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Critical Topics and Their Significance for the UPSC CSE Examination on October 07, 2024
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How are tanks armouring Ladakh sector?
For Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance
For Mains Examination: GS II, GS III- International relations, Border Security Issues
Context:
The Ukraine war front has showcased the adaptability of battle tanks, proving that armour is even more essential in the new-age battlefield in addition to long-range firepower. In another arena, after the May 2020 stand-off in the Eastern Ladakh sector between India and China, armies and tanks of both have been deployed at altitudes of 13,000-15,000 feet, in some cases barrels facing each other 100 metres apart.
Read about:
What is Line of Actual Control (LAC)?
What is Galwan Clash 2020?
Key takeaways:
The Ukraine war has highlighted the continued relevance of battle tanks, demonstrating that armored vehicles remain critical on modern battlefields alongside long-range firepower. Similarly, following the May 2020 standoff between India and China in Eastern Ladakh, both nations have stationed troops and tanks at altitudes between 13,000 and 15,000 feet, sometimes with tanks positioned as close as 100 meters from each other.
Current Situation
In September 2024, the Indian Army displayed the capabilities of its armored units stationed near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh. T-90 tanks and BMP-2 armored carriers were shown crossing the Indus River at Nyoma, situated at an elevation of 13,700 feet and approximately 30 kilometers from the LAC. During this demonstration, soldiers explained the technical challenges of maintaining these machines in extreme weather conditions. One soldier, Manoj Kumar, emphasized that the T-90, referred to as the Bhishma in India, is among the world's best tanks and is capable of overcoming obstacles and deep-fording water bodies at high altitudes.
Challenges of Cold Weather
Tanks face performance issues in thin, oxygen-poor air at these altitudes. As temperatures drop at night, crews must restart the engines multiple times to ensure they remain functional. The T-90, operated by a three-person crew, features a 125-mm main gun, machine guns, and can fire anti-tank guided missiles. Plans are in place to upgrade the T-72 tanks with more powerful engines. BMPs, faster and more versatile than tanks, can float and operate underwater, making them suitable for this rugged terrain.
Deployment in Ladakh
Since 2012, India has been enhancing its infrastructure and military presence in Ladakh. The Army has deployed troops for longer durations along the LAC and expanded patrols in disputed areas. By 2018, three regiments of T-72 tanks had been deployed, forming a full brigade. Following the 2020 standoff, more tanks, BMPs, and artillery were moved into the region. The landscape in Eastern Ladakh, which includes plains between mountain ranges, is suitable for the deployment of mechanized units.
Post-Galwan Incident Response
Following the Galwan clash in May 2020, India rapidly increased troop numbers and repositioned forces from the western to northern borders. The Indian Air Force played a significant role, transporting tens of thousands of troops, tanks, artillery, and other equipment. During a period of heightened tension in August 2020, tanks from both India and China came within 100 meters of each other near Pangong Tso but were later pulled back as part of a disengagement agreement.
High-Altitude Challenges
Historically, tanks have struggled in these altitudes, as seen during the 1962 India-China war when AMX-13 tanks faced difficulties. At high altitudes, oxygen levels drop, temperatures plummet to -40°C, and equipment degrades quickly. Transporting and maintaining tanks in these conditions is a monumental task, with Indian tanks now stationed permanently while troops rotate. Maintenance facilities have been established, and special lubricants and fuel are used to keep the tanks operational in freezing conditions.
China’s Capabilities
The Chinese military has also increased its presence along the LAC, deploying modern light and second-generation tanks, along with new armored personnel carriers and assault vehicles.
Global Tank Modernization
Several European countries are enhancing their tank fleets, while the U.S., U.K., and Germany are upgrading protective systems for their tanks. France and Germany have announced a joint project to develop a new tank.
Future Challenges
From conflicts in Ukraine, Armenia-Azerbaijan, and the Middle East, it’s clear that long-range missiles, drones, and loitering munitions pose significant threats to tanks. To counter this, the Indian Army is looking for new ammunition and technologies to protect armored units. Upgrades to existing vehicles, including the introduction of third-generation anti-tank guided missiles for BMPs, are also underway. Additionally, the Army is evaluating new infantry combat vehicles and looking to replace older tanks with future-ready combat vehicles. The development of a next-generation battle tank under the Future Ready Combat Vehicle (FRCV) project is expected to be completed by 2030
Follow Up Question
1.LAC (Line of Actual Control) is an effective border between India and ______. (SSC CHSL 2020)
A.Pakistan
B.Bhutan
C.Sri Lanka
D.China
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Answer (D)
The Line of Actual Control (LAC) is the demarcation that separates Indian-controlled territory from Chinese-controlled territory
The Line of Actual Control (LAC) is the de facto border that separates Indian-controlled territory from Chinese-controlled territory. It is not a formally agreed upon international boundary, but rather a military demarcation line that both India and China recognize. The LAC spans over 3,488 kilometers across three sectors:
The LAC has been a point of contention, and there have been several standoffs between the two countries, including major incidents like the 1962 Sino-Indian War and more recently, the 2020 Galwan Valley clash. Both sides continue to negotiate to resolve disputes along this line, but it remains one of the most militarized borders in the world |
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is one of the six main organs of the United Nations, responsible for maintaining international peace and security. Established in 1945, the UNSC plays a central role in addressing conflicts, promoting peaceful settlements, and authorizing peacekeeping missions. Its primary functions include:
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Maintaining International Peace and Security: The UNSC investigates disputes or situations that could lead to international conflict and recommends peaceful resolutions. It also decides on the deployment of peacekeeping forces to conflict areas.
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Authorizing Military Action: In extreme cases, the UNSC can authorize the use of force to maintain or restore peace. It also imposes sanctions to enforce its decisions.
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Adopting Binding Resolutions: The decisions of the UNSC are binding on all UN member states, making it the most powerful UN body.
Composition:
The UNSC consists of 15 member states, divided into:
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5 Permanent Members (P5):
- China
- France
- Russia
- United Kingdom
- United States
These five countries hold veto power, meaning any one of them can block the adoption of a resolution, even if the other members support it.
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10 Non-Permanent Members: Elected for two-year terms by the United Nations General Assembly, these members represent different regions of the world. They do not have veto power but can vote on resolutions.
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, after World War II, to promote global peace, security, cooperation, and human rights. It currently has 193 member states and operates through various wings or specialized agencies and organs to address different global issues. These wings work in areas such as peacekeeping, development, humanitarian assistance, and international law.
Principal Organs of the United Nations
The UN has six main organs that carry out its broad mandate:
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United Nations General Assembly (UNGA):
- A deliberative body where all 193 member states are represented. Each member has one vote, and it discusses international issues and adopts resolutions on global matters.
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United Nations Security Council (UNSC):
- Responsible for maintaining international peace and security. It consists of 15 members, including 5 permanent members with veto power (China, France, Russia, the UK, and the USA), and 10 rotating non-permanent members.
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International Court of Justice (ICJ):
- The main judicial body of the UN, located in The Hague, Netherlands. It settles disputes between states and gives advisory opinions on international legal issues.
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United Nations Secretariat:
- The administrative arm of the UN, headed by the UN Secretary-General. It carries out the day-to-day work of the organization in areas like peacekeeping, diplomacy, and organizing conferences.
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United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC):
- Coordinates the economic, social, and environmental work of the UN and its specialized agencies. It fosters international cooperation on development issues.
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Trusteeship Council (inactive since 1994):
- Originally created to supervise the administration of trust territories and ensure their path to self-governance. It has been inactive since the last trust territory, Palau, gained independence
1.The United Nations, through its various specialized agencies and programs, plays a pivotal role in addressing global challenges like poverty, conflict, climate change, and human rights violations. Critically analyze the effectiveness of the United Nations system in promoting international peace and development. What reforms are necessary to enhance its role in the 21st century?" (250 words)
In poll-bound Maharashtra, securing a job has got harder
For Preliminary Examination: Unemployment, Periodic Labour Force Survey, MGNREGA
For Mains Examination: GS III - Indian Economy
Context:
Shivam Rangire, 24, is among the almost 20,000 candidates who turned up on July 16 at Air India Airport Services Ltd.’s (AIASL’s) gate at Andheri in Mumbai for a walk-in interview being held to fill 2,216 vacancies for the post of handymen. The overcrowding could have led to a stampede.
Read about:
What is Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS)?
Unemployment and its types
Key takeaways:
The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) is an initiative by the Government of India, conducted by the National Statistical Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI). Launched in 2017, the PLFS aims to provide comprehensive data on the employment and unemployment scenario in the country. It collects key information related to labor force participation, unemployment rates, and various employment characteristics in both rural and urban areas.
Key Objectives:
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Timely and Reliable Employment Data: To generate estimates on the various labor force indicators, such as employment, unemployment, labor force participation, and worker-population ratios.
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Assess the Informal Sector: To provide data on workers engaged in the informal economy and unorganized sector.
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Urban and Rural Focus: To measure employment trends in both rural and urban regions, capturing the changing patterns of labor force participation.
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Identify Unemployment Trends: To identify the nature and extent of unemployment, such as those who are unemployed but seeking work or those available for work but not actively seeking employment.
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Measure Wage Data: To capture wage levels, earnings, and employment characteristics, which can help in policy formulation.
Key Indicators in the PLFS:
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Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR): The percentage of the population that is either employed or actively seeking employment.
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Worker Population Ratio (WPR): The proportion of the population that is currently working.
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Unemployment Rate (UR): The percentage of the labor force that is unemployed but actively seeking work.
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Sectoral Employment: The survey provides details about employment in different sectors such as agriculture, industry, and services.
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Formal vs Informal Employment: It provides insights into the levels of formal (with social security benefits) and informal employment across the country
Statistics
- The 2023-24 Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) data presents a slightly less favorable picture of Maharashtra compared to the national average. While India's labor force and workforce participation rates both rose by approximately 2 percentage points, Maharashtra experienced a slight decline in these metrics compared to 2022-23.
- The labor force participation rate represents the percentage of people either employed or seeking employment.
- According to the 2023-24 PLFS, urban unemployment in Maharashtra stands at 5.2%, up from 4.6% the previous year. In terms of the overall unemployment rate, Maharashtra recorded 3.3% for 2023-24, closely aligning with the national average of 3.2% for the same period.
- National trends indicate a rise in agricultural employment alongside a decline in manufacturing jobs, which won't necessarily appear as a decrease in employment numbers.
- This contrast becomes clearer when examining the India Unemployment Report 2023 from the ILO, which noted that unemployment among the educated in Maharashtra was 15% in 2022, up from 11% a decade ago. In contrast, PLFS data for 2023-24 reported unemployment for those educated above the secondary level at 5.9%, down slightly from 6.1% the previous year.
- It's important to note that the PLFS provides data across all working-age groups, while the ILO focuses on the 15-29 age group. Regardless of education level, the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGA) offers up to 100 days of employment annually.
- Maharashtra's Economic Survey 2023-24 reported that the number of households provided jobs under MGNREGA rose to 24.5 lakh in 2023-24, up from 20.4 lakh in 2021-22, reflecting increasing rural distress.
Follow Up Question
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Answer (B)
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Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)
For Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance
For Mains Examination: GS II - International relations
Context:
A day after the government announced that External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will lead the Indian delegation to Pakistan for a meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation’s Council of Heads of Government on October 15-16, the Minister said he wasn’t going there to discuss India-Pakistan relations but for a “multilateral event”
Read about:
What is the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)?
What is SAARC?
Key takeaways:
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is a regional intergovernmental organization founded on June 15, 2001 in Shanghai, China. It promotes cooperation in political, economic, and security areas across member states, focusing on regional stability, counter-terrorism, economic development, and cultural exchange.
Key Aspects:
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Founding Members: Originally, the SCO grew out of the "Shanghai Five" group, consisting of China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. In 2001, Uzbekistan joined the group, and the SCO was officially formed.
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Current Members:
- China
- Russia
- India
- Pakistan
- Kazakhstan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Tajikistan
- Uzbekistan
- Iran (joined as a full member in 2023)
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Objectives:
- Strengthening mutual trust and good neighborliness.
- Promoting cooperation in political, economic, and humanitarian matters.
- Ensuring peace, security, and stability in the region.
- Combating terrorism, extremism, and separatism.
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Observer States and Dialogue Partners: The SCO also has observer states (such as Afghanistan, Belarus, and Mongolia) and dialogue partners (such as Turkey and Sri Lanka) who participate in meetings but do not have full voting rights.
Key Areas of Cooperation:
- Security: The SCO is known for its focus on combating the "three evils"—terrorism, separatism, and extremism. Joint military exercises are conducted under this framework.
- Economic Cooperation: Though not as economically integrated as some other regional groups, the SCO promotes infrastructure development, trade, and energy cooperation among member states.
- Cultural Exchanges: The SCO also encourages cultural, educational, and scientific exchanges to build people-to-people ties among member countries.
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Answer (B)
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Heads of State Summit on 10th November 2020 was hosted by: B. India India chaired the SCO Summit for the first time in 2020, and due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was held in a virtual format. The SCO has grown in geopolitical importance, especially with India and Pakistan joining in 2017, which increased its influence in South Asia. The organization's scope continues to evolve as it balances security, economic cooperation, and geopolitical interests of its diverse members |
Left-wing extremism (LWE) refers to ideologies and movements that promote revolutionary socialism, communism, or anarchism, often advocating for radical changes to political and economic systems. These movements typically oppose capitalism, hierarchical authority, and traditional state institutions, seeking to establish a society based on egalitarianism, social justice, and the redistribution of wealth.
In practice, left-wing extremism can lead to violent activities aimed at overthrowing the existing government or institutions. The most common forms of LWE are Maoist and Marxist-Leninist movements that use guerrilla tactics to challenge state authority
Key Characteristics of Left-wing Extremism:
- Rooted in communist and socialist ideologies, with an emphasis on class struggle and the redistribution of wealth.
- They aim to eliminate perceived exploitation and inequality by overthrowing capitalist systems.
- Left-wing extremists often target issues like poverty, land redistribution, worker exploitation, and the rights of marginalized communities such as peasants and indigenous groups
- LWE movements view the state as a tool of oppression used by the elite and ruling classes. They seek to dismantle or significantly transform state structures
- LWE groups may resort to violent methods, including guerrilla warfare, armed attacks, bombings, and targeted killings, particularly against state forces (police, military) and institutions (courts, government offices)
- In India, the most prominent left-wing extremist group is the Maoist/Naxalite movement, which emerged in the 1960s. Naxalism is named after the Naxalbari uprising in West Bengal. These groups operate mostly in rural and forested areas, especially in the so-called "Red Corridor" spanning several Indian states.
- The Naxalites advocate for land rights for poor farmers and tribal communities, and they oppose the government and corporate exploitation of natural resources
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What is an Electoral Bond?
- An electoral bond is a bearer instrument, like a promissory note, which can be purchased by any citizen of India or a body incorporated in India.
- The donor can buy these bonds and donate them to a political party of their choice. The political party can then encash the bond within a specified period.
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How it Works:
- The electoral bonds can be bought from specified branches of the State Bank of India (SBI) in denominations of ₹1,000, ₹10,000, ₹1 lakh, ₹10 lakh, and ₹1 crore.
- The bonds can only be donated to political parties registered under Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and those that secured at least 1% of the votes in the last general or state election.
- These bonds are valid for 15 days from the date of issuance, during which the political party must encash them in their designated account with a bank.
(a) The decisions taken by the Election Commission of India while discharging its duties cannot be challenged in any court of law.
(b) The Supreme Court of India is not constrained in the exercise of its powers by laws made by the Parliament.
(c) In the event of a grave financial crisis in the country, the President of India can declare a Financial Emergency without the counsel from the Cabinet.
(d) State Legislatures cannot make laws on certain matters without the concurrence of the Union Legislature.
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Answer (B)
Article 142 of the Indian Constitution grants the Supreme Court the power to pass any decree or make any order necessary for doing "complete justice" in any matter before it. This article allows the Court to ensure justice prevails, even if there are no specific laws that provide for it or if ordinary laws are seen as inadequate in certain situations. The phrase in the question refers to the fact that ordinary laws (laws made by Parliament or the state legislatures) cannot act as a limitation on the constitutional powers of the Supreme Court under Article 142. Hence, the Supreme Court is not constrained by ordinary laws when exercising its powers under this article |
| Subject | Topic | Description |
| History | Modern Indian History | Company rule and Crown rule 1773 - 1947 |
| History | Modern Indian History | Fall of Mughals |
| History | Modern Indian History | Establishment of British rule in India |
| History | Modern Indian History | Economic Policies of the British |
|
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