9 PM Daily Current Affairs Brief – May 27th, 2023

Mains Oriented Articles

GS PAPER - 1

Sengol: History and relevance – Explained, pointwise

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Introduction

The Sengol, a sacred sceptre, traces its roots back to the ancient Chola dynasty in Tamil Nadu, where it served as a potent symbol of royal power transfer. However, its significance extends beyond mere political authority, representing the ethical-spiritual authority or ‘Dharma Danda’ in Indian civilisational tradition.

Today, its relevance is reignited as the Indian government plans to install the Sengol in the new Parliament building, leading to heated debates about its history, authenticity, and symbolism it carries in modern India.  

What is Sengol?

Read here: ‘Sengol’ to be installed in the new parliament: Significance of the sceptre, first given to Nehru

What is the significance of Sengol in Indian history?

Symbol of royal power transfer: In the history of the Chola dynasty the Sengol played a crucial role as a symbolic instrument for the transfer of power from one king to another. This practice was carried out by the Rajaguru, or the court priest, signifying divine approval for the new monarch.  

Spiritual authority: In Indian culture, kings and queens were not considered as the ultimate authority. The Sengol, symbolizing the Dharma Danda, was used to remind the monarchs that the highest authority was Dharma, the ethical and spiritual order. During coronation rituals, the priest would use the Sengol to assert that Dharma, not the king, held the ultimate power to punish.  

The historical symbol of independence: The Sengol held a special place in the history of India’s independence. In 1947, it was used in a ceremony to symbolize the transfer of power from the British to the first Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru. The act signified the beginning of self-governance and the transfer of power to the people of India.  

Present-day significance: Today, the Sengol continues to hold relevance in the political symbolism of India. The recent decision of the Indian government to install the Sengol in the new Parliament building underlines its continued importance as a representation of India’s ethical and spiritual governance. This is seen as a reflection of the value India places on Dharma and the principles it stands for.  

What are the arguments supporting the installation of Sengol in Parliament?

Symbol of democratic power transfer: One of the arguments supporting the installation of the Sengol in Parliament is its historical symbolism of power transfer. The installation of this symbol in Parliament is seen as a continuation of this tradition, signifying the democratic power transition that happens in Parliament.  

Representation of Indian civilizational tradition: The Sengol is also representative of Indian civilizational tradition, wherein it signified the Dharma Danda, the ethical-spiritual authority. Installing it in Parliament could serve as a constant reminder to lawmakers of their duty to uphold Dharma, or ethical righteousness, in their service to the nation.  

Assertion of the prime minister’s authority: India’s decision to install the Sengol is seen as an assertion of the Prime Minister’s authority, who represents not just his political party but the entire nation. The Sengol, symbolizing power, reinforces the Prime Minister’s role as the country’s leader.  

Historical continuity and national pride: The installation of Sengol in Parliament can also be viewed as an act of historical continuity and a reaffirmation of national pride. The Sengol’s presence in the Parliament building would serve as a link to India’s past, reminding present and future generations of India’s rich cultural and historical heritage.  

What are the arguments of critics against the installation of Sengol in Parliament?

Questioning the prime minister’s authority: The opposition members have argued that the Prime Minister has no authority to inaugurate the new parliament and thereby question the decision to install the Sengol. They suggest that this act might be perceived as a unilateral decision rather than a democratic one.  

Disputes over the Sengol’s historicity: Some regional political party members have raised questions about the authenticity of the story surrounding the Sengol. They contend that before making such a significant decision, the historicity of the Sengol should be thoroughly vetted and agreed upon.  

Possible misinterpretation of symbolism: There’s a concern that the Sengol, which historically represents the transfer of power and Dharma, might be misinterpreted or exploited for political purposes. Critics argue that its sacred symbolism could be diminished or altered when installed in a political environment like Parliament.  

Disagreement over religious symbolism in secular spaces: Given the Sengol’s religious connotations and India’s status as a secular nation, some critics oppose its installation in Parliament. They suggest that it might blur the lines between religion and state, potentially conflicting with the principle of secularism.  

What are similar global and local examples like Sengol and their reasons behind it?

Royal sceptres in Western monarchies: In Western civilizations, especially in countries like Norway, Sweden, and the UK, the sceptre has been a part of royal regalia dating back to the times of the Greek and Mesopotamian civilizations. It represents the sovereignty and authority of the monarch. An example was seen as recently as in September 2022, when a sceptre was placed on the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II, and again at the coronation of King Charles.  

Local Indian examples of similar symbols 

Dharma Danda: This is another example of a symbolic sceptre used in Indian tradition. During coronation rituals, the king, after formally ascending the throne, would proclaim his impunity, to which the priest would respond by patting the king’s crown with the Dharma Danda, signifying that Dharma, the ethical-spiritual order, has the power to punish the king. The Sengol represented this tradition of the Dharma Danda.  

Symbols of power in other Indian kingdoms: There are numerous examples of symbols of power and authority used in other Indian kingdoms. For instance, the Pallavas and Pandyas had their own unique symbols of power, though these might not have been identical to the Sengol. These symbols served a similar purpose, representing the transfer of power and the authority of the ruler.  

What should be done?

Understanding the symbolism: It is crucial to comprehend the Sengol’s significance as a symbol of the Dharma Danda or the ethical-spiritual authority, rather than viewing it merely as a relic or a symbol of political authority. The narrative should pivot around the Sengol’s rich heritage and its significance in the civilisational tradition.  

Respect for democratic processes: The objections raised by opposition parties should be addressed within the democratic framework, respecting all opinions. After all, the Parliament is a representative body, and any significant decision like this should ideally be taken in a democratic manner.  

Public awareness and engagement: Lastly, the public should be educated about the history and significance of the Sengol. This will ensure an informed discussion around its installation in the Parliament, leading to a decision that respects the sentiments of the majority while upholding the historical and cultural heritage of the country. 

Sources: Indian Express (Article 1, Article 2 and Article 3), The Times of India (Article 1 and Article 2), The Hindu (Article 1 and Article 2), News 18, Hindustan Times and The Wire

Syllabus: GS 1: Art & Culture: Salient aspects of Art Forms, literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.

GS PAPER - 2

Sedition and its roots in rudeness as an offence

Source- The post is based on the article “Sedition and its roots in rudeness as an offence” published in “The Hindu” on 27th May 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- Polity

Relevance– Issues related to offensive speech and sedition

News- On March 30, the Lahore High Court annulled the offence of ‘sedition’ in the Pakistan Penal code.

Around the same time in India, the police registered a series of complaints in Delhi and in Ahmedabad, and also arrested several people, for posting anti-government posts.

How does the logic of sedition under section 124 influence our legal apparatus?

Section 124A seeks to criminalise words that bring “into hatred or contempt, or excite disaffection” towards the government. A challenge is pending before the Supreme Court. Yet, the logic of the law of sedition still survives.

Pakistan uses the law of blasphemy. India, which is secular and does not criminalise blasphemy. But, it has punishment provisions for hurting sentiments. The state recently arrested actor Chetan Kumar for his tweet on Hindutva.

Its defining logic has already transplanted itself into several different provisions of law that criminalise speech.

How social relationships have an impact on our understanding of offensive speech?

Socially, we have always understood badtameezi(rudeness) not in terms of the contents of speech, but rather in terms of who spoke and to whom. An older person may crticise a teenager but the badtameezi occurs only when the teenager answers back.

This understanding of offensive speech applies in the same hierarchical way to all social relationships. It’s always the security guard, the domestic worker, or the street vendor who is badtameez.

Modernity and capitalism have long been imagined breaking such hierarchies. But it is not true in substance.

How is the understanding of offensive speech reflected in power relations?

The state through its officials has appropriated a top position in hierarchy of social positions. Thus, the lowest state functionary addresses the citizen in the most commanding voice, as if it was natural.

Law-and-order issues arise only when the policeman is challenged. But, it never arises in the policeman’s own arbitrary commands to the citizenry.

In present times, this relationship of power is more explicitly extended to political power. The use of law often shows these social-political relations of power. It is increasing now.

How is understanding of offensive speech reflected in the legal system?

The practice of prosecuting speech offences is influenced by an understanding that ‘offensive speech’ emanates from those who are either inferior in established social/political hierarchies.

Consequently, offences are framed mostly against those who challenge political or social power and its attendant narratives. In the event, prosecution usually follows the logic of badtameezi, or sedition. It focuses mostly on content.

India has entrenched hierarchical relations, most prominently in the form of caste. Our understanding of violence is influenced by this understanding.

Speech is made prosecutable depending on whom it targets. It points to the entangled relationship of law and society. Prosecutors attack certain speech as grave and damaging to someone’s reputation while tolerating other violent speech as innocuous.

What are some facts about the Supreme Court pronounced judgement in the Media One case?

which addresses the logic of sedition. It struck down the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting’s decision to not renew the broadcast licence for the channel on grounds that it was a threat to national security.

The Court said that the critical views on policies of the government cannot be termed anti-establishment. The use of such a terminology represents an expectation that the press must support the establishment.

The action of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting by denying security clearance to a media channel produces a chilling effect on freedom of speech, and on press freedom.

The restriction on the freedom of the press compels citizens to think along the same tangent. A homogenised view on issues that range from socio-economic policy to political ideologies would pose grave dangers to democracy.

The state is using national security as a tool to deny citizens remedies that are provided under the law. This is not compatible with the rule of law. National security claims cannot be made out of thin air.

A fountainhead of the people’s hopes and aspirations

Source- The post is based on the article “A fountainhead of the people’s hopes and aspirations” published in “The Indian Express” on 27th May 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- Polity

News– India is set to witness a historic moment with the inauguration of the new Parliament House on May 28. We finally have a new structure in independent India.

What is the importance of the new Parliament building?

It reflects the vision and aspirations of a country that has evolved significantly since 1947. The new building will be another extension of the existing Parliament complex to signify the spirit of change and continuity.

The old building gave direction to independent India, while the new one will witness the making of India as ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.

What are the changes made in the old building?

The main Parliament House, inaugurated in 1927, consists of the circular-shaped structure. Two more floors were added to this building in 1956 to accommodate more staff and other offices.

The need for yet more office space led to the construction of the Parliament Annexe in 1975. In 2002, the Parliament Library was added to the complex. For similar reasons, an extension of the Parliament Annexe was constructed in 2016.

What are the challenges faced due to the old building of Parliament?

Despite the new constructions in the Parliament, the need for modern facilities in the main Parliament House remained unfulfilled.

There is a shortage of space inside the Parliament House. It had to be retrofitted multiple times, which left little space for further improvements.

The inner ceilings of both the Chambers and the Central Hall were provided with safety nettings to prevent any tiles and plaster from falling down. There are multiple wirings for computers, air conditioners and security gadgets.

The Presiding Officers of the past have also emphasised the need to find a better solution. In 2012, the Speaker, Meira Kumar approved a high-powered committee to look for an alternative complex.

In 2015, the Speaker, Sumitra Mahajan, wrote to the Minister for Urban Affairs to have a new Parliament building with modern facilities.

What are major changes in the new Parliament for meeting the needs of current times?

The new building is more spacious, energy-efficient, and accessible. It has the most updated technology, which makes it well-equipped for future needs as well.

In the new building, we will be able to accommodate various languages with state-of-the-art facilities for simultaneous interpretations. There are better features for audio-visual communication as compared to the existing Parliament.

Better gadgets, access to an e-library, and important reports will be easily accessible for members from their seats. This will enhance the capacity of legislators and improve the efficiency of the Secretariats of Parliament.

The building has publicly accessible museum-grade galleries and a Constitution Hall that showcases India’s age-old history of democracy.

Adequate functional space and modern facilities for the members will contribute to reducing friction and enabling serious discussions. As this complex expands, each member will have their own dedicated space for interacting with people from their constituencies.

How does the new Parliament inspire for a better future?

The inauguration of a new Parliament building presents an opportunity to seriously introspect on our parliamentary conduct to make Parliament more efficient and productive.

The trend of increasing disruptions and deadlock is antithetical to the demand for politics for complex governance challenges of our time.

It would work as a lighthouse to guide us in our ambitious journey to build ‘Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat.’

Data In The Dock – on National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG)

Source: The post is based on the article “Data In The Dock – A little-noted flaw in the judicial system is the recording of incomplete & wrong information. This skews calculation of disposal rates, especially for old cases” published in The Times of India on 27^th May 2023.

Syllabus: GS 2- Functioning of judiciary

Relevance: About the pendency of cases in the courts

News: The National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG) shows that 1,03,712 cases in the courts are more than 30 years old. This highlights the concerns over pendency of cases in the courts in India.

What is the situation of the pendency of cases in India?

Out of 1,03,712 cases, the two oldest civil cases are from 1952 and the oldest criminal case today is from 1958. This shows the grim situation of the legal system in India that plaintiffs/ defendants may even die awaiting justice.

Recently, the India Justice Report 2022 ranked states under four heads – police, prisons, judiciary and legal aid. Under judiciary, West Bengal ranks the worst among major states.

In 2017, the junior law minister informed Parliament the oldest civil case was in Rajasthan HC filed in 1956 and the oldest case filed in Madras HC was of 1952.

However, both the information was incorrect which also shows the need to correct data in e-court records.

The law minister further informed Parliament recently that there were no cases (civil or criminal) more than 50 years old pending before the Supreme Court. However, HCs have cases (civil plus criminal) more than 50 years old.

Therefore, it seems unlike SC, HCs and district courts haven’t focused on clearing old cases despite the 11th finance commission providing additional resources for fast-track courts meant to clear old cases.

Must Read: Pendency of Cases of Constitutional Importance – Explained

What can be the way ahead?

The funds for fast-track courts cannot alone solve the problem. There is also a need to focus on resolving the pendency of cases along with providing performance-linked resource-flow.

Further, e-courts work through a case information system (CIS). Therefore, under CIS, there is a need for a monitoring system, which should monitor the clearance of old cases by the judges.

Moreover, metrics in NJDG are based on case disposal with no special emphasis on old cases. Hence, emphasis in NJDG should be put in clearance of old cases along updating the correct data /information about the cases.

Junta Connection – For Manipur, India must revisit its Myanmar policy

Source: The post is based on the article “Junta Connection – For Manipur, India must revisit its Myanmar policy” published in The Times of India on 27th May 2023

Syllabus: GS 2 – India and its neighbourhood relations and GS 3: Security issues – Internal Security.

Relevance: About Manipur unrest and Junta rule in Manipur.

News: The Union Home Minister has pitched for dialogue and promised to deal a fair hand to all stakeholders in resolving the Manipur crisis. Last week, both the government of India and Manipur told the Supreme Court that troubles began with the crackdown on poppy cultivation in Manipur hills by illegal immigrants from Myanmar. 

What are the reasons behind the unrest in Manipur?

Must read: What is behind Manipur’s widespread unrest?

What will be the impact of Manipur unrest on regional security?

Must read: Manipur unrest and its impact on regional security – Explained, pointwise

What is the role of Myanmar in the Manipur unrest?

Since the Myanmar coup in 2021, India has avoided any criticism of the junta’s actions. This includes airstrikes on the domestic population. This forced refugees to flood across the border into India where many share ethnic kinship ties. So, the civil war in Myanmar is having direct repercussions on India’s Northeast.

What should be done to control the Manipur crisis?

India should recalibrate ties with the junta. The junta needs India’s support against powerful insurgents like the Arakan Army and is also wary of getting trapped with China. Further, all democratic forces in Myanmar are ready to side with India, viewing China as the junta’s main sponsor.

India should use this leverage and get the junta to halt its operations in the border regions this will control the flow of refugees into India.

US’s new visa policy: What explains the US visa ‘threat’ to Dhaka?

Source: The post is based on the article “What explains the US visa ‘threat’ to Dhaka?” published in the Indian Express on 27th May 2023

Syllabus: GS 2 – India and its neighbourhood relations.

Relevance: About US’s new visa policy.

News: A new visa policy was announced by the US “to support Bangladesh’s goal of holding free, fair and peaceful national elections.” Under this policy, the US can impose visa restrictions on individuals and their immediate family members if they are responsible for undermining the democratic election process in Bangladesh.

Note: Earlier this month, the US announced the same policy in Nigeria.

What led to the formulation of the US’s new visa policy?

This is due to a) Bangladesh Prime Minister’s authoritarian approach, b) The formulation of a draconian Digital Security Act, c) Declaring the newspaper found by the Ramon Magsaysay awardee Matiur Rahman, as anti-national, and d) the government’s crackdown on Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and former PM citing its links to Islamist parties and alleging corruption at the top.

What is the view of Bangladesh’s government and the opposition to the US’s new visa policy?

The opposition in Bangladesh said that a) The policy will play a supporting role in holding the next polls in a fair and credible manner, b) The policy will change the diplomatic ties between Bangladesh and the United States,

The government on the other hand said that the US was seeking regime change in Bangladesh and demands such visa policy should not be applied arbitrarily in a non-objective manner.

What will be the implications of the US’s new visa policy?

The US is the biggest destination for Bangladesh’s garment exports, and Bangladesh is the third-largest exporter of garments to the US after China and Vietnam. The industry is the backbone of the country’s economic growth.

A (Generalized System of Preferences) GSP-Plus status with the US and Europe for its ready-made garment exports is crucial when Bangladesh graduates out of the least developed country category in 2026. Bangladesh’s government is working hard for this tag. But the new policy might hamper its recognition.

What is the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP)?

Read here: Generalized System of Preferences (GSP)

How does the US’s new visa policy impact India’s ties with Bangladesh?

Over the last few years, the US and India were seen as acting in tandem in Bangladesh, especially as their security objectives converged. But the US position on the Bangladesh elections could complicate India’s diplomacy in Bangladesh.

This is because India prefers the present government as It a) acts swiftly on security concerns of India, b) signed land transit rights to the Northeastern states, c) provides security assurances and d) signed a favourable coal power deal to an Indian company.

Read more: Recent Developments in India-Bangladesh Relations – Explained, pointwise

India-Egypt Relations – Recent Developments – Explained, pointwise

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Introduction

India-Egypt relations have taken significant strides recently, especially following Indian Prime Minister visit to Egypt in June 2023. These engagements underline India’s focus on deepening ties with this key Middle Eastern nation. Egypt’s geopolitical significance and India’s rising global stature provide a backdrop for this growing partnership. From enhanced defense collaboration to trade agreements, these strategic dialogues are setting a positive direction for the future of India-Egypt relations.  

Recent Developments and their importance     

Strategic Partnership Agreement: Both nations elevated their bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership, with an agreement signed to formalize this status. This strategic partnership focuses on four main areas: politics, defence and security; economic engagement; academic and scientific exchanges; and cultural and people-to-people contacts. 

The “India Unit” in the Egyptian government: Egypt constituted an “India unit” within his government. This unit consists of seven cabinet ministers who will work alongside Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly to strengthen the India-Egypt relationship. 

Defence trade and cooperation: India has shown interest in expanding its defense trade with Egypt, with a focus on promoting its domestic defense production. Egypt has expressed interest in the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft, an Indian-made fighter jet. 

Economic engagement and trade opportunities: India and Egypt are exploring opportunities in the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE), which offers easy access to markets in Europe, Africa, and the Gulf.  This holds potential for the ‘Made by India for the World’ export-oriented program.  Several Indian companies already use Egypt as a manufacturing base. 

G20 invitation: India has invited Egypt as a guest country for the G20, recognizing Egypt’s significant influence in the Arab world and its strategic location.  Egypt’s participation in the G20 is seen as beneficial due to its representation of developing countries’ aspirations. 

Award recognition for PM Modi: PM Narendra Modi was conferred with the Order of the Nile, Egypt’s highest award, signifying the importance of India-Egypt ties and acknowledging India’s stature as a rising global power. 

Historical connections: Indian PM visited the Heliopolis War Memorial, which commemorates the 3,799 Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives in various battles in Egypt during the First World War. He had also visited the 11th-century Al-Hakim Mosque, restored with the help of the Dawoodi Bohra community in India 

A Brief Overview of India-Egypt Relations  

Ancient connections: Both have a long history of contact dating back to the time of Ashoka. Fine Indian muslin, a type of cotton fabric was also used for wrapping mummies.  

Mahatma Gandhi and Egypt: Mahatma Gandhi, philosophy of nonviolence and civil disobedience inspired several Egyptian nationalists in their own fight for independence. There was a mutual admiration between Gandhi and Egypt’s nationalist leader Saad Zaghloul, and this connection had a profound impact on the bilateral ties of the two nations.  

Post-Independence relations: After gaining independence, diplomatic relations were established in 1947, and a friendship treaty was signed in 1955. India also condemned the attack on Egypt during the 1956 Suez Crisis and tried to mediate. Both adopted a non-aligned foreign policy, and they co-founded the Non-Alignment Movement (1961) during the Cold War era. Their shared commitment to anti-colonialism and anti-imperialism brought them closer. This led to strong diplomatic relations, with the likes of Jawaharlal Nehru and Gamal Abdel Nasser fostering these ties.  

Modern-Day relations: In the contemporary era, India and Egypt have nurtured their strategic partnership, symbolized by high-level diplomatic visits, such as the Indian Prime Minister’s tour to Egypt in June 2023. However, despite these promising diplomatic endeavours, their economic ties have not yet reached their full potential, with a decline in trade by 17% amounting to $6,061 million in 2022-23. This points towards the need for diversifying the economic relationship beyond oil and petroleum.  

Read more: India-Egypt Relationship – Explained, pointwise  

https://forumias.com/blog/india-egypt-relationship-explained-pointwise/ 

What is the significance of India Egypt Relations?  

Strategic importance: Egypt’s geopolitical position, straddling Asia and Africa, and its control of the Suez Canal, a key global commercial artery, gives it significant strategic value. This makes Egypt an important partner for India in the region.  

Counter-Terrorism cooperation: There is strong convergence between India and Egypt in the fight against religious extremism and terrorism. Given the global challenge posed by these issues, cooperation in this area is significant for both nations.  

Economic potential: Trade relations between India and Egypt are expanding, with India now among Egypt’s top ten trading partners. Further, the potential for India to expand its presence in the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE) offers exciting opportunities for growing economic relations. Egypt holds huge potential for the domestic industry in various sectors like agri products, steel items and light vehicles. 

Cultural and historical Ties: India and Egypt share deep cultural and historical ties that date back to ancient times. These ties play a significant role in fostering mutual understanding and people-to-people connections, enhancing the overall relationship.  

Regional influence: Egypt, as the largest country in the Arab world and home to the Arab League’s headquarters, exerts considerable influence in the Middle East and North Africa. An enhanced relationship with Egypt can aid India’s engagement with the broader region.  

Defence cooperation: The bilateral defence cooperation has seen a fair bit of activity with joint exercises and high-level visits. As India shifts its focus towards defence exports, Egypt could be a potentially significant market.  

Education and knowledge sharing: The presence of an Indian Centre for Excellence in IT at Cairo’s prestigious Al Azhar University is indicative of the potential for further educational collaboration and knowledge sharing between the two nations.  

What are the challenges of India Egypt Relations?  

Domestic economic instability. Egypt Government is battling high inflation of 21%, which has resulted in historically high prices of commodities and daily-use items. Its foreign debt is over $163 billion (43% of the GDP) and its net foreign assets are minus $24 billion. Prolonged economic instability may lead to mass discontent and movement similar to the 2011 revolution.  

Political differences: There have been differences on key international issues. For instance, Egypt has not always shared India’s position on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reforms.  

Regional instability: Egypt’s geographical location in North Africa places it in proximity to several unstable regions and conflict zones, including Libya and Sudan. This instability can indirectly impact India-Egypt relations by creating uncertainties in areas of mutual interest such as regional security and economic investment.  

Navigating regional politics: Both India and Egypt have complex regional relationships to navigate. Balancing these relationships, particularly as they pertain to issues such as Kashmir for India or the Israeli-Palestinian conflict for Egypt, could pose challenges.  

China’s growing influence: China’s growing economic presence in Africa, including Egypt, is another significant challenge. China’s Belt and Road Initiative has been making significant inroads in Africa and this has increased China’s influence in the region. Balancing relations with China while trying to increase India’s economic engagement in Egypt and the broader African region could be a tricky diplomatic challenge for India.  

Competition with other powers: Apart from China, there are other global and regional powers also engaging actively with Egypt, including the United States, European Union countries, Russia, and Gulf states. Managing the relationship with Egypt in the face of competition from these powers can pose diplomatic challenges for India.  

What should be the future path?  

Enhanced bilateral trade and investment: Both nations should aim to increase trade volumes and investment flows. India should consider negotiating a free trade agreement (FTA) with Egypt. India’s expertise in areas such as IT, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals could be leveraged in Egypt. At the same time, opportunities should be explored for Indian investments in Egypt. 

Strengthening defence cooperation: As the partnership has shown growth in defence and security sectors, it would be beneficial to keep this momentum going. Joint military exercises, information sharing, and collaboration on counter-terrorism efforts can be prioritized.  

Cultural and educational exchanges: Increased cultural exchanges can foster greater understanding between the two peoples, particularly among the youth. India could offer more scholarships for Egyptian students, while Egypt could facilitate deeper understanding of the Arab world for Indian students and scholars.  

Cooperation on regional and global issues: As significant players in their respective regions and at the global stage, India and Egypt can seek to align their stances on key issues more closely, whether it be climate change, UN reforms, or regional stability.  

Managing third-party relations: Given the interest of other powers like China, the US, and Russia in Egypt, India should strive for a balanced approach that respects Egypt’s relationships with these countries, while clearly articulating its own strategic interests. 

 

Sources: The Hindu (Article 1 and Article 2), The Indian Express (Article 1 and Article 2), Livemint, Daily Pioneer, Economic Times and Hindustan Times 

GS PAPER - 3

India as ‘developed country’ by 2047: Attainable goal, or chimera?

Source- The post is based on the article “India as ‘developed country’ by 2047: Attainable goal, or chimera?” published in the “Business Standard” on 27th May 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- Growth and development

Relevance- Development prospects of India

News– The Narendra Modi government has set before the country the goal of attaining “developed country” status by 2047.

What are prospects for India to achieve the status of developed country by 2047?

Various development indicators exist. These are income level, health and education standards, quality of life, availability of work, levels of poverty and inequality, technological attainments.

India is well short of the required levels on such indicators. So the goal set for the next quarter-century is ambitious.

The per capita income of the country should grow more than five-fold in 24 years. It calls for annual growth of 7%. Indeed, very few countries have sustained such rapid growth for a long stretch. On a realistic assessment, India will not be “high-income” in 2047.

Getting to the “very high” human development category could be easier. The pace at which the country has improved its score on the human development index over the last quarter-century is impressive.

Sustaining that rate should help India improve its index score from the current 0.633 to the “very high” category threshold of 0.800 by 2047.

Another indicator is the share of hi-tech items in a country’s exports of manufactured goods. India has a 10% share, about the same level as Brazil and Russia. The global average is 20% and China’s figure is 30%.

In terms of research output, India’s total has been growing rapidly. It now ranks fourth in quantity. But it is only ninth in terms of the number of citations of such research.

China’s citation level is five times higher. Much efforts are needed to achieve the level of developed-country average on such indicators.

For tracking poverty numbers in an aspirational India, the “extreme poverty” benchmark of $2.15 per day was applied when India was a low-income country. It is not appropriate for the lower-middle income country that India has become.

The benchmark for such countries is $3.65 per head per day. By that measure, hundreds of millions are poor today. The benchmark for upper-middle income countries, when India gets there, would be even higher, at $6.85 per day.

Would it be a unique thing if India achieves the status of developed country by 2047?

India would be far from unique if it did achieve “developed country” status by 2047. More than 80 countries are already classified by the World Bank as being high-income, whereas India is still lower-middle income.

More than 65 countries are ranked by the UN Development Programme as having attained “very high” levels of human development. India is still in the “medium” category.

The country also remains some distance away from eliminating multidimensional poverty. If it got there in 2047, India would be very much a late-comer.

Unchecked Kashmir box

Source- The post is based on the article “Unchecked Kashmir box” published in the “Business Standard” on 27th May 2023.

Syllabus: GS3 – Internal Security

News– Recently, the meeting of third Working Group of G20 on Tourism was held in Srinagar.

What are the major developments during the event?

The outcome was significantly positive in political and strategic terms. 17 of the 20 G20 countries attended, including four of the P-5, all of Europe. indeed, the largest Muslim nation, Indonesia.

But we also should look for complexities and unfinished projects. The absence of the three important Arab nations was a significant setback. Only one of these, Saudi Arabia, is a G20 member. The other two are invitees. This needs to be noted.

Saudi Arabia and India have improved relations in the past 15 years. Oman has had the oldest friendly ties with India. Egypt was also absent. President el-Sisi was the Republic Day chief guest this year.

Pakistan made a lot of efforts. Pakistan achieved partial success. But, it served a purpose for Pakistan. It was a reminder to India. The issue is far from settled for a section of the world matters for India.

It’s also an instrument in the hands of China to triangulate India through Pakistan. It was also a reminder that India should not declare victory too soon.

What are the developments after constitutional changes in J&K on August 5, 2019?

Much has been achieved on the ground, especially in the Valley, from law and order to infrastructure building. The most politically, strategically and internationally significant of these is the continued Union Territory status.

Four years after the shift, the “state” continues to be ruled directly by the Centre and the political process would still be held in abeyance.

India has not held fresh elections after constitutional changes. If this doesn’t happen in the near future, it is a letdown. A letdown not just for the people of Kashmir but the larger Indian cause as well.

Why are conducting elections in J & K important?

In late 1980s, separatist insurgency actively backed by Pakistan began. By 1991, when P V Narasimha Rao took charge and began cleaning up the mess.

Pakistan had been able to fully internationalise the issue. Pakistan’s campaign was three-pronged: Violation of human rights, the state being under military occupation, and denial of democracy and the right to self-determination.

Rao countered it with greater confidence and moral strength. As per him, there was no justification for any plebiscite when the Kashmiris were voting in increasing numbers to elect their own governments.

His greater confidence came from the fact that India had begun holding fair elections in Kashmir unlike the fixed ones in the past.

Rao also countered pressures on human rights by setting up the National Human Rights Commission and lifting the ban on foreign journalists visiting the state.

What should be the best course of action for India on J&K?

Today, India is much stronger than under Rao. First it is the economic power. Geo-strategic changes, the rise of China, a warring Russia, and the Indian embrace of the US have all placed India in the sweetest spot in history yet.

This is the time and opportunity to push the planned and promised moves. Not when this cycle might turn. In global affairs, the balance of power, alliances, all shift constantly.

India has worked hard at earning this sweet spot. None of the world powers and significant nations is raising any questions about the changes to Kashmir’s constitutional status. But it is risky and unnecessary to get complacent.

The idea that Jammu & Kashmir can be governed from New Delhi for eternity is tempting. The five countries who abstained reminded us that they still see Kashmir as a “dispute”.

Even the US passes resolutions asserting that all of Arunachal Pradesh is part of India, rejecting Chinese claims. But it is silent in Ladakh.

The next step for India should be, to restore statehood to Jammu & Kashmir and allow the resumption of robust political activity.

Who’s afraid of Amul?

Source: The post is based on the article “Who’s afraid of Amul?” published in The Indian Express on 27^th May 2023.

Syllabus: GS 3 – Changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth

Relevance: About Milk cooperatives

News: Tamil Nadu CM has requested Union Home and Cooperation Minister to direct Amul to cease encroaching upon the milk-shed region of the Tamil Nadu Cooperative Milk Producers’ Federation (Aavin). However, his demand is unreasonable.

Why is the demand of Tamil Nadu CM unreasonable?

First, Amul and Aavin are farmer-owned and professionally-managed dairy cooperatives. Hence, it isn’t desirable for any minister or bureaucrat to intervene in the business operations of such organisations.

The urge to control and reduce cooperatives to the govt. departmental undertakings also goes against the spirit of liberalization. Ease of doing business shouldn’t be only limited to large corporations.

Second, the entry of Amul in Tamil Nadu will benefit both farmers as well as consumers. It will benefit the state’s dairy farmers by buying their milk and benefit consumers by offering choice other than Aavin.

However, the only loser might be Aavin, because it had a situation of both monopsony (single buyer) and monopoly (single seller).

Hence, the entry of Amul will force Aavin to become more efficient, pay farmers better and work towards retaining consumers.

Must Read: Amul vs Nandini threatens to limit choices for consumers

What is the way ahead?

Amul has been present in Telangana and north Karnataka for about ten years, but it hasn’t really made an impact against locally produced cooperative and private dairy brands.

Therefore, state governments should permit the entry of new brands since doing so will promote healthy market competition and will offer greater choice to consumers.

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