Current Affairs Reverse Engineering
Care (5-03-2024)
| News at a Glance
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| National: MPs and MLAs are no longer exempt from legal action for taking bribes for speech or voting in the House: Supreme Court |
| Economy: e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi launched |
| International: France the first country to have a constitutional right to abortion |
| Russia-North Korea Relationship |
| China to Provide Military Assistance to Maldives |
| Art and Culture: GI tag for Narasapur Crochet |
| History: What was the Lahore Resolution? |
MPs and MLAs are no longer exempt from legal action for taking bribes for speech or voting in the House: Supreme Court
Source: The Hindu
Context: : Supreme Court unanimously overruled the 1998 verdict of a five-judge bench in the JMM bribery case.
UPSC Syllabus Relevance GS 2 (Indians judicial decision and its impact)
Why in news
- The Supreme Court seven-judge Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud has ruled that MPs and MLAs will no longer be exempted from legal action for taking bribes for speeches or votes in the legislature.
Key highlights
- A seven-judge Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud unanimously overruled the 1998 verdict of a five-judge bench in the JMM bribery case.
- In the JMM bribery case, the court had decided to exempt MPs and MLAs from legal action for taking bribes for giving speeches or voting in the legislature.
- The apex court said bribery is not protected by parliamentary privileges, and the interpretation of the 1998 judgment is contrary to Articles 105 and 194 of the Constitution.
- The Supreme Court said that bribery is not exempted under the constitutional articles because it destroys integrity in public life.
- It is noteworthy that on October 5, 2023, a seven-judge Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud reserved its decision on this issue.
Background
- Earlier, the top court had agreed to reconsider its own decision on September 20, 2023, saying that this is an important issue having a significant impact on the “morality of politics.”.
- It is noteworthy that in 1998, a five-judge Constitution bench, in its majority judgment in the PV Narasimha Rao vs. CBI case, said that MPs are protected under Article 105(2) and MLAs under Article 194(2) of the Constitution.
- Under this Act, there is immunity from criminal prosecution for any speech or vote given inside the House.
- The issue came up before the Supreme Court again in 2019, when a bench headed by then Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi was hearing an appeal filed by Sita Soren, JMM MLA from Jama and daughter-in-law of party chief Shibu Soren.
- Sita Soren was accused of taking bribes to vote for a particular candidate in the 2012 Rajya Sabha elections.
- He had argued that the constitutional provision provides immunity to MPs from prosecution, due to which his father-in-law got immunity from JMM. A bribery case should be imposed on him.
- He had moved the apex court against the February 17, 2014, order of the Jharkhand High Court refusing to quash the criminal case registered against him.
- The three-judge bench had then said it would reconsider the Supreme Court verdict in the sensational JMM bribery case, which involves former Jharkhand chief minister and former Union minister Shibu Soren and four other party MPs who voted in opposition.
- In 1993, a confidence motion threatened the existence of the PV Narasimha Rao government.
- The Narasimha Rao government, which was in minority, survived the no-confidence vote with their support.
- The CBI registered a case against Soren and four other JMM Lok Sabha MPs, but the Supreme Court quashed it, citing the immunity granted to them from prosecution under Article 105(2) of the Constitution.
About Article 105(2)
- No Member of Parliament shall be liable to any proceedings in any court in respect of anything said or voted in Parliament or any Committee thereof, and no person shall be liable to any proceedings in respect of any publication by or under his authority.
About Article 194(2)
- No member of the Legislature of a State shall be liable to any proceeding in any court in respect of anything said or voted in the Legislature or any committee thereof, and no person shall be so liable in respect of the publication of any report, paper, vote, or proceeding under the authority of the House of such Legislature.
About Parliamentary privilege
- Parliamentary privileges are basically such special rights that each House gets collectively and all the members of the House individually.
- Thus, these rights become an essential part of Parliament. The purpose of these powers is to provide certain rights and liberties to the Houses, Committees, and Members of Parliament to discharge their duties efficiently and effectively.
- Articles 105 and 194 of the Constitution mention the privileges and immunities enjoyed by the Houses, Members, and Committees of Parliament and State Legislature, respectively.
- Thus, the essence of parliamentary privilege is to protect the dignity, independence, and autonomy of Parliament.
- But this right does not free the Members of Parliament from their civil rights.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q1. Consider the following statements:
1. Supreme Court recently held that accepting bribes in exchange for voting is shielded under the doctrine of parliamentary privilege. 2. Member of Parliament (MPs) enjoy parliamentary privileges under Articles 194 the Constitution. Which of the above statements is/are incorrect? A. 1 only B. 2 only C. 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
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Q. Consider the following statements: (UPSC Prelims 2023)
Statement-I: The Supreme Court of India has held in some judgments that the reservation policies made under Article 16(4) of the Constitution of India would be limited by Article 335 for maintenance of efficiency of administration. Statement-II: Article 335 of the Constitution of India defines the term ‘efficiency of administration’. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? A. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-Il is the correct explanation. for Statement-l B. Both Statement-I and Statement-il are correct and Statement-Il is not the correct explanation for Statement-1 C. Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect D. Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct Answer: C
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| Ans 1 C
Explanation · The Supreme Court has ruled that MPs and MLAs will no longer be exempted from legal action for taking bribes for speeches or votes in the legislature. · A seven-judge Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud unanimously overruled the 1998 verdict of a five-judge bench in the JMM bribery case. · In the JMM bribery case, the court had decided to exempt MPs and MLAs from legal action for taking bribes for giving speeches or voting in the legislature. · The apex court said bribery is not protected by parliamentary privileges. So, statement 1 is incorrect. · Article 105(2) lays down that no member of Parliament shall be liable to any proceedings in any court “in respect of” anything said, or any vote given by him in Parliament or any committee thereof. So, statement 2 is incorrect. So, correct answer is option C.
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e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi launched
Source: PIB
Context: GS 3 (Government policies for agriculture development)
UPSC Syllabus relevance: Union Government launches ‘e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi’ to ease farmers’ warehousing logistics
Why in news
- Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, Commerce and Industry and Textiles, Shri Piyush Goyal has launched the ‘e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi’ (Digital Gateway) of the Warehousing Development and Regulatory Authority (WDRA) in New Delhi.
Reduction in Security Deposit Charges
- Shri Piyush Goyal announced a reduction in security deposit charges at WDRA registered warehouses to encourage more farmers, especially small farmers, to utilize the warehouses and enhance their income.
- Farmers stocking their produce at these warehouses will now need to pay only 1% security deposit instead of the earlier
Importance of the ‘e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi’ Initiative
- The ‘e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi initiative is seen as an important step in making farming more attractive.
- It offers a simplified digital process for farmers to store their produce at any registered WDRA warehouse for a period of 6 months at 7% interest per annum.
- This initiative aims to prevent distress sales by farmers who often have to sell their entire harvest at cheaper rates due to poor post- harvest storage opportunities.
Benefits for Farmers
- Shri Goyal emphasized that the warehouses under WDRA are well-monitored, highly rated, and equipped with infrastructure that protects farm produce and ensures farmers’ welfare.
- He also pressed for mandatory registration of warehouses utilized by the Food Corporation of India (FCI) across states under WDRA and the preparation of a roadmap for state warehouses to be infrastructure-ready.
Interconnected Market and Fair Prices
- With the ‘e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi’ and e-NAM (National Agriculture Market), farmers will be able to utilize the technology of an interconnected market, which benefits them beyond selling their produce to the government at the Minimum Support Price (MSP).
- Shri Goyal highlighted that the government’s procurement through MSPs has increased 2.5 times over the last decade.
Cooperative Sector Support
- Shri Goyal also urged WDRA to plan a proposal for providing free registration of all godowns under the cooperative sector.
- This initiative aims to further boost farmers’ confidence in stocking their produce in WDRA facilities, leading to fair prices when selling their harvest.
- Overall, the launch of the ‘e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi’ initiative is expected to bring significant benefits to farmers by easing their warehousing logistics and ensuring fair prices for their produce.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q2. Consider the following statements with regards to ‘e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi’ initiative:
1. This initiative was launched by Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare recently. 2. The initiative would benefit farmers in India by simplifying warehousing logistics. Which of the above given statements is/are correct? A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
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Q. What is the primary objective of the e-Jagriti Portal, recently seen in the news? (UPSC Prelims 2023)
A. To offer financial assistance to small businesses B. To promote awareness about climate change C. To facilitate consumer dispute redressal D. To provide telemedicine services to remote areas Answer: C
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| Answer 2– B
Explanation – · Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, Piyush Goyal recently launched the e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi, a digital gateway of the Warehousing Development and Regulatory Authority (WDRA) in New Delhi. So, statement 1 is incorrect. · ‘e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi’ with its no collateral, extra security deposit policy can prevent distress sale by farmers who often have to sell their entire harvest at cheaper rates due to poor post-harvest storage opportunities. · This initiative is aimed at simplifying farmers’ warehousing logistics and ensuring they receive fair prices for their produce, thereby benefiting the agricultural sector in India. So, statement 2 is correct. Therefore, correct answer is option B.
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France the first country to have a constitutional right to abortion
Source: The Hindu
Context: The recent amendment in France gives women “guaranteed freedom” to end their pregnancies.
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 2 (International Policies & Interventions), GS 1 (Issues Related to Women)
Why in News
- Recently French lawmakers voted to enshrine abortion rights in the country’s constitution, making France the first country in the world to do so.
Key highlights
- Abortions have been legal in France since 1975, and can take place up to 14 weeks after conception.
- In 2022, the French parliament voted to extend the legal limit from 12 to 14 weeks.
- The amendment was passed amid anger that thousands of women were forced to travel abroad each year to terminate pregnancies.
Other Countries landmark
- In a landmark decision in 1973, the US Supreme Court legalized abortion nationwide through the Roe vs Wade case.
- However, recent developments have seen the Supreme Court overturning this decision, allowing states to potentially outlaw abortions.
- This has reignited the debate between abortion rights and ethics, raising questions about the rights of women and the ethical considerations surrounding the termination of pregnancy.
Abortion Rates in the US
- The abortion rate among women in the United States has shown a general decline since 1981, but there has been a slight rise in the latter part of the 2010s.
- In 2017, there were 13.5 abortions for every 1,000 women aged 15 to 44, and this number rose to 14.4 in 2020, according to the Guttmacher Institute.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a rise from 11.2 in 2017 to 11.4 in 2019.
Rights vs Ethics
- The ethical debate surrounding abortion centers on the clash between a woman’s right over her body and the rights of the fetus.
- Advocates for a woman’s right to choose argue that forcing a woman to carry a pregnancy to term infringes upon her freedom and bodily autonomy.
- They contend that during the early stages of pregnancy, the fetus is not yet a live human being.
- This viewpoint emphasizes the importance of a woman’s right to make decisions about her own body
- On the other hand, opponents of abortion, often referred to as the pro-life movement, argue that the fetus has a right to life that should be protected.
- They believe that intentionally terminating a pregnancy is morally wrong and violates principles such as the Harm Principle, which states that one should not inflict serious harm on others.
- They also argue that the intention to terminate a pregnancy constitutes a violation of the Mens Rea Principle, which considers the intentions of the agent.
Ethical Approaches to Abortion
- Bioethics offers various ethical approaches to the issue of abortion, often invoking four key principles:
- Respect for patients’ autonomy: This principle recognizes a patient’s right to receive information and make well-considered decisions about their care.
- Some bioethicists argue that respect for autonomy supports a woman’s right to choose abortion, as it upholds her ownership of her body and the freedom to decide what happens within it.
- Nonmaleficence (do no harm): This principle emphasizes the importance of avoiding harm to others.
- Proponents of abortion rights argue that restricting access to safe and legal abortions can lead to harm, as it may result in women resorting to unsafe procedures.
- Beneficence (beneficial care): This principle focuses on providing beneficial care to individuals.
- Supporters of abortion rights argue that allowing women to make decisions about their pregnancies can lead to better outcomes for both the woman and potential child.
- Justice: This principle calls for fairness and equality in the distribution of resources and opportunities.
- It is often invoked in discussions about access to abortion services, as restrictions can disproportionately affect marginalized communities and individuals facing systemic discrimination.
Ethical Dilemmas for Policymakers
- The recent Supreme Court decision has raised significant ethical dilemmas for policymakers.
- Prohibiting or restricting abortion services does not eliminate the need for abortions but rather increases the risk of unsafe procedures and potential harm to women’s health.
- Policymakers must also consider exceptional cases, such as pregnancies resulting from sexual assault or the discovery of congenital anomalies late in pregnancy.
- It is crucial for policymakers to provide clear guidelines and ensure that women’s rights and health are protected.
India’s Law on Abortion
- In India, the Indian Penal Code criminalizes causing miscarriage, even with the pregnant woman’s consent, except when it is done to save the woman’s life.
- However, in 1971, the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act was introduced to liberalize access to safe abortions.
- The MTP Act allows for the termination of pregnancy by a medical practitioner under certain conditions.
- For pregnancies up to 12 weeks from conception, the opinion of one doctor is required.
- For pregnancies between 12 and 20 weeks, the opinion of two doctors is necessary, and they must determine if the continuance of the pregnancy poses a risk to the woman’s life or physical or mental health, or if there is a substantial risk of physical or mental abnormalities in the child.
- In 2021, the law was amended to allow termination under the opinion of one doctor for pregnancies up to 20 weeks.
- For pregnancies between 20 and 24 weeks, the opinion of two doctors is still required.
- It is important to note that while the law recognizes changes in relationship status due to divorce or widowhood, it does not specifically address the situation for unmarried women.
- This is an area where the law may need further clarification and consideration.
- The debate surrounding abortion rights and ethics is complex and multifaceted, with strong arguments on both sides.
- It involves considerations of individual rights, bodily autonomy, the value of life, and the potential consequences of restrictive policies.
- Policymakers and societies continue to grapple with finding a balance that respects the rights and autonomy of women while addressing ethical concerns surrounding the termination of pregnancy.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q3. Consider the following statements:
1. Recently France has given abortion the status of a constitutional right. 2. Section 312 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, allows voluntary “abortion” in India. 3. Abortion was made unconstitutional in India through the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act (MTP Act) in 1971. Which of the above statements is/are correct? A. 1 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. None
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Q. Two of the schemes launched by the Government of India for Women’s development are Swadhar and Swayam Siddha. As regards the difference between them, consider the following statements: (UPSC Prelims 2010)
1. Swayam Siddha is meant for those in difficult circumstances such as women survivors of natural disasters or terrorism, women prisoners released from jails, mentally challenged women etc., whereas Swadhar is meant for holistic empowerment of women through Self Help Groups. 2. Swayam Siddha is implemented through Local Self Government bodies or reputed Voluntary Organizations whereas Swadhar is implemented through the ICDS units set up in the states. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2 Answer: D
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| Answer 3 A
Explanation · France has become the first country in the world to give abortion the status of a constitutional right. So, statement 1 is correct. · Section 312 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, criminalises voluntarily “causing miscarriage” even when the miscarriage is with the pregnant woman’s consent, except when the miscarriage is caused to save the woman’s life. This means that the woman herself, or anyone else including a medical practitioner, could be prosecuted for an abortion. So, statement 2 is incorrect. · In 1971, The Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act (MTP Act) was introduced to “liberalise” access to abortion since the restrictive criminal provision was leading to women using unsafe and dangerous methods for termination of pregnancy. So, statement 3 is incorrect. · Therefor option A is correct answer. |
Russia-North Korea Relationship
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus relevance: GS 2 (International ties and its global Impact)
Context: The Quick Transformation of Russia-North Korea Ties
Why in news
- In the midst of escalating tensions in the Korean peninsula and strained international relations, North Korea is rapidly strengthening its relationship with Russia.
Key Highlights
- This shift in dynamics has accelerated since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, leading to a strain in Moscow’s international ties.
- The pace intensified following a delegation from Russia, led by Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, visiting Pyongyang in July 2023, followed by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un’s subsequent visit to Moscow in September 2023.
Upcoming Summit
- Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to visit Pyongyang again in 2024, with preparations underway for a summit between the two leaders.
- Both nations anticipate signing significant deals during this summit.
Warming Ties and Collaboration
- Historically, Russia and North Korea maintained diplomatic ties during the Cold War, driven by shared ideological affinities. Recent years have seen a noticeable warming of relations, leading to diplomatic engagements and strategic collaborations.
- North Korea has emerged as a key supplier of arms and weaponry to Moscow during the ongoing Ukraine crisis.
Economic Cooperation
- Russia offers potential economic assistance to North Korea, particularly in energy, transportation, and addressing food shortages. Infrastructure projects, like the Rajin-Khasan railway, highlight efforts to bolster economic cooperation.
Energy Link
- Energy collaboration is crucial, with Russia being a key supplier of fuel to North Korea.
- Discussions are ongoing to explore further cooperation in this sector.
American Factor
- Shared challenges posed by the United States and its allies contribute to the rapprochement between Russia and North Korea.
- Both countries recalibrate their foreign policy priorities to counter western influence.
Regional Implications
- The deepening engagement and cooperation between Russia and North Korea have far-reaching implications for regional stability and global geopolitics.
- As both nations strengthen their ties across various sectors, their relationship is expected to influence the dynamics of the Korean Peninsula and northeast Asian region significantly.
- The evolving relationship between Russia and North Korea represents a significant development in the geopolitical landscape, with implications beyond their immediate bilateral ties.
Some key events in their history include
- 1948: The Soviet Union recognizes North Korea as the sole legitimate authority in all of Korea. The Soviet Union supports North Korea during the Korean War.
- 1945-1948: Japan’s colonial rule of the Korean Peninsula ends with Tokyo’s World War II defeat in 1945 but the peninsula is eventually divided into a Soviet-backed north and a US-backed south.
- 2000s: Russia supports UN sanctions against North Korea over its nuclear weapons and missiles program.
- Russia also participates in talks to persuade North Korea to abandon its atomic program.
- 2022: North Korea supports Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Russia has reciprocated by opposing new sanctions on North Korea.
- July 2023: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un welcomes a Russian delegation to Pyongyang, headed by Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, to mark celebrations of the 70th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice Agreement.
India & Far East
- In 2019 India announced a commitment to an “Act Far-East” policy. This policy is an important part of a special and privileged strategic partnership with Russia.
- India has also made significant investments in the Russian far east in the fields of pharmaceuticals and diamonds.
- India can also have cooperation in the mobility of talent. Indian talent has contributed to the development of many resource-rich regions of the world.
- The talent and professionalism of Indians can bring about rapid development in the Russian Far East.
About the Far East
- It is the easternmost part of Russia.
- It borders two oceans, the Pacific and the Arctic, and five countries (China, Japan, Mongolia, the United States and the DPRK).
- DPRK is short for the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, North Korea’s formal name.
- The Far Eastern Federal District covers more than a third of the country’s territory.
- It is rich in natural resources like diamonds, stannary, borax materials, 50 gold, tungsten, and fish and seafood.
- About 1/3 of all coal reserves and hydro-engineering resources of the country are here.
- Forests of the region comprise about 30% of the total forest area of Russia.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q 4. Consider the following statements:
1. India’s “Act Far-East” policy aims to Promote cultural exchange with African countries. 2. The Russian Far East borders China, Japan, and North Korea and South Korea.
Which of the above statements is/are correct? A. 1 only B. 2 only C. 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
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Q. What is “Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)”, sometimes seen in the news? (UPSC Prelims 2018)
A. An Israeli radar system B. India’s indigenous anti-missile programme C. An American anti-missile system D. A defence collaboration between Japan and South Korea.
Ans: C
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Answer 4: D Explanation: · In 2019 India announced a commitment to an “Act Far-East” policy. This policy is an important part of a special and privileged strategic partnership with Russia. So, statement 1 is incorrect. · Far East is the easternmost part of Russia. · It borders two oceans, the Pacific and the Arctic, and five countries (China, Japan, Mongolia, the United States and the DPRK). So, statement 2 is incorrect. · Therefore, option D is correct answer.
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China to Provide Military Assistance to Maldives
Source: The Times of India
UPSC Syllabus relevance: GS 2 (Internation Treaty and its Impact)
Context: China to Provide Military Assistance to Maldives, Inks Pact to Bolster Ties
Why in news
- China and the Maldives have signed a defense cooperation agreement, with China providing free military assistance to strengthen bilateral ties.
Key highlights
- The agreement was signed between the Maldives Defense Minister Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon and Major General Zhang Baoqun of China.
- This development comes after the Maldives set a deadline for the withdrawal of the first group of Indian military personnel from the country.
- The details of the defense cooperation agreement were not provided.
- However, the Maldivian defense ministry announced that the agreement aims to foster stronger bilateral ties between China and the Maldives.
- The visit of the Chinese military delegation to the Maldives took place shortly after the Maldives allowed a Chinese research ship, Xiang Yang Hong 03, to make a port call for personnel rotation and replenishment.
- This move comes in the midst of concerns from India over Chinese research vessels collecting data from the Indian Ocean Region for military purposes.
- China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson has defended the port call by stating that China’s scientific research activities in relevant waters are for peaceful purposes and aimed at contributing to humanity’s scientific understanding of the ocean.
Background
- The Maldives has been experiencing strained ties with India since President Mohamed Muizzu came to power in November last year.
- Muizzu has set a deadline of March 10 for the withdrawal of the first group of Indian military personnel from the Maldives.
- The Maldives is one of India’s key maritime neighbors in the Indian Ocean Region, and the bilateral ties between the two countries have witnessed an upward trajectory in the past.
- The signing of the defense cooperation agreement between China and the Maldives indicates a shift in the Maldives’ foreign policy towards closer ties with China.
- The agreement highlights China’s willingness to provide military assistance to the Maldives, which could have implications for the regional power dynamics in the Indian Ocean Region.
Impact on India
- The Maldives’ proximity to India and its strategic location at the hub of commercial sea lanes in the Indian Ocean Region give it significant strategic importance.
- The current government in the Maldives has stated that it is reviewing more than 100 bilateral agreements signed with India by the previous governments.
The “String of Pearls”
- The “String of Pearls” is a geopolitical theory that describes China’s efforts to develop and expand its ports and naval bases in the Indian Ocean region.
- The theory suggests that China is seeking to establish a series of strategic naval bases and commercial ports along key sea-lanes in the Indian Ocean.
- The String of Pearls doctrine is a threat to India’s national security. It could encircle India and threaten its trade, power projection, and territorial integrity.
Countering string of pearls:
- India’s Act East Policy, has been used to make important military and strategic agreements with Vietnam, South Korea, Japan, Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand and Singapore helping India to counter China.
- India has made strategic agreements for military cooperation in the region with Japan, Australia and the USA. The four countries carry out joint military exercises in the IOR region and are known as the ‘Quad’.
- India and France recently signed a strategic pact opening up their naval bases to each other’s warships across the Indian Ocean. It grants the Indian navy access to strategically important French ports including one in Djibouti, home to China’s single overseas military base.
- India has invested a lot diplomatically in countries like Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Mongolia, all surrounding China.
- India finalised an agreement for a new base in the Seychelles and negotiated military access to naval facilities at Oman’s port and airfields. A pact allowing deployments from each other’s naval facilities was signed with Singapore in 2017. With expanded bases on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands at the end of the Malacca Strait, India is raising the stakes.
Conclusion
- China has signed a defense cooperation agreement with the Maldives to provide free military assistance, aiming to foster stronger bilateral ties.
- This move comes in the midst of strained ties between the Maldives and India, and it highlights China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean Region.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q5. Consider the following statements:
1. The “String of Pearls” is a geopolitical theory that describes US’s efforts to develop and expand its ports and naval bases in the Indian Ocean region. 2. To counter string of Pearls, India has made strategic agreements for military cooperation in the region. Which of the above statements is/are correct? A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2 |
Q. Consider the following statements: (UPSC Prelims 2023 )
Statement-l: Israel has established diplomatic relations with some Arab States. Statement-II: The ‘Arab Peace Initiative mediated by Saudi Arabia was signed by Israel and Arab League. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? A. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-i B. Both Statement-i and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I C. Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect D. Statement-l is incorrect but Statement-II is correct Answer: C
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| Answer 5– B
Explanation · China and the Maldives recently signed a defense cooperation agreement, where China agreed to provide free military assistance to enhance bilateral ties between the two nations. · The “String of Pearls” is a geopolitical theory that describes China’s efforts to develop and expand its ports and naval bases in the Indian Ocean region. · The theory suggests that China is seeking to establish a series of strategic naval bases and commercial ports along key sea-lanes in the Indian Ocean. So, statement 1 is incorrect. · To counter string of pearls, India’s Act East Policy, has been used to make important military and strategic agreements to counter China. · India has made strategic agreements for military cooperation in the region with Japan, Australia and the USA. The four countries carry out joint military exercises in the IOR region and are known as the ‘Quad’. · India and France recently signed a strategic pact opening up their naval bases to each other’s warships across the Indian Ocean. So, statement 2 is correct. Therefore, correct answer is option B. |
GI tag for Narasapur Crochet
Source: The Hindu
Context: : GI Recognition for Narasapur Crochet Lace Craft Revives Hopes of Struggling Artisans
UPSC Syllabus Relevance GS – 3 Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs), GS– 2 Government Policies & Interventions
Why in news
- The famed Narasapur crochet lace craft has received the Geographical Indications (GI) tag, breathing new life into the dying craft in the Godavari region of Andhra Pradesh.
Geographical Indication Registry Registration
- The Department of Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry registered the craft in the Geographical Indications Registry (GIR) on March 1, certifying its geographical limitation to 19 mandals in West Godavari and Dr. B.R.Ambedkar Konaseema districts in the Godavari region.
- Narasapur and Palacole serve as major trade points for lace products in West Godavari district, while Razole and Amalapuram are known for the craft in the Konaseema region.
Impact on Artisans
- Nearly 15,000 women are directly involved in the craft, producing garments, home furnishings, and accessories. With approximately 60% of the artisans being women, the GI recognition comes as a significant boost.
- The State-run Alankriti Lace Park in Narasapur town, which resumed operations in May 2023 after a hiatus, stands to benefit from this renewed focus.
Challenges and Competition
- However, the craft faces stiff competition from China’s machine-made lace products, which dominate the market.
- Despite this challenge, the GI tag is expected to provide a competitive edge to the Narasapur crochet lace craft, ensuring its authenticity and uniqueness in the market.
Other Recent GI Tags
- Several other products in India have recently received GI tags, including Basohli Pashmina and Painting, Tweed fabric, Loi blankets from Kishtwar, and Chikri craft in the handicrafts category, as well as Koraput Kala Jeera Rice, Gajapati Date Palm Jaggery, Tangail Cotton Sarees, Kachchhi Kharek, and Chokuwa rice in the food category.
Administration and Ownership
- The Geographical Indication Registry in Chennai is responsible for granting GI tags in India.
- The Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trade Marks administers the Act, with the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) and World Trade Organisation (WTO) enacting laws and treaties for GI protection.
- A geographical indication belongs to the producers of the concerned goods and is considered public property. Registered owners include individuals, manufacturers, organizations, or associations established under law or legislation.
- The Registrar of Geographical Indications or the Appellate Board holds the power to remove a geographical indication or an authorized user from the register.
About the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO)
- The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is a United Nations agency that develops an international intellectual property (IP) system.
- WIPO’s mission is to promote innovation and creativity, and to contribute to economic development.
- WIPO is a global forum for IP services, policy, information, and cooperation. WIPO’s mandate is to:
- Develop a balanced and accessible international IP system
- Reward creativity
- Stimulate innovation
- Contribute to economic development
- Safeguard the public interest
- WIPO is located in Geneva, Switzerland and has 193 member states.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q6. Which of the following pairs are not correctly matched:
GI Tag Related State 1. Narasapur crochet – Gujarat 2. Sundarban Honey – Arunachal Pradesh 3. Ramban Anardana – Jammu Kashmir Code A. 1 and 3 B. 1 and 2 C. 3 only D. 1 , 2 and 3
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Q. Which of the following has/have been accorded ‘Geographical Indication’ status? (UPSC Prelims 2015)
1. Banaras Brocades and Sarees 2. Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma 3. Tirupathi Laddu Select the correct answer using the code given below: A. 1 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Ans: C
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| Ans 6 B
Explanation
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Lahore Resolution
Source: Indian Express
Context: : Pakistan National Day to be celebrated in Delhi: What was the Lahore Resolution, which it marks
UPSC Syllabus Relevance GS 1 (Historical Event and it’s Impact)
Why in news
- Pakistan National Day is observed on March 23, the day the Lahore Resolution was adopted in 1940 by the Muslim League.
About the Lahore Resolution of 1940
- India plans to celebrate the Pakistan National Day in March 2024 at the Pakistan’s embassy complex in New Delhi.
- The Lahore Resolution, adopted by the All-India Muslim League (presented by Fazlul Huq) during its general session in Lahore from March 22 to March 24, 1940, formally called for an independent state for India’s Muslims.
- While the resolution does not include the word ‘Pakistan’ anywhere, and some have even debated if its text calls for one separate nation or two, Pakistan celebrates it as its National Day.
- In 1956, on the same day, the country officially adopted its first Constitution, which transformed the Dominion of Pakistan to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Between 1960 and 1968, the Minar-e-Pakistan was built at the site where the resolution was adopted.
- The text of the resolution is inscribed at the base of the tower.
What did the Resolution say
- Geographically contiguous units are demarcated into regions which should be so constituted, with such territorial readjustments as may be necessary, that the areas in which the Muslims are numerically in a majority as in the North-Western and Eastern Zones of India, should be grouped to constitute “Independent States” in which the constituent units shall be autonomous and sovereign.”
- In other parts of India where the Muslims are in a minority, adequate, effective and mandatory safeguards shall be specially provided in the constitution for them and other minorities for the protection of their religious, cultural, economic, political, administrative and other rights and interests in consultation with them.”
The lead-up to the Lahore Resolution
- Till the early 1930s, many Muslims had been agitating for better representation and safeguarding of their rights within the Indian Union, and the separate electorate granted to them in the Government of India Act, 1935, was a step towards that.
- However, as the decade progressed, the voices that demanded a total break from India got stronger. The Lahore Resolution was a culmination of years of this churn, bringing the Muslim League to a point from which it never turned back.
- The Muslim League session was held days after the Khaksar tragedy, when members of a Muslim group called the Khaksars, fighting for India’s independence, were shot at by the British on March 19 in Lahore, killing many.
- The Lahore Resolution was criticised by many Indian Muslims, like Abul Kalam Azad and the Deoband ulema led by Husain Ahmad Madani, who advocated for a united India.
Pakistan National Day observed in New Delhi
- Pakistan National Day is celebrated on or around March 23 at the Pakistan’s embassy complex in New Delhi. It is attended by the foreign diplomats and Indians.
- Usually, a Minister or an MOS is invited to attend the event as the chief guest.
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| Q7. Consider the following statements with reference to Lahore resolution:
1. The Lahore Resolution, later known as the Pakistan Resolution, was introduced on March 24, 1940. 2. Drafted by Sikandar Hayat Khan, it was presented by Fazlul Haque on March 23, 1940. 3. it was a collaborative effort of 25 members of the All-India Muslim League working committee. Which of the above statements is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 3 only D. 1 , 2 and 3
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Q. With reference to 8th August, 1942 in Indian history, which one of the following statements is correct. (2016)
A. The Quit India Resolution was adopted by the AICC. B. The Viceroy’s Executive Council was expanded to include more Indians. C. The Congress ministries resigned in seven provinces. D. Cripps proposed an Indian Union with full Dominion Status once the Second World War was over. Ans: A
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| Ans 7 D
Explanation
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