Mains Marathon

Approach / Explaination / Answer

Solution 1:

Approach

• Start the answer by writing about Sri Aurobindo and his 150-birth anniversary.
• Discuss his contribution in the India's freedom struggle and national movement also discuss his role in the nation building.
• Conclude suitably with highlighting his importance in Indian history.

Answer:

Sri Aurobindo, a prominent philosopher, poet, and nationalist, made significant contributions to India's national movement and nation-building during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His ideas, activism, and spiritual philosophy played a pivotal role in shaping India's struggle for independence and its subsequent efforts towards nation-building.

His role in Freedom struggle and nation building:

• Sri Aurobindo was involved in the Indian freedom struggle from 1902 to 1910, during which he edited newspapers such as Vande Mataram or Bande Mataram, delivered speeches, organized revolutionary activities, and faced imprisonment for the Alipore bomb case.
  • He advocated for complete independence from British rule, as well as for a spiritual and cultural revival of India.
  • He Boycotted British things and his theory concerning boycott has five counterparts, namely economic boycott, educational boycott, administrative boycott, judicial boycott and social boycott, to convey the uniqueness
  • He became a member of a secret society of Indian revolutionaries (in London) called 'Lotus and Daggers' and became the chief exponent of militant nationalism.
  • He also envisioned a future federation of free and united states of India that would cooperate with other nations for the common good of humanity.
  • He wrote speeches for the king during his stay in Baroda and sent a series of articles entitled 'New Lamps for Old' to an Anglo-Marathi paper called Indu Prakash.
    • In these articles, he criticized the Congress for its faulty aims, inappropriate methods, and failure to organize the proletariat.
• Sri Aurobindo’s role in nation building was not limited to his political activities. He also dedicated himself to the development of his integral yoga, which aimed at transforming human life by bringing down the divine consciousness into matter.
  • He founded a community of spiritual seekers in Pondicherry, which became the Sri Aurobindo Ashram in 1926.
  • He also wrote extensively on various topics such as philosophy, psychology, sociology, education, culture, art, literature, and poetry.
  • His magnum opus was The Life Divine, which expounded his vision of the evolution of consciousness and the manifestation of a divine life on earth. His epic poem Savitri was a symbol of his spiritual quest and aspiration.
  • He also inspired many disciples and followers who carried on his work and legacy.
  • He believed in the five Indian values of Dharma, Tapasya, Jganam, Bhramacharya, and Shakti as dynamic forces that rejuvenate the movement and its leaders.
  • He called for a new generation of manliness and revolution to overcome internal weaknesses like cowardice, selfishness, hypocrisy, and sentimentalism.

Sri Aurobindo was a multifaceted personality who made significant contributions to India’s national movement and nation building. He was not only a freedom fighter and a patriot, but also a seer and a sage who sought to uplift humanity to a higher level of existence. He is regarded as one of the founding fathers of modern India and a prophet of its future.

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Solution 2:

Approach

• Write Introduction by mentioning that Europe is the home of most liberal democracies and the birth ground of most liberal ideas in the 18 and 19th centuries.
• Discuss that Europe has been witnessing new wave of radicalism which is comprising of old radical ideas like Hitler’s Nazism and Mussolini's Fascism and new ones like radicals in France.
• Also discuss the reasons behind the rise of these radical ideologies even though Europe has propagator of liberal ideas.
• Present the way outs and conclude suitably.

Answer:

Europe is widely regarded as the home of many liberal democracies and the birthplace of most liberal ideas in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Classical radicalism, which advocated for civil liberties, democracy, republicanism, social justice and secularism, emerged during the Age of Enlightenment and influenced the revolutions in America, France and Belgium.

However, in recent years, Europe has witnessed a rise of a new wave of radicalism, which includes the revival of old ideologies and the emergence of new ones.

• Some of the old radical ideologies that have resurfaced in Europe are fascism and Nazism, which promote authoritarianism, nationalism, racism and violence. For example, in Germany, a neo-Nazi group called Combat 18 was banned by the government in 2020 after being linked to several murders and terrorist plots. In Poland, far-right groups have organized marches and rallies to celebrate Independence Day and express anti-immigrant and anti-LGBT sentiments. In Ireland, a new political party called the Irish Freedom Party has been accused of promoting xenophobia, Islamophobia and conspiracy theories.
• Some of the new radical ideologies that have emerged in Europe are related to radical Islamism, which advocates for a strict interpretation of Islamic law and rejects Western values. For example, in France, a series of terrorist attacks by Islamist extremists have shocked the nation and sparked debates over secularism, freedom of expression and integration. In 2020, a teacher named Samuel Paty was beheaded by an Islamist radical for showing cartoons of Prophet Muhammad in his class.
• In Italy, a radical Islamist group called Ansar al-Islam has been active in recruiting fighters and planning attacks in Europe.

Reasons behind the rise of radicalism in Europe:

• There are various reasons behind the rise of these radical ideologies in Europe, such as economic insecurity, social polarization, cultural diversity, political disillusionment and online radicalization.
• People may feel threatened by globalization, immigration, multiculturalism and secularism, and seek refuge in extremist groups that offer them a sense of identity, belonging and purpose.
• People may also feel dissatisfied with the mainstream political parties and institutions that they perceive as corrupt, ineffective or unrepresentative.
• People may also be influenced by the spread of misinformation, propaganda and conspiracy theories on social media and other digital platforms that fuel their fears, prejudices and grievances.
• The abuse of liberal ideas by some people who engage in acts of disrespect and provocation against other religions and cultures. For example, some far-right activists have burned copies of the Quran in Sweden and the Netherlands, claiming that they are exercising their freedom of expression.
  • However, such acts are not only offensive and hateful, but also dangerous and irresponsible, as they can incite violence and retaliation from radical Islamists.

Possible way outs:

• To counter the rise of radicalism in Europe, there is a need for more dialogue, education, integration and cooperation among different groups and stakeholders.
• Dialogue can help to foster mutual understanding, respect and tolerance among people with diverse backgrounds, beliefs and opinions.
• Education can help to promote critical thinking, civic engagement and democratic values among young people. Integration can help to create a more inclusive society that respects diversity and human rights.
• Cooperation can help to strengthen the security, stability and solidarity of Europe against common threats.

Europe is facing a challenge of radicalism that threatens its liberal democratic heritage and values. The revival of old ideologies and the emergence of new ones pose serious risks to peace, security and social cohesion. Therefore, it is important to address the root causes of radicalization and to promote a culture of dialogue, education, integration and cooperation among all Europeans.

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Soulution 3:

Approach

• Start your answer with the definition of flood and types of floods also mention when it becomes disaster from a hazard.
• Discuss major causes and consequences of floods. Also discuss what strategies can be implemented to mitigate the impact of floods on vulnerable regions.
• Conclude suitably.

Answer:

A flood is an overflow of water that submerges land that is usually dry. It occurs when there is an excessive accumulation of water in rivers, lakes, or other bodies of water, often due to heavy rainfall, melting snow, or dam failure. When a flood causes significant damage, loss of life, and disruption to communities, it transitions from being a hazard to a disaster.

Major Causes and Consequences of Floods:

• Heavy Rainfall: Intense or prolonged periods of rain can lead to the saturation of the ground and overwhelm drainage systems, resulting in flooding.
  • Consequence: Floodwaters can inundate homes, businesses, and infrastructure, causing damage, displacement, and loss of life.
• River Overflow: Excessive rainfall or the rapid melting of snow can cause rivers to exceed their capacity, leading to riverine floods.
  • Consequence: Riverine floods can affect large areas, destroying agricultural land, displacing communities, damaging infrastructure, and contaminating water sources.
• Coastal Storm Surges: Powerful storms, such as hurricanes or cyclones, can generate storm surges that cause coastal flooding.
  • Consequence: Coastal floods can result in erosion, damage to coastal ecosystems, destruction of buildings, and pose risks to human lives.
• Human Factors: Deforestation, urbanization, and the alteration of natural waterways can exacerbate the impact of floods.
  • Consequence: Poor land management practices can increase runoff and reduce the land's ability to absorb water, intensifying flood impacts.

Strategies to Mitigate Flood Impacts:

• Early Warning Systems: Implementing advanced flood monitoring and forecasting systems allows authorities to issue timely warnings, enabling communities to evacuate and take necessary precautions.
• Infrastructure Development: Constructing and maintaining flood control structures, such as levees, dams, and flood channels, helps regulate water flow, using steel sheet piling on the banks of the rivers to reduce the risk of flooding.
• Land Use Planning: Implementing proper land use planning, including restricting construction in flood-prone areas and promoting the preservation of natural floodplains, can minimize the exposure and vulnerability of communities.
• Improved Drainage Systems: Enhancing drainage infrastructure, including stormwater management systems and maintenance of drains and sewers, helps mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall and reduce flood risk.
• Ecosystem Conservation: Preserving and restoring natural ecosystems, such as wetlands and forests, can provide natural flood mitigation by absorbing and retaining water, reducing the intensity and impact of floods.
• Community Preparedness: Educating communities about flood risks, promoting emergency preparedness, and implementing evacuation plans can help minimize the loss of life and property during floods.

Floods pose significant risks to vulnerable regions, causing widespread damage and disruption. Understanding the causes and consequences of floods is essential for implementing effective strategies to mitigate their impact. It is crucial to adopt a holistic and integrated approach, combining both structural and non-structural measures, to effectively manage and mitigate the risks associated with flooding.

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Solution 4:

Approach

• Introduce the Bhakti and Sufi movement and saints.
• Discuss that both Bhakti and Sufi saints during the Bhakti and Sufi movement had propagated ideas of people's welfare with examples.
• Conclude suitably.

Answer:

The Bhakti and Sufi movements were two of the most influential spiritual movements. These movements emphasized a direct relationship with God through love and devotion, rather than rituals and dogmas. They also challenged the social and religious hierarchies of their times and promoted harmony and equality among people of different faiths and backgrounds.

• The Bhakti movement originated in Tamil Nadu in the 6th century CE, but the Sufi movement emerged in the 8th century CE in Persia.

Both Sufi and Bhakti saints were carrying the idea of people’s welfare in their teachings and practices. They aimed to spread the message of love, harmony, and equality among all people, regardless of their caste, creed, or religion. They also tried to reform the social evils and superstitions that plagued society at that time. Some examples of how they did so are:

• The Sufi saints followed the principle of sulh-i-kul, which means universal peace and tolerance. They respected all religions and sects and did not discriminate anyone on the basis of their faith.
  • They also promoted a direct and personal relationship with God, without the need for any intermediaries or rituals. They believed that God could be experienced through love, devotion, and meditation.
• The Bhakti saints advocated the worship of one God, who is present in all beings and forms. They rejected the caste system, idolatry, ritualism, and priestly authority that dominated orthodox Hinduism.
  • They composed devotional songs and poems in the regional languages, which made their teachings accessible to the common people. They also encouraged women and lower castes to participate in their movement.
• Both Sufi and Bhakti saints influenced each other and borrowed ideas from each other’s traditions. For instance, some Sufi saints adopted the practice of singing devotional songs (qawwali) from the Bhakti saints, while some Bhakti saints adopted the practice of mystical ecstasy (sama) from the Sufi saints. They also visited each other’s shrines and tombs, and showed mutual respect and admiration.

Thus, both Sufi and Bhakti saints were carrying the idea of people’s welfare by creating a culture of spiritualism, humanism, and pluralism in medieval India

The Bhakti and Sufi movements were remarkable examples of how religion can be a source of harmony, peace and welfare for humanity. They showed that God can be approached through various paths and names, but the essence is the same: love and devotion. They also demonstrated that spirituality is not confined to temples and mosques but can be practiced in everyday life by serving others and being kind to all. They enriched the cultural and religious diversity of India by creating a common heritage of poetry, music, art and philosophy.

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Solution 5:

Approach

• Introduce the concept of secularism.
• Examine the role of secularism in shaping the fabric of society and fostering communal harmony.
• Conclude suitably with emphasis on the importance of the secularism in diverse society like India.

Answer:

Secularism is a principle that implies the separation of religion and state, and the equal treatment of all religions by the state. Secularism in India has a distinct meaning and context, as it does not imply a complete exclusion of religion from public life, but rather a pluralistic and tolerant approach to diverse religious beliefs and practices.

Secularism plays a vital role in shaping the fabric of the society and fostering communal harmony. Some of the ways in which it does so are:

• Secularism preserves the diversity and plurality of religious traditions and cultures in the country. India is home to various religions as well as numerous sects, denominations, and sub-cultures within them.
  • Secularism respects and protects the rich and varied cultural heritage of different religions and celebrates their contributions to the nation. It also facilitates cross-cultural exchange and learning among different religions and enriches the social and cultural capital of the nation.
• Secularism promotes social justice and empowerment by granting equal rights and opportunities to all citizens irrespective of their religion.
  • It also empowers the marginalized sections of society to challenge the oppressive practices and customs based on religion.
  • It also fosters social reform and welfare by enabling the state to intervene in matters of religion for the public good. For example, the state has abolished untouchability.
• Secularism counters communalism and extremism by preventing the politicization and manipulation of religion for narrow interests.
  • It also curbs communal violence by ensuring that the state acts swiftly and impartially against the perpetrators.
  • It also supports the national integration and unity of the country by upholding the common identity of being Indian above any religious identity.

Secularism is a crucial factor for maintaining the social cohesion and harmony of the country. It is also a source of strength and resilience for the country to face the challenges of globalization and modernization. Secularism is not only a constitutional mandate but also a social necessity for a diverse society like India.

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Solution 6:

Approach:

• Start your answer with a brief introduction to the office of the governor.
• Mention the challenges associated with the office of the governor and propose measures to overcome those challenges.
• Summarize the key points and conclude.

Answer:

• Article 153 of the Constitution states that there shall be a Governor for each state. The office of the governor plays a vital role in the federal structure. The governor acts as the head of the state, and the link between the centre and the state. All the executive decisions in the state are taken in his name.
• However, the office of the governor has also faced several challenges and controversies in recent times, which have raised questions about its effectiveness and impartiality.

Some of these challenges are:

• Political Appointments: According to Article 155 of the Constitution, the Governor of a State shall be appointed by the President. However, there is no specific criterion or procedure for selecting the Governor, leaving it to the discretion of the President, who usually acts on the advice of the Council of ministers.
• Misuse of Discretionary Powers: Article 163(1) of the Constitution provides for the establishment of a Council of Ministers having Chief Minister as head to assist the Governor in carrying out his functions. However, the Governor can exercise certain powers at their discretion, as per the Constitution. The lack of a precise definition of these discretionary powers leads to ambiguity and controversies.
  • However, the Supreme Court in Shamsher Singh v State of Punjab case (1974) ruled that a Governor must exercise “formal constitutional powers only upon, and in accordance with the aid and advice of their ministers, save in a few well-known exceptional situations”.
• Interference in State Politics: Instances of Governors taking an active role in state politics, favoring one political party over another, have been reported. Such actions tarnish the perception of the Governor’s position as an independent and apolitical entity. E.g., recent tussle between Tamil Nadu governor and the government.
• An agent of the Centre: Article 156 of the Indian Constitution states that the Governor shall hold office during the pleasure of the President. This implies that the Governor can be removed by the President at any time without assigning any reason. This makes the Governor vulnerable to political pressure and act like an agent of the central government.
• Constitutional Crisis: Article 356 of the Indian Constitution gives the President the authority to declare President's Rule in a State if the government is unable to function according to the Constitution. The President can act on this provision either on a report from the Governor or otherwise. However, this provision has been misused by some Governors to recommend President’s Rule on flimsy grounds or without consulting the Chief Minister.
• Limited Accountability: Article 361 of the Indian Constitution states that no criminal proceedings whatsoever shall be instituted or continued against the President or a Governor in any court during his term of office. This means that they cannot be prosecuted or arrested for any offence while they are in office. 

Measures to Enhance Effectiveness and Impartiality:

• Must not be a political figure: The Sarkaria Commission has recommended that the governor should be a detached figure without intense political links or should not have taken part in politics in the recent past.
• Transparent Appointment Process: Establishing an impartial and transparent process for the appointment of Governors can ensure that individuals with integrity and experience are selected. This could involve setting up a non-partisan committee responsible for suggesting suitable candidates to the President.
  • The Venkatachaliah Commission (2002) recommended that the governor’s appointment should be entrusted to a committee comprising the prime minister, the home minister, the Lok Sabha speaker and the chief minister of the concerned state. 
    • If the governor is to be removed before completion of term, the central government should do so only after consultation with the chief minister.
• Fixed Term of Office: Introducing a fixed term of office for Governors can mitigate the risk of arbitrary removal and discourage political interference during their tenure, thereby enhancing their independence and impartiality.
  • As per Sarkaria Commission’s recommendations, governors must not be removed before completion of their five-year tenure, except in rare and compelling circumstances.
  • Punchhi Commission recommended that the phrase “during the pleasure of the President” should be deleted from the Constitution; Governor should be removed only by a resolution of the state legislature.
• Training and Orientation: Providing comprehensive training and orientation for newly appointed Governors on their constitutional roles, responsibilities, and limitations can equip them to act fairly and responsibly.
• Accountability Mechanism: Creating a robust mechanism to hold Governors accountable for any misconduct or misuse of powers will ensure that they exercise their authority responsibly and without biasness.
  • The First Administrative Reforms Commission (1968) recommended that the report of the governor regarding the president’s rule must be objective, and the governor should exercise his own judgement in this regard. 
• Non-interference in State Politics: The Governors should adhere strictly to their role as constitutional custodians and avoid getting involved in state politics or favoring any political party.
• Constitutional Amendment: Exploring the possibility of amending the Constitution to redefine the role and powers of the Governor, emphasizing their apolitical nature, and limiting discretionary powers can strengthen the institution's credibility.
  • The Rajamannar Committee recommended the deletion of Articles 356 and 357 from the constitution of India.
• Role of the Rajya Sabha: The Rajya Sabha, being the Council of States, can play a vital role in ensuring the Governor's impartiality by scrutinizing their actions and decisions to identify potential instances of political interference.

The office of the Governor is an indispensable institution for maintaining the balance of power in the Indian federal system. To address the challenges, it faces and enhance its effectiveness and impartiality, a comprehensive approach is needed. By adopting measures like transparent appointments, fixed tenures, accountability mechanisms, and emphasizing non-interference in state politics, India can fortify the Governor's position as a constitutional guardian of the nation's democratic principles.

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Solution 7:

Approach:

• Start your answer with a brief introduction to Preventive Detention and its grounds.
• Mention the criticism and concerns associated with preventive detention laws. Suggest some measures to prevent the abuse and misuse of such laws.
• Summarize the key points and conclude.

Answer:

Preventive detention means to detain a person so that to prevent that person from commenting on any possible crime. Section 151 of CrPC provides a police officer may arrest a person without any orders from the magistrate and without any warrant, if it appears to him that the commission of the offence cannot be prevented without arrest. The grounds for Preventive detention are State security, Public order, Foreign Affairs, and Community services.

Criticism and Concern with respect to the Preventive detention Laws:

• Used for trivial reasons: There have been several instances where the authorities have been found using the laws for petty issues. One of the strangest instances is when a person was detained as goonda for selling substandard chilli powder.
• Lack of Proper Definition: In various state laws, there’s no clarity on what grounds a person must be detained. Thus, law’s ambit is rarely restricted to habitual offenders.
• Has Colonial Legacy: Some experts argue that such laws are not needed in modern times as it was used against the freedom fighters during the British rule.
• Against Fundamental Rights: Such laws are in clear conflict with Fundamental rights. detaining a person on uncertain grounds as he could commit a crime infringes the Fundamental Rights under Art 19 and 21.
• Misuse: In several instances, it has been seen that such laws have been misused in a vindictive manner. In several cases political parties have been seen misusing the laws to punish the members of the opposition. During the COVID period, various state governments invoked the National Security Act (NSA) on several opposition leaders and journalists.
• Safeguards aren’t Enough: Article 22 gives the person the right to be informed of grounds of his arrest, but the very same article also provides for non-disclosure of grounds in public interest. The refusal of disclosing the grounds of detention is not a safeguard in a true sense.

Measures to prevent the abuse and misuse of preventive detention laws:

• Uniformity in Laws: Different states have different laws related to this as Law and order is a subject under the state list. Still the central government must urge states to have some kind of uniformity through some model act.
• Remove the Scope of Ambiguity: The nature of the crimes under the laws must be clearly defined with a view to reducing the scope of ambiguity. For instance, Tamil Nadu’s Goondas Act’ covers offenders who range from bootleggers, slum grabbers, forest offenders to video pirates, sex offenders and cyber-criminals.
• Ensure Effective Use of Laws: The authorities must be trained in a way that they act proportionately and do not misuse the laws. Also, the laws must be used to serve the greater purpose of maintaining public order and should not be used on trivial issues and for vendetta. As directed by hon’ble Supreme court in Mariappan v. The District Collector and Others case.
• Use Alternate Methods: The authorities must find some alternative and try to avoid detention if possible. The punishment for a crime should be directly related and proportionate to the severity of the crime committed. For example, a small fine might be appropriate for a minor offense, while a long prison sentence might be appropriate for a serious or violent crime.
• Use in Rarest of the Rare cases: The laws must not be used arbitrarily in any case. The gravity of the crime must be judged by the authorities and laws should be used in rarest of the rare instances.

Although preventive detention laws can be valuable for preserving law and order, their careful implementation is essential to prevent human rights violations. The government must ensure that these laws are not abused and are applied solely when required to safeguard individuals from unwarranted harm.

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Solution 8:

Approach:

• Start your answer with a brief overview of intra party democracy.
• Mention the significance of Intra-party democracy and suggest measures to enhance it.
• Summarize the key points and conclude.

Answer:

Intra-party democracy refers to the internal democratic processes and mechanisms within political parties, ensuring that decision-making and leadership selection occur through transparent, participatory, and inclusive means. The significance of intra-party democracy lies in its pivotal role in enhancing the overall democratic fabric of a nation. When political parties uphold democratic principles within their structures, it has a profound impact on governance, representation, citizen participation, and the overall health of the democratic system.

Significance of Intra-Party Democracy:

• Representation and Inclusivity: Intra-party democracy fosters inclusivity by allowing a diverse range of party members to participate actively in the decision-making process. It ensures the representation of various voices and perspectives within the party, promoting a broader representation of citizens' interests.
• Accountability and Transparency: Transparent internal processes increase the accountability of party leaders and members. When leaders are elected through fair and open mechanisms, they are more likely to be accountable to their constituents and the general public, thereby strengthening democratic accountability as a whole.
• Policy Formulation and Implementation: Intra-party democracy encourages healthy debates and discussions on policy matters. When party members have the opportunity to contribute to policy formulation, it leads to more comprehensive and well-thought-out policies that cater to the diverse needs of the nation.
• Strengthening Grassroots Democracy: Intra-party democracy empowers party members at the grassroots level by involving them in decision-making processes. This strengthens grassroots democracy, as local leaders have a better understanding of their communities' concerns and can effectively represent them in the larger political arena.
• Minimizing Factionalism and Internal Conflicts: A robust intra-party democratic system helps reduce factionalism and internal conflicts within parties. It fosters a culture of compromise and cooperation, leading to more unified parties and stable governments.

Measures to enhance intra-party democracy:

• Granting the Election Commission of India (ECI) the authority to register, de-register, audit, and supervise political parties based on their compliance with the law and their own constitutions fosters accountability. The ECI can act as an impartial body overseeing party operations.
• To enhance inclusivity and strengthen democratic processes within parties, encouraging them to adopt innovative methods like primaries, referendums, and surveys for involving members and supporters in decision-making is essential.
• Facilitating a culture of dialogue and debate within and between political parties promotes the exchange of diverse ideas and perspectives, leading to well-informed decision-making and a more robust democracy.
• Empowering civil society organizations and media to monitor and critique political parties' performance and conduct ensures transparency and accountability. This responsiveness to public concerns keeps parties connected to the needs of the people.
• Creating platforms for party leaders, grassroots workers, and different factions within parties to engage in dialogue and provide feedback fosters a sense of belonging and ownership among party members. This encourages participation and improves intra-party dynamics.
• The development of a code of conduct and ethics for political parties and their leaders, with mechanisms for enforcement, ensures ethical behavior and adherence to democratic principles. Disciplinary committees, ombudsmen, or civil society watchdogs can play crucial roles in upholding these standards.
• Electoral system reform, aimed at reducing the influence of money and muscle power in politics and promoting the representation of marginalized groups, enhances the inclusivity and fairness of the political process. This ensures that diverse voices within the population are heard and represented effectively.

Recommendations made by Various Committees and Commissions

• Several government constituted committees like the Dinesh Goswami Committee, the Tarkunde Committee and Indrajit Gupta Committee, which strongly argued for more transparent working of the political parties in the country. They recommended the State funding of the elections to reduce the influence of money in elections.
• The 1999 Law Commission Report strongly recommended the introduction of a regulatory framework for governing the internal structures and inner party democracy of the political parties.

Intra-party democracy plays a crucial role in shaping a vibrant democratic system by ensuring that political parties themselves embody the democratic ideals they advocate for the nation. By implementing measures to enhance intra-party democracy, political parties can not only strengthen their own internal functioning but also contribute significantly to the overall health and sustainability of democracy in the country. It is through these concerted efforts that a nation can truly thrive as a robust and participatory democracy.

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Solution 9:

Approach:

• Start your answer with a brief introduction to BIMSTEC and its significance.
• Discuss India’s policy towards BIMSTEC, Opportunities and constraints for India.
• Summarize the key points and conclude with a forward-looking approach.

Answer:

BIMSTEC is a regional organization that aims to promote economic and social development, connectivity, and security among its member states. BIMSTEC stands for Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, and it was formed on 6 June 1997 through the Bangkok Declaration. It comprises seven countries around the Bay of Bengal region: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. The BIMSTEC region brings together 1.67 billion people and a combined gross domestic product of around US$ 4.4 trillion (2022).

India’s engagement with BIMSTEC has been driven by its key foreign policy priorities of ‘Neighbourhood First’ and ‘Act East’. India sees BIMSTEC as a natural platform to fulfil its strategic and economic interests in South Asia and Southeast Asia, as well as to counter the growing influence of China in the region.

Some of the opportunities for India’s engagement with BIMSTEC are:

• Enhancing trade and investment ties with the BIMSTEC countries, especially in sectors such as textiles, leather, tourism, agriculture, technology, and commerce. India can also benefit from the supply chain reorganization dynamic in the Asia-Pacific region by attracting more foreign direct investment and diversifying its export markets.
• Promoting regional connectivity and integration through initiatives such as the BIMSTEC Transport Connectivity Framework Agreement, the BIMSTEC Coastal Shipping Agreement, the BIMSTEC Motor Vehicle Agreement, and the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project. These projects can enhance India’s access to its northeastern states, as well as to Myanmar, Thailand, and beyond.
• Strengthening cooperation in areas such as counter-terrorism, transnational crime, cyber security, disaster management, climate change, public health, poverty alleviation, and people-to-people contacts. These issues are of common concern and interest to all BIMSTEC members and require collective action and coordination.
• Leveraging the cultural and civilizational links with the BIMSTEC countries, especially those that share a common Buddhist heritage. India can showcase its soft power and promote cultural diplomacy through initiatives such as the Bodhi Parva festival, the BIMSTEC Tele-Medicine Network, and the BIMSTEC Cultural Industries Observatory.

Some of the constraints for India’s engagement with BIMSTEC are:

• The lack of institutional capacity and political will among some of the BIMSTEC members to implement the agreed commitments and projects. The progress of BIMSTEC has been slow and uneven due to various factors such as domestic politics, bureaucratic hurdles, resource constraints, and competing priorities.
• The asymmetry of size and power between India and the other BIMSTEC members, which may create perceptions of dominance or hegemony by India. India needs to balance its leadership role with sensitivity and respect for the sovereignty and interests of its smaller neighbours.
• The overlapping membership and mandates of other regional organizations such as SAARC, ASEAN, etc., which may create confusion or duplication of efforts. India needs to clarify its vision and strategy for engaging with different regional platforms and harmonize its policies and initiatives accordingly.
• The external challenges posed by China’s growing presence and influence in the Bay of Bengal region through its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), String of Pearls (SOP), etc.
  • India needs to counter China’s strategic encirclement and economic enticement of its neighbours by offering credible alternatives and partnerships.

BIMSTEC is a regional platform that benefits India’s economic and strategic interests in the Bay of Bengal region. India has been a key player in BIMSTEC and has supported its growth and development. However, India also faces some challenges in its engagement with BIMSTEC, such as the slow implementation, the power asymmetry, the regional overlap, and the Chinese competition. India needs to address these challenges by enhancing its leadership, trust, coordination, and partnership in BIMSTEC.

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Solution 10:

Approach:

• Start your answer with the definition of Child labor and its prevalence in India.
• Discuss the Challenges in eradicating Child labor and propose measures to eradicate the same.
• Conclude with a forward-looking approach.

Answer:

According to the International Labor Organization (ILO), child labor is defined as “work that deprives children (any person under 18) of their childhood, their potential and their dignity, and that is harmful to physical and mental development”. It can also interfere with their schooling and expose them to various hazards and risks. Child labor is a global problem that affects millions of children, especially in developing countries like India.

India has taken various significant measures like enactment of Juvenile Justice Act, 2000; Right to Education Act, 2009; PENCIL portal, signing International Labor Organization’s Convention No. 138 on Minimum Age and Convention No. 182 on Worst Forms of Child Labor etc. Despite all these measures child labor is still persistent in India.

According to the Census 2011, there were 10.1 million child laborers in India. According to various studies the menace of child labor has grown many folds after the Covid- 19 pandemic.

Challenges in eradicating child labor in India:

• Poverty: Poverty is one of the main drivers of child labor in India, as many families rely on the income of their children to meet their basic needs. Poverty also limits access to education, health care, nutrition, and sanitation for many children, making them more vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.
• Education: Education is a key factor in preventing and eliminating child labor, as it empowers children with knowledge, skills, and opportunities for a better future. According to UNICEF, more than 42.7 million children in India are out of school.
  • Moreover, the Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted the education system and increased the risk of child labor for many children who lost access to online learning or faced economic hardships.
• Weak implementation of Laws: India has several laws and policies that prohibit and regulate child labor, such as
  • The Child Labor Amendment Act 2016, bans the employment of children below 14 years in any occupation or process, except in family enterprises or as artists;
  • The Juvenile Justice Act 2015 provides for the care, protection, rehabilitation, and reintegration of children in conflict with law.
  • However, the implementation and enforcement of these laws are often weak or inadequate, due to lack of awareness, resources, coordination, monitoring, and accountability among various stakeholders.
• Social norms and attitudes: Social norms and attitudes that condone or justify child labor are another challenge that hinders its eradication. Some of these norms include gender stereotypes that assign different roles and expectations to boys and girls; cultural practices that involve children in hazardous or harmful activities; and consumer preferences that demand cheap goods and services without considering the human cost behind them.
• Lack of decent work opportunities for adults and adolescents:  Due to the high unemployment rate and low wages, many adults and young people are unable to find decent and dignified work. This leads them to engage in informal and hazardous work or push their children into labor.
• Emergencies:  Natural disasters, conflicts, and pandemics can disrupt the normal functioning of society and increase the vulnerability of children. Some children may lose their parents, homes, or access to basic services. They may be forced to work for survival or be exploited by traffickers and other perpetrators.

Measures to eradicate child labor:

• Strengthening the Legal Framework and its Enforcement: The government should enact and amend laws that prohibit and regulate child labor, in line with the international standards and conventions. It should also ensure that the laws are effectively implemented and enforced.
  • The penalties for violating the child labor laws should be severe and consistent.
• Providing Social Protection and Economic Support: The government should provide comprehensive social protection and economic support to poor and vulnerable families, to prevent them from resorting to child labor as a coping mechanism.
  • This could include regular cash transfers, subsidies, pensions, health insurance, food security, access to credit etc. 
• Ensuring Universal and Quality Education: The government should ensure that all children have access to free and compulsory education up to the age of 14 years, as per the Right to Education Act 2009 and Article 21A of the Constitution.
  • It should also improve the quality, relevance, safety and inclusiveness of education, by providing adequate infrastructure, teachers, curriculum, scholarships, follow up with children who drop out or do not enroll in school, and provide them with bridge education, vocational training or alternative learning opportunities etc.
• Raising Awareness and Mobilizing Action: The government should collaborate with civil society organizations, media, corporations and citizens to raise awareness about the harmful effects of child labor and the importance of child rights.
  • It should also mobilize action and support for the initiatives against child labor, by creating platforms, campaigns, networks, coalitions, etc. 
  • The role of Panchayats can also be explored for raising awareness.
• Responding to Emergencies and Crises: The government should prepare for and respond to emergencies and crises that may increase the risk of child labor, such as conflicts, disasters, pandemics or economic shocks.
  • It should provide humanitarian assistance and protection to affected children and families, such as food, water, shelter, health care, psychosocial support, etc. It should also ensure the continuity of education and social protection services.

Child labor remains a persistent socio-economic issue in India, despite significant efforts to combat it. The exploitation of children for labor not only violates their rights but also perpetuates a cycle of poverty and hinders the overall development of the nation. Addressing this complex problem requires a multifaceted approach that tackles its root causes and provides comprehensive measures for eradication.