(Article)Life at LBSNAA – Know How UPSC Toppers Spend Their Initial Training Days
LBSNAA or Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration is the dream destination for lakhs of aspirants who appear for the UPSC Civil Services Examination each year. This is where they find the first reward of their long and arduous UPSC journey, as well as to brace for the life ahead as a Civil Servant in this country. The successful aspirants find themselves in the academy following a routine meant to enhance their personalities and groom them into the best version of themselves. Here is a sneak peek into life at LBSNAA.
PM Narendra Modi in a group photo with Officer Trainees of the 92nd Foundation Course at LBSNAA in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand.
Morning Routine :
The morning starts bright and early at the academy. Trainees are expected to be up by 6 AM and taken to the Polo Ground, which is roughly a 1-2 km jog from the Academy. There they spend time on Yoga and other drills. The Academy puts special emphasis on the physical health of all their officer trainees (OTs). This is followed by breakfast at 8 AM, and then everyone rushes for their classes.
Officer Trainees Resting At The End Of Their Morning PT
Training Sessions :
Classes in the Academy are conducted between 9:30 AM and 4 PM. Luminaries from IIMs, JNU, DU, etc. are usually the ones taking these classes, delivering lectures on environmental economics, social marketing, etc. Serving officers of various services also conduct sessions to help the OTs understand the challenges they are gearing to face in the future. Former District Magistrate (DMs) who have successfully pulled off massive events under their charges come up to the Academy to share their experience with OTs. Many team-building exercises are held for better coordination among batchmates.
Extra-curricular Activities :
All work and no play can make one rather dull. Keeping this in mind, the Academy puts together many experiences for its OTs. Himalayan trekking, hiking, visiting nearby institutes are some of the weekend activities held. There are also sports that are played within the ground of the Academy such as cricket, volleyball, billiard, badminton, table tennis, football, etc. OTs are also encouraged to participate in cultural festivals and organize cultural events during their stay in Mussoorie. Many important figures such as the President and Prime Minister visit the budding civil servants. Performances of music, dance, poetry, etc. are put up in their honor by the officer trainees oftentimes.
Figure 1India Day Performance by Officer Trainees
Alumni Clubs :
All OTs become a part of the several interesting clubs such as Adventure Sports, Alumni Association, Computer Society, Film Society, Officers’ Mess, Rifle & Archery Club, Society for Contemporary Affairs, Society for Social Service, Fine Arts Association, Hobbies Club, House Journal Society, Management Circle, Nature Lovers’ Club, and Officers’ Club. Of course, OTs automatically get enrolled in the Alumni Association. They can choose which other clubs they want to be a part of.
The Goal :
The goal of LBSNAA is to ready all it’s Officer Trainees for the life of a civil servant. This includes imbibing in their qualities and habits expected from officers of their stature. Another goal is to inculcate lifelong relationships among ranks so that this country can function smoothly under the watchful eyes of compatriots who all are working towards the singular goal of serving this nation to the best of their abilities for the foreseeable future. And that is how a great nation is built.
(Article) PROS & CONS OF NEW EDUCATION POLICY 2020
Context :
Recently, the National Education Policy (NEP)-2020 has been approved by the Union Cabinet. Its major aim is to introduce changes in the Indian education system right from the school to the college level of education.
Major highlights :
Making “India a global knowledge superpower” is the ultimate objective of the NEP 2020.
The Ministry of Human Resource Development is renamed as the Ministry of Education.
It is the third major change in the education systems in India since independence in 1947.
1968 and 1986 have seen the earlier two revamps in the education systems prior to NEP 2020.
Key Points :
School Education:
Pre-school to secondary level education has been universalized with 100% Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) by the year 2030.
This will assist in bringing approx 2 crore children which are currently out of school, back into the mainstream.
The current education system of 10+2 will be replaced by a new & revamped 5+3+3+4 structure which corresponds to the age group 3-8, 8-11, 11-14, and 14-18 years respectively.
In the current scenario, the age group of 3-6 years is not covered in formal schooling, this will helps in bringing those age groups under the school curriculum. This age group is globally recognized as a crucial stage for the development of the mental ability of a child.
This system will have 12 years of schooling with three years of Anganwadi / pre-schooling.
Board examinations of class 10th & 12th will be made easier & will be focussed more on core competencies rather than memorized facts & rote learning. All students will be allowed to take these exams twice.
A new accreditation framework will be set up along with an independent authority to regulate public and private schools.
Foundational Literacy and Numeracy will be more focussed.
There will not be any rigid separation between academic streams, extracurricular activities & vocational streams in schools.
A provision of Vocational education with internship from Class 6th.
Mother tongue/regional language will be used for teaching up to class 5th & no language will be rigidly imposed on any students.
A 'National Curriculum Framework for Teacher Education (NCFTE)' will be programmed by the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) in consultation with NCERT.
A 4-years integrated B.Ed. degree course will be the minimum degree qualification for teaching by 2030.
Higher Education:
A target of 50% Gross Enrolment Ratio in higher education by 2035 which is currently at 26.3%.
3.5 crore seats will be added in higher education.
Undergraduate courses will be imparted with a flexible curriculum of 3 or 4 years duration with multiple exit options and with certification at different levels.
All the courses at undergraduate, postgraduate, and Ph.D. levels will be made interdisciplinary.
M.phil. courses will be discontinued.
'Academic Bank of Credits' will be established which will facilitate Credit transfers.
'Multidisciplinary Education and Research Universities (MERUs)' will be established at par with IITs, IIMs as per the matching global standards.
An apex body for fostering strong research culture namely 'The National Research Foundation' will be established which will serve the purpose of creating a strong research culture and building research capacity in higher education.
'Higher Education Commission of India’ (HECI)' will be established for entire higher education, excluding medical and legal education. Both the public and private higher education institutions will be governed by the same set of norms
HECI will have four independent verticals i.e. :
1) National Higher Education Regulatory Council (NHERC) to look after the regulatory framework.
2) General Education Council (GEC) to look after standard settings.
3) Higher Education Grants Council (HEGC) to look after funding.
4) National Accreditation Council (NAC) to look after accreditation.
The affiliation system of colleges will be wiped out in 15 years and a mechanism to be implemented for granting graded autonomy to colleges.
In near future, every college is expected to develop as an autonomous degree-granting College or a constituent college of a university.
Education System In India :
Part IV, Article 45 and 39 (f) of the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) of the Indian Constitution, has a provision for state-funded & an equitable and accessible education to all.
Education has been moved from the state list to the Concurrent List by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1976.
The 86th Constitutional Amendment in 2002 made education an enforceable right under Article 21-A of the Fundamental Rights.
Right To Education (RTE), 2009 is enacted to provide primary education to all children in the age group 6 to 14 years.
This act also mandates a 25% reservation for the disadvantaged sections of the society in Government Initiatives such as Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, Mid Day Meal Scheme, Navodaya Vidyalayas, Kendriya Vidyalayas.
Pros :
NEP 2020 has changed the structure from 10+2 to 5+3+3+4. It will include kindergarten of 3 years in formal schooling thus increasing the Gross Enrolment Ratio.
Now, we can choose any subject from any academic streams as per the interest.
Multiple exit options will provide enough flexibility to students to learn & work together with varying certification options at different levels.
The importance of board exams is made less important thus reducing pressure on students reducing exam phobia.
Now 6% of GDP will be used as a fund for the policy showing the importance of education.
NEP 2020 will promote our Indian ethnic culture & hence unity in diversity will be promoted.
Vocational learning will help students to be job-ready & more skill-oriented from their early ages.
Higher education & standards of colleges will improve through a common HECI.
Cons :
Regional and local languages will be promoted but somehow, English will take a back seat.
English is the language of the world, Indian local & regional languages will not help that much at International level.
Imposing English in class 6th onwards will not give proper confidence & command in the English language to students.
Implementing so many regional or local languages in different states will be difficult to assess whether they all are on the same platform or syllabus.
English is recognized as a global language to communicate & in the IT industry and this is the reason we are booming in other countries than Chinese people.
Way Forward :
There are always a few merits & demerits in all the systems. Only thing is that we need to constantly improve the system based on its various outcomes. NEP 2020 is aimed at improving the culture & integrity of the country along with the blend of modernity in the education system & should be considered as the welcome step of the government.
MCQs :
Under which article of the Indian Constitution, education has been made enforceable right?
Option : a) Article 21
b) Article 21A
c) Article 22
d) Article 22A
Answer: Option: b
What is the targeted Gross Enrolment Ratio in higher education by the NEP2020?
Option : a) 80%
b) 75%
c) 50%
d) 40%
Answer: Option: c
MAINS :
Critically analyze the importance of the New Education Policy 2020 with respect to the current education policy implemented in 1986.
Discuss various efforts done by the Union Governments in improving the Gross Enrolment Ratio in Schools & higher education since independence.
The following are the lists, in order of merit of 196 (106+76+14) candidates who have qualified on the basis of the results of the Combined Defence Services Examination (II), 2019 conducted by the Union Public Service Commission in September, 2019 and SSB interviews held by the Services Selection Board of the Ministry of Defence for admission to the 149th (DE) Course of Indian Military Academy, Dehradun; Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, Kerala and Air Force Academy, Hyderabad (Pre-Flying) Training Course i.e. No. 208F(P) Course.
2. There are some common candidates in the three lists for various courses.
3. The number of vacancies, as intimated by the Government is 100 for Indian Military Academy [including 13 vacancies reserved for NCC ‘C’ certificates (Army Wing) holders], 45 for Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, Kerala Executive (General Service)/Hydro [including 06 vacancies reserved for NCC ‘C’ Certificate holders (Naval Wing)] and 32 for Air Force Academy, Hyderabad [03 vacancies are reserved for NCC ’C’ Certificate (Air Wing) holders through NCC Spl. Entry].
4. The Commission had recommended 2699, 1592 and 0611 as qualified in the written test for admission to the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy and Air Force Academy, respectively. The number of candidates finally qualified are those after SSB test conducted by Army Head Quarters.
5. The results of Medical examination have not been taken into account in preparing these lists.
6. Verification of date of birth and educational qualifications of these candidates is still under process by the Army Headquarters. The candidature of all these candidates is, therefore, Provisional on this score. Candidates are requested to forward their certificates, in original, in support of Date of Birth/Educational qualification etc. claimed by them, along with Photostat attested copies thereof to Army Headquarters /Naval Headquarters /Air Headquarters, as per their first choice.
7. In case, there is any change of address, the candidates are advised to promptly intimate directly to the Army Headquarters /Naval Headquarters /Air Headquarters.
8. These results will also be available on the UPSC website at http://www.upsc.gov.in. However, marks of the candidates will be available on the website after declaration of final result of Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) for Combined Defence Services Examination (II), 2019.
9. For any further information, the candidates may contact Facilitation Counter near Gate ‘C’ of the Commission’s Office, either in person or on telephone Nos.011-23385271/011- 23381125/011-23098543 between 10:00 hours and 17:00 hours on any working day.
(IN-DEPTH HOT TOPIC)WHY ASSAM IS FLOODING EVERY YEAR?
Context :
Assam is facing a second wave of flood in July after its first wave of flood in May this year. It is facing almost 3-4 waves of flood every year through the Brahmaputra river system, which affects most of the parts of Assam. Nearly 35 lakhs of peoples are affected in 26 districts of the state with heavy loss to life & submergence of major parts of the Kaziranga National park.
About Brahmaputra River :
Originated from Chemayungdung glacier in Tibet (China) known as the ‘Yarlung Tsangpo’ flows through Tibet from west to east, enters Arunachal Pradesh as ‘Dihang (Siang)’, continues to flow in Assam as the Brahmaputra & as the Jamuna in Bangladesh.
Its main left-bank tributaries are Dibang, Lohit, Dhansiri & Kapili while main right bank tributaries are Subansiri & Manas in India.
‘Majuli Island’ is the world’s largest riverine island in Assam surrounded between the channels of Brahmaputra.
The Brahmaputra is coursing through almost entire Assam barring a few regions of the Karbi Anglong region.
It is one of the most voluminous (extreme volume & quantity of water) rivers of India.
Its basin countries are China, India, Bhutan, Bangladesh.
Factors responsible for flooding :
Heavy rainfall through south-west monsoon & presence of hills in Meghalaya led to falling of rain-bearing winds.
Natural & man-made reasons contribute to flooding.
The Brahmaputra brings an excess quantity of water & silt & deposited it in the basin causing the river to overflow.
It also causes a lot of erosion & flood problems.
Building dams destroyed the ecology.
Deforestation.
Embankments supposed to prevent soil erosion also end up a reason for flooding. Heavy rainfall leads to breaking of embankments.
The immense growth of habitations along the river banks, it doesn't allow the river to expand during its excess quantity of water.
Destroying wetlands along the river banks which works like a sponge during flooding to absorb water.
Climate change leads to heavy rainfall in a relatively less period of time which causes intense rainfall & flooding.
Challenges in capital 'Guwahati' :
Guwahati mostly flooded during monsoons due to its topography having a shape like 'bowl' which makes it susceptible to waterlogging.
'Mission flood control Guwahati' report of the Assam Government mentions that unplanned expansion of the city, encroachment to wetlands, shrinkage of forest cover, low lying areas & rainwater from the surrounding hills of Meghalaya bring flood in the city. But a proper workout to resolve the issue is yet awaited.
What can be done?
Authorities should make a long term plan to build embankments & regular dredging to control the floods.
countries can go for integrated basin management which will bring all the basin sharing countries together like India, China, Bhutan & Bangladesh.
Preventive measures should be taken from all the catchment & basin sharing countries in their respective area, otherwise only working at the last resort when flood strike in Assam is only a defensive measure but not a solution.
Benefit due to flood :
Due to flooding new alluvial soil constantly get deposited in Assam's flood plain leading to continuous increase & recharge of soil & increase in croplands.
This benefit is only a fraction of whatever losses Assam is facing every year.
Concerns :
After more than 65 years of independence, a solution to this repeated problem is still awaited.
The state is mostly dependent upon the embankments which were introduced in the 1950s when the actual hydrology of most rivers including the Brahmaputra was not well-known.
The river changes its course very frequently, so it is almost impossible to contain it within the embankments.
The high-pressure flow of the water constantly pressured the embankments wall & subsequent breakage which need frequent reinforcement.
Embankments :
It is a long ridge made along the river by soil or rock & used to hold or control the flow of rivers or water bodies which might at times get flooded.
Way Forward :
While India has done tremendous progress in increasing the connectivity with the north-East states, flooding is a repeated problem which still needs a concrete solution. With the growing importance of North-East to India which works as a connecting point with South-East Asia & the rising threat from the neighbouring countries, it is imperative to contain the problem
of flooding. This containment of flooding also helps in achieving most of our goals along with preventing economic & social losses.
MCQs :
‘Yarlung Tsangpo’ is the name of ------------------------ river/s. Choose the correct options.
Critically analyse the factors responsible for flooding in Assam plains almost every year. Support your reason by examples.
Some reports are claiming that Majuli island may be submerged in later years due to extent flooding in the Brahmaputra. What can be the preventive measures for these challenges?
(IN-DEPTH HOT TOPIC)PLEA BARGAINING - STRENGTHENING OR WEAKENING OF JUDICIARY?
Context :
Most of the members of ‘Tablighi Jamaat’ belonging to other countries who were charged with spreading of COVID 19 cases have obtained release from the court by way of ‘Plea bargaining’. Most of them are walking freely after pleading guilty to minor offenses & minor fines as imposed by the court.
‘Plea bargaining’ is a process by which the accused plead guilty to a less serious offense than what is provided in the law & lengthy trials can be avoided.
Plea bargaining’ across the globe :
It is the most common practice in the USA avoiding the complicated & lengthy trial. That's why the conviction rate is higher in the USA compared to India.
In the U.S. and other countries, the prosecutor plays a main role in bargaining with the offender.
Plea bargaining’ in India:
‘Plea bargaining’ refers to an accused person with criminal charges, who negotiate with the prosecution for a lower or lesser punishment than what is prescribed in the law by simply pleading to a less serious offense.
This can include bargaining on the charges or the type of sentence.
In India, ‘Plea bargaining’ is available to the persons charged with criminal offenses subject to conditions stipulated in the law. It is yet not so common in India.
'Plea bargaining' was introduced in India in 2006 as an amendment to the CrPC in chapter XXI-A, sections 265A to 265L.
While the 'Plead guilty' is always available in the Indian ‘Code of Criminal Procedure’ (CrPC) where the accused can plead guilty instead of his right to full trial.
Process for 'Plea bargaining' :
In India, this process can be initiated only by the accused via. applying to the court.
Only an accused who is charged for an offense that does not carry a death sentence, life sentence or a prison term of more than seven years are eligible to apply for plea bargaining.
Also, cases that involved offenses affecting 'socio-economic conditions' of the country, a crime against woman & crime against a child below 14 years of age are not covered in this system.
The applicant has to reach the court with an application & an affidavit stating that he has understood the nature & extent of punishment as provided in the law for the offense.
The final outcome may involve compensation & or other expenses to be borne by the accused.
Accused may be sent to prison for a term that is half the minimum period fixed by law. In case there is no minimum period prescribed, the sentence can be one-fourth of the maximum sentence prescribed in the law.
What is the stand of the Law Commission of India?
142nd report of the Law Commission of India given the idea of 'concessional treatment' to those accused who plead guilty on their own will.
The commission also warned to be careful that this 'concessional treatment' should not involve 'Plea bargaining' with the prosecution.
What are its PROS?
The ‘Malimath committee’ on reforming the ‘criminal justice system’ has recommended many recommendations of the Law Commission with respect to plea bargaining.
This will ensure a speedy trial & end the uncertainty over the trial outcome.
It will save trial, litigation & administrative cost.
Parties can be relieved from anxiety.
It can increase conviction rates.
Reduce pendency of cases, overcrowding of prisons due to less term punishment, fast trial.
Offenders can start afresh their life as early as possible.
What are its CONS?
Some experts disapprove of bargaining with the accused saying that lenient sentences should be considered depending upon the circumstances after a full-length regular trial.
Many socio-economical reasons like poverty, ignorance & pressure of the prosecution may lead to pleading guilty of someone who may not have committed the crime.
Way Forward :
‘Plea bargaining’ was introduced in 2006, but still not much utilized in India. If a law is introduced it should have a purpose or otherwise, it will defeat the purpose for which it is introduced. The only need is to properly implement it & examine it at every step so that the real purpose can be met along with a stricter check balance.
MCQs :
1) What is/are correct w.r.t 'Plea bargaining' ? Select the correct option/s .
a) The judge of a court asks the offender to write an application for seeking a reduction in sentence.
b) Offender writes an application along with an affidavit & submits it to the court.
c) The offender is asked to write his acceptance of doing a crime in the police station.
d) Offender pleads guilty to a less serious offense than what is prescribed in the law.
Answer: Option - b, d
2) When was 'Plea bargaining' introduced in India?
a) 2005
b) 2006
c) 2007
d) 2004
Answer: option -b
Mains Questions :
1) Elaborate on the critical differences with examples between 'Plead guilty' & 'Plea bargaining'. Discuss the pros & cons of each system.
2) Do you think the Indian Judiciary system has improved since the introduction of 'Plea bargaining'? If not, what can be done further to strengthen it? Critically examine each point with reference to the system prevailing worldwide.
(IN-DEPTH HOT TOPIC)Chabahar Rail Project - Why Is India dropped?
Context :
Iran has decided to drop India from the Chabahar Rail Project connecting Chabahar port to
Zahedan (Iran's bordering region to Afghanistan).
Recent events :
Iran has inaugurated track-laying project from Chabahar port to Zahedan without involving India citing reasons for delayed funding from India.
Iran is investing Dollar 400 million from its National Development Fund of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
India's owned Ircon International Limited (IRCON) was associated with this rail project.
India has developed Chabahar port facilities which have grown over the years & now compromises of a port, a free trade zone & the 628km long railway line to Zahedan.
About Chabahar Project :
Chabahar literally means 'four seasons'.
Chabahar port project is lying at Iran's Sistan-Baluchistan province along its southern coast with proximity to the Persian Gulf & the Gulf of Oman,
Gwadar port in Pakistan developed by China is nearly 100km away by sea route from Chabahar port.
Chabahar port project was agreed between Iran & India in 2003 & further strengthened by 2016 trilateral agreement between India, Iran & Afghanistan connecting Chabahar port to Zahedan & then to Kabul in Afghanistan.
This project will permanently bypass its troublesome neighbor Pakistan & is also a strategic answer to the Gwadar port of Pakistan.
Importance of Chabahar to India :
India & Iran have historic relations over the centuries & both have sought to maintain these ties in the face of any challenges.
India maintained these relations despite challenges from Iran’s adversaries like the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Israel.
India has facilitated & invested in its ambitious & strategically located Chabahar project which will bypass Pakistan’s Karachi & Gwadar port to reach Afghanistan, Central Asia, Russia & eventually to Europe someday.
Chababahr trade region is important for India’s energy imports & food and material exports from its Kandla and Mundra ports.
Chabahar rail project would have allowed India, an independent corridor to Afghanistan, Russia, Central Asia.
The Persian Gulf is a storehouse of petroleum & natural gas & the Gulf of Oman is a gateway to the Persian Gulf. This is an opportunity for India to increase its influence over the region.
Its proximity to the Persian Gulf can further save the transportation & storage cost of the petroleum products for India.
Chabahar project can assist in the inflow of the foreign capital to India through its trade, employment & uses by other countries as a trans-shipment terminal.
It can check the growing influence of China over the Arabian sea region & its neighboring countries.
Chabahar Rail Project :
Chabahar port development has moved ahead in the last few years while the Chabahar Rail project was lingering.
Chabahar rail project proposed to connect Chabahar port to Zahedan (In Iran bordering Afghanistan). Zahedan will further connect to Afghanistan's Kabul & INSTC (International North-South Transport Corridor).
Thus, Chabahar is a gateway for India to Iran, Afghanistan, Central Asia, Russia & Europe.
As per the Ministry of External Affairs sources, IRCON has completed its feasibility study by December 2019, three years after the agreement & after that, it has not heard anything from Iran's side.
Where is the issue?
In spite of all these geo-political & economical advantages of the Chabahar project, India has mostly seemed to be in captivity to International policy shifts on Iran.
USA policy particularly on Iran keeps on shifting to & fro in the last two decades.
USA placed sanctions on Iran in 2006 which ended with the ‘Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action’ (JCPOA) in 2015.
In between these years, India continued its discussions with Iran but finally make headway after lifting sanctions by the USA.
A trilateral agreement was signed in 2016 between India, Iran & Afghanistan for establishment of International Transport and Transit Corridor.
This agreement included the port project & the railway line to be constructed & funded by India's owned IRCON.
However, in 2018 USA overturned JCPOA & re-imposed heavy sanctions on Iran.
Since Iran constitutes be third-largest energy supplier to India, energy imports from Iran had to be dropped to nearly NIL.
Rupee-Rial exchange mechanism for bilateral trade between India & Iran stopped.
Although India got a waiver from the USA for Chabahar port & railway line, sanctions made it very tough for companies dealing with the USA to participate in this project, throwing a set back to this ambitious project.
What about other projects?
ONGC Videsh Ltd (OVL) has been in discussion with the Iranian gas field project, Farzad B since 2009. Now, this project will also go to an Iranian company due to a combination of US sanctions, fluctuating prices & India's delayed response.
What’s the future of India with respect to Chabahar project :
After losing these two important projects definitely a major setback to India.
India should ensure that this setback should not be an advantage for other countries like China or Pakistan.
Since China is always looking for such type of prey to trap in its debt trap.
India’s position at Chabahar port will remain strong doesn't matter who builds the railway line.
Although it’s a big loss to the reputation of India & can be a gain for China.
Way Forward :
By acting proactively India should find a way out to this situation. Citing the geo-political & economical importance of this project & to counter the effect of troublesome neighbors like China & Pakistan, it is in the larger interest of India to solve this issue & grab this opportunity without any delay.
It’s better late than never!
Multiple Choice Questions :
Which Indian port is in close proximity to the Chabahar port project?
Cambay port
Bombay High port
New Mangalore port
Kandla Port
Answer: Option d
2) India recently loses an overseas rail project in Iran. Which two important locations were to be connected with this lost project?
Chabahar port to Kabul
Kandla port to Chabahar port.
Chabahar port to Zahedan
Chabahar port to Tehran
Answer; Option C
Mains Questions
Critically examine the reasons through which India loses Chabahar Rail Project. Do you think India should be more aggressively put his points to get back the project? Give suitable examples for your views.
How the sanctions imposed by the superpowers of the world affect a country & its partner countries? What should be the strategy of India if any sanctions imposed on its partner countries? Cite a few recent examples.
(IN-DEPTH HOT TOPIC) INDIA TIGER CENSUS 2018 - GUINNESS BOOK OF WORLD RECORD
Context:
India's Tiger Census-2018 has recorded its name in the 'Guinness Book of World Record' for its world's largest camera trapping wildlife survey.
As per the commitment made by India to double its tiger populations by 2022 at St. Petersburg Tiger Summit -2010.
India has successfully fulfilled its commitment to double the number of tigers much before the target year of 2022.
The Tiger population in India rose to 2976 in 2020 from 1500 in 2010.
St. Petersburg Tiger Summit-2010 :
The world's first-ever 'Global Tiger Summit' to save the tigers from extinction was organized at St. Petersburg- Russia in November 2010.
This summit was participated by thirteen tiger habitat countries i.e. India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Russia, who was also a host of the said event.
Besides these participating nations, various international organizations & stakeholders on tigers also participated.
They together endorsed a plan called 'Global Tiger Recovery Programme' to double the number of tiger population by the year 2022.
Tiger Census-2018 :
This was the fourth cycle of the Tiger Census 2018 conducted in 2018-19.
India is recorded to have 2976 tigers which are almost 75% of the world's tiger population.
National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) is doing this census every four years with the assistance of Wildlife Institute of India & cooperation with the respective State forest department.
The process adopted for the census :
Camera traps were plotted at various locations & eventually surveyed an area of 121,337 sq km.
Camera traps are outdoor recording devices which automatically record the movement when an animal passes by the camera.
Foot surveys are done to know about habitat plots for vegetation & about its prey.
Out of all the pics that are taken, 83% of the population was identified by the stripe-pattern recognition software (M-STriPES) which identifies the tigers based on their different pattern of stripes.
Project Tiger :
Project Tiger was launched in 1973 with initially 9 tiger reserves to conserve the tigers.
This scheme is still operational under the Ministry of Science, Forest & Climate Change & sponsored by the union government.
Currently, Project Tiger has 50 tiger reserves in 18 states amounting to 2.21% of the geographical area of India.
About Tiger Reserves :
Tiger reserves are having a core area with a legal provision of a national park or sanctuary.
Its buffer area is a mix of forest & non-forest land & used as a multiple-use area.
National Tiger Conservation Authority :
NTCA was constituted in 2005 after the recommendation of the 'Tiger Task Force'.
NTCA is a statutory body of the ministry with supervisory & coordination capacity as mandated in the Wildlife Protection Act 1972.
M-STriPES :
Monitoring System for Tiger Intensive Protection & Ecological Status (M-STriPES) is app-based monitoring software.
It was introduced by NTCA in 2010 across all the tiger reserves of India.
Ecological Importance Of Tiger:
Tiger is the apex consumer in the ecological food pyramid, thus their conservation results in conservation of all trophic levels in the food pyramid.
Threats to Tigers:
Destruction & fragmentation of the habitat.
Poaching.
Protection Status :
Wildlife Protection Act 1972, Schedule-1.
International Union of Conservation of Nature (IUCN) -Red List (endangered)
Convention on International Trade In Endangered Species of Wildlife Fauna & Flora (CITES) - Appendix-1
About Tiger :
Scientific Name - Panthera Tigris
Indian Sub-species - Panthera Tigris Tigris
Tiger is the largest Cat species & a member of the Genus Panthera.
Its normal habitat is from Siberian temperate forests to sub-tropical & tropical forest of the Indian subcontinent & up to parts of Indonesia.
There are eight sub-species of Tiger :
Bengal Tiger - India
Amur Tiger - Russia, China, North Korea
Javan tiger (extinct) - Java -Indonesia
Caspian tiger (extinct)- Turkey (Central & West Asia)
Bali Tiger (extinct) - Bali -Indonesia
South China tiger- South-Central China
Sumatran Tiger- Sumatra-Indonesia
Indo-Chinese tiger - Southeast Asia
Bengal Tiger is designated as the National Animal of India having dark vertical stripes on orange-brown fur.
Largest Tiger reserve of India - Nagarjuna Sagar-Srisailam tiger reserve (Andhra Pradesh)
Smallest Tiger reserve of India - Orang national park-Assam
Total Tiger reserves in India- 50
MCQs :
1) State the reason/s for which Tiger Census-2018 is recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records.
a) for its world's largest camera trapping wildlife survey.
b) for doubling the tiger population in India before the set target of 2022.
c) for its stripes pattern recognition software.
d) for its active participation in various tiger summits.
Answer: Option-a
2) If a goat is placed under schedule 1 of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972, it means
a) Rat & goat can't be placed in schedule 1 of WPA 1972.
b) It will have the same protection as available to the tiger.
c) The goat should always be placed in IUCN lists.
d) Goat is a pet animal so it can't be placed in the Wildlife Protection Act 1972.
Answer: Option -b
Mains Questions
1) Critically examine the various steps taken by the Indian Government & its neighboring countries to preserve the tigers from extinction. State the reasons why India is successful in doubling the tiger population before the set target of 2022.
2) What will be the consequences & after effect to our ecological system if all the tiger population get extinct in India? How it will affect the economic condition of India?
(Article) LANCET REPORT- INDIA'S POPULATION FORECAST BY the YEAR 2048 TO 2100 & ITS CHALLENGES
Context :
The latest analysis report presented by Lancet shows that India's population is forecasted to be around 1.60 billion in 2048 from 1.38 billion as in 2017. In due course, it will show a 32% decrease & will be around 1.09 billion in 2100.
Basis:
Researchers & experts used data from the 'Global Burden of Diseases studies 2017'.
Global Burden of Disease study: It was initiated in 1990 with the collaboration of the World Health Organisation (WHO) & World Bank, where researchers & experts participate from all over the world. It is an overall global & regional level assessment considering mortality & disability due to major diseases, injuries & also risk factors.
Total Fertility Rate (TFR): TFR is the average number of children who are expected to be born from a woman during her reproductive period from 15-49 years of age.
Replacement Level Fertility: It is the number of children required to replace the parents after accounting for fatalities, infant mortality, skewed sex ratio, etc.
Forecasts related to India :
Countries such as India & China will face a decline in the working-age population which will ultimately hamper economic growth.
India will be the world's most populous country by the year 2100.
India's working-age population aged 20-64 years is expected to decline to 578 million in 2100 from 762 million in 2017. In spite of this population reduction, India will still have the largest working-age population in the world.
The study also showed that India will surpass China's workforce population by 2020s.
China's current working-age population is 950 million in 2017 & expected to decline up to 357 million in 2100.
Considering the year 2017 to 2100, India is expected to rise the global GDP ranking from 7th to 3rd in terms of nominal GDP.
India's Total Fertility Rate (TFR) is less than 2.1 in 2019 & will keep on declining to 1.29 in 2100.
India is also expected to have the world's second-largest immigration in 2100 with 0.5 million more immigration to the country than emigrating out in 2100.
India is having the potential to offer a big manufacturing base for most of the immigrants who want to work here.
Global Forecast:
The global population will be at its maximum level of 9.7 billion in 2064 & decline to 8.8 billion in 2100.
The population of almost 23 countries like Japan, Thailand, Italy, Spain will shrink by more than 50%.
183 of 195 countries will have a TFR below the replacement level of 2.1 berths/woman.
Global TFR will also decline from 2.37 in 2017 to 1.66 in 2100, which is again lower than the minimum required rate of 2.1
Globally, the age structure will shift, where people having more than 65 years of age will be 2.37 billion by 2100 as compared to 703 million in 2019.
Challenges :
Shrinking workforce, disease burden & social support for aging populations will be a big challenge for the economic & social growth of the country.
Fertility reduction is bound to happen while giving priority to economic growth.
Better life & improving health facilities will help in increasing the aging population.
There is a big challenge to skillfully employ, skills-building to this huge working-age population of India, which otherwise may get wasted if not utilized properly or can turn into a demographic disaster.
Suggestions :
To counter the shrinking working population, some liberal immigration policies can be adopted for the time as required.
These migrants, new innovations in science & technology & new skills will subsequently boost the number of the working population.
Technological advancements to be promoted can take over the working population shortage.
To improve the women's fertility, the health system as well as greater economic freedom to be inculcated so that women can negotiate & live their life on their own terms.
Way Forward :
India is on the right track, since it is having enough workforce in this developing stage, only need is to use it efficiently. After having achieved a level of development policies can be aligned as per the population shift. Efficient human capital formation by skilling, training & education can be done to utilize them effectively.
MCQs
What is Replacement level fertility?
To replace the fertility of any human being.
The number of children required to replace the parents.
No. of children born from a woman during her lifetime.
None of the above
Answer: Option b
2) Which organization/s is/are associated with the ‘Global burden of disease studies’?
IMF, WHO, World Bank
United Nations, SAARC, ASEAN
WHO, World Bank only
All of the above
Answer: c
MAINS
Examine the pros & cons of India having the largest number of working-age populations. Explain it in context with neighboring countries like China.
How skilling of the workforce should be done to utilize the working-age population. Is it a boon or curse to have a huge working population & how it affects the economic growth of the country?
Higher Education:
