Contents:
- Keep the Fire of the Self-Respect Movement Going
- Russia’s Geopolitical Pivot to Asia: A New India Chapter
Keep the Fire of the Self-Respect Movement Going
Context: The article commemorates the centenary of the Self-Respect Movement, an emancipatory effort started in 1925. The movement, led by E.V. Ramasamy (Periyar), aimed to empower communities to challenge social hierarchies and advocate for social justice and gender equality. Though associated with the Dravidian Movement, it has broader significance in opposing cultural hegemony and promoting equality. The relevance of this movement persists as it addresses ongoing social and political challenges in India.
Relevance: General Studies Paper 1 (Modern Indian History)
Mains Question: Discuss the historical significance of the Self-Respect Movement and its role in shaping social and political discourse in Tamil Nadu and India. How is the movement’s ideology relevant in contemporary society? (250 words)
- Origins of the Movement:
The Self-Respect Movement began in 1925 under the leadership of E.V. Ramasamy, popularly known as Periyar. Its key objective was to dismantle the entrenched caste system and empower non-Brahmin communities. It stood against the dominance of Brahminical social norms and aimed to establish social equality. - Ideological Basis:
The movement advocated radical social reforms, focusing on abolishing caste hierarchies and patriarchal traditions. It opposed the ritualistic dominance in society and promoted rationalism. It also pushed for women’s rights, gender equality, and equal access to education and employment. - Women’s Empowerment:
Periyar’s emphasis on gender equality led to reforms advocating women’s property rights, equal marital rights, and abolition of oppressive social practices like child marriage. This was revolutionary for its time and became a major focus of the movement. - Influence on Political Discourse:
The movement laid the groundwork for the formation of the Dravidian political ideology, which shaped the politics of Tamil Nadu. It became a key platform for the Dravidian political parties like the DMK, which later carried forward the agenda of social justice and secularism. - Contemporary Relevance (Self-Respect 2.0):
The modern iteration of the movement must counter new challenges such as rising cultural homogenization and right-wing cultural assertions. Issues like identity politics, caste-based discrimination, and social justice remain highly relevant. Integrating its principles into modern political and social reforms is crucial. - Challenges in Modern India:
The current socio-political climate in India has seen a rise in narratives that the movement traditionally opposed. Cultural and ideological pressures from Hindutva forces threaten the secular and rationalist principles of the Self-Respect Movement. The movement’s call for rational thought, social equity, and a secular society must be reinvigorated to counter these trends. - Call to Action:
The movement needs to focus on youth engagement and education to propagate its ideas. Promoting a rationalist and equality-driven society requires addressing misinformation, ideological propaganda, and caste-based oppression.
Latest Data and Numbers:
- The Self-Respect Movement’s influence led to several progressive reforms in Tamil Nadu, such as the abolition of Devadasi practices and the promotion of widow remarriage.
- The Dravidian parties, shaped by the Self-Respect Movement, have governed Tamil Nadu for over 50 years, indicating its lasting political impact.
Conclusion:
As the Self-Respect Movement enters its second century, its values of social equality, rationalism, and empowerment are more critical than ever. The movement must adapt and modernize its approach to address contemporary challenges while staying true to its core values. It remains a potent force in the fight against social injustice and the assertion of individual and community rights.
Reviving and modernizing the movement is essential to preserve its legacy and ensure its relevance in promoting social justice and equality in present-day India.
Russia’s Geopolitical Pivot to Asia: A New India Chapter
Context: After Russia cut its economic ties with Europe in 2022, it pivoted its focus towards Asia, especially India, amidst the geopolitical shifts caused by the Ukraine conflict. The move marks a significant strategic shift in Russia’s foreign policy, reflecting its aim to diversify economic and political engagements and reduce dependence on Western economies.
Relevance: General Studies Paper 2 (International Relations
Mains Question: Analyze the geopolitical and economic implications of Russia’s strategic pivot to Asia, with a focus on India-Russia relations. What are the key opportunities and challenges for India in this emerging partnership? (250 words)
- Russia’s Strategic Shift:
The Ukraine crisis in 2022 pushed Russia to pivot from Europe to Asia. This decision was driven by the need to reduce vulnerability to Western sanctions and external shocks. The dependency on European markets and financial systems left Russia exposed to political and economic risks. - Focus on India:
India has emerged as a crucial partner in Russia’s new strategy. Bilateral trade between India and Russia crossed $35.5 billion in June 2022 and reached $75 billion by May 2024. A significant agreement between Prime Minister Modi and President Putin aims to establish $100 billion in bilateral trade by 2030. - Economic Dynamics:
India’s neutral stance in the Ukraine conflict has facilitated closer economic cooperation. Russia sees India as a stable economic partner for sectors like energy, defense, technology, and infrastructure. India imports Russian oil at discounted prices, which aligns with its strategic needs. - Sectoral Collaboration:
The focus is on enhancing cooperation in high-potential sectors like defense production, STEM education, technology, and heavy industry. Investments in power plants, refineries, and mining are also being prioritized. Both countries are exploring joint projects in construction and modernization. - Challenges in Bilateral Relations:
Several challenges hinder smooth cooperation. Sanctions against Russia limit its access to global technologies, complicating trade logistics and finance. Russia’s focus on import substitution and technological nationalism (similar to India’s ‘Make in India’ agenda) could create barriers in sectors like industrial production. - Opportunities for India:
The pivot provides an opportunity for India to access Russia’s underutilized manufacturing capabilities. Sectors such as steel, heavy machinery, and defense technology could see joint production initiatives. For example, there is potential for Indian firms to supply automotive and smartphone components to Russia. - Strategic Implications:
Geopolitically, the shift could reduce India’s over-dependence on Western partners and diversify its trade routes. It also aligns with India’s multipolar world view, where it seeks to balance relations with Russia, the West, and other Asian economies. - Technological and Educational Cooperation:
The emphasis is also on STEM collaborations. Strengthening science and technology cooperation could help overcome the knowledge gap between the two nations. STEM partnerships would be essential to boost innovation and foster educational exchanges.
Latest Data and Numbers:
- Bilateral trade between India and Russia: $75 billion in 2024.
- Trade target: $100 billion by 2030.
- India’s oil imports from Russia have significantly increased since 2022.
Conclusion:
Russia’s pivot to Asia opens up a new chapter in India-Russia relations, presenting both opportunities and challenges. The bilateral trade target of $100 billion by 2030 is ambitious but achievable through enhanced sectoral cooperation. Addressing sanctions-related hurdles and aligning technological standards will be crucial for sustaining this momentum. India must leverage this partnership strategically to secure its economic and geopolitical interests while ensuring diversification in its foreign policy engagements.
India’s balanced approach and pragmatic policy can help it gain from Russia’s new geopolitical and economic orientation, making it a pivotal partner in the evolving Asian landscape.
A Last-Minute Plan
Context: Delhi’s Winter Action Plan aims to combat the city’s annual air pollution crisis, which peaks during the winter months. While the government has made efforts like deploying drones for real-time monitoring and setting up task forces, the plan lacks long-term vision and cohesive action. Meanwhile, the burning of paddy stubble in Punjab and Haryana remains a major contributor to winter pollution. Coordination between the Centre, Delhi, and neighbouring states is crucial to effectively address this crisis.
Relevance: General Studies Paper 3 (Environment
Mains Question: Discuss the challenges faced by Delhi in managing its winter air pollution. Evaluate the effectiveness of the Winter Action Plan and the role of inter-state coordination in addressing the issue. (250 words)
- Current Scenario and Need for Action:
As in previous years, Delhi has unveiled its Winter Action Plan to tackle pollution that surges during the festival season and continues through the winter. The deployment of drones for real-time monitoring and task forces involving the environment, transport, revenue, and traffic departments are positive steps. However, most of these measures are reactive and short-term. - Inadequacies in the Winter Action Plan:
The plan lacks integration with an annual, comprehensive strategy. Short-term awareness campaigns, although helpful, are insufficient. Behavioral changes in residents and farmers in surrounding areas are essential to ensure long-term results. Without cohesive implementation and follow-up, the Winter Action Plan risks becoming another ineffective bureaucratic exercise. - Role of Neighbouring States and the Stubble Burning Issue:
A significant portion of Delhi’s winter pollution stems from stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana. The states generate massive amounts of paddy straw—19.52 million tonnes in Punjab and 8 million tonnes in Haryana. While there have been commitments to eliminate stubble burning, implementation remains weak. Last year, Punjab saw a 59% decrease, Haryana a 40% drop, but Uttar Pradesh experienced a 30% rise. - Centre’s Intervention and Role of CAQM:
The Centre convened meetings involving Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh to take stock of the pollution control measures. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) was supposed to mediate, but has been criticized for its infrequent meetings and lack of timely interventions. - Long-Term Solutions and Challenges:
The existing solutions to stubble burning include in-situ management (using straw as mulch) and ex-situ management (using straw as fuel in power plants). Punjab aims to manage 11.5 million tonnes of its straw through these methods, while Haryana targets 3.3 million tonnes. However, logistical gaps and lack of coordination between the states and the Centre pose significant challenges. - Government’s Role in Addressing Pollution Hotspots:
The Winter Action Plan also focuses on addressing local pollution sources like road dust, vehicular emissions, and construction activities. Efforts such as deploying anti-smog guns, improving waste management, and enforcing traffic regulations are critical. Yet, enforcement has been sporadic and often lacks data-driven approaches. - Need for a Multi-layered Strategy:
Delhi’s air pollution is a multi-layered problem that requires a comprehensive, year-round approach. The states and the Centre need to integrate their efforts and move beyond blame games. Economic incentives for farmers to adopt cleaner methods and stricter penalties for stubble burning are essential.
Latest Data and Numbers:
- Punjab: 19.52 million tonnes of paddy straw in 2024.
- Haryana: 8 million tonnes of paddy straw in 2024.
- Decrease in stubble burning incidents in 2023: Punjab (-59%), Haryana (-40%).
- Rise in stubble burning incidents in 2023: Uttar Pradesh (+30%).
Conclusion: The Winter Action Plan, though a step in the right direction, needs a robust framework with long-term goals. Delhi’s pollution crisis cannot be solved in isolation. Inter-state collaboration, stronger regulatory mechanisms, and better coordination are crucial. The Centre must play a proactive role, while states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh need to implement their commitments seriously. Only a cohesive, year-round strategy will effectively combat the complex air pollution crisis plaguing Delhi and the Indo-Gangetic region.
A strong multi-state action plan, consistent monitoring, and year-round efforts are needed to ensure clean air for Delhi and the entire region.
