Top Ten Camping Destinations in Uttarakhand

Daily writing prompt

Have you ever been camping?

By Shashikant Nishant Sharma

Uttarakhand, known as the “Land of the Gods,” offers some of the most spectacular and serene camping destinations in India. Nestled among the Himalayan ranges, it provides a perfect backdrop for adventurers and nature lovers. Here’s a detailed list of the top ten camping destinations in Uttarakhand:

Auli: Auli is famed for its skiing slopes in the winter, but come summer, it transforms into a vibrant camping site. The panoramic views of the Nanda Devi and Neelkanth peaks provide a breathtaking backdrop. The lush meadows and coniferous forests make Auli a great spot for trekking and camping.
Chopta: Often referred to as the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’, Chopta is an unspoiled natural destination lying in the lap of the Uttarakhand Himalayas. It offers lush greenery and is the starting point for treks to Tungnath and Chandrashila. The area is rich in flora and fauna, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.
Deoria Tal: Located near Chopta, Deoria Tal is a pristine lake surrounded by dense forests. Camping here offers majestic views of the Chaukhamba peaks. The reflection of the Himalayas in the crystal-clear waters of the lake is mesmerizing, especially at dawn.
Har Ki Dun: Known as the ‘Valley of Gods’, Har Ki Dun is a cradle-shaped valley with ancient villages that are over 3,000 years old. The trek to Har Ki Dun is one of the most beautiful in Uttarakhand, with alpine vegetation, orchids, and the Swargarohini peak in the backdrop.
Dayara Bugyal: This is one of the most beautiful meadows in India, located at an elevation of about 3,048 meters. In winter, it’s a popular ski destination, while in the warmer months, it’s perfect for camping, with rolling green hills and a series of scenic trails for trekkers.
Rishikesh: Although widely known for its spiritual significance and yoga, Rishikesh also offers excellent riverside camps. Located along the banks of the Ganges, it provides opportunities for rafting, cliff jumping, and even bungee jumping. The serene environment also makes it ideal for meditation.
Kedarkantha: This is a popular trekking destination known for its easy to moderate treks that culminate at the Kedarkantha Peak. The journey and the campsites along the way offer stunning views of snow-capped mountains, making it a favorite among trekking enthusiasts.
Pangarchulla Peak: A challenging trek that is best suited for experienced trekkers, Pangarchulla Peak provides an exhilarating climbing experience. The trek includes camping near beautiful sites like the Kuari Pass, with its rich Himalayan fauna.
Munsiyari: Situated on the banks of Goriganga River, Munsiyari is the starting point for several treks into the interior Himalayas. It’s known for its picturesque landscapes and is also called the ‘Little Kashmir’. The region is a paradise for nature lovers and bird watchers.
Valley of Flowers: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a vibrant and splendid national park replete with beautiful endemic flora and fauna. The trek to Valley of Flowers is a visual treat, and camping near this area provides a serene and sublime experience.

Each of these destinations offers unique experiences and stunning natural beauty, making them perfect for camping and connecting with nature in the serene landscapes of Uttarakhand.

References

Ahlawat, M., Sharma, P., & Gautam, P. K. (2019). Slow food and tourism development: a case study of slow food tourism in Uttarakhand, India. Geo Journal of Tourism and Geosites, 26(3), 751-760.

Bagri, S., & Babu, A. (2011). Historical development of tourism education in India: The case of the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand. Journal of Tourism, 12(1), 39-59.

Dey, J., Sakhre, S., Gupta, V., Vijay, R., Pathak, S., Biniwale, R., & Kumar, R. (2018). Geospatial assessment of tourism impact on land environment of Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India. Environmental monitoring and assessment, 190, 1-10.

Sharma, S. N. (2017). Challenges and Opportunities for Tourist Destination Mussoorie. Think India Journal, 20(4), 95-102.

Sharma, S. N., & Abhishek, K. (2015). Planning Issue in Roorkee Town. Planning.

Sharma, S. N. (2017). Challenges and Opportunities for Tourist Destination Mussoorie. Think India Journal, 20(4), 95-102.

A Note on Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana (SJSRY)

By: Kavita Dehalwar

Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana (SJSRY) is a government scheme in India aimed at promoting employment opportunities and improving the quality of life for urban poor individuals. It was launched on 1st December 1997, on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of India’s independence, and is part of the broader National Urban Livelihoods Mission (NULM).

Key Objectives of Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana:

Employment Generation: The primary goal of SJSRY is to generate sustainable employment opportunities for the urban poor, with a specific focus on skill development and self-employment ventures.
Skill Development: The scheme emphasizes the importance of skill enhancement and training for individuals from marginalized urban communities. By imparting relevant skills, the program aims to enhance employability and income-generating capabilities.
Self-Employment: SJSRY promotes self-employment among the urban poor by providing financial assistance and support for starting small businesses or enterprises. This aspect of the program is crucial for fostering entrepreneurship and economic independence.
Urban Poverty Alleviation: The scheme is designed to address the challenges of urban poverty by creating a conducive environment for income generation, thereby contributing to the overall improvement of living standards in urban areas.

Components of Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana:

The SJSRY is broadly divided into two sub-components:

Urban Self-Employment Program (USEP): This component focuses on providing financial assistance and skill training to individuals interested in starting their own ventures. The financial aid is intended to cover a portion of the project cost.
Urban Wage Employment Program (UWEP): UWEP is aimed at providing wage employment opportunities for the urban poor. This involves the creation of temporary employment through various community-based projects.

Implementation and Monitoring:

The implementation of the Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana involves collaboration between the central government, state governments, and urban local bodies. The program is monitored by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India, to ensure effective implementation and adherence to the program’s objectives.

It’s important to note that policies and schemes may undergo changes and updates over time. For the most current and detailed information on the Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana, it is advisable to refer to official government sources or recent publications related to urban development in India.

References

Rajkonwar, A. B. (2005). Swama Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana: A study on effectiveness in Dibrugarh. SEDME (Small Enterprises Development, Management & Extension Journal), 32(4), 23-42.

Sharma, S. N. (2020). A Review of Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana. Think India Journal, 23(1), 26-32.

Shobha, K. (2007). Performance of women beneficiaries of the Prime Minister’s Rozgar Yojana in Coimbatore City (Doctoral dissertation, Avinashilingam University for Women (India)).

Transforming Social Status: The Impact of Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme on Workers

By Kavita Dehalwar

This article explores the profound impact of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) on the social status of rural workers in India. Launched in 2005, MGNREGS has emerged as a pivotal force in addressing unemployment and empowering marginalized communities. Through economic independence, inclusive opportunities, and a focus on gender equality, MGNREGS has catalyzed a positive shift in the social dynamics of rural areas. This abstract provides a concise overview of how MGNREGS has not only provided employment but has also played a transformative role in fostering skill development, women’s empowerment, and community cohesion. The scheme’s multi-faceted approach has contributed to breaking the cycle of poverty, challenging traditional norms, and creating pathways for sustainable development in rural India.

Introduction:

The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), launched in 2005, has been a landmark initiative in India aimed at providing employment opportunities to rural households, thereby enhancing their economic and social well-being. Beyond its immediate economic impact, the scheme has played a pivotal role in transforming the social status of workers, particularly those from marginalized and disadvantaged communities. This article delves into the ways in which MGNREGS has contributed to changing the social status of workers in the rural areas of India.

Empowerment through Economic Independence:MGNREGS guarantees 100 days of wage employment per year to every rural household, with a focus on unskilled manual labor. This provision not only addresses the issue of unemployment but also empowers workers economically. By providing a steady source of income, the scheme contributes to breaking the cycle of poverty and dependency, allowing workers to achieve a certain level of financial independence.
Inclusion of Marginalized Communities:One of the significant impacts of MGNREGS is the inclusion of marginalized communities, including Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), in the workforce. These communities, historically excluded from mainstream opportunities, have found a platform for social and economic mobility through the scheme. As a result, their social status has seen a positive shift, as they actively participate in the economic development of their communities.
Gender Equality and Women Empowerment:MGNREGS has been instrumental in promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment in rural areas. The scheme encourages the participation of women in the workforce by providing equal wages for equal work. This not only enhances the economic status of women but also challenges traditional gender norms. As women actively engage in the workforce, they gain greater visibility and recognition in their communities, contributing to a gradual shift in social attitudes towards women’s roles and capabilities.
Skill Development and Capacity Building:Beyond providing employment, MGNREGS focuses on skill development and capacity building of workers. Through the acquisition of new skills, workers can diversify their abilities and contribute to various sectors, potentially opening up avenues for entrepreneurship. The acquisition of skills not only improves their employability but also boosts their self-esteem and social standing within the community.
Community Development and Social Cohesion:MGNREGS emphasizes community-driven development projects, fostering a sense of collective responsibility and social cohesion among workers. As communities come together to work on common projects such as water conservation, road construction, and afforestation, a shared sense of achievement develops. This collaborative spirit contributes to the overall social development of the community, breaking down social barriers and fostering a sense of unity among diverse groups.

Conclusion:

The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme has gone beyond its primary objective of providing employment; it has become a catalyst for changing the social status of workers in rural India. By addressing issues of economic dependency, promoting inclusivity, empowering women, facilitating skill development, and fostering community development, MGNREGS has contributed significantly to transforming the lives of millions. As India continues to strive for inclusive and sustainable development, the role of schemes like MGNREGS becomes increasingly crucial in shaping a more equitable and empowered society.

References

Bhowmik, I., & Bose, P. (2014). Efficiency and Impact of MGNREGS in Tripura. Bhowmik I & P Bose, Efficiency and Impact of MGNREGS in Tripura, in Social Change and Development, 12(1).

Ghosh, S. (2017). Did MGNREGS improve financial inclusion?. Economic and Political Weekly, 106-114.

Pankaj, A. (2017). Shift in MGNREGS from UPA to NDA. Economic and Political Weekly, 59-68.

Sharma, S. N. (2016). Introduction to Sociology. New Perspectives in Sociology and Allied Fields, 1.

Sharma, S. N. (2014). Fate of Rural Sanitation Scheme. International Journal of Research (IJR), 1(2).

Sharma, S. N., Chatterjee, S., & Dehalwar, K. (2023). Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme: Challenges and Opportunities. Think India Journal, 26(1), 7-15.

Turangi, S. (2022). Social Protection through MGNREGS: A Study of Rayalaseema Region in Andhra Pradesh. Journal of Rural Development, 102-119.

Vanitha, S. M., & Murthy, P. S. (2011). An economic analysis of MGNREG programme in Mysore district of Karnataka. Agricultural Economics Research Review, 24(conf), 415-422.

Urban Planning and Architecture of Indus Valley Civilisation

By Shashikant Nishant Sharma

The planning of the Indus Valley Civilization, one of the ancient world’s most advanced and sophisticated urban cultures, showcases a remarkable level of organization and foresight. Flourishing around 2600 BCE to 1900 BCE in what is now present-day Pakistan and northwest India, the Indus Valley Civilization, also known as the Harappan Civilization, left behind a legacy of well-planned cities and advanced urban infrastructure. Though much of their writing system remains undeciphered, the archaeological evidence provides insights into their planning and organizational capabilities.

Urban Layout:

Grid System: The cities of the Indus Valley Civilization were characterized by a well-defined grid system. Streets and lanes were laid out in a precise and orderly manner, often intersecting at right angles. This grid pattern is evident in major sites like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa.
Standardized Building Materials: The use of standardized bricks and dimensions for construction was a distinctive feature of their planning. Bricks of a consistent size (around 1:2:4 ratio) were used in construction, facilitating the creation of uniform structures.
Well-Planned Streets and Drainage: The streets of the cities were carefully planned, with some being wide and straight, indicating a sense of urban planning. An advanced drainage system was integrated into the streets, with covered drains running beneath the streets to manage waste and stormwater.
Residential and Commercial Zones: Cities were divided into various zones, with distinct areas for residential and commercial purposes. Residential areas typically featured multi-storied houses, while commercial zones had markets and workshops.

Architecture:

Brick Architecture: The use of baked bricks for construction was a key architectural characteristic. These bricks provided strength and durability to the structures, and the uniform size facilitated efficient construction.
Citadel and Lower Towns: Many Indus Valley cities featured a citadel, an elevated area believed to have housed important administrative and religious structures. The citadel was often surrounded by lower towns, suggesting a hierarchical organization of space.
Public Buildings: The presence of public buildings, such as the Great Bath in Mohenjo-Daro, indicates a focus on communal activities and public hygiene. The Great Bath, with its carefully laid out steps and water management system, serves as evidence of advanced engineering skills.
Granaries: Large, well-designed granaries have been discovered in various Indus Valley sites. These structures suggest an advanced understanding of agricultural practices and storage techniques.

Advanced Infrastructure:

Water Management: The Indus Valley Civilization had a sophisticated water supply and drainage system. Cities had well-planned wells, reservoirs, and covered drains. The Great Bath, with its advanced water-tight brickwork, showcases their mastery of hydraulic engineering.
Weights and Measures: The use of standardized weights and measures points to a highly organized economic system. Archaeological findings include cubical weights made of chert, a type of stone, suggesting a standardized system of trade and commerce.
Trade and Connectivity: The presence of docks in some cities, such as Lothal, indicates an understanding of maritime trade. The civilization had extensive trade links with regions as far as Mesopotamia, suggesting a well-developed trade and transportation network.

Challenges and Decline:

While the Indus Valley Civilization was an impressive feat of urban planning, its decline is still a subject of debate among historians and archaeologists. Possible factors include environmental changes, such as the shifting course of the Indus River, and possible socio-political factors, but a definitive answer remains elusive.

In conclusion, the planning of the Indus Valley Civilization reflects an advanced understanding of urban organization, engineering, and social structures. The legacy of their planning can be seen in the archaeological remnants of their well-ordered cities, showcasing a level of sophistication that was unparalleled in its time.

References

Agarwal, Sarika, and Shashikant Nishant Sharma. “Universal Design to Ensure Equitable Society.” International Journal of Engineering and Technical Research (IJETR) 1.

Dehalwar, Kavita. “Understanding the Dynamics of Peri-Urban Areas: Navigating the Interface Between Urban and Rural Realms.”

Gulzar, Sidra. “Settlement Scaling and Urban Infrastructure: A Comparative Approach to Settlements from the Ancient Indus society.” (2022).

Jansen, Michael. “Mohenjo-Daro, city of the Indus valley.” Endeavour 9.4 (1985): 161-169.

Kumar, Suneel, Muhammad Ali, and Pasand Ali Khoso. “Emergence and Decline of the Indus Valley Civilization in Pakistan.” Global Sociological Review 2 (2020): 9-22.

Sharma, Shashikant Nishant. “Urban forms in planning and design.” International Journal of Research 1.1 (2014): 7-16.

Sharma, Shashikant Nishant. “Sustainable development strategies and approaches.” International Journal of Engineering and Technical Research (IJETR) 2 (2013).

Sindhav, Hetalben Dhanabhai. “The Indus Valley Civilisation (Harappan Civilisation).” (2016).

Social Welfare Schemes for Deprived Classes

By Track2Training

The focus of the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment (DoSJE) is the welfare of the poorest households of the socially, educationally and economically marginalized sections of the society including Scheduled Castes (SCs), Other Backward Classes, Senior Citizens, Victims of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse, Transgender Persons, Beggars, De-notified and Nomadic Tribes (DNTs), Economically Backward Classes (EBCs) and Economically Weaker Section (EWS). This Department is implementing several Schemes for their welfare across India including Puducherry and Karnataka. The details of the major schemes along with the last two years’ fund allocations are given as Annexure.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Shri A. Narayanaswamy in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

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MG/MS/VL

Annexure

Referred in part (a) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Q. No. 2050 regarding Social welfare schemes for deprived classes for answer on 20.12.2023

Rs in Crore

		2021-22		2022-23
S.No.	Programme/Schemes	Allocated Fund	Expenditure	Allocated Fund	Expenditure
1	Post Matric Scholarship for SCs	4196.59	1978.56	5660	4392.5
2	Scholarships for Higher Education for Young Achievers Scheme(SHREYAS)
	National Fellowship for SCs	125	122.44	159	114.25
	National Overseas Scholarship for SCs	35	49.07	50	75.44
	Top Class Education for SCs	70	84.72	108	85.67
	Free Coaching for SCs	30	14.98	27	18.41
3	Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojna (PM-AJAY)	1800	1820.32	1062.39	164
4	Strengthening of machinery for Enforcement of Protection of Civil Right Act 1955 and Prevention of Atrocities Act, 1989	600	610.11	500	390.85
5	Scheme of Residential Education for Students in High School in Targeted Area (SRESHTA)	63.21	38.04	89	51.01
6	Self Employment Scheme of Liberation & Rehabilitation of Scavengers	43.31	39	70	11.1
7	Pre Matric Scholarship for SCs and Others	725	570.39	500	208.62
8	Venture Capital Funds for SCs	70	70	70	35
9	Pradhan Mantri Dakshta Aur Kushalta Sampann Hitgrahi (PM DAKSH) Yojana
	SC Component	38.94	33.21	40	8.9
	OBC and others Component	40.54	35.02	44	6.04
10	Atal Vayo Abhuday Yojana(AVYAY)	150	96.54	140	117.54
11	National Action Plan on Drug Demand Reduction	200	90.93	200	97.61
12	Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood & Enterprize (SMILE)
	Comprehensive Rehabilitation of Persons Engaged in the Act of Begging	10	0.05	15	0.44
	Comprehensive Rehabilitation for Welfare of Transgender Persons	25	1.91	30	0.12
13	Prime Minister’s Young Achievers Scholarship Award Scheme for Vibrant India (YASASVI) (OBCs/EBCs/DNTs)
	Post Matric Scholarship for OBCs/EBCs	1300	1319.96	1083	1007.04
	Pre Matric Scholarship for OBCs	250	218.46	394.61	361.13
	Boys and Girls Hostel for OBCs	30	18.76	20	18.8
14	for Higher Education for Young Achievers Scheme(SHREYAS) (OBCs)
	National Fellowship for OBCs	60	55.55	53	51.32
	Interest Subsidy on Overseas Studies of OBCs	30	26.7	27	24.05
15	Venture Capital Fund for Backward Classes	20	20	40	10
16	Scheme for Economic Empowerment of DNT/N/SN (SEED)	40.4	0.21	28	2.3
17	Information, Monitoring Evaluation and Social Audit	25	17.82	19.5	13.74

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Essential Services for Senior Citizens

By Shashikant Nishant Sharma

The Umbrella Scheme of Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana(AVYAY), being run by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, includes components to provide financial security, healthcare, nutrition, shelter, welfare etc. for senior citizens. Under one of such components, namely, the Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens(IPSrC), Grant-in-Aid is given to Implementing Agencies for running and maintenance of Senior Citizens Homes where basic amenities like shelter, food, medical care, entertainment opportunities etc. are provided free of cost to indigent senior citizens. Under RashtriyaVayoshri Yojana(RVY), assisted living devices are distributed free of cost, in camp mode, to senior citizens belonging to the families living below the poverty line or having Rs. 15000/- as monthly income and suffering from age related disabilities. The Elderline: National Helpline for Senior Citizens(NHSC) (Toll-free No. 14567) provides free information, guidance, emotional support and field intervention in cases of abuse and rescues in order to improve the quality of life of senior citizens. The component namely Senior-care Ageing Growth Engine(SAGE) aims to encourage youth to think about the problems of the elderly and come out with innovative ideas for the elderly care and promoting them into start-ups by providing equity support.

Under Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme(IGNOAPS) of the National Social Assistance Programme(NSAP), a fully funded Centrally Sponsored Scheme of the Department of Rural Development, Government of India, monthly pension at the rate of Rs.200/- per month per beneficiary to elderly persons in the age group of 60-79 years belonging to Below Poverty Line(BPL) households, is being paid. The rate of pension is increased to Rs.500/- per month per beneficiary on reaching the age of 80 years. The States/Union Territories are encouraged to provide top up amounts of at least an equivalent amount to the assistance provided by the Central Government so that the beneficiaries could get a decent level of assistance. At present, the States/Union Territories are adding Top up amounts ranging from Rs.50/- to Rs.3000/- per month per beneficiary under the IGNOAPS of NSAP. The assistance under NSAP pension schemes is sanctioned up to the scheme-wise, State/Union Territory-wise cap of beneficiaries under the scheme. At present, the number of beneficiaries under the IGNOAPS in the country is around 2.21 crore and the Scheme has achieved almost 100% saturation in all States/Union Territories. The States/Union Territories have the option to provide pension from their own sources in case there are more eligible beneficiaries over and above the State/Union Territory cap under the NSAP pension schemes.

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched the National Programme for Health Care of the Elderly(NPHCE) in 2010-11 with a view to provide dedicated healthcare services to senior citizens at various level of State Health Care delivery system i.e., at Primary, Secondary and Tertiary health care, including outreach services. The Programme has two components, namely National Health Mission(NHM) i.e., Primary and Secondary care service delivery through District Hospitals(DH), Community Health Centres(CHC), Primary Health Centres(PHC), Sub-Centre/Health & Wellness Centres, and Tertiary Component i.e., these services are being provided though Regional Geriatric Centres(RGCs) located at 19 Medical colleges in 18 states of India and two National Centres of Aging(NCAs) one in AIIMS, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi and another in Madras Medical College, Chennai. It also includes Research on health issues pertaining to senior citizens. Further, Government launched Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana

(PMJAY) to cover 10 crore poor and vulnerable families (approx. 50 crore beneficiaries) providing coverage of up to Rs.5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary hospitalization. With the launch of the Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY, the RashtriyaSwasthya Bima Yojana(RSBY) and the Senior Citizen Health Insurance Scheme(SCHIS) have been subsumed in it. All enrolled beneficiary families of RSBY and SCHIS are entitled for benefits under the Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY.

Women empowerment through Co-operative institutions

By Kavita Dehalwar

The Ministry of Cooperation has made various efforts for the betterment, empowerment and income generation for women in the cooperative sector. The major initiative taken by the Ministry in this regard are as under:

1. Reservation for Women on the Board of Multi State Cooperative Societies

The Multi-State Cooperative Societies (Act) 2002 has been amended to mandate requirement of women Directors in the Board of Multi-State Cooperative Societies. This will ensure representation of women in the Board of more than 1,550 Multi-State Cooperatives across the country.

2. Reservation to Members in Primary Agriculture Cooperative Credit Societies (PACS) through adoption of Model Bye-laws

Model Bye Laws for the PACS has been prepared by the Ministry of Cooperation and adopted by the States/UTs across the country. It mandates requirement of women Directors in the Board of PACS. This will ensure representation of women and their decision making in more than 1 Lakh PACS.

3. Nandini Sahakar Scheme

Nandini Sahakar Scheme of National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) under Ministry of Cooperation is a financial assistance scheme for project formulation, hand- holding and capacity development of women cooperatives. NCDC has disbursed 5,714.88 Crore to Women Cooperatives benefitting more than 1.56 Crore women members.

The Ministry of Cooperation also organizes various training programs for skill development of the women in the cooperative sector through its National Level Institutes like National Council for Cooperative Training (NCCT), Vaikunth Mehta National Institute of Co-operative Management (VAMNICOM), and Laxmanrao Inamdar National Academy for Cooperative Research and Development (LINAC). The details of these training programs are given in Annexure-A.

In addition to the above, Ministry of Cooperation has taken 54 major Initiatives which will further benefit and empower all members of the cooperative sector including women. The details of such initiatives taken and progress made so far is given in Annexure-B.

Annexure-A

Ministry of Cooperation

The Ministry of Cooperation organizes various training programs for skill development of the women through its National Level Institutes. The details of these programs are as under:

National Council for Cooperative Training (NCCT):

NCCT and its Training units organized skill development programmes covering the sectors like Dairy, Handlooms, Micro Credit, Rural Entrepreneurships, Bee-Keeping, Industrial Cooperatives etc. where the women participants also attended.

The Last three-year training participants are as follows:

S. No.	Year	Total No. of Participation for Training	Total No. of Women Participants	Percentage of Women participants
1.	2020-21	40,288	8,875	22.02
2.	2021-22	62,774	15,309	24.38
3.	2022-23	2,01,507	77,584	38.50

Vaikunth Mehta National Institute of Co-operative Management (VAMNICOM):

(1) VAMNICOM, as a National Institute has been conducting various training programmes for women’s empowerment / skill development in Cooperative Sector and SHGs including SC/ST women participants for example: –

(a) Strengthening of Cluster Level Federation (CLF) of women SHG

(b) Management Development Programme for Women Directors in Credit Cooperatives

(d) Book keeping and Auditing Training for Women Members of SHG

(e) Business Development Strategies for Women’s SHGS

(2) During the year 2022-23 the Institute has conducted 24 training programmes exclusively for women with 1056 participants.

(3) During the year 2023-24 (up to Nov, 2023) the Institute has conducted 29 training programmes exclusively for women with 1,010 participants.

Laxmanrao Inamdar National Academy for Cooperative Research and Development (LINAC):

Laxmanrao Inamdar National Academy for Cooperative Research and Development (LINAC) endeavors to develop its programs and interventions with a strong client-orientation and inter-disciplinary perspective to strengthen institutional capabilities and human resources in cooperatives.

Number of training programmes conducted during 2022-23 and 2023-24 for women participants on “Role of Women Directors in Governance & Business Development in Coops/SHGs”:

S. No.	Year	No of training Programmes	No of women Participants
01	2022-23	18	951
02	2023-24(Till 14.12.2023)	18	957

Annexure-B

Ministry of Cooperation

Ministry of Cooperation, since its inception on 6^th July, 2021, has undertaken several initiatives to realize the vision of “Sahakar-se-Samriddhi” and to strengthen & deepen the cooperative movement from Primary to Apex level Cooperatives in the country. List of initiatives taken and progress made so far are as follows:

Making Primary Cooperatives economically vibrant and transparent
Model Bye-Laws for PACS making them multipurpose, multidimensional and transparent entities: Government, in consultation with all the stakeholders, including States/ UTs, National Level Federations, State Cooperative Banks (StCBs), District Central Cooperative Banks (DCCBs), etc., has prepared and circulated Model Byelaws for PACS to all the States/ UTs, which enable PACS to undertake more than 25 business activities, improve governance, transparency and accountability in their operations. Provisions have also been made to make the membership of PACS more inclusive and broad-based, giving adequate representation to women and Scheduled Castes/Schedules Tribes. Model Byelaws have been adopted by 31 States/ UTs so far.

Strengthening of PACS through Computerization: In order to strengthen PACS, project for Computerization of 63,000 functional PACS with a total financial outlay of ₹2,516 Crore has been approved by the Government of India, which entails bringing all functional PACS in the Country onto a common ERP based national software, linking them with NABARD through StCBs and DCCBs. A total of 62,318 PACS from 28 States/ UTs have been sanctioned under the project. Software is ready and trials have already started in 5,673 PACS in 26 States/ UTs so far.

New Multipurpose PACS/ Dairy/ Fishery Cooperatives in uncovered Panchayats: A proposal has been approved by the Government to set up new multi-purpose PACS or primary dairy/ fisheries cooperatives covering every Panchayat/ village in the next five years, with support of NABARD, NDDB, NFDB, NCDC and other National level Federations. As reported by the States/ UTs, the process for registering 9,961 new PACS/ Dairy/ Fishery cooperative societies in 23 States/ UTs is in various stages.

World’s Largest Decentralized Grain Storage Plan in Cooperative sector: Government has approved a plan to create warehouses, custom hiring centres, primary processing units and other agri-infra for grain storage at PACS level, by converging various schemes of Government such as AIF, AMI, SMAM, PMFME, etc. This will reduce wastage of food grains and transportation costs, enable farmers to realize better prices for their produce and meet various agricultural needs at the PACS level itself. 22 States/ UTs and National level Cooperative Federations such as National Cooperative Consumers Federation (NCCF) and National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd. (NAFED), have identified 1,711 PACS for creation of storage capacity under the Pilot Project. At present, construction is going in 13 PACS of 13 States/ UTs under the Pilot Project.

PACS as Common Service Centers (CSCs) for better access to e-services: MoU has been signed between Ministry of Cooperation, MeitY, NABARD and CSC e-Governance Services India Limited for providing more than 300 e-services such as banking, insurance, Aadhar enrolment/ updation, health services, PAN card and IRCTC/ Bus/ Air ticket, etc. through PACS. So far, 24,470 PACS have started providing CSC services to the rural citizens which will also result in increase in income of those PACS at the same time.

Formation of new Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) by PACS: Government has allowed 1,100 additional FPOs to be formed by PACS with the support of NCDC, in those blocks where FPOs have not yet been formed or the blocks are not covered by any other implementing agency. This will be helpful in providing the farmers with necessary market linkage and get fair and remunerative prices for their produce.

PACS given priority for Retail Petrol/ Diesel outlets: Government has allowed PACS to be included in the Combined Category 2 (CC2) for allotment of retail petrol/ diesel outlets. As per information received from Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs), a total of 228 PACS have applied online for retail petrol/ diesel outlets.

PACS given permission to convert bulk consumer petrol pumps into retail outlets: Based on the discussions with the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, guidelines have been issued to convert the existing bulk consumer licensee PACS into retail outlets for increasing the profit of PACS and generate employment opportunities in rural areas. 109 PACS from 5 States having wholesale consumer pumps have given consent for conversion into Retail Outlets, out of which 43 PACS have received Letter of Intent (LOI) from the OMCs.

PACS eligible for LPG Distributorship for diversifying its activities: Government has now allowed PACS to apply for LPG Distributorships. This will give PACS an option to increase their economic activities and create new employment opportunities in rural areas. Two locations have already been advertised in the State of Jharkhand.

PACS as PM Bharatiya Jan Aushadhi Kendra for improving access to generic medicines at rural level: Government is promoting PACS to operate Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras which will provide additional income source to them and provide easy access of generic medicines to rural citizens. So far, 4,289 PACS/ cooperative societies have applied online for PM Janaushadhi Kendras, out of which 2,293 PACS have been given initial approval also.

PACS as Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samriddhi Kendras (PMKSK): Government is promoting PACS to operate PMKSK for ensuring easy accessibility of fertilizer & related services to farmers in the country. As per the information shared by States/ UTs, 28,648 PACS are functioning as PMKSK so far.

Convergence of PM-KUSUM at PACS level: Farmers associated with PACS can adopt solar agricultural water pumps and install photovoltaic modules in their farms.

PACS to carry out O&M of rural piped water supply schemes (PWS): In order to utilize the reach of PACS in rural areas, on the initiative of the Ministry of Cooperation, Ministry of Jal Shakti has made PACS as eligible agencies to carry out the Operations & Maintenance (O&M) of PWS in rural areas. As per information received from States/ UTs, 1,381 PACS have been identified by 12 States/ UTs to provide O&M services at Panchayat/ Village level.

Micro-ATMs to Bank Mitra Cooperative Societies for providing doorsteps financial services: Dairy and Fisheries cooperative societies can be made Bank Mitras of DCCBs and StCBs to ensure their ease of doing business, transparency and financial inclusion, Micro-ATMs are also being given to these Bank Mitra Co-operative Societies with support from NABARD to provide ‘Door Step Financial Services’. As a pilot project, 1,723 Micro-ATMs have been distributed to Bank Mitra cooperative societies in Panchmahal and Banaskantha Districts of Gujarat.

Rupay Kisan Credit Card to Members of Milk Cooperatives: In order to expand the reach of DCCBs/ StCBs and to provide necessary liquidity to the members of Dairy Cooperative societies, Rupay Kisan Credit Cards (KCCs) are being distributed to the members of cooperatives for providing credit at comparatively lower interest rates and enable other financial transactions. As a pilot project, 73,503 Rupay KCC have been distributed in Panchmahal and Banaskantha Districts of Gujarat.

Formation of Fish Farmer Producer Organization (FFPO): In order to provide market linkage and providing processing facilities to the fishermen, NCDC has registered 69 FFPOs in the initial phase. Department of Fisheries, Government of India has further allocated conversion of 1000 existing fisheries cooperative societies into FFPOs to NCDC, with an approved outlay of Rs 225.50 crore.

Strengthening the Urban and Rural Cooperative Banks
UCBs have been allowed to open new branches to expand their business: UCBs can now open new branches up to 10% (maximum 5 branches) of the existing number of branches in the previous financial year without prior approval of RBI.

UCBs have been allowed by RBI to offer doorstep services to their customers: Door step banking facility can now be provided by the UCBs. Account holders associated with these banks can now avail various banking facilities at home such as cash withdrawal, cash deposit, KYC, demand draft and life certificate for pensioners, etc.

Cooperative banks have been allowed to make one-time settlement of outstanding loans, like Commercial Banks: Co-operative banks, through board-approved policies, can now provide process for technical write-off as well as settlement with borrowers.

Time limit increased to achieve Priority Sector Lending (PSL) targets given to UCBs: RBI has extended the timeline for UCBs to achieve Priority Sector Lending (PSL) targets by two years i.e., up to March 31, 2026.

A Nodal Officer designated in RBI for regular interaction with UCBs: In order to meet the long pending demand of the cooperative sector for closer coordination and focused interaction, RBI has notified a nodal officer as well.

Individual housing loan limit more than doubled by RBI for Rural and Urban Co-operative Banks:
1. Housing loan limit of Urban cooperative banks have now been doubled from Rs 30 lakh to Rs 60 lakh.
2. Housing loan limit of Rural cooperative banks has been increased to two and a half times to Rs 75 lakh.

Rural Co-operative Banks will now be able to lend to commercial real estate/ residential housing sector, thereby diversifying their business: This will not only help Rural co-operative banks to diversify their business, but benefit Housing co-operative societies also.

License fee reduced for Cooperative Banks: License fee for onboarding Cooperative Banks to ‘Aadhaar Enabled Payment System’ (AePS) has been reduced by linking it to the number of transactions. Cooperative financial institutions will also be able to get the facility free of cost for the first three months of the pre-production phase. With this, farmers will now be able to get the facility of banking at their home with their fingerprints.

Non-scheduled UCBs, StCBs and DCCBs notified as Member Lending Institutions (MLIs) in CGTMSE Scheme to increase the share of cooperatives in lending: The co-operative banks will now be able to take advantage of risk coverage up to 85 percent on the loans given. Also, cooperative sector enterprises will also be able to get collateral free loans from co-operative banks now.

Notification of Scheduling norms for including Urban Co-operative Banks: UCBs that meet the ‘Financially Sound and Well Managed’ (FSWM) criteria and have maintained the minimum deposits required for classification as Tier 3 for the last two years are now eligible to be included in Schedule II of the Reserve Bank of India Act 1934 and get ‘Scheduled’ status.

Monetary ceiling doubled by RBI for Gold Loan: RBI has doubled monetary ceiling from Rs. 2 lakh to Rs.4 lakh, for those UCBs that meet the PSL targets.

Umbrella Organization for Urban Cooperative Banks: RBI has accorded approval to the National Federation of Urban Co-operative Banks and Credit Societies Ltd. (NAFCUB) for the formation of an Umbrella Organization (UO) for the UCB sector, which will provide necessary IT infrastructure and operation support to around 1,500 UCBs.
Relief to Cooperative Societies in the Income Tax Act
Surcharge reduced from 12 % to 7% for co-operative societies having income between Rs. 1 to 10 Cr.: This will reduce the burden of Income Tax on Cooperative Societies and more capital will be available with them to work for the benefit of their members.

MAT reduced for cooperatives from 18.5% to 15%: With this provision, now there is parity between Cooperative Societies and Companies in this regard.

Relief in cash transactions under section 269ST of the Income Tax Act: In order to remove difficulties in cash transactions by cooperatives under Section 269ST of IT Act, Government has issued a clarification that cash transaction of less than Rs. 2 lakhs done by a cooperative society with its distributor in a day will be considered separately, and will not be charged with income tax penalty.

Tax cut for new manufacturing Cooperative societies: Government has decided that a flat lower tax rate of 15% will be charged, compared to an earlier rate of up to 30% plus surcharge, for new cooperatives commencing manufacturing activities by March 31, 2024. This will encourage the formation of new cooperative societies in the manufacturing sector.
Increase in limit of Cash Deposits and Cash Loans by PACS and PCARDBs: Government has enhanced the limit for Cash Deposits and Cash Loans by PACS and Primary Cooperative Agriculture and Rural Development Banks (PCARDBs) from Rs 20,000 to Rs 2 lakh per member. This provision will facilitate their activities, increase their business and benefit members of their societies.

Increase in the limit of Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) in Cash Withdrawal: Government has increased the cash withdrawal limit of cooperative societies without deduction of tax at source from Rs.1 crore to Rs.3 crore per year. This provision will save Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) for cooperative societies, which will enhance liquidity of the cooperative society.
Revival of Cooperative Sugar Mills
Relief from Income Tax to Sugar Cooperative Mills: Government has issued a clarification that Sugar cooperative mills would not be subjected to additional income tax for paying higher sugarcane prices to farmers up to Fair and Remunerative or State Advised Price, from April, 2016 onwards.
Resolution of decades old pending issues related to Income Tax of Sugar Cooperative Mills: Government has made a provision in its Union Budget 2023-24, wherein Sugar cooperatives have been allowed to claim as expenditure their payments to sugarcane farmers for the period prior to assessment year 2016–17, giving a relief of more than Rs.10,000 crores.
Rs. 10,000 crore loan scheme launched for strengthening of Sugar Cooperative Mills: Government has launched a scheme through NCDC for setting up ethanol plants or cogeneration plants or for working capital or for all three purposes. Loan amount of Rs. 3,010 cr. has been sanctioned by NCDC to 24 Cooperative Sugar Mills so far.
Preference to Cooperative Sugar Mills in purchase of ethanol: Cooperative Sugar Mills have now been put at par with private companies for ethanol procurement by Government of India under the Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP).
Reduction in GST on molasses from 28% to 5%: Government has decided to reduce the GST on molasses from 28% to 5% which will enable cooperative sugar mills to earn more profits for its members by selling molasses to distilleries with higher margins.

Three new Multi-State Societies at the National Level
New National Multi-State Cooperative Seed Society for certified seeds: Government has established a new apex multi-state cooperative seed society under the MSCS Act, 2002, namely Bharatiya Beej Sahakari Samiti Limited (BBSSL) as an umbrella organization for quality seed cultivation, production and distribution under a single brand. BBSSL has received 8,200 PACS/ cooperative societies applications from 27 States/ UTs for membership so far.

New National Multi-State Cooperative Organic Society for organic farming: Government has established a new apex multi-state cooperative organic society under the MSCS Act, 2002, namely National Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL) as an umbrella organization to produce, distribute and market certified and authentic organic products. NCOL has received 2,475 PACS/ cooperative societies applications from 24 States/ UTs for membership so far. 6 organic products have already been launched by NCOL so far.

New National Multi-State Cooperative Export Society for promoting exports: Government has established a new apex multi-state cooperative export society under the MSCS Act, 2002, namely National Cooperative Export Limited (NCEL) as an umbrella organization to give thrust to exports from cooperative sector. NCEL has received 2,625 PACS/ cooperative societies applications from 22 States/ UTs for membership so far. Till date, NCEL has got permission to export 14.92 LMT rice to 16 countries and 50,000 MT sugar to 2 countries.

Capacity Building in Cooperatives
Establishment of the Cooperative University: Steps are being taken by Ministry of Cooperation for setting up of a National Cooperative University for Cooperative education, training, consultancy, research and development and a sustainable and quality supply of trained manpower.

Promotion of training and awareness through National Council for Cooperative Training (NCCT): By increasing its reach, NCCT has conducted 3,287 training programs and provided training to 2,01,507 participants in FY 2022-23.

Use of Information Technology for ‘Ease of Doing Business’
Computerization of the Central Registrar’s Office: Central Registrar’s office has been computerized to create a digital ecosystem for Multi-State Cooperative Societies, which will assist in processing applications and service requests in a time bound manner.

Scheme for computerization of office of RCSs in States and Union Territories: To increase ‘Ease of doing business’ for Cooperative Societies and create a digital ecosystem for transparent paperless regulation in all States/Union Territories, a Centrally Sponsored Project for computerization of RCS Offices has been approved by the Government. Grants will be provided for purchase of hardware, development of software, etc. to the States/ UTs.

Computerization of Agriculture and Rural Development Banks (ARDBs): To strengthen the Long-term Cooperative Credit structure, the project of computerization of 1,851 units of Agriculture and Rural Development Banks (ARDBs) has been approved by the Government. NABARD is the implementing agency for the project and will develop a national level software for ARDBs. Hardware, support for Digitization of legacy data, training to the employees, etc. will be provided under the project.

Other Initiatives
New National Cooperative Database for authentic and updated data repository: A database of cooperatives in the country has been prepared with the support of State Governments to facilitate stakeholders in policy making and implementation of programmes/ schemes related to cooperatives across the country. So far, data of around 7.86 lakh cooperatives has been captured in the database.

Formulation of New National Cooperative Policy: A National level committee comprising 49 experts and stakeholders drawn from all over the Country has been constituted to formulate the New National Cooperative Policy for enabling a vibrant ecosystem to realize the vision of ‘Sahakar-se-Samriddhi’.

Multi-State Co-operative Societies (Amendment) Act, 2023: Amendment has been brought in the MSCS Act, 2002 to strengthen governance, enhance transparency, increase accountability, reform electoral process and incorporate provisions of 97^th Constitutional Amendment in the Multi State Cooperative Societies.

Inclusion of Cooperatives as ‘buyers’ on GeM portal: Government has permitted the cooperatives to register as ‘buyer’ on GeM, enabling them to procure goods and services from nearly over 67 lakh vendors to facilitate economical purchases and greater transparency. So far, 559 cooperative societies have been onboarded on GeM as buyers.

Expansion of National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) to increase its range and depth: NCDC has launched new schemes in various sectors such as ‘Swayamshakti Sahkar’ for SHGs; ‘Deerghavadhi Krishak Sahkar’ for long term agricultural credit and ‘Dairy Sahkar’ for dairy. Total financial assistance of Rs. 41,024 Crores has been disbursed by NCDC in FY 2022-23, which is almost 20% higher than the disbursement of Rs.34,221 crore in 2021-22. Government of India has permitted NCDC to issue bonds worth ₹2000 crore with government guarantee, subject to the adherence of specified terms and conditions. Further, NCDC is setting up sub-offices in 6 North Eastern States – Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland and Tripura with the objective of taking various national schemes to the cooperative societies at their doorstep.

Financial assistance by NCDC for Deep Sea Trawlers: NCDC is providing financial assistance for projects related to deep sea trawlers in coordination with the Department of Fisheries, Government of India. NCDC has already sanctioned financial assistance of Rs 20.30 crore for purchase of 14 deep sea trawlers for the Fisheries Cooperative Societies of Maharashtra.

Refund to Investors of Sahara Group of Societies: A portal has been launched for making payments to the genuine depositors of the cooperative societies of Sahara Group in a transparent manner. Disbursement have already started after proper identification and submission of proof of their deposits and claims.

PM GatiShakti National Master Plan to provide multimodal connectivity infrastructure to various economic zones

By Shashikant Nishant Sharma

Hon’ble Prime Minister launched the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan (NMP) on 13^th October2021 for providing multimodal connectivity infrastructure to various economic zones. PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan provides a comprehensive database of the trunk & utility infrastructure, ongoing & future projects of various Infra structure and Economic Ministries/Departments of Central Government and States/UTs. This data is integrated with the GIS-enabled PM Gati Shakti platform, there by facilitating the integrated planning, designing, and monitoring of the Next Generation infrastructure projects on a single portal.

Economic Zones like textile clusters, pharmaceutical clusters, defence corridors, electronic parks, industrial corridors, ﬁshing clusters, agri zones etc. are being mapped for integrated infrastructure planning andmake Indian businesses more cost-competitive. This will boost economic growth, attract foreign investments while de-risking investments by visualizing the connectivity, and enhance the country’s global competitiveness in export markets.

While the development of integrated infrastructure development is addressed through the PM Gati Shakti NMP, eﬃciency in services (like processes, digital systems, and regulatory frame work) and human resources is addressed by the National Logistics Policy, 2022 through its Comprehensive Logistics Action Plan (CLAP). NMP and National Logistics Policy together provide a framework for creating a data-driven decision support mechanism for an eﬃcient logistics ecosystem aimed at reducing logistics costs and enhancing logistics efficiency in the country.

PM Gati Shakti is a Whole-of-Government approach adopted to facilitate integrated planning of multimodal infrastructure through collaboration among the concerned Ministries. So far, the Logistics Division of DPIIT has conducted 62 Network Planning Group (NPG) meetings to assess the comprehensive area-based socio-economic development of infrastructure projects.

The feedback from various Ministries has been received; inter-alia Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is using PM Gati Shakti for ground surveys, land records, and highway alignments resulting insaving time and costs in the planning of projects; Ministry of Petroleumand Natural Gas utilizes NMP’s electronic Detail Route Survey (eDRS) to generate reports in a shorter span of time; Ministry of Railways has ﬁnalised Final Location Survey (FLS) in FY2021-22 at a much faster rate as compared toFY2020-21,to cite a few examples.

Further, the PM Gati Shakti institutional mechanism has been adopted by States/UTs and NPG meetings are also being organized at State/UT level to assess last and ﬁrst-mile connectivity gaps and ensure seamless movement of people, goods &services.

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The Complex Reality of Delhi’s Slums: A Closer Look at Urban Informality

By: Shashikant Nishant Sharma

Delhi, the capital city of India, is a vibrant metropolis that juxtaposes modernity and tradition. However, amid the glittering skyscrapers and bustling marketplaces, there exists a stark contrast in the form of slums that dot the cityscape. These informal settlements, home to a significant portion of Delhi’s population, present a complex and challenging reality. This article aims to shed light on the slums of Delhi, exploring the factors that contribute to their existence, the challenges faced by residents, and potential solutions to address this pressing issue.

Factors Contributing to the Existence of Slums:

Rapid Urbanization: Delhi has witnessed rapid urbanization over the years, attracting people from rural areas in search of better opportunities. However, the city’s infrastructure has struggled to keep pace with the population influx, leading to the formation of informal settlements.
Lack of Affordable Housing: The soaring cost of real estate in Delhi has made it difficult for a significant portion of the population to afford proper housing. As a result, many individuals and families find themselves living in makeshift shelters in slums.
Informal Employment: A substantial number of slum dwellers are engaged in informal and low-wage employment opportunities. The lack of stable income makes it challenging for them to access formal housing options, pushing them towards the fringes of the city.

Rapid Urbanization:

Delhi’s landscape has undergone a rapid transformation as it evolved into a bustling metropolis, magnetically attracting individuals from rural areas in pursuit of improved livelihoods. The city’s economic opportunities and urban allure have spurred an influx of people seeking a better life. However, this surge in population has strained the existing infrastructure, causing a proliferation of informal settlements. The speed at which Delhi has urbanized has outpaced the development of essential services, resulting in the emergence of slums that grapple with inadequate amenities and living conditions.

Lack of Affordable Housing:

One of the most pressing challenges contributing to the existence of slums in Delhi is the exorbitant cost of real estate. The city’s property market has experienced a meteoric rise, rendering it increasingly unaffordable for a significant segment of the population. The soaring property prices have left a considerable portion of Delhi’s residents with limited housing options, forcing them into makeshift shelters within the confines of slums. This disparity in housing affordability underscores a critical issue that demands attention to ensure a more equitable distribution of living spaces within the city.

Informal Employment:

A significant demographic within Delhi’s slums is engaged in informal and low-wage employment opportunities. The city’s economic landscape accommodates a diverse range of informal sectors, from street vending to day labor, providing a source of income for many. However, the nature of informal employment often means irregular and unstable income streams, making it arduous for individuals to secure formal housing. As a consequence, slum dwellers, driven by economic necessity, find themselves on the peripheries of the city, residing in settlements that lack the basic amenities necessary for dignified living.

Addressing these factors necessitates a comprehensive approach that considers not only housing but also the broader issues of urban planning, economic development, and social welfare. Efforts to provide affordable housing options, improve infrastructure, and formalize employment opportunities can contribute to alleviating the challenges faced by residents of Delhi’s slums. By acknowledging the multifaceted nature of the issue, policymakers and urban planners can work towards creating a more inclusive and sustainable urban environment for all of Delhi’s inhabitants.

Challenges Faced by Slum Dwellers:

Inadequate Infrastructure: Slums often lack basic amenities such as proper sanitation, clean water supply, and electricity. The absence of these fundamental services contributes to a cycle of poverty and health challenges for the residents.
Health and Hygiene Concerns: Overcrowded living conditions, coupled with inadequate sanitation facilities, create a breeding ground for diseases. The prevalence of health issues in slums underscores the urgent need for improved healthcare services and sanitation infrastructure.
Educational Barriers: Access to quality education remains a significant challenge for children living in slums. Limited resources, coupled with the need for children to contribute to family income, often result in lower enrollment and higher dropout rates.
Vulnerability to Displacement: Slum dwellers often live in constant fear of eviction, as their settlements are considered illegal. This vulnerability adds a layer of uncertainty to their lives and makes it difficult for them to invest in long-term improvements to their living conditions.

Inadequate Infrastructure:

One of the most pressing challenges faced by slum dwellers in Delhi is the pervasive lack of basic infrastructure. Many slum settlements are characterized by the absence of essential amenities such as proper sanitation, a reliable clean water supply, and consistent electricity. The dearth of these fundamental services perpetuates a cycle of poverty, hindering residents from breaking free from the constraints of their living conditions. Insufficient infrastructure not only compromises the daily lives of slum dwellers but also restricts their potential for economic and social advancement.

Health and Hygiene Concerns:

The overcrowded living conditions within Delhi’s slums, combined with the absence of adequate sanitation facilities, create a breeding ground for various diseases. The prevalence of health issues in these communities highlights the urgent need for improved healthcare services and enhanced sanitation infrastructure. Communicable diseases thrive in environments where hygiene is compromised, posing a constant threat to the well-being of slum residents. Addressing health and hygiene concerns is paramount to breaking the cycle of illness and promoting the overall welfare of those residing in Delhi’s slums.

Educational Barriers:

Access to quality education remains a significant hurdle for children growing up in Delhi’s slums. Limited resources, both within the slum communities and in the broader education system, contribute to lower enrollment rates and higher dropout rates. Children often face the dual challenge of needing to contribute to family income, making it difficult for them to prioritize education. Breaking down educational barriers is essential for empowering the younger generation within slum communities, providing them with the tools and opportunities needed to overcome the cycle of poverty.

Vulnerability to Displacement:

The constant fear of eviction looms large over the lives of slum dwellers in Delhi, as their settlements are often deemed illegal. This vulnerability not only disrupts the daily lives of residents but also creates a layer of uncertainty that impedes long-term improvements to their living conditions. The perpetual risk of displacement discourages investments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare within slum communities, perpetuating a cycle of neglect and marginalization.

To address these challenges, concerted efforts are needed from policymakers, community leaders, and civil society organizations. Initiatives that focus on improving infrastructure, enhancing healthcare services, promoting education, and providing secure land tenure can contribute to breaking the cycle of poverty and vulnerability faced by the residents of Delhi’s slums. Only through a holistic and collaborative approach can meaningful progress be made towards creating more inclusive and equitable urban spaces.

Potential Solutions and Initiatives:

Affordable Housing Programs: Implementing affordable housing initiatives and policies can help address the housing crisis in Delhi. The government, in collaboration with non-governmental organizations, can work towards providing affordable housing options for low-income families.
Improving Infrastructure: Investment in basic infrastructure such as sanitation, clean water supply, and electricity is crucial for enhancing the living conditions in slums. Targeted interventions can significantly improve the quality of life for residents.
Community Empowerment: Empowering slum communities through education and skill development programs can break the cycle of poverty. Initiatives that focus on providing vocational training and creating employment opportunities within or near the slums can uplift residents economically.
Regularization of Informal Settlements: Instead of displacement, authorities could consider the regularization of existing informal settlements. This involves providing legal recognition, basic services, and tenure security to residents, contributing to a more stable and secure living environment.

In the dynamic and evolving landscape of Delhi’s slums, addressing the challenges faced by residents requires proactive and comprehensive solutions. Here are potential initiatives and strategies that could make a significant impact on improving the lives of those living in informal settlements:

Affordable Housing Programs: Implementing affordable housing initiatives is paramount in alleviating the housing crisis in Delhi. The government, in collaboration with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and private stakeholders, can develop and execute policies that prioritize affordable housing options for low-income families. This may involve the creation of subsidized housing schemes, low-interest loans, or innovative housing models that cater to the unique needs of slum dwellers.

Improving Infrastructure: A targeted and sustained investment in basic infrastructure is crucial for enhancing the living conditions in Delhi’s slums. This includes initiatives to improve sanitation facilities, ensure a reliable and clean water supply, and provide access to electricity. Upgrading infrastructure not only addresses immediate health and hygiene concerns but also contributes to the overall well-being and dignity of slum residents.

Community Empowerment: Empowering slum communities through education and skill development programs can be a transformative step in breaking the cycle of poverty. Initiatives that provide access to quality education for children and adults alike, coupled with vocational training programs, can equip residents with the skills needed for better employment opportunities. Creating avenues for entrepreneurship within or near the slums further uplifts the economic prospects of the community.

Regularization of Informal Settlements: Rather than displacing residents, authorities could consider the regularization of existing informal settlements. This involves providing legal recognition to these settlements, ensuring basic services such as water, sanitation, and electricity, and granting tenure security to residents. Regularization not only enhances the legitimacy of slum communities but also provides a more stable and secure living environment, encouraging long-term investments in infrastructure and community development.

Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): Encouraging partnerships between the public and private sectors can amplify the impact of initiatives aimed at slum improvement. Collaborations with private entities can bring in additional resources, expertise, and innovative solutions. This could involve joint ventures for housing projects, infrastructure development, or social enterprises that benefit the residents of slum communities.

Inclusive Urban Planning: Integrating slum development into the broader urban planning framework is essential for creating a more inclusive city. Authorities can adopt participatory approaches, involving slum residents in the planning and decision-making processes. This ensures that development initiatives align with the unique needs and aspirations of the communities they seek to serve.

Conclusion:

The slums of Delhi represent a complex challenge that requires a multifaceted approach. Tackling issues related to housing, infrastructure, healthcare, and education is crucial for creating a more inclusive and equitable urban environment. As Delhi continues to evolve, policymakers, community leaders, and citizens must come together to find sustainable solutions that uplift the lives of those residing in the city’s informal settlements. By combining these initiatives and strategies, Delhi has the potential to transform its slum areas into thriving, sustainable communities. These efforts not only address immediate challenges but also lay the foundation for a more equitable and inclusive urban landscape.

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The Harsh Reality of Slum Life in Bhopal: A Closer Look at Poor Living Conditions

By: Kavita Dehalwar

Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh in central India, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that boasts a rich cultural heritage. However, amidst the glitz and glamour, there exists a stark contrast in the form of slums that house a significant portion of the city’s population. The poor living conditions in these slums paint a grim picture of inequality and social disparity. In this article, we delve into the challenges faced by the residents of Bhopal’s slums and shed light on the urgent need for intervention.

Overcrowding and Limited Space:

One of the most pressing issues in Bhopal’s slums is the severe overcrowding that residents have to contend with daily. The limited availability of space forces families to live in cramped conditions, often with insufficient ventilation and sanitation facilities. This not only jeopardizes the health of the residents but also contributes to the rapid spread of diseases.

The issue of overcrowding in Bhopal’s slums is a pervasive challenge that significantly impacts the daily lives and well-being of residents. The limited availability of space creates an environment where families are compelled to live in close quarters, leading to a myriad of issues.

Cramped Living Conditions:

In many slum areas, families reside in small, makeshift shelters constructed from a variety of materials, often salvaged or recycled. The lack of space results in cramped living conditions where multiple family members share confined quarters. The absence of separate rooms or designated living spaces means that privacy is a luxury, and individuals often struggle to find personal space within the confines of their homes.

Insufficient Ventilation:

The cramped living conditions are exacerbated by inadequate ventilation, as many of the structures lack proper windows or ventilation systems. Poor air circulation not only contributes to the discomfort of residents but also poses serious health risks. Stagnant air can trap pollutants and exacerbate respiratory issues, leading to a higher prevalence of respiratory diseases among slum dwellers.

Sanitation Challenges:

Overcrowded living conditions also give rise to significant sanitation challenges. With a limited number of communal facilities, such as shared toilets and bathing areas, maintaining personal hygiene becomes a considerable struggle. The lack of private sanitation facilities not only compromises the dignity of residents but also increases the risk of the spread of infectious diseases.

Health Implications:

The overcrowded living conditions in Bhopal’s slums create an environment conducive to the rapid spread of diseases. Communicable diseases thrive in crowded spaces where individuals have limited access to healthcare and sanitation. Respiratory infections, waterborne diseases, and vector-borne illnesses become more prevalent, posing a constant threat to the health and well-being of the community.

Social and Psychological Impact:

Beyond the physical health implications, overcrowding in slums also takes a toll on the mental and emotional well-being of residents. The stress of living in crowded conditions, coupled with the lack of personal space, can contribute to increased tension within families and communities. Additionally, the challenging living conditions may hinder the development of children, affecting their cognitive and emotional growth.

Addressing the Challenge:

To address the issue of overcrowding in Bhopal’s slums, there is a pressing need for comprehensive urban planning and development initiatives. Efforts should focus on creating affordable housing solutions, improving infrastructure, and ensuring access to basic amenities. By providing adequate living space, promoting proper ventilation, and enhancing sanitation facilities, it is possible to mitigate the adverse effects of overcrowding and uplift the quality of life for slum residents. Additionally, community engagement and empowerment play a crucial role in the sustainable development of these areas, fostering a sense of ownership and resilience among the residents. Through collaborative efforts, it is possible to transform the living conditions in Bhopal’s slums and pave the way for a healthier, more equitable future.

Inadequate Sanitation Facilities:

Sanitation facilities in Bhopal’s slums are far from adequate, creating a breeding ground for health hazards. The absence of proper sewage systems and waste management leads to the accumulation of garbage and stagnant water, facilitating the spread of waterborne diseases. Lack of access to clean water exacerbates the problem, leaving residents vulnerable to infections and illnesses.

The inadequate sanitation facilities in the slums of Bhopal present a critical challenge to the health and well-being of its residents. The absence of proper infrastructure for sewage systems and waste management contributes to a host of problems, creating an environment conducive to the spread of diseases.

Lack of Proper Sewage Systems:

One of the primary issues in Bhopal’s slums is the absence of adequate sewage systems. Many residents do not have access to proper toilet facilities, forcing them to rely on shared or communal toilets that are often unhygienic and poorly maintained. The lack of a comprehensive sewage system means that waste disposal becomes a significant challenge, with untreated sewage posing a threat to both the environment and public health.

Accumulation of Garbage:

In the absence of efficient waste management systems, garbage accumulates in and around the slum areas. Piles of waste become breeding grounds for pests and disease vectors, increasing the risk of the spread of infectious diseases. The lack of proper waste disposal mechanisms not only affects the immediate living conditions of the residents but also contributes to broader environmental degradation.

Stagnant Water and Waterborne Diseases:

The inadequate drainage systems in Bhopal’s slums often result in the accumulation of stagnant water, particularly during the monsoon season. Stagnant water becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes that carry diseases such as dengue and malaria. Waterborne diseases, including cholera and dysentery, are prevalent due to the lack of access to clean water and the contamination of existing water sources with untreated sewage.

Vulnerability to Infections and Illnesses:

The combination of insufficient sanitation facilities, inadequate waste management, and the absence of clean water access creates a perfect storm for the vulnerability of slum residents to infections and illnesses. Preventable diseases thrive in such environments, affecting the overall health of the community and placing an additional burden on already strained healthcare systems.

Addressing Sanitation Challenges:

Improving sanitation facilities in Bhopal’s slums requires a concerted effort from both governmental and non-governmental organizations. Comprehensive urban planning initiatives should prioritize the installation of proper sewage systems, waste management infrastructure, and the construction of clean and accessible communal toilets. Public awareness campaigns about the importance of hygiene and sanitation practices are also essential to promote behavioral change within the community.

Access to Clean Water:

Ensuring access to clean water is paramount in addressing the sanitation crisis. Initiatives to provide reliable and safe water sources, along with community education on water conservation and purification methods, can significantly improve the overall health of slum residents. Collaboration between local authorities, NGOs, and community leaders is crucial to implementing sustainable solutions that address the root causes of inadequate sanitation facilities.

In conclusion, the inadequate sanitation facilities in Bhopal’s slums are a pressing issue that demands immediate attention and comprehensive solutions. By addressing these challenges, we can create healthier and more sustainable living conditions for slum residents, fostering a positive impact on their overall well-being and breaking the cycle of poverty and disease.

Substandard Housing Conditions:

The quality of housing in Bhopal’s slums is a major concern. Many residents live in makeshift structures constructed from salvaged materials, offering little protection from the elements. Flimsy walls and leaky roofs make these homes susceptible to damage during inclement weather, further compromising the safety and well-being of the inhabitants.

The substandard housing conditions prevalent in the slums of Bhopal underscore a critical aspect of the broader issue of poverty and inequality in the city. Residents of these areas often grapple with makeshift dwellings constructed from salvaged materials, resulting in homes that provide minimal protection from the elements and pose significant risks to the safety and well-being of inhabitants.

Makeshift Structures:

A predominant feature of Bhopal’s slums is the prevalence of makeshift structures. Residents, often facing economic constraints, resort to constructing homes using salvaged materials such as corrugated metal, tarpaulin, and cardboard. These structures lack the durability and structural integrity required to withstand the challenges posed by weather conditions, leaving residents vulnerable to various environmental hazards.

Limited Protection from the Elements:

The flimsy nature of these makeshift dwellings offers limited protection from the elements. During the scorching summer months, residents endure extreme heat, with inadequate insulation aggravating the already challenging living conditions. Similarly, during the monsoon season, leaky roofs and compromised structural integrity expose inhabitants to rainwater infiltration, contributing to the risk of waterborne diseases and compromising the structural stability of the dwellings.

Vulnerability to Weather-Related Risks:

Inclement weather, including heavy rains, strong winds, and extreme temperatures, poses a significant threat to the safety of residents living in substandard housing conditions. Structural damage and collapse are not uncommon, leading to injuries and, in severe cases, loss of life. The lack of proper foundations and building materials exacerbates the susceptibility of these dwellings to weather-related risks.

Health Implications:

Beyond the immediate structural risks, substandard housing conditions have profound implications for the health of residents. Inadequate shelter contributes to a higher likelihood of respiratory problems due to exposure to the elements. Mold growth resulting from leaks and dampness further exacerbates health issues, especially among children and the elderly. The compromised living conditions also increase the risk of injuries and infections.

Addressing the Housing Crisis:

Addressing the substandard housing conditions in Bhopal’s slums requires a multifaceted approach that combines immediate interventions with long-term solutions. Initiatives should include:

Affordable Housing Programs: Implementing affordable housing programs that prioritize the needs of slum residents, providing safe and secure living spaces that meet basic standards.
Urban Redevelopment: Undertaking comprehensive urban redevelopment projects to improve infrastructure, housing quality, and overall living conditions in slum areas.
Community Engagement: Involving residents in the decision-making process and seeking their input on housing solutions to ensure that interventions are culturally sensitive and align with the community’s needs.
Access to Basic Services: Ensuring that slum areas have access to basic services such as water, sanitation, and electricity, which are integral components of improved living conditions.
Government and NGO Collaboration: Facilitating collaboration between governmental bodies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and community-based organizations to pool resources and expertise for effective housing solutions.

By prioritizing the improvement of housing conditions in Bhopal’s slums, stakeholders can contribute to the creation of safer, healthier, and more dignified living environments for residents, ultimately breaking the cycle of poverty and fostering sustainable urban development.

Limited Educational Opportunities:

The cycle of poverty is perpetuated by the limited educational opportunities available to children in slum areas. Lack of access to quality education leaves these youngsters with few prospects for the future, trapping them in a cycle of poverty that is hard to break. Addressing educational disparities is crucial for breaking this cycle and uplifting the community as a whole.

Healthcare Disparities:

Access to healthcare in slum areas is often limited, and residents face significant barriers to receiving timely and adequate medical attention. The prevalence of unhygienic living conditions contributes to the spread of diseases, and the lack of healthcare infrastructure exacerbates the situation. Efforts to improve healthcare accessibility and awareness are critical to enhancing the well-being of slum dwellers.

Community Empowerment and Urban Planning:

Addressing the poor living conditions in Bhopal’s slums requires a multi-faceted approach that combines community empowerment with effective urban planning. Involving the residents in decision-making processes, providing skill development opportunities, and implementing sustainable urban development projects can contribute to positive change.

Conclusion:

The poor living conditions in the slums of Bhopal are a stark reminder of the social and economic disparities that persist in our society. Efforts to improve sanitation, housing, education, and healthcare are imperative to uplift the lives of slum dwellers and provide them with a chance for a better future. By addressing these challenges collectively, we can work towards building a more inclusive and equitable society in Bhopal and beyond.

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Women Development and Poverty Issues in India

India, the second-most populous nation in the world, has long struggled with poverty and developmental challenges, particularly among women. The nation continues to suffer with gender inequality, lack of access to healthcare and education, and a lack of job prospects despite recent strong economic progress.

Women poverty in India

Women in India face multiple challenges that contribute to their poverty. One of the biggest challenges is the gender pay gap, which means women are paid less than men for the same job. This pay gap is prevalent across all sectors, including agriculture and informal labor, where women work predominantly. Women’s employment opportunities are also limited, as they are often restricted to low-paying, informal jobs that offer no benefits or job security. Furthermore, women are more likely to work in the informal sector, which is not regulated by labor laws, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.

In addition to economic challenges, women in India also face social challenges that contribute to their poverty. These challenges include limited access to education, healthcare, and social services. Women’s education is often de-prioritized in Indian society, and many girls drop out of school due to poverty, early marriage, or cultural expectations. Lack of education limits women’s opportunities for higher-paying jobs and perpetuates their poverty. Another factor contributing to women’s poverty in India is limited access to healthcare. Women in India face a range of health issues, including maternal mortality, malnutrition, and limited access to reproductive health services. These health issues have significant economic and social consequences, including reduced productivity and increased poverty. Addressing women’s health needs is essential for their overall well-being and for the economic development of the country.

Developmental issues faced by women in India

Developmental issues in India refer to the economic, social, and political changes necessary for the country’s growth and progress. Women in India face unique developmental issues that stem from their social and economic marginalization. One such issue is gender-based violence, including domestic violence, sexual assault, and harassment. These forms of violence limit women’s ability to participate in the workforce, access education and healthcare, and contribute to their poverty.

Another developmental issue faced by women in India is limited access to credit and financial resources. Women’s economic empowerment is essential for their development, and access to credit is critical for starting businesses and improving livelihoods. However, women in India face significant barriers to accessing credit due to cultural and institutional biases that favor men.

Finally, women in India face political marginalization, with limited representation in government and decision-making positions. Political representation is crucial for women’s development, as it enables them to advocate for policies that promote gender equality, address women’s issues, and improve their livelihoods.

Efforts to address women poverty and developmental issues in India

Several efforts have been made in recent years to address women poverty and developmental issues in India. The government has launched several initiatives, such as the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (Save Daughter, Educate Daughter) scheme, which aims to promote gender equality by addressing female foeticide and improving access to education for girls. The government has also launched the Mahila E-Haat platform, an online marketplace that provides women entrepreneurs with a platform to sell their products and services.

NGOs and civil society organizations have also played a significant role in addressing women poverty and developmental issues in India. For example, organizations such as Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) have been working to improve women’s economic empowerment by providing them with training and support to start their businesses. Other organizations, such as the Centre for Social Research, have been working to address gender-based violence by conducting research, advocacy, and providing support services to survivors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, social, economic, and political marginalisation continue to cause substantial poverty and developmental problems for women in India. Women’s possibilities for economic and social development are constrained by the difficulties associated with limited access to healthcare, finance, and education, as well as with gender-based violence.

Issues Faced by Women in India

India is the second-most populous country in the world, with a population of approximately 1.3 billion people. Women constitute nearly half of this population, and yet they face various challenges and issues in their everyday lives. Gender inequality is prevalent in India, and it affects women in various ways. One of the most significant issues that women face is gender-based violence. According to the National Crime Records Bureau, there were over 3 lakh cases of crimes against women in India in 2019. This includes rape, sexual assault, domestic violence, and harassment. Women who report such crimes often face stigma and discrimination, making it difficult for them to access justice.

Access to healthcare is another critical issue for women in India. Although the government has made significant efforts to improve healthcare services, many women still lack access to basic healthcare facilities, especially in rural areas. Women also face significant challenges in accessing reproductive and maternal healthcare services, which can result in poor health outcomes. Maternal mortality rates are high, with India accounting for almost one-quarter of all maternal deaths worldwide. This is due to inadequate access to healthcare, poor nutrition, and lack of education on maternal health. They also face high rates of malnutrition and anemia, which have long-term health consequences for both them and their children.

Another issue that women in India face is limited access to education and employment opportunities. According to the World Bank, only 66% of women in India are literate, compared to 82% of men. Women also face significant barriers to employment, with only 24% of women in India participating in the labor force, compared to 82% of men. This is due to various factors, including societal expectations, lack of education and skills, and discrimination in the workplace.

Political representation is another area where women in India are underrepresented. While women make up nearly half of the population, they hold only 14.4% of seats in the Indian parliament. This limits their ability to influence policy decisions and advocate for their rights. Although women have the right to vote and stand for election, they are underrepresented in political decision-making positions. Women’s political participation is essential to ensure that their interests and concerns are adequately represented.

Despite these challenges, there have been efforts to address these issues and improve the lives of women in India. The Indian government has implemented various policies and programmes aimed at empowering women and promoting gender equality. For example, the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (Save the Girl Child, Educate the Girl Child) programme aims to address gender-based violence and improve access to education for girls. The Mahila E-Haat programme aims to promote women’s entrepreneurship and enable them to access markets and sell their products online.

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society groups have also played a significant role in promoting women’s rights in India. For example, the Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) has been working for the empowerment of women in the informal sector for over 40 years. SEWA provides women with education and training, access to credit and markets, and support for their rights as workers.

Finally, economic empowerment is crucial for women’s well-being in India. Women in India often face barriers to employment, including discrimination and lack of access to education and training. Women who do work are often employed in low-paying jobs with poor working conditions. Promoting women’s economic empowerment can help to reduce poverty and improve the overall economic development of the country.

In conclusion, women in India experience a variety of difficulties and problems, such as gender-based violence, restricted access to chances for education and work, and underrepresentation in politics. Yet, there have been initiatives in India to deal with these problems and advance gender equality. In order to empower women and advance their rights, the government and non-governmental organizations have created a number of policies and programmes. To ensure that women in India can live healthy, successful lives, more work still has to be done, and ongoing initiatives are required.

Women in Indian Society

The role of women and women’s organizations in India has been evolving over time, from the early days of the women’s suffrage movement to the present day. Women have played a crucial role in shaping Indian society, and their contributions have been instrumental in bringing about social and political change. Historically, women in India have been relegated to the domestic sphere, with limited access to education, employment, and political power. However, in recent decades, women’s organizations and activists have been working to challenge gender-based discrimination and promote women’s rights. The role of women in India has undergone significant changes in recent years, with the growth of women’s organizations and the emergence of women leaders in various fields. Women have played a crucial role in shaping the country’s history, culture, and society. They have been at the forefront of various social and political movements, fighting for their rights and challenging patriarchal norms.

Women’s organizations in India have played a pivotal role in promoting gender equality and advocating for women’s rights. These organizations have been instrumental in raising awareness about issues affecting women and girls, providing support and services to victims of gender-based violence, and advocating for policy and legislative changes to improve women’s lives.

One of the most significant women’s organizations in India is the National Federation of Indian Women (NFIW). Founded in 1954, NFIW has been at the forefront of various social and political movements, fighting for women’s rights and gender equality. The organization has been actively involved in the struggle for women’s right to education, employment, and political representation. It has also been instrumental in raising awareness about violence against women and promoting women’s health and reproductive rights.

Another important women’s organization in India is the All-India Women’s Conference (AIWC). Established in 1927, AIWC has been a pioneer in the women’s movement in India. The organization has been active in promoting women’s education, health, and economic empowerment. It has also been involved in the struggle for women’s political representation and advocating for legislative changes to protect women’s rights.

In addition to these national-level organizations, there are several grassroots-level women’s organizations in India that have been working tirelessly to improve the lives of women in their communities. These organizations have been instrumental in providing support and services to women and girls who are victims of gender-based violence, promoting women’s education and economic empowerment, and advocating for policy changes to improve women’s lives.

Women leaders in India have also played a crucial role in shaping the country’s political landscape. Several women have held top positions in government, including Indira Gandhi, who served as the country’s Prime Minister from 1966 to 1977 and again from 1980 to 1984. In recent years, several women have been elected to key positions in government, including Sushma Swaraj, who served as the country’s Minister of External Affairs from 2014 to 2019, and Nirmala Sitharaman, who became the first woman to serve as the country’s Minister of Finance in 2019.

Women have also made significant contributions to the country’s cultural and artistic landscape. Indian cinema has produced several women actors, directors, and producers who have made a name for themselves both in India and abroad. Women writers, artists, and musicians have also made significant contributions to the country’s cultural heritage.

However, despite these positive developments, women in India continue to face significant challenges. Gender-based violence, including domestic violence, sexual harassment, and rape, remains a pervasive problem in the country. Women’s access to education, health care, and economic opportunities is often limited by societal norms and gender stereotypes. Women’s political representation also remains low, with women holding only around 22% of seats in the national parliament.

In conclusion, women and women’s organizations have played a crucial role in shaping the history, culture, and society of India. Women’s organizations have been instrumental in promoting gender equality and advocating for women’s rights, while women leaders have made significant contributions to the country’s political, cultural, and artistic landscape. However, despite these positive developments, women in India continue to face significant challenges, and there is still a long way to go to achieve true gender equality.

Effects of Globalization on India

The process of worldwide integration that comes about as a result of cross-border trade in products, ideas, and culture is referred to as globalisation. Since the 1990s, when the nation started a series of economic reforms that opened up its markets to the rest of the globe, it has had a significant impact on Indian society. This essay will examine economic, social, and cultural ramifications of globalisation on Indian society.

Economic Effects

One of the most significant effects of globalization on Indian society has been the transformation of the Indian economy. Prior to the 1990s, the Indian economy was largely closed to foreign investment and trade. However, the government’s decision to liberalize the economy led to an influx of foreign investment, which spurred economic growth and development. Today, India is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, with a GDP growth rate of around 7% per year. Globalization has also led to the emergence of a new middle class in India. As the economy has grown, so has the purchasing power of the Indian people. This has led to an increase in demand for consumer goods and services, such as automobiles, electronics, and entertainment. As a result, multinational corporations have targeted the Indian market, leading to the establishment of many foreign-owned businesses in the country.

However, the benefits of economic growth have not been evenly distributed across Indian society. While the middle class has prospered, many people in rural areas and urban slums have been left behind. Income inequality remains a significant challenge, with the top 10% of the population accounting for nearly 55% of the country’s wealth.

Social Effects

Globalization has had a significant impact on Indian society, particularly in terms of social and demographic changes. One of the most significant changes has been the rise of urbanization. As the economy has grown, many people have migrated from rural areas to cities in search of better opportunities. This has led to the growth of cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, which are now home to millions of people.

However, urbanization has also brought with it a range of social challenges. The rapid growth of cities has led to overcrowding, pollution, and inadequate infrastructure, such as housing and transportation. In addition, urbanization has contributed to the breakdown of traditional social structures, as people move away from their rural communities and traditional ways of life. Globalization has also had a significant impact on gender relations in India. As more women have entered the workforce, their role in society has changed. Women are now more likely to be educated and employed, which has increased their economic independence and social status. However, gender inequality remains a significant challenge in India, particularly in rural areas, where women’s rights are often neglected.

Cultural Effects

Globalization has had a significant impact on Indian culture, both positive and negative. On the one hand, the exchange of ideas and cultural practices has enriched Indian culture. For example, the influence of Western music, fashion, and cinema has led to the emergence of new cultural forms that are unique to India.

On the other hand, globalization has also led to the erosion of traditional cultural practices. As people have migrated to cities and adopted Western lifestyles, traditional practices such as dress, language, and religion have been replaced. In addition, the spread of Western media has led to a decline in the popularity of traditional art forms such as classical music and dance.

In conclusion, globalization has had a profound impact on Indian society, transforming it in many ways. While there have been some positive changes, such as increased economic growth and access to technology, there have also been negative consequences, such as increased inequality, cultural change, and environmental degradation. It is up to policymakers in India to navigate these changes and ensure that the benefits of globalization are distributed fairly across the population.

India After Independence

A pivotal moment in Indian history occurred when the country became independent from British rule in 1947. After decades of foreign rule, the country was left with the tremendous task of uniting and reforming the nation. Political, economic, and social aspects together make up the three major spheres of India’s consolidation and reorganization following independence.

Political Consolidation

The Indian Constitution was adopted on 26th January 1950, and India became a republic, with a federal system of government. The constitution provided for a parliamentary system of government with a President as the head of the state. The Constitution also provided for a bicameral legislature consisting of the Rajya Sabha (Council of States) and the Lok Sabha (The first general elections were held in 1952, and the Indian National Congress, led by Jawaharlal Nehru, won a massive victory. The Congress party dominated Indian politics for several decades, and Jawaharlal Nehru was the Prime Minister of India until his death in 1964. The Congress party played a crucial role in consolidating the country after independence by building a strong central government, ensuring the unity and integrity of the nation, and promoting economic development.The Indian Constitution also provided for the creation of states based on linguistic and cultural identity. This policy of linguistic reorganization was a significant step in consolidating the country as it helped to resolve many linguistic and regional conflicts. In 1956, the States Reorganization Act was passed, which created states based on linguistic and cultural identity. This act led to the creation of 14 states and six union territories. The reorganization of states helped to promote regional development and cultural identity.

Economic Consolidation

India’s economy was in shambles when it gained independence in 1947. The country faced many economic challenges, including low per capita income, high poverty levels, and inadequate infrastructure. The government took several measures to consolidate and reorganize the economy, including land reforms, industrialization, and the development of the agricultural sector. Land reforms were introduced to redistribute land from the wealthy landlords to the landless peasants. This policy helped to promote social justice and reduce inequality. The government also encouraged industrialization to promote economic growth and development. The Industrial Policy Resolution was passed in 1948, which aimed to develop heavy industries, such as steel, cement, and machine tools. The government also focused on the development of the agricultural sector. The Green Revolution, which started in the 1960s, was a significant step towards achieving food self-sufficiency. The government provided farmers with high-yielding seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation facilities. The Green Revolution helped to increase agricultural production, reduce hunger, and promote economic growth.

Social Consolidation

Constitutional guarantees: The Indian Constitution, adopted in 1950, provided several guarantees for women’s rights, including equality before law, non-discrimination on the basis of sex, and the right to freedom and personal liberty.

Women’s suffrage: In 1950, India granted women the right to vote and contest in elections. This helped to increase their political participation and representation in the country.

Legal reforms: The post-independence period saw several legal reforms aimed at improving the status of women. The Hindu Marriage Act of 1955, for instance, provided for the first time, women’s right to divorce and inherit property. The Dowry Prohibition Act of 1961 sought to curb the practice of dowry, which had been a major source of harassment and violence against women.

Educational opportunities: The government introduced several measures to increase educational opportunities for girls and women, such as the establishment of women’s universities, colleges, and scholarships for female students.

Employment opportunities: The post-independence period saw a significant increase in employment opportunities for women. The government introduced several affirmative action policies, such as reservations in government jobs and educational institutions, to promote women’s participation in the workforce.

Women’s movements: The post-independence period also saw the emergence of several women’s movements aimed at addressing issues such as violence against women, gender discrimination, and reproductive rights. These movements played a crucial role in raising awareness about women’s issues and advocating for their rights.

The challenges that the Indian government faced was to reorganize the country’s administrative and political structure to meet the aspirations of the diverse population. India’s post-independence period was characterized by a strong central government that wielded considerable power over the states. However, this model was not sustainable in the long run as it failed to address the regional disparities and the demands for greater autonomy. The Indian government’s response to these challenges was to embark on a process of reorganization that aimed to create states on linguistic lines. The idea was to create states that would cater to the linguistic and cultural aspirations of the people and promote regional development. The first linguistic state, Andhra Pradesh, was created in 1953, and this was followed by the creation of several other states such as Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. The process of reorganization culminated in 1987 with the creation of three new states, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, and Goa, bringing the total number of states in India to 28.

The reorganization of the country had several benefits. It gave voice to the linguistic and cultural aspirations of the people and promoted regional development. It also helped to address the problem of regional disparities and gave the states greater autonomy to manage their affairs. However, it also had some negative consequences. The creation of new states led to demands for further fragmentation, which could weaken the unity and integrity of the country. Overall, India’s post-independence period witnessed significant efforts towards social consolidation and reorganization, with a particular focus on women’s rights and status. While there have been significant improvements, there is still much work to be done to ensure gender equality and empower women in India.

In conclusion, India’s post-independence consolidation and reorganization were critical to the country’s progress and development. The consolidation of the princely states and the strengthening of the defense capabilities helped to secure the country’s territorial integrity. The reorganization of the country on linguistic lines helped to address the regional disparities and gave voice to the linguistic and cultural aspirations of the people. However, the process of reorganization also had some negative consequences, and the challenge for India’s leaders is to strike a delicate balance between unity and diversity.

How to celebrate eco-friendly Holi?

March is here and many are looking forward to celebrating the Holi festival. As per the calendar, this festival will be start on 20th March and end on 21st of March in the year 2019. It is a very exciting time especially for young children. Holi festival marks an onset of spring season and the end of winter.

As per Indian customs and traditions, Holi festival is celebrated with water, balloons and colours. However, due to more awareness in recent years, people have realized some of the health hazards due to harmful chemicals used during the festival. Hence, it is better to enjoy and have fun in an eco-friendly manner. Here are ten ways to celebrate an eco-friendly Holi festival.

1. Avoid Wastage of Water
As we all know, water conservation is the need of the hour. There is water shortage and scarcity in many places of Maharashtra and other parts of India. Play a dry Holi without wasting water. You can avoid the use of Pichkaris to spray water on others.

2. Use Natural Colours
There are many harmful chemicals in synthetic colours. Hence, you can use natural colours like henna, turmeric, chandan, beetroot powder and more. These would not cause damage to your skin or hair. They can be washed off easily and serve the purpose well.

3. Holi Bonfire Made Easy
Instead of using precious wood by chopping off the trees, one can burn eco-friendly waste for Holi bonfire which will not create pollution. Use ingredients like cow-dung cakes, coconut waste and camphor to light up. Pledge to protect trees and have a greener environment this Holi festival.

4. Respect the Ban on Plastic
As we all know, many states have completely banned the use of plastic. This has been done in order to protect the environment. Respect the rules and avoid the use of plastic bags. Teach your children to protect the environment by avoiding the use of plastic bags.

5. Focus on the Traditional Aspects
We all love food and parties. So why not celebrate Holi festival by organizing a party with traditional dishes like ‘puran polis,’ ‘malpuas’, and ‘gujiyas.’ Celebrate Holi with a colourful party involving traditional Holi dishes which are delicious and sumptuous.

6. Holi with Flowers
Did you know that decomposed flowers act as a great organic fertilizer for the soil? Instead of polluting the environment, play a gentle Holi using scented flowers. Avoid harsh and aggressive behaviour during the festival. Instead of troubling friends and forcibly playing with them, the use of flowers is calming and has a soothing effect.

7. Protect Animals
Many a time, people involve animals during festivities. Yes, Holi festival is fun however you must not become too excited and cross your limits. Applying colours on animals and spraying water on them is not at all required. We should love animals; so stay away from harmful behaviour and have an animal friendly Holi celebration.

8. Make Your Own Colours
Make your own colours using natural or herbal products only. You can mix and create your own combinations. Turmeric, sandalwood, fuller’s Earth, besan, soaked peels of pomegranate and beetroot juice, etc can all be used to create colours and add fun to your day.

9. Have a Safe Holi
Did you know that some people actually use items like sand, eggs, petrol and even oil paints during the Holi festival? You should definitely not spray or apply such stuff to your body as it is very harmful and absolutely not required.

10. Don’t Litter or Pollute the Environment
We should clean up the surroundings after celebrating Holi festival. Keep a separate area for playing and once you are done, avoid messing the place. Do not pollute the water or environment as it can damage the trees and surroundings.
We should celebrate Holi festival keeping in mind the spirit of this festival. Holi is more about the triumph of good over evil. Buy sweets from reputed shops only as many stores sell adulterated sugary sweets on the occasion of Holi. Following tradition is equally important along with protecting the environment. Celebrate an eco-friendly and see the benefits for yourself. You will enjoy and have a great time with family, relatives and friends. Stay healthy, safe and happy on this beautiful day!

Modern Indian History at a Glance

A fascinating and intricate topic, modern Indian history from the middle of the eighteenth century to the present spans more than two centuries of India’s rich cultural, social, economic, and political history. As India progressively transitioned from a colonial past to an independent nation-state, this time period saw tremendous changes in the social, political, and economic environment of the country.

British Colonial Rule (1757-1947)

India was colonized by the British East India Company in 1757 after the Battle of Plassey. The British gradually expanded their control over India until the country was formally ruled by the British Crown from 1858 to 1947. This period was marked by the exploitation of Indian resources, the introduction of Western education, the Indian Rebellion of 1857, and the emergence of Indian nationalism.

Indian National Movement (1885-1947)

The Indian National Congress was founded in 1885 with the goal of achieving self-rule for India. Prominent leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Subhas Chandra Bose played a significant role in the movement. The movement gained momentum with the Salt Satyagraha in 1930, and India finally gained independence from British rule in 1947.

Partition of India (1947)

India was partitioned into two separate countries, India and Pakistan, in 1947, following communal violence and political unrest. This event led to the displacement of millions of people and marked the beginning of a long-standing conflict between India and Pakistan.

Post-Independence India

It was marked by the leadership of Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India. Nehru’s socialist policies focused on central planning and state-led development. Land reforms, which aimed to redistribute land from wealthy landlords to landless peasants, were implemented during his tenure. Nehru also established institutions of higher education, such as the Indian Institutes of Technology and the Indian Institutes of Management. Nehru’s foreign policy was based on the principle of non-alignment. India did not align with any major power bloc during the Cold War and played a significant role in the Non-Aligned Movement. Indira Gandhi, Nehru’s daughter, succeeded him as Prime Minister in 1966. Gandhi was a dynamic leader who pursued a socialist economic agenda and implemented policies such as nationalization of banks and industries. Her government was marked by authoritarian tendencies, and the period of Emergency from 1975-1977 was a significant event in Indian history. During the Emergency, civil liberties were suspended, political opposition was suppressed, and the press was censored. The period was marked by widespread human rights abuses, including forced sterilization programs. The post-Emergency period saw the rise of regional parties and the decline of the Congress party’s dominance in Indian politics. The 1990s saw the rise of The Bhartiya Janta Party. The BJP’s most significant electoral victory came in 2014 when Narendra Modi, a former chief minister of Gujarat, was elected as Prime Minister. Modi’s government has pursued a range of policies including the Citizenship Amendment Act, which grants citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from neighbouring countries.

India’s Wars and Conflicts

India has been involved in several wars and conflicts since independence. The Indo-Pakistani Wars of 1965 and 1971, the Sino-Indian War of 1962, and the Kargil War of 1999 are some of the major conflicts that have shaped India’s modern history.

Economic Liberalization (1991-present)

The Indian economy underwent significant changes in the early 1990s when the government of P.V. Narasimha Rao initiated a process of economic liberalization. The liberalization program aimed to reduce government control over the economy and promote private sector growth. The reforms included measures such as the reduction of import tariffs, deregulation of industries, and privatization of state-owned enterprises. The economic liberalization program had a significant impact on the Indian economy, leading to an increase in foreign investment, a rise in GDP growth, and the emergence of a new middle class. However, the liberalization program also led to increasing income inequality and the marginalization of certain sections of society.

Contemporary Issues

India continues to face various contemporary issues such as corruption, communalism, casteism, terrorism, and environmental degradation. The country is also grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic impact.

In conclusion, a number of important incidents, people, and problems have shaped contemporary Indian history and will continue to have an effect on how the nation develops. Conflicts with its neighbours, the fight for independence, the division of the country, economic liberalization, and other factors have all had a significant impact on India’s modern history.

INDIA’S STRUGGLE FOR FREEDOM

Indian colonial rule was overthrown after a protracted and difficult struggle for freedom. It started in the late 19th century and continued until 1947, when India attained independence. Many rallies, marches, and acts of civil disobedience were part of the movement, and all were directed towards bringing about India’s independence. The Indian Rebellion of 1857, commonly referred to as the Indian Mutiny, is the beginning of the Indian freedom fight. Widespread resistance to British authority was sparked by a number of grievances, including the imposition of British laws, excessive taxes, and the theft of Indian resources. Although the British brutally put down the revolt, it was a driving force behind the Indian independence movement.

One of the key figures in the Indian freedom struggle was Mahatma Gandhi. He was a leader of the Indian National Congress, and he advocated for non-violent resistance as a means of achieving independence. Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violent resistance, known as Satyagraha, inspired many Indians to join the struggle for independence. Gandhi’s famous Salt March in 1930, in which he and his followers walked 240 miles to the Arabian Sea to make their own salt in defiance of British salt taxes, is one of the most iconic events of the Indian independence movement.

Another important figure in the Indian freedom struggle was Jawaharlal Nehru, who became the first Prime Minister of independent India. Nehru was a leader of the Indian National Congress, and he worked tirelessly to achieve independence for India. He was also a strong advocate for democracy and secularism, and his vision for India was one of a modern, democratic, and secular nation.

The Indian freedom struggle was marked by many important events, including the Partition of India in 1947, which resulted in the creation of Pakistan. The partition was a deeply divisive event that resulted in the displacement of millions of people and the loss of countless lives.

The Indian freedom struggle can be divided into several phases, each marked by a distinct set of events, movements, and leaders. These phases are as follows:

The Early Nationalists (1857-1905)

The early nationalist phase of the Indian freedom struggle was marked by the Indian Rebellion of 1857, which is also known as the First War of Indian Independence. Although the rebellion failed, it laid the groundwork for the nationalist movement that followed. The early nationalists were a diverse group of people who shared a common goal of achieving independence from British rule. Some of the prominent leaders of this phase were Dadabhai Naoroji, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, and Bal Gangadhar Tilak.

The Extremists (1905-1918)

The extremist phase of the Indian freedom struggle was marked by the rise of the Indian National Congress and the emergence of a more militant form of nationalism. The Extremists, also known as the Swadeshi Movement, advocated for complete independence from British rule and launched several protests, boycotts, and agitations to achieve this goal. Some of the prominent leaders of this phase were Lala Lajpat Rai, Bipin Chandra Pal, and Bal Gangadhar Tilak.

The Gandhian Era (1919-1947)

The Gandhian era of the Indian freedom struggle is perhaps the most well-known phase of the struggle. Mahatma Gandhi, who was a key figure in this phase, advocated for non-violent civil disobedience and launched several mass movements to achieve India’s independence. The Salt Satyagraha, the Quit India Movement, and the Non-Cooperation Movement are some of the most significant movements of this era. Other prominent leaders of this phase were Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Subhas Chandra Bose.

The Post-Independence Era (1947-Present)

The post-independence era of the Indian freedom struggle saw India gain independence from British rule in 1947. This phase was marked by the challenges of nation-building, including the partition of India and the integration of princely states. The post-independence era also saw the emergence of new challenges, such as poverty, illiteracy, and communal tensions. Some of the prominent leaders of this phase were Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, and Rajiv Gandhi.

Throughout the freedom struggle, there were several important contributors and contributions from different parts of the country. In Bengal, leaders like Aurobindo Ghosh, Bipin Chandra Pal, and Surendranath Banerjee played a significant role in the nationalist movement. In Punjab, Lala Lajpat Rai, Bhagat Singh, and Udham Singh were important contributors to the freedom struggle. In Maharashtra, leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Gopal Krishna Gokhale played a significant role in the nationalist movement. In South India, leaders like C. Rajagopalachari, K. Kamaraj, and S. Satyamurthy played important roles in the freedom struggle. In the Northeast, leaders like Rani Gaidinliu and Tirot Sing played significant roles in the nationalist movement. In Kerala, leaders like K. Kelappan, T. K. Madhavan, and A. K. Gopalan played important roles in the freedom struggle.

In conclusion, today, India is a vibrant and diverse democracy, with a population of over 1.3 billion people. The Indian freedom struggle was a long and difficult journey, but it ultimately succeeded in achieving independence for India and paving the way for the country’s future as a democratic and secular nation.

Analyzing the salience of ‘sect’ in Indian society vis-a-vis caste, region, and religion

Introduction:

The term ‘sect’ refers to a group of people who share common beliefs, practices, and rituals that distinguish them from other groups. In Indian society, the concept of the sect has a significant role in shaping the social, cultural, and religious landscape. It is essential to analyze the salience of ‘sect’ in Indian society, vis-a-vis caste, region, and religion, to understand the dynamics of the social structure and its impact on individual and collective identity.

The Role of Sects in Indian Society:

Sects in Indian society are primarily organized around religious beliefs and practices. The Indian subcontinent has a diverse range of religious sects, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, and Islam, among others. These sects are further divided into sub-sects, each with its own distinct beliefs and practices. For instance, in Hinduism, there are several sects, including Shaivism, Vaishnavism, Shaktism, Smartism, and others. Each sect has its own set of beliefs and practices, including the worship of specific deities, observance of specific rituals, and adherence to specific codes of conduct.

The salience of ‘sect’ in Indian society is closely intertwined with other social categories, such as caste, region, and religion. For instance, in Hinduism, caste and sect are closely linked, with each caste group having its own religious practices and beliefs. Similarly, in Islam, there are different sects, such as Sunni and Shia, each with its own set of beliefs and practices. Religion and region are also closely linked, with certain regions being associated with specific religious traditions. For instance, North India is primarily associated with Hinduism, while the South is associated with Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity.

The Impact of Sects on Social Identity:

The concept of the sect has a significant impact on social identity in Indian society. Individuals’ identification with a particular sect often determines their social status and the social groups they belong. In the Hindu caste system, one’s sect determines their caste, which, in turn, determines their occupation, social status, and access to resources. Similarly, in Islam, the sect one belongs to can have a significant impact on their social status and the social groups to which one belongs to.

The concept of the sect also impacts individual and collective identity formation. Individuals often identify themselves based on their sect, which shapes their religious beliefs, practices, and values. This, in turn, impacts their social interactions and relationships, as they tend to associate with individuals from the same sect. The concept of the sect also shapes collective identity formation, as individuals from the same sect often come together to form social and religious organizations that promote their shared beliefs and practices.

The Role of Sects in Inter-Group Relations:

The concept of the sect also plays a significant role in inter-group relations in Indian society. Sects often compete for resources and influence, leading to conflict and tensions between different sects. For instance, in Hinduism, there have been historical tensions between Shaivites and Vaishnavites, as both sects venerate different deities and have different beliefs and practices. Similarly, in Islam, there have been tensions between Sunni and Shia sects, as they have different beliefs and practices.

However, sects can also facilitate inter-group cooperation and solidarity. Individuals from the same sect often come together to support each other in times of need and form social and religious organizations that promote their shared beliefs and practices. Sects can also facilitate inter-group dialogue and cooperation, as individuals from different sects come together to share their beliefs and practices and learn from each other.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the concept of sect plays a crucial role in shaping the social, cultural, and religious landscape of Indian society. Sects are closely intertwined with other social categories, such as caste, region, and religion, and impact individual and collective identity formation, social status, and inter-group relations. While sects can lead to conflicts and tensions, they can also facilitate inter-group cooperation and dialogue. Therefore, understanding the dynamics of sects in Indian society is essential for promoting social cohesion, inter-group understanding, and harmony.

Is inclusive growth possible in a market economy? State the significance of financial inclusion in achieving economic growth in India.

Inclusive growth, also known as equitable growth, is a concept that emphasizes the importance of economic growth that benefits all members of society, regardless of their socio-economic status. In a market economy, where the allocation of resources is primarily determined by the interplay of supply and demand, achieving inclusive growth can be daunting. However, inclusive growth can be possible in a market economy with the right policies and strategies. This article will explore the concept of inclusive growth and its feasibility in a market economy. We will also discuss the importance of financial inclusion in achieving economic growth in India.

The concept of inclusive growth is based on the idea that economic growth should be broad-based and inclusive, and not limited to a select few individuals or groups. It emphasizes the importance of creating opportunities and access to resources for all members of society, particularly those who are traditionally marginalized or excluded from economic activities. Inclusive growth is necessary to reduce poverty, inequality, and social exclusion and promote sustainable and long-term economic growth.

Market economies are based on the principles of supply and demand, where the market determines the allocation of resources. While market economies have the potential to generate economic growth and create wealth, they are also characterized by inequality and social exclusion. The benefits of economic growth are not distributed equally, and certain segments of society may be left behind. This is particularly true for marginalized groups such as women, minorities, and low-income households.

However, it is possible to achieve inclusive growth in a market economy by implementing policies and strategies that promote access to resources and opportunities for all members of society. For example, policies that focus on improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure can help create a more inclusive economy. Additionally, policies that promote entrepreneurship and innovation can help create new opportunities for marginalized groups and reduce barriers to entry.

Financial inclusion is a critical component of inclusive growth, particularly in developing economies such as India. Financial inclusion refers to the process of providing access to financial services to all members of society, particularly those who are traditionally excluded from the formal financial sector. Financial inclusion can help reduce poverty, increase economic growth, and promote social inclusion.

In India, financial inclusion has become a key priority for policymakers in recent years. The government has launched several initiatives to promote financial inclusion, including the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), which aims to provide access to financial services to all households in the country. The PMJDY has been successful in reaching millions of unbanked households and has helped promote financial inclusion in the country.

Financial inclusion can have a significant impact on economic growth in India. By providing access to financial services, particularly credit, financial inclusion can help promote entrepreneurship and innovation, which are critical drivers of economic growth. Additionally, financial inclusion can help reduce poverty and improve the standard of living for marginalized groups.

Conclusion:

However, achieving financial inclusion is not without its challenges. One of the key challenges is the lack of access to formal financial institutions in rural and remote areas. Many marginalized groups, particularly those living in rural areas, do not have access to formal financial institutions such as banks and insurance companies. This limits their ability to access financial services and can perpetuate poverty and exclusion.

Another challenge is the lack of financial literacy among marginalized groups. Many individuals, particularly those who are not well-educated or do not have access to formal financial institutions, may not understand how financial services work or how to use them effectively. This can limit their ability to take advantage of financial services and can lead to financial insecurity.

To address these challenges, policymakers in India must focus on developing innovative solutions that promote financial inclusion. For example, mobile banking and digital payment systems can help reach marginalized groups in remote areas and provide access to financial services.

Exploration and Evaluation of the impact of “Work From Home” on Family Relationships

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we work and live. We are now transitioning from traditional office hours to a new work-from-home culture. As companies grapple with the challenges of social distancing, they’re increasingly focusing on telecommuting and remote working. This is the new normal in the workplace, and it’s bringing with it many benefits.

For one, remote working eliminates the need for costly office space and commuting for employees. This can help companies save a significant amount of money, especially in big cities with high rent costs. It also allows employees to work from any location, giving them the flexibility to work from home, a vacation spot, or even a coffee shop.

Remote working also allows employees to better manage their own work-life balance. This can decrease levels of stress and fatigue, thereby increasing job performance and productivity. Even though it may be hard for some people to focus without the structure of an office environment, many more individuals find that the flexibility of remote working is beneficial to them.

Companies are also finding that allowing employees to work from home can have positive effects on office morale. With fewer distractions and more focused work, teams are able to collaborate more quickly and easily. This can lead to higher employee satisfaction and improved customer service.

The transition to work from home is an opportunity to re-evaluate the way we work and live. With the right tools and strategies, companies and employees can take advantage of the many benefits remote working offers. As we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, this will likely be the new normal in the workplace.

Positive Impacts

Increased Family Time: One of the most significant benefits of WFH is the increased amount of time that families can spend together. With the elimination of commutes, families can enjoy a more relaxed schedule and spend more quality time with each other.
Improved Work-Life Balance: WFH allows individuals to balance their work and personal life more effectively. They can take care of household chores and attend to personal errands during the day, reducing stress and increasing overall satisfaction with their work-life balance.
More Flexibility: WFH provides individuals with the flexibility to work from anywhere, at any time. This allows for a more relaxed and flexible schedule, leading to a reduced sense of stress and increased happiness.

Negative Impacts

Increased Stress: While WFH has its benefits, it can also lead to increased stress. The boundaries between work and personal life can become blurred, leading to longer work hours and increased pressure to be available at all times.
Decreased Quality of Family Time: While WFH allows for increased family time, it can also lead to decreased quality of that time. With work constantly in the background, it can be difficult for individuals to fully disconnect and enjoy quality time with their families.
Isolation and Loneliness: WFH can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, especially for those who are used to working in a social environment. The lack of face-to-face interactions with colleagues and clients can be detrimental to mental health and overall well-being.

Conclusion

WFH has had a significant impact on family relationships, with both positive and negative consequences. While it has allowed for increased family time and improved work-life balance, it has also resulted in increased stress, decreased quality of family time, and feelings of isolation and loneliness. It is important for individuals to find a balance between work and personal life, setting clear boundaries and prioritizing their mental health and well-being. Overall, the impact of WFH on family relationships is complex and varied, and it is up to each individual to make the best of the situation and find a balance that works for them and their family.

How India is an age-old friend of Sri Lanka?

India and Sri Lanka share a deep and rich cultural and historical bond that has lasted for centuries. The two countries are separated by a narrow strip of the sea but have been connected through trade, religion, and cultural exchange for centuries. This connection has resulted in India becoming an age-old friend of Sri Lanka.

One of the key factors that have cemented the bond between the two countries is religion. Buddhism is the main religion in Sri Lanka, and it has its roots in India. The religion was introduced to Sri Lanka by the Indian Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, and since then, it has become an integral part of Sri Lankan culture. India and Sri Lanka have also shared a strong spiritual bond through Buddhism, and this has further strengthened their relationship.

Trade has also been a major factor in the relationship between the two countries. India and Sri Lanka have been trading with each other for centuries, and this has helped to cement their relationship. The two countries have traded a wide range of goods, including spices, textiles, and precious stones, and this has helped to create a strong economic bond between the two countries.

Cultural exchange has also played a significant role in the relationship between India and Sri Lanka. The two countries have shared a rich cultural heritage, and this has been reflected in the music, dance, art, and literature of the two countries. For example, the classical dance form of Bharatanatyam is popular in both India and Sri Lanka, and the two countries have also shared a rich tradition of classical music.

The historical bond between the two countries is also very strong. Sri Lanka has been ruled by several Indian dynasties, and this has helped to create a strong cultural and historical connection between the two countries. For example, the Chola dynasty, which ruled Sri Lanka from the 9th to the 13th centuries, had a significant impact on Sri Lankan culture and architecture, and this has left a lasting legacy in the country.

The bond between India and Sri Lanka has also been strengthened by their political relationship. The two countries have worked together on a range of issues, including trade, security, and regional stability. They have also cooperated on a range of international issues, including climate change, and this has helped to strengthen their relationship further.

The relationship between India and Sri Lanka has also been strengthened by the Indian community in Sri Lanka. The Indian community in Sri Lanka has made significant contributions to the country, and this has helped to create a strong bond between the two countries. The Indian community in Sri Lanka has played a key role in the country’s economy and has helped to create a strong cultural bond between the two countries.

In conclusion, India and Sri Lanka share a deep and rich cultural, historical, and political bond that has lasted for centuries. The two countries have been connected through trade, religion, and cultural exchange, and this has helped to create a strong bond between the two countries. The relationship between India and Sri Lanka is an excellent example of how two countries can be connected through a deep and rich cultural and historical bond, and this bond has helped to create a strong and lasting friendship between the two countries.

India wins the 2nd ODI and series against Sri Lanka

In the ongoing series India again displayed a noteworthy performance. The 2^nd match of the ODI series was being played at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

After winning the toss, the Sri Lankan team choose to bat first. In the first innings, they posted a total of 215. In their inning, Nuwanidu Fernando scored the highest run of 50. From the Indian side, Kuldeep Yadav took 3 wickets.

In the second innings, India started on a strong note but lost Rohit Sharma and Shuman Gill in quick succession. After the fall of both the openers, India was at 41. Then came Virat Kohli, who lost his wicket at a score of 4 and India was at 62 at that moment. Then Shreyas Iyer tried to steady the ship with K L Rahul. Shreyas fell at a personal score of 28 when India was at 86. Then a partnership was built by K L Rahul and Hardik Pandya. They both took India to a respectable score of 161, which kept India in the hunt for the win. Then Hardik Pandya fell for a personal score of 36. After that Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav also came in to take India home. Axar Patel continued his good form and scored 21 at a run-a-ball pace, which also had a six and a four. Kuldeep on the other hand scored 10 runs in 10 balls and made sure that India made it home with 219 on board in 43.2 overs and 4 wickets in hand. Along with this win, India secured another ODI series victory over their home turf. They are now head of Sri Lanka with a 2-0 lead.

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In the second innings, Sri Lanka also performed well in the beginning. They were able to remove both openers in quick succession. Then, Viral Kohli also rapidly returned to the pavilion. But after that, K L Rahul and Hardik Pandya built a partnership that made sure that India won the match and also the series. In the bowling department, Chamika Karunaratne along with Lahiru Kumara took 2 wickets each. Also, Wanindu Hasaranga de Silva was the most economical bowler and gave away just 28 runs in his quota of 10 overs.

With this series win Indian cricket team put their foot forward on a positive note in the new year. This win will also help them in some way in their preparation towards the ODI World Cup, which will be played this year in India itself. It was an important series as Sri Lanka is the current champions of Asia after they won the Asia Cup in 2022. This series will also give them the confidence to face the next series. The next series for the Indian team will be against New Zealand, which is currently playing against Pakistan.NZ is also currently the winner of the ODI series against Pakistan with a lead of 2-1.

In the upcoming series against NZ, India will be playing 3 ODIs and 3 T20s. New Zealand will be touring India for this series, they will also have a chance to flex their muscle. In the last World Cup in 2019, New Zealand was unlucky to lose against England in the final.

Relevance of cricket throughout the year

Gone are the days when we had the opportunity to watch our favourite national cricket team play a game or a series in a year. Now, we have cricket throughout the year. Teams visit different countries and play several series in a year. Now the series also have various duration. Some are very short and some are of very long duration. It appears as if cricket has lost its shine.

Now, players play throughout the year. If they are free, then they take part in some domestic tournaments all over the globe. IPL has been one of the biggest influencers in such a manner. It gives the players a platform to showcase their skills and also provides them with a chance to earn big amounts. They are also paid handsomely in such tournaments and sometimes. Even get recognition in their respective countries.

But all of this is slowly creating problems. Now, the question arises that how can this round-the-clock behaviour be stopped. Is there any way that can ensure that cricket stays relevant for a longer duration? The new format of T20 is also taking the shine off the test matches.

With the exit of India, in T20 World Cup the talks are on several sections of society giving their opinion. The team reached the semi-final and then aced a 10- wicket defeat from the England cricket team.

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After this defeat, questions are raised about the performance of the team. A blame game is also going on. Some blame the batsmen, some blame the bowlers, some blame the lack of experience and some even blame the coach.

But at the core, there is also some positive result in this year’s performance. The younger lot of the team has performed well to some extent. The team did reach the semi-final and this is a good sign. It can give some confidence to the team before they proceed to the ODI World Cup in 2023.

For the preparation part, the Indian team which is playing in NZ currently, has some changes. For starters, Dravid has been replaced by Laxman as the new head coach of the Indian cricket team.

For the time being, the team has been able to win the T20 series against the NZ team. There were three matches, out of which the first one was washed out. The second one was won by the Indian team. Then the third match ended in a tie. So, this results in the Indian team winning the series. Now, it’s time for the ODI series. The series will better prepare the team for the next year’s ODI World Cup.

After this series, there is also a series against the Bangladesh team in Bangladesh. It will also be helpful as the series will be played in friendly conditions. Another plus point is that as the next year’s World Cup will be played in India, so familiar conditions will give more exposure to the youngsters to play in the single-day format of the popular game.

Apple iPhone will get the largest manufacturing unit in India

iPhones have been able to grab eyeballs everywhere. They have the best hardware for all users. For convenience, various form factors are available for the users. Every year, new iPhones give users something new to experience.

But pandemic has been able to affect the overall manufacturing of the iPhones worldwide. It has been mainly due to the disruption at the China plant. China has the largest iPhone manufacturing plant. It was due to the lockdown due to the COVID pandemic. The plant is the Zhengzhou plant.

On the positive side, India has started to gain due to this loss. Now, there is positive information that Hosur near Bangalore, will get the largest iPhone plant in the country. Now, iPhones will be manufactured at the new plant where approximately, 60000 people will get to work with new iPhones. Among these 60000 workers, 6000 are tribal women from the areas of Ranchi and Hazaribagh. These women have been trained to manufacture the latest iPhones. The new plant is under the control of Tata Electronics. Other than this, Apple also has other manufacturers in the country namely Foxconn, Wistron and Pegatron.

To reduce the stress on the parts supplier, Apple has given a contract to LG as a new display supplier. This will ensure that Samsung will have less burden in terms of display supply during and after the pandemic period.

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This new change has some major effects on the overall supply of the latest iPhones. The new devices will not face supply chain disruptions anymore. It will also ensure that India will be one of the major suppliers or exporters of iPhones to other markets.

But there have also been rumours that iPhones can get a price cut in India. But this is not true. As there will be no reduction in the prices of the iPhones in India. But there will be some relief to the availability of parts in our country. If the need arises, then there can also be a great market for refurbished iPhones. It will help in increasing the number of iPhone users in our country.

iPhones are also facing a little bit of a slowdown in terms of sales. This can be due to the weak financial conditions of several sections of society. So now, this kind of effect has also been seen in companies like Samsung. Samsung is currently planning to reduce the production of mobile phones by 30 million. The reduction of production will also enable the unnecessary stacking up of inventory in various warehouses.

All the above points depict that iPhones will have a great future. India will also play an important part in making a more user-friendly iPhone. The device will be more easily accessible to general users. Maybe there can also be a reduction in the prices of the iPhones. The newer models will also get the opportunity to be assembled or manufactured in countries like India. It will also help in increasing employment in the manufacturing field. The number of skilled people will also increase in terms of electronic manufacturing in our country.

India is moving towards a faster decade

With the introduction of 5G in Hyderabad and Bangalore, India has been able to get into the era of 5G. It is going to be a major change in the technological advancement in India.

On the network front, the trials are still going on for 5G in some other parts of our country. There will be an introduction of 5G in the rest of the country also. The introduction will happen very soon. The telcos are currently busy giving the final ok to the network performance for a better experience for the public.

Among all this, companies like BSNL have not been able to launch even 4G in our country. As the latest development, the contract has been given to TCS for the installation of the towers and the technology which will be taking care of the entire system. It will be the biggest order for a home-grown technical implementation in India.

Now, the next phase for BSNL will be to launch the 5G services along with 4G as soon as possible. For that, the work is going on. It is expected that BSNL will launch 4G by December or January and 5G will be rolled out by August next year.

On the private telcos front, Jio is the one which has launched 5G in Hyderabad and Bangalore. Airtel is also working hard to launch the latest 5G network in the market.

In the field of internet-related technology and especially equipment, there are some companies which are considered the world leader. The companies are Nokia, Ericsson and Huawei.

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So, if India becomes successful in developing the technology for implementing such revolutions in a country like India. Then, India will be one of the few countries that have been able to implement indigenous built technology in the country.

For those, who are not in touch with such development, the private telcos are planning to launch the services in the metro cities at first. After that, the rest of the country will be able to experience it.

In case of advantages, 5G has better speeds than 4G. The network also provides a greater number of devices to be connected. The new network will also provide better stability than the previous generations.

These new implementations will also likely increase job opportunities in the tech field.

The new launch will also initiate more locally made technologies in the future. In recent times, even Tata has been able to get the opportunity to make iPhones in India.

There is also an initiative which will allow some companies to manufacture chips in our country. It is necessary as there is a shortage of chips in India. All of these changes will surely improve the scenario of the tech world in India. There will also be some challenges to the implementation that the companies will have to tackle. It will also reveal some underlying concerns regarding the networks and the possible issues that the beta users will generally face during the trials. All of these factors will slowly disappear. Now, we will see how the 5G changes the face of our country.

Rishi sunak: Prime minister of UK

Rishi Sunak born on May 12, 1980, is a British politician who has served as Prime minister designated the United Kingdom and Leader of the conservative party since 24 October 2022. He previously served as Chancellor of the Exchequer from 2020 to 2022 and chief secretary to the treasure from 2019 to 2020. He has been a member of Parliament and MP for Richmond York since 2015.

Rishi Sunak was born in Southampton to parents of Punjabi-Indian descent who migrated to Britain from East Africa in the 1960s. He was educated at Winchester College read philosophy politics and economics PP at Lincoln College Oxford and gained an MBA from Stanford University in California. As a Fulbright scholar while studying at Stanford, he met his future wife shitamorti, the daughter of Inar Narayana Morty the Indian Billionaire businessman who founded Infosys. Sunak and Morty are the 2022 richest people in Britain with a combined fortune of 730 metres as of 2022. After graduating Sunak worked for Goldman Sachs and later as a partner at the huge fund firms the Children’s investment fund management and Saleem Partner. Sonic was elected to the House of Commons for Richmond in North Yorkshire. Its the 2015 general election succeeding William Hague sonic supported Brexit in the 2016 reference on EU membership he was appointed to Thresha Mays’s second government as the parliamentary government in the 2018 reshuffle he voted three times in favor of Mays’s Brexit withdrawal agreement after May resigned, Sonak supported Boris Johnson campaign to become a conservative leader. After Johnson was elected and appointed prime minister he appointed Sunak as Chief secretary to the treasury Sonak replaced Saja David as Chancellor of ex check after his resignation in February 2020 Cabinetry shuffle as Chancellor sunak was prominent in the government’s financial response to the Covid 19 pandemic and it’s economic impact including the coronavirus job retention and reaches to help out schemes. He resigned as Chancellor on July 2022 followed by Johnson’s resignation amid a government crisis. Sunak stood in the Conservative party leadership election to replace Johnson and last the members vote for Liz Dress following Truss’s resignation amid another government crisis. Sunak was elected unopposed as a leader of the conservative party and is set to become the next British prime minister.

He is the eldest of three siblings. His father was born and raised in the colony and protectorate of Kenya present-day Kenya while his mother was born in Tanganyika which later became part of Tanzania. His grandfather was born in Punjab province British India and migrated from East Africa with their families to the UK in the 1960s. His paternal grandfather Ramdas Sunak was from Gujranwala in presence Pakistan and moved to Nairobi in 1936 to work as a clerk where he was joined by his wife Suhagwani sunk from Delhi

Sunak’s maternal grandfather rub reason berry MBE worked in Tanganyika as a tax officer and had arranged a marriage with 16-year-old Tanganyika born srksha with whom he had three children the family moved to the UK in 1966 funded by Srksha sold her wedding jewelry Sunk attended school in Romsey Hampshire and Winchester college a boy’s independent boarding school where he was head boy.

New policy of Education system 2022

The president of India Sri Ramnath Kovind inaugurated a virtual conference of governors on the role of national education policy NEP 2020 and transforming higher education in New Delhi. Today Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the inaugural session of the conference which was attended by union education minister sir Ramesh April Shank for Education Sri Sanjay Dutta governors lieutenant governor administrations of states and also some sat chief ministers and education ministers addressing the conference.

The president of India said that the national education policy NEP will take the country, especially the youth forward by the needs and aspirations of the 21st century congratulated the prime minister for his visionary leadership and inspiring role in shaping this historical document he also appreciated Dr. Kastura Runyan and ministers as well as the officials of education ministry for giving shape to NEP. Through an elaborate process that took into consideration more than two lack suggestions received 2.5 lakhs gram panchayats more than 12.5 thousand local bodies and about 675 districts if changes are effectively brought about India will emerge as an education superpower he added elaborating on the NEP. The president said that governors being chancellors of states Universities have a crucial role to play in the implementation of NEP there are some 400 states Universities with about 40k colleges affiliated with them hence it was imperative to establish coordination and dialogues with these universities which could be done by governors who are also the chancellors the president said that Education is the most effective way for social justice and hence the NEP calls for an investment of about 6 percentage of GDP jointly by the center and the states. He said the NEP emphasized strengthening public educational institutions for a vibrant democratic society and at the same time inculcating respect among students for fundamental rights duties constitutional values and patriotism speaking on the occasion the prime minister said the education policy and education system are important means of fulfilling the aspirations of the country. The prime minister said that though the responsibility of education lies with the central state and local level governments their interference in the policy should be minimal. He said the relevance and effectiveness of the education policy will increase when more and more teachers, parents, and students get associated with it. He added that NEP 2020 was drafted after receiving feedback from millions of people across the country and from those related to the Education sector which is why there is a sense of ownership and an all round acceptance among people about this policy. The prime minister further said that NEP is not only directed at reforming the education system but also at giving a new direction to the social and economic fabric of 21st-century India. he said the policy aims at making India self-reliant or atma nirbhar by making our youth further ready in a rapidly changing world and equipping them with the knowledge and skills as per the requirements of the future. He added that NEP focuses on learning rather than studying and goes beyond the curriculum to emphasize his critical thinking he said there is more emphasis given on passion practically and performance than a process he said that the policy aims at making India a knowledge economy in the 21st century. He said that it also allows for offshore campuses of top international Universities in India which will address the issue of brain drain in his welcome remarks union education Minister Sri Rameshh’s portrayal of Shank touched upon the journey evolution and consultation process of the NEP. The minister said this policy is the result of a wide-ranging consultation process covering Laksa villages block districts’ academicians vice chancellor principal teachers and scientists he stressed the new direction and support to research that will be given through the national research foundation. He said the NEP will make our education system both flexible and stable he said the focus and the police are on reform transform and performance and hope the road to a swatch status act atma nirbhar and Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat will go through this NEP policy the minister of State for Education Sri Sanjay dutra appreciated the entering insights from the governor’s conference and thanked all the participants of the conference discussion sessions with governors lieutenant governor and education minister of the states and union Territories were held during the conference the prospect of transformational reforms in higher education under the new NEP 2020 and the road ahead was elaborately discussed upon in the session the governors and lieutenant governors briefed the president and other participants about various issues with regards to their states and union Territories.

The New Education Policy is a comprehensive and all-encompassing policy that seeks to revamp the Indian education system in its entirety. One of the most significant changes proposed by the NEP is the switch from the 10+2 education structure to a new 5+3+3+4 education system.

Under the new system, students will spend five years in elementary school, three years in middle school, three years in high school, and four years in college. This will allow for a more well-rounded and holistic education, as students will be exposed to a broader range of subjects and disciplines.

In addition, the New Education Policy 2022 also proposes introducing multiple exit options so that students can choose to leave the education system after completing elementary school, middle school, or high school if they so desire.

The NEP 2022 is an ambitious and far-reaching policy that seeks to transform the Indian education system into one that is on par with the best in the world.

This national education policy focuses on students’ individual needs. It aims to create a more flexible and adaptive education system that can meet the needs of students and the economy.

Vocational Education is part of the new education policy. It includes teaching the mother tongue and provincial languages up to the 5th year of schooling. Training in vocational skills will be included from the 6th class onwards.

LAND REFORMS

What are Land Reforms?
Land Reforms refer to the redistribution of Lands from the rich class to the poor class. It includes operations, leasing, regulations of ownership, sales, and the inheritance of Land since Land redistribution requires legal changes.

In an agrarian economy like India with massive inequalities of wealth and income, great scarcity and an unequal distribution of land, coupled with a large mass of people living below the poverty line, there are strong economic and political arguments for land reforms.Due to all these compelling reasons, Land reforms had received top priority by the governments at the time of independence. The Constitution of India left the adoption and implementation of the land reforms to the state governments. This has led to a lot of variations in the implementation of land reforms across states.

The pattern of agriculture is always irregular in India. In the pre-independence era, tenants, peasants, and small farmers suffered a lot due to the revenue systems of Mahalwari, Zamindari, ryotwari. One of the major reasons was the unequal distribution of land. Landholdings were concentrated in few hands. The majority of farmers were being exploited. The struggle of class between the bourgeoisie and the proletariat was not a new thing. After independence, it was pivotal and need of an hour to focus upon land distribution checks. Especially, it was the rural population that was facing the maximum hindrance in socio-economic development.India under the British Raj had witnessed a lot of such atrocious regulations that exploited the poor and helpless in many aspects. Among them, land ownership contributed significantly to preventing the socio-economic growth of the backward population.The government of independent India came up with acts and laws to establish equal rights and ownership of land, which now constitutes a crucial episode of India’s economy. In the following lesson, you will come across a detailed discourse on land reforms in India after independence and their importance.
The instruments that are visualized for social justice are known as Land Reforms. Land Reforms refer to the redistribution of Lands from the rich class to the poor class. It includes operations, leasing, regulations of ownership, sales, and the inheritance of Land since Land redistribution requires legal changes.
After independence in 1947, an inadequate agricultural output was apparent. In order to fix this situation, the Indian government took measures to alter existing regulations for a better outcome.

These acts formed agrarian reforms in India after independence.
he Land Reforms in post-independent India had various components:
• Abolition of Intermediaries: The first step taken by the Indian government under land reforms post-independence was passing the Zamindari Abolition Act. The abolition of the zamindari system was done that removed the layer of intermediaries who used to stand between the state and the cultivators. In many areas, superior rights were taken away from the zamindars and weakened their economic and political power.
The primary reason of a backward agrarian economy was the presence of intermediate entities like, jagirdars and zamindar who primarily focussed on collecting sky-rocketing rents catering to their personal benefits, without paying attention to the disposition of farms and farmers. Abolition of such intermediaries not only improved conditions of farmers by establishing their direct connection with the government but also improved agricultural production.

• Regulation of Rents
This was in direct response to the unimaginably high rents which were charged by intermediaries during British rule, which resulted in a never-ending cycle of poverty and misery for tenants. Indian government implemented these regulations to protect farmers and labourers from exploitation by placing a maximum limit on the rent that could be charged for land.

• Tenancy Reform: The tenancy Reform led to the introduction of regulation of rent, providing security tenure, and conferring ownership to the tenants. In the pre-independence period, the rent which was paid by the tenants was exorbitant producing 35% to 75% of gross throughout the country. The primary attempt of the Reform was either to regulate rents and give some security to the tenants or outlaw tenancy altogether.
Legislations were passed in all states of the country to grant tenants with permanent ownership of lands and protection from unlawful evictions on expiry of the lease. This law protects tenants from having to vacate a property immediately after their tenure is over unless ordered by law. Even in that case, ownership can be regained by tenants with the excuse of personal cultivation.

• Ceilings on Landholdings- This Reform referred to the legal stipulation of maximum size after which no farm household or farmer can hold any Land. By the year 1961-62 the government of all states passed the Land ceiling acts and in order to bring uniformity across states, a totally new ceiling policy was evolved in 1971. This law was enacted to prevent the concentration of land ownership in a few hands. It placed an optimum limit on the total measure of land which an individual or a family can hold. Along with fixation of land ceilings, this rule enables the government to take ownership of the additional or extra amount of land, which in turn, is given to minor tillers or farmers with no land. With the help of these Reforms, the states were able to identify and take possession of Lands exceeding the ceiling limits from the households and redistribute them to the Landless families.

• Consolidation on Land Holdings- The term consolidation referred to the redistribution or reorganization of the fragmented Lands into one single plot. The trend of the fragmentation of Land increased because of the growing population and fewer work opportunities and this fragmentation made the personal supervision and the irrigation management tasks very difficult. Therefore, the act of Landholdings consolidation was introduced which states that if there are few plots of Lands of a farmer then those Lands were consolidated in one bigger piece which was done by the process of exchanging or purchasing.

A major problem of the agrarian structure of India is land fragmentation, which hinders large-scale farming and production. This problem was solved with this regulation which permitted farmers to consolidate minor fragments of land owned by them into a singular piece of land. This enabled tenants to carry out agricultural operations in a larger field, which could be done by exchanging land or purchasing additional pieces.

Marital Rape

This report is an excerpt of an interview project that i completed for one of my practical classes. I had to interview people working in NGO working for marital rapes analyze the interview.In this project i’ve interviewed Dr. Chitra Awasthi, the founder of RIT foundation that in collaboration with many NGOs to promote gender equality in India.

NATURE OF REPORT

In order to gain insight on the prevalence of marital rape in India and to promote gender and social equality in the country, the students of Mass communication and journalism were instructed to interview an NFPO (RIT Foundation) within the field of awareness through Media

There were no stipulations about the medium used or the questions to be asked. Students were permitted to select their own respondent owing to their comfort as well as good knowledge of the field. The report is directed to citizens of the country and people across nations. The report aims to start a conversation on this topic, to give women under martial rape the courage to raise their voice and to pressurize the law-makers to criminalize such acts.

MARITAL RAPE

The act of sexual intercourse with one’s spouse without the consent of the partner is known as marital rape. Whether the perpetrator is a stranger or a spouse, it is one of the most horrific acts a man can conduct against a woman. Though marital rape is the most common and repugnant form of masochism in Indian society, it is hidden behind the iron curtain of marriage. 83% of married women i.e. nearly one in every 3 women have been subjected to physical, sexual and emotional violence from their spouse. Almost 31% of married women between the ages 15 and 49 have suffered from sexual abuse cite their current husband as the perpetrator.

Any undesired sexual actions by a spouse or ex-spouse conducted without consent and/or against a person’s will, achieved by force, threat of force, intimidation, or when a person is unable to consent, are classified as marital rape. Intercourse, anal or oral sex, forced sexual conduct with other people, and other sexual practices that the victim finds degrading, humiliating, painful, or unwelcome are examples of these sexual actions.

Rape is a crime that occurs when a woman refuses to provide her consent. It’s crucial to remember that lack of consent doesn’t always have to take the form of the word ‘no.’ It’s reasonable to assume given the circumstances. If a woman consents to sexual intercourse within a marriage because of the threat of harm to her children or herself, the woman loses her right to stay in the house or get maintenance, it is not valid consent. It is still rape.

THE CURRENT SITUATION AND STATISTICS

140 of the world’s 195 countries have already made marital rape a criminal offence. The United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Australia, and Russia are among the countries on the list.

However, 55 countries, including India, China, and Singapore, are countries where it is still OK to rape your wife.

The concept of marital rape has not been recognized until today. We’ve been lobbying for a law to make it a crime, but first we need to gather statistics on rape in marriage.

And according to the latest National Health and Family Survey (NFHS-4) for 2015-16, 5.4% women have experienced marital rape, under this category. But while the data on marital rape in India exists, marital rape as a crime “does not exist”.

And yet 5.4% of married Indian women say they have experienced marital rape. 4.4% of them say they have experienced marital rape in just the last 12 months before this survey. The figure recorded by NFHS-3 for 2005-6 was 9.5%.

But while the data on marital rape in India exists, marital rape as a crime “does not exist”.

The data also includes entries for “forced her to perform any sexual actions that she did not want to” and “forced her to perform any sexual acts that she did not want to with threats or in any other way.” Overall, 2.5% and 3.6% of married Indian women answered affirmatively to these categories as well. That brings the number of married women who have been subjected to what would be called rape or sexual violence if the perpetrator had not been their husband to 11.5 percent.

According to the National Crime Records Bureau’s (NCRB) ‘Crime in India’ 2019 report, about 70% of women in India are victims of domestic violence.

Marital rape exists in the data, but not in law

Despite the historical misconception that rape by one’s partner is a minor occurrence that causes little damage, research shows that marital rape has serious and long-term implications for women. Injuries to private organs, lacerations, discomfort, bruising, torn muscles, tiredness, and vomiting are some of the physical repercussions of marital rape. In addition to broken bones, black eyes, bloody noses, and knife wounds, women who have been assaulted and raped by their husbands may experience other physical consequences such as broken bones, black eyes, bloody noses, and knife wounds as a result of the sexual violence. Miscarriages, stillbirths, bladder infections, infertility, and the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases like HIV are all gynecological repercussions of marital rape.

Women who have been raped by their partners are likely to experience significant psychological repercussions. Anxiety, shock, acute dread, despair, suicidal ideation, and post-traumatic stress disorder are some of the short-term symptoms of marital rape. Disordered eating, sleep issues, depression, difficulties forming trusting relationships, and increased negative thoughts about themselves are all common long-term impacts. The psychological consequences are likely to linger for a long time. For years after the abuse, some marital rape survivors describe flashbacks, sexual dysfunction, and emotional pain.

OTHER COUNTRIES’ LEGAL STATUS

In the United States, experts estimate that 10% to 14% of married women are raped throughout their marriage. Researchers discovered that marital rape accounted for almost 25% of all rapes when they looked at the frequency of different types of rape. Given the popularity of marital rape, social scientists, practitioners, the criminal justice system, and society as a whole have paid little attention to the issue. In fact, it wasn’t until the 1970s that society began to recognize the possibility of rape in marriage. Until recently, the usual rule was that a husband could not be convicted of raping his wife because he has an implicit right to sexual intercourse with his wife under the marital contract.

Resistance restrictions are still in place in the majority of American states. There are no exemptions for husbands from rape prosecution in seventeen states and the District of Columbia. There are still certain exemptions for husbands from rape prosecution in thirty-three states. In several of these thirty-three states, a husband is excused from prosecution when his wife is most vulnerable (e.g., she is mentally or physically disabled, unconscious, asleep, etc.) and legally unable to consent. The majority of States have certain spousal exemptions, indicating that rape in marriage is still considered a lesser offence than other types of rape.

When we look at the laws of various countries, we can find that most of them punish rape both within and outside of marriage.

In Australia, for example, if a person has achieved the age of 16, he or she can petition to a judge or magistrate for an order permitting them to marry.

By 1991, however, the marital rape exception had been repealed in every state in Australia.

In New Zealand, a person under the age of 20 but over the age of 16 can only marry with the approval of their parents. For women, the age of sexual consent is similarly 16 years. The New Zealand Crimes Act of 1961 makes no provision for marital rape. In 1985, the marital rape exemption was repealed. In the United Kingdom, a marriage between two people under the age of 16 is void. In 1991, the marital rape exemption was completely repealed.

A marriage between two people under the age of 16 is void in the United Kingdom. In 1991, the marital rape exemption was completely repealed. In Egypt, the age of majority is 21 years old for all legal reasons except marriage. The legal age for consent is 18, and intercourse with a female under the age of 18 is considered rape under the penal code.

Various states in the United States have different laws. In the United States, the marital rape exception has been repealed in 50 states. In Indonesia, the age of majority, as well as the age at which girls and boys can marry, is 16 for girls and 19 for boys. A girl’s legal age for giving valid consent to a sexual act is also established at 16 years. Any marriage that occurs before the age of majority is null and invalid.

LEGAL POSITION IN INDIA

In India, marital rape is legal but not de facto. While in other nations, the legislative has either criminalized marital rape or the judiciary has actively participated in recognizing it as a crime, the judiciary in India appears to be working at cross-purposes. The Supreme Court ruled in Bodhisattwa Gautam v. Subhra Chakraborty that rape is a crime against basic human rights and a breach of the victim’s most prized fundamental right, the right to life, which is contained in Article 21 of the Constitution. However, it contradicts this declaration by failing to recognize marital rape. Though there have been some advancements in Indian domestic violence legislation, they have mostly been limited to physical rather than sexual abuse.

This established the notion that a woman does not have the right to refuse sex with her spouse once they are married. This gives husbands sexual access to their spouses, which is in clear violation of human rights principles and gives husbands permission to rape their women. The rape legislation only applies to two types of married women: those under the age of 15 and those who are separated from their spouses. While rape of a girl under the age of 12 may result in a sentence of ten years or more in jail, rape of a girl under the age of 15 results in a lower punishment if the rapist is married to the victim. When Section 376-A of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, was added in 1983, it made some headway toward criminalizing domestic abuse against the wife.

The Law Commission’s proposed definition of sexual assault, which is wide, complete, and acceptable, could be used in place of the existing term of rape in Section 375 IPC, according to the report. The Task Force, like the Law Commission, stopped short of suggesting that marital rape be included in the new definition. Currently, India’s legal framework is severely inadequate in terms of safeguarding women’s bodily integrity and sexual autonomy.

ABOUT THE FOUNDATION

The RIT Foundation is a non-profit organizationcreated in 2009 by Dr. Chitra Awasthi, an educationist, writer, and philanthropist. The RIT Foundation is collaborating with a number of non-governmental organizations in India to promote social and gender equality.

In 2015, they filed a petition – RIT Foundation v. Union of India writ petition c no. 284 of 2015 seeking to criminalize marital rape. It will be coming up before the Delhi High Court for final hearing early next year.

“The first step to breaking the silence is having the tool to validate,” Chitra Awasthi says. The last refuge of male dominance is the control of women’s sexuality and bodies. It will take time to smash it. However, as a society, we must begin a dialogue and put pressure on lawmakers to act.”

Respondent’s Background

Dr. Chitra Awasthi is the president and founder of RIT Foundation. She has been working as an educationist with children and young adults for the past 36 years now. She is well-known in academics for her psychological insights and comprehensive understanding of holistic living solutions. With a postgraduate degree, a university topper, in sociology from Kanpur University, she has authored a wide range of books on sociology and allied subjects. Her major interest, however, has always been in religion and spiritualism. She has translated, edited, and produced secret treasures from English, Sanskrit, and Hindi, and she is an eager student of spiritual literature in the Indian tradition. Rit International is her first foray into the corporate world. She does, however, wish to help share the same knowledge to children who are less privileged, so that they can benefit from high-quality education and knowledge.

The imbalance in cricket’s Ecosystem

Cricket has shifted completely in the last 10 years. T20 cricket gives the game such a high economic drive that every other format lives in the shadow of it. With that said, people have constantly raised their voices and have made efforts to keep test cricket alive. We’ve seen some great test matches in the last 3 years. One of the biggest problems the game faces right now is scheduling. There’s so much cricket being played all over the world. The majority of it is franchise cricket. Franchise cricket brings the majority of the money to the game and every player wants to be a part of it because of how economically convenient it is. Now, these tournaments take a big window out of the calendar. That leaves very little time for international bilateral series.

South Africa cancelled the one-day international tour to Australia to make sure that all top South African Players are available for CSA’s newly announced T20 franchise league. It seems clear which way the game is heading. Although, we cannot solely blame CSA for choosing franchise cricket over international cricket. If they didn’t make that decision, they could’ve almost been on the verge of being broke. They require investment to kick off their new league and that could’ve only been possible if the investors were sure that the international South African players will be available for the league from the start. Opting out from the Australia series means South Africa might not qualify for the world cup directly and will have to go to the qualifiers first. That’d indeed be something to keep an eye on.

One great issue is the imbalance in international cricket. There are only 3 cricket boards that can sustain their cricket on their own. India, Australia and England. Everyone else is dependent on each other. For example- if India tours West Indies for a test series, West Indies will make so much money that they won’t have to play cricket for the whole year because of how bad their economic situation is. Boards other than the strong 3 find it difficult to ask their players to play for their country rather than their franchises because they cannot offer the kind of money these Franchises do.

Cricket has reached a tipping point now. With more games being played than ever before. Players retire from a particular format because they cannot see a way to play all formats and sustain. Franchise cricket taking a huge chunk of time out of the calendar. All these things have made a lot of administrators reach to a conclusion. They’ve planned to reduce the number of bilateral series. Especially ODIs. The future for ODI looks rather bleak. Test cricket is not going anywhere and the same goes for the Revolutionary T20 form. ODI format finds itself in a tough position because it seems irrelevant in today’s age. The quality of cricket is not the same anymore. It feels like an extended version of T20 cricket. The most prominent ODIs that we’ll see in the future will be the World Cup. Cricket has truly changed.

Poverty in India

Poverty is defined as the lack of sufficient money to meet basic needs such as food and shelter. Poverty is a situation in which a person is homeless and has very little money. Due to the growing population in urban areas, India’s poverty rate is rising. The most important fact is that huge numbers of people live in poverty, with the majority living on the edge of it. Poverty in India is mostly observed in rural regions due to a large number of uneducated and unemployed people within the growing population.Many people cannot afford proper food for their daily lives, and because they do not have their own homes, they sleep on streets or footpaths. As a result, more people require more food, money, and shelter, but poverty grows rapidly due to a lack of these resources. This is why the rich become richer and the poor become poorer, making it difficult to bridge the gap. Poverty has several consequences, including poor housing, illiteracy, increased child labor and unemployment, and poor hygiene. As a result, these poor individuals cannot afford a balanced diet, decent clothes, or a good education for the simple reason that they do not have enough money.

Poverty may be reduced by providing sufficient education and facilities to farmers, allowing them to become more profitable and not feel the need to migrate to cities in search of work. Also, uneducated individuals should receive a good education to improve their lives, and family planning is also necessary for getting out of poverty. Poverty in our country dates back to ancient times, when the poor were not given the same privileges as the wealthy, and they were even denied access to religious places. Unemployment, a lack of education, poor resource utilization, corruption, and poor government policy are all major causes of poverty.In India, poverty is high when compared to other nations due to the poor growth rate of per capita income per person. Due to a lack of career prospects, many individuals work as rickshaw pullers, construction laborers, domestic servants, and other low-wage jobs, which leads them to live in slum areas.In addition, lack of land resources has been one of the key reasons for poverty in India; even small farmers in our nation are poor since they cultivate but do not receive fair pay in terms of profit, resulting in poverty.

India’s population has been rapidly increasing. In 1991, India’s population was around 84.3 crores, with a high rate of poverty; now, our country’s population is around 130 crores, with the population nearly doubling in the last three decades, but not enough has been done to control poverty in our country. As the population grows, so does unemployment, and poverty is just a reflection of unemployment. More capital is necessary for developing industry, providing adequate transportation, and other projects, as a result of which the country’s deficiency is underdeveloped and more people live in poverty. Lack of skilled labor also contributes to poverty since less-skilled workers lack industrial training and education and miss out on opportunities that more skilled workers can avail. Lack of infrastructure means that transportation and communication have not been properly developed, resulting in farmers receiving fertilisers for cultivation late and industries receiving power and raw materials not on time and thus, end products not being properly marketed and reaching customers on time. Hence, to escape poverty, our government must be more serious, and citizens must share equal responsibility.Remarkably, as a result of rural-to-urban migration, the incidence of rural poverty has fallen steadily. First and foremost, population growth should be strictly controlled to tackle the serious problem of poverty. Other approaches to fight this problem include expanding work possibilities, educating people, eliminating black money, decentralized planning, and assisting women and youth in becoming self-sufficient.

“Paverty” is not created by “poor people”

Criminal Justice System in India

The aim of the Criminal Justice System is to punish the guilty and protect the innocent. Although the broad contours of the Criminal justice system are seldom codified, these can be inferred from different statutes, including the Constitution and judicial pronouncements. In a democratic civilized society, the Criminal Justice System is expected to provide the maximum sense of security to the people at large by dealing with crimes and criminals effectively, quickly and legally. More specifically, the aim is to reduce the level of criminality in society by ensuring maximum detection of reported crimes, conviction of the accused persons without delay, awarding appropriate punishments to the convicted to meet the ends of justice and to prevent recidivism.In this article, we shall be discussing the history and evolution of the system, the institutions, along with various perspectives of the constitutional aspect of rights of citizens, efforts for reforms, and delivery of justice.

Criminal law, including all matters included in the Indian Penal Code, Criminal procedure, including all matters included in the Code of Criminal Procedure feature under the concurrent list of the 7th Schedule as entries-1, and 2 respectively.Certain exceptions are also provided under two provisions(Entry-1, and 2) of the 7th Schedule. For example, offences against laws with respect to the matters specified in List-I or List-II of the 7th Schedule of the constitution, excluding the use of naval, military or air forces or any other armed forces come under this category.

•The Criminal Justice System in India follows the legal procedures established by the British during the pre-independence era.
•An Indian Penal Code (IPC) defining crime and prescribing appropriate punishments was adopted in 1860, prepared by the first Law Commission of India.
•It was developed in line with the English criminal law.
•Code of Criminal Procedure was enacted in 1861 and established the rules to be followed in all stages. This was amended in 1973.
•The NN Vohra Committee, set up in 1993, observed increasing criminalization of politics, talked of the unholy nexus.
•It was an effort to push the reforms in the criminal justice system.
•In 2000, the Government of India formed a panel headed by the former Chief Justice of Kerala and Karnataka, Justice V.S. Malimath, to suggest an overhaul of the century-old criminal justice system.
•In 2003, the Justice Malimath Committee submitted a report with 158 recommendations.
•The Committee opined that the existing system “weighed in favour of the accused and did not adequately focus on justice to the victims of crime.”

The entire existence of an orderly society depends upon the sound and efficient functioning of the Criminal Justice System. The law of the land has to be in tune with the demands of the changing times and nature of complexities in offences. There should be a broader dialogue among all the stakeholders for effective provisions so that the interest of justice is served and served right, where no innocent suffers prejudice, exclusion leading to miscarriage of justice. Similarly, the rules and procedures established by law need to reach the common man, and the role of civil society in this endeavour is paramount. Further, there is a need to streamline the police reforms, beef up the forensic evidence-based investigation, and prioritize advanced scientific analysis which must be strengthened and upgraded, catering to the demands of the present times. The infrastructural challenges confronting the judiciary must be addressed to facilitate the process of ensuring justice.

The criminal justice system, like any
system designed by human beings,
clearly has its flaws.

Stating the importance of Fundamental Rights

Imagine waking up to see a day where you are denied using the cafeteria of the college or denied using the vending machine in the office because of your race or your caste, it would probably be the most horrible day of your life. To make sure that these things never happen to you, a lot of people fought and gave their lives to make sure that the future society is egalitarian. Fundamental rights ensure that you have the liberty to do what you want to do, how you want to do it and where you want to do it. You have the right to equality in a consumer market, in your workplace and in the social places you visit. You have the freedom of speech to voice your opinion wherever you feel it’s needed. Without fundamental rights, everything will be in a state of chaos

These are the basic rights that help the human being reach his maximum intellect and intelligence. Our rights ensure that we are governed by a law which respects our human rights. It ensures that the government stays well within their limits and cannot compromise the dignity of any human being whatsoever. We as human beings need a certain environment to achieve our intelligence and find ourselves. Fundamental Rights tries to ensure that we get that environment. The highlights of the preamble are justice, liberty, fraternity and republic. Your rights allow you to fight for your justice, it allows you to be liberal, it allows you to form your fraternity which makes you feel welcome and the republic ensures that the power is always within the people.

Dr B R Ambedkar and a lot of other people saw a dream in which every Indian citizen should be equal before the law. When we look back at the colonial period, Our society was segregated into different parts because there was no sense of unity among people. This led to isolation from each other. This environment led us to disarray. To make sure a healthy relationship between the state and the people, fundamental rights play a huge part as it ensures freedom of speech which leads to better communication. Fundamental rights also ensure that society is always progressive because it promotes growth and stimulation. Our constitution is designed in such a way that it supports flexibility but that does not put our fundamental rights in threat in any way. It is the backbone of our country or any country.

Communalism

For centuries people belonging to different religious communities have been living together in India without any friction or ill will. Major communities in India being the Hindus, the Muslims, the Sikhs, the Christians, the Parsees, the Jains, the Buddhists, etc.All these communities lived with each other in perfect toleration. It was only at the turn of the century that the British rulers in India followed policy of divide and rule and with that the gulf between various religious communities very considerably increased.The device of giving separate representation to each major community in elected bodies and civil services widened the gap, particularly among two major Indian communities, namely, the Hindus and the Muslims. When late Muhammed Ali Jinnah expounded his two nation theory, gap between these communities still more widened.The result of all this was that there was communal hatred. Before the partition of the country, there were communal riots in some parts of the country resulting in the killing of several hundred people and looting and burning property worth crores of rupees. Everything inhuman and unhuman was done in the name of religion.The country had to be partitioned because the Muslim League, under the leadership of M.A. Jinnah made it clear that the Muslims and the Hindus were two separate nations, which could not live together and partition of India was the only solution of communal and political problems of the country.

Communalism as a political philosophy has its roots in the religious and cultural diversity of India.It has been used as a political propaganda tool to create divide, differences and tensions between the communities on the basis of religious and ethnic identity leading to communal hatred and violence.In ancient Indian society, people of different faith coexisted peacefully.Buddha was perhaps the first Indian prophet who gave the concept of secularism.Meanwhile, Kings like Ashoka followed a policy of peace and religious tolerance.Medieval India witnessed the arrival of Islam in India marked by occasional occurrences of violence such as Mahmud Ghazni’s destruction of Hindu temples and Mahmud of Ghor’s attack on Hindus, Jains and Buddhists.While, religion was an important part of people’s lives but there was no communal ideology or communal politics.Rulers like Akbar and Sher Shah Suri followed the religious policy of toleration towards different cultures and tradition practiced across country.However, some sectarian rulers like Aurangzeb were among the least tolerant towards other religious practises.
As a modern phenomenon it has arose as a result of British colonial impact and the response of Indian social strata.

There is need to reform in present criminal justice system, speedy trials and adequate compensation to the victims, may act as deterrent.Increase in representation of minority community and weaker sections in all wings of law-enforcement, training of forces in human rights, especially in the use of firearms in accordance with UN code of conduct.Codified guidelines for the administration, specialised training for the police force to handle communal riots and setting up special investigating and prosecuting agencies can help in damping major communal disgruntlement.
Emphasis on value-oriented education with focus on the values of peace, non-violence, compassion, secularism and humanism as well as developing scientific temper (enshrined as a fundamental duty) and rationalism as core values in children both in schools and colleges/universities, can prove vital in preventing communal feelings.Government can adopt models followed by countries like Malaysia that has developed early-warning indicators to prevent racial clashes.The Malaysian Ethnic Relations Monitoring System (known by its acronym Mesra) that makes use of a quality of life index (included criteria such as housing, health, income and education) and a perception index to gauge people’s needs and feelings about race relations in their area.Also the Hong Kong model of combating communalism by setting up a “Race Relation Unit” to promote racial harmony and facilitate integration of ethnic minorities, can be emulated by India.RRU has established a hotline for complaints and inquiries on racial discrimination. Meanwhile, to create awareness about communal harmony, RRU talks to schools on culture of ethnic minorities and concept of racial discrimination.Government can encourage and support civil society and NGOs to run projects that help create communal awareness, build stronger community relation and cultivating values of communal harmony in next generation.
There is a need for minority welfare schemes to be launched and implemented efficiently by administration to address the challenges and various forms of discrimination faced by them in jobs, housing and daily life.A pro-active approach by National Foundation for Communal Harmony (NFCH), the body responsible for promoting communal harmony is needed.NFCH provides assistance for the physical and psychological rehabilitation of the child victims of communal, caste, ethnic or terrorist violence, besides promoting communal harmony, fraternity and national integration.A legislation is required to curb the communal violence. Communal Violence (Prevention, Control and Rehabilitation of Victims) Bill, 2005 must be enacted soon.

When people unfortunately use religion to facilitate their envy, arrogance and hate, communalism surfaces.

Indian Railways

Indian Railways is one of the largest railway networks operated by the Government of India. Railways was first introduced in India in 1853. Today, its operations cover 19 states and 7 union territories, and also provides international services to its neighbours, Nepal, Bangladesh and Pakistan. It is also one of the busiest rail networks in the world, carrying about 18 million passengers daily. Moreover it is the world’s largest employer, providing jobs to millions.

For a country so reliant on its trains, Indian Railways Vision 2020 envisages introduction of bullet trains. It will be a massive addition to its route network, with segregation of passenger and freight services into separate double-line corridors, raising the speeds of passenger trains from the current 130 kmph to 160-200 kmph on some routes, zero accidents and equipment failures and setting up of high-speed passenger corridors.

However, this vision would remain a difficult one to achieve, looking at the past and current situation of the railways. Inspite of being the largest and the busiest network, Indian Railways was never a sector to give good returns to the economy, (barring the time of Lalu Prasad Yadav). It faces a lot of problems, sometimes proving even a burden to the Indian Government. The age-old and crumbling infrastructure, low fares, lack of maintenance, mismanagement, lack of quality service deliverance ete are all the major issues with the railways. A sharp decline in the earnings and serious escalation in expenditure has posed even more problems for Indian Railways. Additionally, the ever increasing prices of fuel, coal, the number of accidents, cost of maintenance ete further increases the problems.

A significant change in the Indian Railways came after the year 2004. The 156 years old Indian Railways was regarded as a hopeless, loss making organisation, with too little revenue, too many problems. Steps were taken to increase the demand rather than the price. A team of experts proposed and applied some simple techniques effectively on a per train basis. Subsequently, fares were increased in line with the demand, giving the railways the much needed cash flow to improve its services. Thus with these efforts, Indian Railways was able to book profits. After 2010, the railways went back into problematic phase. The funds started shrinking, therefore improvement in passenger amenities could not be carried out. However, the recently elected government has again brought in a ray of hope for the good days for Indian Railways. Surprisingly, Indian train fares are among the cheapest in the world. With such fares, Railways paced its steps well with technological advancement. The e-ticketing for making reservations and mobile app system to track train schedules are some major breakthroughs. Additionally, with the new government, new hopes have also risen. Today, Railways is eyeing private players and foreign funding to mobilise more funds for its various projects. Railways is keen to modernise railway stations with the help of private players. They are also prepared to lease out its properties for some years, given the share should come to Railways too.

Vision 2020 also intends to spread the railroad service to isolated areas of the country with 25,000 km of new track by 2020. Moreover, the ‘vision’ to revamp railways comes with an assurance that investment in India’s conventional train network would continue, which is a social necessity in the wake of 18 million daily passengers.

With 18 million daily passengers, a staff of 1.4 million employees and 17,000 trains operating on 64,000 km of track, India maintains one of the world’s largest rail systems. Vision 2020 not only aims to accelerate the urban pace of the country, but also plans to connect the isolated parts of the country by reaching far and wide. It largely suggests that India is all set to write a new chapter in the history of Indian Railways.

Brain Drain – A Need for Reversal

Brain drain refers to the situation when highly qualified and trained people leave his/her own country to permanently settle down in some other country. It is also referred to as human capital flight. Brain drain is a global phenomenon that refers to flow of human resource in bulk from one country to another. With the beginning of globalisation, ideas, opinions, skills in the form of labour started being exchanged between nations. The term emerged in 1960’s when the skilled workforce started emigrating from the poor or developing countries to the first world countries (or developed countries) in search of better job opportunities. This is primarily due to the fact that developing countries like India have failed utterly in providing the right kind of opportunities to its youth.

This, in turn, is leading to a great loss of national wealth. In the past few decades, a lot of Indian professionals too migrated to other countries. The human capital in terms of skills, ideas, labour and intelligence is being transferred to countries abroad from India since ages. This has become a characteristic more of the intelligentsia of the nation-the doctors, engineers, scientists, MBA’s, CA’s, lawyers and other professionals. Today, Indian constitutes majority of large organisations like NASA (the National Aeronautics and Space Administration), California Laboratory etc. Additionally, studies show that Indians are one of the most hard working, dedicated and sincere workers. That is why various countries and companies readily take our nationals.Countries like USA, UK, Germany, France, Russia, Italy, Japan etc., have developed greatly in their technology, science, electronics, computers, astronomy etc. Thus, these countries provide greater opportunities-quality as well as quantity-wise. The facilities, packages, scholarships etc., provided by these nations are far better than what India can provide them. While this is the case of young students/ professionals, the academically well qualified people prefer going abroad for a higher research because they don’t get the best chances, resources and facilities for research in India. The cut-offs for admissions have became close to 100% in the best Indian Institutes. While the institutes are in the race of getting the best students, the ambitious youth fail to occupy seat in any of the prestigious Indian Universities. This leads them to explore the scope of higher education abroad.

Most of these students prefer staying back in the host country due to better work opportunities and heavy pay packages. A part from good earnings, those in the US and Europe are aware of the public services, social security system and retirement benefits. So, after getting global exposure and getting introduced to the high quality life and facilities, the students become reluctant to go back to the home country.

There are many Indians at top posts in global firms and companies like Sabeer Bhatia, founder of Hotmail email, Satya Nadella, now Chief Executive Officer of Microsoft, Indra Nooyi, Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer of PepsiCo. As many as 12% scientists and 38% doctors in the US are Indians, and in NASA, 36% or almost 4 out of 10 scientists are Indians. Awakening to this fact, Indian Government is putting the best foot forward to curb brain drain. In lieu with consistent economic growth, India will see robust hiring and there is an expected double-digit salary increase across all sectors-IT, manufacturing, finance, insurance and real estate.

Both, government and private firms are aiming towards a better and friendlier atmosphere to create better conditions for their employees. Discrimination and bias at work places are checked by making laws and strictly implementing them. Incentives are given to stop youngsters from going abroad in search of work.

After witnessing a huge brain drain of doctors, the government was persuaded to take actions. Now, the medical students going abroad for higher studies will have to signa bond with the government, promising to return to India after completing their studies Policies to nurture higher education, better public service delivery and better sharing of data with the public (RTI) needs to be promoted to encourage a reverse brain drain. Moreover the government of the day needs to ensure good employment facilities for students by encouraging domestic and international investments in manufacturing research and development. ‘Our IT professionals and IIM graduates are the best in the world. Countries welcome them open arms. We can use the best potential of the country to accelerate our own progress in socio-economic fields. We need to give deserving jobs to students, who return to India after completing their education.

Meditation – The Ultimate Nirvana

Modern age philosopher Osho maintains “No meditation, No life. Know meditation, Know life.” This quote holds cent per cent relevance in today’s time. In this modern day and age, the negative effects of stress are unavoidable. People have literally forgotten the way to live their life. They are extremely busy running after materialistic goals thereby fueling stress every day.

To cope with this stress, they have tried everything from exercise and diet to alternative methods like medicines. However, the most effective method to deal with stress is not one of these modern methods but rather a thousand years old idea of meditation. Meditation finds its root in many religions, primarily in Hinduism and Buddhism.

Hindu mythology is full of examples wherein normal human beings and sages meditated for years to gain higher spiritual powers. Through meditation, they have risen above the botherations and tensions of worldly life. They have aligned their souls with the almighty in their meditation.

Buddhist mythology explains ‘Nirvana’ through meditation. According to it, Lord Buddha reached enlightenment at the age of 35, awakening to the true nature of reality, which is ‘Nirvana’, the ‘Absolute Truth’. The word Nirvana comes from the

root meaning to blow out and refers to the extinguishing of the fires of greed,

hatred and delusion. When these emotions are destroyed by wisdom, the mind becomes free, radiant and joyful, and at death, one is no longer subject to rebirth. Nirvana is the ultimate happiness, which can be achieved through meditation. The basic principles and practices of meditation are rooted in Hinduism, which believes that the soul is eternal and maintains an eternal relationship with God. The aim of meditation is to quieten the thought waves of the mind.

Quietness can lead to more peace inside the mind. Meditation leads to tranquility and

purification from negative state of our mind, Infact, Buddha religiously believes

“Meditation brings wisdom, lack of meditation leaves ignorance.”

Meditation is very difficult to describe and can only truly be explained once experienced. It is the practice of mental concentration leading ultimately through a sequence of stages to the final goal of spiritual freedom called nirvana. Meditation can be compared with any sport, for example to a basketball game. Everyone can try to play this sport but only a few know the rules and the central dogma of the game. And the others just play the game as they assume it is like. So, it would be right to say that not everyone is able to practise meditation correctly.

Learning to meditate properly, however, is very difficult and must be done under the supervision of teachers. A person who has not practised meditation before, finds it difficult to understand the nature of his mind and may think he is meditating while his mind runs disorderly.

Just a mere 10-15 minutes practice of meditation each day can bring many positive results in the lives of the people. It can be practised anywhere and anytime. The first stage of meditation is to stop distractions and make the mind clearer and more lucid. This can be accomplished by practising a simple breathing meditation.

A quiet place is chosen to meditate and to sit in a comfortable position with closed eyes. Sitting in a traditional cross-legged manner is preferable. The most important thing is to keep the back straight to prevent the mind from becoming sluggish or sleepy. The main motto is to concentrate on breathing.

Breathing during meditation is done naturally, preferably through the nostrils, without attempting to control it, thereby trying to become aware of the sensation of the breath’s movement. This sensation is the object of meditation. Additionally, meditation should be practised with great discipline and awareness to obtain positive results, otherwise it can cause problems in psychological and spiritual well-being.

In recent years, scientists and doctors have shown interest in the effects that meditation has on people going through various situations. Infact, prestigious universities such as Harvard and Washington have invested their efforts in the research and have also come out with positive results. Meditation not only helps reduce the negative effects of stress, but also leads to a better sense of well-being by uniting mind and body.

Statistics on meditation in the Western culture have shown that people suffering from chronic pain, anxiety, depression, hypertension were treated with the help of meditation. Meditation provides benefits to all of the major forms of human existence: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual.

A lot of famous people across the globe have started shifting to this practice religiously. They believe that through meditation, the mind is rejuvenated, the soul refreshed, nerves calmed and in general, one is at peace with oneself and the environment. Fortified by sessions of meditation, people have found they are able to face the tensions of the world with increased success.

Wildlife in India

Wildlife constitutes animals, birds, insects etc., living in the forests. The rich flora and fauna of India have been studied and mentioned in texts since the earliest times. Animal laws date to third century BC. Later, several zoologists recorded their distribution and abundance. Wildlife helps in the promotion of various economic activities that generate revenue from tourism. The fauna plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of a region. With the baffling variety of forests in India, the wildlife wealth is equally diverse and perplexing. There are about 76000 species of animals in India which comprise about 82% of known species of the world. India has a variety of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians.

The trans-Himalayan region, encompassing Lahaul-Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh comprise the richest wild sheep and goat community in the world. Tigers are found in the forests of Eastern Himalayan foothills. Leopard is found in Northern parts of Asom, Lynn and Yak in Ladakh along with Brown, Black and Sloth Bear in the Himalayan Region. The Wild Buffalo is found in Asóm, Bastar district of Madhya Pradesh, while the Great Indian Bison is found in the forests of Central India. Black Panther is found in widely distributed areas including deserts and jungles. Cats are found in the North-Western parts of the country. Several species of Wild Sheep and Goats too are found. Deer, Stag are common but have reduced in numbers considerably. Monkeys, Langurs, Chinkaras too are common as well as the Blue Bull, the Four-horned Antelope or the Chawsingha, Wild Dog, Fox, Jackal, Hyena, Mongoose, Shrews, Hedgehogs, Mole, Bats, Rodents and Squirrels. There isof reptiles like Cobra, Krait, Russel Vipers Dhamoa, a non-poisonous large snake, Rock Python, Marsh Crocodiles, Gharial, Lizards, Chameleon, Monitor Lizards, Turtles etc. Elephant is the largest Indian mammal found in the forests of Asom, West Bengal, Central India, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Rhinoceros is India’s second largest mammal whose number has considerably decreased and is now confined to the forests of Asom and West Bengal under strict protection, in the famous Kaziranga

and Manas Sanctuaries of Asom, and Jaldapara Sanctuary in West Bengal. India can proudly boast of about 2000 species of birds in India which is thrice the amount of birds in all the countries of Europe put together. Aquatic birds like Storks, Herons, Ducks, Flamingoes, Egrets, Cormorants are found along with waders and shore birds like the Sea Gulls, Snipes, Iluses, Cranes and Lapwings. The Great Indian Bustard, Pea Fowl, Jungle Fowl, Quail and Partridges are the main ground birds along with Babblers, Barbits, Bulbuls, Mynas, Pigeons, Parakeets, Doves, Cuckoos, Rollers Beaters, Fly catchers, Orioles, Warblers, Wagtails, Finch larks, Finches, Drongos and Hoops. Prey birds such as Owls, Eagles, Kites, Fallows and Kestrel too are found in large numbers. Peacock, is rightly the national bird of India symbolising the vast variety of our bird-wealth with its rich and magnificent plumage fossils of several animals have also been found in India. Titanosaurus indicus was the first dinosaur discovered in 1877 in the Narmada Valley by Richard Lydekker. Rajasaurus narmadensis, a carnivorous dinosaur was also known to inhabit this region. Whale fossils were found in the foothills of Himalayas, as the area used to be underwater (in the Tethys Sea). Unfortunately, our wildlife has been adversely affected by the fast dwindling forest wealth. Large number of species have got reduced, others are endangered and still others are on the verge of extinction. This has adversely contributed to the disturbance of the ecological balance. Moreover, poaching and illegal killing of animals for their fur, skin, teeth, hair etc has contributed in the reduction of wildlife population.

The first species to disappear during the Indus Valley Civilisation was wild cattle. This probably happened due to inter-breeding with domestic cattle. Species of birds, like pink-headed duck and Himalayan quail have become extinct. Along with Tigers, the numbers of Cheetahs too have dwindled who are now surviving under protection and breeding programmes in the Gir Sanctuary, Gujarat.

To put a check on this, Indian Board for Wildlife was made in 1952 with its main function as an advisory board advising the government on how to conserve and protect wildlife with the construction of National Parks, Sanctuaries, Zoological gardens etc. The Wildlife Conservation Act, 1972 is a strict law and gives a firm footing to National Parks and Sanctuaries. The endangered species of plants and animals have been classified under this act for protection. Project Tiger was launched in 1973 under which 21 Tiger Reserves have been created to check intensive land use practices like mining, construction of roads and railway lines affecting the tiger habitat and corridors. The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has set-up a 10-member committee of experts in 2011. The committee will also appraise ongoing demand for diversion of habitat areas towards infrastructure projects in states. Wildlife reserves have started using advanced technology for better maintenance of facilities and also the inhabiting animals. Haryana wildlifedepartment will make use of the camera trap method to get the exact number of animals in its sanctuaries. Kolhapur department has been equipped with wireless communication.

Along with the efforts of the government, people’s awareness and cooperation is needed in order to conserve and protect these invaluable natural resources of our country. Then only can the efforts of the government be given a concrete direction and the conservation goals can be achieved. On International Tiger Day, 29 July, Pench Tiger Reserve along with Rotary Club organised competitions in Nagpur. Such initiatives can go a long way in instilling responsibility towards wildlife among citizens. Wildlife is an integral part of our national heritage. We want our future generations to be able to ‘hear’ lions roar and not just ‘see’ them in picture books. For that we must take steps today. Otherwise, it will be too late!

Water Resources in India

Water is the most important and valuable natural resource on Earth. It sustains all life and life itself originated in water. Before the discovery of traces of water on Mars, Earth was the only planet in the solar system to contain water. About 71% of Earth’s surface is covered with water, but only 3% of the available water is freshwater, About two-thirds of the freshwater lies frozen in the form of glaciers and ice caps. The rest of the small portion is available in the form of groundwater and surface water.

Water is used in the agriculture for irrigation of crops. In industries, water is used as a coolant, solvent and in manufacturing processes. Hydroelectricity is electricity generated with the help of water. Water is also used for navigation and transport of goods.

India covers 2.45% of the world area and possesses 4% of world’s water resources. Precipitation contributes about 4000 cu km of water to the country. India has a large number of surface water resources, in the form of rivers, lakes, ponds, tanks and other small bodies. The three main rivers of North India are Indus, Ganga and Brahmaputra, which carry 60% of the total surface water in India. The flow of India’s rivers constitutes 6% of discharge of all the rivers of the world.

Being an agriculture-centric country, India has developed a number of irrigation schemes. Irrigation projects of Bhakra-Nangal, Hirakud, Damodar Valley. Nagarjuna Sagar and Indira Gandhi Canal have featured prominently in Five Year Plan.

The land area between Punjab and Brahmaputra Valley has abundant groundwater resources. The technology for identification of more aquifers can be developed further, as has been done in Punjab, Haryana, Western Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu. India also has more than 600 km long coastline. Lagoons exist in the states of Kerala, Odisha and West Bengal, where the coastline is indented. This water, known as brackish water, is used for the cultivation of paddy, coconut etc., and for fishing. na

Unmindful use of groundwater has led to the lowering of the water table. Excessive quantity of water used in irrigation increases soil salinity, affecting the crops.

Disputes also have arisen where water bodies are shared between two states and distribution of water is in question. For example, in the absence of Cauvery Agreement, Karnataka developed some irrigation schemes, which affected Tamil Nadu’s rice delta.

“Water, water, everywhere, not a drop to drink.”

The Rime of the Ancient Mariner -By ST Coleridg

Hydroelectricity can solve a part of India’s energy crisis, triggered by hike in oil prices. It is generated by the use of gravitational force of falling or flowing water. is the most widely used form of renewable energy, with production in 150 countries India has one of the greatest hydroelectric power potentials in the world. Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) has installed a hydel power grid in North India. Hydroelectricity is cost-effective. Once a hydroelectric complex is constructed, no waste is produced and carbon-dioxide emission is also less as compared to fossil fuel powered plants.

Water of the rivers and other natural sources is getting polluted due to industrial chemicals, pesticides, oil slicks and household wastes. Around 75% of surface water in India is polluted. Rajasthan and Maharashtra have high fluoride content in water, while arsenic has been found in water of West Bengal and Bihar. There are 14 river basins found to be most affected by dumping of sewage. For example, leather factories in Kanpur pump around 5.8 litre of waste water into Ganga everyday. Yamuna is also known as ‘Open Drain’.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) along with the State Boards monitor water quality at 507 stations. Some of the legislations passed by government include water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, Water Cess Act, 1977, Environment Protection Act, 1986 and National Water Policy, 2002. Ganga Manthan dialogue was initiated recently, to discuss measures to check pollution of Ganga water. Placing portable toilets and small scale water treatment plants along the river can go a long way in halting pollution.

Other than these, efforts of NGOs and citizens have also counted in the cleaning of lakes such as Puttenahalli lake, Dal lake, Agara lake, Rankala lake etc.

Maintenance of water quality and water conservation are the needs of the hour. Villages can collaborate to form watersheds, so that wells and other water reservoirs can be recharged with water. Ralegan Siddhi is a village in Maharashtra which successfully implemented this approach. Rainwater harvesting has been made mandatory in Tamil Nadu.

India’s water resources are in ample amount, but what is available freely, shouldn’t be Wasted. Let us be more responsible and emulate successful models like that of Ralegan Siddhi in every part of India.

Right To Education (RTE)

Education is the most effective tool and medium for human development. Education changes the mindset through a continuous process involving, research, experiment and innovation. Without such practices a nation cannot expect the future citizens of its country to be informed and creative. Climb education is doing great job.

Education is a must thing” quoted modern political activist Malala Yousafzai. This quotes further justifies Aristotle’s words, “The educated differ from the Uneducated as much as the living differ from the dead.” These two quotes show the importance of education in everybody’s life. According to the Indian Sages, the aim of education is second birth.

We are born into the world of nature and necessity, we must be reborn into the world of spirit and freedom. This significance gave rise to Right To Education. The Right To Education is a Fundamental Right and is accorded the same legal status as the right to life as provided by Article 21 A of the Indian Constitution. The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 is “An act to provide for free and compulsory education to all children of the age 6 to 14 years”.

The right of children to free and compulsory education came into force from 1st April, 2010. According to the Act, every child in the age group of 6 to 14 years will be provided 8 years of elementary education in an age appropriate classroom in the vicinity of his/her neighbourhood.

According to the Act, any cost that prevents a child from accessing school will be borne by the state which shall have the responsibility of enrolling the child as well as ensuring completion of 8 years of schooling. No child shall be denied admission for want of documents; or shall be turned away if the admission cycle in the school is over and no child shall be asked to take an admission test.

This would apply to all schools, private or even Navodaya schools. The act restricts schools to claim special category status because it indulges in screening procedures at the elementary level. Moreover, if the number of children applying to a school exceeds the available seats, an open lottery system shall be used to fill the seats. This applies to all categories of schools.

Children with disabilities will also be educated in the mainstream schools. Section (10) of the Act makes it the duty of the parents to ensure that their children go to schools, without prescribing any punishment. Special provisions are laid for children not admitted to school or who have not completed elementary education; a child so admitted to elementary education will be entitled to completion of elementary education even after 14 years.

Climb Education is doing a great job

Climb education is doing great job

India’s Defence System

The Indian Armed Forces are the military forces of the Republic of India. It consists of four professional uniformed services: the Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force and Indian Coast Guard. Additionally, the Indian Armed Forces are supported by several paramilitary organisations (Assam Rifles and Special Frontier Force) and various inter-service institutions such as the Strategic Forces Command.

The President of India is the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces. The Indian Armed Forces are under the management of the Ministry of Defence (MoD), which is led by the Union Cabinet Minister of Defence. With strength of over 1.5 million active personnel, it is world’s 2nd largest military force and the largest standing volunteer army in the world.

India has quite a volatile neighbourhood. To our north we have China- a very big military power- with whom we keep on having altercations, not to mention the war of 1962. We still have many border issues with them and their troops keep on infiltrating our land. Then there is Pakistan, a country born out of India but still trying to take one or more parts of it under control. We have had a number of wars with them. In the recent years, terrorism has become a grave concern for India. Owing to all these wars in the past, the recent infiltrations, terrorist attacks, border altercations and stand-offs it is easy to imagine why India needs a strong military strategy to combat these problems and survive as a nation.

Speaking of stats, India is now one of the world’s biggest spenders on defence and the world’s largest importer of military equipment and munitions. Adjusted for purchasing power parity, India was the world’s ninth-biggest spender on defence in 2012, according to the World Bank. It spends a full 2.5% of its GDP on the military, a tad higher than the world total of 2.4%, though lower than America’s 3.8% of GDP. Yet, unlike the US, most European nations or even China, India does not have a thriving domestic defence industry of its own. The tendency to import weapons, military aircraft, ships and other hardware from abroad is worrying. However, India has a land frontier of 15,200 km, a coastline of 7,516.6 km and an exclusive economic zone of 2.2 million sq km, as well as island territories, vital offshore installations and airspace to defend. The Indian forces, therefore, have to be kept prepared and well equipped to repel any external threat.

One can easily understand that Indian military depends heavily on foreign products. India, hence, needs to revamp how its defence sector operates. Though the country basks in the glory of Kargil and thumps its chest over an occasional successful missile test, defence development and production remains a joke in India. The list of failures and shocking delays in the country’s defence sector is long. The cloak of secrecy under which research and development in defence operates causes even greater concern about inefficiencies, waste, questionable priorities, and failed or delayed projects the public is not yet aware of.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley’s maiden budget does address issues relating to the defence sector. A key Budget announcement was that 49 per cent foreign direct investment will be allowed in the defence manufacturing sector, up from 26 per cent. This will induce more foreign companies to invest in India’s defence manufacturing. It is also good news for domestic private sector players such as Mahindra & Mahindra Defense, Tata Power SED, or the Kalyani Group’s defence arm which manufactures

field guns and similar equipment. That, in turn, is healthy for India’s defence procurement, which is dominated by either public sector undertakings or by foreign contractors. This, combined with the upgrade plan for soldiers and the modernisation of the army, means well for Indian manufacturers who stand to benefit.

A policy of integrating border policy in some ways with defence needs is also evident in the enhanced allocation of 990 crore, a substantial sum, for the socio-economic development of villages along the border. This may mean economic improvement of those communities residing there. The 150 crore earmarked for marine police stations, jetties and purchase of patrol boats holds out a similar indication. While modern warfare is mostly about improved technology, it is also important to ensure that the morale of the troops remains high. The decision to erect a war memorial and set up a defence museum will definitely raise the morale of the armed forces. It will certainly be a welcome addition to the Amar Jawan Jyoti at New Delhi’s India Gate. Again, the one rank one pension scheme, accepted earlier by the government, has been given a Budgetary allocation of 1000 crore.

In the recent years, India has leaped miles forward in the field of tiding up its security. We have a range of state-of-the-art products like missiles and tanks that has put us at par with the strongest military powers of the world. India is one of the few countries to have developed an anti-missile system. India is only the sixth country in the world to develop an undersea nuclear deterrent, INS Arihant ballistic missile, Agni-5, which can carry a nuclear warhead in the east as far as all of China and in the west all over Europe. There is no dearth of money in defence, what remains to be seen is how the private sector and the army spends it. The best way would be to increase our capabilities using the opportunity and the increasing interest from foreign collaborators. The most difficult part of this balance would be ensuring a successful interlocking set of relationships between the military, private sector, universities, and the political leadership at least over the fledgling period.

Delhi Metro: The Defeline of Delhi

Not long ago, Delhiites used to curse the public transport system of the national capital. Errant, reckless and rash bus drivers, showing no sign of courtesy even to the ladies as well as the elderly, made commuting from one place to the other a painfully daunting task.

Delhi Metro has changed the way people travel within Delhi. With the arrival of Metro, travelling from one place to another has become joyfully exciting, fast, noiseless, dust free and absolutely dependable. For most people living in Delhi, Metro is their great pride, as it has made their life comfortable by making travelling stress free. It has brought relief from traffic snarls.

Delhi Metro is thus a world-class metro. It is one of the few metro systems in the world having an operational profit from the very first day. It is India’s second urban-mass rapid transportation system after Kolkata Metro. Delhi Metro or Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) to be precise, is a metro system serving Delhi and the suburbs such as Gurgaon, Noida and Ghaziabad region in the National Capital Region of India. Delhi Metro is the world’s thirteenth largest metro system in terms of length. It is a dream come true for the workers and people employed and a blessing for its commuters.

After the 1980s, Delhi saw a major population explosion and about fivefold rise in the number of vehicles. As a result, the other public transport system i.e.. bus service was unable to bear the load. Commuters took to private vehicles which increased the traffic congestion as well as pollution. So in 1984, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and the Urban Arts Commission came up with a proposal of developing multi-modal transportation system which would curb all the problems and would connect the city in a better way.

After the technical study and finalising the finance issue the physical construction of Delhi Metro was started on 1st October, 1998. The first line of Delhi Metro was inaugurated by the then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on 24th December, 2002. It became the second rapid system in India after the Kolkata Metro which was operational since 1984. The first phase of the Metro was completed on the estimated budget and almost-three years ahead of schedule, an achievement described by Business Week Magazine as ‘nothing short of a miracle’.

Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Limited (DMRC) is a state-owned company with equal participation from the Government of India and Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi. The huge investment involved in the construction comes from both of these sectors as well as from the loans from companies. These companies are banks like Japan Bank for International Cooperation or Indian companies like Reliance Infra. In 2007, the Delhi Metro claimed to be one of the only five metro systems in the world that operates at a profit without governmental aids. This was achieved by keeping the maintenance cost limited and by getting additional revenues from advertisements and property development, apart from the ticket sales.

With the increasing association with Delhi as an image of the city’s everyday life, it became popular filming location for films like ‘Love Aaj Kal’, ‘Delhi 6’, ‘Paa’ ete and for some other advertisements too. The metro also generates revenue with such a lease. Delhi Metro has air-conditioned coaches. To ensure safety, it is equipped with the most modern control and communication system. It has all the conveniences and world class amenities like ATMs, food outlets, cafes, mobile recharge stores etc., in most of the stations.

Students of many art colleges have designed decorative paintings at Metro Stations, while pillars on some elevated sections have been decorated with the creations of schoolchildren. Some of the newer metro stations conduct rainwater harvesting as an environment protection measure. In order to reduce its dependence on non-renewable sources of energy, DMRC is looking forward to harness solar energy. Infact DMRC has been certified by the United Nations as the first metro system in the world to reduce greenhouse gas emissions thereby reducing pollution levels in the city.

Delhi Metro has a huge ridership on the daily basis and even record breaking number of commuters on the festival days. Commuters find it most convenient as it saves their money, save them from ever-lasting time consuming traffic, pollution, rains. heat among other things. The brighter side does not end here. DMRC conducts awareness programmes for the labour engaged in the construction work on issues like HIV/AIDS etc. It also provides medical facilities and educational services to its labourers and to their children. Overlooking some minute drawbacks like overcrowding, congestion during construction, Delhi Metro is a huge success in the capital city. It has, in more than one way, helped in the beautification of the city. Looking at such a positive success, government is planning to come up with more such metros in other cities like Mumbai and Lucknow. It is also attracting foreign investors who wish to be a part of one such profitable plan.

The Role of Indian Cinema

Cinema is in today’s world the most popular means of entertainment. Millions of people watch cinema everyday all over the world-not only as a means of entertainment, but also as an escape from the monotony, boredom, anxiety and troubles of life. It is a restful, pleasurable and entertaining way of rewinding and relaxing after a long day’s work. All the senses are captivated while viewing cinema and the next two and a half or three hours are spent in a wink. Moreover, every class and section of society can afford this form of entertainment at their will and convenience.

Indian cinema has a charm, flavour and magic of its own. It appeals not only to the film-crazy Indian public but also enchants a large number of audiences the world over. People who do not speak or understand Hindi still sing songs from Hindi films. An average Indian film is longer than films from other parts of the world, has a ginger-touch of love, hate, revenge, drama, tears, joys and also its own share of songs and dances. A typical Indian film has it all-all the spice and variety of life condensed into it, transporting the audience on a magic carpet to a totally different world where everything and anything is possible. Infact, Salman Rushdie has quoted:

“I have been a film buff all my life and believe that the finest cinema is fully the equal of the best novels.”

Down the years, cinema in India has reached its own destination, created its own history, touched its own milestones. From stereotyped love stories to action, to drama, to realistic, to fictional-the silver screen in its every aspect has mesmerised, captured and tantalised millions of every age, class, sex and community. The journey from silent films to talking pictures, from black and white to coloured has been long.

It has catered to the dreams and aspirations of many who have hungered for glamour and reached “Mumbai’ and it still does.

There have been two streams of cinema in India-one is the Commercial Cinema which has the sole aim of entertaining and making money in return. The second stream is the Parallel Cinema or the Art Cinema which aims at sensitising people on various social issues and problems of the society. While Commercial Cinema appeals to all sections of the society. Parallel Cinema appeals mainly to the intellectual class and the intelligentsia of the society. But a change has taken place over the last decade and half. A general awareness among people has increased and Art Cinema is being more and more appreciated by a large number of people. Many a times, an art film does much better at the box-office than a mainstream commercial film. This has resulted in the thinning of the differentiating line between Art and Commercial Cinema.

Cinema has an educative value too. Because it exercises a deep influence upon the minds of the people; cinema can be used as a very effective reformative instrument. Statutory warnings are included to spread the awareness about the adversity of smoking has compelled many to quit the habit. Social awareness can be generated on issues like dowry, women education, abortion, girl foeticide, youth unrest, corruption, unemployment, poverty, illiteracy etc. Films like No One Killed Jessica, My Name Is Khan, The Attacks of 26/11 are some movies which have dealt with current sensitive issues. Cinema can expose the evils prevalent in society. It is the most effective means of mass communication. Cinema also is a great unifying force in a diversified country like ours. People belonging to all communities and sections, speaking any language, watch the cinema with the same fascination and excitement. Moreover, people can go to places with cinema. We travel from Ooty to Shimla to Switzerland to Washington to Sydney. It also encourages the art of music, singing, dancing, script-writing, direction etc. It employs a large number of people from technicians to producers to spot boys to dress makers. Thousands of people earn their livelihood through cinema.

Shahrukh Khan has aptly put the significance of cinema by saying: “Cinema in India is like brushing your teeth in the morning. You can’t escape it.”

The silver screen spreads and sells not just dreams but captivates the hearts of young boys and girls. If this medium is not used judiciously and wisely, it can distract the youth from the right direction. Thus, the film makers should undertake film making as a social responsibility and through films should give youth a sense of direction. The trend of making films on famous novels and plays should be encouraged to spread good literature and its appreciation among common man. Sensible and relevant themes should be picked to make films. Films need not be didactic, but they still can pass on constructive messages subtly to the masses. Hence, if used with pure sensibility, cinema can help in bringing positive changes in the society and the attitudes of the people.

Citizenship Journalism

What is citizenship journalism? It is more or less a medium through which rural people can communicate and share the ongoing problems in their state. One such example is cgnet Swara. Cgnet Swara started in 2004 as a website which acted as a middleman between the people and the news. Using the site is simple. All you need to do is call a number and tell them your problem and they’ll report it. A lot of times these stories have broken up like wildfire.

Ndtv once reported a piece of news that was reported by cgnet Swara first. The wonderful thing about this is illiterate people can also tell the news from the ground in a very convenient way. This is revolutionary. Keeping in mind that most of the people only speak their tribal language, it becomes hard for them to understand English or Hindi. But the problem with citizen journalism is that its structure is not very professional. Most of the time the calls might not result in anything because they are just opinions.

This is one of the reasons journalists are sceptical about this. Sometimes the mainstream media has used information from cgnet Swara and didn’t credit them. This makes the relationship worse. One of the officials from cgnet Swara said “Their relationship has become more antagonistic … It is very unfortunate, that local media see us as a competitor—which we cannot be and never intended to be. Every platform has its problems and strengths. We understand the structural problems of mainstream media and we want to fill in the gaps.” The initial goal of citizen journalism was to bridge the gap between the alienated theories that mainstream media provides us as entertainment. This is why the big conglomerates don’t like the idea of citizen journalism. Although it’s unprofessional, it represents the voices of the people in the rawest way possible. Since the narrative in India is controlled by a handful of people, they’ll always try to not let citizenship journalism grow. Going forward, one of the major challenges for citizen journalism is building a structure and improving fact-checking.

Tourism in India

Tourism is the world’s largest and fastest growing industry. It is an invisible export, which carns valuable foreign exchange without any significant or tangible loss of internal resources. It is a source of revenue and employment. There are countries in the world whose main source of revenue is tourism.

India is one of the popular tourist destinations in Asia. India has fascinated people from all over the world with her secularism and her culture. Hence, India is a country with a great potential for tourism. Bounded by the Himalayan ranges in the north and surrounded, on three sides by sea (Arabian sea, Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean), India offers a wide array of places to see and things to do. The enchanting backwaters, hill stations and landscapes make India a beautiful country. There are historical monuments, beaches, places of religious interests, hill resorts, etc. that attract tourists. Every region is identified with its handicraft, fairs, folk dances, music and its people. Tourism is the second largest foreign exchange earner in India. The tourism industry employs a large number of people, both skilled and unskilled. It promotes national integration and international brotherhood.

Tourism is highly labour intensive industry of a unique type. It provides different services needed as well as expected by the incoming tourists. At the world level, it is one of the largest in terms of money spent by tourists in the countries they visit. This amount is said to exceed the GNP of many countries with the sole exception of the USA. According to the latest estimates of the world travel and tourism council, this industry is expected to generate about 6 percent of India’s total employment.

The services rendered to foreign tourists visiting India are the invisible products of tourism industry. These products, i.e. hospitality services of all sorts for tourists turn into invisible exports because these are included in this category without leaving Indian soil. More the foreign exchange earnings, greater is the gain. In the same manner more the number of visitors from foreign countries, more is our foreign exchange earning. The host country has only to provide all possible facilities to the guest visitors to keep them entertained and in a holidaying mood for the longest possible period in hotels. Longer is their stay, more money they will spend and their earning is passed on to us. As the same time, the creative items like art pieces fabrics in indigenous designs including heavy goods like carpets and a lot more, do not fail to carry an appeal for the sightseers. Their sale in India itself is an additional advantage. By exporting the same product through an agent, our profit gets reduced. Next to readymade garments, gems and jewelry, tourism is our largest export item in terms of its earnings. In 2005 The Indian Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) started a campaign called Incredible India’ to encourage tourism in India For a better growth, the department divided different places in different sections like ‘spiritual tourism,’ ‘spa tourism, ecotourism’ and ‘adventure tourism.

As Indian healthcare sector develops, a new term has been coined called Medical Tourism’, which is the process of people from all corners of the world visiting India to seek medical and relaxation treatments. According to research reports on Indian Healthcare sector, the medical tourism market is valued to be worth over $310 million with foreign patients coming by 100,000 every year. Medical tourists choose India as their favorable destination because of the key opportunities in Indian healthcare sector in the form of efficient infrastructures and technology. The health insurance market and National medical systems here are well developed, which is convenient for visitors from the West and the Middle East. They also find the hospital expenses very affordable.

Things have now started looking bright for the Indian tourism industry. However, the Indian tourism industry has been hit by pollution. The effluents emitted by the Mathura Refinery have led to the de-colorization of the Taj Mahal in Agra. The condition of many of our monuments is deteriorating due to the negligence of the concerned authorities. On the other hand, beaches have become the dumping grounds of garbage and waste left by tourists. The natural environment and heritage sites remain a source of attraction as long as these are not damaged beyond control from their degradation or pollution. Massive tourist traffic, unless regulated creates these mal-effects. Tourist carrying capacity of a resort needs to be matched to minimise the inconveniences of local people during the period of tourist rush. Youths of the host area are also to be saved from cultural alienation by blindly imitating the lifestyle of foreigners during days of reckless massive tourism. A planning for adopting a sequence of steps like a survey of the existing position of services, facilities needed by tourists and measures for development of a healthy and sustainable tourism, has become a dire need. At national level, an apex body has to take stock of the status and trends of tourism in comparison with neighbouring countries. It will help appraise the future needs, the nature of various incentives for alluring tourists and the gaps to be removed for better provision as well as management of the infrastructure.

Information Media

By far, books, magazines, newspapers and other printed matter carry the largest and most varied kinds of information to their readers. We can get books on almost any subject that we care to read on. There are books on sports, cookery, fashion, language education, etc. You name the topic and the likelihood is that somebody has published a book (or books) on that topic. So does the internet, which is a modern development in this field.

We get all kinds of information via magazines and newspapers. We come to know about various anti-social happenings through the print media and are able to keep ourselves alert. We also read about the rise and fall of certain politicians, the cricket matches, the state of the stock exchange, the grand sale going on in a supermarket, and also about the various kinds of jobs available.

The amount of information that we can gather from a newspaper is enormous. To read the whole newspaper completely would take hours. While everything printed in newspapers may not be interesting to everyone, we usually read the sections we like, for example, the sports and cartoon pages, and leave the rest. In our country, newspapers are published daily in various languages to cater to various linguistic groups. Each newspaper gives its own version of the hottest news items plus other items that are its particular preferences.

Thus, an average person can be reasonably well-informed about the current happenings in this ever changing world; and only at the price of a few rupees.

The last century, and especially the last few decades, witnessed the tremendous strides made in the field of electronic technology. The simple traditional telephone has been joined to sophisticated television sets, computers, stereo, music, mobile phones and the internet.

Moreover, the internet and social media are particularly important for facilitating access to an unparalleled wealth of information, as well as providing opportunities for new innovative activities and social interactions. Through the means of the internet, especially in smart mobile phones the information spreads instantly and reaches mass audiences in a less costly manner.

In order to get the attention of masses one can voice thoughts on any of the social networking sites and in return get thousands of reviews back. This advancement made Bill Gates quote; “The PC (Personal Computer) has improved the world in just about every area you can think of… Access to information and the ability to give a voice to people who would never have been heard.”

Through the television comes all manner of soap-operas, talk-shows, news, documentaries and the ubiquitous advertisement clips. Large number of people are reached daily in this way. A whole new generation of people is created based on the ideals and dreams that are propagated by television. Political groups and manufacturers make extensive use of this mode of communication to communicate with people. Television has become so effective as a means of transferring information that even criminals and terrorists know its value.

The invention of communication satellites now allows us to witness any event around the globe at the touch of a remote. Even the internet is playing a huge role in the transfer of information at present.

India: A Software Superpower

Two mighty streams flow through India- the spiritual and the technological, indeed! Many developed countries today feel threatened with the Indian Brains taking up leading positions in their country. India is fast becoming the boiling pot of all the IT and software professionals. For a country that lagged behind in the industrial revolution, this rapid catching up with the technology is nothing short of a miracle. It is a country that is being increasingly identified with the high quality IT products, services and processes as well as wealth of skilled manpower that ranks among the best in the world.

The country is forecasted to become the ‘software superpower’ of the world by 2020. It has thus acquired a foremost position in the map of the IT world. India’s progress in this sector is quick and influential, providing the economy a boost.

Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai, manufactured the first computer in India, in 1966 and since then there has been no looking back. India has emerged as a great reckoning force and a dynamic nation at the dawn of this century.

The year 1985 is said to be the year which is the generator of the software and IT revolution in India. India declared its IT policy under the leadership of late Rajiv Gandhi who saw computer as a powerful instrument of modernising the country. The IT policy of 1985 stressed on the fact that electronics and software would be the answer to the problem of unemployment in near future. Indeed computers are spreading in the country at a rocketlike speed. Today, software revolution is at its peak in India. Computers are common in every home, with small children playing games, to generating businesses. Computer consciousness and awareness is fast-developing amongst the youth of today. At present, the United States is considered the leader in IT software, with giants like Microsoft, Apple, Hewlett Packard etc. Today even India is among the top rankers is software industry with over 150 of the fortune 500 companies existing in India.

The world’s top software firms such as Microsoft, Motorola, Intel, IBM etc already have set-up centres for research and development because of globally recognised quality standards of India. For instance, Guillermo Wille, head of GE’s India Research Centre noted that GE’s Indian scientists and engineers are working in leading edge fields such as nanotechnology, hydrogen energy, photonics etc. Moreover, while complimenting Indian talent, Oracle co-president Charles Phillip said:

“The kind of intellectual figure you people have is phenomenal……

The success is ‘phenomenal’ and has been achieved because of various reasons. Strong steps by the government have been taken to improve infrastructure led by revamped policies to attract global foreign direct investments. There is a huge base of English-speaking graduates that supports the extensive ITES-BPO industry. Additionally, there is a ready supply of professionals with relevant IT skills from both formal and informal sector.

Infact, to further boost the literacy in this sector, Indian Government has launched low-cost-tablet called ‘Aakash’ which will link about 25000 colleges and 400 universities to an e-learning programme.

Bengaluru is popularly known as India’s Silicon Valley. It is the hub of IT companies specialising in R & D, electronics and software production. Leading Indian software companies like Infosys, Wipro Technologies, Tata Consultancy Services, HCL hold the world ranking in terms of revenues.

Infosys is the third-largest Indian IT service company by 2014 revenues. Wipro’s founder, Azim Premji was claimed to be the richest man according to Forbes 2011 list of billionaires. Sabeer Bhatia, founder of hotmail e-mail services, recent Satya Nadella, Microsoft’s new CEO (succeeding Steve Ballmer in February 2014) are the examples of India’s excellent might in this sector.

A 21 years old Indian engineering graduate won a reward of ? 8 Lakh for discovering a bug which enabled the users of facebook to remove pictures from other accounts without the approval of the owner. Truly, India’s software whiz kids have won world-wide acclaim in rectifying the millennium computer bug. They are less prone to committing mistakes than their Western counter parts, especially in writing long and complicated software programmes,

And they take advantage of the 24-hour clock, while European and American multinationals sleep, Indian experts fix their software glitches overnight. Every third of Bill Gates’ employees is of Indian origin and upto 50000 Indian technicians make their way to US Silicon Valley each year.Indian politicians are eager to back the IT revolution. They are making the concessions so that the infrastructure and the sector as a whole can flourish. With such incentives India’s IT sector is getting stronger with each passing day. With a 1.2 Billion people, India has the world’s largest pool of technical talent and is the top global technology services outsourcing destination.

Moreover, the increasing demand of Indian software engineers is a sure signal that even the world accepts India as a software super-power to reckon with in the present era.

Sex Education in school

One of the much debated topics across the world is the importance of sex education in schools. Sex education refers to a broad programme designed to impart knowledge/training regarding values, attitudes and practices affecting family relationships. The real purpose behind sex education is the transfiguration of a male child into manhood and of a female child into womanhood.

It is the education that provides knowledge on physical, social, moral, behavioural and psychological changes and developments during puberty. It teaches the adolescents about the role of boys and girls in family and society, responsibility and attitude of boys and girls towards each other, etc within social context.

Sex education is never the most pleasant of the conversations for an adult and child to have. Yet, it is an essential one that many feel should happen in a responsible and safe environment. Due to increasing incidences of HIV/AIDS, RTIs/STIs and teenage pregnancies, there is a rising need to impart sex education. Parents and counsellors in Delhi argue that banning sex education is not a solution and will prove disadvantageous instead, given the exposure kids have to the internet.

E-commerce – Market Trend of the 21st Century

Even today, some considerable time after the so called internet revolution”, Electronic Commerce (E-Commerce) remains a relatively new, emerging and constantly changing area of business management and information technology. Speaking in layman’s terms, E-Commerce refers to the entire process of marketing. selling, delivering goods and servicing customers over the Internet. It has revolutionized the way companies do business. Consumers can buy almost anything online 24 hours a day.

In the 21st century, the rapid development of information technology and the rapid increase in information exchange have brought new drives and innovative ideas to the whole society. The wide adoption of information technology by the community has led to great changes. These changes are not simply in the context of data processing or computing. They are changes which affect how we communicate with each other, how we organise our daily activities, how we educate the younger generation, and how we run business. The great development and acceptance of information technology, computer networks and the Internet have transformed the mode of operation of many businesses, and at the same time have brought along unprecedented business opportunities. Businesses are now able to conduct transactions across geographical boundaries, across time zones and at a high efficiency. E-Commerce has become the market trend of the Century.

Life has become very busy these days. Odd working hours, hectic schedules and time constraints have changed how people shop these days. Hence, E-Commerce has become the preferred method of shopping for many people. They love the ease with which they can shop online from their home at any time of the day or night. Purchasing options are quick and convenient with the ability to transfer funds online. Consumers save time and money by searching for items and making their purchases online. It can take several days of physically going from location to location, costingtime and fuel, to purchase a hard-to-find item. Moreover, E-Commerce is an retail method for business transactions. Start-up costs for establishing an E-Commerce business is far less than expanding your business with more brick and mortar locations. Fewer licenses and permits are required to start an online business than that of a physical store location. You will also save money by using fewer employees to perform operations such as managing inventory and billing customers. You won’t have to search for an appropriate geographic location or worry about paying high utility costs for the facility. efficient

Advertising done well on the web can get even a small firm’s promotional message out to potential consumers in every country in the world. A firm can use electronic commerce to reach narrow market segments that are geographically scattered. The web is particularly useful in creating virtual communities that become ideal target markets for specific types of products or services.

The prospects are, in no doubt, great for E-Commerce and its followers. But still, there are some consumers who are reluctant to embrace E-Commerce because of privacy issues. Making an online purchase often requires disclosing personal information such as an address, telephone number and banking or credit card account information. While many people feel making an online purchase does not compromise their personal information, some still prefer not to take a chance of having their account information accessed by a third party, and will only make their purchases at a storefront operation.

Then there is the issue of inability to feel the product physically or check it with your own hands while buying. When making a purchase at a brick and mortar business, you get the product when you pay for it. On the web, there may be a time lag from purchase to actually being able to consume. The consumer will have to wait for delivery of physical goods.

Also, some businesses are less suitable for electronic commerce. Such businesses may be involved in the selling of items which are perishable or high-cost, or which require inspection before purchasing. Most of the disadvantages of electronic commerce today, however, stem from the newness and rapidly developing pace of the underlying technologies. These disadvantages will disappear as electronic commerce matures and becomes more available to and accepted by the general population.

Not only the new generation, but also the older generation is getting a hold of technology. They are adapting to the changing technologies and try to be up-to-date. Therefore, E-Commerce is also making its way into their lives. It is true that going to markets or malls to shop will never go out of fashion but E-Commerce is also here to stay and become more and more popular as people realize its advantages and get comfortable with it.

The Christian,Muslim conundrum

I sat with my friend clive to know more about his culture. He told me how he was brought up to be a Christian and what were his values. He used to go to church every morning. Then we discussed if he has ever faced discrimination due to his religion. He didn’t feel that he has experienced discrimination. I also asked my Muslim friends if they’ve had any such experiences. They also felt the same way.

All of the people that I interviewed are from a well-to-do backgrounds. This makes me come to my next observation. Are people discriminated against because of their religion or because they belong from a not so well to do background? If you see in our society, Muslim or Christian people who have money don’t have to go through the religious stigma that other people go through. For example, a poor Muslim might have to go through a lot of discrimination as compared to a well-to-do Muslim. In today’s world if you are rich then you’re a powerful man.

I also had the opportunity of meeting a Muslim boy who was not very well-to-do. He told me that in his school, people were always given an opportunity before him. He was the last boy to be considered for every activity and he feels it’s because of his religion. I am not trying to make a stupid assumption but I feel this has some truth to it. In today’s world, if you belong to the higher class of society, you are likely to not go through any hardships due to your religion. Although, that is not completely true because there have been a lot of events where people were either kicked out or denied to take property at a certain place.

This activity led me to discover a lot of insights into the religious stigma that exists around me. I’d encourage everyone to go and ask people from vulnerable backgrounds about their lives. It serves two purposes. They get to share their sorrows and you become more informed about the situation of the matter.

The Aghoris And The Idea Of Cannibalism

“Humans eating humans” is a unique form of ideology, Isn’t it? But this is surprisingly a real fact and this is what cannibalism means in layman’s terms. Those who knew about this belief through history books, movies and etc might assume that it is all in the past but confoundingly it’s a no. Cannibalism is still followed by Aghoris in India. But who are they?

The Aghori Babas of Varanasi, India, are renowned for their ghastly and terrifying quest for heavenly salvation and their practice of devouring corpses. They contend that the dread of death, which is the most intense fear experienced by people, prevents them from attaining enlightenment. One can achieve liberty by overcoming this fear. They are one of the hermits who turn to cannibalism to get through the obstacle of spiritual freedom.

The central tenet of Aghori religion is that everything in the world, even corpses, is equally sacred. There is no such thing as good or bad according to them. The Aghoris strive to transcend all divisions, recognise the false essence of all divisions already in existence, and find eternal happiness by uniting with ultimate presence. However, traditional Hinduism disapproves of this rite. Aghoris are outspoken critics of inequality and the caste system’s enduring effects, which historically segregated Indians into rigid social groups.Also, they don’t harm any other human around them.

While some techniques are as easy as mindfulness, others could be quite strenuous and combative. There is no acceptable or thorough reason for cannibalism. It has been used by several societies and civilizations for a variety of reasons. It makes no sense in general. Instead, it is designed to fit the religious framework of the culture in which it is practiced.

Team India will be led by Shikhar Dhawan in the ODI series against WI.

The three-match ODI series against the West Indies will be contested at the Queen’s Park Oval in Port of Spain, Trinidad, and the teams have been chosen by the all-India Senior Selection Committee.

Team India will be led by batter Shikha Dhawan. As vice captain for the three-match ODI series, Ravindra Jadeja.

Starting on July 22, the Men in Blue will face the West Indies in a three-match ODI series and a five-match T201 series. The last game of the multi-format series between Team India and England will be played on July 17.

Senior players that were given a break from the ODIs include star batsman Virat Kohli, bowler Jasprit Bumrah, and batsman Rohit Sharma.

After missing the home series against South Africa, Kohli, who was formerly famed for his brilliant batting exploits, struggled to regain his form. In the fifth Test against England at Edgbaston, he managed to score just 31 runs.

Bumrah, the captain of team India, astonished everyone at the Edgbaston with his fast bowling and aggressive batting, breaking the previous record of 35 runs in one over by Stuart Broad.

The following players will represent India in the three one-day internationals: Shikhar Dhawan (captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Lyer, Ishan Kishan (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Ravindra Jadeja (vice-captain), Shardul Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar

SECULARISM

Secularism is defined as a doctrine where all religions are given equal status recognition and support from the state. In other words ,secularism simply means as a doctrine that promote separation of state from religion.

Secularism stands for that there should be no discrimination and partiality on grounds of religion and everyone should get an equal opportunity to follow the religion of their choice.

The tradition of secularism is inhibited In The Deep roots of the history of India. In a nation India the first face of secularism is reflected in the preamble of India where the word secular holds the most importance. Indian secularism is also reflected in its fundamental rights article 25 to 28 where the government guarantees each of its citizens the right to practice any religion.

In the words of PB Gajendragadkar ,a former Chief justice of India, secularism is defined as the state does not all loyalty to any particular religion as such it is not irreligious or anti religious it gives equal freedom to all religion.

Indian philosophy of secularism is related to “Sarva Dharma Sambhavana” ,meaning the destination of the parts followed by all religions is the same though the parts them self maybe different simply meaning secularism means equal respect to all religions.

India is a secular country and India does not attached its politics with any individual religion. We Indians together celebrate every festival as well as Indians have the entire freedom and say to celebrate their religion in the country regardless of the caste and creed.

The ideology of Secularism also allows people to express their opinions and beliefs freely. As in a secular state ,no religious group can apply pressure of dominance . Through this ideology, their has been an increasing effect on the right to speech.

The history of secularism in India way backs to 1976 ,where during the 42^nd Amendment of the Indian Constitution. The leaders of Independent India had visualised India, as a country where religion is no bar for its citizens.

SECULARISM IN MODERN INDIA

India was under the control of the East India Company and the British Raj after Aurangzeb. The British East India Company pursued a divide and rule policy, yet the spirit of secularism was strengthened and enriched by the Indian Freedom Movement. The politics of “divide and rule” has contributed to some extent to the conflict of communities between different communities. The partition of Bengal in 1905 followed this policy. The Council of the Indies Act of 1909 made available to other voters for Muslims. This provision was extended by the Government of India Act 1919 to seeks in certain states, Christians in India, Europeans, and Anglo-Indians. Separate voters further extended the co-representative principle by providing separate voters to the depressed class (planned caste), women and workers (workers) through the Indian Governance Act of 1935. The establishment of the Indian National Congress in 1885, with its secular values, united people of all denominations and led the free movement to a constructive and successful path. Nehru issued a long report (1928) calling for the abolition of another voter to create a secular state. Gandhi’s secularism was based on a commitment to brotherhood in the religious community based on respect and pursuit of truth, but J.L. Nehru’s secularism was based on a commitment to scientific humanism, adorned with a progressive view of historical change.

To conclude , Secularism allows the people of various religions to live peacefully without any fear of the majority. It safeguard democracy by limiting the powers of the majority. It ensures harmony in the nation. In absence of secularism, religious persecutions may take place which may result in dissent, conflicts or even a civil war.

Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.

Science and technology are widely recognized as important tool to promote and enhance the country’s socio-economic development. India has made considerable progress in various fields of science and technology over the years and can now boast of having a strong network of Science & Technology institutions, skilled manpower and infrastructure. innovative knowledge. Given the rapid pace of globalization, the rapid depletion of raw materials, the increasing competition between countries and the growing need for intellectual property protection, the importance of strengthening the knowledge base becomes even more important. Agenda is to enhance application-oriented research and development to create technology; promote human resource development, including encouraging bright students to pursue scientific careers; encouraging research and application of science and technology for forecasting, prevention and mitigation of natural disasters; integrate the development of science and technology into all areas of national activities; and exploiting science and technology to improve livelihoods and create jobs; environmental protection and ecological security. Science and technology is of great importance for economic growth at the macro level and for enhancing the competitiveness of enterprises at the micro level. Globalization and liberalization have created great opportunities and some challenges for Science and technology.

DEVELOPMENTS

In India, the role of science and technology in national development has been recognized by the government. The second five-year plan emphasizes that “the most important factor to promote economic development is the will of the community to apply modern science and technology”. In 1971, the Department of Science and Technology (DST) was established to promote new fields of science and technology. Similarly, State Councils of Science and Technology have also been established at the state level. As part of national policy, the government promotes various research and development programs to encourage scientific activities. Thus, we see that modern scientific and technological knowledge has had an impact on almost all fields such as agriculture, industry, nuclear energy, space technology, electronics, medicine and science. Development of Health Sciences. In addition to these key areas, India has also made progress in several other areas. These include the activities of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Commission in oil exploration and refining and the National Environmental Planning Commission in environmental protection and solar power generation. A Central Ganges Administration has been established to control Ganga pollution using wastewater treatment plants, etc. Currently, the country has a solid foundation in modern technology. It also has the third largest science and engineering workforce in the world. India has become a major destination for outsourced R&D activities. We currently have more than 1,100 R&D centers established by multinational enterprises (MNCs) such as IBM, Google, Microsoft, Intel, Lupin, Wockhardt, etc. These R&D centers cover areas such as information and communication technology, biotechnology, aerospace, automotive, chemical and materials technology. India’s relatively strong intellectual property regime will enable the country to emerge as a major R&D hub. Indian scientists are at the forefront of some of the world’s ground-breaking works. Recent contributions by Indian scientists to cutting-edge research and technology have been encouraging. For example, 37 Indian scientists from 9 Indian institutions who played a key role in the discovery of gravitational waves received the 2017 Nobel Prize in Physics. Indian scientists also contributed. on the discovery of neutron star mergers at the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO), USA. The development of Brahmos, advanced supersonic anti-aircraft interceptors, various types of missiles and missile systems, remote control vehicles, light combat aircraft, etc. are examples. highlights India’s advances in strategic and defense technology. India currently ranks among the few countries with reliable space technology capabilities. The upgrade of SLV to ASLV and PSLV to GSLV, the first lunar orbiter project Chandrayan-1, the Mars Orbiter Mission and the recent simultaneous launch of 104 satellites are remarkable achievements of India. India is currently the third largest country in terms of number of startups. This number is predicted to grow exponentially in the coming years. The government has established the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) to completely transform the country’s innovation, entrepreneurship and startup ecosystem.

Applications and Effects in Everyday Life

Science and technology affect us all, every day of the year, as soon as we wake up, day and night. Our digital alarm clocks, the weather, the vehicles we drive, the buses we take, our decision to eat a baked potato instead of fries, our cell phones. me, antibiotics for your sore throat, clean water and all the lights have brought us the contributions of science. It affects socialization and productivity. The power of the Internet has made it easier for global communities to form and share ideas and resources. The modern world would not be modern at all without the knowledge and technology created by science. The influence of science on people’s lives is growing. Although the recent benefits to humanity are unprecedented in human history, in some cases harmful or long-term effects raise serious concerns. Today, the public distrust of science and fear of technology is a significant metric. This is partly due to the belief of some individuals and communities that they will be the ones to bear the indirect negative consequences of technical innovations introduced for the benefit of a special minority. permission. The power of science to bring about change forces scientists to proceed with caution in what they do and what they say. Scientists should reflect on the social consequences of technology applications or partial disclosures about their work and explain to the public and policymakers the degree of uncertainty. or the scientific incompleteness of their findings. At the same time, however, the exploitation of the full predictive power of qualified science should not be avoided to help humans cope with environmental change, especially in the face of direct threats such as natural disasters. or water shortage. Science and Technology offers simple and affordable science-based solutions that help individuals save time, energy and increase income. Technology adds value to handicraft products, playing an important role in enhancing their competitiveness. In general, S&T can play an important role in extending informatics to the most remote areas of the country by emphasizing computer literacy, making it accessible to those without formal education. Information Technology. Thus, “problem populations” can be transformed into valuable “human resources” through activity-oriented training and skill upgrading, which develop entrepreneurship and facilitate for independent employment through the use of new technologies. S&T provides solutions to long-term problems such as drought, disease, lack of domestic water, nutrition, sanitation, health, housing, etc. and other everyday issues, including the transition to unconventional energy sources and product packaging. Knowledge of science and technology helps to find ways for people to have the habit of using natural resources more wisely such as wood, bamboo, medicinal plants, etc. through the application of environmentally friendly technologies.

INVESTMENT MODELS

Before starting with investment models we must understand what investment is. Investing is the exchange of money for profitable assets. The same profit is used to invest in other assets. Investment is important for a country’s economic well-being, as it contributes to growth and development. When a government invests in a business, agriculture, manufacturing, or support industry, it can create employment opportunities for its people. However, a strong investment scenario is when the government and the private sector work together to create investment opportunities. Also, we make an investment and choose a proxy for a investment model, we should keep in mind that the following factors are involved: Savings rate. National tax rate. (Net profit after tax). inflation. Bank interest rates. Potential rate of return on investment. Availability of other factors of production (cheap land, labor, etc.) and the infrastructure that underpins them-transportation, energy, telecommunications. Market size and stability.

TYPES OF INVESTMENT MODELS

The following are the main investment models Public investment models: In public investment models, the government makes investments in specific goods and services through the central or state government or with support from the public sector using the revenue generated from this activity. . Private Investment Model: As is the case with India, there are times when public sector revenues are not sufficient to cover some of the revenue shortfalls that may arise. Therefore, the government invites private members to invest in some of its companies. This investment can be domestic or foreign. Foreign direct investment (FDI) can improve existing infrastructure and create jobs in the process. This model is one of the most sought-after in terms of outside investment. Public-private partnership model: A public-private partnership (PPP, 3P, or P3) is a partnership agreement between two or more public and private sectors, usually on a long-term basis. The following sectors in India already have projects based on the PPP model: Health, Power industry, Railways, Urban housing.

There are also other investment models. They are as follows: Country investment model: can be public company or PPP Foreign investment model: can be mostly foreign or a mixture of foreign – domestic Sector-specific investment models: where investments are made in special economic zones or other related sectors Cluster investment models: Investment in manufacturing industries is an example.

INVESTMENT MODELS USED IN INDIA

The following investment models are used:

Harrod-Domar model: This model is biased towards an industry model in which the driver of economic growth depends on policies that increase saving and technological progress.

The Solow Swan Model: This is an extension of the Harrod-Domar model, with a particular focus on productivity growth.

Feldman – Mahalanobis Model: This model focuses on improving the domestic consumer goods sector, where there is sufficient capital sector commodity capacity. It then evolved into the four-zone pattern also known as the Nehru-Mahalanobis model.

Rao ManMohan Model: Named after Narasimha Rao and Dr. Manmohan Singh, this model applies the policy of economic liberalization and FDI inflows in 1999. Lewis model of economic development through supply unlimited labor.

Sources: https://www.insightsonindia.com/indian-economy-3/investment-models/

INCLUSIVE GROWTH AND ISSUES ARISING FROM IT

Inclusive growth means economic growth that creates job opportunities and contributes to poverty alleviation. This means that the poor have access to basic education and health services. This involves ensuring equal opportunities for all, as well as empowering everyone through education and skills development. For rapid and sustainable poverty reduction, everyone must be able to both contribute to and benefit from economic progress. Rapid growth is necessary for poverty alleviation, but it must be widespread across all sectors and include a large portion of the country’s workforce to be sustainable in the long term.

FEATURES OF INCLUSIVE GROWTH

About Overcoming the constraints of excluded and marginalized people. Participation of all segments of society, Reduce the disparity in per capita income between: Different sectors of the economy, Different segments of society Rural and urban areas different genres

No – discrimination Poverty reduction potential is higher Ensure people have access to basic infrastructure and basic services/capabilities such as health and basic education. This approach should include not only the quantity but also the quality of these basic services. Includes poor and lagging socio-economic groups and lagging regions, as well as partners in this growth.

ELEMENTS OF INCLUSIVE GROWTH

The elements of inclusive growth are Skills development. Harnessing the demographic dividend will depend on the employability of the working-age population, their health, education, vocational training and skills. Skills development plays an important role here. India faces a dual challenge in skills development: Firstly, there is a shortage of skilled labor Second, there is no employment of conventionally trained young people.

UNICEF 2019 reports statistics that at least 47% of young Indians do not have the education and skills necessary to get a job by 2030. Financial inclusion Financial inclusion is the process of ensuring access to financial services at a reasonable cost to vulnerable groups. Financial inclusion is necessary for inclusive growth because it leads to a culture of thrift, creating a virtuous circle of economic development. Technological Advancement The world is moving towards the era of industrial revolution 4.0. These technological advances have the potential to reduce or increase inequality depending on how they are used. Several initiatives have been taken by the government, e.g. Digital India Mission, so that a digitally literate population can leverage technology for endless possibilities. Technology can also help address other challenges, for example: Agriculture – Modern technology can make the agricultural value chain from farmer to consumer more efficient and competitive. Production – Technology can solve financial problems, provide raw materials, land and link with the user market. GST is only possible with the help of solid technology. Education – Advanced digital technologies can create new forms of adaptive and peer-to-peer learning, increase access to faculty and mentors, and deliver actionable data in real time. Health technologies can transform the delivery of public health services – expanding care through telemedicine services Governance – Technology can reduce delays, corruption and inefficiencies in public service delivery Economic growth India is one of the fastest growing major economies in the world. However, the Indian economy is currently facing a slowdown due to both cyclical and structural challenges. However, the goal of becoming a $5 trillion economy by 2024-25 could enable India to reduce inequality, increase social spending and provide jobs for all. Social development This means empowering all marginalized sections of the population such as SC/ST/OBC/Minorities, Women and Transgenders. Empowerment can be accomplished by improving the institutions of the social structure, i.e. hospitals, especially primary care in rural areas, schools, universities, etc. Investing in social structures will not only promote growth , but also create a healthy and capable generation. for future work management.

INDIA’S NEED FOR INCLUSIVE GROWTH

Many thinkers and government officials have emphasized the importance of inclusive growth for long-term prosperity and fair income distribution. Comprehensive growth is a difficult task in India. In a democratic country like India, the vast majority of people live in rural areas, and integration into society is a major concern. The Government of India faces the daunting task of spreading progress across all sections of society and across the country. The best way to achieve inclusive growth is to empower people. Government officials argue that progress requires a multifaceted approach to education and skills development. Public-private partnerships can help solve the problem of lack of skills. Since independence, India’s economic and social growth has improved significantly, enabling India to prosper in the 21st century.

The factors listed below allow India to focus on inclusive growth.

Poverty

Unemployment

Agricultural backwardness

Regional disparities

Issues relating to social development

GOVERNMENT MEASURES FOR INCLUSIVE GROWTH

Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana
MUDRA (Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency)Bank
SETU(Self Employment and Talent Utilization)
Skill India
Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA)
Kisan Card
Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)
National Agriculture Market (NAM)
Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Beema Yojana
Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Suraksha Yojana
Atal Pension Yojana(Social Security Schemes)
Digital India programme

All these measures and policies will help in achieving inclusive growth and hence will help in developing country.

ROLE OF CIVIL SERVICES IN A DEMOCRACY

In a democracy, the civil services play an significant role in the administration, policy formulation and implementation, and in taking the country forward towards progress and development. Democracy is an egalitarian principle in which the people elect the people who govern over them. There are three pillars of modern democracy: Legislature Executive Judiciary.

The civil services form a part of the executive. While the ministers, who are part of the executive, are temporary and are reelected or replaced by the people by their will (through elections), the civil servants are the permanent part of the executive. The civil servants are accountable to the political executive, the ministers. The civil service is therefore a part of the government. Civil service officers are permanent employees of various government services. Basically, they are professional administrators. They are sometimes called bureaucracy or public service.

IMPORTANCE OF CIVIL SERVICES

The Importance of Civil Services

The Civil Service is present all over India and is therefore highly binding. It plays an important role in developing effective policies and regulations. It offers non- partisan advice to the country’s political leaders, even amid political turmoil. This service ensures effective coordination between different governing bodies, as well as between different departments, agencies, etc. It provides service delivery and leadership at different levels of governance.

FUNCTIONS

On the basis of government: There can be no government without an administrative apparatus. Law and policy enforcement: Public services are responsible for implementing laws and implementing policies set forth by the government. Policy formulation: The civil service is also primarily responsible for policy formulation. Civil service officers advise ministers on the matter and also provide them with facts and ideas.

In the context of political instability, public service brings stability and long-term. Although governments and ministers may come and go, civil service is a permanent fixture that gives the administrative organization a sense of stability and continuity. Tools for social change and economic development: Successful policy implementation will lead to positive changes in the lives of ordinary people. Only when the promised goods and services reach the intended recipients can the government call any program a success. The task of updating programs and policies rests with public service agents. Welfare services: Services that provide various social assistance regimes such as social security, benefits for the disadvantaged and vulnerable sections of society, pensions for the elderly, and hunger eradication. poverty reduction, etc. Development function: The service performs various development functions such as promoting modern technology in agriculture, promoting industry, commerce, banking function, bridging the digital divide, etc. Administrative Arbitration: Public services also provide quasi-judicial services by resolving disputes between the state and citizens, in the form of courts, etc.

CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS RELATING TO CIVIL SERVICES

According to Articles 53 and 154, executive power of the Union and the Cantons rests with the President or the Governor directly or through his subordinate officers. These officers constitute the permanent civilian body and are governed by Part XIV of the Constitution (Services of the Union and the States (Articles 308-323)). Government of India Rules: The manner in which officers are required to assist the President or Governor in the performance of their executive functions is governed by the Rules. this. Article 311 – Dismissal, dismissal or dismissal of persons performing civil functions subordinate to the Union or a State. Section 312 – All India Services.

CONCLUSION

The civil servants are accountable to the Ministers of the agencies they serve. Ministers are accountable to the people through Parliament or state legislatures, and public servants are accountable to ministers. Ideally, they should serve the elected government of the day, as government policies are a function of public services. However, an impartial official is also responsible for the Constitution of India to which he has taken an oath allegiance.

Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.

For inclusive growth and employment, spending on social services as a share of GDP and investment in social infrastructure are of prime importance. The social sector pursues economic and social goals and is involved in providing social services to disadvantaged groups and communities, whether in urban or rural areas. Recent Economic Research focuses on social services including education, sport, arts and culture; public health and medical, family welfare; water supply and drainage and environmental sanitation; hotel; Urban Development; SC, ST and OBC welfare, labor and labor benefits; social security and welfare, nutrition, disaster relief, etc.

As education and health are two major areas of concern in the context of social sector development and human development achievements, this article explores their situation in India.

ISSUES REGARDING DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT OF SOCIAL SECTORS

In this regard, issues related to the development and management of social sectors/services are as follows:

1) Fundamental changes in the design of policies/programs needed to approach all segments of society.

2) Expand outreach equitably through people participation, outreach, use of technology, and direct transfer of benefits.

3) Access to education at all levels in rural and urban areas with necessary reforms of the education system to encourage career development.

4) Intensify efforts to impart skills needed to face the 4th industrial revolution, which is a fusion of the physical, digital and biological worlds.

5) An increase in total formal employment in the economy.

6) Challenges of providing both access to health care and access to quality health care nationally.

7) Construction rate of pucca structure housing in rural and urban areas.

EDUCATION

The liberalization of India’s economy has had a major impact on the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth, with its economic growth accelerating f. The literacy rate has increased from 77.7% in 2020, while primary education universalization has largely been achieved and the dropout rate has decreased. However, despite significant progress, strong exclusions and disparities exist. Combining accessible affordability and quality assurance with good governance and adequate funding is always a concern.

HEALTH

Significant progress has also been made on the medical side, some diseases have been eradicated or are on the verge of eradication. There have been significant declines in the Index of Fertility (ISF) and the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR), and life expectancy has fallen from 36.7 years in 1951 to 69.66 In 2019. These achievements are impressive, but at the same time, our failures are more prominent. As such, this volume brings together the contributions of leading Indian scholars on a wide range of social issues, including the link between growth, poverty, and the social sector; efficiency of social sector spending in India; disparities in health status; Protecting IPRs in Health Innovations; pollution and health; universal primary education; problems encountered at higher education levels; and child labor issues.

ROLE OF CONSTITUTION IN ENSURING ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL JUSTICE

The right to health is not directly included as a fundamental right in the Constitution of India. The maker of the Constitution placed this obligation on the State to ensure economic and social justice. The fourth part of the Indian constitution is the Directive Principles of State Policy which has imposed obligations on the states. If we just look at these terms, we see that some of them are directly or indirectly related to public health. The Indian constitution does not stipulate the right to health care as a fundamental right. The Constitution orders the State to take measures to improve the health care conditions of the people. Thus, the preamble of the Constitution of India, among other things, aims to ensure social and economic justice for all its citizens. It provides a framework for achieving the goals set out in the introduction. The preamble is amplified and developed in the Guiding Principles of State Policy.

Article 38 of the Indian Constitution places on the state the responsibility that states must ensure social order to promote the welfare of the people, but without public health we cannot achieve this. this. This means that without public health, everyone’s happiness is impossible. Article 39(e) concerned workers to protect their health. Article 41 imposes on the State the obligation to provide public assistance mainly to the sick and disabled. Article 42 provides for the protection of the health of children and mothers through the maternity regime. In India, the guiding principle of state policy under Article 47 states that the primary duty of the state is to improve public health, ensure justice, the human condition at work, and prolong time sickness, old age, disability and maternity benefits are also being considered. In addition, state duties include the prohibition of intoxication and drugs harmful to health. Section 48A ensures that the state strives to protect and enforce a pollution-free environment for good health.

COMPARISION OF THE INDIAN CONSTITUTIONAL SCHEME WITH THAT OF OTHER COUNTRIES

The Constitution is a national rulebook that codifies the rule of law. It establishes the various institutions of government, namely the administrative, legislative and judicial frameworks and their main functions. It also establishes relationships between the government and those known as citizenship. The architects of the Indian Constitution passed all the major constitutions of the world that existed at the time before making their own drafts. The Indian Constitution is often referred to as a “bag of borrowings” because it is voluntarily drawn from another country. The Constitution is a national rulebook that codifies the rule of law.

INDIAN CONSTITUTION AS A BAG OF BORROWINGS

The Constitution of India provides for a parliamentary government, which has a federal structure with certain unified characteristics. The composition is written in part, by convention, and by judicial interpretation. Derived from various sources. Mainly from the Government of India Act 1935.

From Ireland: Directive Principles of state Policy, Representative of ability in Rajya sabha, Electoral System of the President of India, How to Nominate Members of Rajya sabha.

From the United States: Fundamental Rights;

From England: Parliamentary form of government.

From Germany: Emergency provision;

From South Africa: Amendment procedures for a majority of two-thirds in parliament, and elections for Rajya Sabha members.

Therefore, the Constitution of India is one of the longest known constitutions in the world due to the above characteristics.

COMARISIONS WITH OTHER COUNTRIES

INDIA AND FRANCE

SIMILARITY

Written Constitutions: India and France, however, have a written constitution; France has changed its constitution quite often due to instability. Currently, it is the 5th constitution in the history of France.

Government Type: Both countries elect leaders for their respective terms.

Amendment Process: The French Constitution can be amended with a 60% majority similar to the Indian amendment process. Republic: Both countries are Republics with elected Heads of State.

Ideas: India borrowed the ideas of freedom, equality and brotherhood from the Preamble of the French Constitution. Emergency provisions: Both countries have the right to emergency provisions.

DIFFERENCES

Political model: France adopts a semi-presidential system with the president having more power than the prime minister while India adopts a parliamentary form of government with more powers vested in the prime minister. Term of Head of Government: Prime Minister of India has a term of 5 years while the President of France has a term of 7 years. Philosophical Aspects: There are no provisions relating to due process or fair trial in the French Constitution. France has adopted complete separation of state and religion, while India has more distance in principle but not total separation. France operates under a unitary model, not federalism like in India. Judicial structure: The judiciary plays no role in conducting elections in India while in France the judiciary plays an important role. The French courts are divided into two divisions namely judicial courts and administrative courts, but in India there is no such structure.

INDIA AND CANADA

SIMILARITIES

Unitary / Federal: Both have a federal structure. Like India, Canada has residual powers at the center.

Appointment of Governors: The central government appoints governors for the states and provinces. Composition of the Executive Board: Members are elected the first past the post system. Both have governments that are jointly accountable to the lower house.

Judicial structure: The appointment and advisory jurisdiction of the Supreme Court is the same as in India.

Legislative structure: Laws promulgated by Parliament apply to the whole country.

DIFFERENCES

Written/Unwritten Constitution: Canada is guided by both written and unwritten laws, while India is guided by its written Constitution. Political Setup: Canada has a monarchy while India has a president as head of state. Executive Configuration: The Governor-General is appointed by the monarch on the advice of the prime minister, while in India the president is indirectly elected. Nationality: There is a dual citizenship provision in Canada while India does not grant dual citizenship. Judicial structure: The country has several legal systems while India does not.

INDIA AND GERMANY

SIMILARITIES

Republic: Both countries are Republics with elected Heads of State. Political Structure: Both have a parliamentary form of government in which the prime minister/prime minister is the head of government and the president has mainly ceremonial and supervisory functions. India borrowed on emergency provisions from Germany. Both have federal systems. Both are characterized by fundamental rights.

DIFFERENCES

Germany has a rigid Constitution while India has a flexible and rigid Constitution. Nationality: Dual citizenship is allowed under certain circumstances

INDIA AND JAPAN

SIMILARITIES

Both have written constitutions. Legislative structure: Both have Parliament as the supreme legislative body. Both have two houses in Parliament, with the lower house having more power than the upper house. As in India, the no-confidence movement led to the dissolution of the Lok Sabha.

Philosophical Aspects: Constitutional supremacy and judicial review. Both countries have a statutory procedure. Executive Configuration: Similar to India, the Prime Minister in Japan can belong to either House. The Council of Ministers is accountable to the House of Commons, as in India. Judicial configuration: The appointment, dismissal and fixed retirement age of judges in Japan is similar to that in India.

DIFFERENCES

Japan has a rigid Constitution while India has a flexible and rigid Constitution. The Japanese constitution provides for a unified state. Executive structure: ministers are appointed by the prime minister, but in the case of India, it is appointed by the president on the advice of the prime minister. In Japan, their parliament elects the Prime Minister from the majority party, while in India this is not the case. Political Structure: Japan is a constitutional monarchy while India is a republic. In Japan, all international treaties must be ratified by the Diet, which is not the case in India. Judicial structure: judges are appointed by the Diet, but in India Parliament has no role.

INDIA AND AUSTRALIA

SIMILARITIES

Both have written Constitution. India and Australia have federal parliamentary states with states and territories. Legislative Configuration: There is a provision to read a second time and forward it to a committee that can propose similar recommendations for India. India borrowed the concurrent list from Australia. The two countries have scheduled a joint session to resolve the deadlock between the two houses. Judicial structure: The Supreme Court is the court of last resort in Australia for all cases, as well as in India. Both countries have independent judiciary and emphasize separation of powers. The procedure for appointing and removing judges in Australia is the same as in India.

DIFFERENCES

Unlike India, emergency laws are different in each Australian state. There is a dual citizenship provision in Australia, which was added on 4 April 2002. Political structure: In Australia, the head of government in the Queen’s Commonwealth is represented. by a Governor-General. Legislative structure: The Australian Constitution can only be amended with voter approval through a national referendum in which all adult electors must vote. The Senate is elected by list system while in India it is elected by a single transferable vote. House legislators are elected for 3 years in Australia while in India they are elected for 5 years.

INDIA AND THE USA

SIMILARITIES

The two countries have a written Constitution. Both countries have the concept of fundamental rights. Both countries have a preamble as an introduction. Both countries have vice president offices. Legislative setting: Both countries have state representation in the legislature. Both countries have planned for the removal of the president, that is, the impeachment process. Philosophical Aspects: The concept of judicial review in India is borrowed from the United States. The procedural concept established by law in India was borrowed from the United States. There is a separation of powers between the different organs of government. There is a federal system in the United States similar to India. The United States has constitutional supremacy similar to that of India.

DIFFERENCES

USA has a rigid constitution while India has a rigid and flexible constitution. Political Setup: USA has a presidential form of government while India has a parliamentary form of government. Composition of the executive: In the United States the president is elected directly by the people while in India the president is elected indirectly. Amendment : The US Constitution has only been amended 27 times in 200 years. The remaining power belongs to the States while in India it belongs to the Union. Judicial structure: In India, judges reach retirement age while in the US judges can hold office until they are in good health. Each state has its own Constitution and its own Supreme Court, India’s case absent. USA offers dual citizenship which is not available in case of India.

INDIA AND UK

SIMILARITIES

Type of Government: Both have a parliamentary form of government. India adopted the rule of law from Britain. Executive Configuration: Both countries have a Cabinet System presence. Both countries have two heads of government present. Both countries have multi-party representation in Parliament. Possibility of Amendment: British law can be passed, amended and repealed by a simple majority as in India. Judicial configuration: The Removal of judges is the same as in India.

DIFFERENCES

The United Kingdom has an unwritten constitution, only a fraction of which is mentioned in a written document while India has a written constitution. The UK has a flexible constitution and it is a unified state. Political Structure: The United Kingdom is a constitutional monarchy while India is a republic. Offers dual citizenship in the UK. In the UK, the prime minister must be elected to the lower house, while in India he can be in either house of parliament. Legislative setup : In the UK there is a convention that once a president is always president, so a former president has no political party whereas in India the president is always a member of the party . Parliament has supremacy in the UK while the Indian Constitution has supremacy.

INDIA AND RUSSIA

SIMILARITIES

Executive structure: In both countries, the Prime Minister is appointed by the President. Legislative configuration: The lower house is more powerful, like in India. Both have provisions for fundamental rights.

DIFFERENCES

Political model: Russia has a semi-presidential system of government while India has a parliamentary form of government. Executive Configuration: Russia The Prime Minister performs the duties of the President in the event of resignation or resignation, while the same responsibility rests with the Vice President in the case of India. In Russia, the president cannot serve more than two consecutive terms, but in India there is no such limit. President is more powerful in Russia while prime minister enjoys more power in case of India. The term of the President of Russia is 6 years while the President of India is 5 years. Legislative setup: members of the House of Representatives in Russia are selected according to the proportional representation system while in India they are selected according to a back-and-forth system. Judicial structure: There is no single integrated justice system in Russia as in India.

CONCLUSION

Although many of India’s constitutional features have been adopted by other countries, it is an attempt to ensure that the government is efficient, fair, and accountable. It makes sure that the government follows the law. It establishes a system of checks and balances to ensure that when laws are enacted or amended, the government follows the appropriate legislative process.

References

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Urban Layout:

Architecture:

Advanced Infrastructure:

Challenges and Decline:

References

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Overcrowding and Limited Space:

Inadequate Sanitation Facilities:

Substandard Housing Conditions:

Limited Educational Opportunities:

Healthcare Disparities:

Community Empowerment and Urban Planning:

Conclusion:

References

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Introduction:

The Role of Sects in Indian Society:

The Impact of Sects on Social Identity:

The Role of Sects in Inter-Group Relations:

Conclusion:

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Conclusion:

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Positive Impacts

Negative Impacts

Conclusion

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SECULARISM IN MODERN INDIA

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DEVELOPMENTS

Applications and Effects in Everyday Life