Current Affairs Reverse Engineering- CARE (17-10-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| Polity and Governance: “Samarth” (Scheme for Capacity Building in Textiles Sector) |
| Post Independence History: Indian Army lines up month-long commemorative events to mark 62 years of Battle of Walong |
| Disaster Management: What are swell waves? |
| Environment and Ecology: Greenwashing guidelines: How govt is tackling companies making dubious climate-friendly claims about products |
| Climate change impact harsher on poorer farmers in India: FAO report |
| International Relations: India opposes China’s Belt & Road Initiative at SCO Summit 2024 |
“Samarth” (Scheme for Capacity Building in Textiles Sector)
Source: PIB
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2065497
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 2 Polity and governance, GS 3– Economy
Context: Samarth Scheme
Why in News
- Government extends “Samarth” (Scheme for Capacity Building in Textiles Sector) till March 2026
Overview
- The Samarth Scheme, initiated by the Ministry of Textiles, is a demand-driven, placement-oriented skilling program aimed at enhancing the employability of individuals in textile-related sectors.
Key Objectives
- Job Creation: The scheme encourages the textile industry to create jobs in organized sectors like apparel, garmenting, handloom, handicraft, silk, and jute. However, it excludes the spinning and weaving segments.
- Training and Upskilling: Samarth focuses on providing both entry-level skills and upskilling or reskilling opportunities to existing workers.
- This helps improve productivity and efficiency, especially in the fast-evolving Apparel & Garmenting The scheme adapts training programs to meet the technological and market changes.
Key Objectives
- Extension and Budget
- The scheme has been extended for two additional years (FY 2024-25 and 2025-26) with a budget allocation of 495 crore, aiming to train 3 lakh individuals in textile-related skills.
Implementation
- The scheme is implemented through Implementing Partners (IPs), which include:
- Textile industry associations
- Central and state government agencies
- Sectoral organizations within the Ministry of Textiles, such as:
- Development Commissioner for Handloom and Handicrafts
- Central Wool Development Board
- Central Silk Board
Achievements So Far
- 27 lakh candidates have been trained under the scheme.
- Of these, 5% (approximately 2.6 lakh) have been successfully employed, reflecting the scheme’s effectiveness in creating jobs.
- There is a significant emphasis on women’s employment, with 89 lakh women (88.3% of total trainees) having been trained.
Special Focus on Traditional Sectors
- In addition to organized sectors, the Samarth Scheme also supports the upskilling and reskilling needs of workers in traditional textile industries, such as handloom, handicraft, silk, and jute, which are key contributors to the cultural and economic fabric of India.
Conclusion
- The Samarth Scheme is an important initiative to address skill gaps and enhance employability in the textile sector, particularly for women.
- It plays a crucial role in boosting productivity and ensuring the industry remains competitive in a rapidly changing market.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q1. Consider the following statements regarding the Samarth Scheme:
1. The Samarth Scheme aims to create jobs in both organized and unorganized sectors of the textile industry. 2. It provides training for skills in the entire value chain of textiles, including Spinning and Weaving. 3. The scheme places a strong emphasis on women’s employment. Which of the above statements is/are correct? A) 1 and 2 only |
Q. With reference to Power Sector in India, consider the following statements. (2002)
1. Rural electrification has been treated as a Basic Minimum Service under the Prime Minister’s Gramodaya Yojana. 2. 100% Foreign Direct Investment in power is allowed without upper limit. 3. The Union Ministry of Power has signed a Memorandum of understanding with 14 states. Which of these statement(s) is/are correct? (a) Only 1 (b) 1 and 2 (c) 2 and 3 (d) Only 3 Ans. (b) |
| Answer – 1-C
Explanation – · Statement 1: Incorrect. The Samarth Scheme focuses on job creation in organized sectors of the textile industry, excluding unorganized sectors. · Statement 2: Incorrect. The scheme excludes training for Spinning and Weaving sectors; it focuses on other parts of the textile value chain. · Statement 3: Correct. The scheme strongly emphasizes women’s employment, with around 88.3% of trainees being women.
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What are swell waves?
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS3- Disaster Management
Context: Swell waves
Why in News
- The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has issued extensive advisories for swell waves
What are Swell Waves?
- Swell waves are long-wavelength ocean waves that travel far distances from their origin, maintaining their energy over time and distance.
- They are generated primarily by windstorms or strong weather systems far out at sea. When powerful winds blow consistently over large areas of the ocean, they transfer energy from the air into the water, creating these waves.
- This energy transfer results in high-energy waves that can travel thousands of kilometers across the ocean without dissipating quickly, unlike waves caused by local winds.
Characteristics of Swell Waves
- Long Wavelength and High Energy:
- The defining characteristic of swell waves is their long wavelength (the distance between two consecutive wave crests). This makes them faster and more powerful.
- These long wavelengths are associated with longer wave periods (the time it takes for one full wave to pass a particular point). Longer wave periods mean the wave’s energy is less likely to be dissipated, enabling swells to retain their power over long distances.
- Wave Period and Speed:
- Swell waves have longer wave periods than locally generated sea waves. Because of their high energy and speed, they can maintain their momentum and travel without much loss of power.
- For example, if a wave period is 15 seconds, it indicates that a complete wave cycle takes 15 seconds to pass a fixed point. Such waves are usually stronger and can cause more significant coastal impacts.
- Swell Groups:
- Swell waves tend to organize themselves into groups of similar height and period. This phenomenon results in sets of waves that can hit the shore in cycles, leading to periodic surges.
- Directional Movement:
- Meteorologists track swell waves using directional readings (in degrees) to predict their point of origin and the direction in which they are traveling. This helps in forecasting the arrival of swells at specific coastal areas.
Swell Waves in India and Forecasting
- In India, INCOIS Hyderabad (Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services) monitors and provides swell surge forecasts to warn coastal populations.
- It launched a swell surge forecast system in February 2020.
- These waves are particularly significant for regions like the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, and parts of the Indian mainland such as the coasts of Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Maharashtra, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and union territories like Daman and Diu, and Puducherry.
Local Terminology: Kallakkadal Waves
- Swell waves are locally known as Kallakkadal waves in India, a term commonly used by Kerala fishermen to describe sudden, powerful waves that cause unexpected flooding along the coastline.
- This colloquial term has gained recognition and was recently approved for scientific use by UNESCO.
Difference Between Swell Waves and Tsunami Waves
- Cause:
- Kallakkadal waves (swell waves) are caused by meteorological conditions, such as windstorms or strong weather systems in the ocean.
- Tsunami waves, on the other hand, are generated by seismic activity like underwater earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or other tectonic movements.
- Nature and Impact:
- Swell waves often appear suddenly and can result in flash floods along the coast, inundating large areas of land. However, their impact is generally less catastrophic compared to tsunamis.
- Tsunamis are highly destructive and can cause severe coastal devastation due to their immense power and volume.
Meteorological Influence in the Southern Indian Ocean
- According to a 2016 study by INCOIS, meteorological conditions in the Southern Indian Ocean (including strong, long-duration surface winds) are ideal for generating long-period swells.
- These high waves in the Southern Indian Ocean can travel northward, leading to Kallakkadal events along the North Indian Ocean coastal regions (India, Sri Lanka, and other surrounding nations).
Advisories and Warnings
- INCOIS has issued advisories to halt beach activities in affected regions, particularly during times of heightened swell waves, to prevent accidents and coastal flooding.
- This comprehensive understanding of swell waves highlights their potential impact on coastal communities, the importance of accurate forecasting, and the need for public awareness to prevent loss and damage.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q2. Consider the following statements about swell waves:
1. Swell waves are typically generated by local winds near the shore. 2. Swell waves have long wavelengths and can travel long distances with minimal energy loss. 3. Kallakkadal waves, which are similar to tsunami waves, are caused by underwater earthquakes. Which of the above statements is/are correct? A) 1 and 3 only |
Q. Consider the following statements: (2022)
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 Ans: (d) |
| Answer 2– B
Explanation – · Statement 1 is Incorrect. Swell waves are not generated by local winds; they are created by windstorms or powerful weather systems far from the shore. · Statement 2 is Correct. Swell waves have long wavelengths and can travel long distances without losing much energy. · Statement 3 is Incorrect. Kallakkadal waves are not caused by earthquakes but are swell waves generated by meteorological conditions. Tsunamis are caused by tectonic activity like underwater earthquakes. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
Greenwashing Guidelines: How govt is tackling companies making dubious climate-friendly claims about products
Source: in the Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS 3- Ecology and Environment, Economy
Context: Greenwashing
Why in News
- The Indian government has introduced guidelines to prevent greenwashing, ensuring that companies provide scientific evidence for environmental claims made in advertisements to avoid misleading consumers.
Overview
- To address the growing issue of false and exaggerated environmental claims, the Centre has introduced new guidelines aimed at curbing greenwashing by companies.
- These guidelines, issued by the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, ensure that companies back up their environmental claims with scientific evidence.
What is Greenwashing?
- Greenwashing refers to the practice where companies, organizations, or even countries make misleading or exaggerated claims about their activities, products, or services being environmentally friendly.
- As climate consciousness grows, many companies are under pressure to demonstrate their commitment to the environment.
- Greenwashing occurs when these companies falsely portray themselves as eco-friendly to appeal to consumers, but the claims are dubious or not supported by facts.
Example of Greenwashing:
- A major example of greenwashing was the 2015 Volkswagen scandal, where the company was caught manipulating emissions data to falsely claim its diesel vehicles were environmentally friendly.
- Several other corporations like Shell, BP, and Coca Cola have also faced accusations of greenwashing.
The CCPA’s Guidelines on Greenwashing
- The CCPA has introduced the Guidelines for Prevention and Regulation of Greenwashing or Misleading Environmental Claims, which specifically target misleading advertisements.
- The goal is to protect consumers from being misled by companies that make deceptive environmental claims about their products or services.
- The guidelines complement the existing 2022 Guidelines for Prevention of Misleading Advertisements, which deal with general false claims in advertisements.
Key Features of the Guidelines:
- Scientific Evidence Requirement:
Companies must substantiate environmental claims with credible scientific evidence or certification. - Vague claims like “eco-friendly” or “green” can only be used if supported by adequate and accurate qualifiers.
- Misleading Terminology:
Terms such as “clean,” “green,” “sustainable,” and “carbon-neutral” must be backed by scientific proof. Claims like “compostable,” “degradable,” or “plastic-free” require verification from reliable third-party certification. - Explanations in Consumer-Friendly Language:
When technical terms such as “environmental impact assessment” or “greenhouse gas emissions” are used, companies are mandated to explain their implications in simple, consumer-friendly language. - Avoiding Puffery:
While exaggeration and “puffery” in advertisements are allowed to an extent (such as statements about growth being based on sustainable principles), outright deceptive claims, such as declaring that all products are sustainably made, will be scrutinized for greenwashing.
How Do These Guidelines Help?
- These guidelines are designed to create transparency, ensuring that companies are held accountable for their environmental claims.
- By enforcing scientific validation, the guidelines will help curb greenwashing and protect consumers from being misled.
Global Concerns About Greenwashing
- Greenwashing has become a widespread issue across the globe.
- Even countries have been accused of it, such as when they exaggerate the carbon-absorbing capabilities of their forests. International mechanisms, like carbon trading and carbon offset practices, have also been scrutinized for greenwashing.
- For example, offsetting carbon emissions from air travel by planting trees can be problematic if not scientifically backed.
- The United Nations has also called for a zero-tolerance policy on greenwashing.
- A high-level expert group recommended that corporations should be barred from making new investments in fossil fuels and should present clear, short-term emission reduction goals.
Importance of These Guidelines
- These guidelines serve as a crucial step in regulating deceptive environmental claims and promoting genuine sustainability.
- As the global fight against climate change intensifies, ensuring that companies and governments adhere to their commitments truthfully becomes increasingly important.
- Greenwashing not only misleads consumers but also undermines the efforts to combat environmental degradation.
- The government’s initiative to crack down on greenwashing through these guidelines marks a significant move toward fostering genuine environmental responsibility among businesses.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q3. Consider the following statements regarding the Guidelines for Prevention and Regulation of Greenwashing or Misleading Environment Claims:
1. The guidelines were issued by the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences. 2. These guidelines mandate that companies substantiate environmental claims with reliable scientific evidence. 3. Use of generic terms like “eco-friendly” or “sustainable” is allowed only if supported by credible certification and disclosure. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A) 1 and 2 only |
Q. Which one of the following best describes the term “greenwashing:”? (2022)
(a) Conveying a false impression that a company’s products are eco-friendly and environmentally sound (b) Non-Inclusion of ecological/ environmental costs in the Annual Financial Statements of a country (c) Ignoring the disastrous ecological consequences while undertaking infrastructure development (d) Making mandatory provisions for environmental costs in a government project/programme Ans: (a)
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| Answer 3-B
Explanation · Statement 1 is incorrect: The guidelines were issued by the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), but under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, not the Ministry of Earth Sciences. · Statement 2 is correct: The guidelines mandate that companies substantiate environmental claims with reliable scientific evidence. · Statement 3 is correct: The use of terms like “eco-friendly” or “sustainable” is allowed only if the company provides credible certification and appropriate disclosure. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
Climate change impact harsher on poorer farmers in India: FAO report
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3-Envrionment and Ecology
Context: The unjust climate. Measuring the impacts of climate change on rural poor, women, and youth Report
Why in News
- The recent report from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) titled “The unjust climate. Measuring the impacts of climate change on rural poor, women, and youth” highlights the severe economic impacts of climate change on poor households globally, with a specific focus on India.
FAO Report
- The report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), titled “The unjust climate. Measuring the impacts of climate change on rural poor, women, and youth,” presents a comprehensive analysis of the economic consequences of climate change on vulnerable populations globally, with a specific emphasis on rural households in India.
Key Findings of the FAO Report
- Income Loss Due to Climate Stress:
- Poor households globally lose 5% of their total income annually due to heat stress and 4.4% due to floods. This impact is significantly more pronounced compared to wealthier households, underscoring the disproportionate burden of climate change on the economically disadvantaged.
- Impact on Indian Rural Poor:
- The report indicates that climate change negatively affects the on-farm income sources of rural poor in India. Households facing climate stressors such as droughts are forced to invest more time and resources in agriculture, as opportunities for off-farm employment diminish. This leads to a reduction in total incomes when compared to households that do not face such climate stressors.
- Structural Inequalities:
- The vulnerability of poor households to climate stressors is rooted in structural inequalities, which encompass socio-economic factors that limit their adaptive capacities. The report emphasizes the need for targeted policy measures to address these disparities.
Recommendations for Policy Measures
- Social Protection Programs:
- The report advocates for expanding the social security net and implementing anticipatory social protection programs. By providing livelihood support before extreme weather events occur, the government can mitigate the reliance on negative coping strategies that push families deeper into poverty.
- Workforce Diversification and Employment Opportunities:
- There is a call for improving workforce diversification and enhancing off-farm employment opportunities for rural households. This includes mentorship programs to develop socio-emotional skills, crucial for effective participation in the modern workforce.
- Addressing Gender Barriers:
- The report stresses the importance of tackling gendered barriers in non-farm employment. It suggests using gender-transformative methodologies that challenge discriminatory norms, thereby empowering women to make economic decisions that affect their livelihoods.
- Economic Disparities Due to Climate Events:
- Floods and heat stress not only affect income but also exacerbate economic disparities. For instance, floods widen the income gap between poor and non-poor households by approximately $21 billion annually, while heat stress adds over $20 billion to this divide.
- Climate-Sensitive Agriculture:
- The report outlines how long-term temperature rises increase dependency on climate-sensitive agriculture, particularly among poor households. A 1°C increase in average long-term temperatures can lead to a 53% increase in farm incomes for poor households but also results in a 33% decrease in their off-farm incomes.
Response from Indian Authorities
NITI Aayog’s Reaction:
- The implementation of the National Innovations on Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA), which aids farmers in adapting to climate variability.
- The establishment of a contingency plan for all agricultural districts.
- India being the first country to implement an employment guarantee scheme as a social safety net.
- During the pandemic, the government provided 10 kilograms of free food grains to two-thirds of the population, showcasing a commitment to addressing food security.
Critique of the FAO Report:
- Scientists suggested that the FAO report could have acknowledged these efforts and considered them in its assessment. He indicated a willingness to explore the report’s policy suggestions for potential incorporation into India’s climate strategy.
Conclusion
- The FAO report underscores the urgent need to address the impacts of climate change on vulnerable populations, particularly in rural areas of India.
- By implementing effective social protection programs, enhancing employment opportunities, and addressing gender disparities, policymakers can better equip these households to cope with climate stress.
- Moreover, recognizing the existing efforts by the Indian government in fostering climate-resilient agriculture is crucial for a holistic approach to tackling climate change and its multifaceted impacts on society.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q4. Which of the following statements is true regarding the FAO report titled “The unjust climate. Measuring the impacts of climate change on rural poor, women, and youth”?
A) The report indicates that wealthier households lose a greater percentage of their total income due to climate stressors than poorer households. B) The report states that poor households globally lose an average of 5% of their total income due to heat stress. C) According to the report, climate change has no significant impact on the agricultural productivity of rural households. D) The report does not mention the need for expanding social security nets for vulnerable populations. |
Q. In the context of India’s preparation for Climate-Smart Agriculture, consider the following statements: (2021)
Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (d) |
| Answer 4 – B
Explanation · Statement 1 is Incorrect. The report highlights that poorer households experience more significant losses in income compared to wealthier households due to climate stressors. Specifically, it mentions that poor households lose 5% of their total income due to heat stress and 4.4% due to floods. · Statement 2 is Correct. The FAO report explicitly states that poor households experience an average income loss of 5% due to heat stress. This underscores the financial vulnerability of poor households in the face of climate change. · Statement 3 is Incorrect. The report discusses how climate change significantly impacts agricultural productivity, estimating that food grain production may decline by up to 47% by 2080. This indicates that climate change is a critical factor affecting agricultural productivity. · Statement 4 is Incorrect. The report emphasizes the need for expanding social security nets to support vulnerable populations affected by climate stressors, advocating for policy measures to enhance social protection. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
Indian Army lines up month-long commemorative events to mark 62 years of Battle of Walong
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 1- Post Independence History
Context: 62nd anniversary of the Battle of Walong
Why in news
- Indian army is planning commemorative events to mark the 62nd anniversary of the Battle of Walong, a significant conflict during the 1962 India-China war.
Background of the Battle of Walong
- Historical Context: The Battle of Walong occurred during the 1962 Sino-Indian War, particularly in October 1962. Chinese forces advanced into Arunachal Pradesh, specifically targeting the easternmost areas.
- Defense Strategy: The defense of Walong was entrusted to the 11 Infantry Brigade of the Indian Army, which was significantly outnumbered by Chinese forces. The Indian troops, consisting of approximately 800 soldiers from various regiments, faced an onslaught of over 4,000 Chinese soldiers.
- Bravery and Resistance: Despite their disadvantages in numbers, ammunition, and resources, Indian soldiers held their positions for 27 days. This determination forced the Chinese to deploy additional reinforcements, demonstrating the effectiveness of the Indian defense under extreme conditions.
- Terrain Challenges: The battles were fought in a difficult terrain at altitudes between 3,000 to 14,000 feet, complicating logistics and operations. The area was entirely air-maintained, lacking road links to the rest of India, which further intensified the challenges faced by the troops.
Prelude to the Battle
- Chinese Incursion: In October 1962, China launched an offensive into Indian territory in Arunachal Pradesh, with particular focus on the eastern sector, which included the Walong area.
- Indian Defensive Strategy: The 11 Infantry Brigade of the Indian Army, under the Second Infantry Division, was tasked with defending this strategically vital region. The brigade was comprised of several regiments, including the 6 Kumaon Regiment, 4 Sikh Regiment, 3 Gorkha Rifles, and others.
Key Events of the Battle
- Initial Conflict: The conflict began on October 20, 1962, when Chinese forces attacked Indian positions at Walong, which was crucial for its road connections and logistics.
- Outnumbered Forces: Indian troops were significantly outnumbered, with approximately 800 soldiers facing over 4,000 Chinese troops. The Indian soldiers were fighting on home turf but lacked adequate supplies, ammunition, and reinforcements.
- Heroic Resistance: Despite being vastly outnumbered, the Indian Army put up a fierce defense for 27 days. Soldiers fought in difficult terrain at altitudes ranging from 3,000 to 14,000 feet, enduring harsh weather conditions.
- Chinese Reinforcements: The initial Indian resistance forced the Chinese to commit additional troops, bringing in a force of around 15,000 soldiers to breach Indian defenses.
Strategic Importance
- Terrain Challenges: The Walong area was rugged and lacked direct road access to the rest of India, making logistics and supply lines extremely challenging. The region was entirely dependent on air support, complicating the defense efforts.
- Significant Delays: The prolonged resistance by Indian forces delayed the Chinese advance, allowing India to reassess its military strategy and response in the region.
Aftermath and Consequences
- Impact on Military Doctrine: The battle highlighted the need for better preparation, training, and logistics for the Indian Army in high-altitude warfare. Lessons learned influenced subsequent military strategies and policies.
- National Pride and Gallantry: The bravery displayed by Indian soldiers during the battle became a symbol of national pride. The battle was commemorated for the courage and sacrifice of the troops, with Time magazine famously stating, “The only thing they did not lack was guts.”
- Wider Conflict Outcome: The Sino-Indian War concluded with a ceasefire on November 21, 1962, but the territorial disputes remained unresolved, leading to continued tensions between the two nations.
- Post-war Developments: The war influenced India’s military posture and defense policy, leading to increased military spending and modernization efforts in subsequent years.
Commemoration
- Walong War Memorial: To honor the sacrifices of those who fought in the battle, a memorial has been established in Walong. It serves as a tribute to the valor of Indian soldiers and is a site for commemorative events, particularly around the anniversary of the battle.
Commemoration Events
- Month-long Activities: The Army has organized a series of commemorative events starting from October 17 and running until November 14, 2024, to honor the bravery of the soldiers who fought in the battle.
- Renovated War Memorial: The Walong War Memorial and Shaurya Sthal at Lama Spur are set to be inaugurated as part of the commemoration. These sites serve as a tribute to the sacrifices made by the soldiers during the battle.
- Community Engagement: Activities planned include white water rafting, motorcycle rallies, bicycle rallies, battlefield treks, adventure treks, and a half marathon. These events aim to engage local communities while reflecting the adventurous spirit of the Indian Army.
- Cultural Celebrations: The culmination of the commemoration will take place on Walong Day, November 14, which will feature a wreath-laying ceremony, a narrative of the battle, and cultural performances by local dancers, enriching the event with regional cultural essence.
Legacy and Current Context
- Gallantry Narrative: The Battle of Walong is portrayed as a narrative of gallantry, honoring those who sacrificed their lives for the nation. The article highlights the importance of remembering such historical events and the valor of soldiers.
- Improved Infrastructure: Sixty-two years after the battle, the situation has changed significantly, with enhanced infrastructure and an increase in the Indian Army’s manpower and firepower in the region. This reflects a broader strategy of military readiness and defense in the face of potential threats.
- Attention to Forgotten War: The anniversary also draws attention to the historical context of the war in China, where the conflict is sometimes described as a ‘forgotten war.’ This aspect underscores the complex nature of the India-China relationship and the need for historical remembrance on both sides.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q5 Consider the following statements regarding the Battle of Walong:
Assertion (A): The Indian Army successfully delayed the Chinese advance during the 1962 Sino-Indian War at the Battle of Walong. Reason (R): The Indian forces, though heavily outnumbered, fought in difficult terrain and managed to hold their positions for 27 days, forcing the Chinese to commit additional reinforcements. Choose the correct option: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A. (b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A. (c) A is true, but R is false. (d) A is false, but R is true.
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Q. The Radcliffe Committe was appointed to (2013)
(a) solve the problem of minorities in India (b) give effect to the Independence Bill (c) delimit the boundaries between India and Pakistan (d) enquire into the riots in East Bengal Ans. (c)
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| Answer 5 – A
Explanation · Assertion (A) is correct: The Indian Army’s brave resistance at Walong indeed delayed the Chinese advance, a key aspect of the battle’s significance. · Reason (R) is correct: Despite being outnumbered and facing difficult terrain, Indian soldiers managed to hold their positions for 27 days, which compelled the Chinese forces to bring in additional troops. · R is the correct explanation of A because the reason provided explains why the Indian Army was able to delay the Chinese advance. |
India opposes China’s Belt & Road Initiative, in SCO Summit 2024
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2-International Relations
Context: SCO Summit, 2024
Why in news
- India once again refused to endorse China’s ambitious ‘One Belt One Road’ initiative, becoming the only country in the SCO to not support the controversial connectivity project.
Overview of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)
- The SCO is a regional intergovernmental organization founded in 2001, comprising eight member states: China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
- The organization focuses on political, economic, and military cooperation, with an emphasis on regional security and stability.
The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
- Introduction to BRI: Launched by China in 2013, the BRI aims to enhance global trade and stimulate economic growth across Asia and beyond by building infrastructure and broadening trade links. The initiative involves significant investment in infrastructure projects, such as roads, railways, ports, and energy pipelines.
- CPEC as a Key Component: A significant part of the BRI is the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which involves massive investments in infrastructure within Pakistan, including roads, railways, and energy projects. However, CPEC passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), a region that India claims as its own, making it a point of contention.
India’s Opposition to the BRI
- Consistent Stance: India has consistently opposed the BRI, particularly the CPEC.
- At the SCO summit, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reiterated India’s position, emphasizing the importance of sovereignty and territorial integrity. India argues that infrastructure projects must not violate these principles, which it claims the CPEC does by traversing territory that India considers part of its own.
- Concerns Over Sovereignty and Debt: India’s resistance also stems from concerns about the implications of BRI projects on national sovereignty. The infrastructure projects funded by China often come with significant debt, raising fears among many countries about potential economic dependency on China. Jaishankar hinted at these concerns, emphasizing the need for collaborative connectivity that respects national interests and sovereignty.
Pakistan’s Advocacy for the BRI
- Sharif’s Address at the SCO: In contrast, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urged member states to view projects like the BRI and CPEC from a broader perspective.
- He called for strengthening regional connectivity to promote socio-economic progress.
- Sharif’s remarks reflect Pakistan’s strategic partnership with China and its commitment to enhancing regional integration through the BRI.
- Afghanistan’s Role: Sharif also highlighted Afghanistan’s potential as a trade hub, urging the Taliban government to ensure that Afghan territory is not used for terrorism. This call reflects the broader security concerns among SCO members regarding terrorism and instability in the region.
India’s Isolation at the SCO Summit
- Stand Alone Against the BRI: India’s firm opposition to the BRI positioned it as the only SCO member state not supporting the initiative.
- The other member states, including Russia, Belarus, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, expressed support for the BRI in the summit’s joint communique.
- This illustrates a growing geopolitical divide, with India standing apart from its neighbors in a significant regional forum.
- Implications for Regional Geopolitics: India’s dissent at the SCO highlights the complexities of regional geopolitics, particularly in light of its strained relations with China.
- The growing influence of China in the region through initiatives like the BRI poses challenges for India, which must navigate its own strategic interests while addressing regional dynamics.
Broader Global Issues Addressed by Sharif
- Crisis in Gaza: Beyond regional connectivity, Sharif also addressed the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, condemning Israeli attacks and advocating for an immediate ceasefire. His remarks resonate with concerns among SCO members regarding broader global issues and highlight the organization’s potential as a platform for addressing multifaceted challenges.
- Call for International Support: Sharif urged the international community to support the establishment of a Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders, reflecting a commitment to addressing humanitarian issues that resonate with many nations in the SCO.
Conclusion
- The SCO summit illustrated the intricate web of regional politics, particularly in the context of India-China relations and Pakistan’s strategic alignment with China.
- India’s steadfast opposition to the BRI, particularly the CPEC, underscores its commitment to maintaining territorial integrity and sovereignty.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q6 Consider the following statements regarding the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the recent SCO summit:
Which of the above statements is/are true? A) 1 and 2 only |
Q. The term ‘Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership’ often appears in the news in the context of the affairs of a group of countries known as (2016)
a. G20 b. ASEAN c. SCO d. SAARC Ans: b
|
| Answer 6 – B
Explanation · Statement 1 is False. India has consistently opposed the BRI, particularly the CPEC, due to sovereignty concerns. · Statement 2 is True. India’s opposition to the BRI is based on concerns regarding sovereignty and territorial integrity, especially regarding the CPEC. · Statement 3 is False. India did not express support for the BRI; it was the only SCO member state not to endorse the initiative. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |