CENSUS
1. Context
A global mean temperature rise of 2ºC is enshrined in the Paris Agreement as a safe level of global warming by 2100 with respect to the pre-industrial baseline. This threshold was reduced further to 1.5ºC due to the demand from the Alliance of Small Island and Developing States
2. Key Points
- India had conducted the Census every 10 years since 1881, but in 2020, the decennial exercise for Census 2021 had to be postponed due to the pandemic.
- Though the government has not announced fresh dates for the Census, the groundwork is being laid and details are emerging about some of the features.
- It will be the first digital Census allowing citizens to "self-enumerate". The NPR (National Population Register) has been made compulsory for citizens who want to exercise the right to fill out the Census form on their own rather than through government enumerators.
- For this, the Office of the Registrar General of India (RGI) has designed a "self-enumeration, Aadhaar or mobile number will be mandatorily collected.
3. Status of the Census exercise
- A January 2 notification extending the deadline for freezing administrative boundaries in States until June 30 has ruled out the exercise at least till September.
- As preparation and training take at least three months, the Census will have to be pushed to next year.
- Around 30 lakh government officials will be assigned as enumerators and each will have the task to collect the details of 650-800 people through both online and offline modes, covering an estimated population of 135 crore people.
- The Lok Sabha election is due in April-May 2024 and it is unlikely that the Census will be carried out before that since the same workforce will be dedicated to the elections.
- The completion of both phases of the Census will take at least 11 months, even if done at an accelerated pace from October 1.
4. Holding up the Census
- One reason which is holding up the exercise is the amendments proposed to the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, of 1969.
- The government wants to have a centralised register of births and deaths that can be used to update the population register, electoral register, Aadhaar, ration card, passport and driving license databases.
- The centrally stored data will be updated in real-time without a human interface leading to addition and deletion from electoral rolls when an individual turns 18 and after an individual's death respectively.
- A Bill to link the births and deaths registered with the population register and others are expected to be tabled in the next session of Parliament.
5. NPR
- The NPR, unlike the Census, is a comprehensive identity database of every "usual resident" in the country and the data proposed to be collected at the family level can be shared with States and other government departments.
- Though Census also collects similar information, the Census Act of 1948 bars sharing any individual's data with the State or Centre and only aggregate data at the administrative level can be released.
- According to Citizenship Rules 2003 under the Citizenship Act, 1955, NPR is the first step towards a compilation of the National Register of Indian Citizens (NRIC/NRC).
- Assam is the only State where an NRC has been compiled based on the directions of the Supreme Court, with the final draft of Assam's NRC excluding 19 lakhs of the 3.29 crores applicants.
- Assam Government has rejected the NRC in its current form and demanded re-verification of 30 per cent of names included in the NRC in areas bordering Bangladesh and 10 per cent in the remaining State.
- In 2020, the NPR was opposed by several State governments such as West Bengal, Kerala, Rajasthan, Odisha, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Punjab and Chhattisgarh and Civil Society Organisations due to its link with the proposed NRC as it might leave many people stateless for want of legacy documents.
- There are apprehensions that the Citizenship Amendment Act 9 (CAA), 2019 allows citizenship based on religion to six undocumented religious communities from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who entered India on or before December 31, 2014, will benefit non-Muslims excluded from the proposed citizens' register, while excluded.
- Muslims will have to prove their citizenship. The government has denied that the CAA and NRC are linked and there are currently any plans to compile a countrywide NRC.
5.1. The current status of NPR
- The NPR was first collected in 2010 when the Congres government was in power at the Centre.
- It was updated in 2015 and already has details of 119 crore residents.
- In March 2020, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) amended the Census Rules framed in 1990 to capture and store the Census data in an electronic form and enabled self-enumeration by respondents.
- The NPR is scheduled to be updated with the first phase of Census 2021.
- For this phase (house listing and household phase), 31 questions have been notified, while for the population enumeration, the second and main phase 28 questions have been finalised but are yet to be notified.
- The NPR is expected to collect details on 21 parameters of all family members, up from 14 questions in 2010 and 2015.
- The Sub-heads include passport number, relationship to head of the family, whether divorced/ widowed or separated, mother tongue if non-worker, cultivator, labourer, government employee, daily wage earner among others.
- The form also has a column on Aadhar, mobile phone, Voter ID and driver's licence.
- Though the government has claimed that the NPR form has not been finalised yet, the sample form is part of the Census of India 2021 Handbook for Principal/District Census Officers and Charge Officers in 2021.
- The NPR has retained contentious questions such as "mother tongue, place of birth of father and mother and last place of residence", possible indicators to determine inclusion in the Citizenship register.
- The questions were opposed by the State governments of West Bengal, Kerala, Rajasthan and Odisha in 2020.
- The final set of questions of both the phases and NPR was asked during a pre-test exercise in 2019 in 76 districts in 36 States and Union Territories covering a population of more than 26 lakhs.
6. Expected expenditure for Census
- The initial draft was prepared by the office of the Registrar General of India and circulated to key Ministries and the Prime Minister's Office called for the conduct of Census 2021 at a cost of ₹9, 275 crores and not the NPR.
- The draft Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) not was then revised and a financial provision of ₹4, 442.15 crores for updating the NPR was added on the directions of the MHA "subsequently".
- The proposal was cleared on August 16, 2019, and it received the Union Cabinet's nod on December 24, 2019.
- It was decided that the enumerator engaged for Census would also collect details for NPR.
- The Covid-19 pandemic struck in March 2020 and since then both exercises are on hold.
- Now, the NPR has been made compulsory if citizens want to exercise the right to fill out the Census form on their own.
- The deleted Handbook said that it is "mandatory for every usual resident of India to register in the NPR".
- Census is also mandatory and giving false information is a punishable offence.
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For Prelims: NPR, CAA, Census, Covid-19, Expenditure Finance Committee, Registrar General of India, Registration of Births and Deaths Act, of 1969, The Treatise on Indian Censuses Since 1981, Assam,
For Mains:
1. How can citizens file Census details online? Explain the norms being laid down and discuss the reasons for National Population Register being made compulsory for those who want to fill out the form digitally. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
Prelims:
1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2009)
1. Between Census 1951 and Census 2001, the density of the population of India has increased more than three times.
2. Between Census 1951 and Census 2001, the annual growth rate (exponential) of the population of India has doubled.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: D
2. In the context of vaccines manufactured to prevent COVID-19 pandemic, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2022)
1. The Serum Institute of India produced COVID-19 vaccine named Covishield using mRNA platform.
2. Sputnik V vaccine is manufactured using vector based platform.
3. COVAXIN is an inactivated pathogen based vaccine.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
3. Sinovac given for Covid-19 is a (UPPSC Combined State Exam 2022)
A. Protein sub-unit
B. Non-replicating viral vector
C. Whole virus vaccine
D. mRNA vaccine
Answer: C
4. Along with the Budget, the Finance Minister also places other documents before the Parliament which Include "The Macro Economic Framework Statement". The aforesaid document is presented because this is mandated by (UPSC 2020)
A. Long-standing parliamentary convention
B. Article 112 and Article 110 (1) of the Constitution of India
C. Article 113 of the Constitution of India
D. Provisions of the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act, 2003
Answer: D
5. Who is the Census Commissioner of India in 2021? (ICAR Technician 2022)
A. Dr Vivek Joshi
B. Dr C Chandramouli
C. Shri Sailesh
D. DK Sikri
Answer: A
6. The Registration of Birth and Death Act came into force in the year _____. (UPSSSC Junior Assistant 2020)
A. 1964 B. 1969 C. 1972 D.1981
Answer: B
7. Consider the following States: (UPSC 2022)
1. Andhra Pradesh
2. Kerala
3. Himachal Pradesh
4. Tripura
How many of the above are generally known as tea-producing States?
A. Only one State
B. Only two States
C. Only three States
D. All four States
Answer: C
8. Consider the following rivers (UPSC 2014)
1. Barak
2. Lohit
3. Subansiri
Which of the above flows/flow through Arunachal Pradesh?
A. 1 only B.2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
Mains:
1. Two parallel run schemes of the Government, viz the Adhaar Card and NPR, one as voluntary and the other as compulsory, have led to debates at national levels and also litigations. On merits, discuss whether or not both schemes need run concurrently. Analyse the potential of the schemes to achieve developmental benefits and equitable growth. (UPSC 2014)
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Source: The Hindu
GLOBAL WARMING
1. Context
The annual mean temperature of the world is known to have increased by 1.1 degree Celsius from the average of the 1850-1900 period. But this increase, as can be expected, is not uniform. It varies in different regions and also at different times of the year. This single number denoting global temperature increase, very effective for communicating the dangers of climate change, is built on top of several layers of averages.
2. The difference in Temperature rise
- Temperature rises over land is much higher than over oceans. Overland the annual mean temperatures have risen by as much as 1.59 degree Celsius since preindustrial times, according to the latest report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
- Oceans, in contrast, have warmed by about 0.88 degree Celsius. The warming trends over the Indian region are very different.
- An assessment of climate change over the Indian subcontinent, published by the Ministry of Earth Sciences in 2020, said annual mean temperatures had risen by 0.7 degree Celsius from 1900.
- This is significantly lower than the 1.59 degree Celsius rise for land temperatures across the world. It could give the impression that the problem of climate change in India was not as acute as in other parts of the world. But that is not entirely accurate.
3. Why is warming over India is lower?
- The relatively lower rise in temperatures over India is not a surprise. Also, India is not a special case. The increase in temperatures is known to be more prominent in the higher altitudes, near the polar regions, than near the equator.
- This is attributable to a complex set of atmospheric phenomena, including heat transfers from the tropics to the poles through prevailing systems of air circulation. India happens to be in the tropical region, quite close to the equator.
- A substantial part of the difference between the temperature rise over India and that over the entire world can be explained by understanding what the different numbers represent.
- The planet as a whole has warmed by 1.1 degree Celsius compared with preindustrial times.
- But, as mentioned earlier, this is just the average. Different regions have seen very different levels of warming.
- The polar regions, particularly the Arctic, have seen significantly greater warming. The IPCC report says the Arctic region has warmed at least twice as much as the world average.
- Its current annual mean temperatures are about 2 degrees Celsius higher than pre-industrial times. Some other studies suggest the Arctic could be warming even faster.
- Again, this happens because of a variety of reasons, including the processes mentioned earlier. Another prominent cause is what is known as the albedo effect, or how much sunlight a surface reflects. The ice cover in the Arctic is melting, because of which more land or water is getting exposed to the Sun.
- Ice traps the least amount of heat and reflects most of the solar radiation when compared with land or water.
- More recent research suggests that the higher warming in the polar region could be attributed to a host of factors, including the albedo effect, changes in clouds, water vapour, and atmospheric temperatures.
- The warming in the polar regions accounts for a substantial part of the 1.1-degree Celsius temperature rise over the entire globe.
4. Higher warming over land than oceans
- However, the 0.7 degree Celsius temperature rise over India has to be compared with the warming seen over land areas, not the entire planet.
- As mentioned, land areas have become warmer by 1.59 degree Celsius. Land areas tend to get heated faster and by a larger amount, than oceans.
- Daily and seasonal variations in heating over land and oceans are usually explained in terms of their different heat capacities. Oceans have a higher capacity to cool themselves down through the process of evaporation.
- The warmer water evaporates, leaving the rest of the ocean relatively cooler. However, longer-term enhanced heating trends over land have to be attributed to other, more complicated, physical processes involving land-ocean-atmospheric interactions.
5. Impact of Aerosols
- Aerosols refer to all kinds of particles suspended in the atmosphere. These particles have the potential to affect the local temperature in multiple ways.
- Many of these scatter sunlight back, so that lesser heat is absorbed by the land. Aerosols also affect cloud formation.
- Clouds, in turn, have an impact on how much sunlight is reflected or absorbed.
Aerosol concentration in the Indian region is quite high, due to natural as well as man-made reasons. - Due to its location in the tropics and the arid climate, India is no stranger to dust. But it also happens to be experiencing heavy pollution right now.
- Emissions from vehicles, industries, construction, and other activities add a lot of aerosols to the Indian region. A reduction in warming could be an unintended but positive side effect.
| For Prelims: Global Warming, Intercontinental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), Aerosols, Albedo, Climate change, and land-ocean-atmospheric interactions. |
Previous year Questions
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1. In the context of mitigating the impending global warming due to anthropogenic emissions of carbon dioxide, which of the following can be the potential sites for carbon sequestration? (UPSC 2017)
1. Abandoned and uneconomic coal seams
2. Depleted oil and gas reservoirs
3. Subterranean deep saline formations
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 only
Answer: D
2. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2017)
1. Climatic and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) to Reduce Short-Lived Climate Pollutants is a unique initiative of the G20 group of countries.
2. The CCAC focuses on methane, black carbon, and hydrofluorocarbons.
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
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Source: The Indian Express
NATIONAL DISASTER MANAGEMENT ACT (NDMA)
1. Context
As we observe June 5 as World Environment Day, one takes stock of how the previous decade has exacerbated/mitigated existing environmental crises.
2. What is National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) ?
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) is an agency established by the Government of India to coordinate and manage disaster response and preparedness at the national level. The NDMA's primary objectives are to formulate policies, plans, and guidelines for disaster management and ensure their effective implementation.
Key aspects of NDMA include:
- NDMA develops national policies and guidelines for disaster management to strengthen the country's ability to respond to and mitigate the effects of disasters
- It coordinates between various government departments, agencies, and stakeholders involved in disaster management, ensuring a cohesive approach to disaster response and recovery
- NDMA oversees the implementation of disaster management plans and provides technical assistance and guidance to state and district authorities
- It focuses on building the capacity of institutions and individuals through training, simulations, and public awareness programs
- NDMA supports research on disaster management practices and technologies to improve preparedness and response strategies
- During a disaster, NDMA plays a key role in mobilizing resources, providing strategic direction, and coordinating relief efforts
3. Functions of NDMA
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has several key functions aimed at improving disaster preparedness, response, and recovery in India.
These functions include:
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Developing national policies, plans, and guidelines for disaster management, including strategies for disaster risk reduction and response.
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Coordinating with various government agencies, state governments, and other stakeholders to ensure a unified approach to disaster management
- Overseeing the development and implementation of disaster preparedness plans and response strategies. This includes ensuring that resources and personnel are ready for quick deployment during emergencies
- Enhancing the capabilities of institutions and individuals involved in disaster management through training, exercises, and simulations
- Promoting disaster awareness and educating the public on how to prepare for and respond to disasters. This includes campaigns and community outreach programs.
- Supporting research and development in disaster management practices, technologies, and methodologies to improve resilience and response strategies.
- Ensuring the effective management of resources needed for disaster response, including financial resources, equipment, and personnel
- Monitoring the implementation of disaster management plans and evaluating their effectiveness. This involves assessing the performance of disaster management activities and making necessary adjustments
- Integrating disaster management considerations into national and state development plans to reduce vulnerability and enhance resilience
- Providing technical support and guidance to state and local authorities to strengthen their disaster management capabilities and ensure that they align with national standards and practices.
4. Proposed Amendments
The amendment Bill acknowledges the need for improvements and proposes several key changes to enhance the effectiveness of the Act:
- Urban Disaster Management Authorities: While disaster management structures already exist at the district level, the Bill recognizes that large metropolitan areas, which often span multiple districts, have unique needs. It proposes establishing Urban Disaster Management Authorities in all state capitals and cities with municipal corporations, led by the municipal commissioner. This aims to ensure a coordinated approach to city-specific disasters, such as urban flooding.
- State Disaster Response Force (SDRF): Although many states have developed disaster response forces similar to the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the 2005 Act does not mandate the formation of SDRFs. The Bill seeks to make it compulsory for every state to establish and maintain an SDRF.
- National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC): Currently operational and headed by the Cabinet Secretary, the NCMC manages national emergencies, including disasters. The Bill proposes granting the NCMC legal status, establishing it as the central body for addressing disasters with significant or national impacts.
- Enhanced Role of NDMA: The Bill suggests expanding the National Disaster Management Authority's (NDMA) role and responsibilities. NDMA will be tasked with regularly reviewing the full spectrum of disaster risks, including those from emerging threats.
- Disaster Databases: NDMA will be required to develop and maintain a national disaster database, covering disaster assessments, fund allocation, expenditures, and preparedness plans. Similarly, State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs) will need to establish state-level disaster databases.
- Compensations: The Bill proposes that NDMA set guidelines for minimum relief standards for disaster-affected individuals. This includes recommendations on compensation for loss of life, property damage, and livelihood losses.
- Man-made Disasters: The Bill clarifies the definition of disasters, specifying that “man-made causes” exclude law-and-order situations. For instance, damage and loss during riots will not fall under the Act's provisions.
- Absence of Vice-Chairperson: Although the NDMA is chaired by the Prime Minister, the vice-chairperson position, meant to oversee daily operations, has been vacant for about ten years. The Bill aims to formalize this role by allowing the chairperson or vice-chairperson to designate any member to handle daily responsibilities
5.What is the significance of the National Disaster Management Plan?
The National Disaster Management Plan (NDMP) is a critical framework established by the Government of India to guide disaster management efforts at the national level.
Its significance lies in several key aspects:
- The NDMP provides a comprehensive and strategic framework for managing disasters across the country. It outlines the policies, procedures, and responsibilities for disaster management, ensuring a coordinated and effective response
- The plan includes guidelines for identifying, assessing, and managing various types of disaster risks. It helps in understanding potential hazards, vulnerabilities, and the capacity to cope with disasters, allowing for better preparedness and mitigation strategies.
- NDMP facilitates coordination among different government agencies, state governments, and other stakeholders involved in disaster management. It integrates efforts across various levels of government and sectors, promoting a unified approach to disaster response
- The plan emphasizes the importance of disaster preparedness and response measures. It sets out protocols for early warning systems, evacuation procedures, emergency response teams, and resource mobilization to ensure a swift and organized reaction during a disaster.
- NDMP helps in the efficient allocation and utilization of resources for disaster management. It provides guidelines on budgeting, funding, and resource management, ensuring that adequate resources are available for disaster response and recovery
- The plan outlines strategies for building the capacity of institutions, organizations, and individuals involved in disaster management. This includes training, capacity development programs, and simulation exercises to enhance preparedness and response capabilities.
- NDMP promotes public awareness and education on disaster preparedness and risk reduction. It encourages community involvement and provides information on how individuals and communities can protect themselves and respond effectively to disasters.
- The plan includes guidelines for recovery and rehabilitation efforts post-disaster. It focuses on restoring normalcy, rebuilding infrastructure, and providing support to affected communities to help them recover and rebuild their lives
- NDMP establishes mechanisms for monitoring and evaluating disaster management activities. It helps in assessing the effectiveness of disaster response measures, identifying gaps, and making necessary improvements to enhance future disaster management efforts.
6. What are the challenges of the NDMA?
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) faces several challenges in its mission to improve disaster management in India.
Some of the key challenges include:
- Effective disaster management requires coordination among various government departments, state authorities, and non-governmental organizations. The NDMA often faces difficulties in ensuring seamless cooperation and communication among these diverse stakeholders
- Adequate allocation and efficient management of resources, including financial, human, and material resources, can be challenging. Ensuring that resources are distributed effectively and reach the areas in need, especially during a crisis, is a persistent issue
- Building the capacity of disaster management teams at various levels and providing adequate training is an ongoing challenge. Ensuring that local and state-level authorities are well-prepared and equipped to handle disasters requires continuous effort and investment
- Raising public awareness about disaster preparedness and risk reduction is crucial but challenging. Many communities, especially in vulnerable regions, lack awareness or have inadequate preparedness measures, which can hinder effective disaster response
- Incorporating new technologies and innovations into disaster management practices is necessary for improving response and recovery. However, the adoption of advanced technologies and systems can be slow due to budget constraints, technical challenges, and resistance to change
- Rapid urbanization and environmental changes pose significant challenges to disaster management. Cities and regions experiencing rapid growth may face increased risks and vulnerabilities, requiring updated and adaptive management strategies.
- Ensuring sufficient funding for disaster management initiatives and maintaining budget allocations can be challenging. Financial constraints may limit the implementation of comprehensive disaster management plans and the development of necessary infrastructure.
- Effective disaster management relies on accurate data and timely analysis. Collecting and analyzing data related to disaster risks, response efforts, and recovery progress can be complex and resource-intensive
- India faces a wide range of natural and man-made disasters, including floods, earthquakes, cyclones, and industrial accidents. Developing and implementing effective strategies for managing this diverse range of disasters can be challenging
- Ensuring that the legal and institutional frameworks for disaster management are up-to-date and effective is essential. The NDMA must navigate complex legal and administrative structures while advocating for necessary reforms and updates.
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For Prelims: Current events of national and international importance
For Mains: GS-III: Disaster Management
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Source: Indianexpress
INDIA-MIDDLE EAST-EUROPE ECONOMIC CORRIDOR (IMEC)
1. Context
The ongoing crisis in West Asia could pose an obstacle to the completion of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), which was announced on the sidelines of the G20 summit hosted by India in 2023, according to a senior External Affairs Ministry official
2. The Importance of Red Sea Route
The Red Sea route holds immense significance for global trade due to the strategic location of the Bab el-Mandab Strait. This narrow passage, nestled between Yemen and Djibouti, acts as a critical chokepoint, handling a staggering 12% of the world's international merchandise trade. It serves as a vital conduit for cargo ships and, crucially, almost half of all global oil shipments.
However, the ongoing Red Sea crisis has thrown a wrench into this well-oiled system. With the region in turmoil, major carriers have been forced to take a detour around Africa via the Cape of Good Hope. This significant rerouting has had several ripple effects:
- Soaring ocean freight: The added distance translates to increased fuel consumption and operational costs for shipping companies, which are inevitably passed on to consumers in the form of higher freight charges.
- Inflated insurance costs: The heightened security concerns due to the conflict have also led to increased insurance premiums for traversing the alternate route.
- Longer voyage times: The detour translates to longer journeys for vessels, leading to delayed deliveries and potential product shortages.
- Escalating transportation costs: All these factors culminate in increased transportation costs for goods, ultimately impacting businesses and consumers globally.
The Red Sea crisis acts as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of global supply chains and the critical role the Red Sea route plays in facilitating international trade. The disruption highlights the need for diversification and risk mitigation strategies to ensure the smooth flow of goods and prevent similar future disruptions from creating widespread economic repercussions.
3. Impact on India's trade
- The Red Sea crisis has significantly impacted India's trade, particularly with European and North African countries. These regions account for a substantial portion of India's trade volume, with nearly 24% of exports and 14% of imports flowing through the disrupted Red Sea route.
- In the past year (2022-23), India's bilateral trade with these regions amounted to a staggering $189 billion and $15 billion respectively. The ongoing crisis has instilled fear and uncertainty among Indian traders, leading to a 25% reduction in cargo shipments transitioning through the Red Sea, according to the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO).
- As these disruptions continue to cause delays and cost increases in global supply chains, China is seizing the opportunity to promote an alternative route: China-Europe freight trains as part of their Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). This strategic move by China presents a potential challenge for India, potentially impacting its trade competitiveness in the future.
4. About the IMEC
The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) is a proposed trade route aimed at enhancing economic connectivity between India, the Middle East, and Europe. Announced during the G-20 summit in 2023, the IMEC seeks to establish a seamless transportation network to facilitate the flow of goods, services, and investments across the regions involved. The corridor is envisioned as a strategic initiative to bolster trade relations, spur economic growth, and promote regional integration.
Objectives of IMEC
- IMEC aims to boost bilateral and multilateral trade among the participating countries by streamlining trade routes and reducing transportation costs.
- The corridor intends to promote infrastructure development, including the construction of ports, railways, roads, and logistics facilities, to support efficient trade operations.
- IMEC seeks to foster greater economic integration and cooperation among India, the Middle East, and Europe, thereby creating a more interconnected and interdependent economic landscape.
- By providing an alternative trade route, IMEC aims to reduce dependence on existing maritime routes and mitigate the risks associated with geopolitical tensions and disruptions in traditional trade pathways.
Key Components of IMEC
- The backbone of IMEC is a comprehensive transportation network comprising sea routes, land routes, railways, and highways connecting key economic centers across India, the Middle East, and Europe.
- IMEC emphasizes the development of efficient logistics and connectivity infrastructure, including ports, airports, customs clearance facilities, and multimodal transport hubs, to facilitate seamless movement of goods and services.
- Effective policy coordination and regulatory harmonization among participating countries are crucial for the smooth functioning of IMEC. This involves aligning trade policies, customs procedures, and regulatory frameworks to minimize trade barriers and bureaucratic hurdles.
- IMEC requires substantial investments in infrastructure development, technology upgrades, and capacity-building initiatives. Leveraging public-private partnerships (PPPs), international financial institutions, and sovereign wealth funds can provide the necessary financing for IMEC projects.
Challenges and Considerations
- The geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, including conflicts and tensions in the region, poses significant challenges to the implementation of IMEC. Political stability and security are critical factors for the success of the corridor.
- Developing the requisite infrastructure, particularly in landlocked regions and conflict-affected areas, may encounter logistical and financial challenges. Coordinating large-scale infrastructure projects across multiple jurisdictions requires careful planning and coordination.
- Harmonizing trade regulations, customs procedures, and legal frameworks among diverse countries with varying legal systems and administrative practices can be complex and time-consuming.
- The environmental sustainability of IMEC infrastructure projects, such as port development and transportation networks, must be carefully assessed to minimize adverse ecological impacts and promote sustainable development.
5. The Way Forward
The IMEC holds immense potential to transform regional trade dynamics, foster economic growth, and enhance connectivity across India, the Middle East, and Europe. Continued political commitment, institutional cooperation, and investment mobilization are essential for realizing the vision of a vibrant and integrated economic corridor spanning three continents.
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For Prelims: India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, Belt and Road Initiative, Red Sea, Cape of Good Hope
For Mains:
1. Discuss the significance of the Red Sea route for global trade, and analyze how the ongoing Red Sea crisis is impacting international supply chains. (250 Words)
2. Discuss the role of public-private partnerships (PPPs), international financial institutions, and sovereign wealth funds in financing the infrastructure development required for the IMEC. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. With reference to the “G20 Common Framework”, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2022)
1. It is an initiative endorsed by the G20 together with the Paris Club. 2. It is an initiative to support Low Income Countries with unsustainable debt. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Answer: C
2. In which one of the following groups are all the four countries members of G20?
(UPSC 2020)
A. Argentina, Mexico, South Africa and Turkey
B. Australia, Canada, Malaysia and New Zealand
C. Brazil, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Vietnam
D. Indonesia, Japan, Singapore and South Korea
Answer: A
3. Read the statements (A) and (R) and choose the correct option. (CTET 2022)
Assertion (A): The Roman empire carried out trades with South India.
Reason (R): Roman gold coins have been found in South India.
A. Both (A) and (R) are correct and R is the correct explanation of A.
B. Both (A) and (R) are correct and R is not the correct explanation of A.
C. (A) is true, but (R) is false.
D. (A) is false but (R) is true.
Answer: A
4. Who was the first emperor of the Roman Empire? (ACC 122 CGAT 2020)
A. Tiberius B. Mark Antony C. William Shakespeare D. Augustus
Answer: D
5. Comprehension (SSC CGL Tier 2 2020)
Directions:
Read the passage and answer the questions that follow.
The Roman Empire covered a vast stretch of territory that included most of Europe as we know it today and a large part of the Fertile Crescent and North Africa. The Roman Empire embraced a wealth of local cultures and languages; that women had a stronger legal position then than they do in many countries today; but also that much of the economy was run on slave labour, denying freedom to substantial numbers of persons. From the fifth century onwards, the empire fell apart in the west but remained intact and exceptionally prosperous in its eastern half. Roman historians have a rich collection of sources to go on, which we can broadly divide into three groups: (a) texts, (b) documents and (c) material remains. Textual sources include letters, speeches, sermons, laws, and histories of the period written by contemporaries. These were usually called ‘Annals’ because the narrative was constructed on a year-by-year basis. Documentary sources include mainly inscriptions and papyri. Inscriptions were usually cut on stone, so a large number survive, in both Greek and Latin. The ‘papyrus’ was a reed-like plant that grew along the banks of the Nile in Egypt and was processed to produce sheets of writing material that was very widely used in everyday life. Thousands of contracts, accounts, letters and official documents survive ‘on papyrus’ and have been published by scholars who are called ‘papyrologists’. Material remains include a very wide assortment of items that mainly archaeologists discover (for example, through excavation and field survey), for example, buildings, monuments and other kinds of structures, pottery, coins, mosaics, even entire landscapes. Each of these sources can only tell us just so much about the past, and combining them can be a fruitful exercise, but how well this is done depends on the historian’s skill!
Which of these statements is NOT true?
A. Archaeologists make discoveries through excavations.
B. Inscriptions were carved in Greek and Latin
C. The Roman empire flourished longer in the west.
D. Texts, documents and material remains were the main sources for the historians
Answer: C
6. In the first century AD, which among the following was not a major item of Indian exports to Rome? (CDS GK 2018)
A. Pepper B. Spikenard C. Tortoiseshell D. Nutmeg
Answer: D
7. Pepper was as valued in Roman Empire that as it was called (CTET 2013)
A. Black magic B. Black charm C. Black stone D. Black gold
Answer: D
8. In the middle of the first century BC, under ________, a high-born military commander, the ‘Roman Empire’ was extended to present-day Britain and Germany. (SSC JE CE 2017)
A. Alexander B. Julius Caesar C. Xerxes D. Caligula
Answer: B
9. Comprehension
Direction: Read the passage carefully and select the best answer to each question out of the given four alternatives.
The Silk Road was a network of trade routes which connected the East and West, and was central to the economic, cultural, political, and religious interactions between these regions from the 2nd century BCE to the 18th century. The Silk Road primarily refers to the land routes connecting East Asia and Southeast Asia with South Asia, Persia, the Arabian Peninsula, East Africa and Southern Europe. The Silk Road derives its name from the lucrative trade in silk carried out along its length, beginning in the Han dynasty in China. The Silk Road trade played a significant role in the development of the civilizations of China, Korea, Japan, the Indian subcontinent, Iran, Europe, the Horn of Africa and Arabia, opening long-distance political and economic relations between the civilizations. Though silk was the major trade item exported from China, many other goods and ideas were exchanged, including religions (especially Buddhism), syncretic philosophies, sciences, and technologies like paper and gunpowder. So, in addition to economic trade, the Silk Road was a route for cultural trade among the civilizations along its network. Diseases, most notably plague, also spread along the Silk Road. Some remnants of what was probably Chinese silk dating from 1070 BCE have been found in Ancient Egypt. The Great Oasis cities of Central Asia played a crucial role in the effective functioning of the Silk Road trade. The originating source seems sufficiently reliable, but silk degrades very rapidly, so it cannot be verified whether it was cultivated silk (which almost certainly came from China) or a type of wild silk, which might have come from the Mediterranean or Middle East. Archeological sites such as the Berel burial ground in Kazakhstan, confirmed that the nomadic Arimaspians were not only breeding horses for trade but also great craftsmen able to propagate exquisite art pieces along the Silk Road.
According to the passage, The Silk Road primarily refers to the land routes connecting to one another. Which routes were not linked by it? (DSSSB Junior Stenographer 2021)
A. East Asia with Southern Europe
B. East Asia with South Asia
C. South America and South Africa
D. East Asia with Persia
Answer: C
10. The term “Silk Route” in the ancient period refers to (CTET 2022)
A. the travelling route of traders from China to other countries carrying silk.
B. Sea routes connecting countries in which silk traders sold their products.
C. roads connecting all the countries in which mulberry plants were cultivated.
D. road and sea routes in which silk products were traded.
Answer: A
11. Who started the ‘Silk-route’ (Marg) for Indians? (UKPSC RO/ARO 2016)
A. Kanishka B. Harshwardhan C. Ashok D. Fahien
Answer: A
12. With reference to ancient South India, Korkai, Poompuhar, and Muchiri were well-known as (UPSC 2023)
A. capital cities B. ports C. centres of iron-and-steel D. making shrines of Jain Tirthankaras
Answer: B
13. Two thousand years ago, a trader narrates that he has been to Gaza, Petra and Apologos. Which of the following trade routes has he travelled through? (CTET 2022)
A. Route controlled by Roman emperors
B. Route under the rulers of Persia
C. Route controlled by Kushanas
D. Route under the rulers of China
Answer: A
14. Red sea is an example of: (UPPSC Civil Service 2017)
A. Volcanic valley B. Eroded valley C. Axial trough D. U-shaped valley
Answer: C
15. In which Indian state was the ancient sea port 'Muziris' located? (UP Police SI 2017)
A. Kerala B. Gujarat C. Karnataka D. Tamil Nadu
Answer: A
16. Regarding the Indus Valley Civilization, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2011)
1. It was predominantly a secular civilization and the religious element, though present, did not dominate the scene.
2. During this period, cotton was used for manufacturing textiles in India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: C
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Source: The Hindu
G7
1. Context
With less than two weeks to go for the start of the G7 Summit, being hosted by Canada in Kananaskis in Alberta from June 15-17, India is still to receive an invitation to the gathering.
2. About G-7 Summit
- The Group of Seven is an informal group of leading industrialised nations.
- It consists of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States.
- This year is Japan's turn to host, but the presidency of G-7 summits revolves around the seven members. Two representatives of the European Union also Join.
- As is customary in recent years, leaders from some non-G-7 Countries and international organizations will also participate in some sessions.
- The leaders discuss a wide range of issues, including economic policy, security, climate change, energy and gender.
- The first summit was in 1975 when France hosted what was then a Group of Six meeting to discuss tackling a recession that followed an Arab oil Embargo.
- Canada became the seventh member a year later. Russia joined to form the G-8 in 1998 but was expelled after Moscow's 2014 annexation of Crimea.
3. Guests for Hiroshima summit
- The leaders of Australia, Brazil, Comoros, Cook Islands, India, Indonesia, South Korea and Vietnam are invited, as Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida stresses the importance of reaching out to developing countries in the Global South and US allies and partners.
- The invitations to leaders outside the G-7 are meant to extend cooperation to a broader range of countries.
- The G-7 countries' share of global economic activity has shrunk to about 30 per cent from roughly 50 per cent four decades ago.
- Developing economies such as China, India and Brazil have made huge gains raising questions about the G-7's relevance and its role in leading a world economy that's increasingly reliant on growth in less wealthy nations.
- Leaders of the United Nations, the International Energy Agency, the International Monetary Fund, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, the World Bank, the World Health Organisation and the World Trade Organisation are also invited.
4. Reasons for selecting Hiroshima
- Hiroshima is Kishida's hometown. His choice of venue underscores a determination to put nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation at the top of the agenda of this year's summit.
- A path to nuclear disarmament has appeared more difficult with Russia's recent nuclear weapon threats in Ukraine as well as nuclear and missile development by China and North Korea.
- Japan, which is protected by the US nuclear umbrella, has also faced criticism that its nuclear disarmament pledge is an empty promise.
- Kishida is trying to forge a realistic roadmap between the current harsh reality and the ideal of a world without nuclear weapons.
5. Major Issues
- G-7 leaders are expected to strongly condemn Russia's war on Ukraine while pledging their continuing support for Ukraine.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will join the session via the Internet.
- There will also be a focus on Beijing's escalating threats against Taiwan, the self-governing democratic island Beijing claims as its own, and ways to reduce Western democracy's economic and supply chain dependency on China.
- To address the rise of Global South nations, including many former colonies of Western powers with varied views on and ties to Russia and China, the G-7 will offer these countries more support in health, food security and infrastructure to develop closer ties.
6. Japan and South Korea
- On the sidelines of the summit, Kishida will meet together with President Joe Biden and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol to discuss closer security cooperation, possibly including stronger nuclear deterrence.
- Both Korea and Japan will repair ties strained by disputes stemming from Japan's 1910-1945 colonial rule of the Korean Peninsula.
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For Prelims: Korean Peninsula, Russia-Ukraine war, Hiroshima, Atomic bomb, G-7,
World War II, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States,
For Mains:
1. What is G-7 Summit? Discuss India's relations with G-7 Summit. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
Prelims
1. With reference to the "Look East Policy" of India, consider the following statements (UPSC 2011)
1. India wants to establish itself as an important regional player in East Asian affairs.
2. India wants to plug the vacuum created by the termination of the Cold War.
3. India wants to restore the historical and cultural ties with its neighbours in Southeast and East Asia.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 1 and 3only C. 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
2. What is “Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)”, sometimes seen in the news? (UPSC 2018)
A. An Israeli radar system
B. India’s indigenous anti-missile programme
C. An American anti-missile system
D. A defence collaboration between Japan and South Korea.
Answer: C
3. Consider the following pairs: (UPSC 2014)
Region often in news Country
1. Chechnya Russian Federation
2. Darfur Mali
3. Swat Valley Iraq
Which of the above pair is/are correctly matched?
A. 1 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
4. Consider the following pairs: (UPSC 2018)
Regions sometimes mentioned in the news Country
1. Catalonia Spain
2. Crimea Hungary
3. Mindanao Philippines
4. Oromia Nigeria
Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
A. 1, 2 and 3 B. 3 and 4 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 2 and 4 only
Answer: C
5. Consider the following countries: (UPSC 2014)
1. Denmark
2. Japan
3. Russian Federation
4. United Kingdom
5. United States of America
Which of the above are the members of the 'Arctic Council'?
A. 1, 2 and 3 B. 2, 3 and 4 C. 1, 4 and 5 D. 1, 3 and 5
Answer: D
6. Which one of the following is the biggest Island of Japan archipelago? (UPSC CAPF 2019)
1. Honshu
2. Hokkaido
3. Shikoku
4. Kyushu
Answer: 1
7. With reference to the G-7 Summit held in June 2021, which of the following statements is/are correct ? (UPPSC Combined State Exam 2021)
1. United Kingdom was the Chair of the Summit.
2. Brazil was invited to the Summit as a guest country.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
A. Only 1 B. Only 2 C. both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: A
Mains:
1. Evaluate the economic and strategic dimensions of India’s Look East Policy in the context of the post-Cold War international scenario. (250 Words) (UPSC 2016)
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Source: The Indian Express
