Current Affairs Reverse Engineering- CARE (20-11-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| International Relations: Defence to space, India & Italy announce 5-year action plan |
| International Men’s Day: Why it is on November 19 |
| Awards and Honour: Daniel Barenboim and Ali Abu Awwad presented Indira Gandhi Peace Prize |
| Economy: U.N. report lauds India’s gender budgeting initiatives |
| Science and Technology: Army, Navy, Air Force conduct joint exercise in Arunachal Pradesh |
| Polity and Governance: Government allows self-survey for Phase 2 of PM Awas Yojana |
Defence to space, India & Italy announce 5-year action plan
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2 International Relations:
Context: India-Italy Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-29
Why in News
The India-Italy Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-29 outlines a roadmap for enhancing collaboration in key sectors such as defence, trade, energy, space, and technology over the next five years.
Overview
- The announcement of the India-Italy Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-29 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni marks an important milestone in strengthening the bilateral relationship between the two countries.
- This plan, revealed on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, sets the stage for deeper cooperation in multiple key sectors.
Defence
- Joint Defence Consultative Meetings and Joint Staff Talks: India and Italy will hold regular meetings and discussions to coordinate military activities, information sharing, and joint training exercises. This would enhance both nations’ military interoperability and build mutual trust.
- Growing Interest in the Indo-Pacific Region: Italy has expressed increasing interest in the Indo-Pacific region, and both countries aim to increase their cooperation in this critical and strategic area. This includes enhancing their naval capabilities and ensuring regional security in the face of geopolitical challenges.
- Public-Private Stakeholder Engagements: Both countries seek to expand collaboration between the public and private sectors, focusing on joint ventures in advanced defence technologies, and fostering innovation in military research and development.
Economic Cooperation
- Industrial Partnerships and Mutual Investments: The action plan seeks to foster greater industrial collaboration in various sectors, including automotive, semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, and infrastructure. These sectors will be central to economic development, with both countries looking to increase investment in each other’s markets.
- Technological Centres: Both countries are looking to set up technology centres to further develop and share innovations, particularly in high-tech areas that drive economic growth.
Connectivity
- Infrastructure Cooperation: There is a particular focus on enhancing collaboration in maritime and land infrastructure development. One important project is the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, which aims to connect India with Europe and the Middle East through advanced logistics, transport networks, and infrastructure. Italy’s expertise in infrastructure is seen as crucial in driving forward this multi-regional initiative.
Science & Innovation
- Critical Technologies: India and Italy are committed to expanding their cooperation in critical and emerging technologies. This includes sectors such as telecom, artificial intelligence (AI), and digitalization of services. Both countries aim to forge strategic partnerships in technology value chains, which will include joint research and development (R&D) activities.
- Technology Sharing: Italy and India plan to collaborate on developing cutting-edge technologies, ensuring mutual access to innovations that can be scaled up across both nations.
Space
- Collaboration between ISRO and the Italian Space Agency: The two countries aim to deepen their cooperation in space exploration, particularly in areas like Earth observation, heliophysics (the study of the Sun), and lunar science. The collaboration will likely include joint space missions and projects aimed at advancing scientific research and technological advancements in space.
- Shared Space Projects: Italy’s contribution could include advanced technology in satellite development, Earth observation systems, and possibly joint lunar missions with India’s space agency, ISRO.
Migration and Mobility
- Legal Migration Channels: One of the key aspects of the action plan is improving migration management. India and Italy will work together to promote legal migration channels, making it easier for people to migrate for work and study while ensuring protection and rights.
- Fair Labour Training and Recruitment: To streamline migration, the two countries will develop fair and transparent labour training programs. A pilot project will focus on training health professionals in India and offering them opportunities for employment in Italy, addressing both countries’ need for skilled healthcare workers.
Energy Transition
- Biofuels and Solar Energy: India and Italy are committed to strengthening the Global Biofuels Alliance and the International Solar Alliance (ISA). The ISA, which India initiated, aims to promote solar energy development globally, and Italy’s participation will boost international collaboration on clean energy technologies.
- Sustainable Energy Transition: The action plan envisions collaboration in advancing renewable energy solutions, including solar power and biofuels, and exploring how both countries can help each other transition to greener energy solutions as part of global efforts to combat climate change.
Cultural and Educational Ties
- In addition to the above strategic priorities, the two leaders emphasized the importance of cultural and educational cooperation.
- The collaboration will focus on expanding people-to-people ties through academic exchanges, cultural programs, and other initiatives that foster mutual understanding.
Conclusion
- The India-Italy Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-29 sets an ambitious vision for both countries to cooperate in a variety of fields, from defence and space exploration to economic partnerships and energy transition.
- The plan aims to deepen bilateral ties, enhance mutual prosperity, and contribute to regional and global stability.
- By focusing on emerging technologies, infrastructure, and people-centric policies like migration and education, this collaboration has the potential to significantly transform the relationship between India and Italy in the coming years.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q1. The India-Italy Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-29 aims to strengthen bilateral ties in various sectors. Which of the following areas are emphasized in this plan?
1. Defence and Security 2. Space Exploration 3. Migration and Mobility 4. Agricultural Subsidies 5. Economic Cooperation in Advanced Manufacturing Select the correct answer using the code given below: a) 1, 2, 3, and 5 |
Q. Consider the following statements 2022
Which of the statements given above are correct? A 2 and 4 only B 3 and 5 only C 1, 3 and 4 only D 1 and 2 only Ans: C
|
| Answer – 1 – A
Explanation – · The India-Italy Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-29 covers multiple sectors, with an emphasis on the following: o Defence and Security (Option 1): The plan focuses on strengthening defence cooperation between India and Italy, including holding Joint Defence Consultative meetings and enhancing military interoperability, security dialogues, and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. o Space Exploration (Option 2): The plan includes expanding cooperation between India’s ISRO and Italy’s space agency, particularly in areas such as Earth observation, heliophysics, and lunar science. o Migration and Mobility (Option 3): The plan addresses migration, aiming to promote legal migration channels and fair labour recruitment processes, with a pilot program for the training and employment of health professionals in Italy. o Economic Cooperation in Advanced Manufacturing (Option 5): The plan emphasizes collaboration in industrial partnerships, technological centres, and advanced manufacturing sectors, including industries like automotive, semiconductors, and infrastructure. o Agricultural Subsidies (Option 4): There is no mention of agricultural subsidies in the action plan. While agriculture may be impacted by economic cooperation in infrastructure and technology, the plan does not specifically focus on agricultural subsidies. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
International Men’s Day: Why it is on November 19
Source: Indian Ecpress
UPSC Relevance: GS2 International Relations:
Context: International Men’s Day (IMD)
Why in News
International Men’s Day, celebrated on November 19, highlights men’s contributions and well-being, addressing societal challenges like mental health, loneliness, and gender expectations.
Overview
- International Men’s Day (IMD) is celebrated annually on November 19 to recognize the positive contributions men bring to society, families, and communities.
- It also aims to raise awareness about issues affecting men and boys, such as mental health, suicide rates, and societal pressures.
Key Objectives of IMD
According to the official IMD website, the day focuses on:
- Celebrating positive male role models.
- Raising awareness about men’s mental and physical health.
- Promoting gender equality by recognizing the challenges faced by men and boys.
- Encouraging responsible role modeling for younger generations.
The theme for 2024 is “Positive Male Role Models”, following themes such as “Zero Male Suicide” (2023) and “Helping Men and Boys” (2022).
The Establishment of IMD
IMD was officially inaugurated on November 19, 1999, by Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh, a history lecturer at the University of the West Indies, Trinidad and Tobago.
Why November 19?
- It coincides with Teelucksingh’s father’s birthday, who he saw as a model of responsible fatherhood.
- It commemorates November 19, 1989, when Trinidad and Tobago’s football team achieved a unifying victory, crossing ethnic, religious, and gender divisions.
Efforts to establish a Men’s Day began as early as the 1960s, with attempts made to fix February 23 as the date. However, these efforts lacked global traction. Events organized by Thomas Oaster in the 1990s also dwindled, except in Malta. Teelucksingh’s initiative reinvigorated the movement, gaining international support.
Uma Challa: The Indian Woman Behind IMD’s Popularity
Indian men’s rights activist Uma Challa played a pivotal role in popularizing International Men’s Day, particularly in India.
- Founder of Save the Indian Family Foundation (SIFF): A Bengaluru-based nonprofit advocating for men’s rights.
- Pioneering Role in India: In 2007, she single-handedly championed IMD celebrations, drawing global attention to the event.
- Focus of Activism: Challa campaigned against what she saw as gender-biased laws in India, including those related to dowry harassment.
Her efforts have led to IMD celebrations in India becoming the largest in the world, according to the IMD website.
Why is Men’s Day Less Popular than Women’s Day?
Several factors explain the disparity between the observance of Men’s Day and Women’s Day:
- Everyday Perceived as “Men’s Day”
- Critics argue that in patriarchal societies, men already dominate power structures and public spaces.
- Days like Women’s Day are seen as necessary to highlight the struggles of historically marginalized groups.
- Misuse and Misrepresentation
- Discussions around men’s rights sometimes devolve into anti-feminist rhetoric, distracting from genuine issues.
- This has led to skepticism about whether Men’s Day is constructive or a platform for grievance.
- Societal Expectations on Men
- Men are often expected to be stoic, financially successful, and emotionally reserved, which can contribute to issues like loneliness and mental health struggles.
- These challenges, while real, are less frequently discussed compared to women’s issues, limiting visibility.
Challenges Faced by Men
Men face significant societal challenges, many of which stem from traditional gender roles and systemic issues.
- Mental Health:
Men account for a higher percentage of suicide cases globally, partly due to stigma around seeking help.- Example: In India, 72% of suicide victims are men.
- Health Issues:
Men are at greater risk for conditions like heart disease. - Loneliness and Isolation:
Research highlights a growing “epidemic of loneliness” among men, exacerbated by societal expectations to conform to the “alpha male” archetype. - Educational Disparities:
In India, girls often outperform boys in board examinations, indicating gaps in male academic performance and support.
The Importance of IMD
Feminists and gender activists argue that:
- Addressing Men’s Issues Benefits Society:
- Men’s mental health and happiness contribute to safer and healthier communities for everyone, including women and non-binary individuals.
- Challenging Patriarchy Benefits Men:
- Patriarchal structures impose unrealistic burdens on men, harming their well-being.
- Focus on Constructive Conversations:
- IMD is valuable if it raises awareness about men’s unique challenges without undermining women’s struggles.
Conclusion
While IMD may not yet rival Women’s Day in scale, its increasing recognition reflects a growing acknowledgment of the complex issues men face in patriarchal societies. Advocating for men’s well-being through events like IMD can foster healthier discussions around gender equality, benefiting all genders.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q2 Consider the following statements regarding International Men’s Day (IMD):
1. It was officially inaugurated on November 19, 1999, by Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh in Trinidad and Tobago. 2. The 2024 theme for IMD is “Positive Male Role Models.” 3. Uma Challa, an Indian men’s rights activist, played a significant role in popularizing IMD globally. 4. IMD is a United Nations-recognized event, celebrated worldwide to promote men’s rights. Which of the above statements are correct? |
Q. As per India’s National Population Policy, 2000, by which one of the following years is it our long-term objective to achieve population stabilization? (2008)
(a) 2025 (b) 2035 (c) 2045 (d) 2055 Ans: (c)
|
| Answer 2– A
Explanation – · Statement 1: Correct Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh officially inaugurated International Men’s Day on November 19, 1999, in Trinidad and Tobago, aiming to celebrate men’s contributions and promote positive role models. · Statement 2: Correct The theme for 2024 is “Positive Male Role Models”, aligning with the event’s focus on showcasing men who positively impact their families and communities. · Statement 3: Correct Uma Challa, an Indian men’s rights activist, significantly popularized IMD, particularly in India, starting in 2007, making India’s celebration of IMD one of the largest globally. · Statement 4: Incorrect IMD is not recognized by the United Nations (UN). It is an independently celebrated event initiated by activists and organizations across the globe. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
Daniel Barenboim and Ali Abu Awwad presented Indira Gandhi Peace Prize
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS1 Awards and Functions
Context: The Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament, and Development for 2023
Why in News
The Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament, and Development for 2023 was presented to classical pianist and conductor Daniel Barenboim and Palestinian peace activist Ali Abu Awwad.
Overview
The Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament, and Development is an annual award that recognizes individuals or organizations for their outstanding contributions toward fostering peace, promoting disarmament, and enabling sustainable development. For 2023, the award was jointly presented to:
- Daniel Barenboim, a world-renowned classical pianist and conductor, for using music and cultural dialogue to build bridges and foster understanding across political and cultural divides.
- Ali Abu Awwad, a Palestinian peace activist, for advocating non-violence and dialogue through his organization Roots, aimed at reconciling the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Why They Were Recognized
Daniel Barenboim
- He is widely celebrated for using the universal language of music to transcend cultural and political barriers.
- Barenboim co-founded the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra, which brings together musicians from Israel, Palestine, and other Arab countries, showcasing how art can unify divided communities.
- His work underscores the role of cultural dialogue in achieving peace and fostering mutual understanding in conflict zones.
Ali Abu Awwad
- A Palestinian activist, Awwad has devoted his life to promoting non-violence as a path to Palestinian resistance.
- Through his organization Roots, which he founded after a personal tragedy and time in an Israeli jail, he advocates for dialogue and understanding between Israelis and Palestinians.
- His experiences, including the death of his brother and his imprisonment, shaped his resolve to seek reconciliation instead of revenge.
- He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the humanity in one’s adversaries and working towards peace through empathy and dialogue.
Significance of Their Contributions
- Daniel Barenboim
- Demonstrates how cultural initiatives, such as music, can serve as tools for peacebuilding and fostering dialogue between historically conflicting communities.
- The West-Eastern Divan Orchestra serves as a symbol of coexistence and collaboration in the face of political and cultural hostility.
- Ali Abu Awwad
- Advocates for a non-violent approach to resistance, setting a new paradigm in the Palestinian struggle for rights and freedom.
- His organization Roots facilitates dialogue between Palestinians and Israelis, addressing misunderstandings and fostering mutual trust.
Broader Context
- The award highlights the critical role of dialogue and non-violence in resolving one of the world’s most enduring conflicts—the Israeli-Palestinian dispute.
- It underscores the importance of recognizing shared humanity, bridging divides, and inspiring global peace efforts through innovative approaches.
- The contributions of Barenboim and Awwad serve as a reminder of the power of resilience, empathy, and creativity in achieving peace.
Conclusion
- The joint recognition of Daniel Barenboim and Ali Abu Awwad with the Indira Gandhi Peace Prize celebrates their efforts to bridge one of the most contentious global conflicts through cultural diplomacy and grassroots activism.
- Their work embodies the spirit of non-violence, reconciliation, and hope for a peaceful future in the Middle East and beyond.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q3. The Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament, and Development for 2023 was awarded to Daniel Barenboim and Ali Abu Awwad. Which of the following statements regarding their contributions is/are correct?
1. Daniel Barenboim co-founded the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra to promote cultural dialogue and understanding among musicians from conflicting regions. 2. Ali Abu Awwad is a Palestinian peace activist who advocates for non-violence and dialogue through his organization, Roots. 3. Both individuals focus exclusively on artistic contributions to conflict resolution. Select the correct answer using the code given below: · (a) 1 only · (b) 1 and 2 only · (c) 2 and 3 only · (d) 1, 2, and 3
|
Q. The term ‘Intended Nationally Determined Contributions’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of (2016)
(a) pledges made by the European countries to rehabilitate refugees from the war-affected Middle East (b) plan of action outlined by the countries of the world to combat climate change (c) capital contributed by the member countries in the establishment of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (d) plan of action outlined by the countries of the world regarding Sustainable Development Goals Ans: (b)
|
| Answer 3– B
Explanation – · Statement 1 is correct: Daniel Barenboim co-founded the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra, which unites musicians from Israel, Palestine, and other Arab countries, promoting cultural dialogue. · Statement 2 is correct: Ali Abu Awwad, a Palestinian peace activist, advocates for non-violence and reconciliation through his organization Roots, which fosters dialogue between Palestinians and Israelis. · Statement 3 is incorrect: While Daniel Barenboim uses music as a medium for peace, Ali Abu Awwad focuses on non-violent activism and dialogue, not artistic contributions. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
U.N. report lauds India’s gender budgeting initiatives
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS3 Economy
Context: Adoption of Gender-Responsive Budgeting in Asia-Pacific Countries
Why in News
India’s adoption of gender-responsive budgeting highlights its commitment to gender equality, despite challenges like limited data and programme coverage, as noted in the UN’s Beijing + 30 Review report.
Overview
- The adoption of gender-responsive budgeting (GRB) by countries like India and the Philippines reflects a commitment to aligning resource allocation with the specific needs of women and girls.
- The United Nations report, Charting New Paths for Gender Equality and Empowerment: Asia-Pacific Regional Report on Beijing + 30 Review, highlights both the achievements and challenges in implementing GRB in the region.
Gender-Responsive Budgeting (GRB)
Definition:
GRB is a strategy that integrates a gender perspective into public financial management. It ensures that budget allocations directly address the different needs of men and women to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Importance:
- GRB recognizes the disproportionate impact of public policies on men and women.
- It ensures that resources are allocated equitably, addressing systemic inequalities.
GRB Implementation in India
Achievements:
- India has seen a 218% decadal increase in gender-budgeting allocations, with $37 million allocated in the current financial year.
- The country’s approach to GRB aligns with its “women-led development” model.
- Women’s leadership in Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) showcases how financial empowerment translates into community development.
Challenges:
- Lack of Sex-Disaggregated Data:
This hampers the ability to evaluate the impact of public expenditure on women. - Exclusion of Key Programmes:
Some critical programmes benefiting women are not included in the gender budget, reducing its overall effectiveness. - Monitoring and Evaluation:
There are limited mechanisms to ensure the effective implementation of GRB at the sectoral and sub-national levels.
Recommendations from the UN Report:
- Strengthen the Gender Budget Statement by including more comprehensive programmes.
- Establish robust monitoring mechanisms to assess the impact of GRB efforts.
- Encourage sub-national governments (states and municipalities) to adopt GRB practices.
- Integrate GRB into the budget prioritisation phase to ensure inclusivity in planning.
GRB Implementation in the Philippines
The Philippines is highlighted as a successful example of GRB adoption:
- It has integrated gender perspectives into its public financial management system.
- GRB efforts focus on promoting gender equality and empowering women through targeted budgetary initiatives.
India’s “Women-Led Development” Model
India showcased its “women-led development” model at the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference:
- Leadership in PRIs and Urban Local Bodies:
Due to 33% reservation for women, their participation in governance has increased significantly. - Self-Help Groups (SHGs):
Women’s collectives have contributed to economic and social empowerment, particularly in rural areas.
Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995)
- Objective:
To advance gender equality and empower women and girls worldwide. - Relevance:
The framework has guided the adoption of GRB and other gender-equality measures globally. - India’s Statement:
India emphasized its efforts toward fulfilling the Beijing SDG goals through a governance model that prioritizes women as key contributors to the country’s development trajectory.
Broader Context of GRB in Asia-Pacific
- While countries like India and the Philippines have made significant progress, challenges remain in ensuring that GRB translates into measurable outcomes.
- Effective GRB requires robust data collection, targeted interventions, and continuous monitoring to address gaps and ensure that budgetary commitments lead to tangible benefits for women.
Conclusion
- The implementation of GRB in India and the Philippines demonstrates the commitment of Asia-Pacific countries to promote gender equality.
- However, challenges like inadequate data, limited coverage of key programmes, and weak monitoring mechanisms need to be addressed to maximize its impact. India’s “women-led development” model, as showcased at the Beijing + 30 Review conference, provides an example of how governance can be aligned with gender-responsive priorities to achieve inclusive development.
| CARE MCQ | |
| Q4. With reference to gender-responsive budgeting (GRB) in India, consider the following statements:
1. The UN’s Beijing + 30 Review report notes that India has successfully implemented GRB without any challenges. 2. The effectiveness of GRB in India is hindered by the lack of sex-disaggregated data and the exclusion of key programmes that benefit women. 3. India showcased “women-led” development at the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference, highlighting women’s leadership in Panchayati Raj Institutions and Self-Help Groups. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A) Only One |
Q. Which of the following gives ‘Global Gender Gap Index’ ranking to the countries of the world? (2017)
(a) World Economic Forum Ans: (a)
|
| Answer 4- B
Explanation · Statement 1 is incorrect: The report highlights challenges in implementing GRB in India, such as a lack of sex-disaggregated data and the exclusion of key programmes that benefit women. · Statement 2 is correct: The report identifies these factors as key obstacles to the full effectiveness of GRB in India. · Statement 3 is correct: India emphasized its “women-led” development model, showcasing initiatives like women’s leadership in Panchayati Raj Institutions and Self-Help Groups at the conference. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
Army, Navy, Air Force conduct joint exercise in Arunachal Pradesh
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3- Science and Technology
Context: Joint Military Exercise ‘Poorvi Prahar’
Why in News
The Army, Navy and Air Force held a joint exercise in Arunachal Pradesh’s Shi-Yomi district
Overview
- The Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force conducted a four-day joint exercise named ‘Poorvi Prahar’ in Arunachal Pradesh’s Shi-Yomi district from November 14 to 17, 2024.
- The exercise aimed to validate the integration of joint structures and mechanisms among the three services in various aspects of modern warfare, especially in the Eastern Theatre of India.
- This was a large-scale exercise showcasing inter-service synergy and civil-military integration.
Key Objectives
- Validation of Joint Structures: Focused on enhancing cooperation among the Army, Navy, and Air Force through joint intelligence gathering, surveillance, reconnaissance, mobilisation, deployment, and operational logistics.
- Operational Effectiveness: Tested precision strike capabilities using advanced technology to ensure mission success. Evaluated how well the forces can integrate to handle challenges in high-altitude and remote terrains.
- Demonstration of Capabilities: Displayed the military’s ability to conduct integrated operations across multiple domains.
Participants
- Eastern Army Commander Lt Gen RC Tiwari
- Air Marshal IS Walia of Eastern Air Command
Forces and Equipment:
Army, Navy, and Air Force personnel participated with advanced weaponry and equipment, including:
- M-777 Howitzer (ultra-light artillery gun for high-altitude operations).
- Navy’s P-8I maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft (for surveillance and precision targeting).
- Swarm drones, First-Person View (FPV) drones, and loitering munitions (for tactical strikes).
- Helicopters such as Chinook (heavy-lift helicopters) and Prachand (indigenous attack helicopters).
Significant Aspects of the Exercise
- Precision Strikes and High-Tech Integration: Showcased the forces’ ability to use cutting-edge technology, such as drones and loitering munitions, to ensure precise and efficient strikes in hostile or challenging environments.
- Civil-Military Fusion: Emphasized collaboration with civilian authorities for logistical support and operational success, underlining the importance of civil-military synergy in modern warfare.
- First Large-Scale Exercise in the Eastern Theatre: This was the first time integrated joint operations were conducted on such a large scale in the strategically important Eastern Theatre, underscoring the importance of securing India’s northeastern borders.
- Helicopter Operations: The Chinook helicopters enhanced logistical support by transporting heavy equipment, while the Prachand helicopters demonstrated the capability for offensive and defensive roles in high-altitude areas.
Significance
- Enhanced Readiness: The exercise demonstrated India’s preparedness to address any potential security threats in the sensitive border region of Arunachal Pradesh, which lies close to contentious areas near the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
- Integration Among Services: Reinforced the importance of joint operations among the three services, showcasing clockwork precision in planning and execution.
- Technological Edge: Highlighted the role of advanced military technology in improving operational efficiency and success rates in diverse terrains.
- Strategic Importance of the Eastern Theatre: The exercise underlines the military’s focus on the Eastern Theatre amid heightened tensions and the need to safeguard the country’s northeastern borders.
Conclusion
- The successful execution of ‘Poorvi Prahar’ marked a significant milestone in India’s defense preparedness and inter-service coordination.
- By demonstrating cutting-edge technological prowess and integrated capabilities, the exercise reassures the nation of the armed forces’ readiness to face any security challenges that may arise in the future.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ | ||||||||||
Q5. Match the exercises with their key focus areas and respective forces involved:
Options:
|
Q. With reference to India’s satellite launch vehicles, consider the following statements: (2018)
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 2 (d) 3 only Ans: (a) |
| Answer 5- A
Explanation · Poorvi Prahar (A): A joint exercise by the Army, Navy, and Air Force held in Arunachal Pradesh, focusing on integrated operations in the eastern theatre. · Gibe Exercise (B): Known for air-ground integration and combat readiness, often led by the Air Force. · Vayu Shakti (C): Focused on showcasing the Indian Air Force’s capabilities in desert environments, highlighting rapid deployment and strike operations. · Shakti Exercise (D): A counter-terrorism focused exercise conducted in collaboration with the French military forces, primarily involving army units. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
Government allows self-survey for Phase 2 of PM Awas Yojana
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2- Polity and Governance
Context: Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G)
Why in News
The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) introduces a self-survey system for beneficiaries in its second phase to ensure transparency and inclusivity.
Overview
- The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) is a flagship rural housing scheme initiated by the Indian government in 2016 with the goal of providing affordable housing to rural poor families.
- The scheme is crucial in addressing the housing shortages in rural areas, ensuring that households in need have access to proper living conditions.
Key Developments and Changes in PMAY-G:
- Introduction of Self-Survey:
- Self-survey for Beneficiaries: For the first time, the Union Rural Development Ministry has allowed beneficiaries to conduct a “self-survey” to identify eligible households for the second phase of PMAY-G. The idea behind this is to empower people to verify their eligibility and claim their housing benefits directly, reducing dependency on surveyors. This initiative ensures greater transparency and prevents bias or exclusion by surveyors.
- Mobile App – Awaas+: To streamline the data collection process, the government is using the Awaas+ mobile application. This app records survey data directly, facilitating a smoother and more accurate beneficiary identification process.
- Limitations: A major limitation of this self-survey process is that a single mobile phone can only be used to survey one beneficiary household, thus reducing the potential for mass surveying using a single device.
- Survey Training and Data Collection:
- As part of the second phase of PMAY-G, 2.6 lakh surveyors were trained to conduct the surveys. This large-scale training is aimed at ensuring the effectiveness and accuracy of the beneficiary identification process, and the surveys must be completed by November 30.
- The second phase of PMAY-G targets the construction of 2 crore houses across rural areas, contributing to the government’s goal of providing housing for all by 2022.
- Financial Allocation and Outlay:
- The Union Cabinet sanctioned a total of ₹3,06,137 crore for the second phase of the scheme. This is a significant financial commitment aimed at achieving the housing targets and ensuring that the construction and delivery of homes are not delayed.
- Despite the large financial allocation, the ₹1.20 lakh per house amount provided by the government has not been revised since 2016. The government maintains that this amount should be seen as a helping hand rather than a full subsidy or welfare dole, signaling that beneficiaries should contribute to the process in some capacity.
- Challenges and Delays:
- The scheme faced challenges such as delays in construction, especially in some states like Chhattisgarh, where the houses for beneficiaries identified in the 2011 Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) list have not been completed. The SECC, along with a second survey conducted in 2018, serves as the basis for selecting beneficiaries for PMAY-G.
- Saturation of the SECC list: Many states have already exhausted the waiting list from SECC 2011, and there has been a need to conduct a second survey to identify any remaining beneficiaries who had been missed earlier.
- Rationalized Inclusion Criteria: To widen the scope of beneficiaries, the criteria for inclusion have been relaxed. Households that own items like a two-wheeler, refrigerator, landline phone, or mechanized fishing boat are now eligible for the scheme. This change reflects a more comprehensive understanding of economic realities in rural areas.
- Beneficiary Profile:
- Out of the 2.95 crore houses originally planned, 2.67 crore houses have been completed. This marks a significant achievement, especially in terms of housing for the marginalized communities. 1.5 crore beneficiaries of these houses belong to Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST), showcasing the scheme’s focus on inclusivity and its impact on marginalized sections of society.
- The completion of these houses represents a major step in reducing rural poverty and improving living standards.
- Government’s Vision and Strategy:
- The government argues that PMAY-G is not just a welfare program but also an empowerment tool that helps beneficiaries break out of the cycle of poverty by providing them a secure living environment.
- By locking in the beneficiary list early in the process, the government prevents any political interference or manipulation in the allocation of homes, ensuring that the process remains unbiased and transparent.
Conclusion:
- The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin has made significant progress, with a large number of houses being completed and the second phase targeting further expansion.
- While challenges like the lack of updated data, financial limitations, and delays in certain states persist, the introduction of self-surveying, rationalized beneficiary criteria, and mobile-based applications are innovative steps toward improving the efficiency and transparency of the scheme.
- Ultimately, PMAY-G is helping to empower rural communities, providing them with a foundation for better economic opportunities and improved living conditions.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q6. Consider the following statements regarding the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G):
Which of the statements given above are correct? A) 1 and 2 only |
Q. How does the National Rural Livelihood Mission seek to improve livelihood options of rural poor? (2012)
Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1 and 2 only Ans: (b) |
| Answer 6- D
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct because the self-survey system using Awaas+ is intended to ensure transparency and eliminate bias in the survey process. · Statement 2 is correct as Chhattisgarh was pointed out as the state unable to complete houses for beneficiaries on the SECC 2011 list. · Statement 3 is correct as the inclusion criteria for PMAY-G have been expanded to allow households with assets like two-wheelers, refrigerators, or mechanized fishing boats to avail of the scheme. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |