Reforms in the Sati System

For Prelims: Commission of Sati (Prevention) Act, 1987, Sati, Bhanugupta, Eran Pillar Inscription, Bhanugupta, Akbar, Guru Amar Das, William Bentinck, Infanticide, Pandit Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, Age of Consent Act, 1891, Child Marriage Restraint Act, 1929 (Sarda Act, 1929), Land Revenue Settlement, Mahalwari system, Raja Rammohan Roy. 

For Mains: Rise and growth of socio-religious reform movements, Role of various actors in socio-religious reform movements. 

Source: IE 

Why in News?

Recently, 8 persons were acquitted in connection with glorifying the act of Sati by constructing temples in her name. 

• The Sati was committed on 4th September 1987 in Rajasthan in the Roop Kanwar case which led to the enactment of the Commission of Sati (Prevention) Act, 1987 by the Union government. 

What are the Key Facts Regarding Punishments for Offences Under Sati Commission of Sati (Prevention) Act, 1987? 

• Attempt to Commit Sati: Section 3 of the Act states that anyone who attempts to commit sati and takes any action towards it may face up to one year of imprisonment, a fine, or both. 
• Abetment of Sati: Section 4 of the Act states that anyone who abets sati, directly or indirectly, will face life imprisonment and a fine. Eg. Convincing a widow or woman that committing sati would bring spiritual benefits for her or her deceased husband or improve the family's well-being. 
• Glorification of Sati: Section 5 of the Act states that glorifying sati is punishable by one to seven years of imprisonment and a fine of five to thirty thousand rupees. 

What was the Sati System? 

• About Sati: Sati refers to the practice of a widow immolating herself on the cremation pyre of her husband. 
  • After the immolation, a memorial stone and often a shrine was erected for her and she was worshipped as a Goddess. 
  • The first epigraphical evidence of Sati has been found from the Eran Pillar Inscription of Bhanugupta, Madhya Pradesh in Eran in 510 AD. 
• Steps Taken to Abolish Sati:  
  • Mughal Empire: In 1582, emperor Akbar ordered his officials throughout the empire to stop the immolation of a woman if they saw that she was being forced.  
    • He also offered pension, gift and rehabilitation to the widow to stop the practice 
  • Sikh Empire: Sikh Guru Amar Das condemned the practice in the 15th–16th centuries.  
  • Maratha Empire: The Marathas banned sati in their region. 
  • Colonial Powers: The Dutch, Portuguese and the French also banned Sati in their colonies in India. 
    • British Governor-General William Bentinck declared the practice of sati illegal and punishable by criminal courts under the Bengal Sati Regulation, 1829. 
• Other Legal Initiatives to Ameliorate Women’s Position:  
  • Female Infanticide: The Bengal regulations of 1795 and 1804 made infanticide illegal, equating it with murder.  
    • An 1870 act required parents to register all births and mandated verification of female infants for several years in areas where infanticide was secretly practised. 
  • Widow Remarriage: With the efforts of Pandit Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar the Hindu Widows’ Remarriage Act, 1856 was passed. 
    • It legalised the marriage of widows and recognised children from such marriages as legitimate. 
  • Child Marriage: Age of Consent Act, 1891  forbade the marriage of girls below the age of 12.  
    • Child Marriage Restraint Act, 1929 (Sarda Act, 1929) pushed up the marriage age to 18 and 14 for boys and girls, respectively. 
    • Child Marriage Restraint (Amendment) Act, 1978 raised the age of marriage for girls from 15 to 18 years and for boys from 18 to 21.  
  • Education of Women: Calcutta Female Juvenile Society 1819 marked the beginning of a broader movement towards female education. 
    • Bethune School 1849 became a pivotal institution for women’s education. 

What was Raja Rammohan Roy's Role in Abolition of Sati? 

• Crusader Against Sati: Raja Rammohan Roy is a key figure in 19th-century India’s social reform movement, known for his strong efforts to eliminate the practice of Sati. 
• Beginning of Activism: Rammohan launched his anti-Sati campaign in 1818, driven by the belief that the practice was morally and ethically wrong.  
• Use of Sacred Texts: He cited sacred texts to prove his contention that no religion sanctioned the burning alive of widows. 
• Rationality and Humanity: He also appealed to the broader concepts of humanity, reason, and compassion to engage both the religious and secular communities in his fight against Sati. 
• Grassroots Activism: He also visited the cremation grounds, organised vigilance groups, and filed counter-petitions to the government during his struggle against sati. 
• Bengal Sati Regulation, 1829: Rammohan Roy's tireless efforts culminated in Bengal Sati Regulation, 1829 which declared the practice of Sati a crime.  

What are the Other Reforms Undertaken by William Bentinck (1828-1835)? 

• Administrative Reforms: 
  • Indianisation of Administration: Bentinck reversed Cornwallis's policy of excluding Indians from administrative roles by appointing educated Indians as Deputy Magistrates and Deputy Collectors, marking a significant move towards Indianising the government service. 
  • Land Revenue Settlement: Lord William Bentinck reviewed and updated the Mahalwari system of land revenue in 1833. It involved detailed surveys and negotiations with large landholders and village communities, leading to increased revenue for the state. 
  • Administrative Divisions: Bentinck reorganised the Presidency of Bengal into twenty divisions, each overseen by a commissioner which enhanced administrative efficiency. 
• Judicial Reforms:  
  • Abolition of Provincial Courts: Bentinck abolished provincial courts and established a new hierarchy of courts to expedite judicial processes, including the establishment of a Supreme Court in Agra for civil and criminal appeals. 
  • Judicial Empowerment: He created separate Sadar Diwani Adalat and Sadr Nizamat Adalat at Allahabad, improving judicial accessibility for the public. 
  • Reduction of Punishments: Bentinck reduced the severity of punishments and abolished inhumane practices, such as flogging. 
  • Language of the Courts: Bentinck ordered the use of vernacular languages in local courts.  
    • In higher courts, Persian was replaced by English, and qualified Indians were appointed as Munsiffs and Sadar Amins. 
• Financial Reforms: 
  • Cost-Cutting Measures: Bentinck formed two committees, military and civil, to examine rising expenditures. Following their recommendations, he significantly reduced the salaries and allowances of officials and cut travel expenses, leading to substantial annual savings. 
  • Revenue Recovery: He investigated land grants in Bengal, where many rent-free landholders were found to possess forged title deeds and enhanced the company's revenue. 
• Educational Reforms: Influenced by Macaulay, Bentinck supported English as the medium of instruction.  
  • The Persian language was replaced by English as the official language for the government of India in 1835 by the English Education Act, 1835. 
• Social Reforms: 
  • Suppression of Thuggee: He took decisive action against the Thuggee system, a criminal organisation that engaged in robbery and murder. 
    • By the end of 1834, Bentinck had successfully suppressed this practice, alleviating the fears of the populace. 
  • Support from Reformers: His reforms were supported by notable figures like Raja Rammohan Roy, who actively campaigned for the abolition of Sati and advocated for social reform in India. 

Conclusion 

To further advance social reform in India, it is crucial to continue raising awareness about women's rights and education, enforce existing laws against practices like Sati, and foster community engagement. Collaborating with grassroots organisations can enhance advocacy efforts, ensuring lasting change and empowerment for marginalised groups in society. 

Drishti Mains Question:

Discuss the role of Raja Rammohan Roy in the abolition of Sati. How did various rulers and colonial powers respond to this practice?

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

Prelims

Q. In collaboration with David Hare and Alexander Duff, who of the following established Hindu College at Calcutta? (2009) 

(a) Henry Louis Vivian Derozio 

(b) Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar 

(c) Keshab Chandra Sen 

(d) Raja Rammohan Roy 

Ans: (d)

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Mains 

Q. Trace the rise and growth of socio-religious reform movements with special reference to Young Bengal and Brahmo Samaj. (2021)

Q. The women’s questions arose in modern India as a part of the 19th century social reform movement. What were the major issues and debates concerning women in that period? (2017)

Napoleon’s Ambition with India and his Rule

For Prelims: Napoleon Bonaparte, Persia and Russia, Oriental World, Alexander the Great, Tipu Sultan, Russian Tsar Paul I, Napoleonic Code, Continental System, Peninsular War, Nationalism and Resistance, Egyptian Campaign, Louisiana Purchase, Ottoman Empire, Battle of Waterloo, Saint Helena, 

For Mains: Key Facts about Napoleon Bonaparte, facts about the Continental system, Renaissance and Colonialisation. 

Source: IE

Why in News? 

Napoleon Bonaparte's deep interest in India, fueled his ambition to undermine British dominance in the subcontinent. He also had great influence on European, American and African politics.

What was Napoleon’s Ambition with India (Orient)? 

• Oriental World:  
  • The term "Oriental" refers to the Eastern world from the European perspective, encompassing regions and cultures situated to the east of Europe. 
  • It broadly denotes the continent of Asia, including countries such as China, Japan, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, and other East Asian nations. 
• Napoleon’s Ambition with the Orient: 
  • From an early age, Napoleon Bonaparte was deeply fascinated by the Orient, inspired by the conquests of Alexander the Great in Asia, which fueled his ambitions in the region. 
  • His specific interest in India developed around 1798 during his Egyptian expedition, aimed at threatening Britain, France's primary adversary, and disrupting the growing British trade with India. 
  • Although Napoleon suffered a significant defeat by Britain in Egypt and Tipu Sultan died in 1799, his ambitions to challenge British control in India persisted, with various strategies devised against the backdrop of territorial struggles among the major European colonial powers, including Britain, Russia, and France. 
• Partners of Napoleon for Invasion of India:  
  • Russia: 
    • Following his defeat in Egypt, Napoleon was approached by Russian Tsar Paul I at the height of the "Great Game," a geopolitical struggle between Britain and Russia over control of Asian territories. 
    • In 1801, the Tsar secretly proposed a joint Franco-Russian invasion of India to expel the British and the East India Company, with the plan to divide the conquered lands between Russia and France. 
    • Although Napoleon declined the offer, Tsar Paul I briefly attempted to proceed alone before abandoning the mission following his assassination.  
  • Persia (Iran):  
    • Persia, strategically located between Europe and India, was of great importance to imperial powers. By 1800, Napoleon viewed Persia as a key route to India and had French agents engaging with Persian Shah Fath Ali.  
      • In response, Britain sent Captain John Malcolm to negotiate, resulting in a commercial and political treaty with Persia in 1801. 
    • The treaty prevented French influence in Persia and allowed Persia to wage war on Afghanistan if it threatened India. 
      • Britain excluded Russia from the treaty, even though Russia posed the biggest threat to Persia at the time. 
    • In 1801, Russia annexed Georgia (territory claimed by Persia) and by 1804 had advanced further by capturing Erivan (modern Armenia).  
      • When the Persian Shah sought British assistance under the treaty due to fears of a Russian attack, his request was denied. 
      • Following this, Napoleon formalised the Treaty of Finkenstein with Shah Fath Ali, which guaranteed Persia’s territorial integrity and offered French military support against Russia.  
        • In exchange, Persia agreed to sever ties with Britain and provide future war assistance to French. 
    • Despite the French alliance with Persia, Napoleon signed secret pact the Treaty of Tilsit with Russia in 1807, dividing global influence.  
      • France dominated Europe, while Russia had control over Asia. This alliance undermined Persia, which had sought French help to counter Russian aggression. 
    • After the secret pact, the Persian Shah sought a new treaty with the British, under which Britain promised military aid and annual subsidies to Persia.  

Tipu Sultan’s Relation with French 

• Tipu Sultan and his father Hyder Ali allied with the French to fight the British in India. 
  • He used French officers to train his soldiers, but he did not allow them to become a pressure group. 
• Tipu Sultan was inspired by the ideals of the French Revolution. He adopted the name "Citizen Tipu" and became a member of the Jacobin, a French club that advocated liberty and equal rights.  
• He also planted the Tree of Liberty in his capital, Srirangapatna. 

French in India 

• The first French factory in India was established at Surat in 1667 by Francois Caron which was followed by the factory at Masulipattam by Marcara in 1669. 
• They occupied Mahe in Malabar, Yanam in Coromandal (both in 1725) and Karikal in Tamil Nadu (1739).  
• The arrival of Dupleix as French governor in India in 1742 saw the beginning of Anglo French conflict (Carnatic wars) which resulted in their final defeat in India. 
  • The decisive battle of the Third Carnatic War was won by the English in January 1760 at Wandiwash (or Vandavasi) in Tamil Nadu. After this the French ambition to build empire in India came to an end. 
• On 1^st November 1954, the French territories in India were officially integrated into the Indian Union, and Puducherry became a Union Territory. This marked the end of 280 years of French rule. 
  • But only in 1963 Puducherry became officially an integral part of India after the French Parliament in Paris ratified the Treaty with India. 

What are the Key Facts About Napoleon Bonaparte? 

• Personal Life:  
  • Napoleon Bonaparte was born in 1769 on the Mediterranean island of Corsica. 
  • In 1785, at the age of 16, he became a lieutenant in the artillery. 
  • Following the outbreak of the French Revolution, Napoleon joined the army of the newly established government. 
    • In 1804, he crowned himself emperor of France. 
• Role of Napoleon: 
  • France:  
    • Revolutionary Wars: Napoleon initially rose to prominence as a military commander during the French Revolutionary Wars.  
      • He led campaigns against various European coalitions, particularly in Italy (1796) and Egypt (1798), establishing himself as one of France's greatest military strategists. 
    • Overthrow of Directory: In 1799, Napoleon played a central role in the coup d'état that overthrew the ineffective Directory government, marking the end of the French Revolution and the beginning of the Consulate, where he held power as First Consul. 
    • Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815): After becoming Emperor (1804), Napoleon expanded French territorial control across much of Europe through a series of military campaigns known as the Napoleonic Wars. 
      • He centralised power, modernised the administration, and implemented reforms in education, taxation, and infrastructure. 
    • Establishment of the Napoleonic Code: As a ruler, Napoleon introduced the Napoleonic Code in 1804, a legal framework that reformed the French legal system.  
      • The code emphasised equality before the law, individual rights, and secular government. It remains the foundation of legal systems in many countries. 
    • Continental System: To weaken Britain economically, Napoleon imposed the Continental System, a trade blockade aimed at cutting off British commerce with mainland Europe. However, the policy had mixed results and hurt France's own economy. 
    • Modernisation of France: Napoleon modernised many aspects of French society, including the education system, banking, and infrastructure.  
      • His reforms left a lasting impact on France and the broader European continent. 
  • Europe: 
    • Establishment of the Continental System (1806): In November 1806, Napoleon instituted the Continental System, a strategic blockade aimed at isolating Great Britain by cutting off its trade and communication with continental Europe.  
      • The primary objective was to make Europe self-sufficient and to cripple Britain’s commercial and industrial strength. 
      • Although his allies and family members did not adhere to the Continental System. 
    • Peninsular War (1808): He waged war to compel Portugal to comply with the Continental System. 
      • In Spain, Napoleon deposed the Spanish king and installed his brother Joseph on the throne. The Spanish populace reacted with outrage, inflaming nationalist sentiments. 
    • Growth of Nationalism and Resistance: Napoleon’s actions, particularly in Spain, fueled growing nationalist fervor across Europe.  
      • The imposition of foreign rulers and the undermining of local institutions, including the Church, spurred widespread resistance, contributing to the eventual collapse of his empire. 
  • Out of Europe:  
    • Egyptian Campaign (1798-1801): 
      • Strategic Aims: Napoleon's Egyptian Campaign sought to weaken British influence in the Middle East and India by gaining control of Egypt. 
        • Egypt was a vital link in Britain's trade route to its colonies, especially India, making it strategically important for Napoleon's objectives. 
    • Defeat and Retreat: Despite initial victories like the Battle of the Pyramids, the campaign ultimately failed.  
      • Napoleon's fleet was destroyed by the British at the Battle of the Nile (1798), and he was forced to abandon his army and return to France in 1799. 
  • Role in the Americas: 
    • Louisiana Purchase (1803): In a major geopolitical decision, Napoleon sold the Louisiana Territory to the United States in 1803 for USD 15 million.  
    • The sale, known as the Louisiana Purchase, doubled the geographical size of the US and helped fund Napoleon’s military campaigns in Europe. 
      • The primary goal of the sale was to strengthen the US against England, as Britain was an adversary to both the US and France. 
    • Haiti and the Caribbean: Napoleon attempted to reassert French control over its Caribbean colonies, particularly Saint-Domingue (Haiti), the wealthiest French colony due to its sugar plantations. 
      • However, after a slave rebellion led by Toussaint Louverture, Haiti declared independence in 1804. Napoleon’s efforts to regain control failed, and Haiti became the first independent Black republic. 

How Napoleon’s Policy led to his Downfall?

• The Decline of the Empire: 
  • Failed Russian Invasion (1812): In 1812, Napoleon invasion of Russia, the Russian strategy of scorched earth and harsh winter conditions devastated Napoleon’s Grand Army, leading to massive losses.  
  • The Sixth Coalition War (1813-1814): After the failed Russian campaign, European powers—Britain, Russia, Austria, and Prussia—formed the Sixth Coalition and renewed attacks on Napoleon.  
    • The decisive Battle of Leipzig (1813), resulted in a major defeat for Napoleon, leading to the collapse of French control in Central Europe. 
• First Abdication and Exile to Elba (1814): 
  • Facing overwhelming defeat, he abdicated the throne in April 1814 in favour of his son. 
    • Following his abdication, Napoleon was exiled to the island of Elba, off Italy's coast, where he was granted sovereignty and attempted to reform the administration. 
• Defeat at the Battle of Waterloo (1815): 
  • Napoleon’s final bid to restore his empire culminated in the Battle of Waterloo in June 1815, where he faced British and Prussian forces. His newly formed army was decisively defeated, marking the end of his rule and the Napoleonic Wars. 
• Second Abdication and Exile to Saint Helena: 
  • Napoleon was exiled to the remote island of Saint Helena, far from Europe, to prevent any return to power. Napoleon lived under British supervision, dictating his memoirs and reflecting on his legacy while facing deteriorating health.  
    • Historians suggest that stomach cancer may have caused his eventual death. 
  • Despite his downfall, Napoleon's legacy endures through his reforms, especially the Napoleonic Code, which influenced global legal systems.  
    • His military strategies remain a subject of study, and his impact on European politics and governance significantly shaped the 19th century.

Drishti Mains Question:

Q. Discuss Napoleon Bonaparte's policies and reforms shape modern nation-states in the 19th century?

UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question (PYQ) 

Prelims:

Q. Which one of the following statements does not apply to the system of Subsidiary Alliance introduced by Lord Wellesley? (2018)

(a) To maintain a large standing army at others expense 

(b) To keep India safe from Napoleonic danger 

(c) To secure a fixed income for the Company 

(d) To establish British paramountcy over the Indian States

Ans: (c)

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Mains: 

Q. What can France learn from the Indian Constitution’s approach to secularism? (2019)

Raising of Asset Monetisation Target

For Prelims: NITI Aayog, National Monetisation Pipeline, Brownfield Assets, National Infrastructure Pipeline, Public-Private Partnership, Infrastructure Investment Trusts, Disinvestment, monopoly. 

For Mains: Infrastructure financing, Performance of National Monetisation Pipeline (NMP).

Source: BS

Why in News?

Recently, the NITI Aayog has increased the asset monetisation target for 2024-25 (FY25) by Rs 23,000 crore to Rs 1.9 trillion. 

• With this, NITI Aayog moved closer to the overall Rs 6 trillion (Rs 6 lakh crore) target set under the National Monetisation Pipeline (NMP) for a four-year period (FY 2022-25).  

What is Asset Monetisation? 

• About Asset Monetisation: Monetising an asset means converting it into a form that can generate revenue or currency.  
  • Monetising involves using something of value to generate profit or convert it into cash. For example, a government may monetise its national debt by acquiring treasury securities, thereby increasing the money supply. 
• Need of Asset Monetisation: It unlocks the economic value of underutilised or unutilised public assets to create new revenue streams for governments and public entities.  
  • It aims to identify and leverage these assets to generate financial returns without necessarily selling them outright. 
• Focus on Public Assets: Public assets that can be monetised include properties owned by public bodies, such as infrastructure like roads, airports, railways, pipelines, and mobile towers. 
  • The focus is on brownfield assets, which are existing assets that can be improved or put to better use. 
  • Brownfield assets are those which a private company or investor purchases or leases an existing infrastructure project or production facility to carry out new production activity. 
• Monetisation vs. Privatisation: Privatisation entails complete ownership transfer to the private sector, while asset monetisation involves structured partnerships with private entities, allowing public authorities to retain ownership while benefiting from private sector efficiency and investment. 

What is the National Monetisation Pipeline (NMP)? 

• About NMP: The NMP is a key initiative to promote sustainable infrastructure financing through the monetisation of operating public infrastructure assets. 
  • It envisages an aggregate monetisation potential of Rs 6 lakh crore through the leasing of core assets of the Central government and public sector entities. 
• Preparation of NMP: The pipeline has been prepared by NITI Aayog in consultation with infrastructure line ministries.  
  • These include ministries responsible for Roads, Transport, Highways, Railways, Power, Civil Aviation, Telecommunications, and others. 
  • The NMP targets brownfield infrastructure assets, offering public asset owners a roadmap and providing the private sector with visibility on monetisation opportunities. 
• Sectors and Asset Classes Covered: The NMP covers a wide array of sectors including roads, ports, airports, railways, gas & product pipelines, power generation and transmission, mining, telecom, warehousing, and more. 
  • The top 5 sectors include roads (27% of the total pipeline value) followed by railways (25%), power (15%), oil & gas pipelines (8%) and telecom (6%).  
• Monetisation Framework: The framework for monetisation of core asset monetisation has three key mandates. 
  • Monetization of 'Rights' NOT ‘Ownership': The government retains primary ownership of the assets and assets are returned to public authority after the transaction period ends. 
  • Stable Revenue: It involves selecting de-risked brownfield assets with stable revenue. 
  • Defined Partnership: Structured partnerships are established under well-defined contractual frameworks, with strict key performance indicators (KPIs) and performance standards. 
• Link with NIP: The NMP is aligned with the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP), ensuring that the monetisation period is co-terminus with the NIP, which runs through FY 2022 to FY 2025. 
  • The purpose of NMP is to reinvest capital into the Rs 111 trillion National Infrastructure Pipeline. 
  • NIP aims to attract investments in key greenfield and brownfield projects across all economic and social infrastructure sub-sectors. 
• Instruments for Monetisation: The NMP will utilise a variety of instruments for asset monetisation, including: 
  • Public-Private Partnership (PPP) concessions for direct contracts. 
  • Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs) and other capital market instruments. 
    • InvITs enables direct investment of money from individual and institutional investors in infrastructure projects to earn a portion of the income as return.

What is the Current Status of the National Monetisation Pipeline? 

• Revenue Generation: The NMP has generated Rs 3.9 trillion in the first three years (up to FY24), achieving most of its adjusted targets. The original target for this period was Rs 4.3 trillion. 
• Successful Monetisation: The Ministry of Coal has raised Rs 1.54 trillion against its four-year target of Rs 80,000 crore, far exceeding expectations. 
  • Additionally, mines have been monetised to the tune of Rs 32,000 crore, surpassing the revised target of Rs 7,300 crore. 
• Lagging Sectors:  
  • Railways: Despite being a major focus area, the Ministry of Railways has only monetised assets worth Rs 20,417 crore over the past three years, meeting just 30% of its revised target. 
  • Warehousing: Achieved 38% of its target, amounting to Rs 8,000 crore. 
  • Civil Aviation: Lagging significantly, having monetised only 14% of its targeted Rs 2,600 crore asset base. 

What are Challenges with NMP? 

• Low Monetisation Potential: The NMP targets the monetisation of Rs 6 lakh crore which is only 5-6% of the overall capital expenditure under the National Infrastructure Pipeline (Rs 111 lakh crore). 
• Missing Disinvestment: The 13 sectors chosen for monetization have consistently missed their disinvestment targets year after year in recent years. It raises doubt on achieving actual monetisation targets. 
• Long-Term Rights: Monetisation could grant private players long-term rights (up to 60 years) to operate and profit from public assets. It can be viewed by many as privatisation raising suspicion about government motives. 
• Budgeting and Proceeds Usage: The NMP lacks clarity on how proceeds from monetisation will be accounted for within the budget.  
  • There are no specific guidelines on whether these funds will finance infrastructure or be used for revenue expenditures, such as salaries or subsidies. 
• Monopolisation: The consolidation of ownership may lead to monopolies, particularly in the case of highways and railway lines. It could lead to increased prices. 
• Issue of Taxpayers’ Money: Taxpayers are concerned about potential double charges on public assets, as they first funded their creation and now face additional costs for using them through payments to private entities after monetization. 

Way Forward  

• Expedite Contract-Based Monetisation: The government should prioritise the acceleration of contract-based monetisation through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) concession agreements particularly in railways and airports, where investor interest is strong. 
• Implement Land Monetisation Initiatives: Engaging real estate and infrastructure companies in developing multi-storey buildings can enhance housing amenities while generating revenue. 
• Establish Clear Budgeting Guidelines: The NMP should establish clear guidelines on how monetization proceeds will be treated in the budget, specifying whether funds will be allocated for infrastructure development or operational expenses. 

Drishti Mains Question:

Examine the objectives of the National Monetisation Pipeline (NMP). How does the NMP plan to leverage public assets for economic development?

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQ)

Mains

Q. Account for the failure of the manufacturing sector in achieving the goal of labour-intensive exports. Suggest measures for more labour-intensive rather than capital-intensive exports. (2017) 

Q. The nature of economic growth in India in recent times is often described as jobless growth. Do you agree with this view? Give arguments in favour of your answer. (2015)

10 Point Plan for India-ASEAN Relations

Source: IE

Why in News?

Recently, India's Prime Minister announced a 10-point plan at the 21st ASEAN-India Summit 2024 in Vientiane, Laos. 

• He also participated in the 44th ASEAN summit with the theme ASEAN: Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience and 19th East Asia Summit. 
• Year 2024 also marked 10 years of India’s Act East Policy that was announced in 2014 to strengthen India-ASEAN ties in trade, security, and connectivity in the Indo-Pacific.   

What are the Key Facts About the 21st ASEAN-India Summit 2024? 

• ASEAN and India Overview: ASEAN and India together represent 7% of the world’s GDP and 26% of the global population. 
• Emerging Technologies: India and ASEAN agreed to collaborate on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), Robotics, Quantum Computing, and 6-G technology. 
• Digital Transformation: They issued a joint statement on advancing digital transformation covering digital infrastructure, fintech, and cybersecurity. 
  • India will share its expertise in digital public infrastructure, like Aadhaar and UPI, with ASEAN nations. 
• ASEAN-India Trade Growth: In the last ten years, India-ASEAN trade had doubled  to over USD 130 billion. 
  • However, India’s trade deficit with ASEAN has risen to USD 44 billion in FY23, compared to USD 8 billion in FY13. 
  • India is ASEAN’s sixth largest trading partner and eight largest source of FDI among ASEAN Dialogue Partners.  
• Trade in Local Currency: Some ASEAN countries and India have started trading in local currencies, with Malaysia leading the way and other ASEAN nations expected to follow.  
• Investment Flows: India and ASEAN's Global Value Chains (GVCs) have grown, with total investments surpassing USD 125 billion from 2000 to 2023. 
• Financial Integration: In June 2024, the Reserve Bank of India officially joined Project Nexus with ASEAN which enables real-time cross-border transactions between India’s UPI and Singapore’s PayNow system. 
• Regional Security: Both agreed to enhance the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for regional peace, stability, and prosperity, aligned with the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) and supported by India’s Act East Policy (AEP). 
• Code of Conduct for the South China Sea: Both supported full implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties (DOC) in the South China Sea and called for an effective Code of Conduct (COC) in line with UNCLOS 1982. 
• Defence and Security Cooperation: Both agreed to ensure maritime security, counter-terrorism, cybersecurity etc through joint military exercises and naval port calls. E.g., ASEAN India Maritime Exercise.

Note:

The India’s Prime Minister announced a 12-point agenda at Jakarta in 2023 to boost India-ASEAN economic relations, highlighting India's strong commitment to this partnership. 

What is India's 10-Point Plan for ASEAN Cooperation? 

• ASEAN-India Year of Tourism 2025: India will contribute USD 5 million for joint tourism activities. 
• Celebrating a Decade of the Act East Policy: Events like Youth Summit, Start-up Festival, Hackathon, Music Festival, and Think Tank initiatives will be organised. 
• Women Scientists Conclave: ASEAN-India Science collaboration through a conclave for women scientists. 
• Educational Scholarships: Doubling Nalanda University scholarships and offering new scholarships for ASEAN students in Indian agricultural universities. 
• Trade Agreement Review: The ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement will be reviewed by 2025. 
• Disaster Resilience: India to provide USD 5 million to strengthen ASEAN’s disaster resilience. 
• Health Ministers’ Track: Regular interactions between ASEAN and Indian health ministers to build health resilience. 
• Cyber Policy Dialogue: Establishing an ASEAN-India dialogue for digital and cyber resilience. 
• Green Hydrogen Workshop: Supporting ASEAN’s energy transition with a green hydrogen workshop. 
• Climate Resilience Initiative: ASEAN leaders invited to join India’s “Plant a Tree for Mother” campaign. 

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs) 

Prelims

Q. Consider the following countries: (2018) 

1. Australia 
2. Canada
3. China 
4. India
5. Japan 
6. USA

Which of the above are among the ‘free-trade partners’ of ASEAN?

(a) 1, 2, 4 and 5 

(b) 3, 4, 5 and 6 

(c) 1, 3, 4 and 5 

(d) 2, 3, 4 and 6 

Ans: (c) 

Q. India is a member of which among the following? (2015)

1. Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation
2. Association of South-East Asian Nations
3. East Asia Summit

Select the correct answer using the code given below: 

(a) 1 and 2 only 

(b) 3 only 

(c) 1, 2 and 3 

(d) India is a member of none of them 

Ans: (b)

THAAD, UNIFIL and Dragon Drones

Source: HT 

Why in News? 

Recently, the United States sent a THAAD battery to Israel, and Israeli tanks attacked UNIFIL in Lebanon.  

• In another development, dragon drones are being used by both sides in the Russia-Ukraine war. 

What is the Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD)? 

• Overview of THAAD: THAAD is an advanced US anti-ballistic missile system designed to intercept and destroy short, medium, and intermediate-range missiles. 
  • It uses a "hit-to-kill" approach where an interceptor missile destroys its target by directly colliding with it, using sheer impact force rather than explosives. 
  • However, it cannot detect low flying objects like drones. 
• Development History: The US developed THAAD after Iraq's Scud missile attacks during the 1991 Gulf War, where many American soldiers were killed. 
• Deployment of THAAD: In 2008, the US deployed an early missile warning radar, a part of the THAAD system to Israel. Similar deployments were also made in 2012 and 2019 to boost Israel's ability to intercept missiles. 

 

What are Dragon Drones? 

• About Dragon Drones: Dragon drones are deadly UAVs equipped with thermite and rain down fire from sky. 
  • Thermite is a mixture of aluminium and iron oxide, developed to weld railroad tracks. 
• Working Mechanism of Dragon Drones: Thermite is ignited by an electrical fuse and triggers a self-sustaining reaction that is incredibly difficult to extinguish. 
  • It  can burn various materials, including military vehicles, trees, and even underwater. 
• Deployment in the Russia-Ukraine War: Ukrainian forces used them to ignite the vegetation that Russian troops use for cover exposing them to direct attack. 
  • Russia soon adopted the use of dragon drones in retaliation. 
• History of Thermite in Warfare: During World War I, German zeppelins (aircraft without wings) dropped thermite-laden bombs which were considered an innovation at the time. 
  • In World War II, both the Allied and Axis powers incorporated thermite into their incendiary bombs and hand grenades. 
  • Incendiary weapons are designed to ignite objects or cause burns and respiratory injuries through flame and heat. 
• Legal Status of Thermite in Warfare: Thermite use in war is not banned under international law, but using incendiary weapons against civilians is prohibited by the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons.  
  • Protocol III of the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons restricts their use to military targets only. 

What is the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL)? 

• Breach UNIFIL Base: Two Israeli Merkava tanks burst through the gates of a UNIFIL base in southern Lebanon and released toxic smoke, leading to the illness of 15 UN peacekeepers. 
  • The Israeli Prime Minister urged the withdrawal of UNIFIL troops from Lebanon's combat zones, claiming their presence indirectly shields Hezbollah. 
• Violations of International Law: UNIFIL described Israel’s attacks as violations of international humanitarian law and Resolution 1701, which ensures peacekeepers' freedom of movement.  
• UNIFIL's Role: Established in 1978, UNIFIL is responsible for enforcing Resolution 1701, which mandates that only Lebanese state forces and UNIFIL be present between the Blue Line and the Litani river. 
  • Resolution 1701  was adopted unanimously in 2006, and aims to end hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel. 
• Blue Line: The Blue Line extends 120 km along Lebanon's southern frontier and Israel's northern border.  
  • It is not a border, but a line of withdrawal. It was set by the United Nations in 2000 for confirming the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the south of Lebanon.  

 

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs) 

Prelims

Q. What is “Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)”, sometimes seen in the news? (2018)

(a) An Israeli radar system 

(b) India’s indigenous anti-missile programme 

(c) An American anti-missile system 

(d) A defence collaboration between Japan and South Korea. 

Ans: (c) 

Q. 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)

The Nobel Prize in Literature 2024

Source: IE 

Why in News?

South Korean author Han Kang has been awarded the 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature by the Swedish Academy, Stockholm, Sweden for her "intense poetic prose" that explores historical traumas and the fragility of life.  

• Han Kang is the first South Korean writer to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, marking a historic moment for South Korea’s literary scene. 

                               

Who is Han Kang? 

• About:  Born in 1970, Han Kang is a renowned novelist and poet, she is recognized for her intense poetic prose, which combines lyricism with narrative. Her style has redefined contemporary literature by blending physical and emotional empathy in a unique manner. 
• Key Literary Contributions: 
  • The Vegetarian (2007): It was her breakthrough novel, translated by Deborah Smith in 2015, and it won the 2016 Man Booker International Prize. 
    • The International Booker Prize, established in 2005 as the Man Booker International Prize, is awarded for a single book of fiction translated into English and published in the United Kingdom or Ireland, promoting global literature and celebrating the contributions of both the author and the translator. 
  • Human Acts (2016): Focuses on the 1980 Gwangju massacre, where South Korean military forces killed protesting students and civilians. 
    • Explores trauma and collective memory in a visionary yet concise manner. 

Note:

Rabindranath Tagore was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature 1913 for his profoundly sensitive, fresh and beautiful verse, which he expressed in his own English words and made a part of the literature of the West. 

• Notable literary contributions by Rabindranath Tagore are Manasi, Gitanjali, Sâdhanâ: The Realisation of Life, and Chitra: a Play in One Act. 
• The Nobel Prize in Literature for 2023 was awarded to Jon Fosse, a Norwegian author and dramatist, for his innovative plays and prose which give voice to the unsayable." 

Reference to Other Announcements of the Nobel Prizes 2024: Nobel Prize in  Physics, Physiology or Medicine, Chemistry 

Cadaver Donation in India

Source: IE

A recent study indicates that the increase in medical colleges has led to a higher demand for cadavers, prompting these institutions to increasingly rely on unclaimed bodies for medical education due to a shortage of cadaver donations in India. 

• About: Cadaver donation involves donating the entire body to science after death, primarily to help train doctors in understanding human anatomy and practising surgery. 
• Eligibility: Anyone above 18 years can legally consent to donate their body. In case of no prior consent, next of kin can donate. 
• Exclusions: Bodies of organ donors or those with infectious diseases like tuberculosis, HIV, or sepsis, and bodies involved in medico-legal cases may be rejected. 
• Unclaimed Bodies: Colleges use unclaimed bodies under the state’s Anatomy Act, where relatives must claim the body within 48 hours. 
  • Unclaimed bodies often belong to marginalised or poor individuals, raising ethical questions about consent. 
• Unlike organ donations, there is no national organisation to monitor whole-body donations. Typically, this responsibility falls directly to the anatomy departments of medical colleges. 
  • The National Organ & Tissue Transplant Organization, under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, manages organ transplantation from deceased donors. 

Read more: State of Medical Education in India

UK Naga Skull Auction Controversy

Source: HT 

Recently, a 19^th-century "horned Naga skull" was withdrawn from an auction in the UK following significant backlash from authorities in Nagaland and India, bringing attention to the sensitive issue of Indigenous human remains and the broader debate surrounding colonial legacies. 

• At the auction 19th-century Naga human skull was valued at 3,500-4,500 Pounds, alongside remains from Papua New Guinea, Borneo, Solomon Islands, and African countries like Benin, Congo, and Nigeria. 
• Nagaland Chief Minister and the Civil society led the protest against the auction. 
  • They view it as a continuation of colonial violence and racism, perpetuating harmful stereotypes such as labelling the Naga people as "savages" and "headhunters," a characterisation rooted in British colonialism. 
  • The sale of Indigenous human remains, particularly those stolen during colonial rule, was strongly condemned as an ethical violation. 
  • The auction of human remains is said to violate Article 15 of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), which states: “Indigenous Peoples have a right to the dignity and diversity of their cultures, traditions, histories, and aspirations, which shall be appropriately reflected in education and public information.” 
• The Naga community has been involved in efforts to repatriate ancestral remains from the Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford, which holds around 6,500 Naga artefacts collected during the British colonial period. 

Read More: NAGA Conundrum 

Tele MANAS

Source: TH 

The Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER) has introduced the "TeleMANAS" (Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States) toll-free helpline, providing counseling services for individuals experiencing mental distress. 

• In 2023, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched the toll-free mental health helpline 14416 (Tele-MANAS) covering all States and Union Territories aiming to bridge the gap in access to mental health. 
• The app is part of the National Tele Mental Health Programme of India and provides a comprehensive library of information on mental health. 
• It also offers guidance on managing early signs of stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges.
• National Tele Mental Health Programme (NTMHP): 
  • NTMHP was launched in October 2022, to improve access to quality mental health counselling and care services in the country. 
  • National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru is the National Apex Centre, coordinated activities of Tele MANAS across India.

Read More: Strengthening Suicide Prevention Efforts in India

International Day of the Girl Child and BBBP

Source: PIB

The Ministry of Women and Child Development organized a 10-day nationwide celebration of the International Day for the Girl Child from October 2nd to 11th 2023, under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) initiative. 

• The theme of this year’s International Day of the Girl Child is “Girls’ Vision for the Future”, which highlights the importance of gender equality, education, and opportunities for young girls. 
• History: For the first time, the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action introduced a comprehensive plan to promote and advance girls' rights. 
  • In 2011, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 66/170 to declare 11th October as the International Day of the Girl Child. 
• BBBP Scheme: 
  • It was launched in January 2015 with the aim to address sex selective abortion and the declining child sex ratio (0-6 years) which was at 919 girls for every 1,000 boys in 2011. 
  • This is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Ministry of Human Resource Development. 
  • The programme is being implemented across 640 districts in the country. 
• Government Initiatives to Promote Gender Parity: 
  • Scheme for Adolescent Girls 
  • Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana

Read more: International Girl Child Day