General Studies Paper -2

Context: The Centre has withheld funds to Tamil Nadu under the Samagra Shiksha scheme due to the state’s refusal to implement the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020) and its three-language formula.

• Tamil Nadu follows a two-language policy (Tamil and English) and has consistently opposed the introduction of Hindi, viewing it as a threat to its linguistic identity.

What is the Three Language Formula?

• NEP 1968 made Hindi compulsory across the nation, with specific language requirements for states.
  • Hindi-speaking states were to teach Hindi, English, and a modern Indian language (preferably a South Indian language).
  • Non-Hindi-speaking states were expected to teach local language, Hindi, and English.
• NEP 2020 retains the three-language formula, introduced in the NEP of 1968.
  • States, regions, and students can choose the three languages, as long as at least two are native to India.
  • In addition to the state language, children must learn one other Indian language (not necessarily Hindi).
  • Emphasizes bilingual teaching, focusing on the home language/mother tongue and English.
  • Sanskrit is given special emphasis as an optional choice in the three-language formula.

Significance of the Three-Language Formula

• Enhances Multilingual Proficiency: Encourages students to learn multiple languages, improving cognitive skills and communication.
• National Integration and Cultural Exchange: Helps bridge the north-south linguistic divide by promoting Hindi in non-Hindi states and regional languages in Hindi-speaking states.
• Increased Employment and Mobility Opportunities: Knowledge of multiple languages expands career prospects and makes migration for jobs and higher education easier across different states.
• Strengthens Regional Languages: Ensure that regional languages continue to be actively used and preserved.

What are the Concerns?

• Perceived Imposition of Hindi: Non-Hindi-speaking states, especially Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Karnataka, oppose it as an attempt to impose Hindi.
• Practical Implementation Challenges: Many schools lack qualified teachers for teaching additional languages.
• Burden on Students: Learning an additional language may increase the academic load, particularly for students who struggle with language acquisition.
• Potential Neglect of Foreign Languages: Some argue that instead of a third Indian language, students should be encouraged to learn global languages like French, German, or Mandarin to improve international opportunities.

Way Ahead

• Constructive dialogue and a practical compromise between the Centre and State is the way forward.
• Education was transferred to the concurrent list during the Emergency, making it a shared responsibility.
• Disagreements over the third language should not hinder funding for Samagra Shiksha, a key education program.

General Studies Paper -2

Context: The External Affairs Minister of India emphasized that India and China worked hard to preserve the G-20 as an institution amid global polarization.

About

• India and China discussed bilateral developments, particularly the situation on the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
• The two leaders reviewed bilateral relations, discussing the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage, trans-border river talks, flight connectivity, and facilitating travel.

Inception of the G20

• It was founded in 1999 after the Asian financial crisis (1997-1998) as an informal forum for Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors.
• Initially focused on macroeconomic issues, but has expanded to include trade, climate change, health, agriculture, energy, and anti-corruption.
• Membership: Comprises 19 countries: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, UK, and US.
• Also includes two regional bodies: the European Union (EU) and African Union (AU).
• Presidency: The G20 does not have a permanent secretariat.
• The G20 Presidency rotates annually, and each country within a regional group takes a turn hosting the Presidency.

Role of India in G20

• The G20 Leaders’ Summit in 2023, showcased India’s capacity as G20 president to create a platform for global discussions and reach a consensus through the Leaders’ Declaration.
• India placed inclusivity at the forefront, ensuring public concerns were heard through 11 Engagement Groups representing diverse segments like youth, women, private sector, and civil society.
• India’s G20 presidency advocated for Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG 1) – “no poverty” – aligning with global development goals.
• India represents the Global South in G20, advocating for developing nations and addressing their challenges.

Importance

• India’s economic strength and diverse representation enable it to contribute to policies benefiting emerging economies.
• The G20 forum helps India attract foreign investments,spurring job creation, technological advancement, and infrastructure development.
• India’s G20 leadership reflects its commitment to inclusivity and economic strength, aiming for tangible outcomes like increased investments, job opportunities, income growth, and poverty reduction.

Challenges

• India faces challenges in navigating relations between major powers like the US, China, and Russia.
• India’s rapid industrialization and development pose challenges in balancing economic growth with climate goals.
• The divide between developed and developing countries remains a challenge.

Conclusion and Way Forward

• India’s G20 participation elevates its global profile and strengthens its leadership in international affairs.
• Despite challenges, India’s G20 role offers significant opportunities to drive global change, promote growth, and represent developing nations.
• India’s global ascent, under G20 leadership, extends benefits to ordinary citizens, farmers, factory workers, and the urban middle class, ensuring equitable global prosperity.

General Studies Paper -3

Context

• Recently, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued an adjudication order imposing a penalty of over ₹3.44 crore on BBC World Service India (BBC WS India) for alleged violations of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) of 1999.
• BBC WS India, classified as a 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) company, was found to be in violation of Indian regulations that mandate a cap of 26% FDI for digital media entities under the government approval route.

About the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), 1999

• It was enacted to replace the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA), 1973, which was considered too restrictive.
• It was enacted in response to India’s economic liberalization in the 1990s and aimed to ensure compliance with global financial norms, and to facilitate external trade and payments while ensuring the orderly development and maintenance of the foreign exchange market in India.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) are the primary regulators enforcing FEMA.

Key Provisions of FEMA

• Current and Capital Account Transactions: While current account transactions (trade, remittances, etc.) are generally allowed, capital account transactions (investment in foreign assets, debt instruments, etc.) require RBI approval.
• Regulation of Foreign Exchange Holdings: FEMA permits Indian residents to hold foreign exchange within specified limits but prohibits unauthorized dealings.
• Restrictions on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): FEMA governs the inflow and outflow of FDI in India through RBI and government policies.
• Penalties for Non-Compliance: Violators face monetary fines, asset seizures, and, in severe cases, criminal action under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Penalties for Violations

• FEMA is a civil law, meaning violations result in monetary penalties, not criminal charges.
• The ED can impose penalties up to three times the amount involved in the violation.
• Compounding of Offenses: FEMA violations can be settled through a compounding process under RBI’s supervision, avoiding prolonged litigation.

Common Violations and Misuse of FEMA

• Hawala Transactions: Hawala is an illegal remittance system used to transfer money outside the formal banking network, violating FEMA provisions.
• Round-Tripping: It involves sending funds abroad and bringing them back as FDI to take advantage of tax benefits and hide the source of income.
  • It is particularly common in tax havens like Mauritius, the Cayman Islands, and Singapore.
• Unauthorized Foreign Remittances: Many businesses and individuals violate FEMA by remitting funds abroad without RBI permission.
  • For instance, some companies invest in offshore entities without reporting to the authorities, leading to foreign exchange loss for India.
• Money Laundering Through Shell Companies: Shell companies are used to disguise illegal foreign investments.
  • FEMA violations often involve creating bogus companies abroad, routing illicit funds, and repatriating them under the guise of legitimate transactions.
• Crypto-Related Violations: With the rise of cryptocurrency, many individuals and entities use digital assets to transfer funds outside India without RBI approval, violating FEMA norms.
• Violation of Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS): An Indian resident can remit up to $250,000 per financial year for permissible foreign transactions under LRS.
• However, many individuals misuse LRS by exceeding limits or using funds for speculative trading in foreign stock markets without proper declarations.

Challenges in Enforcing FEMA

• Difficulty in Tracking Offshore Transactions: Many violations involve complex money flows through multiple offshore accounts, making it difficult for Indian regulators to track illicit activities.
• Limited Coordination Between Agencies: While FEMA is regulated by RBI and ED, coordination with tax authorities, SEBI, and other regulatory bodies remains a challenge.
  • Multiple agencies like RBI, SEBI, and CBI also regulate forex violations, leading to bureaucratic hurdles.
• Use of New-Age Financial Instruments: The rise of digital banking, cryptocurrencies, and fintech startups has created new avenues for FEMA violations that traditional enforcement mechanisms struggle to address.
• Globalization and Tax Havens: India’s high net-worth individuals (HNIs) and corporates often use tax havens to evade FEMA regulations, requiring stronger global cooperation to tackle violations.

Recommended Reforms

• Stricter Penalties: Higher financial penalties and stringent criminal actions against offenders can deter future violations.
• Better Surveillance Mechanisms: AI and big data analytics can be used to track suspicious foreign transactions.
• Stronger International Cooperation: India should enhance collaboration with global financial regulators to track money laundering.
• Regulation of Cryptocurrencies: Clear guidelines and regulations are needed to prevent crypto-related FEMA violations.

General Studies Paper -2

Context: India and China, two of the world’s most populous and influential nations, share a complex and multifaceted relationship. Over the years, their interactions have been marked by cooperation, competition, and conflict.

India-China Relation: Historical Background

• After India’s Independence: India was among the first countries to recognize the People’s Republic of China in 1950, formally establishing diplomatic ties on April 1, 1950.
  • It was exemplified by the Panchsheel Agreement (1954), which laid the foundation for peaceful coexistence, and slogan ‘Hindi-Chini Bhai-Bhai’ (Indians and Chinese are brothers) symbolized the early optimism.
  • However, tensions emerged over territorial disputes, particularly in Aksai Chin and Arunachal Pradesh (Sino-Indian War of 1962).
• Cold War and Strategic Divergences (1962–1990s): China aligned itself with Pakistan and the United States, while India deepened ties with the Soviet Union.
  • Border skirmishes continued, most notably in 1967 (Nathu La and Cho La clashes) and 1987 (Sumdorong Chu Standoff).
  • India established a Joint Working Group on the boundary issue and paved the way for improved diplomatic engagement in 1988 after Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s visit to China.
• Era of Engagement and Economic Cooperation (1990s–2010s):
  • 1993 & 1996: Agreements on the Maintenance of Peace and Tranquility and Confidence-Building Measures along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
  • 2005: Political Parameters and Guiding Principles for Border Settlements; Strategic and Cooperative Partnership
• Trade relations flourished, with China becoming India’s largest trading partner. Economic engagement peaked with initiatives like the BRICS alliance and participation in regional forums such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
• Rising Tensions and Border Confrontations (2010s–Present):
  • 2013: Depsang standoff, and Border Defence Co-operation Agreement;
  • 2014: Chumar incident during President Xi Jinping’s visit to India.
  • 2017: Doklam standoff, where Indian and Chinese troops faced off for 73 days.
  • 2020: Galwan Valley clash, the deadliest confrontation in decades, leading to casualties on both sides. Military tensions remain high along the LAC, despite multiple rounds of talks.

Current Dynamics: Key Areas of Conflict

• Economic Ties: Despite tensions, bilateral trade remains significant, with China being India’s largest source of imports(bilateral trade crossed $125 billion in 2024, with 1.9% year-on-year growth).
  • However, the trade imbalance remains a concern for India.
  • India has imposed restrictions on Chinese investments and apps due to security concerns.
• Geopolitical Rivalry: Competition in the Indo-Pacific, China’s ties with Pakistan, expansion in the Indian Ocean, and Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) challenge India’s strategic interests.
• Border Disputes: The LAC remains a flashpoint, with frequent skirmishes and military build-ups. Ongoing tensions in Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim.
  • Efforts to resolve the border issue through diplomatic and military channels continue, but progress has been slow, and border tensions persist.

Pathways for the Future

• Economic Diversification: Both countries can benefit from deeper engagement in sectors such as renewable energy, digital technology, and infrastructure development.
  • India must reduce dependency on Chinese imports while promoting domestic industries.
  • Trade agreements addressing the imbalance can foster stronger economic bonds.
• Military Preparedness: Strengthening border infrastructure and strategic partnerships with allies.
  • Sustained military and diplomatic talks are crucial for preventing conflicts.
  • Confidence-building measures (CBMs) along the border can enhance trust.
  • Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination (WMCC) and Corps Commander-level talks have been key platforms for negotiations.
• Regional and Global Cooperation: Climate change, trade, and counter-terrorism offer potential areas of collaboration.
  • Regular summits and diplomatic dialogues are crucial.
• Cultural and Educational Exchanges: Encouraging student exchanges, tourism, and academic collaboration can improve people-to-people relations.

Conclusion

• India-China relations remain complex, marked by both cooperation and conflict. While economic ties provide a foundation for engagement, border tensions and strategic competition continue to shape the trajectory of their relationship.
• Managing this relationship requires careful diplomacy, strategic foresight, and pragmatic decision-making.

General Studies Paper -2

Context: The Supreme Court stayed a Lokpal order bringing High Court judges under its jurisdiction terming the interpretation “very disturbing”.

About

• Suo Motu Cognisance: Supreme Court’s Special Bench took suo motu cognisance of the Lokpal’s recent order, which impacted judicial independence.
  • Lokpal’s order declared High Court judges as ‘public servants’ under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act of 2013, allowing its jurisdiction over them.
• Lokpal’s Argument: Lokpal’s argument stemmed from High Courts being established by pre-constitutional British Acts, whereas the Supreme Court was formed by the Constitution.
• Exclusion of Supreme Court Judges: Earlier, on January 3, Lokpal had ruled that it had no authority over Supreme Court judges.
• Lokpal’s Jurisdiction: The Lokpal based its decision on Section 14(1) of the 2013 Act, which includes judges of High Courts created by Acts of Parliament.
• Supreme Court’s Stance: The Court emphasized that all judges are appointed under the Constitution, underscoring judicial independence.

Lokpal and Lokayuktas

• The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 came into effect in 2014.
• Purpose: Establish Lokpal at the Centre and Lokayuktas in states for investigating corruption in public servants.
• Concept: The concept was inspired by the Scandinavian Countries Ombudsman system.
• The first Lokayukta was constituted in Maharashtra in 1971.
• Appointment Process: Members of Lokpal (and Lokayuktas) appointed by the President (Governor), based on recommendations from a Selection Committee.
• Selection Committee: Includes the PM (CM), Speaker of the Lower House, Leaders of Opposition, CJI (or a nominated judge), and an eminent jurist nominated by the President.
• Composition of Lokpal: One Chairperson (CJI/former SC judge/qualified non-judicial member), with up to 8 members.
• 50% judicial members, and the non-judicial members need 25 years’ experience in relevant fields.
• Removal of Members: Members can be removed by the President after an inquiry by the Supreme Court, which may be initiated based on the President’s reference, a citizen’s petition, or a petition signed by 100 MPs.
• Jurisdiction of Lokpal: Can inquire into offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, committed by the PM (with safeguards), Union Ministers, MPs, officers (Group A-D), and certain private entities.
• PM’s Inquiry: Inquiry against the PM must be in-camera, approved by a 2/3 majority of the Lokpal, and cannot involve certain sensitive areas like national security.
  • The PM cannot be investigated related to international relations, external and internal security, public order, atomic energy and space.
• Inquiry and Investigation: Lokpal’s inquiry wing must act within 60 days, and investigations to be completed within 6 months.
• Jurisdiction of Lokayuktas: Covers the CM, Ministers, MLAs, state government employees, and certain private entities (including religious institutions).
• Penalties: Penalizes false complaints with imprisonment up to 1 year and a fine of up to ₹1 lakh.
  • Increases penalties for public servants committing corruption (from 5 to 7 years) and criminal misconduct (from 7 to 10 years).

Challenges

• Limited Jurisdiction: The jurisdiction is often limited to certain categories of public servants or specific areas of governance, which restrict their ability to address all forms of corruption comprehensively.
• Lack of Independence: They often face political interference or pressure from the government, which hinder their autonomy.
• Whistleblower Protection: Whistleblowers and complainants who report corruption may face threats, harassment, or retaliation, which discourages them from coming forward with information.
• Political Will: Ultimately, the effectiveness depends on the political will of the government to combat corruption and strengthen accountability mechanisms.

Way Ahead

• Over the years, there have been calls for strengthening Lokpal and Lokayukts and expanding their jurisdiction to cover more public officials and institutions.
• By implementing the required measures, India can significantly enhance the effectiveness and credibility of Lokpal and Lokayuktas in combating corruption and promoting good governance.

General Studies Paper -3

Context: The recent political instability in Myanmar, coupled with the influx of refugees into India, particularly the border regions with Myanmar, has strained the already fragile border management and security infrastructure.

About India-Myanmar Border

• The India-Myanmar border shares 1643 kms and passes through the States of Arunachal Pradesh (520 km), Nagaland (215 km), Manipur (398 km), and Mizoram (510 km).
• These have historically been porous, allowing free movement of people under the Free Movement Regime (FMR).
• However, border regions of Manipur (sharing a border with Myanmar’s Chin state), have long been a site of ethnic tensions, insurgency, and geopolitical complexities.

Geopolitical Context

• Myanmar’s Political Crisis: Since the military coup in Myanmar in 2021, the country has been engulfed in widespread conflict.
  • The Tatmadaw (Myanmar’s military) has cracked down on pro-democracy activists, ethnic rebel groups, and civilian resistance movements, leading to a surge in violence, particularly in Myanmar’s northwestern states of Chin, Sagaing, and Kachin.
• Free Movement Regime (FMR): It allows people residing within 16 km on either side of the border to cross without a visa for up to 14 days, and was designed to facilitate traditional and cultural exchanges.
  • However, in recent years, concerns over illegal migration, drug trafficking, and insurgency have led to debates about its continuation.

Ethnic Unrest in Manipur and Its Myanmar Connection

• Manipur’s Ongoing Ethnic Violence: Manipur has witnessed a significant influx of refugees fleeing military persecution.
  • Many of these refugees share ethnic ties with indigenous tribes in Manipur and Mizoram, particularly the Kuki-Zo community (from Chin hills of Myanmar), deepening regional ethnic tensions.
• Insurgency Factor: Several insurgent groups, including the United National Liberation Front (UNLF), People’s Liberation Army (PLA), and Kuki National Organization (KNO), have historically operated along the porous border, often using Myanmar as a sanctuary.
  • Additionally, Myanmar’s own rebel groups, such as the Chin National Army (CNA), share ties with Kuki-Zo factions in Manipur, creating complex security challenges for India.

Security Implications for India

• Refugee Influx and Humanitarian Concerns: States like Mizoram and Manipur have witnessed an influx of refugees, prompting calls for a structured refugee policy.
  • India has been cautious in dealing with Myanmar refugees, as it is not a signatory to the Refugee Convention (1951).
• Cross-Border Insurgency and Smuggling: The region has become a conduit for the Golden Triangle’s drug trade, particularly heroin and methamphetamine.
  • Intelligence reports have linked insurgent groups with cross-border criminal networks, necessitating stricter border monitoring.
• Strategic and Diplomatic Concerns: India has maintained a cautious approach, prioritizing stability along its northeastern borders, and growing Chinese influence in Myanmar has added to its strategic concerns.
  • For India, it presents a dual challenge — ensuring border security while preventing the region from becoming a breeding ground for external influences, including China, which has growing stakes in Myanmar.

Economic and Social Implications

• The establishment of Border Haats and other economic activities aimed at promoting cross-border trade and livelihoods have been disrupted.
• The humanitarian crisis in Manipur has led to gaps in documenting humanitarian needs and providing adequate relief to affected populations.

Policy Considerations and the Way Forward

• Reassessing the Free Movement Regime (FMR): While completely scrapping the FMR could disrupt traditional ties, a more regulated framework with biometric tracking and controlled entry points could help mitigate security risks.
• Border Fencing and Security Operations: To curb illegal migration and insurgent activities, India has accelerated border fencing efforts.
  • The deployment of Assam Rifles and paramilitary forces has also been strengthened.
• Stronger Counterinsurgency Operations: Enhanced intelligence-sharing and joint military operations with Myanmar’s authorities could help curb cross-border insurgent activities.
• Humanitarian Dilemmas: India faces the challenge of balancing security with humanitarian responsibilities. The Mizoram government, for instance, has provided aid to Myanmar refugees, while Manipur has adopted a stricter stance.
  • India must develop a clear refugee policy to balance security concerns with humanitarian obligations, particularly for ethnic communities with historical ties to Indian states.
• Diplomatic Engagement with Myanmar: India continues to engage with both Myanmar’s military regime and ethnic insurgent groups to ensure security cooperation.
  • The Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, which connects India’s Northeast to Myanmar’s Rakhine state, remains a crucial element of India’s Act East Policy.

Conclusion

• The Myanmar-Manipur border represents a complex web of ethnic, security, and geopolitical challenges. India’s response needs a careful balancing act—enhancing security without alienating border communities and maintaining strategic engagement with Myanmar while upholding democratic values.
• The evolving situation demands a nuanced approach that combines diplomacy, security, and socio-political reconciliation to prevent further instability in this sensitive frontier.

General Studies Paper -3

Context: A new study by the Centre for Wildlife Studies (CWS), has expressed concern over the translocation of the African cheetahs to India.

About

• The study examines the ethical, ecological and welfare challenges associated with the translocation of African cheetahs to India.
• Project Cheetah Overview: 20 African cheetahs (8 from Namibia in Sept 2022, and 12 from South Africa in Feb 2023) were introduced into Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh, India.
• Importation Plans: Plans to import 12 cheetahs annually until a viable population is established.

Major Highlights

• Challenges Faced by Cheetahs: The cheetahs have experienced significant stress, with over 90 immobilisations and frequent veterinary care.
  • The mortality rate was 40%-50% in the first phase of the project, far below the expected survival rate of 85%.
  • The project has raised concerns about the physical and mental health of the cheetahs due to their ongoing stress.
• Challenges of the Project:
  • Conservation Challenges: African cheetah populations are already at risk, with only around 6,500 mature individuals left in the wild.
  • Sustainability Issues: Reliance on continuous imports from Africa is seen as ecologically unsustainable and ethically problematic.

Cheetah

• Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus), is one of the world’s most-recognizable cats, known especially for its speed. In India, the cheetah population used to be fairly widespread.
• The cheetah is believed to have disappeared from the Indian landscape in 1947 when Maharaja Ramanuj Pratap Singh Deo of Koriya princely state hunted down and shot the last three recorded Asiatic cheetahs in India.

1. The cheetah was officially declared extinct by the Indian government in 1952.

• Since the 1940s, the cheetah has gone extinct in 14 other countries – Jordan, Iraq, Israel, Morocco, Syria, Oman, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Djibouti, Ghana, Nigeria, Kazakhstan, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Reason for Extinction

• Over-hunting was a major contributing factor.
• The decimation of its relatively narrow prey base species and
• The loss of its grassland-forest habitat.

Difference between Asiatic Cheetah and African Cheetah

Suggestions

• Call for Justice-Informed Approach: Researchers advocate for a more inclusive and participatory conservation model, considering diverse knowledge systems, values, and local consent.
• Focus on Sustainable Coexistence: Conservation efforts should aim at maintaining sustainable spaces for both humans and wildlife, rather than causing division and distress.

General Studies Paper -2

Context: India and Qatar have signed an agreement to elevate their ties to the level of a strategic partnership.

• Both countries commemorated the 50 years of establishment of diplomatic relations in 2023.

Key Outcomes

• Both countries are exploring the option of concluding a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
• Two sides also signed a double taxation avoidance treaty and also planned on doubling their trade to $28 billion within five years.
• Both sides discussed the Israel-Palestinian conflict in Gaza Strip.
• India currently has strategic partnerships with four other members of the Gulf Cooperation Council – the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Kuwait.
• Significance of the Visit:
• Arab States Summit: The visit of the Qatari Emir has drawn attention as it is being held just two days prior to the five Arab states summit in Riyadh.
  • The summit will take up the new proposals from the United States.
• US Proposal on Gaza Crisis: President Trump’s proposed that the Palestinians of the region should be shifted out to neighbouring countries like Egypt and Jordan.
  • India supports a two-state solution in bringing an end to the Israel-Palestinian crisis and has welcomed the ceasefire that was announced recently.

Brief on India-Qatar Relations

• Economic and Trade Relations: Qatar is the largest provider of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to India, supplying 10.91 million metric tonnes of LNG and 4.92 million metric tonnes of LPG in FY 2023-24.
• The current annual trade is worth $14.08 billion.
• Defence: India participates in the biennial Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX).
  • Exercise Zair-Al-Bahr is a joint naval exercise between the Indian Navy and the Qatar Emiri Naval Force (QENF).
  • The India-Qatar Defence Cooperation Agreement was signed in 2008 and extended for five years in 2018.
  • The agreement is managed through the Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC).
• Labor and Diaspora: India has a large expatriate community in Qatar, numbering over 700,000.
  • The Indian diaspora in Qatar plays a crucial role in the country’s development, particularly in construction and other sectors.
• Regional Cooperation: Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is a political and economic alliance of six Middle Eastern countries—Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman. It was established in 1981.
  • India engages regularly with GCC and aims to deepen its relationship with the GCC.

Challenges/Concerns

• The Hamas–Israel conflict and shipping attacks in the Red Sea affect India’s energy security and economic growth.
• India remains cautious in Middle Eastern politics, balancing relations with the Gulf, Iran, and Israel.
• If the conflict escalates, this balancing act could become more challenging.
• Delay in Connectivity Projects: The conflict has delayed a senior-officials meeting for the I2U2 group since 2023.
  • India urges economic initiatives like I2U2 and IMEC to progress despite the conflict.
• FTAs with GCC: Delays in finalizing the India–GCC Free Trade Agreement (FTA) due to changes in the GCC’s trade negotiator.
  • Reaching an agreement that satisfies all GCC states remains a key challenge.

Way Forward 

• Growing security challenges are increasing the need for India to be a key strategic partner of Gulf states.
• India aims to expand its regional presence and influence.
• Stronger alignment in political, economic, and security interests is shaping a new framework for India-Gulf relations.

If maintained, this framework will boost trust and enable more ambitious cooperation.

General Studies Paper -3

Context: The Union Government has approved the continuation of the Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA) Scheme during the 15th Finance Commission Cycle up to 2025-26.

PM-AASHA Scheme

• The scheme was launched in 2018 as an umbrella scheme to ensure Minimum Support Price (MSP) to farmers, particularly for pulses, oilseeds, and copra.
• It aims to ensure remunerative prices for farmers and price stability in the agricultural sector.

Components of PM-AASHA

• Price Support Scheme (PSS): The government procures pulses, oilseeds, and copra at MSP.
  • The Central Nodal Agencies (CNAs) conduct procurement in collaboration with state agencies.
• Only produce meeting Fair Average Quality (FAQ) standards is procured.
• Price Deficiency Payment Scheme (PDPS): It directs compensation payments to pre-registered farmers for the difference between MSP and the market price.
  • There is no physical procurement of produce.
  • It applies to oilseeds and requires transactions through a transparent auction process in notified market yards.
• Private Procurement & Stockist Scheme (PPSS) (Pilot Basis): It allows states to involve private stockists for oilseed procurement.
  • It is implemented in selected Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs) or districts.

Key Changes in the scheme

• In 2024 the Government converged the Price Support Scheme (PSS) & Price Stabilization Fund (PSF) schemes in PM AASHA to serve the farmers and consumers more efficiently.
  • It will help in protecting consumers from extreme volatility in prices of agri-horticultural commodities by maintaining strategic buffer stock of pulses and onion for calibrated release; to discourage hoarding, unscrupulous speculation; and for supplies to consumers at affordable prices.
• The Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) was made a component of the integrated scheme of PM-AASHA.
  • The scheme is for perishable agricultural and horticultural commodities like onions, potatoes, and tomatoes.
  • It is implemented when prices fall by at least 10% from the previous normal season.

Significance of the Scheme

• Ensures price support to farmers, reducing distress sales.
• Enhances procurement efficiency through market-based interventions.
• Increases farmer participation in transparent marketing systems.
• Prevents extreme price fluctuations, protecting both producers and consumers.

Concerns

• Limited implementation: PDPS and PPSS have seen low adoption by states.
• Procurement constraints: MSP coverage is not uniform across all crops and regions.
• Awareness and accessibility issues: Many farmers lack awareness or face bureaucratic hurdles in registration.
• Budgetary concerns: Ensuring adequate funding for procurement operations remains a challenge.

Concluding remarks

• The extension of PM-AASHA till 2025-26 reaffirms the government’s commitment to farmers’ income security and agriculture market reforms.
• Strengthening its implementation and addressing challenges can enhance its impact in ensuring remunerative prices for farmers.

General Studies Paper -3

Context: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister has announced plans to expand work-from-home (WFH) opportunities, particularly targeting women professionals in the state.

About

• The Andhra Pradesh IT & Global Capability Centres (GCC) Policy 4.0 is designed to attract top IT companies and facilitate employment growth.
• A key feature of the policy is encouraging corporations to provide WFH options more liberally. This move aims to:
• Foster work-life balance for women professionals.
• Ensure equal access to growth opportunities in science and technology fields.
• Make employment more accessible for women with familial responsibilities.

Policy on Work-from-Home in India

• Unlike some countries with formal remote work regulations, India does not have explicit laws governing WFH policies.
• Companies determine work hours and expectations through internal employment contracts.
• The government, however, has encouraged WFH in specific cases, such as maternity leave or roles that permit remote work.
• Despite the initial surge in WFH adoption during the COVID-19 pandemic, many Indian IT firms have since mandated return-to-office policies.

Arguments in Favour of Work-from-Home

• Cost Savings: WFH has significantly reduced commuting costs and allowed employees to live in more affordable areas, leading to financial benefits for both individuals and organizations.
• Improved Work-Life Balance: WFH can offer greater flexibility to manage work and personal responsibilities, such as childcare or eldercare, which often disproportionately fall on women.
• Increased Flexibility: Employees can manage their time more efficiently, improving work-life balance, especially for women who juggle professional and personal responsibilities.
• Higher Energy Levels: Reduced travel time has enhanced employee productivity and well-being.
• Employer Benefits: Organizations benefit from reduced office rental costs and lower expenses related to client meetings.

Arguments against WFH

• Hindered Collaboration: The absence of physical interactions affects teamwork, trust-building, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Organizational Culture Challenges: WFH weakens social, emotional, and human capital formation, impacting long-term workplace cohesion.
• Lack of Recognition: WFH can make it harder for women to be visible and recognized for their contributions, potentially leading to missed opportunities for promotions and raises.

Way Ahead

• Implement Hybrid Models: A mix of remote and in-office work can provide flexibility while maintaining collaboration.
• Invest in Digital Infrastructure: Enhanced communication tools can bridge the gap in teamwork and productivity.
• Develop Inclusive Policies: Organizations should ensure that remote workers, especially women, receive equal opportunities for growth and leadership roles.

Concluding remarks

• Andhra Pradesh’s WFH initiative for women has the potential to set a precedent for gender-inclusive employment policies in India.
• However, achieving long-term success will require strategic implementation and continuous evaluation of its impact on productivity and workforce engagement.