Current Affairs Reverse Engineering- CARE (05-11-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| Polity and Governance: Does Art 39(b) allow govt to take over your property? |
| Does data justify subdivision of quotas? |
| International Relations: India, Algeria sign MoU on bilateral defence cooperation |
| Japan’s Onagawa nuclear reactor that restarted 13 years after Fukushima disaster shut again |
| Art and Culture: India hosts maiden Asian Buddhist Summit |
Does Art 39(b) allow govt to take over your property?
Source: Times-of-India
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2 Polity and Governance:
Context: Article 39(b)
Why in News
- The Supreme Court’s reinterpretation of Article 39(b) could redefine the balance between state power and private property rights in addressing economic inequality in India.
Overview
- The ongoing debate over economic inequality in India, framed within the context of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and the broader political and constitutional landscape, raises significant philosophical and legal questions. Central to this discourse is the interpretation of Article 39(b) of the Indian Constitution and its relationship with Article 31C, as well as the implications of any potential reinterpretation by the Supreme Court.
Background on Article 39(b) and Article 31C
- Article 39(b) is part of the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP), which guide the state in making laws and policies aimed at promoting social and economic justice. Specifically, Article 39(b) states: “The ownership and control of the material resources of the community are so distributed as to best subserve the common good.”
- Directive Principles are generally non-justiciable, meaning they are not enforceable by a court. However, they are fundamental in the governance of the country, serving as a guide for legislative and executive action.
- Article 31C, introduced by the 25th Amendment in 1971, is unique because it provides legal protection to laws made in pursuance of Article 39(b) and (c) (the latter relating to preventing the concentration of wealth). This protection implies that such laws cannot be challenged on the grounds that they violate Fundamental Rights (e.g., the right to equality under Article 14, the right to freedom of trade under Article 19, etc.).
Current Political and Socio-Economic Context
- The call for a nationwide caste census by Congress, which seeks to address the socio-economic disparities among caste and sub-caste groups, underscores the broader issue of wealth concentration in India. This is set against a backdrop where a study by the World Inequality Database has indicated that wealth inequality in India is more severe today than it was during colonial times.
- The ruling BJP has criticized this move as an attempt at appeasement politics and a potential pathway to economic redistribution, framing it as an assault on private wealth for the benefit of minorities.
Supreme Court’s Potential Reinterpretation of Article 39(b)
- The Supreme Court’s decision to revisit the interpretation of Article 39(b) in the context of long-standing property disputes (originating from 1992) adds a constitutional dimension to the debate on economic inequality.
- Article 39(b), traditionally viewed within a socialist framework, aims to align state policies with the equitable distribution of resources. However, the current Supreme Court under CJI D.Y. Chandrachud is expected to avoid a purely socialist interpretation. During the hearings, the CJI hinted at a Gandhian perspective, which could influence a more balanced view — one that recognizes the state’s role in ensuring social justice without completely sidelining private property rights.
Implications of Article 31C
- Article 31C empowers Parliament to enact laws that implement Article 39(b) without being invalidated on the grounds that they violate Fundamental Rights like equality, personal liberty, or freedom of trade. This essentially prioritizes Directive Principles over Fundamental Rights when the former seeks to fulfill the objectives of social and economic justice.
- This could pave the way for significant legislative actions, such as:
- Wealth Tax Laws: Parliament could introduce a wealth tax, taxing citizens with substantial net worth by 2% or more. Under Article 31C, any challenge to such a law based on the argument that it violates fundamental rights would likely fail, provided it is linked to the aims of Article 39(b).
- Land Acquisition Laws: Laws that allow the state to acquire privately held land (e.g., forest land) for redistribution to marginalized or displaced communities could also be insulated from legal challenges. This means that even if such a law appears to contradict fundamental rights like equality or freedom of trade, the reference to Article 39(b) would uphold its constitutional validity.
Philosophical Debate: Ownership and Control of Resources
- The core question at play is whether the material resources of a country belong predominantly to private individuals or whether the state, acting in the public interest, should have the power to redistribute these resources to promote the common good.
- A restrictive interpretation by the Supreme Court would limit state intervention, emphasizing the role of the private market and the “invisible hand” to achieve social balance. This aligns with neoliberal economic theories that prioritize minimal state intervention and trust in market mechanisms.
- Conversely, a broader interpretation would allow the state more power to intervene and enact policies aimed at reducing inequality and redistributing resources. This would align with welfare state models where state intervention is seen as necessary to correct market failures and address social injustices.
A Gandhian Vision of Article 39(b)
- The potential for a Gandhian interpretation suggests that the Supreme Court might strike a middle path, recognizing the need for resource distribution that serves the common good while not entirely overriding private ownership rights.
- Gandhi’s vision emphasized trusteeship — the idea that wealth should be held and used for the benefit of society. This perspective could inform a nuanced ruling where certain types of private property (e.g., critical natural resources or land necessary for social welfare) may be treated as trust property, subject to state regulation for public benefit.
Broader Implications of the Supreme Court’s Ruling
- If the Supreme Court adopts a broad interpretation of Article 39(b), it would empower the state to enact robust economic and social policies that could involve significant wealth redistribution.
- If the interpretation is restrictive, the state’s ability to implement such policies would be curtailed, placing more reliance on market mechanisms to achieve economic equality.
- Constitutional precedence set by this decision could reshape the balance between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles, influencing future legislative actions and the socio-economic landscape of India.
Conclusion
- The Supreme Court’s re-evaluation of Article 39(b) and its interplay with Article 31C has far-reaching consequences for how India navigates the issue of economic inequality.
- A Gandhian interpretation that embraces a balanced approach may emerge, allowing the state to act as a steward of resources while respecting the essential rights tied to private property.
- This decision will be a significant marker in defining the constitutional ethos of wealth distribution and state intervention for decades to come.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q1. Consider the following statements regarding Article 39(b) and Article 31C of the Indian Constitution:
1. Article 39(b) is a Directive Principle of State Policy that advocates for the distribution of material resources to best serve the common good. 2. Article 31C provides that laws made in pursuance of Article 39(b) cannot be challenged on the grounds of violating Fundamental Rights such as equality and freedom of trade. 3. The Supreme Court has the authority to enforce all Directive Principles of State Policy, including Article 39(b). Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A) 1 only |
Q. Which part of the Constitution of India declares the ideal of Welfare State? (2020)
(a) Directive Principles of State Policy Ans: (a)
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| Answer – 1 – B
Explanation – · Statement 1 is correct: Article 39(b) is indeed part of the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) in the Indian Constitution, and it calls for the distribution of the ownership and control of material resources in a way that best serves the common good. · Statement 2 is correct: Article 31C was introduced to provide that any law made to implement the principles laid out in Article 39(b) (and Article 39(c)) cannot be deemed invalid if it contravenes Fundamental Rights related to equality (Article 14) or freedom of trade (Article 19). This means such laws are protected even if they violate these Fundamental Rights, giving priority to achieving social and economic justice. · Statement 3 is incorrect: While Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP), including Article 39(b), are fundamental to the governance of the country, they are not enforceable by any court. They serve as guidelines for the state to create laws and policies but do not carry the force of law like Fundamental Rights, which are enforceable. The Supreme Court does not have the power to enforce DPSPs, but it can interpret laws and their alignment with these principles.
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Does data justify subdivision of quotas?
Source: The Hindu
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/does-data-justify-subdivision-of-quotas/article68810384.ece
UPSC Relevance: GS2 Polity and Governance
Context: Subdivision of quotas
Why in News
- A discussion is going on whether India’s reservation system should be restructured to include a ‘quota-within-quota’ for fairer distribution among SC subgroups, amid ongoing disparities and access issues.
Overview
- India’s reservation system is an affirmative action policy designed to improve the social and economic status of historically marginalized groups, particularly the Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs).
- While this system has contributed to the upliftment of millions since its inception, debates have emerged regarding its effectiveness in evenly benefiting all subgroups within these broader categories.
- A significant point of discussion is whether the system needs to be reformed through mechanisms like ‘quota-within-quota’ to address disparities within SC subgroups.
Historical Context and Purpose of Reservations
- Origin and Intent: The reservation system was introduced as a corrective measure to counteract centuries of discrimination and exclusion faced by certain communities, primarily the SCs and STs. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a key figure in drafting the Indian Constitution, argued that mere legal equality was insufficient to eradicate deep-rooted caste-based inequalities. Therefore, reservations were incorporated to transition from legal to substantive equality, ensuring that marginalized communities have better access to education, employment, and political representation.
- Objective: The main aim was to create a level playing field and ensure that these communities could participate in social, economic, and political processes.
Issues with the Current System
- Uneven Distribution of Benefits: Although the reservation system has created opportunities for many, data and observations indicate that not all SC groups have benefited equally. Certain subgroups within the SC category have progressed more rapidly, while others remain disadvantaged.
- State-level Data: For example:
- Punjab: The policy of subdividing the SC quota has been in place since 1975 and has shown positive results. More disadvantaged groups, like the Mazhabi Sikhs and Balmikis, have caught up with other relatively better-off SC groups such as the Ad Dharmis and Ravidasis.
- Bihar: In contrast, the creation of a “Mahadalit” category in 2007 initially aimed to benefit the most marginalized SC groups but eventually lost its impact due to the inclusion of nearly all SC groups under political pressure, diluting its effectiveness.
- Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu: Data suggests a more balanced distribution of benefits across SC subgroups, indicating that further subdivision may not be necessary in these states.
The Debate on ‘Quota-within-Quota’
- Concept: The idea of subdividing the SC quota into smaller segments is to ensure that the most disadvantaged subgroups within the SC community receive proportionate benefits. This approach recognizes the heterogeneity within the SC category and aims to make affirmative action policies more targeted.
- Pros and Cons:
- Positive Example: In Punjab, where the subdivision has helped address intra-SC disparities.
- Cautionary Tale: Bihar’s Mahadalit policy highlights how political motivations can undermine the effectiveness of such policies when the criteria for subdivision are not strictly empirical.
- Challenges: The effectiveness of a quota-within-quota system depends on robust data to identify which subgroups are most in need. Without such data, policy changes may be based more on political expediency than on actual evidence.
Access to Reservations
- Caste Certificates: One of the key issues is ensuring that SC communities have access to reserved positions. The India Human Development Survey (IHDS) found that less than 50% of SC households in states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar reported having caste certificates, which are essential for accessing reserved benefits. This indicates that many eligible SC individuals are unable to take advantage of the system due to administrative barriers.
- Need for Comprehensive Data: The lack of detailed and up-to-date data on caste-based disparities hampers effective policy-making. The national Census, which could provide valuable data, has been delayed, resulting in a reliance on older and less comprehensive data.
Creamy Layer Exclusion for SCs
- Supreme Court’s Suggestion: The idea of excluding the “creamy layer” within the SC category, similar to the system in place for the Other Backward Classes (OBCs), has been suggested to ensure that benefits reach the most needy. However, this approach requires a solid evidence base and must take into account that improvements in economic status do not necessarily translate to reduced discrimination for historically stigmatized groups.
- Impact of Stigma: Economic mobility alone may not erase the social stigma attached to caste identity. Instances of overt and covert untouchability still persist, which means that even relatively affluent SC individuals may continue to face discrimination. Hence, excluding them from reservations solely based on income may be premature at this stage.
The Path Forward
- Improving Access: Before implementing a quota-within-quota system, it is essential to address the issue of access to reservations. Ensuring that all eligible SCs can obtain caste certificates and benefit from reservations is a critical first step.
- Robust Data Collection: Updated and comprehensive data on caste-based disparities are crucial for making informed policy decisions. The delayed national Census must be prioritized to gather accurate information on the socio-economic status of different caste groups.
- Balanced Approach: While the subdivision of quotas can be beneficial in certain contexts, it should be based on empirical evidence to avoid being misused for political purposes. Monetary benefits and reservations should be carefully targeted to reach those in genuine need.
Conclusion
- India’s reservation system has undoubtedly contributed to reducing poverty and improving the socio-economic status of marginalized groups.
- However, disparities within the SC category and challenges in accessing reservations point to the need for reforms.
- The idea of a quota-within-quota holds potential but must be approached with caution, backed by updated data and a focus on genuine need.
- Ensuring equitable access for all SCs and addressing broader inequalities between SCs and upper-caste groups remain essential for achieving true social justice.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q2. With reference to the debates on India’s reservation system, consider the following statements:
1. The idea of ‘quota-within-quota’ has been successfully implemented in all Indian states without any political challenges. 2. Punjab’s subdivision of the SC quota has demonstrated improved outcomes for historically marginalised subgroups. 3. The “creamy layer” concept currently applies to both Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and Scheduled Castes (SCs). Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A) 1 and 2 only |
Q. Consider the following organizations/bodies in India: (2023)
How many of the above constitutional bodies? (a) Only one Ans: (a)
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| Answer 2– B
Explanation – · Statement 1 is incorrect. The ‘quota-within-quota’ policy has not been uniformly successful across all Indian states. While it has shown positive results in states like Punjab, it has faced challenges and mixed outcomes in other states such as Bihar, where political factors diluted its effectiveness. · Statement 2 is correct. In Punjab, the subdivision of the SC quota has indeed shown positive outcomes, particularly for more disadvantaged groups like the Mazhabi Sikhs and Balmikis, allowing them to catch up to more advanced SC subgroups. · Statement 3 is incorrect. The “creamy layer” concept currently applies to Other Backward Classes (OBCs) but not to Scheduled Castes (SCs). Although there have been discussions about introducing it for SCs, it has not been implemented yet, and evidence suggests that economic mobility alone does not eliminate social discrimination for historically stigmatised groups. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
India, Algeria sign MoU on bilateral defence cooperation
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS 2- International Relations
Context: India Algeria MoU
Why in News
- India and Algeria concluded a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on bilateral Defence Cooperation.
Key Findings
- India and Algeria recently solidified their military and strategic ties through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on bilateral defence cooperation.
- This agreement was signed by India’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Anil Chauhan, and Algeria’s Chief of Staff of the People’s National Army.
- The signing of this MoU marks a significant advancement in the defence relationship between the two nations and underlines their commitment to strengthening military collaboration.
Context of the MoU
- The MoU signed between India and Algeria is part of a broader effort to enhance bilateral relations that have shown growth in areas such as trade, technology, education, and now, defence.
- This formal agreement sets the stage for long-term cooperation across multiple defence-related sectors.
- It serves as a foundation for future military partnerships and strategic collaboration aimed at mutual benefit and understanding.
- Key Points of General Anil Chauhan’s Visit
- Duration and Purpose: General Chauhan’s official visit to Algeria lasted from October 31 to November 3, 2024. This visit was significant because it demonstrated India’s commitment to broadening its defence and strategic relations with North African countries.
- Strategic Interactions: During his visit, General Chauhan interacted with various high-ranking officials, including the Director of the Higher War College. He also addressed senior officers of Algeria’s People’s National Army, where he highlighted the shared values and historical experiences that bond the two nations.
- Military Parade and Commemorative Events: The visit coincided with Algeria’s celebrations of the 70th anniversary of its revolution, a historic event marking the country’s independence from colonial rule. This participation showcased India’s recognition of Algeria’s national milestones and reflected respect for their historical struggles and victories.
Focus on Defence Cooperation and Mutual Benefits
The newly signed MoU is expected to promote cooperation that will involve:
- Enhanced Strategic Interests: By fostering an understanding of mutual defence and military capabilities, the agreement lays a framework for joint exercises, training, and sharing of best practices.
- Collaboration in Defence Production: General Chauhan highlighted India’s growing capability in defence manufacturing under initiatives like ‘Make in India’ and ‘Make for the World’. This suggests potential future collaborations where India may support Algeria in defence technology, production, and modernization.
- Experience Sharing: The CDS assured that Indian armed forces, which are undergoing various transformations, are willing to share experiences and knowledge with Algeria’s military. This aims at building capacity and strengthening the strategic bond.
Historical and Strategic Context
- The “core strategic outlook of a nation is shaped by its geography and historical experience,” reflecting on how both India and Algeria have navigated complex geopolitical landscapes and colonial legacies.
- India’s policy of supporting peaceful resolutions to global conflicts was reiterated, showcasing its approach of being a partner that values stability and peace.
Reopening Defence Ties
- A notable element of the CDS’s statements was the reopening of the Indian defence wing in Algeria and welcoming the reopening of Algeria’s defence wing in India.
- This reciprocal initiative signifies the revitalization of defence channels, enhancing information exchange and operational coordination between the two countries.
India as a Global Partner
- General Chauhan emphasized India’s role as a “Vishwa Bandhu” or a reliable global partner.
- This is aligned with India’s broader foreign policy that seeks to establish itself as a dependable nation willing to contribute to global peace and security.
Recent High-Level Diplomatic Engagements
- This defence agreement followed a visit by the President of India to Algeria, indicating strong political will from both sides to deepen bilateral ties.
- Such visits and agreements are part of India’s effort to expand its strategic presence in North Africa, contributing to stronger diplomatic, military, and strategic alliances.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ | ||||||||||
Q3. Match the countries with their respective Defence Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with India.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below: A) A-2, B-4, C-3, D-1 B) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4 C) A-4, B-1, C-2, D-3 D) A-3, B-2, C-4, D-1 |
Q. In which one of the following groups are all the four countries members of G20? (2020)
a) Argentina, Mexico, South Africa, and Turkey b) Australia, Canada, Malaysia, and New Zealand c) Brazil, Saudi Arabia, and Vietnam d) Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, and South Korea Answer: (a)
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| Answer 3- B
Explanation · A) Algeria (1): India and Algeria’s MoU includes cooperation in maritime security and anti-piracy efforts. · B) France (2): India’s MoU with France focuses on joint military exercises and technology transfer. · C) Australia (3): India and Australia have agreements for logistics support and reciprocal provision of supplies. · D) Russia (4): India and Russia’s MoU covers defence production and supplies of military hardware. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
Japan’s Onagawa nuclear reactor that restarted 13 years after Fukushima disaster shut again
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 2- International Relations
Context: Onagawa Nuclear Power Plant
Why in News
- The recent developments surrounding Japan’s nuclear energy sector highlight significant challenges and transitions in the wake of past nuclear disasters.
Recent Incident at Onagawa Nuclear Power Plant
- Background of the Reactor:
- The No. 2 reactor at the Onagawa nuclear power plant, located on Japan’s northern coast, successfully restarted operations on October 29, 2024, after being offline for over 13 years. This long hiatus was primarily due to safety inspections and upgrades following the catastrophic Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in March 2011, triggered by a massive earthquake and tsunami.
- The Onagawa plant had been impacted by a tsunami during the 2011 disaster but managed to maintain operational cooling systems, which allowed it to safely shut down its reactors without a meltdown.
- Equipment Problem:
- Just five days post-restart, the reactor was shut down again on November 4, 2024, due to a malfunction involving a neutron data measurement device. The operator, Tohoku Electric Power Co., reported that the reactor was functioning normally and that there was no radiation leak. However, the decision to shut it down was made as a precaution to address safety concerns among local residents.
- Tohoku Electric has not provided a timeline for when the reactor might restart, reflecting ongoing uncertainties in the operational stability of the plant.
Japan’s Nuclear Energy Context
- Impact of the Fukushima Disaster:
- The Fukushima disaster had far-reaching effects on Japan’s nuclear energy policy, leading to the shutdown of all 54 commercial nuclear reactors in the country for comprehensive safety evaluations. The incident resulted in the release of significant amounts of radiation, and safety protocols across the industry were reevaluated.
- As of the latest report, Onagawa No. 2 is the 13th reactor among the 33 that could potentially be restarted after the Fukushima disaster.
- Government Energy Policy:
- In 2023, the Japanese government adopted a strategy to increase the reliance on nuclear energy as part of a broader initiative to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. This push is aimed at securing a stable energy supply, particularly in the context of rising global energy demands and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- The government has faced criticism and public concern regarding its nuclear policy, especially following seismic events such as the 7.5 magnitude earthquake that struck Japan’s Noto Peninsula on January 1, 2024. This earthquake resulted in over 400 fatalities and highlighted deficiencies in evacuation plans for areas near nuclear facilities, raising alarms about the safety of nuclear power in the context of Japan’s seismic risks.
Safety Concerns and Public Sentiment
- Resident Safety Concerns:
- The quick shutdown of the Onagawa reactor reflects ongoing anxiety among the public regarding the safety of nuclear power. Although the utility company assured there was no radiation leak, the incident underscores the sensitivity of nuclear operations in a country with a history of catastrophic nuclear accidents.
- Continuous monitoring and proactive communication regarding safety measures are essential for rebuilding public trust in nuclear energy.
- Natural Disasters and Nuclear Risk:
- Japan is situated in a seismically active region, making its nuclear facilities vulnerable to earthquakes and tsunamis. The government’s renewed focus on nuclear energy must therefore contend with the inherent risks posed by natural disasters, necessitating robust safety measures and emergency preparedness plans.
Conclusion
- The situation surrounding the Onagawa nuclear power plant illustrates the complexities of Japan’s nuclear energy landscape, balancing the need for a stable and sustainable energy supply with the historical lessons learned from past nuclear disasters.
- The government’s commitment to nuclear energy is challenged by safety concerns, public sentiment, and the realities of Japan’s geological vulnerabilities.
- As Japan navigates this challenging terrain, the focus will remain on ensuring safety while striving to meet energy goals and commitments to climate change mitigation.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ | ||||||||||
Q4. Match the following nuclear power plants with their respective countries:
Options
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Q. India is an important member of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor’. If this experiment succeeds, what is the immediate advantage for India? (2016)
a) It can use thorium in place of uranium for power generation b) It can attain a global role in satellite navigation c) It can drastically improve the efficiency of its fission reactors in power generation d) It can build fusion reactors for power generation Ans: d
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| Answer 4-A
Explanation · The Onagawa Nuclear Power Plant is located on the northeastern coast of Honshu, Japan. It was one of the closest nuclear plants to the epicenter of the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake, which caused a massive tsunami. · Situated near the town of Pripyat in northern Ukraine, the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant is infamous for the catastrophic nuclear disaster that occurred on April 26, 1986. · Located on the southeast coast of England in Kent, United Kingdom, the Dungeness Nuclear Power Station consists of two plants, Dungeness A and Dungeness B. Dungeness A, which used Magnox reactors, ceased operations in 2006, while Dungeness B, using advanced gas-cooled reactors (AGRs), faced shutdown in 2021 after over 30 years of operation. · Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station is located in the United States. Located in the Arizona desert near Phoenix, United States, the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station is the largest nuclear power plant in the U.S. and the only major nuclear plant in the world not situated near a large body of water. Instead, it uses treated wastewater for cooling, making it an environmentally adaptive facility. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
India hosts maiden Asian Buddhist Summit
Source: Economic Times
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS1 – Art and Culture
Context: First Asian Buddhist Summit
Why in news
- India is hosting the First Asian Buddhist Summit on November 5-6, celebrating the rich heritage of Buddha Dhamma and its influence across Asia.
Overview
- The Asian Buddhist Summit (ABS), taking place in New Delhi on November 5-6, 2024, represents a significant international gathering aimed at promoting dialogue among Buddhist leaders, scholars, and practitioners from across Asia.
- Organized by India’s Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), the summit focuses on the theme, “Role of Buddha Dhamma in Strengthening Asia.”
Objectives of the Summit
- Fostering Dialogue: The summit aims to enhance understanding and collaboration among diverse Buddhist communities while addressing contemporary challenges that affect these communities.
- Addressing Modern Issues: Key discussions will revolve around cultural preservation, environmental sustainability, ethical dilemmas, and the relevance of Buddhist teachings in contemporary society.
- Promoting Cultural Exchange: The summit aligns with India’s Act East Policy and Neighborhood First Policy, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation and cultural exchange in strengthening ties among South and Southeast Asian nations.
- Key Highlights
- Inaugural Ceremony: The event will be attended by prominent leaders, including India’s President Droupadi Murmu, as the chief guest, highlighting the significance of the summit within India’s diplomatic agenda.
- Exhibition: Accompanying the summit will be an exhibition titled “India as the Dhamma Setu (Bridge) Connecting Asia,” showcasing India’s historical and cultural ties to Buddhism, including artifacts that reflect India’s influence on the spread of Buddhism across Asia, particularly through the contributions of Emperor Ashoka.
Historical Context
- Ashoka’s Influence: Ashoka, who ruled in the third century BCE, was instrumental in spreading Buddhism beyond India.
- His commitment to the Buddha’s teachings and the establishment of emissaries to regions like Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia helped establish Buddhism as a major cultural and spiritual influence across the Asian continent.
Expected Outcomes
- Promoting Sustainability and Well-Being: Sessions during the summit will explore Buddhism’s contributions to sustainability and mental well-being, reflecting a growing global interest in applying Buddhist practices to address modern societal needs.
- Strengthening Buddhist Cooperation: The summit aims to reinforce Buddhism as a unifying force across diverse regions by addressing common issues and promoting cultural heritage.
- Building a Compassionate Society: Organizers hope that the ABS will contribute to a more compassionate and sustainable world, encouraging dialogue and cultural exchange to foster connections among Buddhist communities.
Broader Implications
- Reinforcement of Buddhist Heritage: The summit underscores India’s commitment to promoting its rich Buddhist heritage, which is seen as vital for fostering peace, compassion, and environmental stewardship in today’s world.
- Global Relevance of Buddhist Teachings: The discussions at the summit are intended to demonstrate how Buddhist principles can be applied to contemporary global challenges, thus enhancing the relevance of Buddhist teachings in modern society.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q5. Which of the following statements about the Asian Buddhist Summit (ABS)?
Select the correct answer using the code below: A) 1 and 2 only
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Q. What is the purpose of Vidyanjali Yojana’?
Select the correct answer using the code given below: Ans: (b)
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| Answer 5- C
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct: The ABS is indeed organized by India’s Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC). · Statement 2 is correct: The theme of the summit is “Role of Buddha Dhamma in Strengthening Asia.” · Statement 3 is incorrect: The summit does address environmental concerns along with cultural preservation, aiming to tackle contemporary challenges. · Statement 4 is correct: The summit aligns with India’s Act East Policy and Neighborhood First Policy, emphasizing regional cooperation. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |