfake pornography or sexualised images, in a troubling trend that researchers say threatens women’s participation in public life

2. What are Deepfakes

• Deepfake is a type of synthetic media in which a person in an already-existing video or image is replaced with another person. It manipulates the audio/video, which has the propensity to the device, using machine learning and artificial intelligence.
• Due to the ease with which bogus news, celebrity pornographic content, etc. get shared online, it has drawn attention.
• It makes a fake version of original or real audio-visual content by superimposing a new audio or image over an existing media file.
• In September 2019, the AI company Deeptrance discovered 15,000 deep fakes videos online-nearly tripling in just nine months. A starting 96% of them were pornographic, and 99% of them matched the faces of famous women to porn actors.
• Deepfakes can be used to damage reputation, fabricate evidence, defraud the public, and undermine trust in democratic institutions.
• All this can be achieved with fewer resources, with scale and speed, and even microtargeted to galvanize support.

3. How did Deepfakes Work?

• Deepfake content is created by using two competing AI algorithms- one is called the generator and the other is called the discriminator.
• The discriminator is tasked with determining if the fake multimedia content produced by the generator is real and manufactured.
• A generative adversarial network is created when the generator and discriminator work together (GAN). Every time the discriminator correctly recognizes the content as being fake, it gives the generator important insights into how to make the next deep fakes better.
• The first step in establishing a GAN is to identify the desired output and create a training dataset for the generator.
• Video clips can be supplied to the discriminator after the generator starts producing output at a level that is acceptable.

4. Who are the Victims?

• The first case of malicious use of deep fake was detected in pornography. According to sensity.ai, 96% of deepfakes are pornographic videos, with over 135 million views on pornographic websites alone. Deepfake pornography exclusively targets women.
• Pornographic deepfakes can threaten, intimidate, and inflict psychological harm. It reduces women to sexual objects causing emotional distress, and in some cases, leading to financial loss and collateral consequences like job loss.
• Deepfake could act as a powerful tool by a malicious nation-state to undermine public safety and create uncertainty and chaos in the target country. Deepfake can undermine trust in institutions and diplomacy.

5. Challenges with Deepfake

• Deepfake causes financial fraud, which poses problems for the entire financial system.
• In the era of the threat of fake news, it also poses a threat to the security of cyber systems and the validity of online registration.
• Deepfakes in phishing efforts would make it more challenging for people to recognize a hoax.
• In any nation, deep fakes can be used to sabotage democratic procedures like elections.
• The potential for harm to people, organizations, and societies is enormous since it can be used to generate phony pornographic videos and make politicians appear to say things they did not.
• Any genuine evidence of a crime can be easily discounted as false because the public is so distrustful due to the prevalence of deep fakes.
• Fake movies are likely to become more popular outside the world of celebrities as new technology enables unskilled people to create deep fakes with just a few images. This will feed the growth of revenge porn.
• The use of fake identities and impostor frauds in cybercrime is rising.

6. What is the Solution?

• Media literacy efforts must be enhanced to cultivate a discerning public. Media literacy for consumers is the most effective tool to combat disinformation and deep fakes.
• We also need meaningful regulations with a collaborative discussion with the technology industry, Civil society, and policymakers to develop legislative solutions to disincentivize the creation and distribution of malicious deepfakes.
• Social media platforms are taking cognizance of the deepfake issue, and almost all of them have some policy or acceptable terms of use for deepfakes.
• We also need easy-to-use and accessible technology solutions to detect deepfakes, authenticate media, and amplify authoritative sources.

For Prelims & Mains

For Prelims: Artificial Intelligence (AI), Deepfake Technology,  and AI algorithms. For Mains: 1. What are deepfakes and explain the challenges with deep-fake technology in the present technological world.

 

Source: The Hindu

 

NO DETENTION POLICY

 

 

1. Context

 

The Union government amended the Rules of the Right to Education Act, 2009 in December 2024 to allow schools to detain students in Classes 5 and 8 if they are unable to meet the promotion criteria after a year-end examination. Students will be given a second chance re-examination after two months of extra teaching

 

2. What was The no-detention policy?

 

• When the Right to Education (RTE) Act was enacted in 2009, it included Section 16, which stated that “No child admitted to a school shall be retained in any class or expelled from school until the completion of elementary education [Classes 1 to 8].”
• The intention behind the no-detention policy was to create an environment where children could learn without undue pressure.
• In many states, government schools stopped conducting any form of assessment until Class 5, automatically promoting students without verifying whether they had gained the necessary grade-specific skills and knowledge. Monitoring efforts were often focused on inputs and indicators rather than actual learning outcomes.
• Attempts to introduce the Continuous and Comprehensive Evaluation (CCE) system in collaboration with UNICEF faced significant challenges, such as inadequate resources, insufficient teacher training, and general indifference among educators. In several schools, teachers merely filled out NCERT’s CCE forms in bulk without actually evaluating individual students’ skills.
• Over time, many education boards abandoned the CCE model, which emphasized multiple formative and summative assessments, and reverted to the traditional system of a single year-end exam

 

3. Reasons for rolling back of no-detention policy

 

• Recent surveys conducted by both government and private organizations have highlighted a concerning learning gap in India's education system.
• The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER), a well-regarded survey by the NGO Pratham, revealed that in 2022, only 42.8% of Class 5 students could read a Class 2-level text, down from 50.5% in 2018. Similarly, just 25.6% could solve basic arithmetic problems in 2022, compared to 27.9% in 2018.
• ASER 2023 presented an even more troubling picture when testing foundational skills in youth aged 14 to 18. It found that one-fourth of this age group could not fluently read a Class 2-level text in their regional language, while more than half struggled with basic division problems involving a 3-digit number divided by a 1-digit number—a skill typically taught in Classes 3 and 4.
• The National Achievement Survey 2021, conducted by the Department of School Education, also indicated a decline in learning outcomes as students progressed through school. Out of a maximum score of 500, Class 3 students averaged 323 in language and 306 in mathematics. These scores dropped to 309 and 284 in Class 5, and further to 302 and 255 by Class 8.
• A 2023 government analysis of Class 10 and 12 results across 59 state and national boards revealed that over 65 lakh students failed their examinations, with failure rates ranging from 12% in national boards to 18% in state boards.

 

4. Way Forward

 

Prompt remedial action is essential at every stage of education. Regular assessments should be conducted at the school level in every class rather than at the board level. The best judge of a child’s learning is their teacher, who interacts with them daily. Teachers need to be trusted and equipped to identify learning gaps. Current rules mandate class teachers to "provide targeted interventions after identifying learning gaps at various stages of assessment" and require school heads to personally oversee the progress of children who are held back.

The focus on accountability is shifting. Instead of penalizing students for underperformance, the emphasis should be on holding teachers responsible for ensuring their students' progress. Many teachers tend to concentrate only on the students seated in the front rows, often neglecting those from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds who may face greater challenges and are at higher risk of being held back. To address this, rigorous teacher evaluations are necessary to promote inclusive teaching practices and ensure that every child receives equal attention and support

 

 

 

For Prelims: NEP 2020, National Curriculum Framework, Sustainable Development Goals, University Grants Commission, Kothari Commission, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan,  For Mains:  1. Discuss the key provisions and objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. How does it aim to transform the Indian education system, and what are its implications for inclusive development? (250 Words)

 

 

Previous Year Questions   1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC CSE 2018) 1. As per the Right to Education (RTE) Act, to be eligible for appointment as a teacher in a State, a person would be required to possess the minimum qualification laid down by the State Council of Teacher Education concerned. 2. As per the RTE Act, for teaching primary classes, a candidate is required to pass a Teacher Eligibility Test conducted in accordance with the National Council of Teacher Education guidelines. 3. In India, more than 90% of teacher education institutions are directly under the State Governments. 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. 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. The Sustainable Development Goals have to be achieved by 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   3. The objective(s) of Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyaan is/are: (UKSSSC Forest Guard 2021)  A. To provide quality based education to all children from 14 to 18 years B. Universal standstill till the year 2020 C. To provide residential school for the students of remote areas D. All of the above   Answer: D

 

Source: The Hindu

 

CHINA'S MEGA DAM PROJECT

 

 

1. Context

 

The ambitious plan to build a mega-hydropower dam across the Brahmaputra at the Great Bend region of the Medog county in the Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR) in China, has been in the drawing boards of Chinese hydrocracy for decades. The clearest signalling to this effect happened in 2020 when this project was included in China’s 14th Five-Year Plan. Its approval was granted on December 25, 2024. India, Bhutan and Bangladesh will have serious downstream implications of this 60 GW hyper-dam built upstream by China

 

2. What is this Mega-dam project?

 

• The Brahmaputra River is a transboundary watercourse that flows through four countries, with each nation holding different positions along its course. China, the uppermost riparian country, is the source of the river, where it originates in the Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR) under the name Yarlung Zangbo, also referred to as the Tsangpo.
• India and Bhutan are positioned as middle riparian countries, with Bhutan situated to the northeast and India further south. Bangladesh, the lowermost riparian nation, marks the river's final stretch before it empties into the Bay of Bengal.
• Each of these riparian nations has initiated or planned substantial water management projects within the Brahmaputra basin. These include hydropower dams, designed to harness the river's energy for electricity generation, as well as embankments and irrigation dams meant to control flooding and enhance agricultural productivity.
• Additionally, several barrages are planned or constructed to regulate water flow for irrigation and flood management purposes.
• The river, serving as a vital resource for all the countries it passes through, thus plays a crucial role in their respective water infrastructure and development strategies. However, these projects also raise concerns about the river's flow, its seasonal variations, and the potential for inter-country disputes over water-sharing rights

 

3. Bramhaputra as a transboundary river

 

• Transboundary river systems are often viewed by nation-states as control points, akin to "taps," which they believe can be turned on or off through hydraulic projects like dams within their borders.
• The Brahmaputra River, in particular, has become a focal point for major dam projects being developed by China, India, and Bhutan, leading to heightened geopolitical competition and power struggles in the region.
• Large-scale dams on transboundary rivers are often regarded as symbols of national sovereignty, representing a country’s control over natural resources and landscapes. This has given rise to dramatic terminology like "water wars," as tensions mount over shared water resources.
• For downstream nations, hydropower projects initiated upstream are often perceived as "water bombs," with the potential to disrupt water flow and harm ecosystems.
• China, positioned at the uppermost point of the Brahmaputra basin, exercises significant control over Tibet’s rivers, holding substantial political, technological, and material advantages to carry out extensive hydropower developments unilaterally.
• China's hydropower sector, which operates under the strong backing of its government, has advanced several large-scale projects, including the iconic Three Gorges Dam on the Yangtze River and the Zangmu Dam on the Yarlung Zangbo, which was completed in 2015.
• These dams are seen not only as important infrastructure projects but also as state symbols, reinforcing China's authority over its natural resources and asserting its geopolitical power.
• These initiatives have raised concerns among downstream nations about the downstream impacts of such massive hydropower developments on their water security, environmental sustainability, and regional cooperation

 

Rehabilitation for Communities along the Bramhaputra river   The communities living along the Brahmaputra River have historically adapted to the river’s natural cycles of flow, erosion, and deposition, using their traditional knowledge to navigate the river’s changing landscape. However, with the advent of large-scale hydropower projects by China, India, and Bhutan, these communities can no longer rely on their traditional understanding of the river. The introduction of mega-dams has altered the river’s natural patterns, and the frequency and severity of natural disasters have intensified, leaving local populations vulnerable and less able to predict or manage environmental changes. Communities located both upstream in Tibet and downstream in India, Bhutan, and Bangladesh now live under the looming presence of these massive hydropower dams, which have significant adverse impacts on their lands and ways of life. The flow of the Brahmaputra River in the downstream regions of India and Bangladesh is directly dependent on the flow of the Yarlung Zangbo in Tibet. If China proceeds with plans to build a massive hydropower dam at the Great Bend, the natural flow of water from this river could be significantly disrupted. Such an action would have severe consequences, potentially leading to a drastic reduction in surface water levels, altered monsoon patterns, and disruptions to groundwater systems in the region. The ramifications of this disruption would be particularly devastating for downstream agrarian communities, whose agricultural practices rely on consistent river flow for irrigation. Furthermore, the ecological integrity of the entire Himalayan bioregion could be compromised, with potential long-term impacts on biodiversity, local ecosystems, and the livelihoods of those who depend on the river for sustenance and economic activity. The ongoing development of hydropower dams threatens to reshape the natural environment and the traditional ways of life that have coexisted with the river for centuries

 

 

4. Conflict regarding hydropower bridge between India and China

 

• There is an ongoing tension between China and India over the Yarlung Zangbo-Brahmaputra river system. China has announced plans for its largest hydropower project at the Great Bend, while India is pursuing its own significant dam project at Upper Siang.
• Bhutan, too, has been building several smaller to medium-sized dams along the river, raising concerns among downstream countries like India and Bangladesh, who fear the potential negative impacts on water availability and local ecosystems.
• Despite these developments, none of the countries sharing the Brahmaputra basin have signed the 2014 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Non-navigational Uses of International Watercourses. This means that rights to the river's resources, particularly for upstream and downstream usage, are not legally enforceable.
• Since 2006, China and India have maintained an Expert Level Mechanism (ELM) to address outstanding issues and exchange hydrological data related to the river. However, there is no comprehensive bilateral treaty between them that governs the management and use of shared transboundary rivers.
• The geopolitical tensions between China and India, especially concerning their unresolved land boundary dispute, have added a layer of security concerns to the management of the Brahmaputra basin. Both nations have used the river basin as a strategic platform for asserting their influence and engaging in power plays.
• In light of these tensions, adopting a bioregional or ecoregional approach to the protection of the Himalayas and the broader river system could help alleviate the security-focused narratives surrounding the Brahmaputra basin.
• Such an approach would emphasize regional cooperation and the shared ecological value of the river, encouraging the riparian nations to work together in a less adversarial manner and prioritize environmental sustainability over political rivalry. This shift in focus could help reduce militarization and foster a more collaborative and peaceful management of the river's resources

 

 

5. Way Forward

 

Tibet’s river systems play a crucial role in the Earth's cryosphere, which includes permafrost and glaciers, and are integral to major climate systems, including those that influence precipitation and the monsoon. These river systems are not only vital for the environment but also for regulating climatic patterns in the region. However, with the increasing impact of climate change, Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) have become more frequent in the Himalayas. A tragic example of such an event occurred in October 2023, when the collapse of the Chungthang Dam in Sikkim caused extensive destruction to life and property in downstream communities. The construction of dams across the Himalayan region is an effort to assert control over these river systems, disrupting their natural cycles and processes. This alteration impacts the agro-pastoral communities that rely on these ecosystems, as well as the biodiversity within the rivers and wetlands. If all the dams currently planned for the Brahmaputra river basin are completed, the region is likely to face a growing series of risks, turning it into an active "risk-scape."

 

 

For Prelims: Brahmaputra river and tributaries   For Mains: GS I, GS II - World Geography, International border issues

 

 

Source: The Hindu

 

HUMAN METAPNEUMOVIRUS (HMPV)

 

 

 

1. Context

 

China’s diseases control authority said that it was piloting a monitoring system for pneumonia of unknown origin. The country was already witnessing an upward trend in overall infections as of mid-December, and is expecting to see more respiratory infections in the winter and spring

 

2. What is human metapneumovirus?

 

• Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that typically causes mild infections resembling the common cold. Discovered by researchers in 2001, it is part of the Pneumoviridae family, which also includes respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), as well as the viruses responsible for measles and mumps.
• HMPV can lead to infections in both the upper and lower respiratory tracts and is most commonly observed during the winter and early spring months. Children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of infection and potential complications.
• The symptoms, which are similar to those of a common cold, include cough, nasal congestion or runny nose, sore throat, fever, and wheezing. The incubation period is estimated to be three to six days.
• For most individuals, the illness resolves on its own within a few days with adequate rest and supportive care. However, in some cases, complications like bronchitis or pneumonia may develop, necessitating medical attention

 

3. Spreading and treatment

 

• HMPV is transmitted through direct contact with an infected individual or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus. This includes exposure to respiratory droplets from coughs and sneezes, physical interactions like handshakes or hugs with an infected person, or handling items such as doorknobs, phones, or keyboards that carry the virus, followed by touching the face, nose, eyes, or mouth.
• Currently, there is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment available for HMPV. Most individuals manage symptoms with over-the-counter medications for fever and pain, possibly supplemented by a decongestant.
• Antibiotics are ineffective against HMPV. However, the virus can be prevented by practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing with soap and water, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, refraining from touching the face, and wearing a mask to prevent spreading the virus if you suspect you are infected. Individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD should take extra precautions to reduce their risk of infection

4. India's response

 

Following reports from China, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), under the Union Health Ministry, is actively monitoring cases of respiratory and seasonal influenza across India and maintaining communication with international agencies. Confirmed cases of HMPV have been reported in two infants from Karnataka, one case in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, and two children in Chennai. In a video statement, Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda emphasized that HMPV is not a newly discovered virus, explaining that it was first identified in 2001 and has been present worldwide for many years. He noted that the virus spreads through respiratory transmission and assured the public that the country’s health systems and surveillance networks are alert, emphasizing that there is no cause for concern

 

 

 

For Prelims:  Avian influenza H5N2, Avian influenza H5N1, Bird Flu, Hemagglutinin (HA) and Neuraminidase (NA), influenza A viruses, Genomic surveillance, Pathogens, and Viruses.   For Mains: 1.Discuss the impact of the H5N2 Avian Influenza virus on public health. What measures can be implemented at national and international levels to mitigate the spread of avian influenza viruses and minimize their impact on both poultry production and human health?

 

 

 

Previous Year Questions 1. H1N1 virus is sometimes mentioned in the news with reference to which one of the following diseases? (UPSC 2015) A. AIDS B.  Bird flu C.  Dengue D.  Swine flu Answer: D 2. Consider the following statements : (UPSC 2010) 1. Every individual in the population is an equally susceptible host for Swine Flu. 2. Antibiotics have no role in the primary treatment of Swine Flu. 3. To prevent the future spread of Swine Flu in the epidemic area, the swine (pigs) must all be culled. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Answer: A 3. Which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC 2013) 1. Viruses lack enzymes necessary for the generation of energy. 2. Viruses can be cultured in any synthetic medium. 3. Viruses are transmitted from one organism to another by biological vectors only. Select the correct answer using the codes given below. A. 1 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Answer: A  4. Which of the following statements is/are correct? Viruses can infect (UPSC 2016) Bacteria Fungi Plants Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only  (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (d)

 

Source: The Hindu

 

PRAVASI BHARATIYA DIVAS

 

 

1. Context

 

Trinidad and Tobago President Christine Carla Kangaloo will be the chief guest at the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) program to be held in Bhubaneswar from January 8 to 10, officials said on Friday. Notably, the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is celebrated on 9th January since 2003 to mark the contribution of the Overseas Indian community in the development of India

 

2. Pravasi Bhartiya Divas

 

• In January 2002, a High-Level Committee on the Indian Diaspora, led by jurist and parliamentarian LM Singhvi, recommended that the government enhance and reinforce connections between overseas Indians and their homeland, as well as among themselves.

• The committee also suggested the establishment of a Pravasi Bharatiya Bhavan to serve as a hub for fostering ties between India and its global Indian community and as a space to honor the experiences and contributions of the Indian diaspora. This led to the idea of dedicating a day for the government to acknowledge the diaspora, which was first celebrated in 2003.

• January 9 was selected for the celebration as it marks the day in 1915 when Mahatma Gandhi returned to India from South Africa, beginning his leadership in the freedom struggle and transforming the lives of Indians. Starting in 2015, which marked the centenary of Gandhi’s return, the event’s format was revised to be held every two years.

• The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention is being organized in collaboration with the Odisha State Government from January 8 to 10, 2025, in Bhubaneswar. This year’s theme, “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat,” highlights the enduring bond between India and its overseas Indian community

 

3. Classification of Overseas Indians

 

• Overseas Indians are broadly divided into three groups: Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs).

• NRIs are Indian nationals residing in other countries. In 2015, the PIO category was discontinued and integrated into the OCI category.

• As per the Ministry of External Affairs, a PIO referred to a foreign citizen (excluding nationals of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China, Iran, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal) who either previously held an Indian passport, had parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents born and permanently settled in India under the Government of India Act, 1935, or was married to an Indian citizen or a PIO.

• The OCI category was introduced in 2006. OCI cards were issued to foreign nationals who qualified to become Indian citizens on January 26, 1950, were Indian citizens on or after that date, or belonged to territories that became part of India after August 15, 1947. Minor children of such individuals, except those with citizenship in Pakistan or Bangladesh, were also eligible for OCI cards

 

4. Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (PBSA)

 

• The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award is presented as part of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas programme. As stated on the official website, it is the highest recognition awarded to a Non-Resident Indian, a Person of Indian Origin, or an organization or institution established and managed by them.

• The award acknowledges the Indian diaspora's contributions in promoting a better understanding of India internationally, advocating for India’s interests, and supporting the welfare of Indian communities abroad.

• This year, 27 individuals and organizations from countries such as the US, Fiji, Guyana, Mauritius, Moldova, Myanmar, Russia, and Saudi Arabia will be recognized. President Droupadi Murmu will present the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman during the concluding session of the PBD Convention

 

5. History and Indian diaspora

 

• The Indian diaspora has expanded significantly since the first group of Indians was sent to countries in the East Pacific and the Caribbean islands as indentured laborers under the ‘Girmitiya’ system.

• During the 19th and early 20th centuries, thousands of Indians were transported to these regions to work on plantations in British colonies, which faced a labor shortage following the abolition of slavery in 1833-34.

• In the second wave of migration, around 2 million Indians moved to Singapore and Malaysia to work on farms. The third and fourth waves saw professionals migrating to Western nations and workers heading to Gulf and West Asian countries, particularly during the oil boom.

• Today, the Indian diaspora stands at over 35.4 million, comprising 19.5 million Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) and 15.8 million Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). The United States and the UAE host the largest diaspora groups, with over 2 million PIOs in the US and more than 3.5 million NRIs in the UAE. These communities continue to play a vital role in strengthening India’s economy and fostering international relations

 

6. Significance of Indian diaspora in global context

 

The Indian diaspora holds immense significance in the global context due to its size, diversity, and contributions to both their host countries and India.

 

Here are some key aspects of its importance:

 

• The Indian diaspora plays a vital role in the economies of their host countries, particularly in sectors such as technology, healthcare, education, finance, and entrepreneurship.
• They are significant contributors to India’s economy as well, with remittances from NRIs amounting to over $100 billion in 2022, the highest globally. These remittances help boost India’s foreign exchange reserves and support its development goals
• The diaspora acts as cultural ambassadors, promoting Indian traditions, cuisine, festivals, and art globally. This enhances India’s soft power and fosters cultural exchange.
• Events like Diwali and Yoga Day celebrated worldwide showcase India’s rich heritage and help build positive perceptions about the country
• The Indian diaspora often holds key positions in politics, business, and academia in their host nations, influencing policies and strengthening bilateral ties with India. Prominent examples include leaders of Indian origin in countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Singapore.
• Diaspora organizations often advocate for India’s interests and contribute to shaping international opinions on Indian policies and issues
• Indian professionals, particularly in fields like IT, engineering, and medicine, contribute to innovation and technological advancements globally.
• Many diaspora members actively engage in knowledge-sharing and skill development initiatives in India, aiding its growth in critical sectors.
• The presence of a significant Indian community in various countries strengthens India’s diplomatic relations with those nations.
• For example, India’s strong ties with Gulf countries are partly influenced by the large Indian workforce contributing to their economies

 

7. Way Forward

 

Indian diaspora serves as a vital bridge between India and the global community, playing an instrumental role in shaping India's economic, cultural, and political footprint worldwide. Their contributions as professionals, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and cultural ambassadors have not only strengthened India's ties with other nations but have also bolstered its global reputation. The diaspora’s ability to influence policies, foster bilateral trade, and promote Indian culture makes them an invaluable asset in advancing India’s soft power and strategic interests. As India continues to rise as a global power, the role of its diaspora will remain pivotal in reinforcing its position on the world stage and fostering a collaborative, interconnected future

 

For Prelims: Indian Diaspora: Includes NRIs, PIOs, and OCIs   For Mains: General Studies Paper 2 (International Relations)

 

Source: Indianexpress