Noida | IAS GS Foundation Course | date 09 January | 6 PM Call Us
This just in:
Sambhav 2025UPSC CSE Prelims Test Series 2025 PCS ParikshanUPSC Calendar 2025
Language: ENहिंदी
Search
RSS
Cart
Classroom

Achievers Corner

Prelims

Mains & Interview

Current Affairs

Drishti Specials

Study Material

State PCS

Test Series

Videos

    

Drishti Store


  • 27 Dec 2024
  • 52 min read
Indian Society

EAC-PM Report on Domestic Migration

For Prelims: Migration, Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana , Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme, One Nation One Ration Card 

For Mains: Declining domestic migration and its implications, migration in India,  Welfare schemes in Addressing  Migrants in India. 

Source:TH  

Why in News?

The Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) released a working paper titled "400 Million Dreams!" which highlights a 12% decline in domestic migration since 2011.  

  • This shift, reflecting broader socio-economic changes, is attributed to improved economic opportunities and infrastructure in traditionally high migration source areas. 

What are the Key Highlights of the EAC-PM Report on Domestic Migration?  

  • Reduction in Migration: The number of domestic migrants in India has decreased by 12% since 2011, with the estimated number of migrants in 2023 standing at 40.20 crore. 
    • This is an 11.78% decline from the 45.58 crore migrants reported in Census 2011. 
    • The migration rate (difference between the number of persons entering and leaving) has fallen from 37.64% of the total population in 2011 to 28.88% in 2023, indicating a slowdown in migration. 
  • Migration Dynamics: 
    • Migrant States: West Bengal, Rajasthan, and Karnataka have experienced the highest growth in attracting migrants. 
      • Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh have seen a reduction in their percentage share of total migrants. 
    • Urban Concentration of Migration: Major urban agglomerations like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata continue to be the primary destinations for migrants. 
      • Mumbai, Bengaluru Urban, and Howrah are among the top districts attracting the most migrant arrivals. 
    • Emerging Migration Routes: Primary migration corridors include Uttar Pradesh-Delhi, Gujarat-Maharashtra, Telangana-Andhra Pradesh, and Bihar-Delhi. 
    • Seasonal Migration Trends: Migration is most frequent during April to June, with secondary peaks in November-December, likely due to festivals and marriages. 
      • January experiences the lowest levels of migration, suggesting a seasonal pattern. 
  • Reasons for Decline in Migration: The decline in domestic migration is attributed to improved local economic opportunities through schemes like Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY), enhanced infrastructure via Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), better healthcare through Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), and advancements in education and connectivity through Digital India in migration-origin regions. 

EAC_PM_Report_Migration

Migration 

  • Migration refers to the movement of people from their usual place of residence to a new one, either across international borders or within a state.  
  • Two Primary Types of Migration: International migration involves crossing state boundaries to live in another country for a minimum duration, while internal migration occurs within the same country.  
    • Urbanization is a specific form of internal migration, where people move from rural to urban areas. 

What are the Implications of Decreased Domestic Migration? 

  • Economic Implications: Reduced migration can lead to labor shortages in certain regions, especially in industries that rely heavily on migrant workers.  
    • This can increase wages in those areas but may also lead to higher production costs and reduced competitiveness. 
    • Improved economic opportunities in smaller cities may reduce income inequality between urban and rural areas. Boost to local economies as the workforce stays in their home regions. 
  • Social Implications: Reduced migration can lead to increased demand for quality education, healthcare, and infrastructure in rural and semi-urban areas. 
    • However, it limits access to better employment and education opportunities in urban centers. 
    • Women who traditionally stay back may face prolonged economic dependence if migration opportunities for male family members shrink. 
  • Demographic Implications: Reduced inflow of migrants to urban areas could slow down urbanization, impacting cities’ economic dynamism.  
    • Decline in population growth in metro cities might affect their consumer base and economic activities. 
  • Policy and Governance Implications: Lower migration rates can reduce the pressure on urban areas, potentially easing issues like overcrowding, housing shortages, and strain on public services.  

India's Initiatives for the Welfare of Migrants 

Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM)  

  • The EAC-PM is an independent advisory body providing economic and related advice to the Government of India, specifically the Prime Minister.  
    • Its Terms of Reference include analyzing and advising on issues referred by the Prime Minister, addressing macroeconomic matters, and performing tasks assigned by the Prime Minister. 
  • The EAC-PM’s role is advisory and non-binding, with additional efforts to foster economic understanding among the public through reports, presentations, and stakeholder interactions. 
  • The NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) acts as its nodal agency for administrative and logistical support.

Drishti Mains Question: 

Critically analyze the socio-economic implications of declining domestic migration in India. How does it affect regional development and urbanization trends?

UPSC Civil Services Exam, Previous Year Questions (PYQ) 

Mains

Q. What are the main socio-economic implications arising out of the development of IT industries in major cities of India? (2021)

Q. Discuss the changes in the trends of labour migration within and outside India in the last four decades. (2015)

Geography

Ken-Betwa Link Project

For Prelims: Ken-Betwa Link Project, National Perspective Plan , Floating Solar Energy Project, Ken River, Betwa River, Panna Tiger Reserve 

For Mains: National Perspective Plan for Interlinking Rivers, River-linking in addressing drought and migration, Water management 

Source: TH 

Why in News?  

Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the Ken-Betwa Link Project (KBLP) in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh.  

Note: Alongside the KBLP, PM laid the foundation stone for the Daudhan Dam irrigation project, which will serve 11 lakh hectares of land in the region. 

Ken_Betwa_Link_Project

What are the Key Facts About Ken-Betwa Link Project?

  • About: The KBLP is India’s first initiative under the NPP, formulated in 1980 for river interlinking, implemented by Ken-Betwa Link Project Authority. 
    • It aims to transfer surplus water from the Ken River in Madhya Pradesh to the Betwa River in Uttar Pradesh, both of which are tributaries of the Yamuna. 
  • Phases of the Project: 
    • Phase I: Construction of the Daudhan Dam complex, low-level and high-level tunnels, Ken-Betwa link canal, and powerhouses. 
    • Phase II: Development of the Lower Orr Dam located across the Orr River (a tributary of the Betwa), Bina Complex Project, and Kotha Barrage. 
  • Benefits: 
    • Irrigation for 6.3 lakh hectares annually. 
    • Drinking water supply for 62 lakh people. 
    • The project includes provisions for hydropower generation (100 Megawatt (MW)) and solar energy (27 MW). 
  • Importance for Bundelkhand: Bundelkhand is a geographical region, which spans 13 districts in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. 
    • Bundelkhand has long faced droughts and water shortages, forcing migration for employment. 
    • The KBLP enhances drinking water access, boosts agriculture with reliable irrigation, and fosters regional development, reducing migration pressures. 
  • Environmental Concerns Raised by Critics:  
    • The opposition has voiced concerns over the project’s environmental impact, particularly on the Panna Tiger Reserve, which could see over 10% of its core area submerged.  
    • Critics argue that the project could cause significant loss of wildlife habitats, including those of tigers, vultures, and other species.  
      • Over 23 lakh trees are expected to be felled, and construction activities could severely disrupt the local ecosystem.  
  • Government Response: Assured that the project construction would consider the preservation of the Panna Tiger Reserve’s wildlife and that measures would be implemented to mitigate the project's adverse effects on the local ecosystem, balancing development and conservation.

Ken_Betwa_Link_Project

Key Facts About Ken and Betwa Rivers  

  • Ken River: The Ken River originates near Ahirgawan village on the north-west slopes of the Kaimur hills in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. 
    • The river merges with the Yamuna at Chilla village near Fatehpur, Uttar Pradesh. 
    • Ken River is  known for the rare Sajhar stone. Its major tributaries include Bawas, Dewar, Kaith, Baink, Kopra, and Bearma. 
  • Betwa River:  Betwa, originates in the Vindhya Range in Madhya Pradesh,  flows through Bundelkhand, and meets the Yamuna at Hamirpur, Uttar Pradesh. 
    • The major tributaries of Betwa are Newan, Orr and Dhasan. In ancient times, the Betwa was known as Vetrawati.

Origin of River-Linking Projects in India 

  • Sir Arthur Cotton (19th Century): The idea of linking rivers was first proposed by Sir Arthur Cotton, a British engineer, to connect the Ganga and Cauvery for navigation and irrigation.  
    • The Periyar Project, constructed in 1895, is a major irrigation project that diverts water from the Periyar River basin in Kerala to the Vaigai River basin in Tamil Nadu 
  • National Water Grid: Dr. K.L. Rao, the then Union Irrigation Minister, proposed the construction of a National Water Grid in the 1970s. 
    • It aims to transfer water from water-surplus regions to water-deficit areas. 
  • Garland Canal: Captain Dinshaw J Dastoor proposed a Garland Canal to redistribute the water from one area to another.  
  • National Perspective Plan (1980): Prepared in 1980, aimed at inter-basin water transfer. 

What is the National Perspective Plan (NPP) for Interlinking Rivers? 

  • About: Formulated in 1980 by the Ministry of Irrigation (now Ministry of Jal Shakti), the NPP aims to develop water resources through the inter-basin transfer of water. 
    • The NWDA has been entrusted with the work of Interlinking of Rivers under the NPP. 
  • Components:  The plan has two main components: the Himalayan Rivers and Peninsular Rivers Development. 
    • 30 link projects: 16 under the Peninsular Component, 14 under the Himalayan Component. 
    • Peninsular Rivers Development Component: Focuses on linking rivers in southern and central India. Key projects include the Mahanadi-Godavari, Godavari-Krishna, and Ken-Betwa links. 
    • Himalayan Rivers Development Component: Aims to divert surplus water from eastern tributaries of the Ganga and Brahmaputra to the western regions. Notable projects include the Kosi-Ghaghra and Gandak-Ganga links. 
  • Significance: Addresses water shortages in states like Rajasthan, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. 
    • Improves irrigation, boosts agricultural productivity, and enhances food security. 
    • Promotes inland waterways for freight movement, and utilizes surface water to alleviate groundwater depletion and reduce freshwater flowing into the sea. 

National_Perspective_Plan

Drishti Mains Question:

Evaluate the National Perspective Plan for river interlinking in India and its implications for sustainable water management?

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ) 

Q. The interlinking of rivers can provide viable solutions to the multi-dimensional inter-related problems of droughts, floods, and interrupted navigation. Critically examine. (2020)

Biodiversity & Environment

Biodiversity Credits for Environment Conservation

For Prelims: Biodiversity Credit, World Economic Forum, Biodiversity Credits Initiative, Carbon Credits, Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework 2022, Green Bonds, Biodiversity Credit Alliance, Convention on Biological Diversity, UNDP, UNEP, World Business Council for Sustainable Development, Circular Economy.  

For Mains: Role of biodiversity credits in environment conservation, associated challenges and way forward.

Source: DTE 

Why in News?

Recently, a new study published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B, casts doubt on the effectiveness of the biodiversity credit market which is touted as a potential game-changer for biodiversity conservation. 

  • The study also highlighted deep uncertainties within the market and questioned whether its benefits designed to offset biodiversity loss, truly outweigh the potential harms. 

What are Biodiversity Credits? 

  • About: Biodiversity credits are a verifiable, quantifiable and tradable financial instrument that rewards positive nature and biodiversity outcomes (e.g. species, ecosystems and natural habitats) through the creation and sale of either land or ocean-based biodiversity units over a fixed period. 
  • Mechanism: Biodiversity credits function similarly to carbon credits.  
    • When a company or government harms biodiversity, they can offset the damage by paying for conservation efforts elsewhere.  
    • The idea is to balance the overall loss to biodiversity through compensatory actions while attracting private funding for conservation.  
  • Future Potential: WEF estimates the biodiversity credit market is worth USD 8 million, with projections reaching USD 2 billion by 2030 and USD 69 billion by 2050.  

Biodiversity Credit Alliance (BCA) 

  • About: BCA is a voluntary international alliance that brings together diverse stakeholders to support the realization of the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. 
    • It focuses on Targets 19(c) and (d), which “encourage the private sector to invest in biodiversity” utilizing, amongst others “biodiversity credits ... with social safeguards.”  
  • Background: BCA was launched during the 15th meeting of Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP 15) in December 2022, in Montreal, Canada. 
    • The BCA Secretariat is facilitated by UNDP, UNEP-Finance Initiative (UNEP FI) and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA). 
  • Objectives: BCA provides guidance for the formulation of a credible and scalable biodiversity credit market by building a framework of high-level, science-based principles. 
  • Key Stakeholders: It includes representatives from indigenous peoples, local communities, and the private sector, with the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) as a key partner.

What are the Initiatives Related to Biodiversity Conservation? 

What are the Concerns Related to the Biodiversity Credit Market? 

  • Flawed Concept: When a company or government harms biodiversity, they can offset the damage through conservation payments elsewhere, but this is criticized for shifting harm instead of preventing it and addressing root causes.  
  • Displacement and Land Grabs: Wealthy corporations and nations could purchase credits sourced from poorer countries in the Global South, leading to land grabs and displacement of Indigenous and local communities.  
    • Displacement and loss of access to land and resources disproportionately affect women and marginalized groups. 
  • Lack of Accurate Measurement: Unlike carbon credits, which are standardized in terms of one tonne of CO₂ or CO₂ equivalent, biodiversity credits are measured in hectares, making it difficult to equate biodiversity across different ecosystems, continents, and biomes. 
    • Additionally, Leakage occurs when harmful activities, like deforestation, shift to other areas, such as farmers converting new land for agriculture after adopting biodiversity credits. 
  • Delay of Systemic Changes: Biodiversity credits may provide a temporary solution, delaying systemic changes needed to tackle biodiversity loss. 
    • Biodiversity credits, often issued for short periods, make it difficult to assess long-term impacts, as trends like butterfly populations require longer data for accurate evaluation. 

Way Forward 

  • Addressing Root Cause: Efforts should be redirected towards preventing biodiversity loss in the first place like limiting deforestation, unsustainable agriculture, or fossil fuel extraction.  
  • Context-Specific Metrics: Develop context-specific metrics considering species interactions, ecosystem health, and cultural significance, beyond just land area. 
  • Shift Towards Holistic Approaches: Transform industries that drive biodiversity destruction (e.g., agriculture, forestry, and mining), promote circular economies, and aligning policy frameworks across sectors to prioritize biodiversity protection. 
  • Monitoring and Reporting: Civil society and local communities should be empowered to scrutinize projects, hold corporations accountable, and ensure that credits lead to real conservation outcomes. 
  • Non-Market-Based Approaches: A shift from market-based solutions like biodiversity credits to direct, nature-based solutions is needed, focusing on expanding protected areas, restoring ecosystems, and supporting community-based conservation that values nature's intrinsic worth. 

Drishti Mains Question:

Critically analyze the effectiveness of Biodiversity credits in addressing the causes of biodiversity decline.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs) 

Prelims 

Q. Consider the following statements : (2023)

  1. In India, the Biodiversity Management Committees are key to the realization of the objectives of the Nagoya Protocol.
  2. The Biodiversity Management Committees have important functions in determining access and benefit sharing, including the power to levy collection fees on the access of biological resources within its jurisdiction. 

Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 

(a) 1 only  

(b) 2 only 

(c) Both 1 and 2  

(d) Neither 1 nor 2 

Ans: (c)

Q. With reference to the circumstances in Indian agriculture, the concept of “Conservation Agriculture” assumes significance. Which of the following fall under the Conservation Agriculture? (2018)

  1. Avoiding the monoculture practices
  2. Adopting minimum tillage.
  3. Avoiding the cultivation of plantation crops
  4. Using crop residues to cover soil surface
  5. Adopting spatial and temporal crop sequencing/crop rotations

Select the correct answer using the code given below: 

(a) 1, 3 and 4  

(b) 2, 3, 4 and 5 

(c) 2, 4 and 5  

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 5 

Ans: (c)

Mains

Q. How does biodiversity vary in India?How is the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 helpful in conservation of flora and fauna? (2018)

Q. The effective management of land and water resources will drastically reduce the human miseries. Explain. (2016)

Indian Polity

Dr. Manmohan Singh

For Prelims: Dr. Manmohan Singh, Chief Economic Advisor, Reserve Bank of India, Right to Information, Padma Vibhushan, India–United States Civil Nuclear Agreement 

For Mains: Impact of 1991 Economic Reforms on India's Growth, Integrity in Governance  

Source: DTE 

Why in News?  

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Dr. Manmohan Singh, the former Prime Minister and key architect of the 1991 economic reforms, following his passing on 26th December 2024. 

Dr_Manmohan_Singh 

Who Was Dr. Manmohan Singh? 

Positions_Held_by_Manmohan_Singh              

What Lessons Can Be Drawn from Dr. Manmohan Singh’s Leadership? 

  • Academic Rigor Meets Policy Pragmatism: Singh’s grounding in economics ensured that his decisions were informed by empirical evidence and theoretical rigor, making his policies both effective and sustainable. 
    • His belief in dialogue and education translated into a consultative leadership style, where he was approachable and open to ideas from diverse quarters. 
  • Balancing Pragmatism with Principles: He emphasized gradual, socially acceptable reforms, such as the carefully phased 1991 economic liberalization, to minimize disruptions. 
  • Commitment to Equity: Singh championed inclusive growth through rights-based initiatives like the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act and the Right to Education, even while supporting market-oriented reforms. 
  • Integrity and Ethical Leadership: Known for his strong moral compass, Singh maintained integrity in a system prone to corruption, earning respect across political lines.  
    • His readiness to resign over ethical issues, like the Harshad Mehta Stock market scam (1992), underscored his commitment to principles.  
  • Strengthening Institutions:  Singh believed in empowering institutions like the RBI and the Planning Commission, ensuring that their policies were both independent and aligned with national goals. 
  • Leadership in Adversity: Despite facing political challenges, Singh maintained a calm, focused approach. His dignified handling of political setbacks, including the United Progressive Alliance defeat in 2014, solidified his legacy as a respected leader. 

Drishti Mains Question: 

Evaluate the significance of Rao Manmohan Model and its impact on India's transformation from a closed to an open economy.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs) 

Prelims 

Q. Which of the following has/have occurred in India after its liberalization of economic policies in 1991? (2017)

  1. Share of agriculture in GDP increased enormously. 
  2. Share of India’s exports in world trade increased. 
  3. FDI inflows increased. 
  4. India’s foreign exchange reserves increased enormously. 

Select the correct answer using the codes given below: 

(a) 1 and 4 only 

(b) 2, 3 and 4 only 

(c) 2 and 3 only 

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 

Ans: (b) 

Q. With reference to the Indian economy after the 1991 economic liberalization, consider the following statements:

  1. Worker productivity (Rs. per worker at 2004-05 prices) increased in urban areas while it decreased in rural areas. 
  2. The percentage share of rural areas in the workforce steadily increased. 
  3. In rural areas, the growth in non-farm economy increased. 
  4. The growth rate in rural employment decreased. 

Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 

(a) 1 and 2 only 

(b) 3 and 4 only 

(c) 3 only 

(d) 1, 2 and 4 only 

Ans: (b)

Important Facts For Prelims

Increasing Real Effective Exchange Rate in India

Source: IE 

Why in News? 

Recently, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reported that the Real Effective Exchange Rate (REER) of the rupee reached 108.14 in November 2024 from 107.20 in October 2024, marking its highest level this year. 

What are RBI’s Findings Related to REER? 

  • Record High REER Values: The rupee’s REER of 108.14 indicates overvaluation since 2015-16, undermining export competitiveness, despite nominal depreciation against the USD, revealing contrasting Nominal Effective Exchange Rate (NEER) and REER indices. 
    • A REER above 100 signifies overvaluation relative to its base year (2015-16), reducing export competitiveness, while a value below 100 suggests undervaluation. 
  • Volatility Trends: The rupee experienced the lowest volatility (it has appreciated against other currencies) among major global currencies, even as emerging market currencies faced outflows due to rising US bond yields and a strong dollar index. 
  • Trade Balance Implications: Overvaluation of the rupee, as indicated by REER, makes Indian exports costlier, undermining competitiveness in global markets. 
    • At the same time, it reduces import costs, potentially widening the trade deficit. 
  • Capital Outflows: The strengthening US dollar, fueled by higher bond yields and global demand for safe-haven assets, has caused capital outflows from India, pressuring the rupee. 

 REER

What is NEER and REER, and their Significance? 

  • Definition: 
    • NEER: The Nominal Effective Exchange Rate (NEER) is a weighted average of a currency’s bilateral exchange rates relative to multiple trading partner currencies. 
      • It reflects nominal currency strength without accounting for inflation or price level differences between countries. 
      • A rise in NEER indicates nominal appreciation, while a fall signals depreciation. 
    • REER: The Real Effective Exchange Rate (REER) improves upon NEER by adjusting for relative price levels (inflation) between the domestic economy and its trading partners. 
      • REER is calculated as the NEER multiplied by the ratio of domestic price indices to foreign price indices, making it a purchasing power parity (PPP)-adjusted measure. 
    • Indices of NEER/REER: The NEER/REER indices for India includes six currencies: the US Dollar (USD), Euro (EUR), Japanese Yen (JPY), British Pound (GBP), Chinese Yuan (CNY), and Singapore Dollar (SGD).  
      • The NEER/REER indices have been revised to include a broader basket of 36 currencies.  
    • Influencing Factors: NEER and REER trends are influenced by productivity differences (affecting competitiveness), trade terms (affecting export/import balance), inflation (eroding currency value), and fiscal spending (impacting economic stability and demand). 
  • Significance of NEER: 
    • Trade-weighted Index: NEER gauges a currency's nominal performance against multiple trading partners, reflecting broad external currency trends. 
    • Limited Insight: Since it ignores inflation differences, NEER may not accurately reflect actual trade competitiveness or purchasing power. 
    • Macroeconomic Use: Policymakers use NEER to understand trends in currency strength and plan nominal interventions when needed. 
  • Significance of REER: 
    • Indicator of Competitiveness: REER measures a country's external competitiveness by accounting for inflation, with a higher value indicating reduced export competitiveness and cheaper imports. 
    • Policy Guide: REER is critical for determining whether a currency is overvalued or undervalued, guiding monetary policy and exchange rate adjustments. 
    • Trade Balance Impact: Depreciation of REER improves the trade balance more in the short term by enhancing export competitiveness. 

Internationalisation_of_Rupee

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs) 

Prelims: 

Q. With reference to the Indian economy, consider the following statements: (2022)

  1. An increase in Nominal Effective Exchange Rate (NEER) indicates the appreciation of rupee.
  2. An increase in the Real Effective Exchange Rate(REER) indicates an improvement in trade competitiveness. 
  3. An increasing trend in domestic inflation relative to inflation in other countries is likely to cause an increasing divergence between NEER and REER.

Which of the above statements are correct? 

(a) 1 and 2 only  

(b) 2 and 3 only 

(c) 1 and 3 only  

(d) 1, 2 and 3 

Ans: (c)

Mains:

Q. How would the recent phenomena of protectionism and currency manipulations in world trade affect macroeconomic stability of India? (2018)

Important Facts For Prelims

100 years of the Belgaum Congress Session

Source: TH 

Why in News? 

The centenary of the 1924 Belgaum Congress session is being celebrated in Belagavi, Karnataka, on 26-27th December 2024. 

  • This event commemorates Mahatma Gandhi's chairmanship of the historic 39th All-India Congress session in Belgaum, where he made significant contributions to the Congress Party's ideology and organizational structure.  

What is Significance of the 1924 Belgaum Session of Congress? 

  • Gandhi's Leadership: It was the only Congress session which was presided over by Gandhiji as the party chief. Gandhi had held the post of the Congress president between December 1924 and April 1925. 
    • Gandhi’s first visit to Belgaum in 1916 was at the invitation of local leader Deshpande. 
  • Focus on Social Change: Gandhi emphasized combating untouchability, promoting khadi, and supporting village industries, transforming Congress into a movement for both political independence and social reform. 
    • Khadi spinning was mandatory for Congress members and mandated the submission of 2,000 yards of khadi cloth monthly. 
    • Gandhi reduced Congress membership fees by 90%. 
  • Hindu-Muslim Unity: Gandhi used the platform to advocate for Hindu-Muslim unity, which was essential to the broader freedom movement.  
  • Social and Economic Upliftment: Gandhi also focused on issues like sanitation, town planning, and the use of cows for economic upliftment of farmers, with a specific stance on cow protection.  
    • He stressed that his advocacy for cow protection was not linked to religious conversion or violence against Muslims. 
    • He praised the sanitation volunteers, noting that 40 out of 70 were Brahmins, emphasising social service across castes.  
    • He criticized the session's excessive expenditure on VIPs and called for equal treatment of all members in future sessions. 
  • Cultural Significance: The session was marked by notable musical performances, including by Hindustani maestro Vishnu Digambar Paluskar and young Gangubai Hangal, along with the Kannada song “Udayavagali Namma Chaluva Kannada Nadu.” 
  • Legacy of the Session: The Pampa Sarovara well, dug for the session, continues to supply water to parts of south Belagavi. 

MK_Gandhi

Key Sessions of the Indian National Congress 

  • 1885: First Session in Bombay, presided by W.C. Banerjee – Formation of the Indian National Congress. 
  • 1886: Second Session in Calcutta, presided by Dadabhai Naoroji. 
  • 1887: Third Session in Madras, presided by Syed Badruddin Tyabji – First Muslim President. 
  • 1888: Fourth Session in Allahabad, presided by George Yule – First English President. 
  • 1896: Calcutta – National Song ‘Vande Mataram’ sung by Rabindranath Tagore. 
  • 1901: Calcutta – First appearance of Gandhiji on the Congress platform. 
  • 1905: Benaras – Formal proclamation of the Swadeshi Movement. Held under the presidency of Gopal Krishna Gokhale. 
  • 1906: Calcutta – President Dadabhai Naoroji – Resolutions on Swaraj, Boycott, Swadeshi & National Education. 
  • 1907: Surat – President Rash Bihari Ghosh – Split between Moderates and Extremists. 
  • 1916: Lucknow – President A.C. Majumdar – Unity between Moderates and Extremists; Lucknow Pact with Muslim League. 
  • 1917: Calcutta – President Annie Besant – First Woman President of Congress. 
  • 1919: Amritsar – President Motilal Nehru – Support for Khilafat Movement. 
  • 1920: Calcutta – President Lala Lajpat Rai – Gandhi moves Non-cooperation resolution. 
  • 1924: Belgaum – President Mahatma Gandhi – Only session presided over by Gandhi. 
  • 1927: Madras – President Dr. M.A. Ansari – Resolutions against Simon Commission and for Purna Swaraj. 
  • 1929: Lahore – President Jawaharlal Nehru – Resolution on Poorna Swaraj; Civil Disobedience movement launched. 
  • 1931: Karachi – President Vallabhbhai Patel – Resolutions on Fundamental Rights and National Economic Programme. 
  • 1936: Lucknow – President Jawaharlal Nehru – Shift towards socialist ideas. 
  • 1938: Haripura – President Subhas Chandra Bose – National Planning Committee formed. 
  • 1939: Tripuri – President Rajendra Prasad – Bose re-elected but resigns; Forward Bloc formed. 
  • 1940: Ramgarh – President Abul Kalam Azad – Civil Disobedience movement postponed. 
  • 1946: Meerut – President J.B. Kripalani – Last session before Independence. 

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ) 

Prelims 

Q1. Who among the following is associated with ‘Songs from Prison’, a translation of ancient Indian religious lyrics in English? (2021) 

(a) Bal Gangadhar Tilak 
(b) Jawaharlal Nehru 
(c) Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi 
(d) Sarojini Naidu 

Ans: (c) 

Q2. With reference to the British colonial rule in India, consider the following statements: (2019) 

  1. Mahatma Gandhi was instrumental in the abolition of the system of ‘indentured labour’. 
  2. In Lord Chelmsford’s ‘War Conference’, Mahatma Gandhi did not support the resolution on recruiting Indians for World War. 
  3. Consequent upon the breaking of Salt Law by Indian people, the Indian National Congress was declared illegal by the colonial rulers. 

Which of the statements given above are correct? 

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

Ans: (b)

Rapid Fire

Centre Amends Conduct of Election Rules, 1961

Source: TH 

Recently, the Ministry of Law and Justice has amended Rule 93 of the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961, restricting public access to certain election-related documents. 

  • Recent Amendment: 
    • This amendment follows a recommendation by the Election Commission of India (ECI) and impacts Rule 93(2)(a), which earlier permitted public inspection of all election papers. 
    • The revised rule now limits access to specific documents listed within the framework. 
  • Background of The Amendment: 
    • It was initiated by a directive from the Punjab and Haryana High Court to ECI to share all election-related documents, including CCTV footage from Haryana Assembly elections. 
    • The ECI highlighted concerns over voter privacy and potential misuse of sensitive information. 
  • RTI Activists and opposition parties argue the amendment compromises transparency and accountability in the electoral process. 
  • Conduct of Election Rules, 1961: 
    • It provides a detailed framework for conducting elections in India, as per the Representation of the People Act, 1951.  
    • These rules cover candidate nominations, polling procedures, etc, ensure voter secrecy and electoral integrity, and define the duties of election officers. 

Read More: Rule 49MA of the Conduct of Election Rules - Drishti IAS 

Rapid Fire

Denali Fault

A new research has revealed the origins of the Denali Fault, the tectonic boundary that gave rise to Denali mountain in Alaska, North America's highest mountain.  

  • The Denali fault was formed from the collision of an oceanic plate called the Wrangellia Composite Terrane with the North American plate between 72 million and 56 million years ago. 
    • The study also found evidence of inverted metamorphism, where high-pressure rocks are positioned above low-pressure ones due to tectonic activity. 
  • About Fault: Fault or crack gives rise to Block mountains. E.g., Satpura and Vindhya mountains. 
    • Block mountains are formed when large areas of land are broken and displaced vertically. They are also known as fault-block mountains. 
  • Types of Fault:  
    • Strike-Slip Faults: These faults occur when tectonic plates slide horizontally with minimal vertical movement. E.g., Denali Fault. 
    • Normal Faults: These faults occur when one rock block slides downward, separating from the adjacent block. E.g., East African Rift Valley. 
    • Reverse Faults (Thrust Faults): These faults occur when the upper block moves up and over the lower block.

Read More: Earthquake

Rapid Fire

50,000-Year-Old Baby Mammoth Remains Uncovered

Source: LM 

Recently, scientists have uncovered the carcass of a 50,000-year-old giant female baby mammoth named Yana, found in Russia due to melting permafrost. 

  • Mammoth is a member of an extinct group of elephants found as fossils in Pleistocene and Holocene deposits (Two epochs that make up the Quaternary Period),on several continents. 
    • By 4,000 years ago they became extinct. 
  • About Yana: It was found in the Batagaika crater in Siberia, known as the “gateway to the underworld” due to its increasing depth from melting ice caused by global warming. 
    • She died at the age of one, making it an exceptional find among only seven mammoth carcasses recovered worldwide. 
    • The crater has also revealed remains of other ancient animals like bison, horses, and dogs. 
  • Permafrost: Soil or underwater sediment that remains frozen below 0°C for more than two years, with depths ranging from a meter to as deep as 1,500 meters. 
    • Permafrost is common in Arctic regions and mountain summits and can contain frozen remains dating back over 700,000 years. 

Read More: Woolly Mammoths 

Place In News

Canary Islands

Source: BS 

The Atlantic migration route, particularly from Africa to Spain's Canary Islands, which has become a gateway to Europe, has emerged as one of the deadliest migration paths in the world. In 2024, over 10,000 migrants lost their lives attempting this journey. 

  • The route is fraught with dangers, including strong ocean currents, overcrowded and poorly equipped boats, and adverse weather conditions. These factors contribute to the high fatality rate. 
  • The Canary Islands, an autonomous Spanish archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, are located about 62 miles west of Morocco (Africa), and are one of the European Union's outermost regions. 
    • The main Canary Islands are Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Tenerife, La Gomera, La Palma, and El Hierro. 
    • The Islands have a subtropical climate with warm temperatures and mild seasonal variation.  
  • The Canary Current is a cold ocean current flowing southwest along Africa's northwest coast, named after the Canary Islands. Its presence contributes to the rainless conditions in the Sahara Desert's coastal region. 

Canary_Islands

Read more: La Palma Island: Spain 

close
SMS Alerts
Share Page
images-2

 
images-2