General Studies Paper -2

Context: India summoned the Bangladesh Acting High Commissioner to India over security measures at the border.

Reasons for India-Bangladesh Border Disputes

• As per the 1975 Joint India-Bangladesh Guidelines for Border Authorities, no defence structures can be built within 150 yards from the zero line of the border.
• India does not consider wire fencing a defence structure, while Bangladesh and Pakistan do.
• Impact on Border Residents: The construction of fencing, especially in densely populated border areas, has led to practical challenges for local populations.
• CCTV and Electronic Surveillance: India has implemented high-tech surveillance systems, including CCTV cameras and electronic gadgets, to monitor the border.
• This has raised concerns in Bangladesh about sovereignty, with accusations that such surveillance constitutes an infringement on its territorial integrity.

Need for Managing the Borders

• Security Concerns: India’s porous borders facilitate illegal crossings, smuggling of contraband, and cross-border terrorism, particularly from militant groups in Pakistan, posing significant security threats.
• Demographic Changes: Unregulated migration from Bangladesh has affected the demographic landscape in border states, leading to social strain and challenges in resource distribution.
• Infrastructure Development: Many border areas in India lack basic infrastructure such as roads, communication networks, and border outposts, hampering the effectiveness of border management efforts.

India’s border management

• Border Monitoring: Construction of fences, floodlights, roads, Border Out Posts (BOPs), and Company Operating Bases (COBs) for constant surveillance and rapid response to threats.
• Border Security Force plays a pivotal role in patrolling and safeguarding India’s borders, including handling infiltration, smuggling, and other security concerns.
• Cross-Border Trade: Construction of integrated checkposts and trade facilitation centers has streamlined customs clearance and reduced trade barriers.
• Border Area Development Programme (BADP): Launched in 1986-87 for the balanced development of border areas in states bordering Pakistan—Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Gujarat, and Rajasthan—later extended to all land borders.

Concluding remarks

• Resolving border disputes is essential for ensuring national security, particularly in light of cross-border terrorism and illegal activities.
• The Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) of 2015 between India and Bangladesh stands as a testament to the importance of diplomatic dialogue in resolving longstanding border issues.

General Studies Paper -2

Context: Recently, India and Singapore celebrated 60 years of diplomatic relations, marked by Singapore’s President Tharman Shanmugaratnam first visit to India.

India-Singapore: Historical Ties

• Colonial Legacy: The diplomatic relationship between India and Singapore was established on August 24, 1965, shortly after Singapore gained independence.
  • The modern relationship between India and Singapore dates back to 1819, when Sir Stamford Raffles established a British trading post in Singapore.
• Role in Independence: Formation of the Provisional Government of Azad Hind from Singapore in 1943 by Subhash Chandra Bose during the Indian independence movement.
• Recognition of Independence: India was one of the first countries to recognize Singapore’s independence in 1965, setting the stage for a close and evolving relationship.
• Comprehensive Partnership: Over the decades, the relationship has evolved into a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, reflecting the deepening economic, political, and cultural ties.

Key Areas of Co-operation: Significance of India-Singapore Relations

• Economy & Trade: Bilateral trade between the two countries grew significantly from USD 6.7 billion in FY 2004-05 to USD 35.6 billion in FY 2023-24.
• Singapore ranks as India’s 6th largest trade partner, accounting for 3.2% of India’s total trade.
• In FY 2023-24, India’s imports from Singapore were USD 21.2 billion (a 10.2% decrease from the previous year), while exports to Singapore reached USD 14.4 billion (a 20.2% increase from the previous year).
• FDI Inflows: FDI equity inflows in India from Singapore during 2023-24 stood at US$ 11.774 billion.
• Top sectors attracting FDI Equity inflows from Singapore are: Services Sector, Computer Software & Hardware, Trading, Telecommunications and Drugs & Pharmaceuticals.
• Fintech and Digital Economy: Acceptance of RuPay card and UPI-Paynow Linkage in Singapore.
• Singapore is the first nation with which India has begun this cross-border Person-to-Person (P2P) payment facility.
• Defense and Strategic Collaboration: It has deepened under the Defense Cooperation Agreement.
  • Bilateral Exercises: For all three services:
    • Exercise Agni Warrior and Bold Kurukshetra (Army);
    • Exercise SIMBEX (Navy).
• Maritime Security: Both nations work together to ensure freedom of navigation and counter-piracy in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Strategic Partnership: Singapore supports India’s Act East Policy, facilitating India’s engagement with regional cooperation and beyond.
• Science & Technology Cooperation: ISRO has launched several Singaporean satellites, Singapore’s first indigenous built micro-satellite in 2011, 2 more in 2014, 6 in 2015 and 9 in 2023.
• Singapore co-hosted the inaugural ASEAN – India Women Scientists Conclave (2024).
• Cyber Policy Dialogue (2024)
• e-workshop on digital health and medical technologies (2024)
• Education and Skill Development: Initiatives like the Skill India program benefit from Singapore’s expertise in vocational training.
• Indian and Singaporean institutions engage in joint research programs.
• Multilateral and Regional Cooperation:
• Singapore has joined the International Solar Alliance and Global Bio-fuel Alliance in 2023.
• Singapore supported the Indian initiative of the Declaration on Digital Public Infrastructure, AI and Data for Governance (at the G20 Summit in Brazil in 2024).
• Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA): It was the first such agreement to be signed by India with any country.
• Indo-Pacific Strategy: India and Singapore actively engage to maintain peace, stability, and connectivity in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Cultural Ties: Indian influence on Singapore is evident in its multicultural society, with a vibrant Indian diaspora constituting about 9% of the city-state’s population.
• Programs like Kalaa Utsavam and the presence of Little India in Singapore showcase strong cultural bonds.

Future Prospects

• As India and Singapore look to the future, the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership is set to deepen further.
• Both nations are committed to exploring new avenues of cooperation in areas such as digitalization, trade development, and cultural exchanges.
• The 60th anniversary celebrations have set the stage for a new era of collaboration and mutual growth.

General Studies Paper -2

Context: Hamas has accepted a draft agreement for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the release of dozens of hostages.

About

• The United States, Egypt and Qatar have spent the past year trying to mediate an end to the 15-month war.
• The plan would need to be submitted to the Israeli Cabinet for final approval.

What is Hamas?

• Hamas is the largest Palestinian militant Islamist group and one of the two major political parties in the region.
• Currently, it governs more than two million Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
• Foundation: The group was founded in the late 1980s, after the beginning of the first Palestinian uprising against Israel’s occupation of the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
• Hamas is designated a terrorist group by Israel, the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, and other countries.

Israel Palestine Conflict

• It is a decades long dispute between Israel and Palestine that began in the middle of the twentieth century when the Jews from various parts of the world were granted the homeland in present-day Israel by Britain.
• It is one of the world’s longest conflicts where Israel has occupied the West Bank and the Gaza Strip which the Palestine state claims.
• With time, the countries around have normalized the ties with Israel through the Abraham Accord, Oslo Accord, etc.
• But the deadlock still persists and the world community is persistent in its effort to attain the two-state solution.

The Agreement

• It is a three-phase agreement — based on a framework laid out by US President Joe Biden and endorsed by the UN Security Council.
• First Phase: It would begin with the gradual release of 33 hostages over a six-week period in exchange for Palestinian women and children imprisoned by Israel.
• It will be a 42-day phase, Israeli forces would withdraw from population centers.
• In the second phase, Hamas would release the remaining living captives, mainly male soldiers, in exchange for more prisoners and the “complete withdrawal” of Israeli forces from Gaza.
• In a third phase, the bodies of remaining hostages would be returned in exchange for a three- to five-year reconstruction plan to be carried out in Gaza under international supervision.

Future Governance Of Gaza

• The current round of talks has not even addressed the issue of governance due to its complexity.
• Israel has said Hamas can play no role at all and it has rejected the involvement of the Palestinian Authority.
• Palestinian Authority is the body set up under the Oslo interim peace accords three decades ago that exercises limited sovereignty in the occupied West Bank.
• The international community has said that Gaza must be run by Palestinians but efforts to find alternatives to the main factions among civil society or clan leaders have proved largely fruitless.

General Studies Paper -1

Context: The Prime Minister inaugurated Mission Mausam to mark the 150th anniversary of the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

About Mission Mausam

• Aim: To upgrade the capabilities of India’s weather department in forecasting, modelling, and dissemination.
• Features:
  • Budget allocation: Rs 2,000 crore for the first two years of its implementation.
  • Focus areas: Weather surveillance, modelling techniques and forecasting.
  • Beneficiary Sectors: Agriculture, aviation, defence, disaster management, tourism and health.
• Phases:
  • Phase 1 (2025- March 2026): Focus on expanding observation capabilities and conducting simulation experiments.
  • Phase 2 (2026 onwards): Introduce satellites and aircraft to enhance observational precision.
  • Supervision: Mission Masum will be spearheaded by three institutions funded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
  • The IMD, the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune, and the National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting, Noida.
  • Cloud Chamber: India will build a cloud chamber, as required to study Indian monsoon clouds.

Need

• Improved Forecasting: Enhance forecast accuracy by 5-10% and extend predictions to panchayat levels with a 10-15 day lead time.
• Advanced Technology: Utilise AI, machine learning, and high-performance supercomputers to better model weather systems.
• Better Air Quality Predictions: Improve air quality forecasts in metro cities by up to 10%.
• Nowcasting Improvements: Reduce nowcast frequency from three hours to one hour for real-time weather updates.

Significance

• Extreme Weather Events: India faces extreme weather events like cloudbursts, lightning, and heavy rainfall, often causing both droughts and floods at the same time.
• Current weather models struggle to track small-scale events, so there is a need to improve weather prediction and management.
• Weather Modification: The mission explores weather modification techniques such as cloud seeding, already used in countries like the US, China, and UAE.
• By dispersing materials such as silver iodide into clouds, rainfall can be induced or suppressed.
• Preventing Floods: Modify rainfall patterns during prolonged rain in flood-prone areas.
• Enhancing Rainfall: Address droughts by stimulating precipitation.

General Studies Paper -2

Context: The debate over linking Voter IDs with Aadhaar has been a contentious issue in India, with arguments both for and against the move.

Background

• The Election Commission of India (ECI) launched the National Electoral Rolls Purification and Authentication Program (NERPAP) in 2015 to address issues like duplicate entries in electoral rolls.
• This initiative aimed to link Voter IDs (EPIC) with Aadhaar numbers for authentication. However, the Supreme Court’s interim order in 2015 restricted the mandatory use of Aadhaar to welfare schemes and PAN linking, halting NERPAP.
• In 2021, the Representation of the People Act, 1950, was amended to allow voluntary linking of Voter IDs with Aadhaar to enhance electoral roll accuracy and eliminate duplicate entries.

Rationale Behind Linking Voter IDs with Aadhaar

• Elimination of Duplicate and Fraudulent Entries: By linking with Aadhaar, which is based on biometric authentication, the duplication of entries across constituencies can be minimized.
  • The Election Laws (Amendment) Act, 2021, allows electoral officers to request Aadhaar numbers for identity verification.
• Improved Electoral Rolls: Regular Aadhaar-based verification ensures accurate, updated electoral rolls.
• Administrative Efficiency: With over 99% of adults possessing Aadhaar cards, utilizing this database can streamline voter verification processes, making them quicker and more cost-effective.
• Facilitating Voter Mobility: Aadhaar linkage can help voters who move to different states or regions by simplifying the process of updating their voter registration details.
• Inclusion and Accessibility: Linking Aadhaar with Voter ID can pave the way for future innovations like remote voting, enabling migrant workers and those living away from their constituencies to exercise their voting rights.

Arguments Against Linking Voter IDs with Aadhaar

• Privacy and Data Security Concerns: Linking Aadhaar with Voter IDs could lead to the misuse of personal data, especially in the absence of a robust data protection law, making it vulnerable to breaches, profiling, or surveillance.
• Data Accuracy Issues: Errors in the Aadhaar database could lead to incorrect voter exclusions or inclusions, undermining electoral integrity.
• Risk of Disenfranchisement: Past experiences, such as the 2015 linkage exercise in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, resulted in the disenfranchisement (loss of voting rights) of around 30 lakh voters.
  • Errors in biometric authentication, with reported failure rates up to 12%, further exacerbate this risk.
  • Such exclusions in the electoral context would violate the Right to vote.
• Legal and Constitutional Questions: The Supreme Court’s 2018 judgment on Aadhaar limited its mandatory usage to welfare schemes, emphasizing that it cannot be imposed universally.
  • Linking it with Voter ID could face legal challenges under this precedent.
• Electoral Manipulation: Critics worry about the centralization of sensitive data, which could theoretically be exploited for political gains or voter profiling.
• Citizenship Verification Issues: Aadhaar serves as proof of residence, not citizenship. Relying on it for voter verification may not effectively prevent non-citizens from being listed on electoral rolls.

Current Status in India

• As of now, the linking of Voter IDs with Aadhaar remains voluntary.
• The ECI has clarified that no voter will be denied registration or have their name deleted from the electoral roll due to the inability to furnish an Aadhaar number.
• Alternative identification documents can be used if Aadhaar is unavailable.

Global Perspectives

• Countries like the United States and the United Kingdom use unique identifiers, but none employ a system as extensive and biometric-based as Aadhaar for voter authentication.
• Instead, most focus on ensuring inclusivity and avoiding disenfranchisement.

Way Forward

• Robust Legal Safeguards: Enactment of a comprehensive data protection law that ensures privacy and safeguards against misuse is essential before implementing this linkage.
• Voluntary Opt-in Mechanism: The process should remain voluntary and not impede voters’ rights, ensuring that those without Aadhaar are not disenfranchised.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating voters about the process and benefits while addressing privacy concerns is critical to garnering trust.
• Independent Auditing Mechanisms: Regular audits and oversight by independent bodies can ensure the system’s accountability and minimize risks of manipulation or data breaches.

Conclusion

• The linking of Voter IDs with Aadhaar offers potential benefits like enhanced electoral roll accuracy, reduced fraud, and administrative efficiency. However, significant concerns related to privacy, data security, and voter disenfranchisement must be addressed.
• A balanced approach—focusing on voluntary participation, robust safeguards, and public awareness—can help ensure that this initiative strengthens democracy without compromising citizens’ rights.

General Studies Paper -3

Context: India’s G20 Sherpa, Amitabh Kant emphasized that India needs to excel in “sunrise sectors” to achieve the goal of becoming a developed nation and a USD 32 trillion economy by 2047.

About Sunrise sectors

• It refers to a rapidly growing sector in its early stages with high potential for expansion.
• These industries experience significant growth, a rise in startups, and attract substantial venture capital funding, making them appealing to investors for long-term growth prospects.

Sunrise sectors in India : Potential

• Electronics and Semiconductors: India’s electronics industry is driven by initiatives like the PLI Scheme and SEMICON India Program.
  • The semiconductor market is expected to triple by 2026, with a production value of $300 billion by FY26.
  • Government schemes like the Modified Scheme for Semiconductor Fabs provide significant financial incentives.
  • India is emerging as a global hub for electronics and semiconductor manufacturing.
• Electric Vehicles (EV): India is promoting electric mobility with initiatives like FAME II and 100% FDI allowance.
  • The EV sector has over 12,000 operational charging stations and is expected to see massive growth.
  • The PLI Scheme for Advanced Chemistry Cells supports local battery manufacturing, driving down costs.
  • India’s EV sector offers opportunities in manufacturing and infrastructure development while contributing to sustainability.
• Renewable Energy: India aims to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based energy by 2030.
  • Initiatives like the National Green Hydrogen Mission and Offshore Wind Energy targets attract investment in green technologies.
  • The sector benefits from favorable regulatory frameworks, R&D promotion, and international collaboration.
  • India offers substantial opportunities for investors in the clean energy transition.
  • India’s solar panel manufacturing industry is 5-7 years behind global standards.
• Agro and Food Processing (A&FP): Programs like Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana and liberalized FDI norms create investment opportunities in agriculture and food processing.
  • Schemes like the PLI Scheme for Food Processing Industry incentivize investment in food infrastructure.
  • India’s agricultural sector offers potential for value addition, exports, and food security.
• Healthcare : India’s healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors are poised for growth, with the medtech industry expected to reach $50 billion by 2025.
  • Initiatives like Ayushman Bharat focus on improving healthcare accessibility and affordability.
• Pharmaceuticals: India’s pharmaceutical industry, known for vaccine production and generic medicines, offers robust investment opportunities.
  • The sector benefits from favorable conditions like 100% FDI allowance and supportive infrastructure.
• Artificial intelligence : AI and ML are transforming industries globally, with India well-positioned to capitalize on these technologies.
  • They are being applied across industries such as healthcare, finance, education, and manufacturing, fostering innovation and efficiency.

Challenges Facing Sunrise Sectors in India:

• Inconsistent policy implementation and frequent changes create uncertainty.
• Delays in approvals and fragmented regulations hinder investment and growth.
• Insufficient infrastructure, especially EV charging stations and renewable energy grid integration.
• Lack of substantial investments in research and development (R&D).
• Shortage of specialized talent in fields like AI, renewable energy, and EVs.

Conclusion and Way Forward

• India’s sunrise sectors offer compelling investment opportunities due to strong human resources and supportive government policies, including 100% FDI under automatic routes.
• These sectors provide robust growth potential, economic prosperity, and avenues for sustainable development, making them attractive destinations for investment.

Therefore, overcoming regulatory, infrastructure, technological, and financial challenges is crucial for unlocking the potential of India’s sunrise sectors.

General Studies Paper -2

Context: India’s journey towards robust data protection has seen significant milestones, especially with the introduction of the Draft Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Rules, 2025.

• While these rules mark a progressive step, there are areas that require fine-tuning to ensure they effectively balance user privacy and business interests.

About

• India’s digital ecosystem is undergoing rapid transformation. With a booming tech industry and an ever-increasing reliance on digital platforms, safeguarding user data has become critical.
• The recently introduced Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDP Act) marks a significant step toward ensuring data privacy and security.
• Timeline of the DPDP Act, 2023:
• 2017: Supreme Court recognizes the right to privacy as a fundamental right in Justice KS Puttaswamy vs GOI. Justice BN Srikrishna Committee is formed to draft data protection laws.
• 2018-2021: Multiple drafts of the Personal Data Protection (PDP) Bill are introduced and revised, with the Joint Parliamentary Committee submitting a report in December 2021.
• 2023: The DPDP Act is enacted to ensure data protection through rights-based governance.

Key Provisions of the DPDP Act, 2023

• Data Fiduciary Obligations: Entities handling personal data, termed ‘Data Fiduciaries,’ are mandated to process data transparently, ensuring accuracy and security.
  • They must obtain explicit consent from individuals before data collection and processing.
• Data Principal Rights: Individuals(referred to as ‘Data Principals’) are granted rights to access, correct, and erase their personal data.
  • They can also nominate representatives to exercise these rights on their behalf.
• Data Protection Board of India: The Act establishes this board to oversee compliance, address grievances, and impose penalties for violations.
  • The board functions as a digital office, streamlining its operations.
• Data Localization: Certain categories of personal data are required to be stored within India, ensuring data sovereignty and security.
  • The specifics of these categories are determined by the government.
• Processing of Children’s Data: Processing personal data of children (individuals under 18) necessitates parental consent.
  • Data Fiduciaries must undertake due diligence to verify parental consent and are prohibited from tracking or targeting advertisements at children.
• Penalties for Non-Compliance: The Act stipulates penalties for significant data breaches, emphasizing the importance of adhering to data protection norms.
  • Up to ₹250 crore for not implementing security safeguards.
  • Up to ₹500 crore for breaches of the Act.

Challenges in the Current Framework

• Ambiguity in Cross-Border Data Transfers: The Act provides vague guidelines on transferring data to other countries, leaving room for inconsistent enforcement.
  • A lack of clarity on ‘trusted’ nations could disrupt global operations of multinational corporations.
• Broad Exemptions for the Government: The government is exempted from several provisions under national security and public interest clauses.
  • Critics argue that this could lead to potential misuse and undermine the principle of data privacy for citizens.
• Weak Data Breach Notification Timelines: While organizations are required to notify breaches, the absence of strict timelines leaves room for delayed reporting, which could hinder containment efforts and public awareness.
• Limited Focus on Non-Personal Data: The Act primarily focuses on personal data, potentially overlooking the privacy implications of non-personal data, which can be re-identified and pose privacy risks.
• Lack of Strong Independent Oversight: The Data Protection Board, responsible for enforcement, is appointed by the government, raising concerns about its autonomy.
  • A truly independent regulatory body is crucial for impartial enforcement.
• Insufficient Provisions for SMEs: While the Act seeks to ease compliance for smaller businesses, many argue that the complexity of obligations could still burden startups and MSMEs, stifling innovation.

Global Lessons

• India can draw inspiration from global frameworks like the EU’s GDPR and California’s CCPA:
• Informed Consent: GDPR mandates explicit, unambiguous user consent for data processing.
• Proportional Penalties: GDPR bases penalties on company turnover, ensuring compliance.
• Transparency: CCPA emphasizes clear communication of data usage to users.

Recommendations for Fine-Tuning

• Enhance Clarity on Cross-Border Transfers: Clearly define ‘trusted nations’ and establish transparent procedures for international data sharing.
• Strengthen Government Accountability: Limit exemptions for government agencies by introducing oversight mechanisms to ensure proportionality and necessity.
• Mandate Timely Breach Notifications: Impose strict timelines for reporting data breaches to both regulators and affected individuals.
• Expand Scope to Non-Personal Data: Address data-driven risks by including anonymized and non-personal data under the law.
• Empower an Independent Regulator: Establish an autonomous Data Protection Authority to enforce the law impartially and address grievances effectively.
• Support MSMEs and Startups: Simplify compliance requirements for smaller organizations to foster innovation while ensuring security.

Road Ahead

• The DPDP Act is undoubtedly a landmark step in India’s legislative journey toward protecting data privacy.
• However, as technology evolves and data becomes the cornerstone of the digital economy, laws must adapt dynamically. By addressing existing shortcomings, India can build a robust data protection framework that not only safeguards citizens’ rights but also fosters innovation and global trust in its digital economy.
• Fine-tuning these rules will position India as a global leader in privacy protection, ensuring a harmonious balance between individual rights and economic growth.

General Studies Paper -2

Context: The recent meeting between the Indian Foreign Secretary and the Taliban’s acting Foreign Minister in Dubai marks a significant elevation in the level of dialogue between India and the Taliban.

Historical Context and Strategic Realignment

• India’s Traditional Policy:
• Historically, India opposed the Taliban, supporting anti-Taliban forces and the democratically elected government in Kabul.
• India’s investments of over $3 billion in Afghanistan’s reconstruction included infrastructure, education, and healthcare projects.
• Shift Post-2021 Taliban Takeover:
• The Taliban’s return to power in August 2021 initially seemed to strengthen Pakistan’s influence in Afghanistan, but subsequent tensions between Kabul and Rawalpindi provided India an opening for re-engagement.
• India’s dispatch of a technical team to its Kabul embassy in 2022 marked a cautious step toward re-establishing its presence.

Recent Developments in India-Taliban Relations

• Elevated Dialogue: The recent meeting in Dubai represents India’s highest-level engagement with the Taliban since 2021, highlighting a shift from a non-recognition stance to pragmatic dialogue.
  • Discussions included humanitarian aid, trade facilitation, and regional stability.
• Geopolitical Reality: Despite the Taliban’s controversial governance, India recognizes the need to engage with whichever government is in power in Kabul. This pragmatic approach is driven by the enduring geopolitical reality of the Subcontinent.
• Economic and Trade Relations: Strengthening political and economic ties with Afghanistan is a priority.
  • Discussions have included the use of the Chabahar port to support trade and commercial activities.
  • Chabahar Port provides India with a critical transit route to Afghanistan, bypassing Pakistan.
• Balancing Regional Influence: Historically, Afghanistan has looked to India to balance pressures from Pakistan.
  • The Taliban’s return to power was initially seen as a gain for Pakistan, but tensions between Kabul and Rawalpindi persist.
• Humanitarian Assistance: India has supplied essential medicines, Covid and polio vaccines, anti-tuberculosis medicines, surgical items, drug de-addiction hygiene kits, blankets, winter clothing, pesticides, stationery for students as well as large consignments of wheat to Afghanistan.
  • The European Union has focused on humanitarian aid and ensuring stability in Afghanistan, which aligns with India’s interests in a stable and peaceful Afghanistan.
• Educational Initiatives: Since August 2021, Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) has granted admissions to over 3,000 Afghan students, including 600 Afghan girls.
  • Additionally, an online scholarship scheme has been launched to provide accessible educational opportunities to students residing in Afghanistan.

Concerns and Challenges

• Core Concerns: The Taliban’s domestic policies, particularly its repression of women and denial of basic rights, are deeply concerning. The regime has imposed severe restrictions on women’s education and personal freedoms.
  • It raises ethical and moral questions for India in engaging with such a regime. India has a moral responsibility to stand against such oppressive governance and advocate for the rights and freedoms of the Afghan people.
• Security and Stability Concerns: Taliban’s ties with Pakistan and the potential for Afghanistan to be used as a base for anti-India activities remain significant security concerns.
  • India’s engagement with the Taliban is partly driven by the need to ensure its own security and stability in the region.
  • However, the Taliban regime in Afghanistan has assured that it does not pose a threat to any nation, including India. It is crucial for regional stability and India’s security interests.
• Role and Impact of Western Actors:
  • United States withdrawal has significantly altered the power dynamics in the region, leading to a vacuum that various regional powers, including India, are trying to fill. The US continues to engage with the Taliban on counter-terrorism and humanitarian issues, which indirectly affects India’s approach to the group.
  • Other Regional Actors like Russia and China have increased their engagement with the Taliban, seeking to expand their influence in Afghanistan. This has implications for India, as it navigates its relationships with these major powers.
• Pakistan’s Strategic Depth: Pakistan has long sought strategic depth on its western front, but the return of the Taliban has led to increased volatility.
  • The Taliban’s refusal to recognize the Durand Line (a border established in the 19th century, Taliban referring to it as ‘hypothetical’), the intensification of insurgencies in Balochistan and Pashtun territories and its support for Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) have further complicated the situation.
  • Pakistan’s role remains critical, given its historical ties with the Taliban and its strategic interests in Afghanistan. India’s diplomatic efforts are often countered by Pakistan’s influence in the region.

India’s Approach and Recommendations

• India’s ‘Act West’ Policy: It has seen a significant shift in its approach towards the Taliban regime in Afghanistan. It aims to strengthen ties with West Asian countries, now includes engaging with the Taliban to safeguard India’s strategic interests in the region.
• Maintain Core Values: India must continue to uphold its commitment to human rights and democratic values in its engagement with the Taliban. This includes advocating for the rights of women and minorities in Afghanistan.
• Strategic Diplomacy: While engaging with the Taliban, India should leverage its diplomatic channels to ensure that Afghanistan does not become a breeding ground for terrorism that threatens regional stability.
• Humanitarian Assistance: India should continue to provide humanitarian aid to the Afghan people, ensuring that the assistance reaches those in need without being exploited by the Taliban regime.
• Regional Cooperation: Strengthening ties with other regional players, including Iran and Central Asian countries, can help India balance the influence of Pakistan and the Taliban in Afghanistan.

Conclusion

• The evolving dynamics of India-Taliban relations are shaped by a complex interplay of historical animosities, strategic interests, and the influence of Western and regional actors.
• India’s cautious engagement with the Taliban reflects its need to protect its investments and security interests while navigating the broader geopolitical shifts in the region.
• The role of Western actors, particularly the US and EU, continues to impact India’s approach, as they engage with the Taliban on various fronts.

General Studies Paper -3

Context: The Union Commerce and Industry Minister announced that India’s organic exports are projected to touch Rs 20,000 crore in the next three years.

About

• Leading Exporter: The organic farming sector has witnessed robust growth over the years, with India emerging as one of the world’s leading exporters of organic products.
• Organic Export Market: Currently India’s organic product exports are at Rs 5,000-6,000 crore.
  • By 2028 India can achieve Rs 20,000 crore exports, about 3-3.5 times increase from the current level.
  • Major export items include organic cereals, pulses, oilseeds, spices, tea, coffee, and fresh produce. They are in high demand in countries such as the United States, the European Union, and Japan.

Organic Farming

• Organic farming is a method of agriculture that avoids the use of synthetic chemicals, pesticides, and fertilizers.
• It focuses on using natural processes and inputs like compost, crop rotation, and biological pest control to maintain soil health and biodiversity.
• The goal is to produce food in an environmentally sustainable way, promoting healthier ecosystems and reducing the impact on the environment.

Organic Farming in India

• As of March 2024, India has 1,764,677.15 hectares of organic farming land, 3,627,115.82 hectares of land being converted to organic farming.
• India ranks at 4th place in terms of certified area globally as per the report published by International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM) Statistics 2022.
• Madhya Pradesh has the largest area under organic certification followed by Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Karnataka.
• Sikkim is India’s first fully organic state, with implementing organic practices on around 75,000 hectares of agricultural land.
• India ranks first globally in terms of number of farmers practicing organic farming.

Factors Supporting the Growth of Organic Farming in India

• Health Awareness: Increasing consumer demand for healthier, chemical-free food due to rising health concerns.
  • Environmental Benefits: Organic farming promotes soil health, reduces pollution, and conserves water, aligning with sustainable agricultural practices.
• Government Support: Various initiatives like subsidies, training programs, and organic certification schemes encourage farmers to adopt organic practices.
• Global Market Demand: Rising global demand for organic products opens export opportunities for Indian farmers.
• Cultural and Traditional Practices: Many regions in India have a tradition of sustainable farming, which naturally supports organic methods.
• Climate Change Resilience: Organic farming is seen as a more resilient alternative to conventional agriculture, which is vulnerable to climate change impacts.

Challenges

• High Initial Costs: Transitioning to organic farming requires investment in training, certification, and inputs like organic seeds and fertilizers, which can be expensive.
• Knowledge and Skill Gaps: Many farmers lack adequate knowledge and expertise in organic farming techniques, hindering adoption.
• Limited Access to Inputs: Organic inputs like bio-pesticides and fertilizers are often scarce or costly.
• Certification Issues: Obtaining organic certification can be a complex and time-consuming process, limiting market access for small-scale farmers.
• Lower Yields: Organic farming often results in lower crop yields initially, which can impact farmers’ income.
• Market Demand and Infrastructure: Limited infrastructure and market channels for organic products reduce profitability and reach for farmers.
• Pest and Disease Management: Controlling pests and diseases without chemicals can be challenging, especially during unfavorable weather conditions.

Organic Certifications Systems in India

• National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP): It is under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry for development of the export market.
  • It is a third party certification programme where the production and handling of activities at all stages such as production, processing, trading and export requirements for organic products is covered.
• Participatory Guarantee System (PGS-India): In the operation stakeholders (including farmers/ producers) are involved in decision making and essential decisions about the operation of the PGS-India certification itself by assessing, inspecting and verifying the production practices of each other and collectively declaring produce as organic.
  • It is under the Ministry of Agriculture and farmers Welfare for meeting the demand of the domestic market.
  • Food Safety Regulation has made it mandatory for organic products to be certified under NPOP or PGS for being sold in the domestic market under the Jaivik Bharat logo.

Government Initiatives for organic farming

• Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY): The schemes stress on end-to-end support to farmers engaged in organic farming i.e. from production to processing, certification and marketing and post-harvest management.
  • Training and Capacity Building are integral parts of the scheme.
• Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER): The scheme is being implemented exclusively in the Northeast States to support farmers engaged in organic farming.
• National Mission on Organic Farming (NMOF): Aims to promote organic farming practices, provide financial assistance, and support certification processes.
• Soil Health Management: Programs that encourage the use of organic manure, compost, and other sustainable practices to improve soil health.
• Support for Market Linkages: Initiatives like the Organic Farming Export Promotion Program (OFEP) facilitate the export of organic products by connecting farmers with international markets.

Way Ahead

• Branding: The government can promote India’s organic products under a unified brand to enhance visibility and competitiveness in global markets.
• Enhance Domestic Consumption: Encouraging domestic consumption of organic produce, will help farmers diversify and adopt sustainable farming practices.
  • The sector’s growth is expected to positively impact farmers, generate employment, and contribute significantly to the economy while reinforcing the country’s reputation as a global hub for organic agriculture.

General Studies Paper -2

Context: Recently, a five-judge Bench of the Supreme Court rejected petitions seeking a review of a judgment which refused to legalise same-sex marriage in India.

Background

• The Supreme Court of India, in October 2023, ruled and acknowledged the discrimination faced by same-sex couples & emphasized that such a decision should be made by Parliament, which is better suited to debate and legislate on this complex social issue.

Same-Sex Marriage

• It is the practice of marriage between two men or between two women. It has been regulated through law, religion, and custom in most countries of the world.
• India does not recognise registered marriage or civil unions for same-sex couples.
• Though, same-sex couples can attain equal rights and benefits as a live-in couple as per a Supreme Court of India judgement in 2022 under part of Article 21 (the right to life).
• Special Marriage Act, 1954: It provides a civil marriage for couples who cannot marry under their personal law.
• However, the Supreme Court of India (in 2023) ruled that the Special Marriage Act (SMA) of 1954 does not apply to same-sex marriages:
  • The court unanimously agreed that there is no fundamental right to marry.
  • The court ruled that the Special Marriage Act, 1954 cannot be amended to include same-sex marriages.
  • The court ruled that same-sex couples cannot form civil unions or adopt.

Arguments in Favour of Same-Sex Marriage in India

• Equality and Non-Discrimination: Advocates argue that denying same-sex couples the right to marry is a form of discrimination that violates the principles of equality enshrined in the Indian Constitution.
  • Legal recognition of same-sex marriage would affirm the dignity and rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals.
• Legal and Social Benefits: Marriage provides numerous legal and social benefits, including inheritance rights, tax benefits, and social security.
  • Recognizing same-sex marriages would ensure that LGBTQIA+ couples have access to these benefits, promoting their well-being and security.
• Improving Mental Health: Legal recognition of same-sex marriages can improve the mental health of LGBTQIA+ individuals by reducing stigma and promoting social acceptance.
• International Precedents: Many countries have legalized same-sex marriage, setting a global precedent for equality.
  • India, as a progressive democracy, could align itself with these international standards by recognizing same-sex marriages.

Arguments Against Same-Sex Marriage in India

• Cultural and Religious Beliefs: Opponents argue that same-sex marriage is contrary to traditional Indian cultural and religious values.
  • They believe that marriage should be between a man and a woman, as per the customs and beliefs of many communities.
• Legislative Domain: The Supreme Court of India has ruled that the legalization of same-sex marriage falls within the legislative domain, not the judiciary.
  • It means that any change in the law should come from Parliament, reflecting the will of the people.
• Social Readiness: Some argue that Indian society is not yet ready to accept same-sex marriages.
  • They believe that legalizing same-sex marriage could lead to social unrest and backlash from conservative sections of society.
• Alternative Legal Recognition: Instead of marriage, some suggest that civil unions or domestic partnerships could provide legal recognition and rights to same-sex couples without altering the traditional definition of marriage.

Implications of Dismissal of the Review Petitions

• It means that same-sex couples in India will continue to lack legal recognition for their relationships.
• The court’s decision underscores the need for legislative action to address the rights and recognition of same-sex couples.
• Until then, the LGBTQIA+ community remains dependent on the government’s policy and legislative wisdom.