Content:
1. Prayagraj: Blending Tradition with Modernity
2. India’s FDI Journey Hits $1 Trillion
Prayagraj: Blending Tradition with Modernity
Context : Maha Kumba Mela all set to take place from January 13 to February 26, 2025
Relevance: GS 1(Heritage and Culture)
- Location: Prayagraj, confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati
- Significance: Largest peaceful spiritual gathering; UNESCO intangible cultural heritage (2017)
- Theme: Spirituality, culture, history, and innovation
Highlights of the 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela
Modern Infrastructure:
- Enhanced sanitation systems, upgraded security
- Expanded transportation networks
- Technological integration for safety and efficiency
Cultural Integration:
- Vibrant streets, local cuisine, Akhara camps
- Evening Ganga Aarti at Ram Ghat
Innovations:
- Global standards introduced for hosting spiritual events
Historical and Cultural Relevance
- Rooted in the Vatsa kingdom (600 BC) and Mauryan era
- Akbar renamed it ‘Ilahabas,’ making it a pilgrimage hub
Key Landmarks:
- Triveni Sangam: Sacred confluence symbolizing spiritual renewal
- Temples: Shri Lete Hue Hanuman Ji, Alop Shankari, Nagvasuki, Shankar Viman Mandapam
- Akshayvat Tree: Mythological importance
- Educational Heritage: Allahabad University, Public Library
Milestones of Kumbh Mela 2019
- Attracted 24 crore pilgrims; set 3 Guinness World Records
- Transformed 3,200 hectares into the largest temporary city
- Beautification drive with 2 lakh plants, thematic gates, modern sanitation
Significance of Maha Kumbh Mela 2025
- Spiritual Renewal: Opportunity for cleansing sins and enlightenment
- Cultural Celebration: Showcase of India’s unity in diversity
- Global Benchmark: Blending tradition with innovation
Additional Information
Historical Evolution of Kumbh Mela
- Origins: Mythologically linked to Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean).
- Religious Context: Determined by astrological alignments of Jupiter, Sun, and Moon.
- Cultural Impact: Represents India’s diverse regions, languages, and traditions.
Key Rituals and Events
- Shahi Snan: Royal bath by akharas and saints.
- Kalpavas: Month-long ascetic life near Sangam.
- Cultural Performances: Folk dances, music, plays.
Administrative Preparedness for 2025
- Sanitation and Health: Advanced waste management, mobile health units.
- Security: AI surveillance, biometric identification, drones.
- Transportation: Dedicated trains, buses, parking, shuttle services.
Modern Innovations in 2025
- Digital Integration: Official apps, virtual reality tours.
- Sustainability Initiatives: Eco-friendly camps, renewable energy, plastic bans.
Social and Economic Impact
- Tourism Boost: Significant economic impact.
- Employment Generation: Jobs in logistics, hospitality, event management.
- Cultural Exchange: Unity through interaction among diverse groups.
Key Challenges and Solutions
- Crowd Management: AI-based monitoring, designated zones.
- Environmental Conservation: Pollution control, awareness campaigns.
Importance of Akharas
- Role: Represent philosophical schools of Hinduism.
- Prominent Akharas: Juna, Niranjani, Mahanirvani, Nirmohi.
- Significance: Religious rituals, spiritual guidance.
Global Significance
- UNESCO Recognition: Highlighting intangible cultural heritage.
- Showcasing India: Platform for spiritual ethos and traditions.
Prayagraj as a Spiritual Hub
- Annual Festivals: Hosts Magh Mela apart from Kumbh.
- Historical Events: Site of religious debates and discourses.
India’s FDI Journey Hits $1 Trillion
Context: India’s gross FDI inflows reached $1 trillion since April 2000, with a 26% rise in the first half of FY 2024-25 to $42.1 billion.
Relevance: GS 3(Economy)
- Decade-Long Growth: Between April 2014 and September 2024, $709.84 billion in FDI inflows accounted for nearly 69% of total inflows since 2000.
Factors Driving Growth:
Global Competitiveness:
- India ranked 40th in the World Competitive Index 2024 (up from 43rd in 2021).
- Ranked 40th in the Global Innovation Index 2023, a significant improvement from 81st in 2015.
Global Investment Hub:
- Third largest recipient of greenfield projects (1,008 announcements) in 2023.
- Second largest in international project finance deals, with a 64% increase in such deals.
Improved Business Environment:
- Jumped 79 ranks from 142 (2014) to 63 (2019) in the World Bank Doing Business Report 2020.
Policy Reforms:
- 100% FDI allowed under the automatic route for most sectors.
- Tax Reforms (2024): Abolished angel tax and reduced foreign company income tax rates.
Contributing Initiatives:
- “Make in India” campaign.
- Liberalised sectoral policies.
- Implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST).
