Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – CARE (23-10-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| Science and Technology: India’s fourth nuclear submarine launched into water |
| Modern History: President Of India Graces the Completion Of 75 Years Of Bharatiya Adim Jati Sevak Sangh |
| Polity and governance: Centre eyes ‘presumed consent’ for cornea retrieval in hospital deaths |
| Environment and Ecology: The Biodiversity COP |
| International Relations: Kartarpur Corridor: India, Pakistan renew pact for another five years |
India’s fourth Nuclear submarine launched into water
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3 Science and Technology
Context: Nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN)
Why in News
India’s fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), referred to as S4*, was launched into water at the Ship Building Centre in Visakhapatnam.
Overview
- India’s fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), known as the S4*, represents a significant advancement in the country’s underwater nuclear deterrence capability.
- Launched on October 16, 2024, at the Ship Building Centre (SBC) in Visakhapatnam, it is larger and more capable than its predecessors, such as the INS Arihant (S2), which was India’s first indigenously built SSBN.
- The S4* is an important step forward in India’s strategic defense, as it forms part of the Advanced Technology Vessel (ATV) program designed to build a robust sea-based nuclear deterrence.
Development of India’s SSBN Fleet
- India’s SSBN fleet is critical to its nuclear triad, which comprises land-based missiles, air-launched weapons, and submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs).
- The nuclear triad ensures a “second-strike capability”—the ability to retaliate with nuclear weapons even if the country suffers a first nuclear strike.
- This capability is central to India’s nuclear doctrine of Credible Minimum Deterrence (CMD) and its policy of No First Use (NFU) of nuclear weapons.
INS Arihant (S2)
- Commissioning and Capabilities: INS Arihant, India’s first SSBN, was commissioned in August 2016. With a displacement of 6,000 tonnes, it is powered by an 83 MW pressurized light-water reactor using enriched uranium. It was designed primarily as a technology demonstrator but also carries the K-15 SLBM with a 750 km range.
- Deterrence Patrols: INS Arihant conducted its first deterrence patrol in 2018, completing India’s nuclear triad and allowing for a secure second-strike capability from sea.
INS Arighaat (S3)
- Technological Upgrades: INS Arighaat shares similar dimensions and reactor specifications as Arihant but with significant technological upgrades. It was commissioned in late August 2024, further enhancing India’s underwater nuclear capabilities.
- Missile Capability: Like Arihant, it can carry SLBMs, but with improved systems for better operational performance.
INS Aridhman (S4)
- Sea Trials: INS Aridhman is the third SSBN and is currently undergoing sea trials. It is expected to be commissioned in 2025. It will feature upgrades in both reactor performance and missile carriage capabilities compared to its predecessors.
S4*
- Bigger and More Capable: The S4* is an advanced and larger version compared to the earlier submarines in the fleet. It is equipped with a more powerful reactor and has the ability to carry a greater number of K-4 SLBMs, providing a longer strike range and increased firepower.
- K-4 Missile System: The K-4 SLBM, which has a range of 3,500 km, was first tested in 2020. The missile’s range allows India to strike targets from a considerable distance while staying submerged in Indian waters, adding to the stealth and security of its deterrent capability. The S4* submarine’s ability to carry the K-4 missile makes it a crucial component of India’s sea-based nuclear deterrent.
- Indigenous Contributions: The S4* submarine includes a high degree of indigenous content, with the Indian industry being heavily involved in its development, showcasing India’s growing self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
India’s SSBN Program and the Nuclear Triad
- The SSBN program is part of India’s larger strategy of maintaining a credible nuclear deterrent.
- The completion of the nuclear triad was formally announced by Prime Minister in 2018 after INS Arihant completed its first deterrence patrol.
- This capability is crucial for ensuring that India has a survivable and assured second-strike capacity, which is central to its doctrine of No First Use (NFU). Under this doctrine, India commits to not using nuclear weapons unless first attacked with them.
- However, the country reserves the right to retaliate massively if such an attack occurs.
Nuclear Submarines and SLBM Capabilities
- India’s nuclear submarines are equipped with submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) that provide it with strategic strike capabilities from underwater.
- This is a critical aspect of deterrence, as SLBMs can be launched from concealed locations at sea, making them harder to detect and target.
- K-15 SLBM: INS Arihant is currently equipped with K-15 SLBMs, which have a range of 750 km.
- K-4 SLBM: The K-4, which will be carried by the S4* and future submarines, has a significantly longer range of 3,500 km, enhancing India’s strategic reach.
- India is also working on developing a 5,000 km range SLBM, which will further extend its strategic capabilities.
Future Developments: Indigenous SSN Program
- Earlier this month, India’s Cabinet Committee on Security approved the construction of two indigenous nuclear attack submarines (SSNs), also referred to as hunter-killer submarines.
- These submarines are distinct from SSBNs in that they are designed for attacking enemy submarines and surface ships rather than carrying nuclear missiles for deterrence.
- SSNs are fast and stealthy, making them ideal for patrolling key strategic areas, such as the Indo-Pacific, where India aims to monitor and counterbalance regional threats.
Strategic Importance of the SSBN Program
- India’s SSBN program serves as a key element of its nuclear deterrence strategy.
- By maintaining a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines capable of launching SLBMs, India ensures that its adversaries can never entirely eliminate its nuclear strike capability, even in the event of a first strike.
- This survivability of nuclear forces is what makes the sea-based leg of the nuclear triad critical to national security.
- Moreover, India’s SSBN program and its development of more advanced submarines, such as the S4*, reflect its growing maritime capabilities and its strategic focus on the Indo-Pacific region.
- As regional tensions rise, having a credible and survivable sea-based nuclear deterrent is crucial for India’s defense posture.
Conclusion
- The launch of the S4* marks another significant milestone in India’s SSBN program, which has grown progressively since the commissioning of INS Arihant in 2016.
- With the S4* carrying more advanced missiles and showcasing improved capabilities, India strengthens its second-strike capability and ensures the survivability of its nuclear deterrence.
- This development is in line with India’s strategic doctrine of Credible Minimum Deterrence and its policy of No First Use, making it a key player in maintaining strategic stability in the region
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q1. With reference to India’s nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) program, consider the following statements:
1. INS Arihant was India’s first SSBN and it is equipped with K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) having a range of 3,500 km. 2. The S4* submarine, launched in 2024, is larger than INS Arihant and can carry more K-4 SLBMs. 3. India’s SSBN program is part of its nuclear triad, which ensures a second-strike capability in line with its No First Use (NFU) policy. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 and 2 only |
Q. Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently? 2016
[A] Amphibious warfare ship [B] Nuclear-powered submarine [C] Torpedo launch and recovery vessel [D] Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Answer: C
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| Answer – 1-B
Explanation – · Statement 1 is incorrect because INS Arihant is equipped with the K-15 SLBM with a range of 750 km, not the K-4 missile. · Statement 2 is correct. The S4* submarine is larger and more capable, carrying more K-4 SLBMs. · Statement 3 is correct. India’s SSBN program is part of its nuclear triad, supporting its No First Use (NFU) policy and second-strike capability.
|
President Of India Graces The Completion Of 75 Years Of Bharatiya Adim Jati Sevak Sangh
Source: PIB
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2067116
UPSC Relevance: GS1- Modern History
Context: 75 years of the Bharatiya Adim Jati Sevak Sangh (BAJSS)
Why in News
- The event commemorating the completion of 75 years of the Bharatiya Adim Jati Sevak Sangh (BAJSS), graced by the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, on October 22, 2024, in New Delhi, was a significant occasion.
- The Bharatiya Adim Jati Sevak Sangh is a pioneering organization that works for the upliftment of tribal communities in India.
- The event took place at Thakkar Bapa Smarak Sadan, which holds historical importance due to its association with Amritlal Vithaldas Thakkar (Thakkar Bapa), a social worker and freedom fighter who was deeply involved in the welfare of tribal communities.
Key Highlights of the President’s Speech
- Acknowledgment of Thakkar Bapa’s Contributions
- President Droupadi Murmu began her address by expressing her deep respect for Thakkar Bapa, describing her visit to Thakkar Bapa Smarak Sadan as akin to visiting a sacred place. Thakkar Bapa, a prominent figure in India’s freedom struggle, was instrumental in working for the welfare of marginalized communities, especially the Scheduled Tribes (STs). The President highlighted his lifelong dedication to improving the conditions of the tribal population, particularly in the areas of health, education, and poverty alleviation.
- Appreciation of Bharatiya Adim Jati Sevak Sangh’s Work
- The President praised the Bharatiya Adim Jati Sevak Sangh for adhering to the ideals set by Thakkar Bapa. She recognized the organization’s contributions toward addressing key issues affecting tribal communities such as:
- Poverty: Many tribal areas continue to face high levels of poverty, and the Sangh has been actively involved in initiatives aimed at economic empowerment and development.
- Illiteracy: The President noted that illiteracy is a significant challenge in tribal communities. The Sangh has played a vital role in promoting education among tribal children and adults, with a focus on creating opportunities for their overall development.
- Poor Health: Health is another area of concern for tribal societies, where access to healthcare and awareness about basic health practices is often limited. The organization works to improve healthcare services and raise awareness of health-related issues within these communities.
- Focus on Girls and Women Empowerment
- President Murmu also emphasized the Sangh’s efforts to uplift girls and women in tribal areas. Women in these communities often face multiple layers of marginalization due to gender, social, and economic factors. The Bharatiya Adim Jati Sevak Sangh has been working to empower women through education, skill development, and creating awareness about their rights, thereby helping them become self-reliant and active participants in societal progress.
- Encouragement for Continued Dedication
- The President expressed her confidence that the people associated with the Sangh would continue to uphold their dedication to public service. She encouraged them to follow the ideals of Thakkar Bapa and maintain their commitment to the cause of serving marginalized communities, particularly tribal groups, in the future. Her words were aimed at inspiring the workers and volunteers of the organization to persist in their efforts toward societal transformation.
Significance of the Bharatiya Adim Jati Sevak Sangh
Founded in 1948 by Thakkar Bapa, the Bharatiya Adim Jati Sevak Sangh was established with the objective of serving the tribal and marginalized communities of India. Over the past 75 years, the organization has been involved in numerous initiatives focusing on:
- Education: Establishing schools, hostels, and vocational training centers in tribal areas.
- Healthcare: Providing medical services, health awareness programs, and improving access to healthcare facilities.
- Livelihood: Promoting sustainable livelihoods through skill training and capacity-building programs.
- Social Empowerment: Advocacy for tribal rights, inclusion, and the empowerment of women and girls in marginalized communities.
The Sangh has played a pivotal role in preserving the cultural heritage of tribal communities while simultaneously working for their integration into mainstream society.
Legacy of Thakkar Bapa
- Thakkar Bapa (1869–1951) was a Gandhian social worker and a member of the Servants of India Society. He devoted his life to the upliftment of marginalized communities, especially the tribals (Adivasis).
- His work involved touring remote tribal regions, studying their living conditions, and advocating for their welfare. Thakkar Bapa was instrumental in shaping India’s policies on tribal welfare during the pre- and post-independence periods.
- His efforts led to the formation of several organizations, including the Bharatiya Adim Jati Sevak Sangh, aimed at serving the needs of disadvantaged communities.
Conclusion
- The event celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Bharatiya Adim Jati Sevak Sangh not only honored the legacy of Thakkar Bapa but also highlighted the ongoing efforts to uplift tribal communities.
- President Droupadi Murmu’s address underscored the importance of continuing the mission of addressing poverty, illiteracy, and poor health, particularly among tribal women and girls, thereby fostering an inclusive and equitable society.
- The organization’s dedication to public service and empowerment, aligned with the ideals of Thakkar Bapa, continues to play a crucial role in the social and economic development of India’s tribal population.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q2. With reference to the Bharatiya Adim Jati Sevak Sangh (BAJSS), consider the following statements:
1. The Bharatiya Adim Jati Sevak Sangh was founded by Thakkar Bapa in 1948 to work for the welfare of marginalized tribal communities. 2. The organization focuses on issues such as poverty alleviation, illiteracy, and healthcare, especially for women and girls in tribal societies. 3. Thakkar Bapa was a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi and a member of the Servants of India Society, working primarily for the upliftment of Dalits. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 and 2 only |
Q. Consider the following freedom fighters: 2022
Who of the above was/were actively associated with the Ghadar Party? A 1 and 2 only B 2 only C 1 and 3 only D 3 only Ans: (d)
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| Answer 2– A
Explanation – · Statement 1 is correct: The Bharatiya Adim Jati Sevak Sangh was founded by Thakkar Bapa in 1948 for the welfare of tribal communities. · Statement 2 is correct: The organization works on issues like poverty, illiteracy, healthcare, and especially focuses on the empowerment of women and girls in tribal areas. · Statement 3 is incorrect: Thakkar Bapa primarily worked for the upliftment of tribals (Adivasis), not Dalits, although he worked in broader social welfare activities. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
Centre eyes ‘presumed consent’ for cornea retrieval in hospital deaths
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS2- Polity and Governance
Context: Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act (THOTA), 1994.
Why in News
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare may amend the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act (THOTA), 1994.
Overview
- The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is considering amending the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act (THOTA), 1994, to facilitate the retrieval of corneas from patients who die in hospitals, without requiring consent from their families.
- This potential change aims to address the significant gap between the demand and supply of corneas for transplantation in India.
- Currently, only about 50% of the country’s corneal needs are being met.
Key Features of the Proposed Amendments:
- Presumed Consent Model for Cornea Donation:
- Under the new initiative, every patient who dies in a hospital would automatically be presumed to be a cornea donor, unless they had expressed unwillingness to donate while alive. This system would help streamline the process of cornea collection.
- Opt-out Provision: People who do not wish to donate their corneas must explicitly register their refusal while alive. If they have done so, their corneas would not be retrieved post-mortem.
- Rationale Behind the Proposal:
- India faces a significant demand for cornea donations, with the current system only able to meet half of the requirement. By implementing a presumed consent model, the government hopes to increase the availability of corneas for patients suffering from corneal blindness.
- The move would boost the number of cornea donations, as currently, a large proportion of potential cornea donations are not realized due to the lack of explicit consent from families or the deceased.
- Training and Infrastructure Development:
- Training for Medical Professionals: Medical colleges and hospitals will require that postgraduate trainees, resident doctors, and medical officers in eye departments receive compulsory training in cornea/eye retrieval. This is to ensure that they are equipped with the necessary skills to retrieve corneas efficiently and safely.
- Eye Retrieval Technicians: Training for technicians who are involved in cornea retrieval will be organized according to the Eye Bank Standards of India, 2020. This will involve state governments and union territories working in coordination with the National Programme for Control of Blindness and the Directorate of Health Services.
- Counselors for Cornea Donation: Adequate numbers of eye donation counselors will be employed to promote awareness and encourage more people to opt for cornea donation.
- Streamlining Cornea Retrieval Process:
- Omission of Post-mortem Delays: The delay caused by waiting for post-mortem examinations, especially in medico-legal cases, has often hindered timely retrieval of corneas, leading to loss of viable corneas for transplant. Experts argue that removing corneas does not disfigure the face of the deceased nor affects post-mortem findings, so there is no need to wait for the post-mortem to begin the retrieval process.
- This change would facilitate quicker retrieval of corneas, ensuring that more corneas remain viable for transplant.
National-level Discussion on the Amendment:
- A high-level meeting was convened by the Director-General of Health Services (DGHS), Dr. Atul Goel, to discuss the changes to the cornea donation and retrieval process.
- Prominent ophthalmology and organ donation experts, such as Anil Kumar (Director, National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation), Radhika Tandon (National Eye Bank, AIIMS), Sarita Beri (Lady Hardinge Medical College), Namrata Sharma (Eye Bank Association of India, AIIMS), and others, participated in this meeting.
- They emphasized the need for a streamlined cornea donation program and the importance of training, awareness, and timely retrieval of corneas.
Goals of the Amendment:
- The primary aim of the amendment is to enhance corneal donations in India by simplifying the donation process and ensuring that no viable cornea is lost due to procedural delays or lack of family consent.
- This is part of a broader effort to combat corneal blindness and improve access to necessary transplants for patients in need.
| CARE MCQ | |
| Q3. With reference to the proposed amendments to the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act (THOTA), 1994, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. The new amendment proposes a presumed consent model for cornea donation, where corneas can be retrieved from patients who die in hospitals without requiring explicit family consent. 2. The amendment seeks to streamline the cornea retrieval process by removing the need to wait for post-mortem examinations in medico-legal cases. 3. Under the new amendment, all medical professionals involved in transplantation must undergo compulsory training in cornea retrieval as per the Eye Bank Standards of India, 2020. Select the correct answer using the code given below: a) 1 and 2 only |
Q. At the national level, which ministry is the nodal agency to ensure effective implementation of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006? 2021
· A Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change · B Ministry of Panchayati Raj · C Ministry of Rural Development · D Ministry of Tribal Affairs Ans: D
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| Answer 3 – D
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct: The proposed amendment suggests a presumed consent model, where corneas can be retrieved without family consent unless the deceased had opted out during their lifetime. · Statement 2 is correct: The amendment aims to omit the need for waiting for post-mortem examinations in medico-legal cases to avoid delays in cornea retrieval. · Statement 3 is correct: The amendment includes provisions for mandatory training of medical professionals in cornea retrieval according to the Eye Bank Standards of India, 2020. · Therefore, option D is the correct answer. |
The Biodiversity COP
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3- Environment and Ecology
Context: 16th Conference of Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP16)
Why in News
The 16th Conference of Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP16) is a critical international meeting focusing on biodiversity, its conservation, and equitable resource sharing.
Background and the CBD
- Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD): Originating from the 1992 Rio Earth Summit (alongside the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, UNFCCC), the CBD aims to conserve biodiversity, restore ecosystems, and equitably share the benefits derived from the use of biological resources.
- The CBD holds its Conference of Parties (COP) every two years, where member countries meet to review and advance its goals. COP16, held in 2024, follows the landmark COP15 held in Montreal in 2022.
Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework
- This framework was a pivotal outcome of COP15. It laid down four key goals and 23 targets to be achieved by 2030, collectively known as the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
- One of the most significant targets is the 30 x 30 goal, which aims to:
- Conserve at least 30% of the world’s land and oceans by 2030.
- Initiate restoration work on 30% of degraded ecosystems by 2030.
- This goal reflects the urgency in addressing biodiversity loss and has drawn considerable attention at COP16.
Interlinkages Between Climate Change and Biodiversity
- While climate change and biodiversity have been discussed on separate tracks (under UNFCCC and CBD), there is a growing realization that the two are closely interconnected:
- Climate change accelerates the loss of biodiversity by altering ecosystems and threatening species.
- Biodiversity loss contributes to climate change by reducing the ability of ecosystems to act as carbon sinks, thus exacerbating global warming.
- The convergence of these two global crises underscores the need for an integrated approach to combat both.
30 x 30 Targets and National Biodiversity Strategies
- National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs): These are akin to the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. Countries are required to submit their biodiversity action plans outlining specific goals and timelines for halting and reversing biodiversity loss.
- So far, only 32 of the 196 parties to the CBD have submitted their NBSAPs, but more are expected to do so during COP16.
- These strategies will be instrumental in advancing the 30 x 30 conservation goals.
High Seas Treaty and Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdictions (BBNJ)
- A significant step toward achieving the 30 x 30 targets is the High Seas Treaty, also known as the Agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdictions (BBNJ), finalized in 2023.
- This treaty seeks to:
- Protect biodiversity-rich parts of the oceans that are outside the national jurisdiction of countries by creating designated protected areas where human activities are regulated.
- Equitably distribute the benefits derived from the use of genetic resources found in international waters (e.g., marine life used for scientific, commercial, or medical purposes).
Genetic Resources and Benefit Sharing
- A key focus of COP16 is the issue of genetic resource sharing:
- Advances in science have made it possible to sequence the genetic information of plants, animals, and microorganisms and store it digitally. This data is highly valuable for various industries, including agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
- The Nagoya Protocol (2010) established rules for the equitable sharing of benefits from the commercial use of biological resources.
- At COP16, discussions will center on establishing a fair mechanism for sharing the benefits derived from these digitally stored genetic sequences with the indigenous populations who may have originally possessed the resource.
Financial Mobilization for Biodiversity Conservation
- As with climate change negotiations, finance plays a crucial role in biodiversity discussions. The Kunming-Montreal Framework has set a target to mobilize at least $200 billion annually by 2030 for biodiversity conservation from all sources (public and private).
- Out of this, developed countries are expected to contribute at least $20 billion per year to support biodiversity-related efforts in developing countries, increasing to $30 billion per year by 2030.
- A significant agenda item at COP16 is the creation of new financial mechanisms, including:
- Biodiversity credits, which would function similarly to carbon credits, allowing countries or organizations to earn credits for protecting biodiversity.
- The establishment of a biodiversity fund to support global conservation efforts.
- Additionally, countries are expected to phase out or repurpose subsidies and incentives that harm biodiversity, such as those encouraging deforestation, overfishing, or fossil fuel use.
- The goal is to eliminate or repurpose at least $500 billion worth of harmful incentives by 2030.
Conclusion:
- While discussions under the CBD have traditionally been lower profile compared to climate negotiations, they are gaining prominence due to the severe implications of biodiversity loss.
- The interconnection between climate change and biodiversity loss is now clear, and there is a growing momentum for countries to address these issues simultaneously.
- COP16 marks a crucial step in accelerating global efforts to meet the 30 x 30 targets and ensure the equitable distribution of benefits from the world’s biological resources. The decisions taken at this conference will have significant implications for the future of biodiversity conservation.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q4. The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, adopted during COP15 of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), includes which of the following key targets?
Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, and 3 |
With reference to the Agreement at the UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2016)
Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 3 only Ans: B |
| Answer 4-A
Explanation · Statement 1 is Correct. This is one of the central targets of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, often referred to as the “30 x 30” goal. It aims to protect at least 30% of global terrestrial and marine ecosystems by 2030. · Statement 2 is Incorrect. While addressing harmful subsidies (such as those encouraging overfishing, deforestation, or unsustainable resource use) is part of the Framework’s goals, there is no specific target for eliminating all fossil fuel subsidies by 2025 in the Kunming-Montreal Framework. Instead, it emphasizes gradually phasing out or repurposing subsidies that are harmful to biodiversity. · Statement 3 is Correct. Another target within the Kunming-Montreal Framework is the restoration of degraded ecosystems. It commits to restoring at least 30% of ecosystems that are degraded by 2030 to halt and reverse biodiversity loss. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
Kartarpur Corridor: India, Pakistan renew pact for another five years
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2- International Relations:
Context: Kartarpur Corridor
Why in news
The renewal of the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor pact between India and Pakistan for another five years is a significant development in the context of bilateral relations.
Renewal of Kartarpur Sahib Corridor Pact
- The Kartarpur Sahib Corridor was established in November 2019 to provide visa-free access for Indian Sikh pilgrims to visit the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, Pakistan, the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism.
- The agreement was initially signed for a five-year period and was set to lapse on October 24, 2024. However, India and Pakistan have now agreed to renew the pact through diplomatic channels for an additional five years.
- The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India issued a statement confirming the extension of the pact, which will ensure that the corridor continues to operate without interruption, allowing Indian pilgrims to visit the gurdwara in Pakistan.
Service Charge Issue
- India has reiterated its request to Pakistan to waive the US$ 20 service charge that is levied on each Indian pilgrim visiting the gurdwara.
- This has been a long-standing demand by India in response to concerns from Sikh pilgrims, though it remains unclear if Pakistan will remove this fee.
India-Pakistan Relations and the Kartarpur Corridor
- The India-Pakistan relationship has been historically complex, characterized by periods of tension and conflict, interspersed with attempts at dialogue and cooperation.
- One of the notable developments in recent years is the establishment of the Kartarpur Corridor, which facilitates visa-free travel for Indian Sikh pilgrims to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan.
- This gurdwara holds significant religious importance as it is the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism.
- The Kartarpur Corridor was inaugurated on November 9, 2019, and symbolizes a significant step towards improving people-to-people contacts between the two nations. It was seen as a gesture of goodwill, especially in the context of ongoing tensions and dialogue stagnation.
- However, the corridor has also faced challenges, including the imposition of a US$ 20 service charge per pilgrim by Pakistan, which India has urged to be removed to ease the burden on devotees.
Significance of the Kartarpur Corridor
- The 4-km-long Kartarpur Corridor is a symbol of religious and cultural significance for Sikhs, as it connects Dera Baba Nanak in India to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, Pakistan.
- It allows Indian pilgrims to travel to one of Sikhism’s holiest sites without needing a visa.
- While the corridor opened in November 2019, it was suspended in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic but later reopened, allowing Sikh pilgrims to resume visits.
Diplomatic Conversations and SCO Meeting
- The renewal of the Kartarpur pact comes just after External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited Islamabad on October 15-16, 2024, for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting of the Council of Heads of Government.
- This marked the first time an Indian Foreign Minister visited Pakistan since Sushma Swaraj’s visit in 2015 for the Heart of Asia conference.
- Jaishankar also interacted with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar during the visit.
- Although the MEA clarified that no formal meeting occurred between the Indian and Pakistani ministers, sources suggest that conversations took place over dinner and lunch, exploring the idea of cricketing ties and improving bilateral relations.
Cricketing Ties
- One of the notable outcomes of the informal conversations between Jaishankar and Dar was the potential discussion of resuming cricketing ties between India and Pakistan, two nations with a rich cricketing rivalry.
- Although both sides have not yet committed to any concrete action, discussions could lead to Indian participation in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan in February 2025.
Reactions from Pakistan
- Nawaz Sharif, former Prime Minister of Pakistan, commented positively on Jaishankar’s visit, suggesting that it could be a “good beginning” for improving ties between the two countries.
- He emphasized that India and Pakistan should “bury the past” and “think of the future”, signaling a desire for a fresh start in bilateral relations.
Challenges and Road Ahead
- Despite these diplomatic developments, India-Pakistan relations have remained largely frozen for several years, with ongoing tensions over a variety of issues, including terrorism, Kashmir, and cross-border skirmishes.
- While these discussions open a window for dialogue, any significant progress would require careful thought and further diplomatic engagement from both sides.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q5 Which of the following statements regarding the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor are correct?
Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only |
Q. With reference to the Indus river system, of the following four rivers, three of them pour into one of them which joins the Indus directly. Among the following, which one is such a river that joins the Indus direct? (2021)
(a) Chenab Ans: (d)
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| Answer 5-A
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct. The Kartarpur Sahib Corridor was specifically established to facilitate visa-free access for Indian Sikh pilgrims to visit the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism, located in Narowal, Pakistan. · Statement 2 is Incorrect. The Kartarpur Sahib Corridor was officially opened on November 9, 2019, not in 2022. This significant date marked the beginning of the corridor’s operation, allowing Indian pilgrims to access the gurdwara. · Statement 3 is incorrect. While there have been discussions regarding the service charge, it has not been removed. In fact, Pakistan was charging a US$ 20 service fee per pilgrim, and India has urged Pakistan to eliminate this fee, but as of the latest information, it still exists. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |