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  • 10 Dec 2024
  • 63 min read
International Relations

Syrian Civil War and Future of Syria

For Prelims: Islamist Militant Group,  Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, Arab Spring, Hezbollah, Islamic State of Iraq and Syria,  Taliban, United Nations, Proxy wars, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation 

For Mains: India's strategic interests amidst the Syrian conflict, Rise of militant groups in multilateralism,Groupings & Agreements Involving India and/or Affecting India's Interests 

Source: IE 

Why in News?

Recently, Syrian rebels, led by the Islamist militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), have claimed control of Homs, Syria’s third-largest city, in a significant blow to President Bashar al-Assad’s regime.  

  • This development, amidst the ongoing civil war, has raised concerns about the future of Syria, as it faces a growing challenge from rebel factions.

Syria

What are the Key Factors Shaping the Syrian Civil War? 

  • Syria and the Civil War: 
    • Historical Context: Since 1971, Syria has been ruled by the Assad family, with Hafez al-Assad serving as the authoritarian leader until his death in 2000.  
      • His son, Bashar al-Assad, succeeded him, continuing the family’s grip on power. 
    • Arab Spring Uprising: In 2011, amidst the wave of the Arab Spring, protests erupted against Assad’s rule.  
      • Arab Spring, wave of pro-democracy protests and uprisings that took place in the Middle East and North Africa beginning in 2010 and 2011, challenging some of the region’s entrenched authoritarian regimes.  
      • The grievances were manifold, including rising unemployment, economic inequality, and corruption.  
      • The Assad regime, dominated by the Alawite minority(a minority Muslim sect in Syria), was accused of marginalizing the Sunni majority. 
    • Civil War Escalation: Arab Spring began as peaceful protests were met with violent repression, leading to armed conflict.  
      • Multiple rebel factions rose up, backed by foreign powers, all aiming to oust Assad. Ultimately led to the fall of the Assad regime in Syria. 
  • Rise of  Rebel Factions: 
    • Hayat Tahrir al-Sham:  The primary group responsible for capturing and controlling most parts of Syria, including Damascus, Aleppo, Homs, and Hama, is Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), originally the al-Qaeda branch in Syria.  
      • This group aims to establish Sunni-Islamic rule and has been a major opponent of Assad. 
    • Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF): A Kurdish(Iranic ethnic group)-led militia, the SDF has been primarily focused on securing autonomy and rights for Syria’s Kurdish population.  
      • While not a direct enemy of Assad, they are part of the wider opposition forces. 
    • Free Syrian Army (FSA): This faction, supported by Turkey, opposes both the Assad regime and Kurdish forces, mainly due to concerns over Kurdish separatism. 
  • Foreign Influence:  
    • Russia and Iran: These countries have been Assad’s primary allies, providing military support and strategic backing. 
    • US and Turkey: Both have supported anti-Assad factions, but Turkey’s main concern is the Kurdish influence within Syria. 
    • Israel: Given Syria's historic support for Palestine, Israel has conducted strikes against Assad’s forces, further complicating the geopolitical dynamics. 
  • Fall of Assad's Regime: Bashar al-Assad's regime was heavily reliant on external support from key allies like Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah. Over time, however, these alliances weakened due to shifting geopolitical dynamics.  
    • During the Israel-Hamas War in 2023, Israel's airstrikes in Syria weakened Assad's military strength. Russia diverted its focus to the war in Ukraine, and Iran scaled back its involvement after losing key personnel in Syria.

Areas_of_Control_Sriya

Hayat Tahrir al-Sham 

  • The HTS was founded in 2011 as Jabhat al-Nusra, the al-Qaeda’s branch in Syria. In 2016, it broke away to form the Jabhat Fateh al-Shaam (JFS), standing for the liberation of Shaam or the Levant (the sub-region of the Middle East lying near the Mediterranean Sea, including Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Israel and Palestine). 
  • By 2017, after merging with a number of other groups, the JFS became the HTS. 

What is India’s Approach Towards Syria? 

  • Historical Ties: India has long maintained friendly relations with Bashar al-Assad’s Syria, based on shared historical and civilizational ties.  
    • Syria has historically been an important member of the Nehru- championed Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). 
    • India's stable relations with Syria and key Middle Eastern players are vital for countering Pakistan's narratives in Muslim-majority nations. 
  • Recent Diplomatic Engagement:  Syria, a Muslim-majority country, has consistently supported India's position on the Kashmir issue, unlike many other Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) countries that often oppose it, particularly Pakistan. 
    • India has invested in projects like the Tishreen power plant and the Hama iron and steel plant. 
    • India sent humanitarian aid to Syria following an earthquake in February 2023 as part of Operation Dost (friend). 
    • In late 2024, India hosted the 6th Round of India-Syria Foreign Office Consultations, reinforcing the bilateral relationship. 
  • Caution Amid Crisis: India has called for a peaceful, inclusive, Syrian-led political process while emphasizing the need to preserve Syria's unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.  
    • It has also expressed concerns over the safety and protection of minorities, including Alawites, Druze, Kurds, and Christians, amidst the ongoing conflict. 
    • The Indian Ministry of External Affairs issued a caution for Indians in Syria, advising them to leave if possible, as the situation in the capital escalated. 
  • Future of India- Syria Relations: India’s ties with Syria may be shaped by Turkey, as its involvement with the Regional Militias. Additionally, Turkey's opposition to India on matters of Kashmir and its close relations with Pakistan add another layer of complexity to their interactions. 
    • US support for a post-Assad transition in Syria, along with its close strategic partnership with India, can positively influence Syria-India relations. 
    • Meanwhile, Iran, a key ally of Assad, maintains a strong relationship with India, particularly in areas of economic and strategic cooperation.  
    • India's neutral stance on Syria's internal matters can ensure diplomatic flexibility, enabling it to engage constructively with any future leadership and foster relationships based on mutual interests and regional stability. 

What are the Implications of Syrian Rebellion? 

  • Impact on Syria and Middle East: 
    • HTS's Influence: Despite the HTS's claims of inclusivity toward minorities, its violent history and fundamentalist ideology raise concerns that Syria could face a future similar to Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. 
      • Syria’s ethnic and sectarian diversity, including Sunni Arabs, Alawites, Kurds, Shias, and Christians, complicates efforts to unify the country under one governance model. 
      • If HTS adopts a radical path like Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), it could trigger a new wave of extremism. 
    • Regional Instability: The rebellion has destabilized the Middle East, affecting neighboring countries and contributing to regional tensions.  
      • The involvement of various international actors has turned Syria into a battleground for proxy wars. 
      • The rebellion in Syria continues to affect Kurds, especially along the Turkish-Syrian border.  
        • Turkey views Kurdish groups as a security threat, and the instability could lead to increased displacement and conflict, further destabilizing the region. 
  • Global Impact:  
    • Humanitarian Crisis: The conflict has displaced millions of Syrians, creating one of the largest refugee crises in modern history.  
      • The United Nations reports approximately 5.5 million Syrian refugees live , primarily in Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, and Europe. 
    • Terrorism and Extremism: The chaos in Syria has allowed extremist groups like ISIS to gain a foothold, posing a global security threat.  
    • Economic Impact: The conflict has disrupted trade routes and economic activities in the region. It has also affected global oil prices, as instability in the Middle East often leads to fluctuations in the energy market. 
      • Instability in Syria could impact the Gulf region, crucial for India's energy security and trade. 
    • Human Rights Violations: The war has seen widespread human rights abuses, including the use of chemical weapons, targeting of civilians, and destruction of infrastructure. These actions have drawn international condemnation and calls for accountability. 

Conclusion 

The fall of Assad's regime is a pivotal moment in the Syrian Civil War, but peace remains uncertain. With HTS rising to power, Syria's future is fraught with challenges, including foreign influence and internal divisions. India must carefully balance its historical ties with Syria while safeguarding its citizens and interests. 

Drishti Mains Question:

Discuss the implications of the Syrian conflict and its potential impact on India's strategic interests.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ) 

Prelims

Q1. Consider the following pairs: (2018)

Towns sometimes mentioned in news Country
1. Aleppo Syria
2. Kirkuk Yemen
3. Mosul Palestine
4. Mazar-i-sharif Afghanistan

Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched? 

(a) 1 and 2  
(b) 1 and 4 
(c) 2 and 3 
(d) 3 and 4 

Ans: (b) 

Q2. Which one of the following countries of South-West Asia does not open out to the Mediterranean Sea? (2015) 

(a) Syria 
(b) Jordan 
(c) Lebanon 
(d) Israel 

Ans: (b) 

Q3. The area known as ‘Golan Heights’ sometimes appears in the news in the context of the events related to (2015) 

(a) Central Asia 
(b) Middle East 
(c) South-East Asia  
(d) Central Africa 

Ans: (b) 

Q4. Yom Kippur War was fought between which sides/ countries? (2008) 

(a) Turkey and Greece 
(b) Serbs and Croats   
(c) Israel, and Arab countries led by Egypt and Syria 
(d) Iran and Iraq 

Ans: (c)

Indian Polity

SC Guidelines on Death Penalty and Mercy Petitions

For Prelims: Important Cases Related to Death Penalty, Provisions for Death Penalty, Article 21. 

For Mains: SC Guidelines on Death Penalty and Mercy Petitions, Death Penalty and Arguments Related to It. 

Source: HT 

Why in News?

Recently, the Supreme Court of India (SC) has issued comprehensive guidelines aimed at streamlining the execution of death sentences and the processing of mercy petitions. 

  • The SC upheld the Bombay High Court's decision in Purshottam Dashrath Borate vs Union Of India, 2019 to commute the death penalty of two convicts in the 2007 Pune BPO gang-rape and murder case to a 35-year life term due to inordinate execution delays. 

What are the SC Guidelines on Death Penalty and Mercy Petitions? 

  • Establishment of Dedicated Cells: 
    • The SC directed all states and union territories to establish dedicated cells within their Home or Prison Departments to handle mercy petitions efficiently and within the prescribed time frame.  
    • These cells will be managed by a designated officer, with contact details shared with all prisons, and an official from the Law or Justice Department will ensure legal compliance. 
  • Information Sharing: 
    • Prison authorities must promptly forward mercy petitions and relevant details, such as the convict’s background, incarceration history, and legal documents to the dedicated cell.  
    • They must also send police reports, FIRs, trial evidence, and court judgments to the cell officer and the Home Department Secretary. 
    • Mercy petitions must be promptly forwarded to the Secretariats of the Governor or President for further action without unnecessary delays. 
  • Electronic Communication: 
    • To enhance efficiency, all communication should be conducted electronically (via email), except in cases requiring confidentiality. 
  • Record Maintenance on Death Sentence Cases: 
    • The Sessions Courts must maintain a record of death sentence cases and ensure their prompt listing on the cause list upon receiving orders from the High Court or Supreme Court. 
    • Additionally, notices should be issued to State Public Prosecutors or investigation agencies to ascertain the status of any pending legal remedies, including appeals, review petitions, or mercy pleas. 
  • Execution Warrant Protocol: 
    • There should be a mandatory 15-day gap between the issuance of an execution warrant and its implementation. 
    • Convicts must be informed of their right to legal representation, and copies of the warrant and the issuing order must be provided immediately.  
    • Legal assistance must be offered immediately if requested by the convict to challenge the warrant. 
  • State Government Responsibility: 
    • The State Government must apply for an execution warrant as soon as the death penalty becomes final and enforceable. 

What is the Death Penalty and Mercy Petition? 

  • About Death Penalty: It is also known as capital punishment, and the most severe form of punishment in the Indian judicial system.  
    • It involves the execution of an individual by the state as a penalty for certain grave offenses.  
  • Legal Framework For Death Sentence: 
  • About Mercy Petition: It is a formal request made by someone who has been sentenced to death or imprisonment seeking mercy from the President or the Governor, as the case may be. 
  • Constitutional Framework: 
    • As per the Constitutional framework in India, a mercy petition to the President is the last constitutional resort a convict can take when he is sentenced by a court of law. A convict can present a mercy petition to the President of India under Article 72 of the Constitution of India. 
    • Similarly, the power to grant pardon is conferred upon the Governors of States under Article 161 of the Constitution of India.
Article 72 Article 161
  • The President shall have the power to grant pardons, reprieves, respites or remissions of punishment or to suspend, remit or commute the sentence of any person convicted of any offence:  
  • In all cases where the punishment or sentence is by a Court Martial 
  • In all cases where the punishment or sentence is for an offence against any law relating to a matter to which the executive power of the Union extends 
  • In all cases where the sentence is a sentence of death. 
  • It provides that the Governor of a State shall have the power to grant pardons, reprieves, respites or remissions of punishment or to suspend, remit or commute the sentence of any person convicted of any offence against any law relating to a matter to which the executive power of the State extends. 
  • The SC in 2021 held that the Governor of a State can pardon prisoners, including death row ones, even before they have served a minimum 14 years of prison sentence. 

What are the Implications of SC Guidelines on Death Penalty and Mercy Petition? 

  • Reduction in Delays: The establishment of dedicated cells and a structured approach for processing mercy petitions will minimize delays, ensuring timely resolution. Regular monitoring and prompt listing of cases by Sessions Courts will expedite the process. 
    • Example: In the Mukesh Singh vs. NCT of Delhi (2017) case (also known as Nirbhaya rape case) the execution of the Nirbhaya convicts was delayed due to multiple mercy petitions and legal challenges. 
  • Enhanced Accountability: Designated officers and clear responsibilities for various departments will ensure transparency and accountability, making it easier to track the progress of cases and petitions. 
  • Legal Support and Human Rights: 
    • The guidelines ensure convicts are informed of their rights and provided legal aid, upholding fairness and constitutional protections under Article 21. They align with evolving jurisprudence on capital punishment, focusing on "rarest of rare" cases and mitigating factors. 
  • Strengthened Judicial Oversight: Sessions Courts must maintain records and ensure timely listing of death sentence cases. Regular judicial review and coordination with the Governor/President further safeguard against miscarriages of justice. 

SC Rulings on the Death Penalty 

  • In Bachan Singh v. State of Punjab, 1980 case, the SC established the principle of awarding the death penalty only in the "rarest of rare" cases.  
    • This dictum implies that capital punishment should be imposed only when the alternative sentence of life imprisonment is deemed inadequate due to the extreme nature of the crime. 
  • In Jagmohan Singh v. State of UP 1973 case, SC held that according to Article 21 deprivation of life is constitutionally permissible if that is done according to the procedure established by law. 
    • Thus the death sentence imposed after a trial in accordance with legally established procedures under CrPC and the Indian Evidence Act is not unconstitutional under Art. 21. 
  • In Rajendra Prasad v. State of UP 1979 case, SC held that, if the murderous operation of a criminal jeopardizes social security in a persistent, planned and perilous fashion then his enjoyment of fundamental rights may be rightly annihilated. 
  • In Machhi Singh v. State of Punjab 1983 case, SC laid down certain considerations for determining whether a case falls under the category of rarest of rare cases or not. 

Conclusion 

The Supreme Court's guidelines on death penalty and mercy petitions aim to streamline the process, ensure timely justice, and uphold constitutional safeguards. These measures focus on transparency, efficient communication, and fair execution, balancing the severity of capital punishment with the need for fairness and human rights. 

Drishti Mains Question:

Discuss the Supreme Court's guidelines on the execution of death penalties and the processing of mercy petitions. How do these guidelines aim to address delays in the judicial process and ensure fairness in capital punishment cases?

UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question (PYQ) 

Q. Instances of President’s delay in commuting death sentences has come under public debate as denial of justice. Should there be a time limit specified for the President to accept/reject such petitions? Analyse. (2014)

Indian Economy

India's Strategy for Deregulation and Growth

For Prelims: GDP, Inflation, Unemployment, Covid-19 pandemic, World Bank, Current Account Deficit, International Monetary Fund, Disinvestment, Production-linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme, Intellectual Property Rights. 

For Mains: Key Focus Areas for Sustainable Economic Growth, Opportunities and Challenges of Indian Economy 

Source: IE 

Why in News? 

Recently, the Chief Economic Advisor (CEA), Dr. V. Anantha Nageswaran, has announced that deregulation will be a major theme in the Economic Survey for 2024-25.  

  • This announcement underscores the government’s intention to ease restrictive regulations in various sectors to spur economic growth, and enhance the productivity of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

Note: Deregulation refers to the process of reducing or eliminating government controls over industries or sectors to foster competition and enhance market efficiency by encouraging the entry of new players. 

  • It has been a significant aspect of Economic Reforms ( LPG Reforms) initiated post-1991, transitioning the country from a highly regulated, state-controlled economy to a more liberalized and globally integrated one. 
  • For Example, in 1978, India passed the Airline Deregulation Act, which gave more control to airline companies and changed the landscape of the industry. 

What are the Key Focus Areas for Economic Growth of India? 

  • Deregulation as a Catalyst for Growth: The upcoming Economic Survey for 2024-25 highlights deregulation, particularly at state and local levels, as a key growth catalyst. 
    • Citing outdated restrictions on 118 occupations deemed "risky" for women, and to reform female labour force participation and promote entrepreneurship, unlocking greater economic potential. 
  • Wage Growth and Consumption: CEA highlighted the stagnation of wages, especially for contractual employees, which has failed to keep up with inflation, reducing purchasing power. Despite rising corporate profits, wage disparity persists.  
    • A correction in corporate wage structures is needed to align earnings with living costs, stimulating demand and economic growth. 
  • Informalisation of the Workforce: The Covid-19 pandemic accelerated the shift from regular to informal employment, weakening job security and benefits. While beneficial for companies, this trend hampers consumption and economic growth by limiting workers' ability to save and invest.  
  • Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs): India's Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) sector is crucial for economic growth, especially in manufacturing. However, it faces challenges due to the "micro" category, limiting access to resources and support.  
    • Learning from Germany and Switzerland, India must end concessions that keep SMEs small. A vibrant SME sector can help achieve India's goal of a 25% share of GDP from manufacturing. 
  • Job Creation and Labour Force Participation: India needs to create around 8 million jobs annually to absorb its growing workforce. CEA emphasized balancing capital and labour-intensive growth, with the private sector playing a key role.  
    • Policies like cash incentives and provident fund contributions for first-time hires aim to boost job creation. 

What are the Implications of Deregulation for the Indian Economy? 

  • Boost to Private Sector Growth: Deregulation allows businesses to operate with greater autonomy, reducing bureaucratic delays and enabling faster decision-making. This has led to the flourishing of industries such as telecommunications, aviation, and IT. 
  • Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Deregulation has created a conducive environment for startups and innovation by reducing compliance burdens and fostering ease of doing business. 
    • With the growth of industries due to deregulation, there has been a corresponding increase in job opportunities across various sectors, contributing to economic empowerment. 
  • Attraction of Foreign Investments: By removing restrictions on foreign direct investment (FDI) in various sectors, deregulation has helped India become a preferred destination for global investors, enhancing capital inflows and technology transfer. 
  • Increased Efficiency and Competition: A deregulated market fosters healthy competition, ensuring better quality goods and services at competitive prices, benefiting consumers while driving industrial growth. 

LPG Reforms  

  • PM Rao along with Finance Minister Manmohan Singh, initiated the LPG reforms (Liberalization, Privatization, and Globalization) that were introduced as a cornerstone of India's economic strategy to overcome the crisis and promote sustainable growth. 
    • Liberalisation: 
      • New Trade Policy: Introduced to boost exports by revamping the licensing process and linking non-essential imports to exports. 
      • Exim Scrips: The government removed export subsidies and instead introduced tradeable exim scrips for exporters based on the value of exports. The policy ended the monopoly of state-owned firms over imports, enabling the private sector to import goods independently. 
      • Ending Licence Raj: The new industrial policy dismantled the licence raj, relaxing Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices Act provisions to facilitate business restructuring and mergers. The policy abolished industrial licensing for all but 18 industries, irrespective of investment levels. 
    • Privatisation: 
      • FDI Reforms: Automatic approval for foreign direct investment (FDI) up to 51% was introduced, compared to the previous cap of 40%. 
      • Public Sector Monopoly Restriction: Restricted public sector monopoly to sectors critical for national security. 
      • Opening Markets: These changes made it easier to do business in India, attracting a deluge of foreign goods and investments in subsequent years. 
    • Globalisation: 
      • Economic Policies: The reforms aimed at integrating India’s economy with the global market, encouraging international trade and investment. 
      • Boosting Exports: With the massive devaluation of the rupee and new trade policies, Indian exports became more competitive globally. 

What is the Importance of Deregulation for the Indian Economy? 

  • Reviving Economic Growth:  
    • The Covid-19 pandemic triggered a significant contraction in India's economy in 2020. While the economy rebounded strongly in 2021 with a GDP 9% growth, which has now slowed down to 5.4% in July-September FY25, below RBI's 7% projection. 
    • By reducing bureaucratic hurdles and empowering market forces, deregulation fosters entrepreneurship, investment, and innovation, driving sustainable economic recovery and growth. 
  • Addressing Unemployment and Underemployment: 
    • The pandemic worsened unemployment, with over 1.8 crore salaried jobs lost between April and July 2020.  
    • By promoting ease of doing business and fostering private sector growth, deregulation creates employment opportunities, particularly in sectors that were adversely impacted by the pandemic 
  • Reinvigorating Agriculture and Allied Sectors: 
    • Despite some recent growth, the agricultural sector which employs over 50% of the workforce has not kept pace with overall economic growth. 
    • The sector's contribution to GDP has declined from 35% in 1990-91 to 15% in FY23 and its growth rate declined to 1.4% in 2023-24 from 4.7% in 2022-23. 
  • Bridging Infrastructure Deficit: 
    • According to the World Bank, India faces an infrastructure gap estimated at USD 1.5 trillion, with significant deficiencies in transportation, energy, and healthcare.  
    • Private investment remains low, falling to 19.6% of GDP in 2020-21, and Gross Fixed Capital Formation (GFCF) declined by 14.5% in FY 2020-21. 
  • Enhancing Export Competitiveness and Geopolitical Tensions: 
    • Geopolitical issues, such as the Russia-Ukraine war, have disrupted global trade, impacting sectors like textiles and footwear, where exports have contracted.  
    • Additionally, India's pharmaceutical sector, despite its global aspirations, has struggled to keep pace with growing demand, lagging behind global growth in the sector. 

MSME Sector 

  • About: 
    • MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) are businesses involved in the production, processing, and preservation of goods and services.  
  • Classification: 
    • They are classified based on investment in plant and machinery for manufacturing or equipment for service enterprises, as well as their annual turnover as: 

MSME

  • Contribution in Indian Economy: 
    • The MSME sector is crucial to India's economy, driving employment, innovation, exports, and inclusive growth.  
    • It accounts for 45% of industrial production, 40% of exports, and contributes 37.54% to India's GDP.  
    • The manufacturing segment within MSMEs contributes 7.09% to GDP, while the services sector adds 30.50%. 

What are the Key Initiatives to Accelerate the Growth of the Indian Economy? 

What Strategies Can India Adopt to Make Deregulation Impactful? 

  • Encourage PPP and Competition: 
    • For making deregulation successful and impactful there is a need to foster partnerships between the government and private sector to ensure effective implementation of reforms while encouraging fair competition to break monopolies and foster innovation. 
  • Leverage Technology and Simplify Compliance: 
    • Use digital platforms to enhance governance transparency, reduce compliance burdens, and streamline approval processes. The Digital India initiative and single-window clearance systems under the Ease of Doing Business reforms. 
  • Promote Financial Inclusion and Support SMEs: 
    • Ensure deregulation benefits marginalized populations by expanding access to banking and credit facilities, while supporting SMEs to adapt to market dynamics. Example: Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) and Startup India initiatives. 
  • Learn from Global Examples: 
    • There is a need to adapt global best practices to local contexts and engage stakeholders in participatory decision-making to build trust and address resistance. 
    • Singapore's deregulation has fostered economic growth and improved living standards, benefiting the financial sector, telecommunications, transportation, and electricity market. 
  • Sector-Specific Reforms: Sector-specific reforms should address unique challenges while ensuring strong regulatory oversight in critical areas like finance, environment, and defense. 
    • For example, allowing 100% FDI in defense promotes modernization but requires stringent regulations for security, while the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) streamlines financial resolution while maintaining accountability and preventing risks.

Drishti Mains Question:

Discuss the challenges and opportunities of India’s evolving economy and the role of key sectors in ensuring sustainable and inclusive growth. 

UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year’s Questions (PYQs) 

Prelims: 

Q: Consider the following statements: (2018) 

  1. Human capital formation as a concept is better explained in terms of a process that enables individuals of a country to accumulate more capital. 
  2. increasing the knowledge, skill levels and capacities of the people of the country. 
  3. accumulation of tangible wealth. 
  4. accumulation of intangible wealth 

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 
(b) 2 only 
(c) 2 and 4 
(d) 1, 3 and 4 

Ans: (c)

Q. Disguised unemployment generally means (2013)

(a) large number of people remain unemployed 
(b) alternative employment is not available 
(c) marginal productivity of labour is zero 
(d) productivity of workers is low 

Ans: (c)

Mains

Q. Most of the unemployment in India is structural in nature. Examine the methodology adopted to compute unemployment in the country and suggest improvements. (2023)

Geography

UNCCD's Drought Atlas

For Prelims: UNCCD COP16, United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), winter monsoons.  

For Mains:  Issue of Desertification and land degradation and steps to deal with the issue. 

Source: DTE 

Why in News?

At the UNCCD  COP16 in Riyadh, the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and the European Commission's Joint Research Centre launched the World Drought Atlas – a comprehensive global publication on drought risks and solutions.   

What is the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)? 

  • Established in 1994, it is the only legally binding international treaty that connects environmental and developmental goals to sustainable land management. 
  • It focuses on arid, semi-arid, and dry sub-humid regions, known as drylands, which contain some of the most vulnerable ecosystems and communities. 
  • The Convention’s 197 member countries work together to improve living conditions in drylands, restore land and soil productivity, and mitigate drought impacts. 
  • The UNCCD collaborates with the other two Rio Conventions to address the interconnected issues of land, climate, and biodiversity: 

What are the Key Findings of the UNCCD's Drought Atlas? 

  • Systemic Nature of Drought Risks: Drought is a systemic risk affecting multiple sectors globally. It projects that by 2050, 75% of the world's population (nearly 3 in 4 people) will be affected by drought conditions if current trends continue. 
    • In 2022 and 2023 alone, 1.84 billion people (nearly 1 in 4 globally) were affected by drought, with about 85% in low- and middle-income countries. 
  • Economic Consequences: Droughts can severely impact agriculture, energy production, and trade. UNCCD asserts that the economic costs of the damages done due to droughts is underestimated by 2.4 times amounting to USD 307 billion per year. 
  • Drought Vulnerability in India: India is particularly vulnerable to drought due to its diverse climatic conditions and reliance on monsoon rains for agriculture.  
    • The Atlas underscores that approximately 60% of India's agricultural land is rain-fed, making it susceptible to fluctuations in rainfall patterns. 
    • The 2016 drought in Southern India was due to exceptionally low rainfall during both summer and winter monsoons. 
    • Rapid urbanization has caused water mismanagement in cities like Chennai, leading to a severe crisis despite ample rainfall.  
      • The UNCCD report blames human activities and occasional lack of rain for drought and resource degradation. 

What are Droughts? 

  • About: 
    • Droughts are extended periods of significantly reduced water availability, causing imbalances in water supply, quality, and demand. These periods can be brief or last for years, affecting plant growth and lowering water tables.  
      • They arise from climate factors like low precipitation as well as human activities such as water extraction, usage, and land management. 
    • Droughts can occur naturally due to weather patterns, but climate change is increasing their frequency and severity. 
  • Drought Scenario in India: 
    • As per, Drought Atlas of India (1901–2020), approximately two-thirds of India is susceptible to drought. As an agriculture-based nation with 1.4 billion people, droughts greatly impact agricultural productivity. 
      • Between 1901 and 2020, around 56% of India's area experienced moderate to exceptional drought conditions, impacting 300 million people and 150 million cattle. 
      • Additionally, crop damage (between 1901 and 2020) led to an estimated economic loss of about USD 8.7 billion, reducing the agricultural GDP by 3.1%. 
  • Initiatives taken to Combat Drought: 
    • The Integrated Drought Management Programme is a joint initiative between the Global Water Partnership (GWP) and WMO. 
      • The  Programme aids governments and stakeholders in implementing drought management by offering policy, technical, and management guidance, and sharing scientific knowledge and best practices. 
    • UNCCD’s Drought Initiative emphasizes on setting up drought preparedness systems. 
    • Every year, 17th June is celebrated as the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought (WDCDD). 
    • UNCCD’s Drought Resilience, Adaptation and Management Policy (DRAMP) Framework, advocates for ongoing science-policy collaboration to understand drought risks, collect data, and design equitable solutions, ensuring resilience for economies, societies, and ecosystems. 

What are the Key Recommendations of the World Drought Atlas?  

  • Governance: 
    • Countries should develop and implement comprehensive national drought plans to enhance preparedness and resilience against drought events. 
    • Strengthening international collaboration is essential for sharing knowledge, resources, and best practices to effectively manage drought risks across borders. 
    • Developing financial mechanisms, such as microinsurance for smallholder farmers, can provide safety nets for vulnerable populations affected by drought. 
  • Land Use Management: 
    • Sustainable agriculture practices, such as land restoration via reforestation, soil conservation, crop diversification and agroforestry, are essential for building resilience against drought. 
    • These measures reduce runoff and increase stormwater retention, improving soil quality, providing shade for livestock and reducing evapotranspiration, which strengthens vegetation's resilience to drought 
  • Management of Water Supply and Use: 
    • Investment in Infrastructure: Increased investment in infrastructure for water supply and management, such as wastewater reuse and groundwater recharge systems, is necessary to enhance water security during droughts 

Drought_Risk_Management_and_Adaptation

Drishti Mains Question

Q. Discuss how socio-economic factors influence drought resilience in India and suggest actionable strategies for improving preparedness against future droughts.

 

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)

Mains: 

Q. Drought has been recognized as a disaster in view of its spatial expanse, temporal duration, slow onset, and lasting effects on vulnerable sections. With a focus on the September 2010 guidelines from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), discuss the mechanisms for preparedness to deal with likely El Nino and La Nina fallouts in India. (2014)

Important Facts For Prelims

India-Japan Forum 2024

Source: TH 

Why in News?

Recently, at the India-Japan Forum in New Delhi, External Affairs Minister(EAM) of India underscored the potential for a strategic semiconductor alliance between India and Japan. 

What are the Key Highlights of the India-Japan Forum 2024? 

  • Semiconductor Collaboration: India and Japan are revitalizing their semiconductor industries to enhance global supply chain resilience.  
    • India and Japan are collaborating with Taiwan, a key semiconductor hub, to mitigate supply chain risks and reduce dependence on China. This partnership supports India's semiconductor mission and Japan's revitalization efforts, aiming to reduce strategic vulnerabilities and foster technological autonomy. 
    • Such cooperation aligns with broader Indo-Pacific strategies to counter Chinese dominance in critical supply chains and enhance strategic autonomy for both nations. 
  • Quad's Growth: The EAM of India credited the Trump administration (2017 to 2021) for reviving and expanding the Quad (India, Japan, Australia, US) 
    • The Quad's inclusive "fair share" approach to burden-sharing enhances its resilience to alliance and commitment concerns. It has evolved into a platform for extensive intergovernmental cooperation, with regular high-level meetings and annual summits. 

India-Japan Forum 

  • The India-Japan Forum provides a platform for Indian and Japanese leaders to shape the future of bilateral and strategic partnerships through deliberation and collaboration.  
    • The forum is convened by the Ananta Centre and the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. 
      • Ananta Centre is a non-partisan(free from political party affiliation) organization dedicated to leadership development and fostering open dialogue on key issues to drive India's transformation. 
  • The aim of the forum is to bolster cooperation, leverage opportunities, exchange ideas, build mutual trust and develop a joint agenda for future cooperation. The discussions will be held under Chatham House rules. 
    • Under the Chatham House Rule, participants can use the information received but must not disclose the identity or affiliation of speakers or other participants 

What are the Key Facts About Quadrilateral Security Dialogue(Quad)?

  • About: The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) is a strategic forum focused on promoting regional security and economic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.  
    • The Quad aims to strengthen regional security, counter China’s assertiveness, promote economic growth, and improve maritime security.  
  • Origins: The Quad originated after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, where the US, Japan, India, and Australia provided humanitarian aid.  
    • It was formally established in 2007 by Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe but went dormant in 2008. The group was revived in 2017 amid changing regional attitudes toward China's influence, culminating in its first formal summit in 2021. 
  • Functions: It functions through summits, joint military drills, and economic initiatives but lacks a formal structure like North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). 
  • Quad and India: For India, it offers strategic and economic benefits, particularly in countering China and enhancing security.  
    • However, challenges include imbalanced cooperation, lack of a decision-making body, and geopolitical tensions with China. 

Read more: India Japan 2+2 Foreign and Defence Ministerial Meeting

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ) 

Prelims

Q1. In which one of the following groups are all four countries members of G20? (2020) 

(a) Argentina, Mexico, South Africa and Turkey 

(b) Australia, Canada, Malaysia and New Zealand 

(c) Brazil, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Vietnam 

(d) Indonesia, Japan, Singapore and South Korea 

Ans: (a) 

Exp: 

  • The G20 comprises Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, EU, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, UK and USA. Hence Option(a) is correct.
Important Facts For Prelims

Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres

Source: TH 

Why in News? 

Recently, a joint rescue operation by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (MSA) successfully saved 12 crew members from the sunken Indian vessel MSV Al Piranpir in the North Arabian Sea.  

  • This joint effort highlighted the critical role of the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres (MRCCs) of both nations, which maintained seamless communication throughout the humanitarian search and rescue operation. 

What are the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres? 

  • About MRCC: MRCC is a unit responsible for promoting efficient organisation of Search and Rescue (SAR) services at sea and coordinating the conduct of M-SAR operations within a Search and Rescue Region (SRR). 
    • The MRCCs in India are specialized units within the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). 
  • Search and Rescue Region (SRR): SRR is an area of defined dimensions associated with an MRCC within which SAR services are provided. The Indian Coast Guard coordinates SAR missions in the Indian Maritime Search and Rescue Region (ISRR). 
    • The Indian SRR is divided into three areas, each with an MRCC in Mumbai, Chennai, and Port Blair.  
  • SAR Cooperation:  
    • Related Conventions (ratified by India):  
    • Other Initiatives: 
      • India’s SAGAR Vision 
      • Djibouti Code of Conduct (DCoC): It is a framework aimed at enhancing capacity to combat piracy in the Western Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden. 
        • India, Japan, Norway, the UK and the USA hold the observer status. 

 Indian_SAR_Region

Indian Coast Guard 

  • ICG was established by the Coast Guard Act, 1978 as an independent Armed force of India. 
    • It is an Armed Force, Search and Rescue and Maritime Law Enforcement agency under the Ministry of Defence. It is headquartered in New Delhi. 
    • The blueprint for a multidimensional Coast Guard was conceived by the visionary Rustamji Committee 1974.  
  • ICG Duties for SAR: Related to SAR, the Coast Guard charter of duties includes:  
    • Providing protection to fishermen including assistance to them at sea when in distress. 
    • Safety of life and property at sea  
    • Search and Rescue at sea  
    • Enforcement of Maritime laws at Sea 
  • The Director General of the Indian Coast Guard serves as the National Maritime SAR Coordinating Authority (NMSARCA).

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Prelims

Q1. Elephant Pass, sometimes seen in the news, is mentioned in the context of the affairs of which one of the following? (2009)

(a) Bangladesh 

(b) India

(c) Nepal

(d) Sri Lanka

Ans: (d)

Q. Consider the following pairs: (2019)

Sea Bordering          Country

  1. Adriatic Sea :              Albania 
  2. Black Sea :                  Croatia 
  3. Caspian Sea :             Kazakhstan 
  4. Mediterranean Sea :   Morocco 
  5. Red Sea :                     Syria 

Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?

(a) 1, 2 and 4 only 

(b) 1, 3 and 4 only 

(c) 2 and 5 only  

(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

Ans: (b)

Q. The Mediterranean Sea is a border of which of the following countries? (2017)

  1. Jordan 
  2. Iraq 
  3. Lebanon 
  4. Syria 

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only  

(b) 2 and 3 only  

(c) 3 and 4 only 

(d) 1, 3 and 4 only 

Ans: (c)

Rapid Fire

Human Rights Day

Source: IE 

Human Rights Day, observed every year on 10th December highlights the importance of human rights as a foundation for justice, peace, and equality. 

Read more: Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Rapid Fire

Indian Star Tortoise

Source: TH 

The Indian star tortoise (Geochelone elegans) faces severe threats from habitat loss, illegal trade, and genetic disruption, making its conservation a critical priority. 

  • Appearance: It has an obsidian shell with striking Sun-yellow star patterns. 
  • Habitat: It is native to the Indian subcontinent and is found in northwestern India, South India, and Sri Lanka in arid grasslands and savannahs. 
  • Conservation Status: Listed as Vulnerable under IUCN Red List, Appendix I of CITES. 
  • Threat: According to the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, 90% of the trade of Star Tortoise occurs as part of the international pet market. 
  • Genetic Study Insights: Researchers identified two distinct groups of Indian star tortoises: Northwestern (genetically stable) and Southern (genetically diverse). 
    • Microsatellite markers were used to track genetic relationships and population changes.  
    • Microsatellite markers are short DNA sequences that repeat in a particular location in the genome.  

Read More: Indian Star Tortoise 

Rapid Fire

Bima Sakhi Yojana

Source: PIB 

The Prime Minister recently launched the 'Bima Sakhi Yojana' of Life Insurance Corporation, with an aim to provide jobs to 2 lakh women, reinforcing the commitment towards women empowerment and financial inclusion. 

  • LIC’s Bima Sakhi is a stipend-based program exclusively for women, offering specialised training and financial support for a period of three years. 
  • Eligibility: Women aged between 18 and 70 years who have completed their 10th-grade education. 
  • Each Bima Sakhi will earn a monthly stipend of Rs 7,000 in the first year, Rs 6,000 in the second year, and Rs 5,000 in the third year.  
    • Additionally, women agents can earn commissions based on the insurance policies they secure. 
  • After training, they can serve as LIC agents and the graduate Bima Sakhis would have the opportunity to qualify for being considered for Development Officer roles in LIC. 

Read More: Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Scheme 

Rapid Fire

Armed Forces Flag Day

Source: BS 

Armed Forces Flag Day (AFFD) has been held every year on 7th December since 1949 to honor the bravery and sacrifices of Indian Armed Forces personnel, especially veterans. 

  • The day recognizes not only the sacrifices of fallen soldiers but also the contributions of their families, especially the war-disabled soldiers and War Widows (Veer Naris). 
  • Support Initiatives:  
    • AFFD Fund: It was created by the Ministry of Defence in 1949. In 1993, it was unified with other welfare funds, including those for war victims and ex-servicemen, into a single fund. 
      • The Kendriya Sainik Board (KSB) administers the AFFD Fund (AFFDF). 
        • KSB formulates and implements welfare and rehabilitation schemes for ex-servicemen and their families across India. 
    • Digital Solutions: SAMBANDH, a WhatsApp-based chatbot, allows veterans to easily report and resolve grievances. The platform has helped address over 1,700 cases in less than a year. 
    • Skill Development for Women: The Nari Sashaktikaran initiative focuses on empowering women, including widows of fallen soldiers, by providing job training and opportunities for economic independence.  
    • Project NAMAN: It aims to simplify pension services for veterans, ensuring easier access to services such as life certificate submissions and pension disbursements. 

Read more: Advancing Defense Integration in India

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